The Washington Informer - May 30, 2024

Thousands Prepare to Celebrate Pride in D.C. Amidst Warnings of Threats from Terrorists

LGBTQ Stigma Often the Cause of Acts of Violence, Marginalization

By D. Kevin McNeir WI Contributing Writer

While the COVID-19 pandemic has forced many annual celebrations like Gay Pride to either be reduced in scope or canceled altogether, District leaders have declared that events and activities slated

5DC

for this year will be bigger, better, more inclusive and packed with star power.

The Capital Pride Alliance (CPA) announced celebrated performers Billy Porter and Keke Palmer as grand marshals for the 2024 Pride Parade on June 8.

“With Billy Porter and Keke Palmer leading the parade as grand marshals, we’re not only honoring their incredible contributions to the LGBTQ+ community but also amplifying their voices as fierce advocates for equality and accepPRIDE Page 42

D.C. Council to Restore Funding to D.C. Futures Program

Hundreds of District Residents Were in Danger of Losing Scholarship Dollars

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

This week, the D.C. Council is gearing up for the first reading of a budget bill that, among other things, restores funding to a program that has allowed hundreds of District residents to attend college for close to nothing.

as they work toward an associate’s or bachelor’s degree at Catholic University of America (CUA), Trinity Washington University, or University of the District of Columbia. Many of them have done so while juggling work and familial obligations.

When the impending depletion of federal COVID funds threatened D.C. Futures’ longevity, some of these students testified before the D.C.

Since the fall of 2022, District residents who enrolled in the D.C. Futures program have been receiving financial support and mentorship DC FUTURES Page 24

The Path to Full Freedom: Katrina Polk’s Journey to A Presidential Pardon From Biden Despite

Debate about Tactics, Some Possibility of Collaboration

By Ashleigh Fields WI Contributing Writer

Katrina Polk recently celebrated her 55th birthday as an accomplished business woman with the gift of an

unconditional pardon from President Joe Biden. She owns and operates Dynamic Solutions for the Aging, a research development firm in 2006 and Anointed Services Ministries, a

5Capitol

non-profit which serves the aging population during the pandemic in 2020.

Polk, who now resides in South-

POLK PARDON Page 42

Capital Heights Clears Junk, Says Nothing About What’s

Next for Residential Storage

By Kayla Benjamin WI Climate & Environment Reporter

Ernest and Pamela Buchanan have lived in their home in Capitol Heights since 1978. The couple raised four children there—all now adults. It’s a quiet street, not too far from the metro station,

and lined with tidy houses and neat lawns.

Few would expect to find the Buchanans’ across-the-street neighbor on Opus Avenue: a 26,000-squarefoot storage lot housing construction vehicles, big metal equipment and an old Hummer. The town of Capitol Heights owns the property, JUNK Page 22

Celebrating 59 years. Your credible and trusted source for Black news and information.

5District of Columbia Mayor Muriel Bowser and the D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) joined members of the community for “Jump in, DC” at Anacostia Pool and Recreation Center on Friday, May 24. The celebration marked the beginning of outdoor pool season. (Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

Heights Mayor Linda Monroe, speaking at a May 17 press conference held to celebrate upcoming development around the Capitol Heights metro station, less than a mile away from the newly-cleared Opus Avenue storage lot. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

Black Pride Week just wrapped and Capital Pride starts on May 31. While celebrations are mostly fun, the goal of Pride is to advocate to end stigma against members of the LGBTQ community and fight for justice for all. (WI File Photo)

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

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STAFF

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REPORTERS

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wi hot topics

Biden Makes Historic Strides in Diversifying Federal Judiciary

In his first three-and-a-half years in office, President Joe Biden has set a historic precedent by appointing more non-white and female judges to the federal judiciary than any other president in U.S. history. According to a published analysis of self-reported data from the Federal Judicial Center, only 13% of Biden’s Senate-confirmed judicial appointments are white men.

“I’m particularly proud that these judges reflect the diversity that is our country’s strength,” Biden said in February following the confirmation of his 175th judge.

The Senate is set to confirm more of Biden’s judicial nominees this week, including Seth Aframe of New Hampshire, who will serve as a Circuit Court Judge on the First Circuit.

“This is a big deal,” White House Deputy Communications Director Herbie Ziskend asserted. “These highly qualified individuals have diverse professional backgrounds: they've been labor lawyers, civil rights lawyers,

public defenders, served in the U.S. military, and more.”

Ziskend noted that over 60% of women and 60% of individuals of color have been included in Biden’s appointments.

“These men and women will rule on issues critical to fundamental freedoms: reproductive healthcare, the freedom to cast ballots, whether workers have the freedom to unionize, whether children have the freedom to breathe clean air and drink clean water,” Ziskend declared.

Aframe’s confirmation will mark the 198th judge confirmed under Biden.

“This week, the Senate will confirm more of President Biden’s outstanding judicial nominees for lifetime appointments to the federal bench, and we will hit a major milestone along the way,” Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) stated.

Read more on washingtoninformer.com. WI

Monopoly in Live Entertainment: DOJ and States Challenge Live Nation

District of Columbia Attorney General Brian L. Schwalb has joined the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and a bipartisan coalition of 30 state attorneys general in filing an antitrust lawsuit against Live Nation Entertainment, the owner of Ticketmaster.

The lawsuit alleges that Live Nation and Ticketmaster have illegally monopolized the live entertainment industry, resulting in higher prices for District residents attending live shows.

“The District’s vibrant live entertainment scene is vital to our local economy and culture, from fans flocking to see their favorite artists, to the thousands of workers employed by D.C.’s venues,”

Schwalb stated.

The attorney general noted Live Nation’s monopoly on venues in the District and nationwide, saying the company has “grown to dominate nearly every corner of the live entertainment ecosystem, developing a stranglehold on the industry that has eliminated any meaningful competition.”

“Almost every sizable concert venue in the District

High Court Upholds South Carolina Redistricting, Displacing Black Voters

The U.S. Supreme Court has reinstated South Carolina’s redrawn congressional map, declaring it that it is not unconstitutional racial gerrymandering.

Justice Samuel Alito authored the 6-3 opinion, which overturned a lower court’s finding that the map had illegally removed 30,000 Black voters to favor a white Republican candidate in the 1st Congressional District.

The decision has prompted strong reactions, including from Devon Ombres, senior director for Courts and Legal Policy at the Center for American Progress.

“This ruling allows South Carolina to strip power away from Black voters and implement a congressional map that is clearly racially gerrymandered,” Ombres stated. “The majority cherry-picked evidence disregarded inconvenient proof of racial gerrymandering and substituted its own judgment of the facts instead of deferring to the court below. Worse, the majority makes it clear that, in the future, it will be more difficult to challenge unconstitutional racial gerrymanders.”

The case, Alexander v. South Carolina State Conference of the N.A.A.C.P., No. 22-807, presented a complex challenge of distinguishing the roles of race and partisanship in drawing voting maps, especially as Black voters predominantly support Democrats. A unanimous three-judge panel of the Federal District Court in Columbia, S.C., had ruled in early 2023 that the state’s First Congressional District, drawn after the 2020 census, violated the Constitution by prioritizing race. However, the Supreme Court’s ruling now overturns that decision.

Justice Elena Kagan, joined by the court’s other liberal justices, dissented. Kagan contended that the ruling encourages state lawmakers to use race as a proxy for partisan objectives.

“‘Go right ahead,’ this Court says to States today. Go ahead, though you have no recognized justification for using race, such as to comply with statutes ensuring equal voting rights,” Kagan wrote. “Go ahead, though you are (at best) using race as a shortcut to bring about partisan gains—to elect more Republicans in one case, more Democrats in another.” WI

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

5D.C. Attorney General Brian L. Schwalb (WI File Photo/ Robert R. Roberts)

HOT TOPICS Page 5

House Votes Down D.C. Noncitizen Voting

By James Wright WI Staff Writer

The U.S. House of Representatives voted on May 23 to nix the ability of noncitizens in the District of Columbia to vote in local elections, 262 to 143 with 25 members not voting on the measure.

“If House Republicans cared about elections or D.C. residents, they would bring to the floor the D.C. statehood bill, H.R. 51, the Washington, D.C. Admission Act, which would give D.C. residents voting representation in Congress and full local self-government,” said D.C. Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D), after the vote took place.

“D.C.’s Local Resident Voting Rights Amendment Act of 2022 allows D.C. residents who are noncitizens to vote only in local D.C. elections. D.C.’s law is not unique. More than a dozen cities allow noncitizens to vote in local elections.”

Norton, 86, went on to say. “While the Local Resident Voting Rights Act Amendment Applies only to local D.C. elections, there is a long history in the United States, including before its founding, of allowing noncitizens to vote in local, state, territorial and federal elections.”

“Congress should keep its hands off D.C.,” she said.

Republicans had 210 votes with 52 Democrats joining them in passing the legislation. The bill goes to the U.S. Senate.

Norton said she will work with Senate allies to defeat the measure if it comes up.

HOT TOPICS from Page 4

is locked into a Ticketmaster deal, resulting in District concertgoers paying Ticketmaster’s exorbitant fees to enjoy shows,” he said.

Live Nation controls two of the most crucial segments of the live entertainment industry at District venues: ticketing and artist promotions. The company is the exclusive ticketing service provider for nearly all large venues in Washington, D.C., and dominates concert promotions, limiting competition and driving up costs for consumers.

“We allege that Live Nation relies on unlawful, anticompetitive conduct to exercise its monopolis-

The House vote took place a little less than two weeks before the District will hold its primary on June 4.

D.C. NONCITIZEN VOTING

Essentially in the District, noncitizens can vote for any public office in the District except federal positions such as U.S. president, delegate to the U.S. Congress and the shadow statehood senators and representative.

The District joins municipalities in Maryland, California and Vermont that allow noncitizens to vote in local elections.

Republicans in the House opposed the legislation, arguing that it is unconstitutional to allow noncitizens, including green card holders and undocumented workers, to vote in election even if they have lived in the District for 30 days, according to a news release from the House Republican Conference on May 23.

One of the results of the noncitizen voting process was the election of Abel Amene as an advisory neighborhood commissioner in 4D02 in Ward 4. Abel, an Ethiopian immigrant who goes by his first name because of his culture, has become the first noncitizen to hold public office in the District.

Abel is a green card holder, making him a permanent resident. District government officials estimate there are more than 50,000 noncitizens living in the city.

According to D.C. Board of Elections data, 513 noncitizens are registered to vote this year presently.

tic control over the live events industry in the United States at the cost of fans, artists, smaller promoters, and venue operators,” Attorney General Merrick Garland remarked in a statement.

The suit seeks to restore competition in the live entertainment industry by securing financial compensation for the District and overcharged fans, prohibiting Live Nation’s anticompetitive practices, and ordering the divestiture of Ticketmaster.

In a statement, Fan Fairness Coalition President and Republican antitrust expert Mark Meador and Secretary and Democratic antitrust expert Amanda Lewis praised the DOJ’s action. WI

Franklin Garcia is a longtime Democratic activist in the District and a former statehood shadow representative. Garcia said the vote by the Republican-led House to nullify noncitizen voting doesn’t surprise him.

“It is the same situation now that has been in the past,” said Garcia, 55. “They [Congress] are meddling in our affairs. They did so with the Crime Bill and now they are doing it with this. This matter should be decided by the citizens of the District of Columbia, not by Congress.”

Garcia said there are flaws in noncitizen voting such as whether an undocumented immigrant should have the right to vote when they have been in the city only 30 days. However, Garcia said District residents and their elected leadership should work out those flaws.

“It is for us to decide, not national legislators,” he said. “I’m glad this bill is not going anywhere. The Senate is our shield on this.”

WI

@JamesWrightJr10

5D.C. Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton said she will fight congressional attempts to stop noncitizen voting in the city. (WI File Photo)

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LOVE TO TRAVEL?

black facts

MAY 30

1854 – Congress passes the Kansas-Nebraska Act that repealed the Missouri Compromise and opened the Northern territories to slavery. More specifically, it allowed Whites in Kansas and Nebraska to decide whether or not slavery would be allowed in the territories.

1903 – Countee Cullen, one of the most outstanding poets in the history of Black America, is born.

MAY 31

1921 – The Tulsa Riots begin in Oklahoma. Whites go on a violent rampage lasting several days. When the rioting was over, an estimated 21 whites and 60 Blacks were dead. In addition, as many as 15,000 Blacks were left homeless as hundreds of homes and businesses were burned to the ground. The area bearing the brunt of the destruction was known as the "Black Wall Street" because of its large number of African American-owned businesses.

JUNE 1

1864 – Solomon George Washington Dill, a poor white Southern man who supported an end to slavery and Black demands for social justice, is murdered by angry whites for giving what some whites considered an "incendiary speech" to a group of South Carolina Blacks.

1973 – Detroit's WGPR receives a license to become the nation's first Black-owned television station.

JUNE 2

1989 – Freddie Adu, soccer player and former member of D.C. United, is born in Tema, Ghana. In January 2004, he became the youngest American ever to sign a professional sports contract after be was selected by the United in the Major League Soccer draft.

JUNE 3

MAY 30 - JUNE 5, 2024

SOURCE: BLACK AMERICA WEB

can-born French singer, dancer and actress, is born. In 1934, Baker became the first Black woman to star in a major motion picture ("Zotuou"). She also became an avowed civil rights activist, speaking out against the racism and segregation she faced as a performer in the United

1942 – Curtis Mayfield, famed singer-songwriter, guitarist and record producer, is born. Rising to prominence as a member of the Impressions, Mayfield penned the R&B group's politically charged "People Get Ready" at the height of the civil rights movement before going on to a successful solo career. He is perhaps best known for creating the soundtrack for the seminal blaxploitation film "Superfly."

1950 – Deniece Williams, Grammy-winning R&B and gospel music star, is born. Known for her four-octave range, Williams sang backup for Stevie Wonder and recorded a string of successful duets with Johnny Mathis before her breakout pop hit, "Let's Hear it for the Boy." 2008 – Barack Obama clinches the Democratic presidential nomination, becoming the first Black candidate to lead a major party into a campaign for the White House.

JUNE

4

1961 – Soul crooner El DeBarge, who became a star with his siblings in the early 1980s before enjoying a successful solo career, is born.

1972 – Angela Davis, famed civil rights activist and Black Panther Party affiliate, is acquitted by an all-white jury in San Jose, California, of conspiracy charges stemming from a 1970 courtroom shootout.

JUNE 5

1945 – John Carlos, a Black American track and field athlete best known for raising a black gloved fist alongside Tommie Smith at the 1968 Olympics during the American national anthem after winning a bronze medal, is born.

1973 – Doris A. Davis is elected as mayor of Compton, California, making her the first-ever African American woman elected mayor of a metropolitan city.

1906 – Josephine Baker, the world-renowned Ameri-

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view

BY SARAFINA WRIGHT

A Howard University student has gone viral after denouncing her sorority, citing elements that conflict with her faith. This has sparked a conversation about the intersection of sororities and fraternities, religion, and the increasing number of members denouncing these organizations. What are your thoughts?

REGGIE HUTSON / ATLANTA, GA.

This is not the first I've heard of someone renouncing their organization due to their Christian beliefs. Although I've never seen someone cross and then leave all in the same season. Usually, it takes people time to leave.

EBONI WIGGINS / NEW LONDON, CONN.

She did the right thing! People don't really know what goes on in these rooms. Educate the masses!

MIKKI BELL / BALTIMORE, MD.

You learn so much before you take that pledge; why take it? Why continue to go through the process if you felt this way? Just to disrespectfully publicize the sacred values of the process of this historic organization? Why

ERIKA BLOCKETT / LOS ANGELES, CALIF.

She went through the whole process and then decided not to be part of it? Sounds like she did it for clout! She could have stopped anytime but decided to wait until the end. Not impressed.

NIECY MCCLINTON / WASHINGTON, D.C.

She realized it wasn't what works for her. She's not the first sorority member to bring attention to this and renounce their membership. It's been going on for years now.

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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Adopt-A-Vote Center Program Gains Traction in D.C.: Local Organizations Lend a Helping Hand at Voting Sites

By James Wright WI Staff Writer

The Omicron Eta Lambda chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha has embraced one of the fraternity’s national programs “A Voteless People is a Hopeless People,” (VPHP) with enthusiasm, voter education and registration drives.

However, two years ago, the chapter added a new activity under its VPHP initiative, the Adopt-A-Vote Center program managed by the D.C. Board of Elections.

“This is the second year we have done it,” said newly elected president of the chapter, KeShawn Harris, a resident of Congress Heights in Ward 8. “The Deltas have been consistently participating in the program, so we decided to try it. In 2022, we staffed the voting precinct at Horace Mann Elementary School in Ward 3.” Harris, 28, said his chapter plans on participating in the Adopt-A-Vote Center program for the June 4 primary.

HOW THE ADOPT-A-VOTE PROGRAM WORKS

The Adopt-A-Vote Center program is a community partnership designed to provide an opportunity for local groups, non-profits, faith-based organizations, fraternities, sororities, and other city-based organizations

to “adopt” a specific vote center on Election Day.

Participating organizations provide volunteers to serve as election workers on Election Day at a designated vote center to assist voters in a non-partisan manner.

In order for organizations to participate they must be based in the District and provide at least 7-10 individuals to serve as election workers. Volunteers are required to attend and successfully complete a mandatory four-hour election worker training sessions, and must be able to staff a vote center all day on Election Day (from 6 a.m.-9 p.m.) or until dismissed by the site coordinator; and individuals must be at least 16 years old to participate.

There is no fee for an organization to participate and individuals are given a stipend for their participation.

The program is available for the primary and general elections.

The contact person for the AdoptA-Vote Center program is Jaloney Coulter in the Board of Elections’ Voter Education and Outreach Division.

SEVERAL GROUPS, COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS ADOPT VOTING CENTERS

Harris said his chapter’s par-

ticipation not only meets the requirements of VPHP but also helps the community.

“We know that there is a shortage of people who work the polls and election workers, and we want to fill in that gap,” he said.

Mikael LaRoche serves as the president of the Mu Lambda chapter of Alpha, which is located in the District. LaRoche said his chapter will participate in the program for the general election but is not sure of the site.

“It may be a school in Southeast,” LaRoche, 36, said.

Ward 8 political activist Sheila Bunn said the Federal City Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, of which she serves as the social action chair, wanted to participate in the program for the June primaries but had other activities such as a D.C. Council Advocacy Day and candidate forums to deal with.

“The Board of Elections tried to work with us,” Bunn said. “Hopefully we will be able to work the general election.”

Eric Weaver, the founder and chairman of the National Association for the Advancement of Returning Citizens, said his members have worked the Anacostia High School site on behalf of the program.

“It helps returning citizens become more civically engaged and gives people a little bit of money,” Weaver, 54, said.

Earlier this year, the Howard University chapter of the Student National Pharmaceutical Association engaged with the elections board to get involved with the program—a first.

D.C. Shadow Rep. Oye Owolewa praised the students’ participation in the process.

“The foresight and ability to elevate the youth voice is critical to our nation’s advancement,” Owolewa said. “I am honored and humbled to be able to participate in this inaugural event. I hope we can inspire more events like this.”

WI @JamesWrightJr10

5Ray Spears, a member of Alpha Phi Alpha’s Omicron Eta Lambda chapter, examines a ballot at Horace Mann Elementary School in Northwest. (Courtesy Photo/Omicron Eta Lambda Chapter)

D.C. Agencies among Top Beneficiaries as HUD Announces $40 Million Boost for Housing Counseling Nationwide

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

Seven District agencies are set to receive a substantial boost in funding totaling nearly $7 million, aimed at expanding housing counseling services for underserved communities.

Among the beneficiaries are Housing Counseling Services, Lydia’s House in Southeast, National Coalition for Asian Pacific American Community Development, National Community Reinvestment Coalition, National Foundation for Credit Counseling, Neighborhood Reinvestment Corp. dba NeighborWorks America, and UnidosUS.

Vice President Kamala Harris and HUD Acting Secretary Adrianne Todman disclosed that the Biden-Harris Administration will allocate almost $40 million to broaden comprehensive housing counseling services nationwide. The funds, administered through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Office of Housing Counseling, will facilitate counseling services catering to the needs of homebuyers, homeowners, and renters across America.

During a stop in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, which marked the third leg of the Vice President’s nationwide Economic Opportunity Tour, Harris emphasized the significance of homeownership beyond mere shelter.

“Homeownership represents more than just a roof over our heads,” she stated. “It represents financial security, the opportunity to build wealth and equity, and a foundation for a better future for ourselves, our children, and future generations.”

She echoed Harris’s comments, highlighting the administration’s commitment to addressing housing barriers and closing the racial homeownership gap. Todman emphasized the pivotal role of HUD-approved housing counseling agencies, which served nearly one million Americans last year alone, providing crucial advice on financial literacy, home maintenance, and foreclosure prevention.

“This past year, HUD-approved

housing counseling agencies reached almost one million Americans, providing them with invaluable advice on important topics like financial literacy, maintaining a home, and avoiding foreclosure,” Todman asserted.

The awarded grants are poised to benefit more than 165 housing counseling agencies and intermediary organizations. Notably, 14 grantees will collaborate with 60 historically Black colleges and universities and minority-serving institutions to support new homeowners of color and other marginalized communities.

The White House said the allocated funds will bolster counseling services covering various topics, including financial management, homeownership, and affordable rental housing. For instance, UnidosUS aims to pave pathways for Latino homebuyers to enhance credit, access down payment assistance programs, and secure sustainable mortgage loans.

In Wisconsin alone, HUD estimates that over $300,000 of the new funding will aid consumers, with nearly 35,000 Americans already assisted by the program, 19,000 of whom reside in Milwaukee.

Officials said those counseling services, currently serving nearly 12,000 families in Wisconsin, including 40% Black families, play a crucial role in navigating housing challenges amid rising costs and limited inventory.

Deputy Assistant Secretary for Housing Counseling David Berenbaum, emphasized the essential role of HUD-certified housing counselors as the first point of contact for those seeking housing support.

He said since 2020, HUD has been at the forefront of supporting housing counseling initiatives, aiding over 3 million individuals and families to obtain, sustain, and retain their homes.

Berenbaum added that HUD’s ongoing initiatives, such as the introduction of programs aimed at historically underserved communities and the distribution of grants to bolster housing counseling services

AROUND THE REGION

nationwide, underscore its commitment to extending housing counseling.

“Given the rising costs of housing, coupled with limited available inventory, housing counseling is a critical resource for homebuyers and renters seeking to navigate challenging processes and decisions,” he said.

WI

BY MARY ZIMMERMAN DIRECTED BY PSALMAYENE 24

ON STAGE THROUGH JUNE 16, 2024

“A VISUALLY STUNNING JOURNEY” —BROADWAYWORLD

PHOTO

5Seven District agencies are set to receive a substantial boost in funding totaling nearly $7 million, aimed at expanding housing counseling services for underserved communities. (WI File Photo)

AROUND THE REGION

Sonsyrea Tate and Marita Golden read The Washington Informer. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

(L-R) First Lady Rachel Ruto, President William Ruto, President Joseph Biden, First Lady Jill Biden during the State Dinner arrival at the White House on May 23. (Shedrick Pelt @sdotpdotmedia/The Washington Informer)

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Kenyan State Visit Pronounces Black Pride for African Americans

By Ashleigh Fields WI Contributing Writer

Black Americans gathered on the South Lawn of the White House to witness Kenyan President William Ruto’s state arrival hosted by President Joe Biden.

“Let me take this opportunity, in a very special way, to bring you warm greetings from the people, the government of Kenya, and your brothers and sisters across the African continent,” Ruto said.

The Kenyan president’s official trip to the U.S. is the most recent African nation to be formally embraced in this manner, with the last delegation visiting over 15 years ago. The welcome program started early in the morning and opened with hymns performed by Howard University’s Gospel Choir, a 21-gun-salute and both country’s national anthem, with hundreds of guests in attendance.

“For me, I am extremely happy because he is a brother from Africa. The President is from our region so I was doubly happy to receive him,” Mathilde Mukantabana, Rwanda’s Ambassador to the U.S. told The Informer about President Ruto. “I hope they continue because those kinds of relationships can be very important. I hope more presidents will be visiting but what I can say is that it was good.”

Among an audience of hundreds were also Washingtonians, like local teacher, Rictor Craig, who was invited to bring his young students to enjoy this event for the first time. As co-founder and head of school at Statesmen College Preparatory Academy for Boys in Southeast, he said the ceremony welcoming the Kenyan president left his students feeling encouraged and inspired.

“Our boys could not stop talking about that experience. They’re nine so they don't truly understand yet,” said Craig. “On as many occasions as we can, we try to put our boys in front of a spectrum of Black men that are successful in the world, just like the president of Kenya, like Obama. We try to show them examples of Black men leading.”

The young men were among the

5Statesmen College Preparatory Academy students enjoy a field trip to the White House for the Kenyan State Arrival. (Courtesy Photo/Statesmen College Preparatory Academy)

seated participants in the crowd, alongside both Ruto and Biden’s children. As luminaries and dignitaries welcomed the foreign leader, Biden made it clear that he was committed to partnering with Kenya in several ways.

“For while we may have been divided by distance, we're united by the same democratic values,” Biden shared.

He announced that the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) would provide $1.3 million for a youth empowerment program aimed at strengthening political engagement at the subnational level and $600,000 to advance disability inclusion in Kenya.

“By undertaking this state visit, we will have the opportunity to discuss and to have a conversation about building global partnership and leadership around the issues that pose challenges regionally, globally, and in countries like Kenya and many others– challenges of climate change, challenges of insecurity, challenges around debt distress,” said President Ruto.

The nation launched the Nairobi Initiative geared toward eradicating student hunger last year. It’s well known as the largest school meal program on the continent

and aims to serve 250,000 pre-primary and grade 1-8 learners in the county's public schools with a plate daily.

Throughout Ruto’s time in America, the leader has been working to build connections with people like Tyler Perry and Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens in hopes of creating more economic stability for his people.

The leader was granted honorary membership by the Congressional Black Caucus and designated as a non-NATO major ally by President Biden, a symbol of a more permanent political tie.

“I am making this designation in recognition of Kenya's many years of contributions to the United States Africa Command area of responsibility globally and in recognition of our own national interest in deepening bilateral defense and security cooperation with the Government of Kenya,” said President Biden. “Kenya is one of the United States government's top counterterrorism and security partners in sub-Saharan Africa, and the designation will demonstrate that the United States sees African contributions to global peace and security as equivalent to those of our Major Non-NATO Allies in other regions.” WI

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY

Prince George’s County Local Updates

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

SUPERINTENDENT

WRIGHT PLANS TO INCREASE DIVERSITY AMONG MARYLAND EDUCATORS

According to Board of Education statistics for the state this school year, 68% of classroom teachers are white, while roughly 20% are Black and about 5% are Latino or Asian. With similar state data from five years ago, Maryland Superintendent Carey Wright is questioning the effectiveness of efforts in recent years to diversify the educator pipeline and retain teachers of color.

“It’s got to be a conscious effort,” said Wright during a break at the most recent state Board of Education meeting. “Are we really going into our HBCUs? Are we recruiting? What do those techniques look like? We aren’t producing enough of those candidates in house, so we’ve got to be thinking about what else are we going to do.”

Maryland State Education Association (MSEA) President Cheryl Bost also provided quotes from unnamed educators to show that teachers of color were often assigned responsibilities outside the classroom, such as Black teachers who were asked to assist in situations involving Black students.

“This lack of diversity among educators works to deepen existing opportunity gaps, experienced disproportionately by low-income communities of color. Research shows that increased teacher diversity fosters cultural competency across faculty, improves students’ academic achievement and self-perception, and increases the likelihood of college enrollment,” read the intro to a report by Jayla Hart on Maryland’s teachers. “In school systems that lack diversity among educators, such benefits are withheld largely from students

of color who, even when composing the majority of the school population, are less likely to see them represented in the classroom or in school leadership.”

The top two school systems for teachers of color are Prince George’s (79% of teachers) and Baltimore City (61%) while Montgomery County (31%) lags behind the state average. In the past few years, the number of Black first-year teachers has grown and is now over 30% of new teachers.

WI

BOWIE STATE UNIVERSITY TO HOST COMMENCEMENT

Students at Maryland’s oldest historically Black university and Prince George’s County Public Schools are crossing the stage this week with their diplomas and preparing for new opportunities ahead.

On May 24, an estimated 700 students graduated from Bowie State University. This year, Wanda Durant, president of Durant Family Charitable Foundation, served as the keynote speaker. The foundation previously provided a $500,000 gift to Bowie State to renovate the school’s basketball court and add new seating.

During the ribbon cutting for the court last year, Durant emphasized the importance of giving back to historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).

“When I sit back and think about my son playing in this very gym at age 9, I never thought I’d be here this day. I remember the many years I brought my sons here to play, sitting up in the bleachers and hollering at the referees. I never thought it would come to this,” said Durant. “I’m grateful that he realized that it’s important for him to give back to an HBCU, and maybe he can be a catalyst for other athletes

throughout the country to give back to HBCUs.

Bowie State students, such as Aaron Johnson, talked about the strong education the local historically Black institution provided.

“It was no way I was going to afford going to those art schools,” said Johnson, a graduate from Accokeek who just completed his degree in advertising design and is soon going to do creative marketing with Disney. “I was like ‘I have to find somewhere to go.’ I found Bowie State had an animation program. And sure enough, I got in.”

WI

LOCAL ALPHA

KAPPA ALPHA

CHAPTER HOSTS

SCHOLARSHIP

FUNDRAISER

In partnership with Oxon Hill’s Chipotle Mexican Grill, the Southern Prince George’s County Community Charities, Inc. (SPGCCC) is hosting a scholarship fundraiser on June 1 from 4 to 8p.m.

The SPGCCC is the non-profit arm of Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA) Sorority’s, Upsilon Tau Omega Chapter, and all students residing in or attending high school in Council Districts 8 and 9 are eligible for the scholarship.

“We are excited to partner with Chipotle to raise funds for college scholar-

ships,” said SPGCCC president Quindella Fletcher. “We want to provide students in our community the opportunity to pursue a college degree.”

The Washington Informer has previously written about local AKA chapters’ community efforts.

WI

THREE PGCPS SCHOOLS

SCHEDULED FOR TURF FIELDS

During a meeting with the Board of Education on May 6, Will Smith, project manager for turf fields for Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS), said that DuVal, Frederick Douglass, and Crossland High Schools are all due to receive upgrades to their grass fields. However, a lack of funding and climate change policy may delay these changes for years.

Smith told the Board that stadium upgrades can take up to two years and cost as much as $7.5 million, while renovating a grass field starts at about $400,000 before factoring in other costs and grounds keeping duties.

“There are not just environmental impacts with turf fields, but potential health impacts,” said Council Chair Jolene Ivey (D-District 5) regarding the potential negatives of switching to turf. “If it’s very hot out, the kids can’t use it, and the fumes that come

off of it can be an issue.”

A study by Dr. Calvin Hwang of Stanford found that injuries were less common on grass than turf. Further, many former and current athletes and members of the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) advocate for natural grass over turf.

County Councilmember Eric Olson (D- District 3) agreed with Ivey, and supports the idea of expanding grass at Parkdale High School to replace their gravel field.

Currently, 10 county high schools have grass fields. Laurel is the next school expected to finish adding grass to their school’s athletic grounds. Central, Friendly, Parkdale and Largo are the next round of schools anticipating turf following the three currently waiting.

County Councilmember Wala Blegay (D- District 6) explained that Largo’s recent athletic success should advance their implementation timeline, but PGCPS Superintendent Dr. Millard House II emphasized that no matter how well a school is doing athletically, implementing changes for the most ideal fields should be a key priority.

“I think regardless of whether a school is winning a championship or not, we want to provide students with the best,” said House, adding that the timeline for implementation was set on an equity basis.

WI

5 Bowie State hosted its 2024 commencement on May 24 at Bulldog Stadium, with an estimated 700 graduates. (WI File Photo/ Robert R. Roberts)

Prince George’s County Political Updates

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

GOVERNOR MOORE SIGNS BILLS INTO LAW, HEADLINES UNITY EVENT

Maryland Governor Wes Moore (D), just after completing his second legislative session, has begun to sign some bills into law while others may be vetoed or become law without his signature.

Despite multiple op-eds and concerted lobbying efforts, Moore signed a controversial juvenile justice bill into law that is aimed to add more state oversight to youth offenders. This bill was one of several public safety bills that passed during session. He also signed a bill allowing Prince George’s County to tax communications to raise funding for the school system, which will be $3.50 per phone line.

“I made a promise when we first

came on board that I would never spend my time simply giving thoughts and prayers and attending funerals without passing a single piece of legislation, or without doing anything to be able to make the issue any better for the families we are here to serve,” said the governor during the bill signing. “In this administration, we decided to move differently.”

One veto that Moore is reportedly considering is for a bill sponsored by Eastern Shore Senator Mary Beth Carozza (R), that would allow outof-state RV dealers to advertise their product during trade shows. Carozza said this bill was intended to build reciprocity and develop the RV industry.

There are three other bills considered likely for a veto, and two others that are likely to pass into law without his signature.

Following his first legislative session, Moore vetoed three bills including two that were duplicates of previously signed laws.

On Thursday, May 23, Moore served as one of the key speakers at a Democratic Party unity event that featured Maryland Democratic Senate nominee Angela Alsobrooks and congressional nominees Sarah Elfreth and April McClain-Delaney at Greenbelt’s Martin’s Crosswinds. Also there was recently defeated Senate candidate Rep. David Trone, showcasing a clear effort to maintain party unity and resolve tensions that simmered in the waning weeks of the primary.

“Angela isn’t flip-flopping on issues to win a vote - she’s been consistent throughout her entire career. Angela isn’t studying polls to see how she should talk about reproductive rights because she says what she believes in her heart,” said Moore during the event. “Let’s not forget the people of Maryland recruited Angela Alsobrooks to run for Senate. Mitch McConnell recruited Larry Hogan.”

Moore, pointing out the hypocrisy of former Governor Hogan (R) now

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

JUDGE ADEMILUYI REMOVED FROM OFFICE, SUING FORMER COLLEAGUES

Despite some of the challenges of 2020, including a worldwide pandemic, a heated presidential election season, and racial tensions surrounding police brutality against African Americans, several Black judges and women were successfully elected to the bench in Maryland and nationwide.

In Prince George’s County, Gladys Weatherspoon and April Ademiluyi were elected while running against a slate of judges seeking their retention on the bench. However, in her first two years in office, Ademiluyi faced accusations of impartiality and engaging in inappropriate behavior while on the bench.

four bills may be vetoed.

(Robert R. Roberts/Washington Informer)

claiming to be pro-choice, invoked the James Baldwin quote: “I can’t believe what you say because I see what you do.”

Admeiluyi was suspended in 2023 and barred from the courthouse while mediators requested that she finish mandatory trainings. She initiated a federal lawsuit against her peers, alleging a conspiracy to sabotage her judicial career, and is also suing the Commission on Judicial Disabilities. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com

5 Maryland Gov. Wes Moore has begun signing most of the passed bills into law following the legislative session. Two bills are likely to pass without his signature, and three or

BUSINESS

By James Wright / WI Staff Writer

ADVICE FROM U.S. CHAMBER

PRESIDENT

U.S. Chamber of Commerce president and CEO Suzanne P. Clark offered statistics about and encouragement for female entrepreneurs at the D.C. Chamber of Commerce’s annual Women in Business Luncheon at Clyde’s in Northwest on May 21.

“The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in the United States,” said Clark, in a “Fireside Chat” with D.C. Chamber President Angela Franco. “We have 5.5 million new business applications.”

Clark said she quoted the statistic to the premier of China in March, who immediately took note of the number.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business organization, representing employers of every size and sector in the country and around the world. Its headquarters is in the District and the lobbying arm on Capitol Hill is considered one of the most effective of its type.

Clark praised the 60 people, including District government officials, present for their desire to be business owners, saying “I don’t

briefs

[think there’s] anything more valuable than being an entrepreneur.”

Clark said that she seeks to build bridges with government leaders while she leads the U.S. Chamber and said the government needs to be more effective in what it does.

She said it is important for women entrepreneurs to learn to partner and collaborate with others.

“Don’t do it alone,” Clark said. “Don’t be afraid to ask for help.”

Clark said women entrepreneurs should not hesitate to talk about their business ventures when they get the opportunity.

“When women get together with others, they talk about their families while men talk about sports,” she said. “Women need to talk more about their businesses.”

Clark said she would like to see more small businesses lobby government leaders for what they want. She said while it is understood that large companies have the resources to lobby governmental bodies, small businesses “should lobby more and actively engage in public policy.”

“Our world, our country, our city needs your gifts,” she said. “Keep it up. The world needs more of it.”

Franco was pleased the event

Two Rivers Public Charter School Intent

To Award A Sole Source Contract

Apple Laptops and IPADS

Two Rivers Public Charter School intends to enter into a sole source contract with Apple, Inc. to provide technology equipment comprised of Macbook Air and Pro laptops and IPAD tablets. The cost of this contract will be approximately $85K. The decision to sole source was made because Apple, Inc is uniquely qualified to provide technology equipment due to proprietary design of their equipment. Two Rivers’ existing technology is Apple-product based and we want to continue with the current infrastructure. Please contact Gail Williams with any questions at procurement@tworiverspcs.org.

offered networking opportunities and encouragement..

“We are excited to cultivate a place for women business leaders to connect with each other in the greater D.C. area,” Franco said. “Our goal with this luncheon is to create a forum to support and amplify the voices of women business owners in the District and to ensure that we, as a chamber, are advocating for their needs.”

WI

ALSOBROOKS AT STATE OF ECONOMY EVENT

Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks will serve as the speaker for the 2024 State of

the Economy Address & Breakfast presented by the Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation in partnership with the Greater Prince George’s Business Roundtable.

The event will take place at MGM National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland on June 13 starting at 7:30 a.m.

Hear Alsobrooks’ economic outlook for the county including plans for new development, engaging the county’s workforce and more over breakfast. Business owners, entrepreneurs and stakeholders in the county’s business sector should be enriched by the event.

Attendees will be able to network with the stakeholders, deal

Page 15

E.L. Haynes Public Charter School  Notice of Intent to Enter Sole Source Contract

Grant Support

E.L. Haynes Public Charter School (PCS) intends to enter a sole source contract with FundEd Strategies for grant management and compliance. The decision to conduct a sole source agreement was due to the specific needs of the school for targeted grant opportunities and the specialized expertise that FundEd Strategies has in charter school grants and fundraising. The anticipated cost of this contract is $72,000.

If you have any questions, or for additional information, please email contracts@elhaynes.org no later than 4:00pm on Friday, June 14, 2024.

5Tiffany Crowe, the director of the D.C. Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (left) chats with Rosemary Suggs-Evans, the acting director of the D.C. Department of Small and Local Business Development at the Business in Women’s Luncheon on May 21. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

5Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks will serve as the speaker for the 2024 State of the Economy Address & Breakfast on June 13. (WI File Photo/ Robert R. Roberts)

BRIEFS

makers, and the business community from the state and local level.

Maryland Disparity Study

The State of Maryland is conducting a comprehensive utilization and availability study (the Disparity Study), led by MGT Consulting Group.

The overall purpose of the Disparity Study is to determine whether there is racial and/or gender business discrimination in the markets in which the state does business—both public and private sectors. As part of that process, the state will collect data regarding the availability of firms owned by minorities and women, and the utilization of these firms as contractors and subcontractors in the Maryland marketplace.

In addition to analyses of quantitative data, the Disparity Study will also examine qualitative data about business discrimination (to the extent it exists) provided by business owners, trade associations, business organizations and other stakeholders.

All business owners are encouraged to participate.

For more information, visit stateofmddisparitystudy.com.

WI

PROTECTING SENIORS FROM FINANCIAL FRAUD

fraud.

@JamesWrightJr10 BRIEFS from Page 14

The legislation, “Empowering States to Protect Seniors from Bad Actors Act,’ creates a new grant program, implemented by the Securities and Exchange Commission, which would work closely with state securities regulators and insurance commissioners to protect senior investors.

According to a 2023 report, older Americans lose approximately $28 billion each year to financial exploitation. Companion legislation has been offered in the U.S. House of Representatives.

“As scammers continue to find ways to deceive and defraud Americans, we need to take action to safeguard seniors’ financial security,” said Van Hollen. “Our bipartisan legislation will help ensure those who target older Americans are held accountable while promoting vigilance against scammers’ evolving tactics.”

Warnock said: “all Americans deserve to be protected from fraudulent schemes, especially our seniors who have worked their entire lives to build a nest egg and create generational wealth to pass on to their loved ones.”

“The Empowering States to Protect Seniors from Bad Actors is a commonsense bill that protects our nation’s seniors from financial scams and abuse to help provide peace of mind in their golden years.”

WI

5U.S. Sens. Chris Van Hollen and Raphael Warnock (pictured) reintroduced legislation to help better protect seniors from financial securities fraud. (WI File Photo/Roy Lewis)

Marilyn Mosby Sentenced to Home Detention in Mortgage Fraud Case NATIONAL

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

Following her conviction for mortgage fraud and perjury, former Baltimore State's Attorney Marilyn Mosby received a 12-month home detention sentence and two years of supervised release. U.S. District Judge Lydia Kay Griggsby handed down the sentence on Thursday, May 23, after a protracted and highly publicized legal battle that has stirred significant debate over race, politics, and justice.

Mosby, 44, gained national attention in 2015 for charging six Baltimore police officers in the death of Freddie Gray, a Black man fatally injured in police custody. Gray’s death led to riots and protests in the city. After three officers were acquitted, Mosby’s office dropped charges against the other three officers.

In 2020, at the height of the pandemic, Mosby withdrew $90,000 from Baltimore City’s deferred compensation plan and used it to make down payments on vacation homes in Kissim -

mee and Longboat Key, Florida. Prosecutors argued that Mosby improperly accessed the funds

FREE GROCERIES FOR DC SENIORS!

under provisions of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act by falsely claiming that the pandemic had harmed her travel-oriented side business.

Mosby’s sentencing argument said the retirement funds came from her own income and that no one was defrauded because she paid an early withdrawal penalty and all federal taxes on the money. The government said that money remained the property of the city until she was legally eligible, and her perjury harmed everyone who followed the rules during the coronavirus pandemic.

Mosby’s mortgage fraud conviction stems from a $5,000 “gift letter” she submitted when taking out a loan to buy the Longboat Key property. Prosecutors said the letter falsely stated that Mosby’s husband was giving her a $5,000 gift for the closing when it was her own money.

Griggsby said there “has been a significant harm to the public because of Mrs. Mosby’s role at the time as both an elected official and an officer of the court.”

Federal prosecutors argued that Mosby deserved prison because, unlike others convicted of white-collar crimes, she expressed no remorse or contrition

and tried to delegitimize the case against her.

They recommended a 20-month prison sentence for Mosby, who served two terms as the state's attorney for Baltimore and lost a reelection bid after her 2022 indictment.

Mosby’s attorneys urged the judge to spare her from prison, arguing that she is the only public official prosecuted in Maryland for federal offenses “that entail no victim, no financial loss, and no use of public funds.”

“Jail is not justice for Marilyn Mosby,” her lawyers wrote.

Mosby’s supporters said she had already lost a great deal, including her marriage, her career, her campaign for reelection as the state's attorney, and potentially her law license. Those who testified on her behalf included Mosby’s brother and sister; her former communications director for the state’s attorney’s office; a former colleague who led the prosecution of the police officers in the Gray case; and fellow attorneys, including nationally recognized civil rights lawyer Ben Crump.

“To sentence her to prison for being convicted of minor, non-violent offenses with no victims would be a grave injustice, and it would magnify the trauma of her two beautiful daughters,” Crump argued.

Baltimore Attorney J. Wyndal Gordon added, “We need Marilyn Mosby in our community. We need her experience, her knowledge, and her training. We need her love for her community. Her love for her family. Her desire for her to become what she ought to be.”

Mosby applied for a presidential pardon earlier this month.

In a letter to President Joe Biden, the Congressional Black Caucus expressed support for her cause.

“As a nation that leads by example, our justice system must not be weaponized to prevent progress toward a more perfect union,” wrote Rep. Steven Horsford, a Nevada Democrat who chairs the CBC. “We share your desire for racial equity, Mr. President and this Trump-era prosecution is in direct conflict with a justice system that serves us all.”

WI

5 Following her conviction for mortgage fraud and perjury, former Baltimore State's Attorney Marilyn Mosby received a 12-month home detention sentence and two years of supervised release. (WI File Photo)

More than 77,000 Sign Petition for Justices Alito and Thomas to Recuse in Capitol Attack Cases

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

A petition calling for conservative Supreme Court Justices and noted Donald Trump supporters Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas to recuse themselves from major cases related to the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack has amassed 77,000 signatures as of 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 21.

Following a report from The New York Times that highlighted potential conflicts of interest for the conservative justices, MoveOn launched the petition.

The Times reported that an upside-down American flag, a symbol associated with the twice-impeached and four-times indicted Trump’s false claims of election fraud, was displayed outside Alito’s home in January 2021. The flag appeared outside the Alito residence in Alexandria, Virginia, on January 17, 2021 just days after Trump supporters stormed the Capitol. Alito told the Times that the flag was “briefly placed” there by his wife during a disagreement with neighbors.

Justice Thomas also faces scrutiny for his involvement in cases related to the 2020 election, particularly because his wife, Ginni Thomas, contacted Trump officials and lawmakers, urging them to overturn the election results.

MoveOn’s petition argues that Alito must be held accountable for what they describe as a breach of ethics.

“He must recuse himself immediately or be removed by Chief Justice John Roberts, and the Senate Judiciary Committee must swiftly investigate and take action on conflicts of interest,” the petition states.

Rahna Epting, MoveOn’s political action executive director, emphasized the need for immediate action to restore public trust in the Supreme Court.

“The only way to begin to restore any trust in the Supreme Court—and to ensure any semblance of a fair hearing on Trump’s baseless immunity claims—is for Justices Alito and Thomas to recuse themselves, or be removed by Chief Justice Roberts,” Epting said. WI

5Activists as part of the Women’s March Noise Demo in April 2024, protested judges supporting former President Donald Trump and warned against “corrupt judges’” involvement in cases surrounding the January 6, 2021 Capitol attack. Now MoveOn launched a petition calling Supreme Court Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito to recuse themselves from major cases related to January 6. (WI File Photo/ Shedrick Pelt, @sdotpdotmedia).

The Washington Chorus & Wolf Trap Present Joyfully Together A Community-Powered Singing Celebration with Santino Fontana

June 1

Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue Big Boi Danielle Ponder

June 15 Gipsy Kings featuring Nicolas Reyes

June 16

En Vogue Jody Watley July 5

Pilobolus re:CREATION

July 10

Nas

30 th Anniversary of Illmatic National Symphony Orchestra

July 21 The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis Cécile McLorin Salvant

August 15 Boyz II Men Bell Biv DeVoe

August 17 + 18

INTERNATIONAL

africa

n Booklets

n Brochures

n Business Cards

n Banners

n Canvas Bags

n Color Copies

n Contracts & Vouchers

n Church Fans

n Fax & Scan n Programs n Postcards

n Promotional Products

n Posters & Signs

n Tithe Envelopes

n Tickets & Flyers n T-Shirts

n Mugs & Glassware

n Notary

The Rwandan community in Malawi on Friday, May 24, held a commemorative event marking 30 years after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. The event also highlighted the need for continued efforts to combat genocide denial, The New Times, Rwanda’s largest daily newspaper, reported on Saturday, May 25.

Attended by Malawian government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, local civil society actors, and friends of Rwanda in the Southern African country, the Kwibuka 30 event was held in the Malawian capital, Lilongwe. The mourners paid their respect to more than one million lives lost during the Genocide and highlighted the progress made since the tragedy and stressed the need to combat genocide denial.

In his remarks, the Charge d’Affaires in the Rwanda High Commission in Zambia, Douglas Gakumba, who is also accredited to Malawi, said Kwibuka 30 was a special occasion to reflect on Rwanda’s journey of reconstruction and unity.

“Though we commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Genocide against the Tutsi,” said Gakumba, “we also celebrate 30 years of unity and resilience and a whole new generation of Rwandans aspiring for a future free of hatred and built on the principles of a shared identity and committed to fight and prevent the resurgence of any forms of hatred and divisive politics.”

Gakumba noted that genocide ideology may spread through various ways such as revisionism and double genocide theory.

“Genocide ideology can be very open but also very subtle. It starts, for example, with classification and ends with denial, such as revisionism or revisionist narratives, dehumanization, and double genocide,” he said.

“We have the responsibility to continue to educate people to recognize the unfortunate existence of Genocide denial and move the conversation back to the facts in an effort to prevent humanity from having to ever experience another genocide.”

Malawi’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Nancy Tembo expressed her country’s solidarity with the people of Rwanda, especially during the commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, saying the 30-year journey of unity and reconstruction was “inspirational.”

“From a country that was ravaged by the Genocide against the Tutsi, we now see a country on the rise, evidenced by impressive social and economic development,” Tembo said.

“Rwanda is a shining example of people’s immeasurable power, not only to overcome adversity, but also to reconcile, and live as one people,” Tembo continued. “We are inspired by the transformation that is happening in Rwanda.” WI

Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett says the establishment of a multi-destination framework will be the key to unlocking more tourism opportunities in the Caribbean, The Jamaica Observer reported on Sunday, May 26.

Speaking at the 42nd Caribbean Travel Marketplace in Montego Bay, St James last week, Bartlett implored delegates to look at a multi-destination arrangement that would increase the value proposition of the Caribbean.

“The Caribbean is filled with so many unique experiences and rich heritage that a multi-destination arrangement would allow visitors to book one trip and stop over at different Caribbean destinations. This would give the region a strong value proposition to visitors who will get more out of their vacation,” Bartlett explained.

Caribbean Travel Marketplace is the largest tourism marketing event that affords tourism suppliers the opportunity to meet face-to-face with wholesalers from around the world selling Caribbean vacation travel over two days of business meetings.

“With a population of over 44 million people, the Caribbean is ripe for more inter-regional travel that would boost our arrival numbers, especially with the creation of a special visa regime that will allow for more ease of access. Add to this the multi-destination framework and we will be able to also attract more international arrivals,” Minister Bartlett said.

The two-day event consisted of pre-scheduled appointments between suppliers and buyers.

Caribbean Travel Marketplace is not a typical trade show, as the main objective was for suppliers and buyers to conduct negotiations that benefit the region. WI

5Malawi's Minister of Foreign Affairs Nancy Tembo and Douglas Gakumba, Chargé d'Affaires of Rwanda's embassy in Malawi light a flame of hope in honour of victims of the Genocide. (Courtesy Photo)

5Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett. (Courtesy Photo)

Louis Davis, Jr., AARP DC State Director

The District’s June 4th primary election is right around the corner! This election will determine who is on the ballot in November for one At-Large Councilmember seat; Councilmembers for Wards 2, 4, 7 and 8; among other offices.

People over the age of 50 are our nation’s most powerful voters – and once again, you will be the deciders in the 2024 elections. That is why AARP DC wants to make sure you have reliable information before you cast your ballot.

Using AARP research and survey data, AARP DC created a questionnaire for all candidates listed on the primary ballot for DC Council to share their vision on issues that matter to older District residents. We compiled their responses on issues including:

TRANSPORTATION

Transportation safety for people of all ages, particularly older adults, is an increasing concern in the District. According to AARP Research, 88% of District residents 45-plus said that “getting to the places you need to go independently” is important to them. There were 52 traffic fatalities in 2023, setting a 16-year high. Unfortunately, in 2024 the number of fatalities has already risen to 10 in the first 3 months. We asked the candidates what their plans are to make the District a more livable community for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists, alike.

HOUSING

In 2022, 85% of District residents 45-plus said that “staying in your own home as you get older” was of importance to them. We asked the candidate what policies they support to

Know Before You Vote!

protect older District residents and their ability to safely age in a place of their choosing.

ACCESSING NUTRITIOUS FOOD

Ensuring older District residents have access to affordable, health food options is a top priority. We wanted to know what the candidate’s plan was to increase access to stable, affordable, healthy food options, especially in “food deserts” located in Wards 7 and 8?

HEALTH DISPARITIES

According to AARP research and survey data, there is a 15-year gap in life expectancy between those living in Ward 3 (86 years old) and Ward 8 (71 years old), and residents 40-plus living east of the river are about four times as likely to face barriers to accessing health care services in their community. The candidates were asked what policies they would put forth to reduce disparities among racial and ethnic groups in accessing affordable, high-quality healthcare.

AARP DC encourages you to learn as much as you can about the candidates and issues, then make your decision by voting.

AARP is non-partisan, does not operate a political action committee (PAC) and does not endorse candidates. We focus on the issues that are most important to older District residents.

The voices of people over 50 will decide this election. But your voices won’t be heard if you don’t vote. Be the person who is committed to speaking up, voting, and holding elected leaders accountable.

Everything you need to know about where the candidates for DC Council stand on these issues can be found by scanning the QR code or visiting www.aarp.org/DCPrimary.

Be a Decider and vote. Your future depends on it.

HEALTH

Cancer Support Community Breaks Ground East of the River

By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Health Reporter

When Essie Graeber received her diagnosis of stage 3 stomach cancer, she had no frame of reference to pull from, as she was the first in her personal circle to encounter the life-changing disease. Seeking a community of residents who are also fighting cancer, Graeber found the virtual support services of Cancer Support Commu-

nity (CSC) Washington, D.C.

“I was just so happy to meet [the CSC D.C. team],” said Graeber of her digital support services.

After all the support she’s received online, Graeber was present as Cancer Support Community D.C. recently inaugurated its first-ever location in the Historic Anacostia community, serving residents facing the most prevalent health disparities in the city.

The center offers cancer patients

Coaching is now available to you

Your MedStar Family Choice District of Columbia coverage now includes daily coaching and support over text message through Mindright Health, at no cost.

Scan the QR code or text “hello” to 886-886 to sign up. Use referral code “MEDSTAR” during enrollment.

across the D.C. Metropolitan area disease navigation and support services at no cost. Although services are also available to people residing in Maryland and Virginia, the

non-profit organization was eager to stake their claim in the East of the River community, hoping to help combat the grave statistics showing the highest cancer mortality rates in Ward 8.

“This is the opening of the first ever CSC in the DMV area. It's right here in Ward eight. Our mission is to uplift and strengthen people impacted by cancer by providing support, fostering compassionate communities and breaking down barriers to care,” said Executive Director Zubair Ansari. “You go west of the Anacostia River, we've got one climate, and then we come east of the Anacostia River, it's a whole different ball game. We want to make sure we're serving people in the communities that need it the most.”

Although the nation’s capital houses some of the world’s most advanced medical institutions, the District still ranks highest in overall cancer mortality, including one of the highest reported death rates due to prostate and breast cancer across the country. According to DC Health’s District of Columbia Cancer Control Plan 2022-2026, there are roughly 18,750 cancer survivors residing in the District; residents in the Ward 8 community have faced the highest mortality rates.

While CSC D.C.’s brick and mortar location does not provide any medical services, they fill a gap of needed holistic resources in the

form of support groups, education, short-term counseling, navigation, and health lifestyle classes available in person and online.

Graeber, who is a native Washingtonian residing in Ward 7, found CSC D.C. amid her startling bout of stomach cancer after she was initially diagnosed in November of 2022. She details her first moments as she was lost for words, needing counsel on how to adjust to the changes that her diagnosis has brought about.

“When [my doctor] called me, I just [felt] my life was turned upside down at that moment. I just went numb. I [thought], who do I tell? How do I tell my children or my friends? I’ve never known anybody that actually had cancer. I would hear about it, but I had never known anyone [personally] that actually touched me to say they’ve had cancer,” Graeber told The Informer.

While having the amazing support of her children, friends, and family to see her through the process, she decided to seek out a cancer support group in D.C. to commune with other women who were also battling the disease. Before CSC D.C. opened their new location east of the River, Graeber started participating in their weekly virtual support groups with the organization’s program director Rachel Ress Ress and fellow res-

5 Andy Sandler, Trayon White Sr., Zubair Ansari, Essie Graeber, and Cancer Support Community (CSC) CEO Sally Werner cut the ribbon at the CSC’s latest Washington, D.C. location in Ward 8 on Thursday, May 23. (Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

CANCER from Page 20 idents walking a similar path as herself.

“We have a good time every Thursday on the call, and I'm so thankful I met Rachel [about] a year ago,” said Graeber.

Ress outlines holistic support programs to offer residents physical and emotional support between cancer treatments, whether that entails yoga classes, peer support groups, or nutrition counseling.

“We've been providing virtual support for about the last few three years or so. Having this brick and mortar space is to further enhance that and to provide another avenue for people who maybe aren't comfortable with Zoom or would rather meet in person to do that,” Ress told The Informer. “So, we are hoping to open our doors to the community in the coming weeks here and start having programming as well. We're really excited to continue doing the work that we've been doing.”

The nonprofit organization is able to provide care services for underserved communities in the District through philanthropy, grant funding, and other financial development professionals who help raise funds to ensure that residents have equitable resources and support while battling cancer.

“We know that there are such really significant health disparities, and that access to care is part of that and nobody should be feeling like they're facing cancer by themselves. They need support, they need community. That's what our goal is, and that's what we focus on,” Ress explained. WI

When Essie Graeber received her diagnosis of stage 3 stomach cancer, she had no frame of reference to pull from, as she was the first in her personal circle to encounter the life-changing disease.

5 Essie Graeber shares her journey of battling cancer and how Cancer Support Community D.C. has had a great impact on her recovery process. (Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

EARTH OUR

and has used it this way since before the Buchanans first moved in over 45 years ago.

“With the town hall, I'm sure the people on the [council], or whoever looks at all of this—they wouldn't want that in their neighborhood,” Pamela Buchanan said. “So why have it in our neighborhood? That's the bottom line.”

Until recently, the lot contained hundreds of used plastic garbage bins, several old mattresses and some scattered wood scraps and tires. Capitol Heights had dumped 1,500 used garbage bins—still dirty—into the lot in May 2023, after switching to a new trash service provider. The town finally cleared the last of the bins and other junk by May 16, 2024.

Some of the trash cans had been taken away throughout the year, but several neighbors expressed frustration with the pace of their removal. Opus Avenue residents said Capitol Heights had not reached out to them with a heads up that the trash bins were coming or a timeline for how long it might take to remove them.

More than 100 garbage cans still sat there on April 16, when Informer reporters visited Opus Avenue, spoke to neighbors and dropped by the town administrative building to ask about property records. Dezirae Montgomery, a municipal employee in charge of permits and licensing, said that the county would have the relevant records.

Prince George’s County zoning maps list the Opus Avenue facility as residential. The county’s zoning ordinance prohibits such properties from being used as a “junkyard” or for any kind of “outdoor storage,” including “storage of wrecked or abandoned vehicles or parts.”

Within a week of the Informer’s inquiry, the town began removing the remaining garbage cans more quickly, a homeowner who lives next door said. At the time of press, construction vehicle, some pieces of equipment and an old Hummer remain in the lot.

bins should have been retrieved by the former trash company, Bates Trucking and Trash Removal, but weren’t.

“The Town is diligently removing wheels from each bin prior to loading on small vehicles that are not equipped to transport such removals to an approved dumping area,” Monroe wrote in an email a week before the last bins were cleared out. “It's a tedious but steady process.”

The mayor and other town officials repeatedly declined to answer specific questions about the situation, including why Bates Trucking did not take away the bins and why the town did not hire another company to do so.

TOWN OFFICIAL: THE LESS WE SHARE NOW,

‘THE

LESS WE HAVE TO EXPLAIN LATER’

A representative from Bates Trucking said she could not comment on anything related to the former contract with Capitol Heights because the two parties were “in litigation.” In her email, Mayor Monroe had also written “some of the issues are legal and I'm unable to share.”

But Robert Dashiell, the attorney representing Bates Trucking, said in a phone call that he was not aware of any litigation, prior or ongoing, between his client and the town of Capitol Heights. A case search within the Maryland Judiciary’s records did not show any open or closed cases involving Bates Trucking.

Dashiell also said he believed the trash bins to still be Bates Trucking’s property and that he thought they had already been “destroyed or disposed of” months prior.

“I didn’t even know the cans still existed,” he said. “Why [didn’t] somebody just write a letter to Bates saying, ‘here are the cans, please come get them?’”

council member Faith Ford also directed The Informer to speak with Ren. Ford said she and other members of the elected council were “unable” to speak to members of the press, per the town’s “protocols.”

Most calls, and all emails, to Ren’s office went unanswered. During a visit to the municipal building, an Informer reporter was told that the administrator was in the office but would not speak to her any time that day.

Montgomery did answer one call to the office on May 15, just a few days before the last bins were removed. She said the town was “actively working on making the appearance of the lot more appealing” and “clearing out the land so that it is not necessarily an eyesore.”

But Montgomery also said the town had not determined what it would do with the property going forward, and would not rule out the possibility of continuing to use it as a storage facility.

“We don’t have anything solid,” Montgomery said. The fewer details the office shared with the Informer and the public about tentative plans or discussions, she said, “the less we have to explain later.”

LOTS LEFT UNEXPLAINED

On May 17, the day after the town removed the last trash cans, Mayor Monroe spoke at a press conference to celebrate upcoming development around the Capitol Heights metro station.

“Money is tight in this town,” Monroe said. “We tried to give you all the information that you need. We started out [with] a lot of dirty trash cans, and we have addressed that.”

The mayor declined to answer follow-up questions.

A homeowner who lives next door to the storage lot, Dana Torres*, said that Capitol Heights officials never provided her with an estimate for how long it would take to remove the pile of trash cans. Torres is using a pseudonym because of concerns about how speaking out could affect her future job options if employers search online for her name.

Her property sits adjacent to the storage lot, separated only by a chain link fence. After the garbage cans were placed in it, Torres said, she began having serious, expensive groundhog issues she had never experienced in the 10 years she had lived in the home.

The fourth-generation D.C. native began reaching out to town and county officials shortly after the pile of trash cans appeared in May 2023.

3 A municipally owned and operated storage lot on a residential street in Capitol Heights, Md. still contains vehicles and equipment, even after the town cleaned out most other junk that had been in the lot for about a year. Photo May 19.

Read more on washingtonifnormer.com JUNK from Page 1

“I reached out to pretty much everyone I could think of,” Torres said. “It really led to an empty dead end.”

The town did not proactively get in touch with Opus Avenue residents before or after the placement of the garbage cans, several neighbors confirmed.

“It feels like, to be honest, my representatives don't care about me,” Torres said.

Torres did get one call back from the town administration in early June of last year. She didn’t remember exactly who she spoke to, but the phone number in her records matches the cell number listed on Emory Gibson’s official business card as public works director. Torres said the official on the line argued with her that the facility was a “storage lot” and not a “junkyard.”

“We got into a discussion about the semantics,” Torres recalled. “He was very condescending… And either way, if it's a storage lot, or a junkyard—it does not belong in a residential neighborhood.”

Capitol Heights Mayor Linda Monroe said in a statement that the

In her statement, Monroe directed further questions to Joy Ren, Capitol Heights’ town administrator. But Ren’s office declined to schedule an interview or provide written comments, as did Emory Gibson, the town’s public works director.

Reached by phone, Capitol Heights

Asked about future plans for the Opus Avenue storage facility less than a mile away, Monroe pointed out that the town has almost 100 vacant lots it is “trying to address.” She mentioned ownership transfers as part of that process, but the Opus Avenue facility— unlike many vacant lots—is already owned by Capitol Heights.

She attended a virtual town meeting and reached out to Mayor Monroe, the Capitol Heights administrator’s office, and town council members Victor James, Sr. and Ronald Williams, Sr. Emails to the county executive’s office and to Kristal Oriadha, her county council representative, also did not yield results. Oriadha’s chief of staff, Tiffany Hannon, said her office hadn’t “heard anything about this” and that Oriadha’s constituent services team had experienced turnover in the last year. Torres had reached out to the council member last August.

Early on, Torres filed a 311 report with Prince George’s County. The county told her that the problem had to be solved by Capitol Heights, since the municipality owned the storage lot.

ENFORCEMENT RESPONSIBILITY IS LEGALLY COMPLICATED

The lot has been used for storage since the 1970s, but that usage seems to contradict the rules set out in Prince George’s County’s zoning ordinance today.

Hilary Covington, a representative from the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (MNCPPC), said that she couldn’t comment on the specific plot on Opus Avenue but that generally outdoor storage isn’t permitted on land zoned for residential use. WI

(Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

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

 Free substance use disorder treatment available 7 days a week

 Three medications to help

 Better coordinated treatment services

 Peer counselors who have been there

 Transportation, recovery housing, and more

Click. Save. Submit! EDUCATION

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

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

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

than a month before the start of Fiscal Year 2025.

Council in support of the program.

D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson (D) said that testimony compelled the allocation of local funds to ensure that all 1,500 program participants can graduate within the next four years without incurring debt or tapping into other funding sources.

“We thought it was wrong to shove these students out of school,” Mendelson told The Informer. “These are students who don’t have the money, or enough money to be able to go to college and get a degree. Of course, getting a degree means they will get better paying jobs and pursue their dreams. These are students who otherwise wouldn’t have that opportunity.”

D.C. FUTURES

STUDENTS RECEIVE ANSWERS TO THEIR MOST PRESSING QUESTIONS

The council’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget bill allocates $4.3 million toward D.C. Futures for the next fiscal year, and a total of $14.33 million between FY 2025 and FY 2028. The amounts doled out each year incrementally decreases as more students graduate.

Amid questions about the program’s future, D.C. Futures issued a call for 2024-2025 academic year applications earlier this year. Those applications are due on Sept. 6, less

D.C. Futures enrollees receive “last dollar” funding that covers tuition, fees and cost of attendance as they take on at least two courses per semester. They also have access to mentorship opportunities, monthly stipends and emergency funds that can go toward an outstanding balance and rainy day expenses.

In January, D.C. Futures enrollees started conducting weekly meetings at the Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C. Hotel and over Zoom after some of them heard from their mentors about the program possibly ending.

Those meetings led up to students’ appearances before the D.C. Council earlier in May during the Committee of the Whole’s budget oversight hearing.

Several days after the hearing, on May 15, D.C. Futures participants who are enrolled at CUA received an email from Twila Lindsay, assistant dean in the university’s Metropolitan School of Professional Studies, that raised doubts about whether the program would continue beyond the Fall 2024 semester.

Those who spoke to The Informer said that they expected to hear from JMG Productions, Inc., a local nonprofit and D.C. Futures program facilitator, about the impending budget cuts, but there hadn’t been much comDC FUTURES Page 25

DC FUTURES from Page 1

5 The D.C. Council is gearing up for the first reading of a budget bill that, among other things, restores funding to D.C. Futures, a program that has allowed hundreds of District residents to attend college for close to nothing. (WI File Photo/Ja’Mon Jackson)

munication other than what individual mentors told them in confidence.

Joelle Goode, founder and executive director of JMG Productions, Inc., didn't respond to The Informer’s request for comment.

LIFELONG D.C. RESIDENTS SEEK EQUITY THROUGH D.C. FUTURES

For D.C. resident and D.C. Futures enrollee Cynthia Brown, preserving D.C. Futures is a matter of survival.

“You’re taking money from Washingtonians who want to work in D.C.,” Brown, a business management major at CUA, said in criticism about D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget proposal. “We’re not transplants. You care more about the Wizards and Caps to bring money to D.C. but what about us?”

Brown, a lifelong D.C. resident, said she entered D.C. Futures for professional advancement like what her less experienced, but credentialed colleagues have been able to achieve after moving to the District from other cities.

Since embarking on her journey in 2022, Brown has consistently appeared on the Dean’s List at CUA’s Metropolitan School of Professional Studies.

“We’ve put in a lot of work,” Brown said. “A 3.7 GPA is hard to come by when you have to work and [take care of] a family.”

Throughout much of the budget season, Brown pondered how she and hundreds of other enrollees would continue their matriculation through CUA, Trinity Washington University, and UDC with D.C. Futures.

The situation, she said, also raised questions about the Bowser administration’s priorities.

“They’re advertising D.C. Futures as they talk about taking away funding,” Brown said. “I’m going to work, live and play in D.C. just like [others] who do it. I’m a Washingtonian, born and raised.”

Aliscia Gerken, a full-time UDC student and D.C. Futures participant, credits D.C. Futures with placing her on a path to becoming an attorney and connecting her with D.C. residents of various generations and walks of life.

Since the fall of 2023, Gerken has been working toward a bachelor’s degree in administration of justice at

UDC, all while working, taking care of her son and organizing other public school parents around budget priorities.

Though she’s been able to work in the federal government , Gerken said the lack of a degree from an accredited institution has pigeonholed her into a salary that’s not sufficient to support her family. In the weeks before the council’s budgetary adjustment, Gerken continued to mull over the possibility of applying for jobs that provide tuition assistance.

However, as she explained to The Informer, that type of arrangement may be hard to come by in the current economic climate.

“I’m working every day and struggling. I can’t really go any further professionally,” Gerken said as she weighed in on Bowser’s FY 2025 budget proposal. “If we’re not properly educating citizens, how can we prevent crime? Education should be the priority [so that] public safety and housing could fall into alignment. We have one of the highest minimum wages in the country but the cost of living is out of control. Generations of native Washingtonians are not seeing the pie.”

ONE D.C. FUTURES ENROLLEE REFLECTS ON HER HOUSEHOLD BUDGET CRUNCH

For one D.C. Futures participant, the lack of funding restoration would’ve endangered her family as they attempt to maintain financial stability.

“We cannot afford to add any more financial obligations to our existing budget,” said the Gen-Xer, who requested anonymity, about her and her husband.

As the Gen-Xer, a Human Services Administration major at CUA, continues to make mortgage and utility payments, she too is looking for other funding sources to continue her education so she can obtain her bachelor's degree by the spring of 2025.

For decades, this woman has worked jobs in the District with dreams of attending college and eventually entering the education field or nonprofit sector. She told The Informer that, if D.C. Futures hadn’t received funding in the Fiscal Year 2025 budget, she would’ve made withdrawals from her retirement account.

Read more on washinmgtoninformer.com WI @SamPKCollins

Are You Ready for

the

June 4, 2024 Primary Election?

Primary Election: June 4, 2024

Hours: 7:00 am – 8:00 pm

Early Voting: May 26 – June 2, 2024

Hours: 8:30 am – 7:00 pm

What Voters Need to Know:

• For the June 4, 2024 Primary Election, all voters registered with one of the major parties (Democratic, Republican, or DC Statehood Green) will be mailed a ballot.

• Voted ballots can be returned to a Mail Ballot Drop Box, via US Postal Service, or to any Vote Center.

• Locations for Vote Centers and Mail Ballot Drop Boxes are available at www.dcboe.org

• Ballot tracking via BallotTrax is available at www.dcboe.org

• If voting in person, you can cast your ballot at any Vote Center, regardless of your residential address.

Qualified non-citizen DC residents may vote in local elections. Specifically, non-citizen DC residents may vote in elections for Mayor, Attorney General, members of the DC Council, members of the State Board of Education, and Advisory Neighborhood Commissioners. They may also vote on initiative, referendum, recall, and charter amendment measures. To learn more, visit www.dcboe.org/noncitizenvoter

Early Vote Centers are closed May 27, 2024 for Memorial Day. Register to vote at dcboe.org/registertovote.

or

Lead Exposure and Crime are Connected. Why Aren’t We Talking About It?

There is a lot of research showing that lead exposure, particularly for children, is related to increased criminal activity later. The heavy metal neurotoxin is—obviously—not the sole cause of crime, and researchers have reached different conclusions about exactly how closely the two are linked. But dozens of studies have concluded that the two are connected.

Cities where people were drinking lead-contaminated water in the early 20th century had, on average, nearly 25% higher violent crime rates than similar cities with iron pipes or non-corrosive water, according to a 2016 study published in the journal Explorations in Economic History. Importantly, that study looked at the crime rates 20 years after the pipes were initially installed in these cities—when the generation of exposed kids began reaching adulthood.

And in the District, this is incredibly relevant, because between 2000 and 2004, D.C. experienced one of the worst lead in water crises the U.S. has ever seen. Four times more kids in the District had high levels of lead in their blood during this time, compared to the years before the water treatment problem. Miscarriages and fetal death spiked, too.

Fast forward approximately 20 years: our city saw 274 people killed in confirmed homicides in 2023, the highest rate since 1997. Correlation isn’t causation, but the science is pretty clear that the two are connected. But few people—and basically no city leaders—seem to be talking about lead at all.

Meanwhile, DC Water’s plan for a “Lead-Free DC” has nowhere near enough funding to meet its goal of eliminating the District’s lead service lines by 2030; at its current rate the task would take another 30 years. Only about 30% of D.C. kids get tested for lead, and even fewer are screened on time (all children should have two tests before the age of two!).

If we’re interested in a safer, healthier future for the District, our conversations about crime prevention cannot continue to leave out lead.

WI

It’s Time to Celebrate LGBTQ Pride and all Americans Should Join the Party

It’s that time of the year when tens of thousands of individuals who are part of the LGBTQ community, along with family members, advocates and friends, take over the District for the annual celebration of gay pride.

With the pandemic behind us and folks finally able to “get their groove on,” this year’s two-week celebration promises to be a rainbow-colored cornucopia of parades, parties, panels, potlucks and plenty of pomp and circumstance.

Pride is a family reunion during which gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender – and other distinctions that have extended the “gay alphabet” – come together in love and friendship.

However, it’s important to remember that homophobia and legal and social oppression of the LGBTQ community continue to exist in our “land of the free.” In fact, the gay movement began in the 1950s because of the extremely repressive laws that penalized and ostracized those who dared to live outside of heterosexual norms.

With last week’s Black Pride events now over and with the District anticipating the kickoff of Capital Pride, LGBTQ Americans face an onslaught of anti-LGBTQ restrictions which target gender identity. These restrictions include bans on gender-affirming care and teacher constraints on LGBTQ topics, to transgender rights.

But what’s the big deal about LGBTQ rights?

After all, according to a Gallup poll conducted in 2022, only 7.2% of U.S. adults identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or “something other than heterosexual.” Even while other polls suggest that number may be slightly higher, closer to 10% according to Public Religion Re-

search Institute (PRRI), that’s still just a slice of America’s total adult population, which numbered 258.3 million according to the 2020 U.S. Census.

When we look back over the past 100 years, pride has always been about achieving equal rights and justice in America for LGBTQ individuals. However, even beyond LGBTQ pride, values taught from childhood teach the importance of individual pride.

Consider for a moment the songs that you learned during your

first years of school or even when you first joined the Cub Scouts or Brownies. One of the more popular songs which children still learn and sing today is “Proud to Be Me.”

The song goes:

“I’m proud to be me, but I also see, you’re just as proud to be you.

We may look at things a bit differently, but lots of good people do.

It’s just human nature so why

The 2024 Voter Guide was awesome. I appreciate it very much!

Wallace

Brown

Washington, D.C.

should I hate you, for being human as I?

We’ll get and we’ll give, and we’ll live and let live, and we’ll all get along if we try.

I’m proud to be me, but I also see, you’re just as proud to be you.

It’s true! You’re just as proud to be you.”

Such truth and wisdom come out of the mouth of babes.

It’s time to celebrate LGBTQ pride . . . and all Americans should attend the party.

WI

TO THE EDITOR

Wow! I had no clue that comedian Red Grant was running for an at-large council seat. I think it’s awesome that he’s made a pivot to politics. You never know where life will take you.

Eve Tillery Washington, D.C.

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS

Guest Columnist

Lessons for Young Graduates

share?" Asking not "How can I find myself?" but "How can I lose myself in service to others and leave our nation and world better than I found it?"

This is the joyous time of year when families, friends and teachers are cheering on graduates of all ages who have worked so hard and made them all so proud. I hope many of today's high school and university graduates will wander off the beaten career path and help redefine success in our culture, asking not "How much can I get?" but "How much can I do without and

Guest

During this season I like to share some of the lessons for life I offered my own children and many of the extraordinary young graduates I've had the privilege of meeting over the years. The pace of change in the world young people are inheriting continues to accelerate exponentially, but I still believe there are some enduring values and advice older people can share, and agree with Archibald MacLeish that "there

is only one thing more powerful than learning from experience and that is not learning from experience." I feel strongly that it is the responsibility of every adult — parent, teacher, preacher and professional—to make sure that young people hear what we have learned from the lessons of life that helped us survive and succeed, for them to hear from us what we think matters, and for them to know that they are never alone as they go to meet the future.

Here are a few of those lessons:

– There is no free lunch. Don't feel entitled to anything you don't sweat

I Left My Heart in San Francisco

I was blessed to visit my hometown from May 17 through May 19, blessed to join a stellar group of 25 women who graced the front page of the San Francisco Sun Reporter during Women's History Month. These were sisters who are making a difference, from elected officials like Mayor London Breed and District Attorney Brooke Jenkins, to legendary television per-

The 2024 graduation season is upon us, and it represents a proud milestone in the lives of teenagers. Each year, middle school students graduate and then transition into high school. The same is true of many high school students who graduate and then move on to college.

The graduation ceremony is when family and friends come together to

sonalities like Pam Moore and Carolyn Tylor. The room at the Fillmore Center was filled with power and enthusiasm, anchored by Sun Reporter publisher Amelia Ashley-Ward, whose joy and appreciation for the women she featured in her paper was palpable.

My role? Simply to offer a keynote recognizing women and lifting us up. That might have been one of the easiest assignments I've had in a while. It was also a blessing that we were able to give away dozens of my book, "Surviving and Thriving: 365 Facts in Black Economic History." Between the event at

the Fillmore Center on Friday and the book signing at the Sun Reporter offices, my cup run over so much that a saucer couldn't handle my feelings.

I am so proud of Mayor London Breed, my sorority sister and an impactful leader. It was informative and important to hear her outline her accomplishments as mayor — too many women are reluctant to toot their own horns. The Fillmore Center is testament to the mayor's leadership, and to her recognition of the African American legacy in San Francisco. The lease on the center is held by the Westside

and struggle for. Take the initiative in creating your own opportunity, and don't wait around for other people to discover you or do you a favor. Don't assume a door is closed; push on it. Don't assume if it was closed yesterday, it's closed today. And don't ever stop learning and improving your mind.

– Set thoughtful goals and work quietly and systematically toward them. Resist quick fixes, simplistic answers and easy gains. They often disappear just as quickly as they come.

– Assign yourself. My daddy used to ask us whether the teacher gave us

any homework. If we said no, he'd say, "Well, assign yourself." Don't wait around for your boss or your friends or spouse to direct you to do what you are able to figure out and do for yourself. Don't do just as little as you can to get by. If you see a need, don't ask, "Why doesn't somebody do something?" Ask, "Why don't I do something?" Hard work, initiative and persistence are still the non-magic carpets to success for most of us. And a critical reminder in an election year and every

Page 49

Community Health Care, ably led by Dr. Mary Ann Jones, a sister whose work on trauma is global. Another of the key players in San Francisco is Dr. Sheryl Davis, who leads the city's Human Rights Commission, which includes the city's reparations work.

Imagine all this woman power in one room!

Of course, there were a few good men, including Mayor Willie Brown, who is enthusiastically supportive of Mayor Breed, and Timothy Simon, a civic powerhouse recently led the California Black Chamber of Commerce.

Ace Washington, who I worked with "back in the day" was there helping, as he always has, moving chairs, helping people to their tables and being the all-around good guy that he has always been.

While I was working, I was also walking down memory lane, and marinating in the memories. Whenever my plane lands in San Francisco, as I see the water I get choked up with nostalgia. I left San Francisco 30 years ago, but I still identify myself as a San Francisco

celebrate students' academic achievements. However, the reality behind a student receiving a high school diploma can sometimes be misleading and disappointing. Generally, it implies that a student who completes the required 12 years of education is now equipped with the basic skills to make them employable within the workforce, adequately prepared for higher education, or ready to enter military service should they choose. We can't automatically assume this is the case for every student; an individual can receive their diploma and still

not possess the fundamental reading and reading comprehension skills. After the excitement of the graduation ceremonies, we have to get back to the reality of what we are facing rather than remain in denial or apathetic. Statistics show that the literacy rate is dropping among students of all ages. One former teacher and vice principal went as far as to say the nation is facing a "literacy crisis."

The Hechinger Report, a nonprofit organization, claimed that the decline occurred before the COVID-19 pandemic. Even before the pandem-

ic, nearly two-thirds of U.S. students were unable to read at grade level. "Scores had been getting worse for several years," they said. "The pandemic made a bad situation worse."

College professors are also concerned that their students are behind on reading skills, admitting it's not just little kids struggling. Military brass are concerned that the declining number of well-qualified soldiers compromises U.S. national security. It's no coincidence that the Army has seen a significant shortfall in recruiting in recent years. According to

a publication of the Association of the United States Army, only 23% of young Americans between the ages of 17 and 24 are qualified to serve in the Army without a waiver. This is mostly due to obesity, drug use, or the inability to meet academic standards. Everyone, including baby boomers, should be concerned about the lack of future talent being produced by our public school system. Logistical and analytic thinking come from reading. Reading helps

MALVEAUX

Julianne Malveaux

Guest Columnist

David W. Marshall

Marian Wright Edelman

EDELMAN

Columnist

Guest Columnist

Fighting for Equity for Black and Brown Transplant Patients

Any doctor will tell you that the ability to expect the unexpected and adapt accordingly is crucial, a lesson I've learned through my experiences as an athlete, a surgeon, and now, as a transplant recipient.

However, some developments are so unexpected and significant that they are particularly hard to overcome. This has been vividly

demonstrated over the past year due to a decision by a private contractor for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to cut back Medicare coverage for a critical, life-saving blood test. This test is indispensable to the transplant community; it allows for the early detection of organ rejection before the patient exhibits visible signs or symptoms. Notably, the test is easily obtainable, can be performed at regular intervals, done in remote areas, and even con-

ducted at home.

The situation took a turn in March 2023 when CMS ruled that Medicare would only cover this blood test if the patient's doctor could demonstrate that the patient was showing signs of rejection and that the blood test could serve as a substitute for a biopsy. This means that physical symptoms such as fever, pain, or feeling generally unwell must be present for the test to be covered under Medicare. This change introduces a significant delay in the

recognition of rejection, which may make it exceedingly difficult to save the transplanted organ, a truly precious gift.

This decision has profound implications, particularly alarming to me both as a surgeon and as a Black woman who underwent a kidney transplant four and a half years ago. It was this decision that propelled me to join the Health Equity in Transplantation Coalition (HEiTC). Since then, HEiTC has been working tirelessly to advocate for the

overwhelmingly Black and brown transplant recipient population who are disproportionately affected by the lack of coverage for this crucial testing. We have called upon CMS as well as the Biden Administration to reverse these changes and rectify the disadvantage imposed on an already vulnerable group of transplant recipients.

The anxiety associated with potential organ failure is a signif-

With New Technology and Tactics, Russian Trolls Back to Disrupt U.S. Elections

"Russia remains the most active foreign threat to our elections. The Russian government's goals in such influence operations tend to include eroding trust in U.S. democratic institutions, exacerbating sociopolitical divisions in the United States, and degrading western support to Ukraine. Russia relies on a vast multimedia influence apparatus,

which consists of its intelligence services, cyber actors, state media, proxies, and social media trolls. Moscow most likely views such operations as a means to tear down the United States as its perceived primary adversary, enabling Russia to promote itself as a great power." — U.S. Director of National Intelligence

In the spring of 2019, the National Urban League's State of Black America report was the first to highlight the extent of Russian efforts to deceive, manipulate and

exploit Black voters in the 2016 presidential election. Five months later, a Senate Intelligence Committee report confirmed our findings: Russian trolls targeted Black Americans more than any other group to dissuade them from voting.

Now, as the 2024 presidential election approaches, the Russians are at it again, armed with new technology and new techniques. Videos, spewing disinformation, with voices and images manipulated by artificial intelligence, are the

How

Clean Energy Naysayers Help China and Hurt American Workers Guest

medium of choice for Russian operatives. Falsely represented as the work of independent journalists or whistle-blowers, the videos are considered more likely than simple blog or social media posts to enter the mainstream discourse.

Though the tactics are new, the goal remains the same: the election of Donald Trump and the implementation of Trump's pro-Russia policies. Trump has said he would encourage Russia to do "whatever the hell they want" to our NATO allies who don't meet defense

spending guidelines. He would end U.S. support for Ukraine in its fight against Russia's invasion.

Key to Russia's disruptive plan is the promotion of racial strife and the suppression of Black votes.

"By far, race and related issues were the preferred target of the information warfare campaign designed to divide the country in 2016." the U.S. Senate Intelligence Committee concluded. Of Russian operatives' top 10 Insta-

Electric vehicles (EVs) are the future of transportation. As a driver of an (American-made) electric vehicle myself, I know firsthand the amount of money I have already saved compared to when I drove the gas-powered version of the same model. And that is before considering the benefit to our air quality, the climate, and how fun it is to drive.

But roughly 60% of electric vehicles sold worldwide are made by China. That is compared to just 8% for American EVs. Moreover, Chinese sales continue to increase at a faster rate — 79% compared to 55% for American EVs between 2021 and 2022.

Of course, part of the reason for this is the low prices of Chinese models. And part of the reason those low prices are possible is that the Chinese government has not exactly played fair — heavily subsidizing the industry in order to

maintain its market dominance. But another reason China is so competitive is because of its domestic supply chain, especially localized battery production.

U.S. policymakers and our big automakers are finally waking up to the urgency of investing in EVs. As they are with solar and wind energy and battery manufacturing. But these staples of the next economy have their detractors — primarily the fossil fuel industry and the politicians and media outlets that often act as their mouthpieces. It goes fur-

ther than that though.

A big part of the naysayers' messaging strategy is to inflame fears about economic and social change. Tuning into networks like FOX News and One America News Network, it is not uncommon to get a taste of the disinformation campaign against EVs and other clean energy solutions. They wrongly portray policies meant to reduce carbon emissions and other pollution — especially cars and consumer appliances — as an attack on consumers “freedom.” They also appeal

to a general nostalgia for “the good old days” when no one was asked to think about energy efficiency or climate warming pollution.

Most Americans know, however, that we cannot afford to bury our heads in the sand. It would not only be a road to ruin for our climate but would also prevent American competitiveness in the global economy and be a disaster for American workers.

Right now, we are seeing the

HARRIS Page 50

Marc H. Morial

Ben Jealous

Guest Columnist

Dr. Marsha Harris

Columnist

LIFESTYLE

Things To Do, DMV!

By Jada Ingleton WI Contributing Fellow

Promising a culturally innovative and educational experience, check out a handful of the many events happening in the DMV this weekend.

Kick off the weekend with a panel offering students insight on professional development and entrepreneurship.

Celebrate culture and history with Rochelle Rice’s “And We Shall March” and DanceAfrica DC 2024: Both Sides of the Water, or engage in rare artistic attractions through an exhibition with Bank of America’s Museums on Us.

Carve the path from liberation to activism at the Kennedy Center before enjoying a witty, dark comedic performance from Priyanka Shetty and game-lovers can end the weekend with D.C.’s largest gaming festival.

To stay up-to-date with all the fun, don’t forget to check out

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

THURSDAY, MAY 30

AI's Promise & Price: Tackling Challenges, Seizing Chances for Communities 5 p.m. - 8 p.m. | Free Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg Center, 555 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C., 20001

Join Johns Hopkins University for a new product showcase and interactive dialogues with leading experts from across the region, exploring the many ways leveraging AI and technology can improve health outcomes and catalyze community vibrancy for all.

“The Power Shift" series, hosted by Johns Hopkins University & Medicine – Ward Infinity aims to empower, educate, and equip communities to use entrepreneurship as

a powerful tool to solve economic and health disparities and create community vibrancy.

Addressing centuries of systemic inequality, "The Power Shift" reimagines the balance of power, ownership, and control.

FRIDAY, MAY 31

Carving the Path from Activism to Liberation 6 p.m. | Free with reservation Kennedy Center, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20566

This panel discussion will be between featured artists from “The Gathering: A Collective Sonic Ring Shout” and community-based activists, examining their relationship and how they help communities heal and change narratives.

This is a reservation and not a ticket and there is a four-ticket

SOCIAL JUSTICE PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOL NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Social Justice Public Charter School is soliciting proposals from qualified vendors for:

• Special Education services for related and professional services

• Consultation/evaluations relevant to special education services

• Modular Classroom Purchase and Relocation Services

Proposals should be uploaded via Procurement Form https://forms.gle/18jDAi4Xdu6PjzEh7 no later than 4:00 PM EST, on June 17, 2024. No proposals will be accepted after the deadline Questions can be addressed to amber@thesocialjusticeschool.org

will have the opportunity to visit two newly conserved Paul Cezanne paintings: “Mont Sainte-Victoire” (1886-87) and “Self-Portrait” (c. 1877) – on display together for the first time in over 50 years. In partnership with Bank of America and the bank's Art Conservation Project Grant, The Phillips Collection presents “Up Close with Paul Cezanne,” providing visitors new insights into the artist's process.

The Elephant in the Room 8 p.m. | $55.00

The Keegan Theatre, 1742 Church St NW, Washington, D.C., 20036

Priyanka Shetty’s “The Elephant in the Room” is a witty, dark comedy about an Indian software-engineer-turned-actor who must navigate life as an immigrant arriving in Trump’s America.

limit. Patrons who make advanced reservations can pick up their tickets at the remote box office in the RIVER PAVILION on the day-of, beginning at 5 p.m.

DanceAfrica DC 2024: Both Sides of the Water 8 p.m. | $30.00 Dance Place, 3225 8th Street NE, Washington, D.C., 20017

Get ready to move to the rhythms at the 37th annual DanceAfrica DC festival. Dive into a week bursting with the invigorating energy of dance, the rhythm of music, and the richness of tradition.

Guided by the dynamic Griot Mama Sylvia Soumah, DanceAfrica DC 2024 promises to be an unmissable extravaganza that will inspire, invigorate, educate, and entertain. Don’t miss out on the fun, which will include live performances, an African market buzzing with excitement, and captivating oral histories.

SATURDAY, JUNE 1

All-New Cezanne Exhibition with Bank of America’s Museums on Us 11 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. | Free The Phillips Collection, 1600 21st St NW, Washington, D.C., 20009 Bank of America, Merrill and Bank of America Private Bank credit and debit cardholders can receive free general admission to one of Washington, D.C.’s most in-demand cultural attractions Saturday and Sunday, June 1 and June 2. Bank of America cardholders

When Priyanka makes the bold move to defy her family by quitting her IT job and moving to the U.S. to pursue an acting career, things don’t quite turn out how she imagined.

Watch Priyanka’s real life story unfold as she transitions from her deeply embedded roots in India to find context and common ground in America. Gear up for a funny, tumultuous ride through immiscible cultures, unforgettable love, irreparable loss, and the desperation of not belonging anywhere.

SUNDAY, JUNE 2

MET FEST 2024, DC's Largest Gaming Festival featuring Esports 11 a.m. | $30.00

Entertainment & Sports Arena, 1100 Oak Drive SE, Washington, D.C., 20032

Met Fest 2024 is the District’s largest gaming festival featuring Esports, Gaming, Music, and STEM. Starting June 1 at the Entertainment & Sports Arena, this unforgettable, groundbreaking two-day festival is the first-ever event of its kind targeting all high school and college students in the multi-billion-dollar gaming industry. The event offers young gamers an introduction into learning how to improve their chances for college scholarships and working with professional Esports teams and gaming companies to level up their careers in the Esports gaming industry. WI Read more on washingtoninformer.com

5In a celebration of African and Native American culture, Dance Africa DC: Both Sides of the Water presents an immersive dive into the spirit of the African Diaspora through master classes and an epic outdoor festival. (Courtesy Photo/Dance Place)

New Documentary Tells How D.C. Became a Hot Spot for Black Comics

By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer

Tommy Davidson, Dave Chapelle, Martin Lawrence, Donnell Rawlings, and Wanda Sykes are a handful of the many successful comics who hail from the D.C. area. The new documentary “The Mecca of Comedy: The Rise of Standup Comedy in Washington, DC” unveils their beginnings.

A four-year passion project from cinematographer, producer, and director Parrish Smith, the film journeys through the D.C. scene that birthed comedians that we have grown to love from hearty laughter. The documentary can be seen on Apple TV, Prime Video, and Tubi Smith delved into D.C.’s Black

comedy history almost 20 years ago from popular local comic Chris Thomas. Hearing the names of many comics not well known outside the metro D.C. area sparked an idea for Smith.

During a recent exclusive interview with The Washington Informer, Smith and local comedy legends Sylvia Traymore Morrison and Andy Evans, discussed details of the film, and how the District has been instrumental in shaping the national comedy scene.

“The amount of talent from D.C. is strong. It’s not just about comedians,” Smith said. “It’s also about the comedy clubs and the whole comedy scene from the late 70s through the 90s.”

COMEDY Page 32

5 Parrish Smith produced and directed “The Mecca of Comedy,” a documentary that examines the history of Black comedy in D.C. The film now streams on Apple TV, Prime Video, and Tubi. (Courtesy Photo/Parrish Smith)

5 Producer and director Parrish Smith with comedian and actor Tommy Davidson on the set for the documentary “The Mecca of Comedy " that examines Black comedy history in D.C. The film now streams on Apple TV, Prime Video, and Tubi. (Courtesy Photo/Parrish Smith)

LIFESTYLE

Smithsonian's Anacostia Community Musuem's Juneteenth Freedom Celebration: Unity.

Freedom. Acknowledgment.

Submitted by Smithsonian's Anacostia Community Museum

Join us for a day of celebration and reflection at the Smithsonian's Anacostia Community Museum for the Annual Juneteenth Celebration on Wednesday, June 19th, from 10a.m.to 5 p.m. This free event is open to the public and welcomes families of all ages to honor the present and reflect on our shared traditions and history.

Hosted by BeMo Brown, and featuring sounds all day by Ebb King, the Juneteenth Main Stage will feature a lineup of all incredible DC Metropolitan Area performances, including the soulful Dupont Brass, R&B singer Alex Vaughn, the entertaining band Too Much Talent, and hip-hop artist Noochie. DJ Cuzzin B will also spin a set. There's something for everyone to enjoy.

Visitors are encouraged to explore our latest exhibition, "A Bold and Beautiful Vision: A Century of Black Arts Education in Washington, D.C., 1900-2000." This exhibit highlights the educators and students who have made significant contributions to Black arts education in the nation's capital.

For more information, visit anacostia. si.edu/juneteenth. This is a free event, with food for purchase. Bring a blanket or your lawn chairs and celebrate Juneteenth with us. Be part of a day filled with music, art, and community spirit.

The Anacostia Community Museum is open daily (except December 25) from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and is located at 1901 Fort Place SE Washington, DC 20020. Learn more about our current exhibition and public programs by visiting anacostia.si.edu.

Evans, Morrison, and the late Darcel Blagmon, known as The Fat Doctor, are repeatedly mentioned in “The Mecca of Comedy” as mentors and supporters. The D.C. family of comics “talked up” each other’s talent, gave advice, or acknowledged stellar skills when a fellow comedian was being considered for the next opportunity.

“There is a central information stream here in D.C.,” explains comic, actor, and writer Davidson, in the film.

The film also notes that D.C. venues where comedians performed are iconic. The best comedy in D.C. was enjoyed in places like Garvin’s, the IBEX in the Marvin Gaye Room, and the Howard Inn.

Davidson first saw Morrison performing at the IBEX. She was a top impressionist and the first Black female writer for Saturday Night Live. Davidson, also an im-

pressionist, saw Morrison perform and determined he needed to do more work on his act after seeing her.

In the middle of the interview with The Washington Informer, Morrison effortlessly went into the voices of Whoopi Goldberg and Wendy Williams.

Evans touched on Washington, D.C.'s culture that fueled comedy by mentioning that the late Petey Greene was an example of the brilliant environment of the nation’s capital. Many locals may have considered Greene a provocative truth teller, sometimes with a hilarious edge. Greene was a part of the comic view of this town.

D.C.’s comedy range is discussed in this film. It’s a white-collar political town in the middle of blue-collar sensibilities, the seat of national government, and a town that fights for statehood. However, it’s always been ripe for comedy.

WI

@bcscomm

Join the Anacostia Community Museum for the 2024 Juneteenth Celebration on Wed., June 19.

Credit: Matailong Duma, Anacostia Community Museum

COMEDY from Page 31

5 Actor and comedian Donnell Rawlings with producer and director Parrish Smith. Rawlings was featured in Smith’s “The Mecca of Comedy,” a documentary examining the history of Black comedy in D.C., now streaming on Apple TV, Prime Video, and Tubi. (Courtesy Photo/Parrish Smith)

can be more than a snack. It can teach you about a group of animals called echinoderms!

Echinoderms are a group of animals that live on the ocean oor. Some examples of echinoderms include sea stars (star sh), sea urchins and sea cucumbers.

What’s in a name?

Use the code to see what the name echinoderm means.

What’s inside a mermaid’s purse?

Sometimes a strange, dark brown object washes into a tide pool. This is called a “mermaid’s purse.” These little pouches are actually the discarded eggcases for some familiar marine animals. Circle every other letter to see which ones.

Banana and a Sea Star

Peel a banana. Carefully split a banana peel into five fairly equal strips. Leave them connected at one end.

Lay your banana peel out flat, and you have the design of a sea star.

sea star

Where do echinoderms live?

Many echinoderms live in tide pools. Tide pools are pools that are left behind when the ocean moves away from the shore at low tide. Each time the tide returns, the tide pools are covered with water, and new plants and animals can get it. You can visit the same tide pool and see something different each time!

Banana and a Sea Urchin Banana and a Sea Cucumber

Pull the tips of your banana peel and hold them together on both ends.

Imagine the empty spaces are filled in and that the whole thing is covered with spines.

What do you have? A sea urchin!

Turn your banana “urchin” on its side and stretch it out. You now have a banana peel sea cucumber!

Walking on Tube Feet

Echinoderms don’t have legs or feet. How do they move from one place to another?

They have hundreds of tiny tube feet on the underside of their bodies. Tube feet are like tiny suction cups that help the echinoderms grip onto surfaces and move. They can move across the land and up and down rocky surfaces.

Find a newspaper photo of someone famous. Write a sentence telling why this person is famous. Write three things that would be and three things that might be famous like this person.

sea cucumber

by Vicki Whiting, Editor Je Schinkel, Graphics

review wi book

'The

horoscopes

LIFESTYLE

MAY 30 - JUNE 5, 2024

Black Girl Survives in This One,'

edited By

Desiree S. Evans and Saraciea J. Fennell

c.2024, Flatiron

Books

$19.99 / 368 pages

Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer

Don't go into that room.

Don't start downstairs, there's something down there you don't want to meet. Don't open that door. No, NO, don't look inside the cabinet. You'll scream and you'll be sorry. Don't go into the woods alone and don't ever go into the tool shed — although, in the new book, "The Black Girl Survives in This One," edited by Desiree S. Evans and Saraciea J. Fennell, there are times when you don't have to worry so much. Dive into your favorite scary media and you can almost immediately tell who will live and who will gruesomely die in each story. If there's a Black girl in the cast, well, you know what's coming next. But, says author Tananarive Due in her foreword, Black women are tired of that old trope. Rarely are fictional Black girls given a chance to "use their courage, strength, and wits to survive."

All that changes in this book.

Who among us hasn't taken a shortcut home? In "Harvesters" by L.L. McKinney, Jo's best friend and her new beau want to party back at his place. So does the hot guy Jo just met, and a quick trip through a cornfield seems like the quickest way to get there — even though word is that the cornfield is haunted.

Theater actors know that there's a certain Shakespearean play that you don't ever mention aloud, and in "Ghost Light" by Erin E. Adams, a white girl bends the rules at the worst possible time. No big deal, right? Except that it is, and the deadly mess is left up to the producer-director to fix — if she lives.

Meeting your favorite celebrity is fun, but what if they're not like you expect them to be? In "Tmi" by Zakiya Dalila Harris, the celeb in question is oddly too willing to connect with a fan, and too more-thanhappy to take selfies. That can be a lifetime memory but then again, sometimes, when someone famous shares too much, it's not a good thing at all.

The windows are open, the night is quiet. All you hear is cicadas, crickets, and … a hair-raising scream. Don't worry, though, the night sounds are normal. The scream is yours and you're reading "The Black Girl Survives in This One."

Sometimes, all you really want in a story is short. Seriously, you have a busy summer and that's where this book comes in: 15 authors present tales to scare you good, and they mostly succeed in their mission. Here, you'll read about a family curse, an inheritance that you wouldn't ever want, an otherworldly indication of danger and death, and a reason why you wouldn't want to have a party in a cemetery. Any of these tales might make you laugh a little, nervously.

And you'll be scared.

While "The Black Girl Survives in This One" is meant for readers ages 12-to-18, it's absolutely also for adults who love a little scream in their story. Don't leave this one behind.

Don't miss this book.

Don't stop reading. WI

ARIES Early in the week, you might experience a burning urge to spend time alone. Meditation, journaling, and restorative yoga can help you make the most of this time. Although part of you feels like you need to get out, this period is about practicing self-care. Later, the cosmos inspires you to connect one-on-one with your SO or close business colleagues on creative projects. Finding a power balance makes for a win/win. Lucky Numbers: 1, 32, 50

TAURUS Your imagination should be firing on all cylinders at the beginning of the week. Whether you've been wanting to take an impromptu weekend trip with your lover or friends, or you want to propose taking on a major, exciting project to higher-ups, now is the time to make your pitch. In turn, your reputation for being a peacemaker and team player can soar. Lucky Numbers: 2, 27, 47

GEMINI You'll do well to have a meaningful conversation with a loved one when the week begins. Putting your deepest emotions into words comes even more organically now, and the discussion can lead to a harmonious, healing experience for you both. Later, you might be called upon to head up a major project. The more you can step up to the plate, the more likely you'll impress higher-ups. You'd also do well to run with your most imaginative ideas. Lucky Numbers: 1, 15, 18

CANCER You might find yourself having intellectually stimulating conversations early in the week. Exchanging ideas with friends can prove satisfying. The experience of connecting in this way can also bolster your bond. And if you've been feeling burned out with your current work, you find yourself itching to get out of your comfort zone. You'll be inspired to put your usual routine on the back burner for a while so you can explore new ventures and embrace any opportunity to broaden your horizons. The vibe of the moment encourages you to let your fantasies lead the way for a change. Lucky Numbers: 19, 36, 56

LEO At the start of the week, experiment with pushing boundaries in your closest relationship. This moment is an opportunity for you to get especially clear on what you need. Be open to swimming in some deep emotional waters while you figure out how to strike a balance. Later, exchanging intellectual ideas and enjoying curious, playful banter with friends, SO can have you feeling even closer to one another and provide plenty of opportunities for shared learning. Lucky Numbers: 9, 13, 33

VIRGO You'll be inspired to express your deepest, sweetest emotions at the week's start. Writing your partner a love note or journaling about recent relationship experiences can feel especially therapeutic. As long as you're letting your intuition guide the way you'll feel like you're right on track. Later, the cosmos urges you to pitch your most artistic business proposals. Simply having passionate conversations with colleagues about your vision can help get the wheels in motion. Lucky Numbers: 3, 5, 26

LIBRA At the beginning of the week, you'll be feeling magnetic and interested in prioritizing self-care. It also wouldn't be unusual for your focus to turn to your most intimate relationships. You'll want to plan gatherings with your friends and find time for special dates. This can serve to strengthen your bonds. Later, you're inspired to consider a holistic mind-body routine The more the practice takes your mental wellness into consideration, the better the overall results. Lucky Numbers: 11, 17, 49

SCORPIO You could have a burst of energy that makes tackling a project feel like a breeze early in the week. Later, you might be frustrated if it feels like your outlets for creative self-expression have been blocked. This stagnated feeling could push you to rebel against your current circumstances and take a stand, enjoying a midday rendezvous with a romantic partner, or diving into an artistic project that you feel particularly passionate about. Trust your gut to lead the way. Lucky Numbers: 8, 19, 54

SAGITTARIUS When the week begins, you'll be compelled to share your most imaginative ideas with colleagues and higher-ups. Make sure these are the proposals that are nearest and dearest to your heart, because others will pick up on your enthusiasm and want to get on board! Later, your focus shifts to an ongoing emotional issue with a loved one. Now is the time to take on this concern with all your heart. Lucky Numbers: 3, 41, 49

CAPRICORN It's easy to find yourself feeling overwhelmed by minor, everyday, but quickly mounting to-dos when the week begins. Whether you're returning emails, submitting invoices, running errands, brainstorming with colleagues, or connecting with loved ones through nonstop DM marathons, you might feel positively stretched to your limit. The best fix is to make it a priority to carve out time for self-care. Even one evening spent taking a soothing soak or meditating can do wonders to calm your nerves. Lucky Numbers: 19, 44, 48

AQUARIUS Early in the week, language and intellectual conversation are even more of a turn-on than usual. Enjoying a thought-provoking experience with your partner SO can prove enlightening for you and set the stage to get even closer mentally, emotionally, and physically. Later, you might struggle to get all the information you need to make an important move to boost your income. You'll be ready to dive in emotionally but lack the necessary paperwork or numbers to seal the deal. Do your best to remain patient. The dust will settle after the intense energy of the moment dissipates. Lucky Numbers: 2, 18, 34

PISCES At the start of the week, you might feel energetically drained and struggle to get ahead on projects. You might also be aggravated if you feel like your efforts aren't being recognized. Cope by doing a grounding ritual that helps you get in touch with your emotions. Later, you'll crave a deep, intense connection with your partner or a potential SO. You'd do well to make your desires known while taking your loved one's needs into consideration as well. Lucky Numbers: 8, 24, 43

SPORTS

High School, College Track and Field Roundup

By Ed Hill WI Contributing Writer

The track and field competition is heating up in both college and high school as the season trails closer to the Olympics.

In high school competition, the nationally ranked St. John's College High School boys and girls continued their dominance, capturing their fourth straight DCSAA championships at Dunbar High School in Northwest, Washington. A total of 16 records were broken during the twoday meet.

It was Nadia Lytle, a junior from School Without Walls who had one

of the most outstanding individual performances in the championships, capturing both the shot put and discus titles, shattering the state record in both. She threw the discus 137.00 feet and 42 feet in the shot put.

"It's a big deal for me," said Lytle. "When you not only win but set records, it says a lot about how hard work pays off."

She added that she just missed the shot-put record last year and it motivated her to eclipse it this year.

On the college side, Howard University had athletes punch their tickets for the NCAA finals.

For the women’s college athletes, graduate Simone Watkins finished

with 55.92 clocking in the 400-meter hurdles at the NCAA regionals. The relay team of graduate Kailie Collins, junior Sherri-Anne Norton and freshmen Aiyana Gray-Williams and Mackenzie Robinson finished with a sizzling time of 44.26 in the 4X100 relays in the NCAA Regionals.

On the men's college track side, graduate Samuel Bennett and senior Noah Langford both qualified for the

NCAA Finals next week. Bennett finished with a 13.52 in the 110 hurdles while Langford turned in a 50.55 in the 400-meter hurdles

Former Archbishop Carroll track star Nyck Harbor, a freshman twosport athlete at the University of South Carolina, continues to show that he is one of the top sprinters in the world. The former Northeast, D.C. high school student not only qualified for

Pigskin Club Academic Award A Big Hit Among Awardees

By Ed Hill WI Contributing Writer

Through the 85 years, the Pigskin Club of Washington has evolved from honoring football only, to adding other sports, then dividing the awards banquet into the fall and spring, and finally

acknowledging academic achievements and contributors to the community.

A.B. Williamson is a past president of the Pigskin Club who has seen the transformation up close and personal. He is a former educator and highly successful basketball coach both at Eastern High

School and Howard University before becoming the University's first Director of Compliance of Athletics.

"Any organization that has success has to go through some transformation," said Williamson. "When we decided to revamp the organization to include sports other than football and make two separate awards banquets, it was myself and Art Linder who thought that it would be the best thing at that time. Then we added the academic piece. There were a lot of things that I saw and experienced in academics and athletics that brought that about."

At this year's awards ceremony at the First Baptist Church of Glenarden on Friday, May 24, there were a total of 53 athletes, coaches and community service honorees. Of the total of 32 senior student athletes, 24 of them were honored based on their grade point averages (GPAs).

Among those in attendance was Keishia Thorpe, who was the guest

of community service honoree.

Thorpe holds the distinction of being named Global Teacher of the Year in 2021, making her the only American named at the time and the first African American.

She teaches English at the International High School at Langley Park in Bladensburg, Maryland and was selected from more than 8,000 nominations and applications from 121 countries around the world, according to the Varkey Foundation that organizes the annual prize.

Thorpe has also been inducted into the USA National Teachers Hall of Fame (NTHF) and the highly respected educator is a former standout in track and field at Howard University.

"It is so important that the Pigskin Club is promoting academics," explained Thorpe, a native of Jamaica. "Oftentimes, the athletes put such an emphasis on performing at their specific sports that the academic piece is overlooked or taken for granted. The presenta-

the NCAA Championships (June 5-8 in Eugene, OR) but also for the U.S. Olympic trials, scheduled for June 2130, also in Eugene.

Harbor clocked in a personal best and school record 20.20 in the 200-meter sprint at the NCAA Regionals in Lexington, Kentucky this past weekend.

He has also qualified in the 100 meters with a time of 10.11. WI

tion of awards for academics indicates a level of inclusion for the student athletes that carries over into their lives long after the athletics are gone."

Olivia Waymer was one of the recipients of the academic achievement award. A senior at the School Without Walls, Waymer was named to the Pigskin Club All Met team after being District of Columbia State Athletic Association (DCSAA) champion in the 100- and 300-meter hurdles.

"I couldn't believe it at first when I heard that I would be receiving the award," said Waymer, who is headed to Elon University. "I was excited and grateful at the same time.

Ayotunde Ejiko was also a dual recipient of the All Met an Academic awards. The senior sprinter is headed to Cornell where he will run track.

"I received awards for track and field and for being named to the honor roll. So to receive that award before my fellow peers was really special,” Ejiko, who had a 3.8 GPA, told The Informer.

WI

5Nadia Lytle, a junior from School Without Walls, had one of the most outstanding individual performances in the championships, capturing both the shot put and discus titles, and shattering the state record in both. (Courtesy Photo/Cory Royster, DCSAA)

5Academic awardees at the Pigskin Club of Washington banquet at First Baptist Church of Glenarden on Friday, May 24. (Courtesy Photo)

CAPTURE the moment

Graduation Season Around Prince George’s

County

Friday, May

3Dr. Aminta H. Breaux, president of Bowie State presenting a degree to a graduate during the university’s commencement ceremony. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

3Principal Lisa Faulkner Jones leads the procession for the 2024 Bladensburg High School commencement exercises at The Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro on May 21. (Shevry Lassiter/ The Washington Informer)

4On May 18 in Largo Maryland, Prince George’s Community College hosted commencement, celebrating the students’ accomplishments and the institution’s 65th anniversary as a prominent regional leader in education and empowerment for Prince George’s County residents. (Robert R. Roberts/ The Washington Informer)

5A

Thursday, May

5On

24, at Bulldog Stadium, Bowie State University, held their 2024 commencement ceremony. DeJoy Spruill, Taylor Coates, Caleb Shaw-Watson, and Essa Sagne received bachelors of arts degrees. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

group of recent graduates gather for a group photo after the graduation ceremony concludes. (Robert R. Roberts/ The Washington Informer)

3Principal Michael Gilchrist with Crossland High School Class of 2024 graduate Alicia Davage after the school’s graduation ceremony on

23, at The Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro, MD. (Anthony Tilghman/Washington Informer)

RELIGION

Angel Tree Sports Camp Offers Fun, Training for Children with Incarcerated Parents

By Hamil R. Harris WI Contributing Writer

First Baptist Church of Glenarden’s Family Life Center was filled with children coaches and bouncing basketballs on Saturday, May 25, during the Angel Tree Sports Camp, sponsored by Prison Fellowship.

Founded in 1976 by Watergate conspirator Charles Colson, Prison Fellowship has worked with more than 250,000 students ages 7-to-17 and on Saturday there were many testimonials mixed in with basketball drills, Nike shoes, and gift bags filled with bibles and other items.

“Coming here to serve children with incarcerated parents with prison fellowship is so significant to me,” said Dr. Carmelle T. Norice-

Tra. “It happened to me more than 30 years ago. I had a dad who was serving a 99-year sentence.”

Despite her plight, Norice-Tra said to herself, “All things are possible to those who believe,” and kept pushing herself to graduate through college, graduate school and medical school.

Heather Rice-Minus, President and CEO of Prison Fellowship, also attended the camp at First Baptist Church Saturday with a group of volunteers from National Community Fellowship in the District.

“Today is exceptional for me because when I look at those kids, my nephews are playing,” said Rice-Minus. “Today, I not only got the privilege to lead Prison Fellow-

Life Center

First

coaches and bouncing

ship, but my family benefits from the programs while their dad is behind bars.”

She talked about the challenges youth of incarcerated parents face and explained the benefit of programs like Angel Tree Sports Camp, in helping to make a difference in children’s lives.

“When you have an incarcerated parent, it can be a very lonely experience,” Rice-Minus told The Informer. “We rely on local churches

to not just give at Christmas but to Be a ministry presence all year round.”

ABOUT PRISON FELLOWSHIP

ANGEL TREE

Across the country, Prison Fellowship Angel Tree hosts sports camps where children with an incarcerated parent gain skills in various sports and learn about God's love.

“I have the blessing of being a former incarcerated person who had utilized Angel Tree for my children,” said the Rev. Dr. Johnathan Queen, minister of Children and Family Services at First Baptist.

“Now, through our Prison Ministry program, I get to take Angel Tree gifts to families.”

Through lessons, drills, and fun competitions, kids who might not otherwise have a chance to attend a day camp are treated like champions. It's an opportunity for youth of all ages and abilities to learn from seasoned college players and former professional athletes.

According to the organization’s website, Prison Fellowship is the nation's largest Christian nonprofit, equipping churches to serve currently and formerly incarcerated people and their families and advocate for justice and human dignity inside and outside of prison.

One person featured at the clinic was former University of San Di-

“When you have an incarcerated parent, it can be a very lonely experience,” RiceMinus told The Informer. “We rely on local churches to not just give at Christmas but to be a ministry presence all year round.”

ego player Brandon Johnson. He was recruited by the Phoenix Suns and Washington Wizards until he was indicted and sentenced to six months in a federal prison in a sports betting scandal.

After his release, Johnson played for six years overseas in a professional league, and now he works with a nonprofit group he started called AWAKE. Johnson and other coaches were present to instruct the children.

In the closing message, Collin Savage, youth pastor of National Community Church told the campers that life is about choices and they had the opportunity for freedom and an abundant life.

“God wants you to know him in a new way,” Savage said. “You want to experience freedom found in a relationship with God. You loved it so much you wanted your son to die.”

WI

5 The Family

at

Baptist Church of Glenarden was filled with children

basketballs on Saturday, May 25, during the Angel Tree Sports Camp, sponsored by Prison Fellowship. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

5 Children practiced basketball skills during the Angel Tree Sports Camp on May 25 at First Baptist Church of Glenarden. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.

— Mark 11:24

Years ago, during a visit with my sister Franquis Grant, we were talking about our contract with AmeriHealth that we did together as a family. Some things had to be done at the last minute, very unexpectedly. Franquis said to me, "Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans." It caught my attention! I asked her where she got that from, and she replied that it's in John Lennon's song "Beautiful Boy (Darling Boy)," a 1980 song that he wrote about the birth of his son. She reminded me how she was living with me out in San Pablo, California, when she played that album so often. She was my babysitter for my youngest son, Elton Leon, after my maternity leave ended and I had to go back to work. My new son would always get quiet and listen when she played that song, his calming-down song, "even while you were pregnant with him," she remembered.

Let me share with you the lyrics of "Beautiful Boy": "Close your eyes, have no fear, The monster's gone, He's on the run, and your daddy's here. Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful, beautiful boy. Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful, beautiful boy. Before you go to sleep, say a little prayer. Every day, in every way, it's getting better and better. Out on the ocean, sailing away, I can hardly wait to see you come of age. But I guess we'll both just have to be patient, cause it's a long way to go. A hard row to hoe. Yes, it's a long way to go. But

WITH LYNDIA GRANT

What Do YOU Desire? the religion corner

in the meantime, before you cross the street, take my hand, life is what happens to you, while you're busy making other plans."

Let's talk about our imagination and how that line from "Beautiful Boy" is perfect for the principle of Imagination, a concept from Napoleon Hill's book "Think and Grow Rich," my second-most important book (the Holy Bible is always first).

Hill's book is an explanation of the Bible, in practical steps, to help one become successful. He studied his Bible for six hours most days.

We all know the word "imagination," but do we really understand the principles of using our imagination?

As a young girl, imagination was my friend, lots of things came to mind when I was young.

When we discover life, paying household bills and grown up things, if we could dream again like we used to when we were young children, the way Napoleon Hill suggests using our imagination will work so much better.

Separate the word "imagination" into components, and you get "image" and "ion." The "image" is the seeing of something physical. The "ion" part refers to the action.

Napoleon Hill said, "The more we use our imagination, the more it will deliver its physical form." People who changed the world used imagination. Let us thank the Wright brothers who imagined being able to fly up in the sky. After carefully planning, trying a bunch of things using their imagina-

tion, they finally got their converted bicycle machine to fly in the air.

History shows how the light bulb used to be a flicker of a lit wick in oil. Workers would go out, light these wicks at dusk so there would be light in the streets at night, until one man's imagination clicked as he watched lightning and decided there had to be a better way. Thomas Edison tried more than one thousand ways, using his imagination repeatedly until he found it.

Today, we almost forget about this amazing ability we all have! Luke 1:37, KJ says, "For with God nothing shall be impossible." Never underestimate this powerful, forgotten little treasure we used to use.

James Allen, British inspiration writer, says, "Our minds are like a garden, if you don't use them, weeds will grow. Plant and water and look after your thoughts, you will have a beautiful garden."

Jim Rohn, an inspirational speaker, said, "It's not the blowing of the wind that determines our destiny, it's the set of the sail."

Did you set a good sail? Do you really know what you want from the goal you've set? Do you know what it is you would like to have left behind one day when you die?

Take time out and really think about what you want and where you want to go, and conceptualize the images and circumstances needed to make them a reality.

WI

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RELIGION

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tance,” said CPA Executive Director Ryan Bos.

There have already been numerous sightings of rainbow-colored flags reported as the District prepares for DC Black Pride Week (May 20-27) and Capital Pride (May 31-June 9).

Recent estimates indicate that around 700,000 individuals are expected to attend Capital Pride this year – a number that will jump to 3 million in 2025 when the District serves as the host city for WorldPride 2025.

Meanwhile, businesses throughout the Greater Washington Area, including airlines, hotels, restaurants and nightclubs continue to lay out the red carpet in anticipation of the hundreds of thousands of visitors who have already started to arrive.

“In D.C. we celebrate our LGBTQIA+ community 365 days a year,” said D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser in a press release last year. “We are a city that loves and values the LGBTQ+ community, and we are a city that knows we are stronger when we stand together and when we celebrate together.”

IMPACT OF STIGMA AND THREATS OF VIOLENCE EVER PRESENT

PARDON from Page 1

east D.C. and serves communities nationwide, has told very few people of a past conviction which occurred over 30 years ago.

“I come from a household that was super intelligent. My father was a weapon specialist for the United States Department of Defense, and my great

Despite the excitement surrounding Pride, lingering in the minds of many are numerous examples of stigma directed at LGBTQ individuals. From extreme acts of violence, such as murder, to more subtle yet pervasive forms of marginalization and exclusion, such as being socially rejected, denied employment opportunities and given poor healthcare, the LGTBQ community remains in an ever present fight for freedom, justice and equity.

Stigma has been identified as a fundamental cause of global LGBTQ health inequities, according to the National Library of Medicine’s “Mental health challenges of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people: An integrated literature review.”

Just under eight years ago, on June 11, 2016, Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida, was hosting “Latin Night” – a weekly Saturday evening event. With about 320 people still inside as bartenders announced “last call,” an alleged Islamic extremist, Omar Mateen, entered the building and began shooting indiscriminately. Forty-nine people died during the mass shooting, including Mateen, while another 53 were injured, some critically.

On Friday, May 17, the U.S. State Department issued a global security

great grandmother was a preacher,” says Polk who studied at parochial school growing up. “Having that type of background, I felt I was well rounded.”

She had a good reputation and was well known on the campus of West Virginia State College, where she was recruited to play basketball in 1987. After studying there for less than a year, she experienced a life altering incident that involved serious legal repercussions.

“I remember it like it was yesterday. I was coming out of my dorm room, and Dennis Yancey was running, jogging toward the football field,” Polk brazenly recalled.

She said he was a fellow student athlete known for his talent and headed to the NFL.

“He's like, ‘Can you do me a favor?’ I said, sure,” Polk said. She explained to The Informer he handed her a package to pass along to a professor who she had never seen or met before.

“The professor tried to give me $200, but I said,’Hey, I don't need anything. You need to talk to Dennis about that,’” she remembered. “I'm just dropping this off. I’ve got a class

alert warning Americans abroad that terrorists could target lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people and LGBTQ-related events during Pride Month in June.

“Due to the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations, or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests, the Department of State advises United States citizens overseas to exercise increased caution,” the warning said. “The Department of State is aware of the increased potential for foreign terrorist organization-inspired violence against LGBTQI+ persons and events and advises U.S. citizens overseas to exercise increased caution.”

The announcement did not specify if there are any countries or regions of the world that are of particular concern, nor did it name any foreign terrorist organizations who are suspected of potentially planning attacks.

Even without declaring specific sites of danger, discrimination, harassment and various forms of stigma have long remained prevalent and potentially deadly for members of the LGBTQ community. Just last year, the LGBTQ media advocacy group GLAAD recorded at least 145 incidents of harassment, vandalism and assaults which targeted LGBTQ people and events during June 2023.

to go to.”

Little did she know, a schedule II narcotic was wrapped inside the package. Polk, unknowingly involved in a drug deal, gave crack-cocaine to a school official designated as an informant. The decision that would strikingly shape the course of the rest of her life.

“By the end of that week, I was taking a long journey home to Philadelphia. I came back, I think on Monday,” said Polk.

When she returned, one of her peers let her know that a U.S. Marshal came looking for her. Confused and concerned, Polk went in to the address listed on a business card he left behind.

Once received by law enforcement, they began to document her side of the story.

“Dennis asked me to drop something off to a professor at a school. Did I think it would be crack related? Absolutely not,” Polk, then 18, told the officers.

The marshals promised that if she was telling the truth, she’d only be charged with a state offense.

She says the Marshal told her all charges would be dropped if she

TRANSGENDER AMERICANS SAY THEY FEEL PARTICULARLY VULNERABLE

Several hundred transgender citizens, allies and advocates from the DMV gathered at Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library in Northwest on Saturday, May 18, for the Trans Pride Washington, DC Conference. The second time it has been held as an in person, post-COVID event, the daylong conference included community empowerment workshops, support and resources and inclusive entertainment.

signed a statement alleging she had seen Yancey sell drugs. Later she discovered that he repeatedly told law officers that Polk was innocent and unaware of any illegal activities taking place.

“I've never seen that man sell any drugs. I said, ‘I can't write that… I can't say that,’” she painfully narrated. “So they came back again. They kept asking me this way, that way. If I knew he was selling drugs, I would have never taken the package. I would have never done that.”

After spending a night at the precinct, Polk was released but the legal battle was far from over. She was involuntarily involved in a larger drug sting operation with over 80 defendants from across the country.

“There were so many people a part of the process that they ran out of public defenders,” she shared.

Thankfully, the judge assigned her to a well-known attorney that owed the court pro-bono work. Polk was informed of her indictment with two charges, one with conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance and the other intent to sell. However, the latter was dropped due to the lack of a mon-

By definition, transgender describes individuals whose inherent sense of their own gender doesn’t match the sex they were assigned at birth. Many transgender individuals have experienced some degree of gender dysphoria, which is an intense and persistent sense of distress or discomfort with their birth sex.

In a panel “Surviving Transphobia,” Dana, a transgender man (a person assigned female when they were born but who identifies and lives as a man), a retired officer in the U.S. armed forces and a father, addressed the challenges that he has faced over the years. WI Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

etary exchange.

Young and afraid, Polk tried to navigate the situation alone.

“I kept trying to tell my attorney and my mother that I wanted to go to court and have my day, in terms of a trial where I would be able to say this is not what it's panning out to be,” Polk said. “I didn't know that there was crack in the bag. But my attorney told me that I should have known.”

Her attorney also encouraged her to write a statement on Yancey to clear her name. Relying on integrity, she refused.

“They wanted me to lie on this man. And when I didn't, I felt like they wanted to make me an example. And as a result of that, I wound up getting a felony count,” she continued. “I have a huge distrust for the criminal system because they lied to me twice. They wanted me to lie.”

Even though Polk told the truth, her trial remained in federal court and was not dropped to a state offense. After taking a plea, the judge ended up sentencing Polk to four years supervised parole and $50 fine. A tumul-

PARDON Page 48

5 LGBTQ+ advocate Earline Budd during the Pride press conference on Saturday, June 10, 2023. (WI File Photo/Shedrick Pelt)

5 Katrina Polk owns Dynamic Solutions for the Aging, a program she created to help seniors adjust to a new way of living.

(Courtesy Photo)

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SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

PROBATE DIVISION

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 FEP 000045

November 21, 2023

Date of Death

Shirley M. Buie Washington

Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Lizette Buie whose address is 2225 12th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Shirley M. Buie Washington, deceased, by the Cereta A. Lee Register of Wills Court for Prince Georges County, State of Maryland, on April 2, 2024.

Service of process may be made upon Gray Rush 5034 Kimi Gray Court 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 property: 2225 12th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20009. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Date of first publication: 5/16/2024

Lizette Buie

Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000445

Erma L. Williams Decedent

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

Joseph E. Williams Jr., whose address is 9730 Goldenrod Ct., Toano, VA 23168, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Erma L. Williams who died on 2/12/2022 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/16/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/16/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/16/2024

Joseph E. Williams Jr. Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000554

Estate of Iris A. McCrae

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE

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

Admit to probate the will dated February 24, 2015 exhibited with the petition upon proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution by affidavit of the witnesses or otherwise

Date of first publication: May 16, 2024

Ethel Mitchell 8403 Colesville Road Silver Spring, MD 20910 Petitioner/Attorney:

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000513

Gerald Patrick Coleman Decedent

Sebastian Krop, Esq. 1330 New Hampshire Ave., NW, #111 Washington, DC 20036-6300 Attorney

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

Elizabeth Coleman, whose address is 10455 Xeon St., NW Minneapolis MN 55433, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Gerald Patrick Coleman who died on 10/16/2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/16/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/16/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/16/2024

Elizabeth Coleman Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000455

Nicole E. Puffett Decedent

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

Louisa L. Puffett, whose address is 6317 Snug Harbor Rd., E. New Market, MD 21631, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Nicole E. Puffett who died on March 27, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/16/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/16/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/16/2024

Louisa L. Puffett

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000447

George Elliott Benjamin Decedent

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

Gina Benjamin, whose address is 501 E Street NE, Washington, DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of George Elliott Benjamin who died on June 9, 2022 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/16/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/16/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/16/2024

Gina Benjamin Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000454

Maria Del Carmen Leon De Jones Decedent

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

Lorena S. Jones, whose address is 11337 Joyceton Drive, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Maria Del Carmen Leon De Jones who died on 4/6/2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/16/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/16/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: May 16, 2024

Lorena S. Jones

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 493

Wayne Anthony Clarke Decedent

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

Candice Antoinette Jones, whose address is 403 37th Place, #102, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Wayne Anthony Clarke who died on December 28, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/16/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/16/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/16/2024

Candice Antoinette Jones Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000532

Estate of Mildred J. Lockridge

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE

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

Admit to probate the will dated February 8, 1982 exhibited with the petition upon proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution by affidavit of the witnesses or otherwise

Date of first publication: 5/16/2024

Stephanie L. Royal, Esq. 5335 Wisconsin Ave., NW Suite 440 Washington, DC 20015

Petitioner/Attorney:

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 1359

Yvette Morris Decedent

Robert Ragland 1916 R St., NW Suite 308 Washington, DC 20009 Attorney

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

Bernice Vonderpool, whose address is 1531 Varnum St., NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Yvette Morris who died on 3/1/2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/16/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/16/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/16/2024

Bernice Vonderpool

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000474

Frances VanHagen Decedent

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

Diane Ross, whose address is 521 Morison Street, Charles Town, WV 25414, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Frances VanHagen who died on 12/28/2015 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/16/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/16/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/16/2024

Diane Ross 521 Morison Street

Charles Town, WV 25414

Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000512

Marta Alvarez aka Marta Alicia Alvarez Decedent

Augusto D. Macedo 1629 K Street, NW, Suite 300 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney

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

Mayra Alicia Alvarez, whose address is 5829 Colorado Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Marta Alvarez aka Marta Alicia Alvarez who died on December 8, 2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/16/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/16/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/16/2024

Mayra Alicia Alvarez Personal Representative TRUE

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000473

Katie I. Goodwin aka Katie Idella Goodwin aka Katie Smith

Decedent

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

Norma R. Evans, whose address is 60 Normandy Road, Marlton, NJ 08053, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Katie I. Goodwin aka Katie Idella Goodwin aka Katie Smith who died on January 28, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/16/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/16/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/16/2024

Norma R. Evans 60 Normandy Road Marlton, NJ 08053

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000549

Gloria B. Hood aka Gloria Hood Decedent

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

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

Date of first publication: 5/23/2024

Angela Hallman-Tabron Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000471

Aleksey Minchenkov Decedent

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

Irina Minchenkov, whose address is 11112 Baskerville Rd., Reisterstown Md, 21136, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Aleksey Minchenkov who died on 2/10/2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/16/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/16/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/16/2024

Irina Minchenkov Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000521

Kevin Lewis Decedent

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

Vicky Lewis Smith, whose address is 2910 Vista Street, NE Washington, DC 20018, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Kevin Lewis who died on June 6, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/16/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/16/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/16/2024

Vicky Lewis Smith Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000505

Gloria T. Payne Decedent

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

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

Date of first publication: 5/23/2024

Shirley Marie Payne Jones Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2018 ADM 000929

Sheila R. Tilghman Milbourne aka Sheila Roberta Tilghman Milbourne Decedent

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

Carolyn Ramona Davis Hantz, whose address is 28 – 46th Place NE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Sheila R. Tilghman Milbourne aka Sheila Roberta Tilghman Milbourne who died on September 13, 2017 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/23/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/23/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/23/2024

Carolyn Ramona Davis Hantz Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000484

Elizabeth Ruth Begle Decedent

E. Regine Francois Williams 9701 Apollo Drive Suite 301

Largo MD 20774

Attorney

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

LaVerne Hawkins Jones, whose address is 11213 Petworth Lane, Glenn Dale MD 20769, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Elizabeth Ruth Begle who died on April 6, 2006 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/16/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/16/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/16/2024

LaVerne Hawkins Jones

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000535

Benjamin Jamison Jr. Decedent

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

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

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

Date of first publication: 5/23/2024

Timothy Jamison Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000476

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

Sharon Legall

1325 G Street, NW, Suite 500

Washington, DC 20005

Attorney

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

Andre Antonius Blake aka Andre Blake, whose address is 1438 Alabama Ave., SE, Washington, DC 20032, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Neva Blake aka Neva Rosabud Ward Murray Blake aka Neva R. Blake who died on 12/13/2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/23/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/23/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/23/2024

Andre Blake Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2022 ADM 234

Estate of Carrie W. Carson

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE

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

Admit to probate the will dated November 8, 2019 exhibited with the petition upon proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution by affidavit of the witnesses or otherwise.

Date of first publication: 5/23/2024

Cheryl Wallace

3809 Tullycross Court White Plains, MD 20695

Petitioner/Attorney:

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000047

Larry Turner aka Larry Paul Turner Decedent

Julie A. Simantiras, Esq.

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

Attorney

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

Alice Paterick Paxton, whose address is 2354 N. Oakland Street, Arlington, VA 22207, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Larry Turner aka Larry Paul Turner who died on April 8, 2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/23/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/23/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/23/2024

Alice Paterick Paxton Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000533

Terry Adam Hedgepeth Decedent

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

Christina Elizabeth Hedgepeth, whose address is 729 Rittenhouse St. NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Terry Adam Hedgepeth who died on 4/2/2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/23/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/23/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/23/2024

Christina Elizabeth Hedgepeth Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000507

Mae Young Cundiff Decedent

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

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

Date of first publication: 5/23/2024

Charmaine Cundiff

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2023 ADM 001352

Candace A. Waterman Decedent

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

Taylor Michelle Hunt and Karen Michelle Patton, whose addresses are 9203 Jerome, Redford, MI 48239 & 14023 Salem, Redford MI 48239, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Candace A. Waterman who died on May 19, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/23/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/23/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/23/2024

Taylor Michelle Hunt 9203 Jerome, Redford, MI 48239

Karen Michelle Patton 14023 Salem, Redford, MI 48239

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000496

Joann Brown Decedent

James W. Taglieri

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

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

Lavida King-Hedspeth & Betty Butler, whose addresses are 8358 Loch Raven Blvd., Towson, MD 21286 & 707 Broderick Drive, Oxon Hill, MD 20745, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Joann Brown who died on 2/1/2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/23/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/23/2024, or be forever barred.

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

Date of first publication: 5/23/2024

Lavida King-Hedspeth Betty Butler

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000571

Annie P. Williams Decedent

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

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

Warren W. Daniels, whose address is 22 Wayside Court, Stafford, VA 22554, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Annie P. Williams who died on April 27, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Warren W. Daniels Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000506

James Michael Robinson Decedent

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

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

Date of first publication: 5/23/2024

Cheryl Ann Robinson

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 581

Barbara A. Jones aka Barbara Annie Jones Decedent

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

Diana McCormick, whose address is 6005 N. Hill Mar Circle, District Heights, MD 20747, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Barbara A. Jones aka Barbara Annie Jones who died on November 5, 2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Diana McCormick

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000575

Catherine Grayton-Lee Decedent

Peggy Miller, Esq. 5130 7th St., NE Washington, DC 20011-2625

Attorney

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

Henry E. Lee, whose address is 3400 Commodore Joshua Bailey Drive, NE, Apt 114W, Washington, DC 20018, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Catherine Grayton-Lee who died on 2/3/2020 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Henry E. Lee Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000570

Leilani Clark Decedent

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

Daje Clark, whose address is 1035 Quincy St., NE, Washington, DC 20017, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Leilani Clark who died on November 25, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Daje Clark

Personal Representative

of Wills

Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES

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

2024 ADM 000593

Doris Jean Lucas Decedent

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

Sandra E. Bell, whose address is 9904 Platte Ct., Clinton, MD 20735, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Doris Jean Lucas who died on January 4, 2022 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Sandra E. Bell

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000612

Gloria W. Dutch

Decedent

Ethel Mitchell, Esq. 8403 Colesville Road #1100 Silver Spring, MD 20910

Attorney

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

Jean Dutch Tate, whose address is 549 Ingraham Street, NE, Washington DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Gloria W. Dutch who died on August 10, 2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication:

5/30/2024

Jean Dutch Tate Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000561

Linda de la Rama Decedent

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

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

Jesse de la Rama, whose address is 5740-B Post Road, Charlestown, RI 02813, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Linda de la Rama who died on December 22, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Jesse de la Rama Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2024 ADM 000527

Marie A. Lancaster aka Marie Lancaster Decedent

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

Sayzon L. Ford, whose address is 2909 Sunset lane, Suitland MD, 20746, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Marie A. Lancaster aka Marie Lancaster who died on December 24, 2022 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Sayzon L. Ford Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000567

llee Fernando Sanders

Decedent

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

Attorney

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

Mandel D. Sanders and Jamie Coleman, whose addresses are 4235 71st Ave., Hyattsville, MD 20784 & 12305 Burning Oak Ct, Waldorf, MD 20601, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of llee Fernando Sanders who died on June 15, 2022 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Mandel D. Sanders Jamie Coleman Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000538

Marilou M. Righini Decedent

Edward G. Varrone, Esq. 1825 K Street, NW Suite 1150 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney

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

Giovanna M. Righini, whose address is 77 Fair Street, Kingston, NY 12401-4849, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Marilou M. Righini who died on March 9, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Giovanna M. Righini Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2021 ADM 000338

James Milton Kelly Decedent

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

Karen Kelly-McIntyre, whose address is 1719 Arcadia Avenue, Capitol Heights, MD 20743, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James Milton Kelly who died on August 21, 2019 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Karen Kelly-McIntyre Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000537

Robert Mills Decedent

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

Brenda Henry, whose address is 6800 Forest Terrace, Landover MD, 20785, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Robert Mills who died on 9/30/2016 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Brenda Henry Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 562

Ronald Quick Decedent

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

Wayne Quick, whose address is 12306 Kings Valley Court, Mitchellville, MD 20721, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ronald Quick who died on 12/31/2022 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding.

Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Wayne Quick Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000563

Walter Marion Anthony Decedent

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

Ruby Harden, whose address is 5128 New Hampshire Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Walter Marion Anthony who died on July 15, 2020 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Ruby Harden

Personal Representative

of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000615

Ruth B. Johnson aka Ruth Barbara Johnson Decedent

Jeffrey K. Gordon, Esq. Tobin O’Connor Concino, P.C. 5335 Wisconsin Ave., NW, #400 Washington, DC 20015 Attorney

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

Wendi Taylor, whose address is 523 Ridge Street, Newark, NJ 07104, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ruth B. Johnson aka Ruth Barbara Johnson who died on May 6, 2019 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Wendi Taylor Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000597

Wilson R. Jerman aka Wilson Jerman Decedent

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

Linda Taylor, whose address is 4505 Kentland Drive, Woodbridge VA 22193, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Wilson R. Jerman aka Wilson Jerman who died on 5/16/2020 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision.

All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 11/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Linda Taylor

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

PROBATE DIVISION

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 FEP 000051

March 6, 2023

Date of Death

Urbando Saa Bravo

Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Leonardo del Rosario Saa-Guerrero whose address is 14719 Bentley Square, Centreville, VA 20120 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Urbando Saa Bravo, deceased, by the Register of Wills for Prince Georges County, State of Maryland, on June 12, 2023.

Service of process may be made upon Donald R. Marlais, Esq. 411 10th Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C.

The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real property: 1355 Longfellow Street, NW, Washington, DC 20011. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Date of first publication: 5/30/2024

Leonardo del Rosario Saa-Guerrero Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

tuous journey which she mounted as a trap ready to jam her at every turn. West Virginia State College asked her to leave quietly and Kentucky State University they shared the same sentiments when they found out about the drug charge.

Defeated, she packed up everything to move home to Philadelphia.

PARDON from Page 42 citizen, she is an asset to her community. She assists, coordinates and manages the opening of food banks and free grocery programs,” Karrima Muhammad, director of Resident and Engagement Services at Enterprise Community Partners wrote in a reference for Polk. “She is a person that wakes up every day with the goal of helping seniors who are in need. Almost every day she meets her goal.”

Despite her ability to enroll at a local community college and gaining a job at the Philco-Ford factory, her parole officer required her to meet with him every week at fluctuating days and times.

He promised to report her AWOL and send her to jail at the first absence.

Polk said, “Everywhere I turned, they treated me like a cold criminal, there was no career support or guidance from the courts. The gentleman that was the supervisory parole officer did everything in his power to try to disrupt me from being a productive citizen in the United States of America and Philadelphia.”

SUCCESS DESPITE TRIALS

Determined to succeed, Polk indeed soared. Upon completing the terms of probation, she interned with the legal firm, Leonard Parks & Associates and eventually earned full time employment.

The Service Employees International Union (SEIU) in D.C. took note of her good character and sought after her to fill a vacancy in their office.

The new city drew hope for Polk, who would no longer be required to “check the box” for crimes committed over a decade ago.

“This place was a blessing in terms of second chances, when I got here I was never turned down for a job,” said Polk.

Her hard work and integrity gained attention from Polk’s supervisors and co-workers.

“While employed with us, she conducted herself in a very professional manner. Her responsibilities required her to travel all over the country and interact with local union officers, leaders and staff members,” Patricia Ford, former vice president of the SEIU shared in a statement on her behalf. “She has overcome the obstacles of her past and has proven to be a good mother and friend.”

Ford was not the only one to give a positive review. One referral for Polk read, “Our world would be a better place if we had more people like Katrina.”

“Katrina is not just an upstanding

However, for years her parents and close family suffered due to the criminal charges. Friends and family have easily testified to the toll that it has taken on her life.

Polk’s father, an employee at the Department of Defense lost certain security clearances limiting his pay check and her husband experienced the same as a ranking officer in the military. Polk herself was also removed while on the job as a substitute at a school in Prince George’s County for not self identifying as a felon.

“It put a lot of strain on my personal relationship,” she shared. “But I had a strong support system, a village that would not allow me to lose myself.”

As a mother of five, it impacted her parenting as well.

“I was super hard on my children. I was paranoid and they felt like I was overbearing but I didn’t want my story to be repeated,” said Polk.

In lieu of the obstacles, Polk led by example, receiving a bachelor’s degree from the National Labor College, PhD in public policy from Walden University and certifications in courses from Georgetown, Rutgers and Southeastern Universities respectively. She prides herself on living “in decency and in order.”

“Observing her at a close range across a variety of situations, I have had the opportunity to develop a sense of her values,” psychologist Melissa Warren shared about Polk. “She values compassion, fairness and service to others most highly.”

THE PARDON PROCESS

Over the years, Polk gained credibility and was asked to serve as a mayoral appointee on Age Friendly DC and became the CEO of Dynamic Solutions for the Aging, but one achievement always lingered in her mind. The thought of a pardon was far from realistic but the desire to clear her name remained.

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Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

EDELMAN from Page 28

year: Don't be a political bystander and grumbler. Vote. Democracy is not a spectator sport.

– Never work just for money. Money alone won't save your soul or build a decent family or help you sleep at night. Don't confuse wealth or fame with character. Don't tolerate or condone moral corruption, whether it's found in high or low places, whatever its color or class. And don't confuse morality with legality. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once noted that everything Hitler did in Nazi Germany was legal. Don't give anyone the proxy for your conscience.

– Don't be afraid of taking risks or of being criticized. If you don't want to be criticized, don't say anything, do anything, or be anything. Don't be

MALVEAUX from Page 28

woman. I still bristle when our city is referred to as "Frisco." We are worth all the syllables.

And we are blessed to have London Breed as our mayor. She describes herself as a child of the projects, raised by her grandmother. Her lived experience brings a depth of policy knowledge that her melanin-deficient opponents in this mayor's race do not have. But she should not be reelected simply because she is a Black woman who grew up in the projects. She should be reelected because she is policy-superior, because she is determined to serve ALL the city, but especially the least and left out. A millionaire whose mama is prepared to

MARSHALL from Page 28

children understand abstract concepts. It helps young people understand the idea of cause and effect, which leads to better decision-making skills. Without a strong academic foundation, young people face an uncertain future. If the Army knows that the lack of qualified soldiers will come with deep consequences, the same is true for the lack of qualified doctors, lawyers, engineers, and business leaders. When students are passed from one grade to the next while still underperforming at their grade level, when and how do they ever catch up? We can't blame this on the kids. Many public education advocates point out how test-based school reforms became the primary measure of student success. One of the main reasons students may graduate without the ability to read is the lack of emphasis on foundational literacy skills in early education. Schools are now judged on their test

afraid of failing. It's the way you learn to do things right. It doesn't matter how many times you fall down. All that matters is how many times you get up.

– Always listen for the genuine within yourself. "Small," Einstein said, "is the number of them that see with their own eyes and feel with their own hearts." Try to be one of them. "There is," the great Black theologian Howard Thurman said, "something in every one of you that waits and listens for the sound of the genuine in yourself. It is the only true guide you will ever have. And if you cannot hear it, you will all of your life spend your days on the ends of strings that somebody else pulls." There are so many noises and competing demands in our lives that many of us never find out who we are. Learn to be

fund his campaign isn't focused that way. Neither is a so-called progressive who embraces the NIMBY (not in my backyard) philosophy. NIMBY won't help with rising rents or the homeless situation. NIMBY is backward thinking.

San Francisco used to be one of the most progressive cities in the nation. We are a city who elected the iconic Senator Dianne Feinstein in the wake of tragedy, the city that produced our current Vice-President, the city that elected Willie Brown as mayor, the city that elected Ed Lee, who preceded London Breed as mayor. Some of the anti-Blackness in this current campaign belies our city's progressive roots. The power in the room at the Fillmore Cen-

scores, forcing teachers to focus on test preparation rather than actual learning.

In 2001, No Child Left Behind (NCLB) was the chief education initiative of President George W. Bush. It required every student in grades 3 to 8 to take standardized tests in reading and math every year, as well as one test in high school. The NCLB law proclaimed that by 2014, virtually every student would achieve competency in reading and math. This goal was never achieved in 2014 and never will be. Standardized tests do not measure what a child should learn in school. They fail to measure creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, leadership, or empathy. It comes down to money when standardized tests can generate additional revenue for school districts when their students perform well. While the authors of NCLB knew it was an impossible goal to achieve, the Obama administration embraced it and reinforced it. They implemented their own program,

quiet enough to hear the sound of the genuine within yourself so that you can hear it in other people.

– And a final lesson: Never think life is not worth living or that you cannot make a difference. Never give up — no matter how hard it gets, and it will get very hard sometimes. An old proverb says that when you get to your wit's end, that's where God lives. Harriet Beecher Stowe said when you get into a "tight place and everything goes against you, till it seems as though you could not hang on a minute longer, never give up then, for that is just the place and the time that the tide will turn." The tide will turn — if you dream it, if you believe in it, if you have faith in it, struggle for it, and never give up.

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ter can repel these repulsive sentiments. I came to San Francisco on the heels of the victory of Angela Alsobrooks, who wrestled a Democratic Senate nomination in Maryland from David Trone, the billionaire bully who thought he could buy himself a Senate seat. Some say Angela's double-digit win over an opponent who spent more than $60 million of his money on the race is an example of "Black Girl Magic." Nope! Angela worked hard for her victory — there was no magic dust! Like Angela Alsobrooks, Mayor London Breed has worked hard. She deserves reelection. And my time at home reminded me how much I love my city. What a wonderful walk down memory lane! WI

Race to the Top, which encouraged states to authorize charter school legislation to increase the number of privately managed charters and to pass legislation that tied teachers' evaluations to their student's test scores. It created a no-win situation for teachers and students by punishing schools that did not get high enough test scores. It goes further by individually singling out teachers if students in their classes don't receive higher scores every year.

Standardized tests are a financial boon for testing corporations but useless for teachers and students. More than $1.7 billion is spent on standardized testing in the U.S. each year, according to a study by the Brown Center on Education Policy at Brookings. It becomes another situation where profits are put ahead of people. The fact that our students are ill-prepared will have a long-lasting impact that touches the future and productivity of every American institution. WI

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HARRIS from Page 29

icant burden for all transplant recipients, exacerbated for those of us with extensive medical knowledge and expertise. It is especially acute for Black Americans, who biologically more likely to experience organ rejection. The initial coverage decision by CMS in 2017 to support these tests, and its subsequent reauthorization four years later, provided a significant measure of relief. However, the introduction of the requirement for symptoms warranting a biopsy by MolDX, the contractor, has reintroduced a considerable degree of uncertainty and stress.

Additionally, this CMS decision directly contradicts the principles of preventative healthcare, which emphasize early detection and treatment. A rare admission by CMS recently acknowledged that the March restrictions caused considerable confusion, leading to a substantial decrease in the number of tests ordered in the following months. Doctors canceled many

MORIAL from Page 29

gram accounts, five were focused on African American issues and audiences. Their Twitter content was "heavily focused on hot-button issues with racial undertones such as the NFL kneeling protests." And 96% of their YouTube content was targeted at racial issues and police brutality. "Some of

JEALOUS from Page 29

beginning of a green jobs boom and the rebirth of the American manufacturing sector. It is thanks to decisive actions by the Biden administration — from legislation like the Inflation Reduction Act, the bipartisan infrastructure law, and the CHIPS and Science Act to the recently announced tariffs. I wrote about it recently as President Biden's anti-NAFTA moment. This is the way we will win the next economy.

Just look at Illinois, where a $2 billion EV battery facility in Manteno will produce 2,600 new good-paying jobs. Lion Electric's new plant in Joliet, IL will produce about 20,000 electric school buses and trucks a year, employ hundreds of workers, and is the first new vehicle assembly plant in the Chicago area since 1965. EV manufacturer Rivian, which already employs

scheduled tests due to uncertainty about the coverage, creating further disruption and anxiety within the transplant community.

The confusion continues to persist. A new "Billing Article" issued by CMS on the same day failed to clarify whether coverage is still contingent upon the potential need for a biopsy, leaving many questions unanswered. Over a year has passed since these changes were implemented, and the transplant community still lacks clear guidelines and support.

As a doctor, a transplant recipient, and a Black woman, I find this lack of clarity and support from CMS deeply troubling. My personal journey through kidney failure and transplantation has shown me the critical importance of consistent, accessible medical care and the necessity of early detection tests. Yet, those in the transplant community relying on Medicare face increased risks as they must now wait for undeniable physical symptoms of rejec-

the videos featured expressly voter suppressive content intended to dissuade African American voters from participating in the 2016 presidential election," the committee found.

Russia continued to target Black Americans through the 2020 presidential election.

Our best defense against disinformation, national security ex-

about 8,000 people in Bloomington and Normal, Ill., is expanding its production in the state. And one of the outcomes of last year's strike by the United Auto Workers (UAW) is the reopening of Stellantis's plant in Belvidere, Ill., which was idled in February 2023 but now will produce EVs and bring at least 1,300 jobs back to that community. In addition to the federal action mentioned above, this EV boom in Illinois is being helped by state initiatives like Go. JB Pritzker's Reimagining Energy and Vehicles incentive package.

Elsewhere in the Midwest, the Department of Commerce just reached a preliminary deal with the company Polar to expand and modernize its semiconductor manufacturing in Bloomington, Minnesota.

A battery manufacturing boom throughout the Southeast now has that region being referred to as the “Battery Belt.” And domestic solar

tion before receiving coverage for crucial testing.

Today, I renew my call to our elected officials and healthcare policymakers to urgently address these issues. We need to ensure that all transplant recipients have access to necessary tests that can detect early signs of organ rejection. We know organs are precious and in limited supply; reducing access to essential tests is not only counterproductive but also endangers lives.

The transplant community, including recipients, donors, their families, and their healthcare providers, deserves clear answers and effective policies that support their health and well-being. They need assurance that the tools necessary for early detection and treatment of organ rejection are readily available and covered by Medicare. It is imperative that we address these inequities and restore comprehensive coverage to save lives and support those at their most vulnerable.

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perts say, is identifying and publicizing the propaganda push.

"The great antidote to all of this is being able to shine a light on it," former NSA Director Gen. Paul M. Nakasone told the Senate Intelligence Committee. "If they are trying to influence or interfere in our elections, we should make it as hard as possible for them."

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is also helping to revitalize manufacturing in the south. The Qcells solar panel plants in Dalton and Cartersville, Georgia, are soon expected to employ nearly 4,000 people. In China, even green manufacturing is dirty. The building of products like EVs and solar panels is powered mostly by coal. And the production of raw materials for those products — like aluminum and steel — is rife with toxic pollution. In the U.S., by contrast, the transition towards powering our electric grids and industries with clean energy sources is well underway. And new manufacturing methods are making materials like aluminum cleaner than ever to produce. Add to that the boom in good American jobs, and it is clear that moving manufacturing and supply chains for the next economy to our shores is a win-win-win for the United States. WI

“This time, it’s TREATMENT WORKS.