The Washington Informer - May 14, 2020

Don’t Miss Our May Health Supplement Center Section Vol. 55, No. 31 • May 14 - 20, 2020

Ahmaud Arbery Case: ‘They Made the Arrest Because We Saw the Video’

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia The hottest social media and news topic remains Ahmaud Arbery.

The motto that still tops social media posts: “You know, they didn’t make arrests because they saw the video, they made the arrests because we saw the video. Remember that.”

“If you know racism is real in America, I hope you don’t see the video of Ahmaud Arbery being murdered. It crushed me,” said Iowa State Auditor and former Assistant Attorney General Rob Sand, who is white.

“If you think racism is something in the past... you need to witness what others live 3 Demont ‘Peekaso’ Pinder, who has honored some of the African-American community’s largest icons with murals throughout the District of Columbia, used his paint brush to capture Ahmaud Arbery who was savagely killed while jogging in Georgia. (Courtesy photo/Demont Pinder)

Howard University Confers Degrees with Virtual Ceremony

Bleak Economic Future for Grads Looms on Horizon

By Sarafina Wright WI Contributing Writer Howard University [HU] honored its 2020 graduates with an online virtual ceremony – the only option given the cancellation of the more routine commencement services due to recent restrictions brought on by the coronavirus pandemic.

President Wayne A.I. Frederick led the Conferring of Degrees ceremony on Saturday, May 9 as an alternative to the originally scheduled program – the first time in the university’s 153-

year history that students could not graduate in person.

Realizing that the virtual recognition pales in comparison to the real thing, Frederick invited current graduates to attend next year’s commencement during Mother’s Day weekend.

“Nothing can recreate the long walk on the yard,” Frederick said.

“The Class of 2020 has shown perseverance and grit during a global time of uncertainty and their unwavering

GRADUATION Page 31

in fear of. Watch it,” Sand said.

NBA superstar LeBron James also expressed his outrage.

“We’re literally hunted EVERYDAY/EVERYTIME we step foot outside the comfort of our homes! Can’t even go for a damn jog, man! Like WTF man are you kidding me?!?!?!?!?!? No man [for real] ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!!!!” James wrote on his social media accounts, including the hashtags #StayWoke and #ProfiledCauseWeAreSimplyBlack and two tear-faced emojis.

William Bryan, the individual who recorded Arbery’s murder, reported that he’d been the target of multiple death threats since police began investigating the shooting.

“It was Mr. Bryan who videotaped the incident in question, disclosed the existence of the videotape, and invited a responding Glynn County Police Officer to sit with him in his truck where they watched the video together,” Bryan’s attorney Kevin Gough said in a statement.

ARBERY Page 32

Why Black Residents in the District Fear Reopening the Economy

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

In the furor to reopen governments and protests around the country — mostly by whites who support President Trump — African Americans have increasingly expressed fear for their safety.

Many said they feel unprotected, particularly as police shootings of African Americans have not ceased since the coronavirus pandemic began.

Some have even pointed to the case of Ahmaud Arbery, who was gunned down in Georgia by a former police officer and his son while jogging.

NBC News noted that, for many Black Americans, the general perception is that the crowds of white pro-

REOPENING Page 32

5 Protesters demand the reopening of the government during the coronavirus pandemic. (Courtesy of lovesoulflower via boredpanda.com)

Celebrating 55 Years of Service / Serving More Than 50,000 Readers Throughout The Metropolitan Area

2 - MAY 14 - 20, 2020

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

Around the Region................4-11 PG County............................... 12 Business.................................... 13

3New College Sexual Assault Rules

National.................................... 14 Education ................................ 15

National / Page 14

6Redskins Unveil 2020 Schedule

Health ..................................16-17 May Health Supplement.............

Sports / Page 26

........................... Center Section OpEd.....................................19-21 International............................22 Lifestyle............................. 23-25 Sports ......................................26 Religion.....................................27 FOLLOW US ON

5Tourism Post COVID-19 Lifestyle / Page 23

5Book Review Lifestyle / Page 25

#VoteSafeDC in the Tuesday, June 2, 2020 Primary Election: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the DC Board of Elections is committed to providing a safe environment where every vote is counted. All voters are strongly encouraged to request a mail-in ballot instead of voting in person, unless absolutely necessary. Voting by mail is safe, secure and simple. Ballot request forms are available now at www.dcboe.org. If you must vote in person, 20 Vote Centers will be open throughout the District. Social distancing measures will be enforced, and voters will be required to wear face coverings inside the Vote Centers. Curbside voting will be available.

Only voters affiliated with one of the major parties (Democratic, Republican, DC Statehood Green or Libertarian) will be issued a ballot. Same-day registration will be available at all Vote Centers.

Need to Vote in Person?

If you must vote in person, Vote Centers will open from May 22 through June 1, 2020, from 8:30 am to 7:00 pm. All sites will be closed on Memorial Day, May 25, 2020. Vote Centers will open from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm on June 2, 2020, Primary Election Day. Voters can cast their ballot at any Vote Center regardless of where they live in the District.

You may visit us online at www.dcboe.org or call us at (202) 741-5283 for more information.

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

MAY 14 - 20, 2020 3

around the region

www.washingtoninformer.com Visit our updated Web site and give us your comments for a chance to win a gift from The Washington Informer Email comments to: rburke@ washingtoninformer.com

In Memoriam Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, Sr. Wilhelmina J. Rolark THE WASHINGTON INFORMER PUBLISHER NEWSPAPER (ISSN#0741-9414) is pubDenise Rolark Barnes lished weekly on each Thursday. Periodicals postage paid at Washington, D.C. and STAFF additional mailing offices. News and adD. Kevin McNeir, Editor vertising deadline is Monday prior to publication. Announcements must be receivedIn Memoriam Ron Burke, Advertising/ Marketing Director two weeks prior to event. CopyrightDr. 2016 Calvin Shevry W. Rolark, Sr. Lassiter, Photo Editor

by The Washington Informer. All rights Wilhelmina J. RolarkBarnes, IV, Assistant Photo Editor Lafayette reserved. POSTMASTER: Send change John E. De Freitas, Sports Photo Editor of addresses to The Washington Inform- NEWSPAPER THE WASHINGTON INFORMER (ISSN#0741-9414) is published Dorothy Rowley, Online Editor er, 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E. weekly on Thursday. Periodicals postageZebraDesigns.net, paid at Washington, Design D.C. and additional & Layout Washington, D.C. 20032. No part of this mailing News and without advertising Mable deadlineNeville, is Monday prior to publication.

Bookkeeper publication mayoffices. be reproduced be received prior to event.

Copyright

by The writtenAnnouncements permission frommust the publisher.

Thetwo weeks Dr. Charles Vincent, Social 2000 Sightings Washington Informer.

All rights the reserved.columnist POST MASTER: Send change of addressInformer Newspaper cannot guarantee return esoftophotographs.

Subscription The Washington Informer,rates 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave.,Media S.E. Washington, Tatiana Moten, Social Specialist are $45D.C. per year, twoNo years $60. will 20032. part of Papers this publication may beJohnson, reproducedCirculation without written permisAngie be received not more than a week after pubsion from the payable publisher. lication.

Make checks to: The Informer Newspaper cannot guarantee the return of

The Washington Informer Newspaper

photographs. Subscription rates are $30 per year, two years $45. Papers will be received REPORTERS Stacychecks Brown (Senior not more than a week after publication. Make payable to: Writer), Sam P.K. THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E Collins, Timothy Cox, Will Ford (Prince Washington, D.C. 20032 George’s County Writer), Jacqueline Fuller, THE WASHINGTON INFORMER Phone: 202 561-4100 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E. Harris, • Washington, 20032 Hamil Daniel D.C. Kucin, D. Kevin Fax: 202 574-3785 Phone: 202 561-4100 • Fax: Kui 202 Mwai, 574-3785 McNeir, Dorothy Rowley, news@washingtoninformer.com Brenda Siler, Lindiwe Vilakazi, Sarafina www.washingtoninformer.comE-mail: news@washingtoninformer.com

Wright, James Wright, www.washingtoninformer.com

PHOTOGRAPHERS PUBLISHER John E. DeFreitas, Ulrich Fonou, Ja’Mon Denise Rolark Barnes Jackson, Shevry Lassiter, Roy Lewis, Jr., RobertREPORTERS R. Roberts, Anthony Tilghman

STAFF Brooke N. Garner Managing Editor Carla Peay Assistant Managing Editor Ron Burke Advertising and Marketing Mable Whittaker Bookkeeper LaNita Wrenn Administration John E. De Freitas Sports Editor Victor Holt Photo Editor Zebra Designs, Inc. Layout & Graphic Design Ken Harris /www.scsworks.com Webmaster

4 - MAY 14 - 20, 2020

Tia C. Jones, Ed Laiscell, Odell B. Ruffin, Larry Saxton, Mary Wells, Joseph Young PHOTOGRAPHERS Lafayette Barnes, IV, John E. De Freitas, Maurice Fitzgerald, Joanne Jackson, Roy Lewis, Robert Ridley, Victor Holt CIRCULATION Paul Trantham

Women the Cycle of wi hotBreak topics Domestic Violence Election Paraphernalia Out Metro’s Return to

Full-Service in Prince George’slawCounty enforcement. She said they threat,” she Doubtful said. had come together to bring a Among the programs Marlow sense of uniformity in Until the way Next wants Year to see implemented are For those who may

By Tia Carol Jones WI Staff Writer

When L.Y. Marlow's 23-year- domestic violence victims and stricter restraining order policies, have forgotten about old daughter told her the father survivors are treated. more rights for victim's families the June 2 primaof her daughter threatened her “She's using her own personal to intervene on behalf of a vicry election, Prince life, and the life of their child, story, her own personal pain to tim, a domestic violence assessGeorge’s County voters she knew something had to be push forward,” Davis-Nickens ment unit coupled with further are receiving done.

Out ofreminders her frustration said about Marlow. training for law enforcement in the mail through with law enforcement's handling Davis-Nickens said anyone agencies, a Child's Life Protecballots and ofsample the situation, she othdecided to who reads Marlow's book will tion Act and mandatory counseler paraphernalia.

Dem- cam- “get it.” She said she “puts the ing for batterers. start the Saving Promise ocratic voters who repaign. case in such a way, the average “If we are ever going to eradiside in the to school “It seems be a board vicious cycle person can get it.” She said at the cate domestic violence, we must District area my may family end of the day, the book will look at both sides of the coin. that won't7 turn plan outlines have read the front andMarlow help people begin to have Aa Metro loose,” Marlow said. dia- COVID-19 We need torecovery address both the vic- additional service could return later this month but D.C.-area back sample ballot Vice President shared her story withthat thefeatures audi- former logue about domestic violence. tim and the batterer,” Marlow commuters may not see the transit agency get back to Joe Biden, Anthony Brown and school board ence at the Rep. District Heights Also present at the event was said. until next would year. The transit candidateViolence KennethSymposium Harris II. Harris, who graduated Domestic Mildred Muhammad, full theoperation exMarlow also like agency’s to see finance committee will discuss itsdesigned recovery plan May Roosevelt High School in John Greenbelt, onfrom May Eleanor 7 at the District Heights wife of Allen Muhammad, programs to Thursday, raise outlinedawareness in three phases: will challenge Alexis Municipal Center.

TheNicole sympo-Branch whoand wasincumbent sentenced to six14, consecamong stabilization, children in managed sium was sponsored Stabilization includes She 50 percent of K. Alexander Wallace. by The the top two vote-getters utive life termswill withoutre-entry paroleand recovery. public and private schools.

Family availability openingneed all eight carseducaton a train. This advanceand to theYouth generalServices election. Voters will also have by a Maryland jury for his role in such feelsaschildren to be Center of the city of District will be in done ed based on domestic CDC social distancing guidelines an opportunity to elect five judges a rare contest thein Beltway Sniper attacks about violence.

Heights and the National Hook-April and stay-at-home orders and Virgin2002.

Mildred Muhammad is in the county’s Circuit Court.

Ademiluyi, a real “We haveintoD.C., stopMaryland being pasUpestate of Black Women. the founder Trauma, The second phase could start sive-aggressive within September poor chil-to double attorney, and Gladys Weatherspoon, 55,ofaAfter de- the ia.

Marlow has written a book, an organization that helps the capacity dren about domestic Metrorail and operate all busviolence,” routes on reduced fense attorney, are running independent campaigns “Color which Bryon is a survivors of domestic violence Marlow levels.

The third and said. final phase may happen in March againstMetheButterfly,” current judges: Seth Bereano, Wystory four generations of and their Jared children.

Marlow has to break 2021 to pre-coronavirus levelsworked and expand Metrorail sertonjaabout Curry, ShaRon M. Grayson Kelsey, Midomestic violence.and TheCathy bookH. is Serrette.

“I lived in fear for six years. the cycle of abuse in her family, vice toSix midnight. chael McCarthy inspired her own flier experiences, yearsExecutive in fear is Ana long time.

It is stage and the policies “Each of is theconfident recovery plan addressesshe twin priorOneby campaign shows County and those of her grandmother, not an easy thing to come out is pushing for will that ities: protect Metro’s workforce and start protect customers,” gela Alsobrooks supporting the incumbents because her“our mother herhave daughter. of,” of shelegal said.experithe recovery process. plan indicates. “The nature of Metro’s large sittingand judges many years She said every time she reads Mildred Muhammad said provides “I plan to take these policiesincreasing to operation a challenge to quickly caence that will continue to make them an asset to the excerpts help a Congress and implore them to bench.”from her book, she still people who want to pacity.” can not believe the words came domestic violence victim must change our laws,” Marlow said. from her. “Color Me Butterfly” be careful of how they go into “I will not stop until these poliwon the 2007 National “Best the victim's life, and understand cies are passed.”

Books” Award. that she may be in “survival Tia Carol Jones can be reached “I was just 16-years-old when mode”. at tiacaroljones@sbcglobal.net my eye first blackened and my “Before you get to 'I'm going lips bled,” Marlow said. to you,' it started as a verbal WI CDC recently warned that the kill U.S. could Elaine Davis-Nickens, presioutbreaks of measles and other dentbegin of theseeing National Hook-Up vaccine-preventable diseases of Black Women, said there is no because children are failing to way get domestic necessary immunizations consistency in the during the COVID-19 The orgaviolence issues are dealt withpandemic. by nization cited a newly-released study indicating that vaccinations of children and vaccine orders dropped dramatically in late March, about a week after President Trump declared a national emergency due to the novel coronavirus. As social distancing restrictions are relaxed, diseases besides COVID-19 could spread, CDC warns. The study is based on data from the federally-funded Vaccines for Children Program, which covers about 50 percent of Americans aged under 18 years, and broader tracking data collected by CDC. The decline in vaccines was not as severe for children aged under 2 years, and vaccination numbers for that group have begun to tick back up, the study found. But as of mid-April, about 1,500 young children a week were getting measles vaccines at sites tracked by CDC, compared with 2,500 a week before the pandemic.

Among older children, only a few hundred a week are getting their measles vaccines, instead of thousands.

The researchers credited intensive efforts to get vaccines to younger children through well-children visits and direct outreach to families.

CDC Warns of Potential Measles Outbreaks as Children Miss Vaccinations

“

We have to stop being passive-aggressive with poor children about domestic violence. I plan to take these policies to Congress and implore them to change our laws. I will not stop until these policies are passed.

“

SOMETHING NEW EVERYDAY

COMPILED BY WI EDITOR D. KEVIN MCNEIR AND WILLIAM J. FORD, WI STAFF WRITER

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

L.Y. Marlow

AROUND THE REGION District Residents Struggle With Social Distancing: Study

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia The ongoing and growing protests demanding states reopen beaches, parks, and other public spaces; notwithstanding, social distancing remains the most effective way to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

While some people may enjoy the opportunity to stay in more, many are negatively affected by the new constraints on their social life, jobs, exercise regimens, shopping opportunities, and more.

With more than a third of Americans saying the COVID-19 crisis has hurt their mental health, according to a recent poll from the American Psychiatric Association.

To find out where social distancing is most difficult, District-based personal finzance company WalletHub compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia across 13 key metrics.

The data set ranges from whether

residents have supportive relationships to how non-essential travel has changed due to the pandemic and how much consumers spent on social activities before COVID-19.

In addition to its report, WalletHub also released a “Social Distancing Survey,” which examines how Americans’ attitudes and behaviors have changed during this period of self-isolation.

The first study revealed that District residents might be among those who struggle the most with social distancing because the nation’s capital ranks first in money spent on social activities.

The District also ranked third — behind New Hampshire and South Dakota — in the longest time spent per day on socializing and communicating.

The District has the highest travel and tourism spending per capita in the nation, further underscoring that residents aren’t used to social distancing. “One issue I have thought about lately is the idea of ‘diffusion of benefits,’” said David

Weisburd, a WalletHub expert and a Distinguished Professor in the Department of Criminology, Law and Society, and executive director of The Center for Evidence-Based Crime Policy at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia.

“This is a term that I developed with a colleague regarding crime prevention in the late 1990s,” Weisburd said. “What we noted is that many crime prevention efforts have unanticipated benefits that do not relate to the direct targets of the intervention.

“In prevention, that means that when you focus on a specific place, for example, other areas may improve as well,” he said. “I don’t think that there has been enough thinking as of late of the diffusion of benefits of the coronavirus prevention efforts — like reductions in crime, auto accidents, pollution, etc.

“On the other side, we also need to think about the increases in other problems like suicide, depression, etc.,” Weisburd said. “To gain a full

5 Challenges remain with following social distancing guidelines. (Photo courtesy of Common Dreams)

view of the cost and benefits of this intervention, we have to take into account both diffusion and these negative consequences.

“And another issue that has struck me is that with all of the investment in medical research, our main prevention approach right now is for everyone to shut in at home,” he said. “It works, which is

great, but the costs are tremendous, both socially and economically.

Why haven’t we developed more sophisticated prevention or containment mechanisms? Why are we in this situation? It does seem that we could have done better.”

To view the complete study, go to wallethub.com.

WI

COVID-19 NOTICE Legal Counsel for the Elderly (LCE) is operating remotely during the pandemic, but we remain committed to the needs of DC elders 60 and older.

For legal assistance call LCE Legal Hotline: 202-434-2120 For long-term care issues call LCE’s Office of the DC Long-Term Care Ombudsman: 202-434-2190 For the latest on the pandemic, visit www.cdc.gov and www.coronavirus.dc.gov

www.aarp.org/LCE

Legal Counsel for the Elderly is an affiliate of AARP.

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

MAY 14 - 20, 2020 5

AROUND THE REGION

black facts

MAY 14 - 20, 2020 SOURCE: BLACK AMERICA WEB

MAY 14

1961 – A bus containing the first group of Freedom Riders is bombed and burned by segregationists outside Anniston, Alabama. The occupants escaped the bus before it burst into flames, but was then attacked by a surrounding mob.

MAY 15

1820 – The U.S. Congress declares the foreign slave trade an act of piracy punishable by death.

MAY 16

1927 – William Harry Barnes becomes the first African American board-certified medical specialist.

1929 – Longtime Rep. John Conyers (D-Mich.) is born in Highland Park, Michigan.

1966 – Famed singer and actress Janet Jackson (top) is born in Gary, Indiana.

1979 – A. Philip Randolph, a leader in the civil rights movement, the American labor movement,

MAY 17

FULL-SERVICE SIGN & ADVERTISING SOLUTIONS

1875 – African American jockey Oliver Lewis wins the first Kentucky Derby.

1954 – In the landmark Brown v. Board of Education case, the U.S. Supreme Court rules that public school segregation is illegal.

1956 – Boxing great Sugar Ray Leonard is born in Wilmington, North Carolina.

Professional VISUAL BRANDING INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS to help grow your business

...because image matters Call Today! 301-273-3462

Stacey Brown “Chief Image Builder”

stacey@signarama-silverspring.com

and socialist political parties, dies in New York City at 90.

1990 – Iconic entertainer Sammy Davis Jr. dies in Beverly Hills, California, of throat cancer at 64.

MAY 18

1896 – The United States Supreme Court issues its infamous ruling in Plessy v. Ferguson. The decision declared the doctrine of “separate but equal” was constitutional. By doing so it, in effect, approved all Jim Crow or segregationist laws designed to degrade Blacks or keep them separate from whites. The ruling would stand until the Brown v. Board of Education decision of 1954.

8930 Brookville Rd Silver Spring, MD 20910 signarama-silverspring.com MBE/DBE Certified | Woman-Owned Business

MAY 19

1925 – Black revolutionary Malcolm X is born Malcolm Little in Omaha, Nebraska.

1930 – Lorraine Hansberry, famed African American playwright best known for “A Raisin in the Sun,” is born in Chicago.

1952 – Eccentric model and singer Grace Jones (above) is born in Spanish Town, Jamaica.

SAMMY DAVIS, JR. 6 - MAY 14 - 20, 2020

MAY 20

1743 – Touissant L’Ouverture, the father Haitian independence, is born. WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

AROUND THE REGION

view P INT

IF YOU WANT QUALITY WORK, JUST CALL!

Quality Assurance Home Improvement, Inc.

BY SARAFINA WRIGHT

“We Stand By Our Name”

A father and son captured on video fatally shooting Black jogger Ahmaud Arbery in Georgia have been arrested and charged with murder, though the arrests came months after the February incident and after the video surfaced on social media. What are your thoughts?

FREE ESTIMATES! / Office: 301-248-3325

FINISHED BASEMENT

DECK

Kitchens • Bathrooms • Room additions • Retaining walls • • Carports Screen rooms Sun rooms • Carports • • Porches • Roofing • Siding Decks • Complete renovations • Enclosed porches • Basements Solid virgin virginfinal vinylreplacement replacement windows • Bay and bow windows Financing Available 90-day Deferment Payment

PORTIAN ALSTON /

GREENSBORO, NORTH CAROLINA

I am sick to my stomach every time I see my people dead in the street like an animal and nothing is ever done about it. How many more deaths will we see before we do something about it together?

ROCHELLE REID / RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA

When is enough going to be enough? These cowards are killing our young men and then maneuvering the law to defend their actions! I hope they fry both of them. Stand your ground, but we can’t stand ours nor can we defend ourselves, according to them. Now it’s the citizen’s arrest on a young man who did nothing more than jog through a neighborhood!

ADDITION & 4 SEASON SUN ROOM SIONAL PROFES LERS INSTAL home g in A+ Ratinment from improve r Business the Bette r 175 years Bureau fo ight stra

ADDITION

KITCHEN

Bonded / Insured / Licensed MHCI#86727 / D.C. License #53005449 Lead Paint Removal Certified

KITCHEN

Visit our website today at: www.fortwashingtonhomecontractors.com Did you know if you invest in a Room Addition installed properly on your home it will increase the value of your home up to 100% Up to or more? At Quality Assurance Home Improvement, we do the job right. We recently installed (2) two-story Room Additions that increased Sunrooms & Additions the value of our client’s home from $289,000 to $589,000. Every addition we installed including Sun Rooms and Renovations have always todayvalue andwhich receive FREEincable ForinSenior Citizens increased thePurchase home owner’s resulted a greatoutlet return on their investment. Invest your home todayExtra and let5% theOff professionals at and FREE A/C & Heating Unit With this coupon. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases.

QualityWith Assurance Home Improvement expand your living area and increase the value of your home.

We stand by our name “Quality Assurance” this coupon. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases.

$2500 off

15% off Any Service

Call us today at 301-248-3325 to schedule an appointment for a free estimate.

All Work is Done in Compliance to DC and MD Codes

RONALD MIDDLETON /

COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA

Homeowners are you in need of a new roof, kitchen, bathroom?

If so, take advantage of our 90 days or 6 months deferred payment plan now for as low as $199 a month.

One is a former cop, so you already know if they do get charged, it’s going to be some B.S. manslaughter charge.

They’ll barely get 5-7 years for his death.

ALL WORK DONE TO DC AND MD. CODES

SHERI MIMBS /

ATLANTA, GEORGIA

This was so hard to watch. The way the man walked away after he shot him like he was nothing. It didn’t bother him at all. Prayers for the family and may God give him the justice he deserves.

TASCHA TATE / CHICAGO, ILLINOIS

I pray it will be justice for him and his family. This stuff makes me sick to my stomach, literally. I get the sickest feeling in the pit of my stomach. This world is filled with hatred and evil people.

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

MAY 14 - 20, 2020 7

AROUND THE REGION

A

IN MEMORIAM DR. CALVIN W. ROLARK, SR. MAY 18, 1927 – OCTOBER 23, 1994 In loving memory of Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, Sr. Devoted father, grandfather, founder of The Washington Informer and the United Black Fund, Inc., and a staunch advocate for the underserved in the D.C. area, across the country and around the world.

(301) 864-6070

EMPLOYMENT LAWYERS

SERVING MARYLAND, DC, & NORTH CAROLINA

www.jmlaw.net

(301) 864-6070

jmccollum@jmlaw.net

“No one can save us, from us, but us!”

“If it is to be, it is up to me!”

Happy Birthday from Denise, Calvin II, Lafayette, Lafayette IV, Desmond, Stan, Ross III, Christopher and Keith “Lottie, Dottie and everybody!”

A

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

‘The World According to Dominic’ will return next week.

Stay Informed! www.washingtoninformer.com

8 - MAY 14 - 20, 2020

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

Nation’s Black Banks Will Help Firms Through COVID-19, Its Leaders Say

By James Wright WI Staff Writer @Jamesdcwrighter While Black entrepreneurs have complained about problems with the Small Business Administration’s financial assistance programs owners and advocates of Black banks say they could be a help and a resource of information and capital for Black firms during the coronavirus pandemic.

“We are committed to helping Black businesses during this pandemic,” said B. Doyle Mitchell, president and CEO of Industrial Bank. “If one of our customers is experiencing a hardship during this time, we can offer them a deferred payment plan that can lasts up to 90 days. The deferral can be on the principal or the interest or both, on a loan.”

Industrial, originally founded in 1913 and reorganized by Mitchell’s grandfather Jesse in 1934, is the only Black bank in the District, with branches in Prince George’s County and New Jersey as well.

Mitchell said his bank offers the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) that loans businesses money to keep their employees on the payroll and other expenses. If the business fulfills the requirements of the loan, it will be forgiven.

Mitchell said Industrial has worked on a number of PPP loans since the program started in April.

“At this point, we have processed 250 PPP loans,” he said. “We have worked with $30 million in the pipeline. Some of the applications were done in early April in the first round but mainly in the second round that started in late April.

The deadline to apply for the second round was May 4 but we are looking forward to working with the PPP if Congress funds it for further rounds.”

Mitchell said complaints voiced by some Black entrepreneurs who approached big banks for funds and did not receive the response they expected had validity but said generally that’s how financial institutions operate.

“You have to look out for your

customers first,” Mitchell said.

“That is the mentality of the big banks and most banks in general.

If you have a loan with the bank, you would have likely been processed a lot quicker for the PPP than even a customer who had a deposit or a credit or debit card.

The truth is the bigger banks didn’t want to process smaller loans from smaller businesses such as momand-pop operations. That is why Black and community banks are so important. We are the ones doing the small loans and we are willing to take in non-customers more quickly than the big banks.”

Kenneth Kelly serves as the chairman of the National Bankers Association (NBA), the trade association for Black banks of which Mitchell through Industrial belongs to, and leads the First Independence Bank in Detroit. Kelly agrees with Mitchell on why Black entrepreneurs had trouble getting PPP loans but mentioned others reasons also.

“Black entrepreneurs have to understand that banking is a heavily regulated industry,” Kelly said.

“To do business with a bank, it is best to have a documented relationship. Banks have to know who that customer is, they just can’t give out money. If the bank doesn’t have evidence of who the customer is that could be a violation of regulations. As a result, many banks only deal with who they know. To the bank, the important thing is whether this business has a loan with me, not just a deposit?”

Kelly said many NBA members process PPP loans and works with organizations such as the NAACP, the National Urban League, the

AROUND THE REGION ASK US HOW TO GET THE

AMAZING iPHONE® 11 FOR $0 WHEN YOU SWITCH TO AT&T Find out how to get our most popular phones, call now!

877-370-2155 © 2020 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. AT&T and the Globe logo are registered trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.

DESIGNER EYEWEAR

PHONE: 202-526-0300 FAX: 202-526-0233 5 B. Doyle Mitchell is the president and CEO of Industrial Bank. (WI File Photo)

U.S. Black Chambers Inc., and the National Business League to educate Black entrepreneurs about the Small Business Administration programs. He said the NBA has engaged Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin about the PPP “and he has been very responsive to us.”

“He wants to know what are the issues on the ground and what is going on,” Kelly said.

Both Mitchell and Kelly stress that the mission of Black banks are to help African Americans with their banking needs.

“The PPP process taking place during this pandemic shows why it is important for small and Black businesses to deal with Black banks,” Mitchell said. “We are here for our customers.” WI

Save Now On Home Security ® Monitored by ADT the #1 home security company in the U.S.

ADT 24/7 Monitored Home Security 24/7 monitoring provides peace of mind Yard sign and window decals help deter crime Quickly connect to fire and emergency response May qualify for a homeowners insurance discount

EYE EXAMS: Tues, Thurs & Fri: 11am-3:30pm walk ins available

STORE HOURS: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5:30pm Closed for lunch: 12:30pm - 1:10pm

25% OFF

OF SELECT FRAMES WITH MENTION OF THIS AD FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED AT YOUR SERVICE FOR OVER 40 YEARS

Accepting United Health PPO, HSCSN & DC Medicaid (Straight only) 3610 12th Street, NE - Washington, DC 20017

New Life Wellness Center featuring

Colon Hydrotherapy & Aqua Chi Detox System Where Have You Been?

It’s Time for Your HEALING &

GREAT

LOW PRICE MONITORING

®

PER M O N T H

1-877-325-1437

WE’RE AVAILABLE 24/7—CALL TODAY! BASIC SYSTEM: $99 Parts and Install. 36-Month Monitoring Agreement required at $27.99 per month ($1,007.64). 24-Month Monitoring Agreement required at $27.99 per month ($671.76) for California. Offer applies to homeowners only. Basic system requires landline phone. Offer valid for new ADT Authorized Premier Provider customers only and not on purchases from ADT LLC. Cannot be combined with any other offer. The $27.99 Offer does not include Quality Service Plan (QSP), ADT’s Extended Limited Warranty.

GENERAL: For all offers, the form of payment must be by credit card or electronic charge to your checking or savings account, satisfactory credit history is required and termination fee applies. Certain packages require approved landline phone. Local permit fees may be required. Certain restrictions may apply. Additional monitoring fees required for some services. For example, Burglary, Fire, Carbon Monoxide and Emergency Alert monitoring requires purchase and/or activation of an ADT security system with monitored Burglary, Fire, Carbon Monoxide and Emergency Alert devices and are an additional charge. Additional equipment may be purchased for an additional charge. Additional charges may apply in areas that require guard response service for municipal alarm verification. Prices subject to change. Prices may vary by market. Some insurance companies offer discounts on Homeowner’s Insurance. Please consult your insurance company. Photos are for illustrative purposes only and may not reflect the exact product/service actually provided. Licenses: AL-21-001104, AR-CMPY.0001725 AZ-ROC217517, CA-ACO6320, CT-ELC.0193944-L5, DC-EMS902653, DC-602516000016, DE-07-212, FL-EC13003427, EC13003401, GA-LVA205395, IA-AS-0206, ID-ELE-SJ-39131, IL-127.001042, IN-C.P.D. Reg. No. – 19-08088, City of Indianapolis: LAC-000156, KY-City of Louisville: 483, LA-F1914, LA-F1915, LA-F1082, MA-1355C, MD-107-1626, ME-LM50017382, MI-3601205773, MN-TS01807, MO-City of St. Louis: CC#354, St. Louis County: 100194, MS15007958,MT-PSP-ELS-LIC-247, NC-25310-SP-FA/LV, NC-1622-CSA, NE-14451, NJ Burglar Alarm Lic. # -NJ-34BF00021800, NM-353366, NV-0068518, City of Las Vegas: 3000008296, NY-Licensed by the N.Y.S. Department of State UID#12000317691, NYS #12000286451,OH-53891446, City of Cincinnati: AC86, OK-AC1048, OR-170997, Pennsylvania Home Improvement Contractor Registration Number: PA022999, RI-3582, RI-7508, SC-BAC5630, SD- 1025-7001-ET, TN-1520, TX-B13734, ACR-3492, UT-6422596-6501, VA-115120, VT-ES-2382(7C),WA-602588694/ECPROTEYH934RS, WI-City of Milwaukee: PAS-0002966, WV-WV042433, WY-LV-G-21499. 3750 Priority Way South Dr. Indianapolis, IN 46240 ©2017 DEFENDERS, Inc. dba Protect Your Home DF-CD-NP-Q220

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

202.544.9595

426 8th St. SE – 2nd Floor WDC 20003 www.newlifewellnesscenter.com Email: carmelvoice@aol.com

Hours: 7am – 7pm M - F / 7am – 12pm SAT. Walk Ins Welcome

SPECIAL $59 OFFER – CALL FOR DETAILS MAY 14 - 20, 2020 9

AROUND THE REGION CAPTURE THE MOMENT BRIDGING THE GAP

A tribute to abolitionist leader Frederick Douglass in the resurrection of a bridge project is proceeding on the new span across the Anacostia River. Due to its age, condition and functional limitations, the present structure is considered functionally obsolete. The project is expected to be completed near the end of 2021. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

Denise Rolark Barnes Independent Beauty Consultant www.marykay/drolark-barnes.com 202-236-8831

Who’s Reading the Informer?

net

Gas station owner Fabian Olusegun reads the Washington Informer. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

in upper and lowercase, flush left as indicated on artwork at these point sizes: Consultant name in 11-point Helvetica Neue Bold; Independent in 9-point Helvetica Neue Light; Web site or e-mail address in 9-point Helvetica Neue Light; phone number in 9-point Helvetica Neue Light. nt Beauty Consultant: Only Company-approved Web sites obtained through the Mary Kay® Personal Web Site program may be utilized.

WORDS TO LIVE BY

Need Help Getting Social Security Disability Benefits?

We Can Help! $ Steady monthly income depending on your paid in amount

A lump sum payment of benefits owed from back-pay

• We simplify the process & strive for quick claim approval • Starting the process is easy and takes only minutes to complete

Annual cost of living increases

855-549-3119

Helping thousands get the benefits they deserve

Bill Gordon & Associates, a nationwide practice, represents clients before the Social Security Administration.

Member of the TX & NM Bar Associations. Mail: 1420 NW St Washington D.C. Office: Broward County Florida.

Services may be provided by associated attorneys licensed in other states.

Bill Gordon & Associates, a nationwide practice, represents clients before the Social Security Administration. Member of the TX & NM Bar Associations. Mail: 1420 N W St Washington D.C. Office: Broward County, FL. Services may be provided by associated attorneys licensed in other states.

10 - MAY 14 - 20, 2020

“I don’t think that it is good for the world of music to have everything come out of the same mold. God didn’t place only roses on earth, or only lilies or only violets.

[God] put flowers of many sorts and many colors here, the beauty of each enhancing that of the others.”

– William Grant Still the “Dean of African-American Classical Composers,” born May 11, 1895 in Woodville, MS. While Still died in 1977, many of his descendants continue to reside in the mostly-Black city of Lawnside, NJ. THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

AROUND THE REGION 8 Reasons Why You Should Vote for

FRED HILL

DEMOCRAT WARD 8 WRITE-IN CANDIDATE D.C. CITY COUNCILMEMBER 5 The COVID-19 pandemic didn’t stop Randy Hawkins from celebrating his birthday with a virtual Zoom party with a Cinco de Mayo theme. (Courtesy photo/ Facebook grab)

Virtual Parties Take Off in the Age of the Quarantine

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Contributing Writer @SamPKCollins Plans for Randy Hawkins’ annual birthday/Cinco de Mayo celebration and Mexico trip came to an immediate halt with the advent of the novel coronavirus, but that didn’t deter him from hosting a virtual party that rivaled the several others that have taken place in the cyber realm over the past few months.

For a few hours last week, Hawkins and his guests broke away from the monotony of the quarantine by pouring drinks and grooving to numerous tunes, all from the confines of their home and in front of the computer in solidarity with the celebrant.

“My friends loved the idea that I was doing the virtual zoom party. I had 40 people when the party first started,” said Hawkins, who lives in Clinton, Maryland. “I had top DJs [like] DJ Rico, DJ Frisco and DJ Roblove. Once I confirmed with the DJs, I set the meeting room up, [and] sent out invitations on Facebook.

“We had so much fun,” he said.

“We laughed, took shots, drank, talked trash, ate, and even danced while listening to the DJs play. We still got to party, just not in person.”

In the D.C. metropolitan area, and around the country, virtual parties have increasingly met the needs of people anxious for human contact and frustrated about large scale events that have been canceled since March.

Party planners have capitalized on

the trend, getting creative about how to serve people converging on video conferencing platforms such as Zoom and Google Hangout, where extroverts have participated in Netflix watch parties, recipe swaps, baby showers, and other types of virtual gatherings.

The exodus to the virtual world has incited some concerns about security and technology fatigue. Even so, party enthusiasts, musicians stuck at home especially, have used this tool to lift spirits.

A recent Instagram battle between Erykah Badu and Jill Scott counted among many instances when highly revered artists competed track for track on a live social media broadcast.

In the go-go world, Backyard Band, Suttle Thoughts, and other bands have taken their talents online with electrifying shows aired from a studio.

Long before the coronavirus became a pandemic, party planner Dana Walker used video conferencing software to maintain contact with family members living abroad.

In the early days of the quarantine, she put her technological and planning skills to use and hosted a virtual happy hour for her friends. That event inspired the launch of Virtual Vibrations where Walker equips party hosts and goers with prepared invitations, activities, games, conversation starters, host notes, and a host planning guide.

As she expands her catalogue and

PARTIES Page 31

*EARLY VOTING - MAY 22, 2020 AND 2020 PRIMARY ELECTIONS - JUNE 2, 2020 CALL 202.735.5355 FREDHILLWARD8.COM Senior Citizens • Introduce legislation to regulate the high cost of Prescription Drug Prices for Ward 8 Senior Citizens.

Ward 8 Trauma Center • Introduce legislation to provide a full service, first-class health care Trauma Center in Ward 8.

Community Safety • Introduce legislation that mandates Ward 8 Developers and Contractors pay the cost of free security cameras that are located and monitored at intersections throughout Ward 8.

Jobs • Introduce Community Benefit Packages (CBEs) that are negotiated in favor of Ward 8 resident’s verses Developers for redevelopment of public housing units and other large scale economic development projects; Youth • Require all Development partners to contribute 1% of their development budget to create Youth Economic Fund for literacy and business start-up opportunities; • Introduce legislation that mandates Black History courses are taught year-long in all Ward 8 D.C. Public Schools. support free access to colleges and public universities.

• Bring back free vocational training in all Ward 8 D.C. Public Schools.

• Increase minimum wage to a mandated “living wage” that includes health, dental costs, and overtime pay.

Affordable Housing • Introduce affordable housing legislation for Ward 8 residents that reduces the median income limits to promote equal housing opportunities and qualifications.

Returning Citizens • Establish Re-Entry Centers that support advanced education, community involvement, job training and job placement with living wages.

• Require trades training while incarcerated to prepare citizens for job readiness upon release.

• Establish a fast track to affordable housing.

Small Business Development • Legislate the enforcement of three (3) Bills to protect small businesses, “Small Business Procurement Reform Omnibus Act of 2019;” “Chief Compliance Office Establishment Act of 2019;” and “Protecting Local Area Commercial Enterprises Amendment Act of 2019” The Affordable PLACE Act.

WRITE-IN FRED HILL, DEMOCRAT WARD 8 D.C. CITY COUNCILMEMBER CALL 202.735.5355 * FREDHILLWARD8.COM EARLY VOTING - MAY 22, 2020 OR 2020 PRIMARY ELECTIONS - JUNE 2, 2020 *D.C. Board of Elections (DCBOE) voting options. Call 202.727.2525 to request a ballot, drop off ballots at DCBOE locations, mail in your ballot, or request a ballot online (dcboe.org). Ballots will be ready for distribution by May 1, 2020.

PAID FOR BY FRED HILL WARD 8 CAMPAIGN. FRED HILL, TREASURER

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

MAY 14 - 20, 2020 11

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY A CONTINUING SERIES

COVID 19 UPDATE Strategies to Survive, Sustain and Succeed

Class of 2020 Poised for Future Success

By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill Although the coronavirus pandemic erased the annual ritual for high school seniors to walk across the stage for graduation ceremonies this year, they’re receiving virtual gifts from sports stars, musicians and other celebrities.

Former President Barack Obama plans to give remarks Saturday, May 16 for a one-hour special called “Graduate Together: High School Class of 2020 Commencement.” It’s scheduled to be televised on ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox and various social media platforms commercial-free thanks to one of the event organizers, the LeBron James Family Foundation.

Two weeks later on May 30, award-winning actor Taraji P. Henson will serve as commencement speaker during a virtual ceremony for the 8,000-member Prince George’s County public school senior class. Henson, a 1988 graduate of Oxon Hill High School, will be joined by other prominent alumni including singer and songwriter Kenny Lattimore, radio personality Joe Clair and Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joe Haden.

The event will air at 7 p.m. on WJLA-TV and again the following day at noon.

Prince George’s seniors will be one of the first groups in Maryland to complete their last day on Friday, May 15.

Before their secondary education officially ends, 10 of their classmates shared some of their senior moments and provided some guidance for the upcoming Class of 2021.

Here are some of the reflections they wrote and submitted to The Informer: Langston Beverly Age: 17 School: Gwynn Park Future plans: Attend University of Maryland in College Park to pursue business management with a focus on supply chain management I am the senior class president at Gwynn Park High School. Before the COVID-19 virus pandemic, our class

12 - MAY 14 - 20, 2020

had many activities planned for the rest of the school year. When my class and I heard that our prom and graduation were in jeopardy, we felt heartbroken. My class and I were looking forward to going to prom and walking across the stage at graduation. My experience amidst this coronavirus has been very satisfying. My teachers have done an incredible job teaching and making sure we all understand what we are being taught. I am also able to communicate and help my friends when we have zoom calls. Zoom has also been an extremely useful app that has helped everyone stay in touch to ensure we are all doing fine during this pandemic. Although I would rather learn face-to-face, learning online has been a better experience than I predicted. The Gwynn Park High School Class of 2020 hopes everyone is safe and healthy.

Kendall Carr Age: 17 School: Eleanor Roosevelt Future plans: Lincoln Tech for automotive technology High school — it’s the best of times and the worst. You should enjoy it while it last because you never know when it will end. It may seem like a bad place and you don’t want to be there, but you will create memories that last a lifetime. As a senior, you have certain responsibility, you set the energy level for the whole school.

The lowerclassmen look up to you.

Show them your pride and lead them on a good path of greatness. Class of 2021, one lesson that you should have learned from this whole event is don’t take anything for granted. Live in the moment and don’t have any regrets.

Thank you. Class of 2020 out.

Joyce Chen Age: 18 School: Eleanor Roosevelt Future plans: Attend Bucknell University in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, to major in biology These four years of high school really did fly by. The little naive freshmen that walked through

the doors of Eleanor Roosevelt High School would have never guessed she would be spending the last few months of her senior year stuck at home. This time has allowed me to reflect about my high school experience.

It was filled with stress, anxiety attacks, depression and multiple all-nighters. I will never forget Friday night football games, losing my voice after screaming at the opposing school’s basketball team and getting judged by my neighbors for wearing a crazy outfit to school for spirit week. If I had to give one piece of advice it would be to savor it. It may seem like the homework and tests may never end, but it will. My biggest regret is not attending school events due to fear and schoolwork. Take risks! Ask that person to a school dance or go to that basketball game even though it is a school night.

The thought of not having a prom or graduation has been haunting me. I am comforted in knowing that all my classmates will succeed and do great things because the Class of 2020 is strong.

Iycess Hooper Age: 18 School: Gwynn Park Future plans: Attend Winston-Salem State University in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, to major in elementary education It was instilled in me to work hard, be productive and establish realistic goals that would lead me to the promising outcome of graduating from high school with honors. I was told and I have witnessed other perks that go along with being a senior such as prom, senior night, senior cookouts and graduation. These are events I have looked forward to all my life.

However, it has been taken away from me. It is an indescribable feeling that I believe no one truly understands. Past graduates, parents [and] grandparents are all saying, “Oh you guys will be OK” [and] “there will be other times to be celebrated.” It is designed to happen once in a lifetime. We will never get this time back. Not only has my high school goal been compromised, but the hope and excitement of enter-

UPDATE Page 17

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

BUSINESS Thirteen-Year-Old Prodigy Offers Sound Wall Street Financial Investment Advice

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia Christon Jones stands all of fivefeet-tall and weighs about 100 pounds.

At 13-years-old, he’s already a talented football player, Amazon best-seller, certified Les Brown Speaker, A top Achievement Engineer, a Return on Investment Coach, and an accomplished investor and day trader.

The prodigy, whose nickname is “Truth,” has already accomplished more in his young life than many seasoned Wall Street veterans.

“It all began a couple of years ago when I was eight years old. I wrote my first book about faith, family and football and how to overcome bullying,” Christon says.

Published in 2016, “The Win Within,” describes how Christon’s world begins to change when his dream of playing football turned into a nightmare because of bullying.

However, he explains that he’s driven to win by his faith in God and the powerful bond he shares with his mother.

He said he holds firmly to the belief that he’s never alone, even in his darkest hour. He realizes that to win, he has to look within himself.

“Instead of thinking about the best way you can get revenge on someone, focus on becoming a successful person,” Christon says, given advice that he posted on his website.

“The best way to get your revenge is to help yourself. Not only are you helping yourself, you’re also letting others know they can’t hurt you. So, remember to focus on becoming successful, and that’s plenty,” Christon states.

Perhaps among the many impressive talents is Christon’s Wall Street success.

Christon, who has excelled on the

5 Christon Jones (Courtesy of Christon Jones)

gridiron, earning All-Star and MVP trophies, says he plans not only to play in the NFL when he’s older, but later open a sports agency and management business to assist players with investments.

During the current novel coronavirus pandemic, Christon said he’s on a mission to help 1,000 people become successful through his company, Return on Investment, LLC, where he primarily focuses on teaching the principles of trading while achieving upwards of a six-figure return.

Already, Christon says he has counseled and coached many of his students, who range in age from 30 to 50 years old, into earning $15K or more a week by trading in the current market.

He says he’s determined to educate the market on proper investment strategies to survive during these troubling times. ​“During this downtime, I’m actually investing in the stock market and showing people how to day trade,” he

May 2020 A Different Kind of May Aimee D. Griffin, Esq. May is one of my favorite months of the year. My two living children were born in the month of May and Mother’s Day is celebrated in May. Therefore it’s a month of reciprocal loving. May is also the Mental Health Awareness month. This is also Older Adult Appreciation Month.

Yet this is a May not like I have ever experienced before.

As a mother, I look forward to showing my love for my children and receiving the symbols of their appreciation of their love towards me, typically spending time together. In this time of COVID-19 and social distancing we must find a new way of showing love. We are in a place where the typical is not available. The coming together to support loved ones is against the law in some states during the time where we are required to stay in our homes.

In many cases showing love is protecting our loved ones from exposure to the invisible virus that we may not know that we carry. It may not be against the law, but it is against our better judgment. Our capacity for innovation with Zoom parties and birthday parades that connect without touch has shown us that we are willing to sacrifice for those we love.

As an estate planning and administration firm we have watched this evolution with great awe. We have been active in supporting “Exit Plan Symposiums” based upon the book of Rhonda Green My Exit Plan: Getting My House in Order who shares of her experience as a funeral services coordinator. The first symposium The Griffin Firm participated in during 2019 was very different from the Exit Plan Symposium of April 2020. Funerals and celebrations of life were reflective of the life of the person, their family and friends.

The second symposium had to be virtual because we are not allowed to gather with more than 10 people. For military funerals there is a limit of 2 people! One of the webinar panelists had just come out of quarantine after recovering from the Corona virus and his wife was just released from the hospital after being in the Intensive Care Unit for 17 days. Another panelist is a funeral director. These times are very different.

The urgency of getting our affairs in order is not like any other time. While I repeat the scripture that no one knows the day or the hour, this time has indeed underscored that message.

Social Distance raises greater concerns and awareness in May as Mental Health Awareness month. Many people who struggle with mental illness have lost the support of the schedule, friends and relationships that assist in the challenge of getting through difficult times. The remote working may exacerbate the day to day functioning challenges that is often required just to survive daily life.

In the time when we are safely harboring in our homes, I encourage you to do more than you would typically do. This safe harboring has gone on for longer than anticipated. Reach out to do wellness checks that go beyond the brief statement “are you ok?” We are typically trained to answer in such a way that we are not a burden to another.

Dig deeper to ensure that there is a connection where you are able to build. Dig deeper to know that the conversation that has substance beyond the perfunctory. Dig deeper to share conversations that have meaning as a real friend. In spite of the physical distance let’s take the time to create emotion closeness that allows us to be real and bridge the gaps of loneliness.

The Griffin Firm, PLLC www.yourestateplanningattorney.com (202)379-4738 5335 Wisconsin Ave NW Suite 440 Washington DC 20015 1401 Mercantile Lane Suite 383 Upper Marlboro MD 20774 100 International Drive 23rd Floor Baltimore MD 21202 1100 Peachtree ST NE Suite 200 Atlanta GA 30309 2530 Meridian Parkway Suite 300 Durham NC 27713

says, noting that “day trading is one the most simple and efficient ways for somebody to make money from anywhere in the world.”

Christon continued: “As day traders, we make money whether the market goes up or down.

So, if it crashes, we’re making money, or if it’s doing great, we’re making money.”

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

Christon strongly advises investors not to get greedy.

“Greed can cause you to lose a whole bunch of money,” he says.

“Investors must have patience, which is a skill because “sometimes you’ve got to be able to wait instead of being scared and jumping out,” he states.

Finally, with the government send-

ing $1,200 stimulus payments to many Americans, Christon said investing some of that cash might reap dividends.

“For people receiving a stimulus, investing depends on your current financials before getting the check,” Christon states. “If you can afford to, take at least part of your check and put it into learning. WI

MAY 14 - 20, 2020 13

NATIONAL New College Sexual Assault Rules Issued

Opponents Say Changes Favor the Accused

By Sarafina Wright WI Contributing Writer The Trump administration has issued final guidelines that will

significantly affect the way sexual assault allegations are handled on college campuses across the nation moving forward.

Secretary of Education Betsy

WE’RE HERE TO HELP. We know that we provide an essential service to you, and that you need access to your money, financial resources and real help, now more than ever. It’s why we continue to reach out to our clients, to listen, understand and respond. We encourage you to contact us with any financial needs you may have.

DeVos announced the changes last week, calling it historic action to strengthen Title IX protections for survivors of sexual misconduct and to restore due process in campus proceedings.

“Too many students have lost access to their education because their school inadequately responded when a student filed a complaint of sexual harassment or sexual assault,” DeVos said. “This new regulation requires schools to act in meaningful ways to support survivors of sexual misconduct, without sacrificing important safeguards to ensure a fair and transparent process.”

The new regulations, which take effect Aug. 14, include defining sexual harassment, including sexual assault, as unlawful sex discrimination and holding colleges responsible for off-campus sexual harassment at houses owned or under the control of school-sanctioned fraternities and sororities.

It will also restore fairness on college and university campuses by upholding all students’ right to written notice of allegations, the right to an adviser, and the right to submit, cross-examine and challenge evidence at a live hearing, according to the Department of Education.

“We released a final rule that recognizes we can continue to combat sexual misconduct without abandoning our core values of fairness, presumption of innocence and due process,” DeVos said in a call with reporters.

The department has been criticized for the new guidelines that opponents say largely roll back policies from the Obama administration. DeVos has said the former president’s policies were a “failed approach” that turned campus disciplinary panels into “kangaroo courts.”

Know Your IX, a Title IX advocacy group, said DeVos’ final rule guts survivors’ rights and tips the scales of school sexual misconduct cases in favor of perpetrators and schools that wish to “sweep sexual violence under the rug.”

“The final rule makes it harder for survivors to report sexual violence, reduces schools’ liability for ignoring or covering up sexual harassment, and creates a biased reporting process that favors respondents and schools over survivors’ access to education,” said Sage Carson, manager of Know Your IX. “All this as students struggle to find housing, keep up with online classes, and pay rent as the unemployment rate soars. What

these students need is support, not another attack from DeVos and Trump.”

Other groups like the National Women’s Law Center say they plan to take legal action.

“We refuse to go back to the days when rape and harassment in schools were ignored and swept under the rug,” said Fatima Goss Graves, the group’s president and CEO. “We won’t let DeVos succeed in requiring schools to be complicit in harassment, turning Title IX from a law that protects all students into a law that protects abusers and harassers.”

Sen. Ben Cardin (D-Md.), who also opposes the new guidelines, said the federal government should not set up women to be re-traumatized when reporting an assault.

“One in five female undergraduate students experience a sexual assault in college. One in five,” Cardin said. “It is astounding that after receiving more than 124,000 public comments deriding the proposed rule … Betsy DeVos has continued her singular focus to weaken the rights of victims and minimize the responsibility of colleges for actions that take place on their campus.”

WI

Learn more at sandyspringbank.com/update or call 800.399.5919

PE RS ON A L | BU SINE S S | W E A LT H | IN S U R A NCE | MOR TG AG E Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. Sandy Spring Bank NMLS # 406382. Wealth and Insurance products are not FDIC insured, not guaranteed, and may lose value. Sandy Spring Bank and the SSB logo are registered trademarks of Sandy Spring Bank. © 2020 Sandy Spring Bank. All rights reserved.

14 - MAY 14 - 20, 2020 SSB80_HereForYou_Wash Informer_3.85x7.5.indd 1

5 U.S. Department of Education Secretary Betsy DeVos rolls back civil rights protections for students filing complaints of sexual harassment or assault. (Courtesy photo/globalcitizen.com)

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM 4/15/2020 5:14:47 PM

EDUCATION Local Schools, Teaching Candidates Participate in Virtual Job Fair

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Contributing Writer @SamPKCollins As local education leaders mull the finalization of summer and fall academic plans amid the coronavirus pandemic, representatives in the D.C. public and public charter school sectors held a virtual job fair that attracted more than a thousand candidates for teaching positions of various disciplines and grade levels.

The two-day online event, hosted by the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Education, the DC Public Charter School Board (DCPCSB) and talent management nonprofit EdFuel, built upon an in-person event that DCPCSB conducted last year in its recruitment efforts.

This time, 56 local public charter schools participated, along with the D.C. Public Schools (DCPS) central office.

For Maya Stewart, middle school principal at DC International School in Northwest, the opportunity helped maintain some sense of continuity during what’s been described as an uncertain time.

“People seem to be leaning into what is familiar so we’re worried about the speed at which candidates are coming in more than usual,” Stewart said.

Throughout much of each day on May 6-7, Stewart and her colleagues navigated Brazen, an online interview platform through which they and representatives from other schools showcased their offerings, conducted chat room interviews and viewed sample lessons.

Candidates who registered weeks prior entered various “booths” from the morning until well into the eve-

ning hours. At the end of the twoday experience, Stewart spoke to more than 80 potential hires.

“The fair met a significant need during a time when we all feel like we have very little control over what happens next,” she told The Informer. “As a hiring team member, the fair gave me hope that we’ll have a full staff in the fall to respond to the huge gaps our students will face.”

Mayor Muriel Bowser is expected to reveal summer and fall academic plans at the end of this week.

Last month, she designated May 29 as the last day for DCPS and requested that local public charter schools follow suit.

The announcement came several weeks into distance learning programs that tested teachers’ ingenuity and revealed socioeconomic gaps that have long complicated students’ ability to learn in the traditional school setting.

As a teacher recruitment partner, EdFuel has expressed a commitment to ensuring teacher diversity and aiding in the composition of a staff that reflects the racial and ethnic makeup of an institution’s student body.

Last week’s job fair included avenues for novices eager to enter the profession. Representatives from teacher certification programs spoke with those making that transition, while city agencies revealed potential housing and transportation benefits for educators.

Even though ongoing circumstances have called into question how schools would continue to operate, EdFuel’s managing partner Kelly Gleischman described the fair as a beacon of

5 The DC Pubic and Charter Schools hosted a joint two-day virtual job fair to recruit teachers.

(Courtesy photo/Twitter grab/DC Deputy Mayor for Education)

light for administrators.

“Schools are being innovative to make sure they’re assessing the effectiveness and quality of candidates,” Gleischman said. “They are being really thoughtful about how

they engage candidates, and even in the virtual environment they can double-check the person they are bringing on.

“There are some drawbacks, but this broadens the reach of the event

in many ways,” she said. “Candidates can participate if they’re not based in the District. They don’t have to worry about transportation.

There are opportunities, even in the virtual setting.” WI

You’ve got enough on your plate.

Let us supply the water.

In this pandemic, water is one thing you don’t need to worry about. DC Water will be there when you need it.

dcwater.com/covid-19-resources

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

MAY 14 - 20, 2020 15

HEALTH Telecare More Important Than Ever During Pandemic Doctor Says Customer Satisfaction Has Gone Up

By Sarafina Wright WI Contributing Writer Since the outbreak of COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, industries have been forced to pivot and adapt quickly to a new normal.

Businesses have had to be creative as they take on working remotely and reaching customers in new innovative ways as most of the U.S. remains under some form of a stay-at-home order.

In the medical field, health pro-

fessionals are battling the biggest public health emergency the nation has seen since the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic. But doctors say even amid a pandemic where medical systems are stretched thin, there are patients who still need critical services.

Dr. Angela Marshall, an internal medicine physician with Advantia Comprehensive Health in Silver Spring, said telehealth, also referred to as telemedicine or telecare, has been a lifesaver.

“On the day we transitioned to

telemedicine, I had three patients we evaluated who were positive for COVID-19,” Marshall said.

“So, first and foremost, it’s been a great way to triage patients and also get them rapidly tested for COVID-19 when they were sick.”

Telehealth is the means of seeing a doctor via computer or smartphone as a way of having health needs addressed without having to appear in person. Marshall said that prior to COVID-19, telehealth represented a very small percentage of their business, but now is the number-one option.

“A lot of patients have been delaying going to hospitals or medical places because they’re concerned they might get infected,” she said. “So most of our patients have been very appreciative that we’ve been offering telehealth primarily because of their safety.”

Marshall said even patients who historically prefer in-person visits are utilizing telemedicine.

“Surprisingly, even a lot of my elderly patients have adapted to this technology,” she said. “They’re actually doing the video visits and they seem to love it.”

Still there are some who are apprehensive about having doctor visits through video fearing they won’t get the same level of treat-

COVID-19 Complicates Life for Elderly Residents in Long-term Care

AARP’s Legal Counsel Provides Programs, Clarity for D.C.’s Anxious Seniors

By D. Kevin McNeir WI Editor @dkevinmcneir While one of the inevitabilities of life, if we’re fortunate, remains growing old, there’s no reason why our “golden years” should be any less fulfilling or enjoyable than our younger days.

And despite the toll that COVID-19 has taken on all of us, AARP DC continues its goal of ensuring that older adults and their families in the District live their best lives. The nonprofit organization has state offices in all 50 states, plus D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands with a membership that helps those 50 and older achieve independence, choice and control in ways both beneficial and affordable.

The Washington Informer spoke

16 - MAY 14 - 20, 2020

with Mary Ann Parker, an attorney in AARP’s Legal Counsel for the Elderly service program, about the challenges facing those who reside in D.C.’s long-term housing facilities, including nursing homes.

Washington Informer: Are nursing homes required to inform occupants and their families, or the CDC and the federal government about COVID-19 positive cases among staff or residents?

Mary Ann Parker: Residents who test positive must be notified along with designated family members and there’s a designated hotline as well as dc.gov link provided for nursing homes. Medicaid and Medicare services have guidance for nursing homes and must report all positive cases. The D.C. Department of Health has a regulatory agency for nursing homes and a hotline. This information can be

found at coronavirus.dc.gov.

WI: What should families of those in long-term care facilities expect related to screening procedures for residents/staff or when residents show symptoms of COVID-19?

Parker: Residents who test positive are either moved to another room or sent to a hospital; they, along with their designated family member, must be notified of such changes in writing. There should be a procedure in place but some have changed with COVID-19, allowing room for newly-determined time frames. Specific services, like physical therapy, will continue as provided by an outside agency, will continue from what we understand.

WI: Have the rights of residents

ELDERLY Page 26

ment, but Marshall said most things can be done this way.

“We’ve been able to do visits for contraceptions and refills,” she said. “On the primary care side of things we’ve been doing blood pressure follow-ups, a lot of our patients have their own blood pressure monitors at home so they can check their pressure and give us the reading. We’re able to manage their medication. We’ve been able to do diabetes follow-ups, evaluate rashes. I diagnosed a patient with diverticulitis via telemedicine.

“We’re also in some cases able to send them to the laboratory and send them to X-ray facilities when they need it,” Marshall said.

“So we’re still able to get some of that other diagnostic data to help us make our diagnosis.”

Marshall said telemedicine is also accessible to those who are low-income or face certain obstacles.

“The beauty of telemedicine is that it can be done from a smart phone so there is no desktop required, which really does help to overcome any social-economic barriers,” she said.

Marshall contends the most important piece about telemedicine is avoiding health care disruptions.

“The relationship that a patient

5 Dr. Angela Marshall (Courtesy photo)

has with their doctor is very important and I just love the video component because you can still see the patients face, their expressions, you can ascertain some of the emotional feelings that they’re having,” she said.

As for telehealth’s role in the future of medicine, Marshall believes it will be a hybrid mix of telemedicine care and in-person care.

“I think there are somethings that absolutely require an in-person evaluation, but I think we are all finding out just how much we can ascertain via telemedicine, and I think it’s fantastic,” she said. WI

Nursing Homes Lead Nation Among COVID-19 Cases WI Staff Report Coronavirus fatalities in long-term care facilities have surpassed a grim threshold in much of the country, accounting for at least a third of the deaths in 26 states and more than half in 14 of those.

The data, published by the Kaiser Family Foundation, reports tallies from a variety of care facilities, including nursing homes, adult care residences and other skilled nursing care settings but does not break out those categories separately.

The striking figures offer only a partial glimpse of the devastating impact of the virus on patients, residents and staff members ahead of the new mandate that requires officials to disclose coronavirus cases and deaths in nursing homes and long-term living residences to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

New York has the highest number of overall deaths related to COVID-19 in the country. It also has the highest death rate in what Kaiser Family Foundation describes as long-term care facilities.

As of May 5, the foundation reported 5,215 people died from the virus in long-term care facilities in New York – 20 percent of the state’s total number of dead. New Jersey had the second-highest rate with 4,556 reported cases in their facilities, 53 percent of the state’s total death toll.

Until now, most states volunteered a patchwork of metrics at their own discretion. But the new rule from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services demands that states report coronavirus-related information to the CDC on a weekly basis. It also requires states to divulge additional data, including Personal Protective Equipment and hand hygiene supplies, resident access to testing and staffing shortages. WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

UPDATE from Page 12 ing college is becoming blemished. I [must] learn to live with a new vision of my future. This is scary to embrace.

My words to my fellow classmates: despite the raw deal that we have been given, there is still a greater purpose for our class. Let’s strap up and get ready for the new journey that lies ahead for us.

Samuel Nwuha Age: 18 School: DuVal

Future plans: Attend Catholic University in Northeast to study computer science One piece of advice that I would give to the Class of 2021 is “focus but have fun.” Senior year is notoriously known as “the most stressful year of high school.” Seniors are found constantly worrying about college applications, recommendations, service hours, grades, current schoolwork and [other] responsibilities. The large and sudden workload overwhelms most students, and as they struggle with balancing everything, many begin to lose [faith] in their ability to do well in college. But one thing I learned, especially with everything going on in the world right now, is that time waits for no one. Like many other seniors, as I now plan my college career, I cannot help but think back to the fun I had during my senior year; the internships I participated in, the pep rallies, the Mock Trial competitions, the band concerts and more. However, there were times where I would feel overwhelmed and burnt out from the work I did. But I did not let the work be the only experience. Senior year is full of experiences and memories, regardless of what is happening around you. Memories that will last you a lifetime.

Rebecca Pearce Age: 17 School: Bowie

Future plans: Attend Howard University in Northwest to major in political science I can’t wait to be a senior! That was probably the most frequent thing I’ve said throughout my entire high

school experience. Now that I look back, I should’ve waited. Receiving the opportunity to go to prom, have a senior cookout and walking across the stage at graduation is something I’ve looked forward to since I was young. Unfortunately, all those things have been stripped away. I’ve had a pretty unusual high school experience. I started as a naive girl who did not know much about her future. I soon began to develop and learn more about myself. I became a leader and it molded me with a mindset that made me fathom what I want my future to be. I was also able to skip the 11th grade and join the wonderful Class of 2020. Many would say that was a bad idea, but all the laughs, friendships, and memorable occasions I’ve endured were all worth it. Now it is time for the Class of 2021 to rise. Despite all the unfortunate circumstances we’ve all gone through, it’s your time to shine. Every one of us has worked strenuously and it will soon pay off!

Endia Scales Age: 18 School: Friendly

Future plans: Attend Bucknell University in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, to pursue a double major in education and English Never in a million years would I have ever thought my senior year at Friendly High School would play out the way it did. It was a journey like no other, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world. Well, only the ending of course.

Being a high school senior is one of the greatest feelings in the world, and to have it cut short is heartbreaking. It saddens me deeply to know that my classmates and I won’t get to celebrate our hard work the way we anticipated. It all feels like a never-ending nightmare. I don’t know what advice I could give to the class of 2021. I hope a worldwide pandemic doesn’t interrupt your highly awaited senior year. I want you to know your senior year will test you. You’ll be forced to know what you want to do and who you want to be by the time it’s all over.

It’s okay not to know! We’re told what route we should and shouldn’t take, defy the odds! Find yourself and be who you want to be. Most importantly, have fun! To the class of 2020, I love you and you’re a lot stronger than you think.

Ja’Lahn Smalls Age: 18 School: Largo

Future plans: Attend Louisiana State University to major in political science with a minor in youth development The beginning of it all — maturing, first heartbreak and the beginning of adulthood.

Freshman year you begin by not knowing anyone. I was the shy girl.

I attended my first football game and noticed school wasn’t as intimidating as I thought. On to my sophomore year [and] start to get the hang of things. This was my start of AP classes and the year I got my learner’s permit.

Then comes junior year. Start taking the ACT and the SAT looking for colleges. During the summer you take your senior pictures. Then we’re here [for] the year everybody dreams of — senior year. You start applying to colleges. Then you attend your last homecoming dance, last football game and last spirit week. My high school experience was nothing short of great. The long laughs, long hours of studying and also the long cries. If I could tell anyone about high school, live and act as if no one is watching.

I’ve had times I wanted to give up and quit. High school is an opportunity you only get once. Don’t worry about that test. You’ll do great. Don’t worry about drama. It’ll be ok. Don’t worry about tomorrow. Live for today.

Vanessa Velas Age: 18 School: High Point

Future plans: Attend the University of Rochester in Rochester, New York, to major in political science March 13, 2020: I didn’t think it would be the last time I would be in school [to] see my friends and teachers and plan for senior events.

Even though my senior year didn’t end as expected, the first few months were memorable. I will cherish them forever. The beginning of my senior year started with excitement, preparing and planning for homecoming and spirit week. That turned out to be a huge success. We all planned about what we would wear to prom and what we

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

would do for graduation. Although those big events aren’t happening due to COVID-19, it has taught me to be more appreciative of what we have in the present and to never take things for granted. Tomorrow is not always promised so we have to make the best of it every day. For future seniors, I hope they never have to go through this because it’s disheartening. I would advise them to make the best out of high school. Go to school events with friends and get out of your comfort zone. These things only come once in a lifetime and future seniors should make the most out of it.

HEALTH

Maricela Vigil Rios Age: 17 School: Fairmount Heights Future plans: Attend Washington Adventist University in Takoma Park to major in biology Stay focused and finish your last year strong, but at the same time,

don’t stress yourself out too much.

There will be times where you just want to give up. Remind yourself you made it this far so you can’t quit. A lot of seniors can’t wait to graduate, but my advice is to take it slow and enjoy the little moments, especially those spent with family and friends. After high school, you might not see your friends as often so live in the moment.

Get out of your comfort zone and try new things. Meet new people, create beautiful memories and participate in school activities. Take advantage of any help provided to you because not everyone is fortunate enough to have those resources. I am thankful for the people who helped me along the way. I am especially thankful for my parents.

Don’t pass up on opportunities that can have a positive impact on your life.

When it comes to applying for college, don’t procrastinate and get everything done. If you don’t know what you want to study, don’t stress yourself out too much, you have time to figure it out. “Cree en ti misma,” [meaning] believe in yourself.

WI

DENTAL Insurance Physicians Mutual Insurance Company

A less expensive way to help get the dental care you deserve If you’re over 50, you can get coverage for about

$1 a day*

Keep your own dentist! NO networks to worry about NO annual or lifetime cap on the cash benefits

No wait for preventive care and no deductibles – you could get a checkup tomorrow Coverage for over 350 procedures including cleanings, exams, fillings, crowns…even dentures

you can receive

FREE Information Kit

1-877-308-2834

www.dental50plus.com/cadnet *Individual plan. Product not available in MN, MT, NH, RI, VT, WA. Acceptance guaranteed for one insurance policy/certificate of this type. Contact us for complete details about this insurance solicitation. This specific offer is not available in CO, NY; call 1-800-969-4781 or respond for similar offer. Certificate C250A (ID: C250E; PA: C250Q); Insurance Policy P150(GA: P150GA; NY: P150NY; OK: P150OK; TN: P150TN) 6096C MB16-NM001Gc

FREE INSURANCE COST ASSESSMENT

FOR SENIORS & FAMILY No Medical Exams Required Immediate Coverage Rates Never Increase

GET A FREE QUOTE TODAY!

240-643-6737 MAY 14 - 20, 2020 17

May Greetings from DC Department of Aging and Community Living Laura Newland Director Department of Aging and Community Living Happy Older Americans Month! While we’re celebrating differently than we have in past years, our appreciation for you and all of your contributions to the District hasn’t changed. Here at the Department of Aging and Community Living, we celebrate you every day of the year—no matter what.

We know that during this unprecedented time, a lot has changed for all of us in our city, but our commitment to our older residents remains the same.

On April 1, the Mayor Muriel Bowser issued a Stay-at-Home Order, requiring residents to remain in their homes, except to engage in essential activities, like shopping for groceries and essential household goods and going to the doctor, if tele-health can’t be provided. Residents can also engage in allowable recreational

18 - MAY 14 - 20, 2020

Happy Older Americans Month!

activities such as walking, running, and other activities set out in the Order as long as social distancing of at least six feet can be maintained at all times.

The Mayor also launched a new hotline for District residents in response to COVID-19. If you are medically required to quarantine and have no other means of acquiring essential items and food, you can call 1-888-349-8323 or visit coronavirus.dc.gov/gethelp to get them delivered to you.

In addition to making sure residents are practicing social distancing and staying home, the Mayor is reminding all of us to check-in with ourselves and to take care of our mental health. It’s okay to not be okay. Call the Department of Behavioral Health mental hotline if you need someone to talk to. You can call 1-888-793-4357, 24 hours a day. Although we can’t be out in the community celebrating Older Americans Month with you, we’d still love to connect. Join us on our Call & Talk line by calling 202-724-

5626. You can call us to talk about anything! My team is excited to hear about your favorite hobbies, how staying at home has been, movies you’ve watched, books you’ve read, sports you miss—anything! It gives my team a sense of normalcy when you call us because we often have similar conversations when we do our outreach. So pick up the phone and tell us whatever you’d like us to know!

Thanks for staying home, staying safe, and keeping our communities safe. I really miss seeing you out in the community, and I can’t wait for when it’s safe for all of us to be at events celebrating you—together.

Until then, know that we’re still here for you, celebrating you, and thinking of you constantly. Continue to practice good hygiene, good social distancing, and stay home as much as possible. And remember, join us on our Call & Talk line by calling 202-724-5626—we can’t wait to hear from you!

Be well, be safe, and let’s stay connected.

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

MAY 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT

SPONSORED BY

NEWSPAPER READING IS A HABIT

WORDS FROM THE EDITOR

DON’T BREAK THE HABIT!

Black Nurses: A Tradition of Care Amid Crises Dr. Shantella Sherman WI Special Editions Editor

READ THE WASHINGTON INFORMER YOUR WAY: n In Print – feel the ink between your fingers of

our Award Winning Print Edition

n On the Web – www.washingtoninformer.com

updated throughout the day, every day

n On your tablet n On your smartphone n Facebook n Twitter n Weekly Email Blast – sign up at

www.washingtoninformer.com

202-561-4100 For advertising contact Ron Burke at rburke@washingtoninformer.com

...Informing you everyday in every way

In Memoriam Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, Sr. Wilhelmina J. Rolark THE WASHINGTON INFORMER NEWSPAPER (ISSN#0741-9414) is published weekly on each Thursday. Periodicals postage paid at Washington, D.C. and additional mailing offices. News and advertising deadline is Monday prior to publication. Announcements must be received two weeks prior to event. Copyright 2016

by The Washington Informer. All rights reserved. POSTMASTER: Send change of addresses to The Washington Informer, 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E. Washington, D.C. 20032. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. The Informer Newspaper cannot guarantee the return of photographs. Subscription rates are $45 per year, two years $60. Papers will be received not more than a week after publication. Make checks payable to: THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E Washington, D.C. 20032 Phone: 202 561-4100 Fax: 202 574-3785 news@washingtoninformer.com www.washingtoninformer.com

PUBLISHER Denise Rolark Barnes STAFF D. Kevin McNeir, Editor Ron Burke, Advertising/ Marketing Director Shevry Lassiter, Photo Editor Lafayette Barnes, IV, Assistant Photo Editor John E. De Freitas, Sports Photo Editor Dorothy Rowley, Online Editor ZebraDesigns.net, Design & Layout Mable Neville, Bookkeeper Dr. Charles Vincent, Social Sightings columnist Tatiana Moten, Social Media Specialist Angie Johnson, Circulation REPORTERS Stacy Brown (Senior Writer), Sam P.K. Collins, Timothy Cox, Will Ford (Prince George’s County Writer), Jacqueline Fuller, Hamil Harris, D. Kevin McNeir, Kui Mwai, Lee Ross, Dorothy Rowley, Brenda Siler, Lindiwe Vilakazi, Sarafina Wright, James Wright, PHOTOGRAPHERS John E. DeFreitas, Ja’Mon Jackson, Shevry Lassiter, Roy Lewis, Jr., Robert R. Roberts, Anthony Tilghman

In addition to the month of May being designated National Nurses Month, the World Health Assembly, the governing body of the World Health Organization (WHO), also designated 2020 as the Year of the Nurse and Midwife to advance nurses’ vital position in transforming health care around the world. Amid the crises generated by the Covid-19 pandemic, this year’s commemoration of National Nurses Month, has highlighted the abundant need for, importance of, and resilience embodied by nurses.

This is not a spotlight, however, unfamiliar to African American nurses – both lay and professional – who historically 5 Dr. Shantella Sherman (Photo by India Kea) served on the frontlines of the U.S. public health industry since its inception.

According to historian Susan Smith’s Sick and Tired of Being Sick and Tired: Black Women’s Health Activism in America, 1890-1950, throughout the earaly twentieth century the Black nurse was a key figure in spreading the gospel of good health and hygiene to African Americans.

“As the field of public health nursing expanded in the twentieth century, and public health workers placed more emphasis on individual hygiene, nurses came to symbolize the ideal teachers. Public health nurses were especially important in rural areas where access to doctors was severely limited. Leaders of the Black health movement agreed that ‘one of the greatest needs as related to public health work among Negroes is an adequate supply of well-trained public health nurses.’ It was believed that the public health nurse was one of the most, if not the most effective instructor in the health education for Black people.”

Their importance has not waned.

Like Mary Frances Hill Coley, a revered mid-wife in rural, segregated Albany, Georgia, many of today’s young, Black nurses enter the field with a desire to help and an abundance of compassion. African Americans interested in entering the medical profession as midwives – or today’s doulas – have found that even with the necessary coursework and credentials, it is the mentorship of elders in the field that steers their development.

“My grandmother, Mary Alice Riverton, was a ‘catcher’ who did all the duties of an obstetrician but could not be licensed by the state of South Carolina because she only had a third-grade education. She was termed a catcher because she was not allowed to legally do anything but catch a baby as it delivered, and comfort the mother,” Philadelphia-based doula, Shauna Waylon told the Informer. “Fortunately, she had been trained and understood things like how stress, high blood pressure, venereal infections and lack of rest impacted the birth process. In 45 years, she never lost a mother or child because her care was holistic. I want to be able to provide that same type of love and care.”

Waylon said that many nurses today fuse the cultural sensitivities of their grandparents with new technologies to build trust with patients and incorporate their mental, emotional, and spiritual needs.

“When you consider the amount of anxiety under which we live right now – we’re wearing masks and gloves to go outside, we’re stressed about economic security, and many are fearful to a point that they are not sleeping or eating properly. How do we factor those painful realities into health assessments? The nurses’ skill is making the patient feel comfortable enough to reveal their ailments. I cannot cure what you will not divulge. And so, nurses remain vitally important to overall good health,” Waylon said.

As the Washington Informer commemorates National Nurses Month, we invite you to utilize this quick guide for information on the history of nursing, career paths, and tips for nurses who need a bit of relaxation. Let us cheer on and support the nurses in our community!

Read, Learn, Enjoy!

5 Mercy Hospital School of Nursing, Class of 1936 (Courtesy photo)

www.washingtoninformer.com / MAY 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT

HS-2

World Health Organization and Partners Call for Urgent Investment in Nurses WI Staff Report / WHO The Covid-19 pandemic underscores the urgent need to strengthen the global health workforce. A new report, The State of the World’s Nursing 2020, provides an in-depth look at the largest component of the health workforce. Findings identify important gaps in the nursing workforce and priority areas for investment in nursing education, jobs, and leadership to strengthen nursing around the world and improve health for all. Nurses account for more than half of all the world’s health workers, providing vital services throughout the health system.

Historically, as well as today, nurses are at the forefront of fighting epidemics and pandemics that threaten health across the globe. Around the world they are demonstrating their compassion, bravery, and courage as they

respond to the COVID-19 pandemic: never before has their value been more clearly demonstrated.

“Nurses are the backbone of any health system. Today, many nurses find themselves on the frontline in the battle against Covid-19,’ said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director General. ‘This report is a stark reminder of the unique role they play, and a wakeup call to ensure they get the support they need to keep the world healthy.”

The report, by the World Health Organization (WHO) in partnership with the International Council of Nurses (ICN) and Nursing Now, reveals that today, there are just under 28 million nurses worldwide. Between 2013 and 2018, nursing numbers increased by 4.7 million. But this still leaves a global shortfall of 5.9 million - with the greatest gaps found in coun-

tries in Africa, South East Asia, and the WHO Eastern Mediterranean region as well as some parts of Latin America.

Revealingly, more than 80 per cent of the world’s nurses work in countries that are home to half of the world’s population. And one in every eight nurses, practices in a country other than the one where they were born or trained. Ageing also threatens the nursing workforce: one out of six of the world’s nurses are expected to retire in the next 10 years.

To avert the global shortage, the report estimates that countries experiencing shortages need to increase the total number of nurse graduates by on average 8% per year, along with improved ability to be employed and retained in the health system. This would cost roughly USD 10 per capita (population) per year.

“Politicians understand the cost of

educating and maintaining a professional nursing workforce, but only now are many of them recognizing their true value,” said ICN President Annette Kennedy. “Every penny invested in nursing raises the wellbeing of people and families in tangible ways that are clear for everyone to see. This report highlights the nursing contribution and confirms that investment in the nursing profession is a benefit to society, not a cost. The world needs millions more nurses, and we are calling on governments to do the right thing, invest in this wonderful profession and watch their populations benefit from the amazing work that only nurses can do.”

About 90 per cent of all nurses are female, yet few nurses are found in senior health leadership positions-- the bulk of those positions are held by men. But when countries enable nurses to take a leadership role, for example by having a government chief nursing officer (or equivalent), and nursing leadership programs, conditions for nurses improve.

This report places much-needed data and evidence behind calls to strengthen nursing leadership, advance nursing practice, and educate the nursing work-

5 New research reveals the increased need for nurses across the globe in coming years. / Courtesy photo

force for the future,” said Lord Nigel Crisp, Co-Chair of Nursing Now. “The policy options reflect actions we believe all countries can take over the next ten years to ensure there are enough nurses in all countries, and that nurses use of the full extent of their education, training, and professional scope to enhance primary health care delivery and respond to health emergencies such as COVID-19. This must start with broad and intersectoral dialogue which positions the nursing evidence in the context of a country’s health system, health workforce, and health priorities.”

WI

BY STAYING HOME NOW WE WILL SAVE LIVES NOW AND GET BACK TOGETHER LATER

STAY HOME. SAVE LIVES. #StayHomeDC CORONAVIRUS.DC.GOV

H-3 HS-3

MAY 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com

Thriving Under Stress Submitted by AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia We all want the resilience to bounce back quickly from difficult times. Even more than that, we’d like to do well while they’re happening.

Resilience is our ability to recover emotionally and psychologically from challenges, like experiencing a loss or sickness. It’s our capacity to adapt and move on.

Why do some people become overwhelmed in stressful times, while others feel more at ease in them and even find fresh enthusiasm? How can we not just survive the stress, but thrive in it?

ENGAGE THE CHANGE

Here are three beliefs that can help you find and keep your health and happiness during life’s hassles: • Commitment. You can think of this as your connection. When a

crisis comes, you might feel an urge to avoid it. You might want to distract yourself with something else — anything to run from the feeling of stress. Instead, lean into the feeling.

How can you become more involved in challenging events? Look for ways to be included, rather than becoming isolated.

• Control. What can you do to help change events for the better?

Focus on how you can be a force of good for yourself and others, even in little ways. These little efforts to improve things can be enough to keep you from feeling powerless. And where you can’t change events, you might be able to change how you see them.

• Challenge. Within a crisis hides an opportunity. This belief allows you to see change as a way to learn something new. Thinking back, you can probably remember a time when something that seemed bad at the time led to something good. If

#BestMe

Rewards Program

you can, simply accept that something good is possible from the current stress. The challenge of today can lead to something better later on.

These beliefs can help you when you feel strained. They can reduce your sense of being overwhelmed.

They can help you get a handle on any anxiety or depression you might feel. At the same time, they can boost your life satisfaction.

BACK TO BASICS

There’s no right or wrong way to feel about stress. Emotions can be hard to predict during these times, so, if you can, wait to make major life choices when you are feeling less stressed.

You can also: • Limit the amount of stressful news you watch or listen to • Create and keep to a routine • Eat nutritious foods that will give you energy • Avoid drugs and alcohol • Exercise most days, even

if just taking a walk • Get enough sleep Above all, when you’re feeling the heat, be kind to yourself. When you can be a good friend to yourself, you know that you’re on your side.

Sources: 1. “Turning Lemons into Lemonade: Hardiness Helps People Turn Stressful Circumstances into Opportunities,” American Psychological Association, https://www.apa.org/research/ action/lemon.

2. “Coping Tips for Traumatic

Events and Disasters,” Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, https://www.samhsa.gov/ find-help/disaster-distress-helpline/coping-tips.

3. “Understanding and Overcoming Procrastination,” McGraw Center for Learning and Teaching, Princeton University, https://mcgraw.princeton. edu/understanding-and-overcoming-procrastination.

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

I got a gift card for getting my postpartum checkup. You can too.

You can get a $25 gift card if you: • Are an AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia member • See a midwife or OB/GYN within three to eight weeks (21 – 56 days) after giving birth

Visit www.amerihealthcaritasdc.com/giftcard to learn more.

Note: A member cannot get more than $50 in incentives each year.

ACDC-19433327-6

www.amerihealthcaritasdc.com

All images are used under license for illustrative purposes only.

Any individual depicted is a model.

AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.

English: ATTENTION: If you speak English, language assistance services, at no cost, are available to you. Call 1-800-408-7511 (TTY/TDD: 202-216-9885 or 1-800-570-1190).

Spanish: ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-800-408-7511 (TTY/TDD: 202-216-9885 o 1-800-570-1190).

Amharic: ማሳሰቢያ፡ አማርኛ መናገር የሚችሉ ከሆነ፣ ከከፍያ ነጻ የሆነ የቋንቋ ድጋፍ አገልግሎት ይቀርብልዎታል፡፡ በስልክ ቁጥር 1-800-408-7511 (TTY/TDD: 202-216-9885 ወይም 1-800-570-1190) ይደውሉ.

1-800-408-7511 ‫ اﺗﺼﻞ ﺑﺮﻗﻢ‬.‫ﺎن‬‫ ﻓﺈن ﺧﺪﻣﺎت اﳌﺴﺎﻋﺪة اﻟﻠﻐﻮﻳﺔ ﺗﺘﻮاﻓﺮ ﻟﻚ ﺑﺎ‬،‫ إذا ﻛﻨﺖ ﺗﺘﺤﺪث اﻟﻠﻐﺔ اﻟﻌﺮﺑﻴﺔ‬:‫ ﻣﻠﺤﻮﻇﺔ‬: Arabic .(1-800-570-1190 ‫ أو‬TTY/TDD: 202-216-9885 ‫)رﻗﻢ ﻫﺎﺗﻒ اﻟﺼﻢ واﻟﺒﻜﻢ‬

www.washingtoninformer.com / MAY 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT

HS-4

#BestMe

How to get things done on time Have you ever heard someone say they put off doing things because they “work better under pressure”? Or are they a little harder on themselves, and say it’s because they are “lazy”?

It turns out that when we avoid doing things we don’t want to do, it’s not usually for either of these reasons.

Putting things off is actually a way we try to protect ourselves from fear. We might fear not doing the job well, fear doing it so well that we are given too much work, fear losing control, or have some other fear. This emotional weight can keep us feeling bogged down. It also doesn’t leave us much wiggle room if something happens that we don’t expect.

HOW TO OVERCOME A DREAD OF DOING? TRY THESE TIPS TO BE YOUR #BESTME: •

• •

•

•

Identify your own reasons for putting things off. You might have different reasons than someone else does. Finding your reasons may take some thought, but knowing why we really put things off is key to managing our time better.

Find your motivation. What can you learn or accomplish in a task that feels good to you?

Reduce the stress of how you manage your time. Try to avoid making huge lists of things to do and keeping strict schedules. These can overwhelm you. Instead, set reasonable goals. Break down big tasks into smaller ones. Pace yourself. Be gentle with yourself.

Use surroundings that help you. Try to find an area with few distractions. Set aside blocks of time for the job.

Reward yourself for finishing. Give yourself time for something you enjoy after you complete a job.

#BestMe

Rewards Program

I got a gift card for getting my prenatal checkup. You can too.

You can get a $25 gift card if you: • Are pregnant and within your first trimester • Are an AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia member • See a midwife or OB/GYN for your first prenatal office visit

Visit www.amerihealthcaritasdc.com/giftcard to learn more.

Note: A member cannot get more than $50 in incentives each year.

ACDC-19433327-1

www.amerihealthcaritasdc.com AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.

English: ATTENTION: If you speak English, language assistance services, at no cost, are available to you. Call 1-800-408-7511 (TTY/TDD: 202-216-9885 or 1-800-570-1190).

Spanish: ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-800-408-7511 (TTY/TDD: 202-216-9885 o 1-800-570-1190).

Amharic: ማሳሰቢያ፡ አማርኛ መናገር የሚችሉ ከሆነ፣ ከከፍያ ነጻ የሆነ የቋንቋ ድጋፍ አገልግሎት ይቀርብልዎታል፡፡ በስልክ ቁጥር 1-800-408-7511 (TTY/TDD: 202-216-9885 ወይም 1-800-570-1190) ይደውሉ.

1-800-408-7511 ‫ اﺗﺼﻞ ﺑﺮﻗﻢ‬.‫ﺎن‬‫ ﻓﺈن ﺧﺪﻣﺎت اﳌﺴﺎﻋﺪة اﻟﻠﻐﻮﻳﺔ ﺗﺘﻮاﻓﺮ ﻟﻚ ﺑﺎ‬،‫ إذا ﻛﻨﺖ ﺗﺘﺤﺪث اﻟﻠﻐﺔ اﻟﻌﺮﺑﻴﺔ‬:‫ ﻣﻠﺤﻮﻇﺔ‬: Arabic .(1-800-570-1190 ‫ أو‬TTY/TDD: 202-216-9885 ‫)رﻗﻢ ﻫﺎﺗﻒ اﻟﺼﻢ واﻟﺒﻜﻢ‬

H-5 HS-5

MAY 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com

All images are used under license for illustrative purposes only.

Any individual depicted is a model.

National Nurses Week 2020: Celebrating Our Everyday Heroes Jamila Livingston Marketing Specialist The HSC Health Care System In uncertain times, we often look for someone to save the day and heroes often reveal themselves in the most unexpected ways. A hero is someone who is admired for their courage, achievements, and noble qualities. Our world has been shaken by the COVID-19 pandemic, but through these dark times, there is a beacon of light in knowing that we are surrounded by everyday heroes.

While many of us were sent to the confines of our home to quarantine, our nurses, doctors, therapists, administrative staff, janitorial staff, security officers, and other essential workers stayed on the frontlines. Putting their own safety at risk is a true testament to their

compassion for the wellbeing of children and youth with complex medical conditions.

National Nurses Week 2020 is officially held from Wednesday, May 6th – Tuesday, May 12th, but this year it is perfectly ok to extend it indefinitely. What better way to celebrate than by showing your appreciation for our heroes? Here are 5 simple ways to celebrate:

1. WRITE A THANK YOU CARD OR MESSAGE.

• A simple ‘thank you’ goes a long way. Design a homemade or virtual card to let your hero know how much they mean to you. If you are posting the card on a social platform, tag @HSChealthcare and #HSCheroes.

2. DONATE TO A HOSPITAL.

• Visit your local hospital’s website or give them a call to inquire about ways to donate. To donate to The HSC Pediatric Center, email donations@hschealth.org.

3. BUY LUNCH FOR ESSENTIAL WORKERS.

• Contact your local hospital for details on how to safely deliver meals. To make a meal donation to The HSC Pediatric Center, email donations@hschealth.org.

4. CHECK ON ESSENTIAL WORKERS’ FAMILIES.

• While our heroes are on the frontlines, their families are at

home and cannot see them often due to long hours and safety protocols. A simple phone call to show your support can make a huge difference.

5. STAY HOME.

• Quarantining and social distancing when making necessary trips helps us fight the spread of COVID-19 together.

Our appreciation for our nurses and frontline staff at The HSC Pediatric Center and HSC Home Care, LLC is ineffable. We will celebrate you always. You are our #HSCheroes!

To learn more about The HSC Health Care System and the services we provide children with complex needs, please visit hschealth.org.

WI

Our world has been shaken by the COVID-19 pandemic, but through these dark times, there is a beacon of light in knowing that we are surrounded by everyday heroes.

Caring. Serving. Empowering.

THANK YOU! The HSC Health Care System celebrates National Nurses Week 2020 and our #HSCHeroes.

hschealth.org

@HSChealthcare

@HSChealthcare

The HSC Health Care System

www.washingtoninformer.com / MAY 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT

HS-6

COVID-19 Crisis Highlights Ways to Combat Health Disparities for People of Color

By Brandi Alexander The coronavirus pandemic is taking a disproportionate toll on people of color, joining the many healthcare disparities that people and communities of color as a whole, have historically faced. Unequal access to economic opportunities and healthcare facilities, structural inequality and discrimination are just some of the systemic hurdles that policymakers must address to close the healthcare disparities chasm faced by people of color. Now is the time to seek viable solutions to address those disparities that are realistically within our collective grasps.

As a member of the African American community, I am personally and communally affected by the insidious COVID-19. Every day I continue to see and hear how this deadly virus is impacting my community. The numbers reported are real. I know because currently my aunt is recovering from the virus.

The small silver lining so far in this public health crisis is that it highlights ways to help combat these healthcare disparities right now. The question is what can people of color do in the near term to minimize our chances of dying from this life-threatening illness and another deadly disease in the future?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that groups at higher risk for severe illness from the coronavirus include people of all ages with underlying medical conditions, particularly if not well controlled, including, but not limited to: • People with chronic lung disease • People who have serious heart conditions • People who are immunocompromised by cancer treatment, smoking, bone marrow or organ transplantation, immune deficiencies, poorly controlled HIV or AIDS, and prolonged use of corticosteroids and other immune weakening medications • People with severe obesity (body mass index [BMI] of 40 or higher)

H-7 HS-7

• People with diabetes Some of these healthcare conditions are genetic or are caused by lack of healthcare access, but some we can avoid or minimize by 1) not smoking to minimize the chances of lung disease; 2) eating healthier, less sugary foods less likely to cause diabetes, heart disease and obesity; and 3) avoiding unsafe sex that could lead to HIV or AIDS. Not coincidentally, Kaiser Health News reports: “Blacks and Alaska Natives have higher rates of...diabetes compared to Whites … nonelderly adult Alaska Natives are nearly twice as likely as Whites are to report having had a heart attack or heart disease.

Black, Hispanic, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians Other Pacific Islanders nonelderly adults and Black and Hispanic children also are more likely to be obese compared to Whites. Compared to Whites, Blacks have an over eight times higher HIV diagnosis rate and a nearly ten times higher AIDS diagnosis rate, and the HIV and AIDS diagnosis rates for Hispanics are more than three times the rates for Whites.”

If you’re a person of color of any age, but especially if you suffer from a life-threatening disease, you can use the coronavirus as motivation to discuss your end-oflife care wishes with your family members. Start having these family conversations, complete an advance care directive detailing your wishes for end-of-life care if you cannot speak for yourself and appoint a healthcare proxy to ensure your healthcare providers know what you want and don’t want.

I’m well aware that these conversations are difficult because my dad died without discussing his end-of-life care wishes with our family. When he could not speak for himself, we had no idea about his preferences and healthcare priorities. As a result, this lack of information caused needless suffering for him, and family infighting, guilt and heartbreak, because we never talked about it. Thankfully, there are online tools and resources available to help guide these conversations

and to complete an advance care directive documenting the details of your preferred end-of-life care treatments.

For example, CompassionAndChoices.org, provides FREE end-of-life care fact sheets and planning tools to help you navigate your care options, including a COVID-19 specific planning guide. Take it from someone who knows first-hand experience, taking action now will reduce the stress of caregiving for your loved ones and the chances that you or they will needlessly suffer in

death, whether it is in the near or distant future.

Brandi Alexander is the National Director of Constituency for Compassion & Choices, the nation’s oldest and largest nonprofit

organization dedicated to improving and expanding healthcare options for the end of life.

This OP-ED was originally published by Inglewood Today and is published here with permission

What Are Your Advance Healthcare Plans?

Compassion & Choices is committed to helping people navigate their end-of-life options and make informed healthcare decisions. Having a plan in place gives everyone peace of mind.

Visit CompassionAndChoices.org/planning for all of our FREE end-of-life planing tools and start having conversations about your end-of-life care today.

MAY 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com

Summer (Nutrition) Standouts

By Elaine Magee, MPH, RD Safeway Wellness Services Corporate Dietitian Summer is a time to rediscover your love for water sports, travelling and fruit! The produce section is never more colorful than in the middle of summer. The fruits that standout nutritionally generally follow these three color palates; purple/blue, red, and yellow/orange. The plant compounds that give these fruits their color, tend to also contribute antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Three summer standouts, one in every color, are mango, watermelon and blueberries. Read more about what makes each of these summer fruits special and check out the easy recipes below.

EAT MORE MANGO

One of the most popular fruits

in the world is one of the most nutrient-packed. Mangos are one of our yellow/orange superfruits because they are packed with compounds (including polyphenols and flavonoids) that may offer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activity in the body. Mangos also add over 20 vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A and C, many of which have been linked to possible improvements in heart and immune health and brain function. One-half cup mango adds so much flavor and color to your dish plus 50% of the Daily Value for vitamin C and about 18% for vitamin A, with only 50 calories and 12 grams of carbs.

WATERMELON BRINGS MORE THAN WATER

Chilled watermelon is the ultimate refresher on a hot day! Red

fruits tend to have certain plant compounds that come with the color red, many of which may have antioxidant and immune boosting activity. When you enjoy a bowl or a slice of watermelon you are getting many of these antioxidant compounds (like lycopene) plus several key vitamins including vitamins B6, A and C. A 90-calorie, 2-cup serving of watermelon is both filling and hydrating, thanks to it being made up over 90% water and being a great source of the electrolyte potassium. Enjoy watermelon on its own or in a fruit salad, blend it up for a slush, smoothie or beverage.

ries may help with heart health, cancer prevention, and bone and brain health. Blueberries have a lot going for them nutritionally but much of their health benefits can be tied to the antioxidant plant compound that gives blueberries their blue color—anthocyanin. Several berry researchers have recently suggested

eating 4-5 servings of berries each week, although the protective effects of berries on humans is still being studied. Blueberries can be stirred into yogurt, oatmeal, or cereal, featured in smoothies or shakes, folded into muffins or pancake batter, or sprinkled over salads or waffles!

WI

GET A BOOST WITH BLUEBERRIES

These little powerhouse ber-

Organic from the Source

Delicious food, purely grown.

That’s our promise.

EXCLUSIVELY AT

www.washingtoninformer.com / MAY 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT

HS-8

REAL REAL FOOD FROM FROM NATURAL INGREDIENTS NO ANTIBIOTICS EVER

EXCLUSIVELY AT H-9 HS-9

MAY 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com

Recent & Recommended Books on Nursing, Black Nurses, and Midwifery

By Lee Ross WI Staff Writer

Jump-Starting a Career in Nursing

Jeri Freedman This indispensable volume explores the range of jobs and settings in which one can work in the nursing field with two years or less of training, including certified nursing assistant, licensed practical nurse, licensed visiting nurse, registered nurse, clinical nurse, cardiac care nurse, labor and delivery nurse, neonatal nurse, and pediatric nurse, among others. It examines each job’s activities, academic needs, and certification and licensing requirements. Illuminating sidebars describe actual aspects of a nurse’s work, such as that of a pediatric nurse and that of an army nurse. Practical tips for the job search, writing a resume, and interviewing are also presented.

The Ultimate Career Guide for Nurses: Practical Advice for Thriving at Every Stage of Your Career

CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)

Uninsured and Worried About Coronavirus (COVID-19)?

DC Health Link Can Help with Private Health Insurance or Medicaid

ENROLLMENT IS NOW! Visit DCHealthLink.com • Easy online enrollment - No need to call • No documentation or paperwork • No deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance for diagnosis, testing and COVID-19 treatment

Donna Wilk Cardillo No matter where you are in your career, The Ultimate Career Guide for Nurses will help you get the most out of your career and love what you do. Donna Cardillo takes you step by step through career advancement and both career and personal development. Written in her customary down-to-earth and humorous style, this book will help you get the most out of your current position; identify transferable skills; discover and develop your own unique talents and skill set; write a winning resume and interview like a pro; build professional support systems and explore career options.

Caring for Equality: A History of African American Health and Healthcare

David McBride African Americans today continue to suffer disproportionately from heart disease, diabetes, and other health problems.

In Caring for Equality David McBride chronicles the struggle by African Americans and their white allies to improve poor black health conditions as well as inadequate medical care—caused by slavery, racism, and discrimination—since the arrival of African slaves in America. Black American health progress resulted from the steady influence of what David McBride calls the health equality ideal: the principle that health of black Americans could and should be equal to that of whites and other Americans. Including a timeline, selected primary sources, and an extensive bibliographic essay, McBride’s book provides a superb starting point for students and readers who want to explore in greater depth this important and understudied topic in African American history.

Delivered by Midwives: African American Midwifery in the Twentieth-century South

Jenny M. Luke Using evidence from nursing, medical, and public health journals of the era; primary sources from state and county departments of health; and personal accounts from varied practitioners, Delivered by Midwives: African American Midwifery in the Twentieth-Century South provides a new perspective on the childbirth experience of African American women and their maternity care providers. Author Jenny M. Luke moves beyond the usual racial dichotomies to expose a more complex shift in childbirth culture, revealing the changing expectations and agency of African American women in their rejection of a two-tier maternity care system and their demands to be part of an inclusive, desegregated society.

WI

www.washingtoninformer.com / MAY 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT

HS-10

COVID-19 and Black People

Dr. Oliver Brooks President National Medical Association It is oft stated in the Black community: “when the country gets a cold, we get pneumonia.”

The genesis of this saying is unclear but the inference is not, nor is it inaccurate. Black people suffer more from adverse medical conditions, with poorer outcomes.

COVID-19, the disease process caused by infection from the pandemic virus SARS-CoV-2 has demonstrated its accuracy.

Let us take a broad look at COVID-19, before we take a close look at the disparate effect on the African-American community.

We are facing the greatest healthcare threat that most of us have ever seen. This is not hyperbole. Our patients and community only need us to give them the real message without shouting. When an NMA physician speaks, the community listens; such is the role of the Black physician in the Black community. We respect that and accept that authority. The messages regarding COVID-19 need to come from us, and other trusted sources. Do note that though, with great authority comes great responsibility.

Here is an analogy that gives a visible face to this invisible biological adversary: a wildfire. None of us have experienced anything that parallels what we are living through with this virus, however many areas of the country that have experienced the devastation of a wildfire; all understand the grave threat with wildfires. There are five parallels that frame well what we are facing: COVID-19 is burning through the nation. The frontline, this time

H-11 HS-11

the healthcare workers instead of the firemen are at the highest threat; COVID-19 will not be extinguished by our efforts; it will only be contained. The response from the greater community will be what limits the overall scale of human tragedy; in a wildfire escaping, in this pandemic, sheltering in place; The catastrophe will end: in a fire, when there is no more flame; with COVID-19, when there are no more (or minimal) cases; When we look back there will be a trail of destruction; in a wildfire, a ravaged landscape with fatalities; with COVID-19 a ravaged economy with fatalities. And last; In the end, after a wildfire, the forest recovers, people rebuild. With COVID-19, the economy will recover, people will rebuild our lives.

There is life after disaster. We are a resilient people. Our sole purpose as health care providers and citizens is to mitigate the damage from COVID-19, and heal the scars that will inevitably be present after this ends.

Now let us explore the disparate effect on the African-American community: overall in the US we are 35% of those hospitalized and dying, but 13% of the population; 2.7 times more likely to have an adverse outcome. Why? We are 50% more likely to have diabetes, 40% more likely to have high blood pressure, and 30% more likely to be obese. The incidence of COPD (lung disease) in our women is 34% higher than in White women. These are all CDC-identified risk factors for worse outcomes.

Bottom line, if we acquire the virus, bad things are more likely to happen. That’s pass number one.

Let us layer on that more baggage: It is now known that the social determinants of health (SDoH) play as important a role in a person’s health as genetics or medical treatment. There are, broadly six SDoH categories: economic stability, physical environment, education, food, community and social content and

health care systems. Blacks are adversely affected in these arenas. For example, with poorer housing we cannot generally socially isolate when we have 6 people in a 2 bedroom apartment.

Searching for healthy food, or using the bus to get to work (if you have a job and going to work), puts one at higher risk of acquiring the infection. I will separate one out

the above noted SDoHs: economic stability, (or lack thereof). Quoting from the Brookings Institute, “at $171,000, the net worth of a typical White family is nearly ten times greater than that of a Black family in 2016.” The Black- White WEALTH gap leads to a Black HEALTH gap that reflects a society that has not and does not afford equality of opportunity to all its citizens.

Lastly there’s the ugly truth of 400 years of racism. Studies show that even when you remove income, insurance coverage, and education as factors, Blacks STILL have worse outcomes.

Race in and of itself is an independent factor that affects our health.

So here we are. Where does all of this leave us? With pneumonia. WI

Now Accepting Applications!

Children Ages 6 Weeks to 4 Years for Fall Programs Martha’s Table is committed to providing the highest possible quality education for our children.

We offer: Our nationally accredited early childhood education program: - The Commons (Southeast D.C.): Full-day programming for children 6 weeks to 4 years of age.

- The Maycroft (Northwest D.C.): Full-day programming for children 6 weeks to 3 years of age.

Teachers focus on whole-child development to ensure children are on track and ready to learn in kindergarten and beyond!

APPLY TODAY! Our education program has an open, non-discriminatory enrollment policy.

For information about enrollment in our early childhood education program, visit marthastable.org/education-programs.

MAY 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com

By the Numbers: Nursing in 2020

By Lee Ross WI Staff Writer Nursing is the nation’s largest healthcare profession, with more than 3.8 million registered nurses (RNs) nationwide. Of all licensed RNs, 84.5 percent are employed in nursing. The federal government projects that more than 200,000 new registered nurse positions will be created each year from 2016-2026. Here are a few additional facts, by the numbers, about the nursing profession and its importance. According to the State of The World’s Nursing 2020 Report:

NURSING REPRESENTS THE LARGEST OCCUPATION IN THE HEALTH CARE SECTOR, ACCOUNTING FOR 59 PERCENT OF HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS.

Based on data from 86 countries, one nurse out of eight (13 percent) was born or trained in a country other than the one in which they currently practice.

Over 80 percent of the world’s nurses are found in countries that account for half of the world’s population.

The global shortage of nurses, estimated to be 6.6 million in

THERE ARE 27.9 MILLION NURSES IN THE WORKFORCE, OF WHICH 19.3 MILLION ARE CLASSIFIED AS PROFESSIONAL NURSES. To address the nursing shortage across the globe by 2030 the total number of nursing graduates should be increased by 8 percent. Countries should be prepared to employ, but also retain the graduates. If the trends work as per the projections, then there will be 36 million nurses across the globe by 2030.

2016, had decreased slightly to 5.9 million nurses in 2018.

Giant’s in-store nutritionists are available online!

- Schedule a personalized consultation via Skype or Zoom - View and sign up for an online class (under Events tab) - Schedule a webinar for your club or group

Visit giantfood.com/nutrition for all services or contact us directly at nutrition@giantfood.com

FEMALES ACCOUNT FOR

Countries affected by shortages will need to increase funding to educate and employ at least 5.9 million additional nurses.

ABOUT 90 PERCENT OF THE NURSING WORKFORCE, BUT THEY ARE UNDERREPRESENTED IN LEADERSHIP POSITIONS.

38 percent of nurses are below the age of 35, while 17 percent are 55 and above.

ONE OUT OF SIX OF THE WORLD’S NURSES ARE

Join us Monday–Friday for Nutrition at Noon,

a daily web series on Zoom!

Our new 15-minute sessions cover all kinds of nutrition topics and some have interactive sessions for kids! Questions are welcome—all you need to bring is your curiosity.

Learn something new with our nutritionists Monday–Friday! https://zoom.us/j/900290928

EXPECTED TO RETIRE IN THE NEXT 10 YEARS; THIS PERCENTAGE IS SUBSTANTIALLY HIGHER IN THE REGION OF THE AMERICAS (24 PERCENT), POSING A FURTHER REPLENISHMENT CHALLENGE.

4.7 million new nurses will have to be educated and employed over the next decade just to maintain the status quo.

www.washingtoninformer.com / MAY 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT

HS-12

Why Holistic Wellness Approaches Are Critical to Closing Minority Health Disparity Gap During COVID-19

By Tonya Kinlow Health disparities among our ethnic minority groups are widening during Coronavirus. Chronic diseases are 50% to 200% more prevalent in our communities due to a lack of access to healthy foods and medical services leaving us vulnerable to higher rates of contraction. Crowded living conditions turn our homes during the time of this crisis into Petri dishes.

What can be done? Innovative holistic wellness approaches are proven to have meaningful and long-lasting positive impacts on health. The prescription drug epidemic has become addictive and only band-aids the symptoms. A holistic wellness approach is the most effective modern healthcare system that will restore wellbeing and longevity. Remarkable wellbeing is achieved through mind, body, and spiritual alignment transforming lives from stress and anxiety to one of health, purpose, and inner peace. There are seven ancient universal principles taught by masters for thousands of years to reach this healthy alignment. The good news is that these ancient wisdoms and universal laws have been translated into relatable terms and everyday practices we can now do at home.

The most efficient practice to achieve remarkable wellness is through daily meditation. Meditation is a spiritual, not religious, practice that accesses you inner wisdom, and is scientifically proven to block stress hormones and reduce inflammation in the body.

This is scientific evidence of the mind, body, and spirit connection.

Executive Leaders, spiritualists and athletes alike have been using meditation techniques for centuries. In modern terms, think Steve Jobs, Arianna Huffington, Coach Phil Jackson and Mahatma Gandhi--all leaders and devout meditators. Yet the amazing benefits of meditation are just now entering the mainstream awareness. Knowledge of this spiritual technology has protected the powerful, and widened the disparity in minority communities’ heath & wellness. It is time that our disenfranchised communi-

H-13 HS-13

ties now know what “they” know.

Meditation along with other higher consciousness techniques like Mindful Eating, Affirmations, and Renewal (rest) practices, when put together in a specific formula have transformational powers that creates alchemy, awakening inner wisdom, mind-body connection, and vitality. Healthy choices, clarity, connection and remarkable wellness are the result. It is time to close the health disparity in our communities with higher consciousness in our daily practices to improve wellbeing.

The ingredients to this holistic recipe are simple and accessible: Meditation, Exercise, Mindful Eating, Self-Care, Daily Affirmations & Journaling, Kindness & Gratitude, and Rest & Renewal. However, practicing the precise formula is the actual game changer. TKI Remarkable Wellness (TKI) is an emerging leader in holistic wellness coaching, a wellness community, and the resource helping minorities practice the seven areas of intention and ultimately achieve remarkable wellness. Tonya Kinlow, TKI’s founder and a nationally sought after Wellness Transformation Coach, says, “It is time for each of us, especially our leaders, to insist that holistic wellness education and practices be incorporated into our communities and organizations to close the disparities in minority health outcomes.” Kinlow continues to leverage her network, having worked in Corporate America for more than 25 years, starting the conversation on TKI’s approach to ethnic minority holistic wellness.

TKI offers transformational holistic wellness training for groups and individuals to achieve remarkable wellness. Learn more about wellness coaching, guided meditations, the wisdom of the seven intentions, curated corporate workshops, virtual at-home retreats, and webinars. To schedule your informational transformation 1:1 session with Tonya Kinlow, contact us: tk@remarkablewellness. us.

Sources: “The 10 Days, A Wellness Retreat for Personal Transforma-

tion at Home” https://www. a m a z o n . c o m / 1 0 - D a y s - We l l ness-Personal-Transformation/ dp/0999449435/ref=tmm_ pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1587172652&sr=8-1 The Center For Disease Control https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/hus/contents2018.htm?search=,Black_or_ African_American For more information visit www. RemarkableWellness.us Contact: Desiree@remarkablewellness.us

Hello Beautiful!

ARE YOU READY TO THRIVE?

“When the student is ready the teacher will appear. When the student is truly ready... The teacher will Disappear.” - Tao Te Ching

What you seek is seeking you. A life of warmth and gratitude and a safe space to break out of a stressful situation. There is an answer to achieve the inner peace you desire. It is within your grasp and closer than you think. If these words resonate with you, contact Tonya.Kinlow@RemarkableWellness.us and receive an e-book of daily affirmations. From there your journey begins…

https://remarkablewellness.us/health-coaching-services/

MAY 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com

We are Here for YOU During Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Beyond

By Whitman-Walker Health At Whitman-Walker, we want to help keep everyone in the community healthy. Our team is working day and night to meet the growing need of COVID-19 testing and care. If you have questions about resources and services at Whitman-Walker during COVID-19, we are just one call away. Call our COVID-19 hotline at 202-797-4439. Get the most up-to-date information on coronavirus from DC Health at coronavirus.dc.gov and from the CDC at cdc.gov/coronavirus.

Experiencing symptoms related to COVID-19? Our health centers at Max Robinson Center, 2301 Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue, SE, and near Logan Circle,

at 1525 14th Street, NW, are providing COVID-19 testing to folks who are experiencing symptoms.

You do not need to be a patient with Whitman-Walker to access COVID-19 testing. However, we will need to register you as a patient to proceed with testing.

Need to get tested for COVID-19? Call us first. It is important that you call Whitman-Walker at 202-745-7000 and share information about your symptoms before visiting any of our locations for COVID-19 testing. Calling ahead allows our

team to evaluate your symptoms and to plan for the safest testing experience to keep you and our care providers as healthy as possible. If you have to walk-in and cannot call ahead of time, we will not turn you away, but we may ask you to come back later when an appointment is available.

What changes has Whitman-Walker made during COVID-19? At Whitman-Walker, we have transitioned our in-person care services to telehealth – providing care to people in their homes through video and

audio communication. We are only conducting emergency dental visits. Our Whitman-Walker health centers at 1525 14th Street, NW and Max Robinson Center at 2301 Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue, SE remain open for COVID-19 testing with reduced hours. Our pharmacies at 1525 14th Street, NW and at 2303 Martin Luther King, Jr. SE are open with reduced hours and they are offering free delivery for prescriptions. We have closed the lobbies at both pharmacy locations to help keep you and our team healthy. If delivery is not an option for you, call our team directly at 866-724-1805.

GET CONNECTED TO WHITMANWALKER TELEHEALTH SERVICES: • Emergency PEP Services – 202-797-4439 • PrEP Clinic – 202-939-7690 • Newly Diagnosed with HIV – 202-797-4437 • Entering HIV Care for the First Time – 202-797-4437 • GMHW Sexual Health Clinic – 202-745-6175 • Medical Care – 202-745-7000 • Behavioral Health (Therapy & Psychiatry) – 202-939-7623 • Legal Services – 202-939-7630 • Research – 202-207-2510 • Public Benefits and Insurance Navigation – 202-745-6151 • Care Navigation – 202-745-7000 • Gender Affirming Care Navigation – 202-797-4457 • Youth Care Navigation – 202-207-2360 • Peer Support – 202-939-7646 • Nutrition – 202-745-7000 All other Whitman-Walker locations including Whit-

man-Walker Youth Services at 651 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE; Whitman-Walker at LIZ at 1377 R Street, NW, Suite 200; and The Corner at Whitman-Walker at 1701 14th Street, NW are closed until further notice. Visit whitman-walker.org/covidserviceupdates for the latest information on our services.

Stay healthy and connect to resources. If you have questions about resources, call our team at 202-797-4439. You can also follow @whitmanwalker on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for updates on weekly Instagram Lives with our Whitman-Walker community health team. Keep up with Whitman-Walker Youth Services and updates on weekly Instagram Lives by following @ realtalkdc on Facebook and Twitter, and at @realtalkdc_ on Instagram.

Consider the following list of resources to help keep yourself, your loved ones and the community healthy! We appreciate your help in this work. Here are a few additional resources to support you and your loved ones in these efforts!

RESOURCES • Local Resources in the DC, Maryland and Virginia Region: bit.ly/dccovid19resourceswwh • Sex and COVID-19: bit.ly/ wwsexandcovid19 • COVID-19 Resources for Gender Expansive Communities: bit.ly/tgnccovidresources • COVID-19 Resources App Download: https://covidresources.glideapp.io/ • Manage Your Cough at Home: whitman-walker.org/careforcoughs • About the Coronavirus: whitman-walker.org/coronavirus • Prevent the Spread of Germs: whitman-walker.org/preventgerms • Germ Prevention Graphics English, Spanish, Amharic: bit.ly/ coronaviruspreventionwwh WI

www.washingtoninformer.com / MAY 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT

HS-14

Public COVID-19 Testing TESTING HOURS Monday - Wednesday, Friday 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM Max Robinson Center

Thursday 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM

2301 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. SE | 202.745.7000

Whitman-Walker’s Max Robinson Center is only open for COVID-19 testing.

Call 202.745.7000 for a phone evaluation and to schedule an appointment. If you are experiencing symptoms related to COVID-19, walk-in COVID-19 testing is available. After you walk-in, you may be scheduled for an appointment later in the day. **You do not need to be a current patient of the clinic. Please bring your ID and insurance card (if you have it) and we will register you. www.whitman-walker.org |

H-15 HS-15

@whitmanwalker

MAY 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com

National Black Nurses Association, Leading the Charge WI Staff Report During the late 1960s and early 1970s, the climate for Blacks throughout urban America was one of coming together to express pride in their identity, to demand equality, to fight against racism and discrimination and to seek power locally and nationally. During this era, feelings of hope, optimism, and a commitment to improving the quality of life for Blacks were evident across the nation. While the issue of civil rights had been on the agenda of several civil rights organizations, such as the NAACP and the National Urban League, for many years, the events of the late 60s and early 70s crystallized the issue for most Black Americans. The Civil Rights Movement was the primary impetus that moved Black people from all professions and all walks of life to action. Black nurses were no exception.

The National Black Nurses Association was organized in 1971 under the leadership of Dr. Lauranne Sams, former Dean and Professor of Nursing, School of Nursing, Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, Al-

abama – and continues to serve a vital role in the personal development and professional trajectory of Black nurses across the nation.

The National Black Nurses Association hosted its 32nd Annual National Black Nurses Day on Capitol Hill in February addressing a gamut of concerns including gun violence and its health consequences, mental health and depression, and climate change and environmental justice. More than 300 nurses and nursing students participated and championed the theme, “Addressing the Social Determinants of Health: NBNA’s Call to Action.”

“NBNA Day on Capitol Hill provides tools and offers experiences on how to best advocate for the profession of nursing and the communities where our members live and work,” Dr. Sheldon Fields, Chair, NBNA Health Policy Committee said. “Nurses are on the front lines of health care. Nurses are change agents, advocating for the profession and for their patients. We can help with practical public policy decisions to improve the health status in our communities.” WI

About NBNA:

NBNA is a non-profit organization incorporated on September 2, 1972 in the state of Ohio.

NBNA represents approximately 200,000 African American nurses from the USA, Canada, Eastern Caribbean and Africa, with 115 chartered chapters nationwide.

NBNA mission is to provide a forum for collective action by African American nurses to represent and provide a forum for black nurses to advocate for and implement strategies to ensure access to the highest quality of healthcare for persons of color.

NBNA is committed to excellence in education and conducts continuing education programs for nurses and allied health professionals throughout the year. The association provides annual scholarships for students.

NBNA collaborates with private and public agencies/organizations that share common concerns for improving the health status of all people, particularly African Americans and other minority consumers.

NBNA publishes its Newsletter four times a year: Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter; and a Journal of NBNA twice a year: Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter.

NBNA convenes an Annual National Institute and Conference. The National Black Nurses Association hosts an Annual Institute and Conference in the summer of each year. NBNA’s Annual Institute and Conference features the most prominent speakers in nursing and health care.

5 The founding member of the NBNA, (Seated): Phyllis Jenkins, Lauranne Sams, Betty Smith Williams and Ethelrine Shaw. (Standing): Gloria Rookard, Betty Jo Davidson, Mary Harper, Doris Wilson, Mattiedna K. Johnson, Phyllis Davis, Mattie Watkins, and Florrie Jefferson.

Nurses, Nurses, Everywhere! A Quick Look at Some Careers in Nursing

By Lee Ross WI Staff Writer Registered Nurse (RN) Education Requirement: Associates Degree or Bachelor of Science Degree Relevant Certifications: State Nursing License RNs treat patients and provides advice and emotional support to them and their families. Some educate patients, as well as the public, about medical conditions. There are many nursing specialties available, including critical care, addiction, oncology, neonatology, geriatrics, and pediatrics.

There were approximately 3 million registered nurses working in the U.S. in 2016.

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) Education Requirement: Master’s Degree (MSN), Registered Nurse License (RN) and One Year in Acute Care Setting Relevant Certifications: CRNA Certification A Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) is a highly trained nurse that specializes in assisting with anesthesia during surgeries. There are nearly 54,000 certified registered

nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) in the United States working in every health care setting, in both rural and urban areas, in every state. CRNAs are the sole anesthesia providers in nearly all rural hospitals and are the main provider of anesthesia for members of the U.S. Armed Forces. CRNAs make up some of the highest-paid nurse specialties in the medical field due to the high demand of these nurses in surgical settings and detailed training they receive.

Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Education Requirement: Master’s Degree and sometimes a Doctorate Degree Relevant Certifications: N/A A Clinical Nurse Specialist is an advanced practice nurse who can provide expert advice related to specific conditions or treatment pathways.

They provide direct patient care by working with other nurses and staff to improve the quality of care a patient receives. They often serve in leadership roles and may educate and advise other nursing staff.

Critical Care Nurse Education Requirement: Associates Degree or Bachelor of Science Degree, Registered Nursing License (RN)

Relevant Certifications: Certification in Advanced Cardiac Life Support Critical Care Nurses are similar to Registered Nurses, especially in education level, and are also known as ICU nurses. They treat patients who are acutely ill and unstable requiring more frequent nursing assessments and the utilization of life sustaining technology and drugs. Critical care nurses are specifically trained for emergency situations and address serious wounds and monitoring of life-support systems in stressful scenarios.

Geriatric Nursing Education Requirement: Associates Degree or Bachelor of Science Degree, and Registered Nurse License (RN) Relevant Certifications: Certification in Geriatric Nursing As the U.S. population ages, geriatric nurses are in high demand. A geriatric nurse specializes in the treatment of older patients, focusing on care for injuries, ailments, and chronic conditions to maintain their quality of life. Geriatric nurses help design and explain these healthcare regimens to patients and their families. They often function as “case managers,” linking families with community resources to help them care for elderly members.

www.washingtoninformer.com / MAY 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT

HS-16

Mental Health for the “New Normal”: Innovation and Technology in the Time of COVID-19 By Alicia Sellitti, LGSW, Therapist and Michelle R. Cook, PhD, LICSW Chief Executive Officer Psychiatric Center Chartered & Life Stride, INC Over the past two months, COVID-19 has changed the world in ways that we could never have imagined. Here in Washington DC, the number of cases continues to grow, hitting the African American community the hardest and particularly those residents in the poorest areas of the city. As the death toll increases, so too does the toll on mental health: one could argue that grief, fear, and depression present risk that is just as dangerous as the disease itself.

Though social distancing is imperative to saving lives, it also presents an obstacle to getting the help that people so desperately need. So it is incumbent upon the mental health community to innovate new ways of delivering services for those who need it the most.

At Life Stride, we provide mental health services to DC residents at particular risk, with most age 50 and above residing in Wards 5, 7

and 8, where most cases of COVID have occurred. Fear of getting sick, coupled with isolation and the loss of loved ones, can exacerbate pre-existing mental health conditions, so we knew that we had to find a way to continue meeting client needs.

In response, Life Stride harnessed new technology and tools to ensure the safety of our community.

Using HIPAA-compliant virtual platforms, we have been able to provide case management, therapy and medication management without a gap in services.

Despite an initial learning curve for both staff and some clients, it was quickly embraced as the nextbest-thing to seeing each other in person.

In addition, Life Stride developed a virtual day program for our clients with more severe mental health challenges. Life Stride’s day program helps these clients learn essential skills and coping mechanisms to help them live an independent life. For many who attend, this is also the only the opportunity for socialization that they have.

Realizing the importance of continuing services we took the day program online, designing a new mode of implementation. Using

Zoom, instructors now conduct classes virtually with an adapted curriculum suited to the platform.

On the other end, clients in our group homes participate in discussion and activities with the help of residential staff, keeping them engaged and stimulated and interacting with others.

Realizing the importance of reaching the wider community of DC and beyond, we also began holding free Zoom mental health groups and classes. Open to the public, these groups cover various topics including depression, anxiety, crisis management, and mindfulness.

As we continue to navigate this changing world, the mental health community will need to continue to adapt, adopting new technologies and approaches for the “new normal.” But we are confident that we, along with our fellow agencies and clinicians, will be able to rise to the challenge.

nity Service Provider committed to individual empowerment and recovery. We believe in the strength of our consumers to achieve their goals by making the decisions that are right for them, that all people— of every race, culture, religion, and

gender—have the right to dignity and respect, and that they deserve the highest-quality mental health services we can provide.

For more information visit www. life-stride.com or call 202-6352320. WI

ABOUT LIFE STRIDE

Life Stride, Inc. has served the mental health needs of the DC community for over 25 years. Life Stride is a DC Department of Behavioral Health-certified Commu-

Serving the mental health needs of the DC community for over 25 years We believe in the strength of our consumers to achieve their goals by making the decisions that are right for them.

• Psychiatric Treatment • Counseling • Group Therapy • Case Management • Housing Support

• Rehabilitation Day Program • Adult Day Program • Substance Abuse • Supported Employment

For more information visit www.life-stride.com or call 202-635-2320.

H-17 HS-17

MAY 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com

Relax, Replenish & Renew: Helping Nurses Find Time to Self-Care

By Lee Ross WI Staff Writer As the first line of care when at one’s most vulnerable, nurses are challenged with maintaining the highest professional standards, while providing the type of bedside manner often reserved for family. Considered one of the most emotionally-taxing professions globally, nurses rarely find time to decompress, replenish, or restore themselves mentally, emotionally, or physically.

Stress within the nursing profession has been regarded as an occupational hazard since the mid-1950s and was first assessed in 1960 when Isabel Menzies identified four sources of anxiety among nurses: patient care, decision-making, taking responsibility, and change. The nurse’s role has long been regarded as stress-filled based upon the physical labor, human suffering, work hours, staffing, and interpersonal relationships that are central to the work nurses do. Coupled with advanced technologies and innovations, many are expected to do more, quicker, and with zero-error.

“As healthcare’s brightest guiding lights, we celebrate the work of nurses throughout the ages and advocate for their profession and their safety on the job,” said Jennifer Sheets, Interim HealthCare Inc. president and CEO. Interim HealthCare Inc. is the nation’s leading franchise network of home care, senior care, home health and hospice and healthcare staffing services.

“When patients look into the eyes of a nurse, they often seek comfort, a spark of hope. It is in those exchanges, the hands held, and the tears shed, that bring them back to their jobs every day. As a nurse, I know what it is like to have these moments, and they are my motivation to do the best for the healthcare industry to this very day.”

But maintaining the brightness of those guiding lights often goes undone. Nursing organizations, including the American Nurses Association (ANA) believe nurses need the benefit of self-directed care for themselves that helps replenish their fortitude mentally, physically, emotionally, spiritually, and professionally. Here are a few of those tips: Take Advantage of Renewal Rooms. Many health facilities are equipped with renewal rooms that

offer stress release to nurses and physicians while on duty. According to a study published in the Journal for the American Medical Association (JAMA), hospitals with less stressful working environments for nurses provided better patient care at lower costs. Patients had better outcomes from their surgeries in hospitals that treated their nurses well and had above-average staffing levels. Many of these rooms are outfitted with inspirational books, yoga mats and indoor waterfalls or sand gardens.

Take Moments to Meditate. The Mayo Clinic acknowledges the use of autogenic relaxation techniques as a quick way to relax in place. Autogenic means something that comes from within you. In this relaxation technique, you use both visual imagery and body awareness to reduce stress. You repeat words or suggestions in your mind that may help you relax and reduce muscle tension. For example, you may imagine a peaceful setting and then focus on controlled, relaxing breathing, slowing your heart rate, or feeling different physical sensations, such as relaxing each arm or leg one by one.

Keep Moving. Movement, according to the American Holistic Nurses Association, is an antidote for the impact of stress on cells. When planned exercise is not plausible, taking brief moments to move is simultaneously healing and energizing; walk outside during breaks or mealtime, climb the stairs, or park and walk. Yoga can stimulate the thymus gland producing and moving white blood cells. Movement improves lymphatic drainage, gut health, and micro-circulation through the organs and extremities. A 10-minute yoga or stretching practice opens joints, releases synovial fluid, and improves awareness; any movement that feels good, is good!

Many websites have free short stretch or yoga sequences for your break time.

Be the Nurse’s Caregiver. Family and co-workers can help to destress nurses by showing some much-needed gratitude for the work they do.

Since nurses are always on their feet, consider giving them gifts that pamper their feet like on-site pedicures after shifts or pedicure kits to take home. Similarly, most have “knotted” shoulders from stress, so on-site massage chairs at work, or family shoulder

kneading services are always great!

Make Time for Prayer. Spiritually and emotionally, nurses can become overwhelmed by managing life and death decisions, as well as calming the fears and pain of others. While others look to them for immediate comfort, spiritually, they need support as well. Work with the hospital chaplain or your own house of worship for payers and scriptures to support your daily duties.

Maintain the Basics. Notre Dame of Maryland University advises balancing self-care activities with basic care. Understand the difference between basic health maintenance, like staying hydrated and getting enough sleep, and specific self-care activities, like indulging in bubble baths and attending book club gatherings.

Care for Your Emotional Health.

This one is sometimes hard to manage because emotions can be stirred unexpectedly and unpredictably. Try to maintain an even emotional keel. Share special moments—like birthdays, anniversaries, or good news—with patients, families, and coworkers, and let every-

one know that they are appreciated and doing an excellent job.

Fuel Your Body. Workers of highstress jobs often work through scheduled lunch breaks while managing the care of patients. This can lead to snacking on quick or processed foods throughout shifts or skipping meals completely. When your body is not

fueled with healthy foods, it encourages feelings of anxiety, sluggishness, or light-headedness. Try packing meals the day before that will last the entire shift. If unable to break for a meal, eat small, healthy snacks consisting of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

WI

4 Yoga and the use of renewal rooms in health facilities aid nurses in alleviating stress. / Courtesy photo 6 The health of nurses often goes overlooked despite their being essential to the health of the nation. / Courtesy photo

www.washingtoninformer.com / MAY 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT

HS-18

Providing Food Access and Community Supports in Response to COVID-19

Providing Food Access and Community Supports in Response to COVID-19

Martha’s Table is distributing groceries at no cost at 20 sites throughout D.C., including locations in Southeast, Northwest, and our Mckenna’s Wagon food truck.

Martha’s Table is distributing groceries at no cost at 20 sites throughout D.C., including locations in Southeast, Northwest, and our Mckenna’s Wagon food truck.

H-19 HS-19

MAY 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com

4/21/06

Safeway version

Your

Vaccination • HPV • Meningitis

Destination

• Flu • Pneumonia • Tetanus • Hepatitis • Shingles • MMR, and more!*

Walk-ins welcome at our pharmacy!

*Available vaccinations vary by location and are subject to state law restrictions.

Pharmacy at your fingertips

Refill, track, & manage prescriptions all in one easy place!

Download our pharmacy app today! www.washingtoninformer.com / MAY 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT

HS-20

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS

EDITORIAL

It’s Time to be Counted

Every day the clock keeps ticking. It measures the hours, days and months since the U.S. shut its doors to outsiders and insisted, state by state, that residents act accordingly by closing their doors and staying at home. Time measured by weeks results in reports of the numbers of individuals who have contracted the novel coronavirus disease, and the numbers who have died from it. Each week, the numbers grow by the thousands and only time will tell how long it took the U.S. to fight this war and to win the battle that appears to have no end in sight.

While the clock keeps ticking and measuring an ascending peak in the number of COVID-19 cases across the country, it is also measuring the days remaining to take the nation’s most important count of all – the 2020 Census. With efforts that began early last year, the time is upon us to get every person living in America counted.

April 1 was Census Day and the clock keeps ticking as paid and volunteer workers try to outmaneuver COVID-19 to get folks counted before it’s too late. That means it could become too late for African Americans and Latinos to get their fair share of allocated funds to pay for schools, health programs, public safety and emergency services if they are not counted. And, while the census count deadline has been extended from July 31 to October 31, time may run out before much-needed funds are allocated, redistricting takes place and Electoral College votes are cast.

Counting the U.S. citizenry is daunting but necessary. It has been and will continue to be the people are served. This time, while the American people are understandably distracted by COVID-19, time is of the essence to achieve some modicum of success in completing this decennial task.

So, we urge everyone to take time – less than 10 minutes – to complete your census form that was mailed to your home or fill it out online. In time, participants will see that taking just a little bit of time to answer a few short questions, was time well spent. WI

Effective Communication Means Listening First

As reporters, we’re charged with providing our readers the most up-to-date information on everything from children’s vaccinations and high school graduations to the number of infections and deaths connected to COVID-19. What remains essential to the quality of our work is effective communication.

Unfortunately, far too many of our nation’s leaders seem to have forgotten the premise of effective communication which requires listening as well as speaking – sometimes listening before opening our mouths.

We’re reminded of that song by James Brown, “Talking Loud and Saying Nothing,” in which he tells the listener that they can’t tell him how to run his life or criticize what he’s doing wrong.

“You can’t tell me how to run my life,” he says or “hey, how to use my mess.”

Once again, it seems that fiction is more like fact than we may wish to admit.

Thankfully, there remain among us a few local leaders who understand that sometimes they may be planning a preemptive strike that may not be in the public’s good.

They reconsider after listening to the advice of their colleagues and revise their strategy. They admit that maybe, just maybe, their plan would do more harm than good.

Such is the case with our trio of leaders in the Greater Washington Area: Governors Northam, Hogan and Mayor Bowser. We’re not promoting them as candidates for sainthood – just three who understand the importance of “sense and sensibility.” And there are others who have emerged as voices of reason as well.

Northam, clearly feeling the pressure, had planned to begin reopening businesses in Virginia even though the commonwealth had failed to reach many of the benchmarks that would justify the move. Then, he received a letter from his neighbors including a governor, mayor and county executives who urged him to reconsider. Northam has since revised his plan, we assume, after reevaluating the facts and taking another look at the potential outcome.

That’s what effective communication is all about. Some people want to be right all the time. But who profits from the missteps of such individuals when the cost of being right results in being “dead right?” WI

TO THE EDITOR Testing Welcome in Ward 7

Worth the Money

Very happy to read about coronavirus testing coming to Ward 7 no matter if you’re showing symptoms or not. I am also glad that Howard University is stepping up to bring this project to life. We need testing and more testing. I myself will spread the word for my friends east of the river.

Although I enjoy The Informer being free, I am glad that you all are now asking for money. You’ve put out a paper every week for over 50 years! The community should give back what they can and do so happily. Every private and public media company asks for money all the time. You can’t read one line on the web without them asking for money or making you pay to continue reading. Anyway, ask and you shall receive.

Londa Felder Washington, D.C.

Tommy Parkins Washington, D.C.

Readers' Mailbox

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

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

MAY 14 - 20, 2020 19

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist

By Julianne Malveaux

Ida B. Wells’ Pulitzer Both Too Late and Right on Time

Exactly 136 years to the day after Ida B. Wells was thrown off a Chesapeake and Ohio railroad train, she was awarded a Pulitzer Prize special citation for her “outstanding and courageous reporting on the horrific and vicious violence against African Americans in the era of lynchings.” The creator of the New York Times’ 1619 Project, Nicole Hannah-Jones,

received a Pulitzer on the same day and reminded us that the New York Times, in 1894, described Wells as a “slanderous and nasty-minded mulatress.”

The path between “nasty-minded mulatress” and Pulitzer Prize winner was not a smooth one.

Ida B. Wells had many detractors, from all quarters, in her time.

White folks could not stand her blunt description of their lynching behavior, which included her reporting that some Black men were lynched, not for rape, but because

Guest Columnist

they’d had consensual sex with white women. White women in the suffrage movement decried her because she dared challenge them about race matters. Some Black men found her “prickly,” according to her biographer Paula Giddings. Although she was a founder of the NAACP, her voice was often sidelined in that organization. She maintained her activism, no matter what.

As her great-granddaughter Michelle Duster told the Chicago Tribune, “the only thing she really

had was the truth.”

Ida B. Wells chose to trumpet an uncomfortable truth to our nation. After three of her friends were lynched, primarily because of white economic envy, she traveled the South to document lynchings, going to lynching sites, interviewing witnesses, making clear that the trope that Black men were mostly lynched for “raping” white women was a falsehood. In one editorial, she wrote, “If Southern white men are not careful, they will overreach themselves and public sentiment

will have a reaction, a conclusion will then be reached which will be very damaging to the moral reputation of their women.” That sentiment incited rabid whites, who trashed her press and threatened her life. She did not return to Memphis after the threats.

The Pulitzer Prize was established in 1917 to uplift “excellence in journalism.” Wells’ pathbreaking journalism would not have been a Pulitzer candidate, as her

MALVEAUX Page 33

By Cornelius J. Clancy, M.D.

To Combat Coronavirus, We May Need More Antibiotics The coronavirus infects and kills more Americans each day.

While the advice is to never take antibiotics for a virus, most patients hospitalized with COVID-19 receive antibiotics to prevent or to presumptively treat secondary bacterial or fungal pneumonia.

In fact, some patients, especially those on ventilators, aren’t dying from the virus, but from other infections they contract in the hospital. According to one study, secondary infections were present in half of those who died from coro-

navirus.

Unfortunately, bacterial infections are growing resistant to our most powerful antibiotics. In a study published in Lancet Respiratory Medicine, most of the bacteria and fungi causing secondary infections in patients with COVID-19 were antibiotic-resistant “superbugs.” Patients won’t win their fight against coronavirus — or future pandemics — until we add new and improved antibiotics to our arsenal.

Every time people take antibi-

Guest Columnist

otics, some bacteria may survive, multiply and evolve to become resistant to existing treatments. Today, common bacterial infections like strep throat no longer respond to run-of-the-mill antibiotics.

Superbugs are on track to kill 10 million people annually by 2050.

Already, antibiotic resistant microbes account for 700,000 deaths each year.

Unfortunately, drug companies aren’t developing enough new antibiotics. Not because they don’t want to, but because they can’t. It

doesn’t make financial sense.

It costs over a billion dollars and 10 to 15 years to develop a new drug. Normally, pharmaceutical firms recoup this investment by selling large quantities of their drugs to consumers.

But antibiotics have to be used as sparingly as possible. The model that enables companies to recoup their research and development dollars on most drugs simply doesn’t work.

That’s why firms are shutting down antibiotic departments and

shifting investments to less risky disease areas. It’s been over three decades since a new class of antibiotics hit the market.

Without antibiotics to treat secondary infections, pandemics become far more deadly. Consider the Spanish flu, which killed 50 million people worldwide and took place before antibiotics were invented.

Most of these deaths can be traced to secondary bacterial pneu-

CLANCY Page 33

By A. Peter Bailey

Celebrating Bro. Malcolm X, A Warrior and Master Teacher A former United States president has been quoted as saying, “Knowledge will forever govern ignorance.

And a people who want to govern themselves must arm themselves with the power knowledge gives.” No one whom I have ever met more clearly understood the realness of that observation than Brother Malcolm X, who himself once noted, “Education is our passport to the future, for tomorrow

20 - MAY 14 - 20, 2020

belongs to the people who prepare for it today.”

That’s why I believe that the best way to celebrate Brother Malcolm’s 95th birthday on May 19, 2020, is to honor his role as a superb deliverer of knowledge. This is demonstrated in remarks that he delivered to 37 young Black folks from Mississippi who in December 1964 were sent to visit him in Harlem by the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC).

After greeting them warmly he said, “…the topics we are going to discuss in an informal way is Africa and the

African revolution and its effect on the Afro-American. I take the time to mention this because I am one who believes that what happens on the African continent has a direct bearing on what happens to you and me in this country.”

This was probably the first time that those young Black folks had ever heard from a strong Pan-Africanist. He told them, “We of the Organization of Afro-American Unity (OAAU) realize that the only time the Black man in this country is given any kind of recognition or even listened to is when

America is afraid of outside pressure or when she’s afraid of her image abroad.

So we saw that it was necessary to expand the problem and struggle of the Black man in this country until it went above and beyond the jurisdiction of the United States.”

Brother Malcolm told them about his May 1964 trip to Africa where he had audiences ranging from one and a half to three hours with Presidents Gamal Abdel Nasser of Egypt, Nnamdi Azikiwe of Nigeria, Kwame Nkrumah of Ghana, Jomo Kenyatta of Kenya, Sekou Toure of Guinea and Julius

Nyerere of Tanzania, and Ugandan Prime Minister Milton Obote. Those kind of connections, he told them, are important because they would provide pressure on the United States government to do something about the terrorism going on in Mississippi: “I point this out to you to let you know that when you are in Mississippi you are not alone…”

That was a caring, visionary, determined warrior and master teacher providing knowledge to those young Black people. That’s why we salute and honor him on his birthday. WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist

By Sandra Edmonds Crewe

Resilience is Not Enough: Mental Health Among African Americans During Coronavirus

Mental health problems affect everyone. No one escapes. We either have a personal connection or know persons who are affected. Given that one in five adults experience a mental health issue and one in five young people have experienced a major depression, understanding mental health is as important

as understanding our physical health.

Mental health and physical health go together. During the month of May, Mental Health Awareness month, we owe it to ourselves, family members and communities to increase our understanding of symptoms and resources to extend help, not judgment.

Just as we know the symptoms of the coronavirus, we should also be aware of the signs of mental distress. For African Americans this is critically important.

Guest Columnist

What is mental health? Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. Biological factors, family history, and life experiences contribute to mental health Good mental health allows us to have successful performance in many areas including work, family, relationships with others, and our ability to adapt to challenges like the coronavirus pandemic. Individuals with untreat-

ed mental health concerns struggle in these areas thus affecting their overall well-being. The Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion states that nationally, in any given year, an estimated 18.1% (43.6 million) of U.S. adults 18 years or older suffered from mental illness and 4.2% (9.8 million) suffered from a seriously debilitating mental illness.

African Americans have higher prevalence. We are 10% more likely to ex-

perience serious psychological distress according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. While some of this may be related to misdiagnoses based on racial bias, we can also attribute racial bias to the higher mental despair in our community. Being subjected to disparities, hate crimes (like being killed while jogging) and other historically persistent micro and macro

CREWE Page 34

By Ramona Edelin

Coronavirus Crisis Exposes City’s Inequalities

As the coronavirus crisis continues to plague our city and its communities, it also exposes entrenched inequalities based on race and class.

As D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has noted, health disparities among African Americans draw their roots from “slavery, racism [and] Jim Crow rules and laws,” creating tragic intergenerational health disparities.

Underlying medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes and hypertension are more widespread in the

African American community, making people vulnerable to the deadly virus despite the fact that the community’s infection rate is the same as for the population as a whole. This increases the risk of hospitalization, intubation and the use of ventilators, with their attendant alarming survival rates.

In the District of Columbia, four in five fatalities are African American, despite constituting just under half of the District’s residents. Deaths have been highest in our most underserved neighborhoods. In Ward 8, in southeast D.C., there have been 7.5 deaths per 100,000 people, the highest rate in the city. Nine in 10 Ward 8 residents are African American. In Ward

Guest Columnist

3, in the District’s upper Northwest, African Americans constitute only one in 20 members of the population and the same fatality rate is 1.6, one-quarter of Ward 8’s rate, according to U.S. Census Bureau and D.C. Department of Health data.

Overall health inequalities are reflected clearly in life-expectancy data, as reported by the District government’s own “health equity” maps.

Average longevity for affluent, mostly white Woodley Park residents in Northwest is 89.4 years compared to 68.2 years for the St. Elizabeths Southeast neighborhood — a difference of 21 years, making zip code more important than genetic code for

health.

This pattern, heartbreakingly repeated in urban jurisdictions across the nation, has raised the visibility of these inequalities and how not all have benefited from scientific and medical advances equally. However, there is much the federal and District governments could do to help equalize them.

Access to adequate health care and health insurance continues to be a major problem, including where individuals cannot get coverage for pre-existing conditions. Exacerbating this, many African Americans are employed in low-paid jobs with no benefits, or unemployed and cut off from them completely.

While the District, unlike many states, has taken full advantage of the provisions of the Obama administration’s Affordable Care Act, significantly reducing the rate of uninsured individuals to three percent last year, the latest available data broken down by ethnicity shows significant disparities.

African-Americans are five times as likely to lack insurance as whites; Latinos, a significant share of whom are undocumented, are six times as likely to go without, U.S. Census Data and Kaiser Family Foundation analysis has found.

These health inequalities are compounded by basic educational dis-

EDELIN Page 34

By Austin R. Cooper, Jr.

A President Without Common Sense Cannot Lead a Nation

At the age of 12, I remember excitedly boarding a United flight from Cleveland to Miami with my father.

He was going to preach at our family home parish the following day and invited me along.

During the flight, I explained to the flight attendant that I wanted to be a commercial pilot and asked to visit the cockpit. Returning a few minutes lat-

er, the flight attendant invited me to follow her. As I exited my seat, my father grabbed my arm and said sternly, “Now, listen here, Mr. Hard-headed.

When you get up there, keep your hands in your pockets. Got it?”

Once in the cockpit, the captain asked my name and introduced the crew. He then said, “If you want to fly commercial, you have to be proficient in several subjects,” and proceeded to write down algebra, calculus, geometry and trigonometry. Stunned because I hated math, I responded,

“Why do I have to be good in math?

I just want to fly the plane like you.”

The captain laughed and began drawing a diagram showing the length of our departure runway. He explained how the knowledge of math and computers were critical in calculating his takeoff speed, which was based, in large part, on the weight of the aircraft.

He then calculated how much fuel he expected to use during the flight and how that revised aircraft weight, along with the length of the assigned runway in Miami, would determine his land-

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

ing speed.

Handing me the sheets of paper, he wished me luck. I returned to my seat, very sad with the realization that in order to become a pilot, I would have to embrace math. My father asked me what was wrong, and I shared my conversation. He simply said, “Well, damn,” and went back to sleep.

So, what is the difference between that 12-year-old child in 1974 and the 73-year-old current occupant of the White House? Donald Trump believes he can fly a plane, be an ep-

idemiologist, economist or scientist.

Trump is also pretending to be a president. He is as clueless in the Oval Office as I would be in a cockpit.

Just look at where we are as a nation because of a president without common sense. Had President Barack Obama publicly uttered even one sentence of the nonsense that comes out of his successor’s mouth, he would have been impeached and removed from office. Indeed, the process would

COOPER Page 34 MAY 14 - 20, 2020 21

INTERNATIONAL PETWORTH PRINTING Your Quality Printers

301 Kennedy Street, NW

n

Washington, DC

202-291-6565

PRINTING & DESIGN

WASHABLE

FACE MASKS FOR SALE Reusable & Surgical Face Masks Also Available Custom Imprint Also Available

WEAR MASKS TO STAY SAFE

BANNERS POSTERS & SIGNS

FAST TURNAROUND

SEE OUR ONLINE STORE: www.QualityPrintersDC.com

Traditional Help Buttons

At Home In the Car On a Walk On Vacation At the Park Shopping

A Help Button Should Go Where You Go! To be truly independent your personal emergency device needs to work on the go.

Order Now & Receive a FREE Lockbox!

1-800-681-0667

Service availability and access/coverage on the AT&T network is not available everywhere and at all times. Current GPS location may not always be available in every situation.

View

Sports Photos

by John De Freitas

at:

 22 - MAY 14 - 20, 2020

africa now

COMPILED BY OSWALD T. BROWN

Yobe State to Investigate Cause of 150 Deaths in One Week Yobe State Health Commissioner Mohammed Lawan Gana has pledged to “investigate and ascertain” the deaths of 150 people in the Nigerian towns of Potiskum, Gashua and Nguru.

According to Lawan, the deaths occurred in the past seven days while the fight against the spread of coronavirus in the state lingers, The Guardian reported Sunday.

“We’re dispatching experts to urgently investigate the dozens of deaths reported in Potiskum, Gashua and Nguru in the last seven days,” Lawan told The Guardian in a telephone interview, adding that the government is doing everything “humanly possible” to address public concern over deaths of 150 people in a week.

“In spite of the concern on possibility of community transmission of COVID-19, there is no evidence to prove that deaths recorded recently were as a result of disease,” he said. “We have right now sent a team of experts to the three affected towns to conduct investigations into their death tolls.”

According to Lawan, health experts will also follow trends and interview relatives of those who died, before consulting with other medical experts on ground.

While speaking on health workers’ capacities, Lawan disclosed that the personal protective equipment (PPE) have also been procured with the commencement of training health workers in 17 local government areas.

“They will use them in hospitals and COVID-19 isolation centers to protect both patients and the frontline health workers,” he said.

He said the state government is strictly adhering to “standard health procedures” in dealing with COVID-19, so as to prevent panic among public.

“The Yobe state government is committed to protecting people’s lives no matter their status and where they live,” Lawan said, noting that government is learning from the mistakes of other states in fighting the coronavirus pandemic. WI

caribbean now Bahamas Government Repatriates Citizens Stranded Amid Pandemic

Roughly 200 Bahamians returned to the county Friday in the first phase of the Bahamas Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ repatriation of nationals who were stuck abroad amid the havoc generated worldwide by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The 195 Bahamians were flown on chartered Bahamasair flights to New Providence and Grand Bahama and were met at the airports on the two most populous Bahamian islands by officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. They were transported to the Government-operated quarantine facilities for evaluation and will remain quarantined until health officials determine if it is safe for them to leave.

In a press release issued Friday, the ministry advised the public in Nassau not to visit the airport to collect family members, noting that “in the interest of public safety, visitors will not be permitted at the quarantine facility.”

“If family members wish to send packages to their loved ones while they are in quarantine, the items should be delivered to the Ministry of Health in Nassau and Grand Bahama, and they will be delivered to recipients at the quarantine facility,” the statement said. “These protocols have been put in place in the interest of public health and safety, and we ask all persons to comply fully with these measures. There will be law enforcement personnel at both the airports and the quarantine facilities to ensure there is no breach of these protocols. The Ministry wishes to thank all persons for their patience, cooperation and compliance with the measures in place at this time.”

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Bahamas government issued an emergency order on March 24 that prohibited all foreign persons from entering the country “through any public or privately owned air or sea port.” Three days later, the Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) in Nassau was closed to all incoming commercial passengers. WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

LIFESTYLE Tourism Leaders Look to Post-COVID-19 D.C.

By James Wright WI Staff Writer @jamesdcwrighter The District’s tourism industry has been ravaged by the coronavirus pandemic but the Bowser administration and travel industry leaders have plans to revive the sector once the economic fallout from disease is under control.

Elliot L. Ferguson II, president and CEO of Destination DC, the city government’s travel marketing organization, announced May 6 that the city had a little over 22 million visitors in 2019 that spent $8.2 billion and generated $896 million in taxes. He also pointed out that in 2019 the District’s tourism industry employed 78,000 people that earned $3.6 billion in wages.

However, with the presence of COVID-19 in the District, Ferguson had a bit of advice for people who want to visit the nation’s capital in the near future.

“This is not a safe time to travel, so people need to stay at home,” he said of the stay-at-home order Mayor Muriel Bowser instituted in March amid the growing pandemic. “We are planning for the future and look forward to people coming back to Washington, D.C., and looking at all we have to offer.”

Ferguson said he didn’t have the complete figures for 2020 but guessed that they will be down substantially from 2019 because of the lack of economic activity due to the presence of COVID-19. Roger Dow, president of U.S. Travel Association, says the travel industry generated $2.6 trillion nationally and “COVID-19 has taken a terrible toll on it.”

“This year we could lose $500 billion as a result of the virus,” Dow said.

“Travel employs about 800,000 people and powers both urban and rural communities. It will take time for this

industry to recover from the effects of this virus.”

Gregory A. O’Dell, president and CEO of Events DC, which manages the Walter E. Washington Convention Center and other venues, said because of the coronavirus there have been 22 cancellations of large-scale conventions and events in the District this year that could have generated $165 million for the city.

O’Dell said getting large gatherings to come to the District “isn’t easy” and takes time to set up.

“It generally takes 5-10 years to book a convention,” he said.

However, Bowser announced on May 6 that Lions Club International will meet in the District in July 2027.

“This is the first time they will meet in Washington, D.C., and in the U.S.,” she said, adding that the event will generate an estimated $14.9 million with 25,000 attendees expected to converge on the city.

This year, O’Dell said that major events in the District that usually occur in the fall, such as the Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference and Howard University’s homecoming events, are still scheduled to take place.

“If there are any changes to those events, we will let you know,” he said.

Ferguson said despite the pandemic, he will work to aggressively promote D.C. as “a destination for national and international travelers.”

“Seventy-one percent of people say that they are ready to travel in a recent survey,” he said. “In Washington, we have such popular landmarks such as the Smithsonian Museums, the Holocaust Museum and the National Zoo and in the fall, the Eisenhower Memorial will open up and that will bring tourists. After this pandemic subsides, we are ready for people to come back to the District.” WI

5 The tourism industry in the District of Columbia is practically nonexistent as city leaders tell travelers to stay home due to COVID-19.

(Courtesy photo/WSJ.com)

RON CLARK MADE D.C. A BETTER PLACE

By Maurice Jackson, Professor, Georgetown University A former Chairman of the D. C. Commission on African American Affairs

In a city where self-promotion is the rule of law and of survival, Ron Clark stood different. In a city where grown men shoot little boys eating ice cream cones and where meanness is the norm—Ron Clark was a kind and honorable man and that made him special. Clark died in May, and our city is the poorer for it.

Clark was a quiet giant. He preferred to let actions speak louder than words. Such are those with supreme confidence in themselves and in their mission. And his mission was to aid others. His mission was RAP, Inc.—Regional Addiction Prevention.

In this city, people brag a lot about what they are going to do. Clark did not brag. He just got things done. He did not live in the past. He lived in the present and for the future.

I met Clark more than 40 years ago when RAP was at 19th and T Streets, N. W. I volunteered at the Cabral Tubman Center and Bookstore on 18th Street, N. W. The center had been the Black Panther headquarters, and the building was in a bit of disarray. In the backroom was a humongous printing machine. I had no idea how to use it, but RAP did. So workers from RAP dismantled and took it. It was a massive task—knocking down walls and putting them back up—but it gave RAP one of the best movement printing presses in the city. Soon after, RAP started making T-shirts with political slogans; selling them helped it survive. It provided organizations T-shirts with their logos at demonstrations. In those days, we all demonstrated.

For a good while after that I would go to RAP to lead a workshop on something, or go with a speaker for some evening class. It was such a learning experience. I would take books for the library, thousands over the years. It was my way of giving back because Clark knew that knowledge was power.

My children worked with Clark at RAP. My daughter Lena did her senior film thesis at Georgetown University on RAP. My son Miles volunteered with RAP, riding there on his skateboard. I am a professor in the history department at Georgetown and took some of the school’s athletes there for service projects. And Clark engaged with students in my jazz and social progress seminar.

Clark took the stain out of people wanting to rid themselves of drugs. He made it a badge of honor to overcome the scourge. He took his message to city officials, and they heard him. He made RAP an institution.

Clark also helped start WPFW, the District’s community-supported, public radio station that bills itself as being “dedicated to jazz and justice.” He and I were members of the Listening Group, a fraternity of African American men founded more than 30 years ago. Egos were supposed to be checked at the door. All that mattered was how you perceived and dug the music. Clark knew a lot of jazz cats. His dad, Roy, was a tenor man. He grew up with Billy Higgins and Don Cherry, played music with Lawrence Marable and Joe Pass. He lived with Scott LaFaro and got clean with Charlie Haden. But he never bragged about knowing them; he spoke only of his pride in them.

To paraphrase Khalil Gibran, Clark’s kindness “touched our silent hearts and made them sing.” He made our hearts sing with joy and happiness. He taught us that kindness is a strength, not a weakness. Washington was made a better city because of Ron Clark. By his example, maybe, we will learn more about the people who may just “need a little help to get by.” If we follow his dignified, kind and quiet example we, too, can make a difference.

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

MAY 14 - 20, 2020 23

LIFESTYLE

The First DC Poetry Slam Against COVID-19 Kicks off on May 18th “Slam COVID-19” To Offer Over $3,000 In Prizes The Black Coalition Against COVID-19 (BCC), announces three poetry slam competitions to encourage spoken word poets to use their skill and creativity to help save lives during this pandemic. The competitions will be virtual presentations simulcast on WPFW-FM radio, WE ACT Radio, and on Facebook, YouTube, & Twitter.

“Slam Covid-19” will offer $3,000 in prizes for the best spoken word entries in three categories: Elementary & Middle School to be held on May 18th, 4-6pm; High School to be held on May 22nd, 4-6pm; and Adult to be held on May 25th, 7-9pm. All guidelines and entry information for the competitions can be found at http://www.blackcoalitionagainstCOVID.org “Slam COVID-19” will be hosted by live DJs and well-known guest judges with final results determined by a combination of public voting and the judges’ decisions.

Sponsored by BCC, comprised of D.C. community-based leadership and residents, in collaboration with WPFW-FM radio, the Washington Teachers’ Union and WE Act Radio, the purpose of the slam is to reach a broad audience with the life-saving information and activities needed to stop the spread of COVID. While COVID-19 has in one way or another affected all of the District of Columbia, 80% of the deaths have been in the African American community. This pandemic has exposed the health and wealth disparities that have long persisted unabated in the Nation’s Capital.

“In this time of crisis, our community must come together in a city-wide effort to do all we can to save our lives and that of our family, friends and neighbors” said Reed Tuckson, M.D. and former Commissioner of Public Health for the District of Columbia.

“Our poets and creative artists have their fingers on the pulse of our communities and they are

24 - MAY 14 - 20, 2020

often the most influential of the messengers who reflect and set the narratives for public conversation.

I am so proud of these artists for accepting the call to fight for the survival of our communities and especially, the most vulnerable of our people.”

Commenting on the urgent need, Elizabeth Davis, Washington Teachers’ Union President, said “COVID 19 has magnified inequities that have existed for decades in our city and schools. Black youth, who are often unheard, unseen and unassisted have witnessed these inequities and learned to distrust the systems that sustain them.” She added, “They are not surprised that in DC and most cities, the highest percentage of people who have died from COVID 19 are Black people.

If we want to authentically engage them in confronting these inequities and dismantling systems of

racism, then we must see, hear and assist them in becoming the game changers.”

“Slam Covid-19” also provides an important opportunity for highlighting the importance of the African American community to prepare itself to make use of the contact tracing initiative. This initiative will be essential to protecting the community from further disease spread once the city returns to more normalized working and social interaction. Kymone Freeman of We Act Radio agreed, and added, “As artists, we understand the natural distrust that many in our community have for government interventions into our lives. However, we also understand that if we are to save our lives, and those of the communities we so dearly love, this is the time for all of us to come together. We are proud to add our voices to this effort.”

MD Grad Student Spotlights Harriet Tubman in NFL Women’s Empowerment Draft

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia Harriet Tubman escaped to freedom in the North 171 years ago, becoming the most famous conductor on the Underground Railroad.

Leading hundreds of family members and other slaves up the Eastern Shore of Maryland and into Delaware, Tubman risked her life and remains known as one of the world’s foremost abolitionists – a history not lost on Baltimore resident Kristen Miller.

Miller sported a Baltimore Ravens Jersey with the name and photo of Tubman on the front of it during the Women’s Empowerment Draft that debuted on the NFL Network earlier this week. The Draft, a collaboration with the NFL Network and a group of Alfred University students dubbed, Art Force 5 (AF5), highlights the lives of 32 historically-significant and iconic women who have contributed to the women’s rights movement in the U.S. AF5 students use art to inspire discussion on topics of equality and social justice.

The program, founded by Alfred University [AU] and funded by the State University of New York, is nationally recognized with students creating non-violence workshops and impactful community art projects across the country.

The event featured at least a dozen AU students living around the country in addition to about 20 more students, like Miller, from U.S. colleges and universities who joined the initiative.

Their 32 icons reflect the number of teams in the NFL, 32.

“It’s truly an honor to be in such a position to have this platform to bring light to such powerful women,” said Miller, who attended Baltimore City College High School.

Miller pursued higher education at Ithaca College located in New York where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Clinical Exercise Science. She’s now pursuing a master’s degree as a non-traditional student from Gonzaga University in Spokane.

“I was privileged with having a wonderful community. I grew up in Baltimore City, and my community

5 Kristen Miller (Courtesy of Joy Bebawee)

really played a big part in my life,” Miller stated.

“It takes a village to raise a child and my community played the part,” she said. “I’ve seen so many powerful women taking charge and not letting anyone, not even myself, prevent me from achieving greatness and I’ve carried that with me.”

The NFL and the 19th Amendment continue celebrating 100th anniversaries in 2020 and with an estimated 50 percent of American women reportedly football fans, the timing of the draft’s perfect, said Adeye Jean Baptiste, a student at AU. She co-hosted the Draft which counts as an online city-by-city selection of 32 significant and iconic women pioneers in American history.

The Draft honors the centennial of the 19th Amendment which granted women the right to vote.

Thirty-two students from colleges and universities across the U.S. were featured wearing an NFL-style jersey that portrays and highlights an historical woman from their region or city.

AU alumnus and NFL Creative Director, Trent Cooper, produced the segments for the NFL Network, which posted coverage on their Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages.

AF5 edited a 30-minute Women’s Empowerment Draft video featured on NFL 360.

New York City native Shirley Chisolm, the first Black woman to

SUFFRAGE Page 27

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

LIFESTYLE

wi book review “Southwest Sunrise”

By Nikki Grimes, illustrated by Wendell Minor c.2020, Bloomsbury $18.99 40 pages

By Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer You don’t wanna.

Your favorite toys are in a box and you don’t wanna leave them there.

All your games, your stuffies, your outside toys, packed away. You said goodbye to your friends and teachers because your family is moving and you don’t wanna. But as in the new book “Southwest Sunrise” by Nikki Grimes, illustrated by Wendell Minor, just wait. When you get there, you might see things in a different color.

Jayden was not happy one little bit. His father had gotten a new job in another state, in another part of the country, and Jayden hated everything about it. He loved New York and its skyscrapers and lights and busy-ness.

From the airplane, he looked down at New Mexico and all he could see was shadows. It almost made him want to cry, except he was too big for that.

He went to bed, feeling really sad. In the morning, though, there was a sliver of sunshine peeking through a window that had no bars on it.

Jayden saw a mountain that looked kind of like a rainbow, and that was a big surprise! He figured that would be just about the only color he’d see all day because “browns and tans are the only colors deserts are good for.”

He grabbed the field guide his mother gave him, opened the door and got another big surprise!

In the grass behind his house, there were wine-colored flowers and “yellow bells” and orange and yellow and red and orchid all “dancing … in the wind.” His house was kind of pink. There were green trees nearby and colorful birds on the branches. And the sky? It was a color of blue that Jayden didn’t quite understand. He found lizards and bones and shells and all kinds of interesting things to look at.

Still, he missed the “wow” of New York and the size of the skyscrapers — until he saw that the desert had another surprise for him …

If there’s one thing we adults have learned lately, it’s that change is hard. When you’re small and your world has turned opposite, it’s doubly difficult. “Southwest Sunrise” may be able to help.

Right at the beginning of this story, author Nikki Grimes acknowledges that Jayden is unhappy and a little uninformed, both of which are validations that might get kids and parents talking. There’s no minimizing of the main character’s concerns, neither in story nor in the telling of it; instead, Jayden’s concerns are taken seriously but with no drama on the part of his parents. That matter-of-factness steadies this tale, never letting it get out of hand on either side. Parents may also appreciate the leeway that Grimes gives her Jayden: in his new home, he’s allowed the freedom to explore, which is another nice change.

Add in the soft illustrations by Wendell Minor, and you’ve got a soothing book for trying times. If that’s what your child needs now, “Southwest Sunrise” is pretty and pretty perfect.

Miss it? Your child won’t wanna. WI

horoscopes

MAY 14 - 20, 2020

ARIES Your ability to concentrate is strong and you can tackle difficult subjects. This is especially good energy for studying for exams or sending important emails regarding business matters. Venus retrograde gives you the opportunity to reconsider something you thought you wanted. Lucky Numbers: 6, 9, 13 TAURUS You may feel some impatience this week. It’s good to exercise patience especially in the areas of your career and money matters. A very positive combination for new job opportunities, promotions or expanding your own personal business arrives. You can make great connections with influential people or be seen as a trailblazer yourself. Today’s a day for bold action. Lucky Numbers: 14, 17, 28 GEMINI The week comes to a close with Mercury in Gemini angling toward Pluto. This is a challenging aspect for freewheeling Geminis as Pluto wants absolute control. As issues arise it’s important to recognize what is in your control and what is not. In baseball, the batter does not control the pitch, but he does decide when to swing. Look at what’s being pitched to you today. Lucky Numbers: 22, 36, 37 CANCER You probably had a few busy weeks and maybe wishing for things to slow down. This week, your wish is granted as three planets go retrograde and you have an opportunity to take a break. It’s quite possible a friend of yours would like to introduce you to someone they think would be a good match for you.

This is also a good aspect for experiencing the joy of learning new things and seeing the results of positive thinking. Lucky Numbers: 2, 6, 24 LEO Instead of commanding yourself to exercise or berating yourself for not working out, today’s a day to look at why you’re not doing something you know is beneficial for you. The aspects today have a deep psychological nature and you can gain insight into who you are. You have access to your subconscious today. You can rewrite your story. Lucky Numbers: 29, 30, 33 VIRGO The week comes to a close with Mercury syncing up with Pluto. Now the energy becomes more intense. It’s like trying to ride a dragon, you have power but you may not control everything about your situation. It’s important to recognize what you do control and what is just going to happen. When it comes to your art or your writing, put it out into the world but then you need to step back and allow the world to react however it chooses. Lucky Numbers: 15, 17, 59 LIBRA Your life seems to be moving forward at a regular pace, with important things falling into place. But this week there are cracks in the system, things go out of balance, and delays happen as three planets retrograde. There may be an opportunity to bring your family more resources. Or perhaps there is a positive agreement regarding the family estate or business. You can come together as a unit to make investments or to support each other. Lucky Numbers: 19, 20, 36 SCORPIO You have all the skills you need. You have courage and conviction. The only change needed is how you speak to yourself. Today is a good day to work on this issue, to uncover the roots of this negative self-talk. Pull up the weeds of negative thinking so they can no longer choke the positive that is growing inside of you. Lucky Numbers: 8, 13, 28 SAGITTARIUS The week comes to an end with Mercury syncing up with investigative Pluto. Now is the time to reflect on your choices for the week. With the energy of the three planets in retrograde, you can explore what you’ve already done. You get a chance to review, reform, recover what may have been forgotten over the past few months. Sagittarius may love to move forward, but sometimes a look back is beneficial.

Lucky Numbers: 6, 26, 50 CAPRICORN It’s time to take a risk on yourself. You may have thought that everything was planned out, but now changes are happening and you need to roll with it. Trust in your own abilities. Everything may be different in your career now but there may still be great opportunities. Take a risk and tell somebody what your goal is. Lucky Numbers: 7, 9, 36 AQUARIUS Just when you thought you were going to be bored, three planets turn and start moving the other direction. The people around you may be scattered and confused, but you have a smile on your face because there’s nothing Aquarius like more than a sudden change of directions. You can focus your energy on writing, teaching, or business. It’s possible there may be an opportunity for a new job or to expand the family business. Don’t waste this energy on trivial pursuits. Lucky Numbers: 3, 5, 54 PISCES You may reconnect to someone you haven’t heard from in a long time come May 10 — perhaps a grammar school friend or maybe an old lover. Mercury connects with Jupiter in your house of friendships.

This is a positive aspect for having good judgments. But this energy is fleeting as Mercury moves quickly.

Take action today to reach out to this person otherwise, the moment will pass. Lucky Numbers: 7, 31, 44

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

MAY 14 - 20, 2020 25

SPORTS For more photos, visit www.washingtoninformer.com

Redskins Unveil 2020 NFL Regular Season Schedule Peterson ‘Wired Up’ for Thanksgiving Clash with Dallas Cowboys

By Daniel Kucin Jr. WI Contributing Writer @danielkucin88 With all of the turmoil and uncertainty going on in the sports world currently, the Washington Redskins provided a glimpse of normalcy as they hosted the 2020 NFL schedule release on May 7.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Burgundy and Gold held its first-ever schedule release party virtually, which was hosted by Larry Michael, “Voice of the Redskins,” and former Redskins Fred Smoot and Brian Mitchell.

Washington kicks off the 20202021 campaign the same way they did last season against the Philadelphia Eagles, but will hopefully find themselves in the win column this time around.

However, unlike the previous year, this

ELDERLY from Page 16 in long-term care facilities changed with coronavirus?

Parker: Their rights are the same including: to be informed of their care and involved in all their activities; to be involved in group activities, although they’re now adjusted; to be engaged and part of their treatment plan; and to notified orally and in writing in advance if they’re to be moved within their facility or to a hospital.

WI: With visitations suspended, how can families stay in touch with those in long-term care facilities?

Parker: Under the CARES Act, funding for facilities to purchase technology – many are already using Zoom or Facetime on I-pads.

In some cases, residents can go down to the first floor and see their

26 - MAY 14 - 20, 2020

game will be the first home-opener against the Eagles since they faced off at FedExField in 2017.

The game will mark the 31st time the Redskins have opened a season against a division opponent, dating back to 1936 as the Boston Redskins.

Washington has the most all-time wins (86) against the Eagles, which are the most against any opponent.

The Redskins will take a road trip to Arizona against the Cardinals and reigning NFL Rookie of the Year Kyler Murray. Washington is 3-1 in their past four road openers dating back to 2016.

Washington hits the road again in the following week against the Cleveland Browns, where Washington has won their last three meetings (2008, 2012 and 2016), and then welcome home the Baltimore Ravens in the “Battle of the Beltway” on Oct. 4. loved ones through the window.

Communication is important as is remaining connected but with CDC guidance in place, that must be done safely. Some people are even writing letters again to communicate.

Parker encourages staff members, volunteers, residents and their families to call the Office of Long-term Care Ombudsman for questions, concerns or to report complaints regarding a resident’s treatment or well-fare at longterm care facilities at (202) 4342190.

“We’re brainstorming so that we can stay a real presence, we want to ensure that the appropriate screening for COVID-19 remains in place and we want residents to know they’re not alone,” she said.

WI

5 Washington Redskins running back Adrian Peterson said he gets “wired up” when he gets a chance to play the Dallas Cowboys. (Daniel Kucin Jr./The Washington Informer)

“I’m excited about it, it’s a strong division,” Redskins running back Adrian Peterson said about playing against AFC foes this year. “Lamar [Jackson] is obviously the MVP of the league, and he is spectacular.

“I’m not going to lie … I’ll be to be watching him. I won’t be sitting down … I want to see him up-close and personal. Even with the young guy coming from LSU [Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow] … it’s all about competition. It is all about winning the game, but seeing those players succeed as well.”

Washington will face the Browns and Ravens in consecutive games

SUFFRAGE from Page 23 be elected to the U.S. Congress, was among the others honored. She appeared on a jersey highlighted with the colors of the New York Jets.

During the program, each student described the life and contributions of the woman featured on their jersey.

“Bringing these two together in this way through visual arts, raises awareness for equality on a national scale while also providing students like myself an opportunity to express our creativity,” Jean Baptiste said. “Being a woman and being able to share something about myself and women around me is amazing. To work on a project with 31 other women from various backgrounds and to have a seat at the table has left me saying, ‘Wow,’” said Miller who plans to graduate in September. WI

again in 2020 after Washington swept Baltimore and Cleveland in back-toback weeks in 2012 and 2016.

In Week 4, the Redskins will serve up some home cooking against former offensive coordinator and current Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay. The game will represent the teams’ 11th meeting in the past 15 seasons.

The Redskins take on two divisional adversaries in the New York Giants on the road the following week and then return home on Oct. 25 against the Dallas Cowboys and then will enjoy a bye week after that game.

“Our division is so tough, and we’ve got good teams all over the division, so it will be a tough stretch, but it will be a good measuring stick to see where we are as a team, said Redskins linebacker Ryan Kerrigan. There are no slouches on our schedule, that’s for sure.”

Following the bye week, Washington takes on the Giants once again, and then they hit the road to play the Detroit Lions.

However, one of the most intriguing games on the slate will be on Nov. 22 when Redskins fans will have the opportunity to see Chase Young, the No. 2 pick of the 2020 draft, face off against the Cincinnati Bengals and top pick Burrow at home.

Washington will ship off to Dallas on Thanksgiving Day to play the Cowboys that should be a treat for all during the holiday season. The Redskins will attempt to snap a threegame road losing streak against the Cowboys and earn their first victory at AT&T Stadium since a 34-23 win on

Jan. 3, 2016.

“It’ll be good to get a win at Cowboys Stadium, Jerry World,” Peterson said. “I’m wired up when I play the Cowboys.”

Washington will also look to snap a six-game losing streak against the Pittsburgh Steelers the following week and earn their first victory against Pittsburgh since 1991.

The Redskins’ next matchup will be against the San Francisco 49ers, the first time that Washington will play against former left tackle Trent Williams since being traded this offseason.

Washington will also face yet another former offensive coordinator in Kyle Shanahan who led the 49ers to the Super Bowl last year as head coach.

The Seattle Seahawks will come to town on Dec. 20 as Washington hopes to extend its dominance over Seattle, having a 7-1 record in regular-season games since 2000.

It should be an exciting game at home the following week as current head coach Ron Rivera will square off against the Carolina Panthers, his former team of nine seasons. During his tenure in Carolina, Rivera earned NFL Coach of the Year honors twice (2013, 2015) and had the highest winning percentage (.546) of any coach in the organization’s history.

To wrap up the regular season in Week 17, Washington will take on the Philadelphia Eagles on the road.

The Redskins will not have any prime-time games this season, and all of its home contests will occur at 1 p.m. EST. WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

RELIGION the religion corner WITH LYNDIA GRANT

Posthumous Pulitzer Prize to Ida B. Wells

Ye have heard that it was said of them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment. — Matthew 5:21 Honored on May 6 — my birthday — 89 years after her death, journalist and activist Ida B. Wells received a Pulitzer Prize, awarded posthumously. It is truly a pleasure to know that Ida B. has been properly recognized. Though President Trump continued to attack our top-of-the-line African American journalists, decrying them as angry and unladylike, there is justice in this honor.

Wells had the ability to navigate personal attacks to generate meaningful political change, which is why she deserved the Pulitzer Prize, and why the women who have followed in her footsteps make Trump so uneasy.

Wells, a young journalist from Memphis, Tennessee, publisher of a new newspaper titled Free Speech, owned as a co-partner, with J.L. Fleming, traveled up and down the

Mississippi Valshe Honored on May 6 — Maurine, ley seeking new was determined subscribers to bring commy birthday — 89 years to grow her Memfort. Brutal killphis newspaper after her death, journalist ings of Blacks in readership to the South were more than dou- and activist Ida B. Wells on the rise, and ble. they were going One day, received a Pulitzer Prize, unpunished by her pastor told the law.

Ida something awarded posthumously.

“Betty,” Ida that changed said to the tearthe trajectory of her life forever. He ful widow, “I’ll never forget the talks said, “Miss Wells, something bad Thomas and I had when he delivhas happened in Memphis.” Her ered mail to the Free Speech every hand shook slightly as she took day. He believed that we should the Memphis Commercial newspa- defend the cause of right and fight per. He said, “Last night, a mob of wrong wherever we saw it.” white men dragged three black men Her newspaper business was down to the railroad tracks, and shot threatened and destroyed by a group them to death.” from Memphis, which destroyed all To her amazement, one killed was the equipment and ran her partner Thomas Moss. He begged for his life out of town. for the sake of his wife, daughter, Wells sent a telegram to her lawand unborn child. When he realized yer to find out if her partner was he was going to die, he said, “Tell safe. Friends sent letters and telemy people to go West — there is no grams back to her. They had orders justice for them here.” to kill her on sight. She moved to A devastated Wells, who was good Chicago where she married Ferdifriends of Moss and his wife and nand Barnett, a lawyer and journalgodmother to their daughter, caught ist. the next train back to Memphis.

Ida devoted the rest of her life Ida arrived in Memphis too late to investigating, reporting and lecto attend Moss’ funeral. Heading turing on the growing number of straight to comfort his pregnant Blacks lynched. widow Betty and their daughter, WI

Mt. Zion Baptist Church

John F. Johnson Reverend Dr.

5101 14th Street, NW / Washington, DC 20011 Phone: 202-726-2220 Fax: 202-726-9089

1306 Vermont Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20005

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

EMPLOYMENT LAWYERS MCCOLLUM & ASSOCIATES, LLC ADA, Age Discrimination, Benefits, Civil Rights, COBRA, Contracts, Deaf Law, Defamation, Disability Law, Discipline, Discrimination, FMLA, FLSA, FOIA, Family Responsibility, Harassment, HIPPA, OSHA, National Origin Discrimination, Non-Compete, Race Discrimination, Rehabilitation Act, Retaliation, Severance Agreements, Sexual Harassment, Torts, Whistleblowing, Wage-and-Hour, Wrongful Discharge SERVING MARYLAND, DC, & NORTH CAROLINA

www.jmlaw.net

(301) 864-6070

jmccollum@jmlaw.net

Mount Olivet Lutheran Church

Reverend John W. Davis Pastor

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

Children’s Church - 11:00 a.m. (1st & 3rd Sundays) Communion - 10 a.m. 4th Sunday Sunday School - 9:15 a.m. (4th Sunday 8:15 a.m.)

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

(301) 864-6070

Service and Times Divine Worship, Sunday 10:00 a.m.

Communion 1st and 3rd Sunday “Friendliest Church in the City” Website: mountolivetdc.org Email: mtolivedc@gmail.com

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

MAY 14 - 20, 2020 27

RELIGION The Miracle Center of Faith Missionary Baptist Church

Pilgrim Baptist Church

Bishop Michael C. Turner, Sr. Senior Pastor

Rev. Louis B. Jones II Pastor

9161 Hampton Overlook Capitol Heights, MD 20743 Phone: 301-350-2200 / Fax: 301-499-8724

700 I Street, N.E. Washington, D.C. 20002 (202) 547-8849

Service and Times Sunday Worship Times : 7:30 AM 7 10:00 AM Communion: 1st Sunday Sunday School: 9:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday, 12 Noon Bible Study in homes: Tuesday 7:00 PM Website: www.themiraclecenterFMBC.com Email: Miraclecenterfmbs@gmail.com Motto: “We Walk by Faith, Not by Sight”

Blessed Word of Life Church

Service and Times Worship Sundays: 7:30 & 11:00 AM 5th Sundays: 9:30 AM 3rd Sundays: Baptism & Holy Communion Prayer & Praise: Wednesdays @ Noon & 6:30 PM www.pilgrimbaptistdc.org

Covenant Baptist United Church of Christ

Church of Living Waters

Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church

Rev. Paul Carrette Senior Pastor Harold Andrew Assistant Pastor 4915 Wheeler Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 301-894-6464 Service and Times Sunday Service: 8:30am& 11:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM Communion Service: First Sunday www.livingwatersmd.org

St. Stephen Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Michael E. Bell, Sr., / Pastor 2498 Alabama Ave., SE - Washington D.C. 20020 Office: (202) 889-7296 / Fax: (202) 889-2198 - www.acamec.org Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 8:00am and 11:00 AM Sunday Church School - 9:15am & Sunday Adult Forum Bible Study - 10:30 AM 2nd & 4th Monday Women’s Bible Study: 6:30 PM Tuesday Jr./Sr. Bible Study: 10:00 AM Tuesday Topical Bible Study: 6:30 PM Tuesday New Beginnings Bible Study: 6:30 PM Wednesday Pastoral Bible Study: 6:30 PM Wednesday Children’s Bible Study: 6:30 PM Thursday Men’s Bible Study: 6:30 PM Friday before 1st Sunday Praise & Worship Service: 6:30 PM Saturday Adult Bible Study: 10:00 AM “The Amazing, Awesome, Audacious Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church”

Third Street Church of God

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

Rev. Dr. Alice Greene Interim Pastor

Bishop Lanier C. Twyman, Sr. Senior Pastor

Rev. Cheryl J. Sanders, Th.D. Senior Pastor

4001 14th Street, NW Washington, DC 20011 (202) 265-6147 Office 1-800 576-1047 Voicemail/Fax

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

5757 Temple Hill Road, Temple Hills, MD 20748 Office 301-899-8885 – fax 301-899-2555 Services and Times Sunday Early Morning Worship: 7:45 AM Church School: 9:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship: 10:45 AM Tuesday: 7:00pm/Kingdom Building Bible Institute Wednesday , 12:30 PM Mid-Day Bible Study Wednesday: Prayer/Praise/Bible Study-7:30 PM Baptism & Communion Service: 4th Sunday – 10:30 AM

1204 Third Street, NW Washington, DC 20001 202-347-5889 office / 202-638-1803 fax

Service and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 11:00 AM Communion Service: First Sunday Prayer Service/Bible Study: Tuesday, 6:30 PM www.blessedwordoflifechurch.org E-mail: church@blessedwordoflifechurch.org

Campbell AME Church Rev. Dr. Henry Y. White 2562 MLK Jr. Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Adm. Office 202-678-2263 Email: Campbell@mycame.org Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 AM Sunday Church School: 8:45 AM Bible Study Wednesday: 12:00 Noon Wednesday: 7:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 PM “Reaching Up To Reach Out” Mailing Address : Campbell AME Church 2502 Stanton Road SE - Washington, DC 20020

Turning Hearts Church Virgil K. Thomas, Sr. Senior Pastor/ Teacher 421 Alabama Ave. SE Washington, DC 20032 Phone: 202-746-0113 Fax: 301-843-2445 Service and Times Sunday School: 10:15 AM Sunday Worship Service: 11;15 AM Children’s Church: 11:15 AM Tuesday Bible Study: 6:30 PM Motto : “A Great Commitment to the Great Commandment” Website: www.turningheartschurchdc.org Email: gr8luv4u2@gmail.com

28 - MAY 14 - 20, 2020

Services and Times Sundays: 10:00am Worship Services Bible Study: Wonderful Wednesdays in Worship and the Word Bible Study Wednesdays 12:00 Noon; 6:30 PM (dinner @ 5:30 PM) Sunday School: 9:00 AM – Hour of Power “An inclusive ministry where all are welcomed and affirmed.” www.covenantdc.org

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

Services and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM Sunday Community Worship Service: 8:30 AM “Ambassadors for Christ to the Nation’s Capital” www.thirdstreet.org Live Stream Sunday Worship Service begins @ 12:00 noon www.thirdstreet.org

Crusader Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Alton W. Jordan Pastor 800 I Street, NE - Washington, DC 20002 202-548-0707 - Fax No. 202-548-0703 Service and Times Sunday Morning Worship: 11:00 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday Sunday School: 9:45 AM Men’s Monday Bible Study: 7:00 PM Wednesday Night Bible Study: 7:00 PM Women’s Ministry Bible Study: 3rd Friday -7:00 PM Computer Classes: Announced Family and Marital Counseling by appointment E-mail: Crusadersbaptistchurch@verizon.net www.CrusadersBaptistChurch.org / “God is Love”

Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church Bishop Alfred A. Owens, Jr.; Senior Bishop & Evangelist Susie C. Owens – Co-Pastor 610 Rhode Island Avenue, NE Washington, DC 20002 (202) 529-4547 office • (202) 529-4495 fax

Sunday Worship Service: 8:00 AM and 10:45 AM Sunday Youth Worship Services: 1st & 4th 10:45 AM; 804 R.I. Ave., NE 5th 8 AM & 10:45 AM; Main Church Prayer Services Tuesday – Noon, Wednesday 6:00 AM & 6:30 PM Calvary Bible Institute: Year-Round Contact Church / Communion Every 3rd Sunday The Church in The Hood that will do you Good! www.gmchc.org / emailus@gmchc.org

Isle of Patmos Baptist Church Reverend Dr. Calvin L. Matthews Senior Pastor 1200 Isle of Patmos Plaza, Northeast Washington, DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-6767 - Fax: (202) 526-1661 Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM Holy Communion: 2nd Sunday at 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM Sunday Church School: 9:20 AM Seniors Bible Study: Tuesdays at 10:30 AM Noon Day Prayer Service: Tuesdays at Noon Bible Study: Tuesdays at 7 PM Motto: “A Ministry of Reconciliation Where Everybody is Somebody!”

Website: http://isleofpatmosbc.org Church Email: ipbcsecretary@verizon.net

St Marks Baptist Come Worship with us...

Dr. Raymond T. Matthews Pastor and First Lady Marcia Matthews St. Mark's Baptist Church 624 Underwood Street, NW Washington, dc 20011 Services and Times Sunday School: 9:00 AM Worship Service: 10:00 AM Wed. Noon Day prayer service Thur. Prayer service: 6:45 PM Thur. Bible Study: 7:15 PM

Twelfth Street Christian Church Reverend Dr. Paul H. Saddler Senior Pastor (Disciples of Christ) 1812 12th Street, NW - Washington, DC 20009 Phone: 202-265-4494 Fax: 202 265 4340 Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 AM Communion every Sunday: 11:00 AM Sunday School: 10:00 AM Bible Study Tuesday: 12 Noon Pastor’s Bible Study Tuesday: 6:30 PM Motto: “Discover Something Wonderful” Website: 12thscc.org / Email: Twelfthstcc@aol.com

Mount Carmel Baptist Church Reverend Dr. Paris L Smith, Sr. Senior Pastor 901 Third Street N.W. Washington, DC. 20001 Phone (202) 842-3411 Fax (202) 682-9423 Service and Times Sunday Church School : 9:00 AM Sunday Morning Worship: 10:10 AM Bible Study Tuesday: 6: 00 PM Prayer Service Tuesday: 7:00 PM Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday 10:10 AM themcbc.org

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

RELIGION Shabbath Commandment Church Bishop Adrian A. Taylor, Sr. Pastor 7801 Livingston Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 301-534-5471 Service and Times Sabbath School 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 AM Service 11:00 AM Praise & Worship Preaching 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM Motto: “A Church Keeping It Real for Real.”

Website: Shabbathcommandmentchruch.org Email: Praisebetoyhwh@gmail.com

Zion Baptist Church Rev. Keith W. Byrd, Sr. Pastor 4850 Blagdon Ave, NW - Washington D.C 20011 Phone (202) 722-4940 - Fax (202) 291-3773 Service and Times 9:00 a.m. – Sunday School 10:15 a.m. – Worship Service Wed. Noon: Dea. Robert Owens Bible Study 7 PM Pastor’s Bible Study Ordinance of Baptism 2nd Sunday, Holy Communion 4th Sunday Mission: Zion shall: Enlist Sinners, Educate Students, Empower the Suffering, Encourage the Saints, And Exalt our Savior. (Acts 2: 41-47) www.zionbaptistchurchdc.org

St. Luke Baptist Church Rev. Aubrey C. Lewis Pastor 1415 Gallatin Street, NW Washington, DC 20011-3851 P: (202) 726-5940 Service and Times Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM Sunday School: 9:15 AM Holy Communion: 11:00 a.m., 3rd Sun. Bible Institute: Wednesday - 1:30 PM Prayer Meeting: Wednesday - 12:00 Noon

All Nations Baptist Church Rev. Dr. James Coleman Pastor 2001 North Capitol St, N.E. - Washington, DC 20002 Phone (202) 832-9591 Service and Times Sunday Church School – 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service – 11:00 AM Holy Communion – 1st Sunday at 11:00 AM Prayer – Wednesdays, 6:00 PM Bible Study – Wednesdays, 7:00 PM Christian Education / School of Biblical Knowledge Saturdays, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM, Call for Registration Website: www.allnationsbaptistchurch.com All Nations Baptist Church – A Church of Standards

Israel Baptist Church

Rev. Daryl F. Bell Pastor 2324 Ontario Road, NW Washington, DC 20009 (202) 232-1730 Service and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 AM Baptismal Service: 1st Sunday – 9:30 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday – 11:00 AM Prayer Meeting & Bible Study: Wednesday -7:30 PM “Where Jesus is the King”

Dr. Earl D. Trent Senior Pastor

2409 Ainger Pl.,SE – WDC 20020 (202) 678-0884 – Office / (202) 678-0885 – Fax “Moving Faith Forward” 0% Perfect . . . 100% Forgiven!

623 Florida Ave.. NW - WDC. 20001 Church (202) 667-3409 / Study (202) 265-0836 Home Study (301) 464-8211 / Fax (202) 483-4009

Service and Times Sunday Worship: 8:00 AM & 10:45 AM Baptism/Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday Family Bible Study Tuesdays – 6:30 PM Prayer Service: Tuesdays – 8:00 PM www.emmanuelbaptistchurchdc.org

Sermon On The Mount Temple Of Joy Apostolic Faith

Lincoln Park United Methodist Church Rev. Richard B. Black Pastor

Elder Herman L. Simms Pastor

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

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

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

Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:45 AM Sunday School: 9:15 AM Holy Communion1st Sunday: 10:45 AM Prayer Service: Wednesday at 6:30 PM Bible Study: Wednesday at 7:00 PM Bible Study: Tuesday at 10:30 AM

Mount Moriah Baptist Church Dr. Lucius M. Dalton Senior Pastor

Service and Times Sunday Worship: 10:00 AM Holy Communion: First Sunday 10:00 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday @ 12 noon and 6:30 PM Motto: "Faith On The Hill"

Service and Times Sunday Apostolic Worship Services 11:00 A.M and 5:00 PM Communion and Feet Wash 4th Sunday at 5:00 PM Prayer/Seeking: Wednesday at 8:00 PM Apostolic in Doctrine, Pentecostal in Experience, Holiness in Living, Uncompromised and Unchanged.

The Apostolic Faith is still alive –Acts 2:42

New Commandment Baptist Church

Eastern Community Baptist Church Damion M. Briggs Pastor

Rev. Stephen E. Tucker Senior Pastor

1636 East Capitol Street, NE Washington, DC 20003 Telephone: 202-544-5588 - Fax: 202-544-2964

8213 Manson Street Landover, MD 20785 Tel: (301) 322-9787 Fax: (301) 322-9240

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

Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 7:45 AM and 10:45 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sundays at 7:45 AM & 10:45 AM Sunday School: 9:30 AM Prayer & Praise Service: Tuesdays at 12 noon & 6:30 PM Bible Study: Tuesdays at 1 pm and 7 PM Youth Bible Study: Fridays at 7 PM

Service and Times Early Morning Message: 7:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 10:00 AM Sunday Church School: 9:00 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday 7:30 AM & 10:00 AM Prayer, Praise and Testimony: Wednesday 7:00 PM Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM

Service and Times Sunday Worship: 11 AM Sunday School: 10 AM Wednesday Mid-Week Worship, Prayer & Bible Study: Wed. 7 PM

Rehoboth Baptist Church

Reverend Peter R. Blue Sr. Pastor

Rev. Curtis l. Staley Pastor

2001 Brooks Drive District Heights MD. 20744 240.838.7074

621 Alabama Ave., S.E.- Washington, D.C. 20032 P: (202) 561-1111 - F: (202) 561-1112

Service and Times Sunday Worship Experience: 10:15am Sunday School: 9:00am Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday Morning Noontime Bible Study: Tuesday @ 12:00pm Prayer Meeting/Bible Study: Tuesday @7:00pm Theme: "Building On A Firm Foundation"

Service and Times Sunday Service: 10:00 AM Sunday School for all ages: 8:30 AM 1st Sunday Baptism: 10:00 AM 2nd Sunday Holy Communion:10:00 AM Tuesday: Bible Study: 6:30 PM Prayer Meeting: 7:45 PM

Email: revprbstmbc@gmail.com Website: www.stmatthewsbaptist.org

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

“Real Worship for Real People” Website: www.easterncommunity.org Email: ecc@easterncommunity.org

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

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

Shiloh Baptist Church

Matthews Memorial Baptist Church Dr. Joseph D. Turner / Senior Pastor 2616 MLK Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Office 202-889-3709 - Fax 202-678-3304 Service and Times Early Worship Service: 8:00 AM Worship Service: 11:00 AM New Member’s Class: 9:45 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday, 11:00 AM Church School: 9:45 AM Wednesday 12:00pm Bible Study Prayer, Praise and Bible Study: 7:00 PM Saturday Bible Study: 11:00 AM Baptism 4th Sunday: 11:00 AM “Empowered to love and Challenged to Lead a Multitude of Souls to Christ”

Peace Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Michael T. Bell 712 18th Street, NE Washington, DC 20002 Phone 202-399-3450/ Fax 202-398-8836 Service and Times Sunday Early Morning Prayer & Bible Study Class: 8:00 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 10:00 AM Wednesday Service: 12:00 PM “The Loving Church of the living lord “

4504 Gault Place, N.E. / Washington, D.C 20019 202-397-7775 – 7184 Service and Times Sunday Church School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service : 11:00 AM The Lord’s Supper 1st Sunday Prayer & Praise Services: Wednesday 7:00 PM Bible Study: 7:30 PM Saturday before 4th Sunday Men, Women, Youth Discipleship Ministries: 10:30 AM A Christ Centered Church htubc@comcast.net

Christ Embassy DC

Kelechi Ajieren Coordinator 6839 Eastern Avenue, R1 Takoma Park, MD 20912 (202) 556-7065 Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 AM Wednesday Bible Study: 7:00 PM Friday Evening Service: 7:00 PM ; Last Friday “…Giving Your Life a Meaning” www.Christembassydc.org Christ.embassy.dc@hotmail.com

Pennsylvania Ave. Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Kendrick E. Curry Pastor 3000 Pennsylvania Ave.. S.E Washington, DC 20020 202 581-1500 Service and Times Sunday Church School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 AM Monday Adult Bible Study: 7:00 PM Wednesday Youth & Adult Activities: 6:30 PM Prayer Service Bible Study

First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Mt. Horeb Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Wallace Charles Smith Pastor

Rev. Oran W. Young Pastor

Rev. Dr. H. B. Sampson, III Pastor

9th & P Street, N.W. - W. D.C. 20001 (202) 232-4288

602 N Street NW - Washington, D.C. 20001 Office:(202) 289-4480 Fax: (202) 289-4595

2914 Bladensburg Road, NE Wash., DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-3180 - Fax: (202) 529-7738 Service and Times Worship Service: 7:30 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Worship Service: 10:30 AM Holy Communion: 4th Sunday 7:30AM & 10:30 AM Prayer Services:Tuesday 7:30 PM. Wednesday 12 Noon

www.stmarysfoggybottom.org Email: stmarysoffice@stmarysfoggybottom.org

Service and Times First Sunday Worship Service (one service): 10:00 AM Second, Third, Fourth, and Fifth Sunday Worship service: 7:45 AM and 10:55 AM Sunday Church School/Bible Study: 9:30 AM Thursday Prayer Service: 6:30 PM

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

Email: sbc@shilohbaptist.org Website: shilohbaptist.org

Service and Times Sundays: 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist with Music and Hymns Wednesdays: 12:10 p.m. - Holy Eucharist

Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 10:00 AM Sunday Church School: 8:45 – 9:45 AM Holy Communion: Every First Sunday Intercessory Prayer: Monday – 7:00-8:00 PM Pastor’s Bible Study: Wednesday –7:45 PM Midweek Prayer: Wednesday – 7:00 PM Noonday Prayer Every Thursday

Rev. Dr. George C. Gilbert Senior Pastor

Email Address: admin@pbc712.org

Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church The Rev. E. Bernard Anderson Priest

Holy Trinity United Baptist Church

Florida Avenue Baptist Church

Reverend Christopher L. Nichols Pastor

Rev. Dr. Jerryl V. Moody Pastor-Elect

Web: www.mountmoriahchurch.org Email: mtmoriah@mountmoriahchurch.org

St. Matthews Baptist Church

Emmanuel Baptist Church

King Emmanuel Baptist Church

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

Service and Times Sunday School for All Ages: 8:00 AM Sunday Worship Services: 9:30 AM Midday Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 11:30AM Evening Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 7:00 PM Laymen's League: Thursday 7:00 PM Email: Froffice@firstrising.org Website: www.firstrising.org “Changing Lives On Purpose “

Email:mthoreb@mthoreb.org Website:www.mthoreb.org For further information, please contact me at (202) 529-3180.

MAY 14 - 20, 2020 29

LEGAL NOTICES In God We Trust ​Declaration of Nationality​​Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: ‘’ walker,

LEGAL NOTICES

dejon dwight© ‘’, in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, by natural issue, the

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

beneficiary and heir of: ‘’ WALKER, DEJON DWIGHT© ‘’, corp.sole Dba.: ‘’ DEJON DWIGHT WALKER©

2018 ADM 1276

‘’, having reached the age of majority hereby duly affirms to declare my intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as an: ani yun wiya Moorish American National , but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to: In God We Trust, the Moorish Empire, The united states of America, Republic ( Major ), The Constitution for the united States of America, Article III Section 2, etc.. In harmony with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and all Natural laws governing moors, I hereby Declare and Proclaim my nationality as an: ani yun wiya Moorish American National. I am that I am: ‘’ walker, dejon dwight© ‘’, from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as:

Nazim A. Karriem Decedent Talib I. Karim TEC Law Firm 1629 K Street, NW Suite 300 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

incorporated Divine Grantor Trust. This deposit is not to be commingled with general assets of any

Mikal Huda Ba’th and Fatima Karriem, whose address is 6015 8th Street NW, Washington, DC 20011, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Nazim A. Karriem who died on August 1, 2018 with a Will, and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding.

Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/30/2020. 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 10/30/2020, 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.

bank , nor depositary / trustee / agent / bailee / donee / debtor. This deposit is not limited to, but

Date of first publication: 4/30/2020

‘’ walker-bey, dejon dwight© ‘’. Notice of Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title : This order is to preserve legal and equitable title , and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, Re: ‘’ WALKER, DEJON DWIGHT© ‘’, corp.sole Dba.: ‘’ DEJON DWIGHT WALKER©’’, to the depositor: ‘’ walker-bey, dejon dwight© ‘’, nom deguerre: ‘’ walker, dejon dwight© ‘’. All property , of the same issue and amount, in like kind and specie, is to be returned fully intact , as a Special Deposit order of the Depositor / Beneficiary / Bailor / Donor / Principal / Creditor: ‘’ walker-bey, dejon dwight© ‘’, nom deguerre: ‘’ walker, dejon dwight© ‘’, as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of : ‘’ DEJON DWIGHT WALKER BEY TRUST© ‘’, an Un-

including: discharge and set off, of any and all outstanding liabilities as accord and satisfaction. Any and All Attorneys with a License from the BAR Association are explicitly prohibited from administrating ‘’ DEJON DWIGHT WALKER BEY TRUST© ‘’ property without handwritten consent from each and every trustee, after said Attorneys have furnished their nationality, and Principal for whom’s interest they are working, pursuant to Public Law 75-583, to Trustees in plain writing.​All Rights Reserved. ​​ FDOP 05-07

Mikal Huda Ba’th Fatima Karriem Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

MEDIABIDS MISCELLANEOUS SAVE 67% PLUS 4 FREE BURGERS - The Favorite Feast - ONLY $49.99. ORDER Today 1-888-318-1190 Use Code 48643VFW or www.OmahaSteaks.com/ ffmb93

Do you know your Testosterone Levels? Call 888-692-5146 and ask about our test kits and get a FREE Trial of Progene All-Natural Testosterone Supplement

CL ASSIFIEDS com/cadnet #6258 Two great new offers from AT&T Wireless! Ask how to get the Next Generation Samsung Galaxy S10e FREE. FREE iPhone with AT&T’s Buy one, Give One. While supplies last! CALL 1-866-565-8452 or www.freephonesnow.com//cadnet !! OLD GUITARS WANTED!! GIBSON, FENDER, MARTIN, Etc. 1930’s to 1980’s. TOP DOLLAR PAID. CALL TOLL FREE 1-866-433-8277 Stay in your home longer with an American Standard Walk-In Bathtub. Receive up to $1,500 off, including a free toilet, and a lifetime warranty on the tub and installation! Call us at 1-855-481-3969 or visit www.walkintubquote.com/national **STOP STRUGGLING ON THE STAIRS** Give your life a lift with an ACORN STAIRLIFT! Call now for $250 OFF your stairlift purchase and FREE DVD & brochure! 1-866-471-1334 HughesNet Satellite Internet - 25mbps starting at $49.99/mo! Get More Data FREE Off-Peak Data. FAST download speeds. WiFi built in! FREE Standard Installation for lease customers! Limited Time, Call 1-855-973-9254

Diabetes/Cholesterol/Weight Loss Bergamonte, a Natural Product for Cholesterol, Blood Sugar and weight. Physician recommended, backed by Human Clinical Studies with amazing results. Call today and save 15 percent off your first bottle! 866-640-5982

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 15% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-402-0373

ATTENTION DIABETICS with Medicare. Get a FREE talking meter and diabetic testing supplies at NO COST, plus FREE home delivery!

Best of all, this meter eliminates painful finger pricking! Call 888-421-1874

Lung Cancer? Asbestos exposure in industrial, construction, manufacturing jobs, or military may be the cause. Family in the home were also exposed. Call 1-866-795-3684 or email cancer@breakinginjurynews.com. $30 billion is set aside for asbestos victims with cancer.

Valuable settlement monies may not require filing a lawsuit.

READERS & MUSIC LOVERS. 100 Greatest Novels (audio books) ONLY $99.00 (plus s h.) Includes MP3 Player & Accessories. BONUS: 50 Classical Music Works & Money Back Guarantee. Call Today! 1-866-680-1822 Any laptop repaired just $79. Macs too. REALLY! FREE Fedex shipping! $69 extra for screen or motherboard replacement. CALL Authorized Laptop Repair Specialists 1-866-437-6184 Ever Consider a Reverse Mortgage? At least 62 years old? Stay in your home & Increase cash flow! Safe & Effective! Call Now for your FREE DVD! Call Now 888-420-4716 READERS & MUSIC LOVERS. 100 Greatest Novels (audio books) ONLY $99.00 (plus s h.) Includes MP3 Player & Accessories. BONUS: 50 Classical Music Works & Money Back Guarantee. Call Today!

1-866-680-1822 Personalized holiday gifts for Everyone on your list! Save 20 percent off qualifying products from Personal Creations! To redeem this offer, visit www.PersonalCreations.com/Beauty or Call 1-888-732-0679 Diabetes/Cholesterol/Weight Loss Natural Product for Cholesterol, Blood Sugar and weight. Physician recommended, backed by Human Clinical Studies with fast acting results within 30 days. Call to hear about our special offer 866-640-5982 ATTENTION DIABETICS with Medicare. Get a FREE Talking Meter and diabetic testing supplies at NO COST, plus FREE home delivery!

Best of all, this meter eliminates painful finger pricking! Call 888-421-1874

Cross country Moving, Long distance Moving Company, out of state move $799 Long Distance Movers. Get Free quote on your Long distance move. 1-844-452-1706 Call Empire Today® to schedule a FREE in-home estimate on Carpeting & Flooring. Call Today! 1-855-404-2366 DISH Network $59.99 For 190 Channels! Add High Speed Internet for ONLY $19.95/month. Call Today for $100 Gift Card! Best Value & Technology. FREE Installation. Call 1-855-837-9146 (some restrictions apply) WANTED TO BUY Wants to purchase minerals and other oil and gas interests. Send details to P.O. Box 13557 Denver, Co. 80201 MID ATLANTIC COMMUNITY PAPERS ASSOCIATION CLASSIFIED NETWORK (MACNET) ANNOUNCEMENTS SELL YOUR ANTIQUE OR CLASSIC CAR. Advertise with us. You choose where you want to advertise. 800-450-6631 visit macnetonline. com for details.

APPLIANCES Metal Roofing & Siding. Biggest selection in the area. Low Prices Cut to length. Good Quality but sold as secondary 717 445-5222

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

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

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

2020 ADM 000291

2020 ADM 000173

2019 ADM 000762

SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS. You WIN or Pay Us Nothing.

Contact Disability Group, Inc. Today! BBB Accredited. Call For Your FREE Book & Consultation. 888-649-5110

Jon M. Thomas Sr. Decedent

Elisha C. Stanley Decedent

Cherry Baylor Decedent

Attention Joint & Muscle Pain Sufferers: Clinically proven all-natural supplement helps reduce pain and enhance mobility. Call 888-7605952 to try Hydraflexin RISK-FREE for 90 days.

FOR SALE SELLING A FARM OR HOUSE? Advertise it here and neighboring publications. We can help you. Contact MACnet MEDIA @ 800-4506631 or visit our site at MACnetOnline.com

Nakia Gray 800 Maine Ave. SW Suite 200 Washington, DC 20020 Attorney

Ronald Dixon Bynum & Jenkins 1010 Cameron Street Alexandria VA 22314 Attorney

Ethel Mitchell, Esq. 8403 Colesville Road #1100 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Attorney

HEAT YOUR HOME FOR 5¢ AN HOUR! Portable infrared iHeater heats 1000 sq. ft. Slashes your heating bills by 50%. FREE Shipping too!

Use claim code 6239 WAS $499 NOW $279 Call 1-866-784-5182

HEALTH/MEDICAL VIAGRA & CIALIS! 60 pills for $99. 100 pills for $150. FREE shipping.

Money back guaranteed! 1-844-596-4376

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

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

CADNET AUTOS WANTED CARS/TRUCKS WANTED!!! All Makes/Models 2002-2019! Any Condition. Running or Not. Top $$$ Paid! Free Towing! We’re Nationwide!

Call Now: 1-888-985-1806

INSURANCE SAVE BIG on HOME INSURANCE! Compare 20 A-rated insurances companies. Get a quote within minutes. Average savings of $444/ year! Call 877-270-4283! (M-F 8am-8pm Central)

Ronald Dixon, whose address is Bynum & Jenkins, 1010 Cameron Street, Alexandria, VA 22314, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Elisha C. Stanley, 2349 Skyland Terr., SE, WDC 20020 who died on 9/16/19 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., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/30/2020. 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 10/30/2020, 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.

Gertie Dean, whose address is 5200 Acorn Drive, Temple Hills, MD 20748, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Cherry Baylor who died on December 16, 2018 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., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/14/2020. 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 11/14/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Jon M. Thomas, Jr., whose address is 4903 Daisy Creek Terrace, Beltsville, MD 20705, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jon M. Thomas, Sr. who died on January 12, 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., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/30/2020. 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 10/30/2020, 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: 4/30/2020 Jon M. Thomas Jr. Personal Representative

Date of first publication: 4/30/2020 Ronald Dixon Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

Washington Informer

30 - MAY 14 - 20, 2020

Date of first publication: 5/14/2020 Gertie Dean Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES FREE TRAINING! How to Earn a Six Figure Side Income Online. www.

DelpiSuccess.com EDUCATION AIRLINE MECHANIC TRAINING – Get FAA Technician certification. Approved for military benefits. Financial Aid if qualified. Job placement assistance. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866-453-6204 FINANCIAL MERCHANT PROCESSING: Save up to 95% on merchant account fees.

Free equipment and next day funding. MerchantFeeReduction.com HEALTH & FITNESS GENERIC VIAGRA and CIALIS! 100 Pills $99.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 888-889-5515 MISCELLANEOUS Earthlink High Speed Internet. As Low As $14.95/month (for the first 3 months.) Reliable High Speed Fiber Optic Technology. Stream Videos, Music and More! Call Earthlink Today 1-855-520-7938 Applying for Social Security Disability or Appealing a Denied Claim?

Call Bill Gordon & Assoc., Social Security Disability Attorneys, 1-855498-6323! FREE Consultations. Local Attorneys Nationwide [Mail: 2420 N St NW, Washington DC. Office: Broward Co. FL (TX/NM Bar.)] Become a Published Author. We want to Read Your Book! Dorrance Publishing-Trusted by Authors Since 1920 Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution Call for Your Free Author’s Guide 1-877-626-2213

AUTOS/CARS FOR SALE [WANTED] CARS/TRUCKS!! All Makes/Models 2002-2018! Any Condition. Running or Not. Competitive Offer! Free Towing! We’re Nationwide! Call 1-888-368-1016

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE DISH TV $59.99 FOR 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet.

Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. 1-855-270-5098.

WANTED AMERICAN & FOREIGN CARS $$ PAYING CASH $$ For Classic & Collector Cars 717-577-8206 MARYLAND STATEWIDE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS/NOTICES: Recently diagnosed with LUNG CANCER and 60+ years old? Call now! You and your family may be entitled to a SIGNIFICANT CASH AWARD. Call 855-404-8251 today. Free Consultation. No Risk.

AUTOMOBILE DONATIONS DONATE AUTOS, TRUCKS, RVs Lutheran Mission Society of MD. Compassion Place ministries help local families with food, clothing, counseling Tax deductible. MVA licensed #W1044. 410-636-0123 www.CompassionPlace.org BUSINESS SERVICES Bulk advertising at its best: advertise in over 70 newspapers and reach millions of readers with ONE call. Broaden your reach and get results for pennies per reader. Call Wanda at 410-212-0616 or email wsmith@mddcpress.com.

EDUCATION/INSTRUCTION TRAIN ONLINE TO DO MEDICAL BILLING! Become a Medical Office Professional online at CTI! Get Trained, Certified & ready to work in months! Call 888-453-2456. (M-F 8am-6pm ET)

Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 888-609-2189

FINANCIAL SERVICE Over $10K in debt? Be debt free in 24-48 months. Pay a fraction of what you owe. A+ BBB rated. Call National Debt Relief 866572-8948.

DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company.

Coverage for [350+ ] procedures. Real dental insurance -NOT just a discount plan. [Don’t wait!] Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-877-308-2834 www.dental50plus.

HEALTH/MEDICAL SUPPLIES Attention: Oxygen Users! Gain freedom with a Portable Oxygen Concentrator! No more heavy tanks and refills! Guaranteed Lowest Prices! Call the Oxygen Concentrator Store: 866-994-1121

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

CL ASSIFIEDS MISCELLANEOUS: FOR SALE Attention: VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - $99 + FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 855-820-2858 SERVICES-MISCELLANEOUS Increase your customer base and get great results by placing your ads in the MDDC – Classified Advertising network! Call today 410-212-0616 Ask for Multi-Media Specialist -Wanda & watch your results grow.

NATIONAL ADVERTISING NETWORK, INC. (NANI) AUTOMOTIVE Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans.

Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-245-0398 CARS/TRUCKS WANTED!!! 2002 and Newer! Any Condition. Running or Not. Competitive Offer! Free Towing! We’re Nationwide! Call Now: 1-888-416-2330.

EDUCATION/CAREER TRAINING AIRLINES ARE HIRING - Get FAA approved hands on Aviation mechanic training. Financial Aid for qualified students - Career placement assistance. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance 888-686-1704

GRADUATION from Page 1 commitment to stand Bison strong demonstrates that their newly-earned status as alumni is well-deserved.”

HU awarded 1, 358 degrees, including 153 master’s degrees, 86 Ph.D.’s and 26 certificates. Among the class, 46 percent of the graduates earned degrees from the College of Arts and Sciences, followed by the School of Business at 21 percent and the School of Communications at 13 percent.

The university says the majority of their graduates hail from Maryland,

TRAIN ONLINE TO DO MEDICAL BILLING! Become a Medical Office Professional online at CTI! Get Trained, Certified & ready to work in months! Call 888-572-6790. (M-F 8am-6pm ET)

PARTIES from Page 11

COMPUTER & IT TRAINING PROGRAM! Train ONLINE to get the skills to become a Computer & Help Desk Professional now! Now offering a $10,000 scholarship qualified applicants. Call CTI for details!

888-449-1713 (M-F 8am-6pm ET)

gains a following among Black women, Walker said she has learned how to overcome what had been considered setbacks of virtual partying so that revelers under her watch get an experience much like what they missed.

“I have most enjoyed creating illustrations that feature Black women and activities that incorporate many cultural references, interests, and experiences,” said Walker who lives in Alexandria, Virginia. “I am expanding offerings to include virtual baby showers, graduations, birthday parties and more. While this has been fun and a learning experience for me, I truly hope it makes the difference in the lives of African Americans and makes it easier to stay home as our community is continually impacted at disproportionate rates.”

WI

ARE YOU BEHIND $10k OR MORE ON YOUR TAXES? Stop wage & bank levies, liens & audits, unfiled tax returns, payroll issues, & resolve tax debt FAST. Call 888-626-3581 HEALTH/MEDICAL VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! 100 Generic Pills SPECIAL $99.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 888-445-5928 Hablamos Espanol DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company.

Coverage for 350 procedures. Real dental insurance. NOT just a discount plan. [Don’t wait!] Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-888-623-3036 www.dental50plus. com/58 #6258 Still paying too much for your MEDICATION? Save up to 90% on RX refill! Order today and receive free shipping on 1st order - prescription required. Call 1-888-906-1529 Recently diagnosed with LUNG CANCER and 60+ years old? Call now! You and your family may be entitled to a SIGNIFICANT CASH AWARD. Call 877-648-6308 today. Free Consultation. No Risk.

ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Inogen One G4 is capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only 2.8 pounds. FREE information kit.

Call 877-929-9587 MISCELLANEOUS CASH FOR CARS: We Buy Any Condition Vehicle, 2002 and Newer.

Nationwide Free Pick Up! Call Now: 1-800-864-5960 Attention: Auto Injury Victims. If you have suffered a serious injury in an auto accident, call us! Our attorneys have the experience to get you the full compensation you deserve! Call Now: 855-341-2271 Need some cash? Sell us your unwanted gold, jewelry, watches & diamonds. Call GOLD GEEK 1-844-209-9872 or visit www.GetGoldGeek. com/nani BBB A+ Rated. Request your 100% FREE, no risk, no strings attached appraisal kit. Call today!

New York, Georgia and California in the U.S. with international students coming predominantly from Jamaica, Nigeria, Nepal, and Trinidad and Tobago.

In Frederick’s speech addressing the graduates, he noted the hardships many have endured.

“For many of you, there was no silver spoon, yet you pressed forward to blaze a path for yourself that perhaps no one in your circle has ever seen or dared to pursue,” he said.

Frederick contended that Howard has earned a reputation as a mecca of opportunity for those not born into privilege with nearly half of the university’s undergraduate population being Pell-grant eligible. Just last year, U.S. News & World Report recognized HU as the top private university in the nation in the social mobility category.

And while Frederick says entering the job market during a pandemic won’t be easy he believes this year’s graduates remain up for the task.

“Class of 2020, you are not unfamiliar with struggle or adversity,” he said. “You have lived long enough to see the effects of the great recession, the trauma of gun violence, over-policing and the ever-advancing consequences of climate change.”

“We cannot ignore the crisis of this moment, yet we must not let it define us. The disruption and dislocation to entire industries and the economy mean further grit and creativity will be demanded of you to make a way forward.”

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 15% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-995-2490 ARE YOU BEHIND $10k OR MORE ON YOUR TAXES? Stop wage & bank levies, liens & audits, unfiled tax returns, payroll issues, & resolve tax debt FAST. Call 888-626-3581 Still paying too much for your MEDICATION? Save up to 90% on RX refill! Order today and receive free shipping on 1st order - prescription required. Call 1-888-906-1529 Recently diagnosed with LUNG CANCER and 60+ years old? Call now! You and your family may be entitled to a SIGNIFICANT CASH AWARD. Call 877-648-6308 today. Free Consultation. No Risk.

Stay in your home longer with an American Standard Walk-In Bathtub. Receive up to $1,500 off, including a free toilet, and a lifetime warranty on the tub and installation! Call us at 1-855-534-6198 AT&T Internet. Starting at $40/month w/12-mo agmt. Includes 1 TB of data per month. Get More For Your High-Speed Internet Thing.

Ask us how to bundle and SAVE! Geo & svc restrictions apply. Call us today 1-888-796-8850 DIRECTV NOW. No Satellite Needed. $40/month. 65 Channels.

Stream Breaking News, Live Events, Sports & On Demand Titles. No Annual Contract. No Commitment. CALL 1-866-825-6523 DISH TV $59.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet.

Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. 1-833-872-2545.

BECOME A PUBLISHED AUTHOR! We edit, print and distribute your work internationally. We do the work… You reap the Rewards! Call for a FREE Author’s Submission Kit: 866-951-7214

Anxiety and uncertainty, which have escalated amid the continuing coronavirus pandemic have resulted in millions of layoffs and business closings worldwide. The U.S. Department of Labor estimates more than 20.5 million people lost their jobs in April bringing unemployment claims to 14.7 percent – the highest since the Great Depression.

Economists predict America’s unemployment rate will double by summer. And in a newly-released report by the University of Tennessee, research suggests that should a recession occur, young workers and new grads will be hit the hardest.

“Younger workers typically have more trouble finding and maintaining employment in a recession.”

For many 2020 graduates, their hopes of securing their first jobs remain on hold as companies around the U.S. country have initiated hiring freezes, cancelled internships and either furloughed workers or fired them.

Additionally, as the report states, a sharp economic downturn not only impacts recent graduates’ wallets today but their prospects for future long-term health and earnings.

“People trying to enter the labor market during a recession can go longer without employer-provided health coverage, potentially leaving both their physical and financial well-being at greater risk,” the report said.

VIRTUAL CEREMONIES CONTINUE FOR NOW

To offset anxiety and to bolster encouragement among today’s graduates, nationally-known figures have ramped up efforts to cheer on the class of 2020, albeit virtually.

Former President Barack Obama will deliver a televised commencement address during an hour-long event that will also feature LeBron James and Malala Yousafzai among others. ABC, CBS, Fox and NBC will simultaneously air the special on Saturday, May 16 at 8 p.m.

Obama will also be the honorary guest of The National HBCU Commencement Celebration representing more than 24,000 students and 75 HBCUs with celebrities including Kevin Hart, Wyclef Jean, Melody Hobson and Omari Hardwick scheduled to also make appearances.

Additionally, there’ll be musical performances, school presentations and a Black Greek showcase. Presented

by CHASE the event will be livestreamed by ESSENCE studios on Saturday, May 16 at 2 p.m.

Dr. Michael J. Sorrell, president of Paul Quinn College in Dallas, will spearhead the event and says it’s especially important to have a virtual ceremony for HBCU grads.

“We want students to know that we saw them, that we heard them, that we love them and that while we could not give them the moment for which we had, we still found a way to give them a special moment,” he said. WI

Real hot chat now.

Only the Highest quality CBD products from AceWellness! We guarantee highest quality, most competitive pricing on CBD products. Softgels, Oils, Skincare, Vape & more. Coupon Code: PRINT20 1-855-681-3113 COMPUTER ISSUES? GEEKS ON SITE provides FREE diagnosis REMOTELY 24/7 SERVICE DURING COVID19. No home visit necessary. $40 OFF with coupon 86407! Restrictions apply. 866-969-2936

JOB OPPORTUNITIES A MAJOR CONCERN

AARP AUTO INSURANCE FROM THE HARTFORD TO SPEAK WITH AN AGENT AND REQUEST A FREE QUOTE CALL THE HARTFORD TO SEE HOW MUCH YOU COULD SAVE:

1-877-579-9788

Do you or a loved one struggle on the stairs?

AN ACORN STAIRLIFT IS A PERFECT SOLUTION FOR:

ü Arthritis and COPD sufferers ü Those with mobility issues ü Anyone who struggles on the stairs

THE PURCHASE OF A NEW STAIRLIFT!

CALL NOW FOR YOUR FREE INFORMATION KIT AND DVD!

1-855-841-2971

*Not valid on previous purchases. Not valid with any other offers or discounts. Not valid on refurbished models. Only valid towards purchase of a NEW Acorn Stairlift directly from the manufacturer. $250 discount will be applied to new orders.

Please mention this ad when calling. AZ ROC 278722, CA 942619, MN LC670698, OK 50110, OR CCB 198506, RI 88, WA ACORNSI894OB, WV WV049654, MA HIC169936, NJ 13VH07752300, PA PA101967, CT ELV 0425003-R5.

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

30 MINUTES FREE TRIAL 866-728-3876

18+ MAY 14 - 20, 2020 31

Blazing Fast Internet!

ADD TO YOUR PACKAGE FOR ONLY

19.99

$

/mo.

where available

2-YEAR TV PRICE GUARANTEE America’s Top 120 Package

MO.

190 CHANNELS

Including Local Channels!

CALL TODAY - For $100 Gift Card Promo Code: DISH100 for 12 Mos.

1-855-402-3370

Offer ends 7/15/20.

All offers require credit qualification, 24-month commitment with early termination fee and eAutoPay. Prices include Hopper Duo for qualifying customers. Hopper, Hopper w/Sling or Hopper 3 $5/mo. more. Upfront fees may apply based on credit qualification.

MOLD, MOLD, MILDEW & WATER LEAKAGE IN YOUR BASEMENT CAUSES HEALTH AND FOUNDATION DAMAGE.

WHAT CAN BE DONE TO FIX THE PROBLEM? WE WILL GIVE YOU A FREE EVALUATION, ESTIMATE & A FAIR PRICE.

CALL (800) 420-7783 FOR 20% OFF!!!

CALL NOW AND RECEIVE 20% DISCOUNT WITH YOUR FREE ESTIMATE OVER THOUSANDS OF BASEMENTS REPAIRED IN THIS AREA.

Expert Software Development Higher Quality Than In-House Lower Cost Than In-House Faster Than In-House

Ask us how!

TOLL FREE USA/CANADA

Experience the Difference

1-888-859-4853 itbgn.com/projects

LASER HAIR REMOVAL - IN A TUBE! NEW! Hairfree gets rid of unwanted hair and kills the root to stop new hair growth. Works like laser hair removal - in a tube - for a fraction of the cost!

Puts an end to non-stop shaving, plucking and waxing.

Be hair-free in 30 days! 100% money-back guarantee.

Order by phone: 323-405-3331 (lines open 24/7) Buy online: www.hair-free-hair-remover.com www.hair-f PROMO: 10% & FREE shipping with code: CN9

Are You Still Paying Too Much For Your Medications?

You can save up to 97% when you fill your prescriptions with our Canadian and International prescription service.

Their Price

Crestor

TM

914.18

$

Typical US Brand Price

for 40mg x 100

Our Price

Rosuvastatin* $

148

Generic equivalent of CrestorTM Generic price for for 40mg x 100

Get An Extra $15 Off & Free Shipping On Your 1st Order!

Call the number below and save an additional $15 plus get free shipping on your first prescription order with Canada Drug Center. Expires December 31, 2017.

Offer is valid for prescription orders only and can not be used in conjunction with any other offers. Valid for new customers only. One time use per household.

Use code 15FREE to receive this special offer.

Toll free: 855-541-5141

Please note that we do not carry controlled substances and a valid prescription is required for all prescription medication orders.

Use of these services is subject to the Terms of Use and accompanying policies at www.canadadrugcenter.com.

32 - MAY 14 - 20, 2020

ARBERY from Page 1 The graphic video shows the confrontation between Arbery and two men before the shooting that left Arbery dead in Brunswick, Georgia.

The men — father and son Gregory McMichael, 64, and Travis McMichael, 34 — were arrested last week and face charges of murder and aggravated assault in Arbery’s killing on Feb. 23, according to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.

Civil rights attorneys Ben Crump of Tallahassee, Florida, and S. Lee Merritt of Philadelphia, who represent Arbery’s father and mother, respectively, both wondered what took so long and why only two arrests have been made. They also questioned why the individual who shot the video hadn’t been arrested.

The case, which was initially exposed two months ago by Black Press journalist Nsenga Burton, exploded into the national spotlight this month after the lawyers began sharing a video of the shooting in local and social media.

“I believe that the video was all the probable cause you needed to arrest this murderous father-son duo,” Crump said in a television interview from his office in Tallahassee. “Those ar-

REOPENING from Page 1 testers are steeped in racism, white supremacy and anti-Black sentiments. Thusly, many Black Americans would feel unwelcome — and perhaps afraid — given the presence of Confederate flags, swastikas and hangman’s nooses.

“This is identity politics, and this is not COVID-19 as an actual issue,” Dr. Samuel K. Roberts, director of Columbia University’s Institute for Research in African American Studies and an epidemiologist, told NBC News. “First of all, if you look at who these people are, I don’t know many Black folks of any political stripe that would want to be in that crowd.”

“These are the same people who called Obama all sorts of names, racist epithets, a lot of them overlap with the Tea Party, which was a very racially charged movement,” Roberts said. “Nothing about this movement is really Black-friendly.

“This is very much an identity

5 Ahmaud Arbery (right) and his accused killers. (Courtesy photo)

rests took 74 days.”

Crump said law enforcement officers had seen from the beginning the video taken from the dashboard of a vehicle trailing behind Arbery as he jogged down a Glynn County road on Feb. 23, according to Law.com.

The video shows a pickup truck stop in the road just ahead of Arbery.

As Arbery, who was Black, approaches and tries to run around

the truck, two white men jump out. One points a shotgun at Arbery. The other stands in the back, pointing a handgun. Shots are fired.

Arbery keeps trying to run away but falls in the road a few steps in front of the truck, never to regain consciousness.

“Law enforcement officers saw the video because they had it from day one in February,”

In the District’s Ward 8, Jabril Campbell, Tyrell Washington, and Benny Pierce said while demonstrations haven’t occurred in D.C., they’re each leery that white supremacy attitudes will run amok.

acy attitudes will run amok.

“It’s hard to wear a mask even though we know our safety depends upon it,” said Campbell, 23. “Everybody wants to talk about reopening the government, reopening states.

They’re protesting. White people are protesting, and they’re mainly white supremacists, so you know their anger is eventually going to spill over even when things do open back up because they’re going to find that things aren’t the same. And, you know, they’re going to turn their anger against [African Americans].”

Washington, 28, called the protests the “most ridiculous thing I’ve ever seen.” He admitted that “they are also scary.”

“You got people in places like the Michigan capitol building holding guns and rifles and the police are just standing there,” Washington said.

“They are reminding the police, and the rest of the country that this nation belongs to them and President

politics issue, let’s be clear about that, and I say that because people on the right, and a lot of people in the middle-of-the-line Democratic Party, talk about identity politics and it’s just code for women and people of color,” he said. “White people have actual issues, while women and people of color have identity politics.”

In the District’s Ward 8, Jabril Campbell, Tyrell Washington, and Benny Pierce said while demonstrations haven’t occurred in D.C., they’re each leery that white suprem-

ARBERY Page 33

REOPENING Page 33

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

MALVEAUX from Page 20

REOPENING from Page 32 Trump has empowered them to take control, basically.

“When the stay-at-home orders are totally lifted, you know they’ll be even more empowered, and that does mean we can expect more racial stuff,” he said.

Pierce, 24, said he’s strongly considering applying for employment that allows him to work fulltime at home.

“I don’t even want to go to the grocery store, and that has nothing to do with the coronavirus anymore,” Pierce said. “I figure if I work from home, I have less chance of being a victim of some white person gone wild. I can order from Instacart and live my life at home alive instead of coming home from a company office and shot for no reason at all.”

WI

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

Media Training ■ Image Branding ■ On-Camera Coaching

■

Doris McMillon President

om ennis.c

Crump said. The arrests came only after the video went public Tuesday, May 5 — the same day Crump took on the case.

“It’s because we saw the video,” Crump said, according to Law.com. “That’s why we got an arrest finally after all these days — even though these men chased him with a shotgun and a .357 Magnum, and they executed Ahmaud Arbery in broad daylight.”

Merritt said the reaction to the video made the difference.

“I don’t think there would have been an arrest if there wasn’t outcry,” Merritt said in a tweet. “The video was already in the hands of investigators. …

Those who raised their voices … that was the turning point.”

“When you look at the video,

it harkens back to yesteryears — things we thought we had overcome in America,” Crump said.

“It looks like a lynch mob.”

Crump said the case bears a chilling similarity to that of Trayvon Martin, the Black teenager killed by a neighbor in Florida while walking home in 2012.

In both cases, Crump said, the shooters claimed justification because they were suspicious that the young Black men were involved in recent neighborhood burglaries. Yet neither were armed or connected to any crime.

“This tragedy cannot be undone, but this is the first step in what I am confident will be a swift road to justice,” Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr said in a statement. “We are grateful the Georgia Bureau of Investigation has taken quick and decisive action.” WI

■ Executive Presentation Coaching

.saded /www

ARBERY from Page 32

reward to companies that develop superbug-killing drugs. A study

by Drive-AB, a project funded by the European Commission, found that “market entry rewards” offer our best shot at a robust antibiotics pipeline. Subscription plans — like Netflix — can also achieve similar results, since the reward to the company is the same whether we use almost no antibiotics or binge during a pandemic.

Our antibiotics arsenal is severely lacking. Without new medicines, we go into battle against superbugs defenseless. WI

Let us help you develop the communication skills to compete and win!

Dennis

monia, according to a National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease study that examined lung tissue from 58 autopsies. The study notes that if it weren’t for secondary infections “most patients would have recovered” and concludes that “.treatment of secondary bacterial pneumonia, as well as stockpiling of antibiotics” should “be high priorities for pandemic planning.”

In a 2008 article, Dr. Anthony Fauci, NAID director, confirmed that most of the millions of Spanish

flu deaths were from bacteria, not the virus itself.

We’re on track to repeat history.

Fortunately, there are several actions the government could take to accelerate the creation of antibiotics. The Developing an Innovative Strategy for Antimicrobial Resistant Microorganisms (DISARM) Act would reward hospitals that appropriately prescribe antibiotics.

This would stoke demand for such drugs, and thus encourage biotech firms to invest in antibiotics research and development.

Lawmakers could also offer a

You Can Say It Like A Pro!

: Sade

CLANCY from Page 20

wrong time. Arbery’s dad described his massacre as a lynching, and it resonates with Ida B. Wells’ Pulitzer award. Who will cover the Arbery massacre with the same vigor that Ida B. investigated lynching? It took more than two months for a white father and son to be arrested, as video footage illustrated their attack on Arbery.

Why? Where is our Ida B Wells?

Ida B.’s legacy requires journalists to poke and provoke, to ask uncomfortable questions, to use their pens to seek social and economic justice. The Ida B. legacy also reminds us that in 2020, we grapple with the same challenges that we did a century ago. Kudos to Nicole Hannah Jones for taking up the baton from Ida B. with the 1619 project. Ida B’s Pulitzer was decades late, and at the same time, right on time.

WI

Photo

most important work, including “Southern Horrors” (1892) and “Red Record” (1895) were published before the Pulitzer was established. Based on her investigations, she wrote that “ten thousand Negroes have been killed in cold blood (through lynching) without the formality of judicial trial and legal execution”. The Pulitzer Prizes were occasionally bestowed on journalists who exposed lynching, KKK operations, and other race matters, including integration clashes, race-related school closings in Virginia (1959), the John Birch Society, the Watts uprisings (they called them riots), Selma and more. Ebony Magazine’s Monetta Sleet won a Pulitzer for a photo of Coretta Scott King at Dr. King’s funeral.

By and large, though, the Black press was peripheral in Pulitzer consideration. While the Pulitzers have had a progressive stance, awarding journalists who covered college clashes (Cornell, Kent State 1969), jail peonage (Florida 1924), exploitation in meat-packing plants, their inability to consider excellence in the Black press is an oversight. Ida B. Wells would not have been a candidate for a Pulitzer citation without the ways the Black press embraced her. Perhaps the Pulitzers should consider the Black press, too often ignored, in their next citation.

Contemporary events remind us of the enduring legacy of Ida B. Wells’ work. Ahmaud Arbery, a man who was executed weeks before his 26th birthday, encountered a rabid white father and son who shot him because he was in the wrong neighborhood at the

C O M M U N I C A T I O N S

301.292.9141/FAX 301.292.9142/Mobile 703.819.0920 doris@mcmilloncommunications.com/www.mcmilloncommunications.com

BE DEBT FREE in 24–48 months!

If you owe more than $10,000 in credit card or other debt, see how we can help.

Call today:

1-888-318-8155 ACCREDITED BUSINESS ®

AIRLINE CAREERS Get FAA approved maintenance training at campuses coast to coast. Job placement assistance.

Financial Aid for qualifying students. Military friendly.

Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance

800-481-7894

MAY 14 - 20, 2020 33

Lutheran Mission Society

Alan Amrhine, Communications Director Lutheran Mission Society

“MDDC has connected donors with the LMS Vehicle Donation Program for over six years! Great exposure, cost effective, and Wanda is so helpful.”

Attention: VIAGRA & CIALIS Users There’s a More Affordable & Effective Alternative to U.S. Pharmacy High Prices!

For discreet home delivery, CALL NOW!

800-995-1351

50 Pill Special:

Only $99 Plus Free Shipping!

Operators Available 24/7!

Pick a state! , any state MDDC Press works with fellow press associations across the country to give you the best possible buys on advertising wherever you need it. We take care of scheduling and placement at no extra cost to you, and you save time and money. Call Wanda Smith at ext. 6 today.

Press Service 2000 Capital Drive, Annapolis, MD 21401

Subscribe!

1-855-721-6332 www.mddcpress.com

There are many reasons to read The Washington Informer...

Each week you’ll get news from The District of Columbia, Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, and Northern Virginia.

You will discover Arts and Entertainment, Social Tidbits, Religion, Sports, People’s Viewpoints, Letters to the Editor, Classified Ads and more!

And best of all… No crime, no dirty gossip, just positive news and information each week, which is why…

The Washington Informer is all about you!

Name.......................................................................................................

Address...................................................................................................

City, State, Zip.........................................................................................

Phone number (daytime).........................................................................

Yes! I want to subscribe for: n1 year/$45.00 n 2years/$60.00 Method of payment: n Check Enclosed n Visa/MasterCard Credit card number..................................................................................

Signature........................................................................................

34 - MAY 14 - 20, 2020

CREWE from Page 21 aggressions likely contributes to a higher allostatic load (wear and tear on the body). According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), just under one-third of African American adults with mental illness receive treatment each year, compared to the U.S. average of 43%.

Mental health professionals, like Dr. Janeen Cross, licensed clinical social worker and assistant professor, contributing factors to the higher prevalence in the African American community include racism, poverty, religious beliefs, trauma and stigma. I strongly believe that persistent racism and poverty are major sources of our stressors leading to mental disorders. It is exhausting to face racism day in and day out, year in and year out, decade in and decade out and on and on. When resilience is acknowledged the path out of poverty versus

EDELIN from Page 21 parities, which deprive minority and immigrant communities of the means to access quality health care, employment, college, and well-paying jobs that provide benefits. But while some progress has been made in education, gaping deficits remain.

There is the student achievement gap, which reflects poorer educational outcomes. In English language arts, some 28 percent of African American students meet or exceed statewide benchmarks for college- and career-readiness, compared to 85 percent of their white peers, reveals research from the D.C. Policy Center based on D.C. Office of the State Superintendent of Education data.

COOPER from Page 21 have been instigated and led by rightfully indignant Democrats. A Republican majority in both Houses would have had to scramble to lead the charge. Democrats would never tolerate such craziness and disrespect for the Constitution and blatant abuses of power. The GOP Party of Trump will.

Contrary to what the president was saying as recently as a few weeks ago, the coronavirus was never a “Democratic hoax.” Truth be told, developing countries have counted votes more quickly than Democrats did after the last Iowa caucus. If Democrats could not release final results in under two weeks, how could we have possibly pulled off a hoax of this magnitude?

The U.S. unemployment rate jumped to 14.7 percent in April, the

removal of structural barriers such as poor-quality education, health disparities, economic insecurity, we perpetuate mental illness in our community. Resilience is important but over reliance upon it creates added stress. Growing up with “success” messaging such as “that you have to be twice as good,” “beat them by a mile,” and “ignore the racism,” adds to the allostatic load. Dr. Tracy Whitaker, associate professor, writes about how Black parents give “the talk” to their young sons to provide them with the rules of engagement for protection against racism. Despite its good intentions, this is a heavy load for a child and potentially has lasting negative effects.

And now, we are enduring the coronavirus that is disparately affecting African Americans in many ways, including death, positive diagnosis, loss of work, access to testing, inadequate resources to home- school children, and more. Giv-

en these added stressors, it is important to be aware of when help is needed and reach out for it. There is no shame in getting help to get through this time of crisis in our community. If you know someone who shows symptoms like eating or sleeping too much, having low or no energy, feeling helpless or hopeless, yelling or fighting with family and friends, having persistent negative thoughts, depression, anxiety, complicated grief, and more consider talking to them about it and referring them for help. And especially if you feel that someone is thinking of harming themselves, immediately call the hotlines like the National Suicide Prevention Helpline (1-800-273TALK) and Veterans Crisis Line (1-800273-8255, press 1).

Stop the stigma about mental health problems in our community and seek help for self or others. You may feel alone, but you don’t have to be alone.

WI

Comparable numbers for math are 21 percent and 79 percent, respectively. Latino figures for both subjects are 48 percent.

This has improved somewhat in recent years — although the National Assessment of Educational Progress finds that the nation’s capital has larger gaps than all other major U.S. cities.

Increasing assistance to students most at-risk of academic underachievement would help address the disparities revealed by the pandemic and woefully under-resourced households, as public education has had to move online and provide meals and other necessities outside of school.

D.C.’s charter schools, which provide tuition-free education to nearly half of the city’s public school stu-

dents independently of the traditional school system, should be given the right to offer admission preference to at-risk students — which includes those who are homeless, are in foster care, qualify for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

The federal government has shamefully decided to treat the District as a territory rather than a state, per previous relief efforts, depriving the city of $725 million, despite D.C. contributing more dollars in federal income tax to the U.S. Treasury than 22 other states. This error must not be repeated.

This crisis with its attendant tragedy points the way to an overdue, more equitable settlement for District residents. WI

highest level since the Great Depression. As many businesses shut down or severely curtailed operations to try to limit the spread of COVID-19.

The Labor Department has reported that 20.5 million Americans abruptly lost their jobs, wiping out a decade of employment gains in a single month.

Today, more than 80,000 Americans are dead from COVID-19. In response, President Trump has encouraged scientists to explore injecting Americans with Lysol and other disinfectants. In the funeral industry, that is called embalming. On May 7, we were told that a vaccine is not needed and that “it will simply go away.”

When asked how he knows this, President Trump pointed to his brain, as if that is comforting to anyone. Communities without test kits are being encouraged to reopen.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, now under “modified quarantine,” and other pandemic and health experts are selectively muzzled or dismissed by the administration. Secret Service agents and senior White House staff have tested positive for COVID-19. The president, however, refuses to lead by example and wear a mask either publicly or privately.

President Trump blames his predecessor for not developing tests for a virus that did not exist when he was president. The wannabe emperor in the White House has no clothes, brain, compassion or empathy. He also has no common sense. But do we as Americans? November will tell. No American should not be comfortable with Donald Trump in the cockpit of United Flight USA. WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

WHERE

THE

MONEY

GOES.

Thanks to the support of Maryland Lottery players, this year we were able to generate over $2 billion in sales, award over $1.3 billion in prizes and contribute nearly $600 million to support Maryland’s education, safety, environment and public health. Not bad. We’d like to think we generated a few million smiles as well.

Please play responsibly. For help, visit mdgamblinghelp.org or call 1-800-GAMBLER. Must be 18 years or older to play.

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

MAY 14 - 20, 2020 35

If I could do one thing, I’d make sure we stay healthy.

If you could do one thing for your community, what would it be? More walk-in clinics? More funding for health services closer to home?

Completing the 2020 Census is a safe and easy way to inform billions in funding for hundreds of services and programs in your community.

Respond online, by phone, or by mail.

Complete the census at:

2020CENSUS.GOV Paid for by U.S. Census Bureau.

36 - MAY 14 - 20, 2020 B24097_89a_Census_Motivation_Seniors_V2_Newspaper_SizeH_9_85x10_935.indd 02.25.2020 EPSON jn

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

4C Newspaper - Size H NON-Bleed Size: 9.85” x 10.935”