The Washington Informer - November 30, 2022

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D.C. Entrepreneurs Embrace Small Business Saturday

District entrepreneurs took advantage of Small Business Sat urday on Nov. 26 to show off their wares to new potential cus tomers and to encourage residents and city leaders to support local businesses.

“I am really a supporter of Small Business Saturday,” said Amira Hikim, the owner of KittybyAmira, a high-end clothing concession that has become a part of the Southeast Washing ton’s Eastern Market neighborhood’s marketplace. “Customers are coming to my tent to make purchases. Small Business Satur day is a good way to get new business and new customers. This is a time for small businesses to get together and compete with the bigger chain stores for customers. This is a day just for us.”

Hikim, who has sold her wares at the Eastern Market mar ketplace for about 25 years, joined tens of thousands of small

Amid Violence, Parents and Business Owners Demand Stronger Safe Passage Program

As youth continue to succumb to gun violence, parents and community advocates across the District have ex pressed a need for a more robust, inter connected Safe Passage program that addresses the perils that schoolchildren face on their daily commutes.

Even though workers with dark green vests have established their pres ence near several District public and public charter schools, some parents, like Talisa Sutton-Stephenson, said that

Safe Passage requires stronger parent engagement and interagency collabo ration.

Years before the pandemic, Sut ton-Stephenson participated in Safe Passage while serving as a manager of a program that provided housing for the families of youth in the court sys tem. In her role, Sutton-Stephenson became involved in the grassroots orga nizing that not only placed Safe Passage personnel outside of public and public charter schools, but along major streets

Celebrating 58 Years - Vol. 58, No. 7 • December 1-7, 2022 5 The Safe Passage program places trusted adults from the community along specific routes to improve student safety on their way to and from school. (Courtesy photo)

Community health clinic Whitman-Walker, in partnership with the Smithsonian museum, is hosting a series of events this week in honor of World AIDS Day. The annual observance is dedicated to commemorating those who have lost their lives to the life-threaten ing disease while spreading awareness of the progress, support, and equity needed in the fight to end the har

AIDS DAY Page 11

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

Sports
Day - A Call For Reflection, Support,
Whitman-Walker Spearheads Annual HIV Awareness Events
World AIDS
and Solutions
5 Holiday decorations at the White House this year embodied the theme “We the People.” The décor in each of the rooms represent what brings people together. White House Christmas Tours 2022 can be booked on-line at whitehouse.gov. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer). See additional photos on Page 37. SAFE
PASSAGE Page 38
BUSINESS Page 9 WINNER OF SIX SOCIETY OF PROFESSIONAL JOURNALISTS D.C. AWARDS FOR 2022 Page 36
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DECEMBER 1 - 7, 2022 3 WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER CONTENTS Primo Taglio® Ham off the Bone Entenmann’s Pop’ems, Donettes or Cookies 11-17 oz. pkg. SALE PRICE: $3.99 349 MEMBER PRICE after digital coupon savings** DIGITAL COUPON SAVINGS: 50¢ EA. LIMIT 1 OFFER Scan the code to download the For U ® app! PRIVACY.FLOWCODE.COM Sign up today for for even more deals, rewards & perks! SALE PRICE: $9.99 LB. 899 lb. MEMBER PRICE after digital coupon savings** DIGITAL COUPON SAVINGS: $1 LB. DIGITAL ONLY Valid 12/2-12/8/22 **Coupon must be downloaded to your Safeway for U account prior to purchase and is one time use only. Limit 1 offer per household. Blackberries, Raspberries or Blueberries 6 oz. to dry pt. ctn. LIMIT 2 OFFERS Hormel Black Label Bacon 16 oz. pkg. LIMIT 4 OFFERS Signature SELECT® Granulated Sugar 4 lb. pkg. LIMIT 1 OFFER Häagen-Dazs • Ice Cream 14 fl. oz. ctn. • Ice Cream Snacks 11.1 fl. oz. pkg. or Edy’s Ice Cream 48 fl. oz. ctn. LIMIT 1 OFFER • Bounce Dryer Sheets or Downy Fabric Softener Sheets 240 ct. • Downy Fabric Softener Liquid 164 fl. oz. btl. • Downy Unstopables Scent Beads 20.1 oz. pkg. • Tide Liquid Laundry Detergent 92 fl. oz. btl. • Tide Pods 32-42 ct. pkg. • Gain Liquid Fabric Softener 164 fl. oz. btl. LIMIT 1 OFFER Signature SELECT® Rising Crust or Thin Crust Pizza 12-33.5 oz. pkg. or Open Nature® Pizza 10.2-17.5 oz. pkg., original, cauliflower or broccoli crust LIMIT 1 OFFER 4x 199 ea. MEMBER PRICE after digital coupon savings** 199 ea. MEMBER PRICE after digital coupon savings** 499 ea. MEMBER PRICE after digital coupon savings** 999 ea. MEMBER PRICE after digital mfr. coupon savings** Clementines 3 lb. bag or Signature Farms® Honeycrisp Apples 2 lb. bag LIMIT 2 OFFERS 299 ea. MEMBER PRICE after digital coupon savings** 299 ea. MEMBER PRICE after digital coupon savings** 99¢ea. MEMBER PRICE after digital coupon savings** GL00181271_SWY_Washington Informer_120222 weekly ad_9.85x5.5 Prices Effective Friday, December 2 thru Thursday, December 8, 2022 Unless otherwise noted, offers in this ad are in effect at 6 a.m., Friday thru Thursday midnight at your local Safeway stores. LIMIT ONE COUPON PER ITEM PER DAY PER HOUSEHOLD. Prices and savings vary among store locations. Not all items or varieties available in all store locations. Quantities limited to inventory on hand and subject to availability. Sales in retail quantities only and we reserve the right to limit quantities sold to per customer. While supplies last. Unless otherwise noted, transactional limits may apply. On Buy One, Get One Free (BOGO) offers, customer must purchase the first item to receive the second item free. BOGO offers are not 1/2 price sales. If only a single item is purchased, the regular price applies. Manufacturers’ coupons may only be used on purchased items, not on free items. All rebate offers are subject to applicable manufacturer’s additional terms. Customer pays for applicable taxes, bottle/can deposit and bag fees, if any, on purchased and free items. We reserve the right to modify or cancel offers and/or correct typographical, pictorial and other ad or pricing errors. Prices for products ordered online generally are higher than in our physical store locations and may vary by fulfillment method chosen. Online promotions, discounts and offers may differ from those in our physical store locations. Offers are void or restricted where prohibited or limited by law and have no cash value. No cash back will be given. ALL SALE PRICES ARE MEMBER PRICE UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED PRICES EFFECTIVE FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2 THRU THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8 Valid 12/2-12/8/22 HOT DIGITAL SAVINGS Around the Region .......................................... 4-11 Prince George's County 12-13 Business ............................................................. 14-15 National 16-17 Our Earth ............................................................... 18 Health 19 International 20 Education 22-23 OpEd 25-27 Lifestyle ........................................................... 28-35 Sports 36 Capture the Moment ....................................... 37 Religion 39 14 BUSINESS LIFESTYLE 32 BLACK FACTS 6 LIFESTYLE 28

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PUBLISHER

Denise Rolark Barnes

STAFF

Ron Burke, Advertising/Marketing Director

Shevry Lassiter, Photo Editor

Lafayette Barnes, IV, Editor, WI Bridge DC

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Austin Cooper, Our House Editor

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Mable Neville, Bookkeeper

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Angel Johnson, Admin. Asst.

REPORTERS

Kayla Benjamin, (Environmental Justice Reporter) Stacy Brown (Senior Writer), Sam P.K. Collins, Curtis Knowles, Brenda Siler, Lindiwe Vilakazi, Sarafina Wright, James Wright

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Shevry Lassiter, Photo Editor, Roy Lewis, Jr., Robert R. Roberts, Anthony Tilghman, Abdula Konte, Ja'Mon Jackson

wi hot topics

Memorial Bill Honoring the Enslaved Heads to the Senate

Legislation autho rizing the Georgetown African American His toric Landmark Project (GAAHLP) to build a memorial in honor of the enslaved and Afri cans Americans during the 17th - 20th centu ry received bi-partisan approval by the U.S. House of Representa tives on Sept. 22. A Senate hearing is scheduled for Dec. 1 with testimony supporting the bill from Sen. Corey Booker.

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Justice Dept. takes Action in Jackson Water Crisis

Bowser Promotes Proposed Racial Equity Plan

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser recently released the Dis trict's first-ever Racial Equity Action Plan intended to put in place “policies that are just as intentional about revers ing those legacies of discrimination,” she explained in her Nov. 18 Letter from the Mayor Newsletter.

“Centuries of discrimination and policies that inten tionally locked Black Washingtonians out of opportunity and the ability to build wealth have compounded and created deep inequities,” Bowser wrote. “The Racial Eq uity Action Plan unites many efforts under one platform and will help guide us toward a common vision—a DC where race and ethnicity no longer drive or predict resi dent outcomes.”

Bowser is urging all residents to read through the plan, and residents can provide feedback on the plan until January 2, 2023. To read more, visit: https://ore.dc.gov/ actionplan WI

The United States filed a proposal in federal court that — if approved by the court — would appoint an Interim Third Party Manager to stabilize the city of Jackson, Mississippi’s public drinking water system, and build confidence in the system’s ability to supply safe drinking water to the system’s customers. The city and the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) have signed this order and agreed to its terms.

At the same time, the Justice Department, on behalf of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), filed a complaint against the city alleging that the city has failed to provide drinking water that is reliably compli ant with the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) to the system’s customers.

“I pledged that EPA would do everything in its power to ensure the people of Jackson have clean and dependable water, now and into the future,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan.

WI

Plans Underway for the 2023 National Cherry Blossom Festival

The National Cher ry Blossom Festival, in partnership with Wash ington, D.C. officials, Festival sponsors, and other stakeholders, an nounced plans for the 2023 National Cherry Blossom Festival, being held March 20-April 16.

“We are delighted to present the 2023 National Cher ry Blossom Festival Parade with Grand Marshals Mickey Mouse & Minnie Mouse as they bring the magic of Walt Disney World® Resort to our nation’s capital,” said Angie M. Gates, president and CEO of Events DC. “We invite everyone to join us April 15th on Constitution Avenue for what is sure to be a spectacular celebration of spring.”

The 2023 official artwork was unveiled by Orlando Quevedo, an artist with Park West Gallery, the world's largest art dealer, which provides a breathtaking and mesmerizing artistic interpretation of the 2023 Festival. “It depicts the captivating beauty of the cherry blossoms on canvas using Quevedo’s deftly applied signature style, called magical realism,” according to a Festival press release.

For more information visit: https://nationalcherryblos somfestival.org/ WI

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Vendors who sell their wares on the streets and sidewalks of the District want the D.C. Council to pass two pieces of legislation that will make their businesses legitimate before the city government.

On Nov. 29, about nine street ven dors set up pop-up stands and tents and joined with with members of Vendors United and their supporters in front of the John A. Wilson Build ing in Northwest to protest mistreat ment by District government officials and calling for the council to pass the Street Vending Decriminalization Act of 2021 and the Sidewalk Vending Zones Amendment Act of 2021. The Street Vending Decriminalization Act would remove criminal penalties for vending without a proper license.

The Sidewalk Vending Zones Act would amend the District’s Vending Regulations Act of 2009 to establish designated zones for sidewalk selling and allow vendors to apply to the mayor’s office to establish new zones.

“We need the council to pass these two bills,” said Sunni Stuart, a co-owner of the Sunni Teez Kitch en based in the Columbia Heights neighborhood of Northwest. “You cannot sell without a license on the streets. The police will come and ar rest you.”

Stuart said many people in the Dis trict think of food truck operators as street vendors, but that’s not the case.

“Food trucks have licenses,” she said. “You should have a license to sell food the way they do. We are the peo ple who don’t have the trucks and set up on the sidewalk. Besides, getting a food license is expensive.”

Stuart runs her business in front of the Target located on 14th Street.,

N.W. at the DC USA Mall.

Stuart said she feels the harassment has an element of racial discrimina tion.

“All of the street vendors that get harassed by the police are either Black or Brown,” she said. “When you are Black or Brown, you are looked at dif ferently by the police and other gov ernment officials. I don’t like that and I want it to change. I want to be a part of the change.”

The Street Vending Decriminaliza tion Act has nine council members— Brianne K. Nadeau (D-Ward 1), Ken yan McDuffie (D-Ward 5), Charles Allen (D-Ward 6), Anita Bonds (D-At Large), Janeese Lewis George (D-Ward 4), Christina Henderson (IAt Large), Robert White (D-At Large) and Mary Cheh (D-Ward 3)—that support it. The Street Vending bill sits before the Committee of the Whole and the Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety.

The Sidewalk Vending Zone bill has the support of Nadeau, R. White, Lewis George, McDuffie and Vincent C. Gray (D-Ward 7). The bill sits in the Committee of the Whole.

On Nov. 16, both bills appeared before the Committee of the Whole chaired by D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson (D). Megan Felix Macaraeg, the organizing director for the Beloved Community Incubator who works with Vendors United, said Mendelson is the problem moving the bills forward.

“We have 10 votes on the coun cil to move the bills,” she said. “The chairman is standing in the way of final passage of these bills.”

Later that day, Vendors United and its supporters marched to Men delson’s office to protest his inaction toward their bills.

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5 Vendors United held a street vending zone on Nov. 29 at the John A. Wilson Building in Northwest to urge the passage of the Street Vending Decrimi nalization Amendment Act of 2021 and the Sidewalk Vending Act of 2021. (Marckell Williams/The Washington Informer)

DECEMBER 1 - 7, 2022 5 WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
Get your school questions answered by representatives from more than 200 DC public and public charter schools. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10 | 10 AM — 1 PM @MySchoolDC MySchoolDC.org (202) 888-6336 DC’s public school fair – online! REGISTER FOR FREE today at MySchoolDC.org or scan here. AreyoureceivingSSDI/SSI benefits? Youmaybeeligiblefor additionalbenefits. CALLUSTODAY 888-490-6616 Street Vendors Want D.C. Council to Pass Two Friendly Bills The Sidewalk Vending Zones Act would amend the District’s Vending Regulations Act of 2009 to establish designated zones for sidewalk selling and allow vendors to apply to the mayor’s office to establish new zones.

AROUND THE REGION

DEC. 1

facts

NOV 24 - 30, 2022

SOURCE: BLACK AMERICA WEB

comes the first African American quarterback to win the Heisman Trophy.

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

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

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

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

1784 – Phyllis Wheatley, the first published African American female poet, dies in Boston at 31. Music icon Little Richard is born in Macon,

1935 – Mary McLeod Bethune founds Na tional Council of Negro Women in New York

New York became the first city to legislate against racial or religious discrimination in the hous ing market with adoption of Fair Housing Practices Law.

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

1940 – Iconic comedian Richard Pryor is born in Peo ria, 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 may or of Hartford, Connecticut, becoming first Black wom an elected mayor of a major northeastern U.S. city.

1987 – Novelist James Baldwin dies in France of stom ach 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 tele phone transmitter.

1891 – Charles Wesley, historian and educator who served as president of Wilberforce University and Cen tral 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 be comes the first person ever to win consecutive Heisman Trophies.

1989 – Andre Ware of the University of Houston be

DEC. 6

1936 – Richard Francis Jones becomes first African American certified in urology.

1949 – Blues legend Huddie "Leadbelly" Ledbetter dies in New York City at 60.

1967 – Madame Lillian Evanti, famed African American opera singer, dies in Washington, D.C., at 77.

DEC. 7

1942 – Reg inald Lewis, the first Afri can American business owner to build a bil lion-dollar com pany, is born in Baltimore.

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view

Mexican authorities have issued an arrest warrant for a friend of 25-year-old American tourist Shanquella Robinson whose injuries from an alleged beating led to her death while with a group of friends on vacation in Cabo, Mexico. Robinson’s parents credit Black social media users for amplifying the case and getting the attention of authorities.

What are your thoughts?

ALICIA RENEE / DETROIT, MICHIGAN

I think they should all be charged, including those that watched and took video, and I’m glad it’s a Mexican pris on, not a cushy U.S. jail.

ANGELITA HOUSTON /

WASHINGTON, DC

Everyone in that room should be charged! Watching, filming, FaceTiming, and then leaving her there to slowly die is just sick! Our young people have to get better.

JAMES LEDAY / LAKE CHARLES, LOUISIANNA

Some love to watch those fight videos and don’t care what happens to the folks involved as long as they’re entertained.

RENNEE JOHNSON /

WASHINGTON, DC

This story has so many layers. I’m thankful her family did not let this go, and they are bringing national attention. It’s sad that you can’t travel with friends and think you’re okay.

PAMELA LUCAS /

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS

This has truly brought me to tears. They set her up and wanted her to die. Truly malicious. I sincerely hope each of them will serve time in a Mexican prison. I pray they are so troubled by what they have done that they have no peace until they turn themselves in.

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Micha Green Named Washington Informer Managing Editor

The Washington Informer, the District’s leading Black and wom an-owned news organization, has named Micha Green its Managing Editor, replacing former editor D. Kevin McNeir.

Micha comes with more than six years of experience as a journalist with expertise in both print and digital publishing. A native Wash ingtonian, Green received a Bach elor of Arts from Fordham Univer sity, where she majored in Theatre, and a Master of Journalism from the University of Maryland’s pres tigious Philip Merrill College of Journalism.

Micha worked as the D.C. and Digital Editor for the AFRO American Newspapers for four years before her most recent posi tion as Features Content Editor at the Baltimore Sun.

She is also a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, In corporated Xi Omega Chapter.

Micha is also an actress, and in her spare time, she teaches Zum ba, enjoys running and participat ing in races, and cuddles with her dogs.

“It is an honor to invite Micha to lead our Washington Informer team,” said publisher Denise Ro lark Barnes. “I have observed her over the years and was struck by her passion for the Black Press, as well as her passion for covering lo cal D.C. area news.”

“Micha has garnered enormous respect from those who have worked with her and upon hearing of her hiring, several individuals have shared positive reactions,” Rolark Barnes added.

“While we are committed to continuing publishing a print product, we are also striving to expand our reach to those who prefer a digital experience,” Rolark Barnes added. “Micha appreciates the history, legacy and value of the printed Black Press, but she also comes with expertise and a plan to help us reach our digital publish ing goals.”

“We welcome Micha, and our entire team looks forward to work ing together to better serve our readers as we move towards excit ing times ahead.”

A longtime reader of the pub lication, Micha said she is excit ed and honored to work with the Washington Informer.

“I’m elated to join the Washing ton Informer team, and have long

been inspired by the work of the organization and the force that is Denise Rolark Barnes,” she said. “I’m excited about the opportunity to work with this wonderful team, contribute to the legacy of the pa per, help grow the publication and fearlessly tell stories. As John Lew is famously said, it’s time to make some ‘good trouble.’”

The Washington Informer was established in October 1964 by Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, Sr. In addition to the weekly print publication dis tributed on Thursdays, The Wash ington Informer is also available on line at www.washingtoninformer. com. Readers can also subscribe to WIN Daily, a digital daily news letter delivered by email or follow the news on social media including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn. WIN-TV is a weekly digital broadcast hosted by Wash ington Informer Publisher Denise Rolark Barnes and aired Fridays from noon to 1 PM on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. WI

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THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM 8 DECEMBER 1 - 7, 2022 DEBORAH D. BODDIE GRI, Broker Probate Specialist McClure Team BUYING OR SELLING A HOME? CALL TODAY! 202-288-0255 deborah-boddie.remax.com 220 7th Street, SE Washington DC, 20003 AROUND THE REGION Call now to receive your FREE Author’s Guide 877-420-7280 or www.dorranceinfo.com/informer Become a Published Author with Dorrance. We want to read your book! Complete Book Publishing Services FIVE EASY STEPS TO PUBLICATION: 1. Consultation 2. Book Production 3. Promotion 4. Distribution 5. Merchandising and Fulfillment Our staff is made up of writers, just like you. We are dedicated to making publishing dreams come true. Trusted by authors for nearly 100 years, Dorrance has made countless authors’ dreams come true.
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5 Micha Green (Photo courtesy Micha Green)

BUSINESS from Page 1

businesses in the District in utilizing the publicity that Small Business Saturday generates.

Small Business Saturday got its start in 2010 as a project of the American Express Company. The momentum for Small Business Sat urday gained when the U.S. Con gress passed a resolution supporting it in 2011. Presently, Small Business Saturday has joined Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Giving Tuesday as days when consumers can impact the economy in specific ways.

District officials say there are 80,000 small businesses in the city. Government statistics reveal two out of every three jobs in the District are generated from small businesses.

Javon Davis presented his cloth ing line and business, Love More, at the Congress Heights Arts and Cultural Center located in Ward 8. Davis’s business participated in the Congress Heights Center as a popup, along with other small busi nesses in the Ward. He said Small Business Saturday can be a boon to neighborhood-based enterprises.

“I think it is a great idea to pro mote businesses from community, in the community,” Davis said. “But I don’t just sell clothes. I use clothes to start a Love More movement. We need more love in this community and people who disagree need to talk to each other.”

Davis said he wants to expand his business and would like the District government to help him do that.

“I would like to have an affordable space to be able to sell my clothes,”

he said. “We could use a storefront. We don’t want to sell our clothes just online. And we would like to sell on days other than Saturdays.”

Dominque Cook, the owner of the Paradise Clothing Co., based in Ward 8, also had a pop-up at the Congress Heights Center. Cook said Small Business Saturday served as a unifying event.

“This is about everyone coming together,” Cook said. “We as busi ness owners are promoting selfwealth and practicing unity.”

Cook said he would like the Dis trict government to help him pro mote his business “so I can become better known.”

“Right now, my marketing strat egy consists largely of word of mouth,” Cook said. “I know I have to do more in order to get the work out about my product. That is where I need help.” WI

@JamesWrightJr10

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DECEMBER 1 - 7, 2022 9 WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
5 Glennetta White, a small business owner, and one of the vendors participating in the BZB Holiday Gift and Art Show in Northwest, sells eyewear to customers at the marketplace on Nov. 27. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)
Stay
www.washingtoninformer.com
Informed!
District officials say there are 80,000 small businesses in the city. Government statistics reveal two out of every three jobs in the District are generated from small businesses.

CAPTURE THE MOMENT

The Washington Commanders hosted a memorial unveiling on Nov.27 at FedEx Field to honor the life of Sean Taylor who was shot and killed during an attempted robbery in 2007. Fans were promised by the team that a memorial would include a statue and were disap pointed with the display.

(Anthony Tilghman/ The Washington Informer)

Who’s Reading the Informer?

Khalil Stone reads the Washington Informer. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

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“I enjoy being the messenger for God in terms of letting people know about HIV and AIDS.”

rowing epidemic.

According to the District Depart ment of Health’s 2021 Annual Sur veillance Report, the total population of residents living with HIV stood at roughly 12,161 residents (or 1.7 per cent), with 217 new cases recorded in 2020, a notable decrease from prior years. But despite the decline in new yearly infections, Whitman-Walker’s External Affairs and Community Coordinator, Dwight Venson, high lights the continued need for prog ress concerning medical access and treatment for more disadvantaged communities.

“While infection rates are go ing down every year, [there is] still a prominence of the virus, [and] communities that have been dispro portionately affected by [it]. It is still important even today, to be having these conversations to acknowledge treatment and prevention methods, and to be bringing resources and ac cess to communities where it has not always been present,” said Venson.

The medical clinic’s theme for this year’s events enforces the message of empowerment and the dire impor tance of HIV health education. In cluded in the chain of events between Thursday and Sunday are; free HIV testing, a candlelight vigil paying trib ute to the lives lost to the viral disease, guest speakers of the organization and those who are thriving while living with the disease, and a conver sation with Whitman-Walker Health CEO Naseema Shafi.

Beloved member of the organiza tion’s Silver Strider’s group, SaVanna Wanzer who will also speak during Thursday’s World AIDS Day event. She acknowledges the push for awareness of the once tumultuous journey to be just as important today as it was when the fight began since the first recorded domestic AIDS di agnoses in 1981.

“We are still in the struggle. We are still in struggle medically, and mourning the loss of people that have gone on. Can you imagine going to wakes maybe two times a day, five times a week, for a memorial service? That’s the way it used to be. Imagine that,” Wanzer shared.

The outbreak of the HIV/AIDS epidemic brought about massive fear, stigma, and isolation when ad dressing the HIV population in both medical and social spaces. Wanzer still recalls her earlier days living with

HIV since being diagnosed in 1985, as she illustrates being one of many HIV patients relegated to one ward within District of Columbia General hospital. The pinch of isolation and shame remain at the memory of be ing served food in a cart outside of her door because medical providers were too afraid to come inside each patient’s room to feed them.

Discriminatory practices and be havior continue within medical spac es, sadly discouraging many people in need. Wanzer highlights the need for more available affirming services, and clinical spaces representing every sector of the community undergoing HIV illness, as it plays a huge part in making a safe space for those residents within varying communities (i.e. pro nouns, or transgendered communi ty), and provides every HIV patient with the intricate attention needed to address multiple diagnoses. Depres sion, for example, presents itself as a major byproduct of battling life with HIV, as many positive residents face the rejection and isolation of family and community support.

“Especially during the holidays, it is a difficult time. When you think of the holidays, everybody is around the kitchen table laughing, joking,

and teasing one another. The smell of good food, hugs, love, and every thing,” said Wanzer. “The holidays are a more depressing time for us, but yet it is a more understanding time among us. That part is very, very im portant because we are each other’s strength. It doesn’t matter what color you are or what your background is, we all cry and feel the same emotion of being rejected. The only thing we want is love and acceptance.”

Wanzer, like so many others bat tling the disease, looks to her com munity as a haven, and gateway to feeling human during their journey, particularly during the holiday season to provide moral support and com pany. Whitman-Walker continues to be of support to all members of the HIV community who seek medical help, and community support in their journey with the life-long con dition.

“We are not the only organization that is going to be having World AIDS Day events, and that just stresses how important this issue is to communi ties. No matter where folks are going, the fact that there are multiple resourc es and options for people to go to just speaks volumes to how important this issue is,” Venson said. WI

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PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY

Fresh Green Offers Healthy Local Food Options

Across Prince George’s County, there are a plethora of Chinese carry outs, tobacco stores that sell as much snacks as tobacco, and drive-thru fast food options to service commuters on the go.

Jeremiah Abu-Bakr, the owner and founder of Fresh Green, saw this and chose to open something different. While this is Jeremiah’s first restaurant, his other business ventures and prior experience in customer service have been very helpful in building this busi ness.

Fresh Green currently has three lo cations: in Bowie at the Bowie Mar ketplace, Kettering, and Laurel. The Kettering location in particular was chosen by the owner because of the lack of healthy food options. That shopping center has a Wendy’s, Chi potle, McDonalds, and a pizza store,

but no other healthy food options.

For those outside those areas, Fresh Green is available currently on Door Dash and will soon be on Uber Eats.

Additional locations will open soon, including a College Park location that is expected for summer 2023.

The most commonly ordered item is the Jerk Caesar salad, and the extra flavor of the jerk seasoning is a kick that customers love. Owner Jer emiah’s favorite thing is the elderberry dressing, a flavorful and low-sodium option that is available for vegetarians.

When asked why he opened the business, Abu-Bakr said “I truly want ed to give our community a healthy option. As I get older and more con scious of my health I’m more inclined to promote health eating.”

For those who love healthy eating and supporting local Black business es, shopping at Fresh Green is an easy choice WI

Fresh Green currently has three locations: in Bowie at the Bowie Marketplace, Kettering, and Laurel. The Kettering location in particular was chosen by the owner because of the lack of healthy food options.

Moore/Miller Transition Team Announces New Members

siders and activists a better idea at what their administration may look like.

Moore’s transition team is con tinuing to make history with its

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM 12 DECEMBER 1 - 7, 2022
5 Maryland Gov.-Elect Wes Moore, pictured with President Biden at a rally short ly before Election Day. (Anthony Tilghman/TheWashington Informer) Richard D. Elliott WI Contributing Reporter More members of the Moore/ Miller transition team have been announced, giving political in 5 Jeremiah Abu-Bakr owns Fresh Green, a Black-owned salad bar restaurant with locations in Bowie, Kettering, and Laurel. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washing ton Informer)
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MOORE from Page 12

membership. Aruna Miller, the Lieutenant Governor-Elect, is the first Asian-American transition chair in Maryland’s history. Ac cording to the transition website, there is majority-minority repre sentation on every committee, in line with Maryland’s status as the only state on the East Coast that is majority-minority, and each coun ty is represented. More than half of the committees are led by women, and there are over 1,350 at-large transition members currently.

The transition team includes leaders in academia, policy, hous ing and other areas that will help Moore’s administration get off to a running start. With superma jorities in both the House of Del egates and State Senate, it is pre sumed that Moore will be working collaboratively with his party.

Charlene Mickens Dukes, the first female President of Prince George’s Community College and former State Board of Education President, is serving on the Educa tion Executive Committee along with Richard H. Warren, Jr., a Hazel Professor of Education at the Uni versity of Maryland, Eastern Shore, and 2019 Maryland State Teacher of the Year. Gustavo Torres, the Execu tive Director of CASA de Maryland, will serve on the Jobs and and Work force Development Executive Com mittee. SEIU 1199 Executive Vice

President Lisa Brown will be serving on the Health Care Executive Policy Committee.

Moore has already announced that his Chief of Staff will be Fa gan Harris, the CEO of Baltimore Corps who has known Moore for over a decade. Delegate Eric Luedtke, an early supporter of Moore, will be leaving his po sition as Majority Leader to be Moore’s Chief Legislative Direc tor. Tisha Edwards, Moore’s cam paign Chief of Staff, will be serv ing as Appointments Secretary, a pivotal role in ensuring adequate representation in state govern ment. Amanda LaForge, who served as legal counsel during his campaign and worked in the Glendenning administration, will be chief counsel. Helene Grady, the treasurer for Johns Hopkins University, will serve as Budget Director.

Moore’s transition team efforts are even more important than usual, as there are currently a large number of vacancies in state gov ernment. Earlier this year, legis lative analysts reported that there was the highest job vacancy rate at state agencies since 2008, the first year such data was recorded. In March, there were more than 6,000 job vacancies among state agencies and 2,200 open positions at Maryland colleges and universi ties.

WI

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Photo by Andrew Hobbs 5 Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen during a campaign rally with Wes Moore the day before the election. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)
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BUSINESS

UPS Head Talks ‘Empowering Black Founders’ in Open Letter

Kevin Warren describes himself as a “proud son of the vibrant Black community of Washington, D.C.”

The executive vice president and chief marketing officer at UPS said customers in the District and beyond deserve to know where the company stands and what the delivery service giant is doing “to be a trusted partner to Black founders.”

In a rare open letter addressed to “our community,” Warren empha sized UPS’ dedication to Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) and Black entrepreneurs.

“I speak for myself and the many African American leaders and allies throughout our company when I say that this mission is personal to us. We were raised in these communities and know that Black founders are the heartbeats of our hometowns. We

want Black founders to win and win big, with UPS playing a small part in that story,” said Warren, who has been a leader in ensuring the company’s diversity efforts.

Warren has a unique responsibili ty. He heads U.S. and International Marketing, The UPS Store, Digital Access Program, Revenue Enable ment, Business Planning, Forecasting & Pricing, Digital Marketing, Customer Experience, and Brand Relevancy. Company officials said his highly developed perspective on data-centric business and non-tradi tional engagement channels drives change at UPS and sets new stan dards in digitally enabled customer experience.

“Companies have the unique op portunity to reframe profit and pur pose in our ever-changing world. You don’t have to give up one for the oth er,” Warren said.

With the end of the year approach

ing, he also noted it is a season to “re flect on the year, what we’ve learned, where we have been, and where we are going.”

As UPS continues to evaluate their impact, Warren explained the com pany is working to “reframe profit,” by “Doing Good While Moving Goods.”

A major initiative in their effort to reach beyond the business is the UPS Ignite Program, which is geared at empowering Black founders with access to on-demand business educa tion, with the support of The Lonely Entrepreneur; executive education led by the Kellogg School of Manage ment; CEO-to-CEO business coach ing with Beyond CEO; and access to capital with participation of the Ac cion Opportunity Fund.

“We are so proud that outstand ing founders such as Adrian Coulter

of XL Feet and Charis Jones of Sassy Jones are among the UPS customers that have received access to these re sources to help build their business es.”

Warren said that UPS had ear lier ventured into the metaverse with ComplexLand 3.0. As part of that virtual culture event, UPS built a small-business village in the metaverse featuring diverse-owned small businesses and provided $40,000 in grants, $10K each to Compton Cowboys, Brownstone, Colle and Circulate.

“We’re helping small businesses find new customers by showing up in the unexpected places they never thought they’d be: the metaverse,” Warren said.

In June, UPS awarded $10,000 in grants to several Black-owned companies through UPS Ignite, and in observance of Juneteenth, UPS brought together leaders, including National Urban League President and CEO Marc Morial.

UPS also partnered with multi-hy phenated artist Pharrell Williams Juneteenth weekend to offer oppor tunities for Black founders at the “Something in the Water” festival.

“We brought four amazing Black businesses to feature their products and awarded $50,000 in grants,” Warren said.

In October UPS announced a partnership with Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE), which he described as a “Black eco system of entrepreneurship to uplift Black founders,” and is based in UPS’ hometown of Atlanta. The company launched the UPS Logistics Launch

pad, which supports RICE entre preneurs through general shipping needs, Ware2Go— UPS’ on-de mand warehousing and fulfillment services— and training.

“With the support of The UPS Foundation, we will educate a new generation of RICE business owners on the ins and outs of supply chain and logistics through their accelerator program,” Warren explained.

UPS teamed up with Williams again in November, for “Ignite the Mighty, awarding an additional $50,000 in grants to Black founders during the business competition.”

In detailing the year’s DEI efforts in the community, Warren also noted the work being done to diversify the company “from the top down.”

Spearheaded by Carol B. Tomé, one of the six percent of women CEOs represented in S&P 500 companies, UPS also announced a new DEI officer, who will report to the company’s leader.

The UPS board is 31% ethnically diverse and 46% are women.

UPS has also been intentional about diversifying their spending, having spent $1.1 billion with 900 diverse suppliers and investing in Black-owned media companies such as Black Enterprise.

“Our work to support Black busi ness owners is a journey, not a des tination. We will continue to learn with every project, every initiative, and every conversation,” Warren said. “I want you to know that we are committed to this mission – there is more to come in 2023.

WI

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THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: 0027-2022 SIBLEY TOWNHOMES HOUSING COMMUNITY DEVELOPER The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) requires a Development Partner to serve as a co-devel oper for the redevelopment of the Sibley Townhomes (“Sibley”). SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available beginning Monday, November 21, 2022 on DCHA’s website at www.dchousing.org under “Business” and “Solicitations”. SEALED PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Wednesday, January 18, 2023 at 12:00 PM. Email LaShawn Mizzell-McLeod, Contract Specialist at LMMCLEOD@dchousing.org with copy to business@dchous ing.org for additional information.
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5 In a rare open letter, UPS’ Kevin Warren reflected on empowering Black founders. (Photo courtesy UPS)

New Conference Encourages Companies to Consider Religious Freedom in DEI Efforts

The Religious Freedom and Busi ness Foundation held a conference about how companies can do a better job including faith in the workplace. Held at Utah Valley University just outside of Salt Lake City, attendees gathered considered what it means to bring one’s whole self – spiritual be liefs and all (or even none) – to work every day.

As workplaces around the coun try commit to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, studies show some people find religious ex pression an integral part of their lives, but don’t always feel free to share that once entering the workplace.

While his black attire and white collar obviusly identifies him, An glo-Catholic priest Father Greg Mc Brayer told the conference goers that he would certainly have retired after

decades on the job if not for the joy he gets from sharing his faith at work.

McBrayer, now a chaplain for American Airlines, spent the major ity of his 43-year tenure directing flight traffic and most recently as a chief flight control director. But after the terror attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, McBrayer says he started making his faith a part of his work. He believed his job wasn’t something separate from his spiritual walk with God.

While many people might push back at the idea that religion and faith should have a place in the office, Brian Grim, founding president of the Religious Freedom and Business Foundation and one of the world’s experts on faith and economics, ex plained that as companies find all di versity helpful, even to their bottom lines, the same can be found with making faith a part of corporate DEI.

Grim said paying attention to re ligion need not conflict with a com

pany’s other diversity commitments.

“With research we've done global ly, we find that where a company has freedom to have more acceptance of religious practices, they’re also more accepting of LGBT people more and more,” he said. The foundation’s founding president added that re specting religious beliefs also “opens the door for companies to stand up for other human rights issues.”

But even for businesses who are more inclined to see their mission in dollars and cents, Grim said that it just makes, well, good business sense. Allowing people to be them selves “gives a company a competitive advantage that increases employee morale, and therefore retention,” he explained.

Grim said that establishing faith-related employee groups in creases how welcoming the work place is, especially for people whose faith practices may not be the most

practiced or popular.

Grim’s research also finds that reli gion contributes an annual $1.2 tril lion to the U.S. economy, more than the combined revenues of the top 10 technology U.S. companies includ ing Apple, Amazon and Google.

As this is the time of year many people celebrate religious holidays, companies that accommodate folks

who need time off to practice, often have an advantage over workplaces where only the most common faith, or that practiced by the company owners or managers, is acknowl edged.

The Religious Freedom and Busi ness Foundation is planning an up coming conference in Washington, D.C. after the new year. WI

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BUSINESS
5 The Religious Freedom and Business Foundation held a conference encouraging corpora tions to do a better job incorporating faith in the workplace. (Courtesy Photo)

District Residents Are Mostly Real ID Compliant as Restrictive Homeland Security Program Looms

The Department of Homeland Security wants all Americans, in cluding every D.C. resident, recog nized universally as a star— at least they want you to have that one star on your driver’s license that proves you’re REAL ID compliant.

Officials essentially put the pro gram off for two years because of the pandemic, but in 2023, trav elers must show that they’re REAL ID compliant to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.

In the District of Columbia, those facilities include certain mu seums.

As of November, D.C. report edly had the highest rate of those already in compliance, with more than 600,000 residents.

Maryland currently enjoys an 88% compliance rate, while Vir ginia is relatively stagnant at 43%, despite the increasing need for REAL ID compliance.

“You have to have a REAL ID to get into an airplane to fly domesti cally or to get into a federal facility like a military installation,” Virgin ia Department of Motor Vehicles

5 All residents must be Real ID compliant by May 3, 2023. (Wikimedia Commons)

Commissioner Linda Ford stated. “When you come to the DMV, you can actually get your Virginia birth certificate on the same vis it and then subsequently use that document for your Real ID appli cation. Likewise, if you can’t find your marriage certificate or you need a divorce decree, you can also get those at the DMV office,” Ford added.

Residents must have one proof of age and identity, proof of Social Security, and two proofs of residen cy to obtain a REAL ID driver’s li cense or identification card.

District of Columbia residents can upgrade to a REAL ID license or get a Limited Purpose driver’s license, which individuals cannot use as a federal identification, offi cials noted in a news release.

Washington residents can get a new license at a local District De partment of Motor Vehicles office.

The District of Columbia DMV will not permit individuals to get a DC DMV REAL ID license if they have outstanding debts to the District or unpaid fines for moving traffic violations in other jurisdic tions.

To get the REAL ID with the star, individuals must appear at their local Washington, D.C. DMV in person and bring certain documents to prove U.S. citizen ship and Washington, D.C. resi dency.

The Washington, D.C. govern ment maintains an extensive FAQ web page about obtaining a REAL ID in the District.

Transportation Security Admin

istration officers who staff the tick et document checking station at airports will not allow travelers into the checkpoint without a REAL ID license or another form of accept able ID after May 3, 2023.

“REAL ID is a coordinated ef fort by the federal government to improve the reliability and accuracy of driver licenses and identification cards,” DHS officials noted in the release.

“The improvements are intended

to inhibit terrorists’ ability to evade detection by using fraudulent iden tification.”

For more information and details about obtaining a REAL ID driv er’s license or identification card in the District of Columbia, visit the District’s Department of Motor Ve hicles website.

TSA also has a one-minute vid eo that provides information about flying with a REAL ID.WI

After Clinching Control of the Senate, Democrats Still Covet Victory in Georgia Runoff

Just days before the Dec. 6 Georgia Senate runoff election, the state’s capital and most pop ulous city surprisingly proved like an old Christmas fable: not much appeared stirring.

“It’s almost as if there isn’t a ma jor election coming,” Washington Informer Publisher Denise Ro lark Barnes relayed from Atlanta through an internal Slack message.

“There are literally no campaign signs anywhere,” Rolark Barnes stated.

Throughout her two-day visit to the Peach State, Rolark Barnes noticed only a few pro-Herschel

Walker signs and “a sprinkling” of promotional material for Dem ocratic Incumbent Sen. Raphael Warnock.

“It’s almost as if there is a law that prohibits campaign signs,” she said. However, an abundance of television commercials continue to run.

Indeed, the city of Atlanta does restrict campaign signs.

Without a permit, it’s illegal to place campaign signs in a public right-of-way, including intersec tions, public roads, bridges and sidewalks. The city fines any cam paign in violation and authorities remove such signs.

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Still, the bigger picture remains the election that could either strengthen Democrats’ hold on the upper chamber of Congress or provide Republicans a fighting chance of blocking federal and even Supreme Court nominations.

During the midterm election, Democrats flipped one seat when Lt. Gov. John Fetterman defeated Mehmet Oz in Pennsylvania. The win assured Democrats of at least 50 seats and the majority because Vice President Kamala Harris counted as the tie-breaking vote.

However, a 51-49 edge could allow Democrats freedom from conservative West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin, who blocked some of President Joe Biden’s agenda during the administration’s first two years.

With 51 votes, Democrats can now afford to lose a member and still pass legislation (although, with Republicans seizing control of the House, it’s unlikely any meaningful legislation will pass during the next two years).

“Democrats need to gain every seat they can from the 2022 elec tion cycle. Holding the Senate this year is a massive achievement, but keeping it again in two years’ time will be a gargantuan task,” political analyst Chris Cillizza wrote.

“Democrats would much rather start the 2024 cycle with a bit of cushion provided by a Warnock win.”

An evenly divided Senate “slows everything down,” Senate Ma jority Leader Chuck Schumer re marked. “So, it makes a big differ ence to us.”

Further, in a 50-50 Senate, com

mittees are evenly split between the two parties, which causes ad ditional steps when a vote is tied. That forces the party in the majori ty to hold votes on the Senate floor to move bills or nominees forward.

With a Warnock win, Demo crats would stand in position to hold an extra seat on every com mittee, making it much easier to move nominees or legislation on party-line votes.

“It’s always better with 51 be cause we’re in a situation where you don’t have to have an even makeup of the committees,” Biden said after Fetterman’s victory. “And so that’s why it’s important, most ly. But it’s just simply better. The bigger the numbers, the better.”

With a 51-seat majority, Vice President Harris doesn’t have to remain close to Washington when the Senate votes.

Harris already has broken 26 ties in two years in office, dou bling what former Vice President Mike Pence did during his fouryear term.

Earlier this year, Harris remind ed everyone that the nation’s first vice president, John Adams, had cast 29 tie-breaking votes during his two terms from 1789 to 1797.

“So, as vice president, I’m also the president of the United States Senate. And in that role, I broke John Adams’s record of casting the most tie-breaking votes in a single term,” Harris said in September.

“This kid who was born in Oak land, California, and graduated from an HBCU just broke the record of John Adams. We should all fully appreciate how history can take a turn.”

WI

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from Page 16

(left) Electronic vehicle chargers are being set up throughout the Dis trict of Columbia.

(top right) Ward 6 Councilmember Charles Allen.

(bottom right) River Terrace

D.C. Council’s Next Climate Moves—And Why They Might Matter for Equity in the District

This summer, the D.C. Council passed two major bills aimed at re ducing the city’s emissions and lead ing the nation on tackling climate change. Two more environmental bills, introduced last month by Ward 6 Councilmember Charles Allen (D) and several colleagues, seem aimed at continuing the momentum.

One proposal envisions providing 30,000 low-income households with electric home appliances to replace gas-burning stoves and heaters, in stalled at no cost to the resident, by 2040. The other seeks to get 7,500 public electric vehicle charging sta tions up and running in the District by 2027. Currently, D.C. has around 250 public chargers.

“We're not going to get anywhere close to where we’ve got to go if we just kind of soft-pedal our goals,” Allen said. “Usually legislation gets watered down as it moves its way through the process—so you start bold.”

Only a few short weeks remain in the current Council term. Allen plans to reintroduce the bills in January, but explained he wanted to “start the conversation” as early as possible to seek feedback from citizens and inter est groups.

Even if passed, the legislation will likely change significantly. Allen said he expects opposition from fossil fuel companies like Washington Gas, though a company spokesperson said in an email they were still reviewing the legislation.

Funding for both bills comes from

Congress, which made billions of federal dollars available for climate projects in the last two years.

“There's a lot of federal money coming, and if somebody's asleep at the switch, we're going to miss it,” Allen said.

SWITCHING AWAY FROM GAS: WHY IT MATTERS FOR HEALTH AND JUSTICE

Buildings are the District’s biggest emissions source, partly because of continued use of gas, so switching homes to electric appliances will help reduce the city’s climate impact. But removing gas-burning appliances also matters for residents’ health and finances.

Burning gas for cooking and heat ing releases nitrogen dioxide and other pollutants. One study found that children in households that use gas stoves for cooking are 42% more likely to have asthma.

The Washington Interfaith Net work (WIN) and the D.C. Sierra Club worked with Allen’s office on the home electrification bill. Volun teers from both groups are working with Maryland and D.C. residents to test home kitchens for nitrogen dioxide while the stove is in use. In the first 41 homes tested, more than 40% showed levels higher than the Environmental Protection Agency’s acceptable level.

“Most people don't know that cooking with gas is unhealthy,” Rosa Lee, a River Terrace resident and WIN advocate, said. “When you're working to keep a roof over your

Burning gas for cooking and heating releases nitrogen dioxide and other pollutants. One study found that children in households that use gas stoves for cooking are 42% more likely to have asthma.

head, that’s the last thing you even think about.”

In the District, Black residents experience significantly higher rates of respiratory issues than White res idents. Asthma-related emergency room trips are 30 times more fre quent in Southeast neighborhoods than in Northwest. Gas appliances are just one of many factors, includ ing housing quality and outdoor air pollution, that contribute to higher asthma risks.

Switching to more efficient electric stoves, water heaters, and heating sys tems can also save households money on utility bills. Allen said he sees the home electrification proposal as an economic justice measure in addi tion to its health and environmental benefits. The draft legislation would require the Department of Energy and Environment to provide 30,000 households making less than $80,000 a year with free electric appliances by 2040; the first 5,000 would need to be completed by 2025.

“We’re talking about being able to afford our city and making sure your kids and grandkids grow up healthy,” Allen said. “And frankly, we're talking about neighborhoods that have got

ten the short end of the stick almost every time.”

ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGERS: KEEPING EQUITY ON THE RADAR

Equity is also emphasized in the other bill Allen introduced last month, which aims to expand a current pilot program to add thousands of public electric vehicle charging stations into D.C. over the next five years. The bill specifies that the District Department of Transportation should prioritize sites likely to serve low- and moderate-in come residents, among other consider ations. Of the first 50 charging stations set up under the program, each Ward would get at least four.

Of the chargers currently in the District, very few are in Wards 7 or 8. Antoine Thompson, executive di rector of the Greater Washington Re gion Clean Cities Coalition, points out that this creates a chicken-andegg situation. Even as electric vehicles get cheaper, people won’t buy them if there are no chargers close by—but chargers are less likely to be installed in places where few drivers use them.

“Let's not make the people that live in Wards 7, 8 and 5 be the last communities to get electric vehicles or readily available access to EV char gers,” Thompson said. “Let’s not let that become the reality.”

Thompson said Allen’s proposal has some gaps that will make it hard er to address those equity concerns. He emphasized a need for govern ment funding to help homeowners re-do their house’s electric systems to accommodate the charging stations that wealthier households can install. Mostly, he wants the District to keep pushing for more public, curbside charging options.

Not everyone is on board with de voting more spending to highways and cars—electric or not. Advocates for sustainable development have long argued that better transit infra structure, not cleaner cars, is the way forward on climate change. Allen, who also introduced a major transit bill earlier this year, said he believes the city needs to devote resources to EVs and transit at the same time.

“I hear what he’s saying; yes, we can do both,” said Jeremiah Lowery, the advocacy director for the Wash ington Area Bicyclist Association. “But historically, funding for bikes and pedestrians, compared to what we invest in infrastructure for car drivers? It’s pennies.”

Still, Lowery said he’d like to see the bill eventually pass—preferably with bike chargers included.

Read more on washingtoninformer. com. WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM 18 DECEMBER 1 - 7, 2022 EARTH OUR
resident Rosa Lee. (WI File photos)

HEALTH

Inspired by Dick Gregory, This D.C. Vegan is Still Teaching a Healthy Diet by Any Greens Necessary

When Dick Gregory died in 2017 at the age of 84, many chose to re member his comedic genius.

Some properly credited him with inspiring greats like Richard Pryor, Eddie Murphy and Chris Rock.

Others recalled how the multi-tal ented entertainer became a prolific freedom fighter in the civil rights movement.

But District resident Tracye Mc Quirter will never forget how Greg ory inspired her to change her eating habits and, ultimately, her life.

“When I was a sophomore at Amherst College in the 1980s, our Black Student Union brought Dick Gregory to campus to talk about the political, economic and social state of Black America,” McQuirter re flected.

“Instead, he decided to talk about the plate of Black America and how

unhealthfully most folks eat. This was in 1986, and we didn’t know that Dick Gregory had become a nutrition guru.”

McQuirter said she only knew Gregory as a comedic legend and civil rights icon.

She also recalled that at the time of Gregory’s visit, she “was com pletely uninterested in healthy food.”

“But what grabbed me was when he started to trace – graphically – the path of a hamburger from a cow on a factory farm, through the slaughterhouse process, to a fastfood restaurant, to a clogged artery, to a heart attack. I had never heard anything like that before,” Mc Quirter stated.

While she and her two siblings grew up in a home where her moth er made food from scratch each day, and vegetables were aplenty, her sugar-drinking, candy-eating cous ins only heightened her interest in

sugary products.

“At that time, I was going through a paradigm shift. I was taking a lot of political science and African American studies classes and learn ing about imperialism, racism, sex ism, heterosexism and classism for the first time or in new ways. It was changing my awareness and sense of self,” McQuirter remarked.

“I had also decided to stop relax ing my hair and wear it naturally. And it was with this new conscious ness that I listened to Dick Gregory’s lecture.”

The lecture opened McQuirter’s eyes, and she could quickly survey the landscape, where the District proved a bastion of Black vegetari ans and vegans long before today’s popularity.

“I immersed myself in this com munity taking cooking classes, attending lectures, going grocery shopping, asking hundreds of ques

tions and getting mentored,” Mc Quirter noted. “So, I learned how to be vegan from this community after I learned why to be vegan from Dick Gregory.”

Since then, McQuirter has earned her stripes as a transformative leader in plant-based nutrition and Black women’s health.

Dubbed a “Food Hero” by Veg etarian Times magazine, McQuirter has helped thousands of people turn to veganism. In addition, she created the 10 Million Black Vegan Women Movement to change the paradigm of Black women’s health.

She also authored “Ageless Vegan” and “By Any Greens Necessary.”

McQuirter also created the first free African American Vegan Starter Guide. The New York Times cited her work as a critical factor driving the rise in veganism among African Americans.

“Dick Gregory rocked my world

when he made all these connections, and now it’s been 35 years,” said McQuirter, an advisor for the Black Women’s Health Imperative and Spelman College.

McQuirter, who also studied at Howard University, works as an ad junct professor at the University of the District of Columbia Center for Nutrition, Diet, and Health.

She holds a master’s degree in Public Health Nutrition from New York University and a bachelor’s de gree in Black Studies from Amherst College.

The professor broke down the nu tritional chain.

“Animals get their proteins from plants,” McQuirter explained.

“You get your proteins sec ond-hand – from muscle tissues built from plants feeding animals. It’s normal and natural to get pro tein from plants, and to eat plants directly, instead of going through the slaughterhouse process, is best.”

She emphasized the negative ef fects of eating animal products.

“You get the bad with animals –the saturated fat and cholesterol that leads to diabetes, cancers, stroke, and hypertension. All of these we know affect African Americans the most.”

McQuirter said she understands there are too many food deserts and food insecurity in communities of color. However, she believes the re sources are there to overcome those challenges.

“If you’re able to grow your food, that’s the best,” she said. “If you go to a Farmer’s market, they will have organic fruits and vegetables, and that’s great; if organic foods aren’t available, then get non-organic and wash the food well. So, it’s not an allor-nothing proposition.” WI

DECEMBER 1 - 7, 2022 19 WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
5 Tracye McQuirter (Courtesy photo/Tracye McQuirter)

5 Women who have managed to escape abusive relationships have a safe haven from their abusers thanks to the Nissa Institute for Women's Develop ment, a non-profit, non-governmental organization.

South Africa’s Secret Shelter: A Safe Haven for Abused Women and Children

Through the help and expertise of the Nissa Institute for Women's De velopment, women who have managed to escape abusive relationships have a safe haven from their abusers and receive counselling. The non-prof it, non-governmental organization opposes all forms of oppression against women.

The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women was observed on Fri., November 25. The day is set aside to address the surge of gender-based violence, particularly against women, and the need for im mediate and sustainable intervention.

On Wednesday, November 23, South Africa's police minister released the quarterly crimes statistics where he announced that 10,000 rape cases had been opened between July and September of this year.

After years of sexual and physical abuse at the hands of her husband of 18 years, one woman, who withheld her name for her protection, managed to escape with her children ages 10 and 15 years.

A family friend noticed she was being abused by her husband and helped her leave, she said.

Another woman came to the shelter after being locked in a room in a rented property by a man she met online. She said she feared for her daughter's life as the man threatened to kill her and rape her daughter if she ever tried to leave or alert others on the property.

Held hostage with only a bucket to relieve herself, it was these threats that kept her from slipping a letter she had penned asking for help under the locked door.

Having safely escaped her abusive relationship, she urged other women to do the same.

"It doesn't matter whether it's your children's father or your husband or whatever. Even if you don't have a home... just leave," she said.

Organizations such as the Nissa Institute for Women's Development continue to fight for the voiceless by providing shelter, therapy and support to women and children who have nowhere to go.

Through their support, one of the women at the shelter was able to get her first job after 18 years as a call center agent.

She said she hopes to rent a room so she and her children can start again. WI

Claudine Ewing Appointed CEO of United Way TCI

United Way Turks and Caicos has reintroduced the appointment of Ms. Claudine Ewing as its Chief Executive Officer, Magnetic Media in Turks and Caicos reported on Friday, November 25.

“Inciting change and promoting growth are major attributes of one that leads a nonprofit organization, attributes that are regularly exhib ited by Ms. Ewing, who was among the founding leaders of this fouryear-old non-profit organization,” Magnetic Media reported. “She held the post of Executive Director for two years and was able to promote change and growth for many young people through our various programs and initiatives. During the severe period of COVID-19, she was forced to leave to become a caregiver for her parents, who demanded much of her time.”

Magnetic Media added: “However, her love for philanthropic work always held a place in her heart and she knew that one day she needed to continue on the path of changing the lives of young people for the betterment of our country. Ms. Ewing’s ability to be a creative thinker, forge relationships with community partners, pro mote volunteerism, leverage the community to be consistent and get involved are just some of the qualities that she brings to this role in such crucial times to strengthen the fabric of our community.”

“I’m excited to be back on the team and even more excited to get our program initiatives back up and running, with creative ideas and community conversations that will have everyone engaged,” Ms. Ewing said.

Chairman of the Board Mark Fulford said: “As a Board, we are pleased to pledge our support to our Executive Director Ms. Claudine Ewing. We encourage the community to get involved, as we reignite our Program Ini tiatives and continue to forge relationships with fellow nonprofits to have a greater impact in our community.” WI

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Substance Use Disorders and Finding a Path to Recovery

Many people look forward to gathering with loved ones during the holidays, but for people who have a drug or alcohol addiction — also known as a substance use disorder — this time of year may be difficult. Family tensions, feelings of isolation, and increased alcohol consumption by those around a person could trig ger an urge to use drugs or alcohol.

If you have a substance use dis order, you are not alone. According to the Substance Abuse and Men tal Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), mental and substance use disorders are among the top conditions that cause disability in the United States.1 It is important to remember the following:

• Millions of Americans struggle with drug and alcohol addiction.1

• Substance addiction is a dis ease.2

• There is no shame in asking for help, and there are many resources available.

RECOGNIZING ADDICTION

Some people may not realize they have an addiction. Here are some signs of substance use disorders:3

• Inability to limit drinking

• Underage or binge drinking

• Sleeping at unusual times

• Sudden weight loss or weight gain

• Unsuccessful attempts to stop

using substances

• Drop in attendance and perfor mance at work or school

• Deterioration of physical appear ance

• Detachment from others

• Unexplained need for money or financial problems

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Alcohol Screening Tool can be helpful for determining if you are consuming an unhealthy amount of alcohol.4 It also can help you make a plan to drink less. Make sure to discuss your plan with a health care provider.

TREATMENT

Most people who are in recovery from a substance use disorder do not do it alone. Getting treatment increas es the likelihood of successful recovery. Treatments for substance use disorders may include the following:5

• Counseling to better understand addiction

• Medications for opioid use disor ders that can reduce cravings and with drawal symptoms

• Inpatient rehabilitation (residential facilities) for full-time support in an environment without distractions or temptations

• Behavioral health care to address mental health concerns

RECOVERY

Recovery is possible, but relapse is common — making the road to recov ery a lifelong journey. It is important to recognize your triggers so you can

AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia (DC) Addiction and Recovery Resources Resources

AmeriHealth Caritas DC has ad diction and recovery resources for enrollees.

• Peer Recovery Specialists understand addiction and can help enrollees find a path to recovery. To be connected with a Peer Recovery Specialist, call Enrollee Services at 1-800-408-7511 or

TTY 1-800-570-1190

• The Enrollee Services team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and can assist you with finding

the right provider or program. The information in this article is intended to help you learn more about this topic. It is not meant to take the place of speaking with your health care provider. If you have questions, talk with your health care provider. If you think you need to see your health care provider because of something you have read in this ar ticle, please contact your health care provider. Never stop or wait to get medical attention because of some thing you have read in this material.

avoid certain situations and lower your chances of relapse. Here are some strat egies to help you avoid substance use:6

• Do not attend gatherings where you will be unable to resist drinking.

• Limit exposure to potential trig gers. Avoid people and places that will encourage you to drink.

• Create a relapse prevention plan for your recovery.

• Seek help for extreme emotional states. Depression, stress, frustration, and anxiety provoke a reflexive desire to use substances to relieve the discomfort of these conditions.

• Find hobbies and activities that do not involve using substances.

• Find a network of people to sup port you during your journey.

MYRECOVERYDC

MyRecoveryDC is a program that helps Washington, DC, residents who struggle with alcohol or substance use find treatment and recovery services in their neighborhood.7

MyRecoveryDC services include the following:

• Residential and outpatient treat ment services

• Medication-assisted treatment

• Posttreatment recovery services such as mentoring from counselors, ed ucation and job-readiness support, and recovery housing Visit https://myrecoverydc.org/ to learn more.

Sources

1.“Prevention of Substance Use and Mental Disorders,” Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/ prevention#substance-use-disorder-pre vention

2.“Drug Addiction (Substance Use Disorder),” Mayo Clinic, https://www. mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ drug-addiction/symptoms-causes/syc20365112

3.“Mental Health and Substance Use Co-Occurring Disorders,” MentalHealth. Gov, https://www.mentalhealth.gov/ what-to-look-for/mental-health-sub stance-use-disorders

4.“Check Your Drinking. Make a Plan to Drink Less,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, https://www.cdc. gov/alcohol/CheckYourDrinking/index. html

5.“Recovery is for Everyone: Un derstanding Treatment of Substance Use Disorders,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, https:// www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/fea tured-topics/recovery-sud.html.

6.“Learning to Avoid Tempta tions,” Addiction Center, https:// www.addictioncenter.com/treatment/ coping-triggers/ “About MyRecoveryDC,” MyRe coveryDC, https://myrecoverydc.org/ about/

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

DECEMBER 1 - 7, 2022 21 WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
Find us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/amerihealthdc. / Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/amerihealthcaritasdc. / Find us on Instagram at www.instagram.com/amerihealthcaritasdc. #BestM e

EDUCATION

Teachers Rail against Virginia Gov. Youngkin’s Proposed Curriculum Updates

history as foundational elements of American culture.

In response to the public outcry against the proposed changes, Vir ginia’s board of education voted in November to delay the curriculum update so that community input and elements of an earlier version could be incorporated.

While Youngkin’s latest move sparked disgust and anger from young people and education advocates, at least one teacher said she couldn’t feign surprise, given Youngkin’s attempts and others, to counter a growing fer vor for racial equity.

Virginia Governor Glenn Youn gkin

to

the state’s history curriculum that not only erase mention of slavery, institu tional racism, and prominent figures of color, but further centers white con servative ideology and Greco-Roman

“This has been seen on the nation al level, but with the election of Gov. Youngkin, it’s hitting closer to home,” said Andrea Weiskopf, a Northern Virginia resident and teacher of 15 years in the Loudoun County public school system.

“The groups who are pushing

that the local school board drives local public schools,” Weiskopf said.

Weiskopf, a sixth-grade Latin and English teacher certified to teach social studies, describes herself as an instruc tor who affirms every student. She said her outlook recently earned her a spot on an enemy list compiled by Youn gkin’s supporters.

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Over the last few months, Weis kopf has clashed with a small group of parents at local school board meetings who’ve railed against creating a more culturally inclusive academic envi ronment. Since November 17, when Youngkin released the 53-page pro posal, Weiskopf has expressed plans to continue her civic engagement and counter Youngkin’s latest attempt to preserve white supremacist ideology.

“Whether it’s Youngkin’s ‘snitch line’ or the attack on transgender stu dents or this so-called policy on sexu ally explicit material, it’s all designed as an attack on the public school system to shape America in ‘their’ image,” Weiskopf said.

A BATTLE TO SHAPE HISTORY

State law requires an update of Vir ginia’s public school curriculum every seven years. In 2015, then Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe (D) unsuccess fully proposed the inclusion of gender equity and renewable energy in the curriculum.

In August, Virginia’s board of edu cation described a proposal by former Gov. Ralph Northam’s administration as convoluted and in need of a revamp by Youngkin.

Youngkin’s proposal, brought before the board of education on November 17, counts as part of a pledge he made upon entering office to fight against

what has been described as critical race theory. He also set his sights on lim iting transgender student protections, which triggered a student-led walkout at more than 100 schools in Septem ber.

If approved, Youngkin’s proposed history curriculum updates would re move mention of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Juneteenth and LGBTQ+ history from K-5 standards. It would also delay instruction about lynching until the 6th grade, and Christopher Columbus’ role in the slave trade by the 11th grade. By kindergarten, stu dents would learn to equate citizen ship to following rules.

The history curriculum also refers to indigenous people as immigrants while emphasizing that only citizens 18 and older participate in elections.

Regarding Africa, the proposal fea tures a Europeanized Egypt while only mentioning Mali and Ghana in the context of the slave trade. Another el ement of the proposed curriculum in troduces Roman emperor and philos opher Marcus Aurelius as a prominent ancient figure to third graders. It also frames aspects of the American Civil War and Reconstruction Era in favor of the Confederacy.

YOUNGKIN’S CRITICS RESPOND

Youngkin touted his proposal as an effort to restore excellence and spur curiosity around teaching and learn ing history. Critics, however, point to his ban of critical race theory upon entering office and his support of a constituent who wanted Toni Morri son’s Beloved removed from her son’s advanced placement English class.

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM 22 DECEMBER 1 - 7, 2022
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TEACHERS Page 44

Parents and Former Teachers Respond to Tentative Teacher Contract Agreement

Contract negotiations dragged on into the beginning of Thanksgiving break before the Washington Teach ers' Union (WTU) and D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) reached a tentative agreement. This milestone culminated an arduous, months-long process.

For more than three years, District public school teachers had been with out a contract. At certain points in the negotiations, the WTU and Bowser disagreed about cost-of-living pay raises, planning time and improving classroom conditions.

Months earlier, these points of contention inspired Andrew Haynesworth’s exit from the class room.

In June, Haynesworth resigned from DCPS after two years on the job and conversations with veteran teachers who reached their limit. By then, he caught COVID, which was exacerbated by fatigue brought on by a staff shortage, back-to-back standard ized tests and attempts to strengthen COVID mitigation protocols.

Even with a new contract, Haynesworth hasn’t given much thought to returning to the classroom. He said concerns about his health and current leadership have prevented him from considering teaching as an ideal career choice.

“I truly believe in public schools, but there should be less testing and no

STAR rating system,” Haynesworth said.

“Get rid of that. That didn’t help students. With the current chancellor and mayor, I wouldn’t go back. It has already been three years [since we had a contract]. Did they want seven years [to pass]? Hopefully the union gets what they have been fighting for.”

THE PROBABLE END OF A LONG JOUR

NEY

Days before WTU and Bowser reached a tentative agreement, WTU members gathered outside of several District public schools during a “Day of Action” that brought attention to their ongoing battle.

These after-school gatherings are among the several events that teachers coordinated throughout the year to garner support for a new contract.

The retroactive tentative agreement reached by WTU and Bowser on Nov. 22 includes a 12 % pay raise over four years, a 4 % retention bonus, an increase in an administration premi um and the inclusion of vision, dental and legal benefits.

During a WTU membership townhall on Tues., Nov. 29, teachers learned about their backpay and other provisions in the tentative contract.

A WTU member speaking on background said teachers under the

DECEMBER 1 - 7, 2022 23 WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
EDUCATION
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We Need an Anti-Violence Campaign Message

Twenty-seven years ago, Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan called on a million Black men to gather at the U.S. Capitol. The sunny but cold day in October marked the historic Million Man March. In fact, it wasn’t a march, but a gathering of a million men or more who took an oath for unity and a recommitment to family values.

Minister Farrakhan, a controversial figure to many, said he was inspired by a dream that came to him at a time when Black communities across the country were besieged by gun violence and a crack cocaine epidemic. He, along with a host of civil rights leaders and community activists, delivered messages that inspired many participants to return to their communities with a mission to do something to address the issues that were killing Black men, women and children by the thousands.

Today, history is repeating itself, and violence, often accompanied by a gun, is wreak ing havoc in neighborhoods and schools, churches, shopping malls, entertainment ven ues, and nearly everywhere. The victims are of every race, gender, sexual orientation, and faith. Sadly, no one knows why or what to do to turn the tide and save lives. Unlike Dr. King or Minister Farrakhan, no one has a dream. Instead, we focus on the problem while looking to others for a solution.

Just as those who opposed Minister Farrakhan’s message but heeded his call because they wanted to be a part of the solution, the walls must come down between otherwise competing institutions to allow room for unity and against the carnage destroying fam ilies and communities.

That’s why we will shout out to Washington Post columnist Petula Dvorak whose col umn on Tuesday urged: “This year, give to groups trying to end gun violence; organiza tions working to curb gun violence need our help now more than ever.” She’s right, and we urge readers to heed her call and support anti-violence, youth-serving organizations as often and as much as needed.

Despite the absence of a messenger, local media can and must unite to promote a mes sage of peace, unity and non-violence. As Dvorak urged, let’s plant seeds to help ensure the safety of America’s people.

Stop the killing now! WI

African Leaders: Welcome Back to D.C.

Rarely is there any good news coming out of Africa. It’s not that there isn’t good news—quite the contrary. But the narrative too often casts a negative light on the African nations’ vast poverty and corruption, which does exist. Still, Africa is not a continent of only poor and corrupt people.

Africa’s hardships are an outgrowth of colonization and domination by primarily European countries that sought to destabilize African nations and dehumanize their people. The African slave trade is just one example of how Europeans exploited Africa. The legacy continues, but today, Africa is fighting back, and how the continent is rising is the news we rarely hear.

In just over a week, approximately 45 African heads of state will visit the nation’s capital to participate in the U.S. Africa Leaders Summit at the Walter Washington Convention Center, De cember 13-15. Residents and businesses surrounding the Mount Vernon Square area will be tem porarily inconvenienced for sure, but they will join President Joe Biden, Mayor Muriel Bowser, and many other domestic and foreign diplomats welcoming leaders coming here to seek support and to offer theirs.

Africa is still the world’s most mineral-rich continent. With over 70% of its people in sub-Sa haran Africa under the age of 30, Africa has the youngest population in the world. The United Nations refers to them as the “key to Africa’s sustainable development.”

Africa has led the world with nearly ten women presidents that have served over the past 40 years, including Sahle-Work Zewde and Samia Suluhu Hassan, the current presidents of Ethiopia and Tanzania, respectively.

President Barack Obama hosted the last U.S. Africa Leaders Summit in 2014. President Don ald Trump’s thoughts on Africa made headline news, and he is noted for being the first American president never to set foot in Africa. However, his daughter Ivanka visited Ethiopia, and his wife Melania visited Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, and Egypt.

In July, when Biden announced the summit, he said, in his official announcement, “The Sum mit will demonstrate the United States enduring commitment to Africa and will underscore the importance of U.S.-Africa relations and increased cooperation on shared global priorities.”

Africa is rising, and there are many lessons to be learned by watching it manifest. It is time to let go of the habitual negative view of Africa, which only demonstrates a lack of interest and laziness on the part of those who attempt to tell Africa’s story. The Black Press must take responsibility, as well. WI

I just want to say season’s greetings and happy holidays to all! I’m looking forward to a blessed and prosperous De cember and 2023. I hope to see everyone in the New Year!

Md.

Readers' Mailbox

TO THE EDITOR

I absolutely loved the WI Bridge’s 35 Under 35. What beautiful pictures of our young people, and what a great way to learn about some folks doing great things in our city. I look forward to reading the Bridge because it keeps me abridged of things that, at my age, I wouldn’t know about. Keep it up!

The Washington Informer welcomes letters to the editor about articles we publish or issues affecting the community. Write to: lsax ton@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.

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EDITORIAL

'A Litany of Thanksgiving'

For many years I always cooked Thanksgiving dinner for our whole family and for friends away from their homes. Before our meal, children read various inspirational passages and this beautiful prayer by great Black theologian Howard Thurman, "A Litany of Thanksgiving." After my late sister Olive moved back to our hometown, we continued this tradition as we gathered to celebrate

Thanksgiving with her in Bennetts ville, South Carolina. She too loved this prayer, found in his book "Medi tations of the Heart."

I share it here once again with its simple and profound sense of grati tude, and the eternal hope that "love and tenderness and all the inner grac es of Almighty affection will cover the life of the children of God as the wa ters cover the sea":

Today, I make my Sacrament of

Guest Columnist

Thanksgiving.

I begin with the simple things of my days:

Fresh air to breathe, Cool water to drink, The taste of food, The protection of houses and clothes, The comforts of home. For all these I make an act of Thanks giving this day!

I bring to mind all the warmth of hu mankind that I have known: My mother’s arms,

The strength of my father, The playmates of my childhood, The wonderful stories brought to me from the lives of many who talked of days gone by when fairies and giants and all kinds of magic held sway;

The tears I have shed, the tears I have seen;

The excitement of laughter and the twinkle in the eye with its reminder that life is good.

For all these I make an act of Thanks giving this day.

I finger one by one the messages of hope that awaited me at the crossroads:

The smile of approval from those who held in their hands the reins of my se curity;

The tightening of the grip in a single handshake when I feared the step before me in the darkness;

The whisper in my heart when the temptation was fiercest and the claims of appetite were not to be denied;

The crucial word said, the simple

How We Can Influence the Courts That Influence Our Lives?

should have been even tinier.

The reason is the far-right Supreme Court, and two rulings that hurt Black voters this cycle.

As I write this, the final few races are being called in the midterm elections that were held weeks ago. It's clear that that the House will be closely divided, with Republicans holding a very small majority. History shows that in mid term elections, the party that doesn't hold the presidency typically gains a lot of seats in Congress — oftentimes in a wipeout of the party in power. Republicans' gains were comparative ly tiny this year — but they probably

Two Deep South states, Alabama and Louisiana, redrew congressional maps months before the midterms.

Incredibly, given the high proportion of Black voters in those states, the maps allowed for only one majori ty-Black congressional district in each state. That is almost certainly a viola tion of the Voting Rights Act, which prohibits states from packing minority voters into fewer districts in a way that reduces their power. And you don't

have to take my word for it; federal courts said the same thing and ordered both states to redraw their maps.

But state officials opposed to Black voting power fought back. And in both instances, the Supreme Court allowed them to go ahead with this year's midterm elections with maps that just happened to preserve "safe" Republican seats.

It's infuriating. And those are only two of the infuriating decisions that have come out of this Court since Donald Trump and Mitch McCo nnell succeeded in stacking it with enough ultraconservative justices to

make a supermajority.

I know that the inner workings of the courts, especially the Supreme Court, can seem really remote in our day-to-day lives. Most people don't know any judges, and if they meet one in court it's probably happening on a very unpleasant day. In fact, my guess is that a lot of people would rather not think much about the courts at all. But we have to.

We need to pay attention to who sits on our courts and how they get there, because there is such an enormous im pact on our lives whether we realize it or not. The Supreme Court's impact on

the House majority is just one example. Those actions by the Court will affect what business gets done in Congress and what laws get passed — or not passed — that impact how we live and what rights we have.

Judges get their seats in different ways, especially at the state level. If you live in a place where state-level judges are elected, it's critically important to get informed and vote in those judi cial elections. When it comes to fed eral judges, the Senate decides who will be confirmed. So every time you

In a speech given in his home state of Kentucky, Sen. Mitch McCon nell would say: "One of my proud est moments was when I looked Barack Obama in the eye and I said, 'Mr. President, you will not fill the Supreme Court vacancy.'" The 11 members of the Senate Judiciary Committee followed suit by signing a letter saying they had no intention of consenting to any nominee from

President Obama. As a result, no proceedings of any kind were held for Obama's nomination.

With so much attention today be ing given to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland, it is easy to forget what happened to Garland in the spring of 2016. With the death of Justice Antonin Scalia, an icon in con servative circles, Merrick Garland was nominated by then-President Obama to fill the vacancy on the Supreme Court. It was considered to be a safe pick. Widely regarded as a moderate, Garland had been praised in the past

by many Republicans, including in fluential senators such as Orrin Hatch of Utah. But even before Obama had named Garland, then-Senate Major ity Leader McConnell declared any appointment by the sitting president to be null and void.

He said the next Supreme Court justice should be chosen by the next president, who was to be elected later that year. With McConnell blocking Obama's pick, it left the Supreme Court with an empty seat for more than a year, until President Trump's nominee Neil Gorsuch was sworn

in. The unorthodox move by McCo nnell could not be stopped by scores of scholars or by the Democrats as the minority party. Law professors, histo rians and political scientists urged the Senate to at least have a process for Garland as a duly appointed nomi nee with impeccable qualifications. It turned out to be a classic power move by McConnell and no one was in po sition to stop him.

It's been said that the love of mon ey is the root of all evil. The same can easily be said about the love for power. Meaning unchecked greed can be a

major cause of society's problems. It can be the greed for money as well as greed for power. In regards to the pur suit for power, not every individual or group can responsibly handle the power given to them without misus ing it. The abuse of political power prevented the seating of a Democratic president's judicial choice to the Su preme Court. The Republicans knew had Garland been considered by way of a fair process, he might have pulled a few majority-party members across

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM 26 DECEMBER 1 - 7, 2022
OPINIONS/EDITORIALS
EDELMAN Page 45 JEALOUS Page 45
Ben Jealous
MARSHALL Page 45
Guest Columnist
Marian Wright Edelman Guest Columnist
Generational Change Without Compromising Character
David W. Marshall

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS

Before the Fall

I remember my mother and other accountable adults in our commu nity teaching other children and me many important lessons of respon sible citizenship. We learned those lessons in Sunday school and in the sermons we heard each Sunday. Not all lessons were spoken. Many were lessons we learned through obser vation of the examples set by our "teachers." Their behaviors during the week translated those sermons

into demonstrations usable for us to construct an accurate portrayal of expected and acceptable behav ior, and should there be any misun derstanding, the local trees issued enough "logs" to convince us of our indiscretions.

Central to their common-sense lessons was the idea that a commu nity or society could not thrive or flourish without order. That order was based upon a general pattern of mutual respect for each other. We learned and expected the "Golden Rule" as minimally acceptable in

our general dealings with others in our community.

With the exception of those few whose frustrations or inner demons would not allow them to accept respectful interaction with others, ours was a peaceful community. We respected the rights and privilege of others to live their lives without injury or interruption. I can only speculate, but life was the most tangible commodity available to us — from which all blessings flowed — and we respected and valued the lives of others as we valued our

Who Said 'Never Say Never'?

Who said "never say never"? Who claimed it was wise to nev er say never? Never is a powerful term. Never precludes the oppor tunity or possibility of a particular thing taking place at present or, more importantly, in the near or distant future. Never say never? The inability to affirm or to swear never is an indication of an inabil ity to, or prediction of, failure to honor an oath, pledge or promise to others or oneself. An oath is by definition a promise, commit ment, vow or a pledge. Doesn't the Pledge of Allegiance ("I pledge

allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the re public for which it stands — one Nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all") assert that reciter will never betray their country?

Consider the irony of this po lice officer's oath. He or she pledg es to never betray their integrity: "On my honor, I will never betray my integrity, my character, or the public trust. I will always have the courage to hold myself and oth ers accountable for our actions. I will always maintain the highest

ethical standards and uphold the values of my community, and the agency I serve."

One could argue that Donald Trump betrayed his country and should have never been elected president. The dystopia brought on by the Trump kleptocracy is, at best, inexcusable and, at worst, irreversible. The damage inflicted by him, his family and his criminal miscreant cronies on this already struggling democracy is immeasur able.

The setbacks to human and civ il rights are beyond any analytic

own.

Times have certainly changed! If there is any question of that, the events in the past few weeks of this writing prove my point. Three Uni versity of Virginia students were slain on a bus after a field trip to D.C. Six patrons of a Colorado Springs, Colorado, nightclub were killed under circumstances that have not yet been fully defined. In what appears to be an eruption of workplace animus, six men and women were killed in a Chesa peake, Virginia, Walmart. Rather

than being unusual, these events have become no more than addi tions to a seemingly endless series of unnecessary and heinous homi cides.

American excess and overindul gence are singular factors in the violence that appears to be self-gen erating. We continue to struggle with our original sin of racism. The other -isms and increasing levels of intolerance plague us. Poverty and wage stagnation are constant

diagnostic. It should have never happened. He should have never happened to us. He should never have been given keys to the White House. One could argue that Pres ident Donald Trump revealed the true nature and depths of igno rance, prejudice, xenophobia, in stitutionalized racism and systemic stupidity camouflaged as heritage and American tradition.

Trumpism continues to provide agency and legitimacy to the likes of Proud Boys and Oath Keepers. Trump's bigotry supplies encour agement and imparts permission

to the passionate — and far too prevalent — violent racists among us. He fuels the engine of fear of a browning America and the frus tration brought on by a dimin ishing white middle class and the white privilege it engenders. Why continue to write about Donald Trump?

Because it should give rise to a public outcry of "Never again." Trump exposed America's vulner ability to greed, conspiracy and criminal enterprise and he hasn't

Nancy Pelosi: The Most Successful and Effective House Speaker in U.S. History

President Biden

"History will note she is the most consequential speaker of the House of Representatives in our history. There are countless examples of how she embod ies the obligation of elected officials to uphold their oath to God and country to ensure our democracy delivers and remains a beacon to the world. In ev erything she does, she reflects a dignity in her actions and a dignity she sees in the lives of the people of this nation." —

When the National Urban League convened our first in-person confer ence in three years, in July, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi joined us for the opening rally at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial.

"There's an assault on our de mocracy," she said. "That's why we have to fight for voting rights, and we will not stop until we achieve voting rights: removing obstacles of participation and the voter sup pression laws, doing away with their nullification of elections, removing

big special interest money from suf focating our political system, so that everyone's voices are heard."

As her historic fourth term as speaker of the House draws to a close, it is nearly impossible to express the full impact of her decades of lead ership and the profound legacy she leaves behind

It has been my privilege to know and collaborate with Speaker Pelosi since her earliest days in Congress, when I was a Louisiana state senator, throughout my two terms as mayor of New Orleans and the past two

decades with the National Urban League. One of my most treasured mementos is a pen she gave to me that President Obama used to sign the Affordable Care Act.

Of all the legislative and policy initiatives on which she and I have worked together, it was the passage of the ACA that demonstrated her unmatched mastery of the legislative process and the power of her deter mination. When her party's loss in a Senate special election cost them a filibuster-proof majority, many — including President Obama's own

chief of staff — publicly declared the ACA dead and advocated for a watered-down, piecemeal approach. Speaker Pelosi derided the proposal as "eensy weensy bill," telling Presi dent Obama, "I know there are some on your staff who want to take the namby-pamby approach. That's un acceptable."

The vote-wrangling that Speaker Pelosi employed to bring the bill to meet the pen I now treasure will be the subject of graduate seminars on

DECEMBER 1 - 7, 2022 27 WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
WILLIAMS Page 46
Guest Columnist Miles Jaye
MORIAL Page 46 Guest
Guest Columnist
Marc H. Morial
Columnist
JAYE Page 46

LIFESTYLE

DC Cocktail Week, an annual event presented by the Restau rant Association of Metropolitan Washington (RAMW), is under way until Dec. 4. Cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages, will be paired with food bites at restau rants throughout the D.C. area

classes, tasting dinners, special happy hours and more. Over 50 restaurants and venues are joining in on the weeklong cel ebration. First-time D.C. venues include Michele’s; new locations of Tight Five Pub, the District’s first rugby fan bar; and Vaga bond, a beach-themed restaurant

5 Hard Rock Café in Penn Quarter is participating in DC Cocktail Week, sponsored by the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington (RAMW), is November 28-December 4. (Courtesy RAMW)

in the Dupont Circle area. Wren and Yume Sushi in Virginia, will take part in their first DC Cock tail Week. In Maryland, first-time participants include J. Hollinger’s Waterman Chophouse, Dram and The Daily Dish, a RAMMY recip

ient for “Favorite Gathering Place” and “Casual Brunch of the Year.”

Cranes, in the Penn Quarter area of downtown D.C., will host DC Cocktail Week after receiving a RAMMY earlier this year for top “Formal Fine Dining Restaurant.” RAMMY nominations and awards are a RAMW program.

For a full list of participating restaurants, offered pairings, inhouse events and other DC Cock tail Week happenings, please visit www.dccocktailweek.com.

WI @bcscomm

Cranes, in the Penn Quarter area of downtown D.C., will host DC Cocktail Week after receiving a RAMMY earlier this year for top “Formal Fine Dining Restaurant.”

RAMMY nominations and awards are a RAMW program.

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STEP AFRIKA!’S MAGICAL MUSICAL HOLIDAY STEP SHOW GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY! DECEMBER 9 — 18 ARENASTAGE.ORG 202-488-3300 Cheers to DC Cocktail Week, November 28December 4 Raise a Glass and Enjoy Some Bites
and participating locations will
also offer cocktail

ArtsFairfax Announces Programs Supporting Artists and Arts Programs

ArtsFairfax, the non-profit des ignated as Fairfax County’s local arts agency, announced grants for local arts organizations and free learning experiences for coun ty residents. The organization is partly funded by Fairfax County, Virginia Commission for the Arts, and the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as corporations, foundations and individuals.

Pandemic Recovery Grants

With the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Arts Fairfax has been working to fund arts organizations. The objective is to support organizations to build resilience and look to the future with programming, planning and reimagining work. Grants are limited to small and medium or ganizations with budgets under $500,000.

ArtsFairfax will distribute $170,000 in Pandemic Recovery Grants to both established and emerging arts and culture groups impacted by COVID-19. Applica tions are now open until January 20, 2023, andArtsFairfax will offer weekly office hours through the deadline, for prospective grantees to ask questions and receive appli cation support.

Funding will be prioritized but not limited to the following crite ria:

• Organizations that have not received county recovery funds previously;

• BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) organizations as determined by mission, leadership and community served; and

• Organizations that serve arts participants and audiences in eco nomically disadvantaged areas of the county.

“We’re looking for organizations that might be dedicated to a sin gle cultural tradition or perhaps come from an area of the county with greater needs,” said Linda S. Sullivan, ArtsFairfax president and CEO. “By supporting these over looked arts groups, we strengthen the diversity of Fairfax arts and culture in our community.”

For more information, visit ArtsFairfax.org/PandemicRecov ery

ARTIST RESIDENCY PROGRAM EXPANDS

New locations in Fairfax Coun ty have been announced for Arts Fairfax’s Artist Residency Program. The residency program will place professional performing and visu al artists at a Fairfax County park, library, school, community center and an affordable housing com munity. The objective is to bring free interactive opportunities to neighborhoods underserved in the arts. This program was recently launched at the John Marshall Li brary in Fairfax County.

The residency experience trains Fairfax County professional art ists in community engagement,

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Jamming to New Heights with Freddie Jackson

Top R&B Crooner Has a List of New Projects

When Freddie Jackson entered the room for a recent chat, he was upbeat and smiling— creating a vibe of a long-time friend. In a slight respite from his busy tour schedule, Jackson came to D.C. to discuss his longtime career and share what he’s got in the works.

Coming up at

Over the past few months, Jack son has shared the stage with Maze, featuring Frankie Beverly, The Whispers, Gladys Knight and Patti Labelle. Over the years, Jackson has figured out how to make it work to deliver to his fans and taking care of the voice is the first order of busi ness.

“The voice, the right sound sys tem, and technology have to be in

place,” the multi-platinum singer said. “Our voices have changed. Vocal cords are a fragile thing. It is very important that when we are booked, there is quality equipment that supports our performances.”

Jackson also knows the type of venues that allow him to connect strongly with audiences.

“I like the intimacy of dinner clubs. I can see you, and you can see me. I feel like you’re in my living room,” he said. “Arenas are nice, but ev eryone is so scattered that you must become bigger. Sometimes when you become bigger, you lose yourself.”

Though the world shut down in 2020 due to COVID-19, that did not stop Jackson from using his instrument. He con nected with his buddy, singer Steph anie Mills. They greeted each other by phone in the mornings and said goodnight at the end of the day.

“We were separated, but we would sing to each other. We be came each other’s audience,” Jack son recalled. “We had a good time during COVID, and that was a blessing.”

THE HIP HOP NUTCRACKER

With available time during the early days of COVID, Jackson had a chance to safely try out new material with his band. He also began host ing a podcast called “Conversations with Freddie Jackson,” available through Apple Podcasts. The pod cast is currently on hiatus but said

ARTS from Page 29

creative aging and creative youth development, including best prac tices in anti-racism, anti-ageism and anti-ableism. Training also connects artist peers in the pro gram to strengthen their collective knowledge.

“Arts and humanities go handin-hand to spark the imagination and nurture creativity. We were thrilled to launch ArtsFairfax Art ist Residencies at the John Mar shall Library to inspire and engage

will be back soon.

The podcast motivated Jackson to pursue hosting a radio show. Still working through a format, he wants to create a scenario akin to his preference for performing in smaller venues. He envisions a radio show that allows for an intimate connec tion with listeners.

“It would feel like being at home with Freddie Jackson,” he said. “I want it to feel like you tuned in to your friend or you knocked on your friend’s door and said,

the community with visual art,” said the Deputy Library Director of Fairfax County Public Library Kevin Osborne.

The ArtsFairfax Artist Resi dency is supported, in part, by the National Endowment for the Arts, the Dimick Foundation, and Transurban, among others. See the arts disciplines at each of the five Fairfax County locations for the program, and to learn about the artists, visit ArtsFairfax.org/Artist Residency.

WI

‘What’s going on?’”

Jackson wants to be that celebri ty friend not just on stage but also over the airwaves. It would be a time when he can talk about the music that has meant a lot to him over the years.

In the works for the past few years has also been a cookbook. The idea Jackson has been testing is a meetup between music and cooking.

“I’m taking 30 of my songs and putting recipes to them,” Jackson said. “There will be a ‘Rock Me To night,’ a ‘Jam Tonight,’ and others based on my hits.”

Along with these ideas, Jackson also has a candle collection. He has created scented candles named after 11 of his number-one hits.

Music connects back to every thing Jackson pursues.

“It’s the rhythm of my life,” said the entertainment legend. “I walk in music.”

Keep up with Freddie Jackson through Instagram, @mrfreddie jackson WI

@bcscomm

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STRATHMORE.ORG | 301.581.5100 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, MD 20852
HOPE—IT’S BEEN A LONG TIME COMING Tue, Dec 6
SOWETO GOSPEL CHOIR
WITH GUEST MC KURTIS BLOW Mon–Thu, Dec 19–22
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3 Freddie Jackson 6 R&B legend Freddie Jackson sits down with Washington Informer writer Brenda Siler to talk about a few of his upcoming projects including aspirations to host a new radio show. (Marckell Williams/ The Washington Informer

Till: The Untold Story of a Mother’s Love and Determination

It was directed by Chinonye Chuk wu, a Nigerian-American woman whose former most notable work was a film titled Clemency.

The film “Till” is a historical bi ography drama that details the ex periences of Mamie Till Mobley, the mother of an African-American 14-year-old boy from Chicago, Illi nois, named Emmett.

The two became significant fig ures in American history when Emmett was kidnapped, beaten, and lynched for allegedly whistling at a white woman in Mississippi in 1955. His body was mutilated and barely recognizable, but his mother decided to have an open casket at his funeral so that the rest of the world would feel her pain and see how in humanely Black people were being treated in the South.

The film first premiered at New York Film Festival in October 2022.

In an interview on NPR, Chuk wu said, “Mamie and other Black women are often overlooked or erased from history. But Mamie’s decision to hold an open-casket fu neral for her son, and to publish the photos of his mutilated face, served as a catalyst for the civil rights move ment.”

Jet Magazine’s photographer Da vid Jackson took the famous photo of Mamie looking down at Em mett. Chukwu also worked with film writer Keith Beauchamp, who conducted 27 years of research on Till’s case. According to IMDB, “His [Beachamp’s] efforts led to the reopening of the case by the Unit ed States Department of Justice in 2004.”

Danielle Deadwyler played the role of Mamie Till-Mobley. When asked how she felt about getting

the role in an interview with the LA Times, she said, “There was only a split second to be joyful. I have the job and the honor, but also the re sponsibility. I know that responsibil ity deeply because I am a child of the South. I was anxious and nervous.”

Deadwyler was supported by a great lineup of actors, including Whoopie Goldberg, Sean Patrick Thomas and Frankie Faison. The role of Carolyn Bryant, the white woman who accused Till, was played by Haley Bennet.

In an interview with Variety mag azine, Bennett said, “I don’t want to live in ignorance. If I can learn some thing about the history of America, then I am not standing still. What I loved about this story was the power of a mother’s love. Her need for jus tice ignited a revolution, but there still has not been justice for Emmett Till.”

I enjoyed the film and how the story was portrayed from the moth er’s perspective. I connected with

her determination to prove to her self that her son did not die for no reason. It was very difficult for her to deal with her pain and mourning, and to turn that energy into some thing greater was very inspiring.

I learned about Emmet Till when I was younger, but I never under stood his mother’s struggle with his death and how she used it to create

change.

Mamie Till died in 2003 follow ing a lifetime dedicated to making life better for people of color. This year, the Emmett Till Anti-Lynching Act was passed by Congress, making lynching a federal hate crime.

This is a must-see movie that teaches a lot about unknown histori cal figures. WI

#DCISHIRING

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5 Danielle Deadwyler as Mamie Till-Mobley
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5 Jalyn Hall as Emmett Till

Debbie Allen Gives Hope in “Dance Dreams: Hot Chocolate Nutcracker”

Ballet Classic

Beers, Andrew Fried, Dane Lille gard and Jordy Wynn.

Make

mistake, Debbie Al len is a force of nature— and au diences get a peek into her power and brilliance in the Netflix and Shondaland documentary “Dance Dreams: Hot Chocolate Nut cracker.”

Since its inception in 2009, “Hot Chocolate Nutcracker,” a reimagining of the classic holiday ballet “The Nutcracker,” has been a staple production for Debbie Allen Dance Academy (DADA). The production serves as the big gest annual fundraiser for DADA, which was founded in 2000.

Directed by Oliver Bokelberg, “Dance Dreams: Hot Choco late Nutcracker,” chronicles the 10th-anniversary performance of what has become a DADA holiday classic, and celebrates the impact the arts can have on young lives. The film’s executive produc ers include Shonda Rhimes, Betsy

The opening scene in the film is Allen directing the youngest mem bers of the ensemble, starting at age four, how to quickly come out on stage to take their bows before the audience. We are introduced to Allen’s coaching style.

“Are y’all going to remember ev erything we did? “Because dancers are what,” she asked, getting feed back from the students. “Dancers are the most intelligent people on the planet, and we remember ev erything, right?”

THE CONCEPT BEHIND THIS DANCE SENSATION

“Hot Chocolate Nutcracker” comes from the mastermind of Al len, who wrote, directed, and cho reographed the epic production. It is not a modest dance recital. It is an extravaganza that includes sing ing and acting. The story brings

together a global perspective of diverse cultures that comes from Allen’s desire to ensure cultural relevance.

“I wanted to make it fun and have a cultural identity of music that was not tied to Tchaikovsky,” Allen said. “Hot Chocolate Nut cracker takes us on our journey to real and imagined things, all done with different styles of dance and music.”

“Hot Chocolate Nutcracker” is a cast of 200 children and adults, all requiring a minimum of three costume changes. Many of the dancers have grown up in DADA, but they also had to go through tryouts. Positive reinforcement mixed with a little tough love from Allen and her team is what dancers got while going through a grueling rehearsal schedule.

THE ROAD TO GREATNESS

Mixed with scenes of the “Hot Chocolate Nutcracker” produc

tion process was Allen’s backstory. Some of it fans know- from be ing told she didn’t have a dancer’s body to rejection by dance schools and her own mother.

Perseverance won the day for the multi-award winner and recip ient of the Kennedy Center Hon

ors. Allen saw similar obstacles, along with financial needs, experi enced by her dancers.

REVIEW

I loved the work ethic Allen preached throughout the film. The Howard University alumna had a stern conversation with the ensem ble about showing up late. Allen was direct about the consequences in the real world about tardinessyou will be fired. I think they got it.

“Hot Chocolate Nutcracker” touched me to my core.

While viewing the film, I felt the heartbreak of DADA dancers when they didn’t get into their de sired dance company or when cop ing with an injury.

This film took me back to ballet lessons and recitals that my sister and I were in at a very young age, just like the youngest girls in the documentary. I also was in the chorus for a production of “The Nutcracker” at Jessie LaSalle El ementary School in Northeast, D,C. Would I have been good enough to get into a DADA pro duction?

The joy this holiday season is watching “Hot Chocolate Nut cracker” on Netflix with your fam ily. You won’t regret it.

WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM 32 DECEMBER 1 - 7, 2022 LIFESTYLE
5 Debbie Allen with Debbie Allen Dance Academy (DADA) dancers in “Dance Dreams: Hot Chocolate Nutcracker.” (Courtesy photo/Netflix)
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A Look
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no
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DECEMBER 1 - 7, 2022 33 WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

article.

News reports tell WHO did WHAT WHEN and WHERE and, when possible,

News Articles Lead with the FACTS

Who, what, when and where are often the rst questions people ask when something happens. News reporters put those facts into the rst paragraph — sometimes the rst sentence — of the news article. This is called the Read Woodword’s article. Then ll in the facts in his notes.

WHO is the news event about?

WHAT happened?

WHERE did it happen?

WHEN did it happen?

Choose a HEADLINE

The headline of a news article could also be called the title. It is written in bold type above the story. Most headlines have a subject and a verb that tell the topic of the article and summarize the main idea, or most important part of the topic.

Read the three headlines that Woodword has written. Circle the headline you think is the best for this silly article.

Choose a PHOTO for the Article

Kid Scoop reporter Woodword is working on a silly article for the very Kid Scoop Fun Times. Can you help him out?

DOWNTOWN

– Clive the crocodile escaped from Downtown Zoo last night. Some people say he put on a costume and stole a pizza from Pete’s Pizza Parlor.

Clive has lived at the zoo for ten years. Pete Pesto, owner of the pizza parlor, says Clive entered the kitchen wearing a chef’s hat and apron and tried to make himself 20 large all-meat pizzas.

Police arrived at 9:30 p.m. “We got a call from a person eating at Pete’s. They said there was a lot of noise coming from the kitchen, but no pizzas,” said Chief Mike Jenkins.

Clive surrendered peacefully. “That’s the way the pizza crumbles,” Clive mumbled as the police put him in a squad car.

CHEF AT PETE’S ESCAPES FROM ZOO

The photos that go with a news article can give more information. A photo can also create a feeling about a news event. The text that describes a photo is called a and is usually below the photo. Cut and paste it onto the above news article. Write a cutline for the

ARRESTED Headline Funnies

Rewrite one or more headlines in today’s newspaper so that they say the opposite of what they say now. For example, Heavy Snow Predicted for City could become Hot Weather Predicted for Countryside

Photo Talk

Select a newspaper photo and cover the cutline or caption before reading it. Next, identify the who, what, when, where of the photo. Using these facts, write a cutline for the photo. Compare yours to the one published.

Newspaper

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM DECEMBER 1 - 7, 2022
Link: Language Arts: Distinguish between fact and opinion.
Standards
© 2022 by Vicki Whiting, Editor Je Schinkel, Graphics Vol. 39, No. 1
gather viewpoints both sides the Based Clive, the
do same If not, point PETE Read the aloud to Ask them WHO, and WHY. to explain they agree Share your see What think? Your News Write a sentence reporting about something new in your life. Be sure to include who, what, when and where! Standards Link: Letter sequencing. Recognize identical words. Skim and scan reading. Recall spelling patterns. Z R E P O R T E R Y H B O L D W P N S A E M E V E K Q W O D A O Q R Z A E U W S D T W H E N D N H Z L O F T L H N A V O I H L A X U W H A T N P H Z C H J B O L E T O Z O T C E O W A R T I C L E W Z V ARTICLE BOLD FACT HEADLINE HOW LEAD NEWS PHOTO PIZZA REPORTER WHAT WHERE WHEN WHO ZOO Proofreading a news article is important to make sure it is accurate and fair. Each headline below has an error. Circle the errors and rewrite the headlines correctly.
READING OWNER SAYS NEW STORE IS IS NOW OPEN AUTHOR’S LATEST BOOK
BEST
Pesto,
PROOF
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Standards Link: Reading Comprehension: Analyze intention in written text.
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LIFESTYLE

review wi book

One dollar.

That's not a lot of cash when it's your turn to pick the tunes and you want to hear your song now. Just a buck for the jukebox and everybody can enjoy what you've chosen. That's not a lot for four minutes of entertain ment, especially when, as in the new book "Well of Souls" by Kristina R. Gaddy, it features your favorite instrument.

In 1687, an English slave ship named the Benjamin left the coast of Loango with a cargo of 375 adults and children headed for Jamaica and lives of slavery. Three hundred sixty-nine people arrived but not with much, if anything at all — and yet, says Gaddy, like their fellow slaves in the Is lands and northward, they brought new "cultures that would become foun dational to every colony and country they lived in."

Shortly after the Benjamin arrived, some noticed that when the slaves had a bit of free time, they spent it dancing and making music, sometimes with a gourd impaled by a stick, a bit of animal skin, and strings to pluck. Though the instruments closely resembled lutes and were called "mbanza" in the Kimbudu language, white men called them "Strum Strumps" and the fascination was such that Strum Strumps were taken to England and collected.

The instrument made its way to Martinique, where it was refined with better strings. It went to Barbados, where it was called a bangil. When it arrived in France, it became "the bangeau," but in America, it was quickly becoming "an uncouth Black-originated instrument of little worth" that slaves used for celebrations and funerals, though whites remained intrigued by it.

"Whenever the instrument had arrived in Louisiana," says Gaddy, refer ring to the early 1800s, "it would soon transform again."

And by the 1840s, it had transformed into an instrument embraced by white performers in New York and elsewhere, in the most ironic of ways: minstrelsy performers loved the banjo.

Though you've been warned all your life not to judge a book by its cover, "Well of Souls" absolutely calls for doing so. Let the cover photo be your guide.

As promised by said cover, a "hidden history" of the banjo is in this book. It's there, going back — way back, more than 300 years as author Kristina R. Gaddy reveals an art lover's eye to explain why she focuses on this instru ment, why she's eager to tell the deepest story about it and why it matters.

The thing is that she stopped too soon. Her book, thorough as it is, offers teases for modern-day musicians, but the bulk of it ends just before the Civil War. Readers get a fascinating, lively background of the banjo from a Black history standpoint, but nothing about its influence in the 20th century or beyond.

Use that as a warning: if you enjoy early American history with a hint of the Islands, "Well of Souls" is the book for you. If you were hoping for a more modern history of the banjo, though, this isn't the book to pick. WI

horoscopes

ARIES Consider setting an intention related to matters close to your heart, home, and family when the week starts. Whether you've been wanting to find more time to dedicate to connecting with loved ones or redecorate your home office, coming up with a step-by-step action plan now can be a wonderful, produc tive first step to seeing your vision become a reality. Lucky Numbers: 14, 27, 48

TAURUS You might gain a burst of confidence that you can apply toward infusing your day-to-day life with an improved work/life balance as the week starts. If having a challenging conversation with a high er-up or reworking your family's weekend routine feels like a smart move, you'll have it in you to take care of business in a proactive, self-assured way. Lucky Numbers: 6, 11, 22

GEMINI Make sure to tune in to any musings or daydreams you've been having related to your daily work and moneymaking strategy at the start of the week. There's much to be learned from your deepest intui tive thoughts, which could be the fuel you need to get rolling on an exciting new game plan for amplifying your cash flow. Lucky Numbers: 2, 11, 30

CANCER You could feel compelled dive in to an exciting, ambitious personal goal-getting game plan at the start of the week. You'll do well to be incredibly intentional as you lock in your vision and take steps that reflect your true emotions. Lucky Numbers: 15, 20, 23

LEO In the beginning of the week, the cosmos urges you to spend time meditating on your deep-rooted desires and emotions. You could be figuring out what brings you a feeling of centeredness and how you can infuse your daily life with those elements so that you can get closer to hitting personal goals. Lucky Numbers: 3, 9, 18

VIRGO Feeling you're a part of your greater community and that you're giving back could feel extra im portant to you at the start of the week. Consider taking bold steps to join a local political activism group, start a fundraiser, or work with colleagues on a charitable professional project that sends a meaningful message. The time is right for planting seeds you want to see grow over time, and that could lead to a team win. Lucky Numbers: 5, 16, 43

LIBRA You might feel torn between your intuition and what seems to be the right thing to do on paper at the start of the week. Wanting to adhere to the rules and please higher-ups might be your default mode, but it might be worth striking out against your M.O. and speaking up in order to be true to yourself. You'll do well to get clear on exactly what you want to say before delivering your message, because mis communications are especially possible now. Lucky Numbers: 2, 9, 23

SCORPIO Chances are good you've been nudged in the direction of honing your skill set or planning future travel as the week begins. You'll have ample opportunity to get clear and set your intentions related to learning and personal growth through eye-opening experiences. Being open to a shifting tide and fol lowing your heart first and foremost serve you well. Lucky Numbers: 16, 31, 53

SAGITTARIUS If you've been wanting to be even more direct and confident in your closest relationship and give voice to your deepest desires, you'll get a green light to do that again in the beginning of the week. This could also be a fruitful time to talk about shared assets with a significant other or close loved one. Either way, spending time meditating on what you want now allows you to gain clarity around your tightest bonds, giving you even more focus as you navigate the road ahead. Lucky Numbers: 26, 29, 33

CAPRICORN You've been on a journey, figuring out what you want to give and receive from your closest one-on-one relationships, and you'll have your opportunity to speak your truth in this area of your life as the week starts. If reciprocity hasn't been a factor in a long-term love relationship or friendship, it's time to get in balance or move forward in a way that feels healthy and fulfilling. Lucky Numbers: 3, 7, 30

AQUARIUS You might be inspired to turn over a new leaf related to your diet, fitness, or mind/body well ness routine in the beginning of the week. If you've already gotten the ball rolling, now is the time to get even more clear and precise, taking action that both feels right intuitively and seems like the logical next best step. Whatever moves you make now can lay the groundwork for vitality and balance in the days and weeks ahead. Lucky Numbers: 2, 9, 38

PISCES If you've been wanting your daily schedule to be more balanced because you've been feeling spread too thin, you'll have a sweet opportunity to take productive steps at the start of the week. Even if your ideal scenario (like working from home or finding more time in the day to meditate or do an online workout) feels out of reach, there's merit to setting bold intentions and taking baby steps now. Lucky Numbers: 7, 33, 54

DECEMBER 1 - 7, 2022 35 WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
"Well of Souls: Uncovering the Banjo's Hidden History"
c.2022, W.W. Norton $30 284 pages
DEC 1 - 7, 2022

3 Kristaps Porzingas (6) blocks the attempt during a Washington Wizards win over the Minnesota Timberwolves 142 - 127 at Capital One Arena, in Northwest on Nov. 28. (Abdullah Konte/The Washington Informer)

6 Daniel Gafford (21) blocks the attempt during a Washington Wizards win over the Minnesota Timberwolves 142 - 127 at Capital One Arena, in Northwest on Nov. 28. (Abdullah Konte/The Washington Informer)

5 Montez Sweat (90), sacks Atlanta Falcons Quarterback, Marcus Marriota during a Washington Wizards win 1913 at FedEx Field in Landover on Nov. 27. (Abdullah Konte/The Washington Informer)

4 Brian Robinson, Jr. (8) extends for the touchdown during a Washington Wizards win over the Atlanta Falcons 19-13 at FedEx Field in Landover on Nov. 27. (Abdullah Konte/The Wash ington Informer)

(Far left) Deni Advija (9) leaps for a layup during a Washington Wizards win over the Minnesota Timberwolves 142 - 127 at Capital One Arena, in Northwest on Nov. 28. (Abdullah Konte/The Washington Informer)

new contract would receive an in crease of $50 in annual startup funds that can be used to purchase classroom supplies.

Starting this school year, social workers, school psychologists, special education instructors and other in-de mand employees would also receive a $1,500 stipend.

Once WTU members approve the contract, it will go before the D.C. Council. Given the amount of time it took to solidify a new contract, this particular agreement, intended for 2019-2023, would expire by the end of the school year.

That means an entirely new process would take place within the next six months.

In a joint statement, Bowser, DCPS Chancellor Lewis Ferebee and WTU President Jacqueline Pogue Lyons rec ognized the work of the more than 5,000 DCPS teachers and touted the contract as a means of boosting morale amid an ongoing teacher shortage.

At the beginning of the 2022-2023 academic year, DCPS had more than 100 staff vacancies. By that time, sub stitute teachers, and even DCPS cen tral office staff members, entered the classroom. When DCPS announced incentives for retirees to return to the classroom earlier this year, substitute teachers also stood up in demand of higher wages along with protections and benefits.

In September, Bowser reached a contractual agreement with the Council of School Officers, a group that represents more than 800 school

leaders and service providers. They too had been without a contract for a couple of years. The terms of the new contract included a 12.5 % pay increase over four years and extra duty pay supplement.

On November 23, Pogue-Lyons ex pressed her excitement about reaching a similar milestone.

"We love our teachers, and we want Washington, D.C. to be the number one city for teachers --a city where teachers stay at their school and live in the city," Pogue-Lyons said.

"Beyond pay and benefits, it was important for this agreement to re flect the district has for teachers and the work they do for D.C. students. We will continue to work together and across government to make sure schools, teachers and students have what they need to do well.”

A BIGGER QUESTION OF HOW TO RETAIN TEACHERS

A report compiled by the D.C. State Board of Education last year showed that 25% of District teachers left the classroom within six years -- compared to the pre-pandemic national average of 16 %. During a D.C. Council hear ing earlier this year, teachers, librarians and community members offered sev eral suggestions about how to tackle this issue.

A District parent, who agreed to speak on the condition of anonym ity, said that the teacher shortage has threatened the consistency in her son’s coursework at Jackson-Reed High School in Northwest. She said he switched out of an overcrowded class

that overwhelmed a teacher.

For this parent, teaching has no longer become an attractive profes sion, even for those dedicated to the craft. With everything falling back on teachers, not even some parents have a collaborative spirit, the mother added.

That’s why she thinks that, even with a tentative contract, public school teachers still lose some sort of auton omy.

“Teachers are pigeonholed by rules, regulation and classroom structure,” the parent said.

“Everything is spoon fed to them which removes creativity and [the abil ity to] teach children where they are. Teachers feel a need to adhere to rules and schedules which can be stressful especially if classroom performance isn’t where it needs to be.” WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM 36 DECEMBER 1 - 7, 2022
SPORTS
CONTRACT from Page 23

CAPTURE

For more photos, visit www.washingtoninformer.com

the moment

Holiday decorations in the White House with Dr. Jill Biden, theme “We the People” feature design elements with contributions from Daria Peoples, an elementary school teacher from Las Vegas.

DECEMBER 1 - 7, 2022 37 WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
5 6 (Photos by Marckell Williams/The Washington Informer) 365 (Photos by Ja'Mon Jackson/ The Washington Informer)

and near Metro bus stops and stations.

Sutton-Stephenson said Safe Passage found much success when parents and community leaders interacted with the D.C. Office of the Student Advocate and shared information about neigh borhood conflicts that spilled into Dis trict schools.

“It was a clearly coordinated process with flyers and a toolkit,” said Sut ton-Stephenson, a Ward 8 resident and mother of four District students.

“There was constant engagement and conversation around equity. Par ents were educated and kept in the know about what the program would do. It was really coordinated. It came from a place of advocacy and was stu dent focused.”

MEASURING THE PROGRESS OF AN EVOLVING PROGRAM

The Office of the Deputy Mayor for Education (DME) first established the Safe Passage program in 2017 with a focus on priority areas where the Dis trict Department of Transportation, the Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement and Metropolitan Police Department would coordinate vio lence prevention efforts.

These priority areas, scattered across the city, had often been designated as places near public and public charter schools where fights broke out before and after school hours.

Over the next couple of years, DME expanded the Safe Passage program to include the Safe Blocks and Safe Spots for Students initiatives.

Through Safe Blocks, communi ty-based organizations dispatched per sonnel to stand on the streets in priority areas, watch students and provide assis

5 Parent volunteers join Mayor Muriel Bowser at the start of the school year to help kids commute safely as part of the District of Columbia’s Safe Passage Program. (WI File Photo)

tance should they experience bullying on their daily commute.

As for the Safe Spots for Students ini tiative, neighborhood storefronts that participated in that program opened their establishments to students in need of an immediate refuge from physical harm. DME encouraged students to enter those storefronts to avoid physical altercations known to occur in the high priority areas.

The Washington Informer counted among dozens of businesses east of the Anacostia River that participates in Safe

Spots for Students.

Some participating business owners, including one who requested anonym ity, questioned the effectiveness of the Safe Spots for Students initiative. They said that DME didn’t offer much in terms of communication and training in how to handle situations where stu dents needed protection.

The business owner described the Safe Passage program, in its current state, as a quick fix for problems that run much deeper than what the D.C. government wants to acknowledge. The business owner, citing programs like local nonprofit The Creative School, said that young people need to be more involved in shaping policy related to their safety.

“[We have to] talk to youth and stop creating things based on what we think is good for them,” the business owner said. “If we’re going to commit to youth, we have to show up for them and commit to them all the time like they’re our children. You have to have space and time for them. It’s not like checking off a box.”

THE D.C. COUNCIL CONTINUES ATTEMPT TO CODIFY SAFE PASSAGE

DME didn’t respond to The In former’s inquiry about its current state, directives given to Safe Spots for Students participants and plans to coordinate efforts across the District.

Throughout Safe Passage’s exis tence, elected officials and communi ty organizers raised similar concerns about DME’s long-term dedication to the program. Efforts to codify Safe Passage stalled during the pandem ic. The D.C. Council has since em barked on another attempt.

In October, the D.C. Council Committee on Transportation and

the Environment recommended that the Council approve the Safe Streets for Students Amendment Act. The Committee of the Whole is sched uled to deliberate on that legislation on Dec. 6.

This Safe Streets for Students Act, initially introduced last year as the Safe Passage to Schools Expansion Act, includes a provision that not only establishes the Office of Safe Passage, but clarifies that office’s responsibility in ensuring young people get to and from school safely.

If approved, the Safe Streets for Students Amendment Act would task the Office of Safe Passage with developing citywide and ward-spe cific strategies for student safety, and administering grants to the commu nity-based organizations and hiring personnel.

It will also fund shuttle bus services between both public and charter schools and the nearest Metro sta tions.

While Ward 8 parent and commu nity organizer LaJoy Johnson-Law expressed excitement about the leg islation, she said that inadequate funding jeopardizes its longevity. Johnson-Law recounted seeing Safe Passage personnel near her daugh ter’s school in Northwest earlier this year. She said that experience sparked questions about how to bring the program back to pre-pandemic prominence.

Achieving that goal, Johnson-Law said, requires properly training Safe Passage personnel and violence inter rupters in trauma-informed conflict resolution, and increasing coordina tion between the community and all relevant District agencies to address, and ultimately prevent, conflicts that become into violent and life-threat ening incidents.

“We have to get a good amount of staff in the communities to im plement Safe Passage to make sure there’s better synergy between schools, violence interrupters and legislators so we know what’s going on,” said Johnson-Law, a member of Parents Amplifying Voices in Educa tion, or PAVE.

“If we see things aren’t working, we can’t go on as if everything’s okay,” Johnson-Law said.

“Now we’re on double time be cause we’re trying to solve issues that were already happening in the community. With COVID, you’re dealing with an exasperation of those issues.”

REIMAGINING STUDENTS’ DAILY COMMUTES

Last week, a Metrobus was struck by gunfire during what authorities described as a road rage incident. On the morning of Nov. 17, bullets struck a man and young lady on a Metrobus near KIPP DC Legacy College Prepa ratory Public Charter School in South east. In October, a 15-year-old child was shot aboard a train at Petworth Metro Station in Northwest.

Amid this recent uptick in violence on public transportation, Tara Brown’s daughter went to a school building for the first time since the pandemic start ed. Before then, Brown, a Ward 8 resi dent, kept her daughter in a virtual pro gram offered by a local charter school.

Since the start of the 2022-2023 school year, Brown’s daughter has spent anywhere between 45 minutes and two hours getting to and from school. Ini tially, Brown explored the possibility of her daughter taking Uber rides. How ever, the expenses proved too much of a burden.

The high school sophomore has since grown accustomed to navigating the District on bus and Metro. Some of the strategies Brown discussed with her daughter include standing in the Metro station to wait for the bus if no one’s standing at the bus stop. Brown has also encouraged her daughter to kindly but sternly turn down strangers’ advances and only ride in crowded Metro cars.

As the D.C. Council mulls over the Safe Streets for Students Amendment Act, Brown crosses her fingers for a situation where all students can ride a school bus on their daily commutes.

Last year, she participated in a Safe Passage public forum at R.I.S.E. Demonstration Center in Southeast where she expressed her frustrations with young people going to school on public transportation.

In her most recent criticism of the Safe Passage program, Brown remains adamant about seeing that young people are protected from the dangers of city life while traveling through the District.

“We need a school bus system that gets children to their school safely,” Brown said.

“The Safe Passage program itself isn’t good enough, especially since it doesn’t sound like it’s operating the way it should be,” she added.

“It’s a weak effort because our chil dren are vulnerable on public trans portation. They’re vulnerable to one another and strangers. I would like to see someone pick up my child to and from school.” WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM 38 DECEMBER 1 - 7, 2022
PASSAGE
SAFE
from Page 1

And let us not be weary in well do ing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. — Galatians 6:9-10 (KJV)

On December 25, 2022, I've been on my journey helping others for 22 years. Mom died on Christ mas Day. We are just beginning this season. Let us stop a moment and reflect on our lives as we have lived it this year. Have you been on the right path? You must sow love.

Scripture tells us, “He who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption; but he who sows to the Spirit will from the Spir it reap eternal life. And let us not (therefore!) grow weary in well-do ing, for in due season we shall reap, if we do not lose heart.” Galatians 6 NKJ.

You will reap eternal life, if you sow to the Spirit, that is, if you don’t grow weary in well-doing. While doing some projects, I could not stay the course. During those projects given to me by myself and not from the Holy Spirit did not

the religion corner

WITH LYNDIA GRANT

Don't Grow Weary in Well Doing

work.

During those times, there was a point when my thrill had gone away. I was not on my proper path; I had taken a detour, so my soul was not at peace. It was during this time that I began to be awakened by my alarm cook, 4:00 a.m. each morning to pray, meditate and seek guidance from the Lord. That guid ance came, and now that I am on my proper course, I can see myself writing my column, and enjoying my radio show and coordinating health fairs for a lifetime!

The key here is you must stop and hear from the Holy Spirit; ob viously, you are doing what YOU want to do, and not how many of us quit trying to reach our goal be cause we got tired of failing. Time is most likely the worst enemy of enthusiasm. If someone continues to pursue a goal, no matter what it is, there is a way to make it become a reality, however, if you do not love doing the job, you will quit pretty quickly. Almost every one of you can think of something you were enthusiastic about, yet now, you are not happy about that at all, you get tired quickly.

When you are doing what you have come to this earth to do, you will never tire. If that has happened to you, then you are likely on the wrong road. In fact, you will enjoy doing what God sent you to this earth to do so much, you will do it for free. You will

not charge one red cent. Your joy simply comes from giving this ser vice. It is ‘who’ you are.

It happened to me too, after my mom died. I started learning about how to live a better life when you have Type 2 Diabetes. Was NOT doing any of my work to make money, I did my free work without one thought of making money.

I never wanted another person to suffer like my mom did. Because I gave my all to this project, became consumed with it, loved every min ute of writing my column about it, and brought health experts to my radio show; it worked.

Look for my series again about how to live a better quality life while living with Type 2 Diabetes. It is a 5-7 part series, based on re search and my training as a student of this disease that ruins the lives of so many. They lose body parts, when parts of your body are no lon ger circulating the blood through out your body; parts of your body die off, just like a rotten spot of an apple. We can cut that rotten part off the apple and still eat it.

It is quite different when we have to cut off our body parts. It functions to a point, but it is never a quality life as you previously en joyed. Please, do not grow weary in caring for yourself, choose life, and that more abundantly. WI

DECEMBER 1 - 7, 2022 39 WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER EMPLOYMENT LAWYERS (301) 864-6070 jmccollum@jmlaw.net www.jmlaw.net(301) 864-6070 SERVING MARYLAND, DC, & NORTH CAROLINA
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RELIGION Dr. E. Gail Anderson Holness / Senior Pastor Rev. Ali Gail Holness-Roland / Assistant & Youth Pastor 12801 Old Fort Road • Ft. Washington, MD 20744 Office (301) 292.6323 • FAX (301) 292.2164 Service and Times Sunday Worship 10:15 am Sunday Church School 11:00 am Youth Sunday every 4th Sunday Prayer Call @ Noon every Tuesday & Thursday 978.990.5166 code: 6166047# Virtual Bible Study Wednesday Facebook & Zoom 7:00 pm “A Growing Church for a Coming Christ” www.adamsinspirationalamec.org Adams Inspirational A.M.E. Church

Church of Living Waters

Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church

Church

Bishop Michael C. Turner, Sr. Senior Pastor

9161 Hampton Overlook Capitol Heights, MD 20743

Phone: 301-350-2200 / Fax: 301-499-8724

Service and Times

Sunday Worship Times : 7:30 AM 7 10:00 AM

Communion: 1st Sunday

Sunday School: 9:00 AM

Bible Study: Wednesday, 12 Noon Bible Study in homes: Tuesday 7:00 PM

Website: www.themiraclecenterFMBC.com

Email: Miraclecenterfmbs@gmail.com

Motto: “We Walk by Faith, Not by Sight”

Blessed Word of Life Church

Dr. Dekontee L. & Dr. Ayele A. Johnson Pastors

4001 14th Street, NW Washington, DC 20011 (202) 265-6147 Office 1-800 576-1047 Voicemail/Fax Service and Times

Sunday School: 9:30 AM

Sunday Morning Worship Service: 11:00 AM Communion Service: First Sunday Prayer Service/Bible Study: Tuesday, 6:30 PM www.blessedwordoflifechurch.org E-mail: church@blessedwordoflifechurch.org

Rev. Louis B. Jones II Pastor

700 Street, N.E. Washington, D.C. 20002 (202) 547-8849

Service and Times

Worship Sundays: 7:30 & 11:00 AM

5th Sundays: 9:30 AM

3rd Sundays: Baptism & Holy Communion Prayer & Praise: Wednesdays @ Noon & 6:30 PM www.pilgrimbaptistdc.org

3845 South Capitol Street Washington, DC 20032

(202) 562-5576 (Office) / (202) 562-4219 (Fax)

Services and Times

Sundays: 10:00am Worship Services

Bible Study: Wonderful Wednesdays in Worship and the Word Bible Study Wednesdays 12:00 Noon; 6:30 PM (dinner @ 5:30 PM) Sunday School: 9:00 AM – Hour of Power

“An inclusive ministry where all are welcomed and affirmed.” www.covenantdc.org

Rev. Paul Carrette Senior Pastor Harold Andrew Assistant Pastor

4915 Wheeler Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 301-894-6464

Service and Times

Sunday Service: 8:30am& 11:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM Communion Service: First Sunday www.livingwatersmd.org

St. Stephen Baptist Church

Bishop Lanier C. Twyman, Sr. Senior Pastor

5757 Temple Hill Road, Temple Hills, MD 20748 Office 301-899-8885 – fax 301-899-2555

Services and Times

Sunday Early Morning Worship: 7:45 AM Church School: 9:30 AM

Sunday Morning Worship: 10:45 AM

Tuesday: 7:00pm/Kingdom Building Bible Institute

Wednesday , 12:30 PM Mid-Day Bible Study

Wednesday: Prayer/Praise/Bible Study-7:30 PM Baptism & Communion Service: 4th Sunday – 10:30 AM

“We are one in the Spirit” www.ssbc5757.org / E-mail: ssbc5757@verizon.net

Rev. Dr. Michael E. Bell, Sr., Pastor

2498 Alabama Ave., SE Washington D.C. 20020

Office: (202) 889-7296 / Fax: (202) 889-2198 www.acamec.org

Service and Times

Sunday Worship Services: 8:00am and 11:00 AM

Sunday Church School 9:15am & Sunday Adult Forum Bible Study - 10:30 AM

2nd & 4th Monday Women’s Bible Study: 6:30 PM

Tuesday Jr./Sr. Bible Study: 10:00 AM

Tuesday Topical Bible Study: 6:30 PM

Tuesday New Beginnings Bible Study: 6:30 PM

Wednesday Pastoral Bible Study: 6:30 PM

Wednesday Children’s Bible Study: 6:30 PM

Thursday Men’s Bible Study: 6:30 PM

Friday before 1st Sunday Praise & Worship Service: 6:30 PM

Saturday Adult Bible Study: 10:00 AM

“The Amazing, Awesome, Audacious Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church”

Third Street Church of God

Rev. Cheryl J. Sanders, Th.D. Senior Pastor

1204 Third Street, NW Washington, DC 20001 202-347-5889 office / 202-638-1803 fax

Services and Times

Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM

Sunday Community Worship Service: 8:30 AM

“Ambassadors for Christ to the Nation’s Capital” www.thirdstreet.org

Live Stream Sunday Worship Service begins @ 12:00 noon www.thirdstreet.org

Rev. Dr. Alton W. Jordan Pastor

800 Street, NE - Washington, DC 20002 202-548-0707 - Fax No. 202-548-0703

Service and Times

Sunday Morning Worship: 11:00 AM

Holy Communion: 1st Sunday Sunday School: 9:45 AM

Men’s Monday Bible Study: 7:00 PM

Wednesday Night Bible Study: 7:00 PM

Women’s Ministry Bible Study: 3rd Friday -7:00 PM

Computer Classes: Announced Family and Marital Counseling by appointment

E-mail: Crusadersbaptistchurch@verizon.net www.CrusadersBaptistChurch.org / “God is Love”

Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church

Bishop Alfred A. Owens, Jr.; Senior Bishop & Evangelist Susie C. Owens – Co-Pastor

610 Rhode Island Avenue, NE Washington, DC 20002

(202) 529-4547 office • (202) 529-4495 fax

Sunday Worship Service: 8:00 AM and 10:45 AM

Sunday Youth Worship Services: 1st & 4th 10:45 AM; 804 R.I. Ave., NE

5th 8 AM & 10:45 AM; Main Church Prayer Services

Tuesday – Noon, Wednesday 6:00 AM & 6:30 PM

Calvary Bible Institute: Year-Round Contact Church Communion Every 3rd Sunday The Church in The Hood that will do you Good! www.gmchc.org emailus@gmchc.org

Reverend Dr. Calvin L. Matthews Senior Pastor

1200 Isle of Patmos Plaza, Northeast Washington, DC 20018

Office: (202) 529-6767 - Fax: (202) 526-1661

Service and Times

Sunday Worship Services: 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM

Holy Communion: 2nd Sunday at 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM Sunday Church School: 9:20 AM

Seniors Bible Study: Tuesdays at 10:30 AM

Noon Day Prayer Service: Tuesdays at Noon Bible Study: Tuesdays at 7 PM

Motto: “A Ministry of Reconciliation Where Everybody is Somebody!” Website: http://isleofpatmosbc.org Church Email: ipbcsecretary@verizon.net

St Marks Baptist Come Worship with us...

Dr. Raymond T. Matthews Pastor and First Lady Marcia Matthews

St. Mark's Baptist Church 624 Underwood Street, NW Washington, dc 20011

Services and Times

Sunday School: 9:00 AM Worship Service: 10:00 AM Wed. Noon Day prayer service

Thur. Prayer service: 6:45 PM

Thur. Bible Study: 7:15 PM

Turning Hearts Church

Virgil

421 Alabama Ave. SE Washington, DC 20032

Phone: 202-746-0113 Fax: 301-843-2445

Service and Times

Sunday School: 10:15 AM

Sunday Worship Service: 11;15 AM

Children’s Church: 11:15 AM

Tuesday Bible Study: 6:30 PM

Motto : “A Great Commitment to the

Great Commandment”

Website: www.turningheartschurchdc.org Email: gr8luv4u2@gmail.com

Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 AM

Communion every Sunday: 11:00 AM Sunday School: 10:00 AM Bible Study Tuesday: 12 Noon Pastor’s Bible Study Tuesday: 6:30 PM Motto: “Discover Something Wonderful” Website: 12thscc.org / Email: Twelfthstcc@aol.com

Reverend Dr. Paris L Smith, Sr. Senior Pastor

901 Third Street N.W. Washington, DC. 20001 Phone (202) 842-3411

Fax (202) 682-9423

Service and Times

Sunday Church School : 9:00 AM

Sunday Morning Worship: 10:10 AM

Bible Study Tuesday: 6: 00 PM

Prayer Service Tuesday: 7:00 PM

Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday 10:10 AM themcbc.org

Reverend John W. Davis

Pastor

5101 14th Street, NW / Washington, DC 20011

Phone: 202-726-2220 Fax: 202-726-9089

Service and Times

Sunday Worship Service - 8:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.

Children’s Church - 11:00 a.m. (1st & 3rd Sundays)

Communion 10 a.m. 4th Sunday

Sunday School - 9:15 a.m. (4th Sunday 8:15 a.m.)

Prayer Meeting & Bible Study - Wednesday 7:00 p.m.

“A Church with a past to remember – and a future to mold” www.mtzbcdc.org

Mt. Zion Baptist Church headline and photo for

John F. Johnson

Reverend Dr.

1306 Vermont Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20005

Service and Times

Divine Worship, Sunday 10:00 a.m.

Communion 1st and 3rd Sunday

“Friendliest Church in the City”

Website: mountolivetdc.org Email: mtolivedc@gmail.com

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM 40 DECEMBER 1 - 7, 2022
Crusader Baptist Church Isle of Patmos Baptist Church Pilgrim Baptist Church The Miracle Center of Faith Missionary Baptist Reverend William Young IV Pastor Covenant Baptist United Church  of Christ
Rev. Dr. Henry Y. White 2562 MLK Jr. Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Adm. Office
Email:
Service and Times Sunday
Service:
AM Sunday Church
AM Bible Study
Noon
PM
202-678-2263
Campbell@mycame.org
Worship
10:00
School: 8:45
Wednesday: 12:00
Wednesday: 7:00
Thursday: 7:00 PM “Reaching Up To Reach Out” Mailing Address : Campbell AME Church 2502 Stanton Road SE - Washington, DC 20020
Campbell AME Church Reverend Dr. Paul H. Saddler Senior Pastor
(Disciples of Christ) 1812 12th Street, NW - Washington, DC 20009 Phone: 202-265-4494 Fax: 202 265 4340
Twelfth Street Christian Church Mount Carmel Baptist Church
K. Thomas, Sr. Senior Pastor/ Teacher
RELIGION
LIF
- MALCOLMX DAY
Mount Olivet Lutheran Church

Zion Baptist Church

Rev. Keith W. Byrd, Sr. Pastor

4850 Blagdon Ave, NW Washington D.C 20011 Phone (202) 722-4940 - Fax (202) 291-3773

Service and Times 9:00 a.m. – Sunday School 10:15 a.m. – Worship Service Wed. Noon: Dea. Robert Owens Bible Study

7 PM Pastor’s Bible Study Ordinance of Baptism 2nd Sunday, Holy Communion 4th Sunday Mission: Zion shall: Enlist Sinners, Educate Students, Empower the Suffering, Encourage the Saints, And Exalt our Savior. (Acts 2: 41-47) www.zionbaptistchurchdc.org

St. Luke Baptist Church

Rev. Aubrey C. Lewis

Pastor

1415 Gallatin Street, NW Washington, DC 20011-3851 P: (202) 726-5940

Service and Times Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM Sunday School: 9:15 AM

Holy Communion: 11:00 a.m., 3rd Sun.

Bible Institute: Wednesday - 1:30 PM Prayer Meeting: Wednesday - 12:00 Noon

Rev. Dr. James Coleman Pastor

2001 North Capitol St, N.E. Washington, DC 20002 Phone (202) 832-9591

Service and Times

Sunday Church School – 9:30 AM

Sunday Worship Service – 11:00 AM

Holy Communion – 1st Sunday at 11:00 AM

Prayer – Wednesdays, 6:00 PM

Bible Study – Wednesdays, 7:00 PM

Christian Education / School of Biblical Knowledge Saturdays, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM, Call for Registration

Website: www.allnationsbaptistchurch.com

All Nations Baptist Church – A Church of Standards

Israel Baptist Church

Rev. Lance Aubert

Imterim Pastor

1251 Saratoga Ave., NE Washington, DC 20018 (202) 269-0288

Service and Times

Sunday Worship Service: 10:45 AM Sunday School: 9:15 AM

Holy Communion1st Sunday: 10:45 AM Prayer Service: Wednesday at 6:30 PM Bible Study: Wednesday at 7:00 PM Bible Study: Tuesday at 10:30 AM

Rev. Daryl F. Bell Pastor

2324 Ontario Road, NW Washington, DC 20009 (202) 232-1730

Service and Times

Sunday School: 9:30 AM

Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 AM

Baptismal Service: 1st Sunday – 9:30 AM

Holy Communion: 1st Sunday – 11:00 AM

Prayer Meeting & Bible Study: Wednesday -7:30 PM

“Where Jesus is the King”

2409 Ainger Pl.,SE – WDC 20020 (202) 678-0884 – Office / (202) 678-0885 – Fax

“Moving Faith Forward” 0% Perfect . . 100% Forgiven!

Service and Times

Sunday Worship: 8:00 AM & 10:45 AM

Baptism/Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday Family Bible Study Tuesdays – 6:30 PM Prayer Service: Tuesdays – 8:00 PM www.emmanuelbaptistchurchdc.org

Sermon On The Mount Temple Of Joy Apostolic Faith

Dr. Earl D. Trent Senior Pastor

623 Florida Ave.. NW - WDC. 20001

Church (202) 667-3409 / Study (202) 265-0836 Home Study (301) 464-8211 / Fax (202) 483-4009

Service and Times

Sunday Worship Services: 10:00 AM

Sunday Church School: 8:45 – 9:45 AM

Holy Communion: Every First Sunday Intercessory Prayer: Monday – 7:00-8:00 PM

Pastor’s Bible Study: Wednesday –7:45 PM

Midweek Prayer: Wednesday – 7:00 PM Noonday Prayer Every Thursday

Matthews Memorial Baptist Church

C.

4504 Gault Place, N.E. / Washington, D.C 20019 202-397-7775 – 7184

Service and Times

Sunday Church School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service : 11:00 AM

The Lord’s Supper 1st Sunday Prayer & Praise Services: Wednesday 7:00 PM Bible Study: 7:30 PM Saturday before 4th Sunday Men, Women, Youth Discipleship Ministries: 10:30 AM A Christ Centered Church htubc@comcast.net

Noontime Bible Study: Tuesday @ 12:00pm

Prayer Meeting/Bible Study: Tuesday @7:00pm

Theme: "Building On A Firm Foundation"

Email: revprbstmbc@gmail.com Website: www.stmatthewsbaptist.org

mtmoriah@mountmoriahchurch.org

Rev. Richard B. Black Interim Pastor

1301 North Carolina Ave. N E Washington, D C 20002

202 543 1318 - lincolnpark@lpumcdc.org www.lpumcdc.org

Service and Times

Sunday Worship: 10:00 AM

Holy Communion: First Sunday 10:00 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday @ 12 noon and 6:30 PM

Motto: "Faith On The Hill"

Damion M. Briggs Pastor

8213 Manson Street Landover, MD 20785 Tel: (301) 322-9787 Fax: (301) 322-9240

Service and Times

Early Morning Message: 7:30 AM

Sunday Morning Worship Service: 10:00 AM

Sunday Church School: 9:00 AM

Holy Communion: 1st Sunday 7:30 AM & 10:00 AM

Prayer, Praise and Testimony: Wednesday 7:00 PM Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM

“Real Worship for Real People” Website: www.easterncommunity.org Email: ecc@easterncommunity.org

Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church

The Rev. E. Bernard Anderson Priest

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

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

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

Elder Herman L. Simms Pastor

5606 Marlboro Pike District Heights, MD 20747 301-735-6005

Service and Times Sunday Apostolic Worship Services 11:00 A.M and 5:00 PM Communion and Feet Wash 4th Sunday at 5:00 PM

Prayer/Seeking: Wednesday at 8:00 PM

Apostolic in Doctrine, Pentecostal in Experience, Holiness in Living, Uncompromised and Unchanged. The Apostolic Faith is still alive –Acts 2:42

New Commandment Baptist Church

Rev. Stephen E. Tucker Senior Pastor 13701 Old Jericho Park Road Bowie, MD. 20720 (301) 262-0560

Service and Times Sunday Worship: 11 AM Sunday School: 10 AM Wednesday Mid-Week Worship, Prayer & Bible Study: Wed. 7 PM

“A Church Where Love Is Essential and Praise is Intentional”

Dr. Joseph D. Turner / Senior Pastor

2616 MLK Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Office 202-889-3709 Fax 202-678-3304

Service and Times

Early Worship Service: 8:00 AM Worship Service: 11:00 AM

New Member’s Class: 9:45 AM

Holy Communion: 1st Sunday, 11:00 AM Church School: 9:45 AM Wednesday 12:00pm Bible Study

Prayer, Praise and Bible Study: 7:00 PM Saturday Bible Study: 11:00 AM Baptism 4th Sunday: 11:00 AM

“Empowered to love and Challenged to Lead a Multitude of Souls to Christ”

Peace Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Michael T. Bell 712 18th Street, NE Washington, DC 20002 Phone 202-399-3450/ Fax 202-398-8836

Service and Times Sunday Early Morning Prayer & Bible Study Class: 8:00 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 10:00 AM Wednesday Service: 12:00 PM

“The Loving Church of the living lord “ Email Address: admin@pbc712.org

Promised Land Baptist Church

Rev. Oran W. Young Pastor

602 N Street NW - Washington, D.C. 20001 Office:(202) 289-4480

Fax: (202) 289-4595

Service and Times

Sunday School for All Ages: 8:00 AM

Sunday Worship Services: 9:30 AM

Midday Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 11:30AM

Evening Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 7:00 PM

Laymen's League: Thursday 7:00 PM

Email: Froffice@firstrising.org Website: www.firstrising.org

“Changing Lives On Purpose “

Kelechi Ajieren Coordinator

6839 Eastern Avenue, R1 Takoma Park, MD 20912 (202) 556-7065

Service and Times

Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 AM Wednesday Bible Study: 7:00 PM Friday Evening Service: 7:00 PM ; Last Friday

“…Giving Your Life a Meaning”

www.Christembassydc.org Christ.embassy.dc@hotmail.com

Pennsylvania Ave. Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Kendrick E. Curry Pastor 3000 Pennsylvania Ave.. S.E Washington, DC 20020 202 581-1500

Service and Times Sunday Church School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 AM Monday Adult Bible Study: 7:00 PM Wednesday Youth & Adult Activities: 6:30 PM

Prayer Service Bible Study

Mt. Horeb Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. H. B. Sampson, III Pastor

2914 Bladensburg Road, NE Wash., DC 20018

Office: (202) 529-3180 - Fax: (202) 529-7738

Service and Times Worship Service: 7:30 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Worship Service: 10:30 AM Holy Communion: 4th Sunday 7:30AM & 10:30 AM Prayer Services:Tuesday 7:30 PM. Wednesday 12 Noon Email:mthoreb@mthoreb.org Website:www.mthoreb.org For further information, please contact me at (202) 529-3180.

DECEMBER 1 - 7, 2022 41 WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
Lincoln Park United Methodist Church
Curtis l. Staley Pastor
Alabama Ave., S.E.- Washington, D.C. 20032 P:
- F: (202)
and Times
Service:
AM
all ages:
AM
Sunday
Christ Embassy DC
Rev.
621
(202) 561-1111
561-1112 Service
Sunday
10:00
Sunday School for
8:30
1st
Baptism: 10:00 AM 2nd Sunday Holy Communion:10:00 AM Tuesday: Bible Study: 6:30 PM Prayer Meeting: 7:45 PM Motto: “Where God is First and Where Friendly People Worship”
Peter R. Blue Sr. Pastor
Rehoboth Baptist Church
Reverend
2001 Brooks Drive  District Heights MD. 20744 240.838.7074 Service and Times
Sunday Worship Experience: 10:15am Sunday School: 9:00am
Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday Morning
St. Matthews Baptist Church First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church All Nations Baptist Church Reverend Christopher L. Nichols Pastor Emmanuel Baptist Church Florida Avenue Baptist Church Holy Trinity United Baptist Church Rev. Dr. George Gilbert Senior Pastor
Bishop Adrian A. Taylor, Sr. Pastor 7801 Livingston Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 301-534-5471 Service and Times Sabbath School 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 AM Service 11:00 AM Praise & Worship Preaching 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM Motto:
Keeping It Real for Real.”
“A Church
Website: Shabbathcommandmentchruch.org Email: Praisebetoyhwh@gmail.com
Shabbath Commandment Church
Dr. Lucius M. Dalton Senior Pastor 1636 East Capitol Street, NE Washington, DC 20003 Telephone: 202-544-5588 Fax: 202-544-2964 Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 7:45 AM and 10:45 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sundays at 7:45 AM & 10:45 AM Sunday School: 9:30 AM Prayer & Praise Service: Tuesdays at 12 noon & 6:30 PM Bible Study: Tuesdays at 1 pm and 7 PM Youth Bible Study: Fridays at 7 PM Web: www.mountmoriahchurch.org Email:
King Emmanuel Baptist Church Mount Moriah Baptist Church Eastern Community Baptist Church
RELIGION
Pastor
Van
D.C.
and Times
am
Rev Kevin A. O'Bryant
401
Buren St., NW, Washington
20012 Office (202)-882-8331 Service
Sunday Worship 10:30
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

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

COLUMBIA

SUPERIOR

2022 ADM 001125

Lynne Michele Pena Decedent

Dorian Alan Pena, whose address is 6003 New Forest Ct. Unit 3, Waldorf, Md 20603, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Lynne Michele Pena who died on September 25, 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 5/17/2023. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Reg ister of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/17/2023, or be forever barred.

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

Date of first publication: 11/17/2022

Dorian Alan Pena

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens

Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2022 ADM 1069

Dewayne Cornelius Chisholm Decedent

William C. McCaskill 6448 Bock Road Oxon Hill, Maryland 20745 Attorney

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

Deshaliah D. Jeffries, whose address is 3912 Regency Parkway, #305 Suitland, Maryland 20748, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Dewayne Cornelius Chisholm who died on June 4, 2020 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/17/2023. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/17/2023, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/17/2022

Deshaliah D. Jeffries

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2022 ADM 000851

Estate of Joseph Matthew Shea aka Joseph M. Shea

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE

Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Deanna C. Williams and William D. Shea for standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representatives. Unless a responsive pleading in the form of a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is filed in this Court within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth.

In the absence of a will or proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution, enter an order determining that the decedent died intestate appoint an unsupervised personal representative

Date of first publication: 11/17/2022

Jefferey K. Gordon 5335 Wisconsin Ave., NW #700 Washington, DC 20015 Petitioner/Attorney:

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

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

2021 ADM 000299

Harold McCoy Decedent

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

Nina McCoy Hawkins, whose address is 309 Reid St. E Wilson NC 27893, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Harold McCoy who died on May 2, 2020 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/17/2023. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/17/2023, or be forever barred.

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

Date of first publication: 11/17/2022

Nina McCoy Hawkins Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2022 ADM 000774

Frank Spellman Borris aka Frank S. Borris Decedent

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

2022 ADM 001147

Arnell B. Stewart Decedent

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

Roland S. Muse, whose address is 401 Massachusetts Ave., NW, Unit PH203, Washington, DC 20001, was appointed

Personal Representative of the estate of Clarence L. Muse aka Clarence Lee Muse who died on September 30, 2021 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 May 17, 2023. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before May 17, 2023, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: November 17, 2022

Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Law Office of Robert P. Newman Robert P. Newman, Esquire 801 Wayne Avenue, Suite 400 Silver Spring, Md 20910 Attorney

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

Catherine M. Borris, whose address is 6705 5th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20012, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Frank Spellman Borris aka Frank S. Borris who died on 4/11/2017 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 5/17/2023. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/17/2023, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/17/2022

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Wills

Washington Informer

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

Chesterfield R. Stewart III, oldest son, whose address is 2308 Good Hope Road, SE Apt 40, was appointed Personal Repre sentative of the estate of Arnell B Stewart who died on March 12, 2021 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 5/17/2023. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/17/2023, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/17/2022

Chesterfield R. Stewart III Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality. Notice of White Flag Surrender.

Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: "Amy Shondel Nichole Hines© ", in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: “ AMY SHONDEL NICHOLE HINES ", corp.sole Dba.: " AMY S HINES © ", AMY SHONDEL NICHOLE HINES, AMY SHONDEL HINES, HINES AMY, AMY SHONDEL NICOLE HINES, AMY S HINES having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a: Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, Al Maghreb Al Aqsa, Estados al Marikanos, Societas Republicae Ea Al Maurikanuus Estados, The Constitution for the united States of America, Article III Section 2, The Lieber Code, Hague Conventions of 1899 & 1907, The Geneva Conventions, [ United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples ], and all natural laws gov erning moors, and hereby declare and proclaim my nationality in good faith as a: Moorish American. I am that I am: " Amy Shondel Nichole Hines © ", from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: "Ceasia Djehuti © ". Notice of White Flag Surrender: as "hors de combat", pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article III, as a minister of The Moorish Empire, and Internationally Protected Person. Notice of: LAWS AND CUSTOMS OF WAR ON LAND HAGUE, IV), ARTICLE: 32, 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Claim pursuant to Public Law 87-846, TITLE II, SEC. 203. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title: This order is to pre serve legal and equitable title and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, Re: STATE OF FLORIDA BUREAU OF VITAL STATISTIS : STATE FILE NUMBER, 109-88-004525: " AMY SHONDEL NICHOLE HINES © ", is as a special deposit order, conveyed to " DJEHUTI TRUST© ". All property of the same issue and amount, in like kind and specie, is to be returned fully intact, as a Special Deposit order of the Depositor / Beneficiary / Bailor / Donor / Principal / Creditor: " Ceasia Djehuti © ", nom deguerre: " Amy Shondel Nichole Hines© ", as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of : " DJEHUTI TRUST© ", an Inter Vivos Unincorporated Divine Grantor Trust. This deposit is not to be commingled with general assets of any bank, nor depositary / trustee / agent / bailee / donee / debtor. This deposit is not limited to, but including: discharge and set off, of any and all outstanding liabilities as accord and satisfaction. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente.

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

2021 ADM 001449

Jacqueline Laverne Martin aka Jacqui Laverne Martin Decedent

Ashley E. Wiggins Griffin, Murphy & Wiggins, LLP 1912 Sunderland Place, NW Washington, DC 20036 Attorney

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

Juanita Waller, whose address is 748 Oglethorpe Street, NE, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representa tive of the estate of Jacqueline Laverne Martin aka Jacqui La verne Martin who died on 11/11/2020 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/17/2023. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/17/2023, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/17/2022

Juanita Waller Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality. Notice of White Flag Surrender.

Notice of Special Appearance : am that I am: " Derieka Valen cia Mahoney", in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: “ DERIEKA VALENCIA MAHONEY ", corp.sole Dba.: " DERIEKA V MAHONEY© ", DERIEKA MAHONEY, Derieka Mahoney, Derieka V Mahoney, derieka v mahoney, derieka valencia mahoney, derieka mahoney, having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affi1985rms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a:  Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, Al Maghreb Al Aqsa, Estados al Marikanos, Societas Republicae Ea Al Maurikanuus Estados, The Constitution for the united States of America, Article III Section 2, The Lieber Code, Hague Con ventions of 1899 & 1907, The Geneva Conventions, [ United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples ], and all natural laws governing moors, and hereby declare and proclaim my nationality in good faith as a:  Moorish American. I am that I am: " Derieka Valencia Mahoney© ", from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: " deja songbird bleu ". Notice of White Flag Surrender: as "hors de combat", pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article III, as a minister of The Moorish Empire, and Internationally Protected Person. Notice of: LAWS AND CUSTOMS OF WAR ON LAND HAGUE, IV), ARTICLE: 32, 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Claim pursuant to Public Law 87-846, TITLE II, SEC. 203. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title : This order is to preserve legal and equitable title , and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, Re: STATE OF HAWAII DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH: STATE FILE NUMBER, 151 1985 - 002664: " DERIEKA VALENCIA MAHONEY© ", is as a special deposit order, conveyed to " Musiqal Babiez© ". All property of the same issue and amount, in like kind and specie, is to be returned fully intact, as a Special Deposit order of the Depositor / Beneficiary / Bailor / Donor / Principal / Creditor: " deja songbird bleu© ", nom deguerre: " Derieka Valencia Ma honey ", as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of : " Musiqal Babiez© ", an Inter Vivos Unincorporated Divine Grantor Trust. This deposit is not to be commingled with general assets of any bank, nor depositary / trustee / agent / bailee / donee debtor. This deposit is not limited to, but including: discharge and set off, of any and all outstanding liabilities as accord and satisfac tion. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente.

42 DECEMBER 1 - 7, 2022
THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM
Catherine M. Borris Nicole Stevens Register of
2022 ADM 000005
SUPERIOR
COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
Clarence L. Muse aka Clarence Lee Muse Decedent
COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF
Washington Informer Probate
Division
Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality.

Notice of White Flag Surrender.

Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: "Melvin Castrol Lett© ", in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: “MELVIN CASTROL LETT", corp.sole Dba.: "MELVIN C. LETT © ", “Lett, Melvin Castrol ©” having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a: Moorish American, but not a citi zen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, Al Maghreb Al Aqsa, Estados al Marikanos, Societas Republicae Ea Al Maurikanuus Estados, The Constitution for the united States of America, Article III Sec tion 2, The Lieber Code, Hague Conventions of 1899 & 1907, The Geneva Conventions, [ United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples ], and all natural laws governing moors, and hereby declare and proclaim my nationality in good faith as a: Moorish American. I am that I am: "Melvin Castrol Lett© ", from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: "marcel melvin castrol lett-bey© ". Notice of White Flag Surrender: as "hors de combat", pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article III, as a minister of The Moorish Empire, and Internationally Protected Person. Notice of: LAWS AND CUSTOMS OF WAR ON LAND HAGUE, IV), ARTICLE: 32, 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Claim pursuant to Public Law 87-846, TITLE II, SEC. 203. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title : This order is to preserve legal and equitable title , and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, Re: State Department of Health and Senior Services Bureau of Vital Statistics: STATE FILE NUMBER #: 112-1986 6047430© ", is as a special deposit order, conveyed to "The Hokage Trust© ". All property of the same issue and amount, in like kind and specie, is to be re turned fully intact, as a Special Deposit order of the Depositor / Beneficiary / Bailor / Donor / Principal / Creditor: "melvin castrol lett-bey© ", nom deguerre: "Melvin Castrol Lett© ", as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of : "The Hokage Trust © ", an Inter Vivos Unincorporated Divine Grantor Trust. This deposit is not to be commingled with general assets of any bank, nor depositary / trustee / agent / bailee / donee / debtor. This deposit is not limited to, but including: discharge and set off, of any and all outstanding liabilities as accord and satisfaction. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente.

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

2022 ADM 000342

James Henry Sedgewick Decedent

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

Michelle L. Sedgewick, whose address is 1532 Independence Avenue, SE, Washington, DC 20003, was appointed Personal

Representative of the estate of James Henry Sedgewick who died on July 22, 1960 without a Will, and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding.

Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 6/1/2023. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 6/1/2023, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 12/1/2022

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

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

2022 ADM 001258

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

Raymond Longshore, whose address is 1010 42nd Street NE Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Repre sentative of the estate of Betty Jean Longshore who died on January 8, 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 6/1/2023. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 6/1/2023, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 12/1/2022

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

2022 ADM 1263

Michael K. Bonner Decedent

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

Michelle Bonner and Mickisha Bonner, whose addresses are 1400 Fairmont St, NW #315 WDC 20009 and 1400 Fairmont St. NW #315 WDC 20009, were appointed Personal Representa tives of the estate of Michael K. Bonner who died on 2/25/2011 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 6/1/2023. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Reg ister of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 6/1/2023, or be forever barred.

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

Date of first publication: 12/1/2022

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2022 FEP 000130

July 8, 1962 Date of Death

James T. Hall Sr. Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESEN TATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

James T. Hall III whose address is 7704 Bock Road Fort Washington, MD 20744 was appointed personal representative of the estate of James Thomas Hall, Sr., deceased, by the St. Mary’s County Circuit Court for St. Mary’s County, State of Maryland, on September 30, 2022.

Service of process may be made upon Jaimee A. Hall 3326 N Street, SE 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 estate.

513 Irving Street, NW Washington DC 20010. 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: 12/1/2022

COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2022 ADM 001242

Suren G. Adams, Esq. Adams Law Office, LLC 4201 Northview Drive Suite 401 Bowie, MD 20716 Attorney

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

Mandel Sanders and Jamie Coleman, whose addresses are 4235 71st Avenue, Hyattsville, MD and 12305 Burning Oak Court, Waldorf MD, were appointed Personal Representa tives of the estate of Charlotte Johnson Sanders who died on 6/4/2020 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 6/1/2023. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 6/1/2023, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 12/01/2022

Michelle L. Sedgewick

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Raymond Longshore Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Michelle Bonner Mickisha Bonner Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2022 ADM 000371

George Ricks Decedent

Leta M. Jackson, Esq. Legal Counsel for the Elderly 601 E St., NW Washington, DC 20049 Attorney

OF

NOTICE

APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Vivian Ricks, whose address is 4425 A St., SE, #1, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of George Ricks who died on May 30, 2020 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or be fore 6/1/2023. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 6/1/2023, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 12/1/2022

Personal Representative

Patricia Destiny Clark Decedent

Gretchyn G. Meinken 616 N. Washington Street Alexandria, VA 22314

Attorney

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

Richard L. Counts, III and Charlotte Lee Gordon, whose addresses are 28631 Hope Circle, MD 21601 and 129 N. Washington Street, Easton, MD 21601, were appointed

Personal Representatives of the estate of Patricia Destiny Clark who died on 12/29/2021 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 6/1/2023. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Reg ister of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 6/1/2023, or be forever barred.

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

Date of first publication: 12/1/2022

Richard L. Counts, III Charlotte Lee Gordon Personal Representative

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

James T. Hall III Personal Representative Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2022 ADM 001249

2022 ADM 00065

Cleo Juanita Wise Decedent

Stevaughn J. Bush 600 Maryland Avenue SW Suite 800E Washington, DC 20024 Attorney

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

Terry Ann Wise Watson, whose address is 7426 8th Street NW, Washington DC 20012, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Cleo Juanita Wise who died on May 30, 1998 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 6/1/2023. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Reg ister of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 6/1/2023, or be forever barred.

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

Date of first publication: 12/1/2022

Terry Ann Wise Watson

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

DECEMBER 1 - 7, 2022 43 WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
Vivian Ricks TRUE TEST COPY SUPERIOR Charlotte Johnson Sanders Decedent
TEST COPY
Washington Informer LEGAL NOTICES
Mandel Sanders Jamie Coleman Personal Representative
TRUE
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

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Immediately after the release of Youngkin’s proposal, the Virginia Ed ucation Association released a state ment denouncing it. The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) also weighed in, calling Youngkin an agent who’s advancing a movement that has gained traction over the last few years.

“While revisionist history being turned into curriculum is not new, this latest example shows how quickly extremist rhetoric can morph into real policy that hurts our kids and com munities,” said Fedrick Ingram, AFT’s secretary-treasurer.

“Yes, our country’s story is trou bled and bloody – from the harried immigrants arriving on the shore, to the decimation of Indigenous people and their native lands, and to those brought by force through the barba rism of the transatlantic slave trade,” Ingram added.

“But our story is also inspirational –because through it all, we still believe in chasing the dream of a more perfect union that brings freedom and unity for everyone. The proposed chang es by Youngkin’s hand-picked board seem hellbent on negating that expe rience in favor of one where race and ethnicity play almost no role.”

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from Page 22
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sentence from an open page when my decision hung in the balance.

For all these I make an act of Thanks giving this day.

I pass before me the mainsprings of my heritage:

The fruits of the labors of countless generations who lived before me, with out whom my own life would have no meaning;

The seers who saw visions and dreamed dreams;

The prophets who sensed a truth greater than the mind could grasp and whose words could only find fulfillment

in the years which they would never see;

The workers whose sweat has watered the trees, the leaves of which are for the healing of the nations;

The pilgrims who set their sails for lands beyond all horizons, whose cour age made paths into new worlds and far-off places;

The saviors whose blood was shed with a recklessness that only a dream could inspire and God could command.

For all this I make an act of Thanks giving this day.

I linger over the meaning of my own life and the commitment to which I give the loyalty of my heart and mind:

The little purposes in which I have shared with my loves, my desires, my

gifts;

The restlessness which bottoms all I do with its stark insistence that I have never done my best, I have never reached for the highest;

The big hope that never quite deserts me, that I and my kind will study war no more, that love and tenderness and all the inner graces of Almighty affection will cover the life of the children of God as the waters cover the sea.

All these and more than mind can think and heart can feel, I make as my sacrament of Thanks giving to Thee, Our Father, in humbleness of mind and simplicity of heart.

WI

JEALOUS from Page 26

cast a vote for a senator, it should be for the candidate who will vote to con firm fair-minded judges with a com mitment to civil rights. The Biden administration has been doing a very good job nominating diverse, highly qualified judges who have this com mitment. I believe in supporting sen ators who have voted to confirm these judges and withholding support from those who haven't.

The same goes for the presidential election, which we will face again in less than two years. In 2016, Donald

Trump ran on a platform to name far-right judges to the Supreme Court who would ultimately overturn Roe v. Wade. That's exactly what happened when he won, and now the Court is moving on to do other damage, too — like denying Black voters fair rep resentation in Congress.

So what do we do? We get in formed, we organize, and we vote in the next election — the same thing we do to confront so many issues this country faces. Next election seems too far away? There is something you can do in the meantime. Call your senators and tell them to confirm the

federal judicial nominees that are still waiting for a Senate vote between now and the end of the year. There are lit erally dozens of nominees picked by President Biden, including many peo ple of color and nominees with strong civil rights backgrounds, just waiting for Senate action to take their seats on the courts. We can show we care by calling our senators and telling them to confirm these nominees now.

Courts are going to keep showing us how much of an impact they have on our lives. We need to exercise every option we have to impact who sits on them. WI

MARSHALL

from Page 26

the aisle. Years later, it is no surprise immediately after Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg's death, the same Mitch McConnell said Pres ident Trump's nominee to replace her "will receive a vote on the floor of the United States Senate."

The influence that power can have on elected officeholders can be sick ening at times, particularly regarding those in leadership positions. Which brings us to Mike Pence. Does the quest for power cause one to totally give up their self-respect?

Republican Rep. Adam Kinzinger has a valid point: "Mike Pence, if after January 6, he had fully divorced Don ald Trump, and would have gone out and spoken about it, he would be the Ron DeSantis right now. He would be the guy that over the last two years was able to make a compelling case to the Republican base who trusts him, even if at the moment they don't like him, I think he could be the alterna tive to Donald Trump. Now, I have no idea where he stands."

Pence was always the faithful vice

president. But it is difficult to under stand how a violent mob can chant "hang Mike Pence" and President Trump makes no effort to insure Pence's personal safety. Yet Pence seems unwilling to publicly draw at tention to Trump's actions of disre spect as being unworthy of a sitting U.S. president. While Pence wants to be president himself, he remains intimidated by the individual power of Trump and the collective power of Trump's voting base.

The disrespect to Pence and his family was not enough for the for mer vice president to take a strong consistent public stand with digni ty. The country and the January 6 House Committee needed a coura geous Mike Pence to speak to the American people about the "Big Lie" and it didn't happen. The examples of McConnell and Pence are only a few of many, but they illustrate dif ferent ways in which political power exposes one's true character.

These examples give us reasons to appreciate the career of Nancy Pelo si even more as she announces her retirement from Democratic lead

ership after two decades. There are reasons why House Speaker Pelosi is hated. She gets things done the right way. She is a skillful, effective and seasoned legislator who is a true leader with character. Whether you agree or disagree with her policies, Nancy Pelosi's manner in which she wields her power has never com promised the respect of her leader ship position or the institution she represents. She is the epitome of a leader who can be trusted with the power that comes with the position.

With her retirement, it is time to pass the baton to a new generation of leaders. It appears Rep. Hakeem Jeffries is poised to succeed the first female House speaker by becoming the first Black lawmaker to lead a party in Congress. As Jeffries served as an impeachment manager in Pres ident Trump's first impeachment trial, it represents the degree of trust Pelosi has in him. With the party of obstructions and investigations tak ing control in Congress, Nancy Pe losi's trust in Hakeem Jeffries means a lot.

WI

DECEMBER 1 - 7, 2022 45 WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
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irritants. Along with other health issues, the remediation of mental illness is underfunded. In reality, the cause for each murderous event is as individual as the shooter.

There are some who would sole ly justify our national violence for these reasons. I would tell them

that the citizenry of any other na tion in the world experiences the same, similar or unique stressors that could serve as justification for the same slaughter we experience in our country. The only clear dif ference in higher rates of murder in this country is the availability and proliferation of firearms. Placing firearms into the hands of hate-

filled or mentally ill antagonists with relative ease can only result in the personal and societal damage inflicted upon us.

Listening to the television in the wake of these latest events, I have learned that gun violence has claimed 39,000 Americans this year. Additionally, over 600 mass shoot ings have been reported in the U.S. for three consecutive years. In any society, this level of carnage is un acceptable. In the richest and most technologically advanced society/ nation in the history of humankind, this slaughter cannot be justified.

Rome, which is declared by Eu rocentric historians as the greatest empire in history, fell from internal discord and disruption. The cor ruption, division and humanitarian disregard that grew without limits festered and ultimately led to its downfall. Before the fall, Rome ig nored its internal challenges.

Our national challenge is to chart a path that leads away from self-im posed destruction — BEFORE OUR FALL! WI

JAYE from Page 27

gone away. His movement remains alive and well. Unprotected by the Constitution, a common sense of

decency, and absent a spirit of eq uity as outlined by the Declaration of Independence, we were caught with our skirt up with a trail of toilet tissue hanging from our

rear — our behind exposed to the world. He was openly mocked, we were openly mocked, so let's say it loud and say it together: NEVER AGAIN! WI

MORIAL from Page 27

public policy for generations to come. But as large as her speakership may loom in the history books, she was no less bold or impressive as minority leader.

In 2018, she broke the record for longest House speech, spending eight hours and seven minutes read ing the emotional letters of young DREAMers, undocumented immi grants brought to the United States as children who aspire to become U.S. citizens Characteristically, she wore her four-inch heels the entire time.

Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy bested her record by four minutes last year, "but if he wanted to outdo her, he should've done it in stilettos," Rep. Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez said.

Whether leading the majority or minority, she has long been a target of misogynistic attacks, false accusa tions and conspiracy theories, and threats of violence led by members of the opposing party. Tragically, this campaign of demonization culminat ed in a brutal attack on her husband, Paul Pelosi, by a right-wing conspir acy theorist intent on abducting her. Yet she herself has never resorted to

personal attacks. She has risen above the rancor and insults leveled at her without responding in kind. She con tinues to exude grace and is the per sonification of the iron fist in a velvet glove.

When she was sworn in as the first female speaker of the House in 2007, she noted that women had waited more than 200 years to shatter the "marble ceiling" of Congress. As she said, "Women weren't just waiting, women were working. Never los ing faith, we worked to

promise of America, that all men and women are created equal."

Her commitment to that prom ise never has wavered throughout her illustrious career. She has been steadfast in her support for civil rights and civil liberties. I'm proud to call her my friend. On behalf of the National Urban League and our nationwide network of affiliates, I thank Speaker Pelosi for her years of dedicated service and her friendship to the League.

WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM 46 DECEMBER 1 - 7, 2022
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When she was sworn in as the first female speaker of the House in 2007, she noted that women had waited more than 200 years to shatter the "marble ceiling" of Congress.
Listening to the television in the wake of these latest events, I have learned that gun violence has claimed 39,000 Americans this year. Additionally, over 600 mass shootings have been reported in the U.S. for three consecutive years.

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