The Washington Informer - August 3, 2023

WINNER OF SIX SOCIETY OF PROFESSIONAL JOURNALISTS D.C. AWARDS FOR 2022

Hundreds, Distinguished Guests Celebrate the Life of Senator Tommie Broadwater

Funeral Highlights Broadwater’s Political and Community Legacy

By Richard Elliott and Hamil Harris WI Contributing Reporters

The main sanctuary of the First Baptist Church of Glenarden appeared like a living almanac of Prince George’s County politics— filled with lawmakers and politicians who came out to pay their final respects to former Senator Tommie Broadwater.

More than 1,000 people came out to the service at the First Baptist Church of Glenarden and in the pews were politicians spanning generations.

“He was the one who made the way

First Woman and African American Appointed as Metro’s Range Master

By James Wright WI Staff Writer

Salicia Belton views herself as someone who does her job without a lot of fanfare and shuns the limelight. However, Belton quietly made history months ago when the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA or also known as Metro) board finalized her selection as the leader of the agency’s police department’s firearms training range.

Metro officials confirm Belton is the first woman and first African American to serve in that position.

“I am in charge of the agency’s

weapons and ammunition range,” Belton, 51, said. “It is a multi-mil lion-dollar operation. I oversee training officers on how to use their weapons, maintenance of the range, working within its budget and seeing that it is well supplied.”

The firearms training range operation started in 2006 when Metro officials learned that its police offi-

BELTON Page 52

for all of the Black Senators from Prince George’s County,” said Maryland State Sen. C.Anthony Muse (D– District 26). “He was able to come up in a system that was not always kind to people of color. He was the Godfather of politics and we all loved him.”

The passing of Senator Tommie Broadwater, the first Black Senator elected in Prince George’s County, sparked a multigenerational celebration. As “The Godfather of Prince George’s” his life has received universal praise for the great political advance-

BROADWATER Page 52

Children of Louise B. Miller Look Back on Her Advocacy for Black Deaf Students

Gallaudet Recognizes Miller, Her Son Kenneth Miller and Black Deaf Students Denied Diplomas

By Sam. P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

Two years before schools became desegregated nationwide, Louise B. Miller and other local parents fought a court battle on behalf of her son Kenneth Miller and five other Black Deaf students who had been denied admission into the Kendall School for the Deaf, located on the campus of what's now known as Gallaudet University in Northeast.

Even after the U.S. District Court in D.C. ruled in Miller's favor, the Kendall School relegated Kenneth Miller, his peers, and more than a dozen other Black Deaf youths to Kendall Division II

DEAF STUDENTS Page 52

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

5 Maryand Governor Wes Moore dropped by the City of New Carrollton for National Night Out on August 1. (Hamil Harris/The Washington Informer)

4 Sergeant Salicia Belton is WMATA’S range master for its firearms training operation.

Negro League All Star Game

*Participating cards include: Burlington, Bath & Body Works®, GameStop, The Cheesecake

Join The Washington Informer Digital Subscriber List

Text INFORMER  to 22828 or scan QR Code

wi hot topics

California’s Look-Back Law Attempts to Hold Michael Jackson Accountable from the Grave

Wade Robson and James Safechuck are set to resume their battle for justice against the late Michael Jackson’s companies, reigniting the controversy surrounding lookback laws.

The subjects of the scathing 2019 HBO documentary, “Leaving Neverland,” Robson and Safechuck are seeking to sue Jackson’s companies for their alleged role in allowing Jackson to molest them as children.

Jackson died in 2009 and has always denied sexual assault allegations. He was acquitted on 13 counts related to child sex abuse in 2005.

The concept of “look back” laws, which allow survivors of childhood sexual abuse to file lawsuits regardless of when the alleged abuse occurred, is at the heart of the controversy surrounding Robson and Safechuck’s cases against Jackson’s companies.

Syndicated columnist and journalist Diane Dimond remains adamant that Robson and Safechuck deserve to have their day in court.

Drawing parallels to similar cases of institutional ac-

countability, Dimond said a court should determine whether Jackson’s entertainment companies, MJJ Productions and MJJ Ventures, should also be held responsible for the alleged abuse.

The author of “Be Careful Who You Love: Inside the Michael Jackson Case,” Dimond called Robson and Safechuck’s claims, credible.

“Not only were they, as Michael Jackson called them, ‘his special friends,’ both of them as children also worked for Mr. Jackson and his entertainment company,” Dimond noted.

“If the Catholic Church was held legally responsible for sex crimes committed by their priests if Michigan State University was held responsible for the sex crimes of their employee Dr. Larry Nassar, doesn’t it follow that Jackson’s MJJ Productions company be held responsible as well?” WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com

Texas Police Mistakenly Hold Black Family at Gunpoint Due to Typo in License Plate

Chief Promises Accountability and Transparency

Police officers in Frisco, Texas, mistakenly held a Black family at gunpoint after a typo led them to believe their car was stolen.

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

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E Washington, D.C. 20032

Phone: 202 561-4100

Fax: 202 574-3785

news@washingtoninformer.com

www.washingtoninformer.com

PUBLISHER

Denise Rolark Barnes

STAFF

Micha Green, Managing Editor Ron Burke, Advertising/Marketing Director

Shevry Lassiter, Photo Editor

Lafayette Barnes, IV, Editor, WI Bridge DC

Austin Cooper, Our House Editor Desmond Barnes, Social Media Stategist ZebraDesigns.net, Design & Layout

Mable Neville, Bookkeeper

Angie Johnson, Office Mgr./Circulation

REPORTERS

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

PHOTOGRAPHERS

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

The disturbing incident, which took place on July 23, was captured on multiple officers’ body cameras, and has sparked outrage and concern over racial profiling and police procedures.

The emotional footage showed members of the Frisco Police Department demanding the family exit their car.

The family, a husband, wife, son, and nephew, identified themselves, while the boys were identified as 12 and 13 years old.

One officer even pointed his gun at one of the children, eventually handcuffing him.

At one point during the ordeal, the officer who ran the incorrect plates admitted her mistake.

“It looks like I made a mistake. So I ran it ‘AZ’ for Arizona instead of ‘AR,’ and that’s what happened,” she said, according to the footage.

The gravity of the situation hit the husband during the encounter, and he expressed his emotions, saying, “It could’ve gone all wrong for us, though. If I would’ve gone to reach for my phone, we could’ve all gotten killed,” before walking away in tears.

Frisco Police Chief David Shilson issued a statement in which the department admitted its error and vowed to accept responsibility.

“We will not hide from our mistakes. Instead, we will learn from them,” Shilson insisted.

Frisco is a city about 30 minutes north of Dallas.

The officer who ran the incorrect plates also admitted her error.

Body camera footage captured the conversation between the officer and the father as they attempted to explain the situation.

The officer told the man, “I ran your tag, and it came back to, associated essentially with no vehicle. So I confirmed it with my dispatch - I’m like, ‘That’s weird.’” WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com

Henrietta Lacks’ Family Settles Lawsuit with Biotech Company Settlement Paves the Way for More Claims, Says Attorney Ben Crump

Living relatives of Henrietta Lacks have reached a confidential settlement with Thermo Fisher Scientific, the multi-billion-dollar biotechnology company that has used regenerative cells taken from Lacks decades ago without her consent.

The settlement sets a precedent, potentially leading to complaints seeking compensation and control of Lacks’ cells, famously known as “HeLa” cells, the world’s first cells capable of replicating outside the

human body.

Represented jointly by attorney Ben Crump, renowned for his advocacy for Black victims of police violence, and attorney Chris Seeger, known for leading significant class action lawsuits in U.S. history, the family called a news conference in Baltimore on Tuesday, Aug. 1, which coincides with what would have been Lacks’ 103rd birthday. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com

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

CORNER

Grounded: Expanding Plant Knowledge and Community Love

By Camille Franks WI Bridge Contributing Writer

Grounded is an online plant store established on Earth Day 2020 and run by DMV natives Mignon Hemsley and Danuelle Doswell.

Grounded offers customers a wide range of goods and services, including but not limited to a monthly plant subscription; a variety of plants, pots, and waterers to purchase; an online quiz designed to match you with your perfect plant; and a blog stacked with a plethora of information on self-care, plant knowledge, and mental health awareness.

You can also receive “planterior design” for your office spaces, homes, businesses, hotels, etc., which includes a consultation, proposal, and installation of Grounded greenery.

Bringing the online store to fruition required a tremendous amount of teamwork, and fortunately, Hemsley and Doswell had a strong support system that was especially helpful during their earlier days. Hemsley’s family assisted with local deliveries, Doswell’s mom housed hundreds of plants, and their friends supported them by packing orders. Together they have packaged and distributed over 25,000 plants, which was no easy task, although Doswell says half-jokingly, “yeah, we ate that.”

They strive to improve people’s knowledge and appreciation of all that nature and plants offer.

Hemsley says, “we always like to say that everyone can have a ‘green thumb,’ [and] maybe you don’t have the right plant for your space or don’t know how to take care of it, but we’re here to help.” WI

Read more on wibridgedc.com.

5 Grounded is an online plant store founded by Mignon Hemsley and Danuelle Doswell. (Courtesy Photo)

3 DMV natives Mignon Hemsley and Danuelle Doswell founded Grounded, an online plant store, established on Earth Day 2020. (Courtesy Photo)

AROUND THE REGION

facts

AUG 3 - 9, 2023

SOURCE: BLACK AMERICA WEB

strike. He was later sentenced to life imprisonment for sabotaging the nation's government.

Jamaica gains independence from the UnitPresident Lyndon Johnson signs the Voting Rights Act into law amid the height of the civil rights movement.

1904 – Ralph Bunche, the first African American to win the Nobel Peace Prize, is born in Detroit.

1930 – James Cameron, civil rights activist and founder of America's Black Holocaust Museum in Milwaukee, survives a mob's lynching attempt after he is arrested for a fatal robbery in Indiana — a crime for which he is eventually pardoned.

Black inventor Joseph Lee patents dough-kneading machine.

High jumper Alice Coachman became the first Black woman to win an Olympic gold medal at the 1948 Games.

2007 – Barry Bonds hits his 756th career home run, breaking Hank Aaron's major-league record.

AUG. 3

1908 – Allen Allensworth, an escaped slave who became a Union soldier and Army chaplain, founds Allensworth, California, the only town in the state to be founded, financed and governed by African Americans.

AUG. 4

1810 – Abolitionist Robert Purvis, who co-founded local and national anti-slavery groups, is born in Charleston, South Carolina.

1901 – Louis Armstrong, iconic jazz trumpeter and singer, is born in New Orleans.

1931 – Daniel Hale Williams, pioneering African American surgeon, dies in Idlewild, Michigan, at 75.

1961 – Barack Obama, the first African American president in United States history, is born in Honolulu.

1963 – Keith Ellison, the first Muslim to be elected to U.S. Congress, is born in Detroit.

1964 – The bodies of three civil rights workers discovered on farm near Philadelphia, Mississippi.

AUG. 5

1953 – The beginning of integration in Chicago's Trumbull Park Homes housing project, located in an all-white neighborhood, triggers yearslong violence and racial tension.

1960 – African nation Burkina Faso gains independence from France.

1962 – Nelson Mandela is arrested in South Africa for inciting a workers'

1866 – Explorer Matthew Henson, widely credited with being the first to reach the North Pole, is born in Nanjemoy, Maryland.

1907 – Famed jazz musician Benny Carter is born in Harlem.

1975 – Jazz saxophonist Cannonball Adderley dies in Gary, Indiana, at 46.

AUG. 9

1936 – Track and field athlete Jesse Owens wins his fourth gold medal of the 1936 Berlin Olympics, the Games also known for Adolf Hitler's claims of "Aryan racial superiority."

1961 – James B. Parsons is nominated by President John F. Kennedy as the first Black federal judge. 1963 – Pop icon and actress Whitney Houston is born in East Orange, New Jersey. WI

BY SARAFINA WRIGHT

NBA superstar LeBron James’ 18-year-old son Bronny is recovering from a cardiac arrest recently experienced during a team basketball practice at the University of Southern California. The incident has ignited a conversation around heart-related issues and young athletes. What are your thoughts?

STAN SMITH / JONESBORO, GA.

Prayer goes out to this young man and every young man and family we don’t hear about. Start to understand that each day is not promised. Anything can happen. Things like this should wake individuals up and see the signs that life can change in the blink of an eye. We are being reminded.

RICHARD PAUL / WASHINGTON, D.C.

Prayers up for Bronny! More younger people, especially athletes, are in danger of heart issues lately! Hopefully, they will get to the root of the cause!

MIHRE SOLOMON / WASHINGTON, D.C.

Glad he is better! I hope to see him prosper and achieve his dreams!

KAREN WARD / WASHINGTON, D.C.

I am praying for a full recovery. What is going on with these young men having heart issues? Especially these athletes.

KEVAN PIERSON / DETROIT, MICH.

Are they going to tell us what caused the cardiac arrest or not? And is USC going to allow him to play next season? Probably not.

Residents’ Frustrations Run High about Reckless Driving Officials Express Misgivings about Progress on Vision Zero

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

Throughout the District, sentiments about traffic safety often fall along a spectrum. While some residents continue to rally for traffic-calming measures, others are jumping behind the wheel and flouting the law with reckless abandon.

Near the intersection of Alabama Avenue and Stanton Road in Southeast, Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Amanda Beale (8C08) continues to press for traffic safety measures -- including signage that turns nearby Stanton Terrace into a one-way street during times of the day when parents pick up and drop off their children at Turner Elementary School.

Beale embarked on this endeavor in February, first by submitting a request for a traffic safety investigation to the D.C. Department of Transportation (DDOT) and later emailing DDOT representatives about her concerns.

As Beale recalled, a DDOT representative who took on the request in April demonstrated a lack of knowledge about the traffic flow on Stanton Terrace near Henson Ridge when she said that the corridor had ample space and proper signage.

That assessment, Beale told the Informer, misaligned with her experiences with drivers from the District

5 Near the intersection of Alabama Avenue and Stanton Road in Southeast, Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Amanda Beale (8C08) continues to press for traffic safety measures.

and surrounding suburbs who often sped down Stanton Terrace to enter Suitland Parkway while parents double parked and crossed the street with their children to enter Turner Elementary School.

Beale said that DDOT would later reject her request for one-way traffic signage, telling her that it was unlikely that drivers would obey it. Since then, Beale has continued to advocate for additional traffic-calming measures. With school out for the summer, there are no crossing guards present, meaning that pedestrians are left to fend for themselves at the height of morning and evening rush hour.

For Beale, such an outcome shows total disregard for what she thought would be a high-priority area for DDOT since it was located near a school.

“To tell me you can’t… make traffic flow better because of the low rate of compliance is crazy,” Beale said. “You don’t create traffic rules based on compliance. You [just do it] and let law enforcement decide whether someone needs to get a ticket.”

VISION ZERO CONTINUES TO DRAW CRITICISM

DDOT’s Crash Data Dashboard shows more than 3,000 traffic-related injuries so far this year, 45% of which affected drivers and nearly 30% of which af-

fected bikers and pedestrians.

District is also on target to surpass the year-end total of 35 fatalities recorded during the previous year.

As of July 25, the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) recorded 30 traffic fatalities for the year -- a 32% increase from what had been recorded at the same time in 2022.

More than half of those fatalities took place in Wards 7 and 8, including along Alabama Avenue S.E., Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue in Southeast, Benning Road near Minnesota Avenue and Kenilworth Avenue in Northeast, Eastern Avenue in Northeast, and South Capitol Street.

In 2015, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) launched Vision Zero with the goal of reaching zero traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries on District streets. Strategies include collaboration with residents and designs that ensure safety for drivers, pedestrians, bikers and others who share the roadways.

Some of these strategies have been under scrutiny, especially in light of traffic fatalities that have happened since Vision Zero started. Between 2015 and 2018, there has been a significant increase in the year-end totals for traffic fatalities in the District.

Although MPD recorded a slight drop in fatalities in 2019, the numbers increased once again in the following years. In 2021, MPD recorded 40 fatalities, an amount not seen

TRAFFIC Page 34

In Speaking to Ministers, Smith Preaches to the ‘Choir’ on Crime

By James Wright WI Staff Writer

Acting D.C. Police Chief Pamela A. Smith has 25 years of working and leading the U.S. Park Police and a few years ago to top level positions in the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

What many people are learning is that Smith is also an ordained Baptist minister and she made her homiletic skills clear to a gathering of Ward 7 and 8 faith leaders at their monthly meeting on July 29 at the Virginia Merrick Center of the St. Thomas More Catholic Church gymnasium in Ward 8 in front of a crowd of 140 people.

“Let’s stand up and give God praise,” said Smith, who surprised many with her introduction. “You all will have a pistol-packing preacher to serve as your next police chief.”

Smith, 55, assumed the helm of police chief in July with her appointment by Mayor Muriel Bowser. She faces a rising crime rate in the District with a 38% increase in violent crime overall and a 15% bump in homicides—141 as of July 28—compared to 139 in 2022, according to MPD statistics. Plus, the police force has about 3,400 officers, a historic low for almost half of a century, in a city that needs 4,000, according to District law enforcement leaders.

SMITH’S SERMON TO HER COLLEAGUES

Smith, who resides in Ward 8, made it clear that she needs the help of faith leaders to tackle the city’s violent crime crisis. She said her colleagues at MPD “are true crime fighters” but they need help.

“I need the community to show up at these types of events,” Smith said of the faith leaders’ meeting. “I need you guys to show up. You say you want the police. Well, we need you.”

Smith said ministers and residents know who are committing crimes in the neighborhoods.

“You know who these folks are,” she said. “You know who has the guns.”

Smith shared her aim is to deal with violent crimes, such as carjackings, citywide. To deal with carjackings, she said additional officers have been assigned in neighborhoods where that has hap-

pened frequently. The chief pointed out that several juveniles have been arrested in recent days under the suspicion of committing the crime.

Smith urged faith leaders to keep their places of worship open after servicesand to take a more aggressive stance on fighting crime.

“Open the doors of the house of the Lord,” she said. “We need you back in your respectful places in the community.”

The chief said all seven of the city’s police districts will routinely conduct safety walks in their neighborhoods and pointed out that Minnesota Avenue, whom she labeled a “Wall,” will get special attention from her.

Throughout her presentation, Smith walked around the gym with a microphone, evangelizing her plea to the faith leaders. At times, she rocked back and forth and at one time, she jumped to make a point. While she preached, some ministers and people stood up to recognize her points. When she finished her presentation, she did not take questions, as was indicated on the agenda, but walked out of the gym with her entourage for the next engagement.

REACTION TO SMITH

The faith leaders attending the meeting were pleased with Smith’s presentation and plea. However, some noted that the work of fighting crime is taking place.

The Rev. Anthony Motley said he has been in the trenches for years trying to help wayward youth and prevent violent crime. The Rev. Delonte Gholston, senior pastor of the Peace Fellowship Church in Ward 7 and the lead organizer for PeaceWalksDC, agreed with Motley.

“For the last five years, 40 congregations have been [doing the work] of violence prevention,” Gholston, 43, said. “We have worked with police chiefs, and it is good to see this chief engage faith leaders. Policing alone will not help us get out of this.”

The Rev. Karen Curry serves as the co-pastor of the Pennsylvania Avenue Baptist Church in Ward 7 in Southeast. Curry said faith leaders are doing the work of fighting crime, but another component is needed.

“We need to work better together with MPD,” she said. “MPD officers do come to our faith leaders’ meetings

and that must continue. The outreach to residents from MPD should continue.”

Curry said the faith leaders have embraced the Clergy for Safe Cities initiative designed to address young people in gangs and gun violence in primarily poor and working-class neighborhoods. She stressed that coordination among clergy regarding fighting crime also needs to improve.

@JamesWrightJr10

WI

4 Acting D.C. Police Chief Pamela Smith speaks to a group of faith leaders. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

AROUND THE REGION

The Newsletter

CAPTURE THE MOMENT

Who’s Reading the Informer?

John Richardson reads the Washington Informer. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

Desiree Johnson of Johns Hopkins University presented a $20K grant to Deb Discenza, co-founder, vice president and treasurer of the Alliance for Black NICU Families on August 1 in Springfield, Virginia as part of Johns Hopkins Corporate Grants program. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

D.C. Board of Elections Deems Polarizing Ballot Initiative ‘Proper Subject Matter’

Decision Follows Intense Hearing, Days of Debate

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

After hours of public testimony and two days of backroom deliberations, the D.C. Board of Elections (DCBOE) designated a polarizing ballot initiative as "proper subject matter" and suitable for inclusion on the 2024 ballot.

The Make All Votes Count Act of 2024 sets out to implement rankedchoice voting and allow non-party affiliated voters to participate in primary elections for the party of their choice.

Ranked-choice voting (RCV) allows voters to rank candidates by level of preference. After each voter’s first choice is counted, the candidate with the least votes is eliminated. From that point, each ballot will count for whichever candidate they have ranked the highest until one candidate wins more than 50% of the total votes.

An open primary system would affect 86,000 voters who are currently unable to participate in party primaries for public office because of their independent status.

On July 18, proponents and opponents of the ballot initiative weighed in on its constitutionality and whether it would incur an additional cost. Arguments presented on both sides necessitated, as DCBOE chairman Gary Thompson told the Informer, more time needed for a discussion than what has been the case for other matters to go before DCBOE over the last 18 months.

Over the two days of deliberations, DCBOE received a bevy of additional written testimony from those on both sides of the issie. In the end, DCBOE voted unanimously in favor of the Make All Votes Act of 2024.

“I don’t find [ranked-choice voting] in violation of the Human Rights Act and U.S. Constitution. There has been case law that [says] RCV is not unconstitutional," Thompson said on Friday. "The open primary part is one I struggled with ultimately [but] I found that it doesn’t run afoul of our D.C. charter. We have partisan

elections in each party with a party nominee and one on one in the general ballot. It doesn't violate the U.S. constitution for reasons that the Supreme Court pointed out. It's something we can certify as proper subject matter to pass on to voters to decide."

A significant issue brought up throughout the discussions concerned whether the ballot initiative would require an appropriation of funds. In statements submitted to DCBOE, the D.C. Council’s Office of General Counsel and the D.C. Office of the Attorney General (OAG) provided differing perspectives on that point, with OAG saying that BOE could add a clause preventing the appropriation of funds.

Another point brought up, as mentioned by Thompson, was appropriation being a matter for the D.C. Council to decide upon the ballot measure's approval.

Now that the Make All Votes Count Act of 2024 has passed the "proper subject matter" threshold, the Office of the Chief Financial Officer has 15 days to provide DCBOE with an analysis. DCBOE also has 20 days to finalize the short title, summary text and legislative text of the Make All Votes Count Act of 2024, after which it will conduct a hearing to vote on the final version of the ballot initiative.

During another hearing later this

year, Make All Votes Count DC members will be presented with circulating petitions for the ballot initiative. They will need to collect an amount of signatures equating to 5% of the local electorate to ensure that it appears on the 2024 ballot.

Days before DCBOE made its decision, Lisa D.T. Rice, a Ward 7 resident and non-party affiliated voter who submitted the Make All Votes Count Act of 2024, expressed confidence that the ballot initiative would withstand scrutiny. While testifying before DCBOE, she weighed in on the significance of RCV and open primaries, more so than whether the initiative met DCBOE's criteria.

In her testimony, Rice said that ranked-choice voting holds elected officials better accountable to the masses of local voters. As it relates to open primaries, Rice noted that independent voters should be allowed to weigh in on tax-payer funded electoral exercises that determine the composition of local government.

“I shouldn’t have to subscribe to a party,” Rice said. “If each of the parties were funding their own primary, they could cut me out, but we should be able to vote in them. We want to hold politicians accountable.”

Read more on www.washingtoninformer.com

WI

@SamPKCollins

5 Dozens of people converged on the D.C. Board of Elections on July 18 to testify in favor and against the Make All Votes Act Count Act ballot initiative. (Rob R. Roberts/Washington Informer)

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY

County Honors Veterans, Negro League All Star Game Delayed due to Heat

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

COUNTY EXECUTIVE ALSOBROOKS HOSTS COMMEMORATIVE GAME FOR VETERANS

An audience of over 2,200 Baysox fans, baseball lovers and local veterans attended a July 20 Bowie Baysox game against the Harrisburg Senators, where County Executive Angela Alsobrooks (D) and the Commission on Veterans honored those who have served the nation.

Around a dozen members of the Clinton Veterans of Foreign War (VFW) Post 9376, the largest in the county, attended in their leather vests adorned with their seal on the back. The VFW provides assistance and community for veterans who have gone overseas to fight.

Maryland State Senator Melony Griffith (D) was on hand, as were State Delegates Kent Roberson (D- District 25), Andrea Fletcher Harrison (D- District 24), Karen Toles (D- District 25), Central Committee member Nova Coston (D- District 25) and former Delegate Cheryl Landis.

Griffith currently serves as Prince George’s Veterans Coordinator and Dr. James Doula is the Veteran’s Officer.

Catcher Adley Rutschman and infielder Gunnar Henderson are both off to very strong starts in their young careers, with Rutschman playing in the most recent MLB

All-Star game. Rutschman jerseys were as common as jerseys for Hall of Famers such as Jim Palmer and Cal Ripken Jr. at the game.

Kimberly Lewis, a member of the Prince George’s Commission for Veterans, said “veterans need to see and know they are appreciated and not forgotten.”

“Without them, we wouldn’t have the freedoms we have,” Lewis said. It’s a great time to enjoy something as simple as a baseball game to show our appreciation for them. Our commission is important because it allows veterans and their families to realize and access benefits they are entitled to that will help to improve their quality of life. We are here for them, that’s what the Commission does.”

On the first Monday of every month, the Commission hosts publicly accessible and virtual meetings to keep the public informed about their ongoing efforts and events.

Many present at the Baysox game were excited for the newest prospects and the excitement surrounding the organization; particularly last year’s number-one overall pick Jackson Holliday, who has been on a hitting tear through the minor leagues and appears poised for a future, impactful career in the majors starting as soon as this year.

The Baysox, a Minor League Baseball affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles, won the two prior games in the series, but lost to the Harrisburg Senators during the July 20 game.

The visiting Harrisburg Senators, a minor league affiliate of the

Washington Nationals, won the game 10-3 and punctuated the win with four runs in the top of the ninth inning.

Brady House, a young prospect for the Nationals who was drafted two years ago, got his first two hits as a AA player.

Robert Hassell II and James Wood, both acquired in a trade last season for superstar outfielder Juan Soto, both started for the

Senators. The Baysox had won the two prior games in the series. WI

ANNUAL NEGRO LEAGUE ALL-STAR GAME DELAYED TO AUGUST 26

A commemorative game between the East and West Negro League All Stars and an accompanying car show

were scheduled for the afternoon of July 28 at Prince George’s Stadium, but the game was rescheduled to Aug. 26 due to the blistering heat.

This year marks the 90th anniversary of the East/West All Star game. Attendees expect to see former players and their families in retro uniforms alongside vendors offering Negro League memorabilia.

The Negro League Legends Hall of Fame (NLLHF) is an organization committed to informing the public about Black players in the Negro Leagues and before the segregation of baseball in the late 1800s. Last year, County Councilmember At Large Calvin Hawkins (D), Bowie Mayor and then-County Councilmember Rodney Streeter all attended the game. Streeter was the honorary chair of the event.

Buck O’Neil, a first baseman who later managed the Kansas City Monarchs and scouted for the Chicago Cubs and Kansas City Royals, was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2022. He was instrumental in the 1990 founding of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in his beloved Kansas City. There are now 37 Negro Leagues players who have been inducted into Cooperstown. For tickets and more information visit eventbrite.com. Admission is free and interested guests may request up to 10 tickets. WI

Celebrates 40th Annual National Night Out Yearly Gatherings Bring Residents and Police Together

Maryland

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

At numerous city halls and parks across Prince George’s County, Tuesday night saw a familiar gathering. With attendance bolstered by relief from the weekend’s heat wave, community members gathered for hot dogs on the 40th Annual National Night Out.

Governor Wes Moore (D) was spotted in New Carrollton alongside Comptroller Brooke Liebman (D).

Prince George’s County Council Vice President Wala Blegay (D) went to Cameron Grove’s outing.

Senator Chris Van Hollen (D) joined the Perrywood National Night Out in Upper Marlboro and spoke about his efforts to improve public safety, including additional Department of Justice funding and grants for various programs.

County police officers attended a gathering hosted on Central Avenue by former Board of Education Member Belinda Queen. Delegate Kent Roberson (D—District 25) took pictures with his new constituents at a gathering at St. Paul’s Church on Marlboro Pike.

National Night Out was first held in 1984 by the National Association of Town Watch (NATW).

National Night Out seeks to build community on the first Tuesday every

3 Belinda Queen, a community servant particularly well known inside the Beltway, hosted a National Night Out gathering (Anthony Tilghman/ The Washington Informer)

August by bringing residents together to strengthen the relationship between community members and the police.

From the original night, the event has now grown to having nearly 40 million nationwide participants across 17,000 communities. From Aberdeen to Worton, 160 towns in Maryland, host the annual event.

In Blegay’s district alone there were nine events scheduled. WI

5 Former Maryland Delegate Cheryl Landis, who represented Bowie in the legislature, attended the game with her godson. Here, they get their fan photo with Louie from Bowie, the Baysox mascot. (Anthony Tilghman/ The Washington Informer)

PRINCE GEORGE’S BASEBALL RECAPS

Senate Race Heats Up with Fundraisers, Endorsements, Public Safety Updates

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

New FEC Reports, Endorsements

Forecast a Contested Senate Primary

Recent FEC reports, fundraisers and endorsements show that the 2024 Maryland primary to replace Sen. Ben Cardin’s (D) U.S. Senate seat, while far off, is already off to a hot start. Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks (D) and Montgomery County Congressman David Trone (D) are viewed as the front-running candidates, and Montgomery County Councilmember At Large Will Jawando (D) is gaining strength as a progressive alternative.

Both Alsobrooks and Jawando have August fundraisers planned in Martha’s Vineyard, and Western Maryland’s 6th Congressional District is featuring a contested primary to replace the outgoing Congressman that will undoubtedly raise turnout in Trone’s backyard.

The Trone campaign reported raising $9,833,793 and spending $4,742,231 between April and the end of June, ending the quarter with $5,262,901 in their campaign account. $9,725,000, over 98% of his total fundraising, came via a loan from Trone. Trone has said that he will spend up to $40,000,000 of his own money on the Senate race, necessitating strong fundraising and campaign organizing from his opponents. His campaign has already sent multiple mailers to registered Democrats in Prince George’s County and the Baltimore metropolitan area.

The Alsobrooks campaign reported raising $1,730,019 and spending $395,701, finishing the quarter with $1,334,318 on hand.

Alsobrooks was recently endorsed by Comptroller Brooke Lierman (D), who she supported in the primary election.

“Working with Angela has shown me that she is an effective and focused leader with the right priorities,” Lierman said in a statement. “I know that in the Senate she will work to support our kids, our teachers, our seniors, our communities and our small businesses,

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

because she’s already doing that work.”

Jawando’s campaign brought in $526,026, spent $211,781 and finished June with $314,244. One of Jawando’s donors includes the new Washington Commanders President Jason Wright, who donated $1,000.

Jawando received endorsements in Laurel on July 26 from Colmar Manor Mayor Monica Casañas, Mount Rainier Mayor Celina Benitez and Laurel City Councilmembers Martin Mitchell (D) and Carl Dewalt (R).

Jawando's recent role in the passing of rent stabilization in Montgomery County was mentioned by several of the endorsers, including Councilmember Dewalt.

“As a community activist, I know that the only option in this race is Will Jawando," said Casañas.

CONGRESSMAN IVEY CO-SPONSORS EXPUNGEMENT EXPANSION

U.S. Congressman Glenn Ivey (D–Md.) is one of the co-sponsors of the Kenneth P. Thompson Begin Again Act, a bill to expand access to expungement laws for non-violent, minor drug possession offenses. New York Congressman Hakeem Jeffries, one of the

top-ranking Democrats in Congress, is also co-sponsoring the bipartisan bill.

"Re-introducing the ‘Kenneth P. Thompson Begin Again Act’ is an important step in restoring people's ability to fully rejoin our community. Giving a second chance to folks who have made a mistake in their lives gives us a more productive populace, restores dignity to those whose hopes have been dashed and gives them more opportunities to own a home, start a business or build a career,” said Ivey. “Making amends for past mistakes and moving forward should be rewarded. That's what this bipartisan bill does. That's what over 22 national organizations support. Let's get this done."

The “Kenneth P. Thompson Begin

Again Act” will broaden eligibility for expungement under 18 U.S.C. 3607, a law enacted under President Ronald Reagan, by removing the age cap and allowing judges to give people of any age with a minor possession offense a second chance to pursue a productive life.

“Ken Thompson was a groundbreaking District Attorney who prioritized integrity and fairness in the criminal justice system. He was a transformational figure in the fight for criminal justice reform nationally and a staunch defender of the safety and security of New Yorkers,” said Jeffries.

Patrick Yoes, president of the National Fraternal Order of Police, explained how the law currently operates.

“Under current law, an individual can have a minor drug possession offense expunged from their criminal record if they have no prior convictions and meet other preconditions—one of which is that you must be 21 years old or younger,” Yoes said, before supporting the second chance legislation.

“With all the other requirements that must be met to get this expungement, we don’t think it's appropriate to limit someone’s opportunity for a second chance to be limited by age.”

COUNTY COUNCIL PROPOSES APARTMENT CAMERA BILL

County Council Vice President Wala Blegay introduced a new bill on July 6 that would require security

cameras in entrances and exits of apartments and senior buildings, an effort to improve both safety and accountability for tenants.

In senior buildings, the bill would require at least one 12-hour security guard on duty every day of the week and require landlords to fix broken equipment within two weeks.

Roughly 38% of the population, or about 373,000 people, are renters in Prince George’s County.

“It is essential that our residents feel safe,” said Blegay. “During a visit to a Senior community in my District, a carjacking occurred in the parking lot and I was alarmed to later discover that security cameras at this facility had not worked in two years. I was even more troubled when the representative from the Senior community reminded me that security cameras were not required in Prince George’s County. I decided that this bill was necessary to not only allow residents to feel safe but also assist our law enforcement partners in solving crimes in our community.”

Council Members Krystal Oriadha (D, District 7) and Council Member Edward Burroughs III (D, District 8) are also sponsors of this bill. CB-66 was put on hold and will be considered again after the August recess.

In March, the County Council unanimously passed a bill to approve $200 vouchers that would help cover the cost of security cameras for homeowners, businesses and nonprofits. WI

5 County Executive Angela Alsobrooks is winning the battle for endorsements early in the U.S. Senate race. She was recently endorsed by Comptroller Brooke Lierman, the first woman to be elected to the position in Maryland’s history. (WI File Photo/Anthony Tilghman)

“Working with Angela has shown me that she is an effective and focused leader with the right priorities,” Lierman said in a statement. “I know that in the Senate she will work to support our kids, our teachers, our seniors, our communities and our small businesses, because she’s already doing that work.”

By James Wright / WI Staff Writer

BUSINESS briefs

D.C. AUTOMATIC RETIREMENT SAVINGS BILL

Prior to the beginning of the D.C. Council summer recess period, Councilmember Christian Henderson (I-At Large) introduced the Automatic Retirement Savings Act of 2023, which is designed to support employees of the District’s small businesses.

Henderson said small businesses and their employees are vital to the cultural vibrancy and economic health of the city. She noted that while many area employers, including the District government, offer retirement savings programs to their employees, about 173,000 workers in the city do not have access to a retirement savings account through their employer. The councilmember said that number may grow as more small businesses establish themselves in the city.

Henderson’s bill addresses the gap in retirement savings access by setting up a Retirement Savings Board which would manage

a universally available and voluntary Retirement Savings Program for employees of private businesses who are not offered a retirement plan through their workplace and for certain self-employed people.

Employees would have 3% of their earnings automatically deducted from their wages to contribute to the program unless the employee elects not to contribute or to contribute a different amount. These accounts would be portable if a participating employee changes jobs because the accounts would be managed by the District not the employer.

“If it is our goal for D.C. to come back, we must create pathways that attract and retain small businesses,” Henderson said. “We must also allow the employees of these businesses to invest in their future security. A savings plan facilitated by the District would help alleviate the barriers that prevent employees whose employers do not offer long-term retirement savings options from saving for their future.”

Henderson’s bill was co-introduced by Councilmembers Vincent C. Gray (D-Ward 7), Charles Allen (D-Ward 6), Matthew Frumin (D-Ward 3), Brooke Pinto (D-Ward 2) and Brianne K. Nadeau (D-Ward 1). WI

NEW PRINCE GEORGE’S BUSINESS

The Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation announced recently that Vegetable and Butcher, a subscription-based food delivery service, has decided to relocate its headquarters to the county from the District. The company is moving to a 32,000 square-foot Class A industrial space at 6001 Fallard Drive in Upper Marlboro, Maryland.

“Throughout our administration, we have remained committed to bringing quality businesses and amenities to our county, as well as providing meaningful employment opportunities for residents right in their own community,” Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks said. “We also recognize that our residents should have access to a range of healthy food options, and we are pleased that Vegetable and Butcher will offer a variety of healthy choices to Prince Georgians.”

The company employs 56 workers and plans to create 184 fulltime jobs over the next three years. Vegetable and Butcher co-founder and chief experience officer Ariane Valle said the move is transformative and “completely redefine what it means to be a food ecosystem.” WI

@JamesWrightJr10

EMPOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Software Engineer - Business Analytics (Gaithersburg, MD and client sites and may work from home) Analyze system requirements and design responsive algorithms and solutions for business analytics reports. Use big data and cloud technologies to produce production-quality business analytics code. Engage in performance tuning and scalability engineering. Master's Degree in Business Analytics or related field required. Must be proficient in Tableau and Python. Mail resume to Client Software Services, LLC, Attn: HR, 101 Lakeforest Blvd., Gaithersburg, MD, 20877

5 Christina Henderson serves as an at-large Independent D.C. Council member. (WI

File Photo/Robert R. Roberts)

The Bussdown Celebrates the Pan-African Culinary Journey in the DMV

By Andrew S. Jacobson WI Contributing Writer

In the heart of Foggy Bottom, a culinary revolution is brewing at the soon-to-open restaurant The Bussdown. Chef Solomon Johnson, a visionary with a passion for Pan-African cuisine, is set to take diners on an unforgettable journey through diverse flavors that define the African diaspora.

"I wanted to create a space that reflects the migratory path of slaves from Africa through the Caribbean and into the Edisto Islands," said Johnson. "The Bussdown is a celebration of everything Black and Brown, an homage to the culinary traditions that have traveled through generations."

The concept of The Bussdown, born in Oakland, California, centers around a Pan-African food program, paying tribute to the rich heritage of

African, Caribbean and Southern influences.

The menu boasts tantalizing dish es such as jerk chicken and curry chicken, elevated by Chef Johnson's personally crafted spice blends, in collaboration with Spice Tribe.

"Our goal is to evoke the essence of each region's culinary tradi tions," Johnson, who co-owns The Bussdown with Mike Woods, told the Informer. "We want to intro duce our diners to flavors they may have never experienced before, but that are deeply rooted in history and culture."

The Bussdown's location in West ern Market, on Pennsylvania Avenue Northwest, places it just around the corner from the White House, by the George Washington University’s (GW) campus, making it a strategic spot for both locals and tourists. The restaurant sits across from the student quad at GW, aiming to draw

in a diverse clientele, including students, neighborhood residents, and the nearby business community.

"Our target market is the students, but we also want to be a place where people from all walks of life can come together to share a meal," said Johnson.

The ambiance at The Bussdown is designed to foster a sense of togetherness. With seating for over 200 people, the Western Market food hall concept invites patrons to gather and experience a culinary adventure as a community.

"I love the idea of people from different backgrounds, sitting side by side, enjoying food that tells the story of our shared history," Chef Johnson said with enthusiasm.

The path to The Bussdown's opening has been both challenging and rewarding for Johnson.

While the pandemic initially presented obstacles, it also served as a catalyst for the birth of the concept in California.

"We started in a cloud kitchen during the pandemic, offering a to-go-only operation," explained

SERVICE. CONVENIENCE. PERSONAL TOUCH.

From the convenience of making a deposit with your mobile device to the personal touch of a one-on-one discussion, we’re proud to offer a wide array of quality banking products and services to help you reach your goals. We take pride in knowing the communities and people we serve, and tailoring our solutions to meet their needs.

Personal Banking Checking | Savings | Credit Cards | Lending

Johnson. "As things loosened up, we evolved into a fine dining concept, and that's how Bussdown's journey began."

Returning to his home state of Maryland, after a decade in California, was a poignant decision for Chef Johnson. Bussdown represents a heartfelt connection to his roots and a chance to make a mark on the local culinary scene.

"I wanted to bring this concept back home, to share the flavors and traditions that shaped my upbringing," he said. "D.C. has always been special to me, and I'm excited to contribute to its vibrant culinary landscape."

As The Bussdown approaches its grand opening, anticipation is building among food enthusiasts, local residents, and the wider DMV community.

"We've had two successful popup events already, and the response has been fantastic," Chef Johnson revealed. "I can't wait for people to step into Bussdown and embark on

5 Chef Solomon Johnson, co-owner of The Bussdown, birthed in Oakland, California, is bringing his concept to D.C.’s Western Market. (Courtesy Photo/ Adahali Cole)

Grand Jury Indicts Trump for His Role on January 6 Insurrection

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

Former President Donald Trump's legal woes took another historic turn on Tuesday, Aug. 1, as a federal grand jury indicted the twice-impeached ex-commander-in-chief on serious conspiracy charges, including an attempt to defraud the United States.

This marks the third time a grand jury has indicted Trump this year. This time the charges are related to special counsel Jack Smith's investigation into efforts to overturn the 2020 election.

It adds to Trump's extensive list of legal troubles since leaving of-

BUSSDOWN from Page 15

this culinary journey with us,” Johnson said.

With a menu that showcases the diverse influences of the Pan African diaspora, The Bussdown promises to be a melting pot of flavors, a celebration of cultural heritage, and a place where everyone is invited to experience a taste of history.

The Bussdown team is ready to

fice. Notably, he is already facing more than 30 criminal charges in New York and over 40 in Florida, where he allegedly withheld and misused classified documents.

Moreover, a civil jury this year convicted him of sexual assault, and the New York Attorney General is pursuing a $250 million civil suit against him for fraud.

An impending indictment on criminal charges in Atlanta also looms over him.

Trump, who has consistently denounced the investigations as politically motivated witch hunts, had previously pleaded not guilty in the other cases.

His first indictment in April

serve up unforgettable dining experiences that combine flavors of the past with the vibrant spirit of the present, all under one roof.

“It’s been quite the journey and now we are almost at the opening,” said The Bussdown’s Chef de Cuisine Luis Gomez, the co-owner’s longtime, hometown friend . “I’m truly excited to be a part of this team and I believe everyone will enjoy what we have to offer.” WI

was related to falsifying business records concerning alleged hush money paid to porn star Stormy Daniels.

In June, Smith announced an indictment in Florida over Trump's handling of classified materials after departing the White House.

Trump announced on July 16 that he was informed of his status as a target in the election probe. The letter he received men-

of DJTrump) tioned three federal statutes in connection with the investigation: conspiracy to commit offenses or to defraud the United States, deprivation of rights under a civil rights statute, and tampering with a witness, victim, or informant.

Congress and

Notable figures such as former top Trump aide Hope Hicks, Trump's son-in-law, and former White House senior adviser Jared Kushner have reportedly testified.

Smith's grand jury in Washington, D.C., has been actively interviewing witnesses, ranging from former White House aides to state election officials.

Investigators have also contacted election officials believed to be involved in the failed 2020 effort to present "fake electors" to cast electoral college votes for Trump on January 6.

Attorney General Merrick Garland appointed Smith to oversee the investigation of the election probe and the classified documents.

Garland's decision came after Trump's announcement in November that he intended to run for president again, prompting the appointment of an independent special counsel to avoid any potential conflict of interest within the Justice Department.

WI

@StacyBrownMedia

5 Former President Trump has been indicted for his role in attempting to overturn the results of the 2020 election and is expected to make his first court appearance at the U.S. District Court Thursday. (Courtesy photo/Library of

computer generated image

“It’s been quite the journey and now we are almost at the opening,” said The Bussdown’s Chef de Cuisine Luis Gomez, the co-owner’s longtime, hometown friend . “I’m truly excited to be a part of this team and I believe everyone will enjoy what we have to offer.”

Howard University Commemorates 75th Anniversary of U.S. Military Desegregation HU Partners with Blue Star Families, The Chamberlain Project

By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer

On July 26, 1948, President Harry S. Truman signed Executive Order 9981, integrating America's Armed forces, and 75 years later, Howard University, a site with a deep history of military service and civil rights activism, recognized this pivotal moment in American history with a panel and symposium. The university, in partnership with Blue Star Families and The Chamberlain Project hosted “Freedom to Serve: Integrating the Armed Services, an event that included robust conversations, an appearance by Air Force veteran and celebrated actor Morgan Freeman, and a celebration of American heroes.

Howard University (HU) president Dr. Wayne A.I. Frederick opened the

event reminding audiences of the institution’s long history with the armed forces.

“For over 100 years, Howard University has had its own ROTC battalion, thousands of Howard alumni serve throughout the armed forces today, and Howard is the first HBCU to serve as a U.S. Department of Defense, Air Force University Affiliated Research Center,” Frederick said.

“We are proud of our ongoing efforts and happy to serve as the host of this important event, commemorating a milestone in our nation's history.”

Before reading a statement on behalf of Vice President Kamala Harris, a Howard University alumna, Freeman noted his own commitment to Blue Star Families.

“When Blue Star Families asked me to come, I accepted because I’m a vet-

eran, and I thank you for what you are doing,” said Freeman, who received an honoree degree from HU. “I care about the people who serve, and I will continue to be of service.”

In addition to Freeman, other distinguished guests and history-makers were on Howard’s campus for the event, including Secretary of Veterans Affairs Denis McDonough and Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro, who were keynote speakers.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, a retired United States Army four-star general, also gave virtual remarks.

How Civil Rights and Civic Responsibility Work Together

Blue Star Families is the nation’s largest nonprofit dedicated to supporting military families and strengthening communities across the United States. The organization, founded by

military spouses in 2009, supports military families when a loved one is deployed and when that individual returns.

Kathy Roth-Douquet, CEO of Blue Star Families, told the audience about the importance of having this 75th-anniversary occasion

at Howard University.

“Civic responsibility and civic rights go hand in hand,” said Roth-Douquet. “By telling the story of how military service interrelates with civil rights and strengthens our country

ANNIVERSARY Page 37

Dreaming of homeownership?

5 Academy Award winner, Air Force veteran, and a 2015 Howard University honorary degree recipient Morgan Freeman spoke at the 75th anniversary of desegregating the U.S. Armed Forces on July 26, 2023, at Howard University. (Marckell Williams/ The Washington Informer)

may be required. Prices and offers subject to change and may vary by market. Additional taxes and fees may apply. Satisfactory credit required. A security deposit may be required. Simulated screen images and photos are for illustrative purposes only.

©2021 ADT LLC dba ADT Security Services. All rights reserved. ADT, the ADT logo, 800.ADT.ASAP and the product/service names listed in this document are marks and/or registered marks. Unauthorized use is strictly prohibited. Third-party marks are the property of their respective owners. License information available at www.ADT.com/legal

africa now

5 Panelists during session at Women Deliver Conference on balancing access to care and care responsibilities among women healthcare workers. (Courtesy Photo/ Oliver Mugwiza)

COMPILED

BY OSWALD T. BROWN, WI CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Africa to Benefit from Canada’s Gender Equality Fund

Canada has announced over $200 million for 15 projects under the ‘Strengthening Opportunities in Accessing Reproductive Services’ (SheSOARS) initiative in more than 18 countries, with a focus on Africa, The New Times, Rwanda’s largest daily newspaper, reported on Sunday, July 30.

These projects, according to the Canadian-based International Development Research Centre (IDRC), are being implemented through global, multilateral, and Canadian civil society organizations and are part of Canada's 10-year Commitment to Global Health and Rights.

Canada also announced over $30 million for two new projects that support paid and unpaid care work, to unlock women's ability to participate more fully in the economy, in education, and in public life. They are part of the country’s landmark $100-million commitment to support care work.

The funds come days after the Women Deliver Conference in Kigali, Rwanda expressed the need to address unpaid care work which disproportionately affects women more than their male counterparts.

In one of the sessions held at the Women Deliver Conference on balancing access to care and care responsibilities among women healthcare workers, Kathryn Toure, regional director of the Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Office IDRC, hinted on Canada releasing the funds and said that the investment would assist develop the care economy and foster the development of more compassionate communities. She precisely pointed out that women in healthcare professions have dual caring obligations as both at work and at home.

“Women make up over 70% of the world's human health resources in the form of health care professionals, putting them at a significant risk of getting diseases and straining their mental health due to their job in public and private care settings and of those only 25% of global health leaders are in the workforce,” Toure said. She added that the majority are volunteer healthcare workers, “meaning this is also an issue we need to deal with.”

Speaking at the same event, the Acting Division Manager for Maternal, Child and Community Health at Rwanda Biomedical Centre Hassan Sibomana also discussed the importance of balancing access to care and care responsibilities among women healthcare workers. WI

Stronger ‘China-Guyana Community’ with Shared Future Imminent

Guyana’s President Dr. Irfaan Ali and Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday, July 28, 2023 vowed to continue working on strengthening relations between Guyana and China to not only benefit their peoples, but also their economies, according to the Guyana Chronicle.

President Ali, who is on a one-week visit to China, exchanged similar sentiments with President Xi, and reflected on how Guyana’s international counterpart, China, has played a major role in the country’s socio-economic development.

“China has played an enormous role in the development of our region and the development of Guyana,” Ali said, adding that Guyana firmly adheres to the One-China policy.

5 Guyana’s President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali and China’s President Xi Jinping (Courtesy Photo/ Office of the President of Guyana)

In a video streamed by China Global Television Network (CGTN), President Ali told President Xi and other foreign dignitaries that Guyana and China have maintained a sound relationship with strong political and mutual trust.

He added that Guyana regards China as a highly reliable partner and welcomes Chinese enterprises to invest in Guyana.

China has played an important role in the economic and social development of Guyana and the Caribbean region, in terms of not only sharing its experiences, but also providing valuable assistance to Guyana and regional countries in areas of infrastructure, connectivity, medicine and health.

According to a report from CGTN, during the meeting, President Xi hailed the enduring bilateral friendship shared by the two countries, stressing that China and Guyana should remain good friends who trust and rely on each other. WI

It May Be Time to Renew Your Healthcare Coverage

Submitted by AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia

If you have health insurance coverage through Medicaid, you’ll need to renew coverage for yourself and your family for the first time in several years. All Medicaid beneficiaries need to renew their coverage starting on April 1, 2023, and continuing through June 1, 2024.

AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia (DC) wants to make sure you and your family stay covered for all your healthcare needs. If you’re a resident of the District of Columbia and have coverage through Medicaid, here’s what you need to do now:

• Log in or create an account within District Direct:

- Online: https://districtdirect. dc.gov/ua/

- Mobile app: District Direct (available from Google Play or the Apple App Store)

*Messaging and data fees may apply.

• Confirm your household information and report any changes:

- Online: https://districtdirect. dc.gov/ua/

-Mobile app: District Direct (available from Google Play or the Apple App Store)

*Messaging and data fees may apply.

-In person: At a Service Center. Locations can be found at https://dhs.dc.gov/service/find-service-center-near-you.

• Renew your benefits (once you receive a renewal form from the Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF) in the mail):

- Online: https://districtdirect. dc.gov/ua/

- Mobile app: District Direct (available from Google Play or the Apple App Store) *Messaging and data fees may apply.

- In person: At a Service Center. Locations can be found at https://dhs.dc.gov/service/find-service-center-near-you.

- Mail: Send completed renewal documents to the Department of Human Services, Economic Security Administration,

Case Record Management Unit, P.O. Box 91560, Washington, DC 20090

You risk losing your health insurance if you do not renew these benefits for yourself and your family. According to new research from the Kaiser Family Foundation, approximately 15 million Americans could lose Medicaid health insurance coverage as states end the continuous enrollment provision enacted in March 2020.1 It is important to act now. If DHCF does not have your current contact information, you will not receive notice of the need to renew your coverage through the mail or other means.

Beneficiaries can call the Public Benefits Call Center at 202-727-5355 with any questions. More information can be found at https://dhcf.dc.gov/ medicaid-renewal.

The information in this article is intended to help you learn more about this topic; it is not meant to take the place of visiting your healthcare provider. If you have questions, talk with your healthcare provider. If you need to see your healthcare provider because of something you have read in this information, please contact your healthcare provider. Never stop or wait to get medical attention because of something you have read in this material.

Sources

1. “Medicaid and CHIP Eligibility, Enrollment, and Renewal Policies as States Prepare for the Unwinding of the Pandemic-Era Continuous Enrollment Provision,” Kaiser Family Foundation, https://www.kff.org/medicaid/report/ medicaid-and-chip-eligibility-enrollment-and-renewal-policies-as-states-prepare-for-the-unwinding-of-the-pandemic-era-continuous-enrollment-provision/

2. “Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment,” Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https:// www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/benefits/ early-and-periodic-screening-diagnostic-and-treatment/index.html

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

It’s August, the end of summer vacation and the start of a new school year. Whether your child is entering a new grade level or heading to school for the first time, ensuring they have received all necessary immunizations is important. Immunizations will help to protect your child against potentially life-threatening infections or diseases. Your child’s healthcare provider will know which immunizations your child is due for, including seasonal influenza (flu) vaccine and the COVID-19 vaccine.

Children under 21 who are enrolled in Medicaid have the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) benefit. EPSDT provides comprehensive and preventive healthcare.2

Services may include:

• Physical checkups

• Dental checkups and other services

• Vision checkups and eyeglasses

• Hearing tests and hearing aids

• Screenings, such as lead toxicity screening

• Diagnostic services (if a screening suggests the need)

• Treatment for conditions found through screening and diagnostic services

• Appropriate vaccines

• Health education, such as learning about accident and disease prevention

If your child is an AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia (DC) enrollee, you can find a provider by going to www.amerihealthcaritasdc.com or by calling Enrollee

#BestMe

Services at 1-800-408-7511. AmeriHealth Caritas DC enrollees younger than age 21 can get yearly checkups at no cost. Enrollees can also get free rides to and from healthcare visits by calling 1-800-315-3485.

Please bring a copy of the Universal Health Certificate to all of your child’s visits, lead screenings, and COVID-19 vaccinations. The Universal Health Certificate is available online at https://dchealth.dc.gov/service/ school-health-services-program.

Visit https://www.amerihealthcaritasdc.com/preventive-care/member/ well-child/index.aspx to learn more.

We want to make sure you and your family stay covered for all your healthcare needs. Here’s what you need to do

ACT NOW HERE’S HOW

Confirm your household information and report any changes

Recertify and renew your benefits

Online: https://districtdirect. dc.gov/ua/ Mobile App: District Direct In Person: At a Service Center To find a location near you, visit www.dhs.dc.gov/service/findservice-center-near-you

Online: https://districtdirect. dc.gov/ua/ Mobile App: District Direct In Person: Drop your completed renewal documents off at a Service Center Mail: Mail completed renewal documents to: Department of Human Services Economic Security Administration Case Record Management Unit P.O. Box 91560 Washington, DC 20090

Need more information about renewing your benefits?

We are here to help. Call your health plan:

• Amerigroup DC 1-800-600-4441

• AmeriHealth Caritas DC 1-800-408-7511

• Health Services for Children with Special Needs, Inc. 1-866-937-4549

• MedStar Family Choice District of Columbia 1-888-404-3549

English: If you do not speak and/or read English, please call your health plan 24 hours a day, seven days a week. A representative will help you. Español: Si no habla o lee inglés, llame a su plan médico las 24 horas del día, los siete días de la semana. Un representante le ayudará.

HEALTH

BREAKING THE SILENCE ON FERTILITY CHALLENGES

Tiffany Haddish's Brave Journey Highlights

Maternal Health Disparities Black Women Face

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

Actress and comedian Tiffany Haddish bravely has shared her challenging fertility journey, shedding more light on the profound difficulties faced by Black women during childbirth.

The 43-year-old star revealed that she recently experienced her eighth miscarriage, adding that her struggles with endometriosis and misdiagnosis also played a significant role in her multiple pregnancy losses.

Haddish, widely known for

her comedic brilliance and impressive acting career, has made a significant mark in the entertainment industry with memorable roles in popular films like “Girls Trip,” “The Last OG,” “Night School,” and her hosting gig at the 2018 MTV Movie and TV Awards.

In 2017, she became the first Black woman stand-up comedian to host “Saturday Night Live.”

In a new interview, she explained the trauma of yet another miscarriage.

“I’ve got a uterus shaped like a heart. It just won’t keep anything in,” she said.

Sadly, Haddish’s experience with miscarriages and maternal health challenges is not an isolated one.

Black women in the United States regularly face miscarriages and complicated pregnancies, with alarming statistics showing that about 20% of pregnancies end in miscarriage.

Also, Black women are 43% more likely to experience pregnancy loss compared to their white counterparts.

Speaking on Rachel Bilson’s “Broad Ideas” podcast, Haddish spoke openly about the emotional toll the miscarriages took on her mental health.

In the past, Haddish said she chose to keep her pregnancy losses private, sharing the experience only with one close friend.

“I didn’t want people saying: ‘Are you OK? Are you alright?’ Like a wounded animal, I just rather go into a cave by myself. Lick my wounds,” she explained.

She added that she has contemplated adoption and taken parenting classes in preparation for the possibility of welcoming a child into her life.

“I’m looking at, you know, [age] five and up — really like seven,” Haddish said, emphasizing her desire to let any child she may bring into her life know they are loved and cherished.

Experts noted that the impact of pregnancy loss extends beyond the physical aspect and can lead to a complex grieving pro -

cess affecting women’s well-being.

Katie Ross, a hair, and beauty specialist told the Informer that she commends Haddish’s bravery in opening up about her challenges and shedding light on the disparities Black women often face regarding maternal health.

Ross noted that pregnancy loss has a profound physical and emotional impact, leading to a range of emotions and complex grieving processes.

She praised Haddish’s resilience and hopefulness in the face of adversity, especially her desire to provide a loving home through adoption.

“It’s inspiring to see her share her experiences, bringing awareness to the sensitive topic of miscarriages and endometriosis,” Ross remarked.

“It’s admirable how Tiffany Haddish remains resilient and hopeful about the possibility of motherhood, even amid life’s challenges,” Ross continued.

“Her desire to provide love and care to a child through adoption is truly heartwarming.

“Overall, Tiffany Haddish’s journey serves as a poignant reminder of the need for greater empathy and support for Black women’s maternal health. By fostering understanding and a caring environment, we can help women facing similar challenges feel more supported and heard.”

William Christie, an education blogger, highlighted in an email the importance of acknowledging and supporting Black women’s experiences during pregnancy and their struggles with miscarriage.

“By raising awareness, breaking the silence, and advocating for change, we can work towards a future where Black women receive equitable care, experience healthier pregnancies, and find solace in a compassionate and inclusive society,” Christie stated.

“Together, let us create a world where no woman feels alone on her journey to motherhood, regardless of her race or background,” he said. WI

4 Tiffany Haddish revealed that she recently experienced her eighth miscarriage, adding that her struggles with endometriosis and misdiagnosis also played a significant role in her multiple pregnancy losses. (Courtesy Photo/ Wikimedia Commons)

AARP DC is celebrating a year of progress for seniors.

From housing stability and financial assistance to keeping seniors connected, AARP DC worked hard to advance priority programs that support District seniors, achieving these victories:

● $43 million in 2024 funding for the Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) Program.

● $250,000 to provide over a thousand iPads that help seniors stay digitally connected.

● $71,000 in the Grandparent Caregivers Program and removing Supplemental Security Income from household income calculations.

Learn more about this year’s successes and the progress ahead of us at aarp.org/dc

facebook.com/aarpdc | @aarpdc | aarp.org/dc

Paid for by AARP

EARTH OUR

‘They Need

to

Go:’ Ivy City Neighbors Demand Chemical Plant Shut Down

By Kayla Benjamin WI Climate & Environment Reporter

The small brick building on the corner of Capitol Avenue and Fenwick Street N.E. is easy to miss. Surrounded by residential homes in Ivy City, the innocuous-looking facility has housed chemical manufacturing company National Engineering Products, Incorporated (NEP), since the 1940s.

Now, Ivy City residents and environmental justice activists are demanding the chemical plant shut down over air quality concerns. Dozens of neighbors and allies gathered Wednesday for a march through the neighborhood and a rally in front of the NEP building.

“I don’t want it here anymore… I can’t sit on my porch,” said Ann Willis, an Ivy City resident who has lived down the street for decades, at the rally.

“They need to go, and if I have to come up here every day, then I’ll stand and I’ll talk and I’ll say what I say: They need to go.”

Local advocacy group Empower DC and global nonprofit Namati coordinated the protest event, which attracted nearly 40 attendees to the rally and a neighborhood cookout that followed it. The protesters also signed an oversized greeting card addressed to NEP’s president, Gail Peterson, telling her to “do well soon!”

The crowd included many longtime residents of Ivy City, a historically Black neighborhood in Ward 5, alongside several youth organizers working with Empower DC through the city’s Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP).

“It’s kind of sickening to me, because it’s unfair that [NEP is] diminishing our neighborhood and our community, poisoning our bodies—just to make profit,” said 17-year-old Mahki Brooks, one of the SYEP participants and a fiveyear resident of Ivy City.

NEP makes sealants and insulating materials for military purposes, and the facility uses several chemicals on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s hazardous air pollutants list. A study conducted by the D.C. Department of Energy and Environment last summer detected three of them— formaldehyde, acetonitrile, and methylene chloride—at elevated levels in the neighborhood’s air.

Research has linked all three to shortor long-term health impacts, including nervous system issues and increased risks for certain cancers.

GRANDFATHERED IN TO LAX POLLUTION LAWS

The plant currently operates without

an air quality permit from the District. That’s because the facility far predates the federal Clean Air Act, which passed in 1970, and other local and national laws regulating air pollution.

“One of our air scientists that works with us was out here doing some testing, and then the company sent us an email with a photo of her, asking, ‘Did she have a permit?’” Empower DC’s executive director, Parisa Norouzi, shared during the rally. “The irony is that NEP has been operating without air pollution permits for decades—but they have the nerve to ask us if we have a permit when we're trying to identify the toxins that they're spewing in our air.”

Similarly, the advocates say current zoning laws prohibit industrial sites within 100 feet of a residence—but facilities like this one get “grandfathered in” under old rules. Right now, the facility shares a wall with a house, where homeowner Shawn Scott is raising her young children.

When she bought the house—purchasing it as part of one of the District’s affordable housing programs—Scott said no one informed her about the chemical plant next door.

Among her six kids, one has severe asthma issues that Scott said worsens when he’s at home. And those who slept in the room closest to a vent have all experienced learning disabilities, she said.

“My kids complain about headaches; my sons have to miss days of school when their migraines are too

bad,” Scott says in a short documentary about Ivy City, which Namati produced last year.

“As a mother, I’m very angry because I just feel like, sometimes, ‘did I make the right decision by moving around here?’” Scott, a 16-year Ivy City resident, says in the film. “I thought I was putting my kids in a better environment, but really I put them in harm.”

The documentary, featured in this year’s D.C. Environmental Film Festival, followed Ivy City’s ANC Commissioner Sebrena Rhodes, who serves as a community organizer with Empower DC. Rhodes said that finding out NEP lacked an air pollution permit a couple of years ago spurred her and others to begin the campaign to shut down the facility.

In an emailed statement, an unnamed representative from the company said that NEP is currently working with DOEE on getting an air pollution permit from the city.

“NEPI is in full compliance with all DC regulations,” the email read. “It was recently brought to our attention that in addition to our EPA ID number and other DC Licenses that an air permit is required. As soon as we became aware

of this we began our work with both the DOEE and the Regional EPA.”

TESTING, TESTING

After the neighborhood began organizing, DOEE conducted its study of pollutants around the facility in summer 2022. The results, which the agency shared in February of this year, showed that the plant likely emits enough formaldehyde and acetonitrile to cause elevated levels in the community downwind of the NEP building.

All in all, the study found seven different compounds that met the EPA’s “screening levels,” a term that means the amount detected calls for further evaluation. Earlier this month, the EPA began its own air quality study in the community. Rhodes said the federal agency has not given community members any clear idea of when the results from that study will become available.

A pilot program in June included Ivy City as one of three neighborhoods to get mobile air monitoring cars to drive around for two weeks, testing the air quality. Data from that study will likely

EARTH Page 23

The Informer's Our Earth page turns 1 year old this fall. We want to know what you think and what we can do better in year 2! Please let us know with this 3-minute survey.

5 Ivy City residents and allies marched July 26 to demand the shutdown of National Engineering Products, a chemical facility operating in the middle of a residential neighborhood. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

5 Ann Willis, an Ivy City resident who has lived down the street for decades, speaks at a rally in front of the NEP building. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

EARTH from Page 22

become available in early fall, a representative from the partner company, Aclima, said.

In DOEE’s February presentation, the agency noted that “just because a pollutant is present above the screening level does not mean it is present at unhealthy levels.” In essence, meeting an EPA screening level does not trigger any required action. None of the pollutants met the thresholds set by agencies like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

But the odor from the chemicals— which comes in part from cresol, which smells like tar—is undeniable. During the march leading up the rally, a burning-rubber scent came through the neighborhood.

“NEP is not fair—they put poison in the air,” the marchers chanted at one point. As the odor started to get stronger along Capitol Avenue, one man in the group shouted back: “And I can smell it everywhere!”

ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE IN IVY CITY— IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT ONE POLLUTER

DOEE’s tests from last year also detected some chemicals (including benzene, which is linked to cancer risks) above screening levels upwind of the facility, rather than downwind. That indicates that the community may face other, additional air pollution hazards—a fact that wouldn’t surprise residents.

“Ward 5 [is] saturated with industrial pollutants,” Rhodes, the ANC commissioner, said. “We have the highest

concentration of industrial land in the District. We have a lot of businesses that are contributing to poor air quality.”

Empower DC has organized for years around the site of the historic Crummell School in Ivy City, where the city has recently agreed to build a community center with green space included. The nonprofit sued the District in 2013, successfully stopping the city from operating a bus depot at the site. The neighborhood already sees high levels of vehicle traffic, and the air pollution that comes with it, from New York Avenue.

Adding more green space and trees—and preventing more polluters—has become a key goal for neighborhood advocates. The block where NEP operates, for example, has tree cover on only 17% of its land, while the average across all of Ward 5 is 29%, according to a Casey Trees report. More trees can help provide relief from both air pollution and excessive heat.

“We're actually up to 10 degrees hotter than the rest of the communities in D.C.,” explained Empower DC organizer Andria Chapman. “That's the heat island effect, because there's not enough grass and trees around.”

Empower DC plans to keep the momentum from Wednesday’s rally going with a community cleanup event on Aug. 5. Speakers throughout the protest emphasized that they had no plans to quit until the plant shut down completely.

Brenda Ingram, a “proud member” of Empower DC and a resident who has lived in Ivy City for more than 50 years, said her recent cancer diagnosis would not stop her from continuing to organize alongside her neighbors.

“One thing I’ll say about Empower DC—they don’t play,” Ingram said. WI

DC FUTURES is a new program that gives District residents up to $8,000 for college tuition. Students can choose from more than 50 in-demand fields.

Other benefits include:

• One-on-one coaching to help keep you on track.

• $1,500 stipend for books, travel, and other extras.

• Emergency funds to cover some of life’s unexpected expenses, such as car repairs, rent, food, and child care.

So, whether you want to finish the degree you started, or start the degree you’ve always dreamed of, the first step is just a click away.

Learn more at osse.dc.gov/dcfutures.

“The career I never thought possible ... is possible.”

— Quinton, Class of 2024

5 Brenda Ingram, an Empower DC member and resident of Ivy City since 1965, speaks at the rally. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

Prince George’s Teachers Plan to Use Nature as A Climate Classroom

By Kayla Benjamin WI Climate & Environment Reporter

It’s summer vacation, but instead of enjoying their hard-earned rest days laying on the couch or the beach, 18 public school teachers from around Prince George’s County spent the last week of July on a series of field trips focused on climate change. Hosted by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF), the five-day experiential course aimed to help educators develop opportunities for students to learn about the natural world and our shifting climate through outdoor experiences.

“We have the ability to really instill in this next generation of humans the importance of belonging in your community, belonging in society, and ensuring that this place—this Earth, this community—still exists,” said Lejae Woolcock, CBF’s education outreach coordinator for D.C. and Baltimore. “These students need to understand the power that their voice has, the power that their actions have—and [it’s] coming from teachers who care, who want to take a week out of their summers where they should be resting.”

Woolcock and other CBF team members designed the course in partnership with educators from Prince George’s County Public Schools’ (PGCPS) William S. Schmidt Outdoor Education Center. The whirlwind course took the teachers to five different natural spaces around the region, including one day spent on board a boat in the Potomac.

On July 25, the second day of the course, the cohort met at Clag-

ett Farm, a 283-acre piece of land in Upper Marlboro. CBF owns and runs the farm using regenerative agriculture practices, which seek to work with natural systems to produce food in economically and environmentally sustainable ways. The teachers saw part of the farm via hayride around noon, with Farm Partnership Manager David Tana hopping off the tractor occasionally to play tour guide.

“I don’t want to have to farm like I’m on a space station,” Tana said of the farm’s central focus on healthy soil and no-pesticide approach. He said Clagett produced about 75,000 pounds of produce last year, about 40% of which went to food banks.

The rest goes to a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, where community members can buy “shares” of the crop in the winter and pick up a portion of the freshly harvested produce each week.

In addition to the sprawling rows of vegetables growing in the field, the teachers enrolled in the “Prince George’s County Climate Change Investigations and Actions” course got to see some of the farm’s grass-fed livestock and native tree nursery.

“We love these summer programs because, through exposure like this at Clagett Farm, or like tomorrow [when] we'll be paddling with our rivers and streams program, it gives the teachers opportunities to see how they can bring their students to these outdoor learning opportunities,” Woolcock said.

PRINCE GEORGE’S PLACES NEW

EMPHASIS ON ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION

While PGCPS and CBF have partnered up for professional development courses before, this particular curriculum ran for the first time this year. It’s one of many new and growing initiatives related to the Climate Action Plan that the school district passed last year, at the urging of students.

The eight-part plan, which includes 58 separate recommendations, aims to slash the school district’s carbon emissions and build out strong environmental justice curriculums. Donald Belle, environmental outreach director with the William S. Schmidt Environmental Education Center, serves on the committee that focuses on putting the plan into action. He also co-led last week’s teacher course.

“We want this to be an ongoing series… where each summer we bring teachers out to look at climate investigation. That's exciting to me,” Belle said. “We want this group to help share their experience with other teachers, so then we get a new bunch of teachers next year.”

This summer’s cohort came from schools across the county and comprised educators from fourth and fifth grade all the way up through high school. Most, but

not all, taught science—the group also included an art teacher and an English teacher.

Nancy Gordon, one of the course’s participants, teaches environmental science at DuVal High School. An environmental educator in the DMV region since 2003, Gordon said she seeks out

courses like this one every summer and looks for ways to incorporate those experiences into her classes.

“[Students] come out of the book into the real world, and that's what they need,” Gordon said. “The environment surrounds them. They're part of it, and they need to be advocates for it.” WI

5 More than fifteen Prince George’s County teachers tour the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Clagett Farm July 25, learning about regenerative agriculture via hayride. The farm visit was part of a five-day professional development course about teaching climate change using outdoor experiences. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

EDUCATION

D.C. Area Junior Achievement Chapter Holds Shark-Tank Like Contest

By James Wright WI Staff Writer

Mekhi Martin knows that he wants to be an entrepreneur when he is finished with his formal education.

A 16-year-old student at Charles Herbert High School in Springdale in Prince George’s County, Maryland, Mekhi operates a small business—Sainted Clothing—out of his Glenarden, Maryland house. Despite being a young entrepreneur, when he was offered to participate in the activities of Junior Achievement of Greater Washington, he was reluctant. However, he was urged to do so

by a compelling force in his life.

“My mama told me to get involved,” Mekhi said.

Mekhi was one of 70 Washington, D.C. area high school students and Junior Achievement participants in the 2023 JA Entrepreneurship Summit that took place from July 24-28. The students learned from Junior Achievements instructors about the inner workings of how a business operates from marketing and financing aspects.

Throughout the week, the students were put into teams and tasked with working together to prepare for a Shark Tank-like competition that took place on the campus of the University of the

Maryland, College Park on July 28.

A recent study by Junior Achievement USA reported that 60% of teens would prefer to start a business over having a traditional job. Jamil Wells, the Greater Washington chapter’s director of education spoke of her awareness of the study, saying the summit is designed to stimulate students’ interest in entrepreneurship.

“The students designed businesses to meet challenges our country faces such as mental health, physical health, homelessness, pollution and climate change,” said Wells. “Students are urged to come up with solutions, not with an eye toward making

5

†Tub-to-shower conversions and fiberglass replacements typically require a two-day installation. ‡Lifetime warranty valid for as long as you own your home. *Offer ends 10/31/23. All offers apply to a complete Bath Fitter system only, and must be presented and used at time of estimate. Minimum purchase required. Terms of promotional financing are 24 months of no interest from the date of installation and minimum deposit. See representative for details. Qualified buyers only. May not be combined with other offers or applied to previous purchases. Valid only at select Bath Fitter locations. Offers and warranty subject to limitations. Fixtures and features may be different than pictured. Accessories pictured are not included. Plumbing work done by P.U.L.S.E. Plumbing. MD MPL #17499, NJ MPL #10655, DE MPL #PL-0002303, MD MPL #82842, VA MPL #2710064024, IA MPL

Junior

judges, earned first place in the 2023 Junior Achievement Entrepreneur Summit Pitch Competition (L-R) Erin Graham, Norah Brahimi, Kierra Hall, Sandy Fligan, Ayati Aggarwal, Micah Smith, and Nathaniel Asfaw. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

a profit, but helping the community.”

THE FUTURE ENTREPRENEURS

Mekhi, whose team focused on mental health, said becoming active with Junior Achievement has increased his knowledge of how businesses operate, particularly with marketing. While he said he prefers not to get into the debate of entrepreneurship versus working for someone else, he explained in some situations both could be acceptable.

“It is good to have both,” he said. “By having a job and operating a business you have two sources of income. You will have more money.”

However, Ruth Amha, a 15-yearold student at St. Andrew's Episcopal School in Potomac, Maryland, slightly disagrees with Martin.

“I want to explore entrepreneurship,” Ruth said. “I am not under pressure from my family to get a job, but I

do want to start my own business. My experience with Junior Achievement is helping me to chart my own path.”

Ruth’s older brother Gabriel also attends St. Andrew’s. Sixteen-year-old Gabriel sided with his sister and said entrepreneurship is the path for him.

“I am taking steps now so I can work for myself in the future,” Gabriel said. “I do not need to work for someone else and own a business as a side option. The things I am learning from Junior Achievement is giving me the tools and expertise to start and maintain a business.”

The Amhas participated in the homelessness team during the pitch competition. Another participant who worked with a homelessness team was Alex Selmon, a 15-year-old student at Bishop McNamara High School in Forestville, Maryland.

CONTEST Page 27

The Eco-Excursions

Achievement team standing with some of the

CONTEST from Page 26

Alex said he also plans to be an entrepreneur.

“The Junior Achievement staff and volunteers are great, teaching kids how to run a business,” Alex said, before adding his decided perks to owning a business. “I want to make money and be my own boss.”

THE COMPETITION

The pitch competition took place in a large classroom at the Edward St. John Learning and Teaching Center at the University of Maryland. Selected

by Junior Achievement executives, the judges consisted of a business educator and entrepreneurs.

Each team had three minutes to pitch their businesses to the judges. After the pitches, teams had to defend their business strategy under questioning of the judges.

After several rounds, the judges selected Eco-Excursions, a website that focused on green travel as the first place winner. Second place was a team, Trngl, which focused on mental health. Wheels for a Fresh Start took third place. WI

@JamesWrightJr10

DC FUTURES is a new program that gives District residents up to $8,000 for college tuition. Students can choose from more than 50 in-demand fields.

Other benefits include:

• One-on-one coaching to help keep you on track.

• $1,500 stipend for books, travel, and other extras.

• Emergency funds to cover some of life’s unexpected expenses, such as car repairs, rent, food, and child care.

So, whether you want to finish the degree you started, or start the degree you’ve always dreamed of, the first step is just a click away.

Learn more at osse.dc.gov/dcfutures.

“The career I never thought possible... is possible.”

— Shayla, Class of 2024

5 Junior Achievement of Greater Washington held a pitch competition during their Entrepreneurship Summit with students from Prince George’s County at Maryland University on July 28. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

Be Sure to Celebrate Black Businesses this Month, Every Month

Happy August! It’s Black Business Month, and by nature of you reading this editorial, you’re supporting a Black-owned (and woman-owned) small business. For that, The Washington Informer family thanks you! Now, your charge is to keep up the momentum.

This Black Business Month, be intentional about supporting Black-owned businesses throughout the District, online and in your travels. Go to that Black-owned cafe you’ve been driving by for months and meaning to check out. Head to that Black-owned flower shop to get your loved one something special. Or imagine the gems you might find on your family vacation when you’re sure to check out the Black-owned restaurants in the area.

Black-owned businesses are critical to the economy.

According to a February 2023 Fortune article, recent Census data reveals that there are 3.12 million Black-owned businesses in the United States. These millions of businesses generate $206 billion yearly and support 3.56 million U.S. jobs, ultimately providing important opportunities and economic boosts in communities across the country.

Black entrepreneurship increased 38% in comparison to pre-pandemic numbers, Fortune reported. However, even with growing numbers, African American entrepreneurs have attested that they still face major challenges.

Like many other fields and systems, racial disparities are a reality in business and entrepreneurship.

A Bank of America study found that 57% of Black business owners expressed concern about credit availability and 40% of African American entrepreneurs said they do not believe they will ever have equal access to capital.

People, no matter race, ethnicity or background, should work to support Black businesses this month– and always, for that matter— to combat systemic challenges preventing African American entrepreneurs from equitable access to capital.

It’s the job of the community to support the diligent business owners who are working hard to provide quality business for customers, offer jobs for others, and/or create helpful programs, services or products.

This month and beyond, explore and support Black-owned businesses in and outside of your community. Further, be sure to thank the dedicated entrepreneurs and employees who work to keep the businesses open and thriving. WI

D.C. Has Missed Worst of this Summer’s Heat Waves. That Won’t Always Be True

July 2023 was Earth’s hottest month ever recorded. Across the U.S. south, millions baked in triple-degree temperatures every day for more than two weeks. The heat wave stems from a combination of a natural El Niño weather phenomenon with the effects of a climate crisis caused by fossil fuel burning.

In the D.C. region, we haven’t been hit quite so hard. Last week was an exception—the heat index, which factors in both temperature and humidity, got up to 110 degrees Thursday and Friday. But in general, this summer has remained relatively mild, as far as summers go in our swampy city.

That doesn’t mean the impacts of climate change aren’t visible here this summer. Take last week’s destructive storm, which knocked down tons of trees and cut off power for around 200,000 households. That weather had a lot to do with the heat and high humidity already in the air when a cold front pulled up in the atmosphere.

Climate change causation is tricky: it’s not like D.C. would never have bad storms if there were no fossil fuel emissions trapping excess heat in the atmosphere. But extreme temperatures make extreme weather worse. And as heat wave events become more frequent and severe, the mid-Atlantic region isn’t always going to be spared.

Already, the District experiences, on average, 10 more 90+ degree days each year than we did in 1970. There’s really no such thing as a “climate sanctuary.”

But that doesn’t mean there’s nothing we can do. The city has already committed to slashing emissions and developed a strategy to adapt to extreme heat. It includes actions like planting and maintaining trees in neighborhoods that don’t have enough and shifting building codes so that new construction doesn’t add to the problem.

But plans with catchy names like “Sustainable DC” and “Keep Cool DC” are still just plans, and without accountability there’s little guarantee they’ll be followed through. If we want to see more bearable summers in our lifetimes, District residents need to, at the very least, be paying attention. WI

Taking Command

I’m happy for a new day in Washington with the sale of the Commanders to new ownership. Congrats to Magic as well. I believe the team is in good hands. Cheers to the new era!

Barbara Cole Washington, D.C.

TO THE EDITOR

Shooting Your Shot

What great photography in the latest WI Bridge. It’s so refreshing to see unapologetic Black expressions from our young people. Very reminiscent of the ‘90s. Dope work!

Maurice Hogan Laurel, Md.

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

Guest Columnist

Bringing Truth to Light

On July 25, the day that would have been Emmett Till's 82nd birthday, President Joe Biden hosted a White House signing ceremony for a proclamation establishing the Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley National Monument in Mississippi and Illinois. Three sites are now part of this monument honoring Emmett Till, who had just turned 14 when he was abducted,

tortured and lynched in Mississippi in August 1955, and his devoted mother Mamie. Her decision to defy authorities who wanted Emmett's body buried quickly in Mississippi by instead holding his funeral in Chicago with an open casket to let the world see what his hateful racist murderers had done to her child became an inflection point in the civil rights movement. This new monument underscores our nation's need to keep exposing and acknowledging the truth today.

President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were joined at the cer-

Guest Columnist

Marian Wright Edelman

emony by members of Emmett Till's family, including his cousin, Reverend Wheeler Parker Jr. The cousins lived next door to each other in Chicago and were best friends, and during that summer break Wheeler and Emmett traveled together to spend a two-week visit with relatives near Money, Mississippi. Wheeler was with Emmett at Bryant's Grocery and Meat Market the day Carolyn Bryant falsely said Emmett grabbed and propositioned her after buying two cents' worth of bubble gum, and he was in the room four nights later when Roy Bryant

and J.W. Milam came to their family's house, dragged Emmett out of bed at gunpoint, and drove off with him. As he spoke at the ceremony honoring his cousin, Parker said: "When I sat with my family on the night of terror, when Emmett Till, our beloved 'Bobo,' was taken from us, taken to be tortured and brutally murdered — back then, when I was overwhelmed with terror and fear of certain death in the darkness of a thousand midnights, in a pitch-black house on what some have called Dark Fear Road, back then in the darkness, I could never imagine a moment like

A. Peter Bailey

this: standing in the light of wisdom, grace, and deliverance."

Rev. Parker is imagining a powerful moment for all of us. The first site in the National Monument, the Graball Landing river site, is in the area along the Tallahatchie River near Glendora, Mississippi where Emmett's mutilated body was recovered. A memorial sign installed nearby in 2008 was destroyed and two replacements were repeatedly riddled with bullets and vandalized over the next decade, and

EDELMAN Page 53

Practical Economic, Cultural and Political Guidance From Master Teachers

When asked about Brother Malcolm X, I always praise him as a Master Teacher who taught me and many others the importance of reading, learning from and acting on our history. By doing so, we can more effectively promote and protect our economic, cultural and political rights in the United States and the world. One thing I did because of Brother Malcolm's

guidance has been to collect important quotes that provide sound guidance from serious Black folks including journalist/historian Lerone Bennett Jr., academician Mary McLeod Bethune, business executive Earl B. Dickerson, psychologist Frances Cress Welsing and historian Carter G. Woodson.

Brother Bennett stated, "Given the way we were forced to live in this society, the miracle is not that so many Black families are broken, but so many are still together. That so many Black fathers are still at

Guest Columnist

home. That so many Black mothers are still raising good children. It is the incredible toughness and resilience in (Black) people that give me hope."

Sister Bethune wrote in her last will and testament, "I leave you (Black people) the challenge of developing confidence in one another. This kind of confidence will aid the economic rise of the race by bringing together the pennies and dollars of our people and ploughing them into useful channels."

Brother Dickerson stated that

Politicians Are Not Historians

The College Board is a nonprofit organization that runs an association of institutions, including over 6,000 schools, colleges, universities and other educational entities as part of its membership. It develops and administers standardized tests and curricula used by K-12 and post-secondary education institutions nationally.

While the College Board provides resources and services to students, parents, and universities in promoting college readiness, it has no predetermined political agenda. The same cannot be said for the Florida Department of Education, which oversees its state's public K-12 and college education systems. The department is under the direct responsibility and control of the governor. As of 2003, the commissioner of education, who manages the dayto-day operations of the school

"As more and more Blacks move into the middle class, they owe a responsibility to the Black community. If Blacks go into the white community to get the know-how and then stay there, they are only pushing further away from the possibilities of Blacks ever becoming economically self-sufficient."

Sister Welsing noted that "Black children are our most valuable possession and our greatest potential resource. Any meaningful discussion of the future of Black people must be predicated upon Black

David W. Marshall

system, is no longer a position elected by the people.

It became an appointed position by the governor in addition to the six other members of the Board of Education. A governor is not a historian; therefore, providing an accurate depiction of history within a school curriculum should be left to those who are the most qualified to do so. By abusing his authority, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis adjusted the state's education standards to align with his personal, politically

and racially motivated vision for a state "where woke goes to die."

On July 19, the DeSantis-controlled Florida Board of Education approved new guidelines for its Black history curriculum requiring middle-school students to be instructed on how "slaves developed skills which, in some instances, could be applied for their personal benefit." The new standards teach elementary school students how to identify famous African American individuals but do not push their knowledge be-

people's plans for the maximum development of all Black children. … If the children of a people are not fully developed at whatever cost and sacrifice, the people will have consigned themselves to certain death."

Brother Woodson warned us in 1926 that "In the schools of business administration negroes are trained exclusively in the psychology and economics of Wall Street, therefore made to despise the

yond surface-level awareness. The public school teachers are pushing back on the weak and inaccurate guidelines. The same is true of the College Board, NAACP, and Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina, the only Black Republican U.S. senator.

"We resolutely disagree with the notion that enslavement was in any way a beneficial, productive, or useful experience for African Americans," the College

Guest Columnist

Handling Extremism

At one time, we could confidently turn to the U.S. Supreme Court for relief from extremist behavior that attempted to take away rights we already had or rights we were fighting to achieve. Today, unfortunately, we experience extremism in so many areas of our lives.

Our forever President Barack and first lady Michelle Obama are sounding the alarm and have asked all of

us to join with activists who've been sounding the alarm on extremism for years. Unfortunately, many never even dreamed racism and all the other negative isms would ever get as bad as they are today!

We thought Donald Trump, Ron DeSantis and a big chunk of the MAGA crowd were just a joke. It must be clear now, they are for real, and people we thought were semi-sensible have come down front to prove we were wrong. Many of them have spent years building their strength to do damage to us in many ways. I don't think most of us ever

Guest Columnist

Dr. E. Faye Williams, Esq. (Ret.)

thought we would witness a leader in the White House (Donald Trump) would work so hard to do harm to us — and worse still that there would be such a large group of people even running to become president — with the same ideas and plans as Trump. Some of them have already served in some capacity as a leader in our nation and are supporting the same turmoil that has been created by their criminal leader!

Can you even imagine a Black leader being convicted or having as many serious indictments as Trump who would still be walking the streets

Marc H. Morial

freely so as to have time to personally push his day of reckoning beyond reach because the discovery of his continuing criminal behavior leaves him free to keep on upsetting any kind of belief that he will ever pay for the people's lives his behavior has already ruined?

I talk with many people who've lost faith that Trump will ever pay for his thuggish behavior. If you think there's any hope we will ever be able to head off a bunch of local and state Trumps, we've got to take an interest and action in heading off the destruction of our local community.

We must attend our city council, school board, county council, and political party meetings. We can't fight the extremism that's growing all around us by waiting for somebody else to handle things. We must stand up and help to fight this extremism.

Extremists want to cancel true African American history, fair voting rights, and rights to be educated at certain universities. Teachers are being fired. Books have been banned. Affirmative action rights to correct

WILLIAMS Page 54

Tribute to a Titan: Honoring Jesse Jackson's Legacy and Our Shared Mission

"No generation can choose the age or circumstance in which it is born, but through leadership it can choose to make the age in which it is born an age of enlightenment, an age of jobs, and peace, and justice." —

Jesse Jackson

It was the repeated refrain of a poem composed in the 1940s by

Atlanta pastor and civil rights activist Rev. William Holmes Borders Sr. But Rev. Jesse Jackson's call-and-response with a multi-racial group of children on "Sesame Street" in 1972 made it an anthem for a generation.

I am – Somebody.

Rev. Jackson, who recently announced his retirement from the organization he founded, the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, is not just a beacon of hope or a pillar of strength — he is a trailblazer, a mentor, a friend, and an inspira-

Guest Columnist

tion to me and countless others.

As a teenaged protégé of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Jackson was an eyewitness to some of the most pivotal moments in civil rights history, including King's tragic assassination 1968.

"It's a hurtful, painful though," he said, "that a man of love is killed by hate; that a man of peace should be killed by violence; a man who cared is killed by the careless."

Jackson's tireless fight for voting rights, economic justice, and racial equality have left an indelible mark

'No Labels' Just More Political Nonsense

message-centered. The billionaire-funded group praises bipartisanship as an end in itself.

ing, "No Labels" would call itself "No Clue." It seems perversely blind to the reality we face.

on our nation and have been a guiding force for the National Urban League's work.

Of that generation who picked up the torch directly from King, only Jackson and Andrew Young, remain, carrying it forward to illuminate the path towards justice and equality. When the assassin's bullet stilled King's voice, it was Jackson's that thundered forth, resonating the clarion call for justice well into the 21st century.

In 1984 and again in 1988, I proudly traveled as a delegate to

the Democratic National Convention to cast my vote for Jackson.

His keynote address at the 1984 convention inspired a generation of young leaders – myself included – and continues to resonate today:

"This is not a perfect party. We are not a perfect people. Yet, we are called to a perfect mission. Our mission: to feed the hungry; to clothe the naked; to house the homeless; to teach the illiterate; to provide jobs for the jobless; and to

Labels, as all consumers discover, are just packaging. And truth in packaging is almost a contradiction in terms. The purpose of packaging is to make a sale, not admit the truth.

The political group that calls itself "No Labels" is a perfect example. Its name, game, and claim all are poll-driven and

Now it is toying with running a third-party candidate for president — peddling West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin as a "centrist," running on a manifesto entitled, inevitably, "Common Sense." The manifesto offers up a series of poll-driven, carefully crafted policy positions, wrapped in pretty paper and designed to sell.

If there were truth in packag -

America faces severe, simultaneous challenges — what academics call a "polycrisis."

They are pressing and apparent. Climate change threatens existence itself, with severe weather already savaging lives and communities. Extreme inequality corrupts elections and subverts decent government. The million plus lives lost to COVID have exposed our broken public

health system. Our infrastructure is dangerously decrepit. Our health care system is simply unaffordable. Systemic racism continues to mock the promise of equal justice under the law. We're taking on both China and Russia, while fighting endless wars trying to police the world, a mission even our military, the most expensive and powerful in the world, can't afford.

We have guided missiles but misguided leadership.

How does "No Labels' Com -

mon Sense" address these challenges? Mostly by ignoring them. On climate change, they worry not about the extreme weather but about the price of oil, wanting an "all of the above" energy policy that polls well but utterly fails to address the crisis. On extreme inequality, they say nothing. On infrastructure, they praise Joe Biden's infrastructure act (while preposterously trying to take credit for

Rev. Jesse L. Jackson

Celebrating

60 Years

SINCE THE Historic March on Washington, Still Marching

History of the March on Washington

By Hamil R. Harris WI Contributing Writer

Nearly 60 years ago, on August 28, 1963, more than 250,000 people

Independence Avenues to gather at the Lincoln Memorial where they heard speakers, songs, and prayers to push America to change.

down Constitution and

The event was the “March on Washington for Jobs and Free-

MUSICSWORD THE THAN MIGHTIER

dom,” in which a litany of Civil Rights and labor leaders demanded voting rights, fair wages, economic justice, educational equity and advancements, and a true end to segregation.

Dr. Gerald Durley, the retired pastor of Atlanta’s Providence Missionary Baptist Church and a veteran Civil Rights activist, was standing in the crowd in 1963. “I came to the March as the president of the student body at Tennessee State University,”

“It was a huge gathering and so hot that day,” Durley, 81, said.

ORGANIZING THE HISTORIC MARCH

From groups of college students to labor unions, getting 250,000 people at a time of segregation was no easy task.

A. Philip Randolph, a long-time civil rights activist who served as vice president of the American Federation of Labor-Congress of International Organization (AFLCIO) and was a founder of the Negro American Labor Council, proposed the March in 1962.

Key organizers included leaders of the six major Civil Rights organizations: Randolph; Roy Wilkins of the NAACP; the National Urban League’s Whitney Young, Jr; James Farmer of the Conference of Racial Equality (CORE); and former U.S. Congressman John Lewis, then leader of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC).

The planning of the march was

handled by Bayard Rustin, Randolph’s associate who had extensive experience in organizing protests. Rustin established offices in Harlem, New York, and Washington D.C. to put together a staff of more than 200 volunteers.

District of Columbia representative to Congress Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D) was a Yale Law School student who volunteered that 1968 summer to help Rustin in New York. She came back to Washington, D.C. on the morning of the event.

Norton wondered how the turnout of the March would be, that is until the plane was on its final approach into National Airport.

"Looking out the window, I knew that the March would be an extraordinary success because I could see people lining up early in the morning, all over Washington preparing to go," Norton told WUSA-9 in an interview. “That was a sight to behold."

HISTORIC ‘I HAVE A DREAM’ SPEECH RESONATES 60 YEARS LATER

Among the speakers at the March were: A. Phillip Randolph, Rustin, Roy Wilkins, and James Farmer with music provided by Mahalia Jackson and others. But late in the program came a 34-year-old preacher from Atlanta who was the 16th speaker out of 18 slated to make remarks.

“Five score years ago, a great American, in whose symbolic

shadow we stand today, signed the Emancipation Proclamation. This momentous decree came as a great beacon light of hope to millions of Negro slaves who had been seared in the flames of withering injustice. It came as a joyous daybreak to end the long night of their captivity,” the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Said on that August day. “But 100 years later, the Negro still is not free. One hundred years later, the life of the Negro is still sadly crippled by the manacles of segregation and the chains of discrimination, One hundred years later, the Negro lives on a lonely island of poverty amid a vast ocean of material prosperity.”

“The real impact of Dr. King’s speech was after the fact,” Durley explained. “Five months later President John F. Kennedy would be assassinated.”

On August 26, Durley will join the Rev. Al Sharpton, Martin Luther King III, Andrea Waters King and dozens of organizations for the 60th anniversary of the March on Washington.

“My dad’s speech at the March on Washington nearly 60 years ago was a profound moment in American history,” said Martin Luther King III, chairman of the Drum Major Institute. ”Despite the significant progress we have made over these six decades, we need to rededicate ourselves to the mission my dad gave his life for. It is difficult to not be disgruntled with everything going on in the world.”

WI

walked

5 Demonstrators marching in the street holding signs during the March on Washington, 1963 (Courtesy photo/Library of Congress)

Anacostia

Jazz Hop Returns Friday, Sept 1st, 12pm - 8pm

Free outdoor concerts presented by the Anacostia BID, the Art to Go-Go Arts and Culture District and DC JazzFest

The Anacostia Business Improvement District has partnered with 202Creates and DC JazzFest on Friday, September 1, 2023, for the ANACOSTIA JAZZ HOP from 12 pm to 8 pm at several locations in Historic Anacostia. All events are free and open to the public.

In celebration of the 19th Annual DC JazzFest, the Jazz Hop will be held in the Art to Go-Go

Anacostia Arts & Culture District. Attendees to Historic Anacostia's flourishing arts district will be treated to the neighborhood's charm, music, and arts offerings at various creative hubs - from dynamic jazz performances at the Anacostia Arts Center to artistic expressions and exhibits at Busboys and Poets. In addition, everyone will delight in the PopUp outdoor jazz cafes with live jazz, visual artists, and the opportunity to have tasty bites from up-and-coming chefs and caterers.

"We are thrilled to partner with Mayor Bowser's administration to host the Jazz Hop as part of the DC JazzFest in the Anacostia Arts and Culture District," said Kristina Noell, Executive Director of the Anacostia BID. "It promises to be a rich, diverse cultural experience in the heart of the District, Anacostia. The Anacostia BID welcomes all across the District and the region to this day-long event in one of DC's most unique, historic and diverse communities."

The event kicks off at noon at the Big Jazz Cafe at 1234 Good Hope Rd SE for opening remarks and live performances. Concurrently, the Jazz Hop, a variety of dynamic performances, will begin at six locations within the Anacostia BID: NSC Café Jazz (2007 MLK, Ave SE), BIG Jazz

Café (1234 Good Hope Rd SE), Busboys and Poets (2004 MLK, Ave SE), Check-It Enterprises (1920 MLK, Ave SE), Martha's Outfitters (2204 MLK, Ave SE) and the Anacostia Arts Center (1231 Good Hope Rd SE). In addition, this year, there will be new PopUp Cafe venues throughout the business corridor. Some of the featured performers are The Brass-A-Holics, The JoGo Project, Joe Felero Band, Yussah Ashad, The Experience Band & Show and The Lexi T Experience.

“DC Jazz Festival is excited to continue our partnership with the Anacostia BID to host an exclusive day long Jazz Hop East of the River within the Historic Anacostia corridor,” said Sunny Sumter, President and CEO of the DC Jazz Festival. “This year will be better than ever as we go to go-go in celebration of all things jazz in DC!"

Jazz lovers can expect a unique experience featuring local performers, visual artists, delicious cuisine, art, retail, and more! Brand new to this year the Big Jazz Café will feature a seafood market for people to purchase seafood to-go or dine on site. Ron Williams, founder and owner of Capitol City Seafood expressed, “We are enthused to be a part of this destination attraction in Anacostia during Jazz Hop especially to help highlight all the revival going on East of the River.” In addition, Jazz Hop combined with the variety of restaurant cuisines in the historic corridors will give locals and visitors a flavor of the community.

The organizers would like to thank National Service Contractors and Martha's Outfitters for generously allowing the use of their lots for this special event.

For more information, visit www.anacostiabid.org/2023-jazz-hop

CHECK OUT THIS YEAR’S ALL-STAR LINEUP!

GREGORY PORTER • KENNY GARRETT AND SOUNDS FROM THE ANCESTORS • CHARLES

LLOYD KINDRED SPIRITS FEAT. GERALD CLAYTON, MARVIN SEWELL, REUBEN ROGERS, & KENDRICK SCOTT • SAMARA JOY • TERRI LYNE CARRINGTON NEW STANDARDS • DAVE

HOLLAND TRIO FEAT. KEVIN EUBANKS AND ERIC HARLAND • BIG CHIEF DONALD

HARRISON • ARTURO O'FARRILL AND THE AFRO LATIN JAZZ ENSEMBLE • GENERATIONS

FEAT. GEORGE CABLES, BENNY GREEN, ORRIN EVANS, SHAMIE ROYSTON, HOPE UDOBI, JAZZMEIA HORN, JEFF "TAIN" WATTS, & KRIS FUNN • OMAR SOSA QUARTETO AMERICANOS

ORRIN EVANS QUINTET WITH SPECIAL GUEST SY SMITH • CHASE ELODIA'S PERENNIALS

ETIENNE CHARLES & CREOLE SOUL • WARREN WOLF & HISTORY OF THE VIBES • SUNNA

GUNNLAUGS • THE STRING QUEENS • LUDOVICA BURTONE • ISABELLA OLIVIER FEAT. REZ ABBASI

VINNY VALENTINO GROUP FEAT. MARSHALL KEYS, FREDERICO PENA, DENNIS CHAMBERS • BRASSAHOLICS

JULIETA EUGENIO TRIO • LEIGH PILZER STARTET • MARK G.MEADOWS• BIRCKHEAD• JOGO PROJECT VERONNEAU• GEORGE V. JOHNSON JR. • LANDON PADDOCK GROUP • AYO • CORCORAN HOLT GROUP

FEAT. MARQUIS HILL • LISA SOKOLOV • JOSÉ LUIZ MARTINS • ALEX HAMBURGER • LANGSTON

HUGHES II • FLAVIO SILVA QUARTET FEAT. PAT BIANCHI • NEXT JAZZ LEGACY • AARON MYERS

DCJAZZPRIX FINALISTS: BIRCKHEAD, EMBER, NEW JAZZ UNDERGROUND

of the District of Columbia, Muriel Bowser, Mayor; DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities; National Capital Arts and Cultural Affairs program of the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts; DC Office of Cable Television, Film, Music & Entertainment, the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development; and with awards from National Endowment for the Arts, Doris Duke Charitable Foundation, Gillon Family Charitable Fund, Galena-Yorktown Foundation, The Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation, Leonard and Elaine Silverstein Family Foundation, Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation, Dallas Morse Coors Foundation for the Performing Arts, Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation, Mid Atlantic Arts, The Venable Foundation, Arts Forward Fund of the Greater Washington Community Foundation, Les Paul Foundation, Ella Fitzgerald Charitable Foundation, and HumanitiesDC. ©2023 DC Jazz Festival. All rights reserved. ©2023 DC Jazz Festival®. All rights reserved.

The DC Jazz Festival®, a 501(c)(3) non-profit service organization, and its programs are made possible, in part, with major grants from the Government

LIFESTYLE

‘Love Letters to Washington, DC’ Highlights Cultural Innovators, Resilience

By Micha Green WI Managing Editor

Brian Rashid’s “Love Letters to Washington, DC.” is a beautiful celebration of D.C.’s culture, creativity, strength and resilience. Featuring the stories of Keyonna Jones founder of Congress Heights Arts and Culture Center, Tsion Tekie of Kidovation Stage, Colleen Shumaker of Finding the Fantastic, Dryy Garment Care’s Ken Sandy, and Balmore Art’s Andrew S. Jacobson (who also writes for The Washington Informer), the 11-minute film dives into the lives of cultural innovators and curators working to make a difference in the District.

Birthed from a forced pandemic pivot that turned into a beautiful year for Rashid, “Love Letters” is a series celebrating cities around the world.

“In 2020 I went down to Uruguay in South America, with the plan of being there for one month, and t

he week before my flight back to New York City, the airport closed because of the pandemic and I was there for one year. And at the end of the year, I wrote a love letter to the country of Uruguay that had been so kind to me,” Rashid said.

While he decided to post his love

TRAFFIC from Page 8

since 2008. That year, a Jeep Grand Cherokee struck a father and his two daughters after they entered the crosswalk at Wheeler Road and Mississippi Avenue in Southeast.

Traffic-safety advocates further coalesced around their mission in the aftermath of a collision that claimed three lives on Rock Creek Parkway in May. That incident revealed communications gaps between the D.C. court system and D.C. Department of Motor Vehicles that prevented the license revocation of Nakita Marie Walker, the alleged drunk driver who had three previous DUI convictions.

D.C. resident Benjamin Robertson was recently charged with second-degree murder after allegedly running a red light, and striking and killing a tourist in a crosswalk at 17th Street and Constitution Avenue in Northwest earlier this month.

letter to Uruguay on Instagram, he had no idea it would go viral–resonating with hundreds of thousands around the world.

“I thought, ‘If this is the impact one letter can have, what would happen if we turn this into an actual global movement,’” Rashid explained.

He began the “‘Love Letters’ documentary series in his home, New York City, the place he said has always had his “heart and soul.”

Rashid tapped entrepreneur Sandy to help with the Washington, D.C. film.

“I’ve been down every street in this city, I’ve lived in every pocket, and I just can’t imagine why we’re still so divided,” Sandy proclaimed. “I don’t have the secret sauce, I don’t even know what… I’m doing other than leading with my heart and passion.”

The Dryy Garment Care founder said he is inspired by the Washingtonians he’s met, not only inspiring him to give back, and create oppor-

Some people, like Joseph Oschrin, said it has become entirely too easy for drivers to navigate District streets that function as highways.

Oschrin, a Columbia Heights resident of four years, often takes buses along 14th Street and 16th Street in Northwest. When he’s not doing that, he can be found riding his bike along 11th Street. While on those corridors, Oschrin is often mindful of drivers who speed and make illegal u-turns.

In recent weeks, Oschrin has mulled over requesting a speed bump for his block, located just around the corner from 14th Street and blocks away from Columbia Heights Metro Station in Northwest.

For Oschrin, a saving grace for his Columbia Heights experience has been frequenting restaurants and bars where outdoor seating has replaced street parking. He lamented not seeing similar restrictions on cars

tunities in the District, but to continue fighting for equity overall in the nation’s capital.

“I met some of the most incredible…. people in this city, doing some of the dopest [things] on the planet,” Sandy said. “They experience adversity every single day, and are stronger and more resilient than most of us,” he continued, “and wake up with a smile and lead with the most incredible charge.” WI

similarly implemented on U Street, Black Lives Matter Plaza and other communities that have the potential to become more walkable.

That’s why Oschrin expressed a desire for Bowser and other city officials to make efforts to increase access to other modes of transportation while reducing opportunities for driving. Examples he highlighted were increasing the frequency of underserved Metro routes near DC-295 and expanding trolley access between H Street and RFK Stadium.

Oschrin said such innovations would especially benefit residents east of the Anacostia River who might feel compelled to drive because of gaps in the public transportation infrastructure.

Read more on www.washingtoninformer.com WI @SamPKCollins

Harnessing the Power of Sports for Better Health

Creating healthier communities … on and off the field

By: Lester Davis

Communities, especially majority-minority communities, face unparalleled challenges when it comes to accessing affordable and equitable healthcare. And much of that journey to better health needs to happen outside the four walls of a doctor’s office.

By joining forces with Washington, D.C. sports teams like the Wizards, Mystics, Nationals, Capitals, Spirit and D.C. United, organizations have the ability to harness their resources to influence the unique health outcomes in their areas, such as food insecurity, lack of transportation, accessing mental health resources, job stability and more.

Seeking out partnerships, not just sponsorships, where we, as organizations, can support fans’ experience in the stadium, while helping them better connect with the community, long after the game has ended, should be a standard. But it’s up to us to ask - “How can we make this partnership about more than the game?”

Sports are a great connector. At their core, they provide the highest level of fitness and community building combined, as well as mental, emotional and social health benefits. Placing a healthcare company’s community impact initiatives at the heart of this work by turning relationships with local sports teams into powerful partnerships to help improve health outcomes for city residents.

Last Spring, we launched a partnership with the Washington Spirit at the Excel Academy in Washington, D.C., an all-girls public school in Ward

8, which focuses on academic achievement, and self-esteem, empowering students to make positive, ethical choices.

The partnership continues to create better health and equity for communities in D.C., addressing topics such as the importance of safety and preventive care, the role of youth sports in developing future community leaders and more.

Programs like DC SCORES, the District's only public soccer leagues for elementary and middle school youth, are core to this goal. Coaches are, by and large, employees of the schools where we run programming, creating direct access for students to have a trusted mentor outside of school.

Students participate in poetry and spoken word events as well as learn about creative writing and performance art. Using teamwork skills built on the field, students develop a plan to address an issue affecting their school or community, and enact that plan by building awareness, raising funds and completing service-based projects.

After a 12-week DC SCORES season, 93% of students improved their aerobic capacity, 95% discovered something they’re good at, and 99% were confident they would graduate high school.

We had similar results at Brightwood Elementary School in Petworth, where we partnered with D.C. United to host two STEAM camps. In postseason surveys, 98% of Brightwood poet-athletes reported feeling more confident about themselves, 95% reported caring more about school, and 99% reported caring about their teammates.

While playing soccer and learning about sports, art, service and wellness, these kids are given

the skills and opportunities to succeed on and off the field—in sports, in school, and in life.

Earlier this year, we celebrated a successful growing season with D.C. Greens and The Well at Oxon Run, a resident-run initiative by the community for the community.

In collaboration with the Washington Nationals and Building Bridges Across the River, we completed our first growing season in the “Giving Garden,” a 6,000-square-foot rooftop garden

inside Nationals Park. The garden produced 600 pounds of produce this season, which is approximately $10,000 worth of produce, for residents in the District’s Wards 7 and 8 this year.

Barriers to affordable, accessible and equitable care are found right in D.C. residents' backyards—but so are solutions. Our shared progress would not be possible without our partnerships with hundreds of community organizations and the thousands of people behind them.

Together, we can make a positive impact in sports and in health equity.

This column was contributed by Lester Davis, CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield’s (CareFirst) Vice President and Chief of Staff to the CEO.

To learn more about CareFirst’s work with DC United, the Washington Capitals, Washington Mystics, Washington Nationals, Washington Spirit, and Washington Wizards in the community, visit www.carefirst.com/transformation.

In A Minute Cafe Offers

Gourmet Soul Food to Largo

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

In A Minute Cafe, run by local chef Steven Wilson, offers a rich menu with a blend of seafood and soul cuisines in Largo Town Center.

While his restaurant has delicious menu options at reasonable prices, one thing Chef Wilson always emphasizes is his respect for the community he serves and the service he gives to all his patrons. For example, he has hooks to hang personal belongings in the front area and a couch near the bathroom area to give added comfort to guests.

Then there’s the food.

From appetizers, to a mouth-watering menu full of scrumptious entree options, to private dinners and specials there’s a wealth of food offerings at In a Minute.

For National Chicken Wing Day on July 29, Chef Wilson created a special that included an order of six Hennessy wings and seasoned fries from Chef Wilson.

The Crab Cake Combo, consisting of a six-ounce crab cake, six wings and crab fries, is $25 and a perfect portion for a dining duo.

No soul food is complete without dessert offerings: carrot, chocolate, or red velvet cakes are all offered in small slices.

“If you’re a salmon lover you have to try the Bourbon Grilled Salmon Sandwich on a toasted brioche bun. It’s a cafe favorite,” said Chef Wilson. “And of course you can’t pass up ‘Fish Fry Fri-

days:’ a generous portion of fried whiting with your choice of any southern side dish such as macaroni and cheese, yams, cole slaw or hushpuppies.”

The Sunday brunch menu, soon to be added to the cafe, will include chicken and waffles, fish and cheddar grits, a waffle platter and a la carte offerings of breakfast staples. Beyond the food, the cafe also hosts gatherings and private dinners with a tantalizing appetizer menu.

The Cafe even offers a Blackowned water brand, Quora Alkaline water. Quora is run by former Maryland Black Caucus Chairman Darryl Barnes, who is working as a lobbyist around the state with a focus on improving procurement practices.

“I chose Largo because I like the diverse clientele,” said Chef Wilson about the benefits of his current location. “We get customers from out of town that come to visit loved ones at the New Medical Center Hospital. We get customers from the county government offices. We also get those who live in the community. The biggest bonus is my cafe is close to all my catering accounts like UPS, Kaiser Permanente and central to most of the local public schools.”

His crab cake sandwich is his most popular offering, and its recommended for lovers of gourmet soul food. Visitors from Brooklyn, New York admired the fare’s unique flavors, praising the crab cake sandwich, in particular. WI

5 Even on a sunny day, you can get a shaded meal at the cafe with Chef Steven Wilson. (Anthony Tilghman/ The Washington Informer)

Relive Dance Memories During ‘Disco Fever’

By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer

Upon entering the performance venue, the about 14 glitter balls hanging from the ceiling set the tone for“Disco Fever,” the latest cabaret produced by Mark G. Meadows at Signature Theatre until Aug. 13.

The show opened strong with the five-piece band and two vocalists performing h The Trammps’ “Disco Inferno.” Hits from other disco-era artists had the audience clapping their hands, moving their heads to the beat, and even getting up to dance.

Earth, Wind and Fire, Sylvester, the Bee Gees, Donna Summer, and Barry White were just a few of the artists whom vocalists Kaiyla Gross and Tobias A. Young tapped to get the fever going.

The fired-up band consisted of piano, high-energy keyboardist and vocalist Natalie Brook, Max Murray on bass, Oliver Dyer on guitar, Jheremy Thompson on drums and Trey Sorrells on saxophone and electronic wind instruments (EWI). Sorrells’ extended solos received major appreciation from the audience.

The blend of the musicians and singers was out of sight. Young has a multi-octave range that took him to heights from “Hot Stuff” to “You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real).” Gross was in command when she sang Diana Ross’ song “The Boss.” When one singer soloed, the other did backup. Gross and Young demonstrated they are a versatile duo with stamina.

For tickets and more information, visit the website at sigtheatre.org WI @bcscomm

ANNIVERSARY from Page 17

at home and abroad, we are telling a positive story about the people who serve and military service itself, which is particularly meaningful now, when recruiting is stumbling. We are excited to highlight many diverse heroes and the way ahead.”

The Chamberlain Project bridges the military-civilian gap within higher education. The organization awards Retiring Officer Teaching Fellowships, which Howard University has hosted. Retiring service members are given teaching positions at leading colleges

and universities specifically for sharing diverse perspectives with students.

“The integration of the Armed Forces in 1948 was a pivotal moment in America's long and continuing journey toward the full realization of civil rights for all Americans,” said Jonathan Soros, founder of The Chamberlain Project. “We are proud to partner with Howard University and Blue Star Families to commemorate this important anniversary and recognize the essential connection between our civil and military institutions.”

Read more on www.washingtoninformer.com WI

5 Signature Theatre in Shirlington, Virginia, presents the cabaret “Disco Fever” produced by Mark G. Meadows until August 13. (Courtesy photo/Signature Theatre)

Taste of Tennis

By Micha Green WI Managing Editor

Featuring fare from all over the District, influenced by flavors from around the country and world, and signature cocktails and beverages, the Citi Taste of Tennis on July 30 kicked off the Mubadala Citi Open in Washington, D.C. Hosted at La Vie, located at the District Wharf, the Citi Taste of Tennis, was a fun, flavor-filled event that not only helped launch a weeklong tournament, but celebrated the diversity of food and cultures in the nation’s capital.

“You'll get smacked in the nose with the lovely flavors the chefs will be preparing right there,” said Crystal Freeman of AYS Sports Marketing, which produces the event, in a WINTV interview on July 28. “It's a really good atmosphere just to get up close and personal with the chefs that you don't necessarily see when you're dining in the restaurants– so you get to know them a little bit better that way.”

Each year, the multi-city event is interactive allowing for guests to interact with the chefs, athletes, and

organizers and celebrate the spirit and culture that makes each Citi Open location unique.

“While you're moving across the layout to different stations to taste the lovely food, you can bump into some of the tennis players who are participating in the tournament.”

Beginning almost 25 years ago when a local tournament wanted a way to “jazz up a player party,” Taste of Tennis has grown since its humble beginnings.

“Through much think tanks that we had, we realized, ‘What do players like and what do they need?’ They need some good food to fuel their bodies so they can perform well. And they don't have time when they're in the locale to scout out the right places,” Freeman explained. “We want the players to feel at home.”

This year’s Citi Taste of Tennis highlighted the rich diversity and wealth of cultures within the District’s dining options.

This year’s featured chefs included: Multi-restaurant entrepreneur, Moon Rabbit’s Chef Kevin Tien; Chef Bader Ali of Gerrard Street Kitchen;

Chef Patrice Cleary of Purple Patch; Dolci Gelati’s Chefs Alessandra Begggiato and Ugo D’Agnese; Amrina The Woodlands’ Chef Jassi Bindra; Chef John Mooney of Bidwell; Chef Scheyla Acosta of Cashion’s Rendezvous; Chef Mac and Chef Pinke of Flavorture; Chef Shorne Benjamin of Saint Lucia Tourism; Chef Javon Cummins and Mixologist Dameain Williams of Barbados Tourism; Chef Keem Hughley of Bronze; Chef James Thomas from Café Riggs; Chef Ryan Hackney of Chaos; La Vie’s Chef Juan Rivera;, and Chef Satha Boyd of NARA-YA.

From flavors from the Caribbean, Chesapeake, Philippines, Italy, Southern United States and classic American fare with a twist, there were several scrumptious food items to taste.

Before the Citi Taste of Tennis, the Informer caught up with Flavorture’s Chef Mac, who showcased the delectable, flavorful and love-filled short rib sliders and vegan egg rolls being featured in the event. While the Flavorture food is delicious and the dining experience at their brick and mortar is worth the trip to their Woodley Park location, Chef Mac said the networking at Taste of Tennis is a noteworthy experience.

More enhancements to the grid. More resiliency.

Through

“It’s an opportunity to network and meet a lot of great chefs… and people who are traveling across the globe for tennis, and entrepreneurs, " Chef Mac said. “We're here to be able to communicate and be able to commune with the community,”

In addition, guests were treated to espresso martinis from Segafredo Zanetti Coffee, bubbly from Zonin USA and a limited supply of VOSS’ custom bedazzled bottles.

With talented live entertainment and a DJ playing jam after jam, the

Citi Taste of Tennis allowed guests to party as they celebrated the beauty of the District’s diverse dining landscape and kicked off the weeklong tournament.

“We try and bring the best of the best culinary talent in the locales where we are, and marry that with the tennis players who are participating in the tournament,” Freeman said. For more information on the Citi Taste of Tennis, including the other featured cities and schedule, visit: tasteoftennis.com. WI

5 Assistant Chef and Chef Shorne Benjamin (right) represented Saint Lucia Tourism at the Citi Taste of Tennis DC on July 30 at LaVie restaurant in Southwest. (Shevry Lassiter/The Washington Informer)

Seaweed is a type of plant that grows in the ocean and other bodies of water all over the world.

It’s not like the plants you see on land because it doesn’t have roots. It can oat and move through the water.

Seaweed comes in di erent shapes, sizes and colors. Some seaweed looks like long ribbons. Some look like big, leafy plants. Unscramble the letters to discover di erent seaweed colors.

What’s in a name?

Usually, we think of weeds as something we don’t want in the garden. But seaweed is actually very good for the planet. It can help end hunger and maybe even slow down climate change.

Seaweed has so many good uses that some scientists think we should call it something di erent. How about a “sea vegetable,” “sea forest,” or “water food”?

Wind Stopper

Feeding livestock seaweed also cuts down on their wind (also known as toots). A cow’s “wind” adds methane gas to the air.

Methane gas is part of what is causing climate change.

Seaweed Food

Would you seaweed?eat

Many kinds of seaweed are so nutritious that the United Nations estimates that farming only 2% of the ocean could feed as many as 12 billion people!

Seaweed Means Survival

Replace the missing words.

Seaweed is important to marine ______. Animals such as sh, sea turtles and even whales _______ on seaweed for food and ________. Small sh use seaweed as a _________ place from predators. Sea ___________ eat seaweed.

Burger Lovers Need Seaweed

Even meat eaters can be helped with seaweed. It makes an excellent animal feed!

Here, sheets of dried seaweed are used in soups and to wrap sushi.

In this country, a seaweed called laver is used to make a popular food called laverbread.

A seaweed called dulse is mixed with milk, nutmeg, cinnamon and vanilla to make a popular drink in this country.

Science Solutions

Our planet is amazing! Earth has an abundance of truly wonderful natural resources!

Earth is My Happy Place

Look through the newspaper for pictures and words that identify the parts of nature that you like. Cut these out and glue them onto a piece of paper. Under or next to the newspaper clippings, write what you love about each kind of nature.

Standards Link: Use descriptive writing.

Find and read news articles about scientific developments or research. Write a summary answering these questions: Who are the scientists? What kind of science is involved? How will this help humans?

Live underwater?

Would you like to live underwater? Why or why not?

With hundreds Kid Scoop features six-to-seven high-interest activities for school! Get

Circle every other letter to discover the name of this delicious rice and seafood treat wrapped in seaweed.

review wi book

"Trinity"

by Zelda Lockhart

c.2023, Amistad

$27.99

272 pages

Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer

If at first, you don't succeed …

The old saying recommends trying three times, but that can be nothing but frustration: if it ain't working, what says it might work later? Try, try again is fruitless but then... there are those days when a third attempt, or a fourth or a fifth is all it takes to get things done. As in the new book, "Trinity" by Zelda Lockhart, the third time's indeed the charm.

Bennie Lee was somewhere around 10 or 11 years old when his mother, Lottie, left Bennie and his toddler brother, Lenard, in the care of their father, Big Deddy. That care, though, was given through fists and slaps and overwork and denial.

Lottie always said she wanted to go to St. Louis and she'd take her boys with her but Bennie knew she was at a bar a few miles away, selling her body to men. He tried to bring her home, but she acted like she didn't know him. When she came back to their Mississippi farm on her own, he shot her dead, chasing away the girl-spirit that waited in Lottie's womb.

And then Bennie bolted.

He left Mississippi, joined the Marines in Korea and when he came home, wounded, he brought alcoholism with him. Still, he stayed sober enough to meet Rebecca, who dreamed of marrying a Marine and she and Bennie conceived a child, so she got her wish.

They named that baby Bennie Jr., and they called him BJ. He would have had a sister but when Rebecca Lee was four months pregnant with their second child, Bennie shot her and then himself, and the girl-spirit was chased away again.

Lenard Lee was glad to take his nephew in after the murder-suicide of the boy's parents. Six-year-old BJ grew up with every opportunity America in the 1950s could offer and when he was old enough, he fought in Vietnam like many young men his age.

Also, like many young men his age, he fell in love with the girl next door when he came home.

When she told BJ that he was going to be a father, the girl-spirit rejoiced...

Despite the wince-worthy violence inside this story and a few pages of surprising explicitness, "Trinity" is really a very pretty book. The imagery inside is dusty and lush, and it's helped along with gorgeous turns of phrase and occasional sly sarcasm, both of which poke the imagination: you can almost feel the Mississippi heat, the suck of mud on a creek bank, and kudzu choking your ankles. Beginning each chapter and appearing elsewhere when needed, its spirituality feels like a bucket of cool water on a hot day; the ancestor love that author Zelda Lockhart allows for her characters fits perfectly into the rest of what happens.

Because of its flowing language and metaphors, this book may take some patience to embrace and its spirituality isn't for everyone. Still, if this doesn't sound like your kind of book, pick up "Trinity" anyhow, and try, try again. WI

horoscopes

ARIES You like obstacles. Obstacles give you something to work around. They give you something to do. At least that's your viewpoint at the outset of the week. Absolute force may not be the best way forward; sheer charm may be a lot more potent. Wednesday and Thursday, when all the barriers before you suddenly lift, you and your comrades march toward victory in a shower of confetti. Lucky Numbers: 21, 34, 35

TAURUS You wake up on Monday feeling like a character in a romance novel. Your entire life seems oriented toward the prospect of love. (Or perhaps you're already in love. Lucky you!) Flattery and sex appeal figure strongly on Tuesday as well. On Wednesday, you're too busy thinking about your wallet to spend much time thinking about your heart. Lucky Numbers: 13, 24, 35

GEMINI You have more strength than you realize, and you're a lot further ahead than you think. If a spreadsheet has you cross-eyed on Monday or Tuesday, don't panic. Just ask a math-minded friend for help. Wednesday and Thursday will have you seeing things more clearly than you have in a while. Lucky Numbers: 1, 2, 3

CANCER There was a time when most people thought Columbus was nuts. The lesson is the wildest notions are sometimes also the wisest. Not that you have any broad theories about Earth to impart on Monday or Tuesday. (Although you do feel a bit like the captain of a ship.) Wednesday finds you overwhelmed and irritable, but you don't have to let anyone else know that. Lucky Numbers: 7, 16, 44

LEO You are a success. You are almost a legend among your coworkers. But enough about what they think. How do you feel about what you're doing? That's the big question on Monday and Tuesday, and it stays in the back of your mind all week. When someone asks casually about your life goals on Wednesday or Thursday, don't be shy. Modesty and pride are major themes on Friday. As personal qualities go, they aren't as contradictory as they seem. Lucky Numbers: 8, 17, 20

VIRGO It's healthy to have the jitters before traveling. The prospect of unfamiliar territory provokes that response in many people. An open, philosophical approach rather than a strictly practical one is the way to go during the first half of this week. You are the master of your destiny. Thursday in particular has the potential to be a great or terrible day, depending in large measure on you. Lucky Numbers: 22, 34, 41

LIBRA A diplomatic tête-à-tête may be necessary to smooth things over between you and an important (if volatile) ally early this week. Maybe bake some cookies and bring them along to the occasion. If you two have been at each other's throat lately, it might be because you have so much in common. Find something to laugh about. Midweek, you and your friends are laughing nonstop about an inside joke, but on Friday there's really not much time to do anything except work. Lucky Numbers: 29, 31, 51

SCORPIO The push and pull at the start of the week isn't a fight per se, it's just several people trying to establish interpersonal boundaries. Take a stand and be up front, but if a compromise here or there will make things easier, you can handle that. You'll need as many people on your side as possible on Wednesday and Thursday, when stressful money matters require immediate attention. Lucky Numbers: 4, 29, 42

SAGITTARIUS On Monday, think small. Don't be so concerned with how you're going to harvest apples from a tree you haven't planted yet. Get the tree planted and worry about how to make apple pie after you're surrounded by buckets of apples. Worrying in advance isn't a good use of your time, especially on Wednesday and Thursday, when you already won't have enough time to get done all the things you need to. Lucky Numbers: 21, 37, 43

CAPRICORN If you have nothing else to do on Monday or Tuesday, spending some time in nature would be a swell idea. Indulge in several hours of doing nothing at all. By Wednesday, you won't have a spare second to yourself — friends are talking your ear off, strangers are introducing themselves to you. Lucky Numbers: 18, 39, 58

AQUARIUS An unexpected phone call gets you thinking about someone you haven't thought of in years. The start of the week is defined by strange discoveries made in strange places, and the middle of the week is defined by (lucky you) love. A sizzling affair: strawberries, whipped cream, the works. Wednesday is pure bliss and Thursday is the sequel. Lucky Numbers: 27, 28, 32

PISCES It's a cold, hard world sometimes. Thankfully, there are blankets. Monday and Tuesday are cozy days (nice dinners, soft music, maybe some poetry) and Wednesday is a fairly dreamy day too. On Thursday, try your hand at being creative, but don't be too specific about what you do. Clarity of thought isn't as important as fullness of feeling. Lucky Numbers: 2, 18, 37

Embracing Diversity: Tennis's Journey Towards Inclusivity in the Black Community

By Andrew S. Jacobson WI Contributing Writer

In the last decade, the world of tennis has witnessed a shift towards creating a culture of inclusivity within the sport, particularly for players from the Black community. From initiatives aimed at providing access to underrepresented communities, to inspiring stories of players breaking barriers, tennis is making strides towards be-

coming a more welcoming and diverse space.

The Mubadala Citi DC Open 2023, hosted at Northwest, D.C.’s Rock Creek Park Tennis Center, stands as a testament to the sport's evolving landscape for players from the Black community.

Mark Ein, a driving force behind the tournament and chairman of the Washington Citi Open, shared his deep connection to its rich history.

"The legacy of this tournament is at the heart and soul of what it is today," he told the Informer, recounting its origins as a visionary initiative by D.C. native Donald Dell and John Harris in 1969.

Their decision to place the tournament in a public facility, rather than an exclusive private club, was a sig-

nificant step towards inclusivity. This gesture was seconded by tennis legend Arthur Ashe, an iconic African American player. Ashe insisted on having Black ball kids for his matches, further underscoring the importance of representation in the sport.

Ein's commitment to preserving the tournament's legacy and continu-

ing to provide opportunities to young talents from the Black community is rooted in his own experience. As a child, he served as a ball boy during the early years of the tournament and witnessed Ashe's insistence on Black ball kids.

SPORTS Page 44

5 Alycia Parks (Shevry Lassiter/The Washington Informer)

5 Felix Auger Aliassime attends Citi Taste of Tennis DC on July 30 at LaVie restaurant in Southwest. (Courtesy photo/AYS Sports Marketing)

5 Mark Ein at Citi Taste of Tennis DC on July 30 at LaVie restaurant in Southwest. (Courtesy photo/AYS Sports Marketing)

CAPTURE

the moment

5 Prince George’s County Police and Sheriff Department join residents in Capital Heights for National Night Out on August 1. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

5 U.S. Park Police and cadets joined the Rosedale Recreation Center community in celebrating the 40th annual National Night Out on August 1. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

3 D.C. police officers pose for a photo opportunity during the 40th annual National Night Out kick-off at Rosedale Recreation Center in Northeast on August 1. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

5 A young child tries on a police vest during National Night Out at Rosedale Recreation Center in Northeast on August 1. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

5 Prince George’s County Police Major Cline has fund with a mother and daughter during National Night Out in Capital Heights on August 1. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

RELIGION

First Baptist of Highland Park Reminds Community God Cares, Churches Do Too

By Hamil R. Harris WI Contributing Writer

Martin Luther King, Jr. and Eastern Avenues became a spot to spread love and encouragement, Saturday, July 29, when the Rev. Henry P. Davis took a bus load of members from the First Baptist Church of Highland Park to an infamous strip.

On the D.C. side of Eastern Avenue, church members prayed with a young woman and on the other side another group passed out snacks to people walking on the sidewalk.

“The Gospel can not stay indoors,” Davis, pastor of First Baptist Church of Highland Park said. “The Gospel must go outdoors and the reason why is because Jesus did more outside the temple

SPORTS from Page 42

The chairman’s personal connection motivates him to honor Ashe's vision and maintain the event's community-driven essence. The stadium, adorned with Ashe's image and historical references throughout the venue, reminds everyone of the event's history and purpose.

WORKING TOWARDS INCLUSIVITY AND ACCESSIBILITY IN TENNIS TODAY

Felix Auger-Aliassime, the 12th ranked singles player in the world and rising star on the Association of Tennis Professionals’ (ATP) Tour, emphasized the significance of inclusivity beyond the tournament's borders.

"Playing in different regions and places beyond Europe, America,

than he did inside the temple. This is the ultimate model of what faith should be about.”

While his congregation has many programs, he said there was a need to leave the four walls of the church.

“There is great concern in terms of gun violence, the crime, the cajacking, the killings. We’re out here praying for people, delivering a positive message and, hopefully, they will receive this message.”

Demetrious Harris, chief of the Seat Pleasant Police Department, said “he is encourgaed by support from the church community.

“I am excited that the church is out here, because what the church does outside its walls, as well as inside the walls of the church, is going to be impactful to the community.”

Australia, and Canada, can give kids examples and role models they can relate to," Auger-Aliassime told the Informer.

Canadian Auger-Aliassime, who is of Togolese descent, understands the importance of representation and accessibility to tennis in countries with limited resources. He shared that making tennis more inviting to diverse communities is crucial for the sport's growth and inclusivity.

The 12th-ranked singles player acknowledged that tennis has often been perceived as a sport for the privileged, and he strives to change this perception. He said the sport's individual nature can pose challenges— as team sports often offer more camaraderie and accessibility for players from diverse backgrounds. To bridge this gap, Auger-Aliassime stressed the importance of creating community-based

One person walking on Eastern Avenue said that she was glad that the church came out. “We need more community services. This is nice,” she commented.

Prince George’s County Councilmember Calvin Hawkins (AtLarge) dropped by the intersection to witness the work.

“What we need in our community today is everyone caring about one another. We can’t make this a police problem, we can’t make this a government problem, this is a community problem,” Hawkins

initiatives that break down barriers and provide opportunities for aspiring talents from underprivileged regions.

Beyond his own success on the court, Auger-Aliassime is deeply invested in promoting tennis in his father’s homeland, Togo. Through his father's tennis academy, he aims to enhance tennis infrastructure and coaching in the country, providing a pathway for young talents from diverse backgrounds to pursue their dreams in the sport.

Local organizations such as the Southeast Tennis and Learning Center, (SETLC), founded by D.C.’s former first lady Cora Masters Barry, also works toward the spirit of inclusivity in tennis.

SETLC has been pivotal in providing tennis opportunities to young people, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds

told the Informer.

James Middleton, an elder at Christ Kingdom Church, said he appreciated taking to the streets to discuss real challenges.

“I have a heart for the community and I am always willing to discuss things as it relates to drug abuse, sexual promiscuity, and other issues that are plaguing our community,” Middleton said. “I am so glad to know that God cares and so I care.”

The Rev. Emanuel Williams, one of the outreach ministers from

in the Black community.

The Southeast-D.C. based organization serves as a hub for tennis and a platform to nurture young talents. With Barry's leadership and guidance over the years, the center has become a beacon of hope for aspiring players, promoting diversity and inclusivity in the sport.

GETTING TO THE PROS

In addition to promoting inclusivity and access to the sport, some African American tennis players, such as Alycia Parks, also celebrate the accessible pathway to playing professionally in comparison to other athletic fields.

In the National Basketball Association (NBA), prospective players must meet specific age and educa-

First Baptist Church of Highland Park, said he hopes that the people who interact with the volunteers, will be inspired to combat the violence and challenges in the community, and lead with love as encouraged by God’s teachings. “We hope that the Lord saving them will catch onto the hearts of the brothers and sisters out here. That is the only way that we will be able to overcome the drugs, the killing, and the teenage pregnancy.”

WI

tion requirements, including being at least 19 years-old and one year removed from high school graduation to be eligible for the draft. Conversely, tennis does not impose such barriers on young talents.

"I skipped college and went straight pro,” said Alycia Parks, a young African-American tennis prodigy from Atlanta.

Parks, a 22 year-old who embodies the spirit of determination that has driven her to the top of the game, emphasized the importance of perseverance for Black girls aspiring to make a mark in tennis.

"Anything is possible. You just have to keep at it. Don't give up, because it wasn't easy for me," Parks said. WI

5 Seat Pleasant Police Chief Demetrious Harris, the Rev. Henry P. Davis, Seat Pleasant Assistant Police Chief Cedric Heyward, and Prince Georges Council member Calvin Hawkins join members from First Baptist Church of Highland Park as they volunteer in the community. (Hamil Harris/ The Washington Informer)

About 10 days ago, I received a phone call to go to a meeting with the religious community here in the DMV to meet with National Action Network, Rev. Al Sharpton and some of his staff to ask us to help build the crowd. I was invited because I write The Religion Corner column, and my radio show is on the oldest gospel station in the nation, Spirit 1340 (WYCB) on Radio One. Because the meeting was about the 60th March on Washington, coming up in about a month, I agreed right away. Rev. Sharpton did come, and I'm happy that I was in the number.

The National Action Network staff began by talking about how we must change the national narrative, led by Rev. Marquez Ball and Ebony Wiley. They shared goals with all of the local leaders from throughout the D.C., Mary-

WITH LYNDIA GRANT

The Most Important March Ever

land and Virginia (DMV) area until Rev. Sharpton arrived. Each of us agreed to become ambassadors and to do all we can to help people from the DMV to come out to participate in this year's March on Washington. Sharpton concluded by saying, "The DMV needs to turn out, our bodies will make a statement. … Be a thermostat leader, and change temperatures. If we stand up, God will hold us up!"

This year's march on Saturday, Aug. 26 will feature 60 national organizations across racial, cultural and generational lines as partners for the 60th anniversary of the March on Washington. This year, with all the political ramifications throughout America, this will not be a demonstration nor commemoration, but rather a continuation of the "dream" Dr. King outlined at the Lincoln Memorial in 1963.

Now, with democracy under threat and violent hate crimes on the rise, it is essential to galvanize around that dream and push back against the concerted efforts to peel away hard-won civil rights.

Rev. Al Sharpton, Martin Luther King III, and Andrea Waters King

have brought together people of all walks of life from across the nation. We invite you, especially those of us here in the DMV.

Organizers are expecting more than one thousand buses and are planning for up to as many as 500,000 people to gather at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC on Saturday, August 26, 2023. Local churches through the DMV have been asked to help build the crowd. In a meeting with religious leaders, I heard Rev. Al Sharpton say, "This march is more important than the first march held 60 years ago."

The pre-program for the event will begin at 8 a.m. EST, with the main program beginning at 11 a.m. Following the program, a march will begin through the streets of the nation's capital. Additional details are coming over the next 10 days, as organizers continue to confirm buses and participants.

Don't stay home in bed, watching television. Get up out of bed and get something done, and at the same time, you will be counted in the number. WI

This year's march on Saturday, Aug. 26 will feature 60 national organizations across racial, cultural and generational lines as partners for the 60th anniversary of the March on Washington.

RELIGION

The Miracle Center of Faith Missionary Baptist Church

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

Service and Times

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

1st Sunday

School: 9:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday, 12 Noon Bible Study in homes: Tuesday 7:00 PM

Website: www.themiraclecenterFMBC.com Email: Miraclecenterfmbs@gmail.com

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

Blessed Word

Dr. Dekontee L. & Dr. Ayele A. Johnson Pastors 4001 14th Street, NW Washington, DC 20011 (202) 265-6147 Office 1-800 576-1047 Voicemail/Fax Service and Times

Sunday School: 9:30 AM

Sunday Morning Worship Service: 11:00 AM

Communion Service: First Sunday Prayer Service/Bible Study: Tuesday, 6:30 PM www.blessedwordoflifechurch.org

Mount Carmel Baptist Church

Reverend Dr. Paris L Smith, Sr. Senior Pastor 901 Third Street N.W. Washington, DC. 20001 Phone (202) 842-3411 Fax (202) 682-9423

Service and Times

Sunday Church School : 9:00 AM

Sunday Morning Worship: 10:10 AM Bible Study Tuesday: 6: 00 PM

Prayer Service Tuesday: 7:00 PM Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday 10:10 AM themcbc.org

All Nations Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. James Coleman Pastor

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

Service and Times

Sunday Church School – 9:30 AM

Sunday Worship Service – 11:00 AM

Holy Communion – 1st Sunday at 11:00 AM

Prayer – Wednesdays, 6:00 PM

Bible Study – Wednesdays, 7:00 PM

Christian Education / School of Biblical Knowledge

Saturdays, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM, Call for Registration

Website: www.allnationsbaptistchurch.com

All Nations Baptist Church – A Church of Standards

Pilgrim Baptist Church

Rev. Louis B. Jones II Pastor 700 I Street, N.E. Washington, D.C. 20002 (202) 547-8849

Service and Times Worship Sundays: 7:30 & 11:00 AM

Sundays: 9:30 AM 3rd Sundays: Baptism

Covenant Baptist United Church  of Christ

Reverend William Young IV Pastor

3845 South Capitol Street Washington, DC 20032

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

Services and Times

Sundays: 10:00am Worship Services

Bible Study: Wonderful Wednesdays in Worship and the Word Bible Study Wednesdays 12:00 Noon; 6:30 PM (dinner @ 5:30 PM)

Sunday School: 9:00 AM – Hour of Power

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

St. Stephen Baptist Church

Bishop Lanier C. Twyman, Sr. Senior Pastor

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

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

Sunday Morning Worship: 10:45 AM

Tuesday: 7:00pm/Kingdom Building Bible Institute

Wednesday 12:30 PM Mid-Day Bible Study

Wednesday: Prayer/Praise/Bible Study-7:30 PM

Baptism & Communion Service: 4th Sunday – 10:30 AM

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

Mount Olivet Lutheran Church Campbell AME Church

John F. Johnson Reverend Dr. 1306 Vermont Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20005 Service and Times Divine Worship, Sunday 10:00 a.m. Communion 1st and 3rd Sunday

“Friendliest Church in the City”

Website: mountolivetdc.org

Email: mtolivedc@gmail.com

Adams Inspirational A.M.E. Church

Dr. E. Gail Anderson Holness Senior Pastor

Rev. Ali Gail Holness-Roland

Assistant & Youth Pastor 12801 Old Fort Road • Ft. Washington, MD 20744 Office (301) 292.6323 • FAX (301) 292.2164

Service and Times

Sunday Worship 10:15 am

Sunday Church School 11:00 am

Youth Sunday every 4th Sunday

Prayer Call @ Noon every Tuesday & Thursday 978.990.5166 code: 6166047#

Virtual Bible Study Wednesday Facebook & Zoom 7:00 pm

“A Growing Church for a Coming Christ” www.adamsinspirationalamec.org

Crusader Baptist Church Isle of Patmos Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Alton W. Jordan Pastor 800 I Street, NE - Washington, DC 20002 202-548-0707 - Fax No. 202-548-0703

Service and Times

Sunday Morning Worship: 11:00 AM

Holy Communion: 1st Sunday

Sunday School: 9:45 AM

Men’s Monday Bible Study: 7:00 PM

Wednesday Night Bible Study: 7:00 PM

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

Computer Classes: Announced Family and Marital Counseling by appointment

E-mail: Crusadersbaptistchurch@verizon.net

www.CrusadersBaptistChurch.org / “God is Love”

Third Street Church of God

Rev. Cheryl J. Sanders, Th.D. Senior Pastor 1204 Third Street, NW Washington, DC 20001 202-347-5889 office / 202-638-1803 fax

Services and Times

Sunday School: 9:30 AM

Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM

Sunday Community Worship Service: 8:30 AM

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

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

Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Reverend Dr. Calvin L. Matthews Senior Pastor

1200 Isle of Patmos Plaza, Northeast Washington, DC 20018

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

Service and Times

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

Holy Communion: 2nd Sunday at 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM

Sunday Church School: 9:20 AM

Seniors Bible Study: Tuesdays at 10:30 AM

Day Prayer Service: Tuesdays at Noon

Study: Tuesdays at 7 PM

“A Ministry of Reconciliation Where Everybody is Somebody!” Website: http://isleofpatmosbc.org

Rev. Dr. Henry Y. White

2562 MLK Jr. Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020

Adm. Office 202-678-2263

Email: Campbell@mycame.org

Service and Times

Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 AM

Sunday Church School: 8:45 AM

Bible Study: Wednesday: 12:00 Noon,

Wednesday: 7:00 PM, Thursday: 7:00 PM

“Reaching Up To Reach Out”

Mailing Address Campbell AME Church 2502 Stanton Road SE Washington, DC 20020

Emmanuel Baptist Church

Reverend Christopher L. Nichols Pastor

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

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

Service and Times

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

Baptism/Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday

Family Bible Study Tuesdays – 6:30 PM

Prayer Service: Tuesdays – 8:00 PM www.emmanuelbaptistchurchdc.org

Reverend John W. Davis Pastor

5101 14th Street, NW / Washington, DC 20011

Phone: 202-726-2220

Fax: 202-726-9089

Service and Times

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

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

Communion - 10 a.m. 4th Sunday

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

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

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

Shiloh Church of God 7th Day

Elder Jonathan M. Carson Senior Pastor 5701 Eastern Avenue, Hyattsville, MD 20782 Phone: 301 559-5262

Service and Times

Sabbath Worship @ 1:00 pm in-person/FB/Zoom

Tuesday - Prayer@ 7:30 pm on Zoom

Wednesday Bible Study@ 7:30 pm on Zoom

Friday - Sabbath School@ 7:30 pm on Zoom

Web: shiloh7thday.org

Email: shiloh7thdaycomm@gmail.com

"A culturally diverse church of edification, deliverance and transformation"

Florida Avenue Baptist Church Holy Trinity United Baptist Church

Dr. Earl D. Trent Senior Pastor 623 Florida Ave.. NW WDC. 20001 Church (202) 667-3409 / Study (202) 265-0836

Home Study (301) 464-8211 Fax (202) 483-4009

Service and Times

Sunday Worship Services: 10:00 AM

Sunday Church School: 8:45 – 9:45 AM

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

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

Midweek Prayer: Wednesday – 7:00 PM

Noonday Prayer Every Thursday

Rev. Dr. George C. Gilbert Senior Pastor 4504 Gault Place, N.E. / Washington, D.C 20019 202-397-7775 – 7184

Service and Times

Sunday Church School: 9:30 AM

Sunday Worship Service : 11:00 AM

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

Zion Baptist Church

Rev. Keith W. Byrd, Sr. Pastor

4850 Blagdon Ave, NW - Washington D.C 20011

Phone (202) 722-4940 Fax (202) 291-3773

Service and Times

9:00 a.m. – Sunday School

10:15 a.m. – Worship Service

Wed. Noon: Dea. Robert Owens Bible Study

7 PM Pastor’s Bible Study

Ordinance of Baptism 2nd Sunday, Holy Communion 4th Sunday

Mission: Zion shall: Enlist Sinners, Educate Students, Empower the Suffering, Encourage the Saints, And Exalt our Savior. (Acts 2: 41-47)

Israel Baptist Church

Pastor

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

Service and Times

Sunday Worship Service: 10:45 AM

Sunday School: 9:15 AM

Holy Communion1st Sunday: 10:45 AM

Prayer Service: Wednesday at 6:30 PM

Bible Study: Wednesday at 7:00 PM

Bible Study: Tuesday at 10:30 AM

1301 North Carolina Ave. N E Washington, D C 20002 202 543 1318 - lincolnpark@lpumcdc.org www.lpumcdc.org

Service and Times

Sunday Worship: 10:00 AM

Holy Communion: First Sunday 10:00 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM

Bible Study: Wednesday @ 12 noon and 6:30 PM Motto: "Faith On The Hill"

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

Service and Times

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

Prayer/Seeking: Wednesday at 8:00 PM

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

Matthews Memorial Baptist Church

DC 20011-3851 P: (202) 726-5940 Service and

Dr. Lucius M. Dalton

Senior Pastor 1636 East Capitol Street, NE Washington, DC 20003

Telephone: 202-544-5588 - Fax: 202-544-2964

Service and Times

Sunday Worship Services: 7:45 AM and 10:45 AM

Holy Communion: 1st Sundays at 7:45 AM & 10:45 AM

Sunday School: 9:30 AM

Prayer & Praise Service: Tuesdays at 12 noon & 6:30 PM

Bible Study: Tuesdays at 1 pm and 7 PM

Youth Bible Study: Fridays at 7 PM

Web: www.mountmoriahchurch.org

Email: mtmoriah@mountmoriahchurch.org

Damion M. Briggs Pastor 8213 Manson Street Landover, MD 20785 Tel: (301) 322-9787 Fax: (301) 322-9240 Service and Times

Early Morning Message: 7:30 AM

Sunday Morning Worship Service: 10:00 AM

Sunday Church School: 9:00 AM

Holy Communion: 1st Sunday 7:30 AM & 10:00 AM Prayer, Praise and Testimony: Wednesday 7:00 PM

Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM

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

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

Service and Times

Sunday Worship: 11 AM

Sunday School: 10 AM

Wednesday Mid-Week Worship, Prayer & Bible Study: Wed. 7 PM

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

“The

and People are Loved”

Rev. Dr. Michael T.

Service and Times Sunday Service: 10:00 AM Sunday School for all ages: 8:30 AM

Sunday Baptism: 10:00 AM 2nd Sunday Holy Communion:10:00 AM

Bible Study: 6:30 PM

Meeting: 7:45 PM

Motto: “Where God is First and Where Friendly People Worship”

Pennsylvania Ave. Baptist Church

3000 Pennsylvania Ave.. S.E Washington, DC 20020 202 581-1500

Service and Times

Sunday Church School: 9:30 AM

Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 AM

Monday Adult Bible Study: 7:00 PM

Wednesday Youth & Adult Activities: 6:30 PM

Prayer Service Bible Study

Foggy Bottom - Founded in 1867

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

Service and Times

Sundays: 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist with Music and Hymns

Wednesdays: 12:10 p.m. - Holy Eucharist www.stmarysfoggybottom.org

Email: stmarysoffice@stmarysfoggybottom.org

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

Rev Kevin A. O'Bryant Pastor

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

Service and Times

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

Bible Study: Wednesday 7:00pm

Communion Every First Sunday "Serve, teach and Live by precept and example the saving grace of Jesus Christ."

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

Oran W. Young Pastor 602 N Street NW - Washington, D.C. 20001 Office:(202) 289-4480 Fax: (202) 289-4595

Service and Times Sunday School for All Ages: 8:00 AM

Sunday Worship Services: 9:30 AM

Midday Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 11:30AM

Evening Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 7:00 PM

Laymen's League: Thursday 7:00 PM

Email: Froffice@firstrising.org

Website: www.firstrising.org

“Changing Lives On Purpose “

Rev. Lance Aubert Imterim

Elder Herman L. Simms Pastor

Rev. Richard B. Black Interim Pastor

Rev.

The Rev. E. Bernard Anderson Priest

Mt. Horeb Baptist Church

Rehoboth Baptist Church

First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church

Promised Land Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Kendrick E. Curry Pastor

Hosted by Denise Rolark Barnes

Declaration of Nationality

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

Notice of Special Appearance : am that am: "Iliana Teresa Gonzalez© ", in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: “ILIANA TERESA GONZALEZ", corporate sole DBA: "ILIANA T GONZALEZ© ", Iliana Hunt, Iliana Teresa Hunt, Iliana T Hunt, Iliana T Lopez Cruz, Iliana T Lopez-Cruz, Iliana Lopez Cruz, Iliana Lopez-Cruz, having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a: the Tarahumara Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, Al Maghreb Al Aqsa, Estados al Marikanos, Societas Republicae Ea Al Maurikanuus Estados, The Constitution for the united States of America, Article III Section 2, The Lieber Code, Hague Conventions of 1899 & 1907, The Geneva Conventions, [ United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples ], and all natural laws governing moors, and hereby declare and proclaim my nationality in good faith as a: the Tarahumara Moorish American. I am that I am: " Iliana Teresa Gonzalez© ", from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: " iliana teresa muki© ". Notice of White Flag Surrender: as "hors de combat", pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article III, as a minister of The Moorish Empire, and Internationally Protected Person. Notice of: LAWS AND CUSTOMS OF WAR ON LAND HAGUE, IV), ARTICLE: 32, 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Claim pursuant to Public Law 87-846, TITLE II, SEC. 203. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title: This order is to preserve legal and equitable title , and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, Re: The Illinois Department of Public Health, Division of Vital Records : 112-1990 0102258, " Iliana Teresa Gonzalez© ", is as a special deposit order, conveyed to " BasJan Trust© ". All property of the same issue and amount, in like kind and specie, is to be returned fully intact, as a Special Deposit order of the Depositor / Beneficiary / Bailor / Donor / Principal / Creditor: " iliana teresa muki© ", nom deguerre: " Iliana Teresa Gonzalez© ", as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of: " BasJan Trust© ", an Inter Vivos Unincorporated Divine Grantor Trust. This deposit is not to be commingled with general assets of any bank, nor depositary / trustee / agent / bailee / donee / debtor. This deposit is not limited to, but including discharge and set off, of any and all outstanding liabilities as accord and satisfaction. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente.

LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 805

William Salisbury Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

William Brown, whose address is 78 Galveston St., SW, #201, Washington, DC 20032, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of William Salisbury who died on February 6, 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 1/20/2024. 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 1/20/2024, 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: 7/20/2023

William Brown Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 000697

William Corley Decedent

Tabitha R. Brown, Esquire Law Office of Tabitha R. Brown 1200 G. Street, SE, Suite A Washington, DC 20003 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Demaria A. Corley, whose address is 11920 Homestead Place, Waldorf, MD 20601, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of William Corley who died on February 21, 2023 with a Will, and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (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 1/20/2024. 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 1/20/2024, 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: 7/20/2023

Demaria A. Corley

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 000072

Annie Mildred Jackson Decedent

Angela D. Minor, Esq.

Minor & Willcox, LLC 9601 Apollo Drive #7181

Upper Marlboro, MD 20792-7181

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Vertron F. Mayo and Jared J. Pollard, whose addresses are 21 Hampton Pl., Windsor, Ct. 06095 and 393 Hartford Rd., South Orange, NJ 07079, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Annie Mildred Jackson who died on 5/5/2021 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 1/20/2024. 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 1/20/2024, 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:

7/20/2023

Vertron F. Mayo

Jared J. Pollard

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 826

William Gray, Sr.

Decedent

Donald Marlais

411 10th Street, NE

Washington, DC 20002

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

William L. Gray, Jr., whose address is 1416 Carrollsburg Pl., SW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of William Gray, Sr. who died on May 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 1/20/2024. 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 1/20/2024, 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:

7/20/2023

William L. Gray, 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

2023 ADM 809

Audrey Florence Barnes Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Michael Patrick Stepney-Barnes, whose address is 11 Franklin St., NE, Washington, DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Audrey Florence Barnes who died on February 22, 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 January 20, 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 January 20, 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:

July 20, 2023

Michael Patrick Stepney-Barnes Personal Representative

TRUE

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

2023 ADM 000811

Willie M. Williams aka Willie Mack Williams Decedent

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

Tashawn Williams, whose address is 1419 18th Street, SE, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Willie M. Williams aka Willie Mack Williams who died on April 3, 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 1/20/2024. 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 1/20/2024, 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:

7/20/2023

Tashawn Williams Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 000794

Cora L. Blair

Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Ria Fletcher, whose address is 3939 Pennsylvania Ave., SE #301, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Cora L. Blair who died on January 22, 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 1/20/2024. 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 1/20/2024, 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: 7/20/2023

Ria Fletcher

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 806

Juanita E. Mathews Decedent

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

Charles P. Mathews and Carole L. Spires, whose addresses are 5008 5th St., NW, Washington, DC 20011 /14316 Rosetree Ct., Silver Spring, MD 20906, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Juanita E. Mathews who died on May 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 1/20/2024. 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 1/20/2024, 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: 7/20/2023

Charles P. Mathews

Carole L. Spires

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer In God We Trust.

Declaration of Nationality.

Notice of White Flag Surrender. Notice of Special

Appearance : am that I am: " Samir Jamal Dukes Jr© ", in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: " SAMIR JAMAL DUKES JR ", corp.sole Dba.: " SAMIR J DUKES JR© ", " SAMIR DUKES JR© ", " DUKES JR, SAMIR JAMAL© ", having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as an: American Moor, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, Al Maghreb Al Aqsa, Estados al Marikanos, Societas Republicae Ea Al Maurikanuus Estados, The Constitution for the united States of America, Article III Section 2, The Lieber Code, Hague Conventions of 1899 & 1907, The Geneva Conventions, [ United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples ], and all natural laws governing moors, and hereby declare and proclaim my nationality in good faith as an: American Moor. I am that am: " Samir Jamal Dukes Jr© ", from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: " ezhno-whitewolf el© ". Notice of White Flag Surrender: as "hors de combat", pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article III, as a minister of The Moorish Empire, and Internationally Protected Person. Notice of: LAWS AND CUSTOMS OF WAR ON LAND HAGUE, IV),

ARTICLE: 32, 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Claim pursuant to Public Law 87-846, TITLE II, SEC. 203. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title : This order is to preserve legal and equitable title and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, Re: Bureau of Vital Statistics / New York State Bureau of Vital Records / New York State Department of Health : STATE FILE NUMBER, : 156-91-097857 : " SAMIR JAMAL DUKES JR© ", " SAMIR J DUKES JR© ", " SAMIR DUKES JR© ", DUKES

JR, SAMIR JAMAL© ", is as a special deposit order, conveyed to " Casa de Lobos Trust© ". All property of the same issue and amount, in like kind and specie, is to be returned fully intact, as a Special Deposit order of the Depositor / Beneficiary / Bailor / Donor / Principal / Creditor: " ezhno-whitewolf el© ", nom deguerre: "Samir Jamal Dukes Jr© ", as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of : " Casa de Lobos Trust© ", an Inter Vivos Unincorporated Divine Grantor Trust. This deposit is not to be commingled with general assets of any bank, nor depository / trustee / agent / bailee / donee debtor. This deposit is not limited to, but including: discharge and set off, of any and all outstanding liabilities as accord and satisfaction. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente.

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 823

Ceceilio Jose Morales

Decedent

Jeffrey K. Gordon, Esq.

5335 Wisconsin Avenue, NW #400

Washington, DC 20015

Attorney

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

Lucy S. Morales, whose address is 2829 Connecticut Ave., NW #205, Washington, DC 20008, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ceceilio Jose Morales who died on May 11, 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 1/27/2024. 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 1/27/2024, 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: 7/27/2023

Lucy S. Morales

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 000285

Alfred Barfield Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Dorisa Barfield, whose address is 3556 22nd Street, SE, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Alfred Barfield who died on 11/5/22 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 1/27/2024. 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 1/27/2024, 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:

7/27/2023

Dorisa Barfield

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

2023 ADM 000820

Edna E. Abraham

Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Stacey Abraham, September Odette Abraham, whose addresses are 1315 Buchanan Street NW, Washington, DC 20011, 1364 Talbert Court SE, Washington DC 20020, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Edna E. Abraham who died on 12/06/2022 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 1/27/2024. 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 1/27/2024, 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: 7/27/2023

Stacey Abraham September Odette Abraham 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

2019 FEP 000138

December 10, 2003

Date of Death

Willie Mae Smith Giles

Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Rhonda M. Dewey whose address is 4617 Navassa Lane, Naples FL 34119 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Willie Mae Smith Giles, deceased, by the Maryland Register of Wills Court for Prince Georges County, State of Maryland, on 11/19/2019.

Service of process may be made upon Sterling Ward 7020 Wyndale Street NW, Washington, DC 20015 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C.

The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real estate. 2405 Rand Place NE, Washington, DC 20002. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Date of first publication:

7/27/2023

Rhonda Dewey

Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

PROBATE DIVISION

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 FEP 69

October 31, 2004

Date of Death

Milton McLeod

Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Cheryl McLeod whose address is 6833 Old Waterloo Road, Elkridge, MD 21227 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Milton McLeod, deceased, by the Orphans Court for Prince Georges County, State of Maryland, on 10/18/2022.

Service of process may be made upon Joan Davenport, 1780 Sycamore Street, NW, Washington, DC 20012 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C.

The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real estate: 3217 Walnut Street, NE, Washington, DC 20018. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Date of first publication: 7/27/2023

Cheryl McLeod Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 797

Ernestine A. Beaty Decedent

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

Joyce C. Jones, Bridgadette Thomas, whose addresses are 8165 Murray Hill Dr., Ft. Washington, MD 20744, 2316 32nd St., SE Washington, DC 20020, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Ernestine A. Beaty who died on December 9, 2022 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 1/27/2024. 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 1/27/2024, 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: 7/27/2023

Joyce C. Jones

Bridgadette Thomas Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 838

Susan Cho Yuk Decedent

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

Eugene Chae Yuk, whose address is 3859 Zelkova Ct., Fairfax, VA 22033, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Susan Cho Yuk who died on May 9, 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 1/27/2024. 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 1/27/2024, 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: 7/27/2023

Eugene Chae Yuk Personal Representative TRUE

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2023 ADM 836

Deborah C. Seldon Decedent

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

Awhanna R. Jones, whose address is 1323 5th St. NW, Apt. 203, Washington, DC 20001, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Deborah C. Seldon who died on April 18, 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 1/27/2024. 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 1/27/2024, 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: 7/27/2023

Awhanna R. 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

2023 ADM 833

David Joppy Sr. Decedent

Sharon Legall 1325 G Street NW Suite 500

Washington, DC 20005

Attorney

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

Karen A Williams, whose address is 9003 Greenfield Lane, Clinton, MD 20735, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of David Joppy Sr. who died on 1/19/2023 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 1/27/2024. 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 1/27/2024, 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:

7/27/2023

Karen A. Williams 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 001036

Helen Jones Decedent

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

Jeffrey K. Gordon, whose address is 5335 Wisconsin Avenue, NW #700, Washington, DC 20015, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Helen Jones who died on January 11, 2021 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 2/3/2024. 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 2/3/2024, 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:

8/3/2023

Jeffrey K. Gordon

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 000848

John A. Schall aka John Anthony Schall

Decedent

Julie A. Simantiras, Esq.

The Geller Law Group

4000 Legato Road, Suite 4000 Fairfax, VA 22031

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Michael Douglas Silveus, whose address is 1852 Monte Vista Street, Fort Myers, Florida 33901, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of John A. Schall aka John Anthony Schall who died on 12/30/2022 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 2/3/2024. 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 2/3/2024, 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:

8/3/2023

Michael Douglas Silveus Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 000903

Lynette R. F. Smith

Decedent

Colline Silvera Robinson Kirlew & Associates, PC

7731 Belle Point Dr. Greenbelt, MD 20770

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Steven L. L. Smith, whose address is 4318 Dunwood Terrace, Burtonsville, MD 20866, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Lynette R. F. Smith who died on February 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 2/3/2024. 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 2/3/2024, 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:

8/3/2023

Steven L. L. 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

2023 ADM 000861

Sarah Griffin

Decedent

Julius P. Terrell, Esq.

1455 Pennsylvania Ave., NW Suite 400

Washington, DC 20004

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Lavilliam Gale Griffin, whose address is 222 Nicholson St., NE Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Sarah Griffin who died on October 10, 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 2/3/2024. 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 2/3/2024, 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: 8/3/2023

Lavilliam Gale Griffin 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 908

Paula Marie Pearson

Decedent

Stacy R. Pace, Esq. 1629 K Street, NW, Ste. 300 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney

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

Michael Robinson, whose address is 5009 40th Pl. Apt. 407, Hyattsville, MD 20781, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Paula Marie Pearson who died on 11/4/2022 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 2/3/2024. 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 2/3/2024, 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:

8/3/2023

Michael 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

2023 ADM 000845

Freddie Lee Mills

Decedent

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

Tay-Vaughn Mills, whose address is 32 Open Gate Court, Nottingham, MD 21236, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Freddie Lee Mills who died on October 26, 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 2/3/2024. 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 2/3/2024, 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: 8/3/2023

Tay-Vaughn Mills

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2022 ADM 000851

Estate of Joseph Matthew Shea aka Joseph M. Shea

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE

Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Deanna C. Williams 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 May 24, 2017 exhibited with the petition upon proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution by affidavit of the witnesses or otherwise

Date of first publication: 8/3/2023

Jeffrey K. Gordon, Esq. DC Bar #1015955 5335 Wisconsin Ave., NW #400 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 000844

Joan Middleton Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Joseph Anthony Middleton, whose address is 4000 19th Pl., NE, Washington, DC 20018, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Joan Middleton 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 2/3/2024. 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 2/3/2024, 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: 8/3/2023

Joseph Anthony Middleton

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 000872

Dorothy Verbal Artis Decedent

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

Chandra Monique Artis, whose address is 147 57th Place SE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Dorothy Verbal Artis who died on September 3, 2022 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 2/3/2024. 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 2/3/2024, 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: 8/3/2023

Chandra Monique Artis 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 000814

James Walter Martin Decedent

Colline Silvera Robinson Kirlew Associates 7731 Belle Point Dr., Greenbelt, MD 20770

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Britinni Martin, whose address is 7722 Scotland Dr., Potomac, MD 20864, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James Walter Martin who died on November 11, 1984 without a Will. 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 2/3/2024. 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 2/3/2024, 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: 8/3/2023

Britinni Martin 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 000857

Bertha Belle Payne Decedent

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

Frederick H. Payne, whose address is 5504 4th St. NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Bertha Belle Payne who died on May 12, 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 2/3/2024. 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 2/3/2024, 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:

8/3/2023

Frederick H. Payne

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 889

Theresa L. Chambliss

Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

LaToya Byrd, whose address is 5379 Clay Terrace NE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Theresa L. Chambliss who died on December 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 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 February 3, 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 February 3, 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:

August 3, 2023

LaToya Byrd

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

CLASSIFIEDS

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

MEDIABIDS MISCELLANEOUS

Become a Published Author. We want to Read Your Book!

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

Two great new offers from AT&T Wireless! Ask how to get the new iPhone 11 or Next Generation Samsung Galaxy S10e ON US with AT&T's Buy one, Give One offer. While supplies last! CALL 1-877-370-2155

DISH Network. $64.99 for 190 Channels! Blazing Fast Internet, $19.99/mo. (where available.) Switch & Get a FREE $100 Visa Gift Card. FREE Voice Remote. FREE HD DVR. FREE Streaming on ALL Devices. Call today!

1-855-402-3370

SAVE 67% PLUS 4 FREE BURGERS - The Favorite Feast

- ONLY $49.99. ORDER Today 1-888-318-1190 Use Code 48643VFW or www.OmahaSteaks.com/ ffmb93

Do you know your Testosterone Levels? Call 888-6925146 and ask about our test kits and get a FREE Trial of Progene All-Natural Testosterone Supplement

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

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

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

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

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

READERS & MUSIC LOVERS. 100 Greatest Novels (audio books) ONLY $99.00 (plus s h.) Includes MP3 Player & Accessories. BONUS: 50 Classical Music Works & Money Back Guarantee. Call Today! 1-866680-1822

Personalized holiday gifts for Everyone on your list! Save 20 percent off qualifying products from Personal Creations! To redeem this offer, visit www.PersonalCreations.com/Beauty or Call 1-888-732-0679

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

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

SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS. You WIN or Pay Us Nothing. Contact Disability Group, Inc. Today!

BBB Accredited. Call For Your FREE Book & Consultation. 888-649-5110

Attention Joint & Muscle Pain Sufferers: Clinically proven all-natural supplement helps reduce pain and enhance mobility. Call 888-760-5952 to try Hydraflex-

CLASSIFIEDS

CLASSIFIEDS LEGAL NOTICES

in RISK-FREE for 90 days.

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

CADNET & NANI CLASSIFIED NETWORK

HEALTH & FITNESS

VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! 50 Generic Pills SPECIAL $99.00. 100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 888445-5928 Hablamos Español

Dental Insurance - Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Covers 350 procedures. Real insurance - not a discount plan. Get your free dental info kit! 1-855526-1060 www.dental50plus.com/ads #6258

Attention oxygen therapy users! Inogen One G4 is capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only 2.8 pounds. Free info kit. Call 877-929-9587

Viagra stop overpaying! Generic Viagra or Cialis 70 tablets - only $99 shipping included! USAServicesOnline.com call now 888-203-0881

MISCELLANEOUS

Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC home standby generator $0 Down + Low Monthly Pmt Request a free Quote. Call before the next power outage: 1-855-948-6176

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule free LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-610-1936

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 855-761-1725

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

HughesNet - Finally, super-fast internet no matter where you live. 25 Mbps just $59.99/mo! Unlimited Data is Here. Stream Video. Bundle TV & Internet. Free Installation. Call 866-499-0141

Become a published author. We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consultation, production, promotion & distribution. Call for free author’s guide 1-877-729-4998 or visit dorranceinfo.com/ads

DISH TV $64.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo Expires 1/31/24. 1-866-479-1516

Safe Step. North America's #1 Walk-in tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our free shower package & $1600 off - limited time! Financing available.

1-855-417-1306

MobileHelp, America's premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you're home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure!

1-888-489-3936

Free high speed internet if qualified. Govt. pgm for recipients of select pgms incl. Medicaid, SNAP, Housing Assistance, WIC, Veterans Pension, Survivor Benefits, Lifeline, Tribal. 15 GB internet. Android tablet free w/one-time $20 copay. Free shipping. Call Maxsip Telecom! 1-833-758-3892

Inflation is at 40 year highs. Interest rates are way up. Credit Cards. Medical Bills. Car Loans. Do you have $10k or more in debt? Call National Debt Relief to find out how to pay off your debt for significantly less than what you owe! Free quote: 1-877-592-3616

Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare Cancellation

ExpertsOver $50,000,000 in timeshare debt & fees cancelled in 2019. Get free info package & learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. 833-308-1971

DIRECTV Stream - Carries the most local MLB Games! Choice Package $89.99/mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devices at once. HBO Max included for 3 mos (w/ Choice Package or higher.) No contract or hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-859-0405

Are you a pet owner? Do you want to get up to 100% back on vet bills? Physicians Mutual Insurance Company has pet coverage that can help! Call 1-844774-0206 to get a free quote or visit insurebarkmeow. com/ads

Diagnosed with lung cancer & 65+? You may qualify for a substantial cash award. No obligation! We've recovered millions. Let us help! Call 24/7 1-877707-5707

My Caring Plan has helped thousands of families find senior living. Our trusted, local advisors help find solutions to your unique needs at no cost to you. Call 866-511-1799

MID ATLANTIC COMMUNITY PAPERS ASSOCIATION CLASSIFIED NETWORK (MACNET)

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Become a Published Author. We want to Read Your Book! Dorrance Publishing-Trusted by Authors Since 1920 Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution Call for Your Free Author`s Guide 1-866-482-1576 or visit dorranceinfo. com/macnet

Donate your car, truck, boat, RV and more to support our veterans! Schedule a FAST, FREE vehicle pickup and receive a top tax deduction! Call Veteran Car Donations at 1-877-327-0686 today!

Replace your roof with the best looking and longest lasting material – steel from Erie Metal Roofs! Three styles and multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer - $500 Discount + Additional 10% off install (for military, health workers & 1st responders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs: 1-855-338-4807

AUTO INSURANCE

Looking for auto insurance? Find great deals on the right auto insurance to suit your needs. Call today for a free quote! 866-924-2397

BUILDING MATERIALS Metal Roofing & Siding For Houses, Barns, Sheds etc, 36" Coverage, Painted $2.35 LF, Bare $1.45 to $1.70 LF, Rainbow $1.35 LF, Sold As Seconds Made in Ephrata, Pa 717-445-5222

FREE OFFER

FREE high speed internet for those that qualify. Government program for recipients of select programs incl. Medicaid, SNAP, Housing Assistance, WIC, Veterans Pension, Survivor Benefits, Lifeline, Tribal. 15 GB internet service. Bonus offer: Android tablet FREE with one-time $20 copay. Free shipping & handling. Call Maxsip Telecom today! 1-833-516-2829

GENERAL SERVICES

Switch and save up to $250/year on your talk, text and data. No contract and no hidden fees. Unlimited talk and text with flexible data plans. Premium nationwide coverage. 100% U.S. based customer service. For more information, call 1-888-684-1169

HEALTH/MEDICAL DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-877-553-1891 www. dental50plus.com/macnet #6258

DIAGNOSED WITH LUNG CANCER? You may qualify for a substantial cash award - even with smoking history. NO obligation! We've recovered millions. Let us help!! Call 24/7, 1-888-650-9135

Stroke and Cardiovascular disease are leading causes of death, according to the American Heart Association. Screenings can provide peace of mind or early detection! Contact Life Line Screening to schedule your screening. Special offer - 5 screenings for just $149. Call 1-866-518-8391

Don’t let the stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-844317-5246

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC home standby generator $0 Money Down + Low

Monthly Payment Options Request a FREE Quote –Call now before the next power outage: 1-855-4657624

Safe Step. North America ’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-833-356-1954

CLASSIFIEDS

The Generac PWRcell, a solar plus battery storage system. SAVE money, reduce your reliance on the grid, prepare for power outages and power your home. Full installation services available. $0 Down Financing Option. Request a FREE, no obligation, quote today. Call 1-866-783-0292

The bathroom of your dreams for as little as $149/ month! BCI Bath & Shower. Many options available. Quality materials & professional installation. Senior & Military Discounts Available. Limited Time Offer - FREE virtual in-home consultation now and SAVE 15%! Call Today! 1-877-540-2780

MISCELLANEOUS

Are you a pet owner? Do you want to get up to 100% back on Vet Bills? Physicians Mutual Insurance Company has pet coverage that can help! Call 1-866314-0584 to get a free quote or visit insurebarkmeow. com/macnet

DIRECTV OVER INTERNET - Get your favorite live TV, sports and local channels. 99% signal reliability! CHOICE Package, $84.99/mo for 12 months. HBO Max and Premium Channels included for 3 mos (w/ CHOICE Package or higher.) No annual contract, no hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866629-6086

DISH TV $64.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo Expires 1/21/24. 1-866-590-5561

Need IRS Relief $10K - $125K+ Get Fresh Start or Forgiveness Call 1-877-705-1472 Monday through Friday 7AM-5PM PST

IMPORTANT! PLEASE NOTE!!! Check the email address you have on your ad to make sure it is as shown. Krmiller1965@yahoo.com. Please let us know if you had the incorrect email address.

WANTED

BUYING CLASSIC CARS, TRUCKS, SUVs **American and Foreign** Any Condition. Buying entire car collections. $$PAYING CA$H$$ Please call 717-577-8206 Krmiller1965@yahoo.com

WANTED! MOTORCYCLES! ANTIQUE AND CLASSIC. Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha, Triumph, BSA, and other foreign models. $$PAYING CA$H$$ 717-5778206 Krmiller1965@yahoo.com

MARYLAND STATEWIDE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING NETWORK

FOR SALE

Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC home standby generator. $0 Money Down + Low Monthly Payment Options. Request a FREE Quote. Call now before the next power outage: 1-855-993-0969

HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICES BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Superior quality bath and shower systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call Now! 877-738-0991.

MISC. SERVICES

DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-855-337-5228 www. dental50plus.com/MDDC#6258

FREE high-speed internet for those that qualify. Government program for recipients of select programs incl. Medicaid, SNAP, Housing Assistance, WIC, Veterans Pension, Survivor Benefits, Lifeline, Tribal. 15 GB internet service. Bonus offer: Android tablet FREE with one-time $20 copay. Free shipping & handling. Call Maxsip Telecom today! 1-888-592-5957

PETS/PET SUPPLIES

Are you a pet owner? Do you want to get up to 100% back on Vet Bills? Physicians Mutual Insurance Company has pet coverage that can help! Call 1-888928-1656 to get a free quote or visit insurebarkmeow. com/mddc

VEHICLES WANTED

DONATE YOUR CAR/TRUCK/RV - Lutheran Mission Society of MD Compassion Place ministries help local families with food, clothing, counseling. Tax deductible. MVA licensed #W1044. 410-228-8437 www.CompassionPlace.org

BELTON from Page 1

cers faced decertification due to their inability to schedule time at other firing ranges to practice and requalify to use firearms. Metro police officers are required to recertify their firearm credentials for the District, Maryland, and Virginia, meeting those jurisdictions specific qualifications.

A presentation, “Approve Project to Build a Metro Transit Police Firearms Training Range,” was made to Metro’s board of directors on November 9, 2006, and the board ultimately approved it. A range master was selected to manage the facility.

BELTON’S CHARGE

Belton said her road to success at WMATA had humble beginnings.

“I am a 1991 graduate of Eastern High School,” she said. “Before I joined the Metro Police Department, I worked in construction and for a bank.”

Belton said working in law enforcement was a career goal and explored other agencies before signing up with Metro.

“I decided to become a police officer for Metro because I like the work and the challenges presented,” she said. “Metro is a different type of agency because it is tri-jurisdictional, and an officer had to meet the qualifications and follow the laws in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. I also like Metro because I find it to be family oriented.”

DEAF STUDENTS from Page 1

School for Negroes, a separate school building where Black Deaf students learned from an entirely different curriculum under dismal conditions for two years.

Despite Kendall School and Kendall Division II School for Negroes eventually becoming one, neither Kenneth Miller nor his Black Deaf peers received their high school diplomas as did their white classmates. To right this wrong, Gallaudet University recently honored the members of what has now become known as the Kendall 24. During a ceremony, Gallaudet’s Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center conferred their high school diplomas.

In addition to Kenneth Miller, the following people received honors, some of them posthumously: Mary Arnold; Janice Boyd Ruffin; Irene Brown; Darrell Chatman; Robbie Cheatham; Dorothy Howard Miller; Robert Lee Jones; Richard King Jr.; Rial Loftis; Deborah Moton; William Matthews; Donald Mayfield; Robert Milburn; Willie Moore Jr.; Clifford Ogburn; Diana Pearson Hill;

Belton said there is no typical day in managing the range. There are days when the primary activity is training officers and special officers. She said it is her responsibility to train Metro’s Special Response Team, which is the agency’s version of SWAT. There are also other days when she completes paperwork for the agency and for the three jurisdictions in which Metro officers operate.

Belton has made it a personal and professional goal to be able to do whatever is needed to operate the range.

“If someone is missing, I fill in on the job,” she said. “If a weapon is broken or doesn’t work, I make it my business to fix it.”

Belton said she is the only woman and the only Black person, as far as she knows, working as a range master for a law enforcement agency in the District, Maryland or Virginia.

On July 27, Belton was recognized by WMATA’s board at its monthly meeting for her outstanding work as the range master. Metro’s general manager and CEO Randy Clarke echoed the board’s sentiments.

“She has been great at Metro,” Clarke said. “I find her to be professional and good at what she does. Belton embodies the idea of servant leadership and I think the Metro board made the right decision in hiring her for that position.”

WI

@JamesWrightJr10

Doris Richardson; Julian Richardson; Charles Robinson; Christine Robinson; Norman Robinson; Barbara Shorter; and Dorothy Watkins Jennings.

As Kenneth Miller's younger sister Carol Miller recalled, the July 22 ceremony at Gallaudet’s Kellogg Conference Center opened up a flood of emotions in her older brother that he kept bottled up throughout his childhood and adolescence.

“I wanted to be joyful. At the same time, there was an underlying anger [at not] understanding why something like this had to happen like that in the first place and why it took so long to be reconciled," said Carol Miller, the Miller family historian who spoke to the Informer on behalf of Kenneth Miller.

"I’ve never seen my brother react emotionally so strongly, other than when his mother [Louise B. Miller] died,” she added. “It was distressing to know that he had been holding that in all of these years and that something like this would make an impact on him.”

A MOTHER'S FIGHT

ments he fought for decades.

“Tommie was here for Black people in Prince George’s county when that's all we had,” said former Maryland State Delegate and Prince George’s County Councilmember Jolene Ivey.

The day before his funeral, the former Glenarden City Councilman laid in state in the lobby of the County Administration Building in Upper Marlboro, not far from his legendary estate.

In an interview with the Informer, Judge Alexander Williams, the first Black State’s Attorney elected in Prince George’s, gave praise to Broadwater while he was lying in state.

“Tommie was an excellent community leader, a trailblazer, everyone admired him and we are all honoring him

FOR EQUITY

Hundreds of people, including Miller and five other living members of the Kendall 24, along with their family members, and supporters of their deceased classmates attended the historic ceremony.

Others in attendance that day included family members of Mary E. Britt, Rubye S. Frye, Robert Robinson, and Bessie Z. Thornton, four Black teachers from Kendall Division II School for Negroes.

D.C. Councilmember Zachary Parker (D-Ward 5); Dr. Monique M. Chism, the Smithsonian Institute’s under secretary for education; and Christopher D. Johnson, president of the D.C. Area Black Deaf Advocates also made appearances.

In a proclamation, Gallaudet’s board of trustees declared July 22 as “Kendall 24 Day” and apologized for the univer-

today,” he said at the County Administration Building.

‘A BETTER PEOPLE BECAUSE TOMMIE BROADWATER CAME OUR WAY’

In interviews with a number of people, many talked about his love for people from all walks of life. At the funeral, his legacy was evident, as the foyer of the church was filled with a diverse array of individuals, just as his constituent offices and businesses were in past decades.

In a video shown prior to the service, Broadwater talked about how important direct advocacy has been in achieving his goals.

“We’ve had a relationship with all the governors,” he said in the video, dressed immaculately in a business suit (Broadwater was also celebrated for his style). “We were taken upstairs to talk. That’s been so important for Bowie, for Morgan, and our HBCUs.”

Elder Bobby Henry of City of Praise Ministries began the service by reading Psalm 23 and the Rev. Henry P. Davis offered the opening prayer.

“God, we thank you for this gift of life. Thank you for loaning us Tommie Broadwater,” said the First Baptist Church of Highland Park pastor during the opening prayer. “We are a better people because Tommie Broadwater came our way. We don’t mourn his death; but we celebrate his life.”

Some of the condolence letters that came in were from Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks

sity’s role in “perpetuating the historic inequity, systemic marginalization, and the grave injustice committed against the Black Deaf community.”

The board also committed to building a memorial to Louise B. Miller and others who fought on behalf of Black Deaf children. A fundraising campaign for that memorial, named Louise B. Miller Pathways and Garden, will start within the coming months.

“I hope the memorial is a place someone can walk through and leave behind all the things that people are doing and saying [to] have a conversation about what is actually important in this life, like how you treat other people,” Carol Miller said. “Once you finish walking through it, you can get to an understanding. When people go through this memorial, I hope it’s for self-reflection.” WI

Read more on www.washingtoninformer.com

(D), U.S. Rep. Kweisi Mfume (D–Maryland), U.S. Rep. Glenn Ivey (D–Maryland ) and Maryland Governor Wes Moore (D).

“As a young man going through the Civil Rights era, Tommie Broadwater took the baton forward,” said Congressman Mfume, who formerly led the NAACP. “I was honored to be with my friend one last time at a tribute. As always, he looked great.”

Congressman Ivey said the senator’s life “was filled with tremendous experiences, love and compassion that touched the lives of countless individuals,” in a statement read at the funeral.

“His political counsel was valued by numerous politicians, including me, and he provided wise advice to future leaders,” Rep. Ivey continued. “His compassion will never be forgotten, and his legacy will touch future generations. May he rest in power.”

The Maryland General Assembly sent a memorial and a proclamation was made by the Town of Fairmount Heights.

Former Prince George’s County Executive Jack Johnson likened Broadwater to one of the most celebrated athletes of all time.

”He was the Muhammad Ali of Prince George’s County politics,” Johnson told the Informer. “He was a fighter for the people. He loved the people, he worked for them and he made a difference for so many.”

At-Large Prince George’s County Councilman Calvin Hawkins called him the Marion Barry of Prince George’s County. With the familial ties of Prince George’s and D.C., and Barry affectionately referred to as the District’s “Mayor for life,” Hawkins’ comment resonated as the highest of praises that can be bestowed on a community servant.

Delegate Nicole Williams (D– District 22) ) acknowledged Broadwater’s role as a barrier maker who informed her political journey.

“I wouldn't be in the position I am in today had it not been for what he did for our county and our community,” Del. Williams said as she was leaving the service.

Alsobrooks, who is running for a Senate seat, also weighed in on Broadwater’s legacy.

“It says a lot that Senator Broadwater was so beloved by his community,” the current County Executive said. “He was a mentor and a friend to so many of us. He was also a barometer. He gave us the truth about what was going on and needed in the community.”

The printed program can be viewed on Tuesday at fbcglenarden.org/funeralprogram. WI

BROADWATER from Page 1

5 Family and friends attend the funeral of Tommie Broadwater at the First Baptist Church of Glenarden on August 1. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

these contemporary acts of white supremacy and hatred are also exposed here. The second site is the Roberts Temple Church of God in Christ in Chicago, where as many as 125,000 people attended Emmett Till's visitation and funeral services, documented in the searing photographs and news coverage. The third is the Tallahatchie County Second District Courthouse in Sumner, Mississippi, where Roy Bryant and J.W. Milam were tried in a segregated courtroom and acquitted by an all-white jury after just over an hour of deliberation. Months later they both admitted their guilt in a paid magazine interview. No one was held accountable for Emmett Till's murder, but together these three sites are a public, permanent reminder that the truth

BAILEY from Page 30

opportunities to run ice wagons, push banana carts and sell peanuts among their own people. Foreigners who have not studied econom-

MARSHALL from Page 30

Board said in a statement to USA Today. "Unequivocally, slavery was an atrocity that cannot be justified by examples of African Americans' agency and resistance during their enslavement."

While the new guidelines still allow teachers to provide instruction about Black history in schools, the Board opted to do so in a way that the NAACP says "convey a sanitized and dishonest telling of the history of slavery in America."

These latest changes result from the state's Stop Woke Act, enacted in July 2022. The law says discussions about race must be taught in an "objective manner" and should not be "used to indoctrinate or persuade students to a particular point of view." It also states that students should not feel guilty for actions taken in the past by people of their same race or origin. This would not be necessary if the same history they are whitewashing focused on the stories of whites, such as John Brown, who held anti-slavery views and was a leading figure in the abolitionist movement. Our public schools should not protect the interest of one race at the expense of another.

could not be buried.

During a week when the Florida State Board of Education approved new public school curriculum standards to teach children that enslaved people received a "personal benefit" from slavery, this message about the truth was not lost on anyone at the ceremony. President Biden said: "At a time when there are those who seek to ban books, bury history, we're making it clear — crystal, crystal clear — while darkness and denialism can hide much, they erase nothing. They can hide, but they erase nothing. We can't just choose to learn what we want to know. We have to learn what we should know. We should know about our country. We should know everything: the good, the bad, the truth of who we are as a nation. That's what great nations do. … Only with truth

ics, but have studied negroes take up this business and grow rich."

The advice and guidance provided by these master teachers and others have just as much relevance in 2023 as it did when given. If we

The true story of the Black experience in America has always been shallow, filled with omissions in history books. The desire to develop a watered-down version of the truth is not just limited to Florida, and it predates the Stop Woke Act. Protecting the feelings of white students and their parents does not justify denying Black students the uplifting and encouraging experience of knowing their ancestors' full stories and contributions. For example, when presenting the painful facts in depth regarding the transatlantic slave trade, it illustrates to a Black student the strength, courage, and resilience of enslaved Africans from which they are an extension. That important connection for all Black students gets lost in the skimmedover teaching of valuable history. The long list of Black massacres is unknown to most middle and high school students today. The Orange County Regional History Center in Florida called the 1920 Ocoee Massacre "the largest incident of voting-day violence in United States history."

For high school students, the DeSantis-controlled Board of Education will now require events like the Ocoee Massacre to be depicted as an "act of violence

comes healing, justice, repair, and another step forward toward forming a more perfect union." And as Vice President Harris put it: "Today, there are those in our nation who would prefer to erase or even rewrite the ugly parts of our past; those who attempt to teach that enslaved people benefitted from slavery; those who insult us in an attempt to gaslight us, who try to divide our nation with unnecessary debates. Let us not be seduced into believing that somehow we will be better if we forget. We will be better if we remember. We will be stronger if we remember. Because we all here know: It is only by understanding and learning from our past that we can continue to work together to build a better future." The truth must be brought to light. WI

don't follow their advice and guidance as a group of people we will never be in a position to effectively promote and protect the rights of people of African descent in this country and the world. WI

perpetrated against and by African Americans. From the DeSantis version of the massacre, students may never know that the massacre was a white mob attack on Black residents in northern Ocoee. The motive was to prevent Black citizens from voting in the 1920 presidential election. Most of the Black-owned buildings and residences were burned to the ground, and approximately 30 to 35 Blacks were killed.

"Most of the people living in Ocoee don't even know that this happened there," said Pamela Schwartz, chief curator of the Orange County Regional History Center.

Sadly, a culture of silence existed. For almost a century, many descendants of survivors were not aware of the massacre that occurred in their hometown. The memories of the victims from 1920 don't deserve to be forgotten and then misrepresented. In 1920, the culture of silence concerning Blacks came out of fear. A traumatized community may never heal when racially driven politicians and appointees use their power and positions to perpetuate the white denial of the truth behind the sometimes-uncomfortable Black American experience. WI

MORIAL from Page 31

WILLIAMS from Page 31 past wrongs are canceled, and for women, our right to choose what happens with our bodies — all of that has happened just over the past few months. Just think about what will happen in the coming years with any one of the current presidential candidates challenging Joe Biden, who is trying his best to put us back choose the human race over the nuclear race."

His historic presidential runs were not mere campaigns; they were seismic shifts in the political landscape. Jackson ran with purpose, with passion, and with an unyielding belief in the possibility of change. Finishing third in 1984 and second in 1988, Jackson shattered the glass ceiling for future leaders like Barack Obama.

The National Urban League and the Rainbow PUSH Coalition share a common mission. We both strive to empower African Americans and other marginalized communities, promote economic and social justice, and fight for equal opportunities for all. Our organizations have long been intertwined in this shared mission, working side by side to bring about meaningful change.

Jackson founded People United to Serve Humanity – Operation

JACKSON from Page 31

it), without talking about how it is but a first step to what is needed. On health care, they offer traditional nostrums that won't offend insurance companies and Big Pharma — and won't take us any closer to affordable and comprehensive health care for all. Systemic racism or even the Supreme Court's assault on civil rights goes unmentioned.

They embrace the impossible mission of policing the world, calling for even more money for the military while demanding deficit reductions. That puts Social Security and Medicare on the chopping block, which they imply but don't admit, promising not to cut the benefits of those already or near retirement. Fifty-five and under look out.

Their remedy is not new ideas, but "bipartisanship." Bipartisanship polls well, but consider

on a sensible course to the things our nation professes to stand for. We have people we once thought to be friends and to have a concern about our human rights now toying with giving aid and comfort to the enemies of our people. Whether or not they carry out their dangerous plans, we need to remind them of the negative impact their present course of actions will have on the 2024 pres-

PUSH – in Chicago in 1971 to promote the employment of Black Americans by the companies operating in their communities, and to nurture Black-owned businesses. The National Rainbow Coalition was a political movement that grew from Jackson's 1984 Presidential campaign. Jackson merged the two organizations in 1996.

For more than five decades, Rainbow PUSH has served as a blueprint for multicultural coalition building. Jackson advanced the idea that elected office was not just a position of power, but a platform to advance social and economic justice. He gave voice to progressive issues and served as a relentless catalyst for change, creating productive tension that spurred action.

In his retirement statement, Rev. Jackson said, "I have been doing this stuff for 64 years... I've had a good run." Indeed, he has. His life's work has brought about significant change and progress, and his legacy will continue to inspire and guide

dealing with a Republican Party that overwhelmingly believes that the election in 2020 was stolen, that Donald Trump is innocent, that "wokeness" is the greatest threat to America, that taxes should never be raised, that we spend too much on education and too little on the military, that voter suppression and political gerrymandering is an imperative, that guns should be free and women's bodies should be regulated.

We already suffer from the overwhelming bipartisan support for giving more money to the Pentagon, despite the fact that it is the greatest source of waste, fraud and abuse in the federal government. There is a bipartisan consensus not to move to Medicare for All, which is the only way for Americans to have good health care they can afford. There's bipartisan support for the "all of the above"

idential, senatorial and House results. You know who they are. As much as Dr. Cornel West has usually been on the right side of issues, we question his intention now. Sen. Joe Mansion has always been suspect and has failed us at crucial times. I don't think any of us can explain Joe Kennedy — so spread the news when somebody figures it out!

WI

us.

As we navigate this transition, we welcome his successor, Frederick Douglass Haynes III, a man of equal passion and commitment. Haynes, a longtime civil rights activist and former president of the National Baptist Convention USA, is poised to carry the torch forward. Haynes has pledged to work tirelessly to build on the legacy of Rev. Jackson and to ensure that the Rainbow PUSH Coalition remains a powerful force for justice and equality. The National Urban League is proud to support him in this mission.

In the spirit of Rev. Jackson, let us continue to carry the torch of justice, to push for a world where everyone, regardless of their race or background, has an equal opportunity to thrive. Because, as Rev. Jackson has shown us, when we fight for justice and equality, we don't just change the world, we create a new one.

WI

energy policy that is contributing directly to accelerating and catastrophic climate change. Their prospective presidential candidate offers not new leadership but business as usual.

Joe Manchin, who grew rich in the coal business, primarily uses his Senate seat to protect subsidies to coal and big oil, and to impede investment in renewable energy. He embraced the filibuster to block electoral reform to limit big money in politics.

"Common sense"? No, just more political nonsense. "No Labels"? No, just no clue and no way out. Billionaires have the money to create a party. Pollsters and message gurus can figure out how to package it. Venal politicians can test to see how they can profit from it. But don't fall for it. This is just another beltway bandit con job that the country can't afford.

WI