The Washington Informer - November 28, 2024

One Decade After His Death, Family, Colleagues and Residents Honor

Marion

Barry’s Life, Work with Legacy Mural

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

In the decade after Marion S. Barry, Jr.’s death, the District has memorialized D.C.’s mayor for life with a statue in front of the John A. Wilson Building, along with the renaming of a major Southeast corridor, D.C. government building, and the summer jobs program he created.

However, Barry’s latest posthumous honor—a colorful mural detailing notable moments and figures throughout his nearly 60-year civil rights and political career— would prove to be most crucial and timely in cementing a legacy

Elected Officials, Past and Present, Reflect on Home Rule Battle Ahead

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

In 1995, Eydie Whittington took an oath of office to fill the D.C. Council vacancy spawned by Marion S. Barry’s last ascent to mayoralty. She would go on to serve the next two years as Ward 8’s fourth-ever duly elected council member.

For Whittington, that chapter in public service, which came during a

D.C.’s 38th Annual Adoption Day

Celebrates ‘Forever Families’ of 2024

‘Power of Adoption’ Supported by Community Leaders, Families

By Jada Ingleton WI Digital Equity Fellow

For the Wilson family, the adoption journey began in 2008 when Phyllis Wilson fostered Jayden, then a two-week-old-infant, through the District of Columbia Courts.

The Changing Face of Food Insecurity

By Dr. Patrise Holden WI Contributing Writer

Standing in long lines, curving down the sidewalk, waiting for free, fresh produce and groceries midday, were single mothers with children in tow, senior citizens, and people dressed in business attire on a quick break from work. Despite their varied demographics—different ages, income levels, ethnicities, and family structures—these individuals share one common thread: they all are seeking help to secure their next meal.

Food insecurity is defined by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) as a lack of consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy life.

In the wake of increased economic insecurity and rising prices at grocery stores, the face of food insecurity has changed. What was once perceived as a challenge primarily affecting the underserved has now evolved into a pressing issue that touches the lives of Americans from all walks of life.

Across the United States, countless families, including those previously considered financially stable with dual incomes, are grappling with the harsh reality of not having

FOOD INSECURITY Page 34

precarious time for what was then Chocolate City, followed stints as an advisory neighborhood commissioner and a member of Barry’s campaign team.

“I never thought I would be part of history,” Whittington said about her tenure

Wilson, who was present during the District’s 38th annual Adoption Day on Saturday, Nov. 23, began raising the infant, aiming to provide a stable, nurturing environment for him, and eventually decided to adopt him at two-years-old in April 2010.

“I just wanted to be a foster parent, but…he's all we

BARRY Page 48

5Food banks across the country are bracing for potential increases in food need pending proposed mass deportation of migrant workers during the Trump administration. (Cleveland Nelson/The Washington Informer)

5A crowd listens to a panel honoring the late Marion S. Barry a decade after his death, moderated by Washington Informer Publisher Denise Rolark Barnes (standing far right) on Saturday, Nov. 23. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

5On Tuesday, Nov. 19, the largest-ever group of past and present senior District elected officials, which included former D.C. Councilmember Frank Smith and D.C. Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, gathered at the John A. Wilson Building to celebrate 50 years of Home Rule for the District of Columbia.

(Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

In Memoriam

wi hot topics

BY STACY M. BROWN, WI SENIOR WRITER; BRENDA C. SILER, WI CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Authorities Heighten Security Measures for Trump Inauguration and Electoral Certification

As Washington, D.C., prepares for President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration and the certification of electoral votes, officials have designated these events as “national special security events”—the highest level of security classification. In a show of heightened vigilance following the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack, officials are implementing extensive protective measures and fortifying protocols to safeguard the peaceful transfer of power.

At a recent briefing, D.C. Council member Charles Allen (D-Ward 6) acknowledged rising concerns, noting the increase in inquiries from residents seeking reassurance on safety measures.

“You probably, like me, are fielding a lot of questions from constituents... asking more details about that, looking to make sure that the region is prepared,” Allen stated.

Officials said they are committed to a robust security strategy, detailing plans that include anti-climb fencing,

road closures, vehicle checkpoints, and parking restrictions throughout the District.

U.S. Capitol Police Chief J. Thomas Manger assured attendees that comprehensive improvements have been made to avoid the intelligence failures that marked January 6, 2021.

“There were a lot of intelligence failures four years ago, and to say that those have been resolved and improved would be an understatement,” Manger said.

The Capitol attack resulted in over 1,500 federal criminal charges, with approximately 562 individuals facing charges related to assaulting or obstructing law enforcement. Many defendants carried dangerous weapons, including firearms, tasers, and makeshift tools. Others were charged with seditious conspiracy, destruction of government property, and theft. The siege caused over $2.8 million in damages and left more than 140 officers injured. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER NEWSPAPER (ISSN#0741-9414) is published weekly on each Thursday. Periodicals postage paid at Washington, D.C. and additional mailing offices. News and advertising deadline is Monday prior to publication. Announcements must be received two weeks prior to event. Copyright 2016 by The Washington Informer. All rights reserved. POSTMASTER: Send change of addresses to The Washington Informer, 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E. Washington, D.C. 20032. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. The Informer Newspaper cannot guarantee the return of photographs. Subscription rates are $55 per year, two years $70. Papers will be received not more than a week after publication. Make checks payable to:

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E

Washington, D.C. 20032

Phone: 202 561-4100

Fax: 202 574-3785

news@washingtoninformer.com

www.washingtoninformer.com

PUBLISHER

Denise Rolark Barnes

STAFF

Micha Green, Managing Editor

Ron Burke, Advertising/Marketing Director

Shevry Lassiter, WIN-TV Producer

Ra-Jah Kelly, Digital Asset Manager

Lafayette Barnes, IV, Editor, WI Bridge DC

Desmond Barnes, WIN Daily Editor

Anthony Tilghman, Social Media Strategist

ZebraDesigns.net, Graphic Design

Mable Neville, Bookkeeper

Angie Johnson, Office/Circulation Manager

REPORTERS

Stacy Brown, National Reporter

Sam P.K. Collins, Political/Education Reporter

Zerline Hughes, Housing Reporter

Brenda Siler, Lifestyle Reporter

Lindiwe Vilakazi, Health Reporter

Ed Hill, Sports Reporter

Jada Ingleton, WI Comcast Fellow, WIN Daily

Newsletter Editor

Eden Harris, Reporter

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Shevry Lassiter, Photo Editor

Ja Mon Jackson, Asst. Photo Editor

Roy Lewis, Jr.

Robert R. Roberts

Anthony Tilghman

Abdullah Konte

Cleveland Nelson

INTERNS

Skylar Nelson, Howard University

Rachelle Smith, Howard University

Golden Globes to Honor Viola Davis With the Cecil B. DeMille Award

Actress, producer and multi-award recipient Viola Davis has been named the Cecil B. DeMille Award honoree for 2025, which will be presented during the Golden Globes® Awards show on Jan. 5.

"Presenting her with the 2025 Cecil B. DeMille Award is not only an honor but a reflection of our admiration for her relentless dedication to her craft and her monumental impact on the industry,” said Helen

Hoehne, president of the Golden Globes. First created in 1952 commemorating the legacy of the honor’s namesake, a celebrated actor and director, the Cecil B. DeMille Award has been bestowed on 69 honorees. DeMille is considered to be the founder of Hollywood.

The celebrated artist earned her first Golden Globes award for Best Supporting Actress in 2017 for the film adaptation of August Wilson’s “Fences” (2016), opposite fellow Cecil B. DeMille honoree Denzel Washington.

Davis responded to the announcement with a short message of gratitude on her social media accounts.

“Thrilled! Overwhelmed! Honored! Thank you [Golden Globes],” said the multi-award-winning actress. WI

Illinois Supreme Court Overturns Jussie Smollett Conviction in Hate Crime Hoax Case

The Illinois Supreme Court has overturned actor Jussie Smollett’s conviction, ruling that his second prosecution for filing a false police report violated his constitutional rights. The court determined that Smollett was unjustly prosecuted after an earlier agreement with state prosecutors had resolved the charges.

“We hold that a second prosecution under these circumstances is a due process violation, and we therefore reverse [the] defendant’s conviction,” Justice Elizabeth M. Rochford wrote in the ruling.

In January 2019, Smollett, who achieved widespread recognition portraying Jamal Lyon, an openly gay character on the hit TV series “Empire,” reported being the victim of a racist and homophobic attack in downtown Chicago, where the show was filmed.

He claimed two men physically assaulted him while shouting slurs and declaring, “This is MAGA country.”

The report initially drew national attention and widespread condemnation of hate crimes.

Authorities later accused Smollett of orchestrating the attack, alleging he recruited two brothers, Abimbola and Olabinjo Osundairo, to stage the incident. He was charged with felony disorderly conduct for filing a false police report.

“Let me start by saying that I’m OK. My body is strong but my soul is stronger,” Smollett said in a February 2019 statement. “I am working with authorities and have been 100% factual and consistent on every level. Despite my frustrations and deep concern with certain inaccuracies and misrepresentations that have

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

5Actress and producer Viola Davis has been named the Cecil B. DeMille Award honoree by the Golden Globes Awards. (Courtesy Photo)

2025 National Cherry Blossom Festival Season Kicks Off

By James Wright WI Staff Writer

Most creators dream of the opportunity to show their talents at a major event that offers to catapult them into fame, and for Anna August of Park West Gallery in Southfield, Michigan, that chance has come with the 2025 National Cherry Blossom Festival (NCBF).

“Joy, serenity and a bit of nostalgia is what my art is about,” said August, who was revealed as next year’s official artist during the 2025 NCBF launch event at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Northwest, D.C. on Nov. 21. “The style of art is expressionism with the use of vibrant, bold colors.”

Her piece “Bloom,” the official artwork of the festival, showcases the beauty and nuances of spring and the cherry blossoms.

“My art is my way of capturing the beauty and ever-changing moments of life, so being able to share that through the cherry blossoms, an iconic symbol of renewal and joy, is truly amazing,” August, a 23-year-old Massachusetts-based artist, said. “I hope it reminds [audiences] of the magic that the blossoms bring each year and give a sense of connection to the festival.”

August’s art was the highlight of the launch, which also included vignettes of activities that will take place during the 2025 festival, which runs from March 20-April 13.

The National Cherry Blossom Festival, an outgrowth of the gift of cherry trees from Japan to the United States in 1912, has grown into an annual official District event.

SMOLLETT from Page 4

been spread, I still believe that justice will be served.”

In a 2019 resolution, prosecutors dropped the charges after Smollett forfeited his $10,000 bond and completed community service. However, public backlash led to appointing a special prosecutor who revived the case.

Smollett was later convicted on five counts of felony disorderly conduct in 2021, based largely on testimony from the Osundairo brothers, who said Smollett

“In 2024, the Cherry Blossom Festival attracted 1.6 million attendees and generated $220 billion for the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area,” said District Secretary Kimberly Bassett.

Bassett said the District made millions of dollars from tourists and visitors coming for the festival, “staying in hotels, eating in our restaurants and patronizing local businesses.”

Planned NCBF staple events include the Pink Tie Party on March 14, the Opening Ceremony on March 22, Blossom Kite Festival on March 29, Petalpaooza at Capitol Riverfront on April 5, National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade on April 12 and the Tidal Basin Welcome Area & ANA Stage on April 12. In addition, the festival will feature signature programs such as the Blossom Kites for Kids, Blossom Tea Party, Kites in the Classroom and the Student Art Showcase, Art in Bloom, City in Bloom, and Cherry Picks.

In addition, festival attendees can also tap into events such as: The Art of Pink, Jazz & Blossom and the Sakura Matsui—Japanese Street Festival.

Although winter hasn’t officially started, NCBF President and CEO Diana Mayhew told The Informer in a WIN-TV interview that the festival is already spreading the beauty and warmth of spring throughout the nation’s capital.

During the festival kickoff, the excitement for the 2025 festival was palpable.

As part of the Nov. 21 event, CenterStage Academy for the Arts, based in Clinton, Maryland, performed dance

planned and directed the staged assault. He was sentenced to five months in jail in 2022, but served just six days before being released pending appeal.

This year, on Nov. 21, the Illinois Supreme Court ruled 4-2 in Smollett’s favor, citing violations of his due process rights.

Nenye Uche, Smollett’s attorney, welcomed the ruling.

“We are thankful to the Illinois Supreme Court for restoring order to Illinois’ criminal law jurisprudence," Uche stated. "This decision is a victory for justice and due process.” WI

AROUND THE REGION

August, the official artist of the

artwork during the festival’s launch at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Northwest on Nov. 21. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer) routines to leading hit songs such as “Let’s Dance” by David Bowie, while Diana Mayhew energized the crowd even more, jumping in the middle and dancing with the performers.

“This is the just a glimpse of the talent that will be showcased during the

festival,” said Mayhew, appreciating the work of the dancers, August, and many artists, who are participating in the 2025 programming.

Mayhew also said that 2027 will mark the 100th anniversary of the festival, and emphasized the hard

work NCBF does to engage with the community beyond the annual spring programming.

“It is more than just a festival,” she said. “It’s about creating connections all year.” WI

@JamesWrightJr10

5Anna

2025 National Cherry Blossom Festival, stands next to her

AROUND THE REGION

NOV. 28

1929 – Berry Gordy, record producer and songwriter best known as the founder of the Motown record label and its subsidiaries, is born in Detroit.

1960 – North African nation Mauritania gains its independence from France.

1960 – Author Richard Wright, whose best-known works include "Native Son" and "Black Boy," dies of a heart attack in Paris at 52.

1961 – Ernie Davis, a halfback at Syracuse University, becomes the first Black Heisman Trophy winner.

NOV. 29

1908 – Politician Adam Clayton Powell Jr., New York's first Black congressman, is born in New Haven, Connecticut.

1919 – Pearl Primus, noted 20th-century choreographer, dancer and anthropologist, is born in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago.

NOV. 30

1912 – Famed photographer and film director Gordon Parks is born in Fort Scott, Kansas. 1924 – Shirley Chisholm, the first African American woman elected to the U.S. Congress and the first Black major-party candidate for president, is born in New York City.

1966 – The Caribbean nation of Barbados gains its independence from the United Kingdom.

DEC. 1

1933 – Grammy-winning singer Lou Rawls is born in Chicago.

1940 – Iconic comedian Richard Pryor is born

NOV. 28 – DEC. 4, 2024

SOURCE: BLACK AMERICA WEB

in Peoria, Illinois.

1955 – Rosa Parks refuses to yield her seat to a white man, initiating the Montgomery Bus Boycott, which lasted for approximately a year.

1971 – Arthur Spingarn, lawyer and former NAACP president, dies in his New York City home at 93.

1987 – Carrie Saxon Perry begins her term as the mayor of Hartford, Connecticut, becoming first Black woman elected mayor of a major northeastern U.S. city.

1987 – Novelist James Baldwin dies in France of stomach cancer at 63.

DEC. 2

1859 – White abolitionist John Brown is hanged in Charlestown, Virginia, for leading the raid on the federal armory at Harpers Ferry, Virginia.

1884 – Inventor Granville T. Woods patents the telephone transmitter.

1891 – Charles Wesley, historian and educator who served as president of Wilberforce University and Central State University, is born in Louisville, Kentucky.

1922 – Politician and civil rights leader Charles C. Diggs, the first African American elected to Congress from Michigan, is born in Detroit.

1975 – Ohio State running back Archie Griffin becomes the first person ever to win consecutive Heisman Trophies.

1989 – Andre Ware of the University of Houston becomes the first African American quarterback to win the Heisman Trophy.

DEC. 3

1847 – Frederick Douglass starts The North Star, an anti-slavery newspaper.

DEC. 4

1906 – Alpha Phi Alpha, the first Black Greek Letter fraternity, is founded at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York.

1909 – The New York Amsterdam News, a weekly African American newspaper, is founded by James H. Anderson.

1969 – Black Panthers Fred Hampton and Mark Clark are killed by Chicago police.

ROSA PARKS / FRED HAMPTON

AROUND THE REGION

view

P INT

BY MICHA GREEN

How do you plan to spread gratitude this Thanksgiving and holiday season?

KAILASA AQEEL / WASHINGTON, D.C.

HILARY DANIEL / WASHINGTON, D.C.

“I plan to give back to the communities that poured into me.”

“I’ll spread gratitude by showing up for my loved ones as my honest full self. I’ll also spread gratitude by holding my family and community close and vocalizing my love for the people in my life that show up for me.”

MIKE GREEN / MEDELLÍN, COLOMBIA

“I want to give Thanks not just on Thanksgiving or the holiday season, but each day of my life. I express gratitude by sharing resources with those who are less fortunate.”

JERRETT HARRINGTON / CHICAGO, ILL.

“I don’t celebrate the holiday, but spread gratitude regularly by engaging my community.”

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.

AROUND THE REGION

D.C. Attorney General Sues EarnIn for Deceptive Lending Practices and Illegal High-Interest Loans

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

D.C. Attorney General Brian L. Schwalb announced that his office has filed a lawsuit against ActiveHours Inc., operating as EarnIn, accusing the appbased payday lender of deceptive practices and providing illegal high-interest loans to more than 20,000 residents of the District.

The lawsuit claims EarnIn misled consumers with false advertising, failed to disclose mandatory fees, and operated without the required lending license, all while charging interest rates that exceed legal limits by over 12 times.

EarnIn promotes its financial product, which they referred to as an “earned wage advance” or “cash out,” as a fee-free, interest-free service that provides instant access to a user’s wages before payday. However, according to the lawsuit, these claims are false.

The company requires consumers to pay a “Lightning Speed” fee of $3.99 to $5.99 per transaction for immediate funds access, effectively transforming the cash advances into high-interest loans. By including these fees in the cost of borrowing, the average annual interest rate for these loans exceeds 300%, far above the District’s 24% cap on interest rates for most loans.

Schwalb called out EarnIn’s practices, describing them as harmful to financially vulnerable residents.

“EarnIn lures in hard-working, cashstrapped workers with the false promise of free instant cash advances and then

charges them unlawfully high interest,” he said. “This predatory business model is illegal. Especially at a time when the cost of living is already too high, my office will always have Washingtonians’ backs. Today, we’re suing to hold EarnIn accountable and to put money back in District residents’ pockets where it belongs.”

The lawsuit alleges EarnIn has misled consumers since 2016, conducting over a million transactions with District residents.

The day before the lawsuit was announced, Ram Palaniappan, CEO and founder of EarnIn, took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to tout his company’s success in the nation’s capital.

“All eyes have been on D.C. recently. EarnIn is making a real difference for working Americans there. In 2024 alone, EarnIn has helped D.C. customers avoid on average $781 in overdraft fees,” he said.

However, the attorney general’s suit claims District residents have been negatively affected by the company’s hidden policies.

Despite its claims of offering a feefree service, the company allegedly hides the existence of the “Lightning Speed” fees in the fine print, only disclosing them after users sign up and provide personal and financial information. The fact that 90% of EarnIn’s users in the District have paid these fees is proof of the economic hardship many of its borrowers are experiencing, Schwalb noted.

Additionally, EarnIn encourages users to leave optional “tips” set by default between $1 and $14 per transaction, further increasing the

effective cost of borrowing.

The complaint also notes EarnIn’s failure to obtain a required lending license to operate in the District, despite its ongoing provision of loans to thousands of local consumers.

The violation adds to the allegations of unlawful conduct, which include falsely advertising its services as nonloans and charging fees that drive interest rates well beyond what is allowed under District law.

EarnIn’s business model, which ties repayment to borrowers’ next paychecks, mirrors that of traditional payday lenders. The company withdraws loan amounts, along with fees and any tips, directly from the borrower’s bank account or debit card on payday. The lawsuit argues that these practices perpetuate a cycle of financial strain for already cash-strapped consumers.

The Attorney General’s office seeks a permanent injunction to stop EarnIn from violating District law, restitution for affected consumers, civil penalties, and legal costs. Schwalb emphasized the importance of protecting District residents from predatory financial practices.

“EarnIn’s actions hurt some of the most financially vulnerable members of our community,” he stated. “This lawsuit demonstrates our commitment to holding predatory lenders accountable and ensuring fair financial practices in the District.”

Consumers who believe EarnIn’s practices have harmed them are encouraged to contact the Attorney General’s office.

WI

5D.C. Attorney General Brian L. Schwalb says that his office has filed a lawsuit against ActiveHours Inc., operating as EarnIn, accusing the app-based payday lender of deceptive practices and providing illegal high-interest loans to more than 20,000 residents of the District. (WI File Photo/Robert R. Roberts)

Unlock the Joy of Giving: Volunteer Locally This Holiday Season

By Jada Ingleton WI Digital Equity Fellow

‘Tis the season for advocacy and humanitarianism, and the nation’s capital is filled with local organizations giving back to their community through distributing food, toys, and much more.

“It's not about giving a handout,” said Gail Holmes Taylor, secretary of Hour Generation Foundation. “It's about welcoming the community in and letting them know that we care.”

Check out some local initiatives to volunteer, contribute goodies and make a difference for the holidays.

DO GOOD BY THE PEOPLE DRIVE (DECEMBER)

Status Apparel DC, a Black-owned lifestyle apparel brand, will host their annual Do Good by the People Drive in December to collect and donate essential items such as coats, blankets, thermals and hygiene supplies to the unhoused community.

GOOD KARMA HOLIDAY PROGRAM (UNTIL DEC. 20)

A Wider Circle is distributing children’s toys, shelf-stable foods, and creating distinguished shopping experiences for families in need. The initiative will also be collecting and distributing $50 grocery gift cards (preferable Giant and Safeway) throughout the holiday season.

CHRISTMAS WISHES GRANT-ED (DEC. 21)

Hour Generation Foundation’s seasonal Christmas Wishes Grant-ed is set to take place in Maryland on Dec. 21, where volunteers and members of the organization will support families in need by granting their Christmas wishes – from clothes and shoes to utilities and house furniture.

Taylor hopes that Christmas Wishes Grant-ed and other community-based efforts will create an environment of inclusion and safety for D.C. residents to get involved and seek help when needed.

“The biggest thing for us, we are family. We want [everyone] to feel welcome.”

OTHER

LOCAL INITIATIVES INCLUDE:

• Humane Rescue Alliance • Washington Wizards Season of Giving • Comfort Cases

Wreaths Across America

DC Diaper Bank

SOME (So Others Might Eat)

AROUND THE REGION

5Volunteers with Giant Food distribute 550 turkeys and seasonal pies to residents of Wards 7 and 8 at Martha’s Table at The Commons on Nov. 20, in partnership with Monumental Basketball’s “Thankful Meals” outreach. The annual communal event is part of the Washington Wizards’ Season of Giving, with initiatives through Dec. 18. (Jada Ingleton/The Washington Informer)

AROUND THE REGION

https://www washingtoninformer com/calendar/ #/

CAPTURE THE MOMENT

“'Thank

– Alice Walker

Adam Foshée, from the Fort Dupont area of Southeast, D.C., checking out news in The Washington Informer. (Ja'Mon Jackson/ The Washington Informer)

Representatives from Giant Food pose with Jordan Poole of The Washington Wizards at a Turkey giveaway event for residents from Wards 7 and 8 at Martha’s Table in Southeast, D.C. on Wednesday, Nov. 20. The giveaway was a collaboration between Martha’s Table, CareFirst, Monumental Sports and the Washington Wizards. (Cleveland Nelson/The Washington Informer)

First Apartment on Barry Farm Redevelopment Completed

A Vision Marred by Questions about

Transparency

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

D.C. government officials, community members, and an affordable housing developer recently celebrated a crucial milestone in Barry Farm’s redevelopment.

On Nov. 21, dozens watched as D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, D.C. Councilmember Trayon White, D.C. Housing Authority (DCHA) Director Keith Pettigrew, and others cut the ribbon on The Asberry, the first of several residential buildings to be completed on Barry Farm under the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Economic Development and Planning’s New Communities Initiative.

This new five-story, mixed-use senior community, named after late Barry Farm resident Asberry Sanker, Jr., has 108 affordable housing units, 80 of which are reserved for former Barry Farm residents. Out of the 200 Barry Farm elders who’ve been contacted, at least 15 have expressed interest in leasing at The Asberry, according to Maia Shanklin-Roberts of Preservation of Affordable Housing (POAH).

“We had contact with residents throughout the project through mailers and phone calls,” said Shanklin-Roberts, POAH’s vice president of Mid-Atlantic real estate development. “It's on the residents to make the decision [to return]. We try to hold resident meetings quarterly and residents are informed 180 days before completion. Then we generate an interest list and continue to follow up.”

POAH is DCHA’s development partner on Barry Farm redevelopment, as well as majority owner and on-site property manager. In 2021, both entities submitted the D.C. Zoning Commission, on record as its most recent relocation and reoccupancy plan.

Years prior, in 2018, the D.C. Court of Appeals ruled that the D.C. Zoning Commission didn’t satisfactorily address residents’ concerns about relocation and the number of two to six-bedroom units to be constructed.

5D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, D.C. Councilmember Trayon White, D.C. Housing Authority Director Keith Pettigrew, and others cut the ribbon on The Asberry, the first residential building to be completed on the redevelopment site under the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Economic Development and Planning’s New Communities Initiative on Nov. 21. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

In 2014, that group of residents, 50 strong, collaborated with the organizing group Empower DC and formed the Barry Farm Tenants and Allies Association. Despite their efforts, demolition went on as planned in 2019.

With completion years away, Shanklin-Roberts expressed plans to collaborate further with DCHA and zero in on former Barry Farm families, especially during the last phase of the Barry Farm redevelopment yielding five-bedroom units.

“We rely on DCHA to [determine] who's returning and who has that right,” Shanklin-Roberts said.

QUESTIONS ABOUT TRANSPARENCY, TIMELINE

On Nov. 21, Bowser, Pettigrew and others also broke ground on the Edmonson, a mixed-income apartment slated for completion right next to The Asberry in 2026. That apartment building, named after Emily Edmonson, founding member of the Barry Farm-Hillsdale Community Association, has 139 mixed-income units, including 50 affordable units for Barry Farm residents who wish to return.

In total, completion of the Barry Farm redevelopment in 2029 will bring 900 rental and for-sale units, 380 of which will be available for former residents. There will also be an additional 320 affordable units and 100 homeownership units, along with retail space and a large central park.

As outlined in D.C. Municipal Register, Rule 11-K1105 - AFFORD-

ABLE HOUSING (BF), each building permit application for the Barry Farm redevelopment has to include: the number and type of affordable replacement units proposed; the number of which have been issued and the status of each one; the anticipated location, planned location and building permit application submission for the remaining affordable replacement units.

A search of Zoning Commission Case 20-24 files yielded no discovery of permits or unit replacement reports for The Asberry and Edmonson. As a matter of fact, POAH’s most recent document on file, a letter requesting that the D.C. Zoning Commission allow submission of a letter detailing engagement with the Barry Farm community, dates back to spring of 2021.

Shanklin-Roberts, responding to an Informer inquiry about this matter, mentioned that POAH provided documentation to the zoning commission detailing the distribution of the 380 affordable replacement units across the Barry Farm redevelopment.

She also said that POAH, after consulting a staff attorney and looking further into the issue, would most likely be filing an update within the next month.

Ari Theresa, an attorney who worked on behalf of the Barry Farm Tenants and Allies Association, said that it’s incumbent upon POAH and DCHA to file building permits that include unit replacement reports.

WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY

Prince George’s County Local Updates

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

PRINCE GEORGIANS WORK TO COMBAT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

People around Prince George’s County are working to combat domestic violence through partnerships, protocols, programming and engagement.

“Family violence is where we’ve seen a rise. Whether it's parents, children, stepfamilies, or even grandparents: we want to bring attention to this issue,” Prince George’s County State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy (D) told WUSA9 in an interview.

Braveboy, who hosted events throughout October for domestic violence month, announced a collaborative effort to address domestic violence in the county by creating new protocols for 911 operators and local and county police to assist victims of domestic violence with resources.

Working to address challenges has proven beneficial, Braveboy said.

“We have seen a decrease in intimate partner homicides. We went to the legislature to make strangulation a first-degree felony offense, the most heinous offense committed against intimate partners,” she said.

In addition, Braveboy’s office is promoting the #SayHelp Initiative alongside Sheriff John D.B. Carr (D) to reduce the stigma of reaching out for assistance.

“The Prince George’s Collaborative to End Family Violence is focused on bringing awareness to family violence and will delve into

family units to see what issues exist with a strong focus on mental health support and counseling, substance abuse recovery, housing, employment opportunities and advocacy. We want to encourage families in need to reach out to our resource partners for assistance, including the Family Justice Center, House of Ruth and Mettle Works,” said Chauka K. Reid, the State’s Attorney’s Director of Public Affairs.

Glenarden Mayor Dr. Cashenna A. Cross and Patricia Watts, CEO of WeModel USA and Connect2Protect, are partnering up to raise awareness about important issues in the county that have remained particularly prevalent since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic.

“Increasing violence and trafficking is not yet solved following the COVID-19 pandemic but we are breaking the cycle and silence on both,” said Watts.

The WeModel USA CEO recommends that legislators advocate for the rights of victims, attend to the vulnerable, protect at-risk communities, and work to break down victim stigma via community education.

Mayor Cross has lobbied delegates and state senators to enhance residency opportunities, expand social services, and advocate for child trafficking awareness.

“I am proud to support the launching of the #SayHelp campaign alongside State’s Attorney Braveboy and Sheriff Carr,” said Cross.

She is inviting Prince Georgians to attend the Dec. 8 fashion show: “When Beauty Meets PurposeStop The Traffick and Walk The Runway.” The event kicks off WE-

Mayor

Cross is

tims of domestic violence. She will be

Model USA's 2025 national campaign working to protect children from the horrors of trafficking.

“I have also been working to address the challenges facing our survivors of domestic abuse and human trafficking to our local, county, state and national legislators,” Cross said. WI

RUTHERFORD HAYES JONES COLLECTION OF BASEBALL MEMORABILIA

GOES TO AUCTION

Dwayne Renal Sims, founder of the Negro League Legends Hall of Fame and noted archivist of the Colored Professional League, has announced that a historic collection of century-old memorabilia was put up for auction in at the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory Live Auction on Nov. 16.

“The Rutherford Hayes Jones collection, which pre-dates the Negro Leagues of 1920, had rested undiscovered within a suitcase from 1960 to 2001,” said Sims, who organizes the annual East-West Negro League All Star Game at Prince George’s Stadium.

Jones served as the business manager for the Washington Giants Baseball Club, one of the earliest Black teams of its type and a precursor to the well-known Negro Leagues. At the Kentucky-based-museum, Jones’ col-

“I am proud to support the launching of the #SayHelp campaign alongside State’s Attorney Braveboy and Sheriff Carr,” said Cross.

lection was auctioned alongside memorabilia from Hall-of-Famer Ted Williams.

Some of the auctioned items include:

• 1907 “History of Colored Base Ball” by Sol White with scarce supplemental pages

• Brooklyn Royal Giants team cabinet photograph circa 1908-10

• 1910 Bruce Petway autographed letter with important content incl. Rube Foster

• 1906 Nat Strong autographed Philadelphia Stars letter

• 1910 Nat Strong autographed Cuban Giants letter

• Washington Giants team cabinet photograph circa 1910

Nearly all of the posted items sold for above the projected value,

including one of the rarest books in baseball history, showing a clear market for the preservation and promotion of an unsung era of Black baseball.

“By volume, the collection is not necessarily notable because there’s only maybe 20-30 pieces in total, but for that period of time as it relates to African Americans in the game of baseball, it’s extremely significant to find that type of previously undiscovered or unknown cachet in one collection,” a representative from the Louisville, Kentucky business Hunt Actions said in a Facebook post about the event in collaboration with the museum.

One photo, estimated at a value of roughly $3,000 sold for $8,500. The Kansas City Negro League Baseball Museum purchased a photograph of the Brooklyn Royal Giants for $10,000.

“I am elated to see this unknown archive of historic objects to be unveiled and shared with the public for the first time within the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory Live Auction event,” Sims, who also hosted a ceremony to commemorate a forever stamp for baseball legend Hank “Henry” Aaron earlier this year, told The Informer. “The Negro League Legends Hall of Fame, Inc. is proud to be a part of such an exclusive baseball history related to the nation’s capital— District of Columbia— the Washington Giants as incorporated in 1909."

WI

5 Glenarden

Cashenna

one of several Prince George’s leaders who is working to raise awareness and lower stigma for vic-

attending WeModel USA’s Dec. 8 event at the MGM. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

Prince George’s County Political Updates

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

MARYLAND BLACK CAUCUS HOSTS ANNUAL FORUM TO PLAN FOR LEGISLATIVE SESSION

The Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland wrapped their annual weekend to prepare for the legislative session, and brainstorm ways to support business, housing and job opportunities for constituents across the state. However, this year’s meeting, Nov. 22-23 at the Maryland Live! Casino included another major priority: protecting Marylanders from the potentially negative consequences that could come from plans proposed by the impending Trump administration.

“Black Marylanders are concerned about quality of life issues like affordable healthcare, housing and good-paying jobs. They know access to a quality education and reliable transportation are key to providing for their households,” Delegate Stephanie Smith (D- District 45), who serves as the parliamentarian of the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland told The Informer. “Federal support for these priorities may be depressed and that means state and local leaders will have to be creative about how to meet the needs of our constituents.”

Before the weekend kicked off, Smith emphasized this year’s call to action.

“We must build a budget that supports our values, doesn't leave behind our most vulnerable, and makes provision for an uncertain future. It's a tall order but it's a challenge I believe we can and shall meet.”

The weekend began with free virtual workshops on Black maternal health, strengthening Black homeownership, and environmental justice. One popular event, “Business Over Breakfast,” at the Hotel in College Park featuring Treasurer Dereck E. Davis and TEDCO CEO Troy A. LeMaile-Stovall, was sold out in advance.

“The Maryland Black Caucus

Foundation is thankful for our many sponsors and supporters that enable us to host this event again this year,” said Maryland Black Caucus Foundation Chair Dr. Zina Pierre. “We are so grateful to have sold-out all activities, further demonstrating the interest in the topics and opportunities we’ve offered.”

The annual meeting ended with a black-tie dinner and awards ceremony hosted by DJ Quicksilva. Tameka Harris Live served as the Mistress of Ceremonies.

"From passing impactful legislation on our 2024 agenda, to visiting the White House and meeting with our members of Congress on Capitol Hill, the annual gala is the culmination and celebration of the Black Caucus and Foundation's successful year,” said Black Caucus Chair Delegate Jheanelle Wilkins (D- District 20). WI

STATE BUDGET PROJECTIONS FORESEE MASSIVE SHORTFALLS IN COMING YEARS

State legislative leaders have said all options are on the table, including budget cuts and tax increases, to address Maryland’s rising budget shortfalls. Maryland currently faces a $1 billion shortfall and it is projected to grow to $2.7 billion by next year.

“Where we can, we will make cuts and adjustments to existing programs that are not achieving outcomes,” State Senate President Bill Ferguson (D- District 46) said in a statement. “We also will consider altering revenue policies so long as those changes keep our state competitive with the surrounding region. We must be targeted and purposeful in our approach. Marylanders deserve nothing less.”

Department of Legislative Services budget analyst David Romans expressed concerns regarding the state’s rising deficits during a recent presentation for fiscal leaders in the legislature.

“The overarching takeaway from today’s meeting is that there’s an enormous gap between the ongoing

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

spending commitments the state has made and ongoing revenues,” said Romans.

He also said that in just five years, the state will face “a significant challenge” in paying for those commitments.

“By fiscal 2030 — the final year of our forecast — we are showing the state will only have enough revenue to cover 84% of the expenses we’re projecting the state to incur,” Romans explained. “That is the largest gap that we have seen in the last 20 years. It is more significant than the Great Recession.”

Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA) President Richard G. Griffin believes that economic development is one path to improve Maryland’s financial situation.

He emphasized that his association would ensure that all legislators are up-to-date on ways the state is working to address economic challenges.

breakfast, and a gala. (Courtesy Photo)

“MEDA works closely with Maryland Commerce to make sure our 550 statewide members are knowledgeable about statewide programs and initiatives.” WI

3 Local leaders, such as Delegate Stephanie Smith (pictured), say Maryland’s Legislative Black Caucus is prioritizing ways to protect Marylanders from potentially negative consequences that could come from the impending Trump administration. The caucus held its legislative weekend Nov. 22 and 23, featuring workshops, a business

BUSINESS

By James Wright / WI Staff Writer

BRANCH MANS

EAST RIVER FAMILY STRENGTHENING COLLABORATIVE

Former Ballou Senior High School principal and Ward 8 candidate for the D.C. Council Rahman Branch has settled into his new job as the chief executive officer for the East River Family Strengthening Collaborative (ERFSC), based in Ward 7 in Northeast.

“This is a great, great place,” said Branch, “with a great mission. This organization works to meet the needs of Black people.”

ERFSC is a social service organization that works to prevent youth from entering the child welfare system and supports seniors primarily in Wards 1, 7 and 8. The organization provides case management, parent education

briefs

and support programs, and family re-housing stabilization efforts.

Branch replaces Mae H. Best as CEO. He began his duties on Oct. 1.

Branch said he hasn’t initiated changes in the organization as of yet, saying he wants feedback from the staff and the public. He said poverty in the District doesn’t recognize ward lines and is committed to eliminating it as much as possible.

“Fighting senior poverty is a top priority,” he said. “We have to help them deal with the cost-of- living increases in the city. Our seniors were here during the tough years, and they deserve to be treated with respect.”

Branch said he would like the organization to strengthen its offerings to its clients in the areas of health and wellness, homeownership and career development.

Janice Davis serves as the chairman of the board of ERFSC and was fully behind Branch’s hiring. “Rahman has had an illustri-

ous career in the District of Columbia,” Davis said. “I knew him from when he was at Ballou. He will bring a good perspective to the

program. This is a people spot, not a position where someone sits behind a desk all day.”

WI

BZB International’s ‘Shop Til You Drop’ Marketplace Set to Launch for Winter Holidays

By James Wright WI Staff Writer

While the winter holiday season is a busy time for everyone, for District businesswoman and philanthropist Juanita “Busy Bee” Britton, the pace of her work is feverish.

Britton, 62, is hard at work preparing for her 34 th Annual BZB Shop Til Ya Drop Gift and Art Show that starts on Nov. 29, the day after Thanksgiving, also known as Black Friday. In order to prepare, Britton is conducting meetings, making phone calls, and checking in on the scores of vendors that will be at the marketplace at Shiloh Baptist Church’s Family Life Center in Northwest, D.C.

“We want the visitors to the BZB Gift and Art Show to have the full shopping experience and community experience,” Britton said. “This is

not just about coming in and buying something only. This is about building community. The only thing we charge for the admission is a smile.”

Billed as the “largest African American department store on the East Coast,” for over 34 years, every holiday season — minus the two years missed during the COVID-19 pandemic — the BZB Gift and Art show has brought exhibitors and artists together in a strong display of artistry and entrepreneurship.

“You can buy furniture, home decorations, fine art and craft art,” Britton said. “Of course, we have vendors who sell clothing, some of which is traditional African style. There seems to be an explosion of understanding of everything African these days.”

The Shop Til Ya Drop marketplace will be open on Nov. 29-30, Dec. 7, 14, 21, 23 and Christmas Eve, Dec.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS RETENTION WALL

Center Black Museum*

Saturday, December 14, 2024 | Time: 8:30am-11pm | $135pp

Rsvp: bbhtours@gmail.com

TEL: 443.983.7974

Lou Fields, CTO | www.bdxlive.biz

Academy of Hope Adult PCS in Washington, DC seeks proposals for Retention Wall construction, demolition, and site preparation. Full RFP details and submission instructions are available at aohdc.org/get-involved/ jobs. Proposals are due 12/6/2024.

24, from 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

ORIGINS OF SHOP TIL YA DROP

Britton said she noticed the idea of a mass marketplace for vendors of African descent while visiting the Brixton neighborhood of London in 1990.

“I have never seen so many Black people, artisans in one spot,” she said. “There are a lot of Caribbean people in Brixton. The ladies and men were wearing and selling beautifully crafted clothes. To me, I was like, ‘wow!’”

Britton said she wanted to replicate the Brixton marketplace in the Washington D.C. area and worked toward doing that by consulting family members, friends, and other interested parties.

Throughout the years, the site of Shop Til Ya Drop has grown substantially and sometimes the venue has changed from Shiloh to places like the city’s convention center.

Britton said to be a vendor in her show, one cannot just walk in.

“I talk to every single person who does my show,” she said. “I ask them questions like, ‘Do you understand marketing?’ I want vendors to understand that this is a community of artisans. I want them to understand that we support each other and when we shop with each other, we will be successful.”

Being successful in business is one of the reasons Juliette Nelson, through her business NURILENS, a conservation-oriented glasses manufacturing and retail company, decided to participate in Shop Til Ya Drop. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

3Rahman Branch is the new chief executive officer of the East River Strengthening Collaborative based in Ward 7 in Northeast. (Courtesy Photo/Rahmanbranch. com)

Black Friday Approaches as Store Closures Hits D.C. and Rest of U.S.

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

As Black Friday nears, shoppers in the District of Columbia and beyond face a challenging reality: fewer places to hunt for deals as retail store closures continue to mount. Across the U.S., more than 2,000 stores are reportedly set to close by the end of 2024, with 13 major retail chains contributing to 2,055 closures.

In D.C., the loss is particularly noticeable for local businesses and communities.

Aurora Market, a family-owned and veteran-operated store in the Brookland neighborhood, recently announced its indefinite closure. Located on Rhode Island Avenue, the market had been a trusted resource for underserved communities.

“This was more than just a store,” one Aurora Market shopper stated. “It was part of our neighborhood’s heart.”

Nonetheless, the market became the target of thieves in nearly a dozen incidents, including four breakins this year. The repeated robberies proved too much for the store to bear, forcing its owners to shut down.

A NATIONWIDE SHIFT IN RETAIL

Family Dollar is leading the wave of closures, shutting down at least 600 locations this year. Other major retailers like Walmart and TJX, the parent company of T.J. Maxx and Marshalls, are also closing stores that failed to meet performance expectations, and simultaneously opening new ones in more profitable markets.

Walmart plans to close seven stores that underperformed financially while opening 14 new or expanded locations next year.

Advance Auto Parts announced it would shutter more than 700 stores as part of a broader business strategy to improve profitability.

Pharmacies are also downsizing. CVS is in the final stages of its three-year plan to close 900 locations, citing shifts in population and consumer buying patterns. Rite Aid is set to close 77 more stores,

following 150 closures last year, as it navigates bankruptcy restructuring. Walgreens has announced plans to close 1,200 locations over the next three years, though the first round of closures won’t occur until 2025.

In D.C., the effects of these closures extend beyond the loss of shopping options. The closing pharmacies often serve as vital community resources, and scaling back leaves gaps in access to essential goods.

Retailers such as Foot Locker and Macy’s are rethinking their strategies as shopping patterns evolve.

Foot Locker closed 113 stores

this year, while Macy’s began implementing a plan to shutter 150 locations over the next three years, starting with 50 in 2024.

Financially struggling brands like Express have taken drastic steps, closing 95 flagship stores and 12 UpWest-branded locations.

Restaurant chains are also not immune to the downturn.

Denny’s has announced the closure of 50 restaurants by the end of this year, with an additional 100 set to close in 2025. The company is focusing on underperforming locations to improve profitability.

RETAIL’S EVOLVING LANDSCAPE

The retail industry continues to

5 Northeast D.C.’s Aurora Market is reportedly set to close by the end of 2024, with 13 major retail chains contributing to 2,055 closures across the U.S. (Courtesy Photo/Instagram)

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS STRATEGIC PLAN

Academy of Hope Adult PCS in Washington, DC seeks proposals for Retention Wall construction, demolition, and site preparation. Full RFP details and submission instructions are available at aohdc.org/get-involved/jobs. Proposals are due 12/6/2024.

transform in response to economic and societal changes.

UBS analysts project that as many as 45,000 stores could close nationwide over the next five years, driven largely by the struggles of smaller retailers.

While big-box chains like Costco, Target, and Home Depot continue to expand, many companies are reevaluating their operations to align with shifting consumer habits.

For 7-Eleven’s parent company, financial underperformance tied to declining tobacco use, flavored nicotine bans, and reductions in

SNAP benefits led to the decision to close 444 North American locations.

LL Flooring, formerly known as Lumber Liquidators, is going out of business entirely, with its remaining 200 stores holding liquidation sales before permanently closing.

For those who frequented Aurora Market, the store’s closing is heartbreaking and will be a major shift for the Brookland community.

“Seeing it close feels like losing a piece of who we are,” an Aurora Market shopper explained.

WI

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

NATIONAL

Medicaid Faces Uncertain Future as Republicans Target Program Under Trump Administration

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

A critical lifeline for millions of Americans faces an uncertain future as Republicans prepare to take control of Washington.

Medicaid, along with the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), providing health and long-term care coverage to 80 million low-income children, pregnant women, adults, seniors, and people with disabilities, is under

scrutiny with proposed funding cuts and new eligibility requirements.

In Washington, D.C., Medicaid and CHIP collectively covered 260,218 residents as of June 2024, with total spending reaching $4.2 billion in fiscal year 2022. The federal government accounted for 78.2% of these costs. Since pandemic-era continuous enrollment provisions ended in March 2023, the District has disenrolled 67,619 individuals, even as total enroll-

(Courtesy Photo)

ment remains 7.7% higher than pre-pandemic levels. These numbers reflect growing pressures on state budgets and federal support.

Nationally, Medicaid’s expansion under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) added 23 million people to

500 FLEXIBLE POINTS EARN

its rolls, but that growth has made it a target for Republican lawmakers. With President-elect Donald Trump returning to office, proposals to cut Medicaid funding and impose work requirements have resurfaced. These measures, they argue, could help fund the extension of tax cuts that primarily benefit corporations and the wealthy.

GOP Rep. Jodey Arrington of Texas, chair of the House Budget Committee, has described work requirements as “responsible and reasonable,” while Texas GOP Sen. John Cornyn has advocated for block grants to replace the current funding model. Critics caution that these changes could destabilize Medicaid, leaving states with significant funding gaps.

“If you want to avoid a debt spiral, there have got to be reforms made to federal health programs,” Brian Blase, a former Trump adviser who supports reducing federal contributions to Medicaid expansion, told the New York Times.

Proposals under discussion include lowering the federal match rate for expansion enrollees from 90% to as low as 40%, a move that could force some states to drop the program entirely.

Medicaid’s role in American healthcare is substantial. It supports nearly half of all children in the U.S., covers significant portions of mental health and nursing home care, and plays a vital part in managing chronic conditions. In D.C., for instance, 95,577 Medicare beneficiaries and 71,021

enrollees in Medicare Part D also depend on Medicaid for supplemental support.

Advocates for the ACA’s expansion and consumer protections warn that cutting Medicaid would disproportionately harm vulnerable populations.

“Without Medicaid coverage, you’ve got folks choosing between how to put food on the table or pay for their kids’ health care,” said Daniel Tsai, head of Medicaid at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

The appointment of Dr. Mehmet Oz to lead CMS signals the Trump administration’s intention to focus on cost reduction and fraud prevention. However, significant resistance is expected to sweeping cuts. In 2017, similar efforts met with public outcry, and polls show that over 70% of Americans support keeping Medicaid largely unchanged.

State officials are revisiting measures such as work requirements, which faced legal and logistical challenges during Trump’s first term. Arkansas saw thousands lose coverage due to work requirements before the court struck down the program. Georgia remains the only state that has implemented these requirements successfully.

The financial strain on states is already mounting, with federal Medicaid funding reduced by $60 billion for fiscal year 2024. Technical and administrative hurdles have left eligible Americans needing more coverage, exacerbating the problem.

Crystal Harp, a mother from Tennessee, described to the New York Times how Medicaid enabled her to manage her daughter’s rare epilepsy.

“It’s unbearable to think about the medical debt we would be in if we did not have Medicaid,” she said.

As Republicans advance their policy agenda, Medicaid’s future is in peril. With millions depending on the program for basic healthcare needs, the debates in Congress will determine whether Medicaid continues as a cornerstone of American life or faces sweeping changes.

“It could be the most consequential year in Medicaid’s life,” said Joan Alker of Georgetown University’s Center for Children and Families. WI

@StacyBrownMedia

5 As Republicans prepare to take control of Washington, Medicaid is under scrutiny with proposed funding cuts and new eligibility requirements.

15 Democrats Join Republicans in Backing Bill Critics Call a Dictator’s Dream

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

While on the campaign trail, Donald Trump openly declared he would rule as a dictator from his first day in office, and now, 15 House Democrats joined Republicans in passing a bill many say could empower the president-elect to do just that.

The Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act (H.R. 9495) grants the Treasury secretary unilateral authority to label nonprofits as “terrorist supporting organizations” and strip them of their tax-exempt status without due process. The measure passed the House on Thursday, Nov. 21, in a 219-184 vote.

Critics argue the legislation opens the door for abuse, with devastating consequences for free speech and democracy.

Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas) called the bill a step toward authoritarianism.

“A tyrant tightens his grip not just by seizing power but by demanding new powers and when those who can stop him willingly cede and bend to his will,” Doggett said.

Critics say it would allow any president to target nonprofits arbitrarily, bypassing judicial safeguards already in place.

“This is not about fighting terrorism—it’s about handing Donald Trump the authority to decide who is a terrorist,” Doggett said. “Our democracy is under threat.”

DEMOCRATIC SUPPORT SPARKS OUTRAGE

Despite clear warnings, 15 Democrats supported the measure, joining Republicans to ad-

vance what civil rights advocates have described as a “dictator’s dream.”

Reps. Henry Cuellar (D-Texas) and Jared Golden (D-Maine) are among those facing backlash for their votes. Critics have also called out House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) for failing to rally his caucus more forcefully against the bill, though he voted against it.

Rep. Jim McGovern (D-Mass.) expressed disbelief at the decision to hand such power to an incoming Trump administration.

“The road to fascism is paved with a million little votes that slowly erode our democracy and make it easier to go after anyone who disagrees with the government," McGovern remarked. WI Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

5 With President-elect Donald Trump promising to be a dictator on day one, 15 House Democrats have joined Republicans in passing a bill many say could empower him to do just that his upcoming term. House Democrats, such as Rep. Lloyd Doggett of Texas (pictured), called the bill a step toward authoritarianism. (Courtesy Photo)

Celebrate Kwanzaa at the Anacostia Community Museum

The Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum is celebrating the seven days of Kwanzaa with performances, storytelling, and craft and dance workshops. Events take place daily at ACM from noon to 2 p.m. We encourage visitors of all ages to join us for these free, family events. Registration is requested, not required, and can be completed by visiting: anacostia.si.edu/kwanzaa

A full schedule of events is below:

Thursday, December 26 —

Kwanzaa Opening Ceremony, Umoja (Unity)

The week-long celebration kicks off with this afternoon gathering, uniting families and communities. Storyteller and griot Mama Ayo leads the traditional candle-lighting ceremony, pours the libation honoring ancestors and shares the history of Kwanzaa. Taratibu Youth Association, a performing arts group for the youth of the African diaspora, will follow.

Friday, December 27 —

Family Workshop, Kujichagalia (Self-Determination)

A family workshop led by Jessica “Culture Queen” Hebron, a Grammy-nominated teaching artist and children’s musician, will encourage self-determination through affirmations, song, dnace and hands-on activities.

Saturday, December 28 — Verbal Gymnastics Workshop, Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility)

ACM has celebrated Kwanzaa for over fifty years. Join neighbors to celebrate once again this year with daily events Dec. 26-Jan 1.

Credit: Past Kwanzaa celebrations. Anacostia Community Museum Archives, Smithsonian Institution.

This live interactive storytelling workshop will honor those have inspired our lives, prompting visitors to share stories of their personal heroes. The theatre company Verbal Gymnastics will then play back these stories with actors and musicians.

Sunday, December 29 — Memory Box Craft Workshop, Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics)

Families will decorate and fill their own memory box in this arts and crafts workshop led by artist Tamara Thomas. Participants are encouraged to bring their own photos and trinkets. Ms. Thomas will also lead an Ujamaa vision project, discussing what is needed in local communities and the benefits of having a family or community business.

Monday, December 30 — African Dance Workshop, Nia (Purpose)

African cultures imbue every dance with purpose, from rites of passage to communing with the spiritual world. Khepera Wellness, a community-oriented yoga studio, will celebrate Nia through this African Dance Workshop, guiding participants through intentional movements.

Tuesday, December 31 — Family Kwanzaa Bag Workshop, Kuumba (Creativity)

Local artist Rain will lead families in this arts and crafts workshop creating and decorating family Kwanzaa bags. The bags can be used in many ways, including carrying handmade Kwanzaa gifts or the fruits of the harvest.

Wednesday, January 1 — Spiritual Dance Workshop, Imani (Faith)

Start the new year with a performance and workshop on miming and liturgical dance guided by Crazee Praize. Landle and Antoinette Jones will then lead a discussion on what gifts and talents keep participants hopeful despite life’s challenges.

The museum has welcomed the local community to celebrate Kwanzaa for over fifty years and this year, ACM will be displaying images of past Kwanzaa celebrations nightly on the museum’s façade December 19-Jan 2nd.

The Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum is located at 1901 Fort Pl SE Washington, DC 20020.It is open daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (except December 25) free of charge. More information about the museum’s current exhibition and public programs can be found on the museum’s website at anacostia.si.edu.

Justice Department and 39 Attorneys General Unveil Plan to Break Google’s Monopoly

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

D.C. Attorney General Brian L. Schwalb, in coordination with the Justice Department and 38 other state attorneys general, has announced a detailed proposal to dismantle Google’s internet search monopoly. The sweeping remedies, filed as part of an ongoing antitrust lawsuit, aim to restore competition, protect consumer choice, and level the playing field for digital market rivals.

The move follows a landmark August 2024 ruling by a federal judge in Washington, D.C., which found that Google violated antitrust laws by maintaining an illegal monopoly over internet search engines and relat-

ed advertising markets. The remedies proposed this week target practices regulators say stifled competition and harmed consumers.

THE PROPOSED REMEDIES

The proposed final judgment (PFJ) includes several aggressive measures to curb Google’s influence:

• End Default Search Deals: Google would no longer be allowed to pay manufacturers or browsers to make its search engine the default option on devices such as iPhones or Android smartphones.

• Mandatory Data Sharing: Google would be required to share data it collected through monopolistic prac-

tices with competitors, ensuring privacy safeguards are in place.

• Divestiture of Chrome and Potentially Android: Google must sell its Chrome web browser, which regulators claim is a critical access point to its search monopoly. Additional divestitures, including the Android operating system, could follow if compliance issues persist.

• AI and Search Neutrality: Google would be barred from requiring its search engine or artificial intelligence (AI) products to be the default on Android devices. Publishers would also have the option to prohibit Google from using their data to train AI models.

In addition, the PFJ proposes a public education campaign funded by

Google to inform consumers about its past practices and promote awareness of alternative search engines. The initiative may also include short-term financial incentives for users who explore non-Google search platforms.

A five-member technical committee would oversee implementing and enforcing these remedies for at least ten years.

A BIPARTISAN PUSH FOR ACCOUNTABILITY

“Today’s proposal represents a critical effort to restore competition and innovation in online search markets,” Schwalb said. “Consumers and businesses deserve free and fair markets, and this coalition will continue fighting to ensure a level playing field.”

The Justice Department echoed Schwalb’s sentiments, asserting in its filing that Google’s dominance in search and advertising markets has resulted in higher prices for advertisers and limited choices for consumers.

Regulators noted that Google’s tactics have enriched the company at the expense of competition.

GOOGLE’S DEFENSE

Google has fiercely opposed the proposed remedies, arguing that they are outdated and would harm innovation.

Karen Dunn, an attorney representing the tech giant, called the government’s case a “time capsule” based on an older internet era, where desktop computers and typed URLs dominated online activity. Google has also claimed that such measures would merely shift dominance to other large tech firms like Amazon or Microsoft, without addressing broader market dynamics.

Kent Walker, Google’s chief legal officer, criticized the proposal as an “overly broad interventionist agenda”

that could jeopardize user privacy and the company’s leadership in artificial intelligence. Google maintains that its search and advertising technologies benefit consumers and businesses, disputing the need for such drastic actions.

BROADER IMPLICATIONS

The case against Google extends beyond search engines.

In September, the Justice Department and state attorneys general launched another antitrust trial in Virginia, targeting Google’s alleged monopoly in online advertising technology. Regulators contend that Google’s dominance in both the buy and sell sides of digital ad transactions has allowed it to collect excessive fees, further stifling competition.

The proposed remedies filed this week align with the Biden administration’s commitment to reining in Big Tech. However, with President-elect Donald Trump taking office in January, the fate of these aggressive antitrust efforts remains uncertain. The incoming administration’s approach to regulating tech giants could significantly influence the court’s final decisions.

NEXT STEPS

A hearing on the proposed remedies is set to begin in April 2025. If the court approves the Justice Department’s recommendations, Google would have six months to divest its Chrome browser and comply with other mandates. Legal experts expect Google to appeal any adverse rulings, potentially extending the case for years.

“The playing field is not level because of Google’s conduct and the proposed remedies aim to eliminate the ill-gotten advantages it has accumulated,” Justice Department attorneys argued in their filing. WI

(Courtesy Photo)

Submitted by Washington Gas

Energy Support for Every Season

For over 175 years, Washington Gas has been more than just an energy provider to the DMV community—we’re a neighbor committed to being there when it matters most. Life’s challenges can touch us all, and we understand how important it is to know that help is available when you need it.

With a variety of assistance programs, we are here to support you through life’s ups and downs. Whether you’re looking for immediate help with your bills or want to improve your home’s energy efficiency, we offer options to help you focus on what matters most to your family.

“Our commitment to our community goes beyond providing energy; we’re here to help our neighbors and customers feel supported through life’s uncertainties,” said Blue Jenkins, President of Washington Gas. “Our team is dedicated to connecting people with resources and assistance so they feel secure and prepared, no matter the season.”

The programs and resources below are just a sample of ways to seek assistance for yourself and those you love. To learn more about any of the options below, visit washingtongascares.com.

MANY FORMS OF ASSISTANCE

You may qualify for a Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) grant to help pay your energy bill. Many other federal and state assistance programs can also use your LIHEAP application to provide additional aid. This is one of the most valuable actions you can take to receive energy assistance. Learn more at www.benefits.gov/benefit/623.

The Washington Area Fuel Fund (WAFF) is a partnership between Washington Gas and The Salvation Army that has distributed nearly $34 million over the past 41 years to provide utility help to more than 103,000 area households (320,000 individuals). If you are a qualifying District of Columbia resident, you can receive assistance regardless of your energy provider.

If you’d like to donate, please text SPREADWARMTH to 53-555. Learn more at WAFFhelp.org.

Would you like to help a friend, neighbor, or family member pay their Washington Gas bill? With our Gift of Warmth program, you can easily assist others with a one-time or recurring utility payment. You can also donate anonymously. Learn more at bit.ly/3Tx010W.

MANAGE ENERGY COSTS

Whether you own, rent, or plan to buy a first home, your monthly utility budget matters. Completing an online Home Energy Profile provides an energy ranking, savings estimate, and upgrade recommendations for your home energy usage. It takes about five minutes and requires no sign-up or personal data. You may also qualify for a free Energy Conservation Kit. Learn more at bit.ly/ washgas-energy-audit.

Energy Saver is a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) consumer resource for saving energy and using renewable energy technologies at home. Get tips for everything from lowering home heating and cooling costs to improving moisture control and ventilation. Learn more at bit.ly/doe-esaver.

Through the DOE’s Weatherization Assistance Program, you may apply for an “energy retrofit” for everything from new insulation to updated heating and cooling systems to upgraded electrical appliances. Learn more at bit.ly/doe-weather.

MANAGING YOUR WASHINGTON GAS BILL

You can make payment arrangements by enrolling in the Installment Payment Plan before signing up for the Budget Plan. Installment Plans are available and distribute your current outstanding balance across several billing cycles. No down payment is required, and payment deferral is interest-free.

Avoid further credit action on your account if you make payments according to the agreement. Once your plan is approved, you can enroll in the Budget Plan. Learn more at bit.ly/wg-bill-manage.

The Budget Plan spreads the cost of winter heating over the entire year so that you pay the same amount every month. Your bill will show actual gas usage and budget installments each month so that you can review the information.

The Budget Plan is designed as a 12-month program, and we encourage you to stay on it year-round to realize the potential benefits. Learn more at bit.ly/ wg-bplan.

Payment Extension Plans are also available for residential customers only and allow for a payment due date extension, which allows extending payment due dates.

Please reach out to EAP@washgas.com with your questions.

Whether you’re seeking assistance for yourself or want to lend a helping hand to others, Washington Gas is here to guide you through every step. Together, we can ensure that our community stays warm, secure, and supported through any season. Visit washingtongascares.com to learn more and explore the options that

n Brochures

n Business Cards

n Banners

n Canvas Bags

n Color Copies

n Contracts & Vouchers

n Church Fans

n Fax & Scan n Programs

n Posters & Signs n Tithe Envelopes n Tickets & Flyers n T-Shirts

Mugs & Glassware n Notary

Virtual Summit Links Fascism to Haiti’s Climate Crisis

Haiti Faces Severe Environmental Insecurity Due to Colonial Legacy and Climate Change

By Mya Trujillo WI Contributing Writer

Haiti is one of the countries that contribute least to global climate change, with 83.6 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions since 1751 compared to the United States’ 426.94 billion. However, Haiti, which has long faced challenges of poverty and public safety, is also one of the countries most vulnerable to the detrimental effects of the changing climate.

Pierre LaBoissiere of the Haiti Action Committee shed light on how such circumstances came to be during his presentation at the Climate Emergency Mobilization Task Force’s virtual “Climate and Fascism” summit on Nov. 15.

With 25 minutes allotted to present, he linked the Caribbean country’s current crisis to fascism and colonization dating back to Christopher Columbus’ invasion of Hispaniola in 1492.

“It was based on the plunder and destruction of Indigenous people’s livelihood and their balance with the environment,” LaBoissiere said. “The Spanish introduced a system of depleting the environment.”

Once covered with precious trees of valuable timber like mahogany, Haiti has experienced major deforestation since the colonial period, and a 9.2% decrease in total tree coverage between 2000 and 2023.

Due to a lack of job security in the country, many Haitians in rural regions resort to tree felling, the process of cutting down trees, as a means of survival, supplying over 70% of its annual energy consumption. Nonetheless, during the virtual summit, LaBoissiere emphasized his desire to eradicate the notion that impoverished rural populations in Haiti are to blame for major tree loss.

“What has been occurring with the deforestation has been a result of capitalism,” he said.

He told attendees about France demanding Haiti pay reparations following the conclusion of the Hai-

5 Pierre LaBoissiere, co-founder of Haiti Action Committee raises awareness about the climate crisis in Haiti and how government actions may prevent local solutions from taking place. During the Climate Emergency Mobilization Task Force’s “Climate and Fascism” virtual summit, he urged for the destruction of systems that contribute to Haiti’s instability. (Courtesy Photo/Haiti Action Committee)

tian Revolution in 1804, and what came of that agreement.

“One of the biggest resources that was used to repay that, in addition to coffee and hard cash from coffee sales, was payment in terms of timber,” said LaBoissiere. “I remember my dad, who was born in 1905, telling me about how much of the timber was being felled from the interior of Haiti and being walked to the seashore so that ships from Europe and the U.S. could pick it up.”

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND PUBLIC SAFETY IN HAITI: ‘TOGETHER, WE CAN WIN’

Changes in rain activity have also deeply impacted Haiti.

According to a Doctors Without Borders briefing, “mean annual rainfall decreased by 5 [millimeters] per month per decade since 1960,” contributing to long drought periods.

Based in Cap-Haïtien, climate

change researcher Jessy Alexander Becius has adamantly helped fight the effects of atypical rainfall. He led an initiative allowing approximately 50 households in Île de la Tortue, the community he was born in, to suffer less from droughts.

“A device has been put in place so that rainwater is collected from the roofs of several households and then stored in a tank built for this purpose. Thus, when drought occurs, the rainwater previously stored is distributed to these households,” Becius explained.

The combination of environmental instability and gang-activity-related political insecurity recently caused over 20,000 Haitians in Port-auPrince to flee from their homes over four days, according to a Nov. 18 report from the United Nations. Others have left the country completely.

“The link with the fascist governments has tremendously caused the tragedy that we are seeing today in terms of people fleeing Haiti– the refugee situation,” said LaBoissiere in his presentation.

Caribbean Climate Network’s Peterson Destin described the weight of his decision to come to the United States from Haiti earlier this year.

“With regret, I made the decision to leave my country,” Destin said. “I constantly think of my family.”

While fleeing Haiti was a difficult choice for him, Destin understands it was a reasonable choice as the scarcity of food and clean drinking water grew, contributing to the lack of personal progress on both a professional and social level.

“I had a great career in public administration,” he said. “Here in the U.S.A., I am starting from scratch. I dream of being able to serve my country again.”

Even though other global powers may become discouraged, LaBoissiere concluded his presentation by calling fellow Haitians and allies to action.

“Let’s stand strong and fight this thing,” he urged. “Together, we can win.”

WI

Building a Path to Generational Wealth Through Homeownership

Sponsored by JPMorganChase

Homeownership has long been a symbol of the American dream. Our homes often represent far more than just shelter – they’re central to family life and building strong communities.

The economic impact of homeownership can’t be overlooked either. Homes are the largest source of wealth for Americans, which makes buying a home one of the most important steps people can take toward creating generational wealth and securing their family’s financial future.

While owning a home might be a goal for many, it can feel out of reach for those who’ve faced barriers to homeownership in the past. The good news is that many resources are available today to help people buy a home and stay there as long as they desire.

Here are three tips to help you qualify for a mortgage to purchase a home of your own.

1. BUILD AND IMPROVE YOUR CREDIT.

It’s important to know where you stand so you can make a plan to maintain, improve or build your credit. Generally, a higher credit score means you’ll be able to qualify for the most competitive interest rates, which could help you save significantly. You can get a copy of your credit report for free at annualcreditreport.com, or check your score through your financial institution.

If you have a low credit score, you can work on raising it by paying down credit card and loan balances and making bill payments on time. Avoid opening or looking for any new credit cards or loans while in the process of buying a home, as the credit checks required will lower your score and increase your debt-to-income ratio. When applying for a mortgage loan, you’ll be asked to submit payment history to show you have a steady income. If you’re thinking of switching jobs before buying a home or while going through the buying process, consider waiting until after you’ve closed on your home.

2. SAVE FOR A DOWN PAYMENT AND LOOK FOR FINANCIAL RESOURCES.

It’s a common misconception that you must put down 20% of the home price as down payment—there are many lower down payment options available, such as Chase’s DreaMaker mortgage that could qualify you for down payments as low as 3%. However, keep in mind that the more you pay upfront, the less your monthly mortgage payment will be. Look for online mortgage calculators or speak to a

lending professional to get an idea of how different down payments could affect your mortgage.

Take the time to research financial resources that may be available to you. Many state and local governments offer first-time homebuyer programs, which encourage residents to buy within their home state, with incentives that can include covering a down payment or lower interest rates. Lender-backed financial resources may be available, too.

3. FIND THE MORTGAGE OPTION THAT WORKS FOR YOU.

One mortgage doesn’t fit all, and there are many options to suit all lifestyles and budgets. A 30-year conventional mortgage is most common, but you can also get a loan term of 10, 15 or 20 years.

Some mortgages have a fixed interest rate, which means it doesn’t change over the life of the loan. There are also adjustable rate mortgages, which usually offer lower interest rates in the beginning, but adjust at certain intervals over time, typically increasing your overall payment. Get in touch with a lending professional who can help you understand your options.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Starting the homebuying process can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. There are many tools, resources and professionals dedicated to helping you achieve the goal of homeownership.

For more tips and information on home buying, visit chase.com/mortgage, and try out the Homebuyer Assistance Finder at chase.com/affordable.

Anacostia Park 8 am-11am

HEALTH

FIGHTINGSTIGMA,SAVINGLIVES. Joinustocontinuethefight!

World AIDS Day: Raise Awareness, Commemorate Lives, Celebrate Survivors

Every year on Dec. 1, as a means to raise awareness about, commemorate the lives lost to and celebrate survivors’ of HIV/ AIDS, the World Health Health Organization (WHO) hosts “World AIDS Day,” and this year’s theme is “Collective Action: Sustain and Accelerate HIV Progress.”

“Ending AIDS requires that we prioritize and reach everyone who is living with, at risk for or affected by HIV, including men who have sex with men, transgender people, people who inject drugs, sex workers, and people in prisons and other closed settings, as well as their partners,” according to HIV/AIDS treatment has come a long way since the first reported cases in the United States in 1981, with medical breakthroughs transforming the disease from a death sentence to a manageable chronic condition.

According to HIV.gov: “There were 39.9 million people across the globe with HIV in 2023. Of these, 38.6 million were adults (>15 years old), and 1.4 million were children (<15 years old). In addition, 53%

The introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) in 1995 dramatically reduced AIDS-related deaths and the transmission of

the virus. HAART is a combination of two or more antiretroviral drugs that are typically prescribed as the initial treatment for people with HIV.

Today, global awareness, addressing stigma, and the development of life-saving medications have made landmark strides in the fight to end HIV/AIDS.

Local organizations like Whitman-Walker Foundation, a leader and stalworth in HIV/AIDS health care services, are hosting local events to combat the diagnoses. Whitman-Walker’s annual “Walk to End HIV” event on Saturday, Dec. 7, at Anacostia Park near the Skate Pavilion, celebrates progress, raises awareness and garners support for those impacted by HIV/AIDS.

Dwight Venson, community engagement manager at Whitman-Walker, said the annual event has already raised roughly 86% of its funding goal.

“Communities East of the River continue to face disproportionately high rates of HIV, and bringing this event to Anacostia Park underscores our commitment to addressing these disparities,” Venson told The Informer. “By walking together in this space, we’re amplifying the voices of those most impacted and demonstrating the importance of equitable access to care and resources.”

WI

5 District leaders such as D.C. Councilmember Vincent Gray (far left), Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton (center), walk in the 2017 Whitman-Walker Walk & 5K to End HIV. With World AIDS Day on Dec. 1, local organizations are hosting events working to raise awareness about, commemorate the lives lost to and celebrate survivors of HIV/ AIDS, such as Whitman-Walker’s Walk on Dec. 7. (WI Courtesy Photo/Edward LePoulin)

By Louis Davis, Jr. AARP DC State Director

Throughout 2024, AARP DC continued to advocate for policies to empower District residents to improve their lives and choose where and how they live as they age. AARP DC has a long history of supporting older District residents who want to live independently as they age. This year, AARP DC fought for issues that matter most to seniors, their families and caregivers.

During the FY2025 budget process, we called on the Mayor and DC Council to keep their promise of making the District an Age-Friendly city. With the support of hundreds of District residents who spoke up, your efforts were a success! We were able to secure over $26 million for older adults and prevent budget cuts for essential senior support, including protecting housing assistance counseling, transportation programs and provide additional support for the District’s 74,000 caregivers.

Earlier this year, AARP DC worked alongside the DC Long Term Care Coalition to advance the Certified Nurse Aide Amendment Act of 2024. This bill increases wages and makes changes to the licensing process for direct care workers who provide care for the16,500 District residents who are 65 and over and unable to live independently without support.

AARP DC also offered many free, enriching programs available to both members and non-members alike. Throughout the year, we offered presentations such as the Fraud Watch Network to teach you about scams and offer ways to protect yourself from becoming a victim, explaining the how, when and where to vote, as well as Social Security and Medicare presentations to inform and provide local resources.

Recently, AARP DC has been

AARP DC: Fighting for the District’s 50-plus

proud to support activities to help folks stay active, socialize and interact with those in the community. We hosted pickleball clinics; events with DC Black Pride and DC Silver Pride; Movies for Grownups screenings; job search training; various health and wellness fairs; legal clinic for Veterans, among many more. Stay tuned in for more information on what we have planned, including some new events!

As AARP DC continues our work, we can’t do it without your help. We will keep fighting for the policies you care about and help all residents 50 and over in all 8 Wards live their best lives. If you want to volunteer with us to make real improvements in your neighborhood, your Ward, or across the District, join us! If you are interested, please email dcaarp@aarp.org with your name, contact information, which Ward you live in and what issues you care most about!

For the latest and most up to date information on the issues listed here, and for upcoming announcements, please visit our website, aarp.org/dc, and follow us on social media at facebook.com/aarpdc or x.com/aarpdc.

We wish everyone a very happy, health and safe holiday season and look forward to working with you and seeing you at an upcoming event!

AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan member organization, and has been working to promote the health and well-being of older Americans for more than 60 years. AARP’s District of Columbia State Office engages its 78,000 members and all District residents 50+ through advocacy and outreach, and with fun and interactive programing both in person and virtually.

We're in Your Corner

People today can spend nearly half their lives over the age of 50. That’s a lot of living. So, it helps to have a wise friend and fierce defender like AARP in your community.

Find us at aarp.org/dc

EARTH OUR

Gas Stoves and Indoor Air: Open Windows While Your Turkey Cooks

New Report Finds High Levels of Nitrogen Dioxide in 60% of Kitchens Tested in D.C., Maryland

By Kayla Benjamin Special to the Washington Informer

Picture this: It’s 5:30 p.m. on Thanksgiving. On the stove, cranberry sauce is bubbling and potatoes are slowly turning tender enough to mash. The oven door

opens and shuts again, a perfectly golden cornbread swapping places with an enormous turkey.

Folks start to arrive. Coming in from the cold, they’re surprised to see the kitchen windows wide open. However, the host knows something they don’t: with two gas burners and a gas oven run-

ning, the room will quickly fill up with harmful air pollution if it’s not ventilated.

She’d rather make everyone keep their sweaters on than allow unhealthy gasses to build up in her kitchen, especially with young kids running underfoot

and elders stopping in to opine on her cooking.

This imaginary host’s concern about her gas appliances is based on very real evidence—including a new report from Beyond Gas DC, which found unhealthy levels of nitrogen dioxide in more than 60% of the kitchens they tested in D.C. and Montgomery County. Beyond Gas is a coalition of four local community and environmental groups that advocates for building electrification.

at Johns Hopkins, said that poorly ventilated gas stoves can cause some of the same lung conditions commonly associated with cigarettes, such as COPD and emphysema.

“Cooking is all about keeping people healthy, right? We wash our hands after we touch the meat, and so forth,” said Galiatsatos. “Your lungs should not be sacrificed in this conversation.”

“Our homes should be a refuge,” Northeast resident Michelle Hall, a Beyond Gas volunteer from the Washington Interfaith Network, said in a press release. “But as this report shows, as long as residents continue to rely on burning dirty methane gas in homes, our health will be at risk.”

The “Cooking Up Danger” report, released Nov. 21, documents 663 home tests for nitrogen dioxide, or NO2. With the oven running and two burners on for 30 minutes, more than 400 of the kitchens tested had levels of NO2 higher than the Environmental Protection Agency’s health standard for one hour’s outdoor exposure.

HIDDEN HEALTH RISKS

A growing body of research links gas appliances to a wide range of health issues, including short-term and long-term respiratory issues.

Dr. Panagi Galiatsatos, a pulmonary physician and researcher

The oldest and the youngest people at the Thanksgiving table face additional risks from indoor air pollution—seniors because their immune systems tend to be weaker, and kids because their lungs are still growing.

“Children’s lungs continue to develop into teenage years, and the best way to ensure those lungs have the best chance of being as healthy as they can be is making sure that those lungs are exposed to the best air [possible],” Galiatsatos said.

FOR NOW, VENTILATION IS KEY

In some households tested by the Beyond Gas volunteers, the NO2 spilled out of the kitchen, with high levels registering even in families’ upstairs bedrooms. It could also take hours after cooking is over for the nitrogen dioxide to fully dissipate, according to the report.

While advocates note that switching from gas to electric appliances is best for indoor air qual-

OUR EARTH Page 25

5 Washington Interfaith Network’s (WIN) Michelle Hall (right) watches a nitrogen dioxide monitor in her kitchen with fellow WIN organizer Sidra Siddiqui. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

EDUCATION

Brookland Defeats No. 1 Ranked Johnson in Middle School DCIAA Championship Coaches Emphasize Lessons, Success Beyond the Field

By Ed Hill WI Contributing Writer

For the past decade, the John Hayden Johnson Middle School football program has been the kingpin of middle school football, not only in D.C, but in the nation. The team has dominated their opponents in the District of Columbia Interscholastic Athletic Association (DCIAA) and earned the top spot for middle school football programs in the country.

So, when Johnson met up with Brookland Middle School (91) for the DCIAA 2024 Middle School Championship on Nov. 13, it was assumed that they would earn another trophy— after all, they had defeated their opponents 27-6 during the regular season. ut The Brookland Breeze had other ideas.

Using a strong motivation of past failures and an underdog status, they pulled off what many are calling a major upset, an 18-12 victory over the defending champions at Ballou High School.

"Words cannot explain the feeling of having made history here at Brookland," said Brookland head coach Osiris Walcott, in his 10th season there. "We have been knocking at the door, but we have not been able to accomplish our goal of winning a championship. We believed all along when others may have doubted. That's what makes it all the sweeter."

Brookland’s program started nine years ago, playing under the then Stars division where it was successful in winning four titles. Then in 2022, Brookland moved

up to the much more competitive Stripes Division, which included Johnson. Despite the challenge, the Breeze built on their previous success and went on to make it to the finals, only to lose to Johnson.

Then, last year, Brookland again came up short losing in the semifinals, this time to Jefferson Middle School.

"It was a maturing process for sure," noted Walcott, who also doubles as the boys' basketball coach at Brookland. "For the eighth graders, they especially bought in, because they had experienced the disappointments the previous two seasons. It was not difficult to get their attention. They were locked in and motivated."

The core of the team centered around Gregory Dargen, Kavon Martin, SirRyan Whittington, Jr., Dekeen Kuyateh and Demetrius Mathis, II.

With the hard-working team at play, Mathis proved to be the difference in the win over Johnson, as he accounted for two of the team's crucial scores: a touchdown run for the game's first score and the other on a spectacular kick return.

In the midst of the celebration, Walcott pointed to the impact of the Johnson program, under the direction of Michael Shariff, a highly regarded head coach who has not only turned the attention of the youth football world to the DMV area, but has also raised the bar and forced the middle school teams to work harder.

It has proven to be beneficial in many ways.

"When you look at what Coach Sharrieff has done, it is remarkable," praised Walcott. "Johnson has sent a number of players to highly regarded high school programs and then ultimately to college. We have benefitted from the legacy that he has created. When coaches come to evaluate their talent, we benefit from the exposure. Because of that, we have a number of players from the Brookland program who are now standouts at their various high schools."

In February 2024, Sharrief was honored by the Pigskin Club of Washington for his transforma-

OUR EARTH from Page 24

ity, there are effective steps that families with gas stoves can take to protect their health.

The safest solution is to send the pollutants outdoors using a vent—but few homes actually have the equipment required to do so, and it’s particularly rare in older houses. While gas furnaces, water heaters and dryers are legally required to have a vent to the outside, gas ovens and cooktops are not. Many over-the-stove fans, like the kinds that come with microwaves, are made to catch grease; they can’t do anything to disperse pollutants.

In response to a request from the Informer to comment on the new report, a Washington Gas spokesperson said in a statement that customers should “follow

tional leadership.

"I think to be a great coach, you’ve got to be a great teacher. You’ve got to love teaching. You know you only coach 12-15 times a year, but you teach a whole lot of days in between that,” Sharrieff said during his acceptance speech at Pigskin Club of Washington’s fall sports awards banquet earlier this year. He said that his love for teaching has been a motivating factor for his work and a secret to some of the success behind his coaching.

For Walcott, the win was wonderful, but he said he is especially

the safety guidelines provided by their appliance manufacturers,” such as using a vent hood or exhaust fan while cooking.

“Additionally, customers should keep appliances well-maintained and serviced regularly to ensure they are functioning efficiently and safely,” the statement continued.

However, NO2 and other pollutants are released from gas cooking appliances even when they are working properly, with no significant leaks.

That’s why Thanksgiving hosts (and everyday home cooks) should consider opening windows, using the vent fan if there is one, and putting a fan in the window to push gas fumes outdoors during and after stove use.

Richard Vilmenay, another Beyond Gas volunteer with the

proud of the six players who came through the Brookland program and are now in college. Nonetheless, he emphasized that such success stories are only part of the gratification he feels in coaching the middle school team.

"We want to win like everyone else who does this," admitted Walcott, who guided the boys' basketball program to the championship two years ago. "But what satisfies me most is that we are in a position to set these kids up for success. At the end of the day, isn't that what matters the most?" WI

Washington Interfaith Network, said that since learning about the issue he turns on a fan and opens windows and his front door whenever he uses his gas stove. With his four-year-old daughter’s lungs in mind, Vilmenay now relies heavily on his electric air fryer, and largely avoids using his oven.

He hopes the new report will help inform more people of the danger so that they can take similar steps.

“In this time of Thanksgiving, where there's going to be so many families gathering together, often in kitchen, talking, preparing meals, sharing their time together—it’s so important,” Vilmenay said. “[We] can still have these family moments, right? But here's just a few things that you can do differently that can help address this harm.” WI

5 Brookland Middle School defeated John Hayden Johnson Middle School 18-12 in the District of Columbia Interscholastic Athletic Association’s 2024 Middle School Championship. (Courtesy Photo)

&

Ends 12/3/24. Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. New Xfinity Internet and Unlimited mobile customers only. Offer requires enrollment in both paperless billing and automatic payments with stored bank account. Without enrollment, the monthly service charge automatically increases by $10 (or $5 if enrolling with credit or debit card information). The discount will appear on your bill within 45 days of enrolling in automatic payments and paperless billing. If either automatic payments or paperless billing are subsequently canceled, the $10 monthly discount will be removed automatically. Limited to Connect More 300 Mbps internet and one line of Unlimited mobile. All other installation, equipment, taxes & fees extra, and subject to change during and after promo. After 12 months, or if any service is canceled or downgraded, regular charges apply to internet service (currently starting at $120/mo). Service limited to a single outlet. May not be combined with other offers. All devices must be returned when service ends. Internet: Actual speeds vary and not guaranteed. For factors affecting speed visit www.xfinity.com/networkmanagement. Xfinity Mobile: Xfinity Mobile requires residential post-pay Xfinity Internet. Line limitations may apply. Equip., intl., and roaming charges, taxes and fees, including reg. recovery fees, and other charges extra, and subj. to change. $25/mo charge applies if Xfinity TV, Internet, or Voice post-pay services not maintained. Pricing subject to change. During times of network congestion, your cellular data speeds may be slower temporarily. After monthly data use threshold for a line is exceeded, speeds are reduced until the billing cycle ends. A minimum $20.00 charge applies per month, per account for By the Gig lines, regardless of data usage. Charges apply to each GB or partial GB of shared data. No rollover data. For Xfinity Mobile Broadband Disclosures, visit xfinity.com/mobile/policies/broadband-disclosures. Device offer: Offer ends 12/3/24. Requires qualifying phone trade-in, and purchase of a new iPhone 16 Pro (128 GB only) while supplies last, a 24-month Xfinity Mobile Device Payment Plan Agreement (“Device Agreement”), and activation of new Xfinity Mobile Unlimited Plus line within 30 days of phone purchase date. Trade-in must be completed within 21 days of phone shipment date. Must maintain line required for offer until trade-in is completed. Porting of number is not required with trade-in. Up to $1,000 via trade-in credit applied monthly to your account over Device Agreement period so long as Device Agreement is in effect. Actual trade-in amount varies depending on model of phones for trade in and purchase and will not exceed the retail value of purchased phone. If line is canceled, voluntarily or involuntarily, or phone payments are accelerated, balance of credits associated with Device Agreement are forfeited. Out of stock phones are not eligible. Offer not valid with prior purchases, returns or exchanges. May not be combined with some offers. © 2024 Comcast. © 2024 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. NED400947-003

The Pilgrims Were Illegal Immigrants

This Thanksgiving, as Donald Trump prepares for a second term in the White House, having successfully run on a campaign attacking illegal immigrants, the president-elect and his supporters should be reminded of America’s forefathers.

Indeed, the true history of Thanksgiving is brutal, bloody, controversial and complex, with white European settlers, also known as Pilgrims, committing brutal atrocities against the Native Americans with whom they interacted.

To be clear, the Pilgrims were illegal immigrants.

“The Pilgrims did not enter an empty wilderness ripe for the taking. Human civilization in the Americas was every bit as ancient and rich as in Europe. That is why Wampanoag country was full of villages, roads, cornfields, monuments, cemeteries, and forests cleared of underbrush,” said historian David J. Silverman in “The Vicious Reality Behind the Thanksgiving Myth,” published in November 2019. “Generations of Native people had made it that

way with the expectation of passing along their land to their descendants.”

However, Native American land was not passed on “to their descendants.” It was stolen from them.

As Americans gather around the table this Thanksgiving, many will be dining with uncertainty about next steps for immigrants and the future of the nation and democracy.

With Trump promising mass deportations and to be a dictator on day one of his presidency, Americans should not consider the fear tactics used by the president-elect about illegal immigrants, many of whom work hard and serve communities around the country. Instead, they consider the harsh reality that this country’s forefathers were illegal immigrants, colonizers, murderers, rapists and racists— the exact same offenses Trump claims are common among those who illegally entered the United States today.

Further, despite the bleakness of the national political landscape, we each have much to be thankful for, such as: life, family, friends,

Beware Metro Bus Riders: There’s

No Such Thing as a ‘Free Ride’

During the recent COVID-19 pandemic, government agencies and businesses located throughout the Greater Washington Area either reduced or eliminated fees for targeted services to assist patrons who were struggling just to eat, stay warm and keep a roof over their heads.

Train fares were temporarily reduced in some cases, while bus riders who boarded without paying the fare were not stopped by bus drivers or detained by law enforcement officials.

And while the DC Council unanimously passed legislation in 2022 that would make Metrobuses free of charge within District limits, the plan was delayed after numerous objections and concerns were raised, including the price to pay for the well-intentioned initiative.

However, effective November 1, 2022, Metro said it would begin to enforce penalties for those riders who

and those ancestors who paved the way to fight against injustices.

This Thanksgiving, as we tap into our gratitude for the world around us, it’s important that we also continue to work toward true justice and freedom for all, particularly as we prepare for the next Trump administration.

While there’s a lot to be grateful for this Thanksgiving, there’s still much work to be done in the fight against racism and injustices.

Remember the words of Fannie Lou Hamer: “If I fall, I’ll fall five feet four inches forward in the fight for freedom.”

Happy Thanksgiving! WI

Further, despite the bleakness of the national political landscape, we each have much to be thankful for, such as: life, family, friends, and those ancestors who paved the way to fight against injustices.

did not pay their fare on trains and buses. In reality, very little seemed to change. And so most riders threw caution to the wind. And with limited officials around to dole out tickets or to detain fare evaders, the chances of getting caught were slim to none.

But as the old adage goes, “all good things must come to an end,” and that includes the DMV’s unofficial “free ride” policy. In fact, it already has. And to make the rules for riders clear, WMATA recently announced a major fare enforcement campaign that has ramped up on Metrobus.

It’s estimated that 70% of bus riders currently are not paying the fares, according to Metro officials. Metro estimates that the system lost more than $40 million in revenue in FY22 due to fare evasion on Metrorail and Metrobus – a loss of funds that directly impacts revenue, service offering and delivery, maintenance and operational decisions.

Riders should be aware that there are consequences associated with nonpayment and warned that there will be more law enforcement officials, some in uniform, others in plain clothes, who will be riding buses or on duty at major hubs to meet and greet those who continue to ride trains and buses without paying the fare.

Bus drivers will not stop those who board without paying and because of safety issues, they never have, but riders should not confuse their silence with a Monopoly-like “get on the bus free” card.

Fare evasion is a civil offense in Washington, D.C,. and can be a crime in Maryland and Virginia. Further, nonpayment of fares hurts everyone, while unfairly punishing those customers who follow the rules. So, save your quarters and dollars first. Then, board the Metrobus. WI

Readers' Mailbox

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

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS

Guest Columnist

Where Do We Go From Here?

As the dust settles on this election, we find ourselves at a crossroads. Vice President Kamala Harris has lost her bid for the presidency, and for the first time in years, Republicans control the House, the Senate and the White House. For many of us who have been fighting for equity, opportunity and justice, it feels like the

ground has shifted under our feet. The dreams we nurtured, the policies we fought for, and the progress we celebrated now face new and daunting challenges. But in the midst of this loss, I am reminded that true change has never come easy. It has come through our resilience, our determination, and our commitment to the ideals we hold dear.

The question we face now is, "Where do we go from here?"

Our task is not to retreat or to abandon our vision. Our task is

to refocus, reenergize, and recommit to the values that brought us to this fight in the first place. As Democrats, as progressives, and as Americans, we cannot afford to look at this election as the end. We are the voice of millions who still long for justice, healthcare, and education that empowers rather than excludes. Every loss must sharpen our resolve, not weaken it. This is the time for reflection and a recommitment to standing with the people left behind, ignored and marginalized for too long.

We may face challenges at every level of government, but we are not powerless. Our communities, our neighborhoods, and our grassroots networks remain a powerful force for change. We can influence the policies that matter most by continuing to organize, to educate, and to mobilize. Think of the Civil Rights Movement, think of the countless movements for social and economic justice that flourished against even greater odds. It was the spirit of ordinary people coming together to demand ex-

traordinary change that moved this country forward. And that spirit is still alive in every one of us. If we have learned anything, it’s that actual change begins at the local level. We need to engage with our city councils, our school boards, our state legislatures, and our communities. These are the places where our work will make the most difference, where we can shape policies that directly impact the lives of those we serve. Togeth-

REYNOLDS Page 49

Benjamin F.

We Must Work Together to Support the Sustainability of HBCUs in America

Earlier this year the U.S. Department of Education sent all colleges and universities across the nation a notice, reminding them that they need to comply with the newly updated cybersecurity regulations published by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

The regulations — which include specifications such as implementing

In the 1970s, Jim Jones, cult leader and deceiver, was able to draw thousands of African Americans to his church from far and near. He used numerous tools to lure them: the Bible, Black gospel music and activism among false promises.

Our grandmother, Julia Gales, was Jones' first Black member to join Peoples Temple in San Francisco. She

critical controls for information security programs, maintaining oversight of service providers and designating an individual to oversee a school's cybersecurity infrastructure — came in response to an uptick in ransomware attacks on schools around the United States.

While these regulations are certainly warranted in an age where personal data is becoming increasingly vulnerable to cyber-criminals, the penalties for failing to comply with the regulations — especially the withholding of federal needs-

based funding under Title IV — pose an existential threat to schools operating under tight budgets. Take historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), which have throughout their existence struggled to find the substantial funding that many state and private predominantly white institutions (PWIs) of higher education enjoy and who are already steeling themselves to deal with an expected surge of applicants following the Supreme Court's regressive decision to effectively end affirmative action admis-

sion programs.

The loss of Title IV funding would drastically affect about 80% of the student bodies at HBCUs and would have a consequential negative impact on the future of these vital institutions of higher education.

Endowments at HBCUs pale in comparison to those at the U.S.'s top ranked colleges and universities, with the overall endowments at all the country's HBCUs accounting for less than a tenth of Harvard's.

The gap in funding between PWIs and HBCUs isn't just because

of smaller endowments, it's also because state lawmakers keep funds off HBCU campuses. In North Carolina, for example, legislators awarded N.C. State an extra $79 million for research, while N.C. A&T — the nation's largest HBCU — was given only $9.5 million.

When it comes to access to technology, HBCUs also face an uphill battle with 82% of HBCUs being located in so-called "broadband deserts."

recruited many families and friends from across the country. Later, it was our grandmother who identified — with unbearable screams — the names of our relatives when they scrolled down on the news. From that day to now, the Jones family and church members have caused our memorial services and efforts constant problems to give the innocent victims a dignified memorial.

I do not have the money, staff or time to fight a cult, but they do. Jim Jones is listed in honor at the gravesite of the babies he ordered murdered.

Jones does not deserve to be honored on top of their sacred final resting place. It is like reliving a second Jonestown.

We were the first to hold a memorial service in San Francisco in May 1979 on Fillmore Street at the Queen Adah Hall. We are appreciative that last year Vice President Kamala Harris honored our 45th Jonestown Memorial with a recognition. It was healing for those who are still hurting.

We continued the memorial service this year on Monday, Nov. 18, with keynote speaker Dr. Amos Brown, at

the Evergreen Cemetery in Oakland, California.

Jones' family tried to get our grandmother to recruit new people after killing her only daughter, my mom, her daughter-in-law, seven grandchildren and a host of family and friends, with the youngest being our 2-monthold cousin, Charles Gary Henderson. How did Jones, a white man who posed as a Native American, get almost 1,000 people — mostly African American — to trust him into a snake- and mosquito-filled hot jungle? He lied with a fully laid out plan just

like Hitler. His plan succeeded because Blacks were tired of having their blood drench this land with little or nothing being done about it. America was built off the backs of their ancestors, yet they were experiencing inequality, injustice, murders, racial profiling and more.

He seized the Black community — both wealthy and struggling families — because he copied our greatest hero, the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.'s speeches and dreams. The world was

Chavis Jr.

Jynona Norwood

Jim Jones is Still Honored at the Graves of the Children He Ordered to Be Murdered

Rep. Ron Reynolds

Guest Columnist

Guest Columnist

Guest Columnist

Biased Home Appraisals Steal $150 Billion from Black Home Wealth

ation, the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB).

For most consumers, buying a home is the single-largest investment of their lifetimes. But for Black America, home equity — the increase in market value from the time of purchase — is often the dominant, if not sole source of wealth-building. Home equity represents 65% of all Black wealth, according to the nation’s oldest minority professional trade associ-

Yet the unfortunate reality for Black homeowners, according to NAREB, is that systemic discrimination used in appraisals that determine home fair market values all too often perpetuates — instead of narrows — racial wealth gaps, for homeowners and buyers alike. These mandatory reports are a key factor used by lenders to reach decisions on loan applications to purchase, sell or improve homes.

"Home Appraisals in Black and White," a new NAREB research re-

port, examines disparities in the estimated value of homes by racial neighborhood composition. Analyzing housing data from 2021 and 2023, two authors — James H. Carr and his colleague, Michela Zonta, both housing finance and urban policy experts — reached a startling finding: Blacks have lost $150 billion in home equity due to biased home appraisals.

According to Courtney Johnson Rose, NAREB president, "For decades, the undervaluing of property in African American neighborhoods has contributed to the expansive Black-

White wealth gap in America, a spread so expansive that the 400 wealthiest Americans control the same wealth as all 48 million Blacks."

In Black neighborhoods with large shares of homeowners, homes were undervalued by 47%, compared to similar homes in White neighborhoods with no Black borrowers. These lower property values prevent Black families from building and earning comparable wealth via home equity compared to similarly-situated white neighborhood homeowners, and additionally suppress the ability of Black

homeowners to develop intergenerational wealth.

The report also pinpoints where these disparities are widest.

"The percentage difference or median Black appraisal undervaluation price gap (relative to homes in White communities) ranges from 10 percent in Houston to 48 percent in Los Angeles," states the report. "In Los Angeles, the median appraised value of homes in Black neighborhoods is $618,532 compared to $1,179,640

Page 49

The Illusion of Allyship. White Women, Your Yard Signs Mean Nothing to Me

reality TV star, and rapist. White women answered the call but left us hanging at the polls.

Political yard signs can symbolize intentions and allegiance. But this year, they've also symbolized betrayal. During this general election, Black women were led to believe that more White women would stand with us. Exit polls, however, told a different story. Despite overwhelming displays of support, more White women still chose to vote for the convicted felon,

They've Let the Devil Back In: The Repercussions of Donald Trump's Reelection Guest Columnist

"Forgive them, Father, for they know not what they have done."

In a stunning turn of events, America has once again found its neck under Donald Trump's foot — a figure with a history that should make any truly patriotic American pause. Instead, voters have chosen to dance with the devil they know (and, apparently, miss). They've chosen to forego their

A FAMILIAR DISAPPOINTMENT

I live in DeKalb County, Georgia, and the abundance of Harris-Walz yard signs could've fooled me. But I've seen this before, back when Stacey Abrams ran for governor. White women showed up, put up signs, attended rallies, knocked on doors, and phone-banked. Yet, when it came

time to vote, they let us down—not once but twice. I've been here for over 15 years, and if there's one thing I know, it's that political signs are symbols without weight.

In every election, I've talked with White women. Most aren't the primary earners in their families and vote along party lines, aligning with the preferences of their fathers and husbands. These conversations reveal a reluctance to break from tradition, even when their votes affect women and certainly when their votes impact the lives of people who look like me.

THE ILLUSION OF SOLIDARITY — SYMBOLS ARE NOT ENOUGH

On social media, I'm seeing White women posting pictures of blue bracelets to "prove" they didn't vote for Trump. "The blue bracelets are something White women are wearing so others can see that they didn't vote for Trump," says Liberal Lisa from Oklahoma on X. Chile, bye. These bracelets are hollow symbols, empty gestures that mean nothing to

me. An accessory to claim distance from Trump's legacy is superficial comfort, while the choice to not stand with us in the voting booth is far more profound.

I've seen Black Lives Matter signs and black squares posted on Instagram to "prove" support for Black people, but we now know that was a lie, too. Will those same people who claimed Black lives mattered now take down their Harris-Walz signs and show their true selves?

own interests in the name of "change." It's a choice that, maybe this time, we will come to regret.

Trump's reelection has made it clear that we underestimated the power that economic anxiety has in shaping voter decisions. While many of us assumed that the protection of democracy and the core American values of choice and freedom would take precedence, the stark reality is that the fear of inflation, food, gas, and housing costs won out. People voted with their feelings instead of their minds, and Trump masterfully exploited this,

offering hollow promises to "fix" it all without any real plan.

Just as he did before, he leaned into his manufactured, fabricated persona—a successful businessman, a fixer, a man of the people—and even more Americans bought the con again.

But let's be real: this isn't a man who knows what he's doing. He's not a planner or a visionary; Donald Trump is a liar. He's a con artist, plain and simple. We saw his inaction on healthcare reform during the pandemic, his disastrous pre-pandemic tariff policies that economists almost universally

criticized, and his complete disregard for the truth the entirety of his presidential tenure.

Does character even matter anymore in seeking America's highest office? America, you voted for him: you now own him. Now what?

Now, he's back with Project 2025, deputizing loyalists like Stephen Miller to reinforce a conservative agenda that's dangerously extreme. With fewer guardrails this time around, Trump is poised to impose an agenda that could reshape our Democracy for generations to

come — and not for the better.

Another Trump presidency means that Black and Brown communities could once again find themselves marginalized even further, but he somehow made significant inroads in urban centers and among Latino and Black voters — a shocking and sobering fact. It seems the Democratic Party took these communities for granted, assuming their loyalty without taking meaningful steps to address the everyday issues impacting their lives.

CROWELL

Dawn Montgomery

A. Scott Bolden

Guest Columnist

Charlene Crowell

LIFESTYLE

WASHINGTON

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 programming that spreads holiday cheer, such as a ballet, Mariah Carey, and so much more.

To keep up with all the fun, don’t forget to check out the Washington Informer Calendar, and re-

member, there’s always something happening in the DMV to keep your spirit-- and social life-- lit.

THURSDAY, NOV. 28

Thanksgiving Feed The Homeless Communities Noon | Free/Donation Farragut Square, 912 17th Street NW Washington, D.C., 20006

Presented by Piano Keys Restaurant & Lounge and Dicko Foundation, the Thanksgiving Feed The Homeless Communities is an event to make a difference for fellow neighbors. Volunteers will meet in person to distribute meals and clothing items to some of the

nity,” will lead an artist talk about her work in the context of Millennium Arts Salon’s 25 year history.

Bruce, known for her explorations of human form, movement, and vibrant color washes, is currently represented by the Studio Gallery, a partner during “First Fridays” and “Third Thursdays” in Dupont Circle.

Annual CityCenterDC

Tree

Lighting

5 p.m. | Free CityCenterDC, 825 10th Street NW Washington, D.C., 20001

area’s homeless communities.

FRIDAY, NOV. 29

Philadelphia Ballet: George Balanchines’s The Nutcracker 1:30 p.m. | $121.90+

The Kennedy Center, 2700 F Street NW Washington, D.C., 20566

Full of warmth and holiday cheer, George Balanchine's beloved classic, “The Nutcracker” returns in a whimsical production from Philadelphia Ballet (formerly Pennsylvania Ballet).

Marvel at the magic of swirling snowflakes, dancing candy canes, and enchanted toys.

A Christmas Carol at Ford’s Theatre

7:30 p.m. | $42.00+ Ford’s Theatre, 511 Tenth Street NW Washington, D.C., 20004

For more than 40 years, “A Christmas Carol” has inspired and uplifted audiences of all ages and continues to do so on Ford’s historic stage.

Acclaimed actor Craig Wallace returns to play Ebenezer Scrooge as part of Ford’s annual holiday tradition in this exciting and engaging tale.

SATURDAY, NOV. 30

Artist Talk with Olivia Bruce

1 p.m. | Free IA&A at Hillyer, 9 Hillyer Ct NW Washington, D.C., 20008

Olivia Bruce, a featured artist in the exhibition “Collecting Commu-

In its 11th year, CityCenterDC has partnered with Events DC to present a special performance for the Annual CityCenterDC Tree Lighting. Jordin Sparks will headline the event, along with the American Pops Orchestra, while NBC4 Anchor Eun Yang will emcee, leading up to the grand lighting of the 75-foot tree.

Attendees will also enjoy complimentary offerings such as face painting and balloon animals, gourmet popcorn, cotton candy, tater tots, roasted nuts, and mini donuts.

SUNDAY, DEC. 1

Mariah Carey: Mariah Carey’s Christmas Time 7:30 p.m. | $59.95+

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

On Dec. 1, Mariah Carey, known as the unofficial queen of Christmas, is coming to D.C. to ring in the season with her iconic discography.

With songs such as “All I want for Christmas is You” (1994), kickoff the season with Carey’s timeless holiday hits.

Elf in Concert: Film with Live Orchestra

3 p.m. | $62.10+

The Kennedy Center, 2700 F Street NW Washington, D.C., 20566

This season, relive the heartwarming holiday classic of a young boy named Buddy who is accidentally transported to the North Pole as a toddler and raised to adulthood among Santa's elves. Enjoy as every note of John Debney's wonderful score is played live to picture in “Elf in Concert: Film with Live Orchestra.” WI

5The Philadelphia Ballet brings holiday cheer to Kennedy Center with The Nutcracker on Nov. 29. (Courtesy Photo)

5On Wednesday, Nov. 13, Strathmore’s acclaimed Artist in Residence (AIR) program held their annual “Fresh AIR” concert, previewing the class of 2025 and commemorating the program’s 20th anniversary. This year’s cohort consists of Gabby Cameron (banjo), Jack Gruber (piano), Hasan Imam Hamdani (guitar), Maximilian Jacobs (violin), Marcel Penzes (trombone), and Qi Yu (guzheng). (Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

Strathmore AIR Program Celebrates 20 Years of ‘A Priceless Experience’ with Launch of Class of 2025

By Jada Ingleton WI Digital Equity Fellow

Since launching in 2005, Strathmore’s Artist in Residence (AIR) program has evolved into a leading cultural institute of North Bethesda, Maryland, serving as a catalyst for emerging musicians to establish business acumen and excel in virtuosity.

With the introduction of its 2025 cohort, and commemora-

‘Tis The Season Concert

tive annual “Fresh AIR” concert on Nov. 13, the education program celebrates 20 years of cultivating artistry and forging innovation in the DMV region.

“To the best of our knowledge, this program is the only one in the country of such depth that is sponsored by a performing arts center,” explained Betty Scott, now AIR program director.

“Strathmore takes great pride in this 20th anniversary celebration that has afforded innumerable resources to propel the careers of well over 100 gifted musicians in the DMV.”

Every year, as part of Strathmore’s Institute for Artistic Development, the Artist in Residence education program supplies six musicians with the tools and supportive environment to develop their craft and break new ground, promoting professional development, mentorship and extensive exposure throughout a 10-month residency.

Over the last two decades, the intensive program has had tremendous growth and impact, from enhanced communal engagement to powerful alumni success stories, including two Grammy nominations, multiple Washington Area Music Awards wins, and even international recognition.

Scott, who was initially appointed as the initiative’s education coordinator in 2005, told The Informer that the mission behind Strathmore AIR has always been rooted in supporting prosperity, but the outcome has exceeded even her own expectations.

“We knew what the goal was, but I think it was kind of hard to envision Grammy nominations and selling out concerts.”

The competitive excellence of the program was evident through Class of 2025’s preview Fresh AIR concert, held for the first time at Strathmore’s 1,800-seat Music Center–which is also celebrating its 20th anniversary. The 2025 class features Gabby Cameron (banjo), Jack Gruber (piano), Hasan Imam Hamdani (guitar),

Maximilian Jacobs (violin), Marcel Penzes (trombone), and Qi Yu (guzheng).

Yu, who specializes in traditional and modern Chinese music, commends the well-rounded support and lack of imposed limitations from the AIR program directors. She noted how the program’s approach allows her to thrive in multi-genre collaborations and deepens her appreciation for her craft.

“To be able to learn different cultures through music…and then be able to collaborate to different or even multiple musics, it really helps me open my mind and eyes to what the world really is and how the culture influenced the music,” she said. “I feel like [at Strathmore AIR] the sky's the limit.”

STRATHMORE AIR: BRIDGING GENRE AND GENERATION

In an inspiring introduction video prior to the cohort’s performances, several AIR alumni expressed gratitude for the career development program, with some describing it as a “springboard,” “cultivation,” and “a priceless experience.”

This year, alumni like Josanne Francis (steelpan) and Danté Pope (vocals and percussion) return to the cultural institute to serve as mentors for the class of 2025, reinforcing the program’s enduring commitment to bridging genre and generation.

AIR’s history of serving as an accessory to connectivity has been essential in its success, but even more so pivotal to the once-mentees who aim to bestow the same wisdom and dedication to current students.

“I recall how instrumental the AIR program was in shaping my development as both an artist and an educator, and the roles my mentors played and continue to play,” said Francis, of AIR’s 2018 class, in an August press release. “This year’s class is incredibly talented, and it is a true honor to serve as a mentor and be part of their journey.”

LANGSTON HUGHES II

Tracey Cutler, Artistic Director

FAME JAZZ ENSEMBLE Julian W. Wilson, Artistic Director

The Bass Negus

ADOPTION from

knew, and we were all that he knew,” Wilson, 72, told The Informer. “We had all of his history from birth on… he needed to stay with us. It just became important, and we didn't want to let him go.”

In 2019, nine years after her nephew joined the family, Wilson’s sister, Carolyn Woods heeded the call to adopt 18-month-old Warrior, who is also Jayden’s brother.

“It's growth, because I was going to be the jet setter who was going to travel. I had no idea, no plans to have a child at all,” said Woods during the Adoption Day event at Moultrie Courthouse in Northwest, D.C. “Now I'm in the process of renewing my license so that I can have another child in the home with him.”

During Saturday’s event, themed “Families Forever by Choice,” Wilson’s daughter, Tracie Wilson-Brockington, followed in her mom and aunt’s footsteps when she officially adopted Jayden and Warrior’s baby sister: 1-year-old Jessey.

“We're not against bringing other children in, but what we have started here is kinship. They’re all siblings, so it was important to keep them all together,” said Wilson-Brockington, as she and her big, blended family officially welcomed baby Jessey.

The energy in Moultrie Courthouse was nothing short of joyful and heartwarming, as community leaders, families and 64 adoptees like Jessey gathered in recognition of newly formed “forever families” across the District.

“We celebrate because we know the immeasurable importance of children. We celebrate today because we know that when children are supported by families who love them, they have a better opportunity to grow and to thrive,” said Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) Chief of Police Pamela A. Smith.

everything that I've done.”

D.C. Adoption Day recognizes the sometimes complex, yet fruitful journey of foster children finding a forever home, a fulfillment for 144 children in the District this past year, according to WUSA9.

While she was there to officialize Jessey’s adoption, Wilson-Brockington, 51, emphasized her family’s dedication to helping all children in need through fostering and spreading love.

“It's still important for us to keep doing foster care,” she told The Informer. “As long as we have the space, and we always have the love, we'll keep doing it.”

FOOD INSECURITY

from Page 1

enough food to meet their needs.

A striking 64% of residents in the DMV area reported that surges in food costs are significantly impacting their finances, a notable increase from 52% last year.

ger Report 2024.

Serving as the celebration’s keynote speaker, Smith emphasized the magnitude of the moment.

“Sixty-four families,” she said with awe and pride. “You’re going to be the impetus to change the lives of our young people here in the District of Columbia. We need you now more than we’ve ever needed you before.”

LOCAL LEADERS GET PERSONAL, EMPHASIZE FINDING FOSTER CHILDREN

‘FOREVER HOMES’

With live entertainment and individual certificate officiations, the 38th annual celebration was a reflection of the joy of building families, as much as the critical call to continue advocating for children in need.

In addition to Smith, event speakers included: D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, an adoptive parent since August 2019; District of Columbia Courts’ Chief Judge Milton C. Lee, Associate Judge Darlene Solyts, and the Honorable Kelly A. Higashi; and other officials from the DC Child and Family Services Agency (CFSA). Many speakers magnified the moment by offering heartfelt remarks and ceremonial tributes of new beginnings.

For the District’s first Black woman chief of police, the opportunity to be present at the ceremony served as an intervention of divine timing.

Smith delivered a powerfully transparent speech, opening up about her own challenging experience in the foster care system before she was adopted by, who she calls, her “biggest cheerleaders.”

“It was this week, over 30 years ago, where I entered the foster care system, and I spent over six months in foster care before a pastor and his wife thought enough of my brother and myself to adopt us,” Smith said. “And that family has…been an instrumental part of my life in every aspect and

According to Tanya Trice, Interim Director of CFSA, about 542 children are still in the District’s foster care system, and 42 of them are seeking adoptive services.

Additionally, CFSA research has shown that, as of quarter four of Fiscal Year 2024, 83% of children in the foster care system are Black or African American.

Mayor Bowser said she considers her choice to adopt: “the best decision I’ve ever made in my life.”

She called on adoptive parents to be ambassadors of the adoption process and continue telling their stories to support youth still in the system.

“Families, they don't all look the same, they don't all come about in the same way, but if you have love in your heart to give, you can be a family – and family by adoption is just an incredible gift,” said the mayor.

‘THE POWER OF ADOPTION’ IN PROTECTING BLACK YOUTH’S FUTURE

Because of her journey, Smith, an Arkansas native, is passionate about the vitality and safety of District youth, and is committed to sustaining relationships with childcare services like CFSA.

“My prayer today is that we continue to promote the awareness and the understanding and the acceptance of what it truly means to give the gift of adoption,” Smith said. “Together, we can and will build a bright future for our children, ensuring that they are loved, that they are safe, they are supported, and most importantly, that they are chosen every single day.”

Alexia Wilson, daughter of Wilson-Brockington, underscored the need for more positive visibility in the District with celebrations like D.C. Adoption Day, and how it can make a difference in the lives of underserved youths. WI

Read more on washingtoninformerocom.

Even among individuals who typically do not face food insecurity, rising food prices are causing financial strain. The situation is even more severe for those struggling with food insecurity, with a staggering 88% of residents in the Washington, D.C. region stating that higher food prices are affecting their overall financial stability.

“Food insecurity is not an independent phenomenon, but rather a symptom of general financial insecurity. Among the food insecure population in the Greater Washington region, 55% say their household’s financial situation has gotten worse since last year,” according to the Capital Area Food Bank Hunger Report 2024.

AMERICANS CONTINUE TO STRUGGLE WITH ECONOMIC RECOVERY AFTER THE PANDEMIC

Economists and food insecurity experts emphasize that the staggering rise in the number of Americans relying on food assistance can be linked back to the lasting financial impact of the pandemic.

“Most of the conversation regarding the pandemic occurs from a look in the rearview mirror. The reality is that a significant majority of people are still recovering from the pandemic,” said Tiffany Williams, President and CEO of Martha’s Table. “The pandemic showed that more people than we think are living on the edge of food insecurity.”

Additional financial stress points which have catapulted the numbers of people seeking food assistance are: massive inflation, ongoing employment hardships, and reduced levels of government benefits.

“With the rising costs of food and goods, as well as housing costs while salaries remain the same, dollars are just not stretching as far as they used to, including for individuals and families who work every day,” the Martha’s Table CEO continued.

Williams’ sentiments are echoed by Capital Area Food Bank Hun-

“Rather than seeing improvements in the economic stability of individuals across the region, and an associated reduction in the need for food assistance, the Capital Area Food Bank and its network of nonprofit partners have seen the opposite: the number of people seeking help has been climbing higher,” according to the report.

TACKLING FOOD INSECURITY: A CORPORATE AND COMMUNITY RESPONSIBILITY

Jamal Sampson, a lobby market assistant at Martha’s Table, shared his personal experience with food insecurity— starting at an early age.

“Food insecurity is nothing new to me. I was a recipient of goods from Martha’s Table with my mother when I was a child. I believe that anyone in need of food services should use them without shame or hesitation,” Sampson, 49, told The Informer.

He said Martha’s Table is a great resource for DMV residents in need.

“The food we provide is of higher quality than what you often find in grocery store produce aisles,” Sampson said. “We even offer complex carbohydrates and fresh locally grown produce.”

The large number of individuals and families impacted by food insecurity has prompted community organizations and even many for-profit businesses to develop innovative strategies to help address the issue.

The high demand for food security among Greater Washingtonians has also inspired a renewed sense of social responsibility among for-profit food based businesses, such as restaurants.

Jasmine Colbert, a mother of two and manager at Nando’s Pentagon Row, felt compelled to contribute to the solution. For the last three years, she has led an initiative to sponsor hot rotisserie chicken meals for 30 families each week in Ward 8.

The company expressed a mission of promoting unity and a desire to help feed some of the most economically distressed families in the region.

“No family in Ward 8 or anywhere should ever go hungry, and we are happy to do our part to help our neighbors and the community we love,” a representative from Nando’s told The Informer in a statement.

WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

5The Wilson-Brockington family on D.C. Adoption Day, officially welcoming their newest addition, Jessey Wilson (holding the mic) on Nov. 23. The Wilson family consists of adopted children who are all siblings. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

Page 1

Have your partner use a RED crayon and you use a BLUE one. Which turkey will reach the finish line first? On your mark, get set … GOBBLE!

Who can nd the most turkey feathers on this page in 60 seconds?

All of these words start with the letters P-I. Read the clues and work together to fill in the

A heavy musical instrument with keys. A small cucumber preserved in brine. A meal packed to eat outdoors. A person who robs ships at sea. A platform over water that starts at the shore.

You use a BLUE crayon and your opponent uses a RED crayon. Take turns connecting two dots each time. The person who completes a square gets one point. A square with a football helmet in it is worth three points!

Browse the newspaper for 10 words that would make good halves of a rhyming pair. Then have your partner scour the newspaper for words that rhyme with each of the ones you chose. Switch roles and try it again.

Standards Links: Vocabulary: Identify rhyming patterns and words.

Tak (tak)

Gracias (gra-see-us)

Merci (mehr-see)

Kiitos (kee-toas)

Danke (dahn-kah)

Arigato (ahree-gah-tow)

Dziekuje (dsyne-koo-yeh)

Find the words by looking up, down, backwards, forwards, sideways and diagonally.

Black

Friday

The day after Thanksgiving is usually the busiest U.S. shopping day of the year. Imagine you have $100 to spend. Look through today’s newspaper and list what you’d buy. Did your partner choose any of the same items?

am thankful for … What people, places and things are you thankful for?

© 2024 by Vicki Whiting, Editor Je Schinkel, Graphics Vol. 40 No. 52

This special Kid Scoop Thanksgiving page is designed for you to do with a friend

After dinner, your neighborhood or family walk, each the cards items as you to black out After Dinner

With hundreds Kid Scoop features

review wi book

Christmas Romance Books and More by Various authors

c.2024, various publishers

$17.99-$28

Various page counts

Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer

Dear Santa …

You've asked for love every way you can imagine, so why not try a letter to the North Pole? That's what you want for the holidays: love, intrigue, family, and you'll find them inside these great Christmas romance books and other novels …

When city girl Tia Solanke is faced with a boyfriend-less Christmas, she's understandably sad. In "Only for the Holidays" by Abiola Bello (Soho Teen, $19.99), Tia's mother thinks a change of atmosphere will help, so she plans a Christmas vacation on a nearby farm where the handsome "country boy" who helps run the place also happens to be single. He's also looking for a date to the farm's Winter Ball. Hmmm. Mistletoe Rating: Five out of Five.

Here's something different: set in Norway, "Christmas at Glitter Peak Lodge" by Kjersti Herland Johnsen (HarperVia, $17.99) is part mystery, part winter tale, and part romance, written in bite-sized chapters for one-a-day reading. When Ingrid Berg assumes management of the lodge her grandmother owns, she wonders how she's ever going to keep the place running. So. Many. Problems. Can she overcome them, or will it be a ho-ho-horrible holiday?

For the romance fan who wants something more classic, try "The Christmas Cookie Wars" by Eliza Evans (G.P. Putnam's Sons, $19). Melody Monroe has been trying to keep the Christmas spirit alive for her 9-year-old twins, but the boys aren't feeling very Christmassy. So when Melody has a chance to seize some holiday spirit, she joins their school's cookie-baking committee, despite that the school's principal is a horrible man who soon starts an argument. Who wins? Nobody but Santa — and love, of course.

You know who'd come to your rescue if your fiance dumped you? Your bestie, of course, and in "The Holiday Honeymoon Switch" by Julia McKay (G.P. Putnam's Sons, $19), Holly's man has jilted her and her bestie, Ivy, steps in with a plan. They'll switch places: Ivy will go on the ex-honeymoon alone, while Holly will take Ivy's cabin-vacation. But when Mr. Ex checks into the hotel, and the cabin host turns out to be a cabin hottie, these single belles might hear romantic Jingle Bells.

And, okay, you can't have enough romance for the holidays, but you need something else, too … like maybe a thriller to chill ya? In "You Better Watch Out" by James S. Murray and Darren Wearmouth (St. Martin's Press, $28), it's two days before Christmas and Jessica Kane wakes up with a terrible injury. She distinctly recalls being assaulted on her daily run, but it takes a minute to realize that she's not home. What's even scarier is that five other people have had the same experience, and they're all trapped in an otherwise empty town. When they begin dying, one by one, Jessica knows that Santa Claus isn't the only one who's come to town.

Not enough for your holiday enjoyment? Then pick up some new books by asking your favorite bookseller or librarian for more holiday romance. Or you can always ask Santa. WI

horoscopes

LIFESTYLE

NOV. 28 – DEC. 4, 2024

ARIES After days of moping around, you'll wake up one morning feeling like your old self again: charming, impulsive, and ready to try anything at least once. So what might be the perfect way to celebrate? How about reconnecting with the gang? After a bit of good-natured kidding about where you've been, they'll be delighted to have you back in the fold. Lucky Numbers: 3, 31, 46

TAURUS Talk about a delectable dilemma! The stars are making impulsivity the name of the game, and they've set up shop in your house of secret desires. It's easy to see how you could get yourself into a bit of trouble if you're not careful. Of course, this is the kind of trouble others might run from, but sensual little you might take your own sweet time with it instead. Lucky Numbers: 5, 7, 40

GEMINI A group that you're quite active in is about to ask, if not outright beg, that you become more involved. A lot more involved. Does this mean the fun is over? Will you have to worry about things like organization, paperwork, and so on? Hardly! Delegate, delegate, delegate. You're the ideas person. That's why they want you. Assemble your staff. Lucky Numbers: 12, 23, 33

CANCER You'll wake up in the mood to get out of the house, have some serious fun, and leave your worries behind. With the stars currently turning up the volume on your charm, finding playmates who are game won't be a problem. You may need to divide your attention among family members and friends who've been whining about not seeing you in far too long, but it's just the price of being popular. Once you've arrived, your time is no longer your own. Lucky Numbers: 3, 5, 35

LEO You're in the mood to get away from it all, to let loose and have some serious fun. Since you're you, the sign consistently voted "least likely to be alone unless they want to be," you won't be short on attentive company or leisure time. Your worst problem will be deciding what grand idea to pursue with which charming companion. It sure is tough being you, isn't it? Lucky Numbers: 19, 32, 50

VIRGO You may be having company, of the unexpected variety. Unlike other signs, you won't need to be reminded to keep your place neat and tidy in the event of a spontaneous visit. Now that you've been warned, you may need to be dragged gently but firmly away from the cleaning products and involuntarily forced to give up the rubber gloves. Once that's done, you'll be ready to rock. Put the sponge down and start primping. Lucky Numbers: 24, 31, 43

LIBRA This is going to be a time to remember for all the right reasons. The romantic stars will storm into your house and demand one-on-one relationships today, so don't expect to see much of your pals, except for maybe that one particularly close friend, of course. You two will quite literally be inseparable straight through the morning. Perfect timing, huh? Lucky Numbers: 3, 24, 26

SCORPIO You're so ready to relax that you're actually feeling torn between spending yet another evening with that delectable new admirer and taking the night off to get some sleep. Obviously, you must be really, really tired. Not to dissuade you from your well-deserved rest, but you should know that the passionate, physically impetuous stars are on duty at the moment -- and you know what that means. Make some coffee, grab a shower, and rally. Lucky Numbers: 2, 19, 28

SAGITTARIUS Enough with the babysitting, caretaking, and looking out for everyone except yourself. It's officially time to take care of you, especially when it comes to indulging yourself in some much-needed playtime. The good news is that you can actually pull this off without worrying about getting in too late or having too much to eat or drink. You really can sleep in tomorrow. Lucky Numbers: 15, 40, 57

CAPRICORN You're generous, you inspire the people around you to be the same. Someone in your social circle who is known for being selfish is suddenly realizing there are other people on the planet, and you're part of the reason for this change. Your influence is widening, and you may begin to positively affect people in your professional or educational life as well. Lucky Numbers: 5, 10, 20

AQUARIUS Some fun-loving companions are about to invite you to spend an unusual evening with them, probably doing something you've never done before. Kindred spirits, a new adventure, and no worrying about staying up too late. It just doesn't get any better than that, does it? Your stars are feeling extra impulsive. That means everyone else will be feeling just as impetuous as you are. Go get 'em! Lucky Numbers: 1, 18, 38

PISCES It's officially time to toss the tissues, stop worrying about the past and put some distance between you and whoever or whatever has been making you feel so blue lately. Come on. You've seen way too much of your living room lately. Your dog is even trying to figure out how to get you out of the house. Go ahead and have some fun. You've put in your time. Lucky Numbers: 16, 20, 27

SPORTS

HBCU Champions Advance to Postseason Play

By Ed Hill WI Contributing Writer

As the semester quickly winds down, several teams at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) are hoping to find success in the postseason.

HBCU FOOTBALL

UPDATE: MEAC, SWAC, CIAA, SIAC

South Carolina State proved all the prognosticators wrong by winning the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) regular season title after being picked to finish fourth in the preseason poll. As a result of their success, de-

feating the Morgan State Bears 54-7 on Nov. 16, the South Carolina Bulldogs now qualify for the Cricket Celebration Bowl on Dec. 14 in Atlanta, kicking off at noon and streaming on ABC.

However, another game between Jackson State and Southern University must happen a week before the big matchup in Atlanta, before the Bulldogs (8-2 overall, 4-0 MEAC) know who they’ll be going against.

The Bulldogs, will square off against the winner of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) title game between Jackson State and Southern University on Dec. 7.

The Southern Jaguars (7-4 over-

Washington Capitals’ $2.1 Billion Valuation Reflects NHL’s Rising Fortunes

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

The Washington Capitals have cemented their position as one of the most valuable teams in the National Hockey League (NHL), with a valuation of $2.1 billion, according to CNBC’s Official 2024 NHL Valuations. The franchise’s strong financial standing highlights the NHL’s ongoing growth, which has seen significant revenue increases in recent years.

The Capitals generated $246 million in revenue during the 2023-24 season, with an EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization) of $79.3 million. The team’s debt is relatively low, representing just 9% of its total value, underscoring its financial

all, 6-1 in the SWAC) won the West Division, while the Jackson State Tigers (9-2 overall, 7-0 SWAC) captured the East Division. The two will now meet up in Jackson, Mississippi at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium, kicking off at 1 p.m., and streaming on ESPN2.

In the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA)

residents and help knock D.C.’s Comeback out of the park.”

A FRANCHISE WITH VISION

stability.

Importantly, the team’s arena reportedly generates as much as $65 million in annual tax revenue for the District and has generated at least $800 million in cumulative tax revenue for the city since it opened.

Further, the average visitor to the arena spends about $267, supporting local businesses.

“D.C. is the Sports Capital. We know how important sports are to our city’s economy and culture,” Mayor Muriel Bowser said in an earlier, unrelated statement. “They create jobs, generate tax revenue, and spur economic development. But sports also create a lot of pride in our city, they bring people together, and we look forward to continuing to support our teams in ways that benefit our city and

Under the ownership of Monumental Sports & Entertainment CEO Ted Leonsis, who purchased the team in 1999 for $85 million, the Capitals have grown into a financial and competitive powerhouse.

The team delivered a Stanley Cup championship to D.C. fans (2018) and remains a playoff contender.

Despite their early exit in the first round of the 2023-24 playoffs, the Capitals continue to thrive financially, a sign of resilience and a strong fan base.

Last year, at the CNBC CFO Council Summit in D.C., Leonsis said he had big dreams for Washington sports.

“My goal,” Leonsis said, according to CNBC, “is to build the world’s most valuable regional sports and entertainment company.” WI

championship game, it was Virginia Union University that defeated rival Virginia State, 21-17 for the title in Salem, Virginia on Nov. 16.

It was the Virginia Union University Panthers second straight CIAA title, avenging a 35-28 loss to the Virginia State University Trojans on Nov. 9. The Panthers (8-3 overall, 6-1 in the CIAA) got

an effort of 178 yards rushing on 32 carries and a touchdown from Jodo Byers.

In the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Association (SIAC) championship, it was Miles College (92) overwhelming Clark Atlanta (73), 53-25 in the title game. Miles boasts one of the top defenses in the country in Division 2, having forced 33 turnovers. WI

Monumental Basketball, Washington Wizards Address Food Insecurity in the District

‘Thankful Meals’ Outreach Wizards ‘Season of Giving’ Aims to Increase Engagement, Combat Disparities in D.C

By Jada Ingleton WI Digital Equity Fellow

The Washington Wizards are spreading the holiday spirit across the DMV with their annual Season of Giving, a month-long collaborative outreach that includes youth and community engagement and supporting Southeast residents with Monumental Basketball’s “Thankful Meals” project, held Nov. 20 at Martha’s Table at The Commons.

“It's not just about the wins on the court, on the field, on the ice, but life is about touching as many people as you can,” said John

Thompson III, senior vice president of Monumental Basketball. Monumental Basketball, part of the larger Monumental Sports and Entertainment, includes the: Wizards, Washington Mystics, Capital City Go-Go and Wizards District Gaming.

“We all are extremely fortunate…[and] have been afforded a lot of luxuries that people that live right here next to us don't have, and so it's our duty to do that,” Thompson III told The Informer.

Despite a rough start to the season, the Wizards’ commitment to community engagement and pubSPORTS Page 48

5Howard University volleyball team has been on fire at 21-5 overall and undefeated in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference.

(Courtesy Photo)

CAPTURE the moment

DowntownDC Holiday Market Kicks Off

Photos by Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer

5 As the holiday season is officially underway, a DowntownDC Holiday Market attendee snaps a selfie with Santa Clause.

4 Grammy-nominated singer and songwriter Kenny Lattimore performing at the kickoff for the DowntownDC Holiday Market.

6 Kicking off Friday, Nov. 22 the DowntownDC Business Improvement District (BID) is hosting the DowntownDC Holiday Market now through Dec. 23.

5 The Washington Performing Arts Gospel Choir performing during the DowntownDC Holiday Market ribbon cutting on Nov. 22.

5 Raymundo Lark Young, owner and co-founder of Mahogany Books.

5 A paella tasting by the José Andrés Group.

RELIGION

Saying Goodbye: St. Philip the Evangelist Episcopal Church Shuts its Doors After More Than a Century of Ministry

By D.R. Barnes WI Publisher

Episcopal Diocese of Washington

Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde, led a solemn procession down the center aisle at St. Philip the Evangelist Episcopal Church on Nov. 3, marking the beginning of the final service at the Southeast, D.C. parish, after more than a century of ministry.

Long-time members invited family, friends and guests to reflect on countless sermons, weddings, baptisms, and funerals held in the church. However, the joyful memories were tinged with sadness as the congregation prepared to say goodbye to their cherished place of worship.

“We’re here today, St. Philip, to share the smiles, the joy, and to cele-

brate you,” preached the Rev. Caron A. Gwynn. “St. Philip, we’re here to give thanks to God for you and for your legacy of 137 years.”

THE STORIED HISTORY OF ST. PHILIP THE EVANGELIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH

Historical documents show that St. Philip the Evangelist was established in 1888 in Anacostia by a small group of predominantly white Episcopalians who initially worshiped in the basement of a house on Howard Road SE. By 1889, they had rented a room and later relocated to Nichols Avenue (now Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue), where they added a sanctuary with an

5On Nov. 3, the last day of official services for St. Philip the Evangelist in Southeast, D.C., Episcopal Diocese of Washington Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde (second row, fourth from left), the Rev. Caron Gwynn (third row, fourth from left), the Rev. William Lewis (first row, third from left) and parishioners of the church gather to commemorate the historic parish. (D.R. Barnes/The Washington Informer)

altar and stained-glass windows. Over the years, the church grew in membership, furnishings, and community outreach programs.

In 1977, the Episcopal Diocese of Washington purchased the former Anacostia United Methodist Church, built in 1899, at 1345 U Street SE. This location became the new home of St. Philip’s, which achieved parish status in 2002.

A NATIONWIDE TREND OF CHURCH CLOSURES

The closure of St. Philip reflects a broader trend of church shutdowns, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to Religious News Service, more than 100,000 churches are expected to close this year.

The Congress for the New Urban-

Faith Tabernacle of Prayer Partners with McKinley Tech Boys Basketball Team to Serve Hundreds in Ward

By the Rev. Wanda Jackson WI Contributing Writer

In a powerful display of community

ism Journalism describes this wave as a “tsunami,” with empty places of worship seen across the U.S., cutting across denominations and regions.

St. Philip the Evangelist faced similar challenges, with a dwindling congregation and insufficient funds for essential building maintenance.

“We just can’t afford the upkeep the building needs, such as a new roof and a new HVAC system,” said Kay Pierson, who as a member of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington’s subcommittee on Black ministries, said the church had $2 million worth of repairs to tackle and “maybe 20 members” worshipping in service “on a good day.”

Moreover, after the diocesan subcommittee had an assessment done of the Southeast, D.C. building, contractors noted the sanctuary was deemed as unsafe for in-person worship.

While Sunday, Nov. 3, was the last official church service, Pierson said,

8 Community

spirit, Faith Tabernacle of Prayer DC joined forces with the McKinley Technology High School Boys Basketball Team on Saturday, Nov. 3, to distribute

food to hundreds of families in Washington, D.C.’s Ward 8. The initiative, which took place in the historic Anacostia area, is part of a larger effort to inspire hope and offer tangible support to a community grappling with high rates of youth criminal activity and family instability.

The event was particularly meaningful, as it provided an opportunity for the McKinley Tech basketball players to engage in meaningful community service.

“Our youth sometimes get a bad wrap in the city, but I thought our student athletes were excited to do something positive and uplifting in the community,” Ali Foster, the team’s coach, said. “Another cool experience was seeing how the older church members interacted with our boys.”

Families lined up as early as 6 a.m.,

“There’s still some things that need to be done to officially close the church,” such as the stripping of the altar.

“It was heartbreaking to see them close. So in order to prevent other churches from meeting that same fate, we’re putting together a consortium of Black churches in Southeast, so they can work together to stay open, serve their communities, and serve God.”

A FINAL GOODBYE AND THE END OF OUTREACH PROGRAMS

The church’s closure means the end of its beloved community outreach programs, which included a clothing boutique, computer classes, a food distribution center, after-school activities, and a senior citizens’ program. However, the Child Development Center, which serves more than 30 children, will continue operating in an adjacent building.

At the close of the final service, members presented hymnals, Bibles, the keys to St. Philip’s, and the parish registers to Bishop Budde.

“Many have worshiped here. Many have been empowered for ministry in this holy space,” Gwynn and the Rev. William Lewis said as they passed the registers. “With the passing of these registers, we send the people of this parish out to new ministries in new places in this Diocese and beyond.”

WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

eager to receive a well-balanced, nutritious food package. For many, the food pantry provided a crucial supplement to fixed incomes, helping to alleviate some financial strain particularly during the holiday season.

Lynette Chambliss, the church’s outreach distribution leader and a former standout high school basketball player, emphasized the importance of McKinley’s team participating in the day of service.

“We are so grateful to have the help and support of the wonderful young men of the McKinley Tech varsity basketball team,” said Chambliss, who donated donuts and juice for the volunteers. “Their contributions, energy, positive spirits, and willingness to help, made them a very important part of our team as we served the community.”

WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

5Faith Tabernacle of Prayer DC joined forces with the McKinley Technology High School Boys Basketball Team on Saturday, Nov. 3, to distribute food to hundreds of families in Washington, D.C.’s Ward 8. (Courtesy Photo/Faith Tabernacle of Prayer)

There is a racism/hatred threat circulating on social media against Black women in the South.

To all my African American sisters of all ages, especially those who live in North Carolina and those who have plans for Thanksgiving holiday to spend time with family: Be extremely careful, stay in groups and be alert. Things have changed here in America. One of my sorority sisters posted a message about hatred in Lexington, North Carolina, a town near Raleigh. She told us how last week, there was a notice going around Facebook, Instagram and text message about dangers to Black women following this election. As a journalist, I did some searching, and lo and behold, I found that the message said this:

"Hey ladies, I just received this from a friend who works in the Gwinnett County Sheriff's Office! Be on alert... Last night, a deputy told a family that local white supremacists/KKK members originating out of Lexington, North Carolina, are planning to attack from now until the inauguration. They are plotting against Blacks, especially Black women because in their eyes, we are easy targets! Please be vigilant! Try not to do anything alone, especially after dark! This is not a hoax or a rumor! The deputy showed paperwork that the police department has — in their words... 'They're taking their country back!' It's really scary, and please take what I'm telling you SERIOUSLY! We have to continue to live, but just be careful and watch your surroundings! This is happening everywhere. Stay safe!"

In my research, I found this article online in a credible newspaper, The

WITH LYNDIA GRANT

Thanksgiving Travel Warning for Black Women the religion corner

Charlotte Observer, dated Nov. 6, 2024, with this heading: "Police in North Carolina and Georgia and local NAACP leaders are investigating a social media threat that Ku Klux Klan white supremacists plan to attack Blacks 'from now until the inauguration.'"

KKK members from Lexington, North Carolina, "are plotting against Blacks, especially Black women because in their eyes, we are easy targets!" according to a post by a woman who said she learned of the threat from a friend in the Gwinnett County, Georgia, Sheriff's Office.

At 6:17 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 2, the sheriff's office said on Facebook that investigators learned of "a circulating text thread suggesting potential attacks on African American women 'from now through the inauguration.'"

"We have not received any information indicating threats to any group(s) on or after election day," the sheriff's office said.

Lexington police were made aware of the threat "a few days ago," city of Lexington spokesman Derwin Hargrave told The Charlotte Observer on Tuesday after a reporter contacted the department about the threat.

"We have not been able to confirm that it's an actual threat, but we're still remaining vigilant," Hargrave said.

The Davidson County Chapter-Lexington Branch also is looking into the threat, President Charles Clark said Tuesday. "We just got that report in yesterday," Clark said, adding he's not clear whether it's credible.

In their post Saturday, Gwinnett County sheriff's investigators said: "Hateful discourse such as this aims to instill fear in the community and disrupt us from exercising our constitutional rights. The Gwinnett County Sheriff's Office remains dedicated to protecting all citizens and we will continue to monitor and respond accordingly to all suspicious and threatening behavior."

Those of us in the African American community know what happened back in the '40s, '50s and '60s, even '70s. Those of us who are baby boomers lived through some of this. I was born in North Carolina in 1951, so I know much about racism firsthand. Go out in groups, and do not go for your daily walks or runs alone — it's not worth your life. I hate to have to remind you folks, it's better to be safe than sorry!

Those of us who believe in God, and you know how to get a prayer through, let us all pray! We know that our God will protect us. What does Scripture have to say about racism:

1 Corinthians 12:13 says: "For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body — whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free — and we were all given the one Spirit to drink."

1 John 2:11 says: "But anyone who hates a brother or sister is in the darkness and walks around in the darkness. They do not know where they are going, because the darkness has blinded them."

1 Samuel 16:7 says: "But the Lord said to Samuel, 'Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.'"

Exodus 22:21 says: "Do not mistreat or oppress a foreigner, for you were foreigners in Egypt."

Finally, Galatians 3:28 says: "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus."

Don't allow this gloomy message cause you to miss out on your fun time with family and friends. Have a happy and joyous Thanksgiving holiday. Put your lives in the care of our Lord and Savior, and pay attention. WI

RELIGION

MCCOLLUM & ASSOCIATES, LLC

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

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

On Purpose

Mt. Horeb Baptist Church

Rehoboth Baptist Church

First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church

Promised Land Baptist Church

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 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

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 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 I 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

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 COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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 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

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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 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 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 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 001315

Michael Shalay Johnson Decedent

Ethel Mitchell 8403 Colesville Road, Suite 1100 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Attorney

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

Christof Yates, whose address is 305 Whittier Street, NW, #301, Washington, DC 20012, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Michael Shalay Johnson who died on October 10, 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 5/21/2025. 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 5/21/2025, 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: 11/21/2024

Christof Yates

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

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

PROBATE DIVISION

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 FEP 000125

5/22/2018

Date of Death

Carlet Spearman Taylor Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Nekia Staley Neither whose address is 16110 Mount Calvert Road, Upper Marlboro MD, 20772 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Carlet Spearman Taylor, deceased, by the Orphans Court for Prince Georges County, State of Maryland, on November 1, 2022.

Service of process may be made upon Harry Staley 3386 Highview Terrace SE, Washington DC 20020 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.

4645 Nannie Helen Burroughs Ave., NE, Washington, DC 20019. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Date of first publication: 11/21/2024

Nekia Staley Neither 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 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

Cameron Underwood 4967 8th Street NE Washington, DC 20017

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 000122

February 28, 2016

Date of Death

Phenton B. Moss

Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

James Andrew Sullivan, Jr. whose address is 11 N. Washington Street, Suite 700, Rockville, Maryland 20850 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Phenton B. Moss, deceased, by the Orphans Court for Prince Georges County, State of Maryland, on May 16, 2024.

Service of process may be made upon District Registered Agent Services Inc., 1025 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Suite 615, Washington, DC 20036 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: 3105 24th 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: 11/21/2024

James Andrew Sullivan, Jr. Personal Representative

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 001319

Barbara C. Moore Decedent

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

Elizabeth E. Whitfield, whose address is 732 Rock Creek Church Road, NW, Washington, DC 20010, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Barbara C. Moore who died on May 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 5/21/2025. 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 5/21/2025, 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: 11/21/2024

Elizabeth E. Whitfield 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 001294

Joseph J. Wassell aka Joseph J. R. Wassell aka Joseph John Raymond Wassell Decedent

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

Joseph J. Guzek, whose address is 107 Sturbridge Road, Clarks Summit, PA 18411, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Joseph J. Wassell aka Joseph J. R. Wassell aka Joseph John Raymond Wassell who died on August 8, 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 5/21/2025. 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 5/21/2025, 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: 11/21/2024

Joseph J. Guzek 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 001353

Vernell M. Newson-Guest Decedent

Tina Smith Nelson, Esq. Legal Counsel for the Elderly 601 E Street, NW Washington DC 20049 Attorney

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

Celestine Newson, whose address is 130 Pierce Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Vernell M. Newson-Guest who died on 7/30/2022 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 5/21/2025. 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 5/21/2025, 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: 11/21/2024

Celestine Newson

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 001337

Lucy W. Dunson Decedent

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

Charles D. Dunson & Edward D. Dunson, whose addresses are 1215 Irving Street, NE, Washington, DC 20017 & 2800 Quebec Street, NW, #515 Washington, DC 20008 were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Lucy W. Dunson who died on October 14, 2014 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 5/21/2025. 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 5/21/2025, 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: 11/21/2024

Charles D. Dunson

Edward D. Dunson

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

Filed 11/14/2024

Superior Court

of the District of Columbia

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA CIVIL DIVISION

Bryan Powe 1347 Bryant Street N.E. Washington, D.C. 20018

Plaintiff vs.

Norman Grolman

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 001335

Judi Adams

Decedent

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

Crystal Alana Stewart, whose address is 1306 S Street, SE, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Judi Adams who died on September 17, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/21/2025. 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 5/21/2025, 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: 11/21/2024

Crystal Alana Stewart 1306 S Street SE Washington, DC 20020

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

14213 Georgia Ave NW #204 Silver Spring, MD 20906 And Unknown Personal Representative of the Estate of Norman Grolman 14213 Georgia Ave NW #204 Silver Spring, MD 20906 And The District of Columbia Office of the Attorney General 441 4th Street NW Suite 1100 South Washington, D.C. 20001

The District of Columbia Office of the Mayor 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Suite 316 Washington, D.C. 20004 And All Unknown Owners of the Property described below, their Heirs, Personal Representatives, Executors, Administrators, Grantees, Assigns or Successors in Right, Title, Interest, and Any and all persons having or claiming to have any interest in the leasehold or fee simple in the property and premises situate, lying and being in the District of Columbia described as:

Civil Action No. 2018-CA-002891-L(RP) (Action Involving Real Property) Calendar #18

AMENDED ORDER OF PUBLICATION

In accordance with D. C. Code § 47-1375, the object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of the right of redemption in the real property described as Square: 5875, Lot: 0907, which may also be known as a vacant lot with street address 2627 12th Place SE, which property was sold by the Mayor of the District of Columbia to the Plaintiff in this action. The Amended Complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid. It is thereupon this 14th day of November, 2024,

ORDERED by the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, that notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this Order in The Daily Washington Law Reporter, a newspaper having a general circulation in the District of Columbia, once a week for three (3) successive weeks, notifying all persons interested in the real property described above to appear in this Court by the 2nd day of April, 2025, and redeem the real property by payment of $3,857.93, together with interest from the date the real property tax certificate was purchased; court costs; reasonable attorney's fees; expenses incurred in the publication and service of process; and all other amounts in accordance with the provisions of D.C. Official Code§ 47-1361 through 1377, et seq., or answer the Amended Complaint, or, thereafter, a final judgment will be entered foreclosing the right of redemption in the real property and vesting in the Plaintiff a title in fee simple. by:

Magistrate Judge Joseph E. Beshouri (Signed in chambers)

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 001332

Mark Timothy Campbell Decedent

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

Ebony Garvin-Campbell, whose address is 830 Kennedy Street, NW #6, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mark Timothy Campbell who died on 7/23/2024 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 5/21/2025. 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 5/21/2025, 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: 11/21/2024

Ebony Garvin-Campbell 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 001324

Keith Alpheus Silver Decedent

Bradley A. Thomas, Esq. 1629 K Street, NW, Suite 300 Washington, DC 20006-1631 Attorney

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

Kevin Anthony Silver, whose address is 1605 Jackson Trace Court, Atlanta, GA 30318, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Keith Alpheus Silver who died on July 9, 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 5/21/2025. 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 5/21/2025, 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: 11/21/2024

Kevin Anthony Silver 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 001329

Barbara Little Decedent

Aimee D. Griffin, Esq. 5335 Wisconsin Ave., NW, Suite 440 Washington DC 20015 Attorney

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

Lionel Little, whose address is 2105 Fort Davis Street, SE, Apt. 102, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Barbara Little who died on March 26, 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 5/21/2025. 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 5/21/2025, 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: 11/21/2024

Lionel Little Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

CLASSIFIEDS

Reader Advisory: The National Trade Association we belong to has purchased the following classifieds. Determining the value of their service or product is advised by this publication. In order to avoid misunderstandings, some advertisers do not offer employment but rather supply the readers with manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home. Under NO circumstance should you send any money in advance or give the client your checking, license ID, or credit card numbers. Also beware of ads that claim to guarantee loans regardless of credit and note that if a credit repair company does business only over the phone it s illegal to request any money before delivering its service. All funds are based in US dollars. 800 numbers may or may not reach Canada.

MEDIABIDS MISCELLANEOUS

Become a Published Author. We want to Read Your Book! Dorrance Publishing-Trusted by Authors Since 1920 Book manuscript submissions are currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution Call for Your Free Author`s Guide 1-877-420-7280 or visit http://dorranceinfo.com/informer

Two great new offers from AT&T Wireless! Ask how to get the new iPhone 11 or Next Generation Samsung Galaxy S10e ON US with AT&T's Buy one, Give One offer. While supplies last! CALL 1-877370-2155

Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-855-402-3370

SAVE 67% PLUS 4 FREE BURGERS - The Favorite Feast - ONLY $49.99.                                        ORDER Today 1-888-318-1190 Use Code 48643VFW or www.OmahaSteaks.com/ ffmb93

Do you know your Testosterone Levels? Call 888-692-5146 and ask about our test kits and get a FREE Trial of Progene All-Natural Testosterone Supplement

Diabetes/Cholesterol/Weight Loss Bergamonte, a Natural Product for Cholesterol, Blood Sugar and weight. Physician recommended, backed by Human Clinical Studies with amazing results. Call today and save 15 percent off your first bottle! 866-640-5982

ATTENTION DIABETICS with Medicare. Get a FREE talking meter and diabetic testing supplies at NO COST, plus FREE home delivery! Best of all, this meter eliminates painful finger pricking! Call 888-421-1874

READERS & MUSIC LOVERS. 100 Greatest Novels (audio books) ONLY $99.00 (plus s h.) Includes MP3 Player & Accessories. BONUS: 50 Classical Music Works & Money Back Guarantee. Call Today! 1-866-680-1822

Any laptop repaired just $79. Macs too. REALLY! FREE Fedex shipping! $69 extra for screen or motherboard replacement. CALL Authorized Laptop Repair Specialists 1-866-437-6184

Ever Consider a Reverse Mortgage? At least 62 years old? Stay in your home & Increase cash flow! Safe & Effective! Call Now for your FREE DVD! Call Now 888-420-4716

READERS & MUSIC LOVERS. 100 Greatest Novels (audio books) ONLY $99.00 (plus s h.) Includes MP3 Player & Accessories. BONUS: 50 Classical Music Works & Money Back Guarantee. Call Today! 1-866-680-1822

Personalized holiday gifts for Everyone on your list! Save 20 percent off qualifying products from Personal Creations! To redeem this offer, visit www. PersonalCreations.com/Beauty or Call 1-888-7320679

Diabetes/Cholesterol/Weight Loss Natural Product for Cholesterol, Blood Sugar and weight. Physician recommended, backed by Human Clinical Studies with fast acting results within 30 days. Call to hear about our special offer 866-640-5982

ATTENTION DIABETICS with Medicare. Get a FREE Talking Meter and diabetic testing supplies at NO COST, plus FREE home delivery! Best of all, this meter eliminates painful finger pricking! Call

CLASSIFIEDS

888-421-1874

SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS. You WIN or Pay Us Nothing. Contact Disability Group, Inc. Today! BBB Accredited. Call For Your FREE Book & Consultation. 888-649-5110

Attention Joint & Muscle Pain Sufferers: Clinically proven all-natural supplement helps reduce pain and enhance mobility. Call 888-760-5952 to try Hydraflexin RISK-FREE for 90 days.

HEAT YOUR HOME FOR 5¢ AN HOUR! Portable infrared iHeater heats 1000 sq. ft. Slashes your heating bills by 50%.  FREE Shipping too! Use claim code 6239 WAS $499 NOW $279 Call 1-866-784-5182

ACP CLASSIFIED NETWORK

AUTOS WANTED

Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-245-0398

HEALTH & FITNESS

Dental insurance from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400+ procedures. Real dental insurance - not just a discount plan. Get your free Information Kit with details! 1-855-526-1060 www.dental50plus.com/ads #6258

Attention oxygen therapy users! Discover oxygen therapy that moves with you with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. Free information kit. 1-866477-9045

HOME SERVICES

Aging Roof? New Homeowner? Got Storm Damage?

You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-888-878-9091

Water damage cleanup: A small amount of water can cause major damage to your home. Our trusted professionals dry out wet areas & repair to protect your family & your home value! Call 24/7: 1-888872-2809. Have zip code!

MISCELLANEOUS

Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase* Call 1-855-948-6176 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule free LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-610-1936

Bath & shower updates in as little as 1 day! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & military discounts available. 1-877-543-9189

Become a published author. We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consultation, production, promotion & distribution. Call for free author’s guide 1-877-729-4998 or visit dorranceinfo.com/ads

Safe Step. North America's #1 Walk-in tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our free shower package & $1600 off - limited time! Financing available. 1-855-417-1306

Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare Cancellation

ExpertsOver $50,000,000 in timeshare debt & fees cancelled in 2019. Get free info package & learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. 833-308-1971

DIRECTV Stream - Carries the most local MLB Games! Choice Package $89.99/mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devices at once. HBO Max included for 3 mos (w/Choice Package or higher.) No contract or hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-859-0405

Replace your roof w/the best looking & longest lasting material steel from Erie Metal Roofs! 3 styles & multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer up to 50% off install + Additional 10% off install (military, health & 1st responders.) 1-833-370-1234

Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. For a limited

CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS

time, waving ALL installation costs! (Additional terms apply. Subject to change and vary by dealer. Offer ends 12/29/24.) Call 1-844-501-3208

Don't let the stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-833-399-3595

Home break-ins take less than 60 seconds. Don't wait! Protect your family, your home, your assets now for as little as 70¢/day! 1-844-591-7951

MobileHelp America's premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you're home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure! Call 1-888-489-3936

We buy houses for cash as is! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer & get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-844-877-5833

American Log Homes DEVELOPER LIQUIDATION SALE! Log Home kits selling for Balance Owed. Up to 50% off. Design plans can be modified! No time limit on delivery. Call 1-866-307-5491, M-F 9am–5pm ET.

We Buy Vintage Guitar's! Looking for 1920-1980 Gibson, Martin, Fender, Gretsch, Epiphone, Guild, Mosrite, Rickenbacker, Prairie State, D'Angelico, Stromberg. And Gibson Mandolins / Banjos. These brands only! Call for a quote: 1-866-307-5404

MID ATLANTIC COMMUNITY PAPERS ASSOCIATION CLASSIFIED NETWORK (MACNET)

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Donate your car, truck, boat, RV and more to support our veterans! Schedule a FAST, FREE vehicle pickup and receive a top tax deduction! Call Veteran Car Donations at 1-877-327-0686 today!

Become a Published Author. We want to Read Your Book! Dorrance Publishing-Trusted by Authors Since 1920 Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution Call for Your Free Author`s Guide 1-866-482-1576 or visit dorranceinfo.com/macnet

AUTO DONATIONS/AUTOS WANTED

Get a break on your taxes! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 1-844-320-2804 today!

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Inflation is at 40 year highs. Interest rates are way up. Credit Cards. Medical Bills. Car Loans. Do you have $10k or more in debt? Call NATIONAL DEBT RELIEF and find out how to pay off your debt for significantly less than what you owe! FREE quote: Call 1-866-272-0492

For Sale, BUILDING MATERIALS - Roofing Material

Discount Building Material: Lumber, Plywood, Composite Decking, Flooring, Metal Roofing & Siding, Construction Lag Screws, etc. Ephrata, Pa. Email: sales@717445522.com 717 445-5222

HEALTH/MEDICAL

Stroke and Cardiovascular disease are leading causes of death, according to the American Heart Association. Screenings can provide peace of mind or early detection! Contact Life Line Screening to schedule your screening. Special offer - 5 screenings for just $149. Call 1-866-518-8391

DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-877-553-1891 www. dental50plus.com/macnet #6258

Don’t let the stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-844-317-5246

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE

shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-833-356-1954

Prepare for power outages with Briggs & Stratton® PowerProtect(TM) standby generators - the most powerful home standby generators available. Industry-leading comprehensive warranty - 7 years ($849 value.) Proudly made in the U.S.A. Call Briggs & Stratton 1-855-556-2581

Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-855-465-7624 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. Plus 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-791-1626

Replace your roof with the best looking and longest lasting material – steel from Erie Metal Roofs! Three styles and multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer – up to 50% off installation + Additional 10% off install (for military, health workers & 1st responders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs: 1-855-338-4807

Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. For a limited time, waiving ALL installation costs! (Additional terms apply. Subject to change and vary by dealer. (Offer ends 12/29/24.) Call 1-844-826-2535

MISCELLANEOUS

DIRECTV OVER INTERNET - Get your favorite live TV, sports and local channels. 99% signal reliability! CHOICE Package, $84.99/mo for 12 months.

HBO Max and Premium Channels included for 3 mos (w/CHOICE Package or higher.) No annual contract, no hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-629-6086

Do you know what’s in your water? Leaf Home Water Solutions offers FREE water testing and whole home water treatment systems that can be installed in as little one day. 15% off your entire purchase. Plus 10% senior & military discounts. Restrictions apply. Schedule your FREE test today. Call 1-866-996-1526

WANTED

WANTED! MOTORCYCLES & MINI BIKES! ANTIQUE AND CLASSIC. Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha, Triumph, BSA, and other foreign models. $$PAYING CA$H$$ 717-577-8206 KRMiller1965@yahoo.com

BUYING CLASSIC CARS, TRUCKS, SUVs **American and Foreign** Any Condition. Buying entire car collections. $$PAYING CA$H$$ Please call 717-5778206 KRMiller1965@yahoo.com

MARYLAND STATEWIDE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING NETWORK

MISC. FOR SALE

Get Boost Infinite! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 855-977-5719

Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-855-993-0969 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-855-337-5228 www. dental50plus.com/MDDC #6258

REAL ESTATE

We Buy Houses for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-866-541-7929

VEHICLES WANTED

DONATE YOUR CAR/TRUCK/RV - Lutheran Mission Society of MD Compassion Place ministries help local families with food, clothing, counseling. Tax deductible. MVA licensed #W1044. 410-228-8437 www.CompassionPlace.org.

on the council. “All I ever wanted to do was help people.”

As she and other local elected officials of the past and present celebrated the 50th anniversary of Home Rule with a commemorative photo shoot at the John A. Wilson building on Nov. 14, Whittington said she questions how District residents will fare under another Trump presidency and two GOP-controlled chambers of Congress.

“The new president affects not just Ward 8, but the entire city in terms of our autonomy and representation,” Whittington said as she lamented what she called intense segregation of D.C. residents by class and neighborhood.

“It feels like we're separated for some reason,” Whittington said. “In the mid-1990s, there was more unity and excitement. People cared a lot more but it doesn't feel that way anymore.”

A ONCE-IN-ADECADE PHOTO SHOOT, AND UNANSWERED QUESTIONS

In total, 69 District residents have served or currently serve in a locally elected office created by the D.C. Home Rule Act of 1973.

Out of that group, 18 have since passed away.

The remaining 51 members of this exclusive club represent various generations, levels of civil rights and statehood movement involvement, and hometown affinity. On the evening of Nov. 19, most of them converged on the Wilson Building in Northwest for a once-in-a-decade photo shoot that commemorates D.C.’s attainment of partial political autonomy.

The official photo -- which includes former and current District mayors, council members, congressional delegates, and attorney generals -- is scheduled to be released at a later time.

Before entering council chambers, local officials ate hors d'oeuvres, spoke among one another, and later watched the unveiling of a new art installation -- a Wilson Building Lego set created by Richard Paules, also known as the D.C. Lego Man.

While there was cause for celebration, some people, like D.C. Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton (D), couldn't help but to acknowledge the tough road ahead.

“The GOP-controlled House and Senate give me a lot of concern,” she told The Informer. “I'm going to need

a lot of strategy. I have tools, so I'm going to have to work.”

Norton, the second-ever D.C. delegate in the Home Rule era, succeeded Walter Fauntroy in 1991 after defeating then-Councilmember Betty Ann Kane in the 1990 Democratic primary, and later clinching more than half the vote in the general election. She has since been consecutively re-elected to two-year terms, making her the District’s longest-serving congressional delegate.

However, without D.C. statehood, Norton is unable to join her colleagues on votes coming before the House. Despite GOP pushback, Norton said that attaining statehood -- which comes with full congressional representation -- remains a possibility, as seen in 2020 when legislation to make D.C. the 51st state made it through the House.

Home Rule, she told The Informer, laid the foundation for that victory by giving residents some sense of what was possible for self governance.

“We’re here to enjoy this historic moment and we want the whole world to know about it,” Norton said on Nov. 19.

LOOKING AT THE FIGHT AHEAD

Read more on washingtoninformer.com. HOME RULE from Page 1

For the last 50 years, statehood and preservation of Home Rule stood as one of the foremost racial justice issues for a mostly Black-ran city that was under the thumb of Congress.

Although the D.C. Home Rule Act in 1973 granted the District more control over its local affairs, District laws must be approved by Congress before they are enacted. To this day, the D.C. government is also prohibited from, among other things, imposing a commuter tax, changing the composition of the local courts, and controlling its national guard.

Such a position often places D.C. residents in Congress’ crosshairs, much like what many fear will happen with a Republican majority in both chambers, and Trump back in the White House.

In the 1990s, Congress blocked laws funding a clean needle exchange program and allowing same-sex couples to register as domestic partners for hospital visitation and inclusion on healthcare plans. In the decades following, D.C. residents continued to weather other congressional storms, including an attempt to block marijuana reform and, more recently, strike down the Revised Criminal Code Act. WI

that, just weeks prior, the restaurant chain &Pizza attempted to lampoon for profit.

Barry’s widow, Cora Masters Barry, highlighting her late husband’s life, legacy, reflected on the journey to memorialize the impactful District leader on the 10-year-anniversary of his death.

She called the mural a labor of love, research and education between Marion Barry Jr. Legacy Foundation, CreativeJunkFood, LLC, co-founded by Nabeeh Bilal, and other District organizations, to design and create the three-part art installation currently hanging in the lobby of the Marion S. Barry, Jr. Building in Judiciary Square in Northwest.

“This didn’t happen overnight and without challenges,” Masters Barry told celebrants. “We eventually got it together when this young man [Nabeeh Bilal] stopped what he was doing and read Marion Barry’s book.”

Though she vowed not to give & Pizza too much attention, Masters Barry had choice words for the establishment and others who are eager to demean her late husband’s legacy.

“The next time a store, like &Pizza, comes and they want to talk about our heroes, [they can] come into this building and get some education,” Masters Barry said.

A DEEPER LOOK AT THE MARION BARRY LEGACY MURAL

The Marion S. Barry Legacy Mural represents a collaboration between the Marion Barry Jr. Legacy Foundation, CreativeJunkFood, LLC, D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation, D.C. Department of General Services, and the D.C. Commission on the Arts & Humanities.

It also involved engagement with a 200-person focus group.

As Bilal recounted, CreativeJunkFood, LLC and the Marion S. Barry Legacy Foundation, for two years, mulled over how to create a project that didn’t focus on Barry as an individual, but Barry as a legacy maker.

SPORTS from Page 38 help serve the underserved.”

lic service shone bright at Martha’s Table at The Commons. Athletes and staff partnered with Martha’s Table, Carefirst, and Giant Food to giddily serve hot meals and bag non-perishable items for residents of Wards 7 and 8, in continuation of their Season of Giving community outreach.

“This is a reflection of what we believe as an organization, for sure,” said Corey Kispert, No. 24. “It's up to us to work with these larger businesses and companies to

By the two-hour mark, the line for entry into Martha’s Table was down the street, and Thompson III called the giveaway “probably the largest turnout we’ve ever had.”

“Let's start off by saying we can do so much more. I think that's something that we all understand, and…this is a start for us,” said power forward Anthony Gill. “This is something that we can commit to every single year… [and] we want to show that we care for the community.” WI

“The first few revisions were tough,” Bilal told celebrants on Nov. 23. “By Nov. 22 [of last year], we couldn’t nail down the design. We needed to find that balance of esthetic and history.”

Bilal embarked on that journey with fellow artists Candice Taylor, Kaliq Crosby, Keyonna Jones, and Joseph Orzal.

What would eventually become the Marion S. Barry Legacy Mural has three parts— each highlighting Barry’s vision, impact and long-lasting influence via a collage of photos and bold, colorful print detailing milestones in Barry’s life, activism and career.

The first part, located to the furthest left of the lobby, focuses on Barry’s childhood, civil rights career, Home Rule activism and election to what was then D.C.’s school board.

The second part, located in the middle of the lobby wall, highlights moments throughout Barry’s first three mayoral terms, including: his launch of what is now the Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program; procurement opportunities for local Black-owned businesses; investments in senior programs; inclusion of women in D.C. government leadership; and the construction of the Reeves Center on a blighted U Street corridor.

The last part of the art installation focuses on Barry’s 1990s political comeback, his agreement with Abe Pollin to construct the MCI Center (now Capital One Arena) and bolster economic development in Gallery Place-Chinatown, as well as his support of his mayoral successors, including D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser.

A teary-eyed Bilal said that he came to appreciate D.C.’s mayor for life after immersing himself in all details of his upbringing and civil rights and political history during three cover-to-cover reads of “Mayor for Life: The Incredible Story of Marion Barry, Jr.”

“I found a man who never forgot

Table at The Commons in Ward 8 on Nov. 20. Thankful Meals is one of many initiatives part of the Washington Wizards’ annual Season of Giving. (Jada Ingleton/ The Washington Informer)

where he came from and loved poetry, a man whose experience as a boxer fueled his fight, a man who didn’t take ‘no’ for an answer, a man who made people rich but never took a dime he didn’t earn,” Bilal said. “He’s the man who epitomizes that your blessings are to be shared with others. I discovered how to make a Marion Barry mural that’s not about Marion Barry. You see elements that symbolize something and tell their own story.”

OFFICIALS, OLD AND NEW, DISSECT MARION BARRY’S LEGACY

Other speakers at the Nov. 23 Marion Barry Legacy Mural unveiling reflected on the late mayor’s transformational work, not in the District, but in the D.C. metropolitan region.

U.S. Senator-elect Angela Alsobrooks, as county executive for Prince George’s County, Maryland, duplicated the District leader’s highly-re-

garded summer youth employment program. She credited Barry with the economic boom that her neighboring county experienced in the 1990s.

On Nov. 23, 2014, Barry passed away at the age of 78, just five months after he and author Omar Tyree released “Mayor for Life.” He was serving as Ward 8 council member at the time.

Friends, family, colleagues, residents and all others in between honored Barry during a three-day tribute that culminated in a five-hour memorial service at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Northwest, a structure that came into existence and spurred downtown economic development during his mayoralty.

In 2015, less than two months after Barry’s death, a newly installed Mayor Bowser launched the D.C. Commission to Commemorate and Recognize the Honorable Marion S. Barry, Jr.

WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

5Justin Champagnie (guard-forward), Johnny Davis (guard), Jordan Poole (guard), and Marvin Bagley III (forward) greet residents and serve vegetable items at Monumental Basketball’s Thankful Meals community outreach, held at Martha’s

REYNOLDS from Page 28

er, we can keep pushing forward with policies that reflect the needs and values of our communities — especially for those who have felt the sting of discrimination, exclusion, and systemic inequality.

CHAVIS

from Page 28

Despite their struggles with funding, and the fact that these schools constitute only 3% of four-year colleges in the country, HBCU graduates account for 80% of all Black judges, 50% of Black lawyers, 50% of Black doctors, 40% of Black members of Congress and our country's current vice president.

HBCUs truly know how to do more with less, but they cannot be saddled with costly regulations that pose an existential crisis to their ability to operate, and be given no help to deflect some of the costs. Fortunately, however, there are businesses and individuals who see the importance of HBCUs to the Black community and are willing to lend their hands — and their dollars — to support them.

The Student Freedom Initia-

NORWOOD from Page 28

reeling from the assassination of King, President John F. Kennedy and Sen. Robert Kennedy, which devastated our community. Here you have the perfect atmosphere: "JONESTOWN" with political leaders gracing his pulpit and news media praising him day and night. Jones lured everyone with pictures of happy children and letters in which parents were forced to lie by saying, "Everything is great over here. Come over. We have the land that flows with milk and honey."

U.S. Rep. Leo Ryan of California traveled to Guyana in November

from Page 29

So, as we look ahead, let’s remember this: Our fight is far from over. This moment, challenging as it is, is also a call to action. Now, more than ever, we need to come together, to rebuild, and to be relentless in our pursuit of the America we believe in. An America that

tive (SFI), a non-profit chaired by philanthropist and entrepreneur Robert F. Smith, and funded by major tech companies like Cisco –has raised millions of dollars to help HBCUs comply with the Education Department's mandates. Cisco alone donated $150 million to the SFI, with $100 million allocated to bringing HBCU cybersecurity system upgrades and $50 million going to establish an endowment to offer alternative student loans.

With $89 million already distributed to 42 HBCUs across the nation, the initiative has already saved about $1.5 billion in needs-based funding to these colleges and universities, and is making strong inroads to helping these institutions meet the new cybersecurity regulations,. But more is required if all HBCUs are to be saved.

Given the empowering impact

1978 with a media crew and a few concerned relatives to investigate rumors that people were being held there against their will. I missed the trip with Ryan and the concerned relatives only to live out my days honoring the wonderful people held at gunpoint in America and Jonestown. Many of those who got away were Jones' family and personal henchmen who were in power to hurt and maim, according to the Rev. Richard Clark, who died mysteriously from food poisoning. Jones' favorite statement was, "You will never forget me." Help us forget and remove him and remember the innocent victims, of which 300 were

stands for justice, equity, and opportunity for all. Together, we will forge a path forward, one step at a time, one community at a time. This is our moment to rise stronger and more united than ever before.

Let’s get to work. WI

HBCUs have on the nation's Black community and the future promise of a more inclusive America, it is imperative that more companies support the work the Student Freedom Initiative is doing to ensure these vital higher education schools can continue to educate and inspire future generations.

As Vice President Harris said, "What you learn at an HBCU is you do not have to fit into somebody's limited perspective on what it means to be young, gifted and Black."

We in the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education (NAFEO) stand in strong support of the Student Freedom Initiative. We all should work together to ensure the sustainability of HBCUs in America.

WI

children. Forty infant caskets lay buried under Jim Jones' name in Evergreen Cemetery. They did not die willingly. They were murdered and surrounded by guards with crossbows and gunmen. First news reports stated with pictures that Jones had enough guns for a military coup and enough poison to kill multiplied thousands. No one drank the Kool-Aid, as the slogan goes. They were held at gunpoint and ordered to drink or be shot, and that included their children, their future, the jewel of their lives, with whom they trusted Jones, who is now honored alongside them. This should not be. WI

Other metro areas where median appraised home undervaluation gaps are larger than the national average include Baltimore, Chicago, Cleveland, Detroit, Memphis, Miami, Orlando, Richmond, St. Louis and Tampa. In theory, home appraisals are sup-

posed to be an objective assessment of a variety of factors like the number and size of rooms, quality of construction, types, and conditions of major home systems, presence of renovations or upgrades, property location, and community amenities and services. But in reality, these reports are more likely to be developed by someone who lives in another area and is likely a different race or ethnicity. Today, the home appraisal sector in real estate remains nearly all white, despite long-standing federal laws like the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Credit

Opportunity Act.

"Appraisal bias is an issue that has economic implications on the generational wealth of minorities at all spectrums of the socio-economic scale," notes Brian Cox, president of the National Society of Real Estate Appraisers (NSREA), a NAREB affiliate. "In addition, the disproportionate minority participation in the appraisal profession is estimated at 3% of a total population of approximately 70,000

Page 50 in white neighborhoods, after controlling for home and neighborhood characteristics. This translates into an appraisal value underestimation gap of $561,108 for homes in Black neighborhoods."

CROWELL

CROWELL

Each week you’ll get news from The District of Columbia, Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, and Northern Virginia.

You will discover Arts and Entertainment, Social Tidbits, Religion, Sports, People’s Viewpoints, Letters to the Editor, Classified Ads and more! And best of all… No crime, no dirty gossip, just positive news and information each week, which is why…

The Washington Informer is all about you!

Name

City, State, Zip Phone number (daytime) Yes! I want to subscribe for:

CROWELL from Page 29 appraisers and valuation profes-

In direct response to these disturbing findings, a pilot program focused on transforming the appraisal market and its professionals was launched in July at Fayetteville State University, a North Carolina historically Black institution. Drawing upon students, faculty, staff, active military, veterans and local community members, the program’s goal is to develop "a pipeline of residential and

MONTGOMERY from Page 29

Navigating these truths is a daily struggle for me — professionally and socially. White women often misuse their privilege, supporting us only when it's convenient. Seeing overqualified Black women sabotaged or abandoned by White women at critical moments is a constant emotional challenge. It's exhausting to live with this reality, especially when solidarity seems like something they pick up and discard at will.

One clever campaign ad from Harris-Walz that spoke directly to White

BOLDEN from Page 29

Dem strategists wrongfully believed that Trump, with his history of bigotry and divisive rhetoric, would translate into a common sense vote for Harris.

But for voters grappling with soaring living costs and stagnant wages, Trump's promises, however empty, offered a glimmer of hope that the Democrats, regrettably, failed to provide.

Trump sold himself as the answer to America's problems, yet he offers only the same lies: he is the only one that can end the wars, fix inflation, bring down food and gas prices, and make life affordable, again.

How, exactly? I don't know. These are the same promises he made years ago, and we're still waiting for those results.

This time, he'll have even more power to push through his agenda without fear of accountability: the House flipped red, the Senate flipped red, and the Supreme Court is already red — coming down with a decision that offers him protection from many criminal prosecutions. The guardrails that once kept him somewhat in check are gone. We're about to see Trump unhinged and unleashed: backed by a court that's aligned with his vision and a Congress ready to do his bidding, ready to turn back the clock on progress under the guise of "saving" America. Plus, expect another round of con-

commercial appraisers."

"We are thrilled to offer this opportunity providing a pathway for FSU students, faculty and staff, active-duty military and veterans and our local community to join a lucrative industry," said Marcus Cox, Ph.D., dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. "This partnership doesn’t only bode well for FSU, it also enhances Fayetteville’s local community and potentially our entire region."

NAREB’s report also endorses the effort and its potential growth.

women: "Your Vote, Your Choice" emphasized that their vote was private — independent of their household situation. Another was from Olivia Howell Dreizen, the "Vote Without Fear" campaign, which empowered women to consider the greater impact of their choices. But it seems many still couldn't choose the road map to freedom — even when it was handed to them.

A CALL FOR ACTION BEYOND WORDS

servative federal judicial appointments blessed by the Federalist Society and the Heritage Foundation.

Why do people vote against their own interests? Why do they ignore the acute, undeniable flaws in a man like Donald Trump?

It comes down to ignorance and despair, plain and simple.

When people feel disempowered, when they see no real improvement in their lives despite positive economic indicators, they gravitate towards strong, unfiltered rhetoric. Trump presents himself as a man outside the system, a disruptor who will fight for the average American. And so, many Americans — jaded and desperate for change — chose to embrace the "devil" they know, believing that maybe, just maybe, this time he'll be different.

But he won't be different. Donald Trump was never the man that they thought he was, and he never will be. This is the same man who suffers from deep narcissism, chronic business failure, who's been found liable for fraud and sexual abuse, and who stoked the flames of division and discord to further his own agenda. This is the man who led America to one of its darkest moments on January 6, 2021.

This is a convicted felon 34 times over. And somehow America still voted for him. In a strange way,

"The Black Appraisers program aims to increase the representation of Black professionals in the appraisal industry, advocate for fair appraisal practices, and enhance awareness of appraisal bias," states the report. "The initiative will form partnerships with and seek to attract participants from the military veterans’ community and historically Black colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Appraisal mentorships and apprenticeships will be a core aspect of recruitment and training for this initiative." WI

White women, I want to believe you care, but actions speak louder than yard signs, bracelets, or Instagram posts. Show up in our communities, advocate in your workplaces, and stand up to dismantle the structures that uphold white supremacy. Only through real action will we know where you stand.

If you choose not to act, we see you—and we know exactly where you stand. Good luck these next four years.

WI

this says more about America than it could ever say about Trump. We know who Trump is — is this really who America wants to be today and has always been?

To believe that he's somehow learned his lesson or will suddenly care about the quality of life for all Americans, is to ignore the mountain of evidence to the contrary. America is not getting a new and improved Trump; it's getting a more experienced version of the same divisive, self-serving con man. The repercussions of this election will be felt deeply in the coming years. America will see a reversal of health care reform, human rights, civil rights, climate regulation and other constitutional safeguards as Trump and his cronies take over. The marginalized communities that once looked to the government as a bulwark may now find it to be an assailant, with policies that prioritize corporate interests and the wealthy at the expense of the working class. This election has exposed a painful truth about America: we are willing to overlook character and competence, even racism and sexism when we feel desperate for change. But be clear — this is not the kind of change we need.

WI

Read more on wasshingtoninformer.com.

Together, these 10 HBCU students drive the summer internship of a lifetime with Black-owned newspapers

Imani Waters Howard University

NNPA Journalism Fellow

Mattie Moore North Carolina A&T University

NNPA Journalism Fellow

Harrison Buck Morehouse College

NNPA Journalism Fellow

Stefon Young-Rolle Alabama State University

NNPA Journalism Fellow

Juan Benn Jr. Howard University

NNPA Journalism Fellow

Kynnedi Jackson Southern University A&M College

NNPA Journalism Fellow

Kayla Hare North Carolina A&T University

NNPA Journalism Fellow

Amyah Fountain Clark Atlanta University

NNPA Journalism Fellow

Erinn Gardner Spelman College

NNPA Journalism Fellow

Joseph Tilaye Alabama A&M University

NNPA Journalism Fellow