The Washington Informer - June 1, 2023

Residents Organize to Fight for Lot, Uncover Questionable

By Kayla Benjamin WI Climate & Environment Reporter

In the Southeast neighborhood of Talbert Terrace, a tree-ringed lot that has hosted four generations of childhood baseball games and joy-filled block parties could soon disappear. Despite over a decade of attempts to clear up paperwork confusion and reclaim ownership of the land by the tax-exempt neighborhood association, the community owed more than $600,000 in back taxes by 2016. That year, the District sold it in a dis-

Acquisition

count tax sale for $29,000.

“It seems like they’re robbing us,” Karen Hilliard, longtime Talbert Terrace resident and current vice president of the Anacostia Homeowners and Residents Association, told the Informer in an early May article about the lot.

In July 2019, the purchaser, Rupsha 2011 LLC, officially acquired the deed for the land from the city. To many of the neighbors, it seemed like their chances to keep the spot had shrunk to nothing.

MC Lyte Brings Second Annual ‘I Am Woman,’ to the Kennedy Center

Concert Kicks Off as Black Music Month Launches, 50 Years of Hip Hop

By Micha Green WI Managing Editor

From the studio, to the stage, microphone to silver screen, celebrated, multifaceted and pioneering hip hop artist MC Lyte has spent decades sharing her shining talents with the world, all the while empowering others along the way. As Black Music Month kicks off and this year marks the 50th anniversary of Hip Hop, MC Lyte is bringing the second annual “I am Woman,” concert to the Kennedy Center in Northwest, D.C. on June 4, to not only celebrate women, but uplift, inspire and empower the masses to view the world in a positive light.

VP Harris Talks Debt Ceiling, Maternal Health and Small Businesses

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

In her two-plus years in office, the nation’s first Black and woman vice president already has carved an indelible mark on many impactful policies that have seen significant increases in small and minority-owned businesses and record low Black unemployment.

Vice President Kamala Harris, a force during her years in the U.S. Senate and as a member of the Congressional Black Caucus, has also spearheaded work to help women retain

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

autonomy over their bodies despite the U.S. Supreme Court’s controversial ruling to overturn the landmark Roe v. Wade legislation.

In an exclusive interview with the Washington Informer, as the nation faces conversations surrounding its budget, the vice president discussed

TALBERT TERRACE RESIDENTS FEEL ROBBED HARRIS

5 The elimination of green space on Talbert Terrace would mean children will no longer have a place to run and play and housing affordability by the developers who purchased the land is not certain. (Anthony Tilghman/ The Washington Informer)

Pretty in Pink Page 43

TALBERT

WI EXCLUSIVE: VICE PRESIDENT KAMALA HARRIS

5 MC Lyte’s “I Am Woman,” concert comes to the Kennedy Center on June 4. (Official promo photo

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South

Carolina Sen. Tim Scott Announces Presidential Campaign

South Carolina Republican Sen. Tim Scott, a longtime and devoted ally of former President Donald Trump, has thrown his hat into the 2024 presidential ring.

With Trump already declared and the presumptive frontrunner, Scott joins a growing Republican candidate list that includes another Trump ally, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley.

Ironically, Haley appointed Scott in 2013 to represent South Carolina in the U.S. Senate after the retirement of Jim DeMint.

The GOP already has a crowded field of candidates, including former tech and finance guru Vivek Ramaswamy, former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.

Former Trump Vice President Mike Pence hasn’t

ruled out a run.

Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin, South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, former Wyoming Congresswoman Liz Cheney, ex-national security advisor John Bolton, and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie are also said to be weighing a run for the GOP nomination.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is the lone Democrat to declare his intention to challenge President Joe Biden.

“Under President Biden, our nation is retreating away from patriotism and faith,” Scott said, announcing his bid. “Joe Biden and the radical left are attacking every rung of the ladder that helped me climb. And that is why I am announcing today that I am running for president of the United States of America.”

WI

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Black Canadian Legislators Exchange Ideas in D.C

Eight members of the Parliamentary Black Caucus in Canada were on Capitol Hill this week to meet with the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC). This was a historic first meeting between the two groups. In stature and representation, the Canadian political leaders could be comparable to America’s Congressional leadership.

Interviewed on the campus of Howard University, Senator Bernadette Clement, who represents Cornwall, Ontario, spoke about meeting with the CBC.

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“We want connection, we want to talk about the Black diaspora and discuss some of the issues we might have in common,” said Clement. “Both sides of the border deal with systematic racism, both sides of the border worry about representation.”

The visit to D.C. by the Parliamentary Black Caucus

coincided with the third anniversary observance of George Floyd’s murder. That led the Black Canadian legislators to reflect on how they were affected by that murder.

“It’s been a time for us, as Canadian Blacks, to decide very deliberately to take up more space in all of the places we occupy.” Clement, who was the first Black female mayor in Ontario, also shared her thoughts on the stalemate with U.S. debt ceiling discussions. She feels the conversations are hard because decisions are around investment.

“How do you justify the need for investment,” said Clement. “How do you talk about the stories in our communities, like young people who want healthcare, who want all the things so they can fully participate in their communities? These are hard conversations because they require money and investment.” WI

IN Series Honors Lawrence Brownlee at Denyce Graves Awards Gala

Entertaining Washington area audiences with innovative, exciting, engaging and thought provoking opera, is what IN Series has been about since its founding by Carla Hübner in 1982; and at the arts organization’s gala on May 23 at Planet Word Museum in Northwest, D.C., it was evident the legacy of inspiring through art continues. In a post-pandemic world, IN Series Artistic Director Timothy Nelson has furthered and elevated the organization’s mission of “disrupting expectations” and “deepening the conversation,” with the Denyce Graves Awards Gala, which not only honors artistic achievements but salutes arts advocacy and bravery.

Tenor Lawrence Brownlee, 50, is the first recipient of the Denyce Graves Award, and while the award’s namesake couldn’t be present, she offered a statement emphasizing why the tenor was the perfect person to receive the honor.

“He has already left an indelible mark on our industry ,” a spokesperson read on Graves’ behalf. “Larry sees his platform and career as tools to use for good, which resonates

with me because during the pandemic, artists were made aware, more than ever, that we must contribute to elevate people, raising consciousness, and healing.”

Brownlee has spent more than two dozen years in show business ensuring he shows up as his best self, offering his unique flair and proudly advocating for diversity, equity and inclusion not only in classical music, but across the arts and all fields— values he said that began as an adolescent in church and continued through college. The singer isn't new to arts advocacy, but the pandemic became an opportune time to ensure his voice was heard even when opera houses were dark.

I want to be… not that I have all the answers, but to be a voice that people can begin to work together to find our way so that we can find more equity,” the celebrated artist emphasized.

WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

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

Wilson’s on 18th Shines Bright in Adams Morgan

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

With the launch of a new Blackowned barbershop in Adams Morgan comes the opportunity for its owners and barbers to expand the limits of what Black people can do in a racially compartmentalized industry.

Starting June 1, patrons of various cultural backgrounds will be able to visit Wilson’s on 18th, not only for a quality haircut, but what owner AKil Wilson describes as a welcoming atmosphere that represents the highest potential of a rapidly gentrifying neighborhood.

Weeks ago, Wilson and his wife and business partner Lynette Monroe Wilson announced the launch of Wilson’s on 18th, which operates on the premises of the now-shuttered Wise Owl Club, a barbershop where Akil Wilson had been a founding barber.

Since acquiring ownership of the business, the Wilsons have been at work curating a multiethnic team of barbers. Three barbers followed the Wilsons over from Wise Owl Club. Right now, Wilson’s on 18th has six barbers, most of whom are Black with experience cutting and styling various hair types.

“Our segment of the industry leans heavily on familiarity,” Akil Wilson said. “The diversity is reflected in the clientele and everyone having the capability to service everyone. You can feel confident that, no matter your hair texture, our operators can take care of you.”

As part of an effort to collaborate with DC Public Schools (DCPS) in the future, Wilson’s on 18th, located near Marie Reed Elementary School in Northwest, will provide haircuts on June 12 for rising high school freshmen who are attending 8th grade prom.

There is also an apprenticeship program in the works. When people walk into Wilson’s on 18th, whether as barbers, apprentices or patrons, they will hear emanating from loudspeakers nothing but uplifting music with messages that are devoid of obscene language.

Lynette Monroe Wilson said that

Wilson’s on 18th, just by its name alone, carries on the legacy of the Wilson family.

Akil’s father, the late George Wilson, was a barrier-breaking international correspondent and Congressional reporter who amassed several bylines and radio clips as “Black America’s Voice on the Hill” for 30 years.

Before his death, Wilson had reported for National Black Network, Sheridan Broadcast Network, American Urban Radio Network, Sirius XM radio, WHUR, and the Informer.

Meanwhile, Akil’s mother, Iris Wilson, currently serves as a DCPS curriculum specialist. Her work deals mainly with laying the foundation for a system-wide career and technical education program that equips young people with college and career readiness skills before they graduate high school.

Both of her in-laws', Lynette Monroe Wilson said, unified people around common ideals and their work continues to pave the way for future generations.

“Wilsons on 18th is building upon George and Iris Wilson’s legacy by educating and serving the community,” she told the Informer.

“At one point in time, barber shops were a meeting place, specifically for men to gather and have conversations that could be as light as sports or as heavy as politics. Adams Morgan, as a creative hub in D.C., is a neighborhood in which this type of gathering space can add value.”

Adam’s Morgan, often referred to as “D.C.’s last funky neighborhood” stretches along 18th Street on Northwest between Columbia Road and Florida Avenue, not far from Dupont Circle. The name comes from two formerly segregated elementary schools, the now shuttered Thomas P. Morgan Elementary School, which served Black youth, and the all-white John Quincy Adams Elementary School.

At almost anytime during the week, people of various races and ethnicities can be found in Adams Morgan frequenting live music and entertainment venues, internation-

al eateries, fashion boutiques and even embassies.

For Wilson’s on 18th barber Godfrey Victor, the Adams Morgan community also represents the continuation of a decades-long journey in the barbering business, the better part of which he spent working for himself.

Victor, a Prince George’s County native, counts among those who transferred over from Wise Owl Club. He told the Informer that after speaking to Akil Wilson, the decision to stay made sense. Victor said he respected Wilson’s vision, especially as it related to cultivating young barbers.

“We never had this type of teaching as barbers about dealing with people and managing ourselves as barbers. People are talking about bringing in younger guys and having them with seasoned guys to learn how to interact with clients.

We want to give them a better way of life in the barber trade,” Victor said.

Through his tenuous experiences with previous employers, Victor always expressed a willingness and desire to help younger barbers, whether it’s through donating clippers to barbering schools or showing a young person some tricks of the trade. He said that’s how he en-

tered the business at the age of 14. Decades later, Victor looks forward to carrying out that mission at Wilson’s on 18th.

“We believe in not cutting just one brand of hair, and having the charisma to deal with different types of people. Being a barber gives you that advantage.”

WI @SamPKCollins

5Akil Wilson, owner of Wilson’s on 18th, which opens on June 1. (Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

AROUND THE REGION

facts

JUNE 1 - 7, 2023

SOURCE: BLACK AMERICA WEB

a major party into a campaign for the White House.

JUNE 4

1961 – Soul crooner El DeBarge, who became a star with his siblings in the early 1980s before enjoying a successful solo career, is born.

1972 – Angela Davis, famed civil rights activist and Black Panther Party affiliate, is acquitted by an all-white jury in San Jose, California, of conspiracy charges stemming from a 1970 courtroom shootout.

JUNE 5

1945 – John Carlos, a Black American track and field athlete best known for raising a Black gloved fist alongside Tommie Smith at the 1968 Olympics during the American national anthem after winning a bronze medal, is born.

1973 – Doris A. Davis is elected as mayor of Compton, California, making her the first-ever African American woman elected mayor of a metropolitan city.

JUNE 6

1966 – James Meredith, the first African American student admitted to the segregated University of Mississippi, is shot in Mississippi by a white man during a civil rights march.

JUNE 1

1864 – Solomon George Washington Dill, a poor white Southern man who supported an end to slavery and Black demands for social justice, is murdered by angry whites for giving what some whites considered an "incendiary speech" to a group of South Carolina Blacks.

JUNE 2

1951 – Kenneth Chenault, CEO and chairman of American Express, is born in Mineola, New York. He is the third Black CEO of a Fortune 500 company.

1989 – Freddie Adu, soccer player and former member of D.C. United, is born in Tema, Ghana. In January 2004, he became the youngest American ever to sign a professional sports contract after be was selected by the United in the Major League Soccer draft.

JUNE 3

1906 – Josephine Baker, the world-renowned American-born French singer, dancer and actress, is born. In 1934, Baker became the first Black woman to star in a major motion picture ("Zotuou"). She also became an avowed civil rights activist, speaking out against the racism and segregation she faced as a performer in the United States.

1950 – Deniece Williams, Grammy-winning R&B and gospel music star, is born. Known for her four-octave range, Williams sang backup for Stevie Wonder and recorded a string of successful duets with Johnny Mathis before her breakout pop hit, "Let's Hear it for the Boy."

2008 – Barack Obama clinches the Democratic presidential nomination, becoming the first Black candidate to lead

2004 – Phylicia Rashad of "The Cosby Show" fame becomes the first Black actress to win a Tony for a leading dramatic role for her turn as Lena Younger in "A Raisin in the Sun."

JUNE 7

1943 – Nikki Giovanni, renowned poet, writer, commentator, activist and educator, is born in Knoxville, Tennessee.

1958 – Music legend Prince, who released 39 albums, won seven Grammy Awards, an Oscar and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, is born in Minneapolis. WI

BY SARAFINA WRIGHT

The world and music industry continues to mourn the passing of icon Tina Turner, who died last month at age 83. How will you remember Tina? The world and music industry continues to mourn the passing of icon Tina Turner, who died last month at age 83. How will you remember Tina?

DREA BLING / WASHINGTON, DC

She was a beautiful and talented queen who was simply the best. She will be greatly missed.

CAROLYN WALKER / RALEIGH, N.C.

One of the most talented, energetic entertainers that I’ve ever seen. ‘Simply The Best’ in my heart. Rest in Peace queen.

VILLE THOMPSON / NEW HAVEN, CONN.

Rest in Peace, Queen Tina. You could feel her gospel roots as she sang her songs. And she used her own painful experience to overcome it. It all became beautiful. Legendary.

JEAN PIERRE / NORCROSS, GA.

Her second act, in my opinion, was more impressive than anything. Finally overcoming all the personal stuff but starting over with her career, and then thanks to MTV, her star power just went through the roof. A legend indeed.

BARBARA H. / WASHINGTON, DC

Rest in Peace, Queen of Rock & Roll. Tina captivated men and women alike by providing some of the most raw and riveting performances in my lifetime. Another great legend has passed and will never be forgotten!

Advocacy Group Offers Guide to Dining Service Charges

By James Wright WI Staff Writer

The District’s arm of One Fair Wage, an advocacy group calling for fair wages for hourly and tipped workers, has published a guide with the support of other organizations informing consumers on which restaurants are using service charges. This effort is in concert with the passage of Initiative 82 by District voters in 2022, which progressively allows tipped workers to get the city’s minimum wage in a few years. Service charges are fees added to a customer’s restaurant bill, usually involuntarily. Depending on the restaurant, fees will be explained, what purpose they serve and for what they are used.

“D.C.’s Consumer Guide to I-82 and Service Charges” is presented on the One Fair Wage website. It compiles the response of 150 restaurants in the city that utilize service charges.

The guide has been published in reference to November 2022, when District voters passed Initiative 82 (I-82) by 74% of the vote. I-82 was designed to increase the minimum wage for tipped employees from $5.05 an hour to match the minimum wage of non-tipped employees in 2027. As of July 1, 2021, the minimum wage for non-tipped workers was $15.20.

The increase in the minimum wage progresses. It began this year, on January 1, with $6 per hour and

5

will increase to $8 per hour by July 1; $10 per hour by July 1, 2024; $12 per hour by July 1, 2025; $14 per hour by July 1, 2026; and equal to non-tipped employee minimum wage by July 1, 2027. I-82 was supposed to go into effect in January. However, the D.C. Council postponed implementation to May 1.

In 2018, District voters passed a similar initiative, but the council set it aside.

Saru Jayarman, the president of One Fair Wage, said after the council delayed implementation of I-82, the city’s interest group for restaurants set in motion a plan.

“The Metropolitan Association of Metropolitan Washington advised restaurants to switch from tips to service charges,” Jayarman said.

Jayarman said that service charges can be a good thing.

“Service charges can be used to get rid of racial practices in which servers sometimes don’t receive tips for their service because of their color,” she said. “The server would get a set gratuity. The service charges go to the employer. The employer is supposed to give it to the employee but that is not happening in many cases.”

Instead, Jayarman said the service charges are used by restaurant managers to cover operational costs in many instances. However, she said

150 restaurants in the guide reveal the full usage of the service charge on their website.

D.C. Council member Janeese Lewis George (D-Ward 4) said it is important for restaurants to “honor language and spirit of I-82.” Noting that family members worked as servers in the city, she said “Black and Brown women are the backbone of the restaurant industry.”

George said she will support the full implementation of I-82 despite council bills that would exempt restaurants from D.C. consumer law and postpone, again, the implementation of the measure.

Adam Teitelbaum, who works in the Office of Consumer Protection for the D.C. Attorney General, said restaurants have the right to impose a service charge fee under District consumer law.

“But you should know about that before you order,” Teitelbaum said. “And it must be prominent for the diner to see. The disclosure should be clear and accurate on why the fee is being charged and for what it is being used.”

Teitelbaum said there are plans for his office to educate restaurant owners on the particulars of the D.C. consumer law and how it applies to them.

WI @JamesWrightJr10

A woman serving customers at a restaurant. (Courtesy photo) only 9% of the

Anti-Gun Violence D.C. Bureaucrat Linda Harllee Harper Dies

By James Wright WI Staff Writer

Harllee Harper, the District director of gun violence prevention and the executive director of the Office of Neighborhood and Safety Engagement, died on May 26.

Harllee Harper’s cause of death hasn’t been announced. D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser expressed her sorrow regarding Harper’s demise.

“Our hearts are broken by the loss of Linda Harllee Harper,” said Bowser. “Linda was beloved in the community and within D.C. government. Linda loved D.C., she loved and believed in Washingtonians. She dedicated her career and life to our young people and our community, and when she had a seat at the table, she was bringing someone with her—always listening to and empowering people closest to the communities she was working to help.”

The mayor said Harllee Harper helped people constantly.

“She didn’t give up on people,”

Bowser said. “Hearing Linda speak about our community and our youth, especially our most vulnerable young people, you knew that this was more than a career, this was her calling and her purpose. Our prayers and love are with Linda’s husband and son and the many people in our community who loved and admired Linda.”

Harllee Harper’s decades of work in the District government included the areas of juvenile justice, social services, criminal justice and public safety. In 2021, Bowser appointed Harllee Harper as the director of the Office of Gun Violence Prevention and in February, added the Neighborhood and Safety Engagement Office to her responsibilities.

Much of Harllee Harper’s work took place in Ward 8. Councilmember Trayon White Sr. (D) of Ward 8 said Harllee Harper’s death is a loss for his ward and the city.

“I contacted Linda to invite her to attend our ‘40 Days of Increased Peace’ partners’ meeting,” White said.

“She never responded, which was not like Linda. She was always truly responsive.”

White said he later learned that Harllee Harper was seriously ill and expressed sadness at her passing.

“Linda will truly be missed as this unaccepted loss will have a tremendous impact on our community,” he said. “We offer our deepest and most sincere condolences to Linda’s family, friends, colleagues, and supporters. May she rest in heavenly peace.”

Council member Charles Allen (D-Ward 6) said “Linda was the most beautiful person, and I am just shocked and saddened.”

“She was a natural and skilled leader in the fields of juvenile justice and violence prevention, and she commanded every room she walked into with her smile, poise, and stature,” he said. “My heart goes out to her friends, family, colleagues, and all those she shaped and supported.”

WI

@JamesWrightJr10

HAVE A MAJOR PURCHASE ON YOUR MIND?

5 Linda Harllee Harper, a District government employee who manages the gun violence prevention and neighborhood and safety engagement offices, passed away on May 26. (Courtesy Photo)

AROUND THE REGION

The Newsletter

- Josephine Baker

Who’s Reading the Informer?

Nick Mann Writer and Victoria Wynn read the Washington Informer. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

“Art is an elastic sort of love.”

The National Black Movie Association hosted the Prince George's County Crimson Heat Allstar Cheerleaders for a private screening of Disney's "The Little Mermaid" on May 25 at the Hyattsville Royale Stadium Theater. Most of the athletes wore black to stand in solidarity for support of diversity in the film industry. (Courtesy photo/Bernadette Dare)

MON Helps Black Moms with 'Mother Up'

By Micha Green WI Managing Editor

Parents around the world will attest that raising children is never easy, but combining rearing upstanding financial strains, tough times and the moments when life hits extra hard and truly be a challenge. Though there are public, government and federal agencies and programs in place to support parents, sometimes entering into the system can have adverse effects. Working outside the confines and sometimes limiting or punitive challenges of government agencies, Mother’s Outreach Network (MON) is working to empower mothers by providing support, access to legal resources and more.

“Mothers Outreach Network is an advocacy organization. And it's really aimed at mobilizing and uplifting mothers in D.C. And our goal is really to change laws and family programs from being punitive to being empowering and we're working to empower mothers to be a part of that process,”

Melody Webb, MON’s executive director, told the Informer. “We're also working to challenge false stereotypes about parents who are asking for support. Again, I've seen, firsthand, the ways that a system can penalize a parent who has the bravery to seek support and who has the strength to carry on despite all the challenges.”

Through legal programming, policy advocacy, community engagement, organizing and initiatives such as the recent “Mother Up” project, MON offers mothers hands-on support while also serving as advocates and justice fighters to reframe what asking for assistance looks like for families in need.

Mother Up is MON’s newest program to subsidize Black mothers in need by particularly targeting those who are currently or have been recently involved with the District of Columbia Child and Family Services Agency (CFSA). Intentionally functioning outside of government agencies, Mother Up is a guaranteed income program all about bolstering and empowering Black moms.

“This is about supporting Black moms that navigate financial insecurity, not blaming them for the systemic injustices that got them there,” Webb,

54, a native Washingtonian and attorney who helped found MON back in 2010.

“The program really is based upon work that I did, where I saw up close the role that poverty plays in driving involvement and actually identification by the system,” she said. “And what we know is that the statistics demonstrate that 12% of the people involved with the child welfare system are actually housing insecure

In its first of three phases, “Mother UP,” has a cohort of five mothers who will be receiving cash payments of $500 a month for three years.

“Those mothers are pioneers in this program. We know that there are different challenges with providing people with no and low income and cash assistance with cash support. And so we're striving very hard with them to make sure that they don't lose their benefits, but it's very hard due to flaws in our social safety net.”

The pilot or “soft launch,” as Webb described is supported by such organizations as W.K. Kellogg Foundation and The Health Equity Fund at The Greater Washington Community Foundation (GWCF).

“When we support mothers, we are supporting children and families,” said Nara Topp, program officer at the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. “This pilot has the potential to help mothers facing significant economic barriers to gain better financial footing with flexi-

bility and autonomy.”

Dr. Marla Dean, senior director of GWCF’s Healthy Equity Fund explained the guaranteed income program as “very important.”

“In a city as wealthy and resourceful as the District, all of its residents should have a basic income — one that allows all families to thrive,” said Dean. “The Health Equity Fund believes that there is an extricable link between health and wealth, and reaching the goal of health equity begins with economic mobility. MON’s pilot is an important step in this process.”

Phase two and three of the program is about research Webb said MON’s goal is for “Mother Up,” to significantly grow, eventually with at least 50 and up to 200 parents receiving cash payments.

“We are not quite at our goal yet,” Webb explained. “So that at the lower end, you know, we've raised nearly half of what we need, and for the upper end, which is about $5 million, you know, we're quite a ways away.”

In order to get to that goal, MON is accepting donations and partnerships with the community. WI

URGENT NOTICE:

Searching and looking to locate my sister, Rhoda Theresa Hudson, aged 79, African-American, 5’3” height.

Last seen in 1993 in Washington DC, our hometown. Need to find her concerning family affairs. If you have information or knowledge of her whereabouts.

Contact: Sylvia Rachele Hudson at ggrm2aaky@yahoo.com

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY

Moore Adds Funding for School Meals, North Brentwood Budget Adopted

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

NORTH BRENTWOOD ADOPTS

ANNUAL BUDGET

North Brentwood, a small town located between Hyattsville and Mount Rainier with a rich and largely unknown Black history, just adopted their annual budget.

In their recently adopted town budget for fiscal year (FY) 2023, the town is anticipated to run a balanced budget with $1,179,629 in both expenditures and revenues.

The $542,878 in American Rescue Plan (ARPA) funding is planned to be spent by the town. Outside of ARPA funding, approximately 40% of town revenues are property tax collections; grants make up more than half of reve-

nues. Grant distribution is by far the largest expenditure in the town, with operations of the legislative and executive branches of government coming in second.

North Brentwood Mayor Petrella Robinson and Councilmember Aaron Baynes both ran unopposed and retained their seats in the election held on May 1. Robinson has served as Mayor since 2007, and is the 13th Mayor in the town’s history. Elections in North Brentwood are nonpartisan, allowing any registered voter to participate regardless of partisan affiliation.

North Brentwood is the first majority-Black incorporated town in Prince George’s County and the second in Maryland, after only Anne Arundel’s Highland Beach. At time of incorporation in 1924, North Brentwood may have been the only town in America without a single white voter.

The town, located in the Gateway Arts District, hosts the Prince George’s African American Museum and Cultural Center.

In the 2020 census, the town population was 593.

A town newsletter is delivered to each home in the town every month.

LEGISLATION PASSES, WILL ENSURE MORE FREE STUDENT MEALS

On May 16, the Maryland Meals for Achievement In-Classroom Breakfast Program secured $4.5 million in additional funding on May 16 as Governor Wes Moore (D) signed SB559, bringing the annual program funding to $12 million. MMA provides breakfast to students after the bell in schools where 40% or more of students qualify for free and reduced price meals. Previous budget shortfalls left out over 120 eligible schools in Maryland, including several in Prince George’s County, from reaping the benefits of this program.

“We applaud Governor Moore for taking bold, strategic action this session to end child hunger and poverty in our state, including this substantial investment to ensure every child can start the day fueled and ready to learn,” said No Kid Hungry Maryland Director Ayesha Holmes. “The Maryland Meals for Achievement in-classroom breakfast program has a proven track

record of ensuring school breakfast reaches the students who need it most. With Maryland families facing shockingly high prices at the grocery store alongside the expiration of pandemic-era benefits, this investment could not have come at a more critical time.”

Juwan Blocker, a lobbyist who supported this issue during the recent legislative session, was thrilled to attend the bill signing in Annapolis. His alma mater, Parkdale High School, will now be able to provide meals for more students than ever before.

This additional funding will have to be re-appropriated every year, necessitating new legislation.

We previously covered this legislation; read more here.

Juwan Blocker, a lobbyist who supported this issue during the recent legislative session, was thrilled to attend the bill signing in Annapolis. His alma mater, Parkdale High School, will now be able to provide meals for more students than ever before.

This additional funding will have to be re-appropriated every year, necessitating new legislation. WI

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY WEEKLY UPDATES

5 Governor Wes Moore (center) signed an expansion of the Maryland Meals for Achievement into law recently. (Courtesy Photo/ Office of Governor Wes Moore)

"We applaud Governor Moore for taking bold, strategic action this session to end child hunger and poverty in our state, including this substantial investment to ensure every child can start the day fueled and ready to learn,”

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

Moore Allows 10 Bills to Pass Sans Signature, Alsobrooks Gains Support

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

COMMITTEE CHAIR RESIGNS, SHAKE UPS IN HOUSE LEADERSHIP

Following the May 17 resignation of Montgomery County Delegate Kumar Barve (D) to pursue a nomination to the Maryland Public Service Commission, several legislators are shifting in leadership and being appointed to new positions. Barve, the first Indian-American and first Hindu elected to a state legislature in American history when he first took office in 1991, served as the Chair of the Environment and Transportation Com-

mittee. His nomination is subject to Senate confirmation next year.

Montgomery County Delegate

Marc Korman (D), the House Majority Leader and a former House Appropriations Subcommittee Chair, will now serve as the Chair of the Environment and Transportation Committee.

“Marc has distinguished himself as Majority Leader and is a nationally recognized transportation policy expert,” said House Speaker Adrienne Jones Jones (D) in a written statement.

“He will bring his considerable talents and energy to the committee.”

Baltimore County Delegate Dana Stein, the Vice Chair of the House Environment and Transportation Committee, will replace Eastern Shore Delegate Sheree Sample Hughes (D) as

Speaker Pro Temp and Baltimore City Delegate Regina Boyce (D) will now serve as the Vice Chair of the Environment and Transportation Committee. Hughes announced late on May 17 that she was being asked to step down by the Speaker, but will serve in the role until the next legislative term begins.

“I will continue to faithfully serve the citizens of District 37A in the Maryland House of Delegates until otherwise. It is my firm belief that geographical diversity has a place in the Maryland House of Delegates,” said Sample-Hughes. Sample-Hughes is the first Black Delegate from the Eastern Shore, and the only Democrat in the Eastern Shore Delegation. Multiple Eastern Shore news outlets have noted the potential impact that losing

FITS YOUR life

her voice may have on their region.

Montgomery County Delegate David Moon (D) will become the new Majority Leader and vacate his position as the Vice Chair of the Judiciary Committee, which will be filled by Anne Arundel County Delegate Sandy Bartlett (D). Jones described Moon as a “powerful consensus builder”.

law, an adjustment on towing hours and establishing an Accessory Dwelling Unit Policy Task Force.

ALSOBROOKS ADDS SENATE ENDORSER: BAL. CO EXECUTIVE OLSZEWSKI

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unique tub-over-tub liners, replacements, and tub-to-shower conversions we can complete your bathroom renovation in as little as a day. At Bath Fitter, we don’t just fit your bath, we fit your life. Why have over two million people brought Bath Fitter into their homes? It Just Fits.

Prince George’s Delegates Jazz Lewis (D), Nick Charles (D) and Kevin Harris (D) will also be entering new roles. Lewis will chair the House Appropriations Public Safety and Administration subcommittee. Charles will chair the Ways and Means Committee’ Local Revenues Subcommittee. Harris will be the Vice Chair of the House Appropriations Education & Economic Development Subcommittee.

GOVERNOR WES MOORE ISSUES FIRST VETOES

On May 19, Governor Wes Moore (D) issued his first vetoes and allowed ten bills to become law without his signature following the first legislative session of his gubernatorial tenure. Two of the vetoes were for legislation that had already been signed; the third was on proposed changes to commuter bus procurement by the Maryland Transit Authority (MTA).

“This is the last action by the governor on bills passed during the recent General Assembly session,” according to Moore spokesman Carter Elliott IV.

Moore did not sign a bill that would limit the ability of law enforcement to use the smell of cannabis as pretext for a traffic stop or search, which will be implemented on July 1 alongside recreational cannabis legalization.

Several other laws that will be implemented without Moore’s signature include a repeal of Maryland’s sodomy

On May 15, Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski announced he is not running for the U.S. Senate to replace the outgoing Senator, Baltimore County Democrat Ben Cardin. Like Baltimore Congressman Kweisi Mfume (D), Olszewski is endorsing Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks (D) for the position.

“When we elect Angela to be our next senator, Maryland will once again have a woman representing our state in Congress, and the first Black woman to represent Maryland in the United States Senate, ” said Olszewski. “These are hard races, but I know we’ve got someone who is a fighter, who has fought for Prince George’s County and who I am very confident will fight not just for Baltimore County but the entire region and state.”

Both Alsobrooks and Olszewski were first elected to their respective executive offices in 2018.

Having an open line of communication with Olszewski is one of the reasons he is supporting her, and to keep her informed of issues in the Baltimore metro region.

Alsobrooks has also been endorsed by Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman (D), State Treasurer Dereck E. Davis (D), former Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett (D) and numerous others.

Montgomery County Congressman David Trone (D) and Montgomery County Councilman Will Jawando (D) are included in the candidates for the vacant Senate seat. WI

5 Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski, first elected in 2018, endorsed Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks (pictured, on stage) for the U.S. Senate on May 15. Olszewski’s support will boost Alsobrooks in the Baltimore metro region. (Rob Roberts/Washington Informer)

David Trone is running for Senate. But he’s been fighting for people struggling with substance use, mental health, and an unfair criminal justice system his entire life.

As the founder of Total Wine & More, he was one of the first to ban the box so that the recently incarcerated could get a second chance, and offer partner benefits and free college.

David’s team has passed 26 bills through a divided Congress, and he intends to keep right on championing progressive issues that matter in the Senate. Because someone has to.

Go to davidtrone.com to find out more.

100,000 overdose deaths.

50,000 suicides from mental illness.

1 out of 3 young black men arrested. Because these issues can’t wait, neither can David Trone.

APPROVED BY DAVID TRONE. PAID FOR BY DAVID TRONE FOR MARYLAND.

James Wright / WI Staff Writer

BUSINESS briefs

MOORE UNVEILS MARYLAND TOURISM CAMPAIGN

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore and the Maryland Department of Commerce’s Office of Tourism have announced the launch of the state’s new “You’re Welcome” tourism campaign.

Running through August in various Northeast markets including New York City and Philadelphia, the campaign invites travelers to discover new experiences and make stronger connections

in Maryland. The campaign was created in partnership with Marriner Marketing Communications and will run across digital, out-ofhome, social, broadcast and audio outlets, with a voiceover by Moore in the television and radio spots.

“From the sandy beaches of the Eastern Shore to the mountains of Western Maryland and everywhere in between, Maryland is home to spectacular natural beauty,” said Moore. “I am proud to support and participate in our new ‘You’re Welcome’ tourism campaign, which embodies our belief that we

want everyone to experience and enjoy Maryland’s many unparalleled destinations.”

To promote trip itineraries and invite exploring throughout the different regions in Maryland, the campaign highlights the state’s water experiences consisting of more than 3,100 of shorelines, Ocean City and the state’s numerous beaches, the Chesapeake Bay and its storytelling, as well as quintessential bay towns. There’s also local seafood and culinary experiences including a Crab & Oyster Trail; history and heritage with the “Most Powerful Underground Railroad Storytelling Destination in the World”; unique scenic drives with 2,400 miles of byways; and outdoor recreation featuring Maryland’s Trail System Secondto-None.

“With our refreshed campaign and the power of Governor Moore’s welcoming message, we’re

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confident we’ll increase the awareness and inspiration to boost travel to Maryland and entice visitors to stay extra nights to enjoy everything that makes our state so special,” said Maryland Commerce Secretary Kevin Anderson.

“To the trail seekers, the ocean obsessed, the family fun finders, the romantic escapers and everyone in between…welcome,” said Liz Fitzsimmons, managing director of the Maryland Office of Tourism. “And you’re welcome— to invest in a Maryland vacation, where you can have the experiences that leave you with a lifetime of happy memories.”

To learn more about Maryland Tourism, go to www.visitmaryland. org.

WJLA’S SAM FORD TO KEYNOTE WETATI EVENT

WJLA-TV (Channel 7) reporter Sam Ford will serve as the keynote speaker for the star-studded annual WETATI Anne Reese Carswell scholarship and awards gala event sponsored by the WETATI Academy on June 17.

This is part of the WETATI Academy and the Nyumburu Cultural Center, University of Maryland, College Park Entrepreneur Convention. The event will take place from 6-10 p.m. in the Colony Ballroom in the Adele H. Stamp Building on the Maryland campus.

AT 5:30 P.M.

Join our discussion on how your relationship with food is based on years of cultural and family traditions from our community panel. You’ll gain insight on the importance of food as preventive medicine and ways to improve your relationship with food.

The event promises to be filled with lots of fun, love, and an amazing evening of various exciting activities that will touch and warm your heart, including live Samplings

performance and entertainment by the entertainer Wanya Wondwossen. Honorees include Ford and Ambassador Dr. Jacqueline Mohair, and entrepreneur and mayor of Bowie, Maryland Tim Adams. The winners of the 2023 Dureke iDEA pitch competition winners and scholarship awards recipients will receive recognition and awards.

WI

@JamesWrightJr10

YOUTHBUILD DC PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOL REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Special Education Coordination

YouthBuild DC Public Charter is soliciting quotes for Special Education Coordination Services to drive special education compliance, lead student support team meetings, and ensure the service delivery and academic progress for approximately 35 learners in the special education program. To request a copy of the RFP, email Keisha Morris at keisha.morris@youthbuildpcs.org. Proposals are due by 5:00 PM, Friday, June 23, 2023.

5 Maryland Gov. Wes Moore wants people to tour the state this summer. (WI File Photo/ Robert R. Roberts)

Nutritionist at the Alabama Avenue Giant Wellness Space

NATIONAL

Rock Legend Tina Turner Dies at 83

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

Tina Turner, the “Queen of Rock ‘n Roll’ whose legend skyrotted after overcoming a bitter, violence-filled marriage and divorce to musician Ike Turner, has died at the age of 83.

The superstar’s family confirmed her death in a statement on Wednesday, May 24, noting that Turner died “peacefully” at her home near Zurich, Switzerland.

“Starting with her performances with her ex-husband Ike, Turner injected an uninhibited, volcanic stage presence into pop,” Rolling Stone’s

Brittany Spanos declared in a tribute.

“Even with choreographed backup singers — both with Ike and during her own career — Turner never seemed to reign in,” Spanos, who co-authored the tribute with David Browne, asserted.

“Her influence on rock, R&B and soul singing and performance was also immeasurable,” the tribute noted.

Turner’s music and performance style has served as inspiration for multiple generations of artists.

“Her delivery influenced everyone from Mick Jagger to Mary J. Blige, and her high-energy stage presence (topped with an array of gravity-de-

fying wigs) was passed down to Janet Jackson and Beyoncé.

“Turner’s message — one that resounded with generations of women — was that she could hold her own onstage against any man.”

Born Anna Mae Bullock in Tennessee in 1939, Turner started her career in 1958 as the lead singer for Ike Turn-

er and his Kings of Rhythm band.

Later, the couple changed the name to the Ike & Tina Revue and spun out hit after hit with songs like “Nutbush City Limits,” “River Deep,” and the seminal “Proud Mary.”

Following a tumultuous and abusive relationship, Tina escaped from Ike’s clutches in 1976 with no money

and just the clothes on her back that reportedly were bloodied following Ike’s latest assault.

During divorce proceedings, Tina simply demanded that she keep her stage name which the judge granted. With assistance from rock stars like Mick Jagger and David Bowie, Turner rebounded several years later and topped the pop music charts with her 1984 solo album, Private Dancer.

The album included a bevy of hit singles, including a remake of Al Green’s “Let’s Stay Together,” and “What’s Love Got to Do With It,” which became the title of her successful 1993 biopic starring Angela Bassett and Laurence Fishburne.

In 1986, Tina wrote her memoir, “I, Tina,” which writers used to create the film, What’s Love Got to Do With It.”

She then enjoyed the starring role alongside Mel Gibson in the 1995 movie, “Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome.”

Over her career, Turner earned 11 Grammy Awards, and sold an estimated 180 million records globally. Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

Dreaming of homeownership?

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5 Dubbed the “Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” singer Tina Turner has died at the age of 83. (Courtesy photo/Wikimedia Commons)

In History Making Selection, Biden Picks General C.Q. Brown as Chair of Joint Chiefs of Staff

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

On Thursday, May 25, President Joe Biden announced his selection for the Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman. Air Force Gen. C.Q. Brown Jr., an exceptional fighter pilot with extensive knowledge of China, has been chosen for this significant role, making history.

If Brown wins confirmation, it will make African Americans the majority in the Pentagon's top military and civilian roles.

“General Brown is a warrior, descended from a proud line of warriors,” Biden declared, noting that Brown’s father U.S. Army Colonel C.Q. Brown served in Vietnam.

His grandfather, Army Master Sgt. Robert E. Brown, Jr., led a segregated unit in World War II.

“And command pilot General Brown brings to this role more than 3,000 hours of flighting — flying experience, including 130 combat hours,” Biden stated. “He knows what it means to be in the thick of battle and how to keep your cool when things get hard, like when your F-16 was on fire. And [when] you returned to the base in Florida in 1991. C.Q. had to eject more than 300... 300 miles an hour, landing in the Everglades.”

The current Defense Secretary, Lloyd Austin, the first Black Pentagon chief, has been serving since the start of the administration.

Previously, Army Gen. Colin Powell was the only African American to serve as Joint Chiefs chairman.

Once the Senate approves, Brown will replace Army Gen. Mark Milley, whose term concludes in October.

President Biden formally introduced Brown as his pick during a Rose Garden event on Thursday afternoon.

President Biden's choice of Brown stems from his exceptional track record of modernizing the U.S. aircraft fleet and nuclear arsenal. Additionally, Brown's extensive experience in shaping U.S. defenses to counter China's emergence played a significant role in the decision. Brown has been deeply involved in efforts to equip Ukraine

with billions of dollars in U.S. weaponry to help fend off Russia's invasion.

Throughout his career, Brown has commanded at every level in the Air Force and in joint commands across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

He was pivotal in leading the U.S. air campaign against the Islamic State militant group.

As a career F-16 fighter pilot with over 3,000 flight hours and comprehensive command experience, he has broken barriers and achieved several firsts.

For instance, he became the military's first Black Pacific Air Forces commander, spearheading the nation's air strategy to counter China's activities in the Indo-Pacific region.

Three years ago, Brown made history as the first Black Air Force chief of staff, becoming the highest-ranking African American to lead any military branch.

His extensive expertise and focus on modernizing U.S. airpower for 21st-century warfare have positioned him as the frontrunner for replacing Gen. Milley as the Pentagon focuses on deterring potential conflicts with Beijing.

However, Brown's confirmation may face delays due to Alabama Republican Sen. Tommy Tuberville's objections. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

5 President Joe Biden announced his selection for the Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman as Air Force Gen. CQ Brown Jr. (Courtesy Photo)

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5 they unveil a new memorial stone in Salford City ON Saturday, May 27, in honor of the victims Caption: A group photo of the Rwandan Community in Greater Manchester, United Kingdom, as of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. (Courtesy Photo)

COMPILED BY OSWALD T. BROWN, WI CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Memorial Stone Unveiled in UK in Honor of Genocide Victims

The Rwandan Community in Greater Manchester, United Kingdom, on Saturday, May 27, unveiled a new memorial stone in Salford City in honor of the victims of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, The New Times, Rwanda’s largest daily newspaper, reported.

The unveiling was part of an event organised to commemorate the genocide. It was attended by dignitaries including the High Commissioner for Rwanda to the UK Johnston Busingye, the Member of Parliament for Salford and Eccles Rebecca Long-Bailey, and officials from the Salford City Council.

"With the unveiling of this memorial stone we honor the memory of the over one million killed in the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, we impart knowledge and awareness to generations, stand up to genocide denial, reach out to the world and make never again reality," Busingye said.

"With the genocide against the Tutsi, Rwanda sank to her lowest. We chose to rise rather than sink deeper. Since 1994 we embarked on a resolute journey to build unity, reconciliation, tolerance and socio-economic development. We are not at our destination yet, but we make progress daily and are surely on the way," he added.

The Rwandan Community of Greater Manchester worked with the Rwandan High Commission and Salford City Council to establish the memorial, which joins other memorial sites in the UK, including one in Liverpool, Nottingham, and Plymouth.

“[Honored] to attend a moving event in St Stephen’s gardens today unveiling a memorial stone to the victims of the 1994 genocide perpetrated against the Tutsi in Rwanda. A permanent place of remembrance, healing, strength and light coming from darkness and to say never again,” Long-Bailey tweeted after the event. Busingye appreciated the large number of Rwandans who gathered from the communities in Manchester and the North West of England, as well as friends of Rwanda. WI

Barbados Described as ‘One of the Best Managed Countries in the World’

5 Barbados Ambassador to the United States , and the OAS the Hon. Noel Lynch speaking at BCTA Business Forum in Atlanta on Saturday, May 27. (Courtesy Photo)

The Hon. Noel Lynch, Barbados’ Ambassador ro the United States and the Oragnisation of American States (OAS), said Barbados is being described as one of the best Back-run societies in the world and a small nation that is becoming a global powerhouse, during the Barbados Comes to Atlanta (BCTA) Business Forum at the Clayton County International Park in Atlanta, Georgia, BARBADOS TODAY reported.

He noted that this perspective was discussed during his many engagements with global commentators in his job as ambassador, which he described as “the best job in the world,” because “every day I get to articulate the vision of Mia Amor Mottley for the development of a small nation that’s becoming a global powerhouse.” “Barbados, like all the other countries, has gone through some difficult times, but we are recovering and we are recovering maybe better than people didn’t even envision that we would have recovered,” Lynch said. “And in a country that is moving ahead and doing the kind of stuff that we’re doing, putting Barbados on the map, we’re showing that a small developing state can be a global powerhous.,”

The ambassador cited the Bridgetown Initiative as one example as to why Barbados was being viewed as a global powerhouse. Lynch explained that the initiative is essentially a new deal to restructure the global financial architecture that would not only help Barbados, but would also help all other small developing countries like Barbados to do what is necessary to maintain, sustain and build resilience for future generations.

Commemorating Juneteenth

Submitted by AmeriHealth Caritas DC

In 2021, President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act. This bill recognized and designated June 19 as a legal, public holiday. Although the events of Juneteenth took place over 100 years ago, the holiday continues to be observed as a culturally and historically significant moment in time for African Americans.

THE HISTORY OF JUNETEENTH

Juneteenth is the longest-running African American holiday in the United States.1 Its importance stems from President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation, which granted freedom to those who were enslaved in states under Confederate control.

On June 19, 1865, federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce that over 250,000 enslaved people in the state of Texas were free.2 This announcement would come over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued in 1863.3 Juneteenth is viewed as a second Independence Day for African Americans, as it marks the official end of slavery in the United States.

BRINGING JUNETEENTH INTO FEDERAL LAW

African Americans have celebrated Juneteenth for decades, but the holiday was not always widely recognized. It was not until 1979 that the state of Texas passed a bill declaring Juneteenth a state holiday.4 For many years after, holiday supporters would push for Juneteenth to receive the same recognition as similar holidays, such as Flag Day or Independence Day.

President Biden would soon answer the call to push Juneteenth to the forefront. On June 17, 2021, President Biden signed a bill establishing Juneteenth as a federal holiday. “Juneteenth

marks both the long, hard night of slavery and subjugation and a promise of a brighter morning to come,” President Biden remarked that day.

CELEBRATING JUNETEENTH IN WASHINGTON, DC

If you are looking for ways to commemorate Juneteenth locally, Washington, DC, is rich in African American history and culture. Here are a few ways you can honor Juneteenth in DC:

• Visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is the world’s largest museum devoted to African American life, art, history, and culture. The museum is home to thousands of exhibits that showcase the history of America through the Black cultural lens. Plan your museum trip by visiting https://nmaahc.si.edu/about/ about-museum.

• Visit the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial.

You can also visit the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial on the National Mall. The memorial features a 30-foot-tall statue of Dr. King and three granite pieces inspired by his famous “I Have a Dream” speech.

• Take a stroll down Black Lives Matter Plaza.

Visiting the Black Lives Matter Plaza downtown is another great way to honor the life, struggles, and efforts of African Americans. The Plaza covers two blocks along 16th Street NW, with the words “BLACK LIVES MATTER” in yellow, 50-foot-tall letters.

The information in this article is to help you learn more about this topic. It is not to take the place of your healthcare provider. If you have questions, talk with your healthcare provider. If you think you need to see your health care provider because of something you have read in this information, please contact your health care provider. Never stop or wait to get medical at-

tention because of something you have read in this material.

Sources:

1. “What is Juneteenth?” History. com,https://www.history.com/news/ what-is-juneteenth

2. “The Historical Legacy of Juneteenth,” Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of African American History and Culture, https://nmaahc. si.edu/explore/stories/historical-legacy-juneteenth

3. “The Emancipation Proclamation,” National Archives and Records Administration, https://www. archives.gov/exhibits/featured-documents/emancipation-proclamation

4. “This Day in History,” History. com, https://www.history.com/thisday-in-history/texas-bill-makes-juneteenth-an-official-state-holiday

5. “Oral Health Tips,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/basics/adult-oral-health/tips.html

All images are used under license for illustrative purposes only. Any individual depicted is a model

#BestMe Prioritize Your Oral Health

Have you been to the dentist this year? June is Oral Health Month, and there is no better time than now to start prioritizing your oral hygiene.

Oral health is important, as the health of your mouth can impact your overall health. Sudden changes in your taste or smell may indicate that something has changed with your health. Here are some ways you can prioritize oral hygiene all year long:5

•Visit your dentist at least once a year.

•Do not use any tobacco products.

•Brush your teeth twice daily and floss.

•Drink fluoridated water and brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste.

As an AmeriHealth Caritas DC enrollee, you have access to our many Preventive Care Center resources, including our Dental Care Center. You can find additional resources on proper dental care, how to find a dental provider, what to do if you have a dental emergency, and more! Visit https://www.amerihealthcaritasdc.com/preventive-care/member/ dental/index.aspx to learn more.

DON'T LOSE YOUR MEDICAID BENEFITS CONFIRM YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION

Confirm or update your contact and household information Renew before your health benefits expire.

HEALTH

Rising State of Loneliness Causing Public Health Concern

How Prolonged Isolation Hampers Our Physical Health

By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Health Reporter

The unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic created a completely new normal for life as we know it, exacerbating a host of mental health, behavioral and financial hardships that have changed our sense of normality from day-today. But one of the most silent side-effects from an extended period of quarantining ourselves to abide by public health guidelines is the rapid uptick in loneliness experienced by Americans still struggling to rebuild a sense of social

connectivity in their lives.

Recently, Surgeon General Vivek H. Murthy detailed concern behind a rare advisory to address loneliness and social disconnect within the United States, suggesting the need for a framework to rebuild social connection and community in what is now becoming a “lonely nation.”

“Loneliness and isolation hurt whole communities. Social disconnection is associated with reduced productivity in the workplace, worse performance in school, and diminished civic engagement,” Murthy wrote in an

opinion essay for the New York Times. “As it has built for decades, the epidemic of loneliness and isolation has fueled other problems that are killing us and threaten to rip our country apart.”

According to the Office of the U.S. Surgeon General, social disconnection significantly increases the risk of anxiety and depression, including the increased risk of heart disease by 29%, stroke by 32%, and even dementia by an astounding 50% increase.

Locally, District physicians have also witnessed the growing trend gradually harming the physical and mental health of many Washingtonians. Dr. Reginald Robinson, a cardiologist with MedStar Health Cardiology Associates, and Board President of the Eastern States of the American Heart Association, discussed the insidious domino effect that prolonged feelings of loneliness can cause on the body and mind.

“Stress and anxiety certainly can affect your sleep/wake cycle, [and] can affect your heart rate. People come in with triggers like palpitations or skipped [heart] beats, and stress and anxiety can cause that. So, you have a lot more people that were coming in for palpitations or chest pain, whether it was [the] heart versus acid reflux, it can increase your risk of acid build up

among organized groups where people can not only maintain a level of exercise to encourage better health, but immerse themselves into social groups of people who are enjoying the same activities and building some sense of community within these spaces.

“I used to do Muay Thai, which is Taiwanese kickboxing, martial arts, and Brazilian jiu jitsu, and those are things you do with other people. You don’t have to get in there and compete, but they have a lot of young women and men in these classes. You have people that do kickboxing classes, or boxing classes [as well]. That’s a great way of not only getting physically fit but also learning a defense mechanism,” said Robinson. “I noticed that they opened up a new pickleball court with roller skating in downtown D.C. So getting into something like that.

While Robinson said pickleball is generally associated with seniors, he believes “they are trying to make it en vogue for younger people as well.”

in the stomach and cause “heartburn” [which] feels like you are having a heart attack. So it can precipitate those things; palpitations, blood pressure, and chest pain,” Robinson explained.

When observing the consequences of grief, this type of stress can produce what is called takotsubo’s cardiomyopathy or “broken-heart syndrome.”

Some women, particularly those in their 30s or 40s, after undergoing a stressful event, can experience a full heart attack but with the arteries physically appearing clean, differing from the usual state of one’s blocked arteries amid the typical heart attack. Theories behind this suggest the fight or flight response, or the adrenaline surge that causes the arteries to spasm and create a heart attack without traditionally showing rupturing of the arteries.

Patients who have suffered takotsubo’s cardiomyopathy tend to have a better recovery, but the stress that causes the “broken heart syndrome” still remains a very serious ordeal.

HOW TO COMBAT THE DAUNTING FEELING OF LONELINESS:

Dr. Robinson highly encourages physical activity, particularly

“They have tournaments all over the place,” Robsinson added.

The Office of the U.S. Surgeon General suggest, “The Six Pillars to Advance Social Connection” with the following directives to:

Strengthen Social Infrastructure in Local Communities, which would establish “community connection programs,” along with investing in local institutions that can help to bring people together.

Enact Pro-Connection Public Policies, which will establish cross-departmental leadership across all levels of government, while adopting a “Connection-in-All-Policies” approach.

Mobilize the Health Sector, which will train health care providers and expand public health surveillance and interventions.

Reform Digital Environments to establish and implement safety standards.

Deepen Our Knowledge by accelerating research funding and increasing public awareness.

Build a Culture of Connection by cultivating values of kindness, respect, service and commitment to one another, in conjunction with expanding the conversation on social connection across workplaces, schools and communities.

WI @LV_Writes_

5 Dr. Reginald Robinson, a cardiologist with MedStar Health Cardiology Associates, and Board President of the Eastern States of the American Heart Association, discussed the insidious domino effect that prolonged feelings of loneliness can cause on the body and mind. (Courtesy Photo)

Three Highlights from ACM’s New “To Live and Breathe” Exhibit

By Kayla Benjamin WI Climate & Environment Reporter

It might seem counterintuitive to learn about toxic pollution and racism in a room decked out in bright colors and stuffed with family-friendly interactive activities. But the Anacostia Community Museum’s new exhibit about women of color in D.C.’s environmental justice movement strikes a crucial balance, approaching its subject matter with both deep seriousness and true optimism.

“I didn't want people to leave this exhibit feeling simply depressed,” Rachel Seidman, the exhibit’s curator, said. “It's focused on the activism and on the people who are trying to make a difference.”

The exhibit, titled “To Live and Breathe: Women and Environmental Justice in Washington, D.C.,” opened May 19 and will remain on view through Jan. 7.

It centers the stories and voices of DMV-based women of color who fought for equitable access to clean air, soil and water, historically and in the present.

The Informer toured the museum with Seidman to get the scoop on a few can’t-miss items, ideas and stories waiting for visitors. Check out three of the highlights.

STITCHING TOGETHER A MOVEMENT: ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE QUILTS

One of the first items visitors encounter upon entering the exhibit is a small quilt covered in handwritten Sharpie. More than 70 squares hold a name of someone who died due to environmental hazards in their Louisiana communities. Advocates unveiled it in 2002 at the second People of Color Environmental Leadership Summit in D.C.

“This quilt became, to me, a

metaphor for the movement: all this individual pain coming together and being recognized as bigger than just one family or one person's problem,” Seidman said.

The exhibit currently includes two different activist quilts, with a third slated to arrive soon. Visitors can also make their own quilt square at a station filled with felt sheets, scissors, stickers and markers. A nearby wall of velcro strips displays the creations.

HISTORY AND VICTORY IN IVY CITY: THE STORY OF THE CRUMMELL SCHOOL

The main room of “To Live and Breathe” is organized around one of the environmental justice movement’s central tenets: that “the environment” encompasses not just idyllic natural landscapes but also everywhere that people spend their time. Inspired by a 1991 quote from activist Dana Alston, the exhibit is organized into four sections: where we live, where we work, where we play and where we pray.

The green “where we play” area features the story of Ivy City’s Crummell School, where activists recently won a decades-long fight to create a community center in a neighborhood with almost no access to recreation spaces. The former Black schoolhouse, long used as a venue for community gatherings and celebrations, became

abandoned in 1977 following desegregation. The city later fenced off the neglected building.

Empower DC activists like Parisa Norouzi and Sebrena Rhodes, alongside other Ivy City neighbors and advocates, spent years documenting the school’s legacy and protesting the District’s attempts to sell the site for development.

“As a historian, I really want people to understand how these issues have deep, deep roots in our city and in our country,” Seidman said. “If you don’t understand the role that the school used to play in the community, you don’t understand what a detriment that is to people's sense of pride, to their sense of being respected in a city.”

In a major win for the neighborhood advocates, the Bowser administration agreed in 2021 to allocate $20 million toward transforming the site into a recreation center.

OPPORTUNITIES TO ENGAGE: HANDS-ON INTERACTIVE ACTIVITIES

There’s plenty to look at in the exhibit: quotes from influential women in D.C.’s environmental justice movement line the walls, along with photos of their speakers. Videos and a collection of physical objects donated by the activists help tell the stories, too.

But the exhibit also hosts a lot

of things to do as well. In addition to creating a felt quilt square, arts and crafts fans can make their own buttons at a station toward the end of the exhibit. At another spot, visitors can take a Buzzfeed-like quiz to find out their “activist animal,” and snag a sticker to match.

Other stops along the way are designed to spark conversation. One asks visitors to choose the most important items a park should have. Another—created to look like a dining room table, complete with a fridge to hang notes on—offers prompts for discussion about environmental justice solutions in D.C.

“This is the action, not just the awareness,” said Andrea Jones, the museum’s associate director of education, to a team of museum staff members sitting around the interactive table. The team, called the Activators, creates and executes creative education and community outreach initiatives year-round.

In the corner representing “where we pray,” a calming space painted in deep purples, sits a wall waiting to fill up with names.

“No exhibit is ever complete— you can't possibly tell all the stories,” Seidman said. “So help us complete it. If there's someone that you think should be honored for their environmental justice work or whose life was cut short from environmental toxins, you can write their name and why you think they should be honored and add them to the wall.” WI

5 Members of the museum’s education staff gather around a corner of the exhibit that features Ivy City activists’ fight to revitalize the neglected Crummell School. (Robert R. Roberts / The Washington Informer)

Coming Soon to a Neighborhood Near You: Air Quality Monitoring Cars

By Kayla Benjamin WI Climate & Environment Reporter

Anowar Hossain’s job looks a lot like an Uber driver’s: he gets behind the wheel and spends up to eight hours following a map on the iPad mounted near the dashboard. But instead of picking up passengers, Hossain’s car picks up air quality data.

As a driver for the air quality measuring and mapping company Aclima, Hossain’s usual routes wind their way through his own community in Queens, New York. But Thursday he drove the air sensor-equipped car through D.C. neighborhoods to join Aclima executives and government officials for the launch of the District’s hyperlocal air quality monitoring pilot program.

“This project is going to give us block by block information on air pollution in our pilot communities,” Hannah Ashenafi, the associate director of the Air Quality Division at D.C.’s Department of Energy and Environment, said at a press conference about the launch. “This is a first important step in determining the best ways to improve air quality and health.”

The two-week pilot program will begin June 12 in Ivy City/ Brentwood, Buzzard Point and Mayfair. All three predominantly Black neighborhoods have long histories of industrial or development-related air pollution.

“The ability to use air monitors in neighborhoods to try to see what the status of the air quality is in those places—we know that's going to be a really important tool for understanding the impacts,” said Brenda Mallory, chairwoman of the White House Council on Environmental Quality, in an interview following the event. “And we know that for our goals under environmental justice, that information is vital.”

The pilot program will collect information using fewer than six of Aclima’s electric, sensor-equipped cars. The vehicles operate 24/7, the company’s CEO, Davida Herzl, said.

If the pilot goes well, DOEE plans to expand the program to more District neighborhoods facing environmental justice issues, said the agency’s branch chief of air quality planning, Joseph Jakuta.

While the two-week pilot program will use drivers like Hossain, who are already employed by Aclima, the company typically hires its drivers from the communities being mapped. Jakuta said that if the program turns into a longer-term effort, Aclima would hire D.C. residents as its professional drivers.

The pilot program cost DOEE $150,000 dollars, Jakuta said. He also said the agency has money set aside in fiscal year (FY) 2024 to expand the program to more environmental justice communities, but that it was “definitely not enough” to fully map the entire city’s air.

“I view this as like [an] initial checkup when you go to the doctor, and what we then need to do is see what spots need additional

scrutiny,” Jakuta said. “We're testing out low-cost stationary sensors, and we're planning on doing this in tandem, having the cars give us an idea of where they may be appropriate to go.”

Aclima’s cars constantly pick up information about a wide range of possible air pollutants and send it to the company’s digital platform in real time. Last year, Time magazine named Aclima’s air quality data analysis and mapping platform one of its “Best Inventions.” The company has implemented large-scale air quality mapping projects in California’s Bay Area and across the whole state of New York.

“We believe that clean air is a fundamental human right. But the unfortunate reality is that we don't all breathe the same air,” Herzl said in remarks at the press event. “Our science and published work… has proven that air quality can vary by almost 800% from one block to the next.”

Advocacy efforts to reduce air

pollution in Ivy City, Brentwood and Buzzard Point have all made headlines in recent years. Sebrena Rhodes, a longtime Ward 5 activist, starred as the subject of the short film “People Rising: Ivy City” as a leader in the fight to close a long-running chemical facility in the neighborhood. The D.C. Environmental Film Festival screened the film earlier this year.

“Even though Ivy City is not a crime-ridden community, [we] still don’t feel safe because we’re being poisoned,” Rhodes said in a conversation with media, Aclima employees and District officials during a ride-along after the press event.

“I’m not giving up until this changes,” she said. WI

5 Ivy City environmental justice activist Sebrena Rhodes climbs into a car equipped with specialty air quality sensors for a ride-along through her neighborhood following the official launch of the District’s hyperlocal air quality monitoring pilot program. (Kayla Benjamin / Washington Informer)

Student Advocates for Career, Technical Education in District Recs

100 Young People to Visit Capitol Hill during Mikva Challenge's Youth Summit

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

Within a matter of weeks, Jermaine Smith will graduate from Phelps Agriculture, Construction and `Engineering High School, the District public school where he discovered a love for information technology (IT) that will take him to the University of the District of Columbia.

Over the last four years, Smith’s interest in the IT field has kept him focused on his studies, even as gun violence claimed his uncle’s life and that of several friends. Amid discussions about public safety, Smith said he wants more young people to pursue a trade, like he’s been able to do.

“The money sounded interesting but then I started studying IT and I found joy in learning how to set up a network. It felt more like a passion than a job. It gives me a future that I want for myself and my family,” said Smith, 18.

“Kids don’t think there’s any choice.

That’s why they choose the streets. Gun violence is a prominent issue in my community. It happens so much, you become numb to it. I keep on pushing and [study IT] for the loved ones I lost.”

Throughout much of this week, Smith represented D.C. on the national stage as he advocated for the integration of career and technical education in the District's recreation centers.

On Sunday, he revealed his policy suggestion before an audience of his peers at Soapbox Nation, an event at Ford Theatre that kicked off the Mikva Challenge’s first-ever national youth summit. Over the next couple of days, Smith counted among 100 young people from across the nation who spoke to elected officials and congressional staffers on Capitol HIll about education, gun violence, climate change, mental health, and human rights.

Smith, a Northeast resident, engaged D.C. Delegate Eleanor Holmes

Norton (D) in conversation on Monday about career and technical education in District recreation centers. He later tagged along with other young people who engaged a bevy of elected officials and their congressional representatives and their staffers.

In speaking about his encounter with Holmes Norton, Smith expressed disappointment in what he described as her lack of enthusiasm about his idea.

"When it came down to it, it felt like I wasn't really heard," said Smith who later spoke to his mother about the meeting. "I took that on the chin. Maybe everyone won't hear your story and help you make change. I learned to never give up."

The Informer unsuccessfully attempted to gather comment from Holmes Norton’s office.

Since 1998, Mikva Challenge has executed an education model centered on educating young people about government’s impact on their lives and emboldening them to research and speak confidently about issues affecting them. It’s named after Abner Mikva, a political figure who served in all three branches of the U.S. government.

Mikva Challenge focuses on under-resourced and marginalized neighborhoods where people might feel left out of the political process. It started in Chicago with volunteer staff at four schools. These days, the Mikva Challenge has a presence in 17 states with nearly 2,700 teachers and more than 300,000 young people under its purview.

A key element of the Mikva Challenge is a curriculum titled “Issues to Action” that helps young people identify issues relevant to their lives and develop the courage and background knowledge needed to speak to elected officials about it.

Verneé Green, Mikva Challenge’s CEO, said that “Issues to Action” allows young people from various backgrounds to see the commonalities in their experiences while becoming more civically engaged.

“We’re creating environments for young people where they feel like the government has been a part of their lives,” said Green, a former teacher who’s served as Mikva Challenge’s CEO for two years. “This was their opportunity to learn the importance of advocacy. They were able to walk right into congressional offices. It surprised them how easy it was to access the building.”

WI @SamPKCollins

5 Jermaine Smith, a senior at Phelps ACE High School pictured at Gallaudet University in Northeast, counted among 100 young people from across the nation who spoke to elected officials and congressional staffers on Capitol HIll during the Mikva Challenge’s National Youth Summit. (Ja’Mon Jackson/ The Washington Informer)

Bowie State Holds Spring 2023 Graduation

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

On the beautiful, sunny morning of Friday, May 26, Bowie State University held their spring commencement

Following a wonderful rendition of the national anthem, Bowie State University President Aminta H. Breaux, the first woman to serve in that role, and academic leadership took the stage.

Under Breaux’s tenure, Bowie State’s reputation has grown considerably and new improvements such as the Bowie Business Innovation Center and the All-Steinway Fine and Performing Arts Center have been added to the campus.

Kenneth C. Frazier, the former Chairman and CEO of Merck, served as the commencement speaker, and was awarded an honorary doctorate. Frazier’s speech was aimed at ensuring that graduates recognize their potential, regardless of their starting circumstances.

Other speakers also worked to exhort the crowd, full of support-

ive family, friends and alumni.

“We are the new leaders when it comes to so many areas,” said Michael L. McGee, the outgoing president of the Graduate Student Association during his time on the stage. “We have been trained to be bold. To be the leaders that they know we are. This is just a stepping stone to our greatness. What are we prepared to do with it? We are not done yet!”

"Founded in 1865, not only is Bowie State University the oldest Historically Black College in the State of Maryland with the most beautiful campus,” said David Grogan, historian for the BSU Alumni Association’s executive board. “BSU is also located less than 20 miles from the White House, many of the 438 federal government agencies, NASA, and the State Capitol in Annapolis. This gives students the opportunity to participate in exclusive internship and cooperative education programs to help prepare them for great careers and/or entrepreneurship interests, an opportunity I used as an undergrad."

Several doctorates were awarded

to graduating students, including seven to longtime Prince George’s residents.

Thirty-six undergraduate students graduated with grade point averages (GPAs) above 3.84, 56 graduated with GPAs between 3.65-3.84 and 48 students graduated with GPAs between 3.53.64. The majors with the most graduates were Psychology, Business Administration, Elementary Education, Biology and Criminal jJustice. One student’s diploma was unfortunately stolen shortly after graduation, although he will still receive an official diploma in the mail.

Bowie State is the oldest HBCU in Maryland and one of the oldest in the nation, as it was originally founded as the Baltimore Normal School for Colored Teachers in 1865, before being relocated to Bowie’s 187 acre Jericho Farm in 1810. Officially becoming Bowie State College in 1963, the university now ranks as one of the nation’s top 20 HBCUs, with strong ratings in their cybersecurity and education programs.

5 Bowie State University graduates at Bulldog Stadium on May 26. (Anthony Tilghman/ The Washington Informer)

Ryan Jamaal Swain of FX’s smash hit Pose

Justin Weaks Michael Kevin Darnall

5 Some graduates adorned their caps with decorations for their commencement exercises on Bowie State University May 26. (Anthony Tilghman/ The Washington Informer)

Why Black Music Month is Worth Major Celebration

Happy National Black Music Appreciation Month! It’s no secret that African American music exhibits the immense talent, creativity and trend-setting nature of Black people and culture; but, across genres, it’s also a symbol of power and perseverance.

Let’s really get right to the point– it takes enormous will and audacity, for a people whose cultures and traditions were robbed, to maintain the legacy of the original sounds, and, in turn, reimagine, innovate and elevate entirely new musical genres. That’s pure genius.

From the sacred music of “spirituals,’ and gospel— the former of which is often credited with beginning in slave fields— to jazz, blues, soul, rhythm and blues, rock ‘n’ roll, funk, pop, hip hop, rap and trap, Black musicians have created these genres as a means of resistance, often to racist and unjust societal structures.

“For generations, Black music has conveyed the hopes and struggles of a resilient people — spirituals mourning the original sin of slavery and later heralding freedom from bondage, hard truths told through jazz and the sounds of Motown during the Civil Rights movement, and hip-hop and rhythm and blues that remind us of the work that still lies ahead,” said President Joe Biden in his 2022 proclamation for National Black Music Appreciation Month. “ The music created by Black artists continues to influence musicians of all persuasions, entertain people of all backgrounds, and shape the story of our Nation.”

As injustices and inequities continue to face the Black community, it’s also important to note the artists remain in the fight for justice by raising awareness through their music, and inspiring conversations and action.

“We celebrate Black artists who have used their songs to stand up to injustice, fight for equality, and reflect a mirror on society — reminding us all of our enduring obligation to deliver the promise of America for all Americans,” Biden declared as last year’s celebration neared.

So this music month, turn up your radios and blast your favorite jams by your favorite Black artists, while checking out new musicians and old musical gems.

This June, unapologetically appreciate African American music– sing it to the mountaintops . Then continue to celebrate and spread the joy, sound and variety that Black music brings, not only in June, but year round. WI

Tina Turner: A Symbol of Resilience

On May 24, one of the greatest female singers the U.S. ever produced passed away. Anne Mae Bullock, popularly known as Tina Turner, emerged throughout her 83 years of life as the “Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll.”

She was the real force behind the musical husband-wife duo Ike and Tina Turner in the 1960s and 70s. After she departed from the marriage and musical group in 1976, her ex husband fell into obscurity while she soared.

In the 1980s, Turner launched a revival that has been described by music industry experts as “one of the comebacks in history.” Her 1984 multi-platinum album “Private Dancer” contained the hit song “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” which went on to become the Grammy Award for Record of the Year and became her first and only number one song on the Billboard Hot 100. At aged 44, she was the oldest female solo artist to top the Hot 100.

In sum, Turner sold over 100 million records globally and received 12 Grammys, three Grammy Hall of Fame Awards and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. She was the first Black artist and first woman to be on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine. During her Break Every Rule World Tour in 1988, Turner set a then-Guinness World Record for the largest paying audience (180,000) for a solo performer.

Turner’s road to phenomenal success was not easy. Her saga of a rough early life, particularly with Ike Turner, including verbal, physical and emotional abuse ,has been written about extensively. Given the level of abuse she endured for years, many have marveled at her resilience for getting back to work and making money and history.

The star’s story should be an inspiration for anyone who encounters a setback. One should not let hurdles deter them from reaching their goals. WI

EDITORIAL TO THE EDITOR

Congratulations to the Rolark/ Barnes family for the naming of Calvin and Wilhelmina Rolark Way in Ward 8. It’s a long overdue honor for the family’s contribution to Washington, D.C., and its citizens. What a legacy to have and to cherish!

Irene Howie Washington, DC

Turner’s road to phenomenal success was not easy. Her saga of a rough early life, particularly with Ike Turner, including verbal, physical and emotional abuse ,has been written about extensively.

I really enjoyed the latest issue of the Washington Informer. From the feature on Black Americans’ role in Memorial Day to the WI Bridge, I enjoyed it immensely and received some great information.

Todd Philbin Largo, Md.

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

What is Tim Scott Running For?

from my vantage point he has about as much chance becoming president as I do. So why is he really in this race?

Julianne Malveaux

South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott has joined the throng of Republicans seeking to unseat the former president as the front-runner of that party.. So far, he is polling in the single digits, but he has $22 million left from his last senatorial race that he can use for his presidential race. Other than the historically myopic Florida governor, Scott has scant competition to date, and

The siren call of the presidency beckons many who are long on ambition and short on possibility. But sometimes long shots can make a difference and a statement. Think Rev. Jesse Louis Jackson, whose historic 1984 and 1988 campaigns opened doors for hundreds of African American and progressive politicians, and whose footprints are so deep that they are still impactful. Or think Arizona

Guest Columnist

Amanda Gorman, the eloquent 25-year-old Harvard graduate who was our nation's first-ever National Youth Poet Laureate, recently became one of the latest authors to have her work banned after a Florida parent petitioned to have "The Hill We Climb," the book version of the poem Gorman read at President Biden's inauguration, removed

from the elementary school section of a Miami-Dade County public school library. The parent, who incorrectly attributed the book to Oprah Winfrey, said in her complaint the poem "is not educational and have indirectly [sic] hate messages." The parent also wrote she believed its function was to "cause confusion and indoctrinate students."

In response, Gorman posted a statement saying she was "gutted" by the book's removal: "Book bans aren't new. But

Guest Columnist

Sen. John McCain, whose populist Straight Talk Express was a feature of his failed 2008 presidential bid. There was Shirley Chisholm, whose presidential bid was a landmark for Black folks and for women, and Colorado's Pat Schroeder, who considered a presidential run. All these folks, and most of the others, ran to make a point and make a difference.

What is Tim Scott's point? In his opening rally on May 22, mostly more diversely attended than usual Republican rallies, he spoke repeatedly of his faith. Punctuating his talk with fre-

quent cries of "Amen," faith was part of his theme. His talk was also replete with American exceptionalism, describing this nation as "the greatest nation on God's green earth. Those who have experienced American oppression might argue the "great nation" point, but those who oppose truth-teaching claim that children are being taught to "hate" our country, when all Black Studies and Ethnic Studies want to teach is the truth.

What I find fascinating about Tim Scott's cherry=picking the Bible, with his constant scripture quoting, is that

Marian Wright Edelman

they have been on the rise — according to the [American Library Association], 40% more books were challenged in 2022 compared to 2021. What's more, often all it takes to remove these works from our libraries and schools is a single objection. And let's be clear: most of the forbidden works are by authors who have struggled for generations to get on bookshelves. The majority of these censored works are by queer and non-white voices." She continued: "I wrote 'The

Ben Jealous

Hill We Climb' so that all young people could see themselves in a historical moment. Ever since, I've received countless letters and videos from children inspired by 'The Hill We Climb' to write their own poems. Robbing children of the chance to find their voices in literature is a violation of their right to free thought and free speech."

Gorman noted that her own publisher, Penguin Random House, has already joined PEN America and others in a lawsuit

he cannot seem to find his way to the scriptures that address the way our Bible treats the poor. In Luke 6:20-21, the Bible reads, "Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied. Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh." Or, in Matthew 25:35-40, where the Lord says, "I was hungry and you gave me something to eat … whatever you did for one of the least of these you do for me" Scott criticized people dropping

MALVEAUX Page 53

in Escambia County, Florida, challenging book restrictions like these, and urged her readers to visit PEN America to learn more and support their challenge. Florida has made many recent headlines for these kinds of bans, and the current climate of hostility towards diversity and inclusion under Governor and presidential candidate Ron DeSantis has just led the NAACP to warn against travel to the state. But none of

Under Controlled Coal-Fired Power Plants Still Threaten Americans' Health

Tatum is an East Texas town of about 1,300 people, closer to Shreveport than Dallas. It's on the north shore of Martin Lake. Across the water sits a coal-fired power plant named after the lake that happens to be the single largest sulfur dioxide polluter in the United States.

Paulette Goree, who has lived

in the area her entire life, gets a daily reminder of the Martin Lake Power Plant. "I use a personal air monitor every day to figure out if I should spend much time outdoors."

She thinks the air pollution contributed to the deaths of family members and the respiratory problems she and her husband have. A Sierra Club report estimated that, in the two counties surrounding Tatum, coal plant pollution contributes to two premature deaths every year. That's

a fraction of the 154 people who die annually in part due to what's spewed out of Martin Lake's smokestacks, according to Clean Air Task Force.

It's why Paulette and other volunteers across the United States are fighting for the federal government to enforce clean air standards already on the books and to strengthen those requirements to reflect what technology can do now to make the air breathable again.

"It just isn't right, and the EPA

needs to do better," she said. "It's too late for me and my generation, but we need to improve the air for our younger generations."

It's a fight I've been part of for more than a decade, one that led me to launch the Climate Justice Program at the NAACP. It's still true that these coal powered killers and other industrial polluters more often than not sit in communities of color and where residents have the least economic power. Thankfully, we've been able to get hundreds of those

power plants retired.

The unmistakable injustice is that nearly two thirds of the remaining coal-fired power plants in this country could and would have to address their deadly pollution if we were enforcing and strengthening the Clean Air Act, as the Sierra Club's report showed.

Effective pollution control technology exists. But instead of taking on the expense of con-

'I See Myself and the Books Give Me Hope'

Guest Columnist

Targeted Treatment

What is Targeted Therapy?

Targeted therapy is a type of cancer treatment. It uses drugs to target specific genes and proteins that help cancer cells survive and grow. Targeted therapy can affect the tissue environment that cancer cells grow in or it can target cells related to cancer growth, like blood vessel cells. How does targeted therapy work to treat cancer?

To develop targeted therapies, researchers work to identify the specific genetic changes that help a tumor grow and change. This is called the drug's "target." An ideal target for this kind of therapy would be a protein that is present in cancer cells but not in healthy cells. Once researchers have identified a target, they develop a drug treatment that attacks it.

Like other treatments, targeted therapies can cause side effects, so it is important that your doctor matches your tumor to the best possible treatment and dose.

Guest Columnist

A Climate In Crisis

"There's one issue that will define the contours of this century more dramatically than any other, and that is the urgent threat of a changing climate." — Barack Obama, 44th president of the United States

When Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans in 2005, the city's Black neighborhoods bore the

brunt of the storm. Twelve years later, the Black districts of Houston were devastated by the full force of Hurricane Harvey. In both cases, these natural disasters exacerbated issues in neighborhoods that were already struggling. For years, communities of color have had to struggle through the everlasting effects of structural racism, the legacy of enslavement and socioeconomic factors like redlining, segregation, and poverty, without considering that climate change is likely to exacerbate

Guest Columnist

E. Faye Williams

As I evaluate the diseases of Trumpism and its malignant mutation DeSantism, I look for the answer to an ultimate cure. Sadly, like their progenitors, racism, insecurity, fear and jealousy, there have been inroads to their elimination, but no final and ultimate cure. Taking a page from medical science, it may be a great time to employ a targeted treatment.

Last week, the NAACP issued a formal travel advisory for Florida in response to DeSantis' aggressive attempts to erase Black history and restrict Diversity, Equity,

Marc H. Morial

these existing racial disparities. The most severe harms from climate change fall disproportionately upon underserved communities who are least able to prepare for, and recover from, heat waves, poor air quality, flooding, and other impacts. As a result, they are at higher risk of climate-related health issues including respiratory and cardiovascular disease, heat stroke and cancer.

Climate change and racism are arguably two of the biggest challenges of the 21st century, which

Time for Biden to Invoke the 14th Amendment

The stakes are unfathomable — and so it is worth being clear about what is happening.

and Inclusion programs in Florida schools.

The NAACP (of which I am a Life Member) asserts: We won't stand for this kind of hate-inspired leadership.

They continue: This is a state that so clearly devalues and marginalizes the contributions of, and the challenges faced, by Black Americans and other marginalized groups.

Gov. DeSantis' decisions to ban an AP course on African American Studies and to sign a bill defunding DEI programs were deliberate attempts at erasing Black history,

culture, and identity from Florida's education system … policies like these that perpetuate the systemic disregard of the contributions made by Black Americans and other people of color in the United States.

I applaud the NAACP's travel advisory. Rather than the wellused boycott of an entire entity, the advisory provides the opportunity for a targeted treatment of those entities founded upon principles and philosophies rooted in hatred, while protecting the interWILLIAMS

So it has come to this. House Republicans are about to force the U.S. government to default on paying its debts — obligations that the Congress voted to make. They bluster that they will blow up the economy, tank the dollar, and destroy America's good faith and credit unless they get their way — even as they are bitterly divided about what "their way" means.

According to the Treasury secretary, June 1 is the likely date when the U.S. will hit the so-called "debt ceiling" unless Congress acts. The debt ceiling is a silly gimmick that limits what the U.S. can borrow, even to pay the obligations that the Congress has already committed. Under Donald Trump — who ran up a staggering percentage of the U.S. national debt because of his tax cuts and military and pandemic spending — Democrats agreed

to raise the debt ceiling repeatedly without any conditions. What they should have done was repeal the debt ceiling completely.

Now House Republicans want to use it as a weapon of mass destruction to get their way. Since they know that Americans can be scared about debt and deficits, they claim to be concerned about rising deficits, although deficits have been coming down since Trump left office and the pandemic relief measures expired.

In reality, they are more passionate about tax cuts for the wealthy and cor-

proves that this problem is systemic. When racism is systemic, it can operate without obvious intent. So, how does one address systemic problems?

With systemic and equitable solutions.

In April, the National Urban League released its 47th State of Black America report, "Democracy in Peril: Confronting the Threat Within," where ACORE, our nation's foremost experts on environmental justice, energy policy, renewable energy, and civil rights,

examine the past and present impacts of fossil fuel and other pollution on Black, Brown, and underserved communities, and illustrate a realistic path forward toward realizing a truly just and equitable clean energy future.

This future is defined by American-made renewable energy.

With the billions of dollars American companies plan to invest in new wind, solar and battery storage projects, this will great-

MORIAL Page 54

porations than they are about reducing deficits. They refuse to consider any package that asks the rich and corporations to pay their part.

They are also more passionate about military spending than they are about curbing "out of control" spending. So they focus on cutting programs for the most vulnerable, even though it is the military budget that has been rising the fastest, and is the biggest source of waste, fraud and abuse in the government.

In the end, their extortion isn't about debt or deficits but about pri-

orities. They favor tax breaks for the rich and corporations and cuts and punitive measures on any program that provides aid to the vulnerable — Medicaid, student aid, income support, aid for women with dependent children, housing, schools. They demand a complete roll back of Biden's efforts to address climate change. They would revive billions in tax breaks for oil companies and repeal incentives for renewable energy or elective vehicles. They demand

JACKSON Page 54

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Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr.

LIFESTYLE

OF THE SOWER

Hip Hop’s 50th Anniversary Tops Black Music Month Agenda

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

Black Music Appreciation Month kicks off on June 1, and with major concerts filling arenas and stadiums globally, much attention continues to focus on the 50th anniversary of hip hop.

“We changed the world of music as we know it,” said Theodore Livingston, the groundbreaking DJ known as Grand Wizzard Theodore.

“Time has gone by really quickly, but I’m so happy to be a part of something bigger than I am,” Livingston added.“When I think about the 50th anniversary of hiphop, I think about the DJs, MCs, bee-boppers, and others who are not here anymore. But, instead, those are the ones we should be honoring because this is a culture that changed the world.”

During a visit to the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) midwinter conference in San Juan, Puerto Rico, in February, Universal Hip Hop Museum Executive Director Rocky Bucano said the city of New York and Mayor Eric Adams have teamed with the museum for a year-long celebration that includes activities throughout the five boroughs and a global hip hop concert.

“The 50th Anniversary of HipHop is a global movement that speaks to the grit, voice, and power of how it came to be in the first place — we used our voices when they tried to silence us,” said hiphop legend KRS-One, who in April announced a unique way of celebrating the milestone anniversary by taking residency at 1520 Sedgwick Avenue in the Bronx – the birthplace of hip hop.

The icon, whose real name is Kris Parker, launched a series of community-based programs and a hip-hop masterclass.

“We created the culture because we wanted to stand out and stand up for our artistry. Hip-hop is the people’s movement,” Parker asserted.

“I am excited to showcase this to the world in the space where it all began at 1520 Sedgwick in the Community Center. It feels right to be here, where it all began.”

Also, Amazon Music announced it would honor the genre’s influence on music, culture, and society with “50 & Forever,” which the company said would celebrate hip-hop’s legacy and highlight the artists of the future.

Rotation’s “50 & Forever” intends to recognize the significance of hip-hop through curated events, live streams, playlists, original content, and brand-new music distributed on platforms like Amazon Music, Twitch, Audible, Amp, and Prime Video.

“This year, hip-hop fans around the world will come together to mark one of the culture’s most important milestones: the 50th anniversary of hip-hop,” Tim Hinshaw, head of hip-hop and R&B for Amazon Music, told Essence.

“More than music, hip-hop has broken barriers and redefined culture across fashion, sports, film, and social movements. From art to activism, hip-hop hasn’t just changed history but is history, and ’50 & Forever’ pays tribute to the indelible mark that hip-hop has made on the culture,” Hinshaw stated.

With an earlier celebration at the 2023 Grammy Awards, this year’s BET Awards also honored hip-hop with special performances and appearances.

Rock The Bells, the global platform dedicated to elevating hip-hop culture from its roots to the modern

day, founded by legendary artist LL Cool J, announced the Rock The Bells Festival, a concert honoring hip-hop.

Co-presented by Procter & Gamble and Walmart, this year’s show at Forest Hills Stadium in New York will take place on Aug. 5.

According to a news release, the lineup includes Queen Latifah, Ludacris, De La Soul, Method Man & Redman, Swizz Beatz with special guests, Salt-n-Pepa, Big Daddy Kane, The God MC Rakim, Slick Rick, Fabolous, Boot Camp Clik featuring Buckshot and Evil Dee, Smif-N-Wessun, OGC, Rock & Bernadette Price with a Tribute to Sean Price, MC Lyte, Yo-Yo, MC Sha Rock, Roxanne Shanté, Monie Love, The Cold Crush Brothers, and more.

“We’ve made it a priority to honor hip-hop culture. This is a celebration for the artists who paved the way and the legions of fans worldwide throughout hip-hop’s 50th anniversary year,” said James Cuthbert, president of Rock The Bells.

“The stage is set for the overdue acknowledgment and celebration of our culture and the fans who live and breathe it! This lineup represents icons and artists from various decades, cities, and styles, ensuring fans have the best hip-hop experience possible.”

WI @StacyBrownMedia

5 Amazon Music announced it would honor the genre’s influence on music, culture, and society with “50 & Forever,” which the company said would celebrate hip-hop’s legacy and highlight the artists of the future. (Courtesy Photo/ Wikimedia Commons)

Artwork by Justine Swindell

MUSIC AND LYRICS BY TOSHI REAGON AND BERNICE JOHNSON REAGON CO-DIRECTED BY SIGNE V. HARRIDAY & ERIC TING

Experience Music Under the Stars at Wolf Trap

This summer, Wolf Trap—the DC area’s favorite outdoor concert venue and America’s only National Park for the Performing Arts—presents a slate of dynamic, can’t miss concerts! John Legend, Diana Ross, Sting, Diana Krall, and many more will take the stage at the Filene Center, the Park’s 7,000seat outdoor amphitheater.

Since the first performance in 1971, world renowned artists from every genre have graced Wolf Trap’s stages. This summer proves to be no exception as the venue prepares to host everyone from blues legend Buddy Guy, reggae royalty Ziggy Marley, R&B crooners Charlie Wilson with Babyface, and accomplished jazzy soul co-headliners Boney James and Lalah Hathaway to children’s artists, classical musicians, and Hip Hop’s biggest names.

On June 9, Hip Hop icon Ms. Lauryn Hill comes to Wolf Trap as part of her anniversary tour. In a rare, live performance she will celebrate 25 years of her groundbreaking album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. Her performance is only a small taste of the Hip Hop shows in store for the genre’s 50-year anniversary.

Masters of the Mic gathers Hip Hop’s most genre-defining artists—Big Daddy Kane, Doug E. Fresh, KRS-One, Rakim, Slick Rick, Roxanne Shante, and DJ Spinderella—on August 17 to celebrate five decades of profound, feel-good music that spans generations. Later on September 9, Wolf Trap teams up with the Kennedy Center to welcome jazz and R&B pianist, Robert Glasper, and his Black Radio project to the Filene Center with some very special guests (to be announced soon!).

The Go-Go Explosion, Wolf Trap’s third annual homage to the soundtrack of DC, brings in local favorites Big Tony and Trouble Funk with opening performances by “Hood Rock” collective Black Alley and the all-female powerhouse group Bela Dona. To see even more of the District’s homegrown talent, be sure to catch the bands Oh He Dead and Bad Moves at Wolf Trap’s Out & About Festival.

Wolf Trap also hosts a variety of performances with the National Symphony Orchestra, including Jurassic Park in Concert This cinematic experience lets the audience watch the award-winning film and its lifesize dinosaurs on the big screen while the soundtrack is played live by the orchestra.

options at Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods. Quite literally located over the Meadow and through the woods is this magical outdoor venue, which hosts 10:30 AM performances Tuesday through Sunday for ages 2 and up from June through August.

This summer, check out Divinity Roxx (Beyoncé’s former bassist and musical director), Culture Queen, What If Puppets, Coyaba Dance Theater (West African dance and music group), and Maryland Youth Ballet with Little Mermaid. The shows are intended to encourage kids to participate, move, and use their imaginations all in a natural learning environment.

Outside food and drinks—including alcohol—are welcome in the amphitheater’s lawn for all Filene Center shows, or can be enjoyed pre-performance at the brand new, accessible Meadow Overlook picnic area. Attendees can treat themselves to locally sourced snacks from Concessions or choose between a pre-ordered picnic or farm-to-table buffet from Ovations by The Fermented Pig.

Located just three miles from the beltway, Wolf Trap is easy to get to with free, but limited, parking. The Wolf Trap Express Shuttle offers roundtrip service from the McLean Metro Station (Silver Line) to all Filene Center summer performances. While the Express Shuttle does not service shows at Children’s Theatre-in-theWoods or The Barns, parking remains free and there are rideshare pick-up/drop-off locations.

Whatever the DMV’s weather may bring, the shows go on rain or shine so be prepared for summer showers with an umbrella or poncho!

Catch your favorite stars at Wolf Trap this summer and view the full calendar at wolftrap.org/calendar

Tickets

5 Wolf Trap—the DC area’s favorite outdoor concert venue provides a great concert experience for all in attendance (courtesy of Wolf Trap)

Fresh, KRS-One, Rakim, Slick Rick, Roxanne Shante, & DJ Spinderella

June

5 Fans can bring their own food and drink to enjoy on Wolf Trap's lawn. (Courtesy of Wolf Trap)

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

Along the way to becoming a barrier-breaking ballet dancer, Misty Copeland spent most of her formative years navigating a white-dominated industry that she said called into question her physical features and aspects of her craft.

Even with those hurdles, Copeland credits her mentors for insulating her from the racial dynamics of ballet and instilling the confidence that laid the foundation for numerous feats, including becoming the American Ballet Theatre (ABT)’s first African-American female principal dancer.

At this juncture in her storied career, Copeland wants to pave a similar path for aspiring Black ballerinas.

She has done so through the Misty Copeland Foundation. For nearly a year, the nonprofit has set out to increase diversity, equity and inclusion in dance via free classes for students living in marginalized communities.

“I have different communities that I’m a part of [and] the dance community is one of those communities. There’s [also] the Black community

and there’s the communities that I grew up in,” Copeland told the Informer.

“There seems to be such a disconnect [with] this European art form palette. What does that mean for us and the Black community? How is that ours?,” she continued. “Ballet is this baseline [and] incredible way of giving children the ability to express themselves to challenge themselves, physically, mentally and emotionally.”

On the evening of May 24, Copeland participated in a conversation at Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Library in Northwest about the importance of mentorship and advocacy in achieving success. For a couple hours, she graced the stage with Melonie D. Parker, vice president and chief diversity officer at Google, and veteran actress Phylicia Rashad who served as a moderator.

Decades before becoming dean of the College of Fine Arts at Howard University, Rashad completed her undergraduate studies at the local HBCU and joined its chapter of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

5 On the evening of May 24, Copeland participated in a conversation at Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Library in Northwest about the importance of mentorship and advocacy in achieving success. She graced the stage with Melonie D. Parker, vice president and chief diversity officer at Google, and veteran actress Phylicia Rashad who served as a moderator. (Ja’Mon Jackson/Washington Informer)

Using Music to Bring Back Happy Memories

By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer

The word is out to find retired musicians over 60 years old to play at an open jam session. The “Music Memory Café,” a project of the Genevieve N. Johnson (GNJ) Senior Daycare Center located on Blagden Avenue in northwest DC, will host the jam session. The primary objective of the music session is to create an environment where older people can rediscover the healing power of music through their own talent for playing an instrument or singing. Two free jam sessions will be held on June 5 and June 12 from 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. at GNJ.

“We want to bring out what our seniors have inside,” said Thelma Burless, executive director of GNJ. “The Café is one of many activities that can enhance the quality of life and function in someone experiencing early to moderate memory loss.”

Master Music Educator Brings Knowledge

D.C. music legend Davey Yarborough is on board as musical director for GNJ’s Music Memory Café. He will encourage the musicians who come to the jam sessions to ensure everyone has a good time getting into the groove.

Yarborough brings his experience as a retired music educator from the Duke Ellington School of the

Arts, where he taught for 40 years. He is also co-founder with his wife, Esther Williams Yarborough, of the Washington Jazz Arts Institute, a youth jazz education performance program that is 25 years old. From his work in music, Yarborough can see a benefit from the Music Memory Café.

“Maybe there is some way in medicine to work the seniors who are early onset to shorten the period where they get total memory loss or delay the full onset of dementia,” said Yarborough.

Working with Burless and Yarborough to plan the jam session are David James Saunders with Zion Community Enterprises and Darryl E. Harris, vice president of Business Development at the Applied Integrated Marketing & Design Group. Together this group will track and evaluate the outcomes for older people who may benefit from the therapeutic value of music through GNJ’s Music Memory Café.

Different Approach to Music Memory

Most music memory cafés are designed to only listen to music. GNJ takes a different approach by setting up a place where musicians can perform with each other.

Burless and Yarborough recently talked about the Music Memory Café on an edition of “Informer

A jam session for retired musicians will be held at the Genevieve N. Johnson Senior Day Care in Northwest, D.C. The planning group includes (L-R) Thelma Burless, executive director of the senior daycare center; David James Saunders with Zion Community Enterprises, Davey Yarborough, president and artistic director for Washington Jazz Arts Institute; and Darryl E. Harris, vice president of Business Development at the Applied Integrated Marketing and Design Group. (Ja'Mon Jackson/ The Washington Informer.)

MUSIC Page 49

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To find your nearest vaccination site, visit vaccines.gov

LIFESTYLE Children of the Gospel Choir Is ‘Woke,’ Justice Fighting Through Arts

Artistic Director Michele Fowlin Talks Process, 30th Anniversary

By Micha Green WI Managing Editor

For the young artists of Washington Performing Arts Children of the Gospel Choir (COTG), which is celebrating its 30th year, being a member of the chorus is about far more than the intense arts training, performing at fancy venues and wowing audiences with their powerful voices. While the cool opportunities are added bonuses, Michele Fowlin, COTG’s artistic director is most interested in forming

young artivists, who learn about issues important in their communities and the world, and use their voices to inspire and speak–or sing– truth to power.

“We love to say all the time, ‘young people are the next generation they're coming up,’ but we do absolutely nothing as adults to help nurture the gift of that within them. So that they can be these dynamic, forward thinking activated humans in society,” Fowlin told the Informer.

The artistic director and former

schoolteacher has a major charge for the young artists, all of whom audition to participate in the chorus: “[Be] aware of what is happening on a socially conscious level so that you can speak to these things that are unjust, unfair.”

“You have a voice and then here's how you use your gift– your music and through keeping gospel music alive,” Fowlin said she emphasizes to her students.

Like gospel music itself, COTG has evolved over the years.

Beginning in 1993 under the artistic direction of Eric Torain, who died in 2002 at age 39, COTG started as an outlet for young people to sing gospel music to the masses, as opposed to solely in their church environments. With Torain pulling from music ministers and arts educators throughout the DMV, and, in turn, they recruited children they knew, COTG became a huge choir of about 200 young singers.

However, as church choirs gained popularity for larger performances and megachurches emerged, the choir’s size decreased somewhat, but it never lost its heart and outstanding talent.

“So it has taken that turn where now, under my tutelage, it's not just music for me,” Fowlin said. “I mean, I was born and raised in the church, loving gospel music, loving all kinds of music. But it's also really important to me that these young people are woke.”

Though she said she knows “woke,” has become a cringy word for some, she explained the realities of why “wokeness,” is key for her choir members.

30 YEARS OF CHORAL EXCELLENCE, THE LEGACY CONTINUES

Piano phenom Isata Kanneh-Mason joins the BSO to dazzle audiences and perform Prokofiev’s spontaneous and bold Third Piano Concerto. Conductor Kevin John Edusei guides the Orchestra through Brahms’ profound Symphony number 4 and Kodály’s earthy “Peacock” Variations.

The appearance of Isata Kanneh-Mason is made possible through the major support of the Sidney M. Friedberg Guest Artist Fund.

The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra revisits Adolphus Hailstork’s reverent memorial to Martin Luther King, Jr. (a work it premiered in 1980), and it touches the visceral hurt in Alvin Singleton’s 1994 reaction to police brutality. Joel Thompson, a young composer who is revolutionizing concert music with his deeply moving stands on race and justice, adds a gripping meditation on the words of James Baldwin. Artistic Advisor James Conlon concludes with a fresh look at the self-reflective symphony Shostakovich wrote in the aftermath of Stalin’s reign of terror.

“It’s about having this conscious mindedness of the fact that you are a human being who needs to be understanding of what is happening to you politically, economically, emotionally, from how you're going to school, your educational practices, religion, the food you eat, everything.”

Young artivists with multiple talents, the members of COTG are using their wokeness to inspire audiences through the student-produced show, “Stay Woke, Still Woke.”

Presented at the Montgomery College Cultural Arts Center on Friday, June 2, “Stay Woke, Still Woke,” explores social justice themes and incorporates more than just songs, but a script, choreography and lesson in wokeness from young changemakers.

The project was first birthed in 2018 when Fowlin sat down with her young “kings and queens,” and talked about the years of racists killings they had witnessed in their young lives.

“I just had some real talk about ‘How are you feeling about what you are experiencing?’

“Fast forward to 2023,” she continued, “and we're still experiencing what we had in 2018. And so I felt we still needed to put a voice to it.”

While “Stay Woke, Still Woke,” concludes the 2022-2023 COTG season, Fowlin said audiences have a lot to look forward to in the organization’s upcoming 30th anniversary season.

“It's the kickoff into the 30th year that says, ‘Hey, we're different. We're fresh, where we have a new way of thinking– but not so much new, as it is reimagined said Fowlin, a Queens, New York native. “We have got to become the change that we seek.”

Over the past 30 years, COTG has been able to share their empowering messages through music at such sites as the White House, Washington National Cathedral, inaugural prayer services for President Barack Obama, historic Howard Theatre, and appeared on NBC’s “Today.”

Children of the Gospel Choir alum Ayden Williams, who participated in COTG from 2013-2021, has some pretty special memories over his eight years.

Having been a part of the strong force that is COTG, Williams said the choir’s 30th anniversary should not only be a celebration of artistry, but its ability to offer opportunities and an outlet.

“COTG celebrating 30 is an amazing feat and it should be recognized and honored.” WI

Kevin John Edusei

Rodrick Dixon

The BSO Co-Commission To Awaken the Sleeper is supported in part by The Mary desJardin Fund for New Music.

5 Michele Fowlin (Courtesy photo)

‘HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS’

How to Keep Seniors Safe at Home

By Rosalind Strickland WI Contributing Writer

“Home is Where the Heart is,” so sang Elvis Presley without even realizing that as people age, many want to remain living in their own homes as long as possible.

Not only is this often more affordable than moving to a nursing home or assisted living facility, but it also provides seniors with a sense of independence and comfort, familiar surroundings, and access to the services they need.

However, living at home as an older adult can present unique challenges, such as mobility limitations, vision or hearing impairment, and increased risk of falls.

But with a few modifications, seniors can continue to live safely at home and enjoy their golden years.

AVOIDING THE TRAUMA OF MOVING TO A NURSING HOME

Seniors who stay at home have more control over their lives and schedules than those who move into nursing homes or other facilities.

Moving to a nursing home can be traumatic, involving leaving cherished memories and downsizing.

Additionally, nursing homes can be costly, with expenses increasing for round-the-clock care.

Many seniors prefer to retain assets and stay in their own homes, but this may pose risks for those living alone or with limited mobility. Thankfully, home modifications can enhance safety and accessibility.

Here are some modifications that can be made to a home to make it safer and more accessible:

BUILDING SELF-CONFIDENCE BY MAINTAINING INDEPENDENCE

One of the biggest challenges for seniors is maintaining their independence while also staying safe. Many older adults fear losing their independence and relying on others for help with daily activities. By making modifications to their homes, seniors can maintain their independence and continue to perform daily tasks without assistance. This can help build self-confidence and improve overall quality of life.

MOVING THE BEDROOM TO THE FIRST FLOOR

The bedroom is where seniors spend most of their time, so it is essential to make it safe and comfortable. For seniors with limited mobility, climbing stairs can be a major challenge. Therefore, moving the bedroom to the first floor is essential.This eliminates the need to climb stairs to access the bedroom, reducing the risk of falls and making it easier for seniors to navigate their homes. Also, install safe seating in the bedroom. Seniors should have a comfortable chair in their bedroom where they can sit and relax. The chair should have a firm seat and backrest to provide support when getting up or sitting down.

MODIFYING A BATHROOM

The bathroom is one of the most dangerous rooms in the house, especially for seniors. Here

is a tip for modifying a bathroom. Install a roll-in shower that has no threshold, making it easier for seniors to enter and exit and a safe and comfortable space for seniors to bathe. This modification can also make it easier for caregivers to assist seniors with bathing. Also, install grab bars on both sides of the shower to prevent accidents from happening.

INSTALLING SAFE SEATING IN THE SHOWER

Installing safe seating in the shower can provide additional support and stability for seniors while bathing. A sturdy, non-slip shower chair or bench can be a simple yet effective modification that can greatly improve safety in the bathroom. It can also make it easier for seniors to bathe independently.

HANDRAILS THROUGHOUT THE HOME

Handrails can be installed throughout the home to provide additional support and stability. This can be especially helpful in areas with stairs or uneven flooring. Handrails can also be installed in bathrooms and near toilets to provide additional support when getting up and down.

NO STEP, LOW OR FLAT THRESHOLDS

No step, low or flat thresholds can also be an important modification to consider. This eliminates the need to step over high thresholds or navigate uneven flooring, reducing the risk of trips and falls. This modification can also make it easier for seniors to move freely around their homes.

IMPROVED LIGHTING

Improved lighting can greatly improve safety in the home, especially for seniors with vision impairments. This can include installing brighter light bulbs, adding additional lighting fixtures, and installing motion-sensor lights in key areas. Improved lighting can also help reduce the risk of falls by making it easier to navigate the home safely.

A FEW SIMPLE MODIFICATIONS DO THE TRICK

Living safely at home as a senior can be a reality with a few simple modifications. Avoiding the trauma of moving to a nursing home is achieved by making the home safer and more accessible.

By taking the six steps, seniors can maintain their independence and continue living in their own homes. This can lead to a better quality of life, as seniors are able to stay connected with their communities and maintain their social lives.

Resources from local governments, nonprofits and healthcare providers can assist with the planning and investment required.

Additionally, staying active, eating well, and engaging socially further promote a healthy lifestyle for seniors. This way, seniors remain connected with their communities.

Rosalind Strickland is the owner of Rosalind Strickland Interior Design LLC and is a certified Senior Home Safety specialist. For more information, call: (216) 5817233.

5 Low step back door entry with oil rub safety bars on door and wall to provide sup-

5 Maintenance-free, elegant guardrails to grace the entrance to a suburban home. (Courtesy Photo, Rosalind Strickland)

ot all dads look the same. Not all dads do the same things. But some things about dads are the same the world over. Read about these dads. How are they like your dad? How are they different?

Where’s my dad?

Match each dad with his child. Do the math to see if you guessed right.

Father’s Day Around the World

Though they differ on the date, many countries throughout the world set aside a day to honor fathers. Father’s Day is a time-honored tradition—the earliest record of such a celebration was found in the ruins of ancient Babylon.

Modern Father’s Day traditions include serving dad breakfast in bed, making cards and giving gifts of candy, neckties, shirts or electronic gadgets. But even more common is the tradition of particular activities that kids and fathers do together on this special day.

Dads Around the World

Some dads tell stories. Max and his dad live in France. His dad tells Max his favorite French stories. Look at the pictures from the story. Can you put them in order?

Not Just Dads

On Father ’s Day, people show their appreciation to their fathers, grandfathers, stepfathers, foster fathers, uncles and other men who have been like fathers. Write the names of three men you appreciate.

Some dads teach children many things.

In China, Soo Lee’s dad teaches her to write. Can you read what she has written?

(Read from top to bottom.)

Hooray for Dads!

Dads all around the world love their children and help them to feel good!

Standards Link: Reading Comprehension: Compare and contrast information on the same topic.

What I Learned From Dad

Look through the newspaper for five words that tell something you have learned from your dad. Put the words in ABC order.

Standards Link: Spelling: Arrange words in alphabetical order.

Megan’s dad got a new golf shirt for Father’s Day. Which one is it? Her dad likes stripes, but not narrow ones. He doesn’t like pockets on his shirts. He doesn’t care for zig-zag patterns.

Kevin and his dad want to play catch, but they can’t seem to find their baseball. Work your way through this maze to find the baseball for them.

Characters by Charlie Kwan

FRANCE CHINA ANGELES SLEEP UNCLE SPECIAL POSTED ESSAY MUSICIAN

Thank You, Dad!

Cut out pictures and words from the newspaper and design a “Thank You” ad for a special dad, granddad or uncle. Be sure to tell why you are thanking him!

Standards Link: Writing Applications: Write brief expository description to present unified impressions of people.

A Special Man

Select a man in your life who is special to you. Write a paragraph explaining why this man is special to you.

Dads around and sing to Here are the known song languages! them all? Twinkle, How I wonder Up above Like a diamond Twinkle, How I wonder Brilla, brilla, Quiero verte En el cielo Un diamante Brilla, brilla Quiero verte Brille, brille, Dis-moi, Tout en haut Tu as l’éclat Brille, brille, Dis-moi, Funkel, funkel Ach wie bist Wunderschön Wie ein strahlend Funkel, funkel, Ach wie bist Standards Link: Read grade-level Make a list do with special person Then go

wi book

"Crowned: Magical Folk and Fairy Tales from the Diaspora"

By Kahran and Regis Bethencourt

c.2023, St. Martin's Press

$35 / 260 pages

Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer

Once upon a time, fairy tales were full of dragons and ogres and sprites.

There were magic mice and talking frogs. There were wondrous spells. And there were kings and queens, princes, princesses, lords and ladies, all of them white. But in "Crowned" by Kahran and Regis Bethencourt, it's time for a new kind of magic.

Ask any kid about their favorite storybook character, and they'll have a quick answer. They want to be like this princess or that king. They want to dress the part, too.

The thing is that "the images that surround us on a daily basis" are what we ultimately come to consider as normal — and if those "normal" characters don't look like the child who loves them, the child is "often left with unrealistic standards of beauty" and power.

To change the atmosphere and set things right, authors Bethencourt "wanted to reimagine some of our favorite childhood stories with our idea of what could be."

Here, The Little Mermaid is Aliya, and selflessness in the face of a mean girl saves the day. Snow White becomes Ebony Black, and Goldilocks learns to appreciate what she has instead of searching for perfection. Rapunzel learns that her hair is not her strength. Asha meets a young prince at a dance, but without pumpkins or white horses. And a child named Red meets a big bad wolf, and it's all good.

In the middle section of this volume are classic folktales: the story of Anansi the spider is told, with patience as a lesson. There's a tale of a king with a magical ring in this book, a story about how the zebra got his stripes and the baboon got a red butt, a tale of a princess who wanted a life "of adventure and fun," and stories of a "Lion's Gifts."

Even if authors Kahran and Regis Bethencourt stopped here, adult readers could sit back and relax, satisfied that they're holding one of the most majestic, most creative storybooks money can buy — but the last section of "Crowned" changes everything once again. That last segment is filled with modern classics, complete with skateboards, candy, cowboys, lessons on personal beauty, and an invitation to believe in "fairy folk." That addition gives this book a nice twist for today's kid, who'll certainly want to spend a lot of time immersed in these pages.

The tales are only part of this book, however. Richly illustrated with colorful costumes and backdrops, the rest is a feast for the imagination. Readers of all ages will be awed and amazed by the dozens of photos accompanying the stories, each featuring Black and brown children dressed in wondrous finery, in settings that follow the story and enhance the sense of magic.

It's the photos that will pull a young reader in. It's the stories that will keep them returning, whether they do it themselves or with you, together. "Crowned" is a book you'll proudly display on a shelf or coffee table, and it'll make your child happily ever after. WI

horoscopes

ARIES Who can possibly keep up with you? Nobody, apparently, or at least not as this week begins. On Monday and on into Tuesday morning, you'll blow away the competition and others will look on admiringly. On the rest of Tuesday and on through Thursday morning, your ambitions will find even broader support. Now is a great time to form new alliances and build big, bold plans. Lucky Numbers: 13, 17, 36

TAURUS As the week begins, you'll find yourself feeling good and grounded. Your patient, open-minded attitude is paying off, and Monday and Tuesday morning should go just as planned. From Tuesday afternoon through Thursday morning, try to be flexible. Others might try to get a rise out of you, so don't give them the satisfaction. Unless, of course, butting heads sounds appealing. Lucky Numbers: 12, 48, 59

GEMINI It's a strange spot to find yourself in, but you'll have a hard time getting your ideas across as the week begins. From Monday through Tuesday morning, you'll need to work extra hard to eliminate confusion and clarify everyone's agenda. From Tuesday afternoon through Thursday morning, expect to be influenced by some persuasive (and possibly downright crazy) ideas. Enjoy the intellectual exercise and don't back down from any good arguments. Lucky Numbers: 4, 9, 51

CANCER If you're looking to avoid misunderstandings and mishaps, lay low as the week begins. From Monday through Tuesday morning, you'll have a hard time making yourself clear to others. From Tuesday afternoon through Thursday afternoon, you'll have much better luck communicating, especially if you can appeal to people's heads rather than their hearts. Lucky Numbers: 2, 6, 50

LEO You know what you want as the week begins, so go ahead and go after it! On Monday and on through Tuesday morning, you should find plenty of opportunities to achieve your goals and maybe even show off in the process. Expect others to admire your accomplishments, but going into Tuesday afternoon and through Thursday, try to ease back on your own ego. Others might be looking for a chance to butt heads, and your pride could lead you into conflict. Lucky Numbers: 1, 9, 54

VIRGO You'll find yourself feeling unusually outgoing and optimistic as the week begins, and you can expect others to notice! From Monday through Tuesday afternoon, don't be surprised to find opportunities for creative (and potentially romantic) ideas and plans. From Tuesday afternoon through Thursday afternoon, you'll achieve an organizational coup. You might not have thought that you could whip your world into shape any better, but there's always something new to learn. Lucky Numbers: 6, 13, 43

LIBRA Break past old limits as the week begins. On Monday and on through Tuesday morning, you might find yourself feeling overly sentimental, but just shuck that maudlin mood and embrace your inner optimism. From Tuesday afternoon through Thursday, set out to try new things and meet new people. The time is right for romantic and intellectual breakthroughs. Lucky Numbers: 3, 31, 57

SCORPIO You're feeling extraordinarily ambitious as the week begins. From Monday through Tuesday afternoon, your willpower and assertiveness will shift into overdrive, and it's a good time for making commitments and signing on the dotted line. From Tuesday afternoon through Thursday afternoon, your work with others could become a lot less harmonious, especially if you're not open to others' ideas. Lucky Numbers: 7, 12, 34

SAGITTARIUS The week starts with a big shift for you. You're not usually fretting over how to make ends meet, but pesky financial details could come to the forefront on Monday and on into Tuesday afternoon. Pinch pennies, but do it creatively. From Tuesday afternoon through Thursday, discover a whole new world of people who just happen to have a whole new world of ideas for you. F Lucky Numbers: 4, 8, 53

CAPRICORN As the week begins, you're full of energy and ambition. On Monday and on into Tuesday morning, you can expect to get a lot done and get a lot of praise in the process. From Tuesday afternoon through Thursday, you need to be wary of new plans and untested schemes, and don't hesitate to share your guidance with others. Lucky Numbers: 6, 20, 24

AQUARIUS What's going on? You might find yourself confused by a turn of events on Monday or Tuesday, but don't fight against the flow. Let things unfold and adapt as necessary. From Tuesday afternoon through Thursday, expect to inspire. You're at your confident, charismatic best right now and others will be moved by your brilliance. Lucky Numbers: 1, 29, 53

PISCES Want to lead the way? Or maybe you should just want to connect a group with some much-needed leadership. In any case, you'll find your managerial skills in demand as the week begins. By Tuesday afternoon and on through Thursday, you'll find yourself overwhelmed by a flood of new ideas. Bat them back and forth with friends to separate the truly crazy ones from the merely unrealistic. Lucky Numbers: 9, 21, 56

Howard University

Hosts ‘Time to Stand Up’

By Ed Hill WI Contributing Writer

A crowd of nearly 100 people was on hand Saturday, May 20, afternoon at Howard University for a forum “Time To Stand Up,” with former NBA standout Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf.

Abdul-Rauf was the featured guest on a panel of distinguished local activists, educators and media personalities. Others on the panel

were Dr. Greg Carr, chairman of the Howard Afro-American Studies Department, local TV anchor Wisdom Martin, Andscape Senior Writer Jerry Bembry, human rights activist Hena Zuberi, human rights advocate for U. S. political prisoners Mauri Saalakhan and D.C. education and community activist Imani Abdullah.

The panel engaged in a lively nearly two-hour exchange of ideas and perspectives focusing on activism

and standing up for one’s beliefs in today’s politically-charged climate. A question-and-answer session followed.

Abdul-Rauf, known in his collegiate days at LSU as high-scoring guard Chris Jackson before his con-

version to Islam – had a budding career in the NBA cut short when he took a stand against tyranny and oppression in America by refusing to stand for the national anthem.

That action in the 1995-96 NBA season – long before NFL quar-

terback Colin Kapernick kneeled for the national anthem and was blackballed from that league nearly 20 years later – gained Abdul-Rauf national notoriety and censure from the NBA. He was, in effect, banned from the league.

His story is the subject of the recent Showtime documentary “Stand” and of his autobiography, In the Blink of An Eye, published in October 2022. Kapernick’s publishing company, Kapernick LLC, published Abdul-Rauf’s memoir.

The event was put on by the Qiblah Circle Brotherhood & Sisterhood of the Washington, D.C. area. It included a performance by spoken word artist Khalil Ismail and a reception and book signing by authors on the panel.

Sponsors included Amana Mutual Funds Trust, The Muslim Alliance for Black Lives, The Halal Guys restaurant chain, The Mom Network, The Howard University Muslim Students Association, Bury Me Muslim, Bridges, The Museum and the Prince George’s County Muslim Council. WI

5 Former NBA standout Mahmoud Abdul- Rauf speaks at the Time to Stand Up panel discussion held at Howard University in Northwest on May 21. (Abdullah Konte/The Washington Informer)

the moment CAPTURE

5 The wine and music festival pink and white-themed picnic style event, Célébrez en Rosé held in Symphony Woods at the Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Maryland drew a crowd of several thousand attendees enjoying food, music, dancing, and wine under an overcast sky. (Shevry Lassiter/The Washington Informer)

5 Ginuwine, R&B singer was the featured performer for this year’s Célébrez en Rosé wine and music festival held in Symphony Woods at the Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Maryland on May 28. (Shevry Lassiter/The Washington Informer)

6 Record producer and rapper Mannie Fresh spun records this year’s Célébrez en Rosé wine and music festival held in Symphony Woods at the Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Maryland on May 28. (Shevry Lassiter/The Washington Informer)

5 Cleveland Spears III, executive producer and host for Célébrez en Rosé greets a few of the VIP guests. (Shevry Lassiter/The Washington Informer)

5 Ashley Silva and Winter Harris both reality stars in Love & Marriage: DC attend Célébrez en Rosé on May 28 in Columbia, Maryland and appeared on stage. (Courtesy photo/Tyler Davis)

RELIGION

Half of Americans Unsure if God Exists

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

Research from the Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI) has found that the religious landscape of the United States has changed a lot in the last few decades.

Researchers say the United States is becoming less religious, more diverse, and politically divided, leading to significant cultural changes.

While churches have returned to in-person services after the COVID-19 pandemic, Americans are dealing with the continuing consequences of other significant events, such as national protests for racial justice, a divisive 2020 presidential

election that led to a deadly uprising at the U.S. Capitol, and renewed state legislative battles over reproductive and LGBTQ rights.

The new survey examined how religious people in the U.S. act in this uncertain culture and political climate.

PRRI analyzed religious affiliation trends, the significance of religion in Americans’ lives, and how frequently they attend spiritual events and engage in prayer.

They also looked at trends in “switching” religions, which means leaving one faith for another, and considered why Americans do this.

According to a separate survey by NORC at the University of Chicago, 50% of Americans expressed uncer-

5 According to research from the Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI) half of Americans expressed uncertainty about God’s existence. (Courtesy Photo)

tainty about the existence of God.

That’s less than in 2008, when it was 60%.

PRRI said that in 2022, 27% of Americans said they didn’t believe in any faith, up from 19% in 2012 and 16% in 2006.

According to the study, the remaining 6% of Americans who follow other religions have stayed the same over the past few years.

Individuals who identify as Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, Unitarian Universalist, or from any other world religion are a part of this group.

“The past three years were a period

of great trial and change for the United States. Understanding how these times affected Americans’ thoughts, beliefs, and opinions is critical to understanding social change,” René Bautista, director of the GSS and associate director of Methodology and Quantitative Social Sciences at NORC, relayed in a news release.

Researchers found that many Americans practice more than one religion, and nearly one in five (19%) consider themselves “a follower of the teachings or practices of more than one religion.”

Followers of non-Christian religions (26%) are the most likely to be

multi-religious, followed by Hispanic Catholics (24%), white mainline/ non-evangelical Protestants (24%), and Protestants of color (16%).

White evangelical Protestants (18%) and Protestants of color (16%) are the least likely to follow the teachings of multiple religions.

Aside from weddings and funerals, more than 40% of Americans said they went to religious events "at least a few times a year" in 2022.

More than four in ten Americans said they went to religious services at least a few times a year, not including weddings and funerals.

Seven percent said they went more than once a week, 16% said they went once a week, seven percent went once or twice a month, and 13% said they went a few times a year.

Most Americans say they rarely (28%) or never (29%) go to religious services, according to the PRRI study.

In 2019 and 2013, most Americans said they attended religious services more than once a week (9% and 11%), once a week (19% and 20%), once or twice a month (both 9%), or a few times a year (17% and 16%).

About four in ten said they rarely went (21% and 22%) or never (24% and 21%).

“The COVID-19 pandemic is most likely a factor in these shifts,” researchers said. WI

the debt crisis, and pledged more work from the Biden-Harris administration towards empowering small businesses, advocating for women’s reproductive rights, and improving Black maternal health outcomes.

HARRIS WEIGHS IN ON THE BIPARTISAN BUDGET DEAL

Harris was integral to the negotiations in helping to reach a bipartisan deal so America could avoid defaulting on its debt obligations.

“One of the most important aspects of where we are – and our goal was to avoid the kinds of losses [Republicans] had initially proposed – and that’s very significant,” Harris said of the bipartisan budget deal reached earlier in the week.

The deal places caps on spending for the next two years, claws back about $28 billion in unspent COVID-19 relief money, and strips $20 billion of funds earmarked for the Internal Revenue Service.

President Joe Biden had slotted $80 billion for the IRS to help curtail tax cheaters, but the GOP sought to protect wealthy taxpayers who primarily seek loopholes to avoid paying federal taxes.

The debt ceiling agreement restarts federal student loan payments even as the U.S. Supreme Court prepares to rule on the legality of the Biden-Harris forgiveness plan.

Congress hopes to vote this week on the deal, which also added new work requirements for recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Association Program and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families benefits.

Veterans and the unhoused are exempt from such requirements.

“We’ve been able to maintain what we needed to do to preserve social security, Medicare, and veterans’ benefits. As a result, we actually see increases there,” Harris said.

With a steady eye on the present and future, the vice president noted the administration sought to protect the economic gains made during its first two years.

“In two years, we’ve created 12.7

million jobs and 800,000 manufacturing jobs,” Harris declared.“A lot of these issues were what we were fighting to preserve. For example, if they required [new] work requirements, we would preserve many exceptions to the requirements.”

Harris noted that any requirements for veterans and those who are housing insecure were non-starters.

“Veterans and housing-insecure people, not just the homeless, would be exempt. We were not willing to compromise,” she insisted.

The vice president emphasized that the debt ceiling crisis and subsequent deal reminded voters of the significance of choosing candidates who have their constituents’ best interests.

“So many of the issues have to do with who is in elected office. It comes down to the power of the people to elect representatives who reflect their values,” the vice president proclaimed.

“When the majority of people on legislative bodies understand that you shouldn’t create policies on the backs of poor people, that’s policy that most respect our values,” she continued.

She pledged that the administration

would keep pushing forward, stand up, and speak up about the needs of working people and families whom she said have been on the outside of politicians’ priority lists for too long.

“We’ve had to keep them on the inside of the priority list,” she said of the Biden-Harris administration.

SMALL BUSINESSES: A PASSION AND PRIORITY

In the fast-paced 20-minute interview, the vice president declared small business a passion.

She said her mother and “second mother,” Ms. Shelton, who lived two doors down and ran a nursery school above her childhood home, helped show her the importance of small businesses.

“Ms. Shelton was a small business owner, matriarch to the community. She was a community leader, a civic leader, who mentored people in the community,” Harris recalled.

“I was raised with an understanding of the importance of small businesses. They aren’t just business owners. They

are civic leaders and community leaders and are so much a part of the community’s cultural fabric.

“When I was in the U.S. Senate, I was able to work with my colleagues to get an extra $12 billion put into community banks, which are banks that are in the community who understand the community and its needs and who will create access to capital often where the big banks don’t give access to capital for our startups, young entrepreneurs, and small businesses.”

She maintained that the work has continued in her role as vice president.

Harris helped to create the Economic Opportunity Coalition, where private sector funders put money in community banks and where access to capital has increased for small business owners.

Harris gushed about a recent gathering she convened that consisted of young entrepreneurs and business leaders in tech, space, and climate work.

“They were mostly young Black men doing such innovative and good

HARRIS from Page 1

The Master Mind principle — or what I refer to as having the "Right People to Guide You" — teaches how successful people select persons who have achieved the object of their desire as someone to emulate, someone to follow, to get advice from, to learn from. Wherever two or more minds come together, a higher mind is created; greater than one's own. This mind may be harmonious, in which case it can truly be called a Master Mind.

In any endeavor you wish to succeed in, it is beneficial to link up with others of like mind and purpose. The pooling of your individual resources is very valuable.

An example of a Master Mind is an effective marriage. The woman can often stimulate and encourage her husband to achievements that he would not normally be capable of, and many women have succeeded through the support and understanding of her husband. Without the pairing, each would have achieved far less.

Many of the greatest minds of the human race freely admit they did not originate the ideas and creations that made them world-famous. Rather, it was like tuning into a cosmic radio station, and gaining the inspiration direct from the mind of God. Scripture reminds us in the Gospel of Matthew 18:20: "For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them."

This principle is therefore like setting up an extremely powerful receiving station; a huge radio telescope tuned to the depths of the heavens, with which to receive every signal pertinent to the goal in mind.

Those who utilize this "people" principle will definitely become

WITH LYNDIA GRANT

great beyond even their wildest dreams. Those who do not will have a much harder time, and may never succeed at all.

Carefully select people who are likely to be in harmony with your life's purpose. The importance of harmony in the group cannot be stressed enough. Infighting will hinder your growth.

Hence, you must regularly review the people in the group. If a member is not in harmony with the common purpose, that person must be removed, and replaced by someone who is.

Meet with your group regularly to discuss and brainstorm ideas. Though it is not good to discuss your aspirations with all people in your life, those inside your group are your confidantes, and therefore can be trusted. Jesus has His team of 12 disciples. They worked together as a team. Judas' betrayal of Jesus is an indication that people can change or mislead you. As soon as you discover a person's loyalty toward your goal is no longer there, stop working with them immediately.

Your goal must benefit every person who works on your team. No one will work for free. Give them money, recognition, or give them an assignment they are likely to enjoy. Why ask someone to do something that is not in agreement with their spirit, they will hate that assignment. How much do you really think will get done, that person will likely be-

Shiloh Church of God 7th Day

gin to gossip with their own confidantes, which is where the Scripture about life and death are in the power of the tongue. So make wise selections, and don't throw someone a bone, either — they will feel you have belittled them, and they will not be a happy camper!

My three sisters and I formed our group, it worked well, and I could trust my people — aka my Master Mind Group — to work closely with! When we were in business together, we lived together as a family and had daily morning meetings at home over breakfast and coffee. We rode in the same car together, heading for our office daily, and planned the entire way there. We worked together in this manner for 10 years. What a powerful team we made. My Master Mind group.

Eventually we became known as "The Grant Sisters," as we improved the annual Georgia Avenue Day Festival and Parade to a higher level each year. What began at 1,000 attendees ended with over 200,000, along with the Caribbean Festival, a spinoff from our festival!

It cannot be all about you, either. Each member must matter. You must show them love. You must show them respect. As my pastor would say, "I'm not making this up, it is not coming from me. This is a principle researched by Napoleon Hill. If you don't believe me, get the book and read this chapter for yourself. You might get a big surprise!" WI

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

School: 10:00 AM

Study Tuesday: 12 Noon Pastor’s Bible Study Tuesday: 6:30 PM

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

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

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

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

Tucker Senior 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”

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

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

The Rev. E. Bernard Anderson Priest

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

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

“For me, what matters is really trying to be an inspiration for others so that if they see someone eating and living, right, they then can say, ‘Oh, you know what, I'm gonna stop smoking cigarettes,’ or, it could be anything that leads someone else to make a change in their life,” MC Lyte told the Informer in a WIN-TV interview. “It doesn't have to be the identical thing that someone has changed, but just the idea that they were able to to change the trajectory of their lives by simply changing one element of it.

“I'm interested in things that matter,” the artist emphasized.

Celebrating women in Hip Hop certainly matters to MC Lyte.

“I think celebration means to hold someone high, right? It also means to enjoy oneself,” Lyte said. “Especially when it comes to women in hip hop, we get such the wrong end of the stick and a lot of times we're pushing, pushing, pushing. And it's not until others join in that push that we're able to break through these glass ceilings and achieve things that have never been achieved before and blaze new trails. And so this in itself, this

celebration allows people to come and celebrate with us.”

In curating this féte, learning from last year’s packed show, MC Lyte said she wanted to ensure that this year audiences witness full sets of the featured artists. The dynamite lineup includes: Rapsody, Kash Doll, Bahamadia, Mama Sol and the concert curator herself.

“Last year was fantastic. We had everybody from the rafters representing all corners of the United States of America. And everybody had a sliver of time because there were just so many of us. As a matter of fact, I was scheduled to perform and it didn't happen because time was running short,” she explained. “This year, we decided to scale back on the number of women so that all of us really have a chance to thoroughly get the crowd engaged, and to have a good time with everyone, and have it be a little bit more focused and streamlined.”

FINDING INSPIRATION IN STORIES ANDARTISTS

As a pioneering artist in hip hop, Lyte has broken barriers, opened doors and offered opportunities for

Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade.

others. She’s also been inspired by others.

Just days after the passing of Tina Turner, Lyte said the “Queen of Rock’s,” music and learning about her life, particularly after the 1993 film “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” was certainly an inspiration to her career.

“I remember, ‘Private Dancer,’ that it was a little sad. The story that she was telling with those words, it really touched on the sadness of what someone else was going through, which to me, I'm all about the story,” MC Lyte said before adding other icons who she’s loved. “You know, I'm all about Carole King, when she's creating a story. Sheila E ‘The Glamorous Life,’ like she wants to live ‘the glamorous life,’ and she finds out that it's not all that she thought it would be.’”

And Lyte didn’t forget to add the emcees who were instrumental in getting her interested in the game.

“Salt-N-Pepa, Sha-Rock. Roxanne Shanté, The Sequence. Sweet Tee, Spark D, everybody that was doing it, that I could hear. And then of course, the guys Run DMC, LL Cool J, Rakim and on,” she said.

With Hip Hop’s 50th anniversary underway, MC Lyte is gearing up for other celebrations.

“It's just a lot and I'm very, very grateful for it all, and grateful to have a team of folks that can really strategize it out,” Lyte said. “So I'm gonna be showing up all over the place.”

In addition, she’s part of a Netflix documentary examining women in music.

The multitalented artist emphasized that now is an ideal time for people to tap into their ambitions.

“This is a really great time for those who are ready to live in their purpose,” MC Lyte said. “And don't delay whatever it is that you have in your heart to do. Get out there and make it happen.” WI

TALBERT from Page 1 scribed the committee as a “melting pot” and a “really tight unit” bonded by both the park’s cause and a dedication to the community more broadly.

Then last year, neighbors learned that the developer planned to construct an 18-unit residential building on the lot, eliminating the green space entirely and making no promises about affordability.

The neighborhood association— whose members come from about 70 households on Talbert Terrace, Dexter Terrace and Talbert Street—mobilized for one more fight.

“We sort of put it out to the whole association, [asking] who wanted to be involved,” Hilliard, 68, said. “And they stepped up.”

THE AD HOC COMMITTEE

A group of neighbors volunteered to help and quickly realized that their first task was to get organized. They began compiling all documents related to the green space, legally known as “Lot 1103 in Square 5869,” into a shared folder. That included everything from email correspondence with District officials to historic information, like the 1977 deed to the property. The Anacostia Homeowners and Residents Association had originally won the deed in a racial discrimination lawsuit against the developer, who owned many nearby properties.

In February, a handful of people, including Hilliard, began meeting weekly to strategize. Within the neighborhood association, the volunteers spending hundreds of hours on research and outreach became known as “the ad hoc committee.”

“Every email we send out, five different hands go up—and they’re not always the same hands,” said CJ Brandmeier, who chairs the ad hoc committee. “Everyone’s pitching in with what they’re good at.”

“Some people might think that this is a small thing. It's just a little, small lot,” Johnson said. “But it means so much because it's part of the legacy of this community. And these folks on this committee have been really diligent in trying to do everything they can.”

In addition to organizing neighborhood events in support of the park space, such as a cleanup and rally in April, and a BBQ in May, the committee mobilized around what Brandmeier described as three “missions.” The tri-pronged strategy included reaching out to media outlets, connecting with political leaders and researching the legalities of the lot’s sale.

As part of that third mission, Brandmeier and others began looking into Rupsha 2011 LLC and its owner, Mohammad Sikder. They found more than one red flag.

Sikder declined multiple requests for comment.

A HISTORY OF CUTTING CORNERS

In June 2019, Sikder and another one of his development companies pleaded guilty in a federal court to crimes related to lead-based paint. Sikder’s company, District Properties LLC, had avoided oversight related to lead safety by falsely stating, in 25 permit applications, that buildings had been constructed after 1978 (the year the U.S. banned lead-based paint).

work,” she said. “I convened to let them know what’s available to them in terms of support, access to capital, and helping them get market access. Those are some of the old barriers to those being able to achieve great success.”

HARRIS TALKS WOMEN’S BODILY AUTONOMY, BLACK MATERNAL HEALTH

Finally, the vice president demanded that women have autonomy over their bodies despite the Supreme

She said her mom had always displayed passion and anger about existing disparities for women of color, particularly Black women.

“When I was in the U.S. Senate, we began proposing legislation to address this crisis, which is a crisis,” Harris exclaimed. “The United States of America is one of the world’s wealthiest, if not the richest, nations. [But], we have one of the highest maternal mortality rates, particularly Black women who are dying at three times the rate of others.

The vice president declared that the connection between Black wom-

en and childbirth “has nothing to do with economic status or educational status.”

“It literally has to do with so often she walks into that hospital or clinic, and she is a Black woman who is not always taken seriously,” she said, before explaining her plan to rectify such challenges.

“I’ve been working to address a number of issues, including racial bias. We need to train medical professionals about racial bias so they can take these women seriously,” the vice president told the Informer. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

Brandmeier, 36, moved to the neighborhood in 2020 with his wife, Sarah Brandmeier. He said that when their son was born last year, the fight to save the small park became even more important and personal.

“We saw a future here for him,” he said.

Like Talbert Terrace itself, the ad hoc committee is multigenerational and multiracial.

Eugene Johnson, a 69-year-old grandfather of eight, got involved about six months ago. A D.C. native, Johnson has lived in the neighborhood for about a year since moving in with his daughter in the Talbert Terrace home that has been in her family for three generations. Johnson de-

Sikder also hired workers for a home renovation without training or licensing in lead-safe practices. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) found four different violations at the site related to lead exposure, and sampling found lead on employees’ hands. After properly remediating the home, Sikder and District Properties LLC sold it without providing the buyer with any information about the home’s lead paint history.

Just over a month after Sikder’s conviction, the District allowed one of his companies, Rupsha 2011 LLC, to acquire the deed for the Talbert Terrace lot.

Neighbors have particular concerns about the possibility of a developer cutting corners at the property. The Talbert Terrace lot is on the same hill as River East at Grandview—a

MC LYTE from Page 1

5 MC Lyte speaking during a conference in Arizona. (Courtesy phto/Wikimedia Commons/Gage Skidmore)

HARRIS from Page 44

building that crumbled due to structural issues less than five years after its construction.

“I don't have any faith that this guy will come in and do the right thing,” Johnson said. “And will the District government in their compliance [enforcement] responsibility really make sure that things are done correctly?”

TAX SALES WITHOUT GUARDRAILS

The members of the ad hoc committee say that the city had actually failed to enforce the rules long before Sikder’s 2019 conviction. They allege that Sikder should not have been eligible to purchase the playground lot—or any other properties—in the 2016 tax sale to begin with, and that the Office of Tax and Revenue (OTR) should not have allowed him to participate as a buyer.

“The District was asleep at the wheel,” Brandmeier said.

D.C. law includes some requirements for people who sign up to bid on properties in a tax sale auction. One of them is that buyers and their businesses cannot themselves be behind on their property taxes.

Yet, on the same day that Rupsha 2011 LLC bought Lot 1103 on Talbert Terrace—along with 73 other properties—Mohammad Sikder’s name appears in the sale’s records as an owner of a property being sold. That property, a small lot in Carver Langston, should only have been up for auction because its former owner, Sikder, was delinquent on the taxes.

Asked what the office does to ensure that purchasers during tax sales meet the eligibility requirements, a representative for the Office of Tax and Revenue responded that potential purchasers must certify under oath that they are not more than one year behind on property taxes.

“The information we got from OTR is that they don't have any ability to audit any of the purchaser requirements,” Brandmeier said. “Who knows how much fraud is going on? We don't know. They don't know. Nobody knows.”

WHAT COULD COME NEXT ON THE LEGAL FRONT

Since Rupsha 2011 LLC already foreclosed on the property and acquired the deed in 2019, few options remain available to prevent the company from building. The Office of Tax and Revenue representative said

in an email that District law allows tax sales to be voided if the legal requirements were not met, but that the city can only take that step before the purchaser completes the foreclosure process in court.

The neighborhood group did not discover the problem until more than three years after Sikder finished the foreclosure process.

“We're carrying OTR on our backs,” Brandmeier said. “They're relying on AHRA, a neighborhood organization, to figure out who is eligible to participate in the tax sales that they've been running since the dawn of time.”

The Attorney General’s office told the group that it believed D.C. could not win a suit against the developer because the city had approved the purchase and D.C. Superior Court had granted the foreclosure.

Andrew Hunt, another neighbor volunteering on the ad hoc committee, said that the search for pro bono representation has so far proved difficult.

“This is a case that has little to no precedent,” Hunt, 30, said. “It takes a lawyer who is willing to give a community of 70 houses a chance against a city that is, in my opinion, rubber stamping developments left and right.”

WI

MUSIC from Page 36

LIVE” presented by the Washington Informer.

“They come here, their memories open up, and they reminisce,” Burless said. “We’re going to take this to another level which will still be a grand gesture in memory loss.”

The DC Commission on Arts and Humanities has awarded a grant to GNJ for their Music Memory Café. The desired result is for retired musicians to have a good time while benefiting from a stimulating experience from music. Retired musicians who desire to participate in the jazz jam must be residents of the District of Columbia. They can bring their instruments to the GNJ jam sessions and play with a house band on June 5 and 12.

Advance registration is required to participate in the Genevieve N. Johnson Senior Daycare Center Music Memory Café jam session. For more information and to register, contact Angela Ballard at 202723-8537 or visit the website at www.gnjseniordaycare.com.

WI

@bcscomm

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Garrett E. Coble

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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO

UNKNOWN HEIRS

Danielle A.C. Singh, whose address is 1029 Cook Drive SE, Washington, DC 20032, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Garrett E. Coble who died on March 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 (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 11/18/2023. 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 11/18/2023, 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: 5/18/2023

Danielle A.C. Singh

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 000549

Colston

Yvonne P.

Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Ladd G. Colston, whose address is 1004 North Schumaker Dr., Salisbury MD 21804, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Yvonne P. Colston who died on 2/6/2022 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/18/2023. 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 11/18/2023, 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: 5/18/2023

Ladd G. Colston 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

2022 ADM 001081

Mary Alice Tucker 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

Ann E. Tucker and Michael Tucker, whose addresses are 2038 Fort Davis St., SE, WDC 20020 & 304 Nalley Road, Landover, MD 20785, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Mary Alice Tucker who died on 6/12/2014 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 11/18/2023. 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 11/18/2023, 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: 5/18/2023

Ann E. Tucker

Michael Tucker 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 000529

Andrew P. Corley Jr. aka Andrew Pickens Corley, Jr. Decedent

Ethel Mitchell

8403 Colesville Road, Suite 1100 Silver Spring, MD 20910

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO

UNKNOWN HEIRS

Richard Steven Corley, whose address is 3839 26th Street, NE, Washington, DC 20018, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Andrew P. Corley Jr. aka Andrew Pickens Corley, Jr. who died on 3/7/2023 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 11/18/2023. 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 11/18/2023, 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: 5/18/2023

Richard Steven 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 000538

William E. Sledge aka William Edward Sledge Decedent

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

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Odell M. Allen, whose address is 12908 Fox Bow Drive, #201, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of William E. Sledge aka William Edward Sledge who died on February 18, 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 11/18/2023. 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 11/18/2023, 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:

5/18/2023

Odell M. Allen

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 000553

Janice F. Jackson

Decedent

Andre O. McDonald, Esq. 10500 Little Patuxent Parkway Suite 420 Columbia, Maryland 21044

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO

UNKNOWN HEIRS

Tanya J. Latson, whose address is 29770 Eldorado Farm Drive, Mechanicsville, Maryland 20659, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Janice F. Jackson who died on 2/7/2023 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 11/18/2023. 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 11/18/2023, 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: 5/18/2023

Tanya J. Latson 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 000465

Raymond F. Fennell aka Raymond Fountaine Fennell

Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Jeffrey Tyrone Fennell and Roderick Ashley Fennell, whose addresses are 4207 Monroe St., Colmar Manor, MD 20722 and 4207 Monroe St., Colmar Manor, MD 20722, were appointed

Personal Representatives of the estate of Raymond F. Fennell aka Raymond Fountaine Fennell who died on 5/14/2020 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 11/18/2023. 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 11/18/2023, 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: 5/18/2023

Jeffrey Tyrone Fennell

Roderick Ashley Fennell

Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

50 JUNE 1 - 7, 2023

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2023 ADM 000032

Gregory Daniel Decedent

Iris McCollum Green, Esquire 1714 15th Street, NW Suite B Washington, DC 20009 Attorney

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

Janet Mitchell, whose address is 8447 South Bennett Avenue, Chicago, IL 60617, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Gregory Daniel who died on April 14, 2022 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment 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 11/18/2023. 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 11/18/2023, 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: 5/18/2023

Janet Mitchell

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 562

Emmett S. Young, Sr. Decedent

Peggy A. Miller, Esq. 5130 7th St., NE Washington, DC 20011-2625

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Pamela D. Barksdale, whose address is 206 Dauntley St., Upper Marlboro, MD 20774, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Emmett S. Young, Sr., who died on February 8, 2022 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/25/2023. 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 11/25/2023, 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: 5/25/2023

Pamela D. Barksdale Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

PROBATE DIVISION

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 FEP 45

March 23, 2021

Date of Death

Lolisa Sherrina Hardy

Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESEN-

TATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Victoria Bracey fka Victoria Tyler whose address is 10598 Sourwood Avenue Waldorf, Maryland 20603 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Lolisa Sherrina Hardy, deceased, by the Circuit Court for Lake County, State of Florida, on February 7, 2022.

Service of process may be made upon Norman Harvey 6011 3rd Street, NE Washington, DC 20011 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C.

The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real estate.

114 56th Street, SE Washington, DC 20019. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Date of first publication: 5/25/2023

Victoria Bracey

Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION

2023 NRT 19

Terry M. Crosby (aka Terry Mereece Crosby)

Name of Deceased Settlor

NOTICE OF EXISTENCE OF REVOCABLE TRUST

Terry M. Crosby whose address was 1841 41st Place SE Washington DC 20020 created a revocable trust on 1/29/2003 which remained in existence on the date of his/her death on 12/17/2022, and Alma Crosby, whose address is 4949 Marbrisa Drive, Apt. #301, Tampa, FL 33624, is the currently acting trustee, hereinafter the Trustee. Communications to the Trust should be mailed or directed to E. Regine F. Williams, Esq. at 9701 Apollo Drive Suite 301 Largo MD 20774

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

Claims of the deceased settlor’s creditors are barred as against the Trustee and the trust property unless presented to the Trustee at the address provided herein on or before 11/25/2023 (6 month after the date of the first publication of this notice.) An action to contest the validity of this trust must be commenced by the earliest of (1) 12/17/2023, (One year from date of death of deceased settlor) (2) 11/25/2023, (6 months from the date of first publication of this notice) or (3) Ninety days after the Trustee sends the person a copy of the trust instrument and a notice informing the person of the trust’s existence, of the Trustee’s name and address, and of the time allowed for commencing a proceeding.

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

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

Date of First Publication: 5/25/2023

Toni C. Crosby

Agent for Alma Crosby Signature of Trustee

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 000613

Barbara L. Belton

Decedent

Laurie Pyne O’Reilly, Esq. 4301 Connecticut Ave., NW Suite 434 Washington, DC 20008

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Carlton Jeffery Belton, whose address is 1823 Knoll Drive, Oxon Hill, MD 20745, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Barbara L. Belton who died on 10/5/2020 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/25/2023. 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 11/25/2023, 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:

5/25/2023

Carlton Jeffery Belton

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 000507

Cynthia Celeste Guinn

Decedent

Deborah D. Boddie, Esq.

Probate Law DC 1308 Ninth Street, NW Suite 300

Washington, DC 20001 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Channa Guinn-Wilson, whose address is 915 Lawrence Street, NE, Washington, DC 20017, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Cynthia Celeste Guinn who died on December 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 11/25/2023. 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 11/25/2023, 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: 5/25/2023

Channa Guinn-Wilson 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 000580

Anita Denise Powell Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Sebrina Bradford, whose address is 810 Wheeler Hill Drive, SE, Washington DC 20032, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Anita Denise Powell who died on January 2, 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 11/25/2023. 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 11/25/2023, 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: 5/25/2023

Sebrina Bradford Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 619

Estate of James Edward Jacobson aka James Jacobson

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE

Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Sandy Irish-Oien 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.

Appoint a Personal Representative in a large estate

Date of first publication: 5/25/2023

Sandy Irish-Oien 12281 41st St., NE Saint Michael, MN 55376

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 589

James H. Grigsby, III 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

Crystal D. Dixon, whose address is 4906 Gallatin St., Hyattsville, MD 20781, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James H. Grigsby, III who died on March 11, 2023 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/25/2023. 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 11/25/2023, 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: 5/25/2023

Crystal D. Dixon Personal Representative

TRUE

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 000612

Dennis Jacobsen Decedent

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

Teresa McCauley, whose address is 56 Johnson Rd., Pasadena MD 21122, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Dennis Jacobsen who died on April 28, 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 11/25/2023. 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 11/25/2023, 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:

5/25/2023

Teresa McCauley

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 575

Paulette Lyon Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Kevin Andre Lyon, whose address is 7408 Mulberry Grove Drive, Elkridge, MD 21075, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Paulette Lyon who died on 5/11/2022 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/25/2023. 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 11/25/2023, 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: 5/25/2023

Kevin Andre Lyon Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA IN THE FAMILY COURT OF THE NINTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF CHARLESTON

DOCKET NO.: 2023-DR-10-0785

Notice of Adoption ProceedingS

TO THE DEFENDANT: John Doe, Birth Father YOU ARE HEREBY

GIVEN THE FOLLOWING NOTICE:

1. That an adoption proceeding was filed in the Family Court of Charleston County on March 15, 2023, and in this Complaint, you are alleged to be the father of an African-American male child born in Alexandria, Virginia on March 6, 2023. 2.

That the Plaintiffs in the above captioned Notice are not named for the purpose of confidentiality; however, the Court knows the true identity of the Plaintiffs and in responding to this notice, you are required to use the caption and the number 2023-DR-10-0785. 3. That if Notice to Contest, Intervene or otherwise Respond is filed by you with the Court within thirty (30) days of the receipt of this Notice of Adoption Proceedings, you will be given an opportunity to appear and be heard on the merits of the adoption. To file notice to Contest, Intervene or otherwise Respond in this action, you must notify the above named Court at Charleston County Courthouse, Clerk of Court Charleston County Family Court, 100 Broad Street, Charleston, South Carolina 29401 in writing of your intention to Contest, Intervene or otherwise Respond. The above-named Court must be informed of your current address and any changes of your address during the adoption proceedings.4.

That your failure to respond within thirty (30) days of receipt of this Notice of Adoption Proceedings constitutes your consent to the adoption and forfeiture of all of your rights and obligations to the above identified child. It is further alleged that your consent to this adoption is not required under S.C. Code Ann. Section 63-9-310 and that your parental rights should be terminated pursuant to S.C. Code Ann. Section 63-7-2570 (7).This notice is given pursuant to S.C. Code Ann. Section 63-9-730 (E).

Raymond W. Godwin, Esq. (SC Bar #2162)

PO Box 354

Greenville, SC 29602

PH (864) 241-2883

FAX: (864) 255-4342

ATTORNEYS FOR PLAINTIFFS

Date: May 3, 2023

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 375

Mehmet Bajin Decedent

Sean P. Hatley, Esq. 162 West Street Annapolis, Maryland 21401

Attorney

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

Hayriye Ercin, whose address is 1740 Hickory Station Cir., Snellville, Georgia 30078, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mehmet Bajin who died on November 27, 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 12/1/2023. 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 12/1/2023, 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: 6/1/2023

Hayriye Ercin 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 559

Wallace Henry Dews Decedent

Ethel Mitchell 8403 Coleville Road Suite 1100 Silver Spring, MD 20910

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Betty Jean Dews, whose address is 3010 8th Street, SE, Washington, DC 20032, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Wallace Henry Dews who died on June 23, 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 12/1/2023. 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 12/1/2023, 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:

6/1/2023

Betty Jean Dews

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 00598

Barbara Walls Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO

UNKNOWN HEIRS

Claudette Walls, whose address is 14106 Reverend Rainsford Ct., Upper Marlboro MD 20774, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Barbara Walls who died on 1/4/2023 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 12/1/2023. 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 12/1/2023, 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:

6/1/2023

Claudette Walls

Personal Representative

TRUE

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 577

Lois D. Saunders aka

Lois E. Saunders Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO

UNKNOWN HEIRS

Robert Matthew Saunders, Jr., whose address is 2633 Marcey Rd., Arlington, VA 22207, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Lois D. Saunders aka Lois E. Saunders who died on February 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 12/1/2023. 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 12/1/2023, 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: 6/1/2023

Robert Matthew Saunders, Jr. Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION

2023 NRT 000022

Juanita J. Moore

Name of Deceased Settlor

NOTICE OF EXISTENCE OF REVOCABLE TRUST

Juanita J. Moore whose address was 1500 Oates Street, NE, Apt., 3, Washington, DC 20002 created a revocable trust on March 9, 2016, which remained in existence on the date of her death on February 21, 2023, and LaShawn Jackson, whose address is 7801 Regal Court, Clinton, MD 20735, is the currently acting trustee, hereinafter the Trustee. Communications to the Trust should be mailed or directed to LaShawn Jackson at 7801 Regal Court, Clinton, MD 20735.

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

Claims of the deceased settlor’s creditors are barred as against the Trustee and the trust property unless presented to the Trustee at the address provided herein on or before 12/1/2023 (6 month after the date of the first publication of this notice.) An action to contest the validity of this trust must be commenced by the earliest of (1), 2/21/2024 (One year from date of death of deceased settlor) (2), 12/1/2023 (6 months from the date of first publication of this notice) or (3) Ninety days after the Trustee sends the person a copy of the trust instrument and a notice informing the person of the trust’s existence, of the Trustee’s name and address, and of the time allowed for commencing a proceeding.

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

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

Date of First Publication: 6/1/2023

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 000598

Irene Neal Decedent

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

Ivy Neal Turner, Valerie Neal, Annette Neal Miles, whose addresses are 506 Garner Avenue, Waldorf, MD 20602, 2852 Vista St., NE, Washington, DC 20018 and 6114 Cabot St., District Heights, MD 20747, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Irene Neal who died on December 10, 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 12/1/2023. 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 12/1/2023, 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:

6/1/2023

Ivy Neal Turner

Valerie Neal

Annette Neal Miles

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

From that point, she amassed a bevy of television and theatrical acting, singing and director credits, including “The Cosby Show,” “A Raisin in the Sun,” and “Fences.” In 2010, the NAACP named Rashad "The Mother of the Black Community."

Parker, an alumna of Hampton University, has facilitated a slew of diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives at Google that connects HBCU students navigating the tech field and young people living in marginalized communities to coding experts. She told the Informer that Black female representation has increased at the company and her team is on its way to meeting a 2025 goal of a 30% increase in leadership from underrepresented groups.

On Wednesday, Parker and Copeland weighed in on the current state of affairs as it relates to further placing Black women into corporate and artistic spaces. Parker credited the Crown Act as a milestone for Black women who've struggled to wear natural hair in the office. Both women also touted the importance of sisterhood and alliances with other affinity groups, particularly Black men.

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 597

Mustafa Abdul-Rahim Decedent

Robinson Kirlew & Associates 7731 Belle Point Dr. Greenbelt, MD 20781

Attorney

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

Teresa A. Waters, whose address is 507 Main St., Baltimore, MD 21222, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mustafa Abdul-Rahim who died on August 3, 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 12/1/2023. 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 12/1/2023, 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: 6/1/2023

Teresa Waters

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 611

Patricia S. Carroll Decedent

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

Kellie J. Carroll, whose address is 720 Alabama Avenue, SE, Washington, DC 20032, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Patricia S. Carroll who died on November 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 12/1/2023. 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 12/1/2023, 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: 6/1/2023

Kellie J. Carroll Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

Last Will and Testament of KENNETH MICHAEL SIMMONS II© I go by KENNETH R.© declare this to be my Last Will and Testament. I expressly revoke all prior Wills and Codicil. leave all property to KENNETH MICHAEL SIMMONS II TRUST©. KENNETH R.© precisely leaves all property to KENNETH MICHAEL SIMMONS II TRUST© All Rights Reserved Common law .I by Will and Codicil revoke all prior acts I came to claim 2 of my children KENNETH MICHAEL SIMMONS III©, NAJAH KENNA SIMMONS© and denied by Will hereon any Mothers, State, Union, Employee,  Associate,  Agent, Man, Women or child out there for taxing me giving me the authority on how to raise my offspring. I’m a man by plant by seed by blood adoption or marriage. These offspring are inherited to me and I claim them from here on. If any one has a claim higher than me rebut it in the next 21 days or this claim stands and I'm filing this in the local newspaper in the legal section. I claim to be the king of the estate first name KENNETH R. expressly dated. With 2 witnesses by my side I rise to claim all my prizes, possession and reproduction rights. I claim all inherit priority to myself as Man Hood. claim these offspring as mine and I claim all extensions of credit from the cradle to the grave. All extensions of credit exceeding one dollar go back to the man trust in KENNETH R.© name transfer all property to KENNETH MICHAEL SIMMONS II TRUST© for concentration in ten dollars United States stamp and ten dollar piece of silver if anyone wish to rebut it do so under penalty and perjury reasonability like a prudent man otherwise this stands official.

Audience members had a chance to purchase copies of Copeland’s memoir, “The Wind at My Back,” which chronicled Copeland's friendship with the late Raven Wilkinson, the first African-American woman to dance for a major classical ballet company.

The release of Copeland’s memoir follows that of “The Firebird,” a children’s book that was inspired by her relationship with Wilkinson, along with two autobiographies and a documentary.

By the time Copeland became ABT’s first African-American principal dancer in 2015, she had two decades of ballet experience under her belt. Throughout her career, Copeland clinched several accolades, including the Los Angeles Music Center Spotlight Award, given to the best dancer in Southern California.

While with ABT’s Studio Company, Copeland rose through the ranks, starting out as a member and eventually becoming a corps de ballet and soloist. In her years as a soloist, Copeland experienced what experts described as maturation into “a more contemporary and sophisticated dancer.”

WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

out of the labor market without giving any context to the ways the labor market is changing.

Replete with platitudes, Tim dropped clichés like "from victimhood to victory." "I chose personal responsibility over resentment," he said, and engaged in mindless class warfare. Biden, he says, wants to get "mechanics and waitresses" to pay for student loan forgiveness. In his rambling hourlong speech, Scott dusted off every Republican cliché about poor people, Black people and others. And he offered himself up as proof that there is no racism in this country. He can't explain the police killings of Black folks, though he did all he could to block the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act (2020) from passing. His life, he says, proves that opportunity works in America. Clearly he is too myopic to acknowledge that there is not opportunity for

EDELMAN from Page 30

us can be complacent about the growing numbers of book restrictions in school districts and states across the country, including those proposed by uninformed parents who suspect any book written by a Black author or portraying Black history or culture is likely a "hate"-filled threat to their own children's worldview.

The Children's Defense Fund has long championed the opposite belief. Hundreds of college-aged servant leaders are preparing right now for training to teach at CDF Freedom Schools summer programs for children in grades K-12 at sites across the country. These programs are cen-

JEALOUS from Page 30

trolling their damage, plants are forcing Americans to bear higher healthcare costs from coal pollution. We should no longer subsidize coal generation, and the electric bills of some Americans, with the lungs of Americans who live in Tatum or Cheshire, Ohio, or New Madrid, Missouri — anywhere the remaining 158 coal plants operate.

And we don't have to. The cost of coal power generation is rising while the cost of electricity from renewable solar and wind farms is falling steadily. Only one coal

everyone.

If I had a dollar for every time Scott said "radical left" or "left" I'd be dining resplendently this evening. He did a masterful job of tarring the left and making empty promises about what he will do. I'll give him credit for energy and enthusiasm, but look askance at his promise to build up the military so that our allies can "respect" us while our adversaries will "fear" us. Military might, at what cost? Is every military dollar being spent efficiently?

What is Sen. Tim Scott running for? Secretary of Commerce, Labor or Housing and Urban Development? He mentioned his Empowerment Zone legislation (which many say has not yielded great results)? Does he want a role in foreign relations, given his rhetoric about China? Does he want to be Trump's running mate? Or secretary of education ("less CRT and more ABC")? Or is he running for chaplain?

tered around the CDF Freedom Schools' research-based Integrated Reading Curriculum featuring high quality books reflecting a wide variety of cultures, races, and experiences. For some children, it's the first time they've seen books with characters who look like them and share some of the struggles in their lives. It's hard to be what you can't see, and just as children of color need to be able to see themselves in the books they read, all children need to be exposed to a wide range of books that reflect the true diversity of our nation and world as they really are. As one CDF Freedom Schools scholar said, "I see myself and the books give me hope." We believe experiences like

plant nationally operates for less than a clean energy alternative that could replace it. It's one reason why the historic clean economy funding that President Biden and Congress approved in 2021 and 2022 is vital. We have the money to put an end to coal power once and for all.

There are 154 people who live downwind of Martin Lake who can't afford a delay of another year. And 154 the year after that. For them it's a matter of life and death. We have proven ways to make the air cleaner and we have a law that demands that. We need to act now. WI

"Stop cancelling our Founding Fathers," Scott said of the slaveholders who dehumanized million of Black people. "I am the candidate the far left the most," Scott roared. "The truth of my life disrupts their lies," he said. Tim Scott doesn't understand that it's not just about him. The fact that he lives the American dream doesn't mean that millions of others are missing it.

What is Tim Scott running for? I think he is running against a series of simple truths. Our nation is in decline thanks to the culture wars he so willingly participates in. Platitudes and attitudes won't change any of this. As long as Republicans are willing to punish the poor, restrict women's right to choose, and improve our education, we will keep spiraling downward. And the scripture-quoting man needs to understand that Bible-thumping is not public policy and faith without works is dead (James 2:26). WI

these should be encouraged for all children. During National Reading Month the CDF Freedom Schools program created a list of "Banned Books We Love," a five-week curriculum of excellent diverse books for every reading level from K through 12th. Now is the time to add some of them to the summer reading list in your home this year! Children everywhere deserve the chance to find and choose books that will allow them to see themselves, understand what they have in common with others, and give them hope. As Amanda Gorman also wrote, "Together, this is a hill we won't just climb, but a hill we will conquer."

WI There are 154 people who live downwind of Martin Lake who can't afford a delay of another year. And 154 the year after that.

WILLIAMS from Page 31

ests of the "innocent."

The travel advisory that we must undertake is one of intelligent research and uncompromising principles. Our first consideration must be how and where we spend our money. At what hotel will we stay? At which restaurant will we eat? What entertainment venues will we visit? Our choices will determine whether our dollars support our interests or the interests of Trumpism/DeSantism. Regardless of the circumstance or condition, we must make the con-

scious choice to spend our dollars where they do us no harm.

Past patronage is meaningless. A business can make/serve/have the best fill-in-the-blank ever made, but if as you enter the business, you see a symbol such as a proTrump or pro-DeSantis poster/ banner, you MUST turn around and leave as though the poster read: KLAN RALLY AHEAD –ENTER AT YOUR OWN RISK!!

If there are no symbols or if no business position on the Trump/ DeSantis policies has been officially established – ASK! This might make you uncomfortable,

but the discomfort is temporary while the result of inaction might be discomfort for your children or grandchildren. Local organizations can simplify this process by identifying local businesses which support or reject the principles of discrimination.

No such initiative can be comfortable, painless, or immediately resolve the challenge. There are no guarantees that it can be accomplished without casualties. The only certainty is that it cannot be accomplished without commitment!

MORIAL from Page 31

The National Urban League has taken its own steps to prepare Black communities for a renewable future. Our Chicago Urban League affiliate created a Solar Energy Jobs Training Program where they utilize classroom trainings and hands-on lab activities to prepare students for work in the solar industry. They also conduct a Solar Sales and Finance course that covers the most critical concepts in evaluating a renewable energy project.

The National Urban League wants to see Black businesses and

JACKSON from Page 31

a roll back of Biden's initiatives to reduce the price of drugs — a gift to the Big Pharma lobby. They even want to roll back funding for the IRS to crack down on tax avoidance and fraud by the wealthy — which would provide billions for deficit reduction.

To add insult to injury, they can't even agree if they want to negotiate. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy has insisted on a negotiated deal before raising the debt ceiling. But the House Freedom Caucus — dozens of members who were key to his election as speaker — demand no negotiations — calling for default unless their entire program is accepted, including measures that they couldn't even get through the Republican House.

The House zealots are emboldened by Donald Trump who argues they should just default on the debt if they

workers participate in the economic opportunity that renewable energy investments are creating. As the eminent threats of climate change continues to loom, we can no longer afford to ignore it. We

WI ly improve air and water quality, lower electrical bills, and create new career opportunities – all factors that will greatly improve the quality of life of the nation's most underserved communities.

have an opportunity to realize the clean energy transition in a way that creates a more inclusive and equitable economy, but we need to implement bold and innovative ideas to be part of it. WI

The National Urban League has taken its own steps to prepare Black communities for a renewable future. Our Chicago Urban League affiliate created a Solar Energy Jobs Training Program where they utilize classroom trainings and hands-on lab activities to prepare students for work in the solar industry.

don't get their way. He clearly figures that if they blow up the economy under Biden, he will benefit politically. Remarkably, the supposed Republican adults in the room — Senate leader Mitch McConnell, former Wall Street mogul Sen. Mitt Romney, presidential wannabes, including Sens. Tim Scott, Josh Hawley, Ted Cruz — are AWOL — absent without leave.

President Biden initially said that while he was prepared to negotiate over next year's budget to increase deficit reduction, he wasn't going to give into extortion over debt default. Then he foolishly agreed to negotiations, only to see the Republican extremists in the so-called "Freedom Caucus" demand an end to negotiations and capitulation to their full wish list. Inevitably, the more he bends, the more they demand — even though their demands are offensive to the vast majority of Americans.

It is preposterous to empower the zaniest extremists of the House with the power to default on the national debt, tank the stock market, discredit the dollar and drive the economy into a recession or worse unless they get their way.

There is an alternative. The 14th Amendment to the Constitution — passed at the end of the Civil War — provides that the "validity of the public debt of the United States, authorized by law … shall not be questioned."

It is time for President Biden to stand up for the good faith and credit of this country. He should invoke the 14th Amendment, denounce the extortion over the debt ceiling as a violation of that constitutional pledge, and instruct the Treasury secretary to pay America's debts. Republicans will howl and stomp and go to court. So be it. Better that than to enable fools and zealots to hold the country hostage. WI

WHERE THE MONEY GOES.

Thanks to the support of our players, the Maryland Lottery set all-time records in Fiscal Year 2022. The Lottery awarded nearly $1.7 billion in prizes and contributed nearly $673.7 million to support Maryland’s schools, public health and safety programs and the environment. Not bad. We’d like to think we generated a few million smiles as well. Please