The Washington Informer - July 20, 2023

WINNER OF SIX SOCIETY OF PROFESSIONAL JOURNALISTS D.C. AWARDS FOR 2022

Solar Industry Trainees Install Money-Saving Panels on Two Petworth Homes

By Kayla Benjamin WI Climate & Environment Reporter

On a sweltering July day, solar installation trainees—under the watchful eyes of multiple supervisors—lifted a solar panel to the roof of a two-story Petworth home. The panel, which was thin and more than five feet in length, rose smoothly upward along a ladder, held by a single rope.

For some of the trainees, that afternoon—July 13—was only their second time actually working on a solar installation after spending the first two weeks of the Solar Works DC paid training program learning in the classroom. The people handling the panel at the top and the bottom of the ladder looked intently focused.

“I've worked in construction a lot—I've done roofing jobs, I've worked for a masonry company, I've cut bricks,” said trainee Malachi Nicholson, 41. “That's a lot more tedious work, and more rough on your body. This

SOLAR Page 44

Pamela A. Smith Tapped as Acting MPD Chief

Pending Council Confirmation, Smith is MPD’s First African-American Woman Chief

By Sam P.K. Collins WI

With D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser’s selection of Pamela A. Smith as the next chief of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), there are now four women who play pivotal roles in shaping the District’s response to violent crime.

On July 17, Bowser announced Smith as acting MPD chief during a public safety meeting at Martin Luther King Memorial Library in Northwest. Joining Smith were Deputy Mayor for Public Safety and Justice Lindsey

Smith, a 25-year law enforcement veteran, will now undergo a council confirmation process to become the first African-American woman chief in MPD’s nearly 162-year history. Shortly after Bowser’s announce-

SMITH Page 48

River Terrace Community to Soon Receive Affordable Housing

Finalized Plans for 34Fifty Apartments

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

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

The construction of this new building, known as 34Fifty, culminates years of meetings, zoning commission hearings, and as developer Adrian Washington described it, an arduous journey to secure the buyin of concerned and deeply skeptical residents.

“This project…em-

WARD 7 Page 15

Celebrating 58 years. Your credible and trusted source for Black news and information.

5 How are you beating the heat? A mother and children enjoy cooling off on a hot day after the fire department opened a hydrant in in front of a market in Southeast. (Marckell Williams/The Washington Informer)

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4 Chief Pamela A. Smith (Courtesy photo/Metropolitan Police Department)

Staff Writer

Appiah and Ward 2 Councilmember Brooke Pinto, chair of the D.C. Council Committee on Public Safety and the Judiciary.

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Haynes Succeeds Jackson as President and CEO of Rainbow PUSH Coalition

Tributes have continued to pour in for the Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr., as he announced his retirement as president and CEO of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, the influential civil rights organization he started decades ago to carry on the fight for equality and justice that the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. battled heroically.

The organization said the Rev. Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III will succeed Jackson.

“The promise of America is that we are all created equal in the image of God and deserve to be treated equally throughout our lives. While we’ve never fully lived up to that promise, we’ve never fully walked away from it because of extraordinary leaders like Reverend Jesse Jackson, Sr.,” President Joe Biden stated.

“Throughout our decades of friendship and partnership, I’ve seen how Reverend Jackson has helped lead our nation forward through tumult and triumph.” Jackson,

a renowned figure in the fight for civil rights, founded PUSH (People United to Save Humanity) in 1971 and established the National Rainbow Coalition in 1984.

In 1996, the two organizations merged to form the powerful and influential Rainbow PUSH Coalition.

Organization officials said Dr. Haynes, a Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference, Inc. co-chair, has exemplified the same passion and commitment to global racial justice that characterizes Jackson’s legacy.

“Jill and I are grateful to Rev. Jackson for his lifetime of dedicated service and extend our appreciation to the entire Jackson family,” Biden added.

“We look forward to working with the Rainbow PUSH Coalition as he hands the torch to the next generation of leadership, just as we will continue to cherish the counsel and wisdom that we draw from him.”

WI

January 6 Indictment Looms as Trump Faces Mounting Legal Woes

Former President Donald Trump, already indicted on state criminal charges in New York and federal crimes in Florida, is facing another legal challenge.

Trump confirmed on Tuesday that he had been served a “target letter” from the special counsel, Jack Smith, in connection with the ongoing criminal investigation into his attempts to cling to power after losing the 2020 election.

The New York Times reported that the letter indicates that Trump is likely to be indicted in the case, raising the stakes of his already tumultuous legal battles.

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STAFF

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REPORTERS

Kayla Benjamin, (Environmental Justice Reporter) Stacy Brown (Senior Writer), Sam P.K. Collins, Curtis Knowles, Brenda Siler, Lindiwe Vilakazi, Sarafina Wright, James Wright

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This marks the second time Smith has identified Trump as a target in a federal investigation, following the initial notice in June, which was related to the inquiry into Trump's handling of national defense material after leaving office and

his alleged obstruction of efforts to retrieve it.

The former president was charged with 37 criminal counts encompassing seven violations of federal law, some in conjunction with one of his aides.

He’s also awaiting a decision in Georgia, where prosecutors have empaneled a Grand Jury to look at Trump’s alleged attempts to influence the 2020 election in the Peach State.

Taking to his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump expressed his displeasure with the latest developments, blaming “Deranged Jack Smith,” the prosecutor from Joe Biden's Department of Justice, for giving him only four days to report to the Grand Jury.

In his post, Trump implied that such short notice likely points toward an imminent arrest and indictment. WI

New Super PAC Aims to Empower Black Voters and Secure House Leadership

To bolster Black voter participation and secure a groundbreaking achievement in House leadership, a prominent ally of the Congressional Black Caucus is launching a super PAC with ambitious plans to spend tens of millions of dollars.

The newly formed organization, called the Rolling Sea Action Fund, will focus on mobilizing Black voters and aiding Democrats in flipping the House majority.

The ultimate goal is to elect the first Black speaker of the House.

Niccara Campbell-Wallace, former political director of the Congressional Black Caucus PAC, is heading the initiative.

While the Rolling Sea Action Fund will be aligned with the all-Democratic Congressional Black Caucus, it will operate as a "hybrid PAC."

This designation permits the group to raise candidates' funds while maintaining a separate account to

spend unlimited sums on advertisements and other election-related expenses.

To seize the House majority, Democrats must flip five seats during next year's congressional elections.

If achieved, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries could become the nation's first Black speaker of the House.

In an NBC interview before the launch of the Rolling Sea Action Fund, Campbell-Wallace expressed confidence in the group's ability to execute a multipronged strategy in 2024 with an expenditure exceeding $10 million.

This strategy includes advertising campaigns, in-person organizing, and engagement in crucial communities.

The PAC will concentrate its efforts on districts with more than 8% Black voting age population, mainly focusing on the most competitive House seats. WI

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

Major League Soccer Honors Local Heroes

By Ed Hill WI Contributing Writer

In an effort to highlight locals' contributions to soccer during AllStar Week in Washington, D.C., Major League Soccer (MLS) paid special tribute to the storied Howard University soccer program. The ceremony, which took place at the Willard Hotel in Northwest, Washington, honored Howard University coaches Lincoln Phillips, Keith Tucker and Phillip Gyau as Honorary Hometown Heroes.

The legendary Phillips led the Howard program to national NCAA championships in 1971 and 1974, becoming the first HBCU to win a national title at the Division 1 level.

"I got a chance to talk with him during the week and I was greatly impressed with him," said Quincy Amirkwa, Founder of the Black Players for Change Organization. "What he has done for the sport of soccer, not only in this area, but in the country is phenomenal".

"This is truly a landmark," said Phillips, who has been featured in a documentary, "Redemption" based on the journey to national prominence for the program. "To have this type of recognition to Howard University and its program is humbling. I am very proud to stand here. I always say that doctors save lives, but coaches make lives.

Tucker, who played for Phillips, coached under him and later took over as head coach, where he led the Bison to an undefeated season and trip to the national championship in 1988.

"I am truly honored to receive this prestigious award on behalf of my alma mater," said Tucker. "It is really special to see soccer grow and to know that we at Howard University had something to do with its exposure in this country."

"You could tell Keith was going to be a coach from the time he played at Howard," recalled Phillips. "I was convinced that he was ready to be a coach when he served under me as an assistant. A head coach is only as good as his assistant."

Gyau received his training, first as a youngster under the tutelage of Phillips when he was 10 years old. He would later take the acquired skills and knowledge to have an outstanding college and professional career before returning to his alma mater when he now serves as head coach.

"Coach Gyau is bringing the Howard soccer program back to prominence," offered Phillips. "He is widely respected in the soccer community and I am proud to say that his team was the top-rated school in the NEC (Northeast Conference) in academics this past year."

Other Honorary Hometown Heroes included So Kids Soar,

WETATI Academy, Rainbow Families and Latin American Youth Center. All were cited for their contributions to the DMV community.

MLS CREATES A UNIQUE ALL STAR WEEK

MLS made this one of the most unique all-star weeks. It was a series of events that were designed to get the youth and the community involved.

The organization partnered with Seton Elementary and had 6,000 volunteers pass out meals for 100,000 residents. DC Scores also contributed by providing an on-going program designed to combine the teaching of writing skills and soccer instructions.

There was also a soccer skills event at the White House that featured participation of First Lady Jill Biden and the Head of State himself, President Joe Biden. WI

5Howard Coaches Phillip Gyau, Lincoln Phillips and Keith Tucker were honored as Hometown Heroes by Major League Soccer. (Courtesy photo/Howard Athletics)

black facts AROUND THE REGION

JULY 20 - 26, 2023

SOURCE: BLACK AMERICA WEB

nude-photograph scandal. She is replaced by Suzette Charles.

JULY 24

1954 – Civil rights activist and founding NAACP member Mary Church Terrell, who was the first African American to serve on the D.C. board of education, dies in Annapolis.

JULY 25

1943 – The USS Harmon, the first warship to be named after an African American, is launched in Quincy, Massachusetts

1972 – After the Associated Press breaks the story, US. government officials admit to the Tuskegee Syphilis Experiment, where Blacks were used as guinea pigs in syphilis tests under the ruse of receiving free health care.

1990 – Black Enterprise publisher Earl Graves and basketball legend Magic Johnson sign an agreement to purchase Pepsi-Cola of Washington, D.C., becoming the nation's biggest minority-controlled Pepsi franchise.

JULY 20

1967 –Newark, New Jersey.

JULY 21

1864 – The first issue of the New Orleans Tribune — America's first daily Black newspaper — is published. 1896 – The National Association of Colored Wom en, which later became the National Association of Colored Women's Clubs, is established in Washington, D.C.

JULY 22

1939 – Jane Bolin serve as a judge in the United States when she is sworn in as a judge of New York's Domestic Relations Court. 1946 – Actor in the "Lethal Weapon" series and "The Color Purple," is born in San Francisco.

JULY 23

1891 – Louis Tompkins Wright and civil rights activist, is born in LaGrange, Georgia.

1962 – Baseball great African American to play in the major leagues, is inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.

1984 – Vanessa Williams give up her Miss America title amid a

1992 – Gen. Colin Powell dedicates the Buffalo Soldiers monument at Fort Liberia becomes the first African nation on the continent

BY SARAFINA WRIGHT

An Alabama woman drew national attention when she went missing after reportedly stopping to assist an unaccompanied toddler on the interstate. Authorities said she’s been found safe but have released no case details, which has led to speculation about what happened to 25-year-old Carlee Russell and the child. What are your thoughts?

G. BYRD / ALBANY, GA.

Grateful that she was found safe, but my critical thinking mind has many questions.

FELICIA BLEDSOE / WASHINGTON, DC

I’m just glad she’s safe.

TRINA F. / WASHINGTON, DC

The media will treat this story like the Jussie Smollett case.

ANDRE WILLIAMS / LANDOVER, MD.

Just glad she was found safe. The details will come out when they come out.

MELODY TUNNELL / PHILADELPHIA, PENN. Thank you, God. She’s home alive and safe.

Concerns Persist about Food Quality, Safety at D.C.

Jail

DOC Director Apprehensive about Fresh Food Legislation

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

In the days after the D.C. Council passed emergency legislation mandating pre-trial detention for those accused of violent crimes, grassroots organizers who frequent District courtrooms said they’re preparing for the onslaught of new D.C. Jail detainees who will experience health and safety issues in the coming weeks and months.

In speaking about her court watching experience, Qiana Johnson, an organizer with Harriet’s Wildest Dreams, said that she often sees judges who aren’t often well versed in whether they can or cannot detain defendants while they await trial. She said their lack of leadership precipitates dysfunction in the courtroom.

Another concern that Johnson, a returning citizen from neighboring Prince George’s County, Maryland, raised centered on what she described as prosecutors’ eagerness to force defendants into plea deals so they can avoid a trial, and more importantly the perils of pre-trial detention.

Such strategies, Johnson said, don’t only ignore the root causes of crime, but further traumatize Black and brown District residents who are left to fend for themselves in D.C. Jail against other detainees, guards, and overall conditions that threaten quality of life.

“They’re bringing in an influx [of detainees] when they don’t have enough

[guards] to manage D.C. Jail,” Johnson said. “There are roaches and rats and [people being served] rotten food. All that speaks to the Department of Corrections not having the capacity to care for people. Prosecutors are using jail as a bargaining chip to get a win.”

The D.C. Department of Corrections (DOC) didn't respond to an Informer inquiry about its guard-detainee ratio and ability to maintain order in its correctional facilities.

On June 13, Johnson counted among dozens of public and government witnesses who testified during a hearing that the D.C. Council Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety conducted about the Food Regulation Ensures Safety and Hospitality Specialty Training Aids Re-entry Transition and Success Act, also known as the FRESH STARTS Act.

D.C. Councilmembers Brooke Pinto (D-Ward 2), Janeese Lewis George (D-Ward 4), Christina Henderson (IAt large), Brianne Nadeau (D-Ward 1), Charles Allen (D-Ward 6), Matt Frumin (D-Ward 3), Robert White (D-At large), and Vincent C. Gray (D-Ward 7) introduced the FRESH STARTS Act in February.

If passed, the FRESH STARTS Act would require the serving of nutrient-dense raw fruits and vegetables

at correctional facilities operated by the D.C. Department of Corrections (DOC) -- including Central Detention Facility, Correctional Treatment Facility, and Central Cell Block. It would also mandate DOC’s adoption of the Good Food Purchasing Program, strengthen oversight of food and nutrition in correctional facilities, and establish a task force to explore and propose long-term improvements to food service.

Days before the hearing, a person representing an alleged member of the Kennedy Street Crew took to social media complaining about the conditions that he and his co-defendants have encountered at D.C. Jail since their arrest on June 27. That complaint prompted Lewis George’s inquiry to DOC Director Dr. Thomas Faust about the well-being of detainees and whether DOC had been providing them with food, water, and shower and recreation time.

During last week’s hearing, Faust testified in opposition to the FRESH STARTS Act, saying that DOC already provides many of the services and support mandated by the legislation. He also said that adhering to the stipulations outlined in the legislation would require significantly more than

JAIL Page 48

5 Harriet’s Wildest Dreams hosted a cookout outside of D.C. Superior Court in Northwest earlier this year. On June 13, co-founder Qiana Johnson recently testified before the D.C. Council Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety about the Food Regulation Ensures Safety and Hospitality Specialty Training Aids Reentry Transition and Success Act, also known as the FRESH STARTS Act. (Courtesy Photo)

Kingpin Slim Dishes on Life and Music

Kingpin Slim, the name in itself piques interest in those who hear it. It's a variation of his neighborhood name “Slim” which he got during his youth in the Adams Morgan/ Columbia Heights section of Northwest, D.C. After feeling the name Slim was too close to Eminem’s alias Slim Shady, he added Kingpin, which is defined in the dictionary as boss or chief— what he aspired to be in the industry.

After catching a distribution charge for attempting to hustle through his freshman year of college, he came home after a year in boot camp with an additional 20 pounds of muscle, not to mention a more diverse MC and quickly was signed to an independent label, Cybehype Entertainment, for which he recorded what was to be his debut, DC Ghettolistics. But due to funding and the flooding of the studio in which he recorded and kept the masters, the album was never released to the public.

He quickly was inducted as a member of Wildlife Kingdom, a popular local rap group also hailing from Northwest, who sold 10,000 copies of their independent CD “Welcome To The Jungle,” off the strength of their single “Longfellow” and cameos of No Limit recording artists, Fiend and Mr. Serv On.

After continuously working his way up in the business with award-winning artists, labels and producers, more legal troubles arose. Slim was arrested for carrying a pistol without a license, and sentenced to 19 months in prison, of which 16 months were suspended.

Now home, Kingpin Slim is once again looking to fulfill the destiny he set for himself with the name Kingpin in the first place. His current material can best be described as brash, innovative and brutally honest.

Riding high off the success of his hit ‘Keep Pushin”, a street anthem that is being supported by both WKYS and WPGC, and preparing another mixtape as well as negotiating with a few major labels for a distribution contract, this artist, who is generally regarded as one of if not the top lyricist in the D.C. metropolitan area can be seen performing at many venues in his hometown.

Read more on wibridgedc.com.

FARM TOUR

Explore the rural side of Montgomery County, Maryland and embark on a self-guided farm tour! Home to an array of pick-your-own experiences, gather your own fresh produce straight from the fields. Visit farm breweries, wineries and cideries to savor a variety of locally crafted beverages, often made from ingredients grown in the surrounding countryside. Take in the scenic beauty that Montgomery County farms o er for a memorable weekend getaway; just minutes from Washington, DC.

LEARN MORE AT VisitMontgomery.com/farms

OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MARYLAND Waredaca Brewing Company

SOUNDS OF THE DMV

AROUND THE REGION

The Newsletter

CAPTURE THE MOMENT

Former Mayor of Detroit and Hall of Famer Dave Bing (left) who attended Spingarn High School and played for the Detroit Pistons, Washington Bullets, and Bostin Celtics with Lloyd Mayes, president of the DMV Athletes in Action. Bing was honored during the 9th annual Legends Picnic held July 15 at Haines Point. Mayes has been president of the organization for the past 10 years. (Abdullah J. Konte/The Washington Informer)

Who’s Reading the Informer?

Jo-Ann Campbell of Northwest D.C. reads the Washington Informer.

(Courtesy photo)

"Believe

Always human beings

progress to great, broader, and fuller life."

Legal Aid DC Reopens Anacostia Office

James Wright WI Staff Writer

Legal Aid of the District of Columbia recently announced that it will reopen its offices in Ward 8 in Southeast that were suspended in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Legal Aid office was in the Anacostia Professional Building, also known as the Big Chair, until D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser instituted the public health emergency that shuttered many businesses and nonprofits in the District in March 2020. With the emergency lifted a few months ago, the organization’s leadership decided to rebuild its community contacts and reinstalling the Anacostia office became a priority.

“We’re thrilled to reopen our Big Chair location and increase access to free, in-person legal services for District residents who live or work east of the river,” said Vikram Swaruup, executive director of the organization. “Ultimately, we want to make sure we’re helping residents when they face significant legal challenges and don’t know where to turn— from foreclosure or debt collection to staying safe from domestic violence to accessing government benefits like health care or nutritional assistance. Reopening our Anacostia office allows us to meet people where they are and ensures that residents can talk to a lawyer face-to-face.”

The decision by Legal Aid to reopen its office comes as residents face legal actions, such as eviction, foreclosure, and debt collection, which were postponed by District and federal officials during the early and middle period of the public health emergency. Legal Aid officials say demand for legal services has increased by 20% since last year. The officials said evictions, where calls have increased by more than 50%, as well as foreclosure cases and food stamp matters, have received a great deal of attention.

THE BIG CHAIR OFFICE

Swaruup is a former chief deputy attorney general in the Office of the Attorney General of the District of Columbia. He has served as the administrative leader of the organi-

zation since February.

Swaruup, 35, said during the emergency, non-physical contact means were utilized by the organization to reach its clients.

“During the pandemic, we used our phone lines, our hotlines with our partner organizations,” he said. “People could call the hotlines and we would work with them through online intake. We fully intend to maintain those forms of communicating with our clients.”

The office will be staffed on Mondays and Thursdays for walk-in clients from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. No appointment needed. The goal is to gradually increase the capacity and the times for clients to come to the office. Presently, the office is staffed by two or three attorneys and a legal assistant who can conduct initial interviews with potential clients and provide legal services or referrals.

During an interview with a client, whether it is a first time visit or a new matter, an attorney or intake specialist will discuss the case. Advice may be offered during the intake.

After the interview, Legal Aid officials will determine whether the

client can be helped and either take the case or refer them to an organizational partner who could better serve them.

In addition to the office in Anacostia, Legal Aid accepts walk-in clients at its main location in Northwest. WI

5 Vikram Swaruup is the executive director of Legal Aid of the District of Columbia. (Courtesy Photo/Legal Aid DC)

“We’re thrilled to reopen our Big Chair location and increase access to free, in-person legal services for District residents who live or work east of the river,” said Vikram Swaruup, executive director of the organization.

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY

Changes to 529 Program, Senator Van Hollen’s Legislation, Sens. Support Maddox

Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

MARYLAND SENATORS SUPPORT MADDOX FOR JUDICIAL APPOINTMENT

Senators Ben Cardin (D) and Chris Van Hollen (D) nominated Magistrate Judge Matthew Maddox to serve on the U.S. District Court, representing Maryland. Maddox, a Maryland native, graduated from Morgan State University in 1999 and received his JD from Yale Law School in 2011 after teaching high school.

Maddox previously served as a law clerk to the Honorable Gerald Bruce Lee, United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Virginia.

He also worked as a litigation associate at the law firm of Holland & Knight in Washington, D.C. and as a law clerk to the Honorable André M. Davis, a judge serving on the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit who later served as the Baltimore City Solicitor.

Judge Maddox was also appointed as an Assistant United States Attorney for Maryland. In February 2022, Maddox was sworn in as a United States Magistrate Judge, and sits in Baltimore. If appointed, he would operate in the same building he currently works in.

“He has quite a bit of experience”, said Cardin during the hearing. “He brings a remarkable experience to this position, having served as a federal prosecutor for over a decade and

a magistrate judge for over a year. Senator Van Hollen and I believe he meets the highest standards of integrity, competence, and temperament.” WI

TREASURER DAVIS ANNOUNCES RETROACTIVE 6% EARNINGS ON 529 PROGRAM

Treasurer Dereck Davis (D) announced retroactive 6% earnings for Maryland Prepaid College Trust account holders, also known as Maryland 529 on July 10, Treasurer Davis assumed responsibility for the program regarding serious issues that left parents unsure how they would fund their children’s education.

“During my reelection speech in February, I made a promise to help resolve the complex issues that have plagued Maryland Prepaid College Trust account holders for over a year,” said Davis. “It is my hope that with today’s announcement, we can provide certainty and some sense of relief to account holders, their beneficiaries, and the public about the path forward.”

With contributions in an account made prior to November 1, 2021, the annual earnings rate will be 6% compounded monthly, applied retroactively to the date of contribution and effective until the earliest of the date the earnings rate is set to zero.

For contributions that posted to an account on or after November 1, 2021, the annual earnings rate will be equal to the 10-year Treasury note, compounded monthly, and

effective until the earliest of the date the earnings rate is set to zero.

No accounts will earn interest after July 1, 2024. Account holders will be notified at least 60 days prior to the date this change becomes effective.

Claims will not need to be filed to receive these earnings, as they will appear in accounts as soon as the system is updated. WI

SENATOR VAN HOLLEN SECURES FUNDING FOR NEW FBI HQ

In his position as Chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee, Senator Chris Van Hollen (D) announced that he secured $375 million for a new FBI Headquarters in Maryland on July 10.

“The FBI is in desperate need of a new, consolidated headquarters that can meet the security and mission requirements of the Bureau. After years of working together with agencies across the federal government as well as members of Team Maryland, our state and local governments, and stakeholders across the region, we’ve finally reached the red zone,” said Van Hollen. “Despite Republican theatrics in the House, I was proud to work on a bipartisan basis to include this funding within our subcommittee bill – and was glad to

SENATORS VAN HOLLEN, WARNOCK SUPPORT BILL TO EXPAND HOMEOWNERSHIP

In the chaos of the pandemic and the associated economic downturn, homeownership has become an even more difficult task for many Americans. With mortgages rising while wages stagnate, many have few options besides long-term renting or living with their families. Senator Van Hollen seeks to address this colossal issue with the LIFT Homebuyers Act, a bill which aims to improve opportunities for first-time homebuyers to accelerate wealth-building through homeownership.

receive bipartisan support from the full committee for its passage. I’m committed to keeping this project on track, and I will continue fighting to deliver the new headquarters that our nation’s law enforcement requires and bring that headquarters to Maryland.”

This new funding comes shortly after the General Services Administration (GSA) has adjusted their site criteria. The most likely locations for the new site are now Greenbelt and Landover, both in Prince George’s County, as well as in Springfield, Virginia. Maryland legislators remain steadfast in their push to bring the site to Maryland.

“We remain as confident today as we have been for the past decade: Greenbelt and Landover provide the best operational and cost-effective options for the new, consolidated FBI Headquarters,” according to a statement from a group of local state and congressional leaders.

“These sites meet and exceed the criteria laid out by GSA. They are shovel-ready with exceptional access to transportation and will spur greater equity and opportunity, in line with the Biden-Harris Administration’s executive orders,” the statement continued. “We will continue working with GSA to ensure these factors are taken into consideration.”

WI

“Homeownership is a key tool for Americans to grow their wealth and build economic stability, but for far too many people, this goal remains out of reach. This is especially true for people of color – which is why we need to address the legacy of discrimination in our housing policy. This bill will help level the playing field for first-time, first-generation buyers and empower them to build more wealth,” said Sen. Van Hollen. “Housing is dignity and security for hardworking families in Georgia and across the nation, and owning a home is a long-held pathway to building generational wealth. But too many families have been left out of the American dream of buying a home, and Congress should act to make it a reality for more people,” said Sen. Reverend Warnock. “I’m proud to join my colleagues in reintroducing the LIFT Act to help put the dream of homeownership in reach for working families in Georgia and nationwide, boosting our economy and helping provide families safety and security. Let’s get this done.”

This bill establish a program at the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD in consultation with the Department of the Treasury to sponsor low fixed-rate 20-year mortgages for new homebuyers who have incomes equal to or less than 120 percent of their area median income. The Treasury would subsidize the interest rate and origination fees associated with these 20year mortgages so that the monthly payment would be in line with a 30-year Federal Housing Administration (FHA)-insured mortgage. WI

5 Senator Chris Van Hollen, the Appropriations Subchair, has brought funding for the new FBI HQ and is supporting a bill to expand homeownership to first-generation homebuyers.

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY WEEKLY UPDATES

Tommie Broadwater

‘The Godfather of Prince George’s’ Dies

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

Tommie Broadwater, a barrier breaking Prince Georgian, passed away on Tuesday, June 11 at age 81.

Broadwater, was the first Black State Senator to represent Prince George’s when he was elected in 1974. He became known as “The Godfather” to many for his intimate knowledge of the political process and ability to provide jobs and services to constituents when other legislators would not.

“From the halls of power as a State Senator in Annapolis to the halls of the courthouse in Upper Marlboro and Hyattsville for his bail-bondsman business, Tommie was a formidable player in the law-making and legal worlds of our county and our state,” said Congressman Glen Ivey (D-Maryland). “Even out of the limelight, he was always respected for his prowess in the trenches of elective politics. As the first African American State Senator in Prince George’s County and the only one outside of Baltimore in the 1970s, Tommie Broadwater paved a path for future leaders from suburban areas outside Washington, DC, and middle class in Prince George’s County.”

Broadwater built himself into a multi-millionaire, owning a bail bonds business, a motel, a rib shack, and the beautiful Broadwater Mansion in Upper Marlboro. Wayne Curry (D), the first Black County Executive in Prince George’s (and one of the first in the nation), sought the support and endorsement of Broadwater before his historic 1994 run.

In the past few months, the Glenarden Municipal Center and Bowie State University hosted events to commemorate his legacy in the county. Images of Broadwater with numerous elected officials, many of whom were born while he first served in the legislature, were posted all over social media. Many of the posts featured the events he attended over the

past 50 years, further displaying the influence he has had on rising generations of leaders.

Maryland Delegate Nick Charles (D), chair of the Prince George’s County Delegation, posted youthful pictures of himself with Broadwater and thanked him for the many lessons he taught.

Ivey, who sought the advice of Broadwater in past elections, shared he deeply felt the loss of the county icon.

“I was saddened to hear of the passing of one of the trailblazers in Prince George’s politics. Just last month, I attended a tribute in honor of the one and only Tommie Broadwater. His unique and personal touch in retail politics can only be described as down-toearth”, said Congressman Ivey.

Congressman Steny Hoyer (DMd.), who watched Broadwater grow in politics and was one of his early supporters, weighed in on the former senator’s leadership.

5 Senator Tommie Broadwater, affectionately known as “The Godfather”, was the first Black Senator from Prince George’s and beloved for the support he showed his constituents.

By James Wright / WI Staff Writer

BUSINESS briefs

CLASS ON BOOTSTRAPPING

The Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center is sponsoring a virtual class—Bootstrap Your Business to Success—that is designed to help entrepreneurs obtain capital on Aug. 2 from 9-10 a.m. PDT.

The guest speaker will be Emma Joy Obanye, CEO of OneTech based in the London neighborhood of Hackney. Drawing on her vast experience as an entrepreneur, advisor, mentor and tech geek, Obanye will demonstrate why this is a good time to bootstrap, which is using investment to grow a firm. Obanye will show course participants how evaluating your business as an investor can help you develop a bootstrapping strategy that will sustain your business as it continues to grow.

For more information, contact events@theCenter.nasdaq.org. WI

CAAB RECEIVES $20K FROM TRUIST BANK

The Capital Area Asset Builders announced that it has received $20,000 in funding to support its work to financially empower low-income Black, Latinx, and immigrant women small business entrepreneurs in the District.

The grant, awarded by Truist Bank, will enable CAAB to benefit

The Washington Convention and Sports Authority (t/a Events DC) Bid Opportunities.

The Washington Convention and Sports Authority (t/a Events DC) is soliciting proposals from qualified firms to provide Data and Voice Technology Services

RFP Release Date: 3:00 PM, EST Monday, July 17, 2023

Site Visit (OPTIONAL): 10:00 AM, EST Tuesday, July 25, 2023

RFP Question Due: 5:00 PM, EST Thursday, July 27, 2023

Proposal Due Date: 5:00 PM, EST Wednesday, August 16, 2023

The Washington Convention and Sports Authority (t/a Events DC) is soliciting proposals from qualified organizations to manage the scheduling and utilization of Events DC’s RFK Fields Complex.

RFP Release Date: Thursday, July 20, 2023

Site Visit (OPTIONAL): Monday, 10:00 AM EST, July 31, 2023

RFP Questions Due: Wednesday. 3:00 PM EST, August 2, 2023

Proposal Due Date: 3:00 PM EST, August 21, 2023

Primary Contact

Name:  Terrence Stafford

Email: tstafford@eventsdc.com

low-and-moderate-income people of color and immigrants and their families.

“We are honored to receive this grant from Truist Bank,” said Joseph Leitmann-Santa Cruz, CAAB CEO and executive director.

“We are proudly focusing on creating financial stability and long-term prosperity opportunities for Black, Latinx, and immigrant community members. This grant from Truist Bank will assist us to advance this objective.” WI

RACIAL EQUITY CAPITAL FUND

Exelon has launched a Racial Equity Capital Fund, in partnership with the Exelon Foundation, which will expand access to capital for minority businesses so they can create more jobs, grow their companies, and reinvest in their neighborhoods and communities. The fund builds on Exelon’s longstanding history of supporting the underserved and under-resourced communities and further delivers on our commitment to drive economic equity and opportunity for our customers and communities.

The capital fund is expected to invest in numerous businesses throughout Exelon’s service areas over the next three years with estimated loan amounts between $100,000 and $300,000 and equity investments of nearly $1 million.

For more information, contact RockCreek at RECFInquires@ therockcreekgroup.com. WI

FRANKLIN LEADS SEMICONDUCTOR EFFORT IN PRINCE GEORGE’S

Prince George’s County Council member Mel Franklin (D-At Large) is the author of a bill that will create a 10-year incentive for invest-

ment in the research development and manufacture of semiconductors (semiconductor production), the component parts of computer chips in the county.

The bill, the Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors Act (CHIPS), is co-proposed by Council members Sydney Harrison (D-District 9) and Calvin Hawkins (D-At Large) and was made public on July 11. The county would reimburse the costs of semiconductor production at any site up to the amount of real property and business personal property taxes generated by semiconductor production.

“The development of the computer chip is a national priority,” Franklin said. “The federal government is investing $280 billion in the manufacturing of semiconductors to make our nation more competitive with China and other nations in developing the jobs and technology of the 21st century economy right here in America.”

Franklin added he considered Prince George’s County as an ideal location for investing in the manufacturing of semiconductors.

“We are a place that can thrive in the research and development of cutting-edge industries and the momentum being built nationally by the federal government presents a tremendous opportunity to become a leader in the computer chip industry,” said Franklin. “The Prince George’s CHIPS Act will establish our own incentive to steer these massive investments being made nationally and regionally to our country, creating the jobs of the 21st century economy here and growing our commercial tax base. I urge my colleagues to support making Prince George’s County a leader in this critical and growing industry and ensure that our residents aren’t left behind by this opportunity.”

WI

5 Emma Joy Obanye is the founder of OneTech based in London.

WARD 7 from Page 1

braced the needs and aspirations of the River Terrace community,” said Washington, founder and CEO of Neighborhood Development Company, on July 13. “That meeting at the Chateau was one of the toughest. [After some time], it was a complete 180 turnaround. I’m grateful [to] my team for listening.”

During the groundbreaking ceremony, dozens of community members, including ANC Commissioner Mike Davis (Single-Member District 7D04), heard comments from Washington, NDC senior vice president Michaela Cancel, D.C. Councilmember Vincent C. Gray (D-Ward 7), Department of Housing and Community Development Director Colleen Green, Christopher Donald, director of D.C. Housing Finance Administration, Lawrence Di Rita, Greater Washington D.C. market president and public policy executive at Bank of America, and Lundat Kassa, vice president of

Bellwether Enterprise Real Estate Capital.

The speakers, along with other banking and housing officials, wrapped up the ceremony with what has become the common practice of sporting hardhats and shoveling dirt at the construction site. Soon after, attendants partook in refreshments under a large tent that shielded them from the sun.

34Fifty, to be erected atop the former overflow parking lot of the historic Chateau Nightclub, will have 49 affordable housing units, 20% of which will be designated as family-sized units.

The energy-efficient, four-story building will serve as the District’s first Net-Zero Ready, Passive House Institute Certified affordable housing development project. Once completed, it will be adjacent to local health and wellness, beauty, banking and financial planning-related businesses located in an NDC property.

Washington said that the River Terrace Neighbors for Community-Minded Development has

an ownership stake in the building. Meanwhile, as former River Terrace Community Organization president Malissa Freese explained, River Terrace community members continue to request that property and parking lot owners provide prior notice about sales to developers, unlike what she said had been done for 3450 Eads Street NE, where 34Fifty will be located.

In 2017, community members sent more than 50 letters and testified before the commision in opposition to building plans that NDC initially submitted. They said the proposed height of the building -- six stories tall with 70 units -- threatened to alter the suburban-like character of Eads Street, located three blocks from Benning Road, a major thoroughfare in Northeast.

The residents also railed against underground parking located close to homes and expressed concerns about competent building management.

After three months of deliber-

ations, the D.C. Zoning Commission ruled in NDC's favor. In 2018 however, some River Terrace residents submitted paperwork to appeal the decision under the name River Terrace Neighbors for Community-Minded Development, which eventually brought both parties back to the negotiation table.

A series of community meetings then yielded a proposal for condos set at 80% of the area median income.

Once DCHFA rejected those plans, residents worked with NDC to make adjustments in alignment with a DHCD checklist. That

WARD 7 Page 42

5 D.C. Councilmember Vincent C. Gray (D-Ward 7). (Courtesy photo)

Member FDIC. Sandy Spring Bank and the SSB logo are registered trademarks of Sandy Spring Bank. © 2023 Sandy Spring Bank. All rights reserved.

The Importance of Estate Planning Highlighted by

Aretha Franklin’s

Battle of Wills

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

The battle over the dueling wills left by the late superstar singer Aretha Franklin has again shed light on the importance of legalizing an individual’s final wishes.

The jury rendered its decision after an intense legal battle that pitted family members against one another over the inheritance of the legendary singer’s estate.

Franklin’s two sons, Kecalf and Edward Franklin, enlisted the assistance of their legal representatives to cham-

firm, citing the 2010 will, safeguarded under lock and key within the confines of Franklin’s sprawling home.

the value of even modest assets, such as a $30,000 house or ancestral land, and avoid undervaluing them.

5 The estate planning issue has become particularly significant for African Americans, irrespective of their socioeconomic status or fame, as they continue to lag in preparing their estates. (Courtesy Photo/ Krause Estate Planning) icant for African Americans, irrespective of their socioeconomic status or fame, as they continue to lag in preparing their estates.

According to a recent Gallup poll, a mere 46% of U.S. adults possess a valid will to determine the distribution of their assets after death.

The number is even lower for Black Americans, with only 70% having a will in place.

Kenneth Kelly, chairman and CEO of First Independence Bank, recently told EBONY that cultural factors contribute to this disparity.

“If you look back over time and the history we have come from, a lot of people may say or use a term that they ‘come from nothing,’” Kelly explained.

“And typically, that doesn’t mean values; it just means that we may have had very little material belongings.”

Over time, he said, that perspective has eroded Black Americans’ possessions, including financial assets, homes, land and other valuable assets.

Kelly highlights the importance of proper estate planning, as historical issues such as displacement of property have negatively impacted Black Americans.

Kelly also emphasized making wiser decisions when caring for loved ones. Over the next 25 years, approximately $70 trillion is expected to transfer from the deceased to the living, representing one of the most significant transfers of wealth associated with death, especially for African Americans.

Kelly urged individuals to consider

A 2022 Consumer Reports study revealed that a significant percentage of racial and ethnic groups, including Black Americans (77%) and Hispanic people (82%), do not have a will, compared to 61% of white individuals and 67% of English-speaking Asians.

Consumer Reports noted that when a person dies without a will, the state’s laws determine the distribution of assets based on assumptions about the deceased’s preferences.

Experts recommend creating a will to ensure that assets are distributed precisely as desired.

Free resources like FreeWill.com offer guidance through the process, while online services such as LegalZoom or Trust & Will provide affordable options ranging from $100 to a few hundred dollars.

When someone dies without a will, state law where they lived will determine where assets will go, according to assumptions about what the deceased would have chosen, David Dufault, an estate planning attorney at Sodoma Law in Charlotte, N.C, told Consumer Reports.

“There can be issues with minors receiving property, issues with the deceased person not naming his/her choice to raise minor children (absent a surviving parent), and the state choosing who will ‘supervise’ the process,” Dufault said in the report.

“And if you die without a will and

AI-Based Scams on the Rise: Criminals Exploit Technology to Clone Voices and Defraud Victims

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

Jennifer DeStefano recounted receiving a gut-wrenching telephone call from an unknown number that absolutely horrified her.

To her disbelief, she heard what sounded like the panicked voice of her oldest daughter, Briana, begging to be saved from kidnappers.

“I hear her saying, ‘Mom, these bad men have me. Help me. Help me. Help me.’ And even just saying it just gives me chills,” DeStefano recounted in an interview with ABC News.

Fortunately, Briana was safe and sound.

It turned out that scammers had employed artificial intelligence (AI) to mimic Briana’s voice, aiming to extort money from her terrified family.

This incident is just one example of an alarming trend.

Check Point Technologies, one of the largest cybersecurity firms in the country, has reported a substantial increase in AI-based scams and attacks compared to the previous year.

According to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center, phone and cyber scams drained approximately $10 billion from Americans’ pockets in 2022.

When DeStefano received the distressing call on January 20, her 15-year-old daughter was on a ski trip, even as the scammer demanded a staggering $1 million.

The incident raised questions about the caller’s identity and how they could convincingly impersonate Briana, even fooling her mother.

Experts are sounding the alarm on such scams.

They said scammers only need a few seconds of social media content to recreate someone’s voice using artificial intelligence.

Rapid advancements in generative AI technology by compa -

nies like OpenAI and Midjourney have forced organizations to grapple with how to harness the potential of the technology while addressing concerns about the ease with which users can manipulate language, audio, and video.

The Federal Trade Commission also has issued warnings about scammers employing artificial intelligence to clone people’s voices, leading to distressing situations for victims nationwide.

In May, McAfee Corp. published “The Artificial Imposter,” a report on how far reaching AI scams have become.

“A quarter of adults surveyed globally have experience of an AI voice scam, with one in 10 targeted personally, and 15% saying somebody they know has been targeted,” McAfee researchers wrote.

According to recent AARP/ NNPA roundtable statistics, seven in 10 Black adults believe that scams and fraud have reached crisis levels.

Moreover, 85 % of Black adults agree that victims should report these crimes to law enforcement.

Scams are particularly pronounced within the Black community, underscoring the urgent need for collective efforts to address fraud victimization.

There are steps individuals can take to avoid falling victim to AI voice scams.

“First and foremost, if you get a phone call that sounds like a loved one is in distress, do everything in your power to make contact with the person on the other end of the line,” Steve Grubman, the Chief Technology Officer with security firm McAfee, told ABC News.

“Ask a question that only the person on the other end of the line should know the answer to. Well, can you remind me what the last movie we saw or what did we have for dinner when we ate together last?" WI

Commission

about scammers employing artificial intelligence to clone people’s voices, leading to distressing situations for victims nationwide.

No cash access or recurring payments. Can be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted. Card valid for up to 6 months; unused funds will forfeit after the valid thru date. Card terms and conditions apply. Reply by 10/15/2021.

General: Additional charges may apply in areas that require guard response service for municipal alarm verification. System remains property of ADT. Local permit fees may be required. Prices and offers subject to change and may vary by market. Additional taxes and fees may apply. Satisfactory credit required. A security deposit may be required. Simulated screen images and photos are for illustrative purposes only.

Kenya’s Ruto Calls for Stronger, Financially Autonomous AU at Mid-Year Meeting

African leaders gathered Sunday, July 16, in Gigiri, Nairobi County, Kenya, for the African Union's fifth Mid-Year coordination meeting. The summit, among other things, aimed at addressing critical issues of African integration and division of labor, according to Africa News..

The meeting was led by Kenya's President William Ruto, who called for a reform of the AU, focusing on the body's financial autonomy.

"The pan-African movement has always been about sovereignty and agency," Ruto said. "First and foremost, chronic dependence even on well-meaning partners is inconsistent with the aspiration of independence, sovereignty and agency. And I therefore believe that we must take seriously the recommendations that have been made towards making our organization an organization that stands on its feet, and an organization that is funded by us."

According to AU figures, less than 40% of Member States pay their yearly contributions to the institution.

A piece on the body's website -- titled "African Union sustainable funding strategy gains momentum"--broke down the institution's 2020 budget as follows: US$157.2 million to finance operational budget of the Union; US$216.9 million will go into the program budget and US$273.1 million will finance peace support operations.

"Peace support operations will be funded by member states and international partners. Of the total budget, 38% is to be assessed on Member States while 61% will be from partners. The operating budget will be fully funded by Member States while the programme budget will be funded 41% by Member States and 59% solicited from international partners," the document read. WI

Commonwealth Secretary-General Praises President Kagame’s Commitment to the Caribbean

Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Rt. Hon. Patricia Scotland KC, has commended Rwandan President His Excellency Paul Kagame for his strong commitment to the Caribbean, particularly in his role as the current Commonwealth Chair-in-Office.

The Secretary-General expressed her appreciation following her participation alongside President Paul Kagame, the Commonwealth Chair-inOffice, in the 50th-anniversary celebrations of both the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and The Bahamas’ independence.

5 President of Guyana, Prime Ministers of The Bahamas and Antigua and Barbuda, in discussion with the Rwanda President and Commonwealth Secretary General (Courtesy Photo)

Reflecting on the significance of President Kagame’s participation in these two events, Secretary-General Scotland said: “It was an extraordinary moment for me, serving as Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, to stand alongside the Caribbean region as we commemorated two significant milestones: the golden jubilee of CARICOM and the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.

“Yet, it held an even greater significance to have President Kagame, in his capacity as the Chair-in-Office, representing the 2.5 billion people of the Commonwealth, join us in expressing his heartfelt gratitude and admiration to The Bahamas and CARICOM for their remarkable achievements.

“This was a powerful display of African-Caribbean-Commonwealth solidarity,” Scotland continued. “As Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, I consider myself privileged to have witnessed this remarkable moment, where two regions came together in the spirit of solidarity and partnership.”

The Commonwealth Chair-in-Office position is held by the host nation of the previous Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) and is maintained until the next CHOGM.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Chaguaramas in Trinidad and Tobago in 1973, which led to the establishment of CARICOM. WI

5 This photograph shows a general view during the 5th mid-year coordination meeting of the African Union, at the United Nations (UN) offices in Gigiri, Nairobi, on July 16, 2023. (Courtesy Photo)

Make Opportunity Happen

Chef MAC and Pinkey Reddick, Co-Owners

Uterine Fibroids and the Remedy to Avoiding Hysterectomies

Why Are Alternative Treatments Grossly Under The Radar?

By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Health Reporter

Uterine Fibroids, an often painful and stress-inducing illness, is the most common cause of hysterectomies in women across the United States. While millions of women are undergoing irreversible surgery to remove the invasive tumors, radiologists are working to promote a lesser-known alternative treatment-- uterine fibroid embolization (UFE)-- that is reportedly healing and preserving their reproductive system in the process.

Black women statistically

face more aggressive symptoms of uterine fibroids, showing themselves two to three times more likely to undergo a hysterectomy than white women nationwide.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), while uterine fibroids affect all women, statistics outlining decades of medical trends reveal Black women present significant risks in developing uterine fibroid tumors, as they represent higher rates of fibroid diagnoses than their white and Latinx counterparts.

“Uterine fibroids are the most common benign neoplasm of the uterus and a major source of morbidity for women of reproduc-

tive age, affecting up to 68.6% of women. Premenopausal age, Black race, nulliparity, and time period since last birth are the main identified risk factors,” the National Library of Medicine (NIH) reported.

Radiologists eager to restore the hope of women suffering from fibroids are pushing hard to spread knowledge of the alternative method that many women may be looking for. Dr. John Lipman, from Atlanta Fibroid Center, who specializes in nonsurgical fibroid treatment, has spent years practicing the alternative treatment for fibroid removal, while advocating for physicians to better educate women of the less invasive treatment that arguably provides greater health outcomes.

“I tell women’s groups all the time, no matter what your gynecologist tells you, hysterectomy is not necessary to treat fibroids. It is an option, but it should be the option of absolute last resort, not the first and only option which is what the typical presentation is. A woman who suffers from fibroids, they go to their gynecologist, and the gynecologist says, ‘Are you interested in having children or not, or more children or not,’” Lipman explained. “If you say ‘no,’ they say to get a hysterectomy, if you say ‘yes,’ you get a myomectomy. [Basically], surgery or surgery, and no other option is presented, and that’s just wrong:

Lipman described UFE as “one of the biggest medical breakthroughs for women,” that remains primarily unmentioned by physicians.

“[Women] have to find it on the internet. You shouldn’t have to go to the internet to learn about your medical condition,” Lipman continued.

UFE is a non-surgical, minimally invasive treatment to remove uterine fibroids, ultimately preserving a woman’s uterus in the process. The outpatient treatment reduces recovery time, allowing patients to return home the same day, and lowers complication rates with reductions in blood loss and pain.

Reportedly, UFE is quite effective for multiple fibroids, and the recurrence of the treated fibroids is often very rare. However, Lipman witnesses large numbers of women who have walked into his office having no knowledge of the alternative procedure before finding him after long bouts of their research outside of a doctor’s office.

More often than not, millions of women seeking salvage from the life-altering illness are quickly pointed to surgery as their only means of options to rectify the issue. Particularly for women of childbearing age, the suggestion of hysterectomy is enough to crush a woman’s spirit, leaving them hopeless in finding a plausible means to healing their reproductive system, and having a

chance of birthing children they may have dreamed of.

Sheila (whose last name is withheld for request of privacy), a patient of Dr. John Lipman, suffered from Uterine Fibroids before seeking an alternative procedure to remedy her illness.

Pleased with her results, she found herself able to conceive post-surgery.

“What I would say to another woman who has fibroids and wants to get pregnant is to go get the embolization. I don’t feel the pain that I felt before, I feel great, I have a lot more energy,” Sheila told the Informer. “I would tell the doctor that told me that the embolization doesn’t work, that I am living proof. I am actually pregnant, I am fine, and I will be fine. It’s literally life-changing.”

Lipman stressed the importance of women serving as the number one advocate of their health, encouraging the need to gather second and third opinions until finding a physician who is paying close care and attention, and not dismissing alarming health concerns.

“This is such a multilayered problem,” Lipman emphasized. “The gynecologists have done an excellent job of keeping uterine fibroid embolization under wraps. They’ve done a very good job as the gatekeepers of women’s health, they just don’t inform people about UFE. They’re surgeons, and surgeons like to operate.” WI

(Courtesy photo/Bread for the City)

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DMV Students Deliver Business Pitches in Environmental Entrepreneurship Contest

By Kayla Benjamin WI Climate & Environment Reporter

Janelle Suggs waited until Sunday night to tell her son Kenyon that she had signed him up for the Sustainable Solutions Summit, which started the next morning. She wasn’t sure how he would feel about spending the following week working on a business plan with other DMV high school students—rather than at a much-anticipated tennis camp.

“He was really upset that he was going to miss tennis,” Suggs said. “And then when I picked him up from the first day of the summit, he was really thrilled—and he has been really engaged all week, com-

ing home and doing assignments on his own.”

Rising 10th grader Kenyon, along with teammates Robbie Henning and Fimiyo Bejide, spent July 10 through 14 at the Sustainable Solutions Summit, crafting their business pitch for a solar-powered battery designed to sit on the roof of an electric vehicle. Their presentation to a panel of three expert judges—complete with a tiny prototype on a toy car—earned them first place in a competition against three other teams, each of which pitched a business idea to address an assigned environmental issue.

“It’s a competitive world,” said Leroy Nesbitt, executive director of the Black Student Fund, which

co-hosted the event with Forbright Bank. “I like to give kids safe competition, where they can learn to compete in a healthy way.”

The winning team’s members walked away with $500 each in scholarship money. The runners-up, five students who pitched an app designed to offer personalized suggestions and incentives to

use public transit, received $250 each.

Other teams’ final ideas included a food waste pickup service selling usable compost back to landscaping companies and a company selling water filtered to remove PFAS chemicals and bottled in recyclable aluminum. The judges were DC Public Service Commissioner Ted Trabue; Samantha Norquist, Forbright Bank’s chief sustainability officer; and Wendy Howard, environmental nonprofit One Montgomery Green’s executive director,.

During a 20-minute deliberation session, the panel had some trouble choosing a winner; the vote wasn’t unanimous on either first or second place.

“All of the presentations were really outstanding,” Trabue said, addressing all the students after the winners were announced. “This was a lot of information pulled together in a very limited amount

of time.”

Leading up to the final pitch day, 15 student competitors spent five days at the Marriott hotel in Chevy Chase, learning from experts in one of three subject areas: clean water, sustainable transpor-

EARTH Page 23

5 Winners of the Sustainable Solutions Summit business pitch competition celebrate after judges announced the awards July 14. From left: Robbie Henning, Kenyon Suggs, Fimiyo Bejide. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

“It’s a competitive world,” said Leroy Nesbitt, executive director of the Black Student Fund, which co-hosted the event with Forbright Bank. “I like to give kids safe competition, where they can learn to compete in a healthy way.”

The Informer's Our Earth page turns 1 year old this fall. We want to know what you think and what we can do better in year 2! Please let us know with this 3-minute survey.

5 Many proud parents came to watch the final pitch presentations at Marriott’s Courtyard Bethesda Chevy Chase hotel. (Robert R. Roberts/ The Washington Informer)

EARTH from Page 22

tation or waste diversion. Led by event organizers from Forbright, the Black Student Fund and One Montgomery Green, they researched their assigned topic, brainstormed ideas, workshopped their business models and finally practiced their pitches. The teams also worked with two mentors, interns from Forbright

Bank, to hone the business side of their concepts.

“I don't really know what I want to do in life, but I know that I want to do something maybe in business,” Bejide, one of the students on the solar battery team, said. “I want to figure out a way I can help my community and the environment by learning business skills.”

WI

DC FUTURES is a new program that gives District residents up to $8,000 for college tuition. Students can choose from more than 50 in-demand fields.

Other benefits include:

BROADWATER from Page 13

“I join people throughout Prince George's County and Maryland in mourning former Maryland State Senator Tommie Broadwater, who sadly passed away yesterday. We became friends when he started getting involved in Maryland politics more than 50 years ago and remained friends ever since,” said Hoyer, who supported Broadwater in his earliest bids. “Tommie's leadership in the community did not diminish when he left the State House at the end of 1983. Instead, his influence continued to grow. He remained a crucial advocate for greater equity, justice, and prosperity for Black Marylanders and our state's working families.”

Senator Broadwater’s celebration of life will take place on Aug. 1 at the First Baptist Church of

Glenarden. A viewing will begin at 9:30 a.m., and the funeral will start at 11 a.m.

To participate in the funeral virtually, visit: fbcglenarden.org/funeralviewing.

• One-on-one coaching to help keep you on track.

• $1,500 stipend for books, travel, and other extras.

• Emergency funds to cover some of life’s unexpected expenses, such as car repairs, rent, food, and child care.

So, whether you want to finish the degree you started, or start the degree you’ve always dreamed of, the first step is just a click away.

Learn more at osse.dc.gov/dcfutures.

“The career I never thought possible ... is possible.”

— Quinton, Class of 2024

5 Recent high school graduates Kiki Bejide (right) and Ona Olisa, alongside three other teammates, pitch an app that would incentivize public transit use. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

“I join people throughout Prince George's County and Maryland in mourning former Maryland State Senator Tommie Broadwater, who sadly passed away yesterday."

EDUCATION

District Student Uses Fashion to Create Safe Spaces

Aniya Coffey Said She Wants to Take Fashion Organization Blisx DC Citywide

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

Amid all the discussion about violence perpetrated by and against District youth, a group of young people have set out to create more opportunities for artistic expression and entrepreneurship.

Through what's known as Blisx DC, District youth have been pursuing fashion design and participating in fashion shows as designers, models and set managers -- all as what Blisx DC founder Aniya Coffey describes as an effort to provide safe spaces for young people.

“I wanted to create interventions for students who could pick up a skill and learn how to alter clothing," said Aniya, 17, a rising senior at Phelps Architecture, Construction, and Engineering (ACE) High School in Northeast, who started Blisx DC last September.

On the evening of June 18, Blisx DC hosted “Fashion Reimagined,” a fashion show at the Thurgood Marshall Center for Service and Heritage (TMCSH) in Northwest that commemorated the launch of the student organization. The almost three-hour event featured nearly a dozen models who wore outfits designed by young up-andcoming District--based fashion designers.

In the weeks leading up to this intimate event, Aniya issued a call for models, all of whom were high school and college students. She also brought on Cara Fuller, the principal at Phelps ACE High School, and Emmanuel Eppie, the Thurgood Marshall Center Trust (TMCT)'s student programs director as advisors.

Aniya said Blisx DC's work will continue during the upcoming school year with the facilitation of after-school events at Phelps ACE High School and throughout the District where young people can express their creativity through fashion design. "I want to pursue this idea to keep students engaged and branch off to other high schools in D.C. and the U.S.," Aniya said.

"Regardless of skill level, students could teach that trade to other students,” Aniya added. “It’s very important for young people to participate and have access to a space after school and during lunch to express themselves," she added.

By the time that dozens of students, parents and community members converged on TMCSH for “Fashion Reimagined” last month, the District was approaching a dozen gun-related deaths involving young people for this year -- including that of cousins Demarcos Pinckney and Kevin Mason. Although the D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation has rolled out summer programs, some District youth have been seeking out extracurricular activities focused on the arts.

Blisx DC represents years of fashion design enrichment that started with Aniya's participation in Sew N' Know at Southeast Tennis Learning Center in the fourth grade. It also builds off of Aniya's experience as student body president at Phelps ACE High School and a well-known advocate for her peers throughout the District.

Eppie, a District public school teacher, said that Aniya demon-

strated a level of maturity that brought a calm, communal vibe at the fashion show. He told the Informer that the final product reflected a vision that she was able to execute without much guidance from him or any other adult.

“The fashion show was Aniya showing her entrepreneurial skills and her community leadership and administration skills," Eppie said.

"She has an ability to be poised under pressure to the point where it seems like [planning for the fashion show] didn’t faze her," he added. "She was having fun so it [didn’t feel like] work. We could’ve made the fashion show bigger, but we kept it intimate and that was based on Aniya’s intuition."

For District student Destiny Wilson, “Fashion Reimagined” and the ongoing work with Blisx DC will play a significant role in making D.C. a mecca for fashion design.

On June 18, Wilson, a rising senior at Luke C. Moore Opportunity Academy in Northeast promoted her fashion brand, Carlena’s Creations at TMCSH via four models, one of whom wore threads with a gothic feel. She told The Informer that, in preparation for the show, she used a sewing machine that she had at home for the first time.

Since then, Wilson has set her sights on improving her craft, and eventually attending Fashion

Institute of Technology in New York City and traveling to Japan to study the gyaru fashion subculture.

For the time being however, she wants to work with her friend Aniya to expand Blisx DC and see to it that young people in D.C. can participate in safe, fashion-related activities in their backyard.

“When I tell people I want to go into fashion, they tell me to go to

New York [because] there’s nothing here,” said Wilson, 18.

“Why should I have to go somewhere else? It’s like we have to pay for everything or just [play] sports," Wilson added. "We’re trying to create something for the creative kids who don’t care for sports. There aren’t a lot of opportunities east of the Anacostia River.” WI

@SamPKCollins

5 Aniya Coffey, a rising senior at Phelps Architecture, Construction, and Engineering (ACE) High School in Northeast, started Blisx DC last September to provide a space for young people to express their creativity through fashion design. (Ja'Mon Jackson/Washington Informer)

Bowie State Successfully Raises $50 Million Ahead of Schedule

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

Bowie State University (BSU) officials announced on July 11 that the first HBCU in Maryland has met its goal of raising $50 million as part of “BSU Bold: The Campaign for Excellence.”

This fundraising campaign, the largest in the history of the university, was completed two and a half years ahead of the scheduled 2025 closing date, and the funds will support additional scholarships and reduce the burden of student debt on students.

“We have not wasted a moment asking our philanthropic partners to invest in the success of our students through this campaign,”

said Bowie State University President Dr. Aminta Breaux, the first woman to serve as President of BSU. “We are appreciative of all the individuals and organizations who have invested in our historic institution. Now we’re able to provide more of our students with scholarships. While we have met our initial campaign goal of $50 million – we are challenged and inspired to continue our fundraising and expand the campaign, inviting others to join as we raise an unprecedented level of support for our students. We must continue and work to help make college more affordable and reduce student loan debt.”

Some of the major contributors towards the Campaign for Excel-

lence have included Adobe, Baltimore Gas and Electric, the Blackstone Charitable Foundation, the Kevin Durant Charity Foundation, the Maguire Foundation, philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, the Strada Education Foundation, Truist Bank, and numerous other national funders.

David Grogan, an alum of Bowie State and a member of the Alumni Committee, said HBCUs are critical, particularly considering the Supreme Court’s recent decision on affirmative action.

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“Black athletes are competitive around the world. Now Black athletes must be intentional about their school choices. Black athletes have an opportunity to raise the stakes for HBCUs if it becomes the norm that they only consider HBCUs,” Grogan said. “Prince Georgians have a unique opportunity to attend a top ranked flagship HBCU, Bowie State University (BSU). Now they have an opportunity to stay home, elevate our athletic programs while also taking advantage of the many cooperative education and unique internship opportunities in the Washington, D.C. area.”

Brent Swinton, vice president for Institutional Advancement, also said being in the DMV region presents added bonuses.

“We’re fortunate that our unique local footprint includes Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, two major markets where corporations and agencies see the value in partnering with BSU,” said Swinton, adding that the university has no plans to slow fundraising efforts.

The largest campaign in the history of the university has been fueled by strengthening the university’s professional fundraising organization and developing new relationships with alumni, friends, corporations and foundations.

As part of the campaign, gifts have been raised for a variety of purposes including the endowment which has increased over 500% from $7 million to $40 million. This explosive growth provides extraordinary benefits to the university, including a new level of private scholarship funding for students.

“We have not wasted a moment asking our philanthropic partners to invest in the success of our students through this campaign,” said Dr. Aminta Breaux, president of Bowie State University. “We are appreciative of all the individuals and organizations who have invested in our historic institution. Now we’re able to provide more of our students with scholarships. While we have met our initial campaign goal of $50 million – we are challenged and inspired to continue our fundraising and expand the campaign, inviting others to join as we raise an unprecedented level of support for our students. We must continue and work to help make college more affordable and reduce student loan debt.”

BOWIE STATE Page 27

5 Bowie State President Dr. Aminta Breaux was proud to announce what the $50 million fundraised will do for the university and its image.{Rob Roberts/ The Washington Informer)

Bowie State University is one of 12 institutions and 3 regional centers in the University System of Maryland (USM), and is one of only two institutions in the system with an increase in enrollment between 2017 and 2022. In addition, the university is the school of choice for more high - caliber students pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees in nursing, teacher education, computer science/cyber security and other areas where jobs are in demand.

“The university is attracting students from all backgrounds and is growing rapidly due to new degree and certificate programs, our facilities and a faculty and administration committed to providing students with a high-quality higher education experience,” said Dr. Breaux. “Our first-time applications and freshman enrollment are up, and we have more students requesting on campus housing.”

The Public Phase of BSU’s Campaign for Excellence began in December 2021, in the midst of the COVID pandemic and required the university to fine tune its fundraising processes and organizational structure. A unit dedicated to administering privately funded scholarships was established in the Office of Financial Aid, along with new stewardship and alumni engagement units created within what is now known as the Division of Institutional Advancement. In

executing the initial phase of the campaign, the university leveraged technology and implemented industry best practices to engage with potential supporters.

“Given the urgency of the moment, the Campaign for Excellence will not only continue, but we are accelerating into an expanded goal, a larger scope, and frankly, higher expectations commensurate with Bowie State’s increased prominence and visibility,” said Brent Swinton, vice president for Institutional Advancement. “Besides scholarships and academic programs, the expanded campaign will also highlight BSU’s athletic programs (which do not receive any state funding), fine arts, nursing, and the university’s entrepreneurship education ecosystem.”

In addition to broadening the reach and amplifying the Bowie State University brand nationwide, efforts are underway regionally to further cultivate philanthropic support for the university among local communities.

“We’re fortunate that our unique local footprint includes Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, two major markets where corporations and agencies see the value in partnering with BSU,” said Swinton. “As we move forward with an extended campaign, we’ll work closely with our friends and affiliated organizations to generate more awareness of the world-class educational opportunities offered at Bowie State.” WI

DC FUTURES is a new program that gives District residents up to $8,000 for college tuition. Students can choose from more than 50 in-demand fields.

Other benefits include:

• One-on-one coaching to help keep you on track.

• $1,500 stipend for books, travel, and other extras.

• Emergency funds to cover some of life’s unexpected expenses, such as car repairs, rent, food, and child care.

So, whether you want to finish the degree you started, or start the degree you’ve always dreamed of, the first step is just a click away.

Learn more at osse.dc.gov/dcfutures.

“The career I never thought possible... is possible.”

— Shayla, Class of 2024

5 Fundraising at Bowie State has gradually increased over the years, culminating in a rapid success for “BSU Bold: Campaign for Excellence.” (Rob Roberts/ The Washington Informer)

During his visit to The Informer office in Congress Heights, D.C. Councilmember Trayon White (D-Ward 8) said that combatting reckless driving requires a change in the attitude of drivers who lack regard for human life and the rule of law.

Several days later, White rushed over to Children's National Medical Center to check in on a child who, along with her father, was struck by a drunk driver in a hit and run. The mayhem continued across the District last week when another driver evading police near the National Mall struck and killed a tourist.

And who can forget Nakita Marie Walker, the driver alleged to have killed three others on Rock Creek Parkway in March while under the influence of alcohol? That particular situation shed light on communication gaps between D.C. Department of Motor Vehicles and the D.C. court system that prevented the revocation of Walker’s license.

As of July 18, MPD has recorded 28 traffic fatalities this year, a 33% increase from what had been recorded last year. During the budget season, the D.C. Council mulled over how to funnel revenue collected from speed cameras into traffic calming measures. However, those discussions took place amid ongoing efforts to hold accountable drivers who accumulate thousands of dollars in unpaid tickets, and sometimes even drive cars with tags that are fake or have long expired.

With all the talk about crime prevention techniques, residents have also grown frustrated about reckless drivers who’ve taken over the streets with impunity. So much so that D.C. Councilmember Brianne Nadeau (D-Ward 1) recently introduced legislation enabling the Department of Public Works to tow and impound cars with expired, fake, obscured plates.

Nadeau’s bill follows legislation introduced by D.C. Councilmember Christina Henderson (I-At large) that suspends driver’s licenses upon a driver’s conviction for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Both measures, among others making their way through the council, can probably change the tide if quickly approved and enacted upon the council’s return from summer recess. It’s just a question of whether the consequences will persuade reckless drivers to change their attitude. WI

It’s Capture the Sunset Week, Take in the Beautiful Views, Acknowledge the Challenges

Legislating Reckless Drivers’ Attitudes EDITORIAL TO THE EDITOR

The third full week of July has been dubbed “Capture the Sunset Week,” and I couldn’t help but consider such a commemoration as an appropriate moment to safely go outside, take photos and reflect.

As the warm weather heats up the District, the sunsets tend to take on various colors. Whether it’s to take in the beautiful hues or have a moment of quiet as the day turns to night, being intentional about stepping outside and capturing beauty of the sunset can truly serve as a wonderful treat.

As time moves fast and trends change day-to-day, there’s something comforting about the daily routine of the sunrise and sunset. Taking in a sunset is a perfect opportunity to quietly appreciate nature in all her glory.

That said, this “Capture the Sunset Week,” hits a bit different this year considering some of the challenges that can result from being outside.

Yes, it’s super hot and humid in the District, and, despite grappling with the sweat, no, that's not the worst of it. As Canada experiences its worst wildfire season on record, parts of the U.S. are continuing to be affected, resulting in smoke-filled, poor quality air.

ABC News reported that on Tuesday morning, D.C. and New York City were dealing with some of the worst air qualities in the world according to IQAir, a website that lists worldwide air quality data.

That said, it’s not necessarily fun or safe just to be hanging outside for extended periods without a KN95 mask– particularly those with pre-existing bronchial conditions.

However, despite discomfort, being outside to capture the sunset during this time could allow for viewers to witness various colors in the sky. For instance, when air molecules reflect sunlight, they scatter shorter wavelengths, resulting in our vision seeing the color blue. In contrast, smoke particles are much bigger, and thus, create red or orange wavelengths to our eyes.

As a result, many of the recent sunset photos taken in the District have appeared orange or red. While the sunset’s colors continue to change daily due to the wildfire, it’s not just the different hues that I want you to consider when capturing the sunset.

Tyre Nichols, the 29-year-old man who was beaten to death by five Memphis police officers on Jan. 10, was said to love sunsets. When he died, many people took the opportunity to pay homage to him by taking photos of sunsets and posting them on social media.

So, even if sunsets might not be your thing, take a moment this week to honor Nichols’ life and legacy by capturing sunsets.

Although this week might be busy, the air quality might be low, and it’s hot, there’s much to be learned from the beauty of the sun’s setting routine, if we only stop for a moment to capture it. WI

I can’t say I’m surprised that actor Hill Harper is running for public office. He has always had an Obama-esque quality. However, I feel running for a Senate seat is a bit ambitious, but if Donald Trump and others can pivot from entertainment to politics, then so can he. I’m wishing the brother luck!

Eric Garland

Washington, DC

I can’t say enough about how much of a gem the Washington Informer has been in our community for decades. I’m happy to get my copy every week and see the newspaper still going strong.

Maurice Fields Washington,

DC

Readers' Mailbox The Washington Informer welcomes letters to the editor about articles we publish or issues affecting the community. Write to: lsaxton@washingtoninformer. com or send to: 3117 Martin Luther King Jr Ave., SE, Washington, D.C. 20032. Please note that we are unable to publish letters that do not include a full name, address and phone number. We look forward to hearing from you.

Guest Columnist

Julianne Malveaux

The Retirement of Rev. Jesse Jackson: You Can't Bury Hope or History

On July 16, Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson announced that he would pivot from his role as President of the National Rainbow Coalition to become a university professor and advisor to his successor, the Reverend Frederick Douglas Haynes III, an activist, and the pastor of Friendship-West Baptist Church in Dallas. This announcement, accompanied by a laudatory

speech from Vice President Kamala Harris, should have been front-page news. Instead, except for the Chicago newspapers, Jackson’s resignation from the group he founded in 1971 garnered very little national news. However, Rev. Jackson's transition from leadership was big news to the people who worked on his 1984 and 1988 Presidential campaigns. A couple hundred Jackson delegates and campaign workers gathered for a reunion at the PUSH headquarters on July 14-16 to reminisce and celebrate Jackson's decades of leadership.

Guest Columnist

The man whose mantra was "Keep hope alive" offered hope to those disheartened by the recent rise in racism, virulent anti-blackness, legislative and judicial hostility resulting in attacks on voting rights, and the reversal of affirmative action.

Jesse Jackson has not disappeared from the national scene. Instead, too many want to write Rev. Jackson off, just as they have attempted to write off history. The sentiment to ignore Jackson is the same sentiment that has allowed truth-deniers to introduce legislation outlawing teaching about race

Ben Jealous

in forty-four states. Thanks to Jackson campaign veterans, though, the world will learn that biased journalists cannot bury either history or hope. At a time when state legislators and Supreme Court justices have attacked voting rights, Jackson's legacy in registering more voters than any other single individual in history is unassailable. And who can deny Jesse Jackson's international impact – from his rescue of Lt. Robert Goodman from Syria through his work on the anti-apartheid movement and his relationship with Nelson Mandela? His international reach is

reflected in his participation in this year's PUSH conference, which includes delegates from several African countries, the Caribbean, and Europe. His peers in the civil rights movement sent tributes of recognition. They came from the National Urban League's Marc Morial to the National Action Network's Al Sharpton, to tweets from Presidents Bill Clinton and Joe Biden to Chicago's mayor Brandon Johnson, appreciation rained down on Rev. Jackson. Housing and

MALVEAUX Page 53

Bold Leadership and Historic Investment are Launching Climate Renewal

The last Apollo mission launched a few weeks before I was born. I grew up hearing people describe an audacious goal as a “moonshot.”

What excites me lately is how poised for a comeback this country is for the environment and the economy. I think of it as our “Earth shot,” and my home state of Maryland is emerging as Cape Canaveral’s successor.

Sparrows Point is one of our launchpads. That’s where Orsted, a wind energy company, will manufacture what it needs to power about 300,000 Maryland homes as part of a state goal for offshore windfarms to provide electricity to about 3 million homes. That also will create 125 good jobs that pay well. All on a site that once housed the world’s largest steel mill.

The Free State is showing what can happen when bold leadership and real dollars meet to address climate concerns.

Guest Columnist

Governor Wes Moore and the state legislature last year set a goal for Maryland to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 60 percent by 2031 and reach net zero emissions by 2045.

They’ve begun pursuing those goals, from demanding dealers offer more options for zero-emissions cars and trucks each year until reaching 100 percent of sales in 2035 to permitting community solar power projects to bring that renewable energy to more homes and businesses.

The White House and Congress did their part last year by passing a

David W. Marshall

historic spending package directing nearly $400 billion to growing clean energy and revitalizing American manufacturing. In Baltimore Friday, Vice President Kamala Harris announced a $20 billion loan program for underserved neighborhoods that she called “the largest investment in financing for community-based climate projects in our nation’s history.”

The unprecedented clean energy package provides tax incentives, grants, and loans for much of what Maryland seeks to accomplish. There are tax credits of up to $7500 for buy-

ing new and used electric cars and trucks. Pretty soon, the neighbors I see at our local watering hole near the Chesapeake Bay will be far less interested in my electric Ford F-150 because they’ll have one of their own. Similarly, there are rebates of up to $8,000 for home energy efficiency upgrades like heat pumps and rooftop solar panels. This helps balance the upfront costs that hit immediately with the energy cost savings that only accrue over time. Owners of

JEALOUS Page 53

We Cannot Forget Sens. Manchin and Sinema Killed the John Lewis Voting Rights Act

the internet statewide.

Americans can have short memories at critical moments. Republican Sen. Tommy Tuberville is not only aware of this key fact, but he governs by it. The U.S. senator from Alabama is obviously counting on the apathy and short memories of the voters from his state as he celebrates the fact that Alabama will receive $1.4 billion in federal funding to expand access to

“Broadband is vital for the success of our rural communities and for our entire economy,” Tuberville wrote. “Great to see Alabama receive crucial funds to boost ongoing broadband efforts.” According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, approximately 22 percent of Americans in rural areas lack high-speed broadband infrastructure which is a modern-day necessity. Alabama is one of the nation’s poorest states, therefore at $1.4 billion only six states nationally are receiving more funding under

the program. As Sen. Tuberville touts the benefits of this investment to his state, will his constituents remember how Tuberville actually voted against the bill that is providing the funding.

Will Tuberville’s rural supporters remember that the funding for this initiative was authorized by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law which President Biden signed in 2021? It’s unfortunate that the freshman senator may ultimately receive undeserved credit for delivering relief to residents living in Alabama’s most depressed areas.

The endless debate over the size and

the role of government has become so politically and culturally entrenched that the basic need to responsibly rebuild America’s infrastructure gets restrained by those promoting a “limited government” over a “big government”. The term “limited government” has always been associated with those who are deeply committed to waging America’s culture war.

The same war which, in recent years, effectively twisted the true meanings behind critical race theory (CRT), diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) and wokeness. To supporters

of “limited government” it becomes a government of inaction rather than a flexible government where its limitations are meant to prevent all forms of abuse and corruption. When the term “limited government” became a blind response to one of the most critical issues in our nation, it resulted in the long-term decay and neglect of our infrastructure system which is essential for the functioning of our society and commerce system.

Our aging infrastructure includes

Guest Columnist

Where Are We?

As children, when my siblings and I did something good, my mother never failed to compliment us. On the other hand, when we did something bad, she never failed to chastise us by providing a bit of corrective action! Whichever we were to face, my mother did it with love. At times she would add, “This is going to hurt me more than it hurts you!” We

found that hard to believe; however, we tried our best to do better or make improvements the next time. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if our Supreme Court and our politicians did the same thing—make things better?

Some people like to talk about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr’s dream. They talk about equality, but somehow forget that our nation has never been equal for many of us. So, just declaring equality does not make it so. Forward positive movement makes it so.

Donald Trump,

the twice im-

Guest Columnist

Dr. E. Faye Williams, Esq. (Ret.)

peached, several times indicted, once convicted, many times exerciser of super bad behavior, made the phrase “Make America Great Again” famous. My friend, Dick Gregory, always responded with, “You act like America has already been great for some of us!”

Sure, there was a time when many of us thought taking something to the Supreme Court would provide justice for our righteous causes. No longer are we under that illusion. Our only consolation is that we have three of the four women on the United States

Marc H. Morial

Supreme Court willing to make America great for all of us. We’re grateful for Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Ketanji Brown Jackson, and Elena Kagan—but for all their strong voices for justice for all, we need more!

We need a new Civil and Human Rights Movement because those rights we once thought we had, are now slipping away faster than we’re moving forward in basic rights. The hatred we are experiencing is coming from so many directions. It’s sad to say that too much hate and the blocking of our

moving forward are coming from within.

One glaring example of blocking our forward movement is Clarence Thomas. His hatred for us is so glaring that he not only takes advantage of affirmative action for himself, but he votes to deny it for those who’ve come after him. Let me be clear. I am not suggesting that attending Harvard University is any better for a Black student than attending Howard University or any of our fine predominantly

WILLIAMS Page 54

Tuberville's Addled Defense of White Nationalists Is Part of a Plot to Gaslight Americans on Racism

“Tuberville’s attempt to downplay and erase the racism of actual racists echoes attempts to downplay the violence of the largely White mob on January 6. More broadly, it’s part of the attempt to erase and downplay the role of race, racism and racists in American history and culture … While Tuberville might not be a student

of history, he certainly has learned well the lesson of rewriting history, downplaying racism, and absolving White nationalists.” --

Nia-Malika Henderson

According to former football coach Tommy Tuberville, who incomprehensibly remains a U.S. Senator, efforts to eliminate white nationalists from the U.S. armed services are “making this country weaker.”

Eliminating white nationalists,

he said, would do away with most White people in this country, out of the military.”

White nationalists espouse white supremacy and advocate enforced racial segregation. But is that racism? According to Tuberville, that’s a matter of opinion.

Instead of calling for his resignation, as they should have done in October when he called Black Americans “the people that do the crime,” Tuberville’s colleagues pressured him into conceding that yes, white supremacists who advo-

cate enforced racial segregation are racist.

He has not attempted to explain why he thinks “most White people in this country” fall into the category of white nationalists, or why purging racists from the armed services would destroy military readiness.

Perhaps the larger question is how he can defend “white nationalists” while claiming in the same breath that he is “totally against racism.” That’s easier to explain: Tuberville is part of an extremist

campaign to gaslight Americans on racism.

The logic, such as it is, goes like this: If there are white nationalists in the military – and there are –then white nationalists must not be racist because there’s no racism in the military.

Tuberville and his fellow extremists don’t want the electorate to consider them racist. Racism, as a brand, is toxic. The only politically acceptable way to condone

From the Psychiatric Institute of Washington DEAR EDITOR,

July 16 marks one year since our nation transitioned to 988, the easy-to-remember, nationwide mental health crisis helpline. This number connects callers with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline). Congress designated 988 in 2020 and as a part of the federal government’s commitment to addressing the mental health crisis in

America, unprecedented federal resources have been invested to scale up crisis centers in support of 988.

988 is confidential, free, and available 24/7/365, connecting those experiencing a mental health, substance use, or suicidal crisis with trained crisis counselors. Access is available through every land line, cell phone, and voice-over internet device in the United States and call/text services are also available in Spanish, along with interpretation services in over 150 languages.

SPREAD THE WORD: HELP IS AVAILABLE.

Since the launch of 988 in 2022, data show an increase in overall calls, texts, and chats – all while answer rates are significantly improving. More people are getting connected to care (and connected sooner) than ever before. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA):

• 98% of people who contact 988 are helped by a trained crisis counselor, resources are shared, and community connections made (without the involvement of 911) during the call/ text/chat.

• 9,360 is the average number of daily contacts to 988.

• About 1% of people who contact 988 agree to have their crisis counselor call 911 because of serious risk to life.

• In fewer than 1% of 988 calls, the crisis counselor must call 911 without consent because of serious risk to life.

DON’T WAIT. WE ARE LISTENING.

If someone is experiencing an emotional crisis or thoughts of suicide, call 988 or seek help at a licensed behavioral health facility. 24/7 assessments are available by contacting us

directly. As a behavioral healthcare provider right here in Washington, DC, our team at the Psychiatric Institute of Washington is dedicated to support individuals in a manner that promotes hope, resiliency, connectedness, and recovery. We are proud to partner with the local 988 network and are a resource for individuals referred for help. We appreciate the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those in need.

Sincerely,

Eric Amoh, CEO Psychiatric Institute of Washington

LIFESTYLE

Broccoli City Brings Out Major Acts, Encourages Advocacy

Brent Faiyaz, City Girls, Coco Jones, Backyard Band and More Wow in 2-Day Fest

By Micha Green WI Managing Editor

Despite thunderstorms preventing some of the headlining performances on Saturday, July 15, Broccoli City Festival offered a fun-filled weekend featuring outstanding performances from the likes of Brent Faiyaz, Coco Jones, City Girls, Chloe Bailey, Backyard

Band, Ice Spice, TiaCorine, Kodak Black, Saucy Santana and many more. Even with the engaging entertainment, various vendors and interactive activations, this year’s festival also proudly encouraged peaceful interactions, networking and equity advocacy for Washingtonians and Black Americans.

“It’s about anything that we can do to bring people together

MUSIC SWORD THE THAN MIGHTIER

peacefully, to bring people together in positive ways,” said Mitchell McCraw, general manager of the Gathering Spot Washington, D.C.

“Bringing people together in a peaceful situation like this, when other people often expect us not to act in this capacity. It’s inspiring,” McCraw added, considering stereotypes and some of the violence that has been plaguing the District and surrounding suburbs.

McCraw, who has worked and collaborated with the Broccoli City team for years, said, in addition to the camaraderie, the festival has always been rooted in entertainment and advocacy.

“Broccoli City started with the idea of being green– creating a green footprint across the country, especially for people of color,” McCraw emphasized. “But then you always have to come because it’s so much fun to gather with your friends.”

grounds and learning about some of the causes important to achieving equity for all people.

Attracted by the t-shirts and wealth of information about the breadth of their advocacy, people flocked to the Black Voters Matter booth.

“Black Voters Matter is here to spread our message of spreading love and building power,” Venkayla Haynes, communications director for the organization. “We believe that our work is 365, so we just don’t work on elections… We work on a wide variety of issues such as affordable housing, healthcare, homelessness, mental health, Medicaid, and the list goes on.”

As a cut and sew fashion designer and local equity advocate, Saba Tshibaka, founder and CEO of Rendered, took to the festival to fight for the rights of Washingtonians.

“Broccoli City’s bringing a lot of people from all over the country. I’ve, just in the last hour, met people from North Carolina, [California], Virginia,” Tshibaka told the Informer. “Honestly, putting people in a space where they have opportunities to listen to music, and be inside the city, and do activations like this, is really second to none. There’s really nothing like this and the people Broccoli City brings out.”

CO-PRODUCED BY

Fela2023.org

While the first day presented some slight snafus, such as long, unorganized lines to get a wristband for entrance, and being forced to end Saturday’s festivities a bit early due to lightning and heavy rain, Broccoli City guests maintained the good vibes.

“Seeing us able to do this in a peaceful way gives me hope, gives me pride and makes me feel inspired for what’s going to come behind me.”

In addition to singing and dancing along to their favorite artists, thousands of Broccoli City attendees spent hours catching up with friends, exploring the festival

“I’m here today supporting the 51st State activation– 51 State Village,” Tshibaka said on day one of the festival. “I want to see D.C. get statehood, and I want to see people that live in D.C. get the resources that they deserve.”

Through the use of a host (organizer Carl Thomas), an interactive photo wall, arts activities, and offering information, many people came to the 51st statehood area as curious visitors and left informed.

Tshibaka found herself educating people from all over the United States about the importance of Washingtonians achieving full representation in the House and Senate.

5 Chloe Bailey performing during the 2023 Broccoli City Fest held at RFK Stadium on July 15. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

5 Keke Palmer performing during the 2023 Broccoli City Fest held at RFK Stadium on July 15. (Marckell Williams/The Washington Informer)

Women's Symposium Announces Awards

Honoring Catherine LeBlanc and Lanta Evans-Motte for Their Impact on the National Black MBA Association and the DC Chapter

program establishment.

Submitted By DC Black MBA

The upcoming 5th Annual Women's Symposium, "Growing and Glowing - Celebrating Our Wins," on Saturday, August 26, 2023, is a platform and opportunity to empower, encourage, and inspire women. This year, it is also an occasion to honor remarkable individuals who have made a lasting impact in the Greater Washington, DC community and the national organization. In a special announcement, the symposium organizers revealed the establishment of two prestigious awards named after Catherine W. LeBlanc and Lanta Evans-Motte. These awards aim to recognize their exceptional contributions to the National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA) and the DC Chapter.

The Lanta Evans-Motte Youth Advocate Award will be presented to a young woman aged 30 or under who has demonstrated unwavering commitment and made a substantial positive impact in the lives of youth and young adults in the DMV community. The award is a testament to Ms. Evans-Motte's profound dedication to empowering the next generation. Her long-standing involvement with career development and student enrichment programs at the University of Maryland, her contributions to scholarship endowment funds at FAMU, and her instrumental role in creating various scholarship and mentorship programs exemplify her passion for youth and young adults.

Dr. Carletta S. Hurt, the DC Chapter President, emphasized the importance of these awards, stating, "The Catherine W. LeBlanc and Lanta Evans-Motte Awards celebrate the exceptional achievements of these amazing women. They have impacted the lives of countless individuals but also exemplify the values of our organization. We are honored to establish these awards and recognize their profound contributions."

The Catherine W. LeBlanc Legacy Award will honor a woman in the DMV area who has established a program or organization that has made a lasting positive impact for over ten years. Catherine LeBlanc, a distinguished Legacy Member of the NBMBAA and former president of the Atlanta Chapter, is the namesake of this prestigious award. Her notable achievements in the private, public, and nonprofit sectors, along with her dedicated service to the NBMBAA, have made her a respected figure in the community.

Throughout her career, Ms. LeBlanc has been an active and engaged member of the NBMBAA, serving in various leadership positions and receiving numerous accolades for her exceptional contributions. She co-created the NBMBAA's highly successful Leadership Institute and has played a crucial role in designing and implementing leadership and career development activities for its members. Her distinguished 40+ years of service to the NBMBAA make her an outstanding namesake of the Catherine W. LeBlanc Legacy Award.

The 5th Annual Women's Symposium will be a momentous occasion where these remarkable women will be honored for their profound impact on the National Black MBA Association and the DC Chapter. Their legacy will inspire future generations of women to strive for excellence and make a positive difference in their communities. For more information, visit the website www.dcblackmbaa.org.

Jimmy Jam Fights for Insulin Affordability On The Hill

By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Health Reporter

Award-winning producer, musician, and songwriter Jimmy Jam provided testimony with support of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) to urge the Senate Appropriations Committee to renew the Special Diabetes Program (SDP). The celebrated producer also advocated for policies that will ultimately ensure insulin affordability for the many Americans who are finding themselves at a loss due to lack of insurance and unpredictable pricing.

Sharing his testimony of managing his son Max’s diabetic journey, Jimmy Jam explained, “Max is now in his twenties, and we’re glad that instead of those constant finger pokes to test him, he now uses a continuous glucose monitor or CGM.”

“These life-changing devices never would have come to market as quickly as they did - or perhaps even at all - without research funded by the Special Diabetes Program and JDRF’s funding and extensive involvement,’ Jimmy Jam added.

Diabetes, a chronic disease plaguing over 37 million Americans, has become an increasingly concerning issue for adults and youth alike who are fighting to not only manage their diabetic lifestyles, but struggling to afford the necessity of insulin treatments to keep them alive.

Nationally, the average out-ofpocket cost for a 30-day insulin supply stands at roughly $63 per fill with the help of insurance coverage. However, for those managing medical costs without financial aid, those rates nearly double to roughly $123 per fill, leaving a troubling number of diabetics already functioning in lower socio-economic circumstances in a medically dangerous space.

Such extensive costs can force the hands of many, leaving their only option to ration the few doses of insulin that they have. However, insulin rationing is a dangerous

option, as serious and sometimes deadly consequences can arise including hyperglycemia, a greater risk of developing ketoacidosis, and a greater risk of kidney failure blindness. The stakes are even higher for those with type 1 diabetes, as complications due to rationing insulin intake can lead to a coma, or even death.

\“Through Max’s eyes, I have also seen the crisis facing millions of Americans: insulin affordability. There are already so many people across the country who can’t afford their insulin, and over the years the cost has gotten higher,” Jimmy Jam said. “People like Max need insulin to survive. I’ve heard heartbreaking stories of families forced to ration insulin because it is too expensive. Congress should make sure no family has to make these impossible choices to keep their child alive.” WI

5 (Courtesy photo)

Two distinguished awards to recognize women who have made significant contributions to youth advocacy and

5 Catherine W. LeBlanc

5 Lanta Evans-Motte

Stage Domination Conference Energizes Entrepreneurs to Turn Dreams into Action

By Dr. Patrise Holden Contributing Writer

More than 400 people converged in Washington, D.C. on July 12, with one common goal, becoming empowered to reach greater business and personal heights. The “Stage Domination: Unleash Your Brilliance & Transform Lives,” conference, led by acclaimed speakers Dr. Cheryl Wood, who started the event, Lisa Nichols, Gloria Mayfield Banks and Trent Shelton, proved to be an energizing summit that inspired guests.

Created by Wood, 49, of Global Speakers University, the event welcomed a multigenerational crowd, with ages ranging from pre-teens to senior citizens. Teaching people to tap into their purpose at any age is central to Wood’s message as a life coach and renowned motivational speaker.

“I believe that you can never over invest in yourself. Events like this help to expand your thinking, expand your mindset and, many times, shift you out of feeling stuck, ” said Love and Marriage DC star Winter Harris, 41.

Recently divorced and a self described “woman on a mission of reinvention,” Harris emphasized that separation from a spouse is similar to a death as it brings feelings of grief, loss and acceptance.

“Going through a major life transformation, this summit helps us to see what’s possible as it celebrates women at every level of life and business,” Harris continued. “As a speaker myself, it reinforces the importance of my work and that there is a unique space for every one of us to fulfill”.

Two years from being able to retire, working mother Kyra Frames,

5 Dr. Cheryl Wood motivates attendees to live with purpose during the “Stage Domination: Unleash Your Brilliance & Transform Lives,” conference. (Courtesy Photo/ Lindria Dockett Photography)

PRESENTS

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47, attended the event to identify her career purpose.

“As a mom, for so long I have been accustomed to doing what I needed to do for the benefit of my family. Instead of waiting until retirement, I am starting now to create a business that I want to do as opposed to working a job that I have to do,” Frames said. “This conference has uplifted me and lit a fire in my spirit. I am ready to take the knowledge and tools learned to ignite the dreams that have been inside of me for far too long.”

For Wood, a two-time Tedx Speaker and best selling author, her mission is to motivate women of color like Frames to unleash and amplify their voices.

“Every day that you wake up, the world stage is available to you,” Wood said. “Many of us place more value on what is on us, instead of what is in us. If you are going to sacrifice, sacrifice for your life to shift in a different direction.”

Nichols, 57, added that conferences such as “Stage Domination,” serve as a reminder that “inspiration is timeless and it is never too late to press restart.”

In addition to empowering guests, the summit was also a safe haven for attendees.

Event sponsor, Dr. Chere M. Goode, 49, suffered the unimaginable loss of her NFL-bound 20-year-old son Jordan. A nurse for 32 years, the conference enabled her to continue turning her pain into purpose. For women suffering from any form of trauma, she offered lessons on speaking life into oneself.

“Just get up,” Goode said. “Each day, create the mood that you want for yourself, even if it’s as simple as wearing bright colors. Every journey has a beginning, a middle, and an end. Trauma can cause us to feel like it is the end. However, we can use that pain to make a purposeful new beginning.”

Wood motivated attendees to

push past self-limiting boundaries and embrace growth. She admitted that the global success she now enjoys came by way of decisions that completely terrified her.

A former executive legal secretary, Wood quickly reached an employment ceiling. Earning close to six figures, she was unable to advance in position or pay.

“Mustering the courage to walk away from full-time employment with three kids was absolutely terrifying for my husband and I,” she recalled.

Six months after she took the leap of faith to start her own business, her husband unexpectedly lost his job.

“We lost everything. The house went into foreclosure, cars were repossessed, our savings were quickly depleted. I felt like a failure. My husband and three children are going through all this because I’m chasing some dream? It was devastating.”

Although Wood temporarily re-entered the job market, she placed herself on a time limit and

kept her business goals centrally in mind and in action. When presented the opportunity to host a two-hour local radio show, her employer refused to grant her the time off. She tendered her resignation that same day. Today, she is one of the most requested speakers on the globe.

“It is not your job to stand defeated in your story like quicksand. It is your responsibility to use your story as the stage from which to launch your purpose”, Nichols related to a captivated crowd.

Former NFL player, Trent Shelton, 38, one of the four keynote speakers, attributes Wood’s success to her incredible perspective. “Peace is not dependent upon exterior conditions. A big part of peace is your perspective. Losses often bestow great lessons which if applied mean that better things are on the horizon”.

Experience more of Wood’s work at her signature event Speaker Con, Nov. 1-4, and for more information visit: speakerConConference.com. WI

5 Keynote Speakers (l to r) Trent Shelton, Lisa Nichols, Dr. Cheryl Wood, and Gloria Mayfield Banks at the Stage Domination conference. (Courtesy Photo)

3 Dynamic conference fostered laughter, reflection, and even tears during the Stage Domination conference in Washington, D.C. on July 12.. (Courtesy Photo/ Lindria Dockett Photography)

Spotlight on Young Boys in Two New Books

By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer

Hot summer days may be the perfect time to stay in the shade and dive into new books by Pierce Freelon and Anthony Tilghman. Both African American authors explore topics from a young boy’s perspective.

DADDY AND ME, SIDE BY SIDE

By Pierce Freelon

Illustrated by Nadia Fisher Little, Brown and Company

Ages 5-8

Page Count: 40

It’s time for a father and son to go camping in “Daddy and Me, Side by Side.”

With backpacks and fishing poles, they look forward to their adventure. Time together provides an opportunity for Dad to remember when he was a youngster going camping with his father. The son learns some of the things his Dad learned from Pop-Pop. Walking trails, crossing creeks, jumping from rock to rock, and digging for worms are what this Dad now does with his son.

“Daddy and Me, Side by Side,” is a multigenerational look at bonding through remembrances, which is autobiographical for Freelon.

“My Dad was a very sweet man. He was loving, nurturing, funny, caring and creative,” said Freelon, nominated in 2022 for Best Children's Music Album.

This book is written in a lyrical rhyming style. Illustrations are bright, then soothing, especially when the son thinks about missing his PopPop.

“Daddy and Me, Side by Side” is a follow-up to Freelon’s book “Daddy-Daughter Day.”

Creativity is in Freelon’s DNA. He is the son of the late Philip Freelon, the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture lead architect, and Grammy-nominated jazz vocalist Nnenna Freelon. This book brings the reader into the Freelon circle of love.

Instagram: @piercefreelon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/randall.freelon

Website: https://www.piercefreelon.com

A BOY LEARNS TO TIE HIS BLUE SNEAKERS

Written and Illustrated by Anthony Tilghman

Published Independently

Ages 5 and up

Page Count: 24

In his sixth book, Anthony Tilghman tackles a trial many children face– tying shoelaces.

The main character: “A Boy Learns to Tie His Blue Sneakers,” had never learned to tie his blue sneakers. However, learning to tie his laces was necessary. With them untied, he would continue to fall and could not enjoy the full pleasures of being a kid, such as playing with friends.

The book is a fun way to give instructions for the basics in life. Tilghman keeps children interested by rhyming sentences.

“I know a lot of kids who are learning to tie their shoes,” said Tilghman. “A lot of kids are visual learners, so I wanted to do a step-by-step approach.”

A bonus at the end of “A Boy Learns to Tie His Blue Sneakers”

are learning activities that include connect-the-dot images, word-matching exercises, and alphabet writing.

“I wanted to catch people to keep learning and keep practicing,” said Tilghman.

Proceeds from Tilghman’s book sales go toward his nonprofit Make Smart Cool. The organization puts in thousands of hours offering programs for children. Community outreach includes hosting boys and girls reading clubs at the District Heights, Maryland library, donating backpacks with school supplies and awarding scholarships. For Tilghman, it is all about the children.

Instagram: @anthonytilghman

Facebook: https://www.facebook. com/anthonytilghmandotcom WI

Greg Cook – UNIFICS Rest In Peace

On Saturday, July 8, 2023, Gregory Aaron Cook, Sr. passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones, including his loving wife, Bonnie.

Greg grew up in the Barry Farms and Suitland Terrace communities before finally landing in NW DC.  In 1967 he joined the reformation of a local R&B singing group out of Howard University that became known as "The Unifics.” He and fellow Unifics members, Harold, Michel, and Al Johnson, grew a phenomenal career singing and dancing to hit songs like "The Court of Love," "The Beginning of My End" and many more.  He continued his entertainment career for a brief time with various soul groups like the "Chilites" and the "Blue Notes" and others.   Before his illness, he was committed to community volunteer work.

Funeral services for Greg Cook will be held at the Jesus Christ Church of Latter-Day Saints at 4901 16th Street NW in DC from 10am -1pm on Saturday, July 22, 2023.

5 “Daddy and Me, Side by Side” by Pierce Freelon and illustrated by Nadia Fisher. (Courtesy Photo/ Little, Brown and Company)

4 “A Boy Learns to Tie His Blue Sneakers” written and illustrated by Anthony Tilghman. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington, Informer)

Dryy Garment Cleaners: The Fabric That Connects a Community

By Andrew S. Jacobson WI Contributing Writer

Dryy Garment Care has established itself beyond a dry cleaning business, and, through partnerships and community engagement, has become part of a thriving local ecosystem, drawing people together through art, culture and education.

The dry cleaning and community organization, under the direction of Ken Sandy, partnered with KidOvation Stage, a performing arts program that helps children build confidence and discover their potential through the arts. Led by founder Tsion Tekele, KidOvation helps children build confidence and discover their potential through the arts.

Tekele shares Sandy's belief in the power of community and collaborated with Dryy to bring unique children's performances to its multipurpose venue. The partnership expands the program's reach while bringing joy and inspiration to an even wider audience.

Art is also a key thread in this intricate tapestry. Keyonna Jones, founder of the Congress Heights Art and Culture Center, is known for her community-centric approach to promoting art and culture in her neighborhood and around the District. Jones has teamed up with Dryy to further her efforts in nurturing D.C.based artists.

Additionally, Dryy has allied with Colleen Shumaker, founder of Finding the Fantastic, a podcast

that champions celebrating individual uniqueness and navigating much needed mental health support. Their collaboration aims to challenge conventional thinking, promote acceptance, and celebrate wellness and diversity in the community.

HIGHLIGHTING COLLABORATION THROUGH FILM

Adding to the series of collaborations, on July 27, Edens' Rooftop in Union Market will host a live screening of a short film produced by Brian Rashid.

Rashid, a former Forbes journalist and accomplished storyteller, is well-known for his project, "Love Letters to the World," a series of narratives illustrating love

and connection in various global communities. After targeting cities such as New York City and the country of Uruguay, Rashid has graced the District with his heartfelt storytelling; sharing the story of local businesses, which he identified as local changemakers.

His latest film highlights the community impact of Dryy's partners, documenting how their collaborations are making waves in the DMV.

For Rashid, this film embodies his belief in the power of storytelling.

'Storytelling is a tool to inspire change and cultivate empathy," Rashid once said, and it is this philosophy that underlies his collaboration with Dryy.

With his eye for compelling stories, Rashid will shine a light on

The dry cleaning and community organization, under the direction of Ken Sandy, partnered with KidOvation Stage, a performing arts program that helps children build c confidence and discover their potential through the arts.

the creative ways Dryy is bringing together businesses, nonprofits, and individuals to better the community. WI

5 (Courtesy Photo)

I love soccer! play and watch soccer! READ about soccer!

Women’s World Cup Teams

By Zoe

The FIFA Women’s World Cup soccer championship began in 1991. It is held every four years. Soccer teams from countries around the world compete for a chance to be one of the 32 teams that make it to the Women’s World Cup.

I drew flags of the countries that have hosted the Women’s World Cup tournament over the years. Do the math to label each flag correctly.

Australia and New Zealand

By Lily

The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup tournament will take place from July 20 through August 20. The teams will play in Australia and New Zealand. It takes a month to play all the matches that will lead to one country taking home the trophy!

I drew a map to show the host cities where Women’s World Cup matches will take place.

The Awesome Trophy

The Women’s World Cup trophy is really cool. I tried drawing a picture of it, but it took several tries to get it right. Find the two that are exactly the same.

Use the code to learn some facts about the trophy.

Trophy height: ___ ___ . ___ inches

It takes a lot of practice to build the skills needed to compete for a World Cup. Which soccer ball belongs to each player?

What’s in a name?

By Lily

Soccer is called something else in most countries around the world. Circle every fifth letter to reveal the answer.

Interview about Write lines under What give young

Winning Headlines

Weight: ___ ___ . ___ pounds

Soccer Search

How many soccer balls can you nd on this page?

Choose three newspaper ads. Can you change the headlines in the ads to be about soccer or your favorite sport?

Standards Link: Reading Comprehension: Follow simple written directions.

review wi book

"Life on Other Planets: A Memoir of Finding My Place in the Universe"

By Aomawa Shields, PhD

c.2023, Viking $28.00 352 pages

Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer

Star light, star bright, first star I see tonight...

And the second and third and you'll just keep wishing until you run out of desires. You'll never run out of stars, though, so you can spend all night wishing and do it again tomorrow. Wish hard enough, work even harder and, as in the new book "Life on Other Planets" by Aomawa Shields, PhD, you may see your hopes come true.

Growing up in a "self-sufficient and independent" all-female household that prized education and encouraged her love of the planets, Aomawa Shields was raised securely on a foundation of science and "the sky was my first love." She didn't know then that the night sky could become a career; she remembers wanting, instead, to be a cheerleader like the pretty white girls she saw on TV.

Her PhD-educated mother "winced" over that but delighted in Shields' fascination with stars and her embrace of STEM subjects. By the time she was twelve years old, Shields had mapped out her entire future career.

To get there, she read as much about astronomy as she could find. She "devoured" TV shows about space before applying to attend an elite prep school that took her from her California home to New Hampshire. At Exeter, she says, "As soon as I could, I took astronomy courses...." She dreamed of applying at NASA.

She also auditioned for a play and landed a good part. Acting, Shields learned, was fun and she was quite good at it; storytelling, making an audience feel a certain way, it was addictive. And so, when she began struggling academically in college and a professor told her that maybe it was time to put astronomy aside, another "love" was waiting for her in the wings. She continued to attend astronomy classes, but he also secretly auditioned for parts before moving back to California for her new career. Still, she says, she wasn't satisfied. Astronomy and acting – how was this going to work? She had two loves, and was about to meet a third...

Pick up "Life on Other Planets," and you may be tempted to put it right back down. The subject matter is pretty heavy. It's very science-y and what if it's over your head?

You might get lost, right?

Not really. Author Aomawa Shields does bring a lot of science into her tale, but it comes with a lot of gentle wide-eyed wonder and explanations that are easy for an average reader to grasp. There's beauty in what Shields sees, and she shares her excitement in a way that will make you see the sky with fresh eyes.

That's the first leg of this book. The other part is about Shields' journey to fit into two worlds, one foot in each of them, while still being true to herself and her interests.

JULY

20 - 26,

ARIES Reflect on the size and style of another person's shoes and then, relax into the idea of your smallness in the world, not as any comment on your influence, but just to enjoy a healthy and productive instance of modesty. Lucky Numbers: 1, 10, 28

TAURUS For the subtlest reasons, your day-to-day life seems more exciting to you. Dramatic turns to daunting, and what daunts you is likely a financial question. Be conservative about the financial risks you take. Lucky Numbers: 14, 27, 28

GEMINI Siblings figure strongly in your life or else a partner of some other kind who you feel deeply connected to. Don't commit to social plans because you will likely end up canceling them. Something one-on-one is better than dinner for a party of ten. Lucky Numbers: 1, 27, 28

CANCER Staying confident will be simple if you ignore negative energy and embrace all the good energy that's coming your way. Walk away from the people who are pushing your buttons and making you doubt yourself. You'll find all the support and encouragement you need if you believe you deserve it. You have far more people in your corner than you realize. Lucky Numbers: 1, 14, 20

LEO All the issues you'll have to deal with may not be clear at first, but some will be. Deal with the obvious stuff right away and get it out of the way. Tackle the stuff you can't quite get a handle on immediately. The gray areas will be fun to explore, so make sure you give yourself all the time you can to enjoy them. Lucky Numbers: 14, 20, 27

VIRGO Be aware that what you think is a silly joke could come off as offensive. Do your best not to be critical. The extra effort you put into being sensitive to other’s needs will be worth it when they relax, open up, and show you what a cool person they actually are. Lucky Numbers: 1, 20, 27

LIBRA There will be some drama whirling around you, but you'll probably enjoy all of it. Your flexibility is the key ingredient. It will enable you to see the humor in someone's ranting to such an extent that you might have a hard time holding back a giggle. Your flexibility might help you find an instant solution to a problem someone is freaking out about. You'll be quick on your feet and ready for anything. Lucky Numbers: 14, 22, 27

SCORPIO Your brain is eager to soak up every bit of nourishment that it can. At first, you might not feel like there is enough substance in the conversations you're involved in. People seem to be too concerned with trivial matters and celebrity gossip. Later, you will find the conversational partner you've been looking for. Lucky Numbers: 11, 25, 31

SAGITTARIUS You'll see something or someone that reminds you of an important event in your past, and you should follow your urge to wander down memory lane for a while. Reminiscing about the past is always better when someone else is remembering along with you. The shared time might not be terribly significant, but thinking about how much you've grown will be rewarding. Lucky Numbers: 1, 2, 31

CAPRICORN Take some time to think about what you want for your future. Imagine what the years ahead could bring. Thinking ahead is not only efficient, it's downright fun! Let your imagination run wild. Hope for the best and envision the perfect outcome in your latest project or conquest. Lucky Number: 2, 4, 28

AQUARIUS Relationship issues could come to the forefront. Ask yourself the hard questions. Is it a positive partnership for you? Are you happy with who you are when you're with them? If you feel like they always make you feel nervous, guilty, or on edge, then it's time to have a serious talk. It won't get better until you do. Lucky Numbers: 6, 12, 14

PISCES The good news you just heard has you distracted and excited. But try not to let go of your grasp on reality right now. Try some new ideas and techniques here and there but stick to the tried and true for the most part. Make sure old things are square before you start exploring new ones. Lucky Numbers: 6, 12, 14

Athletes in Action Brings Local Athletes Together

By Ed Hill WI Contributing Writer

Over the years, the DMV has boasted some outstanding athletes in various sports. Many have gone to become high school and college All Americans and even professionals.

Yet through time, many are forgotten. So in an effort to preserve the accomplishments and accolades of those former athletes and bring them together, Lloyd Mayes decided to start Athletes in Action (AIA) in 2015.

“It seemed like the only time that we were able to connect and get together was at funerals,” said Mays, AIA president and a Cardozo High School and American University graduate. “So a group of us got together and decided to form Athletes in Action. We wanted to honor the former athletes and coaches in the DMV by bringing [them] together for an annual event.”

AIA started slowly and had 15-20 members the first year. Then slowly but surely, it grew each year in numbers and expanded its mission. The organization celebrated its ninth anniversary with close to 200 attendees at this year’s event.

The event was held at East Potomac Park in Northwest, Washington. Former athletes, coaches and family members in attendance sat under tents, told stories, enjoyed the old school music, hand danced, providing for great fellowship.

It is jokingly said among members that the only admission price to attend, is that you have to "tell two lies" about your accomplishments or performances during your career

Some of the attendees included such legends as Larry Spriggs, former Howard University standout and member of the world champion Los Angeles Lakers; Hall of Fame

Coach Bob Headen (H.D Woodson and Cardozo); former Howard Uni-

versity baseball player and retired sportscaster Glenn Harris.

Perhaps the most recognized attendee at this year’s event was Dave Bing. Bing starred at Spingarn High School before attending Syracuse University and later being drafted by the Detroit Pistons. Following a Hall of Fame NBA career, Bing transitioned into becoming successful as a businessman, then in politics as mayor of Detroit. Now, he’s head of The Bing Youth Abuse program, a community program for adolescents, ages 7-14 in Detroit, where he now makes his home.

“This is the first time that I have had a chance to attend this event,” said Bing, in between numerous requests to take photos with people and to talk on the phone to someone ask-

WARD 7 from Page 15

chapter of the discussions yielded the 30-80% AMI and family-sized units.

Though she expressed her qualms with the lack of green space in the building design, Freese told the Informer that 34Fifty will be suitable to people and families yearning to stay in the community for a long time.

“River Terrace is a very small neighborhood, and small changes make big waves," Freese said. "We just wanted to make sure that we brought neighbors in the apartment building and not just checking off some of the boxes for the mayor and everyone else.”

At the start of her second term, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) set an affordable housing goal of

ing to speak to him. “For various reasons, I was invited, but was not able to make it in the past. To come back home and see people who I have not seen in years is very special. There is nothing like coming home and being a part of something like this. It makes me feel blessed and proud.”

Through the years, there has been a significant increase in participation from women. The July 16 event had the largest participation from women in the organization’s history.

Among the attendees were former high school track and field All Americans Tomi Rucker (Coolidge), Charlita Whitehead (H.D. Woodson), Carolyn Brinkley (Theodore Roosevelt and University of the District of Columbia), former professional race car driver Mean Billye

12,000 units by 2025. Speakers at the groundbreaking said that the construction of 34Fifty in River Terrace sets the number of units constructed thus far at 8,000.

River Terrace is composed of row houses, detached houses and apartments all located in a cul-desac surrounded by the Anacostia Freeway, Benning Road, Anacostia River and East Capitol Street. Since 1950, the River Terrace Community Organization has set out to protect the interest of residents and develop a sense of community.

The entity has done so through youth gardening programs, adult education classes and neighborhood watch programs, among other organizing tactics.

On Thursday, Councilmember Gray touted 34Fifty as the mani-

Jean Armstrong and former Olympian Esther Stroy Harper.

While much of the focus is on the gathering of athletes, Mayes explained that AIA has evolved to greater heights.

“We have two other events,” he added. ”We now have an annual crab feast as a fundraiser that has grown leaps and bounds. Then we have a dinner and dance that is a fundraiser.”

Part of the fundraiser goes to deserving youth interested in attending college or trade schools.

“We are trying to attract and involve more young people to carry on the tradition of the Athletes in Action. It was a great turnout and we are pleased at where it has come.”

WI

festation of the vision for sustainable development that he set forth as mayor and a testament to the power of cooperation.

"[T]o see yet another innovative project take root is a milestone in the continuum of our goal to see ubiquitous green construction and sustainable, green living across the city," Gray said.

"None of what we’re achieving would be possible without the efforts of the people and organizations represented here today," Gray continued. "Through hard work, innovation and cooperation we can overcome challenges and make real improvements to the lives of people with great needs while at the same time preserve the environment for future generations." WI

@SamPKCollins

5 The 2023 DMV AIA 9th Annual Picnic with DC native and former Detriot Piston and Detroit Mayor, David Bing at Haines Point on July 15. (Abdullah Konte/The Washington Informer)

the moment CAPTURE

5 Singer-songwriter and actress Chloe Bailey performs at the 2023 Broccoli City Festival held on the grounds of RFK Stadium on July 15. (Abdullah Konte/The Washington Informer)

5 Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser greeted the audience attending the 2023 Broccoli City Festival on the grounds of RFK Stadium on July 15. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

4 Rapper Ice Spice performs at the 2023 Broccoli City Festival held on the grounds of RFK Stadium on July 15. (Abdullah Konte/The Washington Informer)

(Bottom right) Rapper Kodak Black performs at the 2023 Broccoli City Festival held on the grounds of RFK Stadium on July 15. (Abdullah Konte/The Washington Informer)

(Top right) Nigerian singer and songwriter Asake, performs during the 2023 Broccoli City Festival held on the grounds of RFK Stadium on July 15. (Abdullah Konte/The Washington Informer)

RELIGION

In a Summer of Violence, Faith leaders are Ministering in the Streets

By Hamil R. Harris WI Contributing Writer

A group of Baltimore police officers and chaplains got out of a van last week and walked up to a group of young men who were sitting on a porch of a vacant house.

Instead of questioning them about a crime, one police captain asked the young men if they were interested in applying for a job in a city program. Then several chaplains prayed with them.

Last Saturday Minister Davis

SOLAR from Page 1

is more mental, but still, you have to be able to utilize your body—so I think this is a better field for me.”

It’s a field Nicholson plans to stay in after he completes Solar Works DC. The paid program, which lasts either six or seven weeks, combines classroom learning and on-the-job experience with job placement support and opportunities to obtain industry-specific certifications. It’s implemented by nonprofit solar group GRID Alternatives Mid-Atlantic and overseen by both the Department of Energy and Environment and the Department of Employment Services.

Nicholson listed off several certifications he had gotten through the program, including OSHA 30, Six Sigma White Belt for problem solving and CPR training.

“It’s like a mic drop in the [job] interview,” he said. “These are things that you wouldn't get just going to a job at an entry level, and when you present that on your re-

Worley of the Sandtown Church of Christ and others gave out backpacks and hotdogs in the Sandtown-Winchester section of West Baltimore.

From the streets of Baltimore to the suburbs of Washington, D.C., ministers and people of faith have been praying for and engaging young adults in an effort to calm the storm of violence.

“We are going out on the streets and meeting the young brothers to pray and to encourage them to make different life decisions and give them hope,” said the Rev.

sume, it really speaks volumes.”

CREATING CAREERS, CUTTING ENERGY BILLS

One of the two homes the trainees worked on last week belongs to Linay Foreman, a native Washingtonian born and raised in

Henry P. Davis, pastor of the First Baptist Church of Highland Park. Worley said it is important to deploy men of the church to take to the streets in the wake of shootings in the Baltimore- Washington corridor.

“It's important. We need a message of hope to reach people who are not inside the church,” Worley said.

Worley decided to open a church in the Sandtown-Win-

Petworth, who works in facilities management at American University. She’d heard from a friend about the opportunity to get solar panels added to her roof at no cost through the city’s Solar for All program, which supports Solar Works DC.

After her second daughter left home for school a few years ago, Foreman found that even though she was now “a semi-empty nester,” she was still paying too-high energy bills.

“One month, my Pepco bill was over $300, and it was just me in the house,” she said. “One of my girlfriends recently had solar panels installed, I think back in January… Her bill went from like $180-something—when she got the bill in June, her bill was $17.”

Energy bill savings from solar panels are not always that drastic, especially outside of the summer months. But Solar for All advertises a 50% cost reduction in bills for its participants, who qualify for the program based on income re-

chester community in a recreation center. When the recreation center opened, the church purchased a storefront building that is now being transformed into a sanctuary.

“My hope is that when our doors are finally open that we will receive the love and support from this community,” said Worley, a retired Marine and federal worker at the Pentagon who commutes home to Baltimore every evening.

quirements (no more than 80% of DC’s median income).

Foreman also had her roof repaired so that it would be ready for the solar panels. This service, too, was free through the program.

Intersecting Problems, Interconnected Solutions

Elijah Perry, executive director of GRID Mid-Atlantic, said that helping with home repairs is part of the organization’s “holistic approach” to creating economic development in underserved communities. He described the impact as two-fold: lowering energy burdens for low-income homeowners while simultaneously connecting community members with opportunities in the solar industry.

Plus, swapping fossil fuel-generated energy for renewable energy sources like solar is crucial for solving the climate crisis.

“There's the environmental component, but there's also an economic component,” Perry said.

SOLAR Page 48

Darlene Grant, a member of the East Baltimore Church of Christ, passed out book bags because she is from the Sandtown community. Grant said the faith community can make a difference and from the smiles of people getting backpacks, “you can see that the people are pleased.”

Michael McFadden, minister of the College Park Church of Christ and President of Pilots for Christ, joined Worley at the backpack giveaway. He spends most of the week flying for Southwest Airlines, but on his off days the Howard University graduate is flying general aviation aircraft and mentoring young people with Pilots For Christ.

In a few weeks he will host “Youth Day at Tipton Airport,” where he and other pilots will take youth from the D.C. area on airplane rides.

“In July we will be at Youth Day at Tipton Airport to give young people a catalyst for hope by introducing them to aviation. The metaphor is through aviation, the sky is the limit,” McFadden explained.

The College Park minister also emphasized the importance of being of service to others.

“Giving people hope is giving them opportunities.” Mcfadden said. “When you’re living in a world with so many negative images, it suffocates the opportunity for hope, especially for young people.”

Wi

“It’s like a mic drop in the [job] interview,” he said. “These are things that you wouldn't get just going to a job at an entry level, and when you present that on your resume, it really speaks volumes.”

5 Religious leaders and law enforcement took to the streets of Baltimore to minister to others. (Hamil Harris/ The Washington Informer)

“Also take for yourself wheat, barley, beans, lentils, millet, and spelt; put them into one vessel, and make bread of them for yourself. Ezekiel 4:9

In furthering the causes of the Diabetes Educational Prevention Campaign, taking the bull by the horns for my own personal health is what this article is all about. The first order of business has been to make my very own lifestyle change. Depressed and saddened because of what had happened to my mother twenty-two years ago, due to complications she suffered from lack of knowledge, therefore she suffered from Type 2 diabetes in the worse kind of way.

When i was diagnosed, I remember going home, throwing out all the carbohydrates in my kitchen, and beginning to take short ten-minute walks for starters from being so out of shape, had back injuries from two car accidents, the pain I felt during my walks was tremendous, but I kept trying. Today, walking an hour without pain is easy. Exercise is now a lifestyle change for me.

Scared straight from the knowledge of Type 2 Diabetes and its many complications, never will I eat improperly the way I once did. I’m sharing my testimony to help readers around the country to understand that Type 2 diabetes can be turned around.

According to Dr. Sherita Hill Golden, a diabetes doctor at Johns Hopkins University Hospital, and a previous guest on The Lyndia Grant Radio Show several years ago, “It's never too late to make that change to a better diet and to add exercise.” We cannot allow problems to overwhelm us to a point that we are killing ourselves by out-ofcontrol eating, or shall we say, we are

WITH LYNDIA GRANT

How I Made a Lifestyle Change

eating too much comfort food.

I am feeling so much better now, and I’m happy to be back on track. How did I make the switch from eating in my regular manner to now having a healthy diet? Previously, eating from Burger King, McDonald’s, having four candy bars because I couldn’t decide which was my favorite, purchasing large bags of Frito’s, and enjoying ‘pink’ Hostess Sno-Balls, I was hooked on this cake. As much I ate those cupcakes, that alone added to my diagnosis. Even though I thought I was only gaining weight from eating them, I kept going to the gas station to buy them!

It wasn’t easy to cut out all the fast food and make the switch to eating more green leafy vegetables, wellplanned garden salads, lentils, and add regular exercise routines which have become my new normal. Walking and jogging continues to be my exercise of choice. There is an extreme difference in the way that I look and feel, with pounds and inches steadily coming off.

Drinking green smoothies each morning is another good choice. White bread and white sugar have been switched to whole grain or wheat bread and sourdough. I looked in the frozen food section of the grocery store until I found Ezekiel Bread, made from the scripture, Ezekiel 4:9 products, and are crafted in the likeness of the Holy Scripture to ensure unrivaled honest nutrition and pure, delicious flavors. The scripture reads "take also unto thee wheat and barley, and beans, and lentils

Shiloh Church of God 7th Day

and millet, and spelt and put them in one vessel…" It is this special, unique combination of six grains and legumes that harvests benefits beyond what we normally expect from our breads, pastas, cereals, and other foods. Ezekiel Bread has been a blessing in my diet. Finally, it is 84.3% protein, with no eggs included. Brown rice is best for diabetics.

As a result of these lifestyle changes, my physical examination continues to improve. My HbA1C glucose levels are at the pre-diabetic levels, my blood pressure is very good again, and I feel so much better too. There is one area that I'm still working on, and that is my ideal Body Mass Index, BMI. I'm still overweight, but I've lost more than 50 pounds and still counting. I've gotten more wrinkles in my neck, but I'm 72 years old now, and it is, what it is! I am working on that too.

Consider making your very own major lifestyle change to improve your diabetes levels. It's very simple: Firstchange your diet by eliminating most carbohydrates, always have small portions. That is a must. When you cut out all carbs, you HbA1C rises; secondly, you must exercise regularly for the rest of your life; and, finally, do NOT get off track, stay with this for life! May God bless you as you stick to this proven plan to turn your Type 2 diabetes diagnosis around, and please share this knowledge with your fam-

A.M.E. Church

RELIGION

The Miracle Center of Faith Missionary Baptist Church

Bishop Michael C. Turner, Sr. Senior Pastor

9161 Hampton Overlook Capitol Heights, MD 20743

Phone: 301-350-2200 / Fax: 301-499-8724

Service and Times

Sunday Worship Times : 7:30 AM 7 10:00 AM Communion: 1st Sunday Sunday School: 9:00 AM

Bible Study: Wednesday, 12 Noon

Bible Study in homes: Tuesday 7:00 PM

Website: www.themiraclecenterFMBC.com

Email: Miraclecenterfmbs@gmail.com

Motto: “We Walk by Faith, Not by Sight”

Blessed Word of Life Church

4001 14th Street, NW Washington, DC 20011

(202) 265-6147 Office 1-800 576-1047 Voicemail/Fax

Service and Times

Sunday School: 9:30 AM

Sunday Morning Worship Service: 11:00 AM

Communion Service: First Sunday Prayer Service/Bible Study: Tuesday, 6:30 PM www.blessedwordoflifechurch.org E-mail: church@blessedwordoflifechurch.org

Campbell AME Church

Rev. Dr. Henry Y. White

2562 MLK Jr. Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020

Adm. Office 202-678-2263

Email: Campbell@mycame.org

Service and Times

Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 AM

Sunday Church School: 8:45 AM Bible Study

Wednesday: 12:00 Noon

Wednesday: 7:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 PM

“Reaching Up To Reach Out”

Mailing Address : Campbell AME Church 2502 Stanton Road SE - Washington, DC 20020

Turning Hearts Church

Virgil K. Thomas, Sr.

Senior Pastor/ Teacher 421 Alabama Ave. SE Washington, DC 20032

Phone: 202-746-0113

Fax: 301-843-2445

Service and Times

Sunday School: 10:15 AM

Sunday Worship Service: 11;15 AM

Children’s Church: 11:15 AM

Tuesday Bible Study: 6:30 PM

Motto : “A Great Commitment to the Great Commandment”

Website: www.turningheartschurchdc.org

Email: gr8luv4u2@gmail.com

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

Services and Times

Sundays: 10:00am Worship Services

Bible Study: Wonderful Wednesdays in Worship and the Word Bible Study Wednesdays

12:00 Noon; 6:30 PM (dinner @ 5:30 PM)

Sunday School: 9:00 AM – Hour of Power

“An inclusive ministry where all are welcomed and affirmed.” www.covenantdc.org

Twelfth Street Christian Church

Reverend Dr. Paul H. Saddler

Senior Pastor (Disciples of Christ) 1812 12th Street, NW - Washington, DC 20009 Phone: 202-265-4494

Fax: 202 265 4340 Service and Times

Motto: “Discover Something Wonderful” Website: 12thscc.org / Email: Twelfthstcc@aol.com

Mount Carmel Baptist Church

Reverend Dr. Paris L Smith, Sr.

Senior Pastor 901 Third Street N.W. Washington, DC. 20001 Phone (202) 842-3411 Fax (202) 682-9423

Service and Times

Sunday Church School : 9:00 AM

Sunday Morning Worship: 10:10 AM

Bible Study Tuesday: 6: 00 PM

Prayer Service Tuesday: 7:00 PM

Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday 10:10 AM themcbc.org

Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church

11:00 AM

Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM Communion Service: First Sunday www.livingwatersmd.org

Street

Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church

St Marks Baptist Come Worship with us...

Bishop

Sr. Senior Pastor 5757 Temple Hill Road, Temple Hills, MD 20748 Office 301-899-8885 – fax 301-899-2555 Services and Times

Sunday Early Morning Worship: 7:45 AM Church School: 9:30 AM

Sunday Morning Worship: 10:45 AM

Tuesday: 7:00pm/Kingdom Building Bible Institute

Wednesday , 12:30 PM Mid-Day Bible Study

Wednesday: Prayer/Praise/Bible Study-7:30 PM Baptism & Communion Service: 4th Sunday – 10:30 AM

“We are one in the Spirit” www.ssbc5757.org / E-mail: ssbc5757@verizon.net

Mt.

Zion

Baptist Church

Reverend John W. Davis Pastor

5101 14th Street, NW / Washington, DC 20011 Phone: 202-726-2220

Fax: 202-726-9089

Service and Times

Sunday Worship Service - 8:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.

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

Sunday School - 9:15 a.m. (4th Sunday 8:15 a.m.)

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

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

Th.D. Senior Pastor 1204 Third Street, NW Washington, DC 20001 202-347-5889 office / 202-638-1803 fax

Services and Times

Sunday School: 9:30 AM

Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM

Sunday Community Worship Service: 8:30 AM

“Ambassadors for Christ to the Nation’s Capital” www.thirdstreet.org

Live Stream Sunday Worship Service begins @ 12:00 noon www.thirdstreet.org

Bishop

Jr.; Senior Bishop & Evangelist Susie C. Owens – Co-Pastor 610 Rhode Island Avenue, NE Washington, DC 20002

(202) 529-4547 office • (202) 529-4495 fax

Sunday Worship Service: 8:00 AM and 10:45 AM

Sunday Youth Worship Services:

1st & 4th 10:45 AM; 804 R.I. Ave., NE

5th 8 AM & 10:45 AM; Main Church

Prayer Services

Tuesday – Noon, Wednesday 6:00 AM & 6:30 PM

Calvary Bible Institute: Year-Round

Contact Church Communion Every 3rd Sunday The Church in The Hood that will do you Good! www.gmchc.org emailus@gmchc.org

Dr. Raymond T. Matthews Pastor and First Lady Marcia Matthews St. Mark's Baptist Church 624 Underwood Street, NW Washington, dc 20011

Services and Times

Sunday School: 9:00 AM Worship Service: 10:00 AM Wed. Noon Day prayer service Thur. Prayer service: 6:45 PM Thur. Bible Study: 7:15 PM

Mount Olivet Lutheran Church

headline and photo for LIF - MALCOLMXDAY

John F. Johnson Reverend Dr. 1306 Vermont Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20005

Service and Times

Divine Worship, Sunday 10:00 a.m. Communion 1st and 3rd Sunday

“Friendliest Church in the City”

Website: mountolivetdc.org

Email: mtolivedc@gmail.com

Rev. Cheryl J. Sanders,

Third

Church of God

Lanier C. Twyman,

St. Stephen Baptist Church

Reverend William Young IV Pastor

Covenant Baptist United Church  of Christ

Alfred A. Owens,

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

All Nations Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. James Coleman Pastor 2001 North Capitol St, N.E. Washington, DC 20002

Phone (202) 832-9591

Service and Times

Sunday Church School – 9:30 AM

Sunday Worship Service – 11:00 AM

Holy Communion – 1st Sunday at 11:00 AM

Prayer – Wednesdays, 6:00 PM

Bible Study – Wednesdays, 7:00 PM

Christian Education / School of Biblical Knowledge

Saturdays, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM, Call for Registration

Website: www.allnationsbaptistchurch.com

All Nations Baptist Church – A Church of Standards

Zion Baptist Church

4850 Blagdon Ave, NW Washington D.C 20011 Phone (202) 722-4940 - Fax (202) 291-3773

Service and Times 9:00 a.m. – Sunday School 10:15 a.m. – Worship Service Wed. Noon: Dea. Robert Owens Bible Study

7 PM Pastor’s Bible Study

Ordinance of Baptism 2nd Sunday, Holy Communion 4th Sunday

Mission: Zion shall: Enlist Sinners, Educate Students, Empower the Suffering, Encourage the Saints, And Exalt our Savior. (Acts 2: 41-47) www.zionbaptistchurchdc.org

St. Luke Baptist Church

Pastor

1415 Gallatin Street, NW Washington, DC 20011-3851

P: (202) 726-5940

Service and Times

Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM

Sunday School: 9:15 AM

Holy Communion: 11:00 a.m., 3rd Sun.

Bible Institute: Wednesday - 1:30 PM

Prayer Meeting: Wednesday - 12:00 Noon

St. Matthews Baptist Church

Reverend Peter R. Blue Sr. Pastor 2001 Brooks Drive  District Heights MD. 20744 240.838.7074

Service and Times

Sunday Worship Experience: 10:15am

Sunday School: 9:00am

Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday Morning

Noontime Bible Study: Tuesday @ 12:00pm

Prayer Meeting/Bible Study: Tuesday @7:00pm

Theme: "Building On A Firm Foundation"

Email: revprbstmbc@gmail.com

Website: www.stmatthewsbaptist.org

Israel Baptist Church

Rev. Lance Aubert Imterim Pastor

1251 Saratoga Ave., NE Washington, DC 20018 (202) 269-0288

Service and Times

Sunday Worship Service: 10:45 AM

Sunday School: 9:15 AM

Holy Communion1st Sunday: 10:45 AM

Prayer Service: Wednesday at 6:30 PM

Bible Study: Wednesday at 7:00 PM

Bible Study: Tuesday at 10:30 AM

Park

Interim Pastor

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

Service and Times

Sunday Worship: 10:00 AM

Holy Communion: First Sunday 10:00 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM

Bible Study: Wednesday @ 12 noon and 6:30 PM

Motto: "Faith On The Hill"

Emmanuel Baptist Church

Reverend Christopher L. Nichols Pastor

2409 Ainger Pl.,SE – WDC 20020

(202) 678-0884 – Office / (202) 678-0885 – Fax

“Moving Faith Forward” 0% Perfect . . 100% Forgiven!

Service and Times

Sunday Worship: 8:00 AM & 10:45 AM

Baptism/Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday

Family Bible Study Tuesdays – 6:30 PM

Prayer Service: Tuesdays – 8:00 PM www.emmanuelbaptistchurchdc.org

Dr. Earl D. Trent Senior Pastor 623 Florida Ave.. NW - WDC. 20001 Church (202) 667-3409 / Study (202) 265-0836

Home Study (301) 464-8211 / Fax (202) 483-4009

Service and Times

Sunday Worship Services: 10:00 AM

Sunday Church School: 8:45 – 9:45 AM

Holy Communion: Every First Sunday Intercessory Prayer: Monday – 7:00-8:00 PM

Pastor’s Bible Study:

Elder Herman L. Simms Pastor

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

Service and Times

Sunday Apostolic Worship Services

11:00 A.M and 5:00 PM

Communion and Feet Wash 4th Sunday at 5:00 PM

Prayer/Seeking: Wednesday at 8:00 PM

Apostolic in Doctrine, Pentecostal in Experience, Holiness in Living, Uncompromised and Unchanged. The Apostolic Faith is still alive –Acts 2:42

New Commandment Baptist Church

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

Service and Times

Sunday Worship: 11 AM

Sunday School: 10 AM

Wednesday Mid-Week Worship, Prayer & Bible Study: Wed. 7 PM

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

Rehoboth Baptist Church

Curtis l. Staley Pastor 621 Alabama Ave., S.E.- Washington, D.C. 20032

P: (202) 561-1111 - F: (202) 561-1112

Service and Times

Sunday Service: 10:00 AM

Sunday School for all ages: 8:30 AM

1st Sunday Baptism: 10:00 AM 2nd Sunday Holy Communion:10:00 AM

Tuesday: Bible Study: 6:30 PM

Prayer Meeting: 7:45 PM

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

Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church

Foggy Bottom Founded in 1867

728 23rd Street, NW Washington, DC 20037

Church office: 202-333-3985 - Fax : 202-338-4958

Service and Times

Sundays: 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist with Music and Hymns

Wednesdays: 12:10 p.m. - Holy Eucharist www.stmarysfoggybottom.org

Email: stmarysoffice@stmarysfoggybottom.org

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

Promised Land Baptist Church

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."

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

Senior Pastor

2616 MLK Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Office 202-889-3709 Fax 202-678-3304

Service and Times

Sunday Worship Service: 9:30 AM

Holy Communion: 1st Sunday 9:30 AM

Sunday School: 8:15 AM

Bible Study: Wednesdays at Noon

Baptism: 4th Sunday 9:30 AM

Website address: www.mmbcdc.org

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

Peace Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Michael T. Bell 712 18th Street, NE Washington, DC 20002

Phone 202-399-3450/ Fax 202-398-8836

Service and Times

Sunday Early Morning Prayer & Bible Study Class: 8:00 AM

Sunday School: 9:00 AM

Sunday Morning Worship Service: 10:00 AM

Wednesday Service: 12:00 PM

“The Loving Church of the living lord “

Email Address: admin@pbc712.org

First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Rev. Oran W. Young Pastor 602 N Street NW - Washington, D.C. 20001

Office:(202) 289-4480

Fax: (202) 289-4595

Service and Times

Sunday School for All Ages: 8:00 AM

Sunday Worship Services: 9:30 AM

Midday Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 11:30AM

Evening Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 7:00 PM

Laymen's League: Thursday 7:00 PM

Email: Froffice@firstrising.org

Website: www.firstrising.org

“Changing Lives On Purpose “

Kelechi Ajieren Coordinator 6839 Eastern Avenue, R1 Takoma Park, MD 20912 (202) 556-7065

Service and Times

Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 AM

Wednesday Bible Study: 7:00 PM

Friday Evening Service: 7:00 PM ; Last Friday

“…Giving Your Life a Meaning” www.Christembassydc.org Christ.embassy.dc@hotmail.com

Pennsylvania Ave. Baptist Church

Dr. Kendrick E. Curry Pastor 3000 Pennsylvania Ave.. S.E Washington, DC 20020 202 581-1500

Service and Times

Sunday Church School: 9:30 AM

Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 AM

Monday Adult Bible Study: 7:00 PM

Wednesday Youth & Adult Activities: 6:30 PM Prayer Service Bible Study

Mt. Horeb Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. H. B. Sampson, III Pastor 2914 Bladensburg Road, NE Wash., DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-3180 - Fax: (202) 529-7738 Service and Times Worship Service: 7:30 AM

Email:mthoreb@mthoreb.org

Website:www.mthoreb.org

For further information, please contact me at (202) 529-3180.

Rev. Keith W. Byrd, Sr. Pastor

Rev. Richard B. Black

Sermon On The Mount Temple Of Joy Apostolic Faith

Lincoln

United Methodist Church

Dr. Joseph D. Turner

Matthews Memorial Baptist Church

Christ Embassy DC

Rev.

Mount

Rev.

Rev. Aubrey C. Lewis

The Rev. E. Bernard Anderson Priest

SOLAR from Page 44

“We all know that Black and brown communities… are those most affected by climate change. So because most of our homeowners are in Black and brown communities or underserved communities, and our trainees are in those communities as well, we’re responding to [their] direct needs.”

Since 2014, over 360 individuals have gotten training through Solar Works DC, and more than 100 have gone on to work in the solar industry. Still, Perry said the workforce program’s impact is blunted by solar companies that fail at genuine inclusion even while trying to “check the box” when it comes to racial representation.

“If you ask me how many of those trainees [who got solar jobs following the program] are still in the solar industry? That number is a lot less,” Perry said. “A lot of our trainees have gone through the program, they’ve applied for jobs, and then ultimately they were placed in roles where they were

picking up trash.”

Perry said he wants the solar industry to start having more honest conversations about the lack of diversity and failures to create inclusive cultures in solar companies. Almost the entire team at GRID Mid-Atlantic is Black, reflecting most of the District residents the organization serves.

From Perry’s point of view, working to improve representation in the solar industry goes hand in hand with GRID Mid-Atlantic’s other goals. He sees addressing climate change, providing career opportunities and lowering energy costs as interconnected ways to advance environmental and economic justice.

“We can walk and chew gum at the same some time,” Perry said.

“There's the savings that the homeowner will receive from the solar,” Perry said. “And then also, with the workforce training program, we’re actually educating folks in the community on solar deployment.” WI

SMITH from Page 1

ment, Smith recognized her fellow female government officials before outlining her vision for what she describes as a “whole government approach” to tackling crime that touts effective policing, focuses on the most violent individuals and builds upon past successes.

“As a law enforcement officer and member of this community, I am… troubled by the crime that is plaguing our communities, which is why it’s important for me to be engaged in wanting to make the District of Columbia safer,” said Smith, who’s also a minister and Ward 8 resident. “I’m passionate about ensuring the public safety for the residents and visitors of D.C., and I am passionate about the people. I also want to work for a mayor who has demonstrated time and time again that public safety is her first priority and has consistently supported the department through policy and resources.”

Most recently, Smith served as MPD assistant chief of police in the Homeland Security Bureau where she oversaw the operational and administrative functions of the Special Operations Division, Joint Strategic & Tactical Analysis Command Center, and the Office of Intelligence. Before then, she served as the chief diversity, equity and inclusion at MPD, during which advised the police chief, executive leadership and senior management in

JAIL from Page 8

the $6.5 million that DOC has in its annual food services budget.

Another qualm that Faust brought up concerned a portion of the FRESH STARTS Act that requires DOC detainees involved in food preparation to be paid no less than the living wage. He said the pay disparity between the food preparers and other detainees employed in different DOC sectors could raise tensions in the correctional facility.

“For some there is a belief that operating a jail means housing individuals without recognizing their individual needs,” Faust said. “This is not true. We operate with a commitment to providing services that positively impact the population whether they face a long period of incarceration or are preparing to enter the community. We are already in compliance.”

The Informer was unable to secure comment from Pinto about the degree to which she took Faust's testimony into consideration.

Each year, DOC records 4,300 intakes and 4,400 releases. Nearly 40 people per day are housed before arraignment.

matters involving department-wide accountability and supervised the offices related to equal employment opportunity and employee well-being.

Smith spent a significant portion of her law enforcement career in the U.S. Park Police where she started as a patrol officer in 1998 in the San Francisco Field Office. Throughout her tenure, Smith rose through the ranks to eventually become the federal agency’s first African-American chief in its 230-year history. Along the way, Smith received commendations for drug enforcement and explosives detection.

Appiah led the recruitment process that manifested in Smith’s selection as police chief. She replaced Ashan Benedict, who served as interim MPD chief in the aftermath of MPD Chief Robert J. Contee III’s transfer to federal law enforcement.

On Monday morning, Bowser described Smith as a person who reflects her administration’s drive to tackle crime.

“Chief Smith is a well-respected leader who can build relationships inside the agency and with all the law enforcement agencies we work with,” Bowser said. “[In response to a survey], residents said they wanted a leader who can communicate and advocare for a policy environment that promotes public safety, who’s focused on driving down crime, [and] can train the next leaders. Smith knows the land-

In April, a group of DOC detainees filed a class-action lawsuit against the District government alleging that “systemic deficiencies'' in the D.C. Jail healthcare system caused severe health problems.

Examples provided in the lawsuit include a failure to provide medication to a detainee with chronic heart failure, delays in diagnosing a mass on a detainee’s testicle, and inadequate sanitation supplies for a patient with chronic urology problems. According to the lawsuit, another detainee had nearly gone blind during his incarceration because D.C. Jail didn’t provide him with medicinal eye drops and prescription medication.

The lawsuit comes several months after a U.S. Marshals Service inspection, in the aftermath of the Jan. 6 arrests, led to the removal of 400 people from the Central Detention Facility. Earlier this year, detainee Stephen Bragg died of what the D.C. Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined as natural causes after collapsing during the intake process.

Such circumstances, and a COVID-related court backlog, sparked conversation about how the expansion of pre-trial detention would

scape [and] is familiar with working at MPD. We get experience, passion and a strong commitment to making D.C. safer.”

Congratulatory statements came pouring in throughout the District government on Monday. Pinto, who was at Martin Luther King Memorial Library during the announcement, touted Smith’s diverse experience and intimate knowledge of MPD and the community. D.C. Councilmember Brianne Nadeau (D-Ward 1) expressed her confidence that Smith will increase deployment of officers to areas affected by crime, while also focusing on traffic enforcement and foot patrols.

On Monday, Black Lives Matter DC took to social media warning against the celebration of a Black woman police chief saying, “All skin folk ain’t kinfolk. There’s always an identity hook. It’s the same system, new face.” Shortly after Bowser’s announcement D.C. Justice Lab collected feedback from people about what they would like to see. Responses included: reducing homicide rate by diverting crime reduction resources to affected areas, allowing behavioral health agencies to focus on mental health calls, stop kowtowing to activists, and seize dirtbikes.

Read more on www.washingtoninformer.com

WI

@SamPKCollins

complicate, or sabotage, crime prevention efforts.

Several hours before the D.C. Council passed the Priority Public Safety Emergency Amendment Act last week, Lewis George introduced an amendment striking the adult pre-trial detention portion of the bill. All of her council colleagues, except Gray, voted against the amendment on July 11. Lewis George later voted against the bill in its entirety, calling it an infringement on civil liberties.

Days after the emergency bill’s passage, Gray explained why he voted in support of Lewis George’s amendment, calling her concerns about pre-trial detention valid and deserving of further scrutiny.

“Though I knew that Councilmember Lewis George's amendment would not succeed, I wanted to show support for my colleague and her concerns about pre-trial detention,” Gray told the Informeer. “She put forward issues that merit our consideration. Indeed, we may be revisiting this topic later in the year when we consider a permanent version of the emergency bill that was debated on Tuesday.” WI @SamPKCollins

5 Workforce Training Supervisor Dominique Leake, of GRID Alternatives Mid-Atlantic, shows Solar Works DC trainees how to pull a solar panel up to the roof after it’s hoisted up the ladder on a rope. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

5 Leake and a trainee work together to secure the panels to the roof of a Petworth home. (Kayla Benjamin/ The Washington Informer)

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COLUMBIA

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 000542

Lucille Ridley Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Karen M. Ridley-Lynch, whose address is 6009 Thunder Hill Ct., Fort Washington, Md 20744, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Lucille Ridley who died on February 19, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 1/6/2024. 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 1/6/2024, 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: 7/6/2023

Karen M. Ridley-Lynch 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 000793

Vivian V. Smith aka Vivian Vincent Smith

Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Karen D. Smith, whose address is 14715 Argos Place, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Vivian V. Smith aka Vivian Vincent Smith who died on March 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 1/6/2024. 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 1/6/2024, 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: 7/6/2024

Karen D. Smith Personal Representative

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2022 ADM 178

Geraldine Hatton Edmonds

Decedent

Law Office of Aaron E. Price, Sr., PLLC 717 D Street, NW Washington, DC 20004

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Brenda Wilson, whose address is 8310 Westridge Court, Temple Hills, MD 20748, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Geraldine Hatton Edmonds who died on 10/19/2020 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 1/6/2024. 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 1/6/2024, 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:

Brenda Wilson

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 000752

Aaron Irving Robinson Decedent

Edward G. Varrone, Esq. 1825 K Street, NW Suite 1150 Washington, DC 20006

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Aaron Butler, whose address is 6509 Hill Mar Drive, Apartment 303, District Heights, MD 20747, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Aaron Irving Robinson who died on February 4, 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 1/6/2024. 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 1/6/2024, 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: 7/6/2023

Aaron Irving Robinson 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 FEP 000060

July 8, 2002

Date of Death

Delores Travers Davis

Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Barbara L. Hill, whose address is 2018 Gaither Street, Temple Hills, Maryland 20748 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Delores Travers Davis, deceased, by the Probate Court for Prince Georges County, State of Maryland, on June 14, 2023.

Service of process may be made upon Attorney Bobby Henry 9701 Apollo Drive, Suite 100 Largo, Maryland 20774 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 estate.

1905 19th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20010. 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:

7/6/2023

Barbara L. Hill

Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens

Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 743

Vivian Dolores Harrison

Decedent

Caren M. Webb, Esq.

1308 Ninth Street, NW

Suite 250

Washington, DC 20001

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Diane C. Harrison, whose address is 8412 Autumn Way Clinton, Maryland 20735, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Vivian Dolores Harrison who died on September 15, 2022 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision.

All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 1/6/2024. 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 1/6/2024, 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:

7/6/2023

Diane C. Harrison

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 000759

Ivy J. Young

Decedent

Michelle Lanchester, Esq. 601 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Suite 900, South Building Washington, DC 20004 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Michelle M. Young, whose address is 807 Pleasant Hill Lane, Bowie MD 20716, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ivy J. Young who died on April 24, 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 1/6/2024. 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 1/6/2024, 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:

July 6, 2023

Michelle M. Young Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2023 ADM 000763

Margaret Ann Boddie Decedent

Brian L. Kass, Esq. 4301 Connecticut Ave. NW Suite 434 Washington, DC 20008 Attorney

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

Robert Boddie, whose address is 4137 Southern Ave. #102, Capitol Heights, MD 20743, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Margaret Ann Boddie who died on February 14, 2011 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 1/6/2024. 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 1/6/2024, 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: 7/6/2023

Robert Boddie

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality. Notice of White Flag Surrender. Notice of Special Appearance : am that am: "Tonya LaToya Maynard", in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: “ TONYA LATOYA MAYNARD", corp. sole Dba.: "TONYA L MAYNARD",“TONYA MAYNARD” “TONYA LATOYA MAYNARD”

“TONYA TURNER” “TONYA L TURNER” “TONYA LATOYA TURNER” “TONYA MAYNARD TURNER” “TONYA L MAYNARD TURNER” “TONYA LATOYA MAYNARD TURNER” “TONYA TURNER MAYNARD” “TONYA L TURNER MAYNARD” “TONYA LATOYA TURNER MAYNARD”“MAYNARD,TONYA” “MAYNARD,TONYA L" “MAYNARD,TONYA LATOYA” “TURNER,TONYA” “TURNER,TONYA L” “TURNER,TONYA LATOYA” “MAYNARD TURNER,TONYA” “MAYNARD TURNER,TONYA L” “MAYNARD TURNER,TONYA LATOYA” “TURNER MAYNARD,TONYA” “TURNER MAYNARD,TONYA L” “TURNER MAYNARD,TONYA LATOYA”. As natural clan mother, and guardian of: "Kendrick Nathaniel Turner", the beneficiary and heir of: “ KENDRICK NATHANIEL TURNER ”, corp. sole Dba.: "KENDRICK N TURNER", "KENDRICK TURNER" "KENDRICK NATHANIEL TURNER" "KENDRICK TURNER NATHANIEL" "KENDRICK TURNER N" "TURNER,KENDRICK N" "TURNER, KENDRICK NATHANIEL" "TURNER, KENDRICK" "TURNER , NATHANIEL KENDRICK" "TURNER N, KENDRICK". 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 a: Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, 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 a: Moorish American. I am that I am: " Tonya LaToya Maynard ", from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: "tonya latoya el". My beloved son, "Kendrick Nathaniel Turner", from this day forward, in harmony with our Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: "kendrick nathaniel el ". 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: THE CITY OF NEW YORK DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND MENTAL HYGIENE: STATE FILE NUMBER,: 156-87-407797:"

TONYA LATOYA MAYNARD", TONYA MAYNARD”, “TONYA L MAYNARD” “TONYA TURNER” “TONYA L TURNER” “TONYA LATOYA TURNER” “TONYA MAYNARD TURNER” “TONYA L MAYNARD TURNER” “TONYA LATOYA MAYNARD TURNER” “TONYA TURNER MAYNARD” “TONYA L TURNER MAYNARD” “TONYA LATOYA TURNER MAYNARD” “MAYNARD,TONYA” “MAYNARD,TONYA L” “MAYNARD,TONYA LATOYA” “TURNER,TONYA” “TURNER,TONYA L” “TURNER,TONYA LATOYA” “MAYNARD TURNER,TONYA” “MAYNARD TURNER,TONYA L” “MAYNARD TURNER,TONYA LATOYA” “TURNER MAYNARD,TONYA” “TURNER MAYNARD,TONYA L” “TURNER MAYNARD,TONYA LATOYA”, &,THE CITY OF NEW YORK DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND MENTAL HYGIENE : STATE FILE NUMBER,:156-20-049082: “KENDRICK NATHANIEL TURNER ” “KENDRICK TURNER""KENDRICK N TURNER" "KENDRICK TURNER NATHANIEL""KENDRICK TURNER N""TURNER,KENDRICK N" "TURNER, KENDRICK NATHANIEL" "TURNER, KENDRICK""TURNER, NATHANIEL KENDRICK""TURNER N, KENDRICK", is as a special deposit order, conveyed to "Tmt Wellstead Trust". Re: THE CITY OF NEW YORK DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND MENTAL HYGIENE: STATE FILE NUMBER, 156-87-407797: "TONYA LATOYA MAYNARD", “TONYA MAYNARD”, “TONYA L MAYNARD” “TONYA TURNER” “TONYA L TURNER” “TONYA LATOYA TURNER” “TONYA MAYNARD TURNER” “TONYA L MAYNARD TURNER” “TONYA LATOYA MAYNARD TURNER” “TONYA TURNER MAYNARD” “TONYA L TURNER MAYNARD” “TONYA LATOYA TURNER MAYNARD” “MAYNARD,TONYA” “MAYNARD,TONYA L” “MAYNARD,TONYA LATOYA” “TURNER,TONYA” “TURNER,TONYA L” “TURNER,TONYA LATOYA” “MAYNARD TURNER,TONYA” “MAYNARD TURNER,TONYA L” “MAYNARD TURNER,TONYA LATOYA” “TURNER MAYNARD,TONYA” “TURNER MAYNARD,TONYA L” “TURNER MAYNARD,TONYA LATOYA”, &, THE CITY OF NEW YORK DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND MENTAL HYGIENE: STATE FILE NUMBER, 156-20-049082: " KENDRICK NATHANIEL TURNER", “KENDRICK TURNER" "KENDRICK N TURNER""KENDRICK TURNER NATHANIEL""KENDRICK TURNER N""TURNER,KENDRICK N" "TURNER, KENDRICK NATHANIEL" "TURNER, KENDRICK""TURNER, NATHANIEL KENDRICK" "TURNER N, KENDRICK", is as a special deposit order conveyed to: “ Kendrick Nathaniel Trust © ”, with a 50% interest retained by Trustee: “ tonya latoya el © ”, &, a 50% interest retained by Trustee: “ aqeel ki el© ”. All interest is to remain fully intact until the sole beneficiary, “ kendrick nathaniel el© ”, reaches the age of majority. 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 / Guardian: "tonya latoya el", nom deguerre: "Tonya Latoya Maynard”, as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of : "Tmt Wellstead Trust”, or : "Kendrick Nathaniel Trust", both Trust being, Inter Vivos Unincorporated Divine Grantor Trusts. These deposits are 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.

Notice of Special Appearance : We have received the goodness of God in the land of the living : As a result of the holy matrimony of : “aqeel ki el”©, fka: “Joseph Antoine Turner”©, Age: 36, son of “annmarie miller” and “joseph wendell turner”, tribal lineage corporeal hereditament : Taino American Moor, and, “tonya latoya el”©, fka: “Tonya Latoya Maynard Turner”©, Age: 36, daughter of “margaret ward watts” and “michael maynard”, tribal lineage corporeal hereditament: Taino American Moor; beget at planet Earth, Latitude: 33.467940 Longitude: -84.263180, El Maghreb al-Aqsa, commonly known as : Henry County, Georgia, [Hampton, Georgia [republic], The united states of America, States of the Union, Moon : Waning crescent, 30% Illuminated, Zodiac : Taurus, On time : Long Count Date : 13 baktun. 0 katun. 10 tun. 9 uinal. 16 k'in. Tzolk'in Date: 4 k’ib’ Haab Date: 4 Sip. Lord: G7 [ Sunday, May 14th, 2023 ], Temperature : 80°F, at 09:53 p.m., mostly cloudy, anu allah [ God of gods ] saw it fit to allow a living soul to incarnate a fleshblood-and bone body, in homo sapien form, as a natural born, baby boy, in full life, Height/Length: 21” Weight : 7 Pounds, 2 Ounces, to be. Life Path : 8. He is known in this life as: khol kwali el©

In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality. Notice of White Flag Surrender. Notice of Special Appearance: am that I am: “Joseph Antoine Turner”, in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: “JOSEPH ANTOINE TURNER”, corp. sole Dba.: “JOSEPH A TURNER”, “JOSEPH A TURNER”, “JOSEPH TURNER”, “JOSEPH TURNER, A”, “JOSEPH ANTOINE TURNER”, “ TURNER, JOSEPH”, “TURNER, JOSEPH A”, “ANTOINE JOSEPH TURNER”, &, “TURNER ANTOINE, JOSEPH”. As natural clan father, and guardian of: “Karson Isaiah Turner”, the beneficiary and heir of: “ KARSON ISAIAH TURNER”, corp.sole Dba.: "KARSON TURNER", “KARSON TURNER”, “ KARSON ISAIAH TURNER”, “KARSON TURNER I”, “KARSON TURNER ISAIAH”, “TURNER,KARSON I”, “TURNER,KARSON”, “TURNER,KARSON ISAIAH”, “ISAIAH, KARSON TURNER”, “ISAIAH, TURNER KARSON”, “TURNER ISAIAH KARSON”, &, “TURNER, I KARSON”.

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 sub

scribes, as a: Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, 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 a: Moorish American. am that I am: “Joseph Antoine Turner”, from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: " aqeel ki el”. My beloved son, " Karson Isaiah Turner", from this day forward, in harmony with our Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: " karson isaiah el ". 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: City of New York Department of Health: STATE FILE NUMBER, 156-87-308422, “JOSEPH ANTOINE TURNER”, “JOSEPH A TURNER”, “JOSEPH TURNER”, “JOSEPH TURNER, A”, “JOSEPH ANTOINE TURNER”, “ TURNER, JOSEPH”, “TURNER, JOSEPH A”, “ANTOINE JOSEPH TURNER”, “TURNER ANTOINE, JOSEPH”, and is as a special deposit order, conveyed to "Joseph Antoine Trust". This order is to preserve legal and equitable title, and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, Re: THE CITY OF NEW YORK DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND MENTAL HYGIENE : STATE FILE NUMBER, 156-18-041513, “KARSON I TURNER”, “KARSON TURNER”, “KARSON I TURNER”, “KARSON ISAIAH TURNER”, “KARSON TURNER I”, “KARSON TURNER ISAIAH”, “TURNER KARSON”, “TURNER KARSON I”, “TURNER KARSON ISAIAH”, “TURNER ISAIAH KARSON”, “TURNER KARSON”, “ISAIAH KARSON TURNER”, &, “ISAIAH TURNER KARSON”, is as a special deposit order, conveyed to "Joseph Antoine Trust", until the beneficiary reaches the age of majority. At which time, any and all rights, titles, and interest is conveyed to “ Karson Isaiah Trust© ”. Until the beneficiary reaches the age of majority, a 50% interest is retained by Trustee: “ aqeel ki el© ”, &, a 50% interest is retained by Trustee: “ tonya latoya el© ”, for “Karson Isaiah Trust© ”. All interest is to remain fully intact until the sole beneficiary, “ karson isaiah el© ”, reaches the age of majority. 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 / Guardian: " aqeel ki el", nom deguerre: "Joseph Antoine Turner ", as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of : " Joseph Antoine Trust ", or : " Karson Isaiah Trust ", both Trust being, Inter Vivos Unincorporated Divine Grantor Trusts. These deposits are 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.

In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality. Notice of White Flag Surrender. Notice of Special Appearance

: am that am: "Pedro Tyri Winfrey© ", in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: “ PEDRO TYRI WINFREY©", corp. sole Dba.: "PEDRO T. WINFREY© "; PEDRO WINFREY, WINFREY, PEDRO T, 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 a: Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I 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 a: Moorish American. I am that I am: "Pedro Tyri Winfrey© ", from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: "Tyri-Azu: Amadi© ". 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: Illinois

Department of Public Health-Division of Vital Records : STATE FILE

NUMBER: 112-1983 6010736, "PEDRO TYRI WINFREY©", is as a special deposit order, conveyed to "Thrive Regardless 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: "TyriAzu: Amadi©", nom deguerre: "Pedro Tyri Winfrey", as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of : "Thrive Regardless 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.

LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 824

Estate of Barbara M. Johnson

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE

Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by LaVerne E. Johnson 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 codicil dated January 8, 1994 exhibited with the petition upon proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution by affidavit of the witnesses or otherwise

Date of first publication: July 13, 2023

Law Office of Kathy Brissette-Minus, LLC 9701 Apollo Drive, Suite 230 Largo, MD 20774 Petitioner/Attorney:

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 000798

Cheryl Renee Harris

Decedent

Peggy A. Miller, Esq.

5130 7th Street, NE Washington, DC 20011-2625

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Geralean Harris, whose address is 2425 14th Street, NW, Apt. 306, Washington, DC 20009, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Cheryl Renee Harris who died on 1/20/2023 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 1/13/2024. 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 1/13/2024, 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: 7/13/2023

Geralean Harris

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens

Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 000757

Cletus Michael Wade

Decedent

Julius P. Terrell, Esq.

1455 Pennsylvania Ave., NW Suite 400 Washington, DC 20004

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Michael Christopher (Wade) Cross, whose address is 7524 N. Arbor Way Laurel, MD 20702, was appointed Personal

Representative of the estate of Cletus Michael Wade who died on April 10, 2018 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 1/13/2024. 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 1/13/2024, 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:

7/13/2023

Michael Christopher (Wade) Cross+ 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 000803

Ella Law James Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Larry Odell Law, whose address is 6709 Geneva Lane, Temple Hills, MD 20748, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ella Law James who died on 6/29/2019 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 1/13/2024. 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 1/13/2024, 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: 7/13/2023

Larry Odell Law 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 000772

Ella Louise McLean aka E. Louise McLean Decedent

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

Sheila A. Smith, whose address is 502 Kenyon St., NW, Washington, DC 20010, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ella Louise McLean aka E. Louise McLean who died on November 4, 2013 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 1/13/2023. 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 1/13/2023, 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:

7/13/2023

Sheila A. Smith

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 765

Giovanni Ian Love aka Giovanni I. Love aka Giovannie Love

Decedent

Law Office of Robert P. Newman

Robert P. Newman, Esq. 801 Wayne Ave., Ste. 400 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Attorney

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

Dominique Watson, whose address is 4630 Hillside Rd., Apt. 4, SE, WDC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Giovanni Ian Love aka Giovanni I. Love aka Giovannie Love who died on 6/9/2022 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 1/13/2024. 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 1/13/2024, 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: 7/13/2023

Dominique Watson 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 000774

Grozelia Stepney-Herring Decedent

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

Arthinia Morgan, whose address is 9707 Dale Drive, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Grozelia Stepney-Herring who died on May 19, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 1/13/2024. 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 1/13/2024, 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: 7/13/2023

Arthinia Morgan Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

Declaration of Nationality

In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality. Notice of White Flag Surrender.

Notice of Special Appearance : I am that am: "Iliana Teresa Gonzalez© ", in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: “ILIANA TERESA GONZALEZ", corporate sole DBA: "ILIANA T GONZALEZ© ", Iliana Hunt, Iliana Teresa Hunt, Iliana T Hunt, Iliana T Lopez Cruz, Iliana T Lopez-Cruz, Iliana Lopez Cruz, Iliana Lopez-Cruz, 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 a: the Tarahumara Moorish American, 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 a: the Tarahumara Moorish American. I am that I am: " Iliana Teresa Gonzalez© ", from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: " iliana teresa muki© ". 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: The Illinois Department of Public Health, Division of Vital Records : 112-1990 0102258, " Iliana Teresa Gonzalez© ", is as a special deposit order, conveyed to " BasJan 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: " iliana teresa muki© ", nom deguerre: " Iliana Teresa Gonzalez© ", as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of: " BasJan 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

2023 ADM 805

William Salisbury Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

William Brown, whose address is 78 Galveston St., SW, #201, Washington, DC 20032, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of William Salisbury who died on February 6, 2022 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision.

All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 1/20/2024. 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 1/20/2024, 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: 7/20/2023

William Brown Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 000697

William Corley Decedent

Tabitha R. Brown, Esquire Law Office of Tabitha R. Brown 1200 G. Street, SE, Suite A Washington, DC 20003 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Demaria A. Corley, whose address is 11920 Homestead Place, Waldorf, MD 20601, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of William Corley who died on February 21, 2023 with a Will, and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 1/20/2024. 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 1/20/2024, 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: 7/20/2023

Demaria A. Corley

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 000072

Annie Mildred Jackson

Decedent

Angela D. Minor, Esq.

Minor & Willcox, LLC

9601 Apollo Drive #7181

Upper Marlboro, MD 20792-7181 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Vertron F. Mayo and Jared J. Pollard, whose addresses are 21 Hampton Pl., Windsor, Ct. 06095 and 393 Hartford Rd., South Orange, NJ 07079, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Annie Mildred Jackson who died on 5/5/2021 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 1/20/2024. 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 1/20/2024, 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: 7/20/2023

Vertron F. Mayo

Jared J. Pollard

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 806

Juanita E. Mathews Decedent

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

Charles P. Mathews and Carole L. Spires, whose addresses are 5008 5th St., NW, Washington, DC 20011 /14316 Rosetree Ct., Silver Spring, MD 20906, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Juanita E. Mathews who died on May 25, 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 1/20/2024. 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 1/20/2024, 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: 7/20/2023

Charles P. Mathews

Carole L. Spires

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 826

William Gray, Sr. Decedent

Donald Marlais 411 10th Street, NE

Washington, DC 20002

Attorney

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

William L. Gray, Jr., whose address is 1416 Carrollsburg Pl., SW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of William Gray, Sr. who died on May 6, 2023 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 1/20/2024. 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 1/20/2024, 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: 7/20/2023

William L. Gray, Jr.

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens

Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 809

Audrey Florence Barnes Decedent

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

Michael Patrick Stepney-Barnes, whose address is 11 Franklin St., NE, Washington, DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Audrey Florence Barnes who died on February 22, 2022 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before January 20, 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 January 20, 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: July 20, 2023

Michael Patrick Stepney-Barnes Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens

Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2023 ADM 000811

Willie M. Williams aka Willie Mack Williams Decedent

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

Tashawn Williams, whose address is 1419 18th Street, SE, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Willie M. Williams aka Willie Mack Williams who died on April 3, 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 1/20/2024. 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 1/20/2024, 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: 7/20/2023

Tashawn Williams Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 000794

Cora L. Blair

Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Ria Fletcher, whose address is 3939 Pennsylvania Ave., SE #301, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Cora L. Blair who died on January 22, 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 1/20/2024. 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 1/20/2024, 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: 7/20/2023

Ria Fletcher Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

In God We Trust.

Declaration of Nationality.

Notice of White Flag Surrender. Notice of Special Appearance : I am that am: " Samir Jamal Dukes Jr© ", in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: " SAMIR JAMAL DUKES JR ", corp.sole Dba.: " SAMIR J DUKES JR© ", " SAMIR DUKES JR© ", " DUKES JR, SAMIR JAMAL© ", 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. I 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: " Samir Jamal Dukes Jr© ", from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: " ezhno-whitewolf el© ". 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: Bureau of Vital Statistics / New York State Bureau of Vital Records / New York State Department of Health : STATE FILE NUMBER, : 156-91-097857 : " SAMIR JAMAL DUKES JR© ", " SAMIR J DUKES JR© ", " SAMIR DUKES JR© ", DUKES

JR, SAMIR JAMAL© ", is as a special deposit order, conveyed to " Casa de Lobos 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: " ezhno-whitewolf el© ", nom deguerre: "Samir Jamal Dukes Jr© ", as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of : " Casa de Lobos Trust© ", an Inter Vivos Unincorporated Divine Grantor Trust. This deposit is not to be commingled with general assets of any bank, nor depository / 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.

Urban Development Secretary Marcia Fudge defined PUSH – as "to press upon a thing with force to move it away, to move something in a specified way by exerting force." She noted that PUSH has been a force for justice, a force against the barriers of racism. There are setbacks, she said, to be sure. But as long as that force is there, there will be change.

That the United States Vice President traveled to Chicago to salute Jackson crystallizes his importance to the nation and the world. Kamala Harris shared how important Jackson has been to her life and career

JEALOUS from Page 30

multifamily buildings can get rebates of up to $400,000.

Transportation and electricity use make up nearly 60 percent of Maryland’s greenhouse gas emissions, which makes this federal support vital and targeted.

The real test is to make sure the benefits of clean energy and the good jobs that will come with it are shared widely and fairly across Maryland and every state.

“The climate crisis impacts everybody, but it does not impact all communities equally,” the vice president

MARSHALL from Page 30

the vast network of highways, bridges, tunnels, railways, and utilities necessary to maintain normalcy in daily life. In 2021 when the World Economic Forum ranked the United States 13th in the overall quality of infrastructure, we didn’t drop to that level overnight. More than 45,000 U.S. bridges are in poor condition according to the American Society of Civil Engineers. Without a Democratic-controlled White House, Senate and House of Representatives, the $1.2 trillion Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill would not be a law today that benefits both red and blue states and communities.

Republicans throughout past election cycles have scored a lot of political points by labeling Democrats as big-government liberals. When voters find themselves caught up in the emotions of talking points and political labels, they forget how much their personal lives benefit from programs such as Social Security and Medicare which are under the umbrella of “big government”. While millions of Republican senior citizens depend on these programs just as much as Dem-

and said she would not be Vice-President were it not for Jackson's work. Others shared similar tributes, and I, too, have a testimony. I met Jackson first in 1973 as an Essence Magazine intern and later worked on the 1984 campaign. I vividly remember his assertion in his speech at the Moscone Center that "God isn't finished with me yet." Indeed, since 1984, God has continued to mold, shape, and bless Rev. Jackson.

Jackson isn't giving rousing speeches anymore. But he still brings us to our feet. He doesn't shout. The Parkinson's he has battled since 2017 has reduced his mighty roar to a whisper. But his whisper is that of hope and

noted. “Poor communities, rural communities, Native communities and communities of color are often the hardest hit and the least able to recover.”

We see this in places like West Baltimore where I spent summers with my grandparents and where the childhood asthma rate is five times higher.

We need more contractors to do those energy upgrades, and there are federal dollars to provide that, for example. We must ensure that people from the communities most in need have a place in that training, as they’re the ones most likely

ocratic and Independent seniors, they forget how Congressional Republican lawmakers have repeatedly sought ways to cut Social Security and Medicare. Social Security was put into place to allow senior citizens some degree of dignity during retirement.

These same voters will also forget how Republican lawmakers proposed repealing the health care provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act. If the repeal became successful, everyone with Medicare will see higher drug prices. The debate over the role and size of government is divisive, but in reality, voters from both parties have historically benefitted from Democratic “big-government” initiatives because the investment in people will always be needed. As long as there are no political consequences to pay, lawmakers such as Sen. Tuberville will continue to oppose meaning legislation while taking credit for it when the benefits to his constituents becomes obvious. Again, the same lawmakers will cut and repeal meaningful programs as long there is little or no consequences to pay at the ballot box.

Democratic voters also run the risk

history. "Keep hope alive," he tells assembled delegates. "I am somebody," he quietlyencourages the crowd in his trademark chant. And the delegates engage in the traditional call and response, amplifying Rev.'s voice, reminding him that while illness may have muted his voice, those who appreciate his contribution to history are ready to receive the baton he is passing and confront the evil forces that would eradicate our rights. As long as we can chant back, keeping hope alive, Rev. Jesse Jackson's place in history is secure. He inspires the nation and the world. Those who appreciate the Jackson legacy will not allow hope or history to be buried. WI

to serve their neighbors.

“When the President and I invest in climate, we intend to invest in jobs, invest in families, and invest in America,” Harris told the crowd at Coppin State University.

In the 1920s, National Geographic called Maryland “America in Miniature” for its terrain and waters. Let’s hope that nickname takes on a broader meaning as my state becomes the clean energy model it aspires to be and does it in a way that allows all residents feel the benefit. It’s then we’ll know that this Earth shot led to that “one giant leap for mankind” we’ve heard about. WI

of having short memories.

There is unfinished business with important pieces of legislation such as police reform and voting rights which failed to advance into law. Both have a major impact on people of color. While the Republican opposition to the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act was no surprise, it was the opposition from two Democratic Senators (Sens. Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema) that killed it. Democratic voters cannot forget the importance of the legislation. It will restore a critical part of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 which required certain states to obtain federal approval before implementing laws which may be deemed restrictive to the voting rights for minorities. There are 15 months left until next year’s election.

It is a tall order for the Democrats to keep control of the White House and Senate while regaining control of the House with a strong enough majority to pass voting rights, police reform and immigration reform. It is the culture war which causes many Republicans to vote against their own self-interests. For voters of color, it has to be the opposite. WI

WILLIAMS from Page 31

and historically Black colleges and universities. Learning to appreciate diversity in this country is not exclusively for Black people. That is the way it is treated, however. Many things people other than white people have created are used by them, and some are presumably used by the Thomas family.

Let’s name a few: The gas mask grabbed by Members of Congress

MORIAL from Page 31

and perpetuate racist behavior, institutions, and policies is simply to deny that they are racist. How could they be when systemic racism doesn’t exist?

Realistically, Tuberville and his allies cannot marshal public opinion against efforts to dismantle systemic racism by declaring they want to preserve systemic racism. By framing the movement as an attack on white Americans, Tuberville, and his allies hope to fan

when they were under siege in the Capitol on January 6, 2021, the blood bank, improved ironing board, home security system, yield traffic light, refrigerated truck, automatic elevator doors, tissue holder, automatic gear shift helping people to drive uphill, clothes dryer, dust pan, folding chair, golf tees, lawnmower, lawn sprinkler, modern toilet, the mop and too many things to mention here, but I am sure you get the idea.

the flames of racial resentment and white grievance. If they occasionally are force to employ pretzel logic, they employ to defend themselves, no matter: the tactic is an appeal to emotion, not facts.

In the 1944 film which gave birth to the term “gaslighting,” a murderous husband persuades his wife that the very real evidence of his criminal activities – noises and flickering gaslights as he searches the attic for jewels he intends to steal – are figments of her imagination and a sign of her derange-

My point for mentioning these things that benefit all people is that many of those who invented them didn’t say, “We are inventing these things for ourselves, and for nobody else.” No doubt, they were happy to benefit everybody. Just look at where we are now. Just look at where our Supreme Court is. They seem to be happy to take us back to a day when we had no rights and now, they’re taking away others we once had! WI

ment.

The injustices that Tuberville’s band of extremists are trying to obscure are no less real. Racial bias and discrimination continue to pervade our economic, educational, criminal justice, and civic institutions. Persuading Americans that they are figments of our imagination gives cover for the continued plundering of the “jewels in the attic” of voting rights, economic and educational opportunity, and bodily autonomy that rightfully belong to us all. WI