The Washington Informer - June 6, 2024

Guilty: Former President Trump Convicted on All 34 Felony Counts

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

In a historic and dramatic moment, the jury in New York delivered a resounding verdict last Thursday, finding former President Donald Trump guilty on all 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. This unprecedented decision marks the first time in American history that a former president has been convicted of criminal charges.

A hush fell over the courtroom late in

the afternoon as the jury handed Judge Juan M. Merchan a note.

“We the jury have a verdict. We would like an extra 30 minutes to fill out the forms if that’d be possible,” the note read.

The jury deliberated for 9.5 hours over two days after a three-week trial.

The twice-impeached, four-times indicted, and now convicted Trump faced charges connected to a $130,000 hush-money

TRUMP Page 16

In D.C. Council Races, Incumbents Hold Seats and Ward 7 Race Not Yet Determined

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

June 4 marked the end of a primary election season that Washingtonians will be talking about for years to come.

That’s because, after much mudslinging and backbiting, three incumbent D.C. Council members staved off opposition while a Ward 7 politico inched closer to securing a highly cov-

In Face of Budget Cuts, Grassroots Organizers Fight for Investments Delays

eted council seat by a narrow margin. Wendell Felder, a millennial and political maven, rose to the top of the Ward 7 council race, accumulating 22.9% of the vote. Ebony Payne, a political novice and one of four favored to win, came in a close second with 20.07%.

As of Wednesday, the Ward 7 race has not been officially called. On Tuesday night, Felder celebrated his electoral victory on East Capitol Street at D.C. Capitol Square Bar

and Reserves Replenishment Complicate Budget Process

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

In the days leading up to April 3, when Fiscal Year 2025 budget deliberations are expected to start, District res-

idents continue to question what will become of essential services and safety nets they depend on to stay afloat in an expensive city.

Southeast resident and community organizer Charnal

Chaney said the people living in her community need such investments at a time when she’s starting to see some positive changes.

BUDGET Page 46

String of D.C. Jail Deaths Spark Fury about Pre-Trial Detention

One Family Member to Explore Legal Action

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

Since the beginning of the year, the D.C. Corrections Information Council (CIC) has reported at least five resident deaths at D.C Jail, including that of a Black woman who died during Mother's Day weekend under circumstances that hav-

en't been publicized.

As grassroots organizers coalesce around demands for transparency, and ultimately the abolishment of pre-trial detention, at least one person has hinted at the possibility of legal action to be taken against the D.C. Department of Corrections (DOC).

“They’re not monitoring people DC JAIL Page 46

5Qiana Johnson, Harriet’s Wildest Dreams’ co-founder and conductor of legal defense, is working to combat resident deaths in the D.C. Jail. (WI File Photo/ Anthony Tilghman)

5Former President Donald Trump was found guilty on all 34 felony counts of falsifying business records last Wednesday. (Courtesy Photo)

3Wendell Felder, a millennial and political maven, rose to the top of the Ward 7 council race, accumulating 22.9% of the vote. (An-

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wi hot topics

STACY M. BROWN, WI SENIOR WRITER

Biden and Harris Urgently Engage Black Voters in Philadelphia

President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris launched an aggressive campaign to engage Black voters during a visit to Philadelphia on Wednesday. They pledged significant investments in Black student organizations, community groups, and faith centers across the country. Despite a rocky start with Black-owned media outlets, the event aimed to solidify their support among Black Americans for the 2024 election.

In a rare duel event, Biden and Harris highlighted Black voters’ crucial role in their 2020 victory and vowed to prevent former President Donald Trump from reclaiming the White House.

“Because Black Americans voted in 2020, Kamala and I are president and vice president of the United States. Because you voted, Donald Trump is the defeated former president,” Biden declared. “With your vote in 2024, we’re going to make Donald Trump a loser again.”

Harris echoed that sentiment, thanking the “city of

Federal

brotherly love” for contributing to their election four years ago.

“In 2020, Black voters in Philadelphia and across our nation helped President Biden and me win the White House,” she asserted. “Yes, you did. And in 2024, with your voice and your power, we will win again.”

Biden outlined his administration’s achievements in promoting racial equality, including: appointing Ketanji Brown Jackson as the first Black Supreme Court Justice; appointing more Black women to federal circuit courts than all previous presidents combined; maintaining low unemployment rates; reducing the racial wealth gap; addressing housing appraisal disparities; removing lead pipes; increasing access to affordable high-speed internet; and expanding Obamacare.

Reflecting on the COVID-19 pandemic, Biden reminded the audience of the administration’s efforts to manage the crisis, contrasting it with Trump’s handling.

Read more on washingtoninformer.com WI

Investigation into Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Intensifies with Grand Jury Preparations

Federal investigators are poised to present accusers of music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs to a federal grand jury, signaling that the U.S. Justice Department may be moving toward seeking an indictment. CNN reported that sources familiar with the probe have confirmed that potential witnesses have been informed they may need to testify before a federal grand jury in New York City.

This step marks a significant escalation in the ongoing investigation involving the prominent producer and founder of Bad Boy Records. Since November, Combs has been implicated in eight civil lawsuits, seven of which directly accuse him of sexual assault. The eighth lawsuit accuses his son, Christian Combs, of sexual assault, with Sean Combs allegedly aiding and abetting.

CNN reported that their sources indicate that investigators are still gathering evidence and have not yet prepared witnesses for testimony, suggesting a meticulous and thorough approach. A DOJ spokesperson declined comment when contacted by the Black Press of America.

The investigation into Combs’ activities became public in March when federal agents searched his homes in Los Angeles and Miami. According to initial reports, a Department of Homeland Security team investigating human trafficking

MLB Integrates Negro Leagues Stats, Elevating Long-Overlooked Stars to Major League Status

Major League Baseball (MLB) has taken a historic step to rectify a long-standing oversight by officially incorporating Negro Leagues statistics into its historical record. Starting today, the achievements of approximately 2,300 Negro Leagues players will be recognized alongside those of MLB legends like Babe Ruth and Ty Cobb.

For decades, Babe Ruth and Ty Cobb were celebrated as the greatest figures in baseball, with Ruth hailed as the best player and Cobb as the premier hitter. However, these narratives often excluded African American athletes whose contributions were underreported or dismissed. This exclusion persisted despite the talents that led to Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier in 1947 as the first Black player in the modern Major Leagues.

MLB Commissioner Robert Manfred announced this significant change three years ago, emphasizing the league’s commitment to correcting a historical wrong by elevating the Negro Leagues to “Major League” status. John Thorn, an MLB historian, and the Negro Leagues

Statistical Review Committee have been responsible for the meticulous process of officially incorporating Negro Leagues stats into MLB records. The team has been reviewing thousands of box scores and other historical data to integrate the statistics of the seven Negro Leagues into MLB’s database.

Josh Gibson, a standout in the Negro Leagues, will now lead multiple batting categories. His career batting average, slugging percentage, and on-base plus slugging (OPS) surpass those of Ty Cobb and Babe Ruth. While some of Gibson’s legendary feats, such as the nearly 800 home runs mentioned on his Hall of Fame plaque, will not be included, many of his official stats will now be recognized.

Thorn hailed the decision as “not only righting a social, cultural, and historical wrong, it’s defining baseball as a game for Americans without exclusion.”

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

WI

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

5Sean “Diddy” Combs (WI File Photo)

D.C. Agencies Struggle to Identify and Support Vulnerable Crossover Youth, New Report Reveals

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

According to a new report from the Office of the D.C. Auditor (ODCA), it is difficult for D.C. leaders to identify and support young people involved in both the child welfare and juvenile justice systems, making it difficult to coordinate services for these vulnerable “crossover youth.”

The 125-page report, titled “A Broken Web: Improved Interagency Collaboration is Needed for D.C.’s Crossover Youth,” highlights significant gaps in the District’s ability to serve the young residents, who are at risk of becoming victims or perpetrators of violence.

Despite the recent focus on illegal behavior by young people in D.C., there is little understanding of the life experiences of crossover youth. The report noted that these young individuals often enter the child welfare system due to abuse or neglect and subsequently engage in delinquent behavior, resulting in involvement with both systems.

“Our child welfare and juvenile justice agencies have a real opportunity to lead in the creation of a system that supports our crossover youth and improves the lives of our most vulnerable young people,” said D.C. Auditor Kathy Patterson.

The Child and Family Services

HOT TOPICS from Page 4

also looked into sex trafficking. Law enforcement sources later revealed that the investigation extends to allegations of money laundering and illegal drug activities.

Federal investigators have spoken with numerous plaintiffs in the civil suits filed against Combs since the searches. Combs publicly denied many allegations, labeling them as extortion attempts. In December 2023, after facing four lawsuits, Combs posted a vehement denial on social media, describing the accusations as “sickening” and asserting, “I did not do any of the awful things being alleged.”

The civil suits against Combs contain serious allegations. Former girl-

Agency (CFSA) and the Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services (DYRS) need to work together more effectively, according to the report that ODCA commissioned and researched by the Council for Court Excellence (CCE), a nonprofit organization in Washington, D.C.

Key findings from the report include:

• CFSA and DYRS do not consistently define crossover youth as per the D.C. Code, leading to an incomplete identification of this population.

• Each agency needs to identify crossover youth in their guiding documents, data management systems, policies, or practices and recognize the unique needs of these youths.

• There needs to be more communication, collaboration, and data-sharing between agencies regarding crossover youth in D.C.

The comprehensive report includes 25 recommendations to improve the coordination between CFSA and DYRS and align programming and approaches to serve crossover youth better.

Key recommendations include:

• Providing requested data on crossover youth to the Ombudsperson for Children (OFC) for annual reporting.

• Including priorities focused on crossover youth in future stra-

friend Cassie Ventura filed and later settled a lawsuit alleging sexual assault.

At least one male sex worker has been questioned, claiming victimization by Combs. According to reports, investigators’ footage shows this person. Some lawsuits allege that Combs recorded sexual encounters without the participants’ consent.

While Combs has not explicitly addressed these claims, he has broadly denied all alleged wrongdoing.

Accusers who have spoken to federal agents have reportedly cooperated, providing evidence they believe is relevant to the investigation. New individuals, including those who can corroborate the accusers’ claims, are also being questioned. WI

tegic plans.

• Flagging a youth’s crossover status in case management systems.

Youth enter the child welfare system following substantiated reports of maltreatment, such as neglect or abuse, and may cross over to the delinquency system when they engage in illegal behavior or status offenses like truancy.

Child development experts note that the trauma from maltreatment can lead to delinquent behavior, with research indicating that higher exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) increases the likelihood of serious delinquency.

While there is no national data on crossover youth, estimates suggest that around 30% of youth in the child welfare system become involved in the delinquency system, with some jurisdictions reporting up to two-thirds crossover

rates. The authors determined that social factors such as poverty further increase the risk of involvement in both systems.

The report underscored the lack of a unified approach in D.C. to address the needs of crossover youth, resulting in inadequate identification, coordination, and programming for these young people. Enhanced collaboration be-

tween key youth-serving agencies and relevant federal and state partners is crucial for helping crossover youth thrive and preventing future delinquency.

“CFSA, DYRS, and the District have a real opportunity to create a system that truly supports crossover youth, improving the lives of

5A new report from the D.C. Auditor reveals it is difficult for District leaders to identify and support young people involved in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems. (Courtesy Photo/OCDA Report)

AROUND THE REGION

black facts

JUNE 6

1944 – Tommie Smith, an American track and field gold medalist at the 1968 Olympics who raised a Black gloved fist with fellow Black American John Carlos, is born. 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.

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.

JUNE 8

1953 – The Supreme Court rules that restaurants and bars in Washington, D.C., are required to serve African American customers.

JUNE 9

1845 – Businessman and politician James Napier, who served as Register of the U.S. Treasury under President William Taft, is born.

1934 – Legendary soul singer Jackie Wilson is born in Detroit.

JUNE 6 - 12, 2024

SOURCE: BLACK AMERICA WEB

Hattie McDaniel, who in 1940 was the first African American to win an Oscar for her role as Mammy in "Gone With the Wind," is born.

Jack Johnson, the first African American world heavyweight champion, dies.

, Trinidadian-born jazz and classical pianist/singer who in 1950 became the first woman of color to have her own TV show, is born.

1963 – Vivian Malone and James Hood are the first two African American students to enroll at the all-white University of Alabama, over the objections of segregationist Gov. George Wallace, who stood in a doorway in an attempt to block the two students from enrolling.

South African anti-apartheid activist and human Nelson Mandela is convicted of conspiracy to overthrow the government. He was sentenced to life imprisonment and remained jailed until his release in 1990.

1930 – Barbara Clementine Harris, the first woman ordained a bishop in the Anglican Communion, is born. 1963 – Medgar Evers, civil rights leader and NAACP field secretary, is assassinated by a white segregationist in front of his Jackson, Mississippi, home. In the wake of the Brown v. Board of Education ruling, Evers had fought to help overturn segregation at the University of Mississippi and gain social justice and voting rights.

PHYLICIA RASHAD

AROUND THE REGION

view

BY SARAFINA WRIGHT

Simone Biles made history at the US Gymnastics Championships on Sunday, winning a ninth all-around national title ahead of the Paris Olympic games.

ANITA WILLIS / WASHINGTON, D.C.

CHARDAE GOLDING / BOSTON, MASS.

She’s been the one and always will be. I love that for her and for us. She literally owns gymnastics. Goat!

I love seeing her soar. May she accomplish all that God has for her.

DANITA CHAMBERS / EVANSVILLE, IND.

Great job, Simone. She’s amazing. Bring home the gold!

PATRICIA HUSBANDS / WASHINGTON, D.C.

Congratulations to my girl! Well done, and keep up the good work!

SARA CADE / HOOVER, ALA.

She makes it look so easy. Gosh, she’s incredible!

Our staff is made up of writers, just like you. We are dedicated to making publishing dreams come true. Trusted by authors for nearly 100 years, Dorrance has made countless authors’ dreams come true.

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This D.C.-Based Nigerian Singer is All About Music Rights, Unity

TolumiDE Advocates for Music Rights on Capitol Hill, Promotes Unity Through Music

By Eden Harris WI Contributing Writer

Tolu “TolumiDE” Yeboah, a Nigerian singer-songwriter and governor of the Recording Academy Washington, D.C. Chapter, is on a mission to advocate for artists' rights in the face of fast-advancing artificial intelligence (AI).

“There's always something to address to just help sustain this music community, to make sure the arts still has integrity, and there’s a good fair share, in regards to the pay, in regards to making sure credit is kept intact,” she told The Washington Informer.

As a leader at the local chapter, TolumiDe participated in the Academy's annual Grammys on the Hill advocacy activities in May. She told The Washington Informer that artists are concerned about "predators” if protections aren't put in place by Congressional leaders.

For instance, AI has the ability to replicate an artist’s voice and sell it without the creator’s permission or adequate compensation.

"You leave room as the artist and the creator to really hurt financially and room for someone to be able to take your work and reproduce it without you getting

anything," TolumiDE said. A case that explains ToumiDE’s concerns is already underway. On May 16, in the United States District Court’s Southern District of New York, a 37-page class action lawsuit alleged Lovo, Inc., an AI voice company, used "millions of voice-over productions—without permission or proper compensation."

Despite mounting fear of the unauthorized use of AI, TolumiDE said she is "hopeful" for the future as artists collaborate, brainstorm and proactively address and present concerns to lawmakers. These efforts, she told The Informer, aim to provide assistance and implement measures that mitigate potential threats to creative individuals.

Tackling AI has become a bipartisan matter with both parties from across the aisle corralling to protect consumers. Representatives Anna G. Eshoo, a Democrat from California, and Neal Dunn, a Republican from Florida, introduced the Protecting Consumers from Deceptive AI Act. This bill requires a label to be added on deepfakes, the AI that uses individual likenesses often to deceive or spread misinformation.

“AI-generated content has become so convincing that consumers need help to identify what they’re looking at and engaging with online,” Eshoo said in a statement, with Dunn adding in part, “The rise of innovation in the world of artificial intelligence is exciting; however, it has potential to do some major harm if left in the wrong hands.”

BEYOND ADVOCACY STRAIGHT TO THE HEART OF MUSIC

When TolumiDE isn't advocating for musicians' rights, she's working on her craft outside of her job as a full-time graphic designer. She has performed at many places in Washington, D.C., such as the Nigerian embassy and Blues Alley, and is gearing up for her show at the Carlyle Room on June 13 at 7:30 p.m.

She said her dream is to one day perform at the Kennedy Center, but until then, she has been promoting her single titled "Throwback," which was shot in Lagos, Nigeria.

It explores the concept of revisiting a time as a kid when she had minimal concerns and didn't require much to have a "good time."

"It was really just me flipping through all my old photos and videos and just feeling really happy about some of the experiences I've had," she said. "Joy is my wealth. I'm rich because I have joy...I backtracked to the good old days when I didn't have any bills... before we were all grown and now have so many cares in the world."

A DIFFERENT KIND OF AFROBEATS

"Suya Soul" is what TolumiDE calls her music genre, describing it as a blend of Afropop, Soul and R&B.

"It's a subset of Afrobeats," she added.

5Tolu “TolumiDE” Yeboah in front of Carlyle Room in Washington, D.C. on May 23. (Eden Harris/ The Washington Informer)

AROUND THE REGION

Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation Symposium Promotes

Accessible Mental Wellness

By Micha Green and Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Managing Editor and WI Health Writer

When DMV native and Oscar-nominated actress Taraji P. Henson founded the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation (BLHF) about six years ago, she had no idea how dire the organization’s free mental health services would be during and beyond the COVID-19 pandemic. Henson just knew she had a God-given call to help people to prioritize self-care and wellness.

“We couldn’t have planned it. We didn’t know the pandemic was coming but God did. That’s why he put our steps in order, so when that thing hit, the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation was right there.” Henson said at a press conference during the foundation’s “Can We Talk? 2024 Symposium” hosted at the Gaylord National Harbor on May 30-31.

The two-day event included workshops, conversations and insights from celebrities such as actor and D.C. native Lamman Rucker and Real Housewives of Potomac star Ashley Silva. The conference and celebration also featured local community, health and political leaders such as Prince George’s County Councilmember Edward Burroughs III (D-District 8) and the Rev. Tony Lee of Community of Hope AME Church, and wrapped with a 90s themed rooftop bash.

For the BLHF, making mental health accessible for all people is the key. The “Can We Talk? Symposium” furthers the foundation’s mission of meeting people where they are in terms of discussing mental health.

“We started this to really look at how we can eradicate the stigma around mental health. So we know in the Black community this has been a hush-hush taboo for so many years, and for very good reason. We don’t trust folk that we’re talking to because sometimes we’re demonized for talking about our issues and our problems, or we’re misdiagnosed,” BLHF Executive Director Tracie Jade Jenkins told The Informer on WIN-TV’s “Let’s Talk.” “We look

to give free support, whether it is therapy, or if folks need education around mental health, we provide those services for the community. And we are thankful that more people are talking about it now than ever before.”

Nana Malaya Rucker-Oparabea, told The Informer she had a lot of reasons to show up to the symposium, and particularly noted her pride in seeing all BLHF is doing to help raise awareness about mental health in the community.

“Mental wellness is so important– that we talk about it, but also that we do something about it– and this event is all for that purpose. I’m also here because I’m a celebrity mom. Lamman Rucker is my son and one of the featured speakers for this event. Taraji is like a daughter to me and Tracie also as well, another Duke Ellington alum. So many reasons to come, and when I see other people that I know here, because this is an issue that’s important for everybody in every area,” she said.

Rucker-Oparabea unpacked some of the conversations discussed at the symposium, further emphasizing the need to talk out issues in order to grow.

“Oftentimes it’s not something that’s spoken about, and today we talked about not living in fear, but recognizing that our strength lies in not just being strong, but in the vulnerability of what we open up to, to make sure we can move through it, to our wellness.”

DIGGING INTO RADICAL ATTUNEMENT, TALKING TO YOUTH ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH

Over the past year, the foundation has emphasized tapping into “joy” as a means of promoting positive mental wellness.

This year’s “Can We Talk?” theme, “Radical Attunement,” dug deeper into the mission of finding joy and spreading it with others. We need [radical attunement] and we need it now. Don’t you think? Look at the world. I think

I can say that I’ve lived to see the tipping point,” Henson said. “In the darkness, we can be the light, and I think that’s the test for us, and that’s why we keep stressing ‘choose joy,’ because you have to, or you’re going to die.”

D.C. native Dr. Ashley Elliott, also known as “Dr. Vivid,” considered why the notion of “radical attunement,” is so important and emphasized the need for people, particularly Black women, to incorporate it into their daily lives and practices.

“Radical attunement, especially as a Black woman in this current, socio-political time is the dopest thing you can yell out. It’s a real warcry, because to really be engaged with yourself and achieve attunement, you’ve got to be radical, you can’t be passive. So this message, this symposium is timely, it’s important, and reminding us everyday that we have to stand 10 toes down on what’s going to make us our best selves and our healthiest selves,” Elliott explained.

This year, BLHF invited young people from local high schools to take part in the symposium workshops and festivities.

Crossland High School sophomore Omari Barnes participated in a poetry workshop and left empowered. He shared what he learned about radical attunement in the process.

“Radical attunement means to me being involved, being present in the moment. Being present in the moment can mean many things. It can mean looking after a friend, it can mean putting the phone down, it could be going for a walk,” the 10th grader said. “It’s all about the steps you take to preserve your mental health, to find your safe space and to promote peace and the peace of others.”

Councilmember Burroughs explained why it’s important to ensure young people are part of the mental health conversation.

“When you look at the challenges that we’re experiencing in the County, mental health is at the top of the list. When you look at crime, CAN WE TALK Page 23

5Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation (BLHF) Executive Director Tracie Jade Jenkins, Actor Lamman Rucker, actress and BLHF founder Taraji P. Henson, Dr. Anita Phillips, and the Rev. Tony Lee in a panel during the “Can We Talk? 2024 Symposium” at the Gaylord National Harbor on May 31. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

AROUND THE REGION

Clarice Angelique Williams, the daughter of fallen firefighter John T. Williams, poses with members of the past and present of D.C. Fire Department after the Memorial Helmet Project unveiling ceremony on Tuesday, May 28 at the intersections of 14th and H Streets NW. (Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

AROUND THE REGION

Arena Stage Gala Welcomes Hana Sharif, Exudes Black Girl Magic

By Micha Green WI Managing Editor

In a creative celebration of theatre, improving access to the arts, and fostering the next generation of theatremakers, Arena Stage’s gala on May 22 was not only a party with a purpose, but a powerful showcasing of the strength, beauty and breadth of Black Girl Magic.

Let’s first set the scene. Guests stepped into Arena’s Mead Center for American Theatre where a diverse crowd of District arts lovers donned fancy clothes, and gathered to honor the Honorable Marcia Fudge, listen to the entertaining quips of Symone Sanders-Townsend, who served as mistress of ceremonies, welcome the theatre’s new artistic director Hana Sharif, and witness actress and singer Patina Miller bring down the house.

Last year, Arena Stage announced Sharif would step into the role of artistic director, filling the shoes of Molly Smith, the celebrated 25-year leader of the arts organization, who helped construct the very building where the 2024 gala was hosted.

Event co-chair Alethia Jackson, who served on the search committee to find Arena’s next artistic director, explained her excitement for having Sharif join the more than 70-year-old District arts organization.

“As we sat in the selection committee, we met Hana. Her breadth of experience in American theatre, her leadership and ability to proficiently communicate her vision for new artistic directors and radical access to the healing power of theatre, we knew we had found the one. Hana believes that theatre should not live just within these walls, but if done right, should permeate throughout the community, the city and the nation,” Jackson said of Sharif, who previously served at the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis.

In her opening remarks, Jackson shared Sharif’s strong belief in theatre as a lifeline and emphasized her notion in its power to bridge the past, present and future, and offer audiences “new ideas, wild dreams, and even sometimes harsh realities.”

“We talked to Hana for several hours, and at the end she asked, ‘Do you have any more questions?’ I just sat and thought, honey you had me

5Arena Stage hosted its gala on May 22. A party with a purpose, part of the event celebrated the new leadership of Artistic Director Hana Sharif. (WI File Photo/Matthew Bailey)

at ‘hello,’”Jackson said. “We are so excited to have Hana. She’s exactly what we’re looking for.”

In her first gala since becoming Arena’s artistic director, Sharif greeted the audience with a dazzling gown, warm smile and determined nature. When an audience member briefly fell just as she was beginning her welcome speech— and others worked to come to the rescue– Sharif summarized exactly what she felt about her first year at Arena.

“I love this community at Arena taking care of each other,” she said.

She thanked Jackson and fellow cochair Nicholas Goad, the Arena Stage Board, including former chairman of the Republican National Committee Michael Steele, and all supporters of the theatre’s efforts.

“I thank you for your partnership, for your advocacy, for your energy.

I thank you for being on the search committee, for finding me and bringing me to this beautiful new home.

It has been a remarkable year and it has been, in no small part, because of you,” she said to Jackson and Goad, before addressing the larger crowd. “Thank you to each and every one of you.”

The thankful Sharif turned the microphone to Sanders-Townsend, who kept the audience entertained with her electric energy, hilarious anecdotes, and constant emphasis on supporting the arts.

“We are here to celebrate Arena Stage’s Community Engagement Department and the life-changing work they do all over the DMV area,” Sand-

ers-Townsend said.

As she encouraged audiences to be generous in their donations, she shared her own life-changing experience with Arena’s programming. Her stepson enrolled in the theatre’s camp last year.

“He’s very artsy, he’s brilliant… but he went to Camp Arena because we wanted him to meet and engage with some other young people that are as creative as he is,” she said. “We knew the babies were somewhere safe, doing artsy, fabulous, mind-blowing things, and were very tired by the time they got home. Okay? The camp works… He’s going back this summer.”

While the audience roared with laughter at the author, barrier-breaking former campaign manager, and television show host, they also happily lifted up their paddles to offer $2500 or more to support “the next generation of theatremakers,” as Sanders-Townsend called the campers.

“Last summer, the camp served 262 campers and they ranged from the ages of 8-16,” she said. “Last year, 31 children attended on scholarships… Here at Arena Stage we believe that finances should not be a barrier to your participation.”

Sanders-Townsend encouraged audiences to consider the talent they could be fostering.

“They might get bit by the acting bug, the theatre bug, and next thing you know they’re the next Patina Miller.”

Read more on washingtoninformer.com WI

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY

Prince George’s County Local Updates

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

UPCOMING DISTRICT HEIGHTS AND CAPITOL HEIGHTS

COMMUNITY DAYS

The towns of District Heights and Capitol Heights are working to offer positive opportunities for youth, families and the community to come together.

District Heights Community Day was held on Saturday, June 1, while Capitol Heights Day, will be held on Saturday, June 15. The festivities in Capitol Heights will begin with a parade through the town from 10 a.m. to noon, followed by a festival in Freedom Square from noon to 4 p.m.

“Having a free public event in my opinion is an excellent way to build community involvement,” said Capitol Heights Councilmember Victor James. “They are designed to bring out all the citizens of the neighborhoods to gather together in the spirit of celebration and fun, build a positive community that encourages neighborly con-

nections, and allow our residents to reflect on our Town’s history, whether it’s good or bad.” WI

DISTRICT HEIGHTS FIRST CITY IN STATE TO USE OPENGOV

District Heights is modernizing their financial accounting technology, and will be the first city in Maryland to use OpenGov to move from paper documents to a cloud-storage system.

"In District Heights, our vision is to provide excellent resident services through cost-efficient, evidence-based programs that are sustainable and accessible,” said District Heights Mayor Cynthia Miller in a statement to publicize the tech overhaul. “Our public servants partner with solutions like OpenGov to help improve the quality of life for our residents. I'm eager to publish our first online, public-facing budget book.”

Disclaimer: Anthony Tilghman, a photographer with The Washington Informer, is an elected official in the City of District Heights.

NEW BLACK-OWNED RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE OPTIONS SOON TO OPEN IN LAUREL

Prince George’s County foodies will be happy to hear of two newly opening eateries in Laurel: Miss Toya’s Southern Kitchen and Skyvibe Restaurant and Lounge.

Miss Toya’s Southern Kitchen, a Black-owned, woman-owned, and family-owned gourmet soul food offering, already had two locations in the Montgomery County and just added Laurel to their list of locations. The menu features chicken

wings, salmon bites, gumbo, and spins on shrimp n’ grits and oxtails. While the downtown DC location focuses on Creole dishes and the Gaithersburg location focuses on soul food, the Laurel location intends to blend Miss Toya’s mastery of both cuisines. Miss Toya’s plans to open the week of Juneteenth.

“I had the pleasure of meeting the owners Miss Toya and Chef Jeffeary Miskiri, who are both exciting and hardworking,” said former Laurel Councilmember Martin Mitchell.

“I’m glad they came to Laurel because I can now get gumbo, shrimp and grits, and so much more comfort food… Miss Toya is a great addition to the Laurel Towne Center and we are so pleased to have another wonderful Black-owned small business come to the city.

Many folks have recognized Laurel as a restaurant paradise because of the many eateries throughout the town. Restaurants like this are necessary and desired in Laurel. We are a majority-minority town now. so there should be a plethora of good homestyle southern cooking spots to indulge in.”

The Skyvibe Restaurant and Lounge held a soft opening on May 31, and are planning for a grand opening on June 21. The rooftop lounge, located on Laurel’s Main Street, will focus on a cozy atmosphere and delicious African cuisine. The project has been underway for

years, and the owners are proud to finally open their doors to the public.

WI

WORLD’S LARGEST BOUNCY HOUSE COMES TO PRINCE GEORGE’S

The world’s largest bouncy house, standing 32 feet tall and covering over 25,000 square feet, will be at Fort Washington’s Rosecroft Raceway until June 9.

While there are no fees to enter the event grounds and witness the marvel, tickets are required to enter the bouncy house. There is also a slide and obstacle course available.

Tickets are $22 for children age 3 or under and their parents or care providers, $38 for children ages 4-15, and $48 for adults-only sessions.

Big Bounce America says the limited time fun, which started May 31, will happen rain or shine unless there is a serious weather emergency such as high winds. All of the attractions at the site have a weight limit of 245 pounds and a height limit of 85 inches.

In addition, for those who can’t visit Fort Washington this weekend, the bouncy house will return to Baltimore in mid-August.

For tickets and more information, visit: thebigbounceamerica.com WI

5 Miss Toya’s Southern Kitchen, which already has two locations in the DMV, plans to open their new Laurel location during the week of Juneteenth. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

5 Adebayo Bello, one of the owners of Skyvibes Lounge, is proud to open the establishment’s doors after years of planning and building on June 21. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

Prince George’s County Political Updates

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY COUNCIL

ADOPTS $5.46

BILLION ANNUAL BUDGET

On May 28, the Prince George’s County Council officially adopted their annual budget for the fiscal year beginning on July 1. This included plugging a $171 million budget deficit, a shortage that is expected to grow going into next year. Some of the biggest factors that caused the deficit were the end of federal pandemic aid, inflation, and reduced home sales.

“The budget, this year and over the next few years, is going to be the biggest challenge facing our county,” said Council Chair Jolene Ivey (D- District 5). “We’ve been committed, in collaboration with County Executive Angela Alsobrooks and her team, to finding responsible solutions to address the shortfall while minimizing impacts on our citizens. The spending plan adopted today reflects our county’s priorities and does not compromise on public safety and education.”

The budget includes $2.8 billion for Prince George’s County Public Schools and $910 million for public safety, representing 62% and 20% of the County’s total spending. Funding to replace Parkdale High School’s de-

cades-old field, recruit new firefighters, and hire more police officers were some additions to the budget.

“It was a challenging budget because we started out with a shortfall of $171 million. Like jurisdictions across the country, Prince George’s County brought in less tax revenue due to higher interest rates reducing real estate sales, we saw the end of pandemic relief funds, and higher costs due to inflation,” said Councilmember Eric Olson (D- District 3) in his newsletter.

“There was not a lot of leeway to add to the budget, but we did make some adjustments.” WI

RESIDENTS RAISE CONCERNS OVER ZONING AND SENIOR TAX CREDIT

As the County Council adopted their new budget, concerned residents gave their feedback on proposed zoning changes and a tax credit that wasn’t included in the budget, but was expected by some seniors who had previously applied for and came to testify on behalf of it.

In a hearing shortly after the budget passed, more than 20 residents who came in to state the burdens shouldered by some county residents, were disappointed to hear that the tax credit, originally sponsored by Councilmember Edward Burroughs III (D-District 8), would

not be included in the budget.

Council Chair Jolene Ivey (DDistrict 5) noted the county’s budget shortfall as the primary reason this program couldn’t be implemented.

“We did pass our budget last week and this was not included; it was impossible as our budget had a $171 million deficit that we had to close,” she said. “We have to be honest about where we are now, and next year’s budget deficit.”

She also noted that Montgomery County and Washington D.C., jurisdictions with higher budgets and similar populations, are able to provide substantially more constituent and governmental services. Councilmember Wala Blegay (D- District 6) and Burroughs both requested to vote on the bill during the hearing, and Deputy Council Administrator Colette Gresham noted that bill votes must happen on legislative days.

A letter, signed by several groups including Sustainable Hyattsville, Con-

cerned Citizens of Prince George’s County District 4, and Friends of Lower Beaverdam Creek, accuses the County Council of adding several amendments to a zoning rewrite that would go against previously stated goals to limit overdevelopment and sprawl, while prioritizing development near regional transit hubs.

“The bill was intended to make technical corrections to the new Zoning Ordinance that the County Council approved in the fall of 2018, and that became effective in April of 2022. Instead, developers and certain council members are attempting to exploit it as a vehicle for even more giveaways and rollbacks for developers,” said Geoffrey Collins of the Route 202 Neighborhood Alliance.

Local blogger and environmentalist Joseph Jakuta also voiced his concerns, namely the lack of public engagement in the proposed changes.

As Prince George’s is unable to raise the property tax above a certain threshold due to TRIM laws passed under former Prince George’s County Executive and Republican Rep. Larry Hogan Sr., there are limited options to raise additional revenue for county spending.

Raising the vacant property tax, selling off excess county property, and business development are a few ideas to fill the budget shortfall without cutting essential government services.

“A vacant property tax is a simple way to provide more incentives to make housing available or build on empty lots. It has the desirable feature that it is relatively simple to administer, since we already have an appraised value on the books,” said Dean Baker, a contributor to “Housing the Nation: Social Equity, Architecture, and the Future of Affordable Housing,” in an exclusive interview with The Informer.

“It's just a question of raising the tax rate, if the property is determined to be vacant. It can also mean additional funds for supporting the construction or renovation of affordable housing,” Baker continued. “This is not a complete answer to the shortage of affordable housing, but it is a step in the right direction that carries no major downsides.” WI

SOUTH COUNTY DEMS HOST UNITY FUNCTION

To help unite Democrats for a contentious general election between Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks (D) and former Governor Larry Hogan (R), the South County Democratic Club (SCDC) is hosting a unity fundraiser on June 8 at 5 p.m. Sheriff John D.B. Carr (D) and Senator C. Anthony Muse (D- District 26) are both being awarded for their community service.

“We'll gather with Democrats for a dynamic evening of unity at an exclusive location,” a social media post from SCDC explained.

Both Alsobrooks and Hogan have family roots in southern Prince George’s and their paths to power came through the County Executive’s office: Alsobrooks was born in Suitland and raised in Camp Springs, while Hogan was raised in Landover. Alsobrooks rose to County Executive after two terms as the State’s Attorney while Hogan’s father served as the Prince George’s County Executive in the 1970s and opposed desegregation via bussing and tax increases to fund new infrastructure.

For more information, including the location of the event, which will be provided upon purchasing tickets, visit southcountydemsclub.com. WI

5 The Prince George’s County Council voted to adopt the budget for FY 2025, beginning on July 1. The budget is $5.46 billion, 1% larger than the previous budget. (Courtesy Photo/Prince George’s County Council)

5 The South County Democratic Club (SCDC) is planning a unity dinner to honor Senator C. Anthony Muse and Sheriff John Carr for June 8. Pictured is SCDC President Courtney Finklea-Green’s March 2023 swearing in. (WI File Photo/Anthony Tilghman)

BUSINESS

By James Wright / WI Staff Writer

TRAYON WHITE LAUNCHES WARD8CIF, ROUND II

D.C. Councilmember Trayon White Sr., (D-Ward 8) launched Round II of the Ward 8 Community Investment Fund (Ward8CIF) that provides startup and working capital to Ward 8 entrepreneurs, at the Sycamore & Oak retail village on the campus of St. Elizabeths East in Southeast’s Congress Heights neighborhood on May 30.

A total of $800 thousand is available through grants and loans, with awards up to $40 thousand announced in July. This round includes a new minigrant opportunity for youth ages 1421 who want to grow their business with funding up to $2K.

The Ward8CIF has a mission to close the 81X racial wealth gap in the District by funding entrepreneurs and to foster a vibrant small

briefs

business economy in Ward 8 as well as to strengthen the ward community through culture building and job creation. Ward 8 businesses receive only 2.3% of all working capital in the District from banks and other financial institutions.

Nonprofits are not eligible for the program. To qualify, possible participants must be a Ward 8 resident-entrepreneurs or business enterprise.

The Ward8CIF is a credit building grant-secured loan program for aspiring or current small business owners. Information sessions and technical assistance are provided.

Ward8CIF partners include White, DC Community Development Consortium, DC Department of Small Local Business Development, LISC DC, Life Asset, Ballard & Spahr, H2DesignBuild and the Ward 8 Arts Collaborative. Go to DCCDC.org to RSVP or apply through June 30.

WI

The District of Columbia Housing Finance Agency (DCHFA) Bid Announcement

The District of Columbia Housing Finance Agency (DCHFA or Agency) is seeking a Contractor to provide an automated Help Desk system to support its IT department in providing efficiency in managing daily tasks The system will serve as the single point of linking users with the IT department, ensuring that different issues and user concerns are quickly addressed and resolved.

Preferences are given to the District’s Certified Business Enterprise companies.

The detailed RFP can be found at www.DCHFA.org/business-opportunities or send email to procurement@dchfa.org.

Deadline for submission of proposals is July 8, 2024 at 2:00 p.m.

PRINCE GEORGE’S TRIPLE-A BOND RATING

Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks announced on May 29 that Fitch, one of the three financial ratings agencies, has maintained the county’s triple-A bond rating and stable economic outlook.

The ratings have also been removed from Under Criteria Observation.

“We are very pleased that Fitch has once again maintained our triple-A rating,” said Alsobrooks in a statement. “Despite our challenges with this year’s budget cycle, this rating is the latest sign that we have fought to maintain the fiscal health of the county. We have made tough choices but have kept our commitment to making the types of investments that will strengthen our county in the long run, and we will continue moving forward with our economic growth strategy and fiscal discipline in our budget so we can maintain our county’s stable economic outlook.”

Fitch cited “the rating reflects the county’s historically strong operating performance supporting its ‘AAA’ financial resilience assessment.”

“The ‘AAA’ assessment reflects a ‘high midrange’ level of budgetary flexibility and Fitch’s expectation that reserves will be maintained at or above 10% of spending (compared to the current 33%).”

Alsobrooks said the triple-A bond rating announcement was timely in

tainment Award

• Kaltun Jama of the Montessori School of Chantilly in Chantilly, Virginia for the Education Award

• Matt Ruck of XOP.AI of Gaitherburg, Maryland receiving the Technology Start-Up Award;

• Scott Dance of District Martial Arts of Arlington, Virginia for the Health & Wellness Award

• Charlene Brown of CNA Simulations in the District for the Medical Technology Award

• Lopaka Purdy and Jocelyn Fontaine of Waldinger Creative Communications, Inc., of Towson, Maryland for the Advertising, Design & Marketing Award

• Yves Rugasaguhunga of PrimECS of Oxon Hill, Maryland getting the Engineering & Construction Management Award.

The honorees credited SCORE mentors for their success.

that she will deliver the county’s State of the Economy address on June 13. WI

12 FIRMS HONORED AT SCORE EVENT

Twelve D.C. area businesses were honored on May 21 at the SCORE Washington D.C annual Client of the Year Awards luncheon.

SCORE Washington DC provides free mentoring, resources, and training to anyone looking to start or grow a business. The celebrated businesses ranged from a comedy production company showcasing diverse voices to a software system training certified nurse assistants to meet the demands of an aging population.

This year’s winners were:

• Caroline Dockery of Categorically Caroline in Manassas, Virginia for the Services Award

• Amanda Preske of Because Science in the District for the Retail Award

• Timothy Zelch of Spine and Orthopedic Solutions of Ashburn, Virginia for the Medical Services Award

• John J. Yim of Intelligence Federal of Vienna, Virginia and Cori Kelly of NATECH of Leesburg, Virginia receiving the Government Contracting Awards

• Kim Levone of Improbable Comedy of Silver Spring, Maryland getting the Arts & Enter-

“I believe that my mentor also deserves an award,” said Brown. “Her insights and coaching kept me focused on business priorities. She supported my vision and helped me to lay the groundwork for an incredible company. I’m grateful to SCORE for bringing us together.”

SCORE CEO Bridget Weston noted in 2023, the Washington, D.C. chapter’s assistance helped to generate 1,222 business openings and 4,100 new jobs in the metropolitan area. For more information about starting or operating a small business, visit SCORE Washington DC at https:// www.score.org/washingtondc. WI

D.C. WELCOMES OVER 29M VISITORS

Destination DC, the official destination marketing organization for the District, announced that 29.95 million people visited the city in 2023.

Last year’s total was up 17% from 2022 and surpassed the pre-pandemic record set in 2019. The new benchmark resulted in a record $10.2 billion in visitor spending and supported a record 102,366 local jobs.

Elliott L. Ferguson II, president, and CEO of DDC, called the figure “a major milestone for Washington, D.C.”

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser said: “Tourism is critical to our city’s vitality, yielding jobs for our residents, dollars for our local businesses and revenues for our investments in a stronger D.C.”

WI @JamesWrightJr10

5D.C. Councilmember Trayon White Sr. represents Ward 8. (WI File Photo/Robert R. Roberts)

Turning Natural Owner Penalized Over $452K for Not Paying Back Taxes

By James Wright WI Staff Writer

D.C. Attorney General Brian L. Schwalb announced on May 30 that Jerri Evans, owner of the Turning Natural juice bar chain, pled guilty in D.C. Superior Court to one criminal count of failure to pay sales tax from 2017-2020, and must pay the District $452,522.07 in back taxes, penalties and interest.

Evans, the owner of three Turning Natural locations in D.C., collected sales tax from customers but failed to remit those funds over to the District as required by law.

“The willful failure to pay taxes when they are due deprives the District of needed revenues,” said Schwalb. “When businesses engage in this type of tax evasion— collecting sales taxes from their customers and then failing to pay them over to the District—they

not only harm the District, but they unfairly give themselves an illegal advantage over their competitors who play by the rules. This conviction should send a strong message to businesses and residents in the District that if you violate the law and cheat on paying taxes, you will be held accountable.”

Keith J. Richardson, deputy chief financial officer for the District’s Office of Tax and Revenue (OTR), said “it is vital that all businesses comply with the tax laws of the District of Columbia.”

“The case of Jerri Evans and her failure to remit collected sales taxes from the Turning Natural juice bars is a serious violation of these laws,” Richardson said. “It is imperative for the integrity of our tax system that all collected taxes are properly turned over to the District as required. This outcome

serves as a reminder that tax compliance is not optional and there are significant consequences for those who fail to meet their obligations.”

An investigation conducted by OTR determined the avoidance of paying sales taxes for the three District locations from tax years 2017-2020. The Office of the Attorney General worked closely with OTR’s Criminal Investigation Division to file criminal charges.

On May 24, Evans pled guilty to tax evasion and eventually entered into a payment plan with an agreement to pay the full amount owed over the next five years. She will serve a suspended sentence with a period of supervised probation to complete community service and pay restitution.

WI

@JamesWrightJr10

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5Jerri Evans is the owner of the Turning Natural juice bar chain in D.C. and Maryland. (Courtesy Photo)

NATIONAL

TRUMP from Page 1

payment made to porn star Stormy Daniels in the days leading up to the 2016 election. The trial featured weeks of tawdry testimony about tabloid deal-making and the alleged sexual encounter between Trump and Daniels. Prosecutors argued that Trump engaged in a fraud against the American people by falsifying records related to the reimbursement of his former lawyer, Michael D. Cohen, who paid Daniels out of his own pocket.

The courtroom was silent as the jury’s verdict was read aloud: “Guilty, guilty, guilty...” repeated 34 times, solidifying the former president's fate. Trump, who is the presumptive Republican presidential nominee for 2024, now faces a potential sentence ranging from probation to four years in prison. His legal team has already indicated plans to appeal, a process that could extend over several years.

After the guilty charges were an-

ELECTION from Page 1

& Grill, just two doors down from where Payne hosted her election night event. His packed-out function attracted a bevy of council members, D.C. government personnel and political insiders, all of whom listened intently to a victory speech laced with acknowledgements, reflections and

nounced, Trump said the trial was “rigged.”

“We will fight for our constitution. This is far from over,” the former president continued.

The conviction has drawn sharp reactions from political figures.

“Today’s verdict out of New York affirms what the Washington State Democratic Party has been saying for more than eight years – Convicted Felon Donald Trump is wholly unfit to lead our nation,” said Shasti Conrad, chair of the Washington State Democratic Party, declared. “His conviction today by a jury of his peers demonstrates the lengths Convicted Felon Trump will go to and the laws he will break to get what he wants – another four years of power at the expense of hard-working Americans.

Conrad said he and the party will continue to resist Donald Trump’s campaign of lies, grift, and autocratic desires with every fiber of our being every minute of every day until the

promises.

“This is our ward and we are truly in this together,” Felder said at the podium right outside of D.C. Capitol Square Bar & Grill. “We knocked on every part of Ward 7 in a seven-month span. We were in the community talking to residents and we heard their concerns.”

Per D.C. Board of Elections, Felder

election is over and we have prevented the end of democracy…again.”

This criminal case is one of four Trump is currently facing, but it is likely the only one that will go to trial before Election Day. Trump faces as much as four years in prison, but because he’s viewed as a first-time offender and the convictions are on low-level felonies, he’ll likely receive probation.

The Rev. Al Sharpton, founder and president of the National Action Network (NAN) said he couldn’t help but think of the Central Park Five,

secured nearly 300 more votes than Payne. Both candidates made significant gains over Eboni-Rose Thompson, Veda Rasheed, Kelvin Brown, Ebbon Allen, Denise Reed, Villareal Johnson, Nate Fleming, and Roscoe Grant, Jr.

Next January, Felder will join D.C. Council members Robert White (D-At-large), Brooke Pinto (D-Ward 2), Janeese Lewis George (D-Ward 4), and Trayon White (D-Ward 8) on the dais. Pinto won re-election unopposed. Like Felder, Lewis George and At-large and Ward 8 Councilmembers White overcame dogged political opposition to secure four more years in the John A. Wilson Building.

As he acknowledged the legacy of his predecessor, D.C. Councilmember Vincent C. Gray (D), Felder told campaign supporters that there was a lot of work ahead.

“We made a lot of promises and I look forward to delivering on them -- like safer streets, economic development, strengthening schools and [helping] senior citizens, and making D.C. government work for you,” he told celebrants.

Santana, and Korey Wise all passed into, day after day, as they endured a show trial for a crime they did not commit. These children had to hear vitriol from people whose anger was incited by a man who spent a small fortune on full-page ads calling for their execution,” said Sharpton in a NAN statement submitted to The Washington Informer. “Now the shoe is on the other foot. Donald Trump is the criminal, and those five men are exonerated. I’m reminded of Dr. King’s proverb that the arc of history is long, but it bends toward justice.”

In this election season, Sharpton offered a call for action.

the group of then 14 and 15-yearolds who Trump infamously called for New York to reinstate the death penalty in order to punish them for allegedly raping a white woman in April 1989. Though they were eventually exonerated of the charges, Trump has yet to apologize for his harsh words.

“I couldn’t help but think throughout this trial of Donald Trump sitting through days of testimony in Manhattan Criminal Court. This is the same building that Antron McCray, Kevin Richardson, Yusef Salaam, Raymond

CANDIDATES CLAMOR FOR WARD 7’S FUTURE

In what’s Ward 7’s most consequential Democratic primary in two decades, voter turnout left much to be desired.

During the early voting period that took place between May 26 and June 2, only 883 voters in Ward 7 cast ballots at either Deanwood Recreation Center, Rosedale Library and Recreation Center, Benning Stoddert Recreation Center and Hillcrest Recreation Center.

Meanwhile, fewer than 200 submitted ballots via dropboxes scattered throughout the ward.

Some candidates, like Rasheed, continued to maintain an upbeat attitude about her neighbors. She told The Informer that she expected voters to come out in droves on Election Day. Throughout the campaign season, Rasheed’s campaign team canvassed through Kingman Park, Mayfair, Marshall Heights, Hillcrest, and other communities.

Rasheed, who spoke to The In-

“What happens next is crucial. We cannot allow the hate speech that Donald Trump spewed in 1989, 2016, or 2024 to be mimicked by those who have stood against his actions. A lot will be said about the first conviction of a former president in our nearly 250-year history. The discourse will carry on for weeks, months, and years. We cannot allow it to be guided by sore winners who gloat over this conviction, when it only stands to ignite the Donald Trumps all over this nation who still want to take us back to the pre-1964 era,” Sharpton said. He encouraged voters to choose “leaders who will protect democracy –not who want to kill it.” WI

former straight from the campaign trail on Monday evening, said she sensed excitement among voters who she encountered. Many of them, she said, expressed an eagerness about her second run for the Ward 7 council seat.

“The endorsement I need is from the people of Ward 7,” Rasheed said. “Most people are familiar with me and know why I'm the most qualified person to do this job. I have faith that my community will choose the right person to bring them to the future.”

Rasheed went on to tell The Informer that she maintains contact with the other candidates mindful of the future work ahead.

“Unity shouldn't be an issue,” she told The Informer. “We all want the best for our families.”

Felder expressed similar thoughts, telling The Informer that he wants to work with whichever of the other candidates are interested in taking Ward 7 to new heights. On Tuesday morning, he counted among the first voters to cast their Election Day bal-

5The Rev. Al Sharpton, founder and president of the National Action Network issued a call to action for American voters after former President Donald Trump was convicted on all 34 felony counts. (WI File Photo/Robert R. Roberts)

5Ward 4 Councilmember Janeese Lewis George (center) accumulated 66.19% of the votes in Tuesday’s primary race. Councilmember Brooke Pinto, Council Chairman Phil Mendelson, and Councilmembers Lewis George, Christina Grant and Charles Allen pose for a group photo at the Ward 4 councilmember’s celebration. (Shervry Lassiter /The Washington Informer)

Black Vote, Black Power

By Keith Boykin Word in Black

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

“Republicans are the party of Abraham Lincoln, but Black people are stuck on the Democratic plantation.” Please stop saying this. Every time someone makes this argument, an angel in heaven loses a few brain cells.

It’s 2024, and Virginia school board members have voted to put the names of Confederate leaders on two public schools. At the same time, the state’s Republican governor, Glenn Youngkin, has still not signed a Democratic bill passed in February to eliminate tax breaks for the United Daughters of the Confederacy.

Meanwhile, in Mississippi, Republican Governor Tate Reeves declared April to be Confederate Heritage Month. In Florida, Republicans are trying to punish local officials who remove Confederate monuments. And in Texas, Republican Governor Greg Abbott has invoked a Confederate theory of secession to justify violating federal law.

After lecturing Black people to “move on” and stop talking about the legacy of slavery, white Republicans just can’t stop celebrating the racist traitors who lost the Civil War nearly 160 years ago.

That’s one of the many reasons why Republicans are no longer the “party of Lincoln.” That par -

ty died long ago.

Republican Abraham Lincoln served as president from 1861 until he was assassinated in 1865. For the next 12 years, Republicans led the fight for Reconstruction, creating the Freedman’s Bureau, passing landmark civil rights legislation, and ratifying the 13th Amendment abolishing slavery, the 14th Amendment guaranteeing citizenship to Black people, and the 15th Amendment granting Black men the right to vote.

Then it all ended.

Nearly the entire history of Republican legislative and policy accomplishments for Black people rests on the four long years of the Civil War and the 12 short years of Reconstruction that followed it.

While many noble Black and white Republicans carried on the cause of racial justice for the next century, the Republican Party itself effectively abandoned Black people with the Compromise of 1877. This act allowed Republican President Rutherford B. Hayes to take office in exchange for the removal of federal troops that protected African Americans in the South.

In the decades that followed, Republican politicians and judges would enable racist Democrats and Ku Klux Klansmen to terrorize Black communities in the South,

5Keith Boykin is a New York Times–bestselling author, TV and film producer, and former CNN political commentator.

BLACK VOTE from Page 17

drive out Black elected officials, and impose an oppressive new racial caste system called Jim Crow segregation. In fact, for most of the 20th century, both parties were openly racist.

It took 100 years after the Civil War for the parties to switch roles when a famous Southern Democrat signed the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and an Arizona Republican condemned it.

So, when Republicans today claim to be the “party of Lincoln,” they want you to focus on what their party did way back in the 1860s and 1870s but ignore what the same party has done since the 1960s and 1970s.

In the past few decades, the Democratic Party delivered the first Black president, the first Black vice president, the first Black woman on the Supreme Court, and the first Black party chairman in American history.

Democrat Barack Obama signed a federal hate crimes law in 2009 after a Black man named James Byrd was murdered by three white supremacists in Texas. And the last major civil rights bill, the Emmett Till

Antilynching Act, was passed by a Democratic Congress and signed by Democratic President Joe Biden in 2022. That’s how far the party has moved from its racist history.

And that’s why no Democratic candidate for president has won the white vote since 1964. Not Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, or Joe Biden.

At the same time, the Republican Party has moved in the other direction, adopting a notorious “Southern strategy” that evolved from loudly using the N-word to quietly deploying “tax cuts” to appeal to white racial resentment. Today’s Republicans love to brag that the Voting Rights Act of 1965 was passed by a bipartisan margin, but it was a Republican Supreme Court that gutted the Voting Rights Act in 2013, and since that time, Republicans have been blocking every effort to renew the very law that they love to take credit for.

And when Obama tried to remove racist Southern Democrat Andrew Jackson from the $20 bill, it was Trump who reversed him. In fact, two of Donald Trump’s first official acts as president were to hang

a portrait of Jackson in the Oval Office and to visit Jackson’s Tennessee slave plantation.

Why would a 21st-century Republican president show so much love for a 19th-century racist Democrat?

It’s the same reason why Trump vetoed a national defense bill so he could preserve a Confederate general’s name on a military base in North Carolina. And why Republicans in 2023 fought to protect a Confederate Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery.

The party of Abraham Lincoln, who once appealed to “the better angels of our nature” and fought the Civil War to preserve the American union, is dead. The party of Donald Trump, who appeals to the worst demons of our disposition, and seeks to destroy the union, is alive and kicking.

Keith Boykin is a New York Times–bestselling author, TV and film producer, and former CNN political commentator.

The post The Party of Lincoln Is Dead appeared first on Word In Black. Read more on washingtoninformer.com. WI

FREE GROCERIES FOR DC SENIORS!

ELECTION from Page 16 lot at Thomas Elementary School on Anacostia Avenue in Northeast.

In recent weeks, Felder received a bevy of endorsements from Gray, Pinto, Ward 8 Councilmember White and D.C. Councilmember Zachary Parker (D-Ward 5).

Former Ward 7 D.C. Councilmember Yvette Alexander, former D.C. Mayor Anthony Williams and Opportunity D.C. also threw their support behind Felder, who took a leave of absence from the presidency of the Ward 7 Democrats earlier this year to run for the Ward 7 D.C. Council seat.

“There's a lot at stake for development, helping longtime residents stay here, and improving the quality of life,” Felder said. “My team and I took nothing for granted. It's vitally important to have relationships on the council to make sure Ward 7 has its fair share.”

The Ward 7 D.C. Council race ramped up earlier this year, shortly after Gray announced that he wouldn’t run for re-election.

For several weeks, candidates and their supporters continued to participate in candidate forums and engage voters and potential voters throughout the ward. In the days leading up to the June 4 primary, Kingman Park and Rosedale counted among hotly contested locations as Payne and Thompson put their feet to the pavement around the newly incorporated part of Ward 7.

On May 30, Payne, an advisory neighborhood commissioner and secretary of Friends of Kingman Park, posted up in front of Rosedale Library and Recreation Center in Northeast with campaign cards in hand. She spent much of that afternoon encour-

aging voters to choose her as the next Ward 7 council member. She later walked along Rosedale Street, where the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) reported two dozen homicides in 2023.

As D.C. Public Library and D.C. Department of General Services gear up for upgrades to Rosedale Library, Payne counts among those demanding that the library not be moved from its current location.

She told The Informer that she would like it to expand in size so it can better accommodate students from nearby Miner Elementary School, Kingman Academy Public Charter School, Monument Academy Public Charter School, and Friendship Blow Pierce Elementary and Middle School.

“We need to make sure we’re thinking of our library system proactively,” she explained, telling The Informer that similar attention needs to be given to Dorothy Height/Benning Neighborhood Library on Benning Road in Northeast.

“I think about the literacy crisis for young learners and adults,” Payne emphasized

Payne, who’s long made food access the cornerstone of her campaign, doubled down on her desire to ensure that Ward 7 residents receive more food options. She said that much of what she heard over the last couple of weeks reaffirmed that goal.

“Safeway [on Alabama Avenue] has expired food and produce,” Payne told The Informer. “It’s really important that we think about economic growth and healthier food options. We need something substantive [through the] expansion of farmers markets.”

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

WI @SamPKCollins

INTERNATIONAL

africa now

COMPILED BY OSWALD T. BROWN, WI CONTRIBUTING WRITER

EA Judicial Officials Discuss Tech Prison Congestion and Solutions to Court Backlog

Use of technology for better dispensation of justice, solutions to common problems like prison congestion and case backlog in courts, as well as improving collective jurisprudence are some of topics that key judicial officials have said East African countries should collaborate to discuss, according to The New Times, Rwanda’s largest daily newspaper, on Sunday, June 2.

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Last week, Justice Olive Kazaarwe Mukwaya, the president of Uganda Judicial Officers Association, had a trip to Rwanda during which she pointed out the benefits of collaboration among respective judicial sectors of East African countries, for better dispensation of justice to people.

While in Rwanda, she met with Chief Justice Faustin Ntezilyayo, and discussed a number of issues focusing on the need for collaboration among countries' judicial sectors.

“We had very useful talks about the state of the judiciary generally, in terms of reforms that are happening, the use of IT, better access to justice, and things like that. But more importantly, one of the key things I heard from him is that he is open to the collaboration among the partner states on judicial matters,” she told The New Times.

Her trip to Rwanda was part of a wider tour she held around various East African countries after assuming the new responsibilities at the helm of the association.

Harrison Mutabazi, the president of Rwanda Judicial Officers Association told The New Times that sharing best practices from respective East African countries is “very pivotal’ in helping local jurisdictions improve access to justice to the people that they account to. Mutabazi said such collaborations are integral in discussing issues that are common in East Africa including backlog and congestion in prisons, as well as learning from each other in regards to use of technology in the judicial sector.

“We are thinking about benchmarking; that is one of the things we are going to be working on. For example, countries have started using electronic case management systems. In Rwanda we are using them, in Tanzania they are using them, and in Kenya too. So, Uganda can learn from us,” he noted.

He also pointed out that Rwanda can learn from Uganda in regards to the use of precedents, a practice that Rwanda has only started recently.

“We have started using precedents but it has not been our law in the past. So, we can benchmark from Uganda; we can benchmark from Kenya; we can benchmark from Tanzania and elsewhere,” he said.

Kazaarwe said that during the talks she had with Ntezilyayo, they discussed access to justice in the region, as well as the new reforms that are being undertaken in various countries.

“He knows that there are gains that can be made especially around our collective jurisprudence. He said there was rich jurisprudence when the community existed the first time before its collapse. Now the challenge for us as partner states is to see that the jurisprudence rises to that level where it was,” she told The New Times. WI

Antigua and Barbuda received high praise from several officials for its hosting of the Fourth Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS4), including Roger Nyhus, United States Ambassador to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, who described the conference as “wildly successful.”

“Our inherited vulnerabilities, characterized by small size, limited financial resources, and constrained human capital, place us at a disadvantage on the global stage, with the scales of equity and justice unevenly balanced against us,” Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, Gaston Browne, who was elected president of the conference, said during his opening speech.

SIDS4 was held from May 27 to May 30, as island nations from around the globe gathered in Antigua and Barbuda to engage in wide-ranging discussions about their future.

Under the theme, “Charting the course toward resilient prosperity," the conference focused on assessing the ability of SIDS to achieve sustainable development, including the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals.

“The world is fast approaching the 1.5 degrees limit that would avoid the worst impacts of global heating,” United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres said at the launch of the event. “Exceeding this limit could trigger multiple climate tipping points with abrupt, irreversible and dangerous impacts for humanity, posing an existential threat to some SIDS.”

At one of the 170 side events that took place at this conference, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley officially launched consultations for the renewed Bridgetown Initiative. Bridgetown 3.0, as it is dubbed, seeks to bring about system change.

She pointed out during a panel discussion that changing the current standards held by the global financial infrastructure is necessary to remedy the problem of lack of access to affordable finance many SIDS still face. This 18-month consultation will focus on securing significant funding for small islands by pushing pivotal reforms in the global financial system. WI

5Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Gaston Browne was elected president of the Fourth Conference on Small Island Developing States. (Courtesy Photo)

Healthy Family Bonding: Low-Cost Summer Activities

Submitted by AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia (DC)

Summer is the perfect time for families to bond and create lasting memories. However, keeping kids entertained can sometimes be a challenge, especially on a budget. Luckily, there are plenty of lowcost activities that can help families stay busy during the summer months.

While the comfort of air conditioning can be enticing during the hot summer months, families can still enjoy a variety of outings that are both fun and affordable, such as:

• Visiting the library. Many libraries offer free or low-cost summer programs for kids, such as story times, crafts, and movie screenings. Check out what your local library has to offer and plan a visit.

• Backyard camping. Camping in the backyard can be just as exciting as camping in the woods. You can roast marshmallows, tell stories, and gaze at the stars, all while being close to home. This is a great way to introduce children to the joys of camping in a safe and controlled environment.

• Art in the park. Set up an outdoor art station with paper, markers, and paint. Let your kids unleash their creativity while enjoying the fresh air and sunshine.

• Water fun. On hot summer days, nothing beats getting in the water. Set up a sprinkler in the backyard, have a water balloon fight, or visit a local swimming pool.

• Picnic in the park. Pack a picnic lunch and head to a local park for a day of outdoor fun. Bring along some games, like Frisbee or soccer to keep the whole family entertained.

• Volunteering together. Look for local volunteer opportunities that are fam-

ily-friendly. Whether it's helping at a food bank or participating in a community cleanup, volunteering together can be a rewarding experience for the whole family.

ACTIVITIES IN THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Washington, D.C., offers a variety of fun and affordable activities for families to enjoy. From exploring museums to outdoor adventures, here are some budget-friendly ideas for families in the nation's capital:

• Free Smithsonian museums. The Smithsonian Institution offers free admission to all its museums and the National Zoo, making it easy for families to explore world-class exhibits and attractions without spending a dime.

• Visit the National Mall and monuments. Take a stroll along the National Mall and visit iconic monuments and memorials, such as the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and Vietnam Veterans Memorial. These landmarks offer a rich cultural experience at no cost.

• Hiking and biking trails. The district and surrounding area offer a variety of hiking and biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. From Rock Creek Park to the Capital Crescent Trail, there are plenty of options for families to explore nature on a budget.

• Visit local markets. Explore local farmers markets and flea markets, where you can find fresh produce and unique crafts. These markets offer a fun and affordable shopping experience for families.

• Visit local pools and splash parks. The city offers several pools and spray parks that your family can enjoy for a refreshing escape from the summer heat. Visit www.dpr. dc.gov/sprayparks to find the parks closest to you.

By taking advantage of these affordable ac-

Emotional support when you need it

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prioritize mental health can be challenging. However, accessing emotional support has become more convenient than ever. AmeriHealth Caritas DC enrollees have access to both Headspace Care and MindRight apps, giving enrollees the opportunity to receive emotional support right from their phones. Whether you're looking for help managing stress, dealing with anxiety, or simply looking to improve your overall well-being, these apps

tivities, you can enjoy a memorable summer without breaking the bank. Whether exploring museums, hiking in nature, or enjoying other free activities, there are plenty of options for families to have fun outdoors in the nation's capital.

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

#BestMe

provide accessible and affordable emotional support.

MindRight specializes in emotional support for enrollees ages 13 – 20 while Headspace Care serves enrollees ages 21 and older.

• To access MindRight: Enrollees can text “AmeriHealth” to 886-886.

• To access Headspace Care: Download the Headspace Care app, tap “Get Started,” and then tap “Verify with name, DOB, zip.” Then follow the instructions sent to your inbox!

HEALTH

Ground-Breaking Treatment Makes Way For Sickle Cell Patients

Children’s National Hospital Conducts First Stem Cell Extraction For Gene Therapy

By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Health Reporter

Twelve-year-old Kendric Cromer has spent the entirety of his young life battling sickle cell disease (SCD), a group of genetic blood disorders that affects hemoglobin, causing extreme bouts of pain crises that largely restrict one’s quality of life. After a long-anticipated rollout, Kendric has become the first person in the country to undergo the federally approved stem cell gene therapy designed to cure sickle cell disease.

Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C. is the first to conduct stem cell extraction for the commercially approved procedure by way of Bluebird Bio, a biotechnology company based out of Somerville, Massachusetts, that commercializes gene therapy for severe genetic diseases. Dr. Andrew Dale Campbell, director of the Children’s National Comprehensive Sickle Cell Disease Program, shared his team’s eagerness to see Kendric through this journey to a hopeful place of stability.

“It’s been very inspiring. We are excited because we draw from Kendric’s inspiration, we draw from his strength and also his family, who are a very strong support system [for him],” Campbell told the Informer. “We, the Children’s National team, initially did not know that we were going to be the first. We just put things in order [and] in motion to make sure that this was going to happen in a way that will allow one of the first patients to get started as soon as possible.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), roughly 100,000 people live with SCD across the United States, with an overwhelming 90% of those affected being African Americans.

Many people battling SCD experience difficulties accessing appropriate care despite their extensive health needs. They also deal with stigma and having their symptoms dismissed when they actually seek care.

Currently, Kendric has completed his first two stem cell extractions, now awaiting the next steps from Bluebird Bio to deter-

5 Twelve-year-old Kendric Cromer has become the first person in the country to undergo a federally approved stem cell gene therapy designed to cure sickle cell disease. (Courtesy Photo) mine if the process can continue, or if more stem cell samples are needed before engineering the extracted cells.

Kendric’s mother, Deb Cromer, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to potentially transition her son to a more stable, less painful state.

“We see the light at the end of the tunnel and know that our child is the first to experience it outside of research - to know that it’s safe and the doctors here believe in it,” Kendric’s mother told NBC News Washington. “I would go to the end of the earth to make sure he was cured. There’s nothing I wouldn’t do for my son, but this makes me proud.”

While optimism surrounds the inception of Bluebird Bio’s Lovo-Cel Gene Therapy, approved by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) in December of 2023, medical experts do acknowledge

the potential downsides of the cumbersome process, which in some cases can raise the risks of infertility, or risk of infection due to required chemotherapy during the process.

“Anytime you're dealing with chemotherapy, versus fertility, [you run] the risk of not having the ability to have children, because chemo can have an adverse effect on the reproductive organs,” said Campbell. “So, the first thing is, you have to do testicular preservation or Oocyte retrieval. All of this is important moving forward if [patients] want to have their own children. Two, the chemotherapy can increase your risk of infection. But because it's their own bone marrow in the process, they don't have to take any rejection medications. That is minimized, [as] the anti-rejection medications put you at higher risk.”

But while the process presents potential for negative outcomes and unanswered questions of durability post procedure, a handful of successful clinical trials have encouraged Campbell to feel hopeful in the chance of patients responding positively to the ground-breaking procedure.

“I feel pretty confident because the great thing is we've had patients who have gone through it, and so far, in the clinical trial it has been very positive and the patients for the most part, have responded very well. Every year that goes

by we’ve [reached] another year of confidence and hope. Nothing is 100% proof, but overall I feel pretty hopeful.”

ACCESSING GENE THERAPY

Bluebird Bio’s life-changing gene therapy comes at a hefty expense to SCD patients, as the New York Times ranked the procedure as one of the most expensive medical treatments of its time at roughly $3.1 million. The treatment is so extensive that the company can only maintain the bandwidth to treat the cells of between 85 to 105 patients per year. To date, about 20 patients were reportedly eligible and interested at Children’s National, but the decision of who receives treatment is largely based on which patient is most ill, along with whose insurance will cover the exorbitantly expensive costs.

“We're proud that Children’s National was the first to initiate this process in terms of gene therapy, but[while] I can tell you that all of our patients are deserving, Kendric is [also] a great example of someone who wants a better quality of life in the foreseeable future,” Campbell explained. “He wants to achieve his goals without interruptions of hospitalizations and pain crises, so he’s very focused. A lot of our patients are very focused on what they want to do in life.” WI

CAN WE TALK from Page 9

you look at poverty, you look at so many other factors, mental health is top of mind. When you have 21% of high school students who have contemplated suicide, this is a life or death matter,” Burroughs said.

The mental health challenges among youth are not just local. While various communities are seeing an increase in mental health crises across the nation, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that suicide rates have increased by 36.6% among Black people ages 10 to 24 between 2018-2021.

Rucker, a graduate of Duke Ellington School of the Arts, in a panel featuring Jenkins, Henson, Lee, Dr. Anita Phillips, and Dr. Jay Barnett, explained why young people are particularly struggling today.

“Right now, there is a higher rate of suicides among kids mainly because they don’t know how to ex-

press themselves,” he said.

Burroughs thanked Henson and Jenkins, for providing a platform that allowed all people, including youth, to talk about mental health. Both area natives, Burroughs also presented the foundation’s founder and executive director with keys to Prince George’s County.

“To have Taraji and Tracie decide to give back to their community, on a topic that is so important, they are absolutely deserving of the key to our county, and to our district.

When I went to talk to the students about the mental health initiative, a lot of them were like ‘Okay, this is something we’re going to do.’ When I said at the end, ‘You get to take a picture with Taraji,’ the whole school was so excited,” Burroughs said, before thanking them personally.

“For you to lend your spark, your presence, your credibility, that excitement to this cause, that alone, has made a difference in your hometown.” WI

Dreaming of homeownership?

5Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation (BLHF) Executive Director Tracie Jade Jenkins, Actor Lamman Rucker, actress and BLHF founder Taraji P. Henson, Dr. Anita Phillips, and the Rev. Tony Lee in a panel during the “Can We Talk? 2024 Symposium” at the Gaylord National Harbor on May 31. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

EARTH OUR

Signing Off: A Look Back at Two Years of The Washington Informer’s “Our Earth” Page

By Kayla Benjamin WI Climate & Environment Reporter

This edition marks my last week as the Washington Informer’s full-time climate & environmental justice reporter, a position made possible in large part by the nonprofit Report for America.

Those who know me—and, likely, any readers of the Our Earth section— will not be surprised to learn that I love my work, and this transition is bittersweet. I’m excited to join climate protests and sign pro-transit petitions (things you can’t ethically do as a journalist). But I could not be more grateful for the Washington Informer family and the space this paper has allowed me to carve within the Black press and within the District.

In the last two years reporting on this beat, I’ve gotten to dance to Go-Go

music with seniors at Anacostia Park, watch solar panel installations from the roof of a Petworth home and take a wagon ride through a sustainable farm in Upper Marlboro. I’ve been inspired by countless Black activists, academics and professionals in the environmental space, and I’ve grilled local officials about their choices. I’ve knocked on dozens of doors, attended all kinds of events and—most importantly—had hundreds of conversations with DMV residents.

The chance to learn the District through the lens of the Black press is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The Washington Informer exemplifies the meaning of community-centered storytelling. That tradition has immense power, especially at a time when the “mainstream” media model is coming apart at the seams.

For almost 60 years, The Informer has served the DMV’s Black commu-

nities, sharing stories that don’t appear anywhere else and centering Black experiences within each week’s biggest local headlines.

Our publisher, Denise Rolark Barnes, saw that environmental stories needed to be part of that service. The planet is getting hotter and our understanding of pollution’s harms is getting better—and both of these unfolding global narratives have major implications for Black DMV residents. Just in the last two years, our region has seen flooding, heat waves and unprecedented wildfire smoke.

I’m a white reporter who is hugely passionate about environmental and climate justice. It was an immense privilege to be trusted with these stories, and I’ve learned so much.

Biden Administration Sets New Standards for Voluntary Carbon Markets to Drive Climate Action

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

President Joe Biden has led a momentous climate agenda serving vulnerable residents, marking significant achievements through legislation and executive action.

The Inflation Reduction Act, a landmark climate investment, and executive measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across all economic sectors are clear demonstrations of this commitment. Under Biden’s Investing in America agenda, over $860 billion in business investments have been sparked in future-focused industries such as electric vehicles, clean energy, and semiconductors, bolstered by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, CHIPS and Science

Act, and Inflation Reduction Act.

In a fact sheet, the White House noted that these investments are not only creating new manufacturing and clean energy jobs but also breathing new life into previously overlooked communities.

The Biden-Harris Administration said it remains committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

“This commitment is not just about the environment, but also about creating economic opportunities across diverse American businesses, from rural farms to innovative tech companies and historically underserved entrepreneurs,” officials noted in the fact sheet.

Key officials, including Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Energy

Secretary Jennifer Granholm, have cosigned a Joint Statement of Policy and new Principles for Responsible Participation in Voluntary Carbon Markets (VCMs) as part of this vision. These principles lay out the U.S. government’s strategy for advancing high-integrity VCMs, ensuring they drive credible climate action and economic opportunity.

Officials said high-integrity VCMs can significantly enhance decarbonization by providing reliable revenue streams for various projects and practices, including nature-based solutions and innovative climate technologies. However, the White House contends that current challenges in VCMs, such as unreliable crediting methodologies and insufficient decarbonization outcomes, necessitate further action.

Thank you, Washington Informer, for letting me join the family and play a small part in your storied 60-year journey.

And thank you, readers, for following along with two years of Our Earth! WI

4 Getting the story on solar panel installations from the roof of a home in Petworth on July 13, 2023. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

The administration’s new principles address these issues by establishing robust standards for carbon credit supply and demand, improving market functioning, ensuring fair treatment of all participants, and instilling market confidence.

The specific principles for responsible participation in VCMs are designed to ensure that the market operates with integrity. These principles include ensuring carbon credits represent real decarbonization, avoiding environmental and social harm, supporting co-benefits and inclusive benefits-sharing, prioritizing emissions reductions within corporate value chains, and maintaining transparency and high standards in credit use. The aim is to prevent greenwashing and ensure that VCMs are a tool for emissions reduction, not a replacement for them.

The Biden-Harris Administration is also advancing efforts to develop VCMs, including initiatives to create

new climate opportunities for farmers and forest landowners, conduct firstof-its-kind credit purchases, and advance carbon dioxide removal (CDR) technology. For instance, the Department of Agriculture (USDA) is implementing programs to help farmers and forest landowners participate in VCMs. At the same time, the Department of Energy (DOE) announced a $35 million Carbon Dioxide Removal Purchase Pilot Prize and other investments in CDR technologies.

Additionally, the administration is involved in international standard-setting efforts and supporting high-integrity VCMs in global markets. The U.S. government is engaged in initiatives like the LEAF Coalition and the Energy Transition Accelerator, which promote sector-wide approaches to decarbonization and support projects in developing countries.

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

WI

5 The Potomac River at dusk, as seen from Roosevelt Island. (Kayla Benjamin/The Washington Informer)

5 Reporting from Oxon Run Creek with Ronnie Webb and Jaren Hill Lockridge on Feb. 7, 2023. (Robert R. Roberts/ The Washington Informer)

“This time, it’s different.” TREATMENT WORKS. RECOVERY IS POSSIBLE.

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EDUCATION

Bruhat Soma Wins 96th Scripps National Spelling Bee Washington Informer Spelling Bee

Champions Reflect on a Job Well Done

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

For the 2024 Scripps National Spelling Bee champion, third time’s the charm.

Bruhat Soma, a 7th grader from St. Petersburg, Florida, clinched the top prize on Thursday night after defeating his friend and fellow speller, Faizan Zaki in a spell-off that lasted only but a couple of minutes. This seminal moment followed two unsuccessful attempts by Bruhat over the years to make it all the way through the national bee.

Earlier in the evening, Bruhat joined seven other spellers on the stage for the last seven rounds of spelling and vocabulary-related questions. Thousands watched a recording in which Bruhat reflected on past defeats that, in part, inspired an intense practice regimen and an imaginary type-as-you-spell technique that he executed throughout the competition.

With a championship under his belt, Bruhat said he felt happy about reaching a milestone he sensed would come sooner or later.

“Young people should have a goal

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and work to do it and pretty soon you will find yourself achieving that goal,” Bruhat told The Informer. “I decided to work hard for one year. Every day my dad would make words for me and I would try to spell them as fast as I could. I knew this moment would come and I was already prepared.”

AN INTENSE COMPETITION, AND A SPELLING BEE MILESTONE SOON TO COME

Between May 28 and May 30, 245 spellers converged on the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland for several hours of competition and camaraderie. As the days passed, the pool of spellers became smaller.

By Thursday night, only eight young people stood on the stage. Those young people were: Bruhat; Faizan; Rishabh Saha, an eighth grader from Merced, Calif.; YY Liang, a seventh grade homeschool student from Windsor, New York; Ananya Rao Prassanna, a seventh grader from Charlotte, North Carolina; Kirsten Tiffany Santos, an eighth grader from Houston; Shrey Parikh, a sixth grader from San Bernardino, Calif., and Aditi Muthukumar, an eighth grader from Denver.

Rishabh and YY, first-time Scripps National Spelling Bee participants, got eliminated in the ninth round when they misspelled desmotrope (the form of a related chemical ele-

ment) and immanent (being within the limits of possible knowledge or experience), respectively.

The remaining six made it through the 10th round unscathed. During the 11th round, Kirsten ended her spelling bee journey when she misspelled apophasis, a noun that means the raising of an issue by claiming to not mention it. Aditi met a similar fate when she misspelled Lillooet, defined as the Salishan people of Fraser river valley in British Columbia.

During the 14th round, four spellers remained: Shrey, Ananya, Faizan, and Bruhat. Shrey stumbled on kanin, defined as a rabbit found running in wild fields. Ananya’s fateful word was murrina, defined as a disease contracted by Central American horses and mules.

Faizan and Bruhat advanced to the fifteenth and final round, during which each of them had to spell as many words correctly as possible within 90 seconds. When they took their turn, they each tapped a buzzer after completing a spelling word given to them by Dr. Jacques Bailly, the national spelling bee’s official pronouncer.

A panel of judges later declared Bruhat the winner. He correctly spelled 29 words compared to Faizan’s 20. Thus ended the 99th year of the Scripps National Spelling Bee’s existence.

Since 1945, the national bee, formerly known as the Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee, has become a test of the wits for young people between the third and eighth grades representing regions of the U.S. and

other parts of the world.

In 2020, at the height of the pandemic, the E.W. Scripps Company postponed and later canceled the bee for the second time in its storied history, the first being during World War II. In the gradual transition back to normalcy, the first round of the 2021 national spelling bee took place virtually before wrapping up at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Bay Lake, Florida.

Adam P. Symson, CEO of the E.W. Scripps Company, alluded to this history as he expressed enthusiasm for what will soon be a century of academic excellence.

“This is an American tradition,” Symson said. “At the end of the day, there’s [some things] that change with the technology. But one thing is clear: when you have a tradition and focus on learning, you know that will persist. That's why the company is proud to be a part of this.”

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER’S TOP TWO SPELLERS GIVE IT THEIR ALL

Once again, The Washington Informer sponsored two young spellers from the D.C. metropolitan area in the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Those spellers, Noah Rowe and Victoria McFetridge, bested hundreds of local spellers in competitions that took place in the District and Prince George’s County, Maryland. By the evening of May 30, Noah

SPELLING BEE Page 27

5 Finalists Seventh graders Bruhat Somaage, YY Liang, and Ananya Rao Prassanna. (Robert R. Roberts/ The Washington Informer)

SPELLING BEE from Page 26

and Victoria counted among those in the audience who watched the last few rounds of the national bee. Earlier in the competition, Victoria made it to the third round before misspelling waiata, defined as a Maori song commemorating an event.

Later, Noah, an eighth grader at MacFarland High School in Northwest, wrapped up his spelling bee career when he misspelled anbury, a noun meaning a soft, spongy tumor found in horses, in the fourth round.

For Victoria, the Scripps National Spelling Bee was an experience that she said her younger self wouldn’t have been able to fathom. At just 15 months of age, she learned the alphabet. That milestone, she said, placed her on a journey as a lover of words and bibliophile.

Victoria expressed a similar enthusiasm for the camaraderie among her peers during the national bee.

“It was a good way to meet new people,” said Victoria, a seventh grader at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic School in Upper

Marlboro, Maryland. “I didn’t see them as competitors, but as friends and allies. We were battling against the dictionary.”

Noah, a soon-to-be student at Banneker Academic High School in Northwest, managed to split his time between the national bee and a track meet at Spingarn-Langston Recreation Center in Northeast.

After competing with his friends on Thursday, he made it back just in time to watch the final eight spellers take to the stage at the Gaylord National Harbor and Convention Center.

Now that he’s reached the highest grade of eligibility for the bee, Noah said he has his sights set on creating the ideal high school experience.

“It’s an honor and privilege to have been here,” a calm, reflective Noah told The Informer as he dropped some gems for spellers coming behind him. “It won’t last long but it’s an amazing experience to meet people and do your best. Be ambitious and sportsmanlike. Treat everyone kindly. Basically, enjoy yourself while you're here. It’s a great place.” WI

@SamPKCollins

Click. Save. Submit!

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

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

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

5 Winner 12-year-old Bruhat Soma from St. Petersburg, Florida, sponsored by Rays Baseball Foundation and Rowdies Soccer Fund. (Robert R. Roberts/ The Washington Informer)

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America Will Survive if Trump Goes to Prison

Guilty, guilty, guilty….

Former President Donald J. Trump was recently convicted by a Manhattan jury of 34 counts of falsifying business records to cover up a sex scandal that threatened to derail his 2016 campaign for The White House.

The convictions made him the first former president of the United States to be convicted of a crime.

Trump will report back to the courthouse in New York City on July 11 to be sentenced by Juan Manuel Merchan, a Colombian-born American judge and former prosecutor.

The Republican National Convention will commence in Minneapolis on July 15. On the evening of July 18, Trump will formally accept, for the third time, the GOP nomination for president.

A convicted felon, twice impeached, leader of the January 6, 2021, insurrection against the U.S. Government, and former president of the United States, is the leader of the Republican Party. As skeptical as it is in American politics, Trump’s felon status does not prevent him from seeking the nation’s highest elective office.

Indeed, white privilege continues to dominate the current, cult-driven political party of President Abraham Lincoln. Does any rational thinking person believe for one moment that former President Barack Obama would have been elected or reelected as either a charged or convicted criminal, with one, much less 34, convictions? Of course not! And rightfully so.

So now America eagerly awaits Trump's sentencing date of July 11. Will he go to prison? Or won’t he?

If Judge Merchan sentences Trump to prison, America will survive.

America has survived a Civil War, two World Wars, the Great Depression, wars in Korea and Vietnam, the resignation of one president due to criminal behavior, the assassinations of four sitting presidents, the Civil Rights Movement, the assassinations of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Sen. Robert F. Kennedy within 68 days of one another, COVID-19, and a physical attack on the U.S. Capitol 14 days before President Joe Biden assumed the presidency.

However, Americans must not rely on Trump being sent to prison to halt his current threat to American Democracy. Our justice system cannot, and will not, save us from Trump returning to The White House.

That can only be done by each of us at the polls on Nov. 5. We must exercise our constitutional right to vote in elections at the national, state, and local levels of government. WI

We All Have to Lose sometime – Even Donald Trump . . . Even twice

When a jury of his peers found Donald Trump guilty on all 34 counts of falsifying business records in his hush money criminal trial last Thursday, America broke new ground – and not for the better.

Whether you like it or not, the unprecedented and historic verdict makes Donald Trump the first former president in U.S. history to be convicted of a felony.

So, now what?

That’s the real question and challenge that our nation now faces. Of course, some of the answers to “what happens next” are relatively clear because of the structure of the laws in the state of New York.

First, Trump must be sentenced and the judge has several options in that regard. Then, Trump can choose to appeal the conviction – and you’d have to be living alone on a desert island not to know that he certainly will.

While even young children learn, usually even before they begin school, that sometimes you win and sometimes you lose, Trump doesn’t seem to have learned that lesson. In fact, for the former president, who has established a pattern for appealing any decision that he finds unfavorable, losing is not an option – at least not one that he is willing to gracefully accept.

For example, as we witnessed with shock and in utter disbelief a few years ago, on January 6, 2021, Trump routinely lays down the gauntlet in the face of potential defeat. It seems that he, like Captain Kirk and the crew on the

Starship Enterprise, is willing “to boldly go where no man has gone before.”

In preparation for the filing of his appeal which will undoubtedly occur in July following his sentencing, and to bolster his chances to be reelected president in November, Trump has already pulled out one of his favorite offenses from his very thick playbook. Instead of admitting that he did anything wrong and accepting the decision of the jury and the judge, he is spinning a new narrative – one almost entirely based on fiction with few verifiable facts. It’s a fairy tale but he wants us to believe it’s his in progress autobiography.

If the reports about his record-breaking fundraising efforts that occurred last weekend following his being found guilty are accurate, then it seems a lot of people have already bought into his fairy tale – he is the victim and “the world” – at least the “radical left” is out to get him.

We do not celebrate the former president being found guilty of his crimes. But we are all, supposedly, bound by and subject to the same laws in America.

But make no mistake and do not put your head in the sand. We know that Trump has options in his playbook that few of us, certainly no one of color, have any chance of invok-

ing.

Trump has said that the real verdict will come in November at the polls, but the fact is, Trump is now a convicted felon. That cannot be erased.

Still, you have to wonder, what kind of country do we live in when a convicted felon can run for and, if they win, serve as president, when in any other circumstance, a person convicted of a felony cannot apply for a student loan, cannot live in public housing, cannot exercise their constitutional right to vote, or be hired for a job in the federal government.

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I really enjoyed the latest edition of the Bridge. From the photos to the stories, it was an outstanding issue. Keep up the excellent work!

Tommy Richards Washington, D.C.

TO THE EDITOR

The Pride story by D. Kevin McNeir was really eye-opening to some of the issues facing the LGBTQ+ community. It’s not that I was ignorant of it, but I assumed that issues such as discrimination and marginalization were somewhat a thing of the past. I guess that’s what I get for assuming. Happy Pride to all who celebrate. These celebrations are just as important now than ever before.

Rachael Young Washington, D.C.

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS

Guest Columnist

Building a 'Great Society'

time about the idea of a "Great Society" — and told students that young people could be its builders.

This is still the season when many of us are celebrating graduating seniors and cheering young people on as they chart their next steps. What kind of world will their generation create? Sixty years ago, as President Lyndon B. Johnson spoke to college students at Ohio University and the University of Michigan in May 1964, he spoke publicly for the first

When he spoke at Ohio University, he noted that America was demographically a young country, so its future would belong to young people — "so to you of this student body, I say merely as a statement of fact, America is yours: yours to make a better land, yours to build the Great Society." He continued: "It is a Society where no child will go unfed, and no youngster will go unschooled. Where no man who wants

Guest Columnist

work will fail to find it. Where no citizen will be barred from any door because of his birthplace or his color or his church. Where peace and security is common among neighbors and possible among nations. This is the world that waits for you. Reach out for it now. Join the fight to finish the unfinished work in your own land and in the rest of the world."

Two weeks later President Johnson spoke at the University of Michigan's commencement ceremony. Once again he told the students that America had the opportunity to

The Game-Changing Power of Love

For many working in the early childhood field, we understand the need to offer our youngest children nurturing and caring environments that stimulate learning and healthy development. The neuroscience of brain development helps us understand why. In the first year of life, 1 million neural connections are made in the brain every minute. The first

1,000 days of a child's life are most critical to brain development and social-emotional well-being. Ninety-five percent of brain development happens in the first five years of a child's life.

Neuroplasticity is greatest in our younger years, so our ability to scaffold our brain toward resiliency starts early and has a lasting impact. But many things can get in the way of optimal development for young children. Abuse, racism, and poverty can cause stress and trauma. Being bullied in school or elsewhere can

Guest Columnist

During a television interview, a Republican lawmaker was once asked is there anything about then-President Barack Obama you liked. He quickly responded, by stating he liked the fact that Obama was a family man. The same sentiment was reinforced years earlier by former Sen. John McCain during the 2008 presidential campaign. During an

Oct. 10, 2008, town hall event in Lakeville, Minnesota, a person in attendance told McCain that she could not trust Obama. The woman called Obama "an Arab" at the height of the conspiracy theory movement claiming Obama was not a natural-born citizen and therefore ineligible to be president. "No ma'am, he's a decent family man, citizen, that I just happen to have disagreements with on fundamental issues, and that's what this campaign is all about," McCain said to the town hall crowd.

The exchange came to be viewed

move "upward to the Great Society" in their time, and said their imagination, their initiative, and their indignation could be the tools needed to create it. He also defined the "Great Society" more fully in that speech, and he began by saying: "The Great Society rests on abundance and liberty for all. It demands an end to poverty and racial injustice, to which we are totally committed in our time. But that is just the beginning. The Great Society is a place where every child can find knowledge to enrich his mind and

to enlarge his talents. It is a place where leisure is a welcome chance to build and reflect, not a feared cause of boredom and restlessness. It is a place where the city of man serves not only the needs of the body and the demands of commerce but the desire for beauty and the hunger for community. It is a place where man can renew contact with nature. It is a place which honors creation for its own sake and for what it adds to the understanding of the race. It is a

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create significant challenges and undermine a sense of belonging. The lack of caring adults in these circumstances can leave children feeling unsafe and insecure. Living through a global pandemic or under the constant threat of racial or school violence can compound the stress response in children.

When a child experiences stressful things, especially over a prolonged period, there is great danger that the stress can register in the brain and body as trauma. When this happens, it has an extremely negative

impact. The trauma scars reshape a child's brain. It disrupts the foundations of memory, decision-making, and emotional stability. Later in life, these traumatic wounds can fuel the fires of addiction and mental illness and cast shadows over the path of learning and growth. Trauma disrupts everything.

But there is one important research and data point that offers hope. When children experience hard things, the one thing that can help them overcome trauma and develop resiliency is love. Loving,

caring relationships are the most important factor in building sturdy brain architecture and turning stress into resiliency. This is game-changing. It's something we can all understand. Each one of us is wired for love. We all need it, and children have the greatest opportunity to thrive when immersed in it. But what does this mean for people and organizations in the early childhood field? For teachers, policymakers and advocates? For leaders

as a defining moment in McCain's long political career. The Washington Post named it one of McCain's most courageous political moments. The exchange illustrates how political opponents on the campaign trail can maintain degrees of respect and civility toward each other. Unfortunately, our political environment has evolved. The idea of maintaining basic respect and civility among lawmakers is no longer commonplace. Secondly, Sen. McCain highlighted how love of family is one thing we all have in common. Whether it is

a white social conservative family in rural America or a Black progressive family from the inner city, people of all political persuasions can relate to each other in regards to the fondness and support they have for their families.

Having a president who is a strong family man meant something at one point in time, particularly to those who prided themselves in promoting "God, family and country." This was true even when the president was a so called hated democrat named Barack Obama. Never before has a former

president been convicted of a crime before now. When it comes to his supporters, the content of a president's character no longer matters when that president is named Donald Trump. When Trump was found guilty of trying to influence the 2016 election by falsifying payment to a porn star to buy her story of an affair, some viewed the verdict through a political lens while others viewed it strictly through a judicial lens. In 1998, conservatives were not hesi-

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Kali Thorne Ladd

David W. Marshall

Marian Wright Edelman

Guest Columnist

It Brings No

Joy

When I think about all the misery Donald Trump has brought to our nation — especially to women, people of color, and those of us who take pride in being progressives who've been fighting for better lives for our people as he made life worse — I still feel sorry for those who enabled him, some of whom I thought were better people.

I know that 34 guilty counts for anything in court sounds like a lot — especially when someone has run smoothly, without penalty, for all he has deliberately done to hurt others, including his own family. Mary Trump, his niece, has stood up and tried to warn us who Donald Trump really is.

Alvin Bragg Jr., Manhattan district attorney, was taunted and threatened with a baseball bat by Trump when Bragg decided to try the case against him. Several lawyers, including people who should

Guest Columnist

E. Faye Williams

have been encouraging D.A. Bragg, were complaining about how weak the case was. Alan Dershowitz, an attorney who was well thought of at one time, called it one of the weakest cases he'd ever seen.

Well, D.A. Bragg persisted, and left many of the critics in shock when the jury announced 34 counts as GUILTY!

New York v. Donald Trump is the first time any of us could ever believe Trump would have to pay for his sins. Even if the case is un-

fairly overturned someday, at least for a brief time, he had to know what it is like to mistreat so many people. So many had believed he would never suffer for a day for his lying, cheating, falsely accusing others when he was the guilty one, disobeying the law because he thought he was immune to punishment of any kind.

Writing about Trump's behavior brings no joy because I know what offensive lessons he taught to young people, to racists who cheered him on knowing what he

Justice Alito Sullies the Integrity of the U.S. Supreme Court

"Professional baseball would never allow an umpire to continue to officiate the World Series after learning that the pennant of one of the two teams competing was flying in the front yard of the umpire's home. Nor would an umpire be allowed to call balls and strikes in a World Series game after the umpire's wife tried to get the official score of a

prior game in the series overthrown and canceled out to benefit the losing team. If judges are like umpires, then they should be treated like umpires, not team owners, team fans or players." — U.S. Rep. Jamie Raskin

When the U.S. Supreme Court unveiled its so-called Code of Conduct late last year, I said it would do nothing to restrain unethical behavior by the justices.

Justice Samuel Alito has wasted no time in proving me right.

The upside-down flag — a

Guest Columnist

When Rodney Smith's uncle invited him to go to Sedona for a hike, Rodney, who is Black, said to himself, "Hiking? That sounds like something white people do."

Rodney went on the hike. And it changed his life.

"I loved everything about it. I loved the scenery. I loved being outdoors. I had that wonderment

of a kid… I said, 'this is my new thing,' and I got out and started hiking on my own."

This was following Rodney's release from prison in October 2021, after serving 9 years on a 12-year sentence. Rodney says, "I was forced to reconsider everything about my life, about my thinking, about the man I was and the man I wanted to become. I realized that a lot of what I had been doing was because it was expected, and it was what everyone else was doing. I hadn't really fig-

symbol of allegiance to the Big Lie about the 2020 election — displayed at Alito's home in January 2021 violates even the watered-down provisions of the code and disqualifies him from the Jan. 6 cases that are before the court. His feeble explanation, that it was his wife's decision to fly the flag and she denied his requests to take it down.

According to the code, "A Justice should disqualify himself or herself in a proceeding in which the Justice's impartiality might

reasonably be questioned," including such instances in which the Justice's spouse is known by the Justice to have an interest in the outcome of the proceeding.

Even if Alito does not share his wife's false beliefs about the 2020 election, he can hardly argue that her interest is not known to him. Lest her decision to fly that flag — if, indeed, it was solely her decision — be dismissed as a fleeting whim of passion, another symbol of loyalty to Trump's lies, flew over the Alito's vacation home as

so often did would hurt someone, to political leaders who urged him to do what they knew was wrong, who couldn't do the job they were elected to do because they were afraid to differ.

Every time I saw Sen. Tim Scott and Rep. Byron Donalds cheer Trump on in all of his wrongdoing, I cringed because I knew no real Black man would be so supportive of the misery Trump continuously caused to others.

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recently as last summer.

These partisan displays, and Alito's obstinate refusal to recuse himself, are merely the latest examples of Alito's corruption and contempt for ethical standards. He accepted the gift of a luxury fishing trip with a billionaire whose hedge fund has repeatedly had business before the court, and failed to disclose it. The Code of Conduct says justices "should comply" with regulations that

ured out who I was and when I got out, I told myself I was going to start trying new things."

He did start trying new things. In addition to taking up hiking, he started eating a plant-based diet — partially inspired by the story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego from the Bible, who "looked healthier and better nourished" after 10 days of eating only vegetables than any of the young men who ate from the king's table. On his ninth day of eating vegan, Rodney was on line

at a store describing to someone how he felt "brighter and more energized" from his diet.

A woman overheard and invited him to a community garden in South Phoenix, where Rodney is from.

Again, Rodney thought to himself, "this couldn't be for me." He says, "gardening seemed like something for Martha Stewart… a suburban soccer mom activity."

But when he arrived at the garden, he was immediately over-

whelmed by the beauty and the connection he felt.

When Rodney received his prison sentence, he did not cry. When he was inside and his father and both his grandmothers passed away, he did not cry. When he opened himself up to the connection with nature he felt in the garden, run by Phoenix's Tiger Mountain Foundation, he finally cried.

"I've heard, 'if you're not

WILLIAMS

Marc H. Morial

Ben Jealous

LIFESTYLE

Despite a Divisive Election Year, Roots Picnic Brings People Together in the Name of Peace, Unity, Black Music

By Micha Green WI Managing Editor

Kicking off Black Music Month on June 1 and June 2, more than 30,000 people flocked to the grounds of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania’s West Fairmount Park, for Roots Picnic 2024, a celebration of culture and togetherness.

Despite regular rhetoric about dueling presidential campaigns and violence, this year’s Roots Picnic was a place to promote peace, encourage civic engagement and vibe out to outstanding acts from Lil Wayne and The Roots, Jill Scott, Nas, Gunna, Babyface, Funkmaster Flex, The Dream, Sexyy Redd and local artists such as Wale, Backyard Band (with Scarface and Amerie) and Shaboozey.

For a moment in time– well, a weekend, to be exact– thousands jammed in the name of peace and unity.

“No one was thinking about who the president is, or what alternative moments or agendas were. In that moment, everyone was present, with the music, with each other, just living our best moment,” said Alicia W., of Columbus, Ohio, who preferred not to use her last name.

This was Alicia W.’s first time coming to the annual music festival, and she was amazed to see the camaraderie in action.

“I have friends that come every year. I figured I needed to be in the mix this year,” she told The Informer.

“I have never seen so many people of different shapes, sizes and colors all on one accord. So to be able to see a diverse group of people, bobbing to The Dream, Nas, and even dropping it low for Sexyy Red was an amazing experience.”

Alicia W.’s friend, Alea B., who also preferred not to use her last name, em-

phasized the beauty of the diversity found at the annual affair.

“It was just so amazing to see old and young vibing together— white and Black, Hispanic, everybody was just coming together. People were so pleasant and respectful,” said Alea B. “It was one big family picnic and I really enjoyed it.”

She considered historic events like Bethel, New York’s Woodstock, in August 1969 and the Harlem Cultural Festival, which happened the same year and inspired the 2021 documentary “Summer of Soul (...Or When the Revolution Could not be Televised),” directed by Questlove of The Roots.

“Nobody was caring about who was president today or tomorrow. If you look at history, music really brings people together and that is what it did,” Alea B. told The Informer.

Celebrated singer, songwriter and arts mogul Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds noted music’s ability to connect people and transcend time and space.

“Music is like the one thing that connects us all. It’s like we get to time travel. Anytime you hear your favorite song it takes you back to that perfect place, that perfect time, that perfect person,” Babyface said, before adding a joke, “or maybe not that perfect person.”

KEEPING ADVOCACY AT THE FOREFRONT OF THE MUSICAL CELEBRATION

While Roots Picnic offered two days in musical heaven, with an abundance of legendary artists

performing, collaborating and sharing their bountiful talents with the massive crowds, it was also an opportunity to promote the need for a more just, peaceful, and equitable society.

When walking onto the festival grounds, one of the first booths fans engaged with was sponsored by Michelle Obama’s When We All Vote, where people were encouraged to check their voter registration status and offered free swag bags that were perfect to use during the two-day festival.

A few booths down from When We All Vote was Garry Mills’ Shoot Basketballs Not People, a community-based organization in Philadelphia's Germantown neighborhood.

“Our mission is to use basketball as a vehicle to change and save lives, and our long term goal is to open up a facility in our neighborhood,” Mills told The Informer. “We started in 2013. I was doing this with two full-time jobs. No grant money. We actually just got our first grant after 10 years.”

The organization, which serves youth through the positive foundations taught in basketball, is featured in a documentary on Prime Video and Fox Soul, called “Bad Things Happen in Philadelphia.”

Mills said Roots Picnic was the perfect place to spread his message about promoting peace instead of violence.

“The Roots Picnic is one of the more peaceful events in Philly that brings all cultures together, honestly. But we felt this fits our mold because it’s a basketball town

and we wanted to make the social cause cool,” he explained.

Kristal Bush, executive director of Free My Weedman, told The Informer she came to Roots Picnic in order to continue advocating for equity in the cannabis space.

“This is where the community is. As the cannabis industry unfolds, they can create these dispensaries, they can lobby to not include us, but what they cannot take away is that [Black people] are the culture. And that’s what the Roots Picnic is, it’s the culture,” Bush said.

The equity advocate explained the historic connection between Black music and the criminalization of cannabis.

“Music is really [involved] in this whole war on cannabis. When you talk about this whole war on drugs, it was targeted for the jazz players. They said it was the jazz players who were the ones that were smoking up the reefer and raping the white women. And they were blaming it on cannabis,” she emphasized.

After years of African Americans facing criminalization, convictions and long term prison sentences for marijuana related incidents, Bush used her time at the Roots Picnic to remind attendees that Black people should be at the forefront of the legal cannabis industry.

“It’s time to undo those harms, and the only opportunity—and our last opportunity–is ensuring equity in this cannabis industry,” she emphasized. “Run us our money. We ain’t playing. Period.”

WI

5Thousands flocked to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania’s West Fairmount Park for Roots Picnic 2024 on June 1 and June 2. (Brigette Squire/The Washington Informer)

5Singer Babyface performs at Roots Picnic 2024 on June 2. (Brigette Squire/The Washington Informer)

Jim Henson: A Life of Educating and Entertaining

By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer

From the creative mind of puppeteer and filmmaker Jim Henson, children were treated to a new way of learning through “Sesame Street.” At the same time, grown-ups could not stop laughing over the irreverent comedy of “The Muppet Show.” Academy Award-winning producer and director Ron Howard has created "Jim Henson Idea Man," an engaging documentary that does not disappoint, now streaming Disney+.

Howard incorporates items from Henson’s personal archives that show how he developed his productions. Included are many detailed interviews with Henson’s family and colleagues, particularly Frank Oz, a puppeteer, filmmaker, and actor.

Oz, an award-winning filmmaker and Henson were joined at the hip as they scripted projects and designed puppets. Their puppets delivered lines

that were poignant, funny, and stinging as acted out by the minds and motions of puppeteers. Oz saw how unique Henson was in his approach.

“It took about 10 years before we could sense each other’s rhythm,” said Oz, who was with Henson for 35 years. “Jim created out of innocence. He was a very rare creature.”

HENSON’S DMV CONNECTION

Henson’s family moved to College Park, Maryland, and Henson attended the University of Maryland, where he met his soon-to-be wife Jane Nebel Henson. After graduating, Henson and Jane developed and performed on a daily five-minute show with puppets called “Sam and Friends” on WRC-TV, now known as NBC Washington. Henson’s most cherished character, Kermit the Frog, evolved through the show.

What is seen in the documentary is that Kermit represents Henson’s

heart.

Henson and Jane married and had five children, but the growing family strained the marriage. Jane was just as creative as her husband but stayed home to raise the children. Henson spent most of his time developing his craft. Henson was happiest at work and not at home.

“When you’re running a several hundred-person unit, you have to keep everybody else enthusiastic,” said Henson, in the film. “You can’t really express grave doubts about whether or not this thing is a good idea or not.”

A running theme throughout “Jim Henson Idea Man” is how hard this man worked, often neglecting his health. Some of his colleagues and family felt that Henson was motivated by the death of his older brother Paul at age 24 in a car crash. Henson was five years younger than his brother, and Paul was his best friend.

5 "Jim Henson Idea Man," produced & directed by Oscar winner Ron Howard is a documentary about the creative mind behind Sesame Street and The Muppet Show. The film can now be seen on Disney+. (Courtesy Photo/ Disney+)

4 Early in his career, puppeteer Jim Henson created Kermit the Frog for the television show “Sam and Friends” that aired on WRC-TV, now known as NBC Washington. This scene is from the documentary "Jim Henson Idea Man," produced & directed by Oscar winner Ron Howard . (Courtesy Photo/Disney+)

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Things To Do, DMV!

By Demarco A. Rush WI Intern

Sports fan? Make time to catch the Washington Mystics vs. Chicago Sky this Thursday! Young stars like Angel Reese and Camilla Kardoso will be battling against the home team Mystics.

If you love Jazz and R&B music, check out Capital Jazz Fest this Friday, featuring artists like Anthony Hamilton, Jodeci, and Switch. Country music star Chris Stapleton will also be performing that night at The Birchmere, starting at 7:30 p.m.

Enjoy a good laugh at others' expense at The Capital Pride Roast. Join performers as they roast the honorees, Blair Michaels and Lena Lett.

For those who love to eat and party, the RnB Brunch at The Lost Society, followed by a day-long party, is perfect for you. If you're looking to shed a few pounds, the Matzoball 5K is this Sunday at 8:30 a.m. Run for some important local charities!

Remember, there’s always something happening in the DMV to keep your spirit-- and social life-- lit. To keep up with all the fun, don’t forget to check out the Washington Informer Calendar.

THURSDAY, JUNE 6

Washington Mystics vs Chicago Sky

7 p.m. | $25+

Capital One Arena, 601 F Street NW, Washington, DC, 20004

The WNBA has welcomed a fresh batch of talent, including rookies Angel Reese and Camilla Kardoso of the Chicago Sky. Catch them in action as they take on the home team Mystics this Thursday night.

FRIDAY, JUNE 7

Capital Jazz Fest

6 p.m. | $339+

Merriweather Post Pavilion, 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy, Columbia, MD, 21044

Held each year during Black Music Month since 1993, the Capital Jazz Fest is a premier African American music event in the DMV and the country. Featuring over 30 acts, including Anthony Hamilton, Babyface, Joss Stone, and India.Arie, the

festival spans three days. Attendees can also enjoy juried craft vendors, culinary treats, and interactive Q&A sessions with the artists at the Festival Marketplace.

Chris Stapleton's All-American Road Show

7:30 p.m. | $215+

The Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Avenue Alexandria, VA 22305

Chris Stapleton will be in the DMV this Friday—go check him out! The “Tennessee Whiskey” star has been a staple (pun intended) in country music for years. Don’t miss out!

SATURDAY, JUNE 8

Capital Pride Roast

8 p.m. - 11:30 p.m. | $10+

Penn Social, 801 E Street NW, Washington, DC, 20004

Expect a night with heat-filled roasts, laughter, comedy, and spectacular entertainment. This night will celebrate two of Washington, D.C.’s MOST ICONIC heroes and artists, Blair Michaels and Lena Lett.

SUNDAY, JUNE 9

Rnb Brunch & Social @ Lost Society

Noon - 6 p.m.| $23.99

Lost Society, 2001 14th Street Northwest, Washington, DC, 20009

Start your Sunday right with brunch followed by a day-party. The dress code is business casual, so make sure to get fresh.

Matzohball 5k and 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk

8:30 a.m. | $30 Centennial Park, 10000 Clarksville Pike, Ellicott City, MD, 21042

Join us for the 20th Anniversary of the Matzohball 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk and Family Wellness Day! Since 2004, Temple Isaiah has partnered with We Promote Health to combine the Matzohball 5K with Howard County Family Wellness Day, raising money for three crucial Howard County charities: HopeWorks, Grassroots Crisis Intervention, and Dream Builders. WI

5Chris Stapleton, who will be performing at The Birchmere this Friday, live in concert. (Andy Barron/Courtesy Photo)

Will Liverman Talks Working on ‘Elijah Reimagined,’ Diversity in Classical Music

By Micha Green WI Managing Editor

When Will Liverman performs in the Kennedy Center Concert Call for The Washington Chorus’ “Elijah Reimagined,” on June 8, audiences will not only be in store for a classical music treat from the baritone, but also witness a full circle moment for the artist.

“I grew up in the Pentecostal church and… as a kid [I would watch], biblical animation series, and then each week they'll have different stories like Jonah, Adam and Eve, whoever. One of them was Elijah and actually in this story, this animation story, they use clips from [Felix] Mendelssohn's ‘Elijah,’” Liverman told The Informer. “Of course I was a little kid at the time so I didn't really I didn't know what it was from. So I've had Elijah in my ear since I was little. It was probably my very first introduction into classical singing.”

Since his early childhood introduction to Mndelssohn’s work, Liverman has had a successful and groundbreaking career in classical music, starring in the Metropolitan Opera’s “Fire Shut Up in My Bones,” in 2021 and “X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X” in 2023.

Taking on the role of Elijah, Liverman said, was a dream.

“Elijah's story is so operatic and dramatic and, you know, we have the fight against the prophets and you know, all of his whole journey is very fascinating. He’s one of my favorite biblical characters, and musically, what Mendelssohn does is quite extraordinary. ” he explained. “I'm just really thrilled to sing and I think people are going to be really in for a great night of music making, and I'm really honored to be at the helm to sing the role.”

In addition to all the excitement that comes with the story of Elijah, The Washington Chorus production on June 8 is no ordinary telling of

the tale. Under direction of Eugene Rogers and with projection design by Camilla Tassi, this production of “Elijah Reimagined” will feature a vibrant visual experience to accompany the sensational sounds.

“One of my goals since joining The Washington Chorus has been to present older works in a new light,” said Rogers, who serves as artistic director. “In this instance, we are adding this visual element to enhance Elijah’s story, so that an audience today can not only be brought in by the fantastic text and the music, but also be captivated through gorgeous visuals. It will be a new and different concert experience for many of our audiences.”

Like the animated series did for the baritone years ago, Liverman is excited for audiences to see “Elijah Reimagined,” as it offers a new perspective to a classic tale.

“I'm looking forward to seeing how this comes together and enhances the storytelling. It's an example of how we can continue to push where the art form can go and how we can take old stories and music that's been written all this time ago, and find new ways to breathe life into them.”

He encouraged audiences to go into the performance with an open mind,

“It’s important to be open to the collaboration, and what other people may have in mind and the vision, and how they're bringing it all together,” Liverman said.

WI

Heroism from WW2 Soldiers of Color Acknowledged in Documentary Series

By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer

Soldiers of color have always served in America’s Armed forces. However, it was not until nearly 76 years ago that U.S. military units were integrated.

We know of the heroism of the Tuskegee Airmen, but other troops of color put their lives on the line in battles fought throughout Europe and at Pearl Harbor. National Geographic will premiere two new programs focusing on soldiers of color who served valiantly alongside Allied forces in the 1940s during and surrounding WW2 battles.

On June 3, “The Real Red Tails,” a one-hour documentary narrated by Sheryl Lee Ralph (“Abbott Elementary”), will kick off the evening at 8 p.m. Following that, at 9 p.m.,

is “Erased: WW2’s Heroes Of Color,” a four-part docuseries executive produced and narrated by Idris Elba (“Hijack"), whose grandfather fought in WW2. Both specials will stream the next day on Disney+ and Hulu.

"Erased" depicts four episodes about major theaters of war in the 1940s, each of which holds significant historical value: Pearl Harbor, D-Day, Dunkirk, and the Battle of the Bulge. These battles were interconnected, and the episodes were produced to show this.

Historical reenactments, with added curated archival footage, were produced to give viewers a sense of the real war conditions. Filming took place over the past year, with family members on camera sharing what little they knew about their loved one’s sacrifice.

“We filmed episodes over the

course of three to four months,” said Charlene Osuagwu, producer, for the “D-Day” episode. “Each director owns their episode for about four months, which is not a long time.”

The first episode, “Pearl Harbor,” tells of three Black sailors who not only miraculously survived the attack on Pearl Harbor but also saved countless lives.

EVENT

Are you a community member, a food-leader or simply interested in where our food comes from? Then this conversation is for you! We will discuss the intersection of culture, access, and agriculture as it impacts our food choices. Join our community panel as they provide insight on the importance of food as preventive medicine!

The second episode, “D-Day,” is about the 320th Barrage Balloon Battalion, which helped liberate Europe. These American soldiers were the only all-Black combat unit to fight on the D-Day beaches.

A DMV area connection to the 320th was Waverly Woodson, a U.S. Army medic, who on Oct. 11, 2023, received posthumously, a Bronze Star and the Combat Medical Badge given to Woodson’s wife, Joann Woodson, a resident of Germantown, Maryland. Her husband saved 200 lives on D-Day on Omaha Beach, in Normandy, France. This episode of “Erased" is timely as the 80th anniversary of D-Day will be observed on June 6.

“We wanted to show that these men were not just accessories to really big events,” Osuagwu said. “They were very much a part of the state of war and contributed overwhelmingly.”

The third episode, “Dunkirk,” is about Force K6, a little-known In-

dian regiment of mule handlers in WW2, with one pivotal unit that helped to evacuate Allied forces at Dunkirk.

The fourth and final episode, “Battle of the Bulge,” reveals the story of the Black Panthers, an elite African American tank battalion. Never before-seen diaries and rare interviews chart the unit’s action through France, Belgium and Germany, including in the bloodiest American battle of WW2: the Battle of the Bulge.

For more information about “The Real Red Tails,” and “Erased: WW2’s Heroes Of Color,” visit natgeotv.com or nationalgeographic.com,

Contributing Writer Brenda C. Siler is the daughter of the late Floyd H. Siler, Sr., who served with the 320th Barrage Balloon Battalion. He survived the invasion of Utah Beach in Normandy, France, on D-Day, June 4, 1944.

WI

@bcscomm

5 Staff Sergeant Johnnie Stevens was a tank commander with the 761st Black Panther Tank Battalion who served in WW2. This battle is depicted in "Erased: WW2's Heroes of Color," the four-part docuseries premiering June 3 on National Geographic (Courtesy photo/The Family of Johnnie Stevens/Doreen Stevens)

5 American journalist and photographer Linda Hervieux holds a portrait of Private Henry Parham. She got to know Parham and his relatives while spending years researching her book about the 320th. Private Parham served with the 320th Barrage Balloon Battalion on D-Day. (Courtesy Photo/National Geographic)

What is black and white and FUN all over? The newspaper! Summer fun begins with your local newspaper! It can be used to play games, to say “Happy Father’s Day” and even to take a nap.

Make a Newspaper Hammock!

Starting at the narrow end, tightly roll about 50 pages of newspaper into a rigid tube. Tape it so that it stays rolled. Make about 10 –15 of these tubes.

Connect the tubes, using extra-strength clothesline. When the hammock is as long as your body, bring the rope ends together to form loops for hanging.

How many di erences can you nd betwee the

First Father’s Day

The first Father’s Day was celebrated in 1910 in Spokane, WA. It was _________ by Sonora Dodd.

Replace the missing words in this story.

She and her five brothers were raised by their father after their mother died.

After listening to a Mother’s Day sermon in _________ one Sunday, she thought of her father’s love and the many sacrifices he had had made to raise her and her __________. And of the many ways fathers everywhere took __________ of their families.

Her idea of a Father’s Day celebration in her community _______ with strong support.

Newspapers across the country told the story of the ___________ day for fathers in Spokane. However, it was not until 1972 that Father’s Day was set as a national celebration on the third ______________ in June.

How many years after the first Father’s Day was it made into a national celebration?

What

Is

a Coat of Arms?

shing.

you have chosen. Cut out the pictures and arrange them on the blank coat of arms. Decorate with markers or crayons, glitter, stickers, and ribbons. Mount the coat of arms on a heavy piece of paper and wrap it as a gift for Father’s Day. Use newspaper to

Select one page of the newspaper. Find and circle 10 or more numbers. Write the numbers on another piece of paper, in order from smallest to largest.

What if there was a holiday in

Hang the hammock indoors or outdoors. Tie the two ends to sturdy supports at each end. Two trees make good supports.

This dad

This dad

This dad likes baseball.

A coat of arms is a crest that uses symbols to

This dad likes movies.

The newspaper hammock idea is from “The Invention Book” by Steven Caney. Read it for more inventive projects!

two hammock pictures on this page?

© 2024 by Vicki Whiting, Editor Je Schinkel, Graphics Vol. 40 No. 28

review wi book

Father's Day

Books by Various Authors

c.2024, Various publishers

$28-$36

Various page counts

Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer

He already has a blue tie.

And a yellow one, a plaid one, and one that looks like a fish. He doesn't need any more tools. He doesn't smoke, and he has enough mugs to last any dad a lifetime. The best gift to give then, perhaps. is a good book. Maybe one of these …

If Dad eagerly devours big books and the Natchez Burning trilogy were his faves, he will be so happy to get "Southern Man" by Greg Iles (Wm. Morrow, $36). It's been a decade now, and Penn Cage is almost totally alone. Most of the people he loved are gone, and it pains him. What also hurts is that Natchez and Bienville are still burning, in more ways than one, and a Black radical group is taking credit for some of the violence. Politics has something to do with it. So does the current polarized atmosphere. Is there any way to stop the man who's running on a third-party ticket, a man who could destroy America?

Ripped from the headlines, give this book to Dad and watch him race through it.

Speaking of racing, if Pops can't get enough of motors and all things with wheels, then "The Race to the Future" by Kassia St. Clair (Liveright, $29.99) might make him slow down enough to read. It's the true story of the Peking-to-Paris Motor Challenge of 1907, in which five drivers entered a competition to see who could get from China to France in the fastest time. It's also a story of the early 20th century, early automobiles and their creators, cultural history, and a World War a-brewing. Rev your engines, wrap up this book.

For the dad of an almost-teenage daughter, "Dad Camp" by Evans S. Porter (Dutton, $28) is a great novel about a man who aspires to be the Best Dad in the World. Alas, his preteen daughter is having none of that so he takes her on a summer retreat: a weeklong Dad-anddaughter camping trip that should make them closer than ever, right?

This is a funny book, but also bittersweet. For any Dad whose little girl is growing up too fast, it's the right gift.

Or if Dad loves thrillers, then "The Year of the Locust" by Terry Hayes (Emily Bestler Books/Atria, $32) couldn't be a better gift. Kane, from Hayes' bestseller "I Am Pilgrim" is back and he still doesn't pay any attention to boundaries or limits. He also only pays attention to violence and danger enough to avoid it.

In some places, though, death, violence, and vengeance simply can't be avoided.

This is another one of those books that Dad will dive into, and he won't easily be able to quit until it's done.

Still need more ideas for giving Dad a great book? Check with your favorite bookseller, or ask your local librarian for ideas. They'll have all kinds of suggestions for making Pops happy now and for a few weeks' of reading. Books always help you tie up your gift-giving.

WI

horoscopes

LIFESTYLE

JUNE 6 - 12, 2024

ARIES You might feel a need to shake up your daily work and streams of cash flow when the week begins. Your inclination to strike out on your own and act impulsively is even stronger than usual, and you might even get the sense that if you don't make your move now, you'll have trouble doing so down the road. Later, you're inspired to carve out time with your nearest and dearest VIP. You'll be a glowing magnet for affection. Lucky Numbers: 7, 11, 19

TAURUS A burst of confidence makes you want to open up about your sexiest desires at the start of the week. Being assertive comes more naturally, so make a point to open up to your significant other or a potential partner now. The direct communication can be followed by sultry, spark-provoking action. Later, the cosmos offers you a unique opportunity to connect with colleagues, brainstorm, and pitch passion projects that could lead to a new stream of cash. Lucky Numbers: 11, 13, 30

GEMINI Playful, lighthearted, and fun self-expression comes naturally when the week starts. Take advantage by flirting up a storm with the object of your affection or putting work on the back burner temporarily to enjoy the company of dear friends. Later, while you're feeling optimistic about a big project on the job, you might need more information. You'd do well to hold off on taking major action until you have all the facts at hand. Lucky Numbers: 10, 21, 46

CANCER When the week begins, you'll do well to look back on any self-reflection you've had in the last few months your relationships. You'll now be able to apply what you've been thinking about to everyday life while also putting your nose to the grindstone to get ahead on joint projects with your romantic partner or a business colleague. Later, you feel like you can take on just about any uphill battle, especially when working alongside someone you trust. Lucky Numbers: 15, 23, 48

LEO You'll be feeling especially generous and warmhearted at the start of the week. Take advantage of it by going with the flow instead of making stringent plans, opening up your heart to loved ones, reveling in their company, and maybe even showering them in small, thoughtful, or even extravagant gifts. This vibrant, passionate moment was made for you. Later, the cosmos shores up your confidence around major undertakings on the job. If you want to make a play for a raise, more responsibility, or an exciting new gig, simply asserting yourself should lead to a win. Lucky Numbers: 4, 12, 57

VIRGO At the week's start, your drive for physical and emotional connection is at an all-time high, and you're sure to want to share this with someone special. Later, you might need to map out time when you can work on an artistic endeavor by yourself. That's because there's an increased possibility that you might have to deal with miscommunication and negativity while working with others now. Embrace the solo time and you'll come out on top. Lucky Numbers: 4, 10, 12

LIBRA Relaxation, romance, and excitement come naturally early in the week. You can make the most of the moment by enjoying time with your significant other, ideally doing something unusual. Later, disagreements with loved ones might give you quite the headache. The best way to cope is to take time to work alone toward personal goals that are close to your heart. Once you've made a bit of progress, you can rejoin the group and hit a harmonious note together. Lucky Numbers: 3, 13, 39

SCORPIO The start of the week is an ideal time to work with your significant other or friends toward an ambitious goal. Whether you want to raise money for charity or throw a party, you've got this. Later, you might be inspired to propose a lofty project to higher-ups. You have an opportunity to embrace your wildest ideas, but it could be tough to nail down a step-bystep game plan. You'd do well to revel in your fantasy for the time being. Lucky Numbers: 1, 24, 52

SAGITTARIUS You'll be looking back on any money-related lessons you've learned over the past six months when the week begins. You might very well have your priorities in check now, so bear that in mind as you push ahead on your ambitious hustles. Later, you might be compelled to plan a special get-together or want to dive into a project related to your home. But your tendency now is to take on more than is realistic and potentially fail to see specifics that can make or break the end result. You'd do well to wait until you have more clarity before plowing ahead. Lucky Numbers: 5, 7, 38

CAPRICORN You've likely been reflecting on your progress on personal goals, and at the start of the week you could feel a bit of pressure to get back to work. Make sure you don't push yourself to take on more than is reasonable. Your work ethic is always on point, which makes it even easier to turn your vision into reality. Later, you might want to sign up for a class or plan a long-distance trip you've been dreaming about. Go for it. It could help you advance your career. Lucky Numbers: 2, 23, 28

AQUARIUS You might be caught off guard by an intense craving for a deep physical and emotional connection with your significant other or a potential partner early in the week. Sharing your needs with your special someone can set the stage for sexy sparks to fly. Later, you could be driven to take on work you've never done before but that feels like a positive challenge for you mentally. The catch is you'd do best to work on your own, because not only are you craving solo time right now, but attempting to accomplish your goals with the help of others could prove especially frustrating. Lucky Numbers: 13, 21, 26

PISCES Prioritizing one-on-one time with your special someone can be extra satisfying for you when the week begins. Stay close to home and revel in exchanging the details of your desires. Later, getting a grip on the facts related to an important project might prove especially challenging. Although you feel fired up about all the moving parts of this endeavor, confusion might reign supreme, so you might need to wait until you have the clarity to gain momentum. Lucky Numbers: 2, 14, 51

SPORTS

Advancement of Blacks in Sports Seeks to Serve as Changemaker For Diversity in Athletic Fields

By Ed Hill

WI Contributing Writer

Advancement of Blacks in Sports (ABIS), a non-profit organization with a mission to advocate for a culture of equity and inclusion of racial, economic and social justice for African Americans in sports, held its third annual Champions and Legends Fundraising event at the MGM National Harbor Hotel and Casino in Oxon Hill, Maryland on June 1. A veritable smorgasbord for African Americans in the sports industry, the event was not only a moment to learn, but also honor those breaking barriers within the sports industry.

The event featured a wellness workshop, financial literacy discus-

sion, a professional development panel and a red carpet gala with iconic honorees including:

• Sashi Brown, president of the Baltimore Ravens

• Paxton Baker, minority owner of the Washington Nationals

• Benjamin Crump, trial lawyer for justice

• Dr. D’Wayne Edwards, president of Pensole Leis College (PLC) Detroit

• NBA Hall of Famer Spencer Haywood

• Yolanda ‘Lonnie’ Ali, philanthropist and wife of Muhammad Ali and philanthropist;

• The Wendell Scott Foundation’s Frank Scott

• Six-time NCAA champion-

ships coach Beverly Kearney

• The 1982 Cheyney State Lady Wolves, the first and only HBCU women’s basketball team to compete in the NCAA Division 1 Final Four Championship

• The 2023 Howard University Swim Team, the 2023 Northeast Conference Men’s Swimming & Diving Champions, and only HBCU with a swim program.

ABIS was established four years ago by Gary Charles following profound inspiration from the events of 2020 and the persistent racial injustices affecting society. Recognizing the urgent need to champion racial equity, social justice, and economic empowerment, Charles resolved to leverage his platform in sports as a catalyst for meaningful change.

During its short lifetime, has successfully graduated numerous students from its financial literacy program, equipping college athletes with essential knowledge and skills for maintaining their financial well-being throughout and beyond their collegiate careers.

Nowadays, Charles is personally focused on diversifying the world of sports. Inspired by the very same people he looked up to as a youth, Charles’ ABIS boasts a coalition of coaches and competitors from various sports across the country.

The organization’s three-day event was highlighted by a session on wellness that focused on the challenges that coaches and athletes face and ways to address them.

The professional development

panel followed and featured professionals from the media, sports ownership, athletes, business and a wide number of backgrounds.

"There were so many things that I took away from the event," said Robyn Magee, a current law school student at North Carolina Central University.

Magee, a native of New Orleans, is serving as an intern for Howard University Athletics for the summer.

"I learned about sports beyond the fields or courts. It covered the topics of gender equity, state of HBCUs, mental wellness, financial literacy and so many more. The networking was great. This was a great opportunity for me as I move forward in my career pursuits."

CELEBRATING THE HONOREES

Kearney, from 1993 to 2013, led the Texas Longhorns women's track and field and cross-country teams at The University of Texas at Austin. She was celebrated for her contributions in leading the Lady Longhorns to six NCAA Championships, and presented the Eddie Robinson Coaches Award.

"I have been honored before, but this has a different feel about it," Kearney told The Informer. "It is especially good to be honored by those who look like you. What it says is that we don't always have to wait for others to recognize our contributions. It's very fulfilling. It makes you feel like family."

Charles intimated that he developed a strong sense of loyalty to HB-

CUs as a product of Cheyney. He was a student there during the historic times of the women's program under ABIS honoree Hall of Fame Coach Vivian Stringer, who received the Trailblazer Award.

Bison head coach Nicholas Askew has built the swim program into a national brand over the past three years. The program, which has been featured in such publications as Sports Illustrated and on several other national platforms, received the ABIS Collegiate Team of the Year Award.

"For far too long, everyone on our team, including our coaching staff, had been in an environment that we knew was uncomfortable and that we knew was a space where others that looked like us were few and far between," declared Askew, a former two-sport athlete and HU graduate. "Now that we are at Howard University as the only HBCU in the entire world of swimming and diving programs, we understand that there's so much more to it than what we do... What we do is we stand as a representation.”

He also addressed a longtime myth.

“And to the lie that Black people don't swim? Yes, we do, and we do it well,” Askew said.

Charles celebrated the event’s success.

"The weekend has truly exceeded our expectations, celebrating the excellence and legacy of trailblazers who are advancing racial and gender equity,” said Charles. “It is wonderful to have so many people come together for a weekend to celebrate 'us.'" WI

5Advancement of Blacks in Sports (ABIS) CEO and founder Gary Charles giving closing remarks at the organization’s third annual Champions and Legends Fundraising event at MGM National Harbor on Saturday, June 1. (Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

5Coach of the 2023 Howard University Swimming and Diving Team, Nicholas Askew, with his wife Christie Askew and three daughters, Aleena, Avianna and Aleya on the red carpet of ABIS Champions and Legends Gala on Saturday, June 1 at MGM National Harbor Hotel and Casino. (Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

CAPTURE the moment

Family Fun: A 5K with a Cause, The Drum Circle Tradition Continues

5 The Black and Missing Foundation hosted its eighth “Hope Without Boundaries 5K Walk-Run” on June 1. This event helps bring awareness to the missing people of color nationwide and was held at the National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland. (Cleveland Nelson/The Washington Informer)

3 Winners of the "Hope Without Boundaries 5K Walk-Run” 12 and under category, twins Cairo and Chloe Hayward. (Cleveland Nelson/The Washington Informer)

3Feeling the

4The Drum Circle is a weekly tradition that started over 40 years ago in Meridian Hill/ Malcolm X Park. This lively celebration of life invites an array of drummers, dancers, acrobats, and artists from all backgrounds every Sunday to dance, drum, and fellowship with others. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

rhythm of the drums, dancer Jasmine Akaroiob gets into the center of the weekly drum circle. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

3The Ogunsalu family pose for a photo, at the African Village in Malcolm X Park ' on Sunday, May 26 in Northwest, D.C. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

RELIGION

Marian Robinson,

the Heart of the Obama Family, Remembered Fondly at 86

National, Local Faith Leaders Reflect on Strength of

Former First Grandmother

By Stacy M. Brown and Hamil Harris WI Senior Writer and WI Contributing Writer

Marian Robinson, mother to former First Lady Michelle Obama, died on Friday, May 31, at 86. Her loved ones said she leaves behind a void in the hearts of many. As a steadfast figure in the Obama White House, Robinson’s presence extended far beyond familial ties, touching the lives of all who knew her.

“My mom, Marian Robinson, was my rock, always there for whatever I needed. She was the same steady backstop for our entire family, and we are heartbroken to share she passed away,” said the former first lady in a statement released Friday by the former President Barack Obama and other family members.

Born Marian Lois Shields, the former first grandmother set out on a journey that was characterized by fortitude and compassion after emerging from the vibrant tapestry of Chicago’s South Side. From her early days as a teacher to her later role as a trusted secretary, Robinson’s life was a testament to the values of family and service, showcasing her personal achievements and contributions.

In a heartfelt tribute, Michelle Obama fondly recalled her mother’s enduring influence, describing her as the unwavering pillar of their family. Robinson’s wisdom, honed through life’s diverse experiences, was a beacon of light during times of uncertainty. Her steadfast support and gentle nature were not just sources of

strength but unique qualities that endeared her to the entire Obama clan.

Throughout Barack Obama’s historic presidency, Robinson was a symbol of stability, offering sage advice and unconditional love. Despite the grandeur of the White House, she maintained her down-to-earth charm, forging deep connections with staff and finding solace in everyday routines, thereby extending her influence beyond her immediate family.

“Her wisdom came off as almost innate, as something she was born with, but in reality, it was hard-earned, fashioned by her deep understanding that the world’s roughest edges could always be sanded down with a little grace,” the family wrote.

In the statement penned by Michelle, Barack, Craig, Kelly, Avery, Leslie, Malia, Sasha, Austin, and Aaron, they remembered Robinson’s lessons handed down over the years.

“Our mother, mother-in-law, and grandmother had a way of summing up the truths about life in a word or two, maybe a quick phrase that made everyone around her stop and think,” they wrote. “Don’t sweat the small stuff. Know what’s truly precious. As a parent, you’re not raising babies — you’re raising little people. Don’t worry about whether anybody else likes you. Come home. We’ll always like you here.”

The family recalled that, as a young woman, Robinson studied to become a teacher before working as a secretary. She fell quickly and madly in love with

Fraser Robinson, another South Sider with a “boxer’s strength and jazz-lover’s cool.” Together, they raised two children, Craig Robinson and the former first lady, in a

“Our mother, mother-in-law, and grandmother had a way of summing up the truths about life in a word or two, maybe a quick phrase that made everyone around her stop and think,” they wrote. “Don’t sweat the small stuff. Know what’s truly precious. As a parent, you’re not raising babies — you’re raising little people. Don’t worry about whether anybody else likes you. Come home. We’ll always like you here.”

served her country right alongside them. Her life is a reminder that we are a great nation because we are a good people”

Robinson’s family remembered her as a woman who was not preoccupied with the glitz and glam that came with being the first grandmother, but rather found joy from simple pleasures.

“Rather than hobnobbing with Oscar winners or Nobel laureates, she preferred spending her time upstairs with a TV tray, in the room outside her bedroom with big windows that looked out at the Washington Monument… Over those eight years, she made great friends with the ushers and butlers, the folks who make the White House a home. She’d often sneak outside the gates to buy greeting cards at CVS, and sometimes another customer might recognize her. ‘You look like Michelle’s mother,’ they’d say. She’d smile and reply, ‘Oh, I get that a lot.’”

tiny upstairs apartment on Euclid Avenue in South Shore.

A strong caregiver, mother, grandmother and provider, Robinson took her wisdom all the way to the White House.

“On Election Night in 2008, when the news broke that Barack would soon shoulder the weight of the world, she was there, holding his hand,” the family wrote. “With a healthy nudge, she agreed to move to the White House with Michelle and Barack. We needed her. The girls needed her. And she ended up being our rock through it all.”

President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden emphasized Robinson’s contributions to her family.

“We knew Mrs. Marian Robinson as a devoted mother and grandmother with a fierce and unconditional love of her family. With the blessing of friendship, we felt that love ourselves – with every quiet smile or warm embrace she shared with us,” the Bidens wrote in a White House statement. “She believed, like we do, that family is the beginning, middle and end. She moved into the White House to be there for her family when they needed her the most, and in so doing, she

RELIGIOUS LEADERS REMEMBER ROBINSON

Robinson’s faith in God was central to her life.

“The only guest she made a point of asking to meet was the Pope,” Robinson’s family wrote in their statement.

The Rev. Al Sharpton said on MSNBC that Mrs. Robinson was “absolutely the anchor of that family,” and added that she had a very discerning spirit. Sharpton was a frequent visitor during the Obama White House and afterwards.

On the Sunday before former President Obama’s inauguration, the then soon-to-be first family attended worship services at 19th Street Baptist Church in Northwest, D.C., where Pastor Derrick Harkins greeted them at the church door.

That day, people stood in line to attend that historical service and they stood on their feet when the first family, including Robinson, walked into the church.

“She was a quiet and consistent presence for the first family,” Harkins told The Washington Informer. “She was offering grandmotherly advice. It was a cute interlude on how she always seemed to be a steady presence for the whole family.” WI

5 Marian Robinson, mother to former First Lady Michelle Obama, died on Friday, May 31, at 86. (Courtesy Photo, Michelle Obama, Instagram)

Ever notice the worse times in your life seem to be the times when you feel that the Lord is not hearing your prayers? In the legendary poem "Footprints," the author dreamed of walking along a beach with God, leaving two sets of prints in the sand — only the two sets became one at the worst times for the narrator.

"Lord, you said once I decided to follow you, you'd walk with me all the way," the narrator said. "But I noticed that during the saddest and most troublesome times of my life, there was only one set of footprints. I don't understand why, when I needed you the most, you would leave me."

He replied, "My precious child, I love you and will never leave you Never, ever, during your trials and testings. When you saw only one set of footprints, It was then that I carried you."

That poem speak to those times in our lives when it seems God is silent, as though He wasn't there at all. Remember the words spoken by Jesus when He was on the cross! He said "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" In the gospel of Mark this statement in Aramaic is spoken by Jesus just before he dies on the cross (Mark 15:34), and in the gospel of Matthew Jesus utters these last words in Hebrew (Matthews 27:46): "Eli, Eli, lema

WITH LYNDIA GRANT

Why is God Silent? the religion corner

sabachthani?" Generally translated as, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"

An excellent example is an oak tree – where does it come from? It doesn't just appear! First the acorn is planted; then it takes time, maybe about a month or more before any sprouts begin to shoot out, deep inside the earth. Then after some quiet time, like a baby in the mother's womb, some new shoots from the oak tree finally shoot out above the ground; a tiny, new, fragile, fresh little plant, so easily broken, appears.

When we've lost all hope of making something happen with our own strength, and in the midst of our time of silence, we gain clarity and a willing spirit to be led as He guides us. Embrace the silence. Trust God, especially when He is silent. He allowed His son to go through the crucifixion. Jesus Christ surely felt forsaken, too — a clear indication that we, too, must go through periods in our own lives when God is silent. Trust and believe in God, and allow Him to do His perfect work. Silence is golden!

Romans 8:28 says, "And I know that all things work together for good to them who love the Lord, and who are the called according to His purpose." God was silent for quite a while in my life. He surely was there, with the prob-

lems I suffered, He was carrying me. One day He began to reveal what I needed to do, and He will reveal what you must do as well.

Obey His word, and don't allow hunches to pass you by as if it was only a fleeting thought. Harness the thought and grab hold of it — it is God and the Holy Spirit guiding you every step of the way. How else do you think these higher powers communicate with us; whether it is the Holy Spirit, the Lord, Source, or Universe? Remember this message when God is silent in your life! WI

When we've lost all hope of making something happen with our own strength, and in the midst of our time of silence, we gain clarity and a willing spirit to be led as He guides us. Embrace the silence.

MCCOLLUM & ASSOCIATES, LLC

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on the whole for their mental health and drug habits,” said Aleta White, a D.C. resident and family member of someone who died while in DOC custody.

GILES DANIEL WARRICK

As explained in a DOC document obtained by The Informer, a guard conducting a resident count and security check at D.C. Jail’s Central Treatment Facility (CTF) on the morning of November 19, 2022, found Giles Daniel Warrick, in his cell hanging from a sheet tied around his neck, with the other end attached to a metal locker.

After the guard, ranked as a corporal, called for reinforcements, jail staff, along with Unity Health medical staff, attempted lifesaving measures. Less than an hour later, Dr. Robert Holman, medical director at D.C. Fire and Emergency Medical Services declared Warrick dead.

Warrick, White’s family mem-

BUDGET from Page 1

Chaney, founder of Bold Yoga LLC, is part of a group helping high school students launch a business cooperative. Along the way, she continues to encounter underlying problems that jeopardize the youths’ collective success.

One example Chaney gave involved some young people who live in dilapidated, mold-infested homes. She also mentioned instances where she and her colleagues had to help parents pay utility bills after they couldn’t access emergency rental assistance.

In those situations, Chaney has relied on an ever-expanding grassroots mutual aid network that pools

5 This year, the 70-day budget deliberation process will start later, due to what D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson called D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser’s delay in submitting the budget to the Office of the Chief Financial Officer. (Courtesy Photo)

5 On the morning of November 19, 2022, a D.C. Jail Central Treatment Facility guard found Giles Daniel Warrick dead in his cell. His family is searching for answers. (Courtesy Photo)

ber, was 63. The document, compiled by DOC’s Office of Investigative Services (OIS), said that Warrick was one of 32 residents in his unit at the CTF. Each resident had their own cell, and only one officer was assigned to the entire unit, with officers changing shifts in eight-hour increments.

Though OIS found that responding DOC staff and Unity medical staff adhered to DOC policy, a redacted portion of the re-

resources for residents. She said that work has inspired people in her community to jump into advocacy work.

Such results, Chaney said, could be multiplied once the D.C. government commits to expanding programs that have been proven to improve people’s quality of life and boost cooperative development.

“We got people who want to step up and do more because they know their voice matters in this city,” Chaney said. “But we need more money in the budget so people who navigate through [the system] can help more people. Things will improve. It’s just a matter of [elected officials] funding social programs.”

CHAIRMAN

MENDELSON

VS. D.C. MAYOR BOWSER VS. CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER LEE

This year, the 70-day budget deliberation process will start later, due to what D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson called D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser’s delay in submitting the budget to the Office of the Chief Financial Officer (OCFO).

Per a council resolution adopted this year, Bowser was required to submit the budget no later than March 20. In order to meet that deadline, she would have needed to get the

port that calls into question, based on housing unit surveillance cameras, along with statements and documents collected, elements of DOC’s day-to-day operations.

White said she had similar questions.

“I don’t know how often the mandatory counts are done at D.C. Jail but if no one hadn’t laid eyes on him, he would’ve missed [at least] three counts,” White said. “That screams incompetence.”

At the time of his death, Warrick was gearing up for to stand trial for his alleged role in a murder and series of rapes that took place in the D.C. metropolitan area throughout the 1990s. The DOC report showed that Warrick had bouts of depression and sleeplessness related to the case at least since the latter part of 2022.

D.C. Jail officials said that Warrick denied having thoughts of suicide throughout his comprehensive medical health assessments, the latest of which took place two months before his death.

As shown in the report, Warrick

budget to OCFO on March 10 -- 10 days beforehand -- so that it could be reviewed for financial and legal sufficiency.

That didn’t happen, Mendelson said. During the D.C. Council’s March 19 Committee of the Whole meeting, he told his council colleagues that he saw the signs of a delay earlier in the month as he inquired about the mayor’s progress.

He went on to say that, by not following the proper steps to meet the March 20 deadline, Bowser disregarded the law.

Another qualm that Mendelson expressed concerned Chief Financial Officer Glen Lee’s mandate that Bowser dedicate $250 million of a more-than-$20 billion budget toward the replenishment of the District’s reserves. Mendelson noted that the law doesn’t require that reserves be replenished through direct appropriation. He went on to tell council colleagues the diversion of funds of the reserves would result in across-the-board budget cuts amounting to more than $1 billion.

This year, in addition to the replenishment of the city’s reserves, Bowser must deal with the renegotiation of collective bargaining agreements, closing Metro’s budget gap, funding pension and other post-employment benefits, and increasing human services expenditures.

was prescribed Benadryl.

White said that such a response didn’t suffice, telling The Informer that the death of a son she shared with Warrick exacerbated his depression. She alleges that jail officials acted negligently and continue to do so with impunity.

Last spring, White reserved her right to file a lawsuit. She's currently working through her attorney to secure information from DOC about the circumstances around Warrick's death. Those efforts, she said, have been fruitless due to DOC’s insistence that she make such demands through an estate established in Warrick's name.

White has since issued a call to the families of other deceased D.C. Jail residents to join this cause.

“In light of the other deaths since then, it’s obvious that [D.C. Jail officials are] not taking it seriously. They haven’t done anything to change the conditions of the jail for anyone,” White said, going as far to question whether the guards truly adhered to a mandate

As the D.C. Council gears up to comb through Bowser’s budget proposal, Mendelson said he’s advising council members to restore funding to existing programs before looking at new programs.

“I don’t know how disciplined members will be about that,” he told The Informer.

Mendelson said that he also wants to avoid raising taxes. If it’s to be done, he expressed his support for a balanced approach.

“I would like to see our taxes be more equitable,” Mendelson said. “The way you do that is creating more tax brackets for tax saving to individuals. Lowering rates that affect middle-income folks and offset tax increases to the upper brackets.”

MAYOR BOWSER HINTS AT BUDGET PRIORITIES

On March 12, the D.C. Tax Revision Commission released findings from a study that suggested that tax rate increases placed on high-income residents in 2021 didn’t compel them to leave the District. As a matter of fact, the commission said that lowand middle-income D.C. residents still remain the most likely to leave the District.

Days later, Bowser told The Informer that resident engagement,

of 30-minute check-ins on cells. “They’re not monitoring people on the whole for their mental health and drug habits. How can you do mandatory counts and not do documentation?”

FIVE DOC RESIDENTS DEAD WITHIN THIS YEAR

Since Warrick’s death, CIC has reported at least nine resident deaths, five of which took place this year. Out of those five, three happened in May.

On the afternoon of May 11, jail personnel found Sheena Weatherspoon unresponsive in her cell at CTF. Weatherspoon, a 39-year-old resident of Takoma Park, Maryalnd, was being held on a Virginia fugitive of justice charge from D.C. Superior Court.

The Informer unsuccessfully attempted to gather comment from one of Weatherspoon’s family members. Read more on washingtoninformer.com. WI @SamPKCollins

along with public safety, and good government services, including the 911 call center counted among her greatest budget priorities.

Bowser went on to say that all programs across the government would likely see some sort of reduction.

She also pointed to old devices, D.C. government staff vacancies, and expensive leases as potential budget cuts. All the while, Bowser said she wanted to protect health programs and post-pandemic development of Downtown, D.C.

On March 20, the day she was originally scheduled to present her budget to the D.C. Council, Bowser spoke before an audience of teachers and administrators at the Catholic University of America’s Pryzbyla University Center in Northeast during the High Impact Tutoring Summit.

At that event, Bowser revealed education investments in her yet-tobe-released proposal, including $4.8 million to continue what was initially a federally-funded high-impact tutoring program. She also said she dedicated $5 million toward programming at the Advanced Technical Center (ATC) in Northeast, dual-enrollment expansion, and the Advanced Internship Program and Career Ready Internships.

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

WI @SamPKCollins

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SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000549

Gloria B. Hood aka Gloria Hood Decedent

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

Angela Hallman-Tabron, whose address is 6615 Calmos Street, Capitol Heights, MD 20743, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Gloria B. Hood aka Gloria Hood who died on February 27, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/23/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/23/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/23/2024

Angela Hallman-Tabron Personal Representative

TRUE

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000047

Larry Turner aka Larry Paul Turner Decedent

Julie A. Simantiras, Esq.

The Geller Law Group 4000 Legato Road, Suite 1100 Fairfax, VA 22033

Attorney

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

Alice Paterick Paxton, whose address is 2354 N. Oakland Street, Arlington, VA 22207, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Larry Turner aka Larry Paul Turner who died on April 8, 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 11/23/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/23/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/23/2024

Alice Paterick Paxton

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000505

Gloria T. Payne Decedent

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

Shirley Marie Payne Jones, whose address is 6036 Southport Drive, Bethesda MD 20814, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Gloria T. Payne who died on March 4, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/23/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/23/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/23/2024

Shirley Marie Payne Jones Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000507

Mae Young Cundiff Decedent

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

Charmaine Cundiff, whose address is 132 56th Street SE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mae Young Cundiff who died on March 18, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/23/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/23/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/23/2024

Charmaine Cundiff 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

2018 ADM 000929

Sheila R. Tilghman Milbourne aka Sheila Roberta Tilghman Milbourne Decedent

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

Carolyn Ramona Davis Hantz, whose address is 28 – 46th Place NE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Sheila R. Tilghman Milbourne aka Sheila Roberta Tilghman Milbourne who died on September 13, 2017 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 11/23/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/23/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/23/2024

Carolyn Ramona Davis Hantz Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000496

Joann Brown Decedent

James W. Taglieri 1100 Connecticut Ave., NW #730 Washington, DC 20036 Attorney

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

Lavida King-Hedspeth & Betty Butler, whose addresses are 8358 Loch Raven Blvd., Towson, MD 21286 & 707 Broderick Drive, Oxon Hill, MD 20745, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Joann Brown who died on 2/1/2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/23/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/23/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/23/2024

Lavida King-Hedspeth Betty Butler Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000535

Benjamin Jamison Jr. Decedent

Stevaughn J. Bush, Esq. 600 Maryland Ave SW, Ste. 800E Washington, DC 20024

Attorney

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

Timothy Jamison, whose address is 6610 Insey St., District Heights, MD 20747, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Benjamin Jamison Jr. who died on January 18, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/23/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/23/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/23/2024

Timothy Jamison Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2024 ADM 000506

James Michael Robinson Decedent

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

Cheryl Ann Robinson, whose address is 4418 6th Pl., NE, Washington, DC 20017, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James Michael Robinson who died on March 15, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/23/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/23/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/23/2024

Cheryl Ann Robinson Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000476

Neva Blake aka Neva Rosabud Ward Murray Blake aka Neva R. Blake Decedent

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

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

Andre Antonius Blake aka Andre Blake, whose address is 1438 Alabama Ave., SE, Washington, DC 20032, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Neva Blake aka Neva Rosabud Ward Murray Blake aka Neva R. Blake who died on 12/13/2023 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

with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/23/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/23/2024

Andre Blake

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 234

Estate of Carrie W. Carson

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE

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

Admit to probate the will dated November 8, 2019 exhibited with the petition upon proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution by affidavit of the witnesses or otherwise.

Date of first publication: 5/23/2024

Cheryl Wallace 3809 Tullycross Court White Plains, MD 20695

Petitioner/Attorney:

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000533

Terry Adam Hedgepeth Decedent

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

Christina Elizabeth Hedgepeth, whose address is 729 Rittenhouse St. NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Terry Adam Hedgepeth who died on 4/2/2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/23/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/23/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication:

5/23/2024

Christina Elizabeth Hedgepeth

Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2024 ADM 000593

Doris Jean Lucas Decedent

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

Sandra E. Bell, whose address is 9904 Platte Ct., Clinton, MD 20735, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Doris Jean Lucas who died on January 4, 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 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Sandra E. Bell Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 001352

Candace A. Waterman Decedent

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

Taylor Michelle Hunt and Karen Michelle Patton, whose addresses are 9203 Jerome, Redford, MI 48239 & 14023 Salem, Redford MI 48239, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Candace A. Waterman who died on May 19, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/23/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/23/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/23/2024

Taylor Michelle Hunt 9203 Jerome, Redford, MI 48239

Karen Michelle Patton 14023 Salem, Redford, MI 48239

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000612

Gloria W. Dutch Decedent

Ethel Mitchell, Esq. 8403 Colesville Road #1100 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Attorney

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

Jean Dutch Tate, whose address is 549 Ingraham Street, NE, Washington DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Gloria W. Dutch who died on August 10, 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 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Jean Dutch Tate Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000571

Annie P. Williams

Decedent

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

Attorney

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

Warren W. Daniels, whose address is 22 Wayside Court, Stafford, VA 22554, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Annie P. Williams who died on April 27, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Warren W. Daniels Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2024 ADM 000567

llee Fernando Sanders Decedent

Suren G. Adams, Esq. Adams Law Office, LLC 4201 Northview Drive, Suite 401 Bowie, MD 20716

Attorney

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

Mandel D. Sanders and Jamie Coleman, whose addresses are 4235 71st Ave., Hyattsville, MD 20784 & 12305 Burning Oak Ct, Waldorf, MD 20601, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of llee Fernando Sanders who died on June 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 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Mandel D. Sanders

Jamie Coleman Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 581

Barbara A. Jones aka Barbara Annie Jones Decedent

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

Diana McCormick, whose address is 6005 N. Hill Mar Circle, District Heights, MD 20747, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Barbara A. Jones aka Barbara Annie Jones who died on November 5, 2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred.

Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Diana McCormick 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

2021 ADM 000338

James Milton Kelly Decedent

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

Karen Kelly-McIntyre, whose address is 1719 Arcadia Avenue, Capitol Heights, MD 20743, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James Milton Kelly who died on August 21, 2019 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Karen Kelly-McIntyre Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000575

Catherine Grayton-Lee Decedent

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

Attorney

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

Henry E. Lee, whose address is 3400 Commodore Joshua Bailey Drive, NE, Apt 114W, Washington, DC 20018, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Catherine Grayton-Lee who died on 2/3/2020 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment 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 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Henry E. Lee Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000570

Leilani Clark Decedent

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

Daje Clark, whose address is 1035 Quincy St., NE, Washington, DC 20017, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Leilani Clark who died on November 25, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Daje Clark

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000561

Linda de la Rama Decedent

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

Attorney

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

Jesse de la Rama, whose address is 5740-B Post Road, Charlestown, RI 02813, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Linda de la Rama who died on December 22, 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 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred.

Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Jesse de la Rama

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000615

Ruth B. Johnson aka Ruth Barbara Johnson Decedent

Jeffrey K. Gordon, Esq. Tobin O’Connor Concino, P.C. 5335 Wisconsin Ave., NW, #400 Washington, DC 20015

Attorney

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

Wendi Taylor, whose address is 523 Ridge Street, Newark, NJ 07104, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ruth B. Johnson aka Ruth Barbara Johnson who died on May 6, 2019 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 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Wendi Taylor

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000527

Marie A. Lancaster aka Marie Lancaster Decedent

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

Sayzon L. Ford, whose address is 2909 Sunset lane, Suitland MD, 20746, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Marie A. Lancaster aka Marie Lancaster who died on December 24, 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 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Sayzon L. Ford Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

PROBATE DIVISION

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 FEP 000051

March 6, 2023

Date of Death

Urbando Saa Bravo

Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Leonardo del Rosario Saa-Guerrero whose address is 14719 Bentley Square, Centreville, VA 20120 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Urbando Saa Bravo, deceased, by the Register of Wills for Prince Georges County, State of Maryland, on June 12, 2023.

Service of process may be made upon Donald R. Marlais, Esq. 411 10th Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C. The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real property: 1355 Longfellow Street, NW, Washington, DC 20011. 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: 5/30/2024

Leonardo del Rosario Saa-Guerrero Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000538

Marilou M. Righini

Decedent

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

Washington, DC 20006

Attorney

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

Giovanna M. Righini, whose address is 77 Fair Street, Kingston, NY 12401-4849, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Marilou M. Righini who died on March 9, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Giovanna M. Righini

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000563

Walter Marion Anthony Decedent

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

Ruby Harden, whose address is 5128 New Hampshire Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Walter Marion Anthony who died on July 15, 2020 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Ruby Harden Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000537

Robert Mills

Decedent

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

Brenda Henry, whose address is 6800 Forest Terrace, Landover MD, 20785, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Robert Mills who died on 9/30/2016 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 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred.

Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Brenda Henry Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000597

Wilson R. Jerman aka Wilson Jerman Decedent

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

Linda Taylor, whose address is 4505 Kentland Drive, Woodbridge VA 22193, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Wilson R. Jerman aka Wilson Jerman who died on 5/16/2020 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 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Linda Taylor

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 562

Ronald Quick Decedent

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

Wayne Quick, whose address is 12306 Kings Valley Court, Mitchellville, MD 20721, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ronald Quick who died on 12/31/2022 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Wayne Quick Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000595

Eldora Yeager Decedent

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

Markyle Yeager, whose address is 2343 Q St. SE, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Markyle Yeager who died on 8/23/2021 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 12/6/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/6/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 6/6/2024

Markyle Yeager Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 614

Harvey Lee Mise

Decedent

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

Harvey Larvell Mise, whose address is 1935 U Place SE, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Harvey Lee Mise who died on January 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 12/6/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/6/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: June 6, 2024

Harvey Larvell Mise 1935 U Place SE Washington, DC 20020

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000639

Mary Alma Wiley Decedent

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

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

Mary E. Moore, whose address is 7777 Maple Avenue, Apt. 406, Takoma Park, MD 20912, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mary Alma Wiley who died on March 26, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 12/6/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/6/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 6/6/2024

Mary E. Moore

Personal Representative

of Wills

LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 620

James L. Clark

Decedent

Aimee D. Griffin, Esq. 5335 Wisconsin Ave., NW Suite 440 Washington, DC 20015

Attorney

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

Shirley Carey, whose address is 16845 Winston Lane, Woodbridge, VA 22191, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James L. Clark who died on February 17, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (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 12/6/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/6/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 6/6/2024

Shirley Carey Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000548

Sondra K. Cunningham Decedent

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

Jeannine Cunningham, whose address is 5208 Belgreen Street #401, Suitland MD 20746, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Sondra K. Cunningham who died on February 20, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 12/6/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/6/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 6/6/2024

Jeannine Cunningham Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 FEP 000053

May 8, 2023 Date of Death

Jane Delores Wright aka Jane D. Wright aka Delores Wright Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Carolyn Wright Bridges whose address is 4900 Roxboro Street, Apt 304, Durham, NC 27704 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Jane Delores Wright aka Jane D. Wright aka Delores Wright, deceased, by the Register of Wills Court for Montgomery County, State of Maryland, on February 26, 2024. Service of process may be made upon Charles E. Bright 5521 Colorado Ave., NW, Apt 305, 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.

3446 Summit Court, NE, Washington, DC 20018. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Date of first publication: 6/6/2024

Carolyn Wright Bridges Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES

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

2024 ADM 000634

Zakiya D. Brown Decedent

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

Jamila A. Prince, whose address is 814 Alabaster Court, Capitol Heights, MD 20743, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Zakiya D. Brown who died on April 15, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 12/6/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/6/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 6/6/2024

Jamila A. Prince Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000548

Sondra K. Cunningham Decedent

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

Jeannine Cunningham, whose address is 5208 Belgreen Street #401, Suitland MD 20746, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Sondra K. Cunningham who died on February 20, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 12/6/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/6/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 6/6/2024

Jeannine Cunningham Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000554

Iris A. McCrae aka Iris McCrae Decedent

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

Attorney

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

Peggy L. Evans, whose address is 5608 Decatur Place, Hyattsville, MD 20781, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Iris A. McCrae aka Iris McCrae who died on January 24, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 12/6/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/6/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 6/6/2024

Peggy L. Evans Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 FEP 000057

March 3, 2023

Date of Death

Becky Sue Poock

Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Roger Poock whose address is 1509 Archer Avenue, Waterloo, IA 50707 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Becky Sue Poock, deceased, by the Iowa District Court for Black Hawk County, State of Iowa, on December 3, 2023. Service of process may be made upon Robin Laupheimer, 1920 L Street, NW, Suite 835, Washington, DC 20036 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C. Decedent has cause of action in DC. The decedent owned District of Columbia personal property. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Date of first publication: 6/6/2024

Roger Poock Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000322

Liliane Tocatlian aka Liliane T. Tocatlian aka Liliane Therese Tocatlian Decedent

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

Daniel Peter Tocatlian and Christian Bernard Tocatlian, whose addresses are 1303 Susquehanna Rd., Rydal, PA 19046 & 615 Sweetwater Dr., Feasterville-trevose PA 19053, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Liliane Tocatlian aka Liliane T. Tocatlian aka Liliane Therese Tocatlian who died on February 28, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/6/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/6/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 6/6/2024

Daniel Peter Tocatlian

1303 Susquehanna, Rd, Rydal, PA 19046

Christian Bernard Tocatlian

615 Sweetwater Dr., Feasterville-trevose, PA 19053 Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 FEP 000056

April 5, 2023

Date of Death

Frank D. Bryant, Sr. Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Patricia Bathe Bryant whose address is 106 Canterbury Dr., Crossville, TN 38558 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Frank D. Bryant, Sr., deceased, by the Probate Court for Cumberland County, State of Tennessee, on March 12, 2024.

Service of process may be made upon Robin Laupheimer 1920 L Street, NW, Suite 835, Washington, DC 20036 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C.

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

Date of first publication: 6/6/2024

Patricia Bathe Bryant Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 632

Calvin Lorenzo Williams Decedent

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

Ricky Williams, whose address is 11705 Thrift Road, Clinton, MD 20735, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Calvin Lorenzo Williams who died on March 2, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 12/6/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/6/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 6/6/2024

Ricky Williams Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000592

Russell Wesley Riddick III Decedent

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

Shaunna Riddick, whose address is 1315 Harding Pl. Apt 203, Charlotte NC, 28204, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Russell Wesley Riddick III who died on September 20, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (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 12/6/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/6/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 6/6/2024

Shaunna Riddick Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES

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

2024 ADM 633

Karen B. Pearce Decedent

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

Amy Pearce Fonville and Hardy Lee Pearce III, whose addresses are 8003 Glenside Dr., Takoma Park MD 20912 & 9516 Byeforde Rd., Kensington MD 20895, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Karen B. Pearce who died on April 27, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 12/6/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/6/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 6/6/2024

Amy Pearce Fonville Hardy Lee Pearce III Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2024 ADM 000617

Arthur L. Beamon aka Arthur Leon Beamon Decedent

James S. Bubar 1717 K Street, NW, Suite 900 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney

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

Joan Agatha Campayne-Beamon and James S. Bubar, whose addresses are respectively, 2475 Virginia Ave., NW, Apts. 328/329, Washington, DC 20006, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Arthur L. Beamon aka Arthur Leon Beamon who died on February 10, 2022 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 12/6/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/6/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 6/6/2024

Joan Agatha Campayne-Beamon

James S. Bubar Personal Representative

TRUE

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000644

Fred Tarpley, Sr. Decedent

Joel W. Anders, Esq. 1717 K St., NW, Suite 900 Washington, DC Attorney

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

Vida Olives, whose address is 1955 Emancipation Highway, Suite 201, Fredericksburg, VA 22401, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Fred Tarpley, Sr. who died on 2/7/2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 12/6/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/6/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 6/6/2024

Vida Olives

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000559

Von Charles Davenport aka Von C. Davenport aka Von Davenport Decedent

Robert P. Newman, Esq. Law Office of Robert P. Newman 801 Wayne Avenue, Suite 400 Silver Spring, MD 20910

Attorney

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

Ian Francis Davenport, whose address is 6515 Hil-Mar Drive, Apt. 102, District Heights, Maryland 20747, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Von Charles Davenport aka Von C. Davenport aka Von Davenport who died on 1/29/2024 without 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 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 12/6/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/6/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: June 6, 2024

Ian Francis Davenport Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

DC AGENCIES from Page 5 our most vulnerable young people and making our community safer overall,” the report’s authors conclude.

Tracy Velázquez, the policy director at the Council for Court Excellence, a nonprofit that advocates for improvements to the city’s criminal justice system, noted that how crossover youth are labeled and treated are key in trying to prevent them from becoming victims or criminals of violence, and addressing public safety overall.

“When we portray these children as bad kids, it enables us to think about harsher penalties and diminish the worth of their lives,” asserted Velázquez. “The way that we improve community safety is by improving the wellbeing of the people in the District of Columbia. And this is, I believe, a very important way that we can do so.”

WI

TOLUMIDE from Page 8

As for the term “Suya,” it originates from a dish in Nigeria: a savory meat skewer, usually prepared with beef, chicken, or lamb, that has been marinated in a blend of spices and subsequently cooked on a grill.

She says being in the D.C. music scene requires her to do "sharing for those who want to know" more about her Nigerian heritage.

"When we are aware of [cultures], we know more about each other...that's the one way we really grow, adding "We're more unified, we're more accepting, more understanding and more compassionate," she told The Informer. WI

HENSON from Page 33

Henson wanted to stretch and get everything in.

This documentary shows the trajectory of Henson’s career through every milestone. From Sesame Street to Saturday Night Live to The Muppet Show- to full-length feature films. The University of Maryland has designated Henson’s birth date of September 24 as “Jim Henson Day.”

The university uses Henson’s own words to explain his desired impact: “When I was young, my ambition was to be one of the people who made a difference in this world. My hope is to leave the world a little better for having been there.”

WI

@bcscomm

EDELMAN from Page 30

place where men are more concerned with the quality of their goals than the quantity of their goods. But most of all, the Great Society is not a safe harbor, a resting place, a final objective, a finished work. It is a challenge constantly renewed …"

The Great Society is one where all children and young people — and adults — will be able to find joy and thrive. It's fitting that President Johnson shared his vision with young people first. Some of the ideals President Johnson envisioned in the Great Society and the policies

LADD from Page 30 of organizations or our local, state, and federal government? It means we have a moral imperative to create the best possible conditions for learning, love and growth for our youngest children. The good news is that we have plenty of examples and efforts to build from. Now we simply need the commitment to act in the best interest of our children.

Here are some next steps:

- Visualize an ecosystem of love, care, and learning for children that begins before they are born and is designed to help them grow and thrive.

- Prioritize giving all children access to loving, caring adults inside and outside of the home, understanding that love is not just nice to

MARSHALL from Page 30

tant in viewing the scandal involving former president Bill Clinton and White House intern Monica Lewinsky from a moral lens. So far, Trump has managed to dodge the judicial and moral scrutiny from his fellow Republicans and a large amount of the electorate. Everything to them is political to their advantage.

MAGA Republicans can't have it both ways by embracing the phrase "God, family and country" while promoting conspiracy theories that undermine religion, family values and patriotism. They also can not embrace conspiracy theories that seeks to destroy the confidence and trust in the American judicial system. A Trump campaign memo contained talking points for Republican lawmakers suggesting they call the case against Trump a sham, hoax, witch hunt and election interference. Republicans have abandoned their most deeply held principles that they

needed to support them came under attack almost immediately, and many have remained under attack in one form or another ever since. Just days ago, we saw the House Agriculture Committee voting to advance a farm bill proposing changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which children, young people, and families in big cities and rural communities across the country rely on to help with nutritious meals, that would cut SNAP benefits by an estimated $30 billion over ten years. This is a far cry from the vision of a society "where no child will go unfed." We see ongoing

have, it's an essential need.

- Create dedicated funding streams for the expansion of early childhood programs and services at local, state, and federal levels.

- Ensure public access to quality preschool programs that promote early learning and health development while simultaneously strengthening the supply of child care and the needs of working parents and families.

- Ensure that policymaking at all levels centers on young children and their families, including housing, healthcare, behavioral health, law enforcement, economic development, and education.

Now, it can be overwhelming to think about changing these complex systems. But there is a way to simplify things and for each of us

can no longer, with any amount of credibility, call themselves the party of family values, defenders of the Constitution and the party of "law and order." What would have been the reaction from the MAGA crowd if it were Barack Obama or Hillary Clinton who was convicted of 34 felony charges? The U.S. Senate and House are running out of John McCain-type Republicans who have the political courage to place the country first rather than succumb to conspiracy theories regarding a "rigged" system.

It took 12 Manhattan jurors only a few days to go behind doors, deliberate and come up with an unanimous decision concerning Donald Trump's guilt. It is safe to say that those jurors were objective and serious when looking at the facts and evidence through a judicial lens. The bet from the Trump camp figured at least one juror would be political in reviewing the evidence that the former president committed adultery and tried to

resistance to the call to end poverty, and new pushbacks against the call to end racial injustice. But at the same time, we also see how far we have come, and how in each new generation young people set a new standard for where we will go next. If creating a great society is still a challenge that is constantly being renewed, young people are still ready for the challenge — and their imagination, initiative, and indignation are still the right tools for the task. I hope they will never be discouraged by the unfinished work but will always keep building.

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to commit to doing what's right for children in our world today, right now. Reach into your soul and heart and imagine your power to give the gift of love and resiliency to a child. Maybe it's a child you know, a classroom you're familiar with, a community or church that is part of your life. When you look inside, know that you can be an ambassador for love, an ambassador for helping children thrive in a community of love. It takes a lot of love to heal the world, but only takes a little to help a child know they belong, that they are cared for and safe, that they are loved and that they can heal. When we do that, we can change the world with one act of love followed by another, and another.

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hide it from the public to avoid losing a presidential election. The one juror never materialized.

In November, the American voters are not deciding the outcome of a criminal trial, but they are choosing if a convicted felon will become president of the United States. As a convicted felon, Trump would be banned from 37 countries should he be elected president. Some of those countries include several of America's strongest allies such as the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Israel and Mexico. Whether you agree or disagree with the verdict, the process was performed the according to the law. The election process will be the same. No rigged verdict and no rigged election results. As voters, we too are jurors. We need to be objective in considering the facts involving the case, and what it would mean to the credibility of our nation to have a convicted criminal felon elected head of state and commander in chief.

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WILLIAMS from Page 31

Trump now holds the distinction of being the FIRST U.S. PRESIDENT CONVICTED OF CRIMINAL CHARGES! Still, elected officials in the Republican Party immediately began lining up in defense of Trump, calling for the Supreme Court to overturn the conviction! This came after Trump lashed out at the judge, who, by the way, gave him the longest rope to hang himself while in court! Once convicted, it didn't take him

MORIAL from Page 31

prohibit judicial officers from accepting gifts "from anyone who is seeking official action from or doing business with the court" and require the disclosure of gifts.

He is credibly suspected of leaking to conservative activists his ruling in 2014's Burwell v. Hobby Lobby, exempting private companies from regulations in the case of religious objections. Another of his rulings, in 2022's Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization also was leaked.

JEALOUS from Page 31

crying, you're not healing' … I found a lot of healing in the garden. That feeling of connection made me say, 'oh my gosh, I feel like this is exactly where I'm supposed to be.'"

Now Rodney does community outreach for the Tiger Mountain Foundation, which works to empower communities through shared-use community gardens and other cultivated "spaces of opportunity." And he volunteers with his church's Adventurers Club, part of the church's youth ministry.

When Rodney left prison, he felt like he could not go back home to South Phoenix, a particularly under-resourced part of the city, because there was nothing good there for him. Now he says, "with the garden spaces I work in, I don't leave South Phoenix … and I am one of the community leaders helping to provide resources and opportunity to people who are like I was. I see people come to the garden and shed those tears just like I did. I see people struggling with anxiety and depression and addiction, they come to the garden and they find tranquility and peace. People

long to lash out at the prosecutors and the jury that convicted him.

I remind you that it was Trump who wished the worst for our dear sister Marilyn Mosby, who truly does deserve a pardon after all the great work she's done for her community. (Sign the support petition at www.JusticeforMarilynMosby.com.) Compare the behavior of the two, and you will see a true champion for the people in Ms. Mosby, but see someone in Donald Trump who deserves no sympathy for his efforts to over-

While Alito's behavior clearly violates the court's Code of Conduct, as I noted in November the code lacks any enforcement mechanism. In fact, "adapting" the federal judiciary's code of conduct, the court conspicuously dropped word "enforce" from the opening section.

U.S. Rep. Jamie Raskin makes a convincing argument that the Department of Justice can petition the other justices to require Alito's recusal under the due process clause of the U.S. Constitution and a federal statute that man-

find their sobriety in the garden; people find their purpose in the garden."

We know that many people of color, and especially Black people, face unique barriers to enjoying nature. We often have less access to parks and green spaces due to where we live. And we face discrimination. You might recall the story of Christian Cooper, the Black bird watcher who had the police called on him for simply requesting that a white woman leash her dog — which she was legally required to do — in New York's Central Park. The gravity of that racist incident, in which the woman who called the police lied and said Cooper was threatening her, was driven home by George Floyd's murder at the hands of the police in Minnesota later that same day, Memorial Day 2020.

For all the barriers Black people face, we should not let social stigmas and stereotypes infect our own minds and keep us from the benefits of nature and being outdoors. That is one reason Rodney Smith's story is so important. It not only speaks to the healing power of nature, but to the power of challenging ab-

turn our democracy, as well as life choices for women, and wreck racial progress by overturning Diversity, Inclusion and Equity that was bringing some measure of justice to non-white people and women. For once in life, at least The Donald has learned he's not in charge. We'll see if the Supreme Court has the guts to uphold his convictions. We, the people, can play a part in teaching him a lesson when we go to the polls to vote!

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dates judicial disqualification for questionable impartiality.

But the other justices, as Raskin notes, do not need to wait for such a petition. Alito's past behavior already has made a mockery of judicial ethics; his refusal to recuse himself from cases related to the 2020 election is just another slap in the fact to the American people. If his fellow justices do not step up to their constitutional obligation to require his recusal, they will be a party to his mockery.

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surd stereotypes about where different kinds of people "belong." Rodney Smith stepped outside his comfort zone to challenge stereotypes that said nature and outdoor activities were not for people like him.

There are opportunities to connect with nature everywhere in the country, even in big cities. For example, the Chicago Park District's Outdoor and Environmental Education Unit has nature programs for all ages that include camping, fishing, and gardening. Its Nature Oasis program provides outdoor experiences and environmental education to nearly 18,000 city residents a year. Another option might be finding a local community organization like Phoenix's Tiger Mountain Foundation or connecting with an outings group through your Sierra Club state chapter or other environmental organizations. And thanks to important federal initiatives, like the U.S. Department of Agriculture's $1 billion urban forestry investment to expand access to trees and green spaces (made possible by President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act), even more opportunities could be on the way. WI

Individuals identify or Latina