The Washington Informer - November 14, 2024 by The Washington Informer

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

On Nov. 12, District Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) and the D.C. Council returned to the John A. Wilson Building from a holiday weekend following what many considered the disappointment of former President Donald J. Trump’s electoral victory.

The council dived into a legislative agenda centering on independent oversight of the Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services (DYRS), adequate preparation for and response to seizures on school grounds, and illegal dumping, among other issues.

Meanwhile, Bowser outlined her plans for engaging the new Trump administration and GOP-controlled Congress. Below is an overview of what took place on the fifth REPORT Page 11

District Honors the Legacy of Ruby Bridges More than 60 Years Later Safe Passage to School a Priority in District Today

By Dr. Patrise Holden WI Contributing Writer

On the morning of November 14, 1960, 6-year-old Ruby Bridges, wearing pigtails, bobby socks and black Mary Jane shoes ascended the steps of her new school, becoming the first African American to attend the formerly whites-only William Frantz Elementary School in New Orleans. Surrounded by three U.S. Marshals protecting her from a racially charged crowd throwing items and hurling threats, young Bridges’ courage catapulted conversations about equality and safety for African Americans that not only promoted change during the Civil Rights Movement, but continues to inspire more than 60 years later.

“For me as a child, home was not a safe space, school was my safe place, so Ruby’s story of lacking that foundational safe space emotionally moved me,” said creative and safety advocate Sweeetz LaBamba, who decided to join-in on

Elissa De Souza Celebrates, Stands by Preemptive, Congratulatory Call from Mayor Bowser’s Office

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

D.C. Board of Elections (DCBOE) has not yet declared a winner in the Advisory Neighborhood Commission 6/8F02 race, but Elissa De Souza said she had more than enough reason to celebrate.

In an online post that inspired more skepticism than kudos last week, De Souza disclosed that she received a congratulatory message from the Executive Office of the Mayor (EOM).

Hours later, she told followers that the phone call and email sparked contention between her and DCBOE about the outcome of the race.

“It doesn’t seem like the two departments are communicating [because] this guy [from the mayor’s office] was so sure,” said De Souza, who declined to reveal the name of the EOM staffer.

“He said he had a letter on his desk to contact me,” she told The Inform-

Vol 60 No 5.

5Six year old Ruby Bridges, met each day by angry mobs, leaves school under the protection of United States Marshals. The District will celebrate Bridges’ inspirational legacy with a two-day educational and community event Nov. 13-14. (Photo/Department of Justice)

5D.C. Board of Elections has not yet declared a winner in the Advisory Neighborhood Commission 6/8F02 race, but Elissa De Souza disclosed that she received a congratulatory message from the Executive Office of the Mayor. (Courtesy Photo)

5Despite concerns about a potentially unhinged president, Bowser said she plans to treat President-elect Donald Trump and new GOP congressional leadership no differently than other federally elected officials she’s encountered as District mayor. (WI File Photo)

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Judith Jamison, Legendary Artistic Director of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Dies at 81

Renowned dancer and choreographer Judith Jamison, who led the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater for over two decades, died Nov. 9 at New York-Presbyterian Weill Cornell Medical Center after a brief illness. She was 81.

“We remember and are grateful for her artistry, humanity, and incredible light, which inspired us all,” said Christopher Zunner, managing director of public relations at the dance company, in a statement announcing Jaminson’s death.

Born on May 10, 1943, in Philadelphia, Jamison discovered her love for dance early on, beginning lessons at age 6 at the Judimar School of Dance in her hometown.

Encouraged initially to study the piano and violin, Jamison gravitated toward ballet, later training under African American dance pioneer Katherine Dunham.

Jamison joined the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in 1965, quickly becoming a celebrated figure in modern dance when few Black women held prominence in the field.

Her defining moment came in 1971 with the premiere of “Cry,” a 17-minute solo created by Alvin Ailey as a tribute “to all Black women everywhere— especially our mothers.”

This piece became a hallmark of the Ailey troupe and earned Jamison international acclaim.

Alvin Ailey later wrote of Jamison’s performance, “With ‘Cry,’ she became herself. Once she found this contact, this release, she poured her being into everybody who came to see her perform.”

She began her choreography work in the 1980s, premiering her first ballet, “Divining,” with the AiJUDITH Page 30

Feeling Love from Whitney Houston in Kennedy Center Production

Whitney Houston’s heart, soul and iconic sound were presented in the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) production of “The Voice of Whitney: A Symphonic Celebration” at the Kennedy Center on Nov. 8. Conducted by Steven Reineke, NSO performed symphonic arrangements with technologically sharpened video and vocal tracks of the singer. The audience heard the hits and Houston’s beloved rendition of “The National Anthem.” A video of Houston singing “I’ll Always Love You” was from her historic South Africa concert.

“We captured Whitney's vocals from different performances,” said Reineke. “Some videos, movies and photos so you feel Whitney Houston in the building.” A touching part of the production was seeing Houston and her mother, Cissy Houston, sing together—clips included before the latter’s passing in October.

“It’s just so wonderful that we were able to come

Fatal Shooting at Tuskegee Homecoming Results in Demands for Better Security, Resources on Campus

After a fatal shooting early Sunday morning at Tuskegee University resulted in calls for stricter security protocols and immediate reform, the historically Black institution is now implementing new safety measures.

The land-grant university – founded by Dr. Booker T. Washington – was winding down from its 100th homecoming anniversary when a gunman opened fire on the school’s main campus in Tuskegee, Alabama. The tragedy resulted in at least 16 injuries, 12 by gunfire and four unrelated to the gunshots, and the death of 18-year-old La’Tavion Johnson of Troy, Alabama, who was not a student, according to the local coroner.

“I have been coming to Tuskegee University homecomings since the 1980s when I was a student. We cele-

brate our heritage in very soul-steering ways and events that I'm sure not everyone understands,” said university president Mark Brown in a press conference on Monday, Nov. 11. “Nothing we do in any way is associated with violence.” Tuskegee University is no longer an open campus, Brown said, and requires…. Further, classes were canceled for the week, and only faculty and staff returned to campus on Wednesday, per an update from the Tuskegee University Office of Communications Tuesday evening.

The CEO shared that the new campus security chief, who was appointed Monday morning, would be conducting a full review, including all implementations of new security procedures. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

5Whitney Houston. (Courtesy photo: Marcus Bryan-Brown, courtesy of The Estate of Whitney E. Houston)

WHITNEY Page 5

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Black Wealth Summit Focuses on Artificial Intelligence:

‘Don’t Get Left Behind’ Experts Emphasize Benefits of AI

By James Wright WI Staff Writer

Cedric Nash, a wealth coach, author of two books on creating African American millionaires and founder of the Black Wealth Summit, is a self-admitted geek and has watched the developing technology of artificial intelligence (AI) closely over the past several years.

When he realized that artificial intelligence is quickly becoming a way of life in the business sector, he decided the booming technological tool will become the focus of his fourth annual Black Wealth Summit that occurred Nov. 8-9 in Northwest, D.C. at The Park at Fourteenth and Howard Theatre.

“It is anticipated by experts that artificial intelligence will replace 300,000 jobs,” Nash, 60, said.

Nash held his conference, as African American entrepreneurs, business leaders, politicians and public policy professionals are having an ongoing dialogue on the impact of artificial intelligence on the Black community.

“It is critical to increase the education level of Black entrepreneurs toward AI. We need to learn to embrace it because it can become a tool that will help us close the racial wealth gap,” Nash told The Informer.

EXPERTS SHARE BENEFITS, DEVELOPMENTS, IMPORTANCE OF AI

The Stanford University Human Centered Artificial Intelligence Center released a white paper on March 1, “Exploring the Impact of

WHITNEY from Page 4

back with such a great memory,” said Pat Houston, the celebrated singer’s sister-in-law and executor of The Estate of Whitney E. Houston. “The audience may have thought we included it because of [Cissy Houston’s] passing. But you know, it’s just family.”

AI on Black Americans: Considerations for the Congressional Black Caucus’s Policy Initiatives.”

The white paper explains: “while AI holds the potential to deepen racial inequalities, it can also benefit Black communities.”

According to the research, artificial intelligence can provide economic opportunities for Black communities and address race related challenges.

“If deployed carefully, AI has the power to improve access to healthcare and education, as well as create new economic opportunities,” according to the white paper. “[AI] has the potential to redress systemic biases in banking and financial services, prompting greater access to economic opportunities for Black Americans.”

During the Black Wealth Summit, National Cyber Director Harry J. Coker Jr. emphasized artificial intelligence as economically beneficial to African Americans during his speech on Nov. 8 at The Park.

“Cyber influences every part of our lives,” Coker said. “It influences how we live; it influences how we work; and it influences how we play. It is tough to name anything that cyber does not influence.”

Coker explained that there are presently 500,000 cyber jobs available, and to enter the field, one does not need to have a background in STEM or possess a bachelor’s degree.

“We are moving toward a knowledge-based economy,” he said. “People who work in the cyber field make $100,000-$200,000 annually. Women are especially encouraged to investigate the field.”

Coker said entrepreneurs will

The Kennedy Center was only the second time the innovative production received the live treatment. The concept was created with the Estate of Whitney Houston, Park Avenue Artists, and Primary Wave Music. Pat Houston hopes audiences will enjoy the production with other symphony orchestras nationally and internationally.

need to have some cyber competence in the future if they want to secure Medicaid and Medicare contracts because the government will want to know what cybersecurity thresholds the businesses have.

At the Howard Theatre on Nov. 9, local entrepreneur Marc Barnes, owner of The Park at Fourteenth, told the gathering of 400 people that artificial intelligence is becoming more common, even in the entertainment business.

“Face recognition to get into a club is on the horizon,” Barnes said. “AI is already used for certain financial transactions. People don’t understand the importance of this. They are moving forward on AI now. Any type of business you have you are going to have to use it, or you will be way behind.”

In addition, Alicia Lyttle, a digital entrepreneur, displayed an organizational chart of the employees at her consulting company. In the chart, Lyttle, a relative and a colleague’s photos were shaded in green, while the rest of the employees had a white background.

“I want you to know that all of the people with the green background are human, while those in white are AI-generated,” she said to the shock of many in the audience. “AI does our press releases. It used to take three hours to do a press release and now it only takes five minutes. You can save a lot of money and time using AI in your business.” Lyttle had one piece of crucial advice for Black Wealth Summit attendees on artificial intelligence. “Don’t get left behind,” she said.

WI @JamesWrightJr10

In addition to hearing the legend sing after her death in February 2012, the sister-in-law was excited for people to listen to the late artist talk about herself.

“We wanted a piece where you could hear Whitney’s voice beyond music,” Pat Houston said. “No one can speak for her better than she had.”

At Pepco, we’re committed to supporting local non-profits and organizations as they open more doors for people in our community. It’s another way we’re delivering more than energy. Learn more at pepco.com/PowerOfCommunity

3Cedric Nash is a wealth coach, author, entrepreneur and founder of the Black Wealth Summit. (Courtesy Photo/Oakland Consulting Group)

© Potomac Electric Power Company, 2024

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facts

NOV. 14

1915 – Booker T. Washington, a former slave who became a celebrated educator, author, orator and civil rights leader, dies in Tuskegee, Alabama, of hypertension at 59.

NOV. 15

1881 – Inventor Payton Johnson chair.

1898 – Hairdresser and inventor patents an improved hairbrush, which was easier to clean.

1950 – Hockey player Arthur Dorrington the first Black to sign an NHL contract, joining the New York Rangers organization.

NOV. 16

1873 – Composer and musician known as the "Father of the Blues," is born in Florence, Alabama.

1901 – Pioneering musician and song writer Jesse Stone aka Charles Calhoun who wrote the rock 'n' roll staple "Shake, Rattle and Roll," is born in Atchison, Kansas.

NOV. 17

1930 – Famed novelist and professor of "Things Fall Apart," is born in Ogidi, Nigeria.

2004 – President Bush announces his nomination of Rice as secretary of state. She is the first Black woman to serve in the position.

1911 – The Omega Psi Phi fraternity is founded on the campus of Howard University.

1972 – Several Blacks are elected to Congress, including Barbara Jordan, the first Black and first

NOV. 14 - 20, 2024

SOURCE: BLACK AMERICA WEB

woman to be elected from Texas.

Author Gloria Naylor won the Lillian Smith Award on this date for her novel "Mama Day."

NOV. 18

The Jonestown Massacre occurs in Guyana. More than 900 followers of cult leader Jim Jones, most of them Black, commit suicide or are murdered.

Famed jazz singer and bandleader Cab Callodies in Hockessin, Delaware, at 86, months after a severe stroke.

NOV. 19

Tap dancer and actor Savion Glover is born in Newark, New Jersey.

NOV. 20

Howard Seminary, later Howard University, is founded in Washington, D.C.

1923 – Inventor Garrett Morgan patents the three-position traffic signal.

1952 – The Academy Award given to Hattie McDaniel, the first Black American to win an Oscar, is bequeathed to Howard University, though the trophy never makes it to Howard and mysteriously vanishes. 1962 – President John F. Kennedy issues Executive

CONDOLEEZZA RICE

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P INT

BY SARAFINA WRIGHT

NICCOLE B. / NEW YORK, N.Y.

VERONICA SMITH / LONG BEACH, CALIF. Thomas Guides!

I miss spending Sunday dinners together.

JULIA SIMMONS / WASHINGTON, D.C. Drive-in theaters!

DARRYLE HAIGLER / WASHINGTON, D.C. Beepers, Nokia phones, Blackberry, and the T-Mobile Sidekick.

MARGARET WILLIAMS / CHICAGO, ILL. Water fountains in the park!

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

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OptimoNova AI Helps Black Entrepreneurs Tap Into Benefits of Artificial Intelligence

Former Byte Back CEO Pushes His D.C.-Based AI Company

By James Wright WI Staff Writer

Joe Paul’s visionary leadership has catapulted him to several top roles with organizations such as The Stafford Foundation, Management Leadership for Tomorrow, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. and Byte Back, a nonprofit with the mission of educating District residents to become more digitally savvy. However, earlier this year Paul stepped down as CEO of Byte Back to start OptimaNova AI, an artificial intelligence (AI) company that helps African Americans tap into the beneficial tools of the emerging technology.

“AI is revolutionizing the world,” said Paul, 45, who is also the founder of Campus 2 Careers Solutions, a nonprofit designed to help young professionals with their career advancement. “I saw an opportunity. We as Blacks have traditionally been on the tail end of technology. Plus, we are users and consumers and not owners of companies like Google and Amazon. With AI we can come on the front end.”

Paul, a graduate of Florida State University in Tallahassee, with a bachelor’s degree in social sciences and linguistics (Russian and Spanish), has been fascinated with AI and wants to help other Black business owners benefit from using it. His foray as an artificial intelligence

“Artificial intelligence is a friend of mankind,” Paul, who resides in Ward 5, said. “AI in the wrong hands can cause a great deal of harm. AI in the right hands can reshape aspects of society. AI is designed to supplement jobs, not supplant jobs and improve the quality of life.”

Paul used the example of the virtual assistant — an AI tool that helps people organize their professional and personal lives, and a translation app that translates words and phrases in one language into another in a matter of seconds — that can make life easier.

“These tools can be used on your smartphone,” Paul said, “without the need of hiring someone to do those things.”

entrepreneur is part of a growing number of minorities seeking to utilize the digital tool for commercial purposes.

A May 9 Inc. article, “Minority-Led Small Businesses Are Using Generative AI in High Numbers, Citing an Increase Ability to Level the Playing Field,” reports that Black and brown entrepreneurs are beginning to benefit from AI tools.

According to the article, GoDaddy—an Internet domain registry, domain registrar and web hosting company—reported in a survey that 33% of Black and 30% of Latino business owners have used artificial intelligence in the past few months, in comparison to 24% of white and 27% of Asian entrepreneurs.

“Those relying on or trying GenAI for their business use it most frequently for content creation, regardless of race or age,” the GoDaddy survey said. “However, Black-owned microbusinesses are almost twice as likely as white-owned microbusinesses to use it for customer service.”

THE PURPOSE AND GOALS OF OPTIMANOVA AI

Paul said OptimaNova AI is a company dedicated to using artificial intelligence for the good of humanity and to help those who are less fortunate.

OptimaNova AI is an online company, it has no brick-andmortar space. Paul said the online workplace cuts down on operating expenses and allows his 11 employees to work at home. Paul said when hiring employees, technical knowledge is a plus but not the main requirement.

“I want people who are working for me to be kind, nice and want to give back to the community,” he said. “I want people with extremely high soft skills. If I don’t like you, it will be hard for me to work with you.”

People who are leaders of nonprofits and businesses can visit the OptimaNova AI website and take a diagnostic test to determine their artificial intelligence aptitude. Then OptimaNova AI personnel will consult with their clients on advising the best route to achieving their artificial intelligence goals.

OptimaNova AI offers clients training courses and initiatives to fit its needs. Paul said one of his projects, New Leaf, will be unveiled soon.

“New Leaf will aid justice involved individuals in finding services for re-entry, employment, housing and social services,” he said. “New Leaf will connect you to what is needed. And it can be done on your phone.”

For more information, visit optimaimpact.com. WI

@JamesWrightJr10

5Joe Paul, the former CEO of Byte Back is the proprietor of a new business, OptimaNova AI. (Courtesy Photo/Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.)

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Inaugural Fusion Festival Takes Place at Anacostia Arts Center

By Demarco Rush WI Contributing Writer

The inaugural Fusion Festival, an event aimed at uniting a diverse group of leaders and innovators from the DMV region, was powered by Washington Area Community Investment Fund (WACIF) and held at Anacostia Arts Center on Oct. 19. Featuring workshops, keynote speeches, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, the event brought together small business owners, creatives of all kinds and visionaries looking to celebrate innovation and community.

Jess Randolph, associate creative director at the Anacostia Arts Center, emphasized the importance of the Fusion Festival.

“If you do not create opportunities to celebrate the thought leaders, creatives, entrepreneurs and thinkers, nobody is going to do it,” Randolph told The Informer.

Amanda Stevenson, owner of the Fresh Food Factory— a retail market and enterprise offering low-to-moderate income residents in D.C., Maryland and Virginia (DMV) various engagement opportunities with the food and farming industries— shared her entrepreneurial journey during the event. The DMV-based business owner offered advice and encouragement for other business owners looking to go further in the food industry and serve their communities in valuable ways.

“Food is multi-solving. It is an income path, but also, food is medicine. It should be the first source of medicine that we should actually look at and consider when we’re looking to treat any ailment, disease or virus,” Stevenson said.

The insights were well received, with many people writing notes and inquiring on how to get started post discussions.

Fusion Festival attendees also participated in a networking lunch, where business owners collaborated with one another and brainstormed potential partnerships and endeavors.

After attending the event Aiden Abuki, praised the Fusion Festival’s

programming and the next steps the day’s activities sparked for many.

“The conversations we had,” Abuki said, “were very informative and enlightening.”

He celebrated the festival's ability to bring entrepreneurs and creatives together in order to help all participants network, grow, thrive and provide the best options for the communities they serve.

The Future Depends on Us

“The energy and the vibe was great,” Abuki told The Informer. WI

Laying the groundwork for a brighter and cleaner tomorrow

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

5 Attendees enjoy the inaugural Fusion Festival, powered by Washington Area Community Investment Fund and held at the Anacostia Arts Center on Oct. 19. (Courtesy Photo/Instagram)

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D.C. hip-hop artist Pinky KillaCorn checking out the news in The Washington Informer. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

University of the District of Columbia officials cut the ribbon at the institution’s Firebird Research Farm in Beltsville, Maryland on Nov. 8. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

floor of the Wilson Building.

A NEW FEDERAL GOVERNMENT, SAME ENGAGEMENT STRATEGY

Bowser, flanked by public safety officials and leaders in the Office of the City Administrator, recently expressed her commitment to working with the Trump administration when it returns to the White House next year.

She identified her ambitions for Downtown and the federal government employees as priority.

“We should all be focused on quick areas that aren’t new [like] how we can make sure our federal workforce is back to work and how to make better use of underused properties,” she told reporters on Nov. 12.

Since Trump defeated Vice President Kamala Harris (D) on Nov. 5, members of his team have reportedly spoken with the Bowser administration about what Bowser called a smooth transition and cooperative relationship.

As it relates to Trump’s promise to cut federal jobs, Bowser pointed out that some of the jobs in question aren’t located within the city boundaries.

“That’s a question for the metro region,” Bowser said. “We’re going to make our pitch.”

Meanwhile, in light of Trump’s choice of Tom Homan, former acting director of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, as his administration’s “border czar,” Bowser emphasized the importance of helping D.C.’s immigrant population, particularly Temporary Protected Status recipients.

“While we don’t have control over presidential enforcement or immigrant policies, we should advocate for immigration reforms that allow people to come here legally,” Bowser said. However, tackling immigration and other aforementioned priorities might be an uphill battle.

Election results show that, as of Nov. 12, the GOP is poised to keep control of the U.S. House of Representatives. With a GOP-dominant Senate and conservative-leaning Supreme Court, it appears that the ball is in Trump’s court, politically.

With widespread fears of another Jan. 6 catastrophe, the Metropolitan Police Department continues to engage other law enforcement agencies, in advance of election certification and

5D.C. Councilmember Christina Henderson (I-At large) counted among those who expressed concern about the legislation that aims to strengthen independent oversight of Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services. (WI File Photo)

inauguration, to secure a police force of at least 4,000.

Despite concerns about a potentially unhinged president, Bowser said she plans to treat Trump and new GOP congressional leadership no differently than other federally elected officials she’s encountered as District mayor.

“We have to actually tell them about ourselves, who we are .. and largely what they can do,” Bowser said, revealing that she will most likely, once again, host a meet-and-greet for newly elected congressional members. “We need the return to Downtown and the majesty of the federal government. We know the administration is focused on making the government more efficient, but we want to talk about the infrastructure for a productive workforce.”

COUNCIL MEMBERS DEBATE FEASIBILITY, EFFECTIVENESS OF INDEPENDENT DYRS OVERSIGHT

On its first reading, the D.C. Council approved, in a 10-2 vote, legislation that D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson (D) introduced this summer on behalf of the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) to strengthen independent oversight of DYRS. However, the council didn’t do without reservations that will most likely be addressed in the days leading up to the second reading.

For one, D.C. Councilmember Christina Henderson (I-At large) expressed doubt that the legislation, titled the Recidivism Reduction, Oversight, and Accountability for DYRS Act, gets at the heart of what’s preventing adjudicated youth at Youth Services Center, a DYRS-operated

facility, from receiving court-ordered services in a timely fashion.

“When you talk to DYRS around why it’s taking so long to place young people, it’s not because someone isn’t there to process paperwork, but some of this is external,” Henderson told Mendelson during the council’s Nov. 12 Committee of the Whole hearing. “ [It’s about] whether you have shelter beds and how far parents are willing to go. We have kids placed as far as Utah. Maybe there’s something else we should be doing.”

The Recidivism Reduction, Oversight and Accountability for DYRS Act, formerly known as the ROAD Act, navigated the legislative process after D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser’s attempts to phase out independent oversight of DYRS. It establishes a permanent oversight entity in the Office of the D.C. Auditor (ODCA) to ensure that young residents receive their placements more efficiently.

Other tenets of the bill include requirements that DYRS develops an individualized rehabilitation plan prior to a dispositional hearing; provides services to residents within 30 days of a deposition order’s entry; and develops a discharge and reentry plan when a child receives placement outside of their parent or guardian’s home.

The bill differs from Bowser’s UPLIFT Amendment Act, which, among other things, narrows the circumstances under which a youth who comes in contact with the justice system could avoid a courtroom. During the council’s Nov. 12 legislative meeting, Mendelson emphasized the need for DYRS oversight beyond what he believed the D.C. Council is able to accomplish. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY

Prince George’s County Political Updates

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

ALSOBROOKS’ ELEVATION TO SENATE OPENS UP COUNTY EXECUTIVE SEAT

With the successful election of Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks to the Senate, there will soon be a vacancy in the county’s highest office. That vacancy will be filled via special election if Alsobrooks resigns before the Dec. 3 gavel exchange, or via Prince George’s County Council appointment if she steps down after.

5 With Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks’ victory in Maryland’s race for the U.S. Senate seat, local leaders such as County Council Chair Jolene Ivey (pictured) have announced their interest in filling the vacancy for the county’s highest office. (WI File Photo/Anthony Tilghman)

In the event that Alsobrooks resigns prior to Dec. 3, County Administrator Tara Jackson would lead Prince George’s until her successor is elected and sworn in.

County Council Chair Jolene Ivey (D- District 5), former County Executive Rushern Baker, Prince George’s State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy, and At-Large Councilmember Calvin Hawkins (D) have all announced their interest in filling Alsobrooks’ seat.

A favorability poll sent to several politicians in early November gives an early lead to Councilmember Ivey and State’s Attorney Braveboy, although no direct polls have yet been conducted.

Ivey has countywide name recognition from her 2014 run for Lieutenant Governor alongside then-Attorney General Doug Gansler, along with her County Council campaigns, and her husband’s (Maryland Democratic Rep. Glenn Ivey) tenure as both a state’s attorney and congressman. She currently chairs the County Council and her most recent campaign for the at-large council seat, which she won last week, centered on her leadership ability and stewardship of the county’s finances.

Braveboy, who originally announced her interest in the seat last September, would likely have the support of progressive groups and Councilmembers who coalesced behind Tim Adams’ candidacy for the county council in August. She has received praise for her office’s efforts to mentor and support returning citizens, and her staff are present at countless community fairs and other events.

Baker ran for governor in both 2018 and 2022. Although he dropped out of the 2022 race prior to Election Day, his campaign largely centered around addressing crime and improving economic development.

5 With Republican leaders in Congress fighting against the funding, it’s likely that Baltimore’s Key Bridge repairs will not receive the federal dollars pledged by President Joe Biden in the new Trump administration. (WI File Photo/Anthony Tilghman)

Hawkins served as a senior advisor to former County Executive Baker and led the council as chair from 2021 to 2022, presiding over the tumultuous COVID-19 pandemic.

In addition to the potential county executive special election, Ivey’s council at-large victory on Nov. 5 also sets the stage for another special election to fill her District 5 seat.

DNC Delegate Ryan Middleton, Board of Education Member Shayla Adams-Stafford, Cheverly Mayor Kayce Munyeneh, and former County Council staffer Kendal Gray have all expressed interest in the race to represent the central county district, which stretches from Colmar Manor and Cottage City to Glenn Dale.

Middleton has already been endorsed by political leaders including Alsobrooks, Baker, and State Sen. Joanne Benson (D- District 24).

PRESIDENT TRUMP LIKELY TO KEEP FBI HQ IN DC

With Donald Trump as the 47th president-elect and the impending Republican takeover of the Senate, political and union leaders are bracing for the impact that conservative policies will have on the region.

Baltimore’s Key Bridge, which collapsed and caused four fatalities when a container ship crashed into it in March, will likely not receive the

numbers of federal workers will significantly reduce the operating budgets for Prince George’s and Montgomery Counties alike, while also threatening the livelihoods of countless neighbors.

“It’s causing a lot of anxiety, a lot of discomfort within the workforce, as you are faced with these strong, negative, anti-federal worker stances, and this uncertainty of what might happen to your job, your home and your livelihood,” said AFGE Local 3403 Acting Vice President Laura Dodson in September, as plans to significantly reduce the federal workforce were discussed.

Maryland’s fourth congressional district, represented by Congressman Glenn Ivey (D), has the highest percentage of federal workers of any congressional district in the nation. Ivey said he sees Project 2025’s efforts to relocate and shutdown federal agencies as damaging to daily governmental operations.

federal dollars President Joe Biden pledged toward rebuilding, as, thus far, Republican leaders in Congress have fought against the funding.

In addition, with the election of Trump, the FBI headquarters, planned for months to come to Greenbelt and to open in 2036, will now likely remain in D.C. This project had $3.5 billion in spending earmarked in President Biden’s most recent budget and was touted by Maryland Democrats as a huge win.

Despite Trump’s attempts to distance himself from Project 2025, right-wing commentators and Trump administration veterans quickly came out after the election to announce that the highly controversial political agenda will indeed be their roadmap to governance.

“Project 2025 will take away freedoms and rights from every American, will hurt the middle class and working families, and is a threat to our democracy,” said American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) President Everett Kelley. “It’s a takeover of our federal government in a manner that is not loyal to the Constitution and the law, has no interest in listening to the people, and will force employees to take orders, legal or not, or be terminated.”

As part of the Project 2025 agenda, Republicans plan to relocate federal agencies, combine other agencies, and terminate the Department of Education entirely.

Terminating or relocating large

“We’ve got people who’ve been there, who have developed expertise. They’ve got the right education, they’ve done the right work, and so they’re a great fit for their positions,” aside Ivey. “To eliminate them for political reasons is damaging and undermines the mission that the federal government performs for the American people.”

He emphasized that while government operations have its challenges, work to fix them should consider ways to address problems and build on effective programming already in place.

“The federal government, I know it gets a bad rap. But at the end of the day, we’re really the envy of the world for having a government that functions as well and as efficiently and with the level of expertise that ours currently does,” Ivey told The Informer. “There’s always room for improvement, but there’s hopefully a ‘Do No Harm’ approach that will guide whatever efforts there are at governmental reform.”

Like his colleague in the House of Representatives, Maryland Democratic Sen. Chris Van Hollen is not planning to acquiesce to the next administration’s desires to defund Maryland’s priorities.

“Regardless of who is in the White House, Team Maryland fights tooth and nail to deliver for our state — be that for the Chesapeake Bay, the FBI Headquarters, the Red Line or the many other projects that we’re working on,” said Van Hollen.

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

PGCPS DISCUSSES

2025-2026

PRIORITIES DURING LEGISLATIVE DAY

Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) hosted its annual legislative day on Nov. 8 to inform state and county officials on academic goals and priorities for the upcoming school year. County school leaders rolled out a list of priorities and projected financial assistance needed to maintain the school system’s commitment to students, teachers, staff, and families.

Superintendent Dr. Millard House II said that he and the Board of Education are preparing for a future without COVID-19 relief funding and the potential of serious financial cuts.

“We don’t even know what those funds are looking like from the state as of yet, but we’re anticipating some numbers that might come in,” said House.

State Senator Alonzo Washington (D- District 22), Delegate Nicole Williams (D- District 22) and Councilmembers Jolene Ivey (D- District 5) and Ingrid Watson (D- District 4) were among the legislative leaders spotted in attendance during the event, listening to school officials layout plans and challenges they hope to address.

For instance, more than half of county school buildings are at least 40 years old and Project Management Supervisor Will Smith emphasized the need for continual maintenance to keep these buildings in operation.

Another unique goal for this upcoming year is providing vape detectors in all high schools.

“We need your support in partnership in the funding and we need your support and partnership in making sure that we have the resources to do what we know is right,” said PGCPS Chief Academic Officer Dr. Judy White of the school system’s efforts.

COURTWATCH PG PROVIDES ACCOUNTABILITY, TO COLLABORATE WITH DISTRICT PROGRAM

Life After Release’s Courtwatch PG program has been in effect for years, and while their accountability efforts gained attention when famous singer Fiona Apple became a volunteer, goal to monitor fairness, transparency, and accountability within the judicial system has remained at the forefront of their work.

Now, court watching in the DMV is joining forces, as the Prince George’s organization, according to their September newsletter, is collab orating with Courtwatch DC.

During courtwatch, volunteers monitor and document aspects of the legal process, including how cases are handled, the overall treatment of those held in county jails, and the be havior of judges, prosecutors, attor neys, and the charging police.

"When people are having their worst day at their most vulnerable, at the very least somebody should be there with them, be a witness and don't let them go through it alone," Apple told the Washington Post in February 2023.

Court watchers aim to identify disparities in judicial decisions, such as bail amounts, charges, detention rates, sentencing patterns and county jail treatment. The watchers analyze their findings to generate reports that highlight patterns of inequality or inconsistencies in judicial practices. These reports have been presented to legislators in previous years and have helped pass policies including an end to cash bail.

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

that serves everyone equitably.”

Johnson said the organization is seeking more volunteers to assist in observing court proceedings.

“Our success as court watchers in Prince George’s County has yielded significant, impactful results for our community and this is why we want to extend our reach to the whole state of Maryland, all 24 counties. True success in this endeavor means ensuring that all courtroom participants uphold the rule of law and that loved ones standing before the courts are treated with dignity and respect. Over time, we have fostered a positive, constructive presence in courtrooms, where the courts increasingly welcome our observers. This growing comfort is essential, as it reflects the value of accountability and transparency. Our presence is a reminder that justice must be pursued in public, as injustice can happen in empty courtrooms,” said Dr. Carmen Johnson.

“As court watchers, our role encompasses not only the critical task of identifying instances of inequity but also the responsibility to acknowledge and document the positive practices within the judicial system which has also been successful,” said Dr. Carmen Johnson, director of Court Watch & Judicial Accountability. “This balanced approach strengthens public trust in the court-watching initiative, underscoring our unwavering commitment to a justice system

5 Prince George’s County Public Schools and the Board of Education are preparing for a future without COVID-19 relief funding and the potential of serious financial cuts, accord-

BUSINESS

By James Wright / WI Staff Writer

MARYLAND, D.C.

GOOD FOR MINORITY BUSINESSES: STUDY

LendingTree, an online lending marketplace, released a study in which Maryland and the District ranked high regarding thriving minority businesses.

Using the U.S. Census Bureau definition of minority-owned businesses (those with majority ownership by someone with any race and ethnicity combination other than non-Hispanic and white), the study analyzed metrics, including the percentage of minority-owned businesses and the pay ratios of these companies compared to all businesses. Maryland and the District occupy the top three spots in our study, while Iowa, Idaho and Rhode Island are at the bottom.

Minority-owned businesses thrive the most in Maryland, according to the study. The state finishes in the top 10 with minority-owned businesses paying employees the fourth-highest relative to all businesses.

Over a quarter (25.4%) of companies in Maryland are minority-owned, the sixth-highest share in

briefs

the U.S. Additionally, the state scores high for the longevity of its minority-owned businesses.

In fact, 56.6% in the state have operated for at least six years, the 10th-highest across the country. 2020 Census data shows Maryland is one of the country’s most racially and ethnically diverse states, behind only Hawaii, California and Nevada.

According to Pew Research Center, Black-owned employer businesses in Maryland make up the most significant share of classifiable companies (8%) in the state. While Maryland’s diversity is reflected in the makeup of its small businesses, less than half of the state’s minority-owned companies (47.8%) earn revenues of at least $500,000, earning 16th for that metric.

Additionally, the number of minority-owned businesses in Maryland only grew by 6.5% from 2020 to 2021 (the latest data available), landing 30th for that metric.

Maryland has multiple statewide and community initiatives to support and improve the outcomes of minority-owned businesses, including the Minority Business Enterprise Program, the Maryland Small Business Development Financing Authority

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5Chandra Hurst, vice president and senior business consultant at Chase Bank, will lead a webinar on supplier diversity and government contracting. (Courtesy Photo/Chandra Hurst/LinkedIn)

and TEDCO’s Social Impact Funds.

Further, Maryland has the sixth-highest percentage of businesses that are minority-owned and the 10th-highest rate of these businesses that have operated for at least six years.

The District joins the top three.

The nation’s capital follows Maryland in the analysis of where minority-owned businesses are thriving.

Over a quarter (28.6%) of the District’s businesses are minority-owned, the fourth-highest share.

The District also scores high for longevity — 60.2% of its minority-owned businesses have been around for at least six years, the sixth-highest rate.

Over half (50.4%) of the District’s minority-owned businesses earn $500,000 or more in revenue, the ninth-highest share. Though not a state, like Maryland, the District is one of the country’s most diverse locales.

According to Pew Research Center, Black-owned employer firms make up the District’s largest share of classifiable businesses (15%), helping it

earn first in our study of where Black Americans thrive the most. D.C.’s Department of Small and Local Business Development operates multiple initiatives designed to remove the barriers to entrepreneurship for small business owners in the area.

Iowa ranks last in the study, with bottom-10 rankings in two metrics.

The Hawkeye State has the seventh-worst rate of minority-owned businesses in the country (5.1%).

While most states saw gains in minority-owned companies between 2020 and 2021, Iowa lost 2.5%, also the seventh worst.

According to Fed Small Business data, the number of active small businesses nationwide declined by 22% from February to April 2020. However, minority-owned businesses fared much worse.

Black-owned small businesses declined by 41%, Hispanic-owned companies dropped by 32% and Asian-owned firms decreased by 26%. Contrast that to the 17% decline of white-owned companies.

“One of the biggest challenges minority-owned businesses face is a lack

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of access to funding,” LendingTree chief credit analyst Matt Schulz explained. “When you make a smaller salary or are less able to access credit, it significantly hamstrings your ability to start or grow a business.” WI

SUPPLIER DIVERSITY AND GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING WEBINAR

An hour-long webinar, supported by the Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce, “Unlocking Opportunities: Mastering Supplier Diversity and Government Contracting,” will take place on Nov. 19 starting at noon.

The webinar is for anyone just starting out or looking to maximize existing certification. During the session, industry experts will guide attendees through the intricacies of government contracting, reveal strategies to access corporate supplier diversity programs and provide actionable steps for achieving and leveraging certification.

Guided by Chandra Hurst, vice president and senior business consultant at Chase Business Banking, attendees will gain valuable insights and actionable steps to enhance their business strategies.

To register visit eventbrite.com and for more information call 540-2160021.

WOMEN OF COLOR IN REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT

The Women of Color in Community Development and African American Real Estate Professionals DC are co-sponsoring the“Women of Color in Real Estate Development” event on Nov. 14 from 6-8 p.m. at National Landing in Arlington, Virginia. Sponsored by Amazon, the event will feature a panel of women of color engaged in real estate development and economic development.

Through this event, learn about the panelists’ careers, accomplishments, and challenges of being in what is often referred to as “the space.”

KellyAnn Kirkpatrick of Amazon Housing Partnerships – Grants — Housing Equity Fund will deliver opening remarks.

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

5KellyAnn Kirkpatrick, senior product manager of the Housing Equity Fund for Amazon, will speak at an event on Nov. 14 highlighting women of color in real estate development. (Courtesy Photo/ KellyAnn Kirkpatrick/LinkedIn)

Prince George’s County Business Updates

The Station at Riverdale Park

Welcomes Rosa Bowl

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

The former Cafe Azul space at The Station at Riverdale Park will soon be the new home for Roxa Bowl. With the word Roxa, translating to purple in Portuguese, the color of açaí berries, the establishment aims to be a healthy food option by having dishes with less sugar and processing.

“Welcome to Roxa Bowl, where we believe in the power of nature, community, and transparency. Our mission is simple: to bring you the finest açaí experience while honoring the traditions and values that make it truly special,” reads the company website.

The new business in Riverdale Park brings the açaí of Brazil, which have become popular in recent years for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties,

to the DMV region.

“Our journey begins in the lush, vibrant Amazon rainforest of Belém do Pará, Brazil. Here, we source our açaí directly from local farms, ensuring that every bowl captures the authentic taste and nutritional benefits of this incredible superfood,” according to Roxa Bowl. “We’re committed to supporting sustainable farming practices that protect the environment and empower local communities.”

Roxa Bowl will feature playa bowls, smoothies and toast made with fresh fruits and berries.

The menu includes bowls, smoothies, and toast alongside options for kids such as a sweet toast with condensed milk and strawberry topping.

“Need one of these in Southern Prince George’s County” said online commenter Kay Mac. WI

A Post Election Reflection

Our firm stands on the core values of Faith, Excellence, Relationships, Service and Trustworthiness. So, it is consistent with who we have been that I write this article. One of the realities of the work that we do is that we are impacted greatly by the happenings of the world. I write this article mindful of the emotional impact of the major declaration of the United States by the election of Donald Trump as the next president. I am an unabashed Kamala Harris supporter, and I was tremendously disheartened with the results of the election. It was a painful reckoning with which I am accepting. It is with this heart that I realize that I must lean on my faith and my community to know that we are able to not only survive this storm but thrive. I have been clinging to the following scriptures and pray that they are a blessing to you as well.

1. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV)

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall [a]direct your paths.

I know that I have no idea what to do but I know that if indeed we follow the Lord’s direction we will be just fine. We cannot rely on our perception and knowledge base because we don’t know what we don’t know.

2. Romans 8:28 (NKJV)

And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.

It is the absolution of this scripture that has always arrested my thinking. It is only an absolution for those who love the Lord and are called according to His purpose. While I am often challenged by things that happen, I find comfort in the revelation that it will be turned around for my good as I love God and am called according to His purpose. I don’t have the capacity to see it or understand it from the beginning but will again trust in Him.

3. John 14:27

Peace, I leave with you, my peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

We should not allow this evolution to steal our joy or our peace. As we walk through this journey, we know that there will be trials and tribulations, but we should also know that this is consistent with the promise that He will not leave us or forsake us. Yet, we should walk through this chapter claiming the peace that passes all understanding. Our peace is not based upon the circumstances or the situations. Our peace is based upon the fact that we know that God is and always will be in control. We can trust in that consistency.

Again, we stand on faith. Even though we are disappointed, we know that God is still in control. I invite you to join our Facebook live prayer call every Wednesday morning at 9 am as well as put a prayer request on our website www.yourestateplanningattorney.com

Aimee D. Griffin, Esq.

Life and Legacy Counselors

5335 Wisconsin Ave NW, Suite 440, Washington DC 20015 1401 Mercantile Lane, Suite 271, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774 1100 N. Glebe Road, Suite 1010, Arlington VA 22201 https://www.lifeandlegacy.law/ (855) 574-8481

5 Roxa Bowl, an establishment aiming to be a healthy food option by having dishes with less sugar and processing, will open in The Station at Riverdale Park.

(Courtesy Photo)

NATIONAL

A Farewell, Not a Surrender: Harris Vows to Keep Fighting in Concession Speech at Howard Students Inspired by Vice President’s

Perseverance, Call to Action

By Stacy M. Brown and Jada Ingleton, WI Senior Writer and WI Digital Equity Fellow

A diverse group of supporters, family members, and well-known allies, including D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, NAACP President Derrick Johnson, a

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host of other elected officials, and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, waited on Howard University’s famous “Yard” to watch Vice President Kamala Harris as she conceded the 2024 election to former President Donald Trump.

Despite the somber nature as supporters waited for Harris to officially announce the conclusion of her short, historic and hard-fought campaign, Jeezy’s song “My President,” which features the stirring line “My president is Black,” energized the crowd before her entrance, setting the scene for a moving farewell speech.

Then Harris emerged onto the stage to the stirring strains of Beyoncé’s “Freedom,” which has, since she started her campaign a little more than 100 days prior, served as the vice president’s rallying song.

The atmosphere was charged as Harris began, looking out at a sea of American flags and expectant faces at her alma mater.

“Every one of us, no matter who we are or where we start out, has certain fundamental rights and freedoms that must be respected and upheld,” she stated, pausing as applause swelled from the crowd.

She acknowledged her call to President-elect Donald Trump, stating that she offered assistance to him in the upcoming transition. She urged her supporters not to give up, and to keep fighting for the Constitution and Democracy.

Reflecting on the campaign, Harris shared her pride in the coalition they had built.

“We have been intentional about building community… bringing people together from every walk of life,” she said, emphasizing the need to accept the election results but with an eye to the future.

Xiomara Strayhorn, a Howard freshman from Atlanta by way of Baltimore, was proud to cast a ballot for Harris in her first time voting.

“As a Bison I came in knowing of all the greats that came out of ‘the Mecca’ and always wondered what my story would be or what [my] significant moment at the Mecca would be. And it was definitely experiencing my first presidential election as a first time voter and being able to support a fellow Bison through truth and serving the community by informing and voting.”

However, she shared her disappointment in seeing the discrimination Harris experienced throughout the race.

“Overall, as a young, Black woman, I feel the world constantly gives us challenges that we often overcome but not easily.” Strayhorn explained.

Howard sophomore Kameryn Clark also lamented at all Harris had to overcome during the campaign, comparing and contrasting the races between the vice president and the former president turned president-elect.

“It is disheartening as a young Black woman who is a political science major at VP Harris’ alma mater to see that your success and outcome in life can be predetermined by your external appearance and circumstances rather than your capabilities and credentials,” Clark, visibly emotional, told The Informer. “While Donald Trump’s behavior could be described as ‘lawless,’ Vice President Harris had to be ‘flawless’ in every aspect of her campaign, still to fall short in the race not because of her personal shortcomings, but the lack of progression in America.”

HARRIS SHINES LIGHT IN DARKNESS, ISSUES CALL TO ACTION

While many of her supporters are concerned about dark times ahead, Harris offered light.

“Only when it is dark enough can you see the stars,” a line that drew a mix of cheers and solemn nods as the crowd took in her message of resilience.

Her words offered hope to a dejected crowd.

“Today I was emotional due to my initial thoughts that the fight was over, left with feels of sorrow and hopelessness, but Vice President Harris assured that that is not the case,” Clark told The Informer. “[Reminding us], we only lose when hope is lost.”

The vice president urged her supporters to channel their defeated emotions into continued efforts.

“This is not a time to throw up our hands. This is a time to roll up our sleeves,” she declared.

Harris, the first female and only person of Black and Southeast Asian descent to serve as vice president of the United States, acknowledged the fight ahead, framing it not as a loss but as a turning point.

“While I concede this election, I do not concede the fight that fueled this campaign,” she said firmly. “That is a fight I will never give up.”

Many people in the crowd cheered as she encouraged them to continue in their fight to protect democracy.

“While this was not the outcome we fought for, this is not the first time nor will it be the last, that the American people will have to fight for democracy,” Clark, who is from Tampa, Florida explained. “Vice President Harris has opened the door and minds of so many American people and I cannot wait to see the influence of this election over time, specifically in American minds. The fight continues.”

As a political science student, Clark was inspired by Harris’ call to action.

“She reminded us that our fight continues and that while the battle was lost the war continues. Now is an essential time to mobilize, centralize, and educate ourselves,” the sophomore told The Informer.

The vice president urged the crowd to continue engaging, reminding them that meaningful change requires sustained effort.

With a final, defiant wave, Harris walked off the stage arm in arm with Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, her head held high as Beyoncé’s “Freedom” filled the air once more. Her last words: “Only when it is dark enough can you see the stars.”

5 Vice President Kamala Harris at her alma mater, Howard University, conceding her 2024 presidential campaign against former President Donald Trump. (Jada Ingleton/The Washington Informer)

Biden Calls for Unity in Farewell Speech from the Rose Garden

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

Standing in the White House Rose Garden on Nov. 7, where a somber yet respectful silence filled the unseasonably warm November air, President Joe Biden addressed reporters, staffers, and supporters gathered to witness his final words on the transition of power.

Against a backdrop of blooming roses and the White House’s historic pillars, Biden stated his commitment to a peaceful transition, congratulating President-elect Donald Trump on his victory and extolling the enduring strength of American democracy.

“Yesterday, I spoke with President-elect Trump to congratulate him on his victory,” Biden stated, standing firm despite having bowed out of the race himself under intense pressure from fellow Democrats in July. “I assured him that my

administration will work closely with his team to ensure a peaceful and orderly transition.”

Biden turned his remarks to Vice President Kamala Harris, whom he praised for her resilience, describing Harris as a “partner and a public servant” with “a backbone like a ramrod.”

The outgoing president recalled Harris’ strength and integrity throughout her 107-day campaign.

“She gave her whole heart and effort,” Biden said. “She has great character, true character. She gave her whole heart and effort, and she and her entire team should be proud of the campaign they ran.”

The nation’s 46th president acknowledged the range of emotions nationwide. “For some, it’s a time for victory; for others, it’s a time of loss,” he remarked, urging Americans to “see each other not as adversaries but as fellow Americans.”

Biden focused on the integrity

of the American electoral system, asserting its honesty and transparency.

“It can be trusted, win or lose,” he declared. Applause broke out as he expressed gratitude to the election workers across the country, many of whom volunteered to protect the sanctity of the election process.

As Biden pledged to uphold the Constitution, his gaze swept over the crowd.

“On January 20th, we will have a peaceful transfer of power here in America,” he affirmed, his voice carrying the weight of a leader committed to his oath.

Reflecting on his administration’s achievements, Biden pointed to the infrastructure investments to transform communities in the coming years.

“The road ahead is clear,” he said, his optimism undiminished. Slight rework: With 74 days remaining in his term, he pledged to “make every day count.” “It’s been a historic presidency – not because I’m president – because what we’ve done, what you’ve done – a presidency for all Americans,” Biden said.

Many Americans took to social media post the president’s speech, applauding his message.

“Gracious goodbye from President Biden,” one person wrote.

“The Democratic Party and his family failed him and he had to fight for his dignity.”

In his closing words, the president offered a call to action for the American people.

“Setbacks are unavoidable, but giving up is unforgivable. The American experiment endures, and we’re going to be okay. Above all, we need to keep the faith.” WI

5 In a farewell speech from the White House Rose Garden, President Joe Biden stated his commitment to a peaceful transition, congratulating President-elect Donald Trump on his victory and extolling the enduring strength of American democracy. (WI File Photo)

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COMMENTARY

A 47 Year Journey to Enlightenment

By Anthony T. Browder WI Contributing Writer

I have spent 47 years studying Egyptology and have found it to be the only academic discipline with its name as a descriptor. There is no Europology or Greekology or Americanology.

What is it about this ancient civilization that has fascinated the world for 5,000 years?

Educators know that Egypt captures the imagination of students. Sociologists know that Egypt was the first nation-state with civil servants and a middle class. Historians know that Egyptian civilization lasted 3000 years and produced more documents than any nation on Earth.

Archaeologists jump at the opportunity to dig up the past in Egypt and contribute to our understanding of this ancient culture.

While I have traveled to Egypt 68 times, written textbooks on the subject and have taken thousands to Egypt, I am proudest of the archaeological achievements of the ASA Restoration Project. I established the ASA Restoration Project in 2008 to fund the excavation and restoration of three 25th dynasty tombs on the West Bank of Luxor, Egypt, partnering with Egyptologist Dr. Elena Pischikova who had discovered the 2700-year-old tombs of Kushite priests in 2006.

We have discovered more than 40 tombs built for priests of Amun and their families. Each tomb we discovered helped us reconstruct the history of the 25th dynasty which was ruled by Africans from Kush (modern Sudan). The Kings of the 25th dynasty drove foreign invaders out of Egypt and restored their ancestral homeland. Their ancestors were the pyramid builders of the 4th dynasty and temple builders of the 18th dynasty who lived thousands of years earlier.

Taharka was the greatest king of the 25th dynasty and is the only king of Egypt who is mentioned by name in the Old Testament (2 Kings 19:19 and Isaiah 37:8-9).

The most important tomb we’ve excavated and restored was built for a priest named Karakhamun whom we believe was the son of Shabaka – the brother of Taharka and the

5 Anthony Browder, founder of the ASA Restoration Project, and author and Egyptologist Dr. Charles Finch in conversation at the Thurgood Marshall Center in Northwest, D.C. on Sept. 21. The discussion was part of programming during the 16th anniversary celebration of the ASA Restoration Project. (Courtesy Photo)

third king of the 25th dynasty.

Karakhamun’s tomb is four times larger than the tomb of King Tutankhamun. It was adorned with life-like carvings of people and animals, and its pillars and walls were covered with sacred texts that are over 4000 years old.

Among the 425 foreign missions excavating in Egypt, the ASA Restoration Project is the only archaeological site in Egyptian history funded by African Americans. The Project honors Dr. Asa G. Hilliard, III a globally acclaimed educational psychologist and Egyptian scholar and one of the path-breaking leaders of the National Association of Black Psychologists and the Association for the Study of Classical African Civilizations.

Dr. Hilliard’s wife Patsy Jo (former mayor of East Point, Georgia) their daughter, son, and granddaughter were the honored guests as we celebrated the 16th anniversary of the ASA Restoration Project with events in Washington, D.C. last month.

Author and Egyptologist Dr. Charles Finch was our featured speaker at the Thurgood Marshall Center on Sept. 21. The following day we had a gala reception and toured 1000 replicas of artifacts discovered in Tutankhamun’s tomb, currently exhibited at the Rhode Island Center in Northeast, D.C.

The weekend’s events attracted participants who traveled from as

far away as San Francisco, Cleveland and Toronto. Both events featured book signings where Dr. Finch signed copies of his latest book, “Nile Valley Civilization: A 10,000 Year History,” and I discussed my latest publication “Finding Karakhamun: The Collaborative Rediscovery of a Lost Tomb,” which details the accomplishments of the ASA Restoration Project. After 47 years of studying Nile Valley history— which included travel to Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia and Kenya— and 15 years excavating in Egypt, I can say with confidence that the history of ancient Egypt has yet to be fully told. Egypt is in Africa, and the history of ancient Egypt is connected to all the nations in the Nile Valley. My contribution to this unique historical narrative is documented in my publications, lectures, Egypt on the Potomac Field Trips and study tours of Egypt.

As I expand my horizons, I will lead a study tour to London and Paris in 2025 and visit the Egyptian Collections in the British Museum and Louvre, then interact with diaspora communities in both cities. I also look forward to taking groups to visit the tomb of Karakhamun when it opens in Egypt and celebrate the success of the ASA Restoration Project with our many supporters.

These are additional stops along an incredible journey to enlightenment. WI

Maximizing Your Bank Branch Experience

A RELATIONSHIP WITH MY BANK?

Customers should feel comfortable sharing their goals, needs and wants with their banker. Also, it helps to remember the Community Manager is there to help solve your finance challenges and build a roadmap for success. You might have a short-term or long-term goal to open a business, build your credit, become debt-free, buy a home, or save for retirement, and our community team can help. At Chase, we strive to make dreams possible for everyone, everywhere, every day. Your financial future starts with building those relationships.

Q: HOW CAN CUSTOMERS CHANGE NEGATIVE PERCEPTIONS THEY HAVE ABOUT MANAGING THEIR MONEY?

Far too often, customers are intimidated when they visit a bank. Our goal is to demystify banking and money myths empowering people to make the right decisions. For example, a big myth is assuming you need a lot of money to have a bank account. You don’t! Another myth is you need to carry a balance on your credit card to build credit -- actively using your credit card can demonstrate that you can use credit responsibly, but carrying a balance won’t necessarily improve your credit score. Finally, having an understanding of mobile and online banking safety is key. There are so many safeguards and protections in place to guard your personal information and funds.

Q: WHAT’S AN EASY STEP ONE CAN TAKE TO SHIFT THEIR FINANCIAL BEHAVIOR RIGHT NOW?

Cultivating self-awareness is a good first step. Start by

taking inventory of your spending. Be honest with yourself about what you need and what you want. Too often, people confuse the two, which leads to bad decisions. Rent is something you need to pay. An extra pair of shoes is something you may want but before you buy them ask yourself if that’s the best use of your hard-earned money. Too often, our beliefs and our fears shape our financial realities. If any of those beliefs are limiting your financial behavior, it’s important to question and examine them, and then decide you’re open to learning something different.

Q: WHAT’S ONE PERCEPTION ABOUT BANKING THAT YOU’D LIKE TO CHANGE?

I think folks are surprised there are so many resources available and accessible both at our branches and online, it’s always a good idea to visit a nearby branch and speak to a Community Manager or banker. Outside of what we offer in-branch, our teams also work with local neighborhood partners who provide a variety of services to support the community, businesses and residents. I had a unique piece of feedback from an employee who started with the bank and had lived in the same community his whole life. When he visited his local community branch, he said, “Diedra, when I walked in, I felt dignified.” Every time I recount that story, it warms my heart because that’s what we want -- we want our centers to belong to the community.

HEALTH

Heightening Awareness of Lung Cancer in the Black Community

The Importance of Screening For Lung Cancer While It’s Still Early

By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Health Reporter

Lung cancer is not only the third most common cancer, but also the leading cause of cancer deaths nationwide, and Black Americans are feeling the sting of these statistics in a major way. With the insidious nature of the disease, health professionals underscore the dire importance of early detection, particularly in communities facing the greatest health disparities.

Among the nearly 250,000 Americans estimated to be diagnosed with lung cancer this year, medical data shows that Black men, women under 50 years old, and individuals living in rural areas are disproportionately affected by the disease, experiencing higher rates of diagnosis and mortality compared to other demographics.

For Black Americans, statistics regarding early detection reveal room for improvement.

“Black individuals with lung cancer were 15% less likely to be diagnosed early, 19% less likely to receive surgical treatment, 11% more likely to not receive any treatment, and 16% less likely to survive five years compared to white individuals,” according to the American Lung Association.

Although factors such as limited access to healthcare, and medical mistrust can stand as barriers to early care for lung cancer, vague or mistaken symptoms of the disease can also prevent people from catching the cancer at an early stage.

Unlike breast and prostate cancers, which are often detected ear-

ly through self-examination and screening, lung cancer symptoms typically appear when the disease is advanced.

Dr. Jessica Wang Memoli, pulmonologist and director of Bronchoscopy and Interventional Pulmonary at MedStar Washington Hospital Center, explained how the absence of physical symptoms can negatively impact lung cancer outcomes.

“With lung cancer, usually you don't feel anything in your lungs. The lung tissue itself doesn't have any pain sensors, so if something is growing in your lungs, you don't feel it,” Wang Memoli told The Informer. “And a lot of times, once they have symptoms from lung cancer, it's advanced.”

LUNG CANCER RISK FACTORS

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 80% to 90% of lung cancer deaths in the U.S. are linked to smoking tobacco.

“People who smoke cigarettes are 15 to 30 times more likely to get lung cancer or die from lung cancer than people who do not smoke,” according to the CDC.

But while cigarette smoke is cited as the leading risk factor for lung cancer, the disease is becoming less exclusively linked to smoking persons and showing increased rates of lung cancer diagnoses in people with little to no history of smoking, especially in women.

Statistics estimate that 25% of women and 10% of men with lung cancer have never smoked be-

fore and in many cases are found incidentally, meaning the disease was discovered because patients had a scan for another reason.

The CDC estimates between 10% to 20% of those who develop lung cancer across the U.S. have never smoked or had any significant exposures.

Other causes are often attributed to occupational exposure to asbestos, inhalation injuries, and environmental risks like radon.

“There are certainly occupational exposures, so, people who have worked in certain industries [and] have had injury. There's some exposure to asbestos, for instance, in people who were mechanics and worked on breaks,” said Wang Memoli. “There's actually some inhalational injury that dentists, of years passed, when they were drilling teeth, [experienced] inhalation injury.”

These risks are exacerbated without proper masking processes and protocols in place.

Similarly, indoor radon also poses a health risk to causing lung cancer. Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms in rocks, soil, and water, can get trapped and gradually build in the air. Over an extended period of time, people living or working in homes and buildings breathing in high levels of radon are more susceptible to developing lung cancer.

THE IMPORTANCE OF EARLY SCREENING

Due to the commonality of undetected symptoms in the earlier stages of lung cancer, early screening is not a commonality for the disease. Typically, doctors will recommend screening tests for those who are at higher risk of diagnosis, namely people who smoke or previously smoked.

The American Lung Association reports that in 2022, just 5.8% of eligible Americans were screened for lung cancer, with some states showing screening rates as low as 1%.

While early screening is critical for all cancers, it bears a significant weight when considering lung cancer shows “one of the lowest five-year survival rates because cases are often diagnosed at later stages, when it is less likely to be curable,” according to the American Lung Association.

Across the country, only 25.8% of cases are diagnosed during an early state when the five-year survival rate is greater at 61%. Inversely, 44% of lung cancer cases are not diagnosed until a later stage, tanking the survival rate to only 7%.

In a one-minute video for lung cancer sponsored by Stand Up to Cancer, rapper Common, often lauded for his positive work in the Black community through his artistry and philanthropy, emphasizes the importance of screenings for the disease.

“Change is possible, and it starts with you,” Common says in the advertisement.

The rapper explained why he decided to support Stand Up to Cancer’s efforts.

“In 2014 my father died after his battle with cancer,” said Common. “He was truly someone who inspired me and made me want to be better. I believe that we can do better for ourselves – especially as Black men when it comes to health. I’m honored to support Stand Up To Cancer’s campaign to bring awareness to lung cancer research.”

Lung cancer symptoms typically appear after the cancer has spread, but some people may experience subtle symptoms in the early stages. Symptoms can vary depending on where the cancer starts in the lungs, but some common ones include: A cough that persists or worsens, shortness of breath, chest pain, unexplained weight loss, and reduced appetite, among other ailments.

Despite the outcomes of lung cancer diagnoses, Wang Memoli feels hopeful that health care developments will lead to earlier detection and greater survival rates in the near future.

“Now with lung cancer screening, the hope, of course, is that we change those statistics,” Wang Memoli told The Informer. “I think we've made some advances in that respect, but it's still pretty prevalent.” WI

EARTH OUR

UDC Merges Agriculture and Tech to Address Health Disparities Across the District

By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Health Reporter

The University of the District of Columbia’s (UDC) College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability, and Environmental Sciences (CAUSES) is merging agriculture with stateof-the-art technology to improve nutrition, health, and environmental challenges across the city’s most underserved communities.

During a Nov. 8 ribbon-cutting at UDC’s Firebird Research Farm, located in Beltsville, Maryland, university officials unveiled the new “agro-tech” classrooms, combining artificial intelligence with sustainable agriculture. In the classrooms, students will receive hands-on education to learn the importance of sustainability and nutrition.

“We have so much potential in D.C. to really grow a lot more food than we're growing in urban spaces,” Che Axum, agronomist and director of Urban Agriculture for UDC told The Informer. “The goal of this program is for them to come here and [to learn] how to grow. [After growing] here for a while, eventually they go back into the city to teach other people how to grow. Each one teaches one type of concept.”

The agro-tech classroom is divided into three specialized pods, with the first consisting of a production space with three-dimensional printers and agricultural architecture, specifically crafted for hands-on design and engineering.

Pod two is a designated training and conference room equipped for broadcasting lessons provided digitally with a citywide and national reach.

The third pod hosts a “technologically focused space with virtual reality, enabling immersive and

interactive learning experiences,” explained Jason Campbell, a UDC program associate.

Largely run by solar energy, the 143-acre Firebird Research Farm features a three-dimensional production system in the land, including a solar powered well, allowing access to groundwater, and will provide opportunities to distribute water, grow food under the panels, and harvest energy.

UDC stands in a unique position as an urban “Land-Grant” institution focused on urban agricultural problems. Today, the institution is the only urban university holding this status in the country.

“The new agro-technology classrooms align with the UDC land grant mission to educate, train, and prepare students for impactful careers while improving the quality of life and economic opportunities within the city,” Campbell said.

BOLSTERING HEALTH OUTCOMES ACROSS THE DISTRICT

Practicing agriculture in urban areas poses a variety of challenges, varying from environmental pollutants common to city landscape (vehicle emissions, excessive artificial light, and noise pollution) to limited availability and zoning regulations against agricultural use.

“Urban agriculture is increasingly valued as a strategy for improving quality of life in cities, but urban growers face challenges and often lack coordinated support from governments and the agricultural industry,” according to a study published by the National Institute of Health (NIH), that included research from 394 survey respondents, who were mostly white (non-Hispanic) and younger than 45 years old.

5 Through merging technology and agriculture and new “agro-tech” classrooms, students at University of the District of Columbia’s Firebird Research Farm in Beltsville, Maryland are learning about and working on ways to improve nutrition and environmental challenges in underserved communities. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

Much of the urban agriculture observed in the study was “dominated by relatively small non-profit organizations and home and community gardens were the most common types of organizations,” with most reporting challenges “related to availability of land and long-term access in urban areas.”

In an effort to dissolve urban agriculture barriers, William Hare, associate dean for Land-Grant Programs, has worked diligently to develop UDC’s Firebird Farm. Hare has high hopes for the farm, hoping to empower local farmers of color and help improve food and nutrition security in the District, particularly vulnerable communities east of the Anacostia River.

“Most of the food desert communities are predominantly Black communities, and so that's the reason why this is so important that we train people from their community to give back to the community by growing food,” Hare said.

While most farming across the District is operated through nonprofit organizations, UDC’s CAUSES program trains people to become farmers.

Agricultural workers can only benefit from USDA subsidies when they are reported as a farmer, meaning they have to report their sales of $1,000 or more to the IRS and register with USDA for access to build farms in the District and food desert communities.

“We're giving them a minimum of a 10th-of-an-acre that they can then utilize,” said Hare. “This is giving them an incubator to make

6 William Hare is associate dean for Land-Grant Programs at University of the District of Columbia, and has been working diligently to to develop UDC’s Firebird Farm. (Courtesy Photo/ University of the District of Columbia)

them successful and support them so when they register, they will not be denied.”

The Nov. 8 ribbon cutting, open to the community, also showcased trained farmers who are successful graduates of UDC’s urban farming programs, as a highlight of “Small Farmers Appreciation Day,” enabling patrons to pick fresh veggies for just $1 per pound.

Portions of the farmer’s personally grown produce supports UDC’s four food hubs, serving food desert neighborhoods across the city.

UDC-trained farmers, like native Washingtonian Chauna Price, value the life-changing experience through the university’s farmer program.

Price now grows her own food, which has not only benefited her

community, but helped in her personal healing after previously facing health challenges.

“I’ve been able to eat and sell fresh produce that I am growing right here [in the greenhouse]. When I started eating the food I was growing, I got better. The healing is in the food,” Price said.

The UDC faculty feels the excitement of contributing a valuable resource to strengthen the District’s agricultural ecosystem.

“When you conceptualize and you build a reality, it is extremely gratifying,” Hare told The Informer. “This is an incredible training opportunity that we're really excited about, and I think it closes the loop in the future of farming and how we integrate technology into farming.” WI

Software Engineer Needed

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EDUCATION

DCPS Parent Alleges Denial of Special Education Services

Courtney McFerson Talks about Three-Year Fight for Her Son’s IEP

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

For three years, as her son fell behind in reading and math, Courtney McFerson continued to ask special education coordinators at Anne Beers Elementary School in Southeast, D.C. to create an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for him.

McFerson said the coordinators, to this day, haven’t honored her request. Now, she’s seeking an appeal of a decision she said coordinators made ear-

lier this year to deem her son ineligible for an IEP. Though she recounted coordinators, as recently as Oct. 7, telling her that they are collecting more data, she admitted not having much clarity about how, or if, she’s even able to file an appeal.

“I’ve been trying to reach out to the Student Advocate’s Office to understand the process,” McFerson said. “I don’t feel like [the special education coordinators] are forthcoming with the correct information to maneuver through the situation. I know the basis

of a student being behind…qualifies them for special education services. People are overlooking it instead of being a crucial part of what my son needs.”

As McFerson recounted, the Ward 7 school’s special education department’s decision culminated an eligibility process marred by a lengthy

timeline, turnover in the special education office, and a teacher she called uncooperative.

By the time McFerson met with Kennard Branch, the principal of Anne Beers, and Karen Faulk, her son’s teacher earlier this school year, she had already expressed concerns about her son’s instruction in emails to D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, D.C. Public Schools (DCPS) Dr. Lewis D. Ferebee, and DCPS Cluster 2 Instructional Superintendent Mary Ann Stinson.

McFerson’s mediation with Branch, Anne Beers’ principal since last school year, took place during the latter part of October. The D.C. Office of the Ombudsman for Public Education facilitated the meeting upon McFerson’s request. On Nov. 6 McFerson and Faulk sat down at a mediation coordinated by the Office of Integrity that ended in administrators’ assurance that her son would return to Faulk’s classroom.

As McFerson explained to The Informer, her son had been without grade-level English & Language Arts and social studies instruction for nearly a month, due mostly to Faulk’s refusal to teach him. She said administrators at Anne Beers often pull her son out of Faulk’s class at points during the day and place him in a lower-level classroom.

Though McFerson admitted initially wanting her son out of Faulk’s classroom after a tenuous fourth grade experience, she said that she changed her mind, hopeful that Faulk would start the new school year off on a positive note.

“The administrators were supposed to develop a plan with my son and

Ms. Faulk to help build on their relationship and make sure my son got what he needs,” McFerson said. “My son needed accommodations and he wasn't getting any. On top of that, Ms. Faullk was creating a toxic environment for my son… to the point that he didn't want to go to school or her classroom.”

McFerson recounted first attempting, unsuccessfully, to tell Faulk about her son’s feelings during their first encounter at a parent-teacher conference last school year. Months later, they would meet once again, after what McFerson called Faulk’s refusal to participate in the special education eligibility process.

As McFerson explained, Faulk hesitated to make a referral, as well as compile and present data about McFerson’s son's academic progress at meetings that the special education coordinator hosted. She said Faulk sometimes went as far as calling out from work on the day that meetings were scheduled.

Faulk’s alleged actions, McFerson said, delayed action on the special education eligibility process until the end of the previous school year. Ultimately, McFerson wasn’t able to have her request fulfilled, even after a vision screening and the academic data McFerson said they had about her son.

“There’s a whole new special education team, a bunch of missing pieces [in the process and people claiming they don’t know where documents are,” McFerson told The Informer. “They said there wasn’t enough data to show my son’s eligibility. But they had enough data from his test scores

5 For three years, Courtney McFerson has been working diligently to get special education coordinators at Anne Beers Elementary School in Southeast, D.C. to create an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for her son, who fell behind in reading and math. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

from Page 22

and teachers’ comments.”

AN ANNE BEERS PARENT TOUTS THE POWER OF DIRECT INVOLVEMENT

At Anne Beers, located on Alabama Avenue in Southeast, more than 60% of students are designated as high risk, while more than one out of four children have been identified as special needs.

With an in-boundary rate of less than 40%, Anne Beers has become a magnet for District parents living outside of the enrollment boundaries. One parent, Bianca Phillips, said she enrolled her autistic son at Anne Beers at the recommendation of staff members at Step-by-Step Therapeutic Services on Bowen Road in Southeast, who cited previous special needs clients finding success at the school.

Three years later, Phillips says that she too has no regrets.

“My son started out nonverbal, but he had his IEP when he started,” Phillips told The Informer, emphasizing that after her son’s diagnosis at 2 years old, she sought an IEP through D.C. Public Schools (DCPS) Early Stages evaluation center. “By the time he finished Pre-K4, he was saying words.”

In her second year as Anne Beers’ parent-teacher organization vice president, Phillips has her sights set on boosting engagement among parents, particularly parents of special-needs children. She told The Informer that her son’s involvement in Communications & Education Supports enrollee showed her the lack of parental engagement around training and resources.

Phillips pointed out a similar lack

of engagement in the Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)

“We can’t even get parents to participate in the classroom,” she said. “We send out emails, post on our PTO Instagram and Facebook pages and [post] fliers for parents to come out to meetings. We do them virtually [and] there’s still a lack of participation.”

Phillips said that, out of the 20 or so people who usually attend meetings, she is the only person raising issues specific to special needs families. If there are concerns about IEP eligibility or proper dissemination of resources, Phillips said parents aren’t making them known publicly.

“I haven’t heard anything negative from parents in the program, and I haven’t heard anything negative from parents trying to get their child an IEP,” Phillips said. “No one brings anything to the PTO’s attention related to special education. One staff member asked me what I did with my son, but as far as parents, nothing.”

MCFERSON’S ATTEMPT AT CLARITY IN THE SPECIAL EDUCATION ELIGIBILITY PROCESS

McFerson told The Informer that while she’s spoken with Anne Beers PTO affiliates about her clash with the special education team, she hasn’t seen much action on their part.

“I was supposed to get a follow up from them,” McFerson said about the PTO parent she’s been engaging. “I stopped asking…because I can’t make anybody do anything and I’m really exhausted with the whole situation at this point.” WI Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

EDUCATION

5 With an in-boundary rate of less than 40%, Anne Beers in Ward 7 has become a magnet for District parents living outside of the enrollment boundaries. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

Leslie grew up around many types of voices in Puerto Rico. When she and her team engineered voice recognition technology, she was inspired to include different accents, ages, and abilities. Now, this technology processes over 50 million voice commands every day.

Fundamentally, This Is America

For many residents of Washington, D.C., and across the United States, the presidential election results represent a stunning, shocking, embarrassing, disappointing, and resounding declaration of America's state of consciousnessor lack thereof.

Kamala Harris is a woman of high character. She is the former Attorney General of California, which has the fifth-largest economy in the world, and she served in the U.S. Senate. During her history-making, unprecedented 107-day presidential campaign, Harris, the first woman of Black and South Asian descent to serve in this office, ran a campaign filled with inspiration, hope, happiness, transparency, and kindness.

Current President-Elect Donald Trump will return to the White House as a twice-impeached former occupant. He will again swear to uphold the very constitution

that he and his supporters desecrated during a violent insurrection. He will place his left hand on the Bible, raise his right hand, and recite the 35-word oath as a 34-count convicted felon of business fraud and sexual assault.

He will do so at the crime scene of the January 6, 2021, insurrection.

The Nov. 5 election shows that far too many Americans do not care about the character of their candidates for the office of president. And if the character does not matter to you in your candidate of choice for The White House, that is also likely the case in your voting at the state and local levels of government.

Yes, inflation is an issue. Indeed, grocery prices are too high. Americans are hurting financially. That cannot be denied.

Yet, what can also not be denied is that despite our financial chal-

Election Day Attack a Grim Reminder to Stop the Violence, Spread

Positivity in Black Community

On the same evening that Americans voted to give now President-Elect Trump a second chance to lead the nation, five criminals robbed and shot a popular chef, business owner and former football star, Tobias Dorzon, and his girlfriend as they were leaving a local restaurant.

Fortunately, their injuries do not appear to be life threatening – which, from video captured during the attack, is nothing short of a miracle. Because of his longtime support to the community with jobs and philanthropic initiatives, the attack on Dorzon has evoked widespread support with some saying he’s “too good of a person to deserve” what occurred. But does anyone deserve to be robbed, shot and left for dead? And to what should we attribute the rise in Black-on-Black crime?

lenges, Trump’s reelection reveals America remains fundamentally a racist and sexist nation.

Racism and sexism superseded financial challenges for far too many voters. Hence, many voted against their interests by voting for Trump.

Make America Great Again was never about the genuinely disadvantaged in our society. It’s about going back to more overtly racist and discriminatory policies and practices.

Wait and see.

Well, it looks like another four years of DJT. I, for one, am not surprised as this country is just as deeply misogynistic as it is racist, if not more. This same electorate that didn’t make Hillary Clinton president gave me no hope this time around. The bright side is this country has term limits. That’s all for now.

Marlon Rempart Washington, D.C.

Congratulations to Angela Alsobrooks for her election to the United States – the first Black woman who will represent Maryland. What a huge accomplishment and a campaign well done!

Deneice L. Walker Washington, D.C.

There are many reasons that officials count as factors that contribute to neighborhood violence – from systemic barriers like poverty and limited access to quality education to good jobs, affordable housing and high rates of illegal gun possession among young men in urban areas. But these reasons can no longer be used as excuses.

As a known racist, sexist, 34time convicted felon and twice impeached man is about to take over the Oval Office, and has made promises that could have detrimental effects on Black communities in the DMV region and nation, it’s important to work to stop violence and unite toward progress.

With statistics showing that

According to the Office of Justice Programs, Black homicide rates are seven to eight times higher than those of white Americans. In 2023, there were 9,284 Black murder victims in the U.S. while in nearly 90% of cases, the Black victim was killed by another Black. Meanwhile, 52% of the murder victims were acquainted with their assailant.

90% of Black murder victims are killed by another African American person and more than half of those who have died knowing their murderer, it’s critical to com-

bat community violence. Killing one another destroys the future of Black families, while uniting paves a way for a better tomorrow. Instead of hostility and violence,

it’s important to come together as many people brace for what could be a challenging time for Black Americans.

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS

Guest Columnist

A Loan Shark In Your Pocket: Cellphone Cash-Advance Apps

Many Americans continue to find it challenging to keep up with the rising cost of living. Despite economic reports attesting to a growing broad economy, the majority of Americans' household finances feel insecure — especially people who live paycheck to paycheck with little or no savings.

The financial marketplace has responded to this ongoing consumer cash

The

The vice president ran a beautiful campaign. She worked like a Trojan, traveling from city to city, sometimes as many as three or four in a day. She did interviews, town halls, television shows and one-on-one interviews with both national and local media. In a scant 100 days, she built a dynamic and credible campaign, and many of us anticipated a victory, if not on election night, then

I've been told that I give the Black church too much credit. But when you look at how our ancestors navigated through the harsh realities of racial oppression and white supremacy to survive, it is credit well deserved.

On our worst day as Black men and women living in the 2024 version of America, it will never compare to the typical day of a Black person trapped in

crunch with an emerging predatory lending product designed to take full advantage of consumers' financial mismatch: earned wage advances (EWA). These cash advance products are small, short-term loans, typically ranging from $40 to $200, that are repaid on the consumer's next payday either directly from a bank account or as a payroll deduction. They're also conveniently available with a few clicks on borrowers' smartphones.

But as with other predatory loans, wage advances also create a deceptive and highly profitable cycle of debt

built upon repeated reborrowing with interest equivalent to 300% annual percentage rates or more. In most cases, these cash advances also lead to frequent overdraft fees. The combined repeat borrowing and high costs result in unsuspecting consumers learning the so-called convenience brought more — not less — financial hardship.

This summer, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau shared its early analysis of this growing market segment, including key data points:

• The number of transactions processed by these providers grew by over

90% from 2021 to 2022, with more than 7 million workers accessing approximately $22 billion in 2022.

• The average transaction amount ranged from $35 to $200, with an overall average transaction size of $106, and the average worker accessed $3,000 in funds per year.

• The average worker in their study had 27 earned wage transactions per year, and a strong growth in frequent usage of at least once a month rising from 41% in 2021 to nearly 50% in 2022.

More recently, the Center for Responsible Lending (CRL) released a

new policy brief, "Paying to be Paid: Consumer Protections Needed for Earned Wage Advances and Other Fintech Cash Advances."

"By offering predatory credit with just a few taps on your cell phone, cash advance apps are a loan shark in your pocket. This report shows many cash advance app borrowers are trapped in a cycle of debt like that experienced by payday loan borrowers," said Candice Wang, senior researcher at CRL. "Cash advance app companies issue loans with

CROWELL Page 45

a few days later. Instead, we experienced the excruciating pain of watching delicate glass shatter at our feet. I hung out with the Roland Martin crew from the Black Star Network from about 9:30 election night until nearly 3 a.m., hoping and praying for Pennsylvania, Michigan, Arizona or some durn place to break our way. But the results came back like body blows. We were losing. Then hope was gone. The numbers did not break our way. The Orange Man, with his Elon Musk-funded ground game, pulled out not a win, but a rout. He

now has the White House, the Senate and maybe the House of Representatives, not to mention the Supreme Court and many other lower courts. Unless Democrats can hold the House, he can do pretty much anything he wants to do. He and his cronies have already started picking staff, but we should be clear that they have been picking staff since they issued Project 2025 a couple of years ago.

So, what are we supposed to do, especially if Republicans have a clean sweep? They don't have the House of Representatives yet, and we pray they

don't. But what if they do? What do we do?

Vice President Harris and President Biden offered great messages about accepting the vote, embracing the vision and moving ahead. They exhibited the grace that the president-elect was incapable of in 2020, when he led a rabid insurrection to protest the outcome of the vote. What if the vice president had exhibited the same vitriol? Blessedly, she is more passionate about our country than he who debased our entire nation (calling people stupid and low-IQ and worse) in his campaign.

No matter. Dr. Maya Angelou said that "when people show you who they are, believe them." Believe that the 47th president will have no respect for the law or for the Constitution. Believe that he will attempt mass deportation and even mass firings of federal workers. Believe that he will eviscerate our regulatory agencies, especially the ones who protect our workers — the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), the

the institution of slavery. Family always played a major part in helping enslaved Blacks cope with the cruel conditions of their enslavement. Family ties were a means of support and resilience despite having to live a life with the constant threat and fear of having family members sold and taken away. The Black church is given credit because one cannot dismiss the ability that enslaved Blacks were often able to endure and recover from their hardships by way of their Christian faith. In the middle of the night, areas buried deep into the woods (hush harbors) served as their

secret sanctuary of worship. While they never benefited from a steepled church with pews and stained-glass windows, the hush harbors became an example of how the church is not a building but a body of believers (people).

The Knights of the Ku Klux Klan, founded in 1865, carried out most of its violent attacks at night and were known for its signature long white robes and hoods. During three dark and tragic periods, the Klan rose from a dormant to an active state in spreading hate and terror toward Blacks, Jews, and Catholics. Their goal, as defenders

of white supremacy, was to maintain a society in which white Protestants maintained total control while socially holding back people of other races and religions. As social justice advocates, we must realize that current events simply continue America's dark past.

The first Klan uprising emerged with its members becoming powerful agents of hate during the period of Reconstruction. It was a backlash mainly in opposition to the government's attempt to achieve racial equality in the South and permanently guarantee a second-class citizen status for formerly

enslaved people. The second period of Klan resurgence was in the early 20th century as a response to the large influx of Catholic and Jewish immigrants coming into the United States. The third major uprising was the violent backlash to the Civil Rights Movement during the 1950s and '60s. Of the three periods, it was the second emergence during the 1920s, which was far different and dangerous than the first and third versions. By broadening its agenda, the Klan became a more organized

Julianne Malveaux

Vice President Lost — What's Next?

David W. Marshall

Charlene Crowell

Guest Columnist

Autopsy for a Failed Presidential Campaign and the Democratic Party

"Winter In America," Gil Scott-Heron

"… People know that something's wrong; Everybody oughta know winter… The truth is there ain't nobody fighting; Because, well nobody knows what to save, Brother, save your soul; Lord knows it's winter in America. The Constitution, a noble piece of paper; With free society; Well, they struggled but they died in vain; And now democracy is ragtime on the corners; On the cord, hoping it'd rain …" —

The 2024 American presidential election is over. The people have spoken. The world is shocked! Trump won! Americans fell for it again, or did they … fall for it?

Many in the African American community are angry, shocked and looking for the culprits. Who did this to Vice President Harris? Somebody must be held accountable! The audacity of those misogynistic Latino men, white women and those angry Black men who hate Black women. All of them must be

held accountable. What damage does this do to the psyche of Black women?

Vice President Harris was entitled to the Oval Office and has been denied. According to Sen. Lindsey Graham in 2015, Trump is "a race-baiting xenophobic religious bigot." Sen. Rick Perry warned us that Trump "doesn't know the difference between truth and lies," while Sen. Ted Cruz said, "he lies, practically every word that comes out of his mouth." With all of that, Hillary Clinton lost to him in 2016 and now Vice President Harris has lost to him as well. Trump has prevailed … again! Why?

Don't ask why Harris lost; ask yourself why this "race-baiting xenophobic religious bigot" won. Again! It's too easy to chalk this up to or write this off as being a "masterclass in white privilege." It's too simplistic to attribute this cataclysmic failure to "hatred toward Black women." Too many Democrats, their pundits and some analysts are trying to write this historic blunder off as America will "never elect a Black woman as president." Stop it! The bad lies are the lies you tell yourself. Even worse are the ones you tell yourself and believe.

That flawed "hatred toward Black women" trope is more convenient than making the necessary course corrections that the Democratic Party needs to make in order to help America live up to its promise. Instead, odds are that they will continue to "maintain course and speed," running aground or striking the iceberg time and again. To truly be able to move forward, the party and its African American constituency must first look inward and self-assess before placing blame.

Donald Trump and Project 2025: Will the Future of America Be a Return to the Ugly Past?

cial Security. And this is to say nothing of Trump’s own plans to rule as an autocrat under a court-sanctioned theory of unitary executive authority." — Jamelle Bouie

"With Trump in the White House, social conservatives can use executive action to try to ban abortion; MAGA nationalists can end most forms of immigration, commence mass deportations and leverage civil rights laws against imagined “anti-white” discrimination; and reactionary opponents of social insurance can weaken Medicare, Medicaid and So-

Project 2025, the sweeping extremist policy agenda assembled by Donald Trump's supporters, allies and veterans of his administration, is deeply unpopular with the American people.

As a candidate, Trump's response was to feign ignorance. During his Sept. 10 debate with Vice President Kamala Harris, he claimed he hadn't

even read it.

What he didn't say was whether he supported the alarming proposals it contains, or whether he would implement them as president. In fact, at least 270 of the proposals in Project 2025 match Trump's own past policies, previous actions or current campaign promises.

Key to the agenda is a drastic overhaul of the federal government, purging it of conscientious civil servants and replacing them with Trump loyalists. Trump began that process late in his last term with Executive Order

13957, also known as Schedule F. "Schedule F would be the most profound change to the civil service system since its creation in 1883," Georgetown political scientist Don Moynihan wrote in The New York Times. "It would be a catastrophe for government performance" and for democracy, he said.

Trump's term ended before he could implement Schedule F, and President Biden quickly rescinded it when he took office. Trump has vowed to reissue the order immediately and wield the power it gives

Why We Cannot and Will Not Go Backwards on Clean Energy

ic and health benefits for millions of American families are very real as well.

More jobs. Better jobs. Lower energy prices. Cleaner water. Cleaner air. Fewer asthma attacks. Fewer heart attacks. Those are just a few of the benefits working people and communities across this country are reaping from the transition from fossil fuels to a clean energy economy. Sure, it is also about saving the planet — which most of us can agree is a good thing. But the econom-

Donald Trump and his Project 2025 agenda have threatened to upend the clean energy transition and move us backwards. He has shown us he is more interested in lining the pockets of fossil fuel oligarchs than helping everyday Americans.

But we will not go backwards. That is due in part to market forces that are not going anywhere. And it is due to the resistance that strong leaders and a strong movement for justice will wage in defense of the American people.

In Illinois, more than 130,000 people are now employed in clean energy jobs. In 2023, clean energy jobs grew eight times faster than the rest of the state's economy and clean vehicles are now the fastest growing sector in the state. California has more than 545,000 people employed in clean energy.

Those two states come to mind not only because they are both in the top five states for clean energy jobs, but because the governors of both those states are already pledging to resist Trump's attacks on their progress and the wellbeing of their people. But the governors

of every state should be as protective of their constituents. Two other top five states for clean energy jobs are Texas (second only to California with about 262,000) and Florida (with about 172,000). And maybe the far-right governors of those states will stand up against potential efforts to roll back clean energy investments like those found in the Inflation Reduction Act.

After all, 18 U.S. House Republicans already wrote to Speaker Mike Johnson back in August asking him to leave the IRA's clean energy tax credits in place because of how they are helping their

him "very aggressively." Civil servants deemed disloyal already have been compiled.

With a federal workforce who will place loyalty to Trump over loyalty to the Constitution, Trump will be free to implement a radical, extremist agenda that will obliterate racial justice initiatives and preserve advantages for white Americans.

The next Trump administration will use civil rights laws to counter the imaginary forces of "anti-white

districts.

It should not be a partisan issue. Nationally, the Department of Energy found clean energy jobs to be growing at more than twice the rate of U.S. employment overall. A lot of these jobs are in deep red states and districts, because that is where a lot of the IRA investments are flowing. One of the greatest stories of how the clean energy economy is reinvigorating communities and reshoring supply chains — and the jobs they create — comes from

LEON

Marc H. Morial

Ben Jealous

Guest Columnist

Wilmer Leon

LIFESTYLE

WASHINGTON INFORMER WEEKEND CHECKLIST

WASHINGTON INFORMER'S

Things To Do, DMV!

By Rachelle Smith WI Intern

Check out a handful of the many events happening in the DMV this weekend, including a musical, a holiday market, sporting events, plus so much more.

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

THURSDAY, NOV. 14

Thee Sacred Souls: Live for You Tour

8 p.m. | $65.59+

The Fillmore Silver Spring, 8656 Colesville Road Silver Spring, MD 20910

Thee Sacred Souls, a young band from San Diego is coming to the DMV area to showcase their new album “Got A Story To Tell.”

The highly anticipated album is a follow-up to their self-titled debut, released in 2022. The R&B/ Soul band is most well known for their 2020 single “Can I Call You Rose?”. Thee Heart Tones, another band from California, will open the show.

This is a general admission, standing room only event with reserved seating in the balcony and open to all ages.

SIX the Musical (Touring) 7:30 p.m. | $119.00+

The National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington, D.C. 20004

From Tudor Queens to Pop Icons, the SIX wives of Henry VIII take the microphone to remix five hundred years of historical heartbreak into a Euphoric Celebration of 21st century girl power! This new original musical is the global sensation that everyone is losing their head over!

“SIX” won 23 awards in the 2021/2022 Broadway season, including the Tony Award® for Best Original Score (Music and Lyrics) and the Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Musical.

“SIX” includes flashing lights, strobe effects, theatrical haze and loud music throughout.

FRIDAY, NOV. 15

NEA Big Read: Homegoing Community Book Discussion 7 p.m. | Free with RSVP Sandy Spring Museum, 17901 Bentley Road Sandy Spring, MD 20860

Join an informal community discussion of the dual themes of "conflict" and "subculture" in “Homegoing,” facilitated by Cyrus Washington, a retired Montgomery County English teacher.

The Washington D.C. Pancakes & Booze Art Show

7 p.m. | $15.00+ Hook Hall, 3400 Georgia Avenue NW Washington, D.C. 20010

D.C.'s Pop-Up Underground Art Show is BACK on Nov. 14 at Hook Hall. Come experience one of the largest pop-up art movements to hit North America over the past decade. Celebrate the establishment’s 10th anniversary year serving FREE PANCAKES and introducing guests to some of the nation's leading emerging artists.

21+ EVENT

SATURDAY, NOV. 16

NWSL Semifinal: NJ/NY Gotham FC at Washington Spirit

Noon | $44.00+

Audi Field, 100 Potomac Avenue SW Washington, D.C. 20024

DC’s own Washington Spirit is facing off against the NJ/NY Gotham FC.

Come cheer on the home team as they compete in the NWSL semifinals.

The Parks Holiday Market & Celebration

Noon | Free with RSVP

The Parks at Walter Reed, 7175 12th Street NW Washington, D.C. 20852

Celebrate the holidays with friends and neighbors on the Marketplace Plaza with the popular Holiday Market & Celebration for early some holiday shopping.

The Parks partners with Housing Up for the organization’s holiday gift drive, which seeks to provide gifts to nearly 1,500 children in their permanent supportive housing program. Bring a gift from Housing Up’s wish list to the event (or make a donation), and the market will feature a wrapping station where guests can help beautify these gifts for children around the city.

The Parks will also host Carpe Librum’s popup book sale during the Holiday Market, with proceeds going to Turning the Page, a literacy nonprofit that engages

public school families for student success. Collecting and selling donated used books is one way Turning The Page raises capital for their programs and has been working with D.C. families since 1998, providing family engagement and literacy development programming.

SUNDAY, NOV. 17

2nd Annual Hip Hop Studies Conference

8:30 a.m. | $20.00+

Howard University, 2400 Sixth Street NW Washington, DC 20059

Join a day filled with Hip Hop culture, music, and knowledge at the 2nd Annual Hip Hop Studies Conference. This event will feature inspiring speakers, engaging panels, and interactive workshops all centered around Hip Hop.

Whether a student, scholar, artist, or simply a Hip Hop enthusiast, this conference is the place to be, in order to connect with others and begin to understand Hip Hop's influence on the world.

Washington Wizards vs. Detroit Pistons

6 p.m. | $17.00+

Capital One Arena, 601 F Street Washington, D.C. 20004

The Washington Wizards face off against the Detroit Pistons at home. Join the excitement in person, in a game that will feature entertain and excitement for live participants throughouts the evening. WI

5The musical SIX will be coming to town on Thursday Nov. 14. (Courtesy Photo)

5The R&B/Soul band Thee Sacred Souls will be on tour playing their new album “Got A Story To Tell” on Thursday Nov. 14. (Courtesy Photo)

Félix González-Torres Exhibition: ‘Always to Return’ Leaves Audiences Questioning Ideals Surrounding Museums, Significant Art, Simplicity

By Andrew S. Jacobson WI Contributing Writer

The recent exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery in Northwest, D.C., “Félix González-Torres: Always to Return,” was billed as a thought-provoking exploration of the artist’s conceptual work, and indeed, many audiences have viewed the work and have questions. The exhibition has many attendees questioning both the significance of the presentation and the museum’s decision to include it in such a prominent space.

For those familiar with González-Torres’ minimalist approach, his work has always been imbued with profound symbolism. His famous “candy spills” and light strings have been seen as meditations on themes like loss, memory, and desire. Yet, at this exhibition, those elements felt stripped of their usual resonance. The viewer is left to wonder: Why was this considered a significant presentation? Why did the museum choose to present it this way?

Kim Sajet, the museum’s director, emphasized that the space provided for González-Torres is consistent with that given to other notable contemporary artists, such as Bill Viola, Kara Walker, Kumi Yamashita, and Hung Liu.

“For Félix González-Torres, the space around the works (often called the ‘negative’ space) is as important as the actual objects, and your body is considered a part of the piece,” Sajet explained. “Visitors are invited to walk around the lights, pick up the candies, and see themselves in the mirror, without interruption.”

While the intention of engaging the audience physically with the work is clear, the execution was a bit more bewildering than bold, seemingly testing the limits of what visitors might accept as significant art.

Anne Helmreich, director of the Archives of American Art, spoke to the uniqueness of this exhibition from an archival perspective.

She explained that it allowed the audience to rethink traditional ar-

REVIEW Page 30

5Felix Gonzalez-Torres’ “Always to Return” delves into the artist’s exploration of portraiture and identity, examining how history is conveyed across generations. The exhibit is open until July 6, 2025 (Courtesy Photo/Mark Gulezian)

LIFESTYLE

REVIEW from Page 29

chival displays, opting to showcase fewer materials—such as postcards and documents—in a less crowded, more meditative environment.

Audiences are left challenged, in part, due to the simplicity of the materials. In an era where exhibitions frequently use cutting-edge technology or intricate installations, the minimalism of González-Torres’ work can feel underwhelming—particularly when contrasted with past exhibitions in the same gallery, such as Viola’s immersive video works or Walker’s wall-covering silhouettes.

González-Torres’ aesthetic has always embraced the ordinary, however, this recent exhibit felt oddly detached from the emotional weight that usually underpins his celebrated pieces.

Helmreich noted that González-Torres’ “puzzle works,” created through commercial printing processes, were also displayed without barriers like plexiglass cases, enabling direct engagement with the audience. Yet even this approach left some viewers asking: Does the presentation’s commercial feel diminish the complexity of the artist’s work?

Ultimately, while the curatorial

team clearly sought to highlight the importance of space and visitor interaction in González-Torres’ art, the result felt more like a minimalist provocation.

Perhaps the forthcoming comprehensive catalog, set for release in 2025, will help illuminate the curatorial choices behind “Always to Return.” The book, filled with archival material and reflections from noteworthy scholars, may provide the depth that the physical exhibition lacked.

Sajet acknowledged that exhibiting González-Torres in the 19th-century Old Patent Office Building, the current location of the National Portrait

‘Tis The Season Concert

Saturday, December 14, 2024 • 2-4pm

FAME is presenting its annual intergenerational community holiday concert. Join us and get the holiday season started with multiple spirited sounds of music and an unforgettable experience.

Gallery, was an intentional decision meant to challenge preconceived notions of what the museum can do.

“Just because we focus on history doesn’t mean we can’t be surprising and challenge the conventions of mu-

seology from the past,” she explained.

“Félix González-Torres: Always to Return,” is open to the public at the National Portrait Gallery, 8th Street NW and G Street NW, until July 6, 2025. WI

ley company in 1984 and launching her dance group, The Jamison Project Dance Company, in 1988.

Following Ailey’s death in 1989, Jamison took over as the artistic director of his company, steering it through a period of profound growth and establishing its first permanent home, the Joan Weill Center for Dance. She also founded a partnership with Fordham University, creating a joint Bachelor of Fine Arts program to support a multicultural dance curriculum.

Throughout her career, Jamison received numerous honors, including the National Medal of Arts and a Kennedy Center Honor, recognizing her contribution to the arts and her role in broadening the visibility of Black dancers and choreographers.

Her legacy is preserved in her autobiography, “Dancing Spirit,” and her choreography remains foundational to the company’s repertoire.

Even after stepping down as artistic director in 2011, Jamison continued to inspire and guide

the Ailey troupe as artistic director Emerita.

Reflecting on her role as Ailey’s successor, Jamison once said, “I felt prepared to carry [the company] forward. Alvin and I were like parts of the same tree. He, the roots and the trunk, and we were the branches. I was his muse. We were all his muses.” WI

Divine Dance Institute

LANGSTON HUGHES II

FAME JAZZ ENSEMBLE

MORRIS WILSON

5Renowned dancer and choreographer Judith Jamison, who led the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater for over two decades, died Nov. 9 at the age of 81. (Courtesy Photo)

JUDITH from Page 4

5A conceptual installation by Felix Gonzalez-Torres, featuring a scattering of lit light bulbs arranged in a loose pile on the floor. Alongside this, a strip of colorful candies lines the edge of the wall, inviting interaction. (Courtesy Photo/Mark Gulezian)

Reading is powerful! If you read 20 minutes a day just for the fun of it, you would read about 1.8 million words in year! That amount of reading gives kids an edge in school.

The newspaper offers great ways to play games that help you read more. A subscription to a newspaper brings reading opportunities to your doorstep every day!

Draw a line connecting each gift with its exact twin. Circle the gift that is one-of-a-kind.

Word Game

Valuable Headlines

The number code below assigns a value to every letter of the alphabet. Figure out the “value” of a headline in the newspaper. Then see if you can find another headline with a higher value.

Can you find the letters that spell the word SUBSCRIPTION on one page of the newspaper? Circle each letter then connect the letters in the order that spells S-U-B-S-C-R-I-P-T-I-O-N. Color in the design made by the lines.

Just for Laughs

Save a few days’ worth of your favorite comic strip. At your holiday gathering, have family members help you put on a show by acting out the comic strips for family and friends.

Find Happy

Look through the newspaper for words and pictures that show what is, in your opinion, an example of:

happy word

Before and After

Look at a photograph in the newspaper. Discuss with a partner what you think happened before the picture was taken. Write about what you think happened after?

Work with put the parts

Daliyah Marie at her local library. Recently theGeorgia Kindergarten challenges booksbefore kindergarten. Her story Carla Hayden, of Congress.

Daliyah visited in the world as “librarian has dreams

children young age.

Daliyah with Carla With hundreds

review wi book

Cookbooks for the Family by Various Authors

c.2024, Various publishers

$19 – $35

Various page counts

Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer

'Tis the season.

The season to bundle up when going outside. To anticipate a holiday tune or two, to admire lights on your evening walk or to decorate your own windows. 'Tis the season to start looking for recipes to wow your guests this year, so why not check out these great cookbooks …

Just gazing at the cover of "Al Roker's Recipes to Live By" by Al Roker with Courtney Roker Laga (Legacy Lit, $35) is going to make you hungry. Just paging through it is going to make you confident because what's in here are easy-to-make dishes that your family will want again. Check out the sandwich section for those leftovers.

You don't have to be from Wisconsin to want "Extra! Extra! Eat All About It! by Jane Conway and Randi Julia Ramsden (Wisconsin Historical Society Press, $30). What you will need, though, is an adventurous spirit to try the old-time suggestions and a willingness to enjoy the articles that go with them. Tasty recipes plus tasty history equals a yummy book for the person who likes to read cookbooks and then actually use them.

Of course, you want to bring the kids into the kitchen so they can host you someday, right? So have "Kids Cook Everything" by Mark Bittman (HarperCollins Harvest, $35), a nice hefty book that's meant for the budding cook in two nice ways: this cookbook is easy for the 10-and-up reader to follow, and the recipes in here are both kid favorites and kid-enticing. The sidebars and illustrations just make it better. Be aware that you'll want to be around to lend a hand, but then … how could you not, with this fun book?

For littler kids who need a little-kid-friendly first cookbook, find "Look and Cook Breakfast" by Valorie Fisher (Astra Young Readers, $19.99). Stepby-step pictures make this book perfect for the smallest kitchen helper, ages 5 to 8.

So your shelves are full of cookbooks, thankyouverymuch, but you still want to read something new about food? Then look for "Cold Kitchen: A Year of Culinary Journeys" by Caroline Eden (Bloomsbury, $27.99), and take a trip through Eastern Europe and Central Asia with Eden, a Scottish writer who's happy to have you along. You won't find recipes in this book, but you'll find plenty of inspiration.

Likewise, there are no recipes inside "Wild Chocolate: Across the Americas in Search of Cacao's Soul" by Rowan Jacobsen (Bloomsbury, $28.99) but chocolate. Chocolate in its most raw form, in its most hard-to-reach form, and how its fervent fans are working to ensure that the wild cacao doesn't disappear. It's a tale of adventure, perfect for reading between meals and with a big bar of, well, you know …

And if these great cookbooks aren't enough for your hosting pleasure or your kitchen counter, then head to your favorite bookstore or library and ask to see the cookbook section. Better yet, ask if your favorite bookseller or librarian has some favorite dishes and where they got them. Because 'tis the season for eating.

horoscopes

LIFESTYLE

NOV. 14 - 20, 2024

ARIES You'll have a special opportunity to connect with your nearest and dearest early in the week. Even if you're just hanging out close to home and catching one another up on your lives, you'll feel warm and loving and be able to express how you feel in a direct, perhaps even impulsive way. Later, you might have to confront tensions that underlie your relationship with higher-ups or colleagues. Lucky Numbers: 20, 21, 46

TAURUS Prioritizing time spent on meditation, yoga, or therapy can feel incredibly heartwarming and centering when the week begins. Getting in tune with your deepest emotions at this moment makes you more conscious of them and, in turn, eager to share with those you care about the most. Later, you could feel like your intuition and psychic ability is functioning on a higher level. Lucky Numbers: 11, 17, 35

GEMINI You might feel extra sensitive on the job at the beginning of the week. You're uniquely aware of the feelings of colleagues and higher-ups, and you might even be apt to take them on as your own. But the fact is that there's a lot of confusion in the air right now, so waiting to act (and to feel) until you have more clarity will serve you best. Later, you'll have a special opportunity to spend quality time with friends, neighbors and colleagues. Lucky Numbers: 7, 14, 40

CANCER Your intuition is heightened and your heart is even more tender than usual in the beginning of the week. And it might be so much for you to take that you feel like plotting an escape like a weekend getaway or simply getting caught up in your own daydreams. Later, the cosmos amplifies your desire to share your most artistic ideas with higher-ups. Lucky Numbers: 23, 28, 48

LEO It might be hard not to get swept up in steamy thoughts about someone special early in the week. Opening up about your desires is a must, because it lays the groundwork for sexy fireworks. Later, you'll be fired up to go to bat for the sake of your work/life balance. Perhaps you have a game plan in mind that you want to share with higher-ups, or you're ready to forge your own independent path. Lucky Numbers: 4, 17, 52

VIRGO Owning your most passionate emotional and physical desires can feel all sorts of liberating as the week starts. You'll crave one-on-one time with your significant other or someone else special, wanting to be extra demonstrative about your deepest needs. This can tee up the opportunity for sparks to fly in a major way. Later, your wheels might start turning as you begin plotting a special getaway or date night with your lover or a dear friend. Lucky Numbers: 23, 25, 52

LIBRA You might find yourself wanting to learn more about a possible new workout plan or clean eating regimen at the beginning of the week. The details you gather now can have you feeling even more vital. Later, you might have to contend with tough emotional issues that have been boiling under the surface. Lucky Numbers: 3, 7, 8

SCORPIO Your heart might go out to your partner or a dear friend who seems to be struggling early in the week. In fact, you're so sensitive to their pain that you might start feeling gloomy yourself. Try to stay centered in your own emotions while being there for others. It will serve you best. Lucky Numbers: 14, 23, 31

SAGITTARIUS Enjoying playful downtime with loved ones is a must in the beginning of the week. You'll be feeling even more vivacious and expressive than usual, wanting to open up about your most heartfelt emotions to those you love. And if you're single, you'll be even more magnetic than usual, so don't hesitate to start swiping on those apps! Lucky Numbers: 20, 47, 54

CAPRICORN At the start of the week, you'll be fired up to spend time learning and brainstorming on the job. Animated conversations with colleagues can set the stage for vibrant collaborations, and researching creative ways of handling ongoing issues can lead to stress-relieving solutions. Later, though you tend to be more comfortable with stoicism than bold displays of affection, you might be tempted to get out of your comfort zone when connecting with loved ones. Lucky Numbers: 23, 25, 29

AQUARIUS You'll do well to dive into the weeds to answer a question you've had related to your budget or investments at the start of the week. You have a knack for pinpointing important details now, as well as initiating conversations that can lead you to the most useful information. You'll then be able to make more informed choices related to your portfolio. Lucky Numbers: 18, 19, 33

PISCES Your innate empathic side could cloud your thoughts at the start of the week. You might be so distracted by your nurturing, compassionate feelings that it's hard for you to focus on the facts at hand. Make sure to check in with yourself and understand your own emotions before doing what you can to be there for others. Later, the stage is set for productive, jovial conversations with friends and colleagues about moneymaking projects. Lucky Numbers: 7, 31, 40

SPORTS

Dunbar Narrowly Defeats Eastern in the Battle for First Place

By Ed Hill WI Contributing

In Friday, Nov. 8’s big showdown for first place between perennial power Dunbar High School and Eastern High School, both teams entered the game with winning streaks. In an exciting battle for the District of Columbia Intercollegiate Athletics Association (DCIAA) Stars Division, Dunbar defeated Eastern on their opponent’s home turf 28-26 .

The Eastern Ramblers won four straight games and averaged over 36 points during the streak. Further, Eastern was celebrating senior night, so the atmosphere was extra electric in anticipation of this matchup.

Dunbar’s Crimson Tide, on the other hand, had a five-game win streak and was equally productive on offense, averaging over 30 points.

Moreover, each team boasts a

candidate for DCIAA Player of the Year: Eastern senior running back Daquan Ginyard and Dunbar quarterback Brosnan Dukes. At the end of the matchup, it was Dunbar, with three second-half touchdowns by quarterback Dukes, that proved to be the difference in this battle. The senior engineered a 94-yard drive that he capped off with a three-yard jaunt to help the Crimson Tide win their second straight DCIAA Stars Division. But even with Brosnan's heroic drive, the Ramblers refused to go down.

HIGHLIGHTS IN A GAME AGAINST LONGTIME WINNERS

UNDERDOGS

The Ramblers, fueled by the prospects of what the game meant, came out and set the table early, marching 73 yards in 12 plays on their first possession, with Ginyard

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supplying most of the yards and finishing it off with a one-yard run.

The kick conversion failed and Eastern led 6-0 at the 7:56 mark of the first quarter.

The Crimson answered with an eight play 65-yard drive that was finished off by Dukes, giving his team a 7-6 lead with 5:42 on the clock.

From there, the Ramblers took control, using the running of Ginyard and some key defensive plays to take a 19-7 lead at the half. Ginyard has now amassed 1,706 yards in nine games this season.

Dunbar (9-1, 5-0 in the DCIAA) initially had trouble moving the ball against Eastern.

That is when Dukes, who has passed for over 2,000 yards this season, put together a 12-play, 94yard drive that he put his signature on with a burst up the middle for the go-ahead touchdown with less than two minutes remaining.

Benefitting from some Dunbar penalties, Eastern (7-3, 4-2 in the DCIAA) had one more chance when a penalty gave them a short field goal with 1:26 remaining in the game. While the Ramblers set up shop at the Dunbar 19-yard line, the Crimson Tide defense limited Eastern to one yard in three plays, setting up what would be a game-winning 35-yard line field goal. The kick went just right, and Dunbar ran on the field to celebrate.

vision playoffs, which begin on Saturday, Nov. 16, with Dunbar going against H.D. Woodson. The winner of that game will be playing the winner of the Eastern Coolidge matchup for the Turkey Bowl championship on Thanksgiving.

Then, finally the Crimson Tide was able to get on the board, courtesy of a short field and some clutch plays by Dukes. He capped off a short drive with a one-yard push to cut the deficit to 19-14 with under two minutes remaining in the third quarter.

“It feels good to get a real team win,” Dukes said, soaking the win in.

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For Dunbar Head Coach Anthony "Bink" Vaughn, it was his second straight DCIAA title.

For Eastern head coach Roman Morris, who surprised fans this year with a successful season, last Friday’s defeat is bittersweet. It has been almost three decades since Eastern’s program has been relevant and Morris takes pride in getting the team some recognition, even despite the narrow defeat. A former player at the District high school, he brought respectability back to the program after a long drought.

"We can say a lot about this game. It was a great game between two teams who were playing for something,” said Morris. “At the end of the day, Dunbar has been there; we have not."

The District of Columbia Housing Finance Agency is seeking the services of a contractor to provide the above services.

With 7:20 left in the fourth quarter, Dunbar was able to take the lead at 22-19.

The RFP can be found at www.DCHFA.org/about/business-opportunities. Deadline for submission of proposals is December 3, 2024, at 2:00 p.m.

The RFP can be found at www.DCHFA.org/about/business-opportunities.

Deadline for submission of proposals is December 3, 2024, at 2:00 p.m.

However, Eastern had other ideas and by taking advantage of some Dunbar penalties, the Ramblers took three plays to go 30 yards and regain the lead at 26-22.

The Ramblers' hopes were buoyed when their punter got off a 51-yard punt that pinned the Crimson back to their own 6-yard line.

"When we were down, 19-7, we made a lot of uncharacteristic mistakes," said Vaughn, a former QB at his alma mater. "We hurt ourselves a lot with penalties and mistakes. Give Eastern credit. They played well. I just told the kids to just keep believing."

NEXT UP FOR THE DUNBAR AND EASTERN

Next are the DCIAA Stars Di-

The coach paused and put Friday’s game against Dunbar into perspective, helping others understand the nuanced moment for him and his team.

"This was not a loss for us,” he said, noting the teams could very well meet up in the Turkey Bowl Championship on Nov. 28.

“We're looking at it as a victory for us because we have another chance.”

5Dunbar High School is in first place in the District of Columbia Intercollegiate Athletics Association (DCIAA) Stars Division after defeating Eastern High School 28-26 on Nov. 8. (Abdullah Konte/The Washington Informer)

D.C. PUBLIC SCHOOLS FOOTBALL UPDATE

CAPTURE the moment

Dancing with

the

Scholars

XIV

a Night Filled with Entertainment and Empowerment

Councilmember Gray Honored, Ballou Wins First Place

More than 200 guests gathered at THEARC in Southeast, D.C. on Saturday, Nov. 9, for Dancing with the Scholars XIV, hosted by the William O. Lockridge Community Foundation (WOLCF). Britt Waters of WUSA 9 served as mistress of ceremonies for the annual event, where three District high school schools: Ballou, KIPP Legacy and Bard, competed to win the first-place prize, $500. In addition, the evening featured a keynote address from the District’s 2025 Teacher of the Year Jazzymyne Townsend and remarks from former D.C. Councilmember Yvette Alexander, a member of the foundation’s board; Lockridge International Ambassadors, who recently traveled to Madagascar, in part, through funding from last year’s competition; and Wanda D. Lockridge, WOLCF founder and chairwoman. The event also honored the work and legacy of former Mayor and Ward 7 Councilmember Vincent Gray, who will soon complete his term and recently announced he was diagnosed with early stages of dementia. In the end, Ballou was victorious, earning the $500 prize, while KIPP Legacy and Bard won second and third places, receiving $250 and $100 respectively.

5 Phil Mendelson, chairman of the Council of the District of Columbia, Dr. Carlene Reid, State Board of Education Ward 8 Representative, and Eboni-Rose Thompson, State Board of Education Ward 7 Representative served as judges for the 14th annual Dancing with the Scholars.

5 Bard High School Early College.

5 KIPP DC Legacy College Prep.

3 Britt Waters, multimedia, broadcaster, and mistress of ceremonies.

5 Trayon White, Phil Mendelson, Sheila Bunn Wanda D. Lockridge and Brianne Nadeau.

5 Bard High School Early College.

RELIGION

Pastors Offer Support Through Painful Election Loss Emotions Surrounding Harris’ Defeat Feels Like Mourning, Religious Leaders Grieve with Members

By Rev. Dorothy S. Boulware Word In Black

This article was originally published online with Word In Black, a collaboration of the nation's leading Black news publishers (of which The Washington Informer is a member)

Having spent the months and weeks before Election Day encouraging their congregants to vote, news that former president Donald Trump had defeated Vice President Kamala Harris to retake the White House was a staggering blow to many Black houses of worship.

On Wednesday, Nov. 6, ministers reflected on the lessons they taught leading up to Nov. 5, and what they can say to heartbroken, angry or frustrated parishioners in the election’s aftermath. The emotions surrounding Harris’ defeat, they say, are a lot like losing a loved one, and they are grieving

along with their members.

It was painful for faith leaders and worshipers alike to watch the reports and to hear pronouncements of Trump’s victory, especially for pastors who’d worked hard to inspire and encourage their flock to vote. Even worse: the complex knot of emotions of parents, teachers and counselors who had to explain the loss to their children — and to hopeful first-time voters.

Yet Harris’ loss was frustrating for the ministers and pastors who’ve emphasized the necessity, and sacred duty, of voting to their parishioners. Black faith leaders repeatedly delivered that lesson before Nov. 5, often punctuated with a history lesson — “Grandparents died so you could vote” — only to experience a devastating loss in a high-stakes election.

Trump’s win was deflating for faith leaders who encouraged first-time voters who ranged in age from 18 to 75. It was difficult

for the ministers who worked to change the minds of those who feel they should be in the world but not of the world; for those who encouraged the skeptics who didn’t believe their vote mattered — and, given the outcome, might never vote again.

Some pastors had already planned activities to help their members get through what many predicted would certainly be days of painstaking ballot-counting, further slowed by legal challenges and possible recounts. But few expected Harris would be on the losing end of a resounding defeat, and that development meant plans had to change.

In Alexandria, Virginia, Alfred Street Baptist Church offered a virtual gathering, “Prayer and Support for Post-Election Wellbeing,” from noon to 1:30 p.m. Just a few minutes after the event, the livestream had already garnered more than 362 likes and 5,600 views.

“We’re going to come together to lift up prayers, offer support and create a safe space for those who need to sit with their feelings,” said the Rev. LaTasha L. Morgan, counseling ministry leader.

She reminded the audience that God was in control, the outcome was not a surprise to Him, and they have been in difficult circumstances before.

“The first thing that came to mind when the first member

called this morning was Psalm 46: ‘God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble,’” said the Rev. Derrick A. Aldridge, pastor of Second Chance Church in Flint, Michigan. “I’m encouraged by that entire Psalm, so I will suggest they read it and that we stay focused on the fact that no matter what happens, we still have to live in this world together in peace and harmony.”

Bishop Ralph L. Dennis, head of pastors at Kingdom of Fellowship Ministries in Columbia, Maryland, said Harris’ loss to Trump leaves parishioners “exactly where I believed we would be” and that they should look to the heavens for comfort.

“Our hope and future must never be in an earthly system and the flesh of men,” said Dennis. “Israel, God’s chosen people, went into captivity by the will of God for her perpetual disobedience, and yet the same God speaks to Jeremiah, and in Chapter 29, tells the people how to prepare and what to do.”

Baltimore pastor Kevin Slayton said it’s important to remember that all politics are local, and that Marylanders still have things to celebrate from the election.

“With that said, there is great cause for rejoicing in our community,” said Slayton, pastor of Northwood Appold United Methodist Church. “We elected [Baltimore Mayor] Brandon Scott,

a leader with a proven love and passion for this city. Equally ready and capable is the [Baltimore city council] president-elect, Zeke Cohen. There is no question that he is committed to the cause of justice.” Meanwhile, “we can all shout at the outcome of electing the first African American woman from the state of Maryland to serve in the U.S. Senate,” Slayton said. “There is always something to give thanks for.”

The Rev. Dante K. Miles, pastor of Koinonia Baptist Church, said he’d talked with his congregation leading into election night and they fasted and prayed through the evening.

Their prayers, he added, were “not for a particular candidate or party but that God’s will would be done.”

In conversations with some parishioners, “I could feel their grief and tried comforting them,” Miles said. “[But] in the same way people are angry when they lose a loved one, nobody at that initial moment wants to hear about God.”

Miles said they’ve been going over the Articles of Faith, “but I’m going to focus on what we believe about civil government and tie the election to it and then tomorrow for our group prayer time. If someone brings it up, we will definitely lift up the winners, the losers and the country as a whole.” WI

5Alfred Street Baptist Church, in Alexandria, Virginia, offered a virtual gathering, “Prayer and Support for Post-Election Wellbeing,” event, so people could process and pray after the stressful campaign season and Nov. 5 general election. (Courtesy

Photo/Alfred Street Baptist Church, Screenshot)

RELIGION

Our general election was such an eye-opener to what and who America really is. It causes me to ponder about Lady Liberty, our Statute of Liberty that sits in watch of New York, supposedly, our light to tell the world that all are welcome in America.

However, I received this writing from my friend Sister Dr. Jenna. Here is what she has to say about our American election:

In the high-stakes world of American politics, the ability to balance strength and empathy has long been a challenge. Yet Vice President Kamala Harris managed to walk that line with admirable poise during the recent election. It is an irony that, despite her efforts to represent inclusivity and progress, the nation's response revealed not just political preferences, but deeper, systemic biases that continue to shape the fabric of American society.

A Trailblazer with Vision

Vice President Kamala Harris' role in American politics marked several historic firsts: the first female vice president, the first Black woman, and the first South Asian American to hold the office. These distinctions alone brought both inspiration and scrutiny. Harris approached her role with grace, tackling significant issues from economic recovery to international diplomacy while maintaining a focus on uplifting communities across the spectrum. Her campaign championed equity, championed inclusion, and reflected a vision of hope — an aspiration for a truly united America.

The Campaign that Differed in Tone

Harris' campaign was defined by her message of unity and healing, seeking to bridge divides and offer solutions

WITH LYNDIA GRANT

How the Nation Failed Kamala Harris the religion corner

that resonated with both empathy and pragmatism. Her speeches were marked by calls to come together, celebrate diversity, and embrace solutions that uplift all Americans. Contrastingly, her opponent employed a different approach, characterized by caustic remarks, personal attacks, and rhetoric that stoked division and heightened tensions.

The disparity was stark: one leader upheld the value of decency, even when faced with criticism, while the other used moments of discord as strategic weapons. The choice presented to the nation was not only one of policy but of the kind of discourse and character that should define America's leadership.

A Reflection of Deeper Issues

In the end, the election results revealed that while a substantial portion of America respects grace, inclusion and progress, a louder part responds to the abrasive and contentious. The discrepancy in support suggested not just a political loss but an exposure of underlying societal values. Why was grace met with resistance? Why did an approach rooted in uniting people fail to resonate more widely?

Some critics argue that Harris, as a woman of color, faced double standards that her peers did not. Where her opponent's brashness was excused as "telling it like it is," her calm confidence was misconstrued as insufficiently assertive. These double standards echo a broader pattern in which the accomplishments of women, especially women of color, are held to a higher threshold of "proof" in leadership roles.

The Response that Defines Character

Harris' response to defeat was as graceful as her campaign. In concession, she chose words that continued to foster hope and unity, refusing to engage in the bitterness that marred so much of the political landscape. This act, more than any poll or speech, cemented her as a leader committed to serving the people, whether or not they were willing to embrace her vision.

In the final analysis, America's election cycle didn't just overlook Kamala Harris' political acumen, it overlooked an opportunity to uplift a leader who chose connection over conflict and inclusivity over division. The lessons from this moment stretch beyond politics — they reach into the heart of what kind of nation America wants to be.

The hope, moving forward, is that the seeds Harris planted in her tenure and campaign will inspire future generations to value integrity, poise, and genuine connection, and that the story of her leadership will remind the nation of the potential it has yet to fully realize. All I can say in my closing remarks is God bless Kamala Harris and her team for fighting the good fight. As far as I'm concerned, VP Harris won the moment she said "yes" to this assignment. Thank you and please take this time to prepare for an even stronger and profound reach into the American psyche. Gather everyone who showed up, create a coalition of fighters who will not stand for tyranny and, PLEASE keep smiling.You light up our hearts.

America, be not discouraged, and always God will take care of you. In the words of The Heritage Singers:

Be not dismayed whate'er betide

God will take care of you

Beneath His wings of love abide

God will take care of you

Through every day, o'er all the way

He will take care of you

God will take care of you

No matter what may be the

test

God will take care of you

Lean, weary one, upon His breast

God will take care of you

Through every day, o'er all the way

He will take care of you

God will take care of you

He will take care of you

God will take care of you

MCCOLLUM & ASSOCIATES, LLC

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RELIGION

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

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

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

Rev Kevin A. O'Bryant

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

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

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

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

Purpose

Mt. Horeb Baptist Church

Rehoboth Baptist Church

First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church

Promised

Baptist Church

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

PROBATE DIVISION

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 FEP 000116

06-18-2023

Date of Death

Debbie Ann Spencer Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Anna L. Spencer whose address is 4509 23rd Pkwy, Apt. 202, Temple Hills MD 20748 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Debbie Ann Spencer, deceased, by the Orphans Court for Prince Georges County, State of Maryland, on April 30, 2024.

Service of process may be made upon Matrina Matthews 1811 Erie Street, SE, Washington, DC 20020 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C.

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

Date of first publication: 10/31/2024

Anna L. Spencer Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 001222

Jayvon Jones

Decedent

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

Cassandra Jones and James Jones, whose addresses are 3901 53rd Street #405 Bladensburg MD 20710 & 3901 53rd Street #405, Bladensburg MD 20710, were appointed

Personal Representatives of the estate of Jayvon Jones who died on 2/21/2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/7/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/7/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/7/2024

Cassandra Jones

James Jones

Personal

Nicole

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 FEP 000117

11/11/2009

Date of Death

Lionel Rouse Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Donna June Rouse whose address is 6704 Weston Avenue, Capitol Heights, MD 20743 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Lionel Rouse, deceased, by the Orphans Court for Prince Georges County, State of Maryland, on 10/17/2024.

Service of process may be made upon Alisha Bonner 401 M Street, NE Washington, DC 20002 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C. The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real property.

401 M Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Date of first publication: 10/31/2024

Donna June Rouse Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2024 ADM 001000

Karla Powell-Barbosa Decedent

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

Brandon G. James, whose address is 514 60th Street, NE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Karla Powell-Barbosa who died on April 6, 2020 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/7/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/7/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/7/2024

Brandon G. James Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 1244

Booker Dalton Wade Decedent

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

Mary T. Wade, whose address is 5752 2nd Street, NE, #2, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Booker Dalton Wade who died on 6/28/24 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/7/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/7/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/7/2024

Mary T. Wade Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 001248

Larry Renald Thomas Decedent

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

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

Dorothy M. Thomas, whose address is 1609 30th Street SE, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Larry Renald Thomas who died on September 5, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/7/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/7/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/7/2024

Dorothy M. Thomas Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 001223

Brenda Mae Williams-Collier aka Brenda W. Collier aka Brenda M. Collier Decedent

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

Brenae Collier-Price, whose address is 1611 T Street SE #1, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Brenda Mae Williams-Collier aka Brenda W. Collier aka Brenda M. Collier who died on October 26, 2018 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/7/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/7/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/7/2024

Brenae Collier-Price

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 001257

Mary Penelope Williams Decedent

Ferguson Evans, Esq. 601 Pennsylvania Ave., NW Suite 900 South Bldg. Washington, DC 20004 Attorney

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

Beulah B. Bracey, whose address is 9604 Spinnaker Street, Cheltenham, MD 20623, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mary Penelope Williams who died on August 20, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/7/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/7/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/7/2024

Beulah B. Bracey Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 001279

Charlene Mcleod Decedent

Donald Marlais, Esq. 411 10th Street, NE Washington, DC 20002

Attorney

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

Algie T. Mcleod, whose address is 7203 Twinflower Place, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Charlene Mcleod who died on March 5, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/7/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/7/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/7/2024

Algie T. Mcleod Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 001234

Neil Caldwell King Jr. aka Neil Caldwell King Decedent

Donald Marlais, Esq. 411 10th Street, NE Washington, DC 20002 Attorney

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

Shailagh Jane Murray, whose address is 233 ½ Ninth Street SE, Washington, DC 20003, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Neil Caldwell King Jr. aka Neil Caldwell King who died on 9/17/2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/7/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/7/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/7/2024

Shailagh Jane Murray

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 1224

Roger Vernon Hart Decedent

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

Charles W. Davis, whose address is 703 Buchanan Street, NE, Washington, DC 20017, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Roger Vernon Hart who died on August 15, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision.

All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/7/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/7/2025, or be forever barred.

Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/7/2024

Charles W. Davis Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 1231

Barbara A. Robinson Decedent

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

Stephanie M. Briscoe, whose address is 1562 41st Street SE, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Barbara A. Robinson who died on 9/9/2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/14/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/14/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/14/2024

Stephanie M. Briscoe Personal Representative

TRUE TEST

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 001225

Rufus F. Blue aka Rufus Franklin Blue Decedent

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

Attorney

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

Loris Ferguson-Blue, whose address is 423 Kennedy Street, NE, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Rufus F. Blue aka Rufus Franklin Blue who died on January 26, 2020 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/7/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/7/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/7/2024

Loris Ferguson-Blue Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 001119

Bessie M. Ward Decedent

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

Donna K. Hill, whose address is 7 Station Street Apt. 51 London, England E15 1DA, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Bessie M. Ward who died on May 9, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/14/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/14/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/14/2024

Donna K. Hill Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 001229

Vivian Joyce Shaw Decedent

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

Kimberly Bailey, whose address is 6904 Simmons Lane, Clinton, MD 20735, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Vivian Joyce Shaw who died on March 19, 1984 without a Will and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/7/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/7/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/7/2024

Kimberly Bailey Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2024 ADM 001252

Darlene K. Thomas Decedent

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

Karin M. Hope, whose address is 644 Massachusetts Ave., NE #204, Washington, DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Darlene K. Thomas who died on August 23, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/14/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/14/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/14/2024

Karin M. Hope

644 Massachusetts Ave., NE #204 Washington, DC 20002

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 001242

Ulysses Adam Richard Glen aka Tre Glen Decedent

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

Ulysses Glen, Jr., whose address is 2704 33rd Street, SE, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ulysses Adam Richard Glen aka Tre Glen who died on December 9, 2021 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/7/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/7/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/7/2024

Ulysses Glen, Jr, 2704 33rd Street, SE Washington, DC 20020 Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 001318

Ethel L. Jones Decedent

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

Theresa A. Jones, whose address is 1841 9th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ethel L. Jones who died on May 20, 2011 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/14/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/14/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/14/2024

Theresa A. Jones Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 001208

Sharon M. Kissel Decedent

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

Peter C. Kissel, whose address is 5604 Utah Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20015, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Sharon M. Kissel who died on July 21, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/7/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/7/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/7/2024

Peter C. Kissel

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 001282

James I Taylor Decedent

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

Shelia Johnson, whose address is 3615 22 Street SE, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James Taylor who died on September 23, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/14/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/14/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/14/2024

Shelia Johnson Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 1117

Jeannine C. Sanford Decedent

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

Charles A. Parker, whose address is 7137 7th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20012, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jeannine C. Sanford who died on July 13, 2022 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/14/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/14/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/14/2024

Charles A. Parker 7137 7th Street, NW Washington, DC 20012 Personal Representative

TRUE

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 001287

Minnie C. Underwood Decedent

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

Cameron Underwood, whose address is 4967 8th Street, NE, Washington, DC 20017, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Minnie C. Underwood who died on March 11, 2006 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/14/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/14/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/14/2024

DC 20017

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 001071

Lora Ann Evans Decedent

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

Charmaine Smith, whose address is 221 Lawson Road, Darlington, SC 29532, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Lora Ann Evans who died on 2/24/2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/14/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/14/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/14/2024

Charmaine Smith Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 FEP 000119

October 27, 2022

Date of Death

Rukudzo Tadzadzapasi Murapa Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Tinoziva Bere whose address is Suite No 3 Manica Centre 118 H. Chitepo Street Mutare Zimbabwe was appointed personal representative of the estate of Rukudzo Tadzadzapasi Murapa, deceased, by the Master of the High Court of Zimbabwe, on 1/18/23.

Service of process may be made upon Cherice N. Clark 4030 Lee Street, NE, Washington, DC 20019 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C.

The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real property.

1389 Adam Street, NE, Washington, DC 20018. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Date of first publication: 11/14/2024

Tinoziva Bere

Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000907

Louis Farone Dodd Decedent

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

Jessica Whiting, whose address is 800 Southern Ave. SE, Apt. 1024, Washington, DC 20032, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Louis Farone Dodd who died on June 23, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/14/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/14/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/14/2024

Jessica Whiting Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 001236

William E. Thurston Decedent

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

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

Denise Thompson, whose address is 2518 17th Street, NW, #B6, Washington, DC 20009, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of William E. Thurston who died on July 30, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/14/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/14/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/14/2024

Denise Thompson Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 1281

Marian E. Van Dyke aka Marian Estine Van Dyke Decedent

Isaac H. Marks, Sr., Esq. 11785 Beltsville Dr., Ste. 150 Calverton, MD 20705 Attorney

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

Cassandra Van Dyke, whose address is 100 Laurel Springs Dr., #112, Durham, NC 27713, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Marian E. Van Dyke aka Marian Estine Van Dyke who died on 7/29/2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/14/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/14/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/14/2024

Cassandra Van Dyke Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 001283

George L. Wellman aka George Larry Wellman Decedent

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

April H. Johnson, whose address is 279 Sara Ln, Winston, Salem NC 27103, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of George L. Wellman aka George Larry Wellman who died on September 14, 2024 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/14/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/14/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/14/2024

April H. Johnson

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 001280

Mary Petroni-Hanrahan Decedent

Krista N. Robertson, Esq. 4520 East-West Highway, Suite 650 Bethesda, Maryland 20814

Attorney

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

Cathleen Jubert, whose address is 7901 Rocky Road, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20882, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mary Petroni-Hanrahan who died on June 7, 2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/14/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/14/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/14/2024

Cathleen Jubert

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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RUBY BRIDGES

from Page 1

the nationwide Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day initiative on Nov. 14.

A movement led by the The Ruby Bridges Foundation, the walk is inspired by the experiences of the organization’s founder, CEO and namesake (now Ruby Bridges Hall) 64 years ago, and emphasizes student safety when traveling to and from school.

Founder of Seasoned Settlers, LaBamba’s mission is to provide District youth safe school passage and create programs that promote community integration, respite and cultural healing.

Through a $1000 grant from Safe Routes Partnership, LaBamba organized a two-day event honoring Bridges Hall’s legacy, including the Ruby Bridges Walk, Nov. 13-14, in Washington, D.C. The event will serve over 1000 youth and include an educational presentation about Ruby Bridges at two District of Columbia Public Schools: Anne Beers Elementary in Southeast, D.C. and Leckie Elementary in Southwest.Kori Johnson, program and engagement manager for Safe Routes Partnership, emphasized why Bridges Hall’s historic actions resonate so deeply with people all over the nation.

“There are a lot of people at this time who are identifying issues in the world and their own community that they want to change. Many feel overwhelmed and think that changemaking is out of their reach,” said Johnson.

“This Ruby Bridges Walk highlights that any of us can make a tangible difference no matter our age or economic station in life.”

THE DISTRICT’S TWO DAYS OF PROGRAMMING

With two days of educational, interactive activities, LaBamba is hoping to provide programming that inspires youth to become changemakers.

The educational workshops at Anne Beers and Leckie will be facilitated by children’s librarians from Francis Gregory Neighborhood Library in Southeast and William O. Lockridge/Bellevue Neighborhood Library in Southwest. After the workshop, youth and adult attendees will create banners, posters and artwork which will be displayed during the quarter-mile walk on the second day of the event.

Noah Clark, 11, expressed excitement about participating in the event, considering its namesake’s legacy.

“She was the first Black girl to go to a White school,” he said.

Monique Diop, 52, a former ANC commissioner, said that Bridges' work “encourages everyone to stand up for what is right and teaches that we all have every right to do so even as a young person.”

Diop emphasized another lesson all people can learn from the bravery of the then 6-year-old in 1960.

“More importantly, it demonstrates that big changes can start with seemingly small acts,” she said.

LaBamba explained that through her work to organize the walk, she has become deeply connected to Bridges' story.

“Although I am pouring into the youth through this event, this project has inspired me to be courageous in the face of adversity and not let others’ view of you determine your destiny.

Being a child going through integration, Ruby did not know everything, but she knew what she was doing was important,” she told The Informer.

The celebration’s organizer and safety advocate summarized the lesson she takes from Bridges Hall’s contributions.

“Do it scared,” she declared, before offering a call to action. “If you want safe communities or lasting change, it is within your power at any age or stage in your life to implement it.”

5Sweeetz LaBamba (right) works to both empower and provide safe school passage to D.C. youth. (Courtesy Photo/ Sweeetz LaBamba)

ANC8F from Page 1

er. “To hear that…. and hear that BOE is still calculating votes. It’s an issue that should be addressed.”

In this race, De Souza, a probation officer, ran against organizer and native Washingtonian Markita Bryant and Antonio Rossi, a WMATA project manager. This

weekend, as she awaited updates from BOE and EOM about the discrepancy, De Souza continued to engage followers, some of whom pointed out Bryant’s slight lead over her.

By Nov. 11, Bryant had accumulated 19 more votes than De Souza and more than 130 more votes than Rossi. Though De Sou-

za questioned the electoral process last weekend, she has since taken more of a patient tone.

“At this point, I’m just waiting for answers from DCBOE, the mayor’s office or someone who’s got the answers,” she told The Informer. “This has been an emotional roller coaster.”

On Monday evening, a Bowser

administration staffer confirmed that a junior staff member in the Mayor’s Office of Community Relations and Services preemptively contacted De Souza. Bowser said just as much on Tuesday, though she declined to reveal the staffer’s name or disclosed what had been done to prevent future missteps.

As outlined in DCBOE regulations, votes postmarked by Nov. 5 and received by Nov. 15 will be counted. Whoever DCBOE certifies as the winner in the ANC 6/8F02 race on Dec. 2 will represent a portion of Navy Yard that became part of Ward 8 during redistricting in 2021.

This race, among others, could potentially reshape the racial composition of elected leadership in one of D.C.’s last Black political strongholds.

Over the last several months, De Souza, a probation officer, has gained an online following -- and reputation as a fearmonger -- for her posts about crime in Navy Yard and her appearances on conservative television news networks.

De Souza’s campaign platform centered on public safety, resource accumulation, cleanliness and humane treatment of dogs.

In recent weeks, she's spoken out against vandalism of campaign material, and kept neighbors abreast of Gaza-related protest and counter protest in front of Nationals Park.

While De Souza received an endorsement from D.C. Voters for Animals, ANC 6/8F02 Commissioner Rick Murphee threw his support behind Bryant.

Murphee didn't directly weigh in on De Souza's tweets. He however did provide a big-picture perspective.

“In general, when it comes to

information being put out that's inaccurate, whether from candidates or the public, it's dangerous putting it on social media,” Murphee said.

As it relates to Bryant, Murphee said that her lived experience and record as an active community member more than qualifies her to serve as an advisory neighborhood commissioner.

“Markita was born in and raised in D.C., and she understands the issues,” Murphee said. “She’s part of the community and understands what the ANC does. On day one, she’ll be ready to go.”

Bryant ran on a five-Black female ANC candidate slate, some members of which attended D.C. Councilmember Trayon White's re-election watch party. On Nov. 5, White was successful, as were slate members ANC Commissioner Robin McKinney, ANC Chairwoman Jamila White, who won another term, and Fria Moore, who will serve her first term as a commissioner early next year.

On Monday, Bryant also didn’t speak much on De Souza’s online post about a call from the mayor’s office. She told The Informer that she’s focused on the results, as updated by DCBOE.

Should she be declared the winner, Bryant said she wants to unify Single-Member District 6/8F02 by not only engaging supporters, but those who voted against her.

“My campaign has always been about the people,” Bryant said. “I’m proud to see that people want to see my value as a leader. Our neighborhood will have to move forward after this election, so I want it where everyone is welcome and respected.”

@SamPKCollins

CROWELL from Page 26

triple-digit annual interest rates in nearly every corner of America — even where those rates are illegally high — inflicting financial pain on a growing number of consumers."

CRL's analysis of EWA harms wrought in 18 states from January 2021 to June 2024 led to three key findings on its impacts on low- to moderate-income consumers:

Many cash advance app borrowers are trapped in a debt cycle and the heaviest users drive the business model. Repeat use of advances is common

MALVEAUX from Page 26

Consumer Financial Protection Agency and more. If Democrats can't hold the House, there will be few tools to stop the carnage, but there are laws and there are tools.

The justice community can come together to plan, to monitor the regulatory agencies and stop any chicanery. We can monitor the integrity of the Department of Education and legally fight to ensure that Title I programs are maintained. We can challenge cuts in block grants. We cannot roll over and allow the forces of Trump and Project 2025 to vanquish us.

It won't be easy. It will be challenging to overcome the smugness that comes from a community that is enjoying their unexpected victory. But there will be allies at the edges. Will conservative environmentalists be willing to sacrifice the future health of our planet to mollify Trump? Will conservative labor activists be willing to weaken the NLRB? Is

MARSHALL from Page 26

terrorist machine. No longer focused primarily on its bigotry toward Blacks, this group of Klansmen addressed what they perceived to be a threat to the nation's identity. It brought to light what it means to be an American. As protectors of the "purity" of the nation, the Klan's anti-Catholic and anti-immigrant ideology began to resonate with the broader population. The spirit of intolerance they promoted galvanized the prejudices and fears of native-born Americans. With immigrants arriving from Southern and Eastern Europe, their presence was perceived as the social and cultural decay of American values

By combining bigotry with patriotism, the Klan was effective in defining its version of what it meant to be a patriot, a "pure American." Racist ideology and false doctrines became normalized and accepted in mainstream America. The Klan developed a powerful and

and high-frequency users accounted for 38% of users and 86% of advances. Many users borrowed from multiple apps simultaneously. Nearly half of all borrowers had used multiple companies in the same month. App use is associated with increased overdraft fees and payday loan use.

Consumers across states are experiencing similar harms. The 18 states analyzed had similar patterns of repeat borrowing and overdraft use.

The states studied include Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Mas-

there any wiggle room in Project 2025, or is Mr. Trump willing to come in and start slashing and burning on day one?

What about deportations? Can the soon-to-be 47th president really organize mass deportations and border controls on day one? As we've seen from voter roll purges, these folks don't always get the right people. There must be lawyers lined up, especially to protect people from illegal deportations.

I'm willing to give Republicans credit for their ground game, their hard-won gain and the election they purchased. I'm also putting them on notice. We will fight back. Those anti-education Republicans don't want people to know Black history because they don't want our young people to know that we've surmounted racism before. In the wake of the Red Summer of 1919, when rabid whites attacked more than 30 Black communities in Washington, D.C., Chicago, St. Louis and other places, the poet Claude McKay wrote of this resistance, a fitting anthem for

influential network with wide support from white politicians and clergy. This spirit of intolerance became entrenched and deeply influential in the political process to elect and control state legislators, state governors, U.S. senators, U.S. representatives, and a large number of local officials. Today, we are in the midst of another demographic change in which the white supremacy backlash has evolved beyond the Ku Klux Klan and has become much more politicized and accepted.

In 2021, the United States population expanded at its slowest rate in history, and for the first time, the majority of its population growth came from immigration. Despite policies limiting the admission of foreigners, our nation is on track to reach its anticipated 2044 "majority-minority" milestone: the moment when the majority ethnic group, non-Hispanic white people, becomes one of multiple minorities. This pending demographic change

sachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Washington.

An earlier and related CRL report released this April cited the federal Government Accountability Office (GAO) finding that the share of users earning less than $50,000 a year ranged from 59% to 97% across four different advance companies that separately provided these percentages.

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

our time:

If we must die, let it not be like hogs

Hunted and penned in an inglorious spot,

While round us bark the mad and hungry dogs,

Making their mock at our accursed lot.

If we must die, O let us nobly die,

So that our precious blood may not be shed

In vain; then even the monsters we defy

Shall be constrained to honor us though dead!

O kinsmen! we must meet the common foe!

Though far outnumbered let us show us brave,

And for their thousand blows deal one death-blow!

What though before us lies the open grave?

Like men we'll face the murderous, cowardly pack,

Pressed to the wall, dying, but fighting back!

Fighting back – that's what's next. WI

will permanently change the identity of the nation, and with it comes intensified hatred from white supremacists. Our history tells us that white supremacists are unwilling to honor their American traditions while simultaneously adapting to changing demographics and the citizenship and rights that go with it. Their future minority status leaves in its wake a dismantled democracy that guarantees the political and economic dominance of wealthy white men.

Black men and women heavily relied on their faith against white supremacy during the era of slavery and the Civil Rights Movement. As we enter this new MAGA era and move closer to the "majority-minority" milestone, we can expect the racial backlash to increase in multiple ways. The return to the modern-day version of the hush harbors may be the way to navigate through the harsh realities of white supremacy.

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LEON from Page 27

On March 6, 1857, Supreme Court Chief Justice Roger Taney opined in Plessy v. Ferguson, "Negro's had for more than a century before been regarded as beings of an inferior order, and altogether unfit to associate with the white race, either in social or political relations; and so far inferior, that they had no rights which the white man was bound to respect."

I believe that the racist, white supremacist, eugenic-based mindsets that led to the holdings in Plessy, even though that decision has since been overturned by the Brown decision and others, continues to influence mindsets in America today. Variations of this racist theme continue to be the reality in America. This is not new. This is not a news flash. This is everyday life in America for Black people. So, to boil Vice President Harris' loss down to "no one will vote for a Black woman" is too simplistic. It is an excuse, not analysis. It lets the Democratic party and her off the hook for their failures. Hillary Clin-

MORIAL from Page 27

racism." Trump has bragged that his administration banned "critical race theory" — a misnomer he and his allies have slapped on virtually any racial justice initiative — and promised to "finish the job."

Project 2025 calls for using the Department of Justice to investigate and prosecute institutions, including private employers, with diversity, equity and inclusion policies in place.

Trump's policies also align with Project 2025 on the issue of immigration and the border. Trump has promised to "close the border" on

JEALOUS from Page 27

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene's district, where Trump received 75% of the vote in 2020. There, the IRA has allowed the solar panel manufacturer Qcells to build solar panel plants and the capacity to house entire supply chain for their panels locally. That means thousands of good jobs as well as hope for the U.S. competing with China in the global solar market — 80% of which China currently dominates.

In addition to good jobs and the rebirth of American manufacturing, another major real-life benefit of the clean energy transition for American families is improved health outcomes. Ditching fossil fuels saves lives. The Sierra Club has successfully worked to retire more than 380 coal-fired power plants since 2010. As of this past spring, those retire-

ton (a woman) won the popular vote in 2016 with 64 million votes. Harris (a Black woman) received 68 million votes. Barack Obama (a Black man) was elected as president twice.

So, before we turn to the very simplistic knee-jerk refrain that America will not elect a Black woman to be president, ask yourself, did the Democrats set themselves up for this outcome? Was Vice President Harris the best candidate? Did the party and her campaign make mistakes that resulted in this failure regardless of phenotype?

Start the analysis here: Democrats and their financial backers knew that President Biden's faculties were declining before he embarrassed himself and the party during the debate. The phrase "non compos mentis" comes to mind.

It was a huge mistake to anoint Vice President Harris as the nominee.

James Carville wrote in early July that Democrats needed to move away from Biden, "But it can't be by anointing (Vice President Harris) or anyone else as the presumptive nominee. We've got

day one of his administration and begin mass deportations of the estimated 11 million immigrants living in the United States without authorization. Project 2025 outlines various methods for facilitating those deportations, from requiring the cooperation of local law enforcement to authorizing "tent camps" to detain migrants.

Aside from the devastating human cost of tearing families apart, mass deportations and border closures will wreak havoc on the economy.

The American Immigration Council estimates the deportations would result in a 4.2% to 6.8% reduction

ments are estimated to have prevented roughly 900,000 asthma attacks and over 84,000 heart attacks, saved $25 billion in health care costs, and saved more than 54,000 lives.

Make no mistake, Trump has made big promises to the fossil fuel industry. He is a climate denier. And it is not unwarranted to be worried about what his next presidency will mean for the clean energy boom.

But the clean energy transition is already happening and some bumps in the road will not stop it.

Again, that is because of market forces. Clean energy is more resilient and less expensive than fossil fuels — and its costs are falling rapidly. As just one example, between 2010 and 2020, the cost of producing electricity from solar power decreased by 85%.

to do it out in the open — the exact opposite of what Donald Trump wants us to do." Carville was correct.

Once on the stump, Vice President Harris ran a campaign based upon the politics of personality and identity, not a policy-based campaign. It took until mid-September before her webpage even had a policy tab and the policies that were listed were more campaign talking points than substantive solutions to the real problems facing the country.

Vice President Harris ran away from her base instead of embracing it. For example, polling showed that over 70% of Democrats supported a ceasefire in Gaza. Additionally, almost four in 10 likely voters, as well as more than half of all Democrats, believe that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza. Vice President Harris and the DNC would not even allow a Palestinian spokesperson on stage at the convention. Thus, losing Michigan. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

in GDP. By comparison, GDP fell by 4.3% during the Great Recession of 2007-2009.

Closing the southern border would cost tens of billions of dollars per day, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has estimated.

The Heritage Foundation, which spearheaded Project 2025, also created a "Mandate for Leadership" during Trump's first term. Within two years, Trump had embraced nearly two-thirds of that agenda. With a hyper-politicized, extreme right-wing cabinet, federal workforce and judiciary, Trump can go even further in his second term. WI

But it is also because of resistance from — and progress in — the states. Again, see the stands being taken by governors like Gavin Newsom in California and JB Pritzker in Illinois. Illinois passed its groundbreaking Climate and Equitable Jobs Act a year before we even had the IRA, and right now legislators in that state are moving a bill that would save ratepayers an average of $30 a month on their energy bills by modernizing the state's power grid. And it is because of those of us dedicated to combating the climate crisis and protecting communities. We are going to redouble our efforts and grow our movement. And we are going to help people understand what speeding up the clean energy transition means for their pocketbooks and their health.

Together, these 10 HBCU students drive the summer internship of a lifetime with Black-owned newspapers

Imani Waters Howard University

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Mattie Moore North Carolina A&T University

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Harrison Buck Morehouse College

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Stefon Young-Rolle Alabama State University

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Juan Benn Jr. Howard University

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Kynnedi Jackson Southern University A&M College

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Kayla Hare North Carolina A&T University

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Amyah Fountain Clark Atlanta University

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Erinn Gardner Spelman College

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Joseph Tilaye Alabama A&M University

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