The Washington Informer - April 20, 2022 by The Washington Informer

WINNER OF THREE SOCIETY OF PROFESSIONAL JOURNALISTS D.C. AWARDS The WI Sustainability Supplement Center Section

Councilmember McDuffie Fights to Remain in Attorney General’s Race

Vol. 57, No. 27 • April 21 - 27, 2022

James Wright WI Staff Writer D.C. Councilman OR Council member Kenyan McDuffie plans to fight a ruling by the city's Board of Elections which concluded he cannot continue his campaign for the June 21 Democratic primary nomination for attorney general because he lacks the credentials for the position based on the law. “Let me be clear, today’s ruling was an attack on our democracy and on working people in D.C.,” McDuffie said in a statement. “Unelected bureaucrats, prompted by a frivolous challenge from a corporate lawyer, who is funding his campaign with the millions he made defending powerful interests like Facebook and Amazon, telling a lifelong District resident who has spent his entire life fighting for working families that he’s ‘not qualified’ is exactly what it looks like. We’re taking this ruling to the courts where we expect

MC DUFFIE Page 44

5 Mayor Muriel Bowser and some of her supporters march in the Emancipation Day parade on April 16. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

HU President Frederick Reviews Milestones as Retirement Looms

The Stark Reality of Parents’ COVID Deaths – Grandparents Step In

But Students and Faculty Offer Wide Range of Perspectives

Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer A newly-published report reveals that 200,000 children have reportedly lost parents to COVID-19. And as young orphans attempt to cope with such tragic losses, many grandparents have assumed the role of primary caregivers. The Covid Collaborative coalition estimated that about 167,000 American children lost a parent or primary caregiver to the pandemic, with much higher rates among communities of color. However, researchers at Imperial College London put the number of children who have lost one or both

Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

5 Cassandra Gentry, grandmother raising two grandchildren.

COVID Page 14 (Photo courtesy Generations United)

Since recently announcing his retirement, Howard University [HU] President Dr. Wayne A.I. Frederick has been vocal about what the university will accomplish prior to his departure, particularly as it relates to upgrading campus amenities, improving student experiences and stabilizing HUs finances. During a recent State of the University address, Fred-

TRANSITION Page 27

SPELLING BEE Page 12 Celebrating 57 Years of Service / Serving More Than 50,000 Readers Throughout The Metropolitan Area

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Around the Region........................................................................4-11 Prince George's County........................................................... 12-13 Business.......................................................................................... 14-15 National..........................................................................................16-18 International.....................................................................................20 Health............................................................................................ 22-23 Education..................................................................................... 24-26 OpEd.............................................................................................. 29-31

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PUBLISHER Denise Rolark Barnes STAFF D. Kevin McNeir, Senior Editor Ron Burke, Advertising/Marketing Director Shevry Lassiter, Photo Editor Lafayette Barnes, IV, Editor, WI Bridge DC Jamila Bey, Digital Content Editor Austin Cooper, Our House Editor Desmond Barnes, Social Media Stategist ZebraDesigns.net, Design & Layout Mable Neville, Bookkeeper Angie Johnson, Office Mgr./Circulation Angel Johnson, Admin. Asst. REPORTERS Stacy Brown (Senior Writer), Sam P.K. Collins, Aja Beckham, Ed Hill, Will Ford (Prince George’s County Editor), Hamil Harris, 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

4 APRIL 21 - 27, 2022

wi hot topics

COMPILED BY WI SENIOR EDITOR D. KEVIN MCNEIR AND WI STAFF WRITER WILLIAM J. FORD

Maryland Primary Election Finally Set for July 19 The Maryland Court of Appeals ruled a legislative map approved by the General Assembly remains constitutional and will be used for this year’s July 19 primary election. Prospective candidates had to file by Friday, April 15. The state constitution requires candidates for senator or delegate to reside in a specific district for at least six months. However, for this year’s election the court ruled a candidate must establish residency in a district by May 8. “The court . . . determined that the plan enacted into law on January 27, 2022, is consistent with the requirements of the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of Maryland,” Chief Judge Joseph M. Getty wrote in an opinion after a hearing April 13. The ruling occurred less than two weeks after Gov. Larry Hogan signed a new congressional map into law. The general election will take place on Nov. 8. WI

Bowser Recognize National Reentry Month with Landmark Investment Initiative

Norton Calls on Senate to Pass D.C. Statehood Bill as Federal Tax Filing Deadline Ends

On Monday, April 18, Mayor Muriel Bowser and District leaders recognized National Reentry Month with the announcement that 200 District residents, identified by the National Institute for Criminal Justice Reform as being at highest risk of involvement in gun violence in the District, have been assigned a multidisciplinary team to include a Credible Contact, a Pathfinder and a member of the Mayor Bowser’s Cabinet. The Mayor’s FY23 budget proposes a $1.7 million investment in a Life Coach initiative that will build on these efforts by providing approximately 20 coaches who will offer high-quality care coordination services, needs assessments and coordination with outreach teams to execute individual success plans. The initiative will be led by Linda Harllee Harper, director, Office of Gun Violence Prevention. Other members of the mayor’s staff who will lend their expertise include: Delano Hunter, director, DC Department of Parks and Recreation; Lamont Carey, director, Mayor’s Office on Returning Citizen Affairs; and Paul Winestock, director, Saving Our Next Generation. WI

Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), one day after the federal tax filing deadline, called on the Senate to pass her District of Columbia statehood bill. She noted that D.C. pays more federal taxes per capita than any state and more federal taxes than 23 states but D.C. residents have no voting representation in Congress. “Yesterday, many D.C. residents rushed to mail checks to the IRS before the filing deadline to keep our federal government running but still do not have voting representation in Congress,” Norton said. “‘No taxation without representation,’ the slogan that gave birth to the nation itself, should apply to the citizens of the nation’s capital. The House has passed my D.C. statehood bill twice, President Biden supports it, and today, I call on the Senate to pass the bill and finally give the same rights other Americans have to the residents of our nation’s capital.” The House has passed the D.C. statehood bill twice in history, in 2020 and on April 22, 2021. WI

Biden Administration to Appeal Ruling Lifting COVID Mask Mandate on Travel On April 19, the Biden administration said it plans to appeal a federal judge’s ruling that struck down COVID-19 mask mandates on planes and other forms of public transportation. “The Department of Justice and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC] disagree with the district court’s decision and will appeal,” the DOJ said in a statement, “subject to CDC’s conclusion that the order remains necessary for public health.” “If CDC concludes that a mandatory order remains necessary for the public’s health after that assessment, the Department of Justice will appeal the district court’s decision,” the DOJ said. On Monday, Judge Kathryn Kimball Mizelle of

U.S. District Court in Tampa, Florida, ruled that the CDC overstepped its bounds by mandating that masks be worn on planes, trains, buses and other forms of public transportation. Mizelle was appointed to the federal bench in 2020 by former President Donald Trump. The Transportation Security Administration said later April 18 that it would not enforce mask-wearing rules, in accordance with Mizelle’s decision. The CDC, meanwhile, maintained its recommendation that people wear masks on public transit. The DOJ said April 19 that it “continues to believe that the order requiring masking in the transportation corridor is a valid exercise of the authority Congress has given CDC to protect the public health.” “That is an important authority the Department will continue the work to preserve,” the agency’s statement said. WI

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Ward 7 Mother Continues Search for Home Suitable for Children with Disabilities Andree Harris Serves as Adoptive Single-Parent to Eight; Three with Mental or Physical Challenges Aja Beckham WI Contributing Writer Families with a disabled child remain more likely to rent homes than those with non-disabled children. And while there appears to be an increase in the proportion of families purchasing homes, the number of those with a disabled child becoming homeowners has remained unchanged. One challenge which disproportionately impacts those with a disabled child: accessibility barriers in the rental housing market. The Equal Rights Center, a D.C. fair-housing group, reported that residents with ailments face significant physical and digital challenges when looking for housing, despite federal regulations passed decades ago designed to protect their rights. Study participants reported potential violations of the Fair Housing Act or the Americans With Disabilities Act at 16 of 23 D.C.

properties built between 2011 and 2018. There are also accessibility challenges in the rental housing market that include: listing sites that fail to work with screen-readers for the blind as they attempt to complete online interest forms and contact leasing agents; and insufficient clearance spaces for the physically-challenged during in-person visits. These and other obstacles have become commonplace for one family in Southeast who currently rents a six-bedroom home in Hillcrest which fortunately includes a wheelchair ramp and an elevator. Nonetheless, the family matriarch, Andree Harris, 58, remains diligent in her efforts to provide a suitable home as the adoptive, single-parent to eight children – three of whom have intellectual and/or physical disabilities. The children’s biological parents, including two with whom she’s related, have either died or currently struggle with drug addiction, homelessness

or physical disabilities. Harris serves as the guardian for six youth, ranging from 8 to 14, and two adults, 21 and 26, both of whom she raised and still supports.

THE JOURNEY BEGINS

In 1996, Harris began the adoption process for an infant boy diagnosed with shaken baby syndrome – a serious brain injury that occurs as a result of an infant or toddler being forcefully shaken. Now 26, he has cerebral palsy and uses a motorized wheelchair. In 2000, Harris began the adoption process, which she completed, for a six-year-old girl, now 21, who had been exposed to cocaine while in the womb. In 2008, Harris began caring for an infant born with a condition referred to as failure to thrive. She adopted the child, a girl, at the age of 4. Now 14, she has heart and lung disease, must use a G-tube for feeding and has hearing loss. In 2009, Harris adopted a 2-year-old, now 13. A year later she opened her home to a 13-month-old, now 12. Neither have ailments. In 2013, a 14-month-old born with failure to thrive and a rare genetic disorder called Nicolaides-Baraitser Syndrome, which causes dysmorphic facial and joint features, was adopted. Now, the 14-year-old also has a G-tube for self-feeding in her stomach and hearing loss. In 2014, a 13-month-old, now 8, joined the family. Finally, in 2021, Harris welcomed an 11-year-old into her home.

once faced alcohol and drug addiction as a means of coping. She took her first drink at 8, began to smoke marijuana at 13 and turned to cocaine at 17. “I recovered from addiction 31 years ago and God gave me a chance to be a mother again in my 40s,” said Harris, an evangelist and former co-pastor of Out From Under Ministries located in Hyattsville, Maryland. Her biological children, members of her extended family and a team of registered nurses collectively assist in care and transportation. Her adopted children find community at Just 4 Us Foundation, a creative arts organization

with accessible activities and services for children and adults with special needs that encourages positive community involvement. Since Harris launched the Foundation in 2009, it has served over 800 participants, according to its website. Recently, some of the Foundation’s younger beneficiaries participated in an anti-bullying video.

FAMILY SEARCHES FOR A HOME TO CALL THEIR OWN

Together, the blended family wants to find a home to call their

WARD 7 Page 34

BIOLOGICAL MOM SAYS ADOPTIONS PROVIDED SECOND CHANCE

5 In 1996, Andree Harris began the adoption process for an infant boy. Early on, the child was diagnosed with shaken baby syndrome – a serious brain injury that occurs as a result of an infant or toddler being forcefully shaken. Now 26, he has cerebral palsy and uses a motorized wheelchair. (Courtesy photo)

Harris, the biological mother of two, ages 40 and 36, described her parenting as “alright.” But she felt that she’d been given a second chance to get it right as an adoptive parent. A victim of sexual abuse, she

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APRIL 21 - 27, 2022 5

AROUND THE REGION

black facts

first American of African ancestry to be a mechanical and electrical engineer after the Civil War and holder of more than 50 patents, is born in Columbus, Ohio. 1872 – Lawyer Charlotte Ray (below) is admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of the District of Columbia, becoming the first Black woman admitted to practice before the District Supreme Court. 2007 – Barbara Hillary becomes the first African American female to reach the North Pole.

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1884 – The Medico-Chirurgical Society of Washington D.C., the first African American medical society, is founded.

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Annual cost of living increases

1917 – Iconic jazz singer Ella Fitzgerald is born in Newport News, Virginia. 1944 – The United Negro College Fund is founded. 1950 – Chuck Cooper is selected by the Boston Celtics in the second round of the NBA draft, becoming the first African American drafted by an NBA team.

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APRIL 26

1892 – Inventor Sarah Boone patents an improved version of the ironing board. 1984 – Renowned jazz bandleader and pianist Count Basie dies of pancreatic cancer at 79 in Hollywood, Florida.

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APRIL 21

1853 – Harriet Tubman begins her work with the Underground Railroad, a network of antislavery activists who helped slaves escape from the South. 1971 – The Supreme Court rules that busing can be used to integrate schools. 1984 – Influential cabaret singer Mabel Mercer dies in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, at 84. 1986 – Michael Jordan sets the single-game playoff scoring record with 63 points in a double-overtime loss to the Boston Celtics.

APRIL 21

1966 – Milton Lee Olive III, a U.S. Army soldier who sacrificed himself to save others by smothering a live grenade, posthumously becomes the first African American Medal of Honor recipient of the Vietnam War. 1974 – Lee Elder becomes the first African American professional golfer to qualify for the Masters tournament. 2003 – Singer/songwriter and civil rights activist Nina Simone dies of breast cancer at her home in the south of France at 70.

APRIL 27

1903 – Maggie L. Walker is named president of Richmond's St. Luke Bank and Trust Company, becoming the first Black woman to head a bank. 1927 – Coretta Scott King, civil rights leader and wife of Martin Luther King Jr., is born in Heiberger, Alabama. 1945 – Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright August Wilson (bottom) is born in Pittsburgh. 1971 – Samuel Lee Gravely Jr. becomes the first Black American to be selected as an admiral in the U.S. Navy. WI

APRIL 22

1922 – Famed jazz bassist Charles Mingus is born in Nogales, Arizona.

APRIL 23

1856 – Inventor Granville T. Woods, the

6 APRIL 21 - 27, 2022

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Time’s Up for Clarence Thomas Being on the Supreme Court Donald M Suggs

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He’s long been no friend to Black America, but now questions about Thomas’ ethics have lowered trust in the court and undermined the democracy and freedom he claims to revere. Clarence Thomas has been a controversial figure since Day One — and it’s time for him to step down from the United States Supreme Court. From the allegations of sexual harassment by Anita Hill and his ethically questionable behavior and connections with his politically active wife, to his commitment to upholding laws that do harm to the Black community, Thomas’ name has long been synonymous with controversy. It began after his nomination in July 1991 to the Supreme Court by President George H.W. Bush. Thomas was selected to replace retiring civil rights icon, and the court’s first African American justice, Thurgood Marshall. Who can forget the contentious confirmation hearing — and Anita Hill’s testimony about alleged sexual harassment — that immediately followed? The controversy also stems from his inexplicable, confusing, and contrarian views on race in America. From his early years to his overall performance during his 30-year tenure on the court, his rulings have justifiably earned strong disdain, even loathing among most Black Americans, as well as many Hispanics and women. The calculation of Republicans at the time, to place a young, reliably conservative Black person in the so-

5 Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas. (Courtesy photo)

called ‘Black Seat’ that was held by liberal justice Thurgood Marshall, for more than 30 years, has proven to exceed the right’s wildest expectations. Thomas (only 43 when he came to the court) has repeatedly supported policies that have helped maintain the status of disenfranchised minority communities. Thomas’ ascendancy to the court has created particularly disastrous consequences for Black America’s aspiration to move forward in American society. His response to criticism, while not unexpected based on his history, still shows an almost pugnacious and unyielding indifference to the plight of Black people in the United States — a condition that has plagued them since the nation’s founding. Now, he will be joined on the Supreme Court by Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson, a proud Black woman, who was confirmed by the Senate despite a wild and disingenuous smear campaign against her by some Republican senators on the Judicial Committee. She is expected to offer a sharp contrast to Thomas’ servile obedience to far right-wing Republican ideology and its racist political dogmas. Remember, Thomas had succeeded a judicial giant on the court, someone who championed equal justice for all under the law during his long years as a Supreme Court Justice. Marshall was even eulogized by conservative Chief Justice William Rehnquist, who wrote, “inscribed above the front entrance of this court building are the words ‘equal justice under the law.’ Surely no individual did more to make these words a reality than Thurgood Marshall.” The Senate confirmed civil rights

litigator Thurgood Marshall as the first African American to serve on the Supreme Court on August 30, 1967, following his nomination by President Lyndon B. Johnson. He had led the NAACP legal team that in 1954 won Brown vs. Board of Education, a historic landmark decision that invalidated the concept of segregated public schools under the 14th Amendment — a constitutional amendment that had been enacted in 1868 after the Civil War, almost exactly a century before. A majority on the Senate Democratic-controlled Judiciary Committee, in a rebuff to the dissenting Southern Senators on the panel, sent their majority approval to the full Senate. They reported that nominee Marshall, “demonstrated those qualities we admire in members of our highest judicial tribunal…along with a balanced approach to controversial and complicated national problems.” In contrast to Clarence Thomas, Judge Jackson embraces her role as a Black person. She proudly and unequivocally said, “It has taken 232 years and 115 prior appointments for a Black woman to be selected to serve on the Supreme Court of the United States, but we’ve made it. We made it — all of us.” Reflecting on the continuing travail of many Black people in the country since they were brought to the U.S. as slaves — but still holding a belief in our drive to continue forward — she quoted poet Maya Angelou: “I am the dream and hope of the future.” The actions of right-wing racists — despite their praise, even adulation — show what they really think about Clarence Thomas and the millions of Americans who look like him. They consider him and his fellow Black Republican Tim Scott, the U.S. Senator from South Carolina, exploitable, as “useful idiots.” Even Thomas, 73, must be concerned about the inevitable future comparison between him, his intellect, his integrity in the past on the bench, and his verbal ability compared to this brilliant, unequivocally Black woman, Ketanji Brown Jackson, only 51. More recently, we have seen some different challenges created by recent revelations about the role of his wife

THOMAS Page 24

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AROUND THE REGION

Ward 5 Residents Express Concerns as Council Primary Looms James Wright WI Staff Writer Ward 5 residents have concerns about the condition of the ward with the D.C. Council primary elections a little over two months away and they want the candidates to talk about issues that concern them the most. “I am very concerned about gentrification,” said Jeff Dawson, who spoke outside of the Giant Food Store located in the Rhode Island Place shopping mall in Northeast. “People can’t afford to live here and seniors who have been here for years are being driven out because it is too expensive.” On June 21, Ward 5 residents will have to choose between former D.C. Councilmember Vincent Orange, advisory neighborhood commissioner Gordon Fletcher, former Bowser administration official Faith Gibson Hubbard, D.C. State Board of Education President Zachary Parker, former advisory neighborhood commissioner Kathy Henderson and political activists Art Lloyd and Gary Johnson to represent the Democratic party in the Nov. 8 general election to be the next ward councilmember. Democratic Ward 5 Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie decided not to run for re-election and to pursue becoming the District’s second elected attorney general. As the campaign proceeds, Ward 5 residents told the Informer they want the candidates to address certain issues they feel affect the quality of life in their neighborhoods. The race occurs as the ward’s demographic evolution continues to change. In 2010, census figures reported Ward 5 having a 76% Black population but by 2021, DC Health Matters revealed the ward’s African-American percentage had dropped to 55%. Additionally, political observers have long considered Ward 5 the area to watch because it has become a micro-version of the city as far as income and racial diversity are concerned and the high level of political engagement that has occurred since Home Rule came into being in 1974. D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser hails from Ward 5 and in one council period during the previous decade, four of the 13 councilmembers, at large mem-

5 Vincent Orange is seeking re-election as the Ward 5 councilmember. (WI File Photo)

bers Vincent Orange, David Grosso and Anita Bonds and ward representative McDuffie, served together constituting the largest bloc in terms of ward residents. Residents articulate a variety of issues Dawson, who has lived in Ward 5 for many years, said he has some apprehension about the ward’s direction. He believes the ward has too many fastfood outlets and “no good sit-down restaurants.” Dawson added that the ward doesn’t have enough Black businesses and those that are operating are fledging and not growing fast enough. Rhonda Dunkins, who also shops at Rhode Island Place, said she doesn’t know who she will vote for in the primary. “I haven’t heard their agendas,” Dunkins said. “I think Vincent is a dinosaur. He needs to move on because the old D.C. is not coming back.” Dunkins said Ward 5 has become overdeveloped. “You see all of these apartment buildings popping up but who is living in these places?” she asked rhetorically. “People need housing in this city and the candidates really need to talk about that." Robert V. Brannum represents single-member district 5E08 as an advisory neighborhood commissioner. He said he would like the candidates to talk more about eliminating homelessness, improving the ward’s schools, fighting crime and controlling traffic. “Our next councilmember really needs to focus on solving the homeless

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problem,” Brannum said. “This is not a Ward 5 issue but a D.C. issue. Public safety has become a problem in the ward. Recently, we have had shootings and carjackings in places like Ivy City/ Trinidad and Montana Avenue. We need a police force that is adequately staffed and spread around the city.” Sydelle Moore serves as an adviso-

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ry neighborhood commissioner for single-member district 5D05. Moore echoed some of Brannum’s concerns regarding crime. “My district is close to Benning Road., N.E.,” she said. “The violent crime in this area can get bad sometimes. We need to get a handle on it because people are trying to raise their

families here.” Moore also said the candidates should talk about how they will deal with the Department of Public Works. “We need trash service on a regular basis,” Moore said. “There is also illegal dumping in my district that needs to stop.” WI @JamesWrightJr10

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Bishop Vashti Murphy-McKenzie, retired Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, delivered the message during Easter Service at Howard Chapel, held on the Main Yard, Sunday, April 17. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

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AROUND THE REGION

D.C. Residents Enlightened by Emancipation Day Events James Wright WI Staff Writer

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federal government for keeping good records on the slaves. “They really kept efficient records of slave transactions and activities,” she said. “I believe this is great reference information for people who want to study the history of the city.” The Emancipation Day Parade The parade served as the chief activity for Emancipation Day in 1866 and it remained that way until the 1901 termination of the celebration. When the holiday became legal in 2005, the parade served as one of a number of celebratory activities. In 2020 and 2021, the parade didn’t occur due to the coronavirus pandemic. This year, city leaders proceeded with the parade because of the low level of transmission of the coronavirus. On April 16, hundreds of people lined up on both sides of Pennsylvania Avenue in Northwest to observe the parade. Onlookers watched participants including: the Eastern Senior High School Marching Band; the Nation’s Capital chapter of Jack & Jill of America; residents marching with white balloons with images of Frederick Douglass, Dorothy Height, Chuck Brown, Rosa Parks, Marion Barry

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Mayor Anthony Williams culminated in the city celebrating the holiday publicly starting in 2005. Reading the Names of the Freed Slaves Wright joined a dozen people at the AACWM in front of the bronze statue of Black Civil War soldiers and sailors who fought on the side of the Union forces. She attended the ceremony to participate in the annual reading of the freed slaves’ names. “We must remember that these freed slaves had lives,” said Frank Smith, founder and executive director of the AACWM. “They were human beings. They had families and times of joy and pain. When they found out that slavery was outlawed in the District, it was a moment of jubilation for them.” Wright said “it felt good to read the names and the values of the slaves.” “Every time I read the name and the value, I would wonder who they were and why they were valued in that way,” Wright said. “Could some of the slaves have had more value because they could cook or was it because they were pregnant?” Monica Hamilton also expressed pride in reading the names and the amounts but praised the

5 Civil war reenactors march in the Emancipation Day parade on Pennsylvania Avenue in Northwest on April 16. (DR Barnes/The Washington Informer)

While much of the District’s 160th Celebration of Emancipation Day focused on the entertainment and the fireworks, programs dealing with the history of the holiday and the influence it has on the city also took place. “I think it is important to celebrate Emancipation Day because it serves as a reminder that Black people weren’t always free in D.C.,” said Erica Wright, who participated in a holiday ceremony at the African American Civil War Memorial [AACWM] in Northwest on April 15. DC Emancipation Day celebrates the end of slavery in the District with the congressional passage and President Abraham Lincoln signing the District of Columbia Compensated Emancipation Act on April 16, 1862. The law not only outlawed slavery in the nation’s capital but compensated owners for their human property. The over 3,100 slaves who received freedom cost the federal government $1 million. The District became the only jurisdiction compensating slaveowners for their slaves. The signing of the bill occurred about nine months before Lincoln issued his Emancipation Proclamation which freed slaves in the rebelling Confederate states. District residents have celebrated Emancipation Day since 1866. However, the formal city-sponsored celebration which consisted largely of a parade ended in 1901 due to a lack of financial resources and organizational conflicts. The idea of celebrating the holiday was resurrected in the 1990s due to the advocacy of historians and civic activists. In 2000, the D.C. Council proclaimed April 16 a private holiday, meaning it received official recognition but city employees didn’t have a day off. On July 9, 2004, D.C. Councilmember Vincent Orange (D-Ward 5) proposed making Emancipation Day a public holiday. Orange’s legislative efforts and the signature of D.C.

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PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY Prince George’s Community Meeting on Crime Becomes Combative William J. Ford WI Staff Writer An amiable conversation addressing ways to combat crime in Prince George’s County turned emotional at Creative Suitland, one of the county’s designated safe spaces for children and young adults in the jurisdiction. It began after counselor Dr. Shryl Whigman summarized mental health, behavioral and other services available for youth and young adults in the county. The last six minutes of the estimated 90-minute discussion on Thursday, April 15 ended in shouting.

“What are we doing about the homelessness in P.G. County? What are we doing about the P.G. police brutality?” Kenneth Clark, a local activist from Oxon Hill, yelled in the back of the room. County Executive Angela Alsobrooks intervened to respond to one of his questions but Clark yelled “Mic check!” five times. Alsobrooks attempted to answer a question, again, but Clark said, “It’s a dog and pony show. We have to get real with it and deal with it.” “Be respectful. Let me answer the question,” Alsobrooks said. Antonio Mingo of Suitland stood beside Clark and yelled about how residents of the surrounding

5 Police Chief Malik Aziz (center) chats with Dawn Dalton (right), Nikki Owens and Beverly John confer after a community conversation on crime at Creative Suitland on April 14. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

community weren't in the room. “I have two kids. I’m here for them,” he said. Another woman chimed in about not seeing her grandson for two years. Both Clark and Mingo continued to talk. “The problem is we don’t respect each other. I want to answer the question. Please be respectful of the people who are descending here tonight,” Alsobrooks said. The Rev. Tony Lee, pastor of Community of Hope AME Church in Temple Hills, served as a

panelist to respond to written questions from the audience, walked off the makeshift stage to go outside and talk with Clark. “I have been doing the civilized thing. I’m tired of no one talking about the real issues,” Clark said. After the discussion ended, Mingo walked over to Alsobrooks and apologized for yelling. Mingo highlighted how several Prince George’s County police supervisors in white shirts, local politicians and candidates running for local offices filled some of the seats.

Nonprofit Organizations Seek CDBG Funding in Prince George’s ARETHA

William J. Ford WI Staff Writer

Mayly Cisneros and Tsion DISTRICT24

Wolde summarized how the First Generation College

12 APRIL 21 - 27, 2022

Bound program helped them matriculate SAT tests, financial aid process and boost their confidence. The two high school seniors praised the program based in

Laurel on allowing them to become the first in their families to attend college in the fall. More significantly is First Generation receiving a $50,000 grant that helped students like them. They presented virtual testimony Monday, April 18 before Prince George’s County Council on the jurisdiction’s annual action plan for housing and community development. Money toward the plan would come from Community Development Block Grant [CDBG], HOME Investment Partnership funds and Emergency Solutions Grant. Prince George’s could receive the following amounts from the federal government: $5.6 million in CDBG funds; $3.5 million for HOME; and $880,550 in ESG (county must provide half of the money for emergency solutions).

Total amount: $10 million. Money can be used for various projects such as economic development, affordable housing initiatives and to combat homelessness. Those who participated in Monday’s hearing made requests for CDBG money. For instance, the proposed resolution from the county executive’s office designates First Generation College Bound for public services, which received $50,000 last year. Mayly, a student at DuVal High School in Lanham, plans to attend the University of Maryland in College Park to study graphic design. Tsion, a student at High Point High School in Beltsville, will study biology at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore.

CDBG Page 34

The county asked residents to register online to attend the meeting. “I was not trying to be disrespectful in any way,” he said. “But the thing was, the other women and families in the back were raising their hands and not being acknowledged. So, what is this panel for if you are not involving the actual community? If you looked in the audience, you didn’t see people from the community. I don’t have all the answers but I think I’m at a good start.” Police Chief Malik Aziz chatted with several people afterward including Dawn Dalton, whose son Lupe Hawkins was assaulted by Prince George’s police in 2010. “I always have to try and play my position and I play it really well,” Aziz said. “This is a professional police service that we’re trying to deliver. We should never be pushing back. We should be engaging with each other.” Aziz also spoke with Nikki Owens, the cousin of William Green, whose family received a $20 million settlement from the county after he was killed by a former police officer in January 2020. “I feel like there’s a huge people problem in the police department and even within our entire judicial system, ” said Owens, who traveled from Fredericksburg, Virginia, to attend the session. “As Black people, these things are happening in your community. What are you going to do to stop the people problem?” Aziz, who became the chief last

CRIME Page 53

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Prince George’s Residents Applaud $400M Investment Along Blue Line Metro Stations

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

But Many Wonder Whether The Washington Commanders Will Remain or Move On William J. Ford WI Staff Writer Roberto Williams could hardly contain his excitement with the prospect of seeing an amphitheater, sports and entertainment facilities being built and beautifying Metro’s Blue Line corridor in Prince George’s County communities like his inside the Beltway. “The development can’t start soon enough as far as I’m concerned,” said Williams, who has lived at the Residences at Victory

Promenade in Landover, less than a mile away from FedEx Field, since 2012. “I really think this general area will be great for mid-county and just a real opportunity and secondary only to [National] Harbor. I’m excited.” Part of his glees stems from a $400 million investment for the Maryland Stadium Authority to issue bonds to refurbish, construct and open sports and entertainment facilities in the county. More specifically, the projects

will augment communities inside the Beltway along Metro’s four Blue Line stations that include Largo, Morgan Boulevard, Addison Road-Seat Pleasant and Capitol Heights. The plans include a library/cultural center, sports fieldhouse, a plaza, market hall and residences. None of the money will be used to help construct a new stadium at FedEx Field, home of the Washington Commanders that remains

BLUE LINE Page 26

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5 Roberto Williams stands outside his townhouse April 19 in Landover less than a mile from FedEx Field, home of the Washington Commanders. (Robert R. Roberts/ The Washington Informer)

APRIL 21 - 27, 2022 13

BUSINESS New Farmer’s Market Slated for Ward 8 James Wright WI Staff Writer A new farmer's market plans to open May 7 in Southeast plans to offer more than 30 produce and food vendors and offer specialty and prepared goods. Thanks to the support of developers Jair Lynch Real Estate Partners and JBG Smith, the Half Street Central Farm Market will open in the vicinity of Nationals Park to provide customers with healthy food choices and tips on nutritionally living. "In a time when our country is still grappling with the impact of the pandemic, we believe it's important to provide more opportunity for small businesses to succeed," said Anthony Startt, director investments of Jair Lynch. “The partnership with Central Farm Markets will help farmers, crafters and small businesses reach new

customers while providing fresh, local and sustainable food and products to a neighborhood known for its love of food, entertainment and sports.” The development partners have managed farmer's markets for more than 15 years in the Washington-are locations such as Bethesda and Rockville in neighboring Montgomery County, Maryland, and Falls Church, Virginia. The market will run from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. every Saturday until just before the Christmas holiday. In addition to fruits and vegetables and meats and poultry, seafood, ice cream, teas, breads and baked goods will be available to customers. Mitchell Berliner, the owner and founder of Central Farm Markets, said he and his partner, Debra Moser, are excited about their new operation. “We are really looking forward to bringing the best quality produce and

5 A rendering of the Half Street Central Farm Market near Nationals Stadium in Southeast. (Photo courtesy Central Farm Market.com)

food products from the regional farmers and producers, all the way from Pennsylvania to Southern Virginia,” Berliner said. “We are committed to helping our partners, farmers and makers to continue to grow, practice conscious farming techniques and sustain the health and wellbeing of the community.” Berliner realizes that most neighborhoods in Ward 8 are considered by District and federal officials to be food deserts – where a full-service grocery store doesn’t operate within a comfortable transit distance of residents. He said the Half Street market will give ward residents more grocery options. Berliner and Moser also remain aware that two full-service grocery stores are located close to their Half Street location. “We are providing people healthier

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14 APRIL 21 - 27, 2022

food options than the grocery store,” Moser said. “A lot of food in the grocery store has chemicals that can be unhealthy for people. The fruits and vegetables at our market are grown on small farms and are grown naturally.” Moser said the market will participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the

Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC). “We look forward to serving the people of the area, particularly those in Ward 8,” Berliner said. “In addition to offering food, we have programs we think will satisfy everyone.” WI @JamesWrightJr10

COVID from Page 1

of the cruelest pain has come to a group with the least capacity to understand and cope with it. More than 167,000 children – roughly one in 450 of all children in the U.S. – have lost at least one of their caretakers to COVID-19. Statistics show that non-White children had the highest rates of caregiver loss. Nationally, non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic children lost caregivers at more than twice the rate 2.4 and 2.5 times, respectively, of white children. American Indian or Alaska Native [AI/AN] children and Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander children had the highest rate of caregiver loss, at nearly four times the rate of white children. Researchers found that those differences are due to higher COVID-19 death rates and larger average household sizes with co-residing grandparents or others being more common among non-white populations. “These disparities are most concentrated in the youngest age cohort,” the authors wrote. Disparities also varied by state and territory. The District of Columbia had the highest rates of Black and Hispanic

parents at nearly 200,000. Generations United, a D.C.-based nonprofit whose goal is to improve the lives of children, youth and older adults, reported that before the pandemic, 2.6 million children already lived with their grandparents. The group said when a parent dies many grandparents provide childcare, transportation and financial help. “If something happens to us, what happens to the children?” wrote Cassandra Gentry, a grandmother raising two grandchildren. America’s COVID-19 crisis has not ended “but we have begun to count the staggering size of our loss,” researchers at Covid Collaborative revealed in a report called “Hidden Pain: Children Who Lost a Parent or Caregiver to Covid-19 and What the Nation Can Do for Them.” “An outbreak beyond precedent has led to deaths on the scale of a global war. Moreover, these tragedies were experienced in the isolation of pandemic precautions and hospital wards,” the researchers stated. The group said hundreds of thousands have died simultaneously but largely apart. Composed of a diverse and comprehensive team of leading experts in health, education and the economy, Covid Collaborative noted that some

COVID Page 15

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

COVID from Page 14 caregiver loss relative to their white peers – 11 and 18 times higher than the loss rates for white children, respectively. States with larger American Indian populations had the highest hidden pain risk of COVID-19 caregiver loss for AI/AN children. In Mississippi, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota and Utah, the rate of caregiver loss for AI/AN children was more than 10 times that of white children. Further, the researchers found that more than 70,000 children have been deprived of a parent with nearly the same number having lost a grandparent who lived in the home. At the extreme end, more than 13,000 children have lost their only in-home caregiver. For them, COVID-19 has done more than hurt their lives; it has ended their world. Especially early in development, a parent or family caregiver fills a child’s entire sky – providing most of their stability, confidence and care. The sudden, seemingly unexplainable caregiver’s departure leaves a void of affection and direction with which each child must struggle to fill. Researchers said the traumatic loss had been associated with depression, addiction, lower academic achievement and higher dropout rates. It represents lost potential for individuals and society. “My client is a 60-year-old grandmother who is taking care of three grandchildren – two of them are her son’s who lost his life to HIV/AIDS while their mother is serving a term in prison for drug trafficking,” said Dr. Liz Jane, a physician who specializes in embryology, pharmacology, immunology, internal medicine and surgery. Dr. Jane said her client’s other child is the son of a daughter who left home. “It’s been a tough life for the lady who at times depends on the well-wishers to help her with foodstuff,” she said. “COVID made everything worse when many of her helpers lost their jobs.” In its report, “Covid 19 Orphanhood,” Imperial College of London officials noted that orphanhood and caregiver deaths are a hidden pandemic resulting from COVID-19-associated deaths. “Accelerating equitable vaccine delivery is key to prevention,” the report’s authors stated. “Psychosocial and economic support can help families nurture children

BUSINESS Based on best evidence and practice, Covid Collaborative officials offered steps that policymakers, educators and leaders in the nonprofit and private sectors could take to help children who have lost a parent to COVID-19. bereft of caregivers and help to ensure that institutionalization is avoided. These data show the need for an additional pillar of our response: prevent, detect, respond and care for children,” they said. Based on best evidence and practice, Covid Collaborative officials offered steps that policymakers, educators and leaders in the nonprofit and private sectors could take to help children who have lost a parent to COVID-19. Their recommendations include: The undertaking of a coordinated strategy to comprehensively identify children who have lost a parent or a caretaker guardian to COVID-19 through schools, community-based organizations, primary care settings and the use of municipal administrative records. Researchers also said it’s crucial to create a COVID-19 Bereaved Children’s Fund and implement a public education campaign to encourage families, youth and children to seek help and connect them to resources in their communities and schools. Additionally, they said the federal government should provide funding and technical assistance through the U.S. Department of Education and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to expand the grief-competence of schools, community-based organizations, faith-based institutions and other community leaders. “When a parent dies, the child is challenged in the short-term to cope with grief and the circumstances of

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the loss through bereavement,” the report’s authors concluded. “The child must meet this challenge without the lost parent, who may have been a primary resource for

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structuring their experiences and co-regulating their emotions. Children and families are challenged to adapt in other ways to the parent’s absence in both the short and long

terms. However, family functioning must be preserved so that children’s needs continue to be met across development.” WI

APRIL 21 - 27, 2022 15

NATIONAL Study: Race is Central to Identity for Black Americans and Affects How They Connect Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer No matter where they’re from, who they are, their economic circumstances or educational backgrounds, a significant majority of African Americans say being Black is extremely or very important to how they think about themselves. A new Pew Research poll revealed that a significant share of Black Americans also says that when something happens to Black people in their local communities, across the nation or around the globe, it affects what happens in their own lives, highlighting a sense of connectedness. “Black Americans say this even as they have diverse experiences and come from an array of backgrounds,” the authors of the poll noted. “Even so, Black adults who say being Black is important to their sense of self are more likely than other Black adults to feel connected to other groups of Black

people. They are also more likely to feel that what happens to Black people inside and outside the United States affects what happens in their own lives.” Pew Research Center conducted an analysis online between Oct. 4 and 7, 2021. The organization surveyed 3,912 Black U.S. adults and explored differences among Black Americans in views of identity such as: between U.S.-born Black people and Black immigrants; Black people living in different regions of the country; and between Black people of different ethnicities, political party affiliations, ages and income levels. Most non-Hispanic Black Americans (78 percent) reported that being Black is very or extremely important to how they think about themselves. This racial group counted as the largest among Black adults, accounting for 87 percent of the adult population, according to 2019 Census Bureau estimates.

And Black women (80 percent) are more likely than Black men (72 percent) to say being Black is important to how they see themselves. 16 APRIL 21 - 27, 2022

5 African Americans say being Black is extremely or very important to how they think about themselves. (Photo courtesy Wikimedia Commons)

But among other Black Americans, roughly six-in-ten multiracial (57 percent) and Hispanic (58 percent) Black adults reported the same. According to the 2020 U.S. Census, the nation’s Black population stands at 47 million, or 14 percent of the country’s population. The survey authors reported that while the vast majority of Black Americans said their racial background is Black alone (88 percent in 2020), growing numbers are also multiracial or Hispanic. Most were born in the U.S. and trace their roots back several generations in the country but a growing share are immigrants (12 percent) or the U.S.-born children of immigrant parents (9 percent). Geographically, while 56 percent of Black Americans live in the nation’s South, the national Black population has also dispersed widely across the country, researchers reported. The report noted that Black Americans also differ in significant ways in their views about the importance of being Black to personal identity. While majorities of all age groups of Black people say being Black shapes how they think about themselves, younger Black Americans are less likely to respond the same. Black adults 50 and older are more likely than Black adults ages 18 to 29 to say that being Black

is very or extremely important to how they think of themselves. Specifically, 76 percent of Black adults ages 30 to 49, 80 percent of those 50 to 64 and 83 percent of those 65 and older hold this view, while only 63 percent of those under 30 reported that belief. Black adults who identify with or lean toward the Democratic Party are more likely than those who identify with or lean toward the Republican Party to say being Black is important to how they see themselves – 86 percent vs. 58 percent. And Black women (80 percent) are more likely than Black men (72 percent) to say being Black is important to how they see themselves. The report found that some subgroups of Black Americans are about as likely as others to say that being Black is very or extremely important to how they think about themselves. According to the survey, U.S.born and immigrant Black adults are about as likely to say being Black is important to how they see their identity. However, not all Black Americans feel the same about the importance of being Black to their identity as 14 percent say it is only somewhat important to how they see themselves while 9 percent say it has little or no impact on their personal identity, reflecting the diversity of views about identity among Black Americans.

Main highlights from the report include: About half of Black adults say their fates are strongly linked with other Black people in the U.S. Most Black adults say being Black is very important to how they see themselves Black Americans who say being Black is important to them are more likely to feel connected to other Black people. Black adults who say being Black is important to them are more likely to learn about their ancestors from relatives. Black adults under 30 years old differ significantly from older Black adults in their views on the importance of Blackness to their personal identity. However, Black adults also differ by age in how they pursue knowledge of family history, how informed they feel about U.S. Black history and their sense of connectedness to other Black people. Black Democrats are more likely than Republicans to say what happens to other Black people in the U.S. will affect their own lives. Half of Black adults say where they currently live is an important part of their identity. A majority of Black adults say their gender and sexuality are very important to them. Black women are more likely than Black men to say their gender is very important to them. WI

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Advocates Say Proposed Tennessee Law Reawakens Horrors of Child Marriage Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer Child marriage has increasingly become a growing concern in the U.S., leading children safety advocates to demand legislators enact laws against the practice. However, 44 states have legalized – or done nothing to outlaw – child marriage while 20 do not require a minimum age for marriage, with a parental or judicial waiver. Rhode Island, New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Minnesota, and Delaware have set the minimum age for marriage at 18. In addition, lawmakers in each state have eliminated all exceptions to the statute. The issue of child marriage came to the fore again this month when a Tennessee measure that failed to include a minimum age for marriage failed to advance primarily because Republican lawmakers wanted the law applied only to heterosexuals. “Increased poverty, a higher chance of health issues and lesser educational attainment are the repercussions for these children,” stated Ashley Amor, co-founder of PeopleFindFast. Amor noted that between 2000 and 2018, about 300,000 children were married in the U.S. “The majority of the women were married to adult males, many of whom were much older,” Amor remarked. The founder of GreatPeopleSearch, Leslie Radka, called child marriage dangerous and a violation of human rights that “legitimizes abuse and denies girls’ autonomy.” “When young girls are forced to marry, they are essentially subjected to state-sanctioned rape and are at increased risk of domestic violence, forced pregnancy and negative health consequences, all while being denied education and economic opportunity,” Radka said. “Young girls typically lack agency when it comes to contraceptive use and their bodies are not prepared to give birth – pregnancy and childbirth complications are common among child brides and are sadly still the leading cause of death among 15- to 19-year-old girls worldwide.” According to Girls Not Brides, a global partnership to end child marriage, girls under 18 are also more likely to contract HIV and

experience domestic violence. The organization declared child marriage a global issue fueled by gender inequality, poverty, social norms and insecurity and has devastating consequences worldwide. They reported that 12 million girls are married before 18 each year – a figure equivalent to 23 girls per minute and one every three seconds. Nearly 40 percent of girls in the world’s poorest countries are married as children, twice the global average, Girls Not Brides revealed. In the U.S., an estimated 248,000 children as young as 12 were married between 2000 and 2010. When experiencing acute poverty, families – and sometimes girls themselves – see marriage as a way to reduce family costs and gain financial security, the organization stated. “This idea is reinforced by patriarchal norms that devalue and commodify girls,” officials wrote on the Girls Not Brides website. “Because girls have less access to education and low social, political and economic status, they are often economically dependent on men. As a result, they may see marriage as their only option.” Lawmakers originally designed the Tennessee bill to create an alternate legal pathway to marriage, allowing opposite-sex couples to file marriage “contracts” based on common law principles that the state has not yet legally recognized. The contracts would not be available to same-sex couples. Sponsors of the legislation recently added amendments specifying a man and woman seeking the contract must have “attained the age of majority,” which currently stands at 18 in Tennessee. Child advocates noted that the original bill had no minimum age limit. In a Psychology Today column shared with The Informer, Dr. Mellissa Withers noted that the United Nations had defined child marriage as “an appalling violation of human rights” because no one is mature enough to consent to marriage before age 18. Withers added that most consider child marriage the most common form of sexual exploitation of girls. The UN Sustainable Development Goals calls for eliminating child marriage before the year 2030.

Progress toward this goal is measured by estimating the proportion of women ages 20 to 24 married before age 18. “Child marriage should also be recognized as a form of human trafficking,” Withers opined. The Trafficking Protocol of 2000, an international protocol joined by the U.S. in December of 2000, defined trafficking as “the recruitment . . . transfer . . . or receipt of a child for the purpose of exploitation.” “This definition can be applied to child marriage because the child is being transferred from an adult (parent/guardian) to another adult (husband) and often ends up being mistreated and sexually abused,” Withers said. “The protocol criminalizes trafficking acts, with no exceptions for religious traditions and practices. This includes whether the minor consented or not. Child marriage fits these parameters and should be criminalized. Our children deserve better. Child marriage must be prohibited by law in all states.” WI

NATIONAL

5 Twelve million girls are married before 18 each year – a figure which equates to 23 girls per minute and one every three seconds. (Photo courtesy UNICEF)

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APRIL 21 - 27, 2022 17

NATIONAL Demands for Student Debt Cancellation Focus on Black Borrowers Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer The Biden administration recently extended the student loan freeze for the fourth time since the pandemic started. For the time being, borrowers have until late August to restart their monthly payments. As has long been the case however, many borrowers want more from the White House, specifically an executive order that cancels student loan debt and sets the foundation for economic redistribution that favors low-income people and people of color. The Debt Collective, a union of debtors that formed during the Occupy Wall Street movement more than a decade ago, took to the streets in defense of this cause earlier this month. Their rally at the Department of Education [DOE] in Southwest attracted 500 people, many of whom carried signs, belted chants, shared their debt stories and marched around the DOE building. The overall message, according to Fred Bell, centers on President Joe Biden (D) following through on his campaign promise and taking away a hurdle that prevents people like him from continuing to pursue higher education and other opportunities. “When we talk about narrowing the racial wealth gap, canceling student loan debt is one of the easiest things the Biden administration can do,” said Bell, the Debt Collective’s operations and programs manager. “Obviously we haven’t been paying our debts for two years [and] there have been four different payment pauses. It shows the government doesn’t need our money and if they have the power to stop it, they can cancel student loan debt,” Bell added.

PRESSURE MOUNTS FOR THE BIDEN ADMINISTRATION

As of last week, student loan debt in the U.S. totaled $1.747 trillion. The total declined for the first time in history this year. Under normal circumstances, this amount would increase six times faster than the na-

18 APRIL 21 - 27, 2022

tion’s economy. More than 43 million people have student loan debt with amounts averaging between $37,000 and $50,000 depending on whether the loan comes from a private or federal source. The D.C. metropolitan region ranks the highest in the nation for student loan debt, with borrowers in the District averaging more than $55,000 and borrowers in Maryland and Virginia averaging $43,165 and $39.551, respectively. The length of the Biden administration’s latest extension fell a few months short of the November midterms, which Democrats requested. Over the last few months, pressure has been mounting for the Biden administration to cancel at least $10,000 of student loan debt. Biden has turned to Congress to pass a bill that he would sign. In the interim, the White House announced plans to cancel the student loan debt of millions of borrowers who severely fell behind. White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki recently indicated that borrowers will most likely have to start making their monthly payments at some point during the Biden presidency. When they would do so depends on a bevy of factors, including economic data, the severity of COVID and areas where borrowers need relief. For some people, like Whitney Barkley-Denney of the Center for Responsible Lending [CRL], the student loan debt conversation should also take into account the wealth gap and how student loan debt exacerbates the struggles of borrowers who, regardless of income, cannot accumulate wealth because they have to meet several financial obligations. A soon-to-be released CRL paper advocates for $50,000 as the minimum student loan debt amount that the Biden administration should cancel. In explaining the rationale, Barkley-Denney said that low-income people of color would significantly benefit as they attempt to purchase a home and achieve other markers of success. “There’s a misconception that student loan debt is good debt but by

5 The Debt Collective protested in front of the Department of Education on April 4 in support of student loan debt forgiveness. The protest attracted 500 people. (Courtesy photo)

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki recently indicated that borrowers will most likely have to start making their monthly payments at some point during the Biden presidency. the end of the day, when it comes to paying it back, it chokes borrowers,” Barkley-Denney said. “The part we haven’t discussed was psychological. Home buying is delayed by six or seven years. Debt also delays the formation of families and starting a business.”

HELPING THE NEXT GENERATION MAKE BETTER DECISIONS

For the last three years, local educator Tyronda Boone has taught classes and conducted workshops with the intention of challenging misconceptions about student loan debt and exposing young people to strategies that would help them avoid taking out loans. Though Boone’s parents financed her undergraduate education, she later accumulated several thousands of dollars in debt to attend graduate school. During the recession and in the years following, she struggled to pay back her loans. To this day, Boone, like other borrowers across

the country, has a significant balance. In conversations with young people about how to finance higher education, Boone often touches on the importance of scholarships, grants, work study and community college. In instances when families feel the need to take out student loans, Boone encourages her students to

EVENTS from Page 11 and Barack Obama; and people representing Central and South American countries. Politicians such as D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson and Councilmembers Anita Bonds (D-At Large), Robert White (DAt Large) and Kenyan McDuffie (D-Ward 5) had supporters marching on behalf of their bids for re-election or election to a new office. District resident Judith Hardwick said she enjoyed the parade.

think about whether their college major could land them a job with high earning potential. Boone also said it helps if families open a 529 college savings plan and take steps as early as possible in their child’s life to make sure they're financially secure when they graduate from high school. “We have to be better stewards of our finances and if college is a path your child is going to be on, you have to be prepared,” Boone said. “Most people take up to 20 to 40 years to pay off student loan debt and not even bankruptcy can get it off. It’s a serious financial commitment. We need to have conversations with our children.” WI @SamPKCollins “This is where I belong,” said Hardwick, watching the procession. “Our ancestors made it possible for us to be here. This is the way we can remember the past and build for the future.” Diane Brown, who lives in Richmond, traveled to the District for Emancipation Day. “I have been to this event before,” she said. “I thought the parade was a little short but I really enjoyed it. COVID really held us back for a few years but I see the parade and the celebration as a big step forward.” WI @JamesWrightJr10

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Chase Educates Consumers on Using Credit Wisely Angela Swinson Lee Special to The Washington Informer With April being National Financial Literacy Month, it’s a great time to do an examination of your money and credit. Chase offers classes on teaching the community the importance of maintaining a good credit score. “A credit score talks about how well you have managed your finances in the past. It tells you about your standing in how well you are managing your funds,” said Brian Atkins, Chase community manager at the Skyland Town Center Branch. Marvin Blunt of northeast benefited from tips from Chase in a big way. After being incarcerated for nearly 5 Marvin Blunt established a credit score of over 800 after taking a Chase 25 years, Blunt needed to rebuild his credit. financial health workshop. He was advised to get a credit card upon his release. an apartment or purchase “I knew I had to get my credit score up to do some things I wanted to do in soci- certain items. ety,” Blunt said, adding that his wife and daughter also served as his credit coaches. Atkins shared of being “Once I got the secured card, I used it wisely, paying my phone bill and little in college and finding things such as gas,” Blunt said, but would often get confused when his credit score credit card companies would fluctuate. soliciting students to get While attending a financial health workshop at Chase, Blunt was advised to pay a credit card, including 5 Maritza Gonzalez (left) and Brian Atkins are Chase Community Managers. his bills on the statement date, instead of the due date. himself. “I signed up for Blunt added that his credit score increased more than 100 points to over 800, by all of them,” Atkins said, adding that being a college student with limited resources following that tip. The made him get behind on payments. classes also helped him manage his money and not spend it unnecessarily. Once he graduated, he needed a new car, he but because of his low credit score “A lot of people get a card and see money and think it’s their money and go spend Atkins had to pay a higher interest rate, and his $23,000 car end up costing him it,” Blunt said adding that he was taught that only 30 percent of credit should be nearly $40,000 after his loan was paid off. used on a credit card. “I went to a third-party dealership and a lot of predatory lenders cater to those “I’m not out here playing around with the card because I have money on it,” he with low credit scores,” Atkins said. said. Credit scores range from a low of 350 to a high of 850. Blunt said people trying to rebuild their credit should study it and learn its imAtkins said over 700 is a good credit score. portance. Maritza Gonzalez, Chase community manager in Columbia Heights said that Atkins added that bad credit scores can impact employment, the ability to lease the credit score is made of up different categories, 40 percent is payment history, which consists of making payments on time; 21 percent is credit history, which means how long an individual has had credit; 20 percent is credit usage, which is based on how much money has been spent on credit cards or accounts that have What factors into limits; 11 percent is total balance, which is the mix of revolving and installment your credit score? accounts; 5 percent is based on credit checks, which is the amount of credit inquires and 3 percent is based on available credit. • Payment history (40%) Gonzalez said one way to establish good credit habits is to live within your means. “Staying in your means is using your credit card and paying it off at the • Credit history (21%) end of the month.” • Credit usage (20%) Atkins said it’s also important for consumers to know what is on their credit statement and always protect it. • Total balances (11%) Blunt agreed, adding that people should not abuse credit. • Credit check (5%) “It’s being loaned for when you have an emergency. You should not use it for your happy time or because you want a bag or a pair of shoes unless you can afford • Available credit (3%) it,” Blunt added. For more information, please visit www.Chase.com/financialgoals

“Staying in your means is using your credit card and paying it off at the end of the month.”

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APRIL 21 - 27, 2022 19

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20 APRIL 21 - 27, 2022

africa now

COMPILED BY OSWALD T. BROWN, WI CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Guinea: No Election Before General Census, Transitional Authorities Say In Guinea, Mohamed Béavogui’s government announced on April 15, the return of constitutional order wouldn’t take place before a general census was conducted. The condition was listed among 10 other prerequisites which included: administrative census for civil status purposes, the publication of voter regisA supporter holds up a Guinean National Flag as tration lists, the drafting of the new Constitution, organization exiled activists arrive in Conakry, on September 18, of the referendum ballot, drafting of organic laws and the or2021. (Photo courtesy AfricaNews.com) ganizing of local elections, followed by legislative elections, the establishment of national institutions resulting from the new Constitution and eventually a presidential election. The Minister of Territorial Administration and Devolution presented the different steps without giving a precise timetable. The statement comes after ECOWAS President Jean-Claude Kassi Brou gave Guinea’s leader Colonel Doumbouya until April 22 to deliver a timeline on democratic elections. He warned that otherwise, the country would face further sanctions. "Mr. Minister, we have at least four years to go and if that is the case, it is the duty of a legal regime to do everything you propose," said Cheick Tidiane Traoré, leader of the Movement for the Republic (MPR). Colonel Mamady Doumbouya took power on September 5, 2021 in Conakry, overthrowing President Alpha Conde, whose last few years as head of state were marked by months of severely repressed protests. Refusing to be dictated to by ECOWAS or anyone else, the officer said the timetable would be set by the National Transitional Council (CNT), an assembly that acts as a legislative body. Its 81 members were appointed by the Colonel-President himself and they've been in office since February. ECOWAS insisted in vain on the need to hold elections within six months of the September coup. The regional body suspended Guinea and imposed sanctions on members of the junta. WI

caribbean now Jamaica and Rwanda Begin Process of Strengthening Ties The governments of Jamaica and Rwanda have begun the process of strengthening their relationship, including greater social and economic ties that are beneficial to the people of both countries. During a three-day state visit to Jamaica April 1315, His Excellency Paul Kagame (left), President of the Republic of Rwanda, participated in a “Think Jamaica 2022 – Government to Government and Civil Society Dialogue,” during which he said his presence in Jamaica was indicative of the partnership between the nations. “I suppose we have to work on certain things but I think the more we get together, the government officials from both sides will put a working program in place,” Kagame said. The Think Jamaica session was held at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston on April 15 and formed part of the activities for the three-day state visit of Kagame, the first Rwandan Head of State to visit Jamaica. The three-day state visit by the president coincides with Jamaica’s 60th anniversary of independence which is being celebrated throughout the entire year. Jamaica Prime Minister Andrew Holness (right) said collaboration in areas such as science and engineering is critical in accelerating Jamaica’s thrust to create a digital society. “And so, a part of what we will be seeing as the short term, what we discussed, is how we can accelerate our own digital process in line with what Rwanda is doing so that, for example, we can collaborate on science and engineering, which are two gaps in our society,” Holness said. “But we have similar problems, similar outlooks, we relate to each other as equals and we can find our own solutions,” he said. Jamaica and Rwanda entered diplomatic relations on November 6, 1998. WI

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Walkers Stride to Better Health on National Walking Day Submitted by American Heart Association The American Heart Association (AHA) is on a mission to be Healthy for Good every day. The approach is simple, eat smart, be well and of course MOVE MORE! In April our focus is to get everyone to move more and sit less with the help of workplaces, communities and people around the world. The AHA and Live Fierce sponsor, Sheehy Auto Stores, challenged local companies and community members in an annual continuous

virtual walking event on National Walking Day, Wednesday, April 6. The day unites millions across the country in a commitment to live a healthier lifestyle and get physically active. One in 4 U.S. adults sit for longer than eight hours each day, which can hurt your physical and mental health. Physical activity is a powerful tool — and a mood booster. It also helps us reduce stress and lower the risk of heart disease and stroke. The American Heart Association recommends getting at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes per week of vigorous aerobic activity,

or a combination of both, preferably spread throughout the week. “We look forward to National Walking Day every year because walking is such an important first step in improving your heart health and mental well-being,” said Vince Sheehy, President of Sheehy Auto Stores. “We had a record-breaking year in terms of step totals and participation across our dealerships. I am so proud of our Sheehy team for their enthusiasm and commitment to health.” To date, Sheehy’s fundraising efforts have raised $2 million for the AHA. Hundreds of employees and individuals from a total of 13 companies and organizations across the Greater Washington Region walked throughout the day, sending in their step count that went toward their team’s total. Participants also shared their steps on social media using #MoveMore. The top stepping organization was the DMV Links with a total of 2,815,708 steps! Members from many chapters across the country walked in support of National Walking Day. The DMV Links continue to grow in participation with chapters as far away as California taking part. “The DMV Links Team keeps climbing higher each year as we take steps in the right direction for heart health and wellness,” said Michelle Bailey, DMV Links Team Captain-Arlington (VA) Chapter. Sheehy Auto Stores stepped into second place with an all-time record of 839,518 steps with many of their dealerships participating. Sheehy Ford of Warrenton was once again the winner of their internal step challenge with a total of 118,387 steps. This year the auto dealer also held a National Walking Day photo contest which was won by Sheehy Ford of Gaithersburg. Tax and compliance software developer, RSI came in third with a whopping 162,661 steps. In total, all of the amazing #MoveMore supporters counted nearly 4 million steps - that could take you from the White House to the AHA HQ in Dallas, Texas or roughly 1,776 miles! “We are so proud of the indi-

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viduals and companies who participated in National Walking Day,” said Soula Antoniou, Executive Director of the American Heart Association. “Staying active can help you feel, think, sleep and live better and this day is an important reminder. A huge thank you to Sheehy Auto Stores for leading the charge all to move more all year long!” The Move More Step Challenge is one of the many fun ways to engage in the AHA’s Heart Challenge, a suite of activities that includes the Greater Washington Region Heart Walk, locally sponsored by Sheehy Auto Stores and Kaiser Permanente, and yearround activities like step challenges

and more. The Heart Challenge has a goal to get people to move more and raise funds in support of the AHA. Funds raised by the annual campaign lead to medical breakthroughs, support community health priorities, transform healthcare systems, enact stronger public health policy, and much more. Get involved today at www. GreaterWashingtonHeartWalk. org.

Join the American Heart Association for a free and interactive conversation:

Move, Listen & Learn May 18th • 12:15pm ET • Audio Webinar & Mindful Walking Demo Mental wellness has been shown to be connected to heart health. Reducing stress and managing anxiety, depression, and loneliness can help to boost your heart health. Take a walk and join our experts to learn how to promote your mental health and emotional wellness, reduce stress, and manage your heart health too!

To register, email: Kimberly. Jackson @heart.org

Amy Arnold

Catherine Campbell, MD

Humaira Siddiqi, MD

Director for Workforce Health Kaiser Permanente

Cardiologist Kaiser Permanente

Psychiatrist Kaiser Permanente

Mental health affects how we think, feel, and act. It helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices and is important at every stage of life, from childhood through adulthood.

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APRIL 21 - 27, 2022 21

HEALTH Researchers: Climate Change Can Extend Pollen Season

Situation Leads to Exacerbation of Allergies and Asthma Sarafina Wright WI Contributing Writer Scientists project a longer allergy season due to climate-driven changes across the United States. According to new research from Nature, atmospheric conditions

will continue to affect pollen emission season by making spring start 10-40 days earlier and possibly extend pollen emissions to fall up to 15 days later. Researchers say this is worrisome because while wind-driven pollen plays a vital role in plant fertiliza-

5 A car covered in pollen dust. (Photo courtesy of Carwash Country)

tion and gene dispersal, it also alters climate by interacting with clouds and radiation and triggers allergic diseases such as allergic rhinitis and asthma. Pollen-induced respiratory allergy affects up to 30% of the world population, particularly children, and is a worldwide health concern. In addition, it results in significant economic loss because of medical expenditures, missed work and school days, and early deaths. “Because pollen emission is close-

ly associated with environmental drivers, climate change could influence pollen emission and consequently the incidence of allergic disease,” the researchers wrote. “Longer and more intense pollen seasons have been observed over the past few decades, which is expected to contribute to the exacerbation and aggravation of pollen allergic rhinitis and asthma.” Pollen emissions are also directly correlated with meteorological conditions, such as tem-

perature and precipitation. Temperature impacts the number of winter chill hours and spring frost-free days. According to the study, it is also strongly associated with the timing of pollen seasons, including the start date, peak emission date, end date, and duration. Precipitation also plays a role in both short-term and long-term effects on pollen emissions. For example, significant shortterm heavy rain can reduce pollen concentrations. At the same time, “changes in long-term accumulated precipitation may favor or disadvantage plant growth and therefore alter the total pollen production.” “In the future, temperature and precipitation are projected to change heterogeneously across the United States [US], and both driving climate variables could directly affect future US pollen emission change patterns,” the researchers wrote. “Moreover, the distribution and composition of plant communities are likely to change in the future due to climate change and further influence the corresponding pollen emission.” WI

How One Group Plans to Use Internships to Fight Medical Disparities Q&A with Michele Richardson, Black Directors Health Equity Agenda Sarafina Wright WI Contributing Writer Only 6.2% of medical school graduates were Black in 2019, according to data from the As-

22 APRIL 21 - 27, 2022

sociation of American Medical Colleges (AAMC). While diversity among medical school applicants has increased in the last 40 years, growth for Black American applicants, matricu-

lants, and graduates lag behind other groups. Numerous studies have shown that representation in the medical industry matters and impacts patient outcomes, particularly Black ones. For example, Black doctors are more likely to catch and treat chronic conditions in Black patients than their white counterparts. However, making up only 5% of U.S. physicians, Black doctors can often be scarce for patients. In Haverford College’s “Why the U.S. Needs More Black Physicians,” the piece says that Black physicians can bring special diagnostic skills to the exam room beyond cultural competence. An excerpt: “Last year, emergency physician Kimberly Collins ’89 was working with a white colleague who had diagnosed a Black patient with dermatitis—but Collins

identified the rash as a condition called pityriasis rosea. “The other provider said, ‘Oh, I thought those lesions were supposed to be salmon colored,’” Collins remembers. “Well, on Black skin, of course, they are not going to be salmon colored. But most dermatology books show rashes of white people, so that is what providers learn.” To combat the racial disparities in the U.S. medical system, one organization is looking to empower students to be the next generation of Black physicians. The nonprofit Black Directors Health Equity Agenda (BDHEA) and the Propel Center, in partnership with INROADS, have launched an HBCU internship program that aims to give 100 Black students hands-on experience in a range of professions in health care. One of the group’s executive sponsors and board member, Mi-

chele Richardson, said, “Black students are an incredible source of talent who can help bring quality care to under-resourced urban and rural areas, improving access to services and patient outcomes.” In a one-on-one interview, Richardson talked about BDHEA’s goal to place 100 Black students (undergraduate, graduate and medical students) in clinical and non-clinical internships within some of the most respected healthcare systems across the country. Washington Informer: Tell me about this initiative to get Black medical students innovative internships and how it got started? Michele Richardson: One of the key topics in the boardroom today is talent. And

MEDICAL Page 38

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The Love Delivered Doula Initiative Expands for Year Two

Program Offers Grants for Doula Services for Black Mothers

HEALTH 2022 Small Business Summit

BOOST UP AT POWERUP

Sarafina Wright WI Contributing Writer Love Delivered, a Black Maternal Health Initiative, says it will continue to provide needed access to doula care for Black expectant mothers or “Black Birthing People” after launching last year to address the maternal health crisis. The Initiative by Lisa Price, founder of natural hair care brand Carol’s Daughter and the Mama Glow Foundation, said during Black Maternal Health Week, year two will expand its reach with: • Access to online resources and maternity experts for expectant and new families • Community-building events and forums for expectant and new families and their allies for sharing joyful, inspiring, birthing experiences. • Love Delivered self-care deliveries The announcement reinforces the Love Delivered commitment to advocate alongside Black birthing people and babies when they are most vulnerable – before, during, and after birth, said the partners. “Too many times, Black birthing people are not heard during such a crucial moment in their lives. If something isn’t right, having an advocate or a doula can be lifesaving,” Price said. “My hope is that Black birthing people are heard and supported and that most of all, our lives are saved.” In 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identified 861 women as having died of maternal causes in the United States, compared with 754 in 2019. The maternal mortality rate for 2020 was 23.8 deaths per 100,000 live births, compared with 20.1 in 2019. The maternal mortality rate for Black women was 55.3 deaths per 100,000 live births, 2.9 times the rate for white women. Rates for

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non-Hispanic Black women were significantly higher than non-Hispanic white and Hispanic women rates. The CDC said the increase from 2019 to 2020 for Black and Hispanic women was significant. However, the observed increase from 2019 to 2020 for white women was insignificant. Also of note, Black newborn babies are three times more likely than white babies to die when looked after by white doctors. Love Delivered said at its inception that these disparities were partly why the initiative was established; to empower, support, and show love to Black birthing people and babies when they need it most. “As we celebrate Black Maternal Health Week, we center joy in the Black birthing experience. We celebrate the triumphs, our collective solutions, and our self-determination,” Latham Thomas, CEO of Mama Glow, said. “Birth is meant to be transcendent, and we all deserve to experi-

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Get Covered. Stay Covered. ence empowerment through birth. The doula grants made possible through the three-year $225,000 commitment from Carol’s Daughter, further the mission to support

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safe, healthy and joyful birth outcomes for Black families in need.” Pregnant or recently postpartum birthing people located in the following cities: NYC (Metro-Area), Miami,

Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Washington, D.C. can apply to receive complimentary Doula services at Mama Glow (mamaglow.com). WI

APRIL 21 - 27, 2022 23

HEALTH Alopecia Support Advocate: There Is a High Rate of Suicide in the Alopecia Community Aaron Allen Over the past few weeks, many people around the world have been given a crash course on alopecia. Alopecia areata, also known as spot baldness, is a condition in which hair is lost from some or all areas of the body. Often, it results in a few bald spots on the scalp, each about the size of a coin. Psychological stress and illness are possible factors in bringing on alopecia areata in individuals at risk, but in most cases, there is no obvious trigger, as people are generally otherwise healthy. In a few cases, all the hair on the scalp is lost (alopecia totalis), or all body hair is lost (alopecia universalis), and the loss can be permanent. It is distinctive from pattern hair loss, which is common among males. Alopecia areata is believed to be an autoimmune disease resulting from a breach in the immune privilege of the hair follicles. The recent incident at the Oscar’s between Chris Rock, Will Smith, and Jada Pinkett-Smith may have

shed light on the issue, but the reality is that alopecia is more common than people think and the personal struggles and mental health issues of people living with alopecia is something that we should all be concerned about. Jamie Elmore, a licensed hairstylist and salon owner in Seattle for over 30 years, knows first-hand the struggles of dealing with alopecia. The founder of a national alopecia support group, Elmore, who was first diagnosed with alopecia in 2004, is currently dealing with the agony of one of her mentees who recently took her own life. The 12-year-old girl from the Midwest had recently found out that she had alopecia and could no longer deal with the stress of being teased and bullied by her fellow students. Elmore says that hearing the news that one of her mentees had given up on life shook her to the core. “The mental health aspect should be addressed when it comes to alopecia because in the alopecia community there is a high rate of suicide,” says Elmore. “Just recently we buried one of our babies, 12-years-old, the

Photograph courtesy of Andrea Picquadio/Pexels.

kids were bullying, they were taking off her wig, tormenting this little girl. Within a three-week period, this baby committed suicide.” Elmore, who discovered her first bald spot in 1998, has turned her struggle into an international move-

ment helping others all over the world inflicted with alopecia, learn the nature of the disease and how to overcome its physical and emotional effects. “After the birth of my daughter and her herself having health challenges, I didn’t realize the amount of stress going on my life, so in turn, my body started responding and I started losing my hair,” recalls Elmore. “Fast-forward and my journey was interesting because I had never seen alopecia before and being a hairstylist, I’d never seen it, never heard of it, until it happened to me.” “It took a long time for me to accept this,” she continued. “I would say that I began to accept it around 2015 and I would say it still has been a journey. Acceptance to me was accepting the fact that I had lost my hair. Accepting the fact that I did not look like the Jamie I knew. Accepting the fact this was out of my control, accepting the fact that my femininity had been stripped from me. Since the time of her acceptance, Elmore has transformed herself from being a potential victim into a nationwide advocate and has used her personal story and leadership to enlighten and enrich the lives of those suffering from alopecia. She started a magazine,

Bald Life, to tell the stories of people overcoming the mental struggles of having alopecia and to celebrate the inner and outer beauty of women who have lost their hair. She also founded the Bald Boss Community to support men, women, and children with all forms of alopecia; and the Alopecia Support Group, a non-profit that provides aid, programs, and innovative therapeutic methods that are vital in the healing process for survivors who are experiencing Alopecia and/or hair loss. “Acceptance looks different to so many people,” says Elmore. “But I got to the point where I accepted enough to where I made a decision that I was not going to wear wigs any longer, I was not going to cover up, it was going to be more of a choice, more of an accessory as far as if I chose to wear a hat or a scarf.” Gabriel Carter, a graphic and brand designer in Baltimore, discovered he had alopecia at a very young age and endured bullying and teasing since the age of seven. But just like Elmore, Carter learned to overcome and transformed the negativity into a leadership role within the alopecia community. WI For the full story go to wordinblack.com

THOMAS from Page 8

being” in their marriage and their politics. Although Thomas is protected from a code of judicial ethics as a Supreme Court justice — a code that applies to all other federal judges — he continues to use that special dispensation to ignore any sense of duty to avoid what Justice Sonia Sotomayor called the “stink” of partisanship. This adds weight to calls for him to leave the court to make room for someone who accepts their responsibility to protect the highest court in the country’s credibility and reputation. In the difference to the two other branches of the federal government, the Supreme Court depends largely on public trust to maintain its influence and authority. Thomas has repeatedly betrayed that trust and therefore undermined the democracy and freedom he claims to revere. In conclusion, let’s turn to the last words back in the 16th century of William Shakespeare, “Live in thy shame, but die not shame with thee.” WI

Ginni Thomas, a conservative activist and Thomas himself. According to dozens of messages to Donald Trump’s Chief of Staff Mark Meadows, Ginni Thonas worked tirelessly after the presidential election in 2020 to overturn the thoroughly vetted defeat of Trump (who has still not conceded). Moreover, the couple has long had questions raised about Thomas’ ethics in cases in the past where she has been an active advocate. He has continued to refuse to answer those questions appropriately. A report in the New York Times Magazine in March 2022 said that they have appeared for years together at highly political events hosted by advocates hoping to sway the court. While it is possible that married people can have independent views and careers, the Thomases have gone way beyond what is considered ethically proper behavior, particularly because they brag about how they are fused “into one

24 APRIL 21 - 27, 2022

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EDUCATION McKinley Tech Principal Search Raises Questions about Transparency, Workload Sam P.K Collins WI Staff Writer Since Dr. M. Louise Jones announced her resignation from McKinley Technology High School [MTHS] in the beginning of the calendar year, MTHS parents and community members have requested transparency and inclusion in the selection process for a new principal. Months after writing a letter to DC Public Schools [DCPS] Chancellor Lewis D. Ferebee and other officials, however, some community members said they haven’t received much information about the status of the selection process or whether DCPS central office has taken their requests into consideration. Community members’ qualms center not only on inclusion and

BLUE LINE from Page 13 under contract through 2027. Morgan Boulevard, the closest station to the stadium, sits about a mile away. “We’re not building a stadium for that team and I said, ‘good luck if they want to go to Virginia,’” Gov. Larry Hogan said last week while touting the project at Largo Town Center Metro station. “[County Executive] Angela Alsobrooks and I came together and said, ‘We are going to do a lot to redevelop this community with or without the football team.’ That’s what we’ve done here,” he said. Gregory Holmes, a business consultant of Upper Marlboro, said one major item state and local officials haven’t mentioned re-

26 APRIL 21 - 27, 2022

transparency but the STEM background of candidates and whether DCPS central office will ensure that Jones’ replacement would only be responsible for the affairs of MTHS and not the accompanying middle school, as had been the case during her tenure. “We want to be at the table and see the criteria that we have requested to ensure certain cultural competencies are possessed by the candidates. It’s befitting that we get someone skilled and credentialed in STEM,” said Sherice Muhammad, a former MTHS Local School Advisory Team [LSAT] chair who’s been heavily involved in the efforts to gain clarity about the principal selection process. “We also talked about someone who would understand the specific mains the inclusion of Black businesses on the project. The state of Maryland’s goal for Minority Business Enterprise [MBE] firms to receive contracts on various projects remains at 29%. “I don’t think meeting the 29% goal on this project is too lofty of a goal. Black businesses and Black developers should be a part of that success,” said Holmes, who launched and chairs Maryland Black Businesses Matter and plans to run for Maryland’s 4th Congressional District that includes FedEx Field. “The dollars [state and county officials] are floating is taxpayer money,” he said. “You are going to give taxpayer money and not let the taxpayers benefit from our

5 McKinley Technology High School. (Courtesy photo)

needs of students to nurture and engage the various demographics,” said Muhammad, who’s also a parent of a MTHS alumna. “DCPS responded to thank us for the letter and said they wanted to make sure we’re part of the principal selection process but we’re still in the dark right now about the status,” she said.

OPPORTUNITIES ARISE TO ASK QUESTIONS

As recently as the 2019-2020 academic year, DCPS’ principal selection process included a performance task, in-person interview and chancellor interview. Applicants who make it beyond the chancellor interown money. That is an injustice if that is allowed to happen.”

COMMANDERS TO STAY OR GO?

Speculation continues on whether the Washington Commanders will remain in the county or if they will construct a new stadium across the Woodrow Wilson bridge in neighboring Virginia. The team’s headquarters and practice facility are located in Ashburn, Virginia. The U.S. House Oversight and Reform Committee continues to investigate the Commanders alleged “toxic workplace culture” led by team owner Daniel Snyder. The committee sent a letter April 12 to the Federal Trade Commis-

view become eligible for interviews with a community panel. That panel, composed of students, teachers, parents and community members, provides feedback about candidates’ strengths and weaknesses as they relate to the culture and needs of the school. According to a document outlining the principal selection process, the community panel’s feedback plays a significant role in the chancellor’s final choice. However, community members said Jones, who started at MTHS in 2013, and her predecessor David Pinder had both been appointed by DCPS central office without community input. On the evening of April 19, DCPS’ Office of School Improvement and Office of Engagement sion that the team possibly committed financial improprieties by withholding up to $5 million in refunds from season ticket holders and concealed ticket sales not shared with the National Football League [NFL]. The allegations are made by Jason Friedman, a former sales executive who worked for the team for 24 years and who began as an intern under the late owner Jack Kent Cooke. “Given the Federal Trade Commission’s [FTC] authority to investigate unfair or deceptive business practices, we are providing the information and documents uncovered by the Committee for your review, to determine if the

BLUE LINE Page 27

and Partnerships hosted a virtual meeting where MTHS community members learned more about the principal selection process and weighed in on the qualities they’re seeking in a principal. The event also presented some guests an opportunity to, once again, highlight the need for a principal exclusively responsible for MTHS. Despite demands for two principals at the McKinley campus, DCPS central office has been steadfast in maintaining the status quo. Weeks ago, during a D.C. Council Committee of the Whole education budget hearing, Ferebee defended the current setup, telling D.C. Councilmember Janeese Lewis George (D-Ward 4) that having one principal over two schools facilitates unity between the two campuses. “We believe the model we have similar to Columbia Heights Education Campus where there’s an administrator who shares a middle and high school population can serve McKinley well,” Ferebee said. “There has been some disconnect between the middle school and high school but a leader would reconnect those schools. Respectfully, we see opportunities to better connect the schools.”

A PARENT TELLS A DIFFERENT STORY

Though MTHS and McKinley Middle School Parent-Teacher Organization president John Hassell took no issue with Jones’ leadership, he contested DCPS central office’s

TECH Page 39

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TRANSITION from Page 1 erick gave a presentation that attempted to lay to rest concerns about transparency that some students, faculty and alumni have raised in years past. At the end of his biannual address, Frederick did not mince words about what he described as a pathway to achieving long-term goals for the university. “We are committed to continue to build a university that can stand on its own. It’s a process that takes time and requires all of us to participate,” Frederick said April 14. “Part of my participation is having a listening ear and [for] my team and board of trustees, it’s having a robust plan as we move forward. During his hour-long presentation, Frederick highlighted HUs investment of $785 million that would finance the revitalization of facilities and dormitories along with the construction of a new teaching hospital. He also explained how HUs philanthropic and endowment growth have, in part, been used to cover students’ tuition and secure future faculty salary increases. Another topic of discussion involved campus safety and ongoing efforts to protect students through partnerships with local and federal law enforcement and other entities. “The journey and path is not

one in which we agree but we must have dialogue,” Frederick said. “The issues are complex so I’m happy to explain it. Most of these things we’re going to get right. Some we’re not and we’re going to own that. And we’re always going to be committed to fixing those things,” he said. Federick’s retirement will take place in the summer of 2024 to allow a smooth transition in power. By the time he steps down, Frederick would’ve spent more than 35 years at HU including a decade during which he served as university president. Over the last few years, Frederick, like other university presidents throughout the country, has facilitated university operations amid a pandemic that put into question the future of higher education. Though HU enjoyed a boost in enrollment at the beginning of the 2021-2022 academic year, students and faculty members raised issues about COVID mitigation and dorm conditions. Since students’ return to in-person learning this year, the campus has been the epicenter of three protests, the most recent of which involved nurses demanding better compensation and safer work conditions. For some, like one faculty member who spoke on the condition of anonymity, Frederick’s tenu-

ous relationship with community members reaffirmed the vote of no confidence HUs Faculty Senate gave him and HUs board of trustees in 2018. In the months preceding Frederick’s announcement, adjunct and part-time faculty members, in their effort to secure a union contract, threatened to strike before reaching a resolution with attorneys. Just weeks into the academic year, students led a protest that would later become known as the Blackburn Takeover. That, too, ended in a resolution between students and administrators and an agreement by the university to provide adequate housing for students. Even with the recent wins, the faculty member of less than a decade said HUs board of trustees has directed Frederick in boosting HUs economic viability at the expense of resources and important aspects of the HU experience. Even with Frederick’s transition, the faculty member said nothing stands to change. “A lot of the same top-down patriarchal leadership has continued and that has to do with the board of trustees and how they envision the university,” the faculty member said. “While a lot of people are happy to imagine a new president, we’re generally concerned about

BLUE LINE from Page 26

5 A rendering of what Prince George’s County officials envision to rebuild along Metro’s Blue Line corridor that includes the area around the Largo Metro station. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

Commanders violated any provision of law enforced by FTC and whether further action is warranted,” the committee letter said. “We request that you take any other action you deem necessary to ensure that all funds are returned to their rightful owners and that those responsible are held accountable for their conduct.” The team’s lawyer, Jordan W. Siev, responded to the FTCs letter on Monday, April 18 with an 18-page letter as part of more than 100 pages of documents that summarizes Friedman as a “disgruntled former employee,” according to NBC Sports. Siev’s letter mentions Friedman’s dismissal happened due to “professional conduct” in October 2020, after which sought to retain his job in January. “The Committee’s Letter is based on the testimony solely of a dis-

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EDUCATION

5 Dr. Wayne A.I. Frederick. (Courtesy photo/HUNS)

the direction the board wants to take HU.” Meanwhile, an HU sophomore said they wanted to see a Black woman assume the role of president, especially if she takes into consideration the perspectives of students and faculty. One pressing issue the student, who requested anonymity, pointed out involved where they would live next year since HU doesn’t guarantee cam-

“We request that you take any other action you deem necessary to ensure that all funds are returned to their rightful owners and that those responsible are held accountable for their conduct.” gruntled, lying former employee without knowledge of the facts,” Live wrote. “The Team was never asked for any input on the allegations before they were made public. We hope that this letter is of assistance to you in reaching the only outcome that we believe is fair and appropriate here – there is no basis for an investigation. We would of course be pleased to provide you

pus housing for upperclassmen. “It’s inevitable for every middle-class junior or senior to expect food or financial insecurity,” the student said. “You can apply for housing but your chances are slim. The surrounding area’s kind of expensive. It’s hard for students without free rides who are trying to work and be full-time students. That has been a consistent theme for anyone who’s attended HU.” WI with additional information.” Meanwhile, some residents said they’re pleased the state will invest money to refurbish areas around the Metro stations but want the Commanders to remain in Landover. “There are jobs for the people there who live in the community,” said Tiffany Quzack-White, 38, of Largo, who conducts janitorial services for Didlake, headquartered in Manassas, Virginia. “That will be jobs gone and an empty lot. The Commanders should stay.” It doesn’t matter to Williams, who lives near the stadium, whether the team stays or leaves. “I’m not a huge football person,” he said. “If [the Commanders] decide to stay in the sports and entertainment corridor that will be coming to downtown Largo, great. The county executive and delegates are making a great investment in the area regardless.” WI @WJFjabariwill

APRIL 21 - 27, 2022 27

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The Washington Informer 2022 Sustainability Supplement in Observance of Earth Day

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Despite our awareness of natural disasters ripping across the nation and destroying entire communities in their paths, the devastation has created historical roots and traumatic memories. With each cycle of storms, fires, floods, and erosions, the nation’s architects and builders developed new and innovative measures to minimize the damaging forces. Still, the impact of climate change has forced those working to make structures withstand disasters seek reliable and sustainable solutions, in 5 Dr. Shantella Y. Sherman (Photo by India Kea) real-time. The United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change released a report recently on mitigating the effects of climate change. According to the report, as much as 72 percent of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions in 2020 came from cities. This means that redesigning our cities to be more sustainable must function as a key component to reducing emissions and halting the dangerous impact of climate change. Particularly in places like the nation’s capital, where a development boom has literally clogged neighborhoods with new buildings – some fitted in narrow spaces against existing structures -- new construction can play a critical role in carbon production. Buildings generate nearly 40 percent of annual global CO2 emissions. For instance, buildings release carbon dioxide directly when they use equipment that relies on combustion, including boilers and furnaces used for space heating which consume fuels like natural gas and heating oil. Also, water heaters use fossil fuel combustion as a heat source, and Onsite power generation contributes to building emissions if the energy input is a fossil fuel like diesel generators or steam microturbines. “Green spaces are disappearing across the country as more suburbanites return to urban spaces and push a demand for housing that seems to have no reasonable end,” agronomist and Ward 6 resident Carrie Pumans told the Informer. “When you see buildings springing up everywhere they must not only meet demands for housing, but must also provide strategic, forward-thinking designs that does not further tax the environment.” According to Architecture 2030, achieving zero embodied emissions will require adopting the principles of: Reuse, including renovating existing buildings, using recycled materials, and designing for deconstruction; Reduce, including material optimization and the specification of low to zero carbon materials; and Sequester, including the design of carbon sequestering sites and the use of carbon sequestering materials. “The world of the supertall is at once a victory of The Washington Informer wants you mankind soaring to new heights and a controversial marker of society’s inequity and climate change,” to be cognizant of the carbon footprint said Stefan Al, an architect and urban designer, who believes that understanding the technological innovations in supertall buildings is the first step made through development, and the in creating sustainable cities of the future. “The supertall is a barometer of our society’s highs and new and innovative technologies delows. It is a window into our future that may allow us to rethink our ways.” signing new structures to soften the It is also estimated that just three materials – concrete, steel, and aluminum – are responsible for 23 percent of total global emissions (most of this impact of Mother Nature’s wrath. We used in the built environment). The Washington Informer wants you to be cog- offer you historical examinations of nizant of the carbon footprint made through development, and the new and innovative technologies past destructions, emerging protocols designing new structures to soften the impact of Mother Nature’s wrath. We offer you historical and designs, and sound advice from examinations of past destructions, emerging protocols and designs, and sound advice from professionals in the field, including iconic architect, Mel- professionals in the field, including vin Mitchell. Read, Learn, Take Action! Dr. Shantella

iconic architect, Melvin Mitchell.

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The latest Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), presented in April 2022, emphasized emissions must be dramatically reduced within this decade and decline to net zero by 2050 to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. “If we are to make the Paris Agreement mean anything at all then we must work together,” states Kathleen Rogers, President of EARTHDAY.ORG. “This means everyone from individuals, businesses, governments, and other parts of civil society have to commit to a transformative shift in the global economy as we know it.” Did You Know… there are many great results upon which we must build to reach those projected goals. Here are a few:

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Coastal eutrophication is expected to increase by 20 percent in large marine ecosystems by 2050.

In 2017, renewable energy made up 17 percent of the world’s energy consumption. The net per-capita landfill rate dropped from 3.2 to 2.4 pounds from 1990 to 2018.

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Hon. Mary Cheh

Council Member District of Columbia Chair of the Environment and Transportation Committee

Associate Director Air Quality Division DC Department of Energy & Environment

Antoine Thompson Executive Director GWRCCC

https://greenweek2022.eventbrite.com

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Green Drinks

The Greather Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition

Hosted on the

Remarks from

Global sea levels have risen eight inches in the last century.

April 19-23, 2022

Hosted Signature Drinks & Lite Hors D'oeuvres Cash Bar

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 2022 SUSTAINABILITY SUPPLEMENT IN OBSERVANCE OF EARTH DAY / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

New Innovations in Sustainability By Lee Ross WI Staff Writer

GREEN LAUNDRY LOUNGE

The next-level laundromat concept Green Laundry Lounge opened its doors to the public at the end of January. Its owner, Jay Desai, called it a weird kind of concept. “This type of upscale laundromat is something we don’t have anywhere else in all the Carolinas,” he said, adding that he’s not even sure such a concept exists anywhere else in the country. Set within The Palms at Brushy Creek, a strip mall at 3120 Brushy Creek Road just in front of the Brushy Creek Townes townhouse complex, the new laundromat/cafe concept aims to be many things at once. Up front is a cafe, serving up coffee from Due South Coffee Roasters, local beer and canned wine, and unique Indian cafe food from David Porras, head chef of the James Beard-nominated restaurant Oak Hill Cafe. A lounge area offers iPads and comfortable couches and chairs made from recycled material. Meanwhile, along a wall adorned with an Indian- and Greenville-themed mural from local artist Douglas Piper, eco-smart Electrolux washing machines hum (in total 22 washers and 22 dryers, payable by card or coin, at a rate of $3 to $14), while on the other side of the building, machines that utilize a modern “wet-cleaning” method of dry-cleaning articles of clothing without using environmentally harmful chemicals. Everything is geared toward sustainability and environmental care, Desai said. The detergents are all eco-friendly. Dryer sheets, which pack a powerful combination of

harmful chemicals to both the environment and to personal health, have been replaced with hand-woven woolen balls that do a better job of removing wrinkles without the damage. To-go coffee cups are made from recycled materials, as is all the furniture in the lounge. The decorative wall in the center of the cafe is made of reclaimed wood from old barns. “I’m a pretty eco-focused kind of guy,” he said. “We are blessed with nature here in this Greenville-Greer area, and I would just like to do something if I can to support that.” He’s aware most people likely don’t equate sustainability with laundry but says that challenge drove him to work harder to bring his vision to life, to convince people in the area what he’d imagined. “Reinventing what a laundromat can be was kind of a challenge, kind of weird as well, but at the same time it’s fun and now when people walk in and see what this is, everyone is happy,” Desai said.

TARGET TESTS FIRST NET ZERO ENERGY STORE

Target Corporation announced in March 2022, its most sustainable store to date, as the site will generate more renewable energy than it needs annually to operate and will test multiple innovations to reduce the building’s emissions. The Vista, California, store’s retrofit, and new features will inform Target’s investments in new stores and remodel programs that support its long-term growth and help guide the retailer’s efforts to achieve its sustainability goals. The store will generate renewable energy through 3,420 solar panels across its roof and newly installed carport canopies. The site is expected to produce up to a 10 percent energy surplus each year that it can transmit back to the local power grid, and Tar-

get has applied for net zero energy certification from the International Living Future Institute. The building also features elements to further reduce emissions, such as powering its HVAC heating through rooftop solar panels, instead of natural gas. Additionally, the store switched to carbon dioxide refrigeration, a natural refrigerant, that Target will scale chain-wide by 2040 to reduce its direct operations’ emissions by 20 percent. “We’ve been working for years at Target to shift toward sourcing more renewable energy and further reducing our carbon footprint, and our Vista store’s retrofit is the next step in our sustainability journey and a glimpse of the future we’re working toward,” said John Conlin, senior vice president of properties, Target. “Our new stores and remodel programs are designed to help achieve our sustainability goals as we test, learn and scale our innovations over time across our operations.” Target is building on the many ways it innovates through its stores and facilities to support the company’s sustainability strategy Target Forward. The retailer has committed to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions enterprise-wide by 2040, and since 2017 Target has already reduced

its direct operations’ emissions by nearly 27 percent. One of the ways it intends to reach its net zero goal is through sourcing 100 percent of its electricity from renewable sources for its operations by 2030. “Target continues to be a top corporate solar user, and we’re excited to see Target double down on its clean energy commitments with new solar carports and energy efficient buildings through this innovative and sustainable retrofit,” said Abigail Ross Hopper, president and CEO, Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). “We commend the Target team for their leadership and commitment to sustainable operations as the retailer continues to raise the bar for how companies can invest in their business and create a more sustainable future.”

BALANCING ENVIRONMENTAL AND COMMUNITY NEEDS

Experts warn that nearly 4.3 million U.S. homes are at risk of a 100-year flood event, 2 million of an elevated wildfire risk and that all households will experience higher temperatures. Moreover, homes, according to the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, account for about 20 percent of the greenhouse gases produced in the nation. Thus, the housing industry — including the National Association of Realtors and National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) — is moving aggressively to get Americans over the next three decades interested in new and retrofitted homes that could better withstand adverse conditions and achieve net-zero carbon production. “Many of our members are responding to buyers’ demands for

homes that are more energy efficient and resilient by incorporating more sustainable features into their homes,” said Susan Asmus, NAHB’s senior vice president of regulatory affairs. “By designing projects to withstand natural hazards, be healthier for occupants and more durable over the long term and selecting heating and cooling systems and appliances that use water and energy more efficiently, they not only help balance environmental and community needs, but are able to distinguish their businesses, homes and projects within the marketplace.” Ron Jones, president of Green Builder Media believes the construction and real estate industry could do a better job of protecting trees, which in turn would protect the habitat for wildlife, when they are constructing houses. “I think we do a really poor job as an industry of embracing the natural environment around us and maximizing the appreciation that people can have by being appropriate about what we build and where we put it,” Jones said. “We simply miss the point. If we look at tract development and cookie-cutter subdivisions and just the whole concept that you just sort of wipe everything clean and make an empty canvas and then stick stuff on it, to me, is sort of a shame.” The company, Jones said, has given trees the best chance to survive and thrive during the construction process. Trees, he said, are viewed as a natural part of the project, not an impediment to it. “One of the magical elements of this particular project is that Green Builder has been there long enough to have an appreciation for just how present those trees, individually and collectively, are and how they define space in such an important way,” he said. SS

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Building Tomorrow's Energy Grid Today Pepco is working to create a smarter, stronger and cleaner energy grid for our customers, while driving to meet the District’s energy and climate goals. We work every day to modernize and strengthen the local energy grid. We are also planning for the future, enhancing the grid through forward-looking projects like the Capital Grid and DC PLUG initiatives. These efforts will create more capacity for renewable resources like rooftop solar and enhance grid resiliency during increasingly severe weather. Learn more about what we’re doing for you at pepco.com/Grid

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THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 2022 SUSTAINABILITY SUPPLEMENT IN OBSERVANCE OF EARTH DAY / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

Washington Gas Committed to a Cleaner Anacostia River

CALL

811

Michelle Musgrove Vice President of Customer Experience Washington Gas

BEFORE YOU

DIG

EVERY DIG… EVERY TIME… This includes, but is not limited to:

• • • • • •

General digging Gardening Landscaping Home improvements and/or major construction Excavation Demolition

As it flows through the heart of our city, the waters of the Anacostia River touch our lives and landmarks while inviting us to enjoy nature by foot, bike, and boat. Its story begins at our banks and continues into oceans around the world. This is your river. And it is ours. For more than 170 years, the Washington Gas family has called DC and the shores of the Anacostia River home. Our ongoing goal is to improve quality of life for our neighbors and for the landscape where we all work, live, and play. We are proud to have improved the Anacostia and its surrounding areas through donations, tree planting, and trash collection, as well as new bike paths and other infrastructures. Our current partnership with Anacostia Riverkeeper helps to sponsor largescale volunteer clean-up efforts. Employees, friends, and families have already joined forces in 2022 to remove and recycle more than five tons of glass, plastic, and rubber from the river, with multiple clean-ups scheduled throughout the year. A river is forever changing, and

flexible clean-up practices can help stay in sync with its needs. We support advanced practices to pinpoint root causes of pollution, allowing focused clean-ups that minimize mass dredging. The vibrancy of the Anacostia River affects us all and ripples well beyond our everyday quality of life. We are honored to be environmental stewards and responsible corporate citizens and thank you for the trust you place in us. Caring for our river is just one way we hope to assist others and give back to our communities. SS

When using mechanized equipment, it is REQUIRED BY LAW to CALL Miss Utility at 811 before digging.

C.A.R.E.

washingtongas.com

Call before you dig. Allow time for marking. Respect the marks. Excavate carefully.

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DID YOU KNOW? Since 2018, our eBill customers have helped save over 15,000 trees. To join our growing number of PAPERLESS BILLING customers, visit washingtongas.com/ebill to enroll.

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THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 2022 SUSTAINABILITY SUPPLEMENT IN OBSERVANCE OF EARTH DAY / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

How the DCPSC is Creating a Clean Energy Future Submitted by DC Public Service Commission Can you imagine a time when the District of Columbia is the healthiest, greenest, and most livable place in the country? A city where 100% of our energy supply comes from renewable energy sources? Charging stations for electric vehicles are plentiful, a common part of the city’s infrastructure? With energy efficient buildings and homes, greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption at an all-time low? This is the clean energy future that the Public Service Commission of the District of Columbia (DCPSC) is committed to making a reality. The District has adopted some of the most aggressive renewable energy standards anywhere in the country — as the local utility regulator, the DCPSC plays an integral role in realizing this clean energy future. The CleanEnergy DC Omnibus Amendment Act of 2018 man-

dates that 100% of the District’s energy supply comes from renewable energy sources by 2032. By 2041, at least 10% of that energy must come from solar energy generated within the District and greenhouse gas emissions must be reduced to 50% below the 2006 baseline by 2032. The act also requires the DCPSC to consider the “effects on global climate change and the District’s public climate commitments” in its decisions. Clean Energy Initiatives Renewable energy resources power the District without the harmful effects of greenhouse gas emissions. The DCPSC has certified more than 13,600 solar facilities, including 261 Community Renewable Energy Facilities, in the District as of April 2022. The DCPSC also approved new rules requiring that 5% of Pepco’s default electric service come from renewables. The Commission also continues to monitor an AltaGas merger commitment to develop 10 MW of

clean energy in the District. Investing in infrastructure allows the District to make smart choices that will support its climate goals for years to come. The DCPSC approved the third phase of DC PLUG, a project improving the reliability and re-

COMMUNITY RENEWABLE ENERGY FACILITIES See how a growing number of CREFs across the city are making solar power a reality for more District residents.

DCPSC.org/cleanenergy

siliency of the electric distribution system by placing overhead distribution lines underground. The DCPSC also approved Pepco’s Capital Grid Project, a longterm initiative to address aging infrastructure, enhanced system resiliency, improved reliability, and load growth. In addition, the DCPSC has approved PROJECTpipes, a 40-year accelerated pipeline replacement program to upgrade the natural gas distribution system. Energy efficiency programs reduce the amount of energy used by homes and businesses, offer financial savings and help reduce the environmental costs of producing energy. The DCPSC promotes and supports energy efficiency through multiple programs, such as the #WinterReadyDC that provides weatherization kits and resources on energy conservation throughout winter. Consumers can also choose their electricity supplier on DC Power Connect, where more than 95% of offers include some

percentage renewables in the fuel mix. The Commission hosted the first Clean Energy Summit: Path to Decarbonization in September 2021 to discuss how utility regulators and industry leaders can advance progress toward national and local clean energy goals. Through stakeholder working groups meetings, community hearings, and consumer campaigns, the DCPSC has continued to extend its ability to reach District consumers. The Path Forward The DCPSC has created a climate policy proceeding to consider whether and to what extent utility or energy companies are meeting and advancing the District’s energy and climate goals. As part of this process, the DCPSC is reviewing Pepco’s Climate Solutions Plan, WGL’s Climate Business Plan, and other filings to see how they would help meet the city’s energy and climate goals. For more information on past and future DPCSC initiatives, visit dcpsc.org/cleanenergy. SS

The DCPSC has created a climate policy proceeding to consider whether and to what extent utility or energy companies are meeting and advancing the District’s energy and climate goals. As part of this process, the DCPSC is reviewing Pepco’s Climate Solutions Plan, WGL’s Climate Business Plan, and other filings to see how they would help meet the city’s energy and climate goals. WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 2022 SUSTAINABILITY SUPPLEMENT IN OBSERVANCE OF EARTH DAY

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As the local energy utility regulator, we play an important role in fulﬁlling the District’s clean energy goals.

TRACK OUR PROGRESS AND LEARN MORE AT

DCPSC.org/cleanenergy

Solar panels at Nationals Park are just a few of the many installations across the District that are helping the city realize its clean energy future.

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THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 2022 SUSTAINABILITY SUPPLEMENT IN OBSERVANCE OF EARTH DAY / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

Environmental Sustainability and The Housing Market Iconic Architect Melvin Mitchell Weighs In

By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Staff Writer Sustainability remains a top focus for many policymakers and structural leaders within the District and around the globe. This year, the Earth Day theme: Invest in Our Planet, pushes each person around the world to find constructive ways of working towards healthier, ecologically sound living. The manufacture of safe, sound, and healthy, structures as well as warding off the horrific levels of carbon associated with new buildings, stand at the forefront of sustainability conversations. Legendary architect and President of Bryant Mitchell Architects, PLLC, Melvin Mitchell, sat down with the Informer to discuss the impact of climate change on new developments and methods architects are using to meet the challenges. With a nearly 50-year run leading a Black-owned architecture firm based in Washington, D.C., Mitchell also shared his thoughts on the District’s sustainability goals amid the current housing market. WI: The world is moving toward environmentally sound structures. What does that mean for you as an architect? MM: Well, [I’m] glad to see it coming. [It’s been a] long time, glad to see it is here. But that’s really replaced, and trumps everything else that has preceded the notion of sustainability, energy efficiency, [and] just [overall] being in peace, and compatible with the planet, the earth, the environment - that’s really what architecture is ultimately about, and how it has to be measured. I am glad to have lived to see this coming.

WI: How does the environment affect the placement of new buildings, and how stable structures and buildings now stand? How does this affect the infrastructure of these homes? MM: Well, the District like any place else, you have to look at the bigger picture in terms of geography, geology, topology, all of those things. I mean ultimately, this still is just something built in a swamp, so a lot of things become complicated, and muddled [within] that. But in the final analysis it is still the case here where we have got to follow the facts, and follow the reality of what really is there, and what provisions and precautions need to take place in order for what we built to be sustainable, safe, and sound. Those things have to all fall into place.

WI: D.C. is a small city, and we are now building on it at a much more rapid rate than we have seen in the city’s past. What do you think about the uptick of new housing developments being built today in the District? MM: As an architect, my information is towards density. See, the whole issue of sustainability and environmentalism is once we crossed the threshold and became an urban society, an urban people, and once we entered this period that we are in, you have to realize that the most sustainable, from an environmental point of view, way to do things in an urban setting is through density. So, you’ve got a lot of people being accommodated. D.C. as a landmass and a land area is really relatively small; it is less than 100 square miles, really. However, the current population which is just under 700,000 people, is still

down from what it once was. If you go back as recently as the late 40s, into the 50s, D.C.’s population was approaching 900,000 people that lived within those cornerstones, those boundaries. A lot of them started to leave when you had some things happen, [as far as] school desegregation, and then the building of the beltways, and then even further the mass transit overlay - so all of these things have come into play. The D.C. and development that you are looking at now, I need to tell you to strap on because it is just beginning. It is going to get closer probably to the point of 800,000 to 900,000 people. The problem is that during our hay day when we were starting to take off from the whole Black power movement, we thought that the concept of Chocolate city [when the city was] 70-75 percent Black, would last forever. Well, it [has not] as you can see. As D.C. itself grows in population, the percentage of Black people here is going to continue to decrease. It has already dropped from a high of 70 percent twenty years ago to what it is now, which is just below 50 percent and dropping. It is going to level off probably somewhere in the neighborhood of 35-40 percent. However, there is something right next door which we call the 9th ward, we’re talking about Prince George’s County more specifically. That too was once 900,000, and they were practically all White. Now, as D.C.’s [Black population] goes down, it continues to go up [in Prince George’s County]. So, it is really the most fluent, and the most heavily populated Black municipality probably in the country. When you put the two of them together, D.C., and Prince George’s County,

you will continue to have a substantial Black population in terms of power, culture, and all of those things. Things take different forms and shapes that we haven’t predicted, and couldn’t predict, so you have to keep all of that in mind in terms of where this is going. WI: Let’s take a look at climate change. How would you say that climate change has impacted the way that your company designs, or the materials that are used when you build projects today? MM: Buildings constitute about forty percent of things, which is energy consumption. That [coupled with] the whole carbon issue, and what it is doing to the climate. That is the biggest target. So, any practice, architecture, building, development, etc., that does not approach things within that framework [will eventually be] something that is not going to exist, it is not going to be reliable or able to sustain itself because all of the forces are moving in another direction. Shaping your environment, your

practice, your progression around sustainability - that is not an “I would like to, or it would be nice.” That is a matter of survival. WI: My last question for you; What, if any, would you consider to be the drawbacks to some of the new technology as far as the sturdiness and safety of the new structures? MM: Let me give you an example for instance. You see a lot of construction happening that were once built completely in concrete and steel but are now being built as wood construction. And there are some engineering reasons in which that could be. But ultimately, even though that has the appearance of being less safe, it is not necessarily. There are technological ways of overcoming the safety issues. But ultimately, it is more environmentally sustainable in terms of energy consumption, all of these things. So, appearances are never what they appear to be. You have got to look deeper into what is really going on here. SS

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OPC Combatting Climate Change with Equity in Electrification By Sandra Mattavous-Frye People’s Counsel for the District of Columbia The Office of the People’s Counsel (OPC) is pleased to contribute to the Washington Informer’s Sustainability Supplement in observance of Earth Day. I welcome this opportunity to highlight a recent study OPC commissioned: Equity Assessment of Electrification Incentives in the District of Columbia. OPC has long been at the forefront of initiatives that foster a clean and healthy environment. Now, unrelenting climate change necessitates a laser focus on how to quickly move the needle forward. District residents need easy access to ways to power and heat their homes, ride public transportation, and drive without adding to the pollution that causes climate change. Equally alarming and demanding attention is the impact of environmental injustice on the District’s most vulnerable communities. The 2022 Earth Day theme is “Invest in Our Planet.” To invest in our planet, we need to invest in climate change solutions that benefit underserved communities so that all District communities can thrive. How can we best combat climate change? How can we make sure climate solutions are just, equitable, affordable, and resilient? One potential pathway is “electrification,” switching energy and transportation systems to electricity powered by “green” energy sources to reduce climate change emissions and other air pollution, and to transition away from burning fossil fuels. Because equity must be a central driver of any climate change plans, OPC commissioned an Equity Assessment of Electrification Incentives in the District of Columbia. The study by Applied Economics Clinic (AEC) found

that about 27% of the District’s population resides in a so-called “environmental justice community.” They are more likely to be near environmental hazards, are disproportionately exposed to air pollution, and bear the brunt of climate change. Low-income residents in the District are also more likely to face a “severe” energy burden—the percentage of household income spent on energy costs. One in 14 District residents are “severely” energy-burdened, meaning they pay more than 10 percent of their income in energy costs. To help ensure that any climate change solutions also address environmental injustice, the study examined the distribution of existing programs that promote electrification and made key recommendations to ensure future investments in electrification equitably benefit District communities, including vulnerable neighborhoods. AEC identified priorities that should influence decision-making, including community engagement and ensuring that electrification programs do not make energy bills more unaffordable for consumers, especially for those already facing a high energy burden. Programs should prioritize the most equitable funding sources, possibly including federal funding, grant funding, regional funding, and taxpayer funding instead of utility bill surcharges requiring low- and moderate-income residents to fund programs through increases in their energy bills. There are no easy answers to combating climate change but there are solutions that can help make our communities stronger and healthier. All of us must do our part to advance these solutions. And consumers must fully participate in opportunities that bring them to the table to contribute their ideas and express their concerns.

OPC’s website, www.opc-dc. gov, has information on how to reduce your energy use, conserve water, and learn more about District government decisions af-

fecting climate change solutions. Sign up there for the OPC Connection, our monthly newsletter, and we’ll keep you informed on key developments. Rest assured,

OPC will continue to proactively address these important issues as we advocate, educate, and protect DC consumers. SS

Who We Are

The Office of the People’s Counsel is an independent agency of the District of Columbia government. By law, OPC is the advocate for District consumers of electric, water, natural gas, and telephone services. The Office’s mandate is to advocate for the provision of safe and reliable utility service at rates that are just, reasonable, and nondiscriminatory; to assist individual consumers in disputes with utility companies; and to provide technical assistance and consumer education to the community and stakeholders. OPC carries out its mission through the work of the following divisions. The Climate Action Division works to ensure that OPC is effectively incorporating District of Columbia sustainability and climate goals into all aspects of our education, outreach, and advocacy. People’s Counsel Sandra Mattavous-Frye launched this Division in 2020 to ensure climate action policy considerations are an integral part of OPC’s operations at a time when climate change threatens the future of our world as we know it. The Litigation Services Division represents consumers in legal matters involving utility companies before the DC Public Service Commission, federal regulatory agencies, and the DC Court of Appeals; and engages in diverse energy, telecommunications, technical, and market monitoring functions. The Consumer Services Division provides education and outreach to consumers on utility and energy issues; assists in the resolution of consumer complaints; and provides technical assistance to lay advocates seeking to participate in the regulatory process. The Water Services Division serves as a voice for water consumers by investigating complaints related to DC Water services, rates, and billing; represents ratepayers at DC Water administrative hearings and rulemaking proceedings, as well as the DC Court of Appeals; and educates water consumers about their legal rights and responsibilities. Contact Information: Phone: (202) 727-3071 Email: info@opc-dc.gov Website: opc-dc.gov Twitter & Instagram: @DCOPC

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T-Mobile is Taking Bold Steps to Build a Better World Submitted by T Mobile Whether it’s being first in the U.S. wireless industry to set science-based carbon emissions targets, achieving its 100% renewable energy goal, reducing waste, or responsibly managing the lifecycle of its products, T-Mobile is taking immediate and ambitious action to create a more sustainable future. In 2018, the company set an industry first by joining the RE100 pledge and committing to source 100% of its total electricity usage with renewable energy by the end of 2021. A few years and one historic merger later, it’s achieved that goal. “T-Mobile put a stake in the ground as the first telecom to commit to going all in on renewable energy by the end of 2021,” said Mike Sievert, the company’s Chief Executive Officer. “Now

we’re the first to hit this milestone years ahead of others. This was no easy task, but we set a goal and we achieved it. Thanks to amazing efforts from a team who was unwavering in our commitment to reduce our impact on the planet, the Un-carrier is powering America’s largest, fastest, and most reliable 5G network with 100% clean electricity.”

GOING ALL IN TO MOBILIZE FOR A THRIVING PLANET.

When the company sources its electricity from renewable energy, like wind and sunlight, it knows that not only will those sources never run out, but they also aren’t releasing harmful greenhouse gases in the process—and that’s good for people and the planet. Hitting its

renewable energy goal is only one of the milestones on T-Mobile’s path to building a more connected and sustainable future. How does it achieve 100% renewable electricity? The company’s energy comes from purchasing electricity from the U.S. electric grid, which is powered by a variety of energy sources, including renewable resources that are tracked using Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs). T-Mobile is committed to funding the creation of new, clean power projects, including large-scale wind and solar farms – and acquiring RECs in a variety of ways. Its 2021 renewable energy portfolio included a mix of Virtual Power Purchase Agreements, a green direct tariff, retail renewable agreements, community solar projects, and unbundled RECs to complement its energy reduction efforts. Energy powers T-Mobile’s entire business—including its Un-carrier network, stores, offices, and

more. Responsibly managing its energy use is an opportunity to make a huge difference for the environment and within the wireless industry. That’s why the company is committed to using energy

more efficiently and sourcing it more sustainably. To change wireless for good, T-Mobile constantly looks for ways to make sustainable choices that benefit its customers and the planet. SS

THE ONLY NETWORK POWERED BY

100% CLEAN ELECTRICITY T-Mobile is committed to taking climate action and reducing our carbon footprint. That’s why we recently announced that we’re the only U.S. wireless provider to meet our RE100 pledge and invest in enough renewable energy to power our network with 100% clean electricity. This is just one of the ways that T-Mobile is changing wireless for good and working to build a more sustainable future for society and the planet.

#UnstoppableTogether T-Mobile matches its own annual electrical usage with renewable energy from a portfolio of sources including: virtual power purchase agreements, a green direct tariff, renewable retail agreements, and unbundled REC purchases. For more information visit t-mobile.com. T-Mobile, the T logo, Magenta and the magenta color are registered trademarks of Deutsche Telekom AG. © 2022 T-Mobile USA, Inc.

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TAKING ACTION TO REDUCE OUR

CARBON FOOTPRINT

At T-Mobile, we are celebrating Earth Day with action. On April 22nd, we’re offsetting the carbon emissions of wireless device use for our 100+ million T-Mobile customers through The Nature Conservancy’s Working Woodlands Program. Together, we can build a more sustainable future.

#UnstoppableTogether Calculated based on approximate daily electricity consumption for total prepaid and postpaid customer phones, tablets, laptops, wearables, portable hotspots, IoT devices, and IHBB gateways assuming year-end FY2021 subscriber figures, an eGRID 2020 U.S. average emission factor and AR5 GWP values. T-Mobile, the T logo, Magenta and the magenta color are registered trademarks of Deutsche Telekom AG. © 2022 T-Mobile USA, Inc.

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THE ONLY NETWORK POWERED BY

100 CLEAN ELECTRICITY %

T-Mobile is committed to taking climate action and reducing our carbon footprint. That’s why we recently announced that we’re the only U.S. wireless provider to meet our RE100 pledge and invest in enough renewable energy to power our network with 100% clean electricity. This is just one of the ways that T-Mobile is changing wireless for good and working to build a more sustainable future for society and the planet.

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Breathing while Black

How a Fertilizer Plant Uncovered a History of Geographical Racism and Segregation Airielle Lowe WI Contributing Writer / Howard University Nearly 600 tons of ammonium nitrate caught fire at the Winston Weaver fertilizer plant, located in Winston Salem, North Carolina on Jan. 31. The fire burned for four days straight, with firefighters being unable to approach and contain the fire, due to the risk of a deadly explosion with the potential to kill thousands. Instead, residents within a mile radius were told to evacuate, temporarily displacing a reported 6,000 residents. Ammonium nitrate is a chemical used to make fertilizers and explosives and can burn if in contact with combustible material. Upon combustion, the chemical can also produce toxic oxides of nitrogen. In 2013, a fertilizer plan in West, Texas reportedly containing as much as 270 tons of ammonium nitrate, exploded after a fire broke out, killing 15 people and injuring 200 more. Although the fire that ravaged the plant has since been contained, with residents given permission to return to their homes, three lawsuits have been filed against the company for negligence, as well as the potential health concerns faced by residents with the release of dangerous chemicals into the air and local waterways. Although Director of Forsyth County Environmental Assistance and Protection Minor Barnette told Fox8 that the air quality near the plant had improved greatly since the beginning of fire, there has been little update on the status of local water supplies since the initial one given. Soon after the fire ended, officials reportedly warned residents to stay away from local creeks due to chemical detection in the following statement: “City officials are warning the public to stay out of Muddy, Mill and Monarcas creeks downstream from the Winston Weaver Co. fertilizer plant and to keep pets and other animals out of the creeks due to elevated levels of chemicals in the water resulting from the fire at the plant.” Though the air quality has been deemed “breathable” and residents

have returned home, the fire at the Winston Weaver has still left lasting, negative impacts on a community forced to pack up and leave at a moment’s notice, confused as to how they could live so close to a plant holding a significant amount of dangerous chemicals, without ever being notified. The chances of a fertilizer plant catching on fire are exploding are liable to happen anywhere in the nation and as such, affect any community who lives close by—however, African Americans are 75 percent more likely to near industrial facilities that produce hazardous waste than others, and more likely (along with other people of color or POC) to be exposed to air pollution. As such, they are more likely to suffer from asthma, cancer, etc. than other races. As reported by the News&Observer, according to the Environmental Protection Agency’s Environmental Justice Screening and Mapping Tool, “about 51 percent of the roughly 6,500 people who live within a mile of Winston Weaver are Black and 26 percent are Hispanic.” The area within a mile of Winston Weaver is also reportedly in the “91st percentile nationally for exposure to fine particulate matter in the air, the 93rd percentile nationally for exposure to ozone, and the 92nd percentile for cancer risk from air quality.”

And this is not a coincidence, but by design, as is the case with many communities of color disproportionately located near industrial areas.

GEOGRAPHICAL RACISM IN WINSTON SALEM

In 1904, a water reservoir cracked, and 800,000 gallons of water poured into the street, killing nine people and destroying eight houses. The area of destruction nicknamed “The Pond,” attracted African Americans after its rebuild as it was one of the few places they could find a place to live. In June 1912, Winston-Salem’s Board of Aldermen enacted an ordinance that prevented Black people from owning or living on prop-

The area within a mile of Winston Weaver is also reportedly in the “91st percentile nationally for exposure to fine particulate matter in the air, the 93rd percentile nationally for exposure to ozone, and the 92nd percentile for cancer risk from air quality.”

erty in certain areas, as well as white people. The topography of The pond created stagnant rainwater, which became home to industrial runoff from nearby factories. Through various practices enacted by city officials, Black people were unable to move out of their neighborhood or improve upon it, and The Pond became one of the worst neighborhoods within the city. Although the 1912 ordinance was later ruled unauthorized and The Pond eventually underwent a “slum clearance project,” Winston-Salem continued to enact laws to divide the city by race and discourage white communities from allowing African Americans inside them. This included the creation of a highway known as U.S. 52, which not only cut into the Black community located east of the highway, but also segregated Black residents from the white on the west. The Weaver fertilizer plan sits on the about a mile west of the highway, and a majority of the residents around the plant are reportedly low-income people of color.

At the time of its creation in 1939, the plant was located outside of city limits; however, when houses began to be built in the area, African Americans were more likely to be able to afford the area near the plant than others due to geographical racist practices.

A LEGACY OF ENVIRONMENTAL RACISM

Winston-Salem is not the only North Carolina city guilty of geographical and environmental racism and injustice. In Eastern North Carolina where the majority of industrial animal farms reside, communities of color that have been disproportionately impacted complain of contaminated water from hog waste and rancid smells from decomposing animals and rotten eggs. A study from the North Carolina Medical Journal found that communities located near concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) have higher, “infant mortality, mortality due to anemia, kidney disease, tuberculosis, septicemia, and higher hospital admissions/ED visits of LBW infants.” North Carolina is reportedly the second highest poultry producer in the country, and there are no restrictions for poultry operations as it pertains to waste dumping. And to the northeast in Warren County, North Carolina, the state government decided that a poor, rural Black community would be the sight for toxic waste dumping in 1982. Although residents protested for six weeks, the toxic waste was eventually deposited in a landfill in the community. However, Ben Chavis, the leader of the movement who coined the term “environmental racism” after being arrested, sparked a national movement. Although the battle was lost in Warren County, across the nation Black Americans and POC are fighting again a history of environmental racism, first stipulated by geographical racism during an era of segregation and Jim Crow laws. The first step is to recognize this legacy, in order to prevent further industrialization efforts in Black communities—as with the Winston Weaver plant. SS

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Going Green

By DOEE Sustainability Staff With every Earth Month comes countless articles on “going green.” But what does it mean to “go green”? Are you “going green” with envy? Are you “going green” with illness? In most contexts, to “be green” is to live your life sustainably. To color all your actions with a shade of awareness on how it could affect the environment, equity, and economic development. “Going green” just might be at the crossroads between a healthy, long-lasting future and turbulent disruptions to our way of life. Of course, it is easier said than done. Like every lifestyle change, “going green” requires time, effort, and the willpower to stick it out. Luckily, here at Sustainable DC we have a series of actions and resources on our website to help you do just that. During the Sustainable DC 2.0 development process, our team held a series of city-

wide surveys and community focus groups. We found out that District residents would like to know more about how to “go green” and make the city a healthier, greener, and more livable place. This engagement, in combination with a review of the Sustainable DC 2.0 actions that residents can best influence, resulted in the ten action categories available on our Go Green webpage. All actions are available in Spanish, French, Amharic, Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese, to inform as many DC residents as possible. They also include programs and other resources available in the District, to help each of us to take action. “Going green” does not have to be tedious solo undertaking. It is a change we all benefit from and there are resources that can help you reap those benefits. Like most things, creating a sustainable DC is a team effort. Help us help you go green! SS

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YOUR HOME MAY QUALIFY FOR UPDATES! Was your home built before 1978? Do you have at least one child under age 5 living there? You may be eligible for funding to paint, renovate and update your single-family property, thanks to the Department of Energy and Environment! Depending on the household needs, the program could address: • • • • • • •

Roof leaks Mold Asbestos Chipping Paint Vermin Infestation Fire and Electrical Hazards Removal and Replacement of Lead-Positive Components (Doors, Door Frames, Window Frames/Sills, Etc.) • Inoperable Appliances and Health & Safety

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Our Vital Earth is Worth the Investment in Climate Solutions we don’t face price shocks every time there’s a world crisis and fall behind in global innovation.

Submitted by Environmental Defense Fund For the next four months, Congress will be making one of the most important decisions of our lifetimes. Whether or not to invest in clean electricity and transportation, create millions of jobs, advance environmental justice, and protect generations to come from the climate crisis. The alternative is to continue our deadly and expensive dependence on fossil fuels that are intensifying weather events, wildfires, and the pollution that disproportionately impacts Black and brown communities. Our dependence on oil means the American economy is at the mercy of world oil markets, and we need bold steps to move to clean energy that is made in America, so

REPOSITIONING OUR COUNTRY TO LEAD ON CLIMATE ACTION

On his first day in office, President Biden announced that we would rejoin the Paris Agreement, an international pact with more than 190 countries committed to averting catastrophic climate change, and he didn’t stop there. He followed with a pledge to cut U.S. climate pollution by 50%-52% by 2030, putting the U.S. in the top tier of global climate ambition. He created a “climate cabinet” that includes the most diverse group of senior officials in key leadership positions; most notably, appointing Michael Regan as the first Black man to lead the Environmental Protection Agency. He formed the first-ever White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council to raise awareness of Environmental Justice issues and provide

guidance to government entities on how to address them. President Biden has also established the historic Justice40 initiative to commit at least 40% of the overall benefits from federal investments in climate and clean energy to overburdened communities.

THE DOWN PAYMENT ON CLIMATE ACTION

The bipartisan infrastructure bill that President Biden signed into law last November is a first step toward building a stronger, cleaner economy. It includes several critically important climate investments, including funding for lead pipe replacement, electric buses, community resilience against natural disasters, electric vehicle charging stations, the cleanup of polluting orphan oil and gas wells and an expansion of broadband to support farmers and rural communities. Importantly, it also provides a massive $20 billion investment in clean energy research

and development. But we can’t stop there: Congress needs to act on the biggest clean energy investment bill in American history.

MAKING THE CASE FOR THE FULL INVESTMENT

When advancements are made with clean energy and clean transportation, public health and the economy gets stronger. Passing major climate investments will help Americans save on their energy bills up to $500 per year of savings. In

many cases, renewable power sources are the most affordable option. We’ve seen major cost decreases in solar and onshore wind over the last decade. Our earth is vital and the investments on the table have the potential to address the environmental injustices communities of color have been facing for far too long. Now, Congress and the White House need to finish the job by passing legislation to ensure a clean, safe and equitable future. Climate action cannot wait. SS

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The Hidden Cost of Energy Dr. Margot Brown Vice President for Equity and Justice for Environmental Defense Fund Race is the most significant predictor of a person living near contaminated air, water, and soil, as land- use policies made in the 1930s and ‘40s continue to have a lasting and detrimental impact in Black and Brown communities today. These policies coupled with the insatiable demand for energy have created communities referred to as sacrifice zones: low-income and racialized communities shouldering more than their fair share of environmental harms related to pollution, contamination, toxic waste, and heavy industry. As our nation shifts toward clean and sustainable energy it is imperative that air pollution and the health and well-being of Black

and Brown communities be centered in this transition. We need a just transition to a clean energy future that learns from our past and seeks to avoid the worst impacts of climate change while making sure alternative energy solutions do not exacerbate existing health and environmental inequalities. Finding the right path to a just transition will require policymakers to understand the connection between green infrastructure, race, and place. We must begin to reframe the energy conversation around the need for health benefits in Black and Brown communities built upon discriminatory state landuse practices isolating people of color in unhealthy neighborhoods with high air pollution and poorer health standards. A recent study from Harvard’s Chan School of Public Health found the type, size, and location of renewable energy deployment dramatically benefits both the climate and human health in the Mid-Atlantic. Conversely, in the District of Colum-

bia census tracts with a majority Black population are disproportionately targeted for coal burning plants, landfills, and toxic waste contamination from the Anacostia. This disproportionate exposure to poor air quality, along with little or no access to quality parks or other positive environmental benefits, results in Black and Brown communities facing increased risk for health burdens and a decreased quality of life. Asthma serves as very powerful example – it is well documented that air pollution has profound impacts on the U.S. childhood asthma epidemic. Black children are more than twice as likely to have asthma, at 15.7% compared to white children at 7.1%. The most concerning fact is that Black children die at four times the rate of white children with asthma. Asthma health disparities are even higher in D.C., where Black children ages nine and under are over 50% more likely to have asthma compared to other states. From having double the infection rate

of asthma to four times the fatality rate compared to their white peers, racist land-use policies are a key driver for the differences in asthma health outcomes. Asthma can serve as a surrogate for other health outcomes in Black communities - cardiovascular disease, infant mortality rates and COVID-19 to name a few. The good news is today we have

an opportunity to correct past injustices, if Congress uses clean energy as a lever to help remedy racist land-use policies of the past. While policymakers and advocates work toward mitigation and adaptation to climate change, especially in D.C., it is important to remember that, while everyone is affected by a degrading environment, not everyone is affected equally. SS

Together, we’re building a brighter economic, environmental, & energy future for the District. A Decade of Transformation. Thanks to DC residents and businesses, since 2011, the DCSEU has generated $1.3 billion in lifetime energy cost savings, invested more than $50 million in energy efficiency and renewable energy in low-income communities, and prevented 7 million metric tons in lifetime greenhouse gas emissions. DCSEU.com/about

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3 Solar Installations that will Brighten Your Earth Day Submitted by New Columbia Solar New Columbia Solar is proud to work with the District’s businesses, schools, nonprofits, multifamily housing, and other non-residential property owners to enhance our city with solar power. NCS’s solar installations have enabled hundreds of DC property owners to monetize their otherwise unused rooftop and parking lot space while helping our environment. Our projects provide building owners with low-risk income streams in the form of upfront payments to cover capital expenditures (e.g., roof repairs or re- placements), fixed lease payments, or savings on their electricity bill. To date, New Columbia Solar has raised more than $125 Million to deploy solar projects in Washington, DC. The company’s 250+ projects translate into approximately 24 MT of carbon dioxide (CO2) equivalent in avoided emissions annually, and the work has created 80 more jobs in the District. A share of our solar projects also benefit low- to moderate-income families through the Solar for All Program –Mayor Muriel Bowser’s initiative to provide 100,000 low-to-moderate income families with the discounted, locally generated clean energy. Solar for All, a program of the District De-

partment of Energy & Environment (DOEE) coordinated by the DC Sustainable Energy Utility (DCSEU), helps cut electricity costs by up to 50 percent for income-qualified DC families for 15 years. This year, working with partners like New Columbia Solar, the DCSEU hopes to deliver enough community solar to serve an additional 2,600 income-qualified DC families. Through working with property owners across the District, we strive to make solar power a reality for our entire community. Read about three incredible partners who have worked with us to install solar projects on their properties: 1. Washington Tennis & Education Foundation: Ward 7, 749.7 kW (kilowatts, system size). Since 1955, WTEF has supported the Ward 7 community by folding youth into its safe and trusting 50,000 sq. ft. facility. Over the 15-year lifetime of the solar array, WTEF will receive lease payments to host the solar system, which will directly benefit its after school academic, tennis, and wellness programs for the Ward 7 community. The installation is also part of the Solar for All program and will help more than 200 income-qualified DC families cut their electricity costs by up to 50 percent.

2. The Thurgood Marshall Center Trust Inc.: Ward 1, 50.3 kW. As the first Black YMCA in the United States, and now the home of Thurgood Marshall Center Trust, Inc. (TMCT), the next 20-year chapter will be powered by a rooftop solar installation. It is with a deep reverence for the great work of Thurgood Marshall, and the service TMCT provides to the tens of thousands of DC residents who utilize the facility, that New Columbia Solar is proud to supply clean energy, financial benefits, and rooftop repairs through the new installation. 3. Roots Public Charter School: Ward 4, 39.7 kW. This year, our team joined Roots PCS K-5 students in the classroom to lead an experiential lesson on electricity and magnetism. We provided historical context, sharing the history of Lewis Howard Latimer and his carbon filament light bulb patent, and we led electricity demonstrations with light bulbs, magnets, and a solar panel. For more information about New Columbia Solar, visit www.newcolumbiasolar.com. SS

OUR STORY: We Transform Your Property into a Generator of Clean Energy & Cash Flow New Columbia Solar was founded in 2016 to serve the growing demand for clean energy in Washington, DC. After developing, building, and financing solar projects all over the world, the founders of our company came together to transform how the District of Columbia – one of the most visible, iconic, and influential cities in the world – is powered. New Columbia Solar is on a mission to make solar power a reality for our entire community. Unlike many solar companies, New Columbia Solar finances, designs, installs, and maintains solar energy systems, which makes us a partner to our customers for the lifetime of our installations. We take pride in the clean energy community that we’ve built in the District and look forward to finding new ways of investing in our network of customers as it continues to grow. New Columbia Solar enables property owners to become clean energy champions while claiming cash flows from otherwise unused space. We provide the experts, designs, materials, maintenance, and earnings. All you have to do to is provide the space. Find out how much you can earn through lease payments or energy reductions, all at no cost to you: visit www.newcolumbiasolar.com

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By the Numbers

Lee Ross WI Staff Writer

The world can save 23,000 lives and gain $162 billion in benefits a year by improving weather forecasts, early warning systems, and climate information, according to The Hydromet Gap Report.

The Colorado River – which supports a $1.4 trillion economy and drinking water for 40 million people – is in crisis due to climate change and decades of overallocation. The river is so over-burdened it no longer reaches the sea. The average American uses 100 gallons of water per day at home Earth’s surface is 70 percent covered by water, but less than 1 percent is available for human use 65 percent of our drinking water that comes from rivers and streams

Disastrous flooding: Record flooding along the Mississippi River in 2019 caused $20 billion in damage to people’s homes, farms, and businesses in the floodplain. As flood risk grows with climate change, so does the risk to anyone living in harm’s way.

The Klamath is a prime example of how dismantling dams, reducing reservoir methane emissions, addressing historic injustices against Tribal Nations, and building climate resilient rivers go hand-in-hand.

More than 1,900 dams have been removed nationwide. Demolition of four dams on Oregon and California’s Klamath River is set to begin in 2023 to restore endangered salmon runs, thanks to leadership from the Yurok, Karuk, Klamath, and other tribes.

In a moderate scenario for global warming, the likelihood of extreme, catastrophic fires could increase by up to a third by 2050 and up to 52 percent by 2100, the United Nations Environment Program estimates.

If emissions are not curbed and the planet heats up more, wildfire risks could rise by up to 57 percent by the end of the century.

Recent & Recommended Books on Sustainable Solutions and Innovations

relationship between African Americans and the environment in U.S. history. It focuses on three major themes: African Americans in the rural environment, African Americans in the urban and suburban environments, and African Americans and the notion of environmental justice. Meticulously researched, the essays cover subjects including slavery, hunting, gardening, religion, the turpentine Evergreen Architecture: Overgrown Buildings and Greener Living industry, outdoor recreation, women, and politics. “To Love the Wind and the Rain” will serve as an Robert Klanten, Gestalten, Elli Stuhler As more of the earth’s surface is swallowed up by the built environment, architects excellent foundation for future studies in African American environmental history. are increasingly advised to integrate urban flora and fauna into their designs. Whether Rooted in the Earth: Reclaiming the African American Environmental Heritage developing green roofs, living walls, abundant indoor courtyards, or balconies that Dianne D. Glave connect interior and exterior spaces, the urge to intertwine nature and architecture has With a basis in environmental history, this groundbreaking study challenges the never been more apparent. Embracing this ubiquitous trend, Evergreen Architecture idea that a meaningful attachment to nature and the outdoors is contrary to the surveys a broad spectrum of residential, institutional, urban, and rural spaces. But as black experience. The discussion shows that contemporary African American culchange occurs and solutions to the climate crisis are being integrated on the ground, ture is usually seen as an urban culture, one that arose out of the Great Migration many new questions are posed. Evergreen Architecture investigates this movement from the perspective and has contributed to international trends in fashion, music, and the arts ever of the architects leading the charge whilst offering diagrams and plans to help the reader understand since. But because of this urban focus, many African Americans are not at peace how each building came together and how it intends to survive. with their rich but tangled agrarian legacy. On one hand, the book shows, nature, and violence are coated in black memory, especially in disturbing images such as slave ships on the The Sustainable Enterprise Fieldbook: Building New Bridges ocean, exhaustion in the fields, dogs in the woods, and dead bodies hanging from trees. In contrast, Jeana Wirtenberg, Linda M. Kelley, David Lipsky, William G. Russell With deep thought and inspiring examples, this updated book engages readers by though, there is also a competing tradition of African American stewardship of the land that should increasing their understanding and awareness of what sustainability means concep- be better known. tually, practically, personally, and professionally. It provides readers with the tools and Engage, Connect, Protect: Empowering Diverse Youth as Environmental Leadtechniques to improve the social, environmental, and economic performance of their ers Angelou Ezeilo, Nick Chiles organizations in both the short and long term. Since sustainability is not achieved Revealing the deep and abiding interest that African American, Latino, and Nain a siloed environment, everyone has a critical role to play on this journey. The Sustive American communities—many of whom live in degraded and polluted parts tainable Enterprise Fieldbook engages today’s managers and leaders of organizations, of the country—have in our collective environment, Engage, Connect, Protect in both the private sector and civil society, who are being challenged as never before is part eye-opening critique of the cultural divide in environmentalism, part bito find ways to play a proactive role in understanding and addressing the risks and ography of a leading social entrepreneur, and part practical toolkit for engaging opportunities of sustainability. diverse youth. Engage, Connect, Protect is a wake-up call for businesses, activists, educators, and policymakers to recognize the work of grassroots activists in diverse To Love the Wind and the Rain: African Americans and Environmental History communities and create opportunities for engaging with diverse youth as the next generation of enviDianne D. Glave, Mark Stoll “To Love the Wind and the Rain” is a groundbreaking and vivid analysis of the ronmental stewards, while the concern about the state of our land, air, and water continues to grow. Lee Ross WI Staff Writer

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EDITORIAL

The Environmental Movement is Not for Whites Only It is disturbing to observe how today’s environmental movement is too often defined by its White crusaders working to save the earth. At the same time, Black people are most often characterized as the victims of environmental injustice and neglect. It is time to tell the true story of Black people’s historic role as conservationists and keepers of the earth and how they continue to advocate for a sustainable future for everyone. Before being torn away from their homeland, Africans were one with the land, air and sea which they depended on for survival. They viewed nature as a gift from the Creator. They taught themselves how to work with natural elements to produce food, housing, clothing, medicine and even weapons to build and protect themselves, their families and their homelands. The Africans’ relationship with the environment made them valuable to the enslavers who built this nation on the backs of their free labor in the cotton, rice and tobacco fields throughout the South. Black people brought a deep-seated connection to the environment which they used to plant the harvest while planning their escapes without a compass. They possessed an inherent understanding of how the moon, sun, wind and stars would lead them to freedom. Everything in the enslaved person’s household had value. They were the cooks of meals made from every part of the animal, including the snout, feet, ears and tongue. Nothing went to waste. And they birthed a generation of early environmentalists including George Washington Carver, Soloman Brown and Captain Charles Young, to name a few, who used their skills to advance environmental science and technology. As the world observes Earth Day on April 22, the historic role Black people have played to keep the environment safe from human destruction must also be acknowledged. Modern environmental activists deserve homage including the late Damu Smith, Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr., The Reverend Lennox Yearwood, Jr., Wangari Maathai, MaVynee Oshun Betsch, Marjorie Richard and Lisa Jackson. Most of these names may be unfamiliar, so we recommend researching them as an Earth Day, Black History homework assignment. We guarantee you will meet so many others including the next generation of earth savers whose significant contributions will make you proud. With tremendous pride, this publication, albeit on newsprint, aims to recognize and amplify the Black voices of the environmental movement. The earth belongs to everyone and everyone can play a role in protecting it. WI

To Mask or Not to Mask . . . That is NOT the Question

Earlier this week, after a federal judge in Florida ruled that the CDC had overstepped its authority in requiring Americans to wear masks when traveling by air, bus or train, it only took a few hours for leaders in the industry to give the green light to their customers. Amtrak, Delta, American Airlines, Uber, Greyhound – even locally-based transportation companies like Metro here in the Greater Washington Area – quickly revised their policies, allowing customers to make the decision to wear a mask or not. Some people have chosen to continue to mask up in order to protect themselves from contracting COVID-19 while also protecting others around them should they be positive but unaware that they have already been infected. As reporters spoke with Americans, it seemed that the vast majority were delighted to be free from wearing masks – or at least required to do so. According to one report, people on airplanes were so ecstatic that they cheered, ripping their masks off and inhaling deeply as if they had been struggling to breath while wearing those “cursed masks.” But we are not convinced that a federal judge has the knowledge to advise Americans about whether we should or should not continue to be required to wear masks in such public spaces like airplanes, or trains or buses. It seems that such a decision should be made by those who have medical training, knowledge and experience. And while many have attempted to politicize the issue of mask mandates, it should not be left in the hands of politicians or judges who lack the essential knowledge required. Of course we are all weary after battling this pandemic for more than two years. Yes, we all want to return to normal. Sure, we would rather frolic joyfully as if the pandemic had come to an end. But it has not. In fact, if we study the trajectory of viruses and pandemics that have struck our planet over the last several thousand years, we know that more variants will be detected and more people will be infected. Some, correction, many will die. In Shakespeare’s “Hamlet,” the protagonist of the play pondered his future and posed the following phrase: “to be or not to be, that is the question.” But when considering the reality that COVID-19 is still alive and well, to mask or not to mask should NOT be the question. However, if it is the question, it should be answered by someone who can provide more than just an uninformed opinion. WI

TO THE EDITOR The Real HU?

First, the students at Howard protesting, and now the hospital staff? What’s really going on at this prestigious institution? Nurses shouldn’t have to strike to bring attention to safety hazards for them to be fixed. “There’s no money.” The same line time and time again. If there’s no money to keep staff safe, something’s wrong!

Black History

I truly enjoyed the Black Press Activity sheet. It gave me something to do on the long train ride, and I learned a lot of things I didn’t know. Please keep them coming! Lethia Franks Silver Spring, Md.

Moses Tweh Washington, D.C.

Readers' Mailbox

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APRIL 21 - 27, 2022 29

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist

A. Peter Bailey

'Elite' U.S. Universities and African Students

A recent Washington Post article, "Surge of international applicants at elite white colleges,' reported that academic institutions such as Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dartmouth, etc., have experienced a large increase in international applications to attend their institutions. Since 2020 applications have increased 34%. One factor of this is their dropping of SAT and ACT score

requirements. The four countries from which most applications came are China, India, Pakistan and Nigeria. It shouldn't be surprising that Nigeria is so high on the list. Europe and North America (USA) have a vested interest in Africa not becoming continental. Since Nigeria is Africa's most populace country, its support for African unity is extremely important. That explains why exploiters of Africa's mineral wealth wants Africa's future leaders to be educationally and psychologically connected to them.

When reading the article, it brought to mind a 1972 book, 'Nigger at Eaton,' written by Charles Dillibe Ejiofor Onyeama. His father, at that time, was a judge in the international court of the Hague. Onyeama was educated in a British prep school and at Eaton, one of Britain's most prestigious academic institutions. In the book, he wrote about the negative treatment he was given by some of his fellow students who were members of some of Britain's most important families. Despite that, Onyeama expressed a deep love for Eaton.

Guest Columnist

He also wrote the following: "…Whatever happened, I knew I was always going to be proud of EATON. I knew it was going to forever influence my life, in some way, and I would win respect from people because I had been there. Even if I was rather stupid, it had taught me one thing about myself and my people. That I am BLACK and in a world in which the black man has to suffer. I am left with the candid belief about the black man as a result of having lived with him for the past two years since I left Eaton: that God especially created him to suf-

fer and he will always suffer." My first reaction when reading that was scorn for Onyeama. Later I decided that he must be a pathetic person to be filled with so much self-hatred. I am not saying that all of those Nigerian students scrambling to be accepted by "elite" American educational institutions share Onyeama's psychological problems, but they had better be aware that the institutions they are so anxious to attend are determined to maintain White's major

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Ben Jealous

Across America, Students Must Learn All History

Black history is American history. That shouldn't be a controversial statement. But thanks to politicians like Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin, teaching honestly about history is getting downright dangerous. Youngkin got elected in part by embracing a dishonest campaign launched by far-right activists to

make parents fear that teaching about racism represents some kind of sinister plot to shame and indoctrinate children. Once he took office, the very first official action he took as governor was to sign an executive order supposedly designed to "get divisive concepts out of our schools." You know what was "inherently divisive?" The Confederacy, which waged a brutal war to defend slavery from its capital in Richmond, Virginia. How about massive resistance to the desegregation of

schools? How about Virginia's law that made interracial marriage illegal until the U.S. Supreme Court overturned it in 1967? Youngkin has claimed that his order will still allow students to learn about history — both good and bad. But he also set up a tip line that parents could use to report on "divisive" teachers. That's in the worst tradition of authoritarian politicians everywhere. It's a terrible policy. It's a terrible way to think about education.

Guest Columnist

And, I will admit, I take it a bit personally. My ancestors were enslaved in the state of Virginia. One of my forefathers was elected to the state legislature during Reconstruction. He helped create the state's system of public education. Then white supremacists took back power, made segregation the law of the land, and made it impossible for Black Virginians to build political power for decades. That's pretty "divisive" stuff. A coalition of civil rights groups has launched the Black History is

American History campaign to push back on Gov. Youngkin's efforts to force teachers and schools to whitewash teaching about history and racism. Students have the right to learn the truth about our history and our present. We are inviting Virginia parents and families to use the governor's "tip line" to tell Gov. Youngkin that denying students the freedom to learn is bad for children, families, and the future.

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Marian Wright Edelman

Celebrating a Season of Hope

On April 7, the Senate confirmed Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson as the next Supreme Court Justice of the United States and the first Black woman justice, marking a new era of progress in our nation. For the first time in American history, white men will not be the majority on our Supreme

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Court. It is slowly becoming more representative of all of us. In her remarks at the White House the next day, Judge Jackson spoke gratefully about the overwhelming number of encouraging messages she received from people across the country and world during her confirmation process. She said: "The notes that I've received from children are particularly cute and especially meaningful because, more than anything,

they speak directly to the hope and promise of America. It has taken 232 years and 115 prior appointments for a Black woman to be selected to serve on the Supreme Court of the United States. But we've made it. We've made it, all of us. All of us. And—and our children are telling me that they see now, more than ever, that, here in America, anything is possible." Black girls will now see themselves represented on the highest

court in the land and all children have a new role model for what is possible. It was an overwhelmingly joyous moment. For all those celebrating Passover, Easter, and other rituals of renewal and rebirth, we are reminded again that this is a season of hope. In April 1957, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. preached an Easter Sunday service at Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery titled "Questions that Easter An-

swers." Dr. King said one of these questions is "Is the universe on the side of the forces of justice and goodness?": "Sometimes it looks dark and sometimes people come to feel that the universe is on the other side, that the universe seems to say 'Amen' to the forces of injustice … Every now and then I feel like asking God, Why is it that over

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OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist

E. Faye Williams

Think About It

Throughout my life, I have been blessed with family and friends who have admonished me to be a critical thinker. I challenged not only to think, but to think with clarity, appropriate urgency, and logic. The old idea of being one who thought "while others were sleeping" was not lost on me. In fact, preemptive thinking has saved me from misfortune "a time or two" — both personally and professionally.

Because of the life of organizational leadership that I now live, I commonly spend a great deal of time thinking about the subtle and not-so-subtle statements made by political leaders. Others may find it too time consuming to analyze every errant statement made by politicians, but, with the ever-increasing racial hostility in this nation, I find it essential. A great example of this is the statement made earlier this year by the Senate Republican leader. Mitch McConnell told the world just what he was thinking about African

Guest Columnist

Americans. To instill fear and terror in the minds of white people who might be thinking of not voting, in a moment revealing his true feelings, he warned, "African American voters are voting in just as high a percentage as Americans." As a former civics teacher and political candidate, this statement was wildly offensive. The long-standing tradition in this nation's political process has been for political parties and politicians to articulate positive policies and positions which will influence voters to vote for them. This rapidly disappearing tradition

has been replaced with exclusionary rhetoric, racial animus, and hatred fueled by the desperation of "losing something those who are undeserving." Did Mitch infer that African Americans are not real Americans? Yes! Did Mitch tell whites that African Americans would vote against the interests of "real" Americans? Yes! Well, Mitch, we are not easily fooled! We know the reason that you oppose anything you consider beneficial to African Americans. It's also a sure bet that your Republican cronies are going to oppose it because they, like

you, don't think we are Americans! Neither you nor any of your like-minded lackeys will ever acknowledge that we African Americans pay a substantial portion of your salaries with our tax dollars while most of your industrialist/ business cronies pay little or nothing. Tell us Mitch, what makes one American? Is it white privilege? Is it the size of your bank account? Does our blood sacrifice in times of national conflict mean nothing? Or what about our 200-plus years

D.C.-based nonprofit combating homelessness and addiction. She recalls entering the beautiful home with wooden floors and big chandeliers as everything a young lady would need in life. Of course, Lisa wanted to do the right thing and build the right relationships, but she knew deep inside that she wasn't being true and honest with her counselor or herself to succeed with the program. For years Lisa struggled with her addiction. It wasn't until January 2004 that she hit rock bottom. Her family cut off ties. She was

homeless and afraid of her own shadow. The fact that she was coughing up blood didn't prevent her from continuing to drink, even though she wanted to stop. By February, she cried and prayed for God to help her. And by His will, she found herself back at Samaritan Inns and wrapped in the embrace of her Samaritan Inns roommate from seven years prior, who had now become an intake counselor. April is Alcohol Awareness

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Lauren C. Vaughan

The Ins and Outs of Recovering from Addiction

As the third child and only girl, Lisa longed to be daddy's little girl. Too young at the time to understand that her father had a problem with drugs and alcohol, Lisa resented her mom for leaving her dad. Her early childhood wasn't easy. Lisa was sexually abused in and out of her home and church, which diminished her trust in people. At 15, she began

dating a young man and dropped out of school. By 18, Lisa was a mother to a baby girl and working two jobs. She didn't socialize, go out, or party until she turned 21 and her relationship with her daughter's father ended. At age 22, Lisa was in a new, serious relationship. He introduced her to alcohol, encouraging her to take a drink to loosen up. She didn't like the taste or smell, but she noticed that the drink changed her. She was engaging, laughing and singing. But alcohol had not taken over her life yet.

Guest Columnist

By 24, Lisa was no longer in a relationship and started drinking more. The drinks allowed her to forget about her ex-boyfriend and feel free of any thoughts that would bring her down. It was at that point that she committed to a relationship with alcohol. Not long after, she was introduced to crack. Her mom, whom she was living with at the time, saw that Lisa had a problem and suggested a detox program. 1993 was when Lisa entered her first recovery program and was introduced to Samaritan Inns, a

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Marc H. Morial

The Complexities of Black Pain and Black Pride Define the Black Experience rie, vice president, Benenson Strategy Group "The psychological toll of always anticipating that next set back where one unexpected bill, short paycheck, or medical emergency will derail months, maybe years, of plans and priorities is exhausting. Feeling like you must do more, and expect less, creates a never-ending daily cycle of economic anxiety." — Shannon-Janean Cur-

For nearly two decades, as part of the State of Black America report, the National Urban League has produced the Equality IndexTM, a statistical calculation of the social and economic status of African Americans inspired by the Three-Fifths Compromise of 1787. The 2022 Index year’s is 73.9%, slightly up from the revised 2020 Index of 73.7%.

This year, for the first time, we decided to find out how Black Americans feel about their status. Conducted by Benenson Strategy Group, the Pulse of Black America survey is based on nearly 1,700 interviews conducted in March of this year. "If the Equality Index measures the share of the American economic pie Black Americans gets compared to whites, then the Pulse of Black America survey unpacks the feelings

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and frustrations of Black people who will never get that last slice of pie," wrote Shannon-Janean Currie, the BSG vice president who conceived of and led the research. The survey revealed a Black America ravaged by a deadly pandemic and beset by economic despair, yet still optimistic in the promise that "we shall overcome." The survey confirmed the findings of the Equality Index: When it comes to education, income, oc-

cupation, housing, and debt load, Black Americans are at a disadvantage. Only 27% of Black survey respondents had attained a college education, compared to 37% of white respondents. Fewer than half as many Black respondents — 12% — reported earning more than $100,000 annually, versus 27% for whites. The Black homeownership rate was a little more than half the

MORIAL Page 54 APRIL 21 - 27, 2022 31

LIFESTYLE Studio Muze Livens Up Ward 7 with Artistic Opportunity Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer Perched atop a hill on 62nd Street in Northeast stands Studio Muze, a newly-launched, vibrantly-colored artistic space and community hub dedicated to the expression of various artistic mediums including photography, graphic design, make-up artistry, custom apparel and fashion design. Within a matter of weeks, young people between the ages of 15 and 25 will converge on Studio Muze for a series of workshops where they will acquire the skills essential to navigating the entertainment industry on their terms. In June, participants will take a series of crash courses, develop their resumes and learn about business

licensing and branding. “A lot of artists have a hard time connecting their artistry to income and sustainability,” said Travon Naim, a Ward 7 resident and founder and CEO of Studio Muze. “We aren’t taught that we can take these skills to be entrepreneurial or contract out with agencies. The idea [behind this workshop] is to [explore] what that looks like to create a bridge for upcoming artists,” Naim said.

LAUNCHING A BUSINESS AMID A PANDEMIC

Naim, 29, launched Studio Muze last August, more than a year after the pandemic abruptly

5 Travon Naim, founder and CEO of Studio Muze, working in his studio with some of his fashion designs. (Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

interrupted an entrepreneurship class he taught at Anacostia High School in Southeast. Once he obtained the building on 62nd Street, Naim, with the help of family and friends, painted the space and erected photos, decorative lighting and merchandise while incorporating other elements of set design that make Studio Muze suitable for photo shoots, modeling events and networking opportunities. One of those events took place on the evening of April 9 when Studio Muze collaborated with Indie Fashion Week for an open house that attracted artists and art enthusiasts of various ages. For hours, guests took part in interactive activities including an art therapy station that reinforced Studio Muze’s mantra of art having no boundaries. In coordinating the event, Naim brought together hair and make-up artists, photographers and models who executed a live modeling program. Other projects in the works for Studio Muze include an art competition through which contestants can artistically market products created by local businesses. During a portfolio builder series titled “Lights, Camera, Muze,” models and creatives can add eye-catching content to their portfolios at below the standard market rate with the use of Studio Muze photography and creative direction services.

PAVING THE WAY FOR DISTRICT CREATIVES

In years past, D.C. government

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officials have designated the creative economy -- which includes the fashion, culinary arts and media industries -- as pivotal in attracting young people to the District and growing the local economy. Before the pandemic, creatives expressed concern that the D.C. government didn’t provide communities east of the Anacostia River with enough support to cultivate homegrown talent. Patrice Lancaster, a local organizer who has worked with Naim for nearly a decade, commended him for creating a space in a part of the city that’s in need of economic development. She said the magic of Studio Muze lies in Naim’s resilience and ability to parlay his talents and interests into entrepreneurial endeavors that not only benefit him but six of his interns and countless other creatives and community members. “Travon’s story shows young people how they can use their talents and gifts to become economically self-sufficient. It’s important that there are safe space for creatives,” said Lancaster, a Ward 5 resident, as she recounted Naim’s previous collaborations within D.C.’s urban fashion economy and a selfie station he created that attracted various residents and government officials during the most recent Art All Night activities along Pennsylvania Avenue in Southeast. “We don’t amplify and advocate for people who follow the track of entrepreneurship,” Lancaster continued. “By amplifying these spaces and funding artists east of the Ana-

costia River, the District can duplicate the success of young social entrepreneurs and help them achieve economic self-sufficiency.”

ON A PATH TO SELF-SUFFICIENCY

Naim’s journey to entrepreneurship came through trial and error. Upon graduating from Crossland High School in Camp Springs, Maryland in 2010, he attended Morgan State University in Baltimore where he further explored artistic talents that he first discovered as a youth. Though he never finished college, Naim credits the on-campus experience as a launching pad for future endeavors in the fashion industry. At this juncture in his professional development, Naim has expressed a desire to create opportunities for young people so they can confidently explore and expand their artistry. “I started school as an architecture major and eventually changed to graphic design, taking classes in infographic design and painting murals and home decor,” Naim said. “At some point, I made clothes for myself and people asked me to make clothes for them. All of the things I’ve tapped into, I started with myself and when people saw it, they asked me to do it for them. Over time, I built more clientele and now I’m sitting in this studio because of it,” he said. WI @SamPKCollins

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Robert Glasper and Jason Moran Create a Piano Lounge

Versatile Composers Fill Kennedy Center With Relaxing Sounds Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer Two baby grand pianos that appeared to touch were the only instruments on the Kennedy Center stage. A "chill" concert of music from two of the most talented artists on the scene today was delivered by Robert Glasper and Jason Moran recently at the Kennedy Center. Emmy Award winner and fourtime Grammy Award recipient Glasper and Kennedy Center Artistic Director for Jazz Jason Moran gave us "an unforgettable evening" as the performance was billed. Both performers are known to blend different genres of music but this night was mostly about jazz to celebrate Jazz Appreciation Month. Chatter between Glasper and Moran and the audience was minimal. It usually was funny when they did speak but the dialogue helped frame their jazz philosophies. A close and respectful relationship steered by intuition and improvisation drove what we heard between the two composers, producers and bandleaders. No additional musicians came to the stage. No setlist was in the program guide. We only needed to listen. "We play whatever we are inspired by, that's it," Glasper said. "No rules here."

Glasper and Moran began their set with three songs honoring some of their jazz heroes. I heard strains from Herbie Hancock's "Maiden Voyage" in the first number. Then a blend of Chick Corea and McCoy Tyner, two jazz legends who died in recent years, filled the second selection with fluidity and punctuated melodies. I could see that Moran can be a rapid pianist, a trait similar to Tyner's style of working the keyboards. Glasper introduced Roy Hargrove's "Liquid Streets" for the third tribute. Hargrove died in 2018 at age 49. Like Glasper and Moran, Hargrove practiced genre-blending music by grabbing the sharpest musical talent on the scene to create sounds that can't be placed in specific buckets. That's what Glasper did with his award-winning "Black Radio" album series and what Moran does by bringing hip hop, comedy performances, spoken word, ballet and other bold combinations into the Kennedy Center's jazz programing. "He was the first jazz musician I saw that dressed like me," Glasper said. "That made me believe I could do that." We saw and heard the duo expand the sound of their pianos with an assortment of accessories. We heard the result when items were placed inside their pianos like a tambourine, wine bottle,

drinking glass and a red Solo® Cup – changing the dynamic of a composition Moran received a 2010 MacArthur Foundation "Genius Grant," and currently, Moran teaches at the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston. He and Glasper graduated from Houston's prestigious Kinder High School for the Performing and Visual Arts but not in the same year. Moran was a few years ahead of Glasper. The vibrancy and emotion poured into this performance created a surprise when Moran's chair broke a third of the way into the concert but it didn't stop the action. Moran had to stand at his piano to continue playing, so Glasper took the same position in an "I got you, bro" moment. "I've had that chair for 18 years," Moran said. Extraordinary artists, comrades and lovers of all things music made for an incomparable concert. I turned around to look at the audience's reaction at one point. There was stillness with complete focus on the stage. We witnessed two dudes who just came to fill every soul in the room with sweet, thoughtful harmonies. If you came with an appreciation for Glasper and Moran individually, this concert made you fall in love with them completely and collectively. WI

LIFESTYLE APRIL IS FINANCIAL LITERACY MONTH

Celebrate Financial Literacy Month with DISB financial education programs like Financially Fit DC and the Opportunity Accounts Program.

Visit disb.dc.gov/flm 5 Talking to the audience about their process are pianists, composers and producers Robert Glasper and Jason Moran performed a dual piano concert at the Kennedy Center on Saturday, April 16, celebrating Jazz Appreciation Month. (Courtesy photo/Jati Lindsay)

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APRIL 21 - 27, 2022 33

LIFESTYLE

"BILLY STEWART: HOW NICE IT IS" The African American Music Association In Partnership with The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Library Presents "Billy Stewart: How Nice It Is" In-Person program. Saturday, April 30, 2022, 1:30pm. at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library 901 G Street, NW, Washington, DC Screening of documentary "Fat Boy: The Billy Stewart Story", post-screening panel discussion, hand dance showcase, and live performance by "Silk Soul". REGISTRATION REQUIRED: https://dclibrary.libnet.info/event/6266339 For further information contact: 202 810-3135

WARD 7 from Page 5 own. Harris said her budget for a down payment stands at $10,000 at the maximum. Most of the social security disability stipend that she receives must be used to cover housing, medical supplies and transportation costs. She also supplements her income by working part-time as a caseworker. Since 2018, the family has lived in a house formerly owned by John Paul Mudd who welcomed Harris and the children into the home. “I want you to own this home,” Harris recalled Mudd once saying to her. But in February 2019, he died and his daughter, Mary Ann Moore, while uninterested in selling the property, allowed the family to continue renting. Monthly rent costs over $2,000. Like many parents, Harris said she’s determined to own her own home but said the path toward homeownership as the guardian of disabled children has been “troubling.” “The process isn’t easy,” she said. “There are a lot of programs in the District of Columbia that

will place you anywhere because you're desperate. But I have to be careful and protect my children from areas where violence is more persistent.” She said an ideal home would include: wheelchair accessibility; six or more bedrooms; wheel-in showers; lowered kitchen cabinets, counters and sinks; grab bars; widened doorways; and raised electrical outlets. She said safety remains tantamount. In 2018, her wheelchair accessible van was stolen on the day of one of her children’s birthdays when the entire family planned to go out to celebrate. Not only did the theft force her to cancel the outing but it took nearly one month before she could secure another means of transportation. Real-estate agents acknowledge the challenges with finding an accessible home. However, some willingly provide their recommendations on how to search for a property for an occupant with a disability. In addition, the D.C. Department of Housing and Community Development provides up to

$30,000 for home modifications to improve physical mobility for those with physical ailments. However, the program, Single Family Residential Rehabilitation, recently received criticism because its offerings to improve homes, specifically roof repairs, were excessively delayed causing some homes to decay. A study estimates that about 21 percent of households will have at least one resident with a mobility disability by 2050. Harris said her search for a family home will continue. “No matter what, we will be a happy family,” she said. “We won't lose hope. We’ve suffered a lot of losses lately but as long as we have each other, we're okay.” “I've done a lot of work in the community for people. I believe something will happen one day – I just hope it happens before I close my eyes. If something happens to me tomorrow, [the owner] will want to sell the house and the kids would be separated. [But] if we have our own home, they’ll always have a safe place in which to live,” Harris said. WI

CGDB from Page 12

Stay Informed!

www.washingtoninformer.com 34 APRIL 21 - 27, 2022

“Being a first-generation college student is a laborious assignment because parents, siblings and community members look up to you,” Tsion, of Ethiopian descent, said. “They have expectations of academic excellence and a lot of involvement in extracurricular activities. She continued: “It can be very hard sometimes because you feel like you can never mess up. Thank you to First Generation College Bound because they have helped me to become an inspiration to my younger siblings and also to my parents.” A few nonprofits such as The Neighborhood Center in Hyattsville could receive less money than last year. The center also has an office in Baltimore City. The center, which helps plan new parks, community gardens and other landscape projects, could receive $67,475 toward community design and planning services. It requested $119,164 last year. “It would have a profound effect on communities and nonprofits in

She continued: “It can be very hard sometimes because you feel like you can never mess up. Thank you to First Generation College Bound because they have helped me to become an inspiration to my younger siblings and also to my parents.”

Prince George’s County,” said Allie O’Neill, program director of community design in the center’s Hyattsville office. “Our services would not be available for additional groups the entire year without this funding.” Some of the other CDBG requests from various municipal agencies and nonprofit organizations include: Slightly more than $398,000 to resurface various roads in the Frenchman Creek neighborhood in the city of New Carrollton. Full amount recommended.

About $825,000 from the City of College Park’s Housing Authority. Recommended amount: $372,752. Nearly $50,000 from Maryland Consumer Rights Coalition, based in Baltimore, toward housing justice in Prince George’s. Full amount recommended. About $31,211 from Korean Community Services Center of Greater Washington toward outreach. Amount recommended: $31,210. WI @WJFjabariwill

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At Washington Gas, safely and reliably meeting the energy needs of our customers are our highest priorities. Please read the information below and share it with others. NATURAL GAS SAFETY What to Do If You Smell Natural Gas If you suspect a natural gas leak or other gas emergency, evacuate the area immediately and, from a safe location, call 911 and then the Washington Gas Emergency Leak Line at 844-WASHGAS (Select Option 1). Never attempt to locate the source of the odor. RECOGNIZE What does natural gas smell like? Natural gas is non-toxic, colorless, odorless and combustible. For safety and detection, Washington Gas adds an unpleasant odorant called mercaptan to the natural gas delivered through our distribution system. Call 202-624-6092 for a “Scratch & Sniff” brochure. Government agencies and officials, schools, businesses, property managers and others are invited to request multiple copies of the brochure for public educations and awareness purposes. Other Signs of Natural Gas Because gas traveling through a small portion of our transmission pipelines is not odorized, you should also familiarize yourself with visible and audible signs of a possible leak. Follow the same precautions described below if you are outside and smell gas; hear hissing or blowing noises; see dirt being thrown into the air; see fire coming from the ground or appearing to burn above ground; see water bubbling or being blown into the air at a pond, creek or river; or see a dry spot in a moist field or dead or dying vegetation on or near a pipeline right-of-way. REACT If you smell natural gas, do not attempt to locate the source of the odor. Evacuate the area immediately and, from a safe location, call 911 and then the Washington Gas Emergency Leak Line at 844-WASHGAS (Select Option 1). If the odor is very strong, or you hear a blowing or hissing noise, vacate the building or area immediately, leaving doors unlocked as you go. Warn others as you exit, if possible. Do nothing that could create an ignition source. Do not light a match or use any type of phone or battery-powered equipment. Do not turn electrical equipment or light switches on or off. Do not start a car or any type of motorized equipment. Call 911 and the Washington Gas emergency numbers listed above, only after you are a safe distance away from the building or area. Gas Migration Natural gas is distributed through a network of underground pipes and service lines. If a leak should occur, it is possible for gas to migrate into buildings, including those without natural gas service.

RESPOND Washington Gas responds 24 hours a day, seven days a week to address natural gas leaks and other emergencies. If a leak poses an immediate threat, the company takes quick action to make the area safe. If a natural gas leak does not pose an immediate threat, corrective action may be scheduled for a later date.

PREVENT PIPELINE DAMAGE CALL MISS UTILITY AT 811 BEFORE YOU DIG Digging related damage is a major cause of pipeline accidents. 811 is the national Call Before You Dig/Miss Utility telephone number that initiates the process of marking the underground utility lines in your yard or on your job. Your call to 811 will be routed to your local One Call Center - in the District of Columbia, Maryland or Virginia. Local One Call Center personnel then notify member utilities, such as Washington Gas, to mark the approximate locations of underground utility lines with high-visibility safety paint and/or flags. The service is free. Everyone, including homeowners and construction companies, should always call Miss Utility at 811, at least two full business/working days - excluding weekends and holidays - before you are scheduled to begin any digging, regardless of size or depth. When using mechanized equipment, it is required by law to call 811 before you dig. Do not begin digging until the lines have been marked or confirmed as “no conflict.” If you are unsure whether the underground utilities have been marked in your yard or on your job, check back with your One Call Center to make certain there are no underground utilities where you plan to dig. Most importantly, dialing 811 can help avoid serious injury and even fatalities, as well as property damage and significant expense that can occur when underground utilities are damaged. Always call 811 before you dig, each dig, every dig. To learn more, visit washingtongas.com

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LIFESTYLE

After the Demise of Prince, Friends Wonder ‘What Kind of Ending to a Movie is This?’ Bandmember and Close Friend Jerome Benton Shares His Views Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer Jerome Benton described the devastating moment he learned that his mentor, bandmate, co-star and brother Prince had died. On the morning of April 21, 2016, Benton worked outside of his home to complete the online sale of a treadmill he no longer needed. “She came to pick up the treadmill and we were standing in my driveway and I was kind of running my mouth,” recalled Benton, who many know as Morris Day’s running buddy from the iconic group, The Time. “My niece came out and said, ‘Unc, your phone is blowing up,’” Benton remembered. “I said, ‘It’s early. I’ll get to it.’”

Back and forth for about another 10 minutes, Benton’s niece grew more persistent in asking that the musician check his cell phone. The insistence quickly grew into a demand. “She said, ‘No, you need to come in here and look at the news,’” remarked Benton, who sat watching the news in disbelief. He then got on a call with his Time bandmates Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. “What type of ending to a movie is this?” Benton recalled exclaiming before the trio sat silently, holding their phones. Benton had not only appeared onstage with Prince as a member of the vaunted “Revolution” but counted among those appearing in the groundbreaking motion picture “Purple Rain.” He also appeared in Prince’s fol-

We are lucky to live in a place where there is freedom of the press. World Press Freedom Day is May 3. The purpose of this special day is to raise awareness of the importance of a free press in a democracy. Each week, Kid Scoop brings students interactive games, activities, puzzles and more in a bright & bouncy, award-winning feature kids and their family members can enjoy together. PUBLICATION DATE HERE

Publication Date 4-28-22

36 APRIL 21 - 27, 2022

low-up movie, “Graffiti Bridge” before taking a co-lead role with the “Let’s Go Crazy” singer in “Under the Cherry Moon.” Benton’s reckoning with Prince’s death closely resembled that of Revolution bassist BrownMark who recalled lying in bed and being brought to tears by the news. “I was living in California and it was nine in the morning and a friend of mine who used to be one of Prince’s bodyguards knew some of the [Minneapolis] police officers who said some- 5 Jerome Benton with Prince in an earlier performance. (Photo courtesy YouTube Screenshot) thing had happened at problems for years which led to brothers. I always beat up on my [Prince’s home] Paisley Park,” BrownMark said. “He called speculation that he relied on pain- little brother,” Brown said. “The family love was so strong in The me back 30 minutes later and said, killers to ease his discomfort. One week before his death, a Revolution. We were really tight‘Mark, he’s gone.’ I was in disbelief. Tears started coming down,” plane carrying Prince from a con- knit.” cert in Atlanta had to make an He described Prince much like BrownMark remembered. “It was such a painful moment,” emergency landing. Prince report- those who only knew him from edly overdosed on the flight, and afar and others who only knew his he said. Prince, responsible for some of authorities used Narcan to revive music – a genius. “Prince was good at everything,” music’s most memorable hits and the singer. “I had just reached out to him the BrownMark mused. “He was from live shows, died at 57. From his debut album, “For week before because of the plane another universe.” One way Benton has chosen to You,” to masterpieces like “1999,” incident and passed on my well “Purple Rain” and “Sign ‘O the wishes,” Benton said. “I left him remember his friend is by writing Times”, Prince reigned like no oth- a message telling him that I loved the long-awaited sequel to “Purple him but to this day, I don’t know if Rain.” er. “I have it and I’m just waiting In addition to his endless string the message ever got through.” The year before Prince’s death, for some company to say they want of successful recordings, Prince produced hits for Chaka Khan, The BrownMark received an invitation it,” Benton said. “My journey with Prince and this business has been an Bangles, Sinead O’Connor, Mavis to visit his friend at Paisley Park. “He’d have me fly in and some- array of excitement and privilege. Staples, Sheila E. and Graham Centimes he would forget that he’d From The Family to when I was tral Station. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ask me to come out and I’d be in a asked to join the Revolution and Inductee also produced and created hotel for two or three days and I’d tour the world and sell out 40,000The Time, Apollonia 6, Vanity 6 be like, ‘Come on Prince,’” Brown- seat stadiums – the experience is a Mark said. “I went to Paisley and once-in-a-lifetime thing and I get and The Family. Nominated 33 times for a Gram- he was riding his bicycle and when chills talking about it because it was my Award, Prince won seven of I got out of the car, he told me that so amazing.” I had a glowing aura. It was the last Benton clarified his use of the music’s biggest prizes. word privilege, noting that it’s not Overall, he won 32 music memorable conversation we had.” BrownMark, who joined the used in a cocky way. awards, including trophies from the Revolution at 19, said he still miss“Who can say they’ve done that?” American Music Awards, Billboard, es Prince. he continued. MTV, BET and the American So“I was heartbroken,” he said, The entertainer added that ciety of Composers, Authors and noting that there’s much more in Prince’s death remains difficult to Publishers. Prince also earned an Oscar for BrownMark’s latest book, “My Life swallow. “Somedays, I get weak about it. Best Original Score for his 1984 in the Purple Kingdom.” BrownMark remembers Prince Somedays, it gives me strength,” blockbuster movie, “Purple Rain.” The superstar, who routinely as a brother – someone he could Benton said. “We lost a great guy. I don’t ever remember having a bad wore high-heeled shoes during his bounce ideas off and vice versa. “Big brothers beat up on little time with him.” WI energetic performances, battled hip

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APRIL 21 - 27, 2022 37

A Day for Games

One popular Dia del Niño game is Pin the Tail on the Donkey. Help Hector pin the tail on the donkey picture.

Silly Book Puns

A pun is a play on words. Read the book titles below and then draw a line from the book title to the author’s name that makes a funny pun. For example: The Arctic Ocean by I.C. Waters. by Lotta Money by A. Stronaut by Abby Cadabera

A Day for Children in Mexico!

Piñata Pairs On Dia del Niño, children take turns to swing a bat or stick at a piñata, trying to break it apart to release the candy and goodies inside! ACTIVITY: All but one of these piñatas have an exact twin. Circle the one that’s unique.

(Stir, stir, chocolate,)

Tu nariz de cacahuate.

(Your nose is a peanut.)

Uno, dos, tres, CHO!

(One, two, three, CHO!)

Uno, dos, tres, CO!

(One, two, three, CO!)

Uno, dos, tres, LA!

(One, two, three, LA!)

Children’s Rights Collage

Look through the newspaper for pictures and words showing things you think all children should have a right to. Cut these out and use them to make a Children’s Rights collage. Standards Link: Visual Art: Use art to express a message.

Uno, dos, tres, TE!

(One, two, three, TE!)

Children’s Day in Mexico started in 1925. This celebration has its origins during Álvaro Obregón’s presidential term after the country joined the Geneva Convention. The Geneva Convention emphasized the importance of taking care of children, originally the vulnerable children affected by World War I. The United Nations suggested in 1959 countries adopt a National Children’s Day in honor of the Children’s Rights Declaration of 1959.

Chocolate, chocolate!

(Chocolate, chocolate!)

Bate, bate, chocolate!

(Stir, stir, chocolate!)

Bate, bate, bate, bate,

(Stir, stir, stir, stir,)

Bate, bate, CHOCOLATE!

(Stir, stir, CHOCOLATE!)

CHOCOLATE CHILDRENS CELEBRATE MEXICO DONKEY PEANUT SCHOOL PALMS FROTH DRINK CANDY MUSIC TAIL GAME DAY

Tear the ne (about 1 in long)

D Y A D E Y L F N C

M D R I N K N O O I

In a large b water, add

I T U N A E P R H H

S E F O L N C T M L

Y M X L R O C H U D

D in the comple

D A L I L D O E S R N G L A C A E H I E

A B T T P O R A C N C E L E B R A T E S

Standards Link: Letter sequencing. Recognize identical words. Skim and scan reading. Recall spelling patterns.

Describe Dia del Niño

Look through the newspaper for five or more words that describe Children’s Day in Mexico. Use these words to write a letter to your local newspaper editor about why you think there should be a Children’s Day in your town.

Continue balloo

Add more a applied

Standards Link: Language Arts: Compose formal letters.

My Book

Imagine you could write a book for kids. What would be your topic? Who would be your main character? What would make other kids want to read your book?

KID SCOOP IS SPONSORED BY

38 APRIL 21 - 27, 2022

Inflate

Color the last balloon in each row the color it should be to continue the pattern in that row.

Bate, bate, chocolate,

by U. Turner

Children bring in their favorite foods to share. Some families take a day out with their children. Often there are special activities for children around the community. Children wear bright colors to celebrate their youth and the coming of Spring.

On Children's Day, many families start the day with a yummy cup of hot chocolate and they sing of a song at breakfast. A mollinillo is used to stir the chocolate drink by rolling it between the palms of your hands while it is dipped in the hot chocolate. The kids sing the following song while stirring the drink. The game is to sing each verse a little faster every time it is sung.

• a large ba • lots of ne • 5 cups of • water • masking

by Duncan Under

In Mexico, Children’s Day (Día Del Niño) is celebrated on April 30th. On this day, there are no classes in schools. Instead, schools organize games and music.

Hot Chocolate Song

You will

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When you can paint i

To fill piña bend it ba

LIFESTYLE

wi book review "You Sound Like a White Girl: The Case for Rejecting Assimilation" By Julissa Arce c.2022, Flatiron Books $27.99 208 pages Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer The key for the clubhouse door is off-limits to you. You'll never earn the member jacket or learn the double-secret handshake. No matter how hard you try, membership to the club is totally off-limits and that's irritating, embarrassing, and even dangerous. But read the new book "You Sound Like a White Girl" by Julissa Arce, and maybe that's a club not worth joining. For the first 11 years of her life, Julissa Arce was a Mexican child living in Mexico. She was not ethnically different from any of her neighbors; in fact, "Eating the food, speaking the language, dancing to the music – it was all like breathing air." And then everything changed. Her parents moved their family across the border to America, a sacrifice they made to ensure better opportunities for their children but with those opportunities came struggle. Arce constantly worked to fit in, she cut her long hair, and she practiced until she could speak English almost flawlessly but even the smallest mistake set her back in the eyes of her white classmates. She was never going to be white. So why try? For centuries, she says, white people have told Hispanic and Black people that if they worked hard, that "everything was possible," and they said that while they were making it impossible for anyone with darker skin to get ahead. As a result, people of color relinquished their culture and language with hopes of assimilation or, at least, acceptance. They stopped speaking their native tongue, while white schools proudly taught it in "dual-language ... programs." Most bruisingly, the system resulted in a widely-held preference for lighter skin, and not just in the U.S.: a similar preference "infiltrates" Mexican life, too, says Arce. The solution, she suggests, is to stop trying to assimilate, period. "There is so much power in the uniqueness of our names, our food, our heritage," she says. "Only when we refuse to change and instead recognize the beauty that has been passed down to us will we truly find acceptance within ourselves." When you approach "You Sound Like a White Girl" and prepare to dive in, be sure to leave your assumptions at the door. Author Julissa Arce is going to make you examine everything you ever thought about your natal culture, no matter what your origins. And she does it with an angry eloquence that makes you wonder why anyone would ever want to work so hard to fit in, anyhow. Through her own personal stories, history, and research, she lets readers know that they're not alone in their efforts to assimilate, that their frustration is not unique, and that there's ample reason to quit the fight. It comes with a good amount of pride and not just a few surprises. While this book may seem like it could have a "No Whites Allowed" sign hidden somewhere on the cover, nothing could be further from the truth. To make our society better, letting everyone of any race read "You Sound Like a White Girl" is key. WI

horoscopes

APRIL 21 - 27, 2022

ARIES At the week's start, you'll crave conversations with friends, colleagues, and loved ones that touch on themes of philosophy and big-picture ideas. Any project that requires you to focus on boring, everyday minutiae could feel especially frustrating or draining. See what you can do to check those tasks off your list quickly so you can move on to the subjects that feel more stimulating now. Lucky Numbers: 5, 14, 19 TAURUS It's possible that over the past couple of weeks you've felt pulled and pushed on the job, torn between what you want to do and what you feel you need to do to bring in that paycheck and, in turn, promote your sense of security. But at the beginning of the week, you'll be zeroed in on striking a balance and figuring out how you can prioritize the work that really feeds your soul. Lucky Numbers: 28, 47, 50 GEMINI When the week starts, one-on-one collaborations fuel your soul even more than usual. You might have a hunger to soak up viewpoints that both echo and conflict with your own, so make sure to trade plenty of ideas back and forth with your best friend, significant other, or a close colleague. These conversations might help you land on a joint effort that you're both fired up about. Lucky Numbers: 20, 23, 29 CANCER As the week starts, you'll have extra support for taking on all those major and minor tasks that you've been trying to squeeze into your day-to-day, week-to-week routine. Whether that means finally joining that gym and getting in your strength training or swimming on a regular basis, or packing healthy meals to bring to work, you'll feel like you can tackle healthy changes with the wind in your sails. Lucky Numbers: 3, 9, 31 LEO Expressing your most vivid, artistic thoughts and proposals comes even more organically early in the week. You'll easily entertain your co-workers and significant other or friends with your quick wit and almost childlike playful energy. Take advantage of this vibe by teeing up an imaginative pitch you've been working on, or enjoying flirtation and intellectual banter as a way to set the stage for foreplay with someone special. Lucky Numbers: 4, 13, 14 VIRGO You'll find yourself itching for deep, emotional conversations with your loved ones as the week starts. It feels natural to reminisce about the past and your roots, as well as the dynamic among those you care about the most. These dialogues could lead to better understanding and even stronger bonds. Lucky Numbers: 18, 48, 54 LIBRA It might be more challenging than usual to connect with those you're closest to at the week's start. You might feel like there's a strange, inexplicable distance or coldness that's standing in the way of your ability to find common ground. Keeping your cool and allowing the moment to pass makes it easier to cope. Lucky Numbers: 6, 12, 14 SCORPIO Taking a microscope to your cash flow, budget, and other financial plans can feel especially empowering and productive early in the week. You'll have the focus and analytical energy to make a solid dent in any organizational tasks you've wanted to tackle and to set goals related to moneymaking and investments. Meeting with a financial adviser might be wise as well. Lucky Numbers: 2, 22, 23 SAGITTARIUS Finding common ground with a close colleague, dear friend, or significant other might be your main focus as the week starts. If it feels like your impulses and focus have been at odds with one another, or you're simply not as in sync as you'd like to be, this is a moment to zero in on solutions. Lucky Numbers: 24, 27, 50 CAPRICORN Meditation and reflecting on deep, psychologically rooted issues might be particularly appealing and healing at the start of the week. You'll do well to journal, express yourself through an art form that speaks to you, or even address old emotional wounds in therapy. The more you can give voice to the mental and emotional forces that underlie your everyday life, the more vital you'll feel as a result. Lucky Numbers: 30, 37, 43 AQUARIUS You might be feeling like work has been your main focus for the past several weeks, and you need a break to spend downtime with the people close to your heart as the week gets underway. Without allowing yourself playful, unstructured time to connect with your VIPs and have lighthearted fun, you might risk burnout and resentment. Lucky Numbers: 1, 2, 35 PISCES Sitting down with higher-ups to go over your goals, both short term and long term, might be your main goal early in the week. You can use language and self-expression to drive home any powerful message you want them to hear, whether that's related to taking on more responsibility or doing what you must to earn additional recognition. Lucky Numbers: 18, 40, 44

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APRIL 21 - 27, 2022 39

CAPTURE

3 The Eastern High School marching band perform during the Emancipation Day activities at Freedom Plaza in Northwest on April 16. (DR Barnes/The Washington Informer)

the moment

For more photos, visit www.washingtoninformer.com

6 The audience watches the parade at the start of the Emancipation Day festivities on April 16 at Freedom Plaza in Northwest. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

5 A young drummer marches in the Emancipation Day Parade on April 16. (Roy Lewis/ The Washington Informer)

MEDICAL from Page 22 how do we make sure we continue to diversify the talent pipeline because we know that’s going to impact health disparities. When Black Americans are taken care of by Black doctors, their health is better. They get their questions answered in a different way. It’s (disparities) not only a problem with physicians, it’s all across health administration. There are very few Blacks in the C-Suite. So, our internships are broader than clinical. It encompasses both clinical and non-clinical. WI: Internships are standard for most college students, so why

40 APRIL 21 - 27, 2022

is this specific initiative necessary? MR: A very small number of African American students actually receive paid internships. And that number has been diminishing over time and has been impacted by the pandemic. So why this initiative? One, because people tend to hire those folks from networks they are most familiar with. Two: So often, our students are not aware of the opportunities in the traditional networks that large organizations hire from. So this is an opportunity to really open the eyes on both sides. WI: What do you think is different or unique about this approach in terms of bridging the gap for equity?

MR: I think this is different because of the unique partnership. It’s an organization that’s meeting the needs of an industry. We hope to partner with other healthcare organizations to understand what the areas of highest need are. To identify students at an early stage who would be appropriate for those needs. We also have an opportunity to mentor these students. Not only that they have an opportunity, but they convert to full-time positions. WI: When will the program begin? MR: We’re in the planning phase now and in the process of securing internships. We have a number of students who are really interested.

We’ll begin phase one this summer with a small pilot and then really robustly in the fall. WI: Any institutions you can name that you’ll be working with? MR: Xavier is one of the schools. Spelman College, Morehouse College, Howard University. We will be working with all those schools definitely. WI: With this work, have there been any challenges as far as organizing something of this magnitude, working with hospitals, universities and students? MR: Absolutely. It’s a coordination effort. It’s getting all the players in the room at the same time. We are all committed to the same

work. It’s that bringing together. It’s really been more exciting than challenging. When we get together, we realize we’re finishing each other’s sentences. There is a commitment across the industry to do this work. WI: What do you think the long-term impact will be for a program like this? MR: Long-term, we hope that we improve healthcare and reduce health disparities for African Americans by giving them an opportunity to see themselves in the healthcare they receive. WI This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

CAPTURE THE MOMENT

5 Mayor Muriel Bowser and Dr. Angie Gates, director of the Director of the Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment (OCTFME) enjoy the Emancipation Day Festivities with family and friends at Freedom Plaza on April 16. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer) 4 Producer and singer CeeLo Green performs at the Emancipation Day concert at Freedom Plaza on April 16. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

Live-in Position Need a Nanny for an 18-year-old Autism male who needs someone to assist him with personal care and learning such as speech and classroom activities. Must have at least two years working with a child with Autism and are able to take him to and from school. Please call Donna at (202) 569-7499 5 Rapper Slick Rick performs during the Emancipation Day concert at Freedom Plaza on April 16. (Roy Lewis)

TECH from Page 26 unwillingness to fund a full-time principal for MTHS and the accompanying middle school. Toward the end of March, Hassell raised this issue during a D.C. Council education budget hearing. Weeks later, he has remained steadfast in his desire for an MTHS principal who can have their attention exclusively set on one school. That way, Hassell said, they would have enough bandwidth to fulfill their re-

sponsibilities while actively engaging students, faculty, staff and community members. In making his case, Hassell cited a decrease in 30 percentage points in the number of McKinley Middle School students who matriculated to MTHS during the last couple of academic years. He said that has been one of the many signs that MTHS, one of the District’s six application-based public high schools, needs the District’s support in fulfilling its mission.

“We need strong leadership in our schools [like] principals who are walking the halls, intervening in fights and greeting students,” Hassell said. “We had more than three lockdowns out of concern about bomb threats and shootings in the neighborhood. We need all hands on deck and this is what we have to work with. I’m just concerned that DCPS is not taking this problem seriously.” WI @SamPKCollins

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APRIL 21 - 27, 2022 41

SPORTS Setting the Record Straight on Jackie Robinson’s Legacy Liz Dwyer On April 15, 2022, when 56,000 fans of the Los Angeles Dodgers head to the famed stadium in Chavez Ravine to watch the Dodgers take on the Cincinnati Reds, they won’t just be eating peanuts and popcorn and celebrating their love of America’s National Pastime. Both fans and players will wear jerseys emblazoned with the number 42 on them in tribute to the one and only Jackie Robinson. Indeed, the date marks the 75th anniversary of Jackie Robinson

breaking the color barrier in baseball on April 15, 1947. His widow, 99-year-old Rachel Robinson — she turns 100 on July 19 — plans to be in Dodger Stadium to commemorate the moment, too. “She has been dogged about keeping the legacy alive,” says Della Britton the president and CEO of the Jackie Robinson Foundation. Rachel Robinson founded the nonprofit organization in 1973, one year after Jackie Robinson’s death in 1972. The foundation’s goal is “to promote higher education and the

5 Jackie Robinson (Courtesy photo)

values embodied in the life and legacy of sports and civil rights icon Jackie Robinson.” Rachel Robinson is also about to see a longtime dream come to the life: the July 26 opening of the Jack-

NATS WIN!

5 Josiah Gray (40) throws to first base during a Washington Nationals win over the Arizona Diamondbacks 6-1 during a double-header at Nationals Park on April 19. (Abdullah Konte/The Washington Informer) 5 Lucius Fox (26) throws a strike for the out during Game 2 of a double-header in a Washington Nationals win over the Arizona Diamondbacks 1-0 at Nationals Park on April 19. (Abdullah Konte/The Washington Informer)

42 APRIL 21 - 27, 2022

ie Robinson Museum in New York City. “I’m very, very focused on when you walk into that museum, you will instantly know that this was a man who did a lot more than

play baseball,” Britton says. “When I had my private conversation with her,” recalls Britton of talking to Rachel Robinson, “she said, ‘You know, I’ve always wanted a fixed tribute to Jack.’ You know, her beloved Jack — and she’s the only one that calls him Jack. No one else.” Rachel Robinson didn’t want a shrine to her husband, though. Instead, she wanted a place where people in the community could come discover what Jackie Robinson stood for and learn his full legacy. To that end, the museum will feature fun, engaging content about baseball, and thanks to an anonymous million dollar grant, there will be a character education program called “Be 42”. And, of course, the museum will take deep dive into Robinson’s civil rights activism, including his relationship with the Black press. When Robinson made his major league debut on April 15, 1947, the Dodgers were still in Brooklyn and baseball was still a racially segregated sport. Sportswriters at Black newspapers as well as Black politicians had long called for the integration of baseball, but until Robinson signed with the Dodgers, Black players had been restricted to the Negro leagues. It’s been well documented in media — including in the late Chadwick Boseman’s star turn as Robinson in the film “42” that Jackie Robinson had more courage and fortitude than most in order to endure the threats and racial slurs hurled at him by white players and fans. The mainstream media didn’t report on this harassment. But the Black press covered Robinson regularly and enthusiastically — and they got into the nuances of what Robinson meant to the Black community. In 1947, the Baltimore Afro-American ran an interview with Robinson where he acknowledged the pressure he felt about being the first Black MLB player and having to publicly endure racism. “I don’t guess anybody really understands exactly how I feel about being signed up,” Robinson told reporter Michael Carter. “I feel sort of as if everyone was looking at me. I feel that if I ﬂop, or conduct myself badly — on or off the ﬁeld — that I’ll set the advancement back a hundred years. Why, I feel that all the little colored kids playing sandlot baseball have their professional futures wrapped up somehow in me.” WI For the full story go to wordinblack.com

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BAILEY from Page 30

role in international affairs. I suggest they read a 2009 supplement in the Washington Post with the title "Africa on the agenda" and the subtitle "Africa, the key to global economic growth.' Educational institutions such as Eaton, Harvard, Yale, Princeton and Dartmouth have the dual responsibility of preparing future white leaders who will help Europeans and North Americans maintain control of Africa's mineral wealth and preparing African leaders to assist them in doing so. WI

JEALOUS from Page 30 Unfortunately, Virginia is far from alone. Politicians and political operatives are out to build power by mobilizing a backlash to honest teaching about racism in our history and institutions. And those efforts are connected to campaigns for so-called "Don't Say Gay" laws, which threaten teachers who acknowledge the reality of LGBTQ students and families. And all of this goes hand in hand

Educational institutions such as Eaton, Harvard, Yale, Princeton and Dartmouth have the dual responsibility of preparing future white leaders who will help Europeans and North Americans maintain control of Africa's mineral wealth and preparing African leaders to assist them in doing so.

with a surge in censorship in classrooms and libraries. The American Library Association recently released its list of the books most often challenged last year. Most of them were about Black and LGBTQ people. And that reminded me that Gov. Youngkin's campaign actually ran an ad featuring a woman who objected to the teaching of Toni Morrison's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel "Beloved" in her son's senior-year English class. Watching politicians build pow-

The American Library Association recently released its list of the books most often challenged last year. Most of them were about Black and LGBTQ people.

EDELMAN from Page 30 so many centuries the forces of injustice have triumphed over the Negro and he has been forced to live under oppression and slavery and exploitation? Why is it, God? Why is it simply because some of your children ask to be treated as first-class human beings they are trampled over, their homes are bombed, their children are pushed from their classrooms, and sometimes little children are thrown in the deep waters of Mississippi? … I begin to despair sometimes, it seems that Good Friday has the throne. It seems that the forces of injustice reign supreme. But then in the midst of that something else comes to me. And I can hear something saying, 'King, you are stopping at Good Friday, but don't

you know that Easter is coming?'" Dr. King continued: "This is the meaning of Easter, it answers the profound question that we confront in Montgomery. And if we can just stand with it, if we can just live with Good Friday, things will be all right. For I know that Easter is coming and I can see it coming now. As I look over the world, as I look at America, I can see Easter coming in race relations. I can see it coming on every hand. I see it coming in Montgomery. I see it coming in Alabama. I see it coming in Mississippi. Sometimes it looks like it's coming slow, but it's still coming." Easter is still coming. Sixty-five years after Dr. King preached that Easter sermon, sometimes it may still feel as if change is coming too slowly. Sometimes even now it

er by inflaming fears about Black people can be deeply discouraging. It can also be intensely motivating. As a Black Christian writing this column during Holy Week, I draw strength from the historic witness of the Black church and its role in supporting and sustaining Black people as we made history. I celebrate the power and impact of Martin Luther King, Jr's appeal to both the Constitution's promise of equality under law and the great faith traditions' call for us to treat one another with decency and respect. And I lift up the words of Lonnie Bunch, the founding director of the National Museum of African American History and Culture and now the director of the Smithsonian Institution, who reminds us that "there are few things as powerful and as important as a people, as a nation that is steeped in its history." WI

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may feel as if the forces of injustice and those who are afraid of the light and the truth are winning for a day. But the message of this season is that darkness will not prevail. Some of the changes Dr. King saw coming in Montgomery and Mississippi came to pass during his lifetime. Judge Jackson noted that in her own American family, after the legacy of generations of ancestors born into slavery and the Jim Crow south, it took just one generation to go from segregation to the Supreme Court. We can see more changes to come. As we celebrate this season of transformation, renewal, and hope, we must keep lifting up the vision of a changed nation and world where anything is possible for all of our children. WI

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APRIL 21 - 27, 2022 43

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to win on appeal. Just this morning, several of the original authors of the statute discredited this challenge as being well outside the intent of the language they helped to write.” The McDuffie campaign plans to take the matter to the D.C. Court of Appeals, according to a news release. One of McDuffie’s opponents, Bruce Spiva, challenged his qualifications before the board. District law requires the attorney general to be “actively engaged” in the practice of law five of the 10 years before assuming the position. Spiva vs. McDuffie The statute defines active engagement as being a practicing attorney in the District, a judge, a professor of law in the city or employed by the District or federal government. An attorney for the McDuffie campaign argued before the board that the councilmember practiced engagement by serving on the District’s legislative body and maintaining his law license with the District of Columbia Bar. Additionally, McDuffie has worked as a prosecutor for the state’s attorney in Prince George’s County and in the U.S. Department of Justice as a trial attorney in the Civil Rights Division, the board learned from the campaign’s attorney. Nevertheless, the board ruled against McDuffie, which pleased the Spiva campaign. “We have been clear from the start: Councilmember McDuffie does not have the experience to run for or serve as attorney general,” said Alaina Haworth, Spiva’s campaign manager, in a statement. “The people of D.C. deserve an attorney general who is ready from Day One to take the responsibilities of the office. That’s

5 Kenyan McDuffie, the Ward 5 D.C. Councilmember, is seeking to become the next District attorney general. (WI File Photo/Roy Lewis)

why the council enacted and District voters approved these specific minimum qualifications McDuffie failed to meet.” Reactions to McDuffie’s Dilemma In a tweet, Zach Israel, a Ward 4 advisory neighborhood commissioner, agreed with the board’s decision. “Major kudos to @BSpiva for having the courage to successfully file a challenge against a candidate who simply was not qualified to run for D.C. attorney general under D.C. law,” Israel said. “This is now a three-person race and you should cast your ballot for Bruce.” Without McDuffie, the race consists of Spiva, Brian Schwalb and Ryan Jones. However, Troy Donte Prestwood, president of the Ward 8 Democrats, tweeted his concern about McDuffie’s status. “A very surprising ruling by the

D.C. Board of Elections,” Prestwood said. “The law is vague on AG qualifications. Therefore, District voters should decide who they want to be the next AG, not the elections board.” Ari Theresa, a Ward 8-based attorney, agreed with Prestwood on Twitter on the vagueness of the statute. “The statue is so vague, I am unsure how they can be successful,” Theresa said. “Agencies get broad deference interpreting their own regs.” Ward 8 political activist Stuart Anderson said he leaned toward McDuffie in the race but now he has to look at the other candidates. “I honestly don’t know the other candidates,” Anderson said. “I will say based on what I have seen, I would likely support Ryan Jones because he is the candidate that I can best relate to at this point.” WI @JamesWrightJr10

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44 APRIL 21 - 27, 2022

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RELIGION the religion corner WITH LYNDIA GRANT

Campaign Shows COVID Disparities in Poor Communities Nationwide

April 4, 1968, the day Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was murdered, is a significant date to be remembered. On that date this year, Bishop William J. Barber II of the Poor People's Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival held a press conference at The National Press Club to show how extreme disparities are and have been in poor communities nationwide. \These communities consist of African-Americans, and his report shows how they have been and continue to be hit disproportionately by COVID-19. The Mass Poor People's & LowWage Workers' Assembly and Moral March on Washington and to the Polls will be held on June 18, 2022, will be attended by all generations, and it will be a transformative and disruptive gathering of poor and low-wealth people, state leaders, faith communities, moral allies, unions, and partnering organizations. It is a declaration that we won't be silent anymore, a declaration of an ongoing, nonviolent, truth-telling multi-racial, multi-generational, interfaith moral movement that's been building for three years. We are a moral fusion movement with a complete Third Reconstruction agenda that has 45 state coordinating committees, over 2,000 clergies who lead congregations, economists, voting rights lawyers and advocates, and 200 partners that reach millions of people. Mobilizing was key to the First Reconstruction in the 19th century. As prelude to the Progressive Era and the New Deal, Coxey's Army (1894) and Bonus Marchers (1932) assembled in Washington, D.C., to put a face on the issue of poverty that was being ignored by elected leaders. You are invited. A report to connect COVID-19 deaths in the U.S. to both poverty and race was released April 4 at the Nation-

al Press Club in D.C. by the Poor People's Campaign and a team of world renowned economists, researchers and experts. The unprecedented findings of the "Poor People's Pandemic Digital Report and Intersectional" was released by the Poor People's Campaign and the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network. Barber, the campaign's co-chair, said: "On the 54th anniversary of the murder of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., when he was pleading with the nation to address poverty, racism and militarism, it is shameful that we have 140 million poor and low-wealth people in this nation." "Even in a global pandemic, there hasn't been a systematic assessment of the impact of COVID-19 on poor and low-income communities. COVID-19 data collection does not include data on poverty, income, or occupation, alongside race and pandemic outcomes. "The Poor People's Pandemic Digital Report and Intersectional Analysis addresses this knowledge gap and exposes the unnecessary deaths by mapping community characteristics and connecting them with COVID-19 outcomes. "The findings of this report reveal neglect and sometimes intentional decisions to not focus on the poor. The neglect of poor and low-wealth people in this country during a pandemic is immoral, shocking and unjust, especially in light of the trillions of dollars that profit-driven entities received. "It is further evidence why we must have a Mass Poor People's and LowWage Workers' Assembly and Moral March on Washington and to the Polls on June 18 as a declaration that our movement will intensify and embolden our agitation for this nation to have a third reconstruction that fully addressed poverty, racism, ecological devastation, denial of healthcare, and the war economy. "We must shift the moral narrative;

we must put a face on this human abuse; and we must build power and refuse to be silent anymore." Included are findings from a total sweep of over 3,000 counties which includes data on COVID-19 deaths, income, race and other characteristics. "This analysis compares US counties from the poorest 10% to the richest 10% and shows that, overall, the poorest counties have grieved nearly two times the losses of wealthiest counties," said Shailly Gupta Barnes, policy director for the PPC:NCMR. "During the deadliest waves of the pandemic (winter 2020-2021 and Omicron) death rates were even higher - four and a half and three times as high - in the poorest counties. This cannot be explained by vaccination status. Over half of the population in these counties have received their second vaccine shot, but uninsured rates are twice as high." During the news conference, a cohort of economists, researchers and experts revealed the interactive map and dashboard, where researchers, policymakers, and everyday people explored this data in real time. Community members from some of the poorest and hardest-hit counties were among the speakers, including Rev. Dr. Liz Theoharis, national cochair of campaign. "The COVID-19 disparities among counties across the U.S. are striking. This report shows clearly that COVID-19 became a 'poor people's pandemic,'" Theoharis said. "We can no longer ignore the reality of poverty and dismiss its root causes as the problems of individual people or communities. There has been systemic failure to address poverty in this country and poor communities have borne the consequences not only in this pandemic, but for "years and generations before. However, this does not need to continue. Our nation has the resources to fully address poverty and low wealth from the bottom up." WI

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Promised Land Baptist Church 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

jmccollum@jmlaw.net

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

APRIL 21 - 27, 2022 45

RELIGION The Miracle Center of Faith Missionary Baptist Church

Pilgrim Baptist Church

Bishop Michael C. Turner, Sr. Senior Pastor

Rev. Louis B. Jones II Pastor

9161 Hampton Overlook Capitol Heights, MD 20743 Phone: 301-350-2200 / Fax: 301-499-8724

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

Service and Times Sunday Worship Times : 7:30 AM 7 10:00 AM Communion: 1st Sunday Sunday School: 9:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday, 12 Noon Bible Study in homes: Tuesday 7:00 PM Website: www.themiraclecenterFMBC.com Email: Miraclecenterfmbs@gmail.com Motto: “We Walk by Faith, Not by Sight”

Blessed Word of Life Church

Service and Times Worship Sundays: 7:30 & 11:00 AM 5th Sundays: 9:30 AM 3rd Sundays: Baptism & Holy Communion Prayer & Praise: Wednesdays @ Noon & 6:30 PM www.pilgrimbaptistdc.org

Covenant Baptist United Church of Christ

Church of Living Waters

Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church

Rev. Paul Carrette Senior Pastor Harold Andrew Assistant Pastor 4915 Wheeler Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 301-894-6464 Service and Times Sunday Service: 8:30am& 11:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM Communion Service: First Sunday www.livingwatersmd.org

St. Stephen Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Michael E. Bell, Sr., / Pastor 2498 Alabama Ave., SE - Washington D.C. 20020 Office: (202) 889-7296 / Fax: (202) 889-2198 - www.acamec.org Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 8:00am and 11:00 AM Sunday Church School - 9:15am & Sunday Adult Forum Bible Study - 10:30 AM 2nd & 4th Monday Women’s Bible Study: 6:30 PM Tuesday Jr./Sr. Bible Study: 10:00 AM Tuesday Topical Bible Study: 6:30 PM Tuesday New Beginnings Bible Study: 6:30 PM Wednesday Pastoral Bible Study: 6:30 PM Wednesday Children’s Bible Study: 6:30 PM Thursday Men’s Bible Study: 6:30 PM Friday before 1st Sunday Praise & Worship Service: 6:30 PM Saturday Adult Bible Study: 10:00 AM “The Amazing, Awesome, Audacious Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church”

Third Street Church of God

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

Reverend William Young IV Pastor

Bishop Lanier C. Twyman, Sr. Senior Pastor

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

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

3845 South Capitol Street Washington, DC 20032 (202) 562-5576 (Office) / (202) 562-4219 (Fax)

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

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

Service and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 11:00 AM Communion Service: First Sunday Prayer Service/Bible Study: Tuesday, 6:30 PM www.blessedwordoflifechurch.org E-mail: church@blessedwordoflifechurch.org

Campbell AME Church 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

Turning Hearts Church Virgil K. Thomas, Sr. Senior Pastor/ Teacher 421 Alabama Ave. SE Washington, DC 20032 Phone: 202-746-0113 Fax: 301-843-2445 Service and Times Sunday School: 10:15 AM Sunday Worship Service: 11;15 AM Children’s Church: 11:15 AM Tuesday Bible Study: 6:30 PM Motto : “A Great Commitment to the Great Commandment” Website: www.turningheartschurchdc.org Email: gr8luv4u2@gmail.com

46 APRIL 21 - 27, 2022

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

Twelfth Street Christian Church Reverend Dr. Paul H. Saddler Senior Pastor (Disciples of Christ) 1812 12th Street, NW - Washington, DC 20009 Phone: 202-265-4494 Fax: 202 265 4340 Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 AM Communion every Sunday: 11:00 AM Sunday School: 10:00 AM Bible Study Tuesday: 12 Noon Pastor’s Bible Study Tuesday: 6:30 PM Motto: “Discover Something Wonderful” Website: 12thscc.org / Email: Twelfthstcc@aol.com

Mount Carmel Baptist Church

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

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

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”

Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church Bishop Alfred A. Owens, Jr.; Senior Bishop & Evangelist Susie C. Owens – Co-Pastor 610 Rhode Island Avenue, NE Washington, DC 20002 (202) 529-4547 office • (202) 529-4495 fax

Sunday Worship Service: 8:00 AM and 10:45 AM Sunday Youth Worship Services: 1st & 4th 10:45 AM; 804 R.I. Ave., NE 5th 8 AM & 10:45 AM; Main Church Prayer Services Tuesday – Noon, Wednesday 6:00 AM & 6:30 PM Calvary Bible Institute: Year-Round Contact Church / Communion Every 3rd Sunday The Church in The Hood that will do you Good! www.gmchc.org / emailus@gmchc.org

Reverend Dr. Calvin L. Matthews Senior Pastor 1200 Isle of Patmos Plaza, Northeast Washington, DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-6767 - Fax: (202) 526-1661 Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM Holy Communion: 2nd Sunday at 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM Sunday Church School: 9:20 AM Seniors Bible Study: Tuesdays at 10:30 AM Noon Day Prayer Service: Tuesdays at Noon Bible Study: Tuesdays at 7 PM Motto: “A Ministry of Reconciliation Where Everybody is Somebody!” Website: http://isleofpatmosbc.org Church Email: ipbcsecretary@verizon.net

St Marks Baptist Come Worship with us... Dr. Raymond T. Matthews Pastor and First Lady Marcia Matthews St. Mark's Baptist Church 624 Underwood Street, NW Washington, dc 20011 Services and Times Sunday School: 9:00 AM Worship Service: 10:00 AM Wed. Noon Day prayer service Thur. Prayer service: 6:45 PM Thur. Bible Study: 7:15 PM

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

headline and photo for Mount Olivet LIF - MALCOLMXLutheran Church DAY John F. Johnson Reverend Dr.

901 Third Street N.W. Washington, DC. 20001 Phone (202) 842-3411 Fax (202) 682-9423

1306 Vermont Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20005

themcbc.org

“Ambassadors for Christ to the Nation’s Capital”

Rev. Dr. Alton W. Jordan Pastor

Isle of Patmos Baptist Church

Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Reverend Dr. Paris L Smith, Sr. Senior Pastor

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

Services and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM Sunday Community Worship Service: 8:30 AM

Crusader Baptist Church

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

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RELIGION Shabbath Commandment Church Bishop Adrian A. Taylor, Sr. Pastor 7801 Livingston Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 301-534-5471 Service and Times Sabbath School 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 AM Service 11:00 AM Praise & Worship Preaching 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM Motto: “A Church Keeping It Real for Real.” Website: Shabbathcommandmentchruch.org Email: Praisebetoyhwh@gmail.com

Zion Baptist Church Rev. Keith W. Byrd, Sr. Pastor 4850 Blagdon Ave, NW - Washington D.C 20011 Phone (202) 722-4940 - Fax (202) 291-3773 Service and Times 9:00 a.m. – Sunday School 10:15 a.m. – Worship Service Wed. Noon: Dea. Robert Owens Bible Study 7 PM Pastor’s Bible Study Ordinance of Baptism 2nd Sunday, Holy Communion 4th Sunday Mission: Zion shall: Enlist Sinners, Educate Students, Empower the Suffering, Encourage the Saints, And Exalt our Savior. (Acts 2: 41-47) www.zionbaptistchurchdc.org

St. Luke Baptist Church Rev. Aubrey C. Lewis Pastor 1415 Gallatin Street, NW Washington, DC 20011-3851 P: (202) 726-5940 Service and Times Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM Sunday School: 9:15 AM Holy Communion: 11:00 a.m., 3rd Sun. Bible Institute: Wednesday - 1:30 PM Prayer Meeting: Wednesday - 12:00 Noon

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

Israel Baptist Church

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

Dr. Lucius M. Dalton Senior Pastor

2324 Ontario Road, NW Washington, DC 20009 (202) 232-1730 Service and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 AM Baptismal Service: 1st Sunday – 9:30 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday – 11:00 AM Prayer Meeting & Bible Study: Wednesday -7:30 PM “Where Jesus is the King”

Dr. Earl D. Trent Senior Pastor

2409 Ainger Pl.,SE – WDC 20020 (202) 678-0884 – Office / (202) 678-0885 – Fax “Moving Faith Forward” 0% Perfect . . . 100% Forgiven!

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: 8:00 AM & 10:45 AM Baptism/Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday Family Bible Study Tuesdays – 6:30 PM Prayer Service: Tuesdays – 8:00 PM www.emmanuelbaptistchurchdc.org

Sermon On The Mount Temple Of Joy Apostolic Faith

Lincoln Park United Methodist Church Rev. Richard B. Black Pastor

Elder Herman L. Simms Pastor

1301 North Carolina Ave. N E Washington, D C 20002 202 543 1318 - lincolnpark@lpumcdc.org www.lpumcdc.org

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

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

Service and Times Sunday Apostolic Worship Services 11:00 A.M and 5:00 PM Communion and Feet Wash 4th Sunday at 5:00 PM Prayer/Seeking: Wednesday at 8:00 PM Apostolic in Doctrine, Pentecostal in Experience, Holiness in Living, Uncompromised and Unchanged. The Apostolic Faith is still alive –Acts 2:42

New Commandment Baptist Church

Eastern Community Baptist Church Damion M. Briggs Pastor

Rev. Stephen E. Tucker Senior Pastor

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

13701 Old Jericho Park Road Bowie, MD. 20720 (301) 262-0560

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

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

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

Rehoboth Baptist Church

Reverend Peter R. Blue Sr. Pastor

Rev. Curtis l. Staley Pastor

2001 Brooks Drive District Heights MD. 20744 240.838.7074

621 Alabama Ave., S.E.- Washington, D.C. 20032 P: (202) 561-1111 - F: (202) 561-1112

Service and Times Sunday Worship Experience: 10:15am Sunday School: 9:00am Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday Morning Noontime Bible Study: Tuesday @ 12:00pm Prayer Meeting/Bible Study: Tuesday @7:00pm Theme: "Building On A Firm Foundation"

Service and Times Sunday Service: 10:00 AM Sunday School for all ages: 8:30 AM 1st Sunday Baptism: 10:00 AM 2nd Sunday Holy Communion:10:00 AM Tuesday: Bible Study: 6:30 PM Prayer Meeting: 7:45 PM

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

Motto: “Where God is First and Where Friendly People Worship”

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

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

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

Shiloh Baptist Church

Matthews Memorial Baptist Church Dr. Joseph D. Turner / Senior Pastor 2616 MLK Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Office 202-889-3709 - Fax 202-678-3304 Service and Times Early Worship Service: 8:00 AM Worship Service: 11:00 AM New Member’s Class: 9:45 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday, 11:00 AM Church School: 9:45 AM Wednesday 12:00pm Bible Study Prayer, Praise and Bible Study: 7:00 PM Saturday Bible Study: 11:00 AM Baptism 4th Sunday: 11:00 AM “Empowered to love and Challenged to Lead a Multitude of Souls to Christ”

Peace Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Michael T. Bell 712 18th Street, NE Washington, DC 20002 Phone 202-399-3450/ Fax 202-398-8836 Service and Times Sunday Early Morning Prayer & Bible Study Class: 8:00 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 10:00 AM Wednesday Service: 12:00 PM “The Loving Church of the living lord “

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

Christ Embassy DC

Kelechi Ajieren Coordinator 6839 Eastern Avenue, R1 Takoma Park, MD 20912 (202) 556-7065 Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 AM Wednesday Bible Study: 7:00 PM Friday Evening Service: 7:00 PM ; Last Friday “…Giving Your Life a Meaning” www.Christembassydc.org Christ.embassy.dc@hotmail.com

Pennsylvania Ave. Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Kendrick E. Curry Pastor 3000 Pennsylvania Ave.. S.E Washington, DC 20020 202 581-1500 Service and Times Sunday Church School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 AM Monday Adult Bible Study: 7:00 PM Wednesday Youth & Adult Activities: 6:30 PM Prayer Service Bible Study

First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Mt. Horeb Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Wallace Charles Smith Pastor

Rev. Oran W. Young Pastor

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

9th & P Street, N.W. - W. D.C. 20001 (202) 232-4288

602 N Street NW - Washington, D.C. 20001 Office:(202) 289-4480 Fax: (202) 289-4595

2914 Bladensburg Road, NE Wash., DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-3180 - Fax: (202) 529-7738 Service and Times Worship Service: 7:30 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Worship Service: 10:30 AM Holy Communion: 4th Sunday 7:30AM & 10:30 AM Prayer Services:Tuesday 7:30 PM. Wednesday 12 Noon

www.stmarysfoggybottom.org Email: stmarysoffice@stmarysfoggybottom.org

Service and Times First Sunday Worship Service (one service): 10:00 AM Second, Third, Fourth, and Fifth Sunday Worship service: 7:45 AM and 10:55 AM Sunday Church School/Bible Study: 9:30 AM Thursday Prayer Service: 6:30 PM

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

Email: sbc@shilohbaptist.org Website: shilohbaptist.org

Service and Times Sundays: 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist with Music and Hymns Wednesdays: 12:10 p.m. - Holy Eucharist

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

Email Address: admin@pbc712.org

Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church The Rev. E. Bernard Anderson Priest

Holy Trinity United Baptist Church

Florida Avenue Baptist Church

Reverend Christopher L. Nichols Pastor

1636 East Capitol Street, NE Washington, DC 20003 Telephone: 202-544-5588 - Fax: 202-544-2964

Web: www.mountmoriahchurch.org Email: mtmoriah@mountmoriahchurch.org

St. Matthews Baptist Church

Rev. Daryl F. Bell Pastor

Motto: "Faith On The Hill"

Mount Moriah Baptist Church

Emmanuel Baptist Church

King Emmanuel Baptist Church

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

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 “

Email:mthoreb@mthoreb.org Website:www.mthoreb.org For further information, please contact me at (202) 529-3180.

APRIL 21 - 27, 2022 47

CL ASSIFIEDS 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 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

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In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality. Notice of White Flag Surrender. Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: " Shirley Jean Bates©", aka "Shirley Jean Mitchell©", in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: "SHIRLEY JEAN BATES©",aka "SHIRLEY JEAN MITCHELL©" corp.sole Dba.: "SHIRLEY J BATES©", "SHIRLEY BATES©","BATES, SHIRLEY JEAN©","SHIRLEY J MITCHELL©", "SHIRLEY MITCHELL©", "SHIRLEY JEAN MITCHELL EL©", "MITCHELL, SHIRLEY JEAN©", "MITCHELL, SHIRLEY J©" & "AZIZI TIVONA EL©", 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: Aniyunwiya Moorish American Moslem National, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, 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: Aniyunwiya Moorish American Moslem National. I am that I am: "Shirley Jean Bates©", aka "Shirley Jean Mitchell©", from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: "azizi tivona 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, NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH DBA: STATE OF NEW YORK: STATE FILE NUMBER: 91332: "SHIRLEY JEAN BATES©", "SHIRLEY J BATES©", "SHIRLEY BATES©", "BATES, SHIRLEY JEAN©", "BATES, SHIRLEY J©", "SHIRLEY JEAN MITCHELL©", "SHIRLEY J MITCHELL©", "SHIRLEY MITCHELL©", "SHIRLEY JEAN MITCHELL EL©", "MITCHELL, SHIRLEY JEAN©", "MITCHELL, SHIRLEY J©" & "AZIZI TIVONA EL©", is as a special deposit order, conveyed to " Woods Amara 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: "azizi tivona el©", nom deguerre: "Shirley Jean Bates©", aka "Shirley Jean Mitchell©", as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of : "Woods Amara 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. Notice of Reference 0112358-13

In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality. Notice of White Flag Surrender. Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: " Antonio Jermaine Ware", in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: “ANTONIO JERMAINE WARE", corpcorp.soleDba Antonio J Ware having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a: Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, Estados alMarikanos, 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: Moorish American. I am that I am: "Antonio Jermaine Ware", from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: " antonio jermaine ware". 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 name of the agency that issued the Birth Certificate/ Naturalization Certificate : STATE FILE NUMBER, October 1, 1987 "ANTONIO JERMAINE WARE", is as a special deposit order, conveyed to " AJ&E". 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: "antonio jermaine ware ", nom deguerre: " Antonio Jermaine Ware ", as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of: " AJ&E ", 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 aha enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente.

Declaration of Nationality IN God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality. Notice of White Flag Surrender. Notice of Special appearance: I am that I am: “Derrick Mahoney©”, in full life, in propia persona, sui juris, in solo propio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: “ DERRICK MAHONEY”, corp.sole Dba.: “DERRICK MAHONEY©”, having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a: Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, 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 Moorish American. I am that I am: “Derrick Mahoney©”, from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality/ Status/ Jurisdiction, shall be known as: “derrick mahoney©”. 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: STATE FILE NUMBER, South Carolina 139-1959-038823: DERRICK MAHONEY, MAHONEY, DERRICK©”, is as a special deposit order, conveyed to “ Destan Michael 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/ Principle/ Creditor: ” derrick mahoney©”, nom deguerre: “DERRICK MAHONEY©”, as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of : “ Destan Michael Trust©”, an Inter Vivos Unincorporated Devine Grantor Trust. This deposit is not to be commingled with general assets of any bank, nor depositary/ trustee/ agent/ bailee/ donee/ debtor. This deposit is not limited to, but including: discharge and set off, of any and all outstanding liabilities as accord and satisfaction. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente

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

CL ASSIFIEDS dental50plus.com/58 #6258

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2021 ADM 001478 James A. Deal aka James Arthur Deal, Jr. Decedent Colline Silvera Esq. 7731 Belle Point Dr. Greenbelt, Md 20770 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Ericka R. Deal, whose address is 2900 14th St., NW, Washington, DC 20009 #915, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James A. Deal aka James Arthur Deal, Jr. who died on 10/29/2021 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/7/2022. 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 10/7/2022, 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: 4/7/2022 Ericka R. Deal Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

LEGAL NOTICES

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

2022 ADM 000156

2022 ADM 195

Keith Franklin Mims aka Keith F. Mims Decedent

Emma Jordana Decedent

Joan M. Wilbon 1629 K Street, NW Suite 300 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney

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

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Haywood Mims III, whose address is 2762 Summertrees Blvd., Johns Island, SC 29455, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Keith Franklin Mims aka Keith F. Mims who died on 12/2/2021 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 10/7/2022. 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 10/7/2022, 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: 4/7/2022

Lawrence Jordana, Jr. and Donna S. Jordana, whose addresses are 9105 Waycross Rd., Ellicott City, Md 21042 and 9105 Waycross Rd., Ellicott City, Md 21042, was appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Emma Jordana who died on January 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 10/7/2022. 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 10/7/2022, 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: 4/7/2022 Lawrence Jordana, Jr. Donna S. Jordana Personal Representative

Haywood Mims III Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2020 ADM 674

2021 ADM 001692

Richard Marion Allen Decedent

Norma D. Weatherly Decedent

Julius P. Terrell, Esq. 1455 Pennsylvania Ave., NW Suite 400 Washington, DC 20004 Attorney

Robert Maxwell, Esq. 601 Pennsylvania Ave., NW #900 Washington, DC 20004 Attorney

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

Julius P. Terrell, Esq., whose address is 1455 Pennsylvania Ave., NW Suite 400, Washington, DC 20004, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Richard Marion Allen who died on January 3, 2019 without a Will, and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (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 10/7/2022. 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 10/7/2022, 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.

Julius P. Terrell 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 000260 Brandon Jovan Carr Decedent Chandra M. Carr 608 Elliott Street, NE Washington, DC 20002 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Chandra M. Carr, whose address is 608 Elliott Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Brandon Jovan Carr who died on March 20, 2020 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/7/2022. 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 10/7/2022, 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: 4/7/2022 Chandra M. Carr Personal Representative

LEGAL NOTICES SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2022 ADM 246

Shawonda Fitch Decedent

Andre O. McDonald, Esq. 10500 Little Patuxent Parkway Suite 420 Columbia, Maryland 21044 Attorney

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

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Veronica C. Lewis, whose address is 30 Croft Court, Staten Island, New York, 10306, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JoAnn T. Vostinar who died on October 9, 2021 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/7/2022. 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 10/7/2022, 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.

Veronica C. Lewis Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

TRUE TEST COPY

Washington Informer

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2022 ADM 000253

JoAnn T. Vostinar Decedent

Date of first publication: 4/7/2022

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Velvin A. Fitch, whose address is 1109 Waterford Drive, Forestville, Md 20747, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Shawonda Fitch who died on February 7, 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 10/7/2022. 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 10/7/2022, 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: 4/7/2022 Velvin A. Fitch 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

Date of first publication: 4/7/2022

LEGAL NOTICES

Jamila Weatherly, whose address is 1019 Frimler Ct., Capitol Heights, Md 20743, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Norma D. Weatherly who died on October 10, 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 10/7/2022. 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 10/7/2022, 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: 4/7/2022 Jamila Weatherly Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

In God We Trust: Notice of Special Appearance: Notice of Record of Live Birth Nativity. As a result of the sacred union of : neo hatshepsut ma’at-el©, Age: 30 , tribal lineage corporeal hereditament : yamassee aniyunwiya moorish american national, and, taron dashawn anderson©, Age 32, tribal lineage corporeal hereditament : siksikaitsitapi moorish american national; beget at the planet commonly called Earth, near Latitude: 33.55077 Longitude: -84.404869, Societas Republicae Ea Al Maurikanuus Estados, Al Maghreb al-Aqsa, commonly known as : [ Riverdale ] [ Georgia ], The united States of America, States of the Union; Moon : Waxing Crescent, 43% Illuminated; Zodiac Constitution : Virgo; On the 6th day, in the month of Rabi I, in the year 1443, Hijiri Calendar [ Tuesday, October 12, 2021 ]; Weather: Temperature : 76°F – 78°F, mostly cloudy skies; Time: 15:19 / 3:19 pm.; TMH , allah [ god of gods ] saw it fit to allow a living soul to incarnate a flesh-blood-and bone body, in homo sapien form , as a natural baby boy, in full life; Weight : 8 Pounds, 3 Ounces; Length: 21 inches; to be! Life Path: 9. Long live the living soul known in this life as: uriah mahdi sun-ra el©; nom de guerre: URIAH GARDNER© In God We Trust Declaration of Nationality Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: “Aida Akoeba Djondo©”, in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: “DJONDO, AIDA AKOEBA©”, “AIDA AKOEBA DJONDO©”, "AIDA A DJONDO©", "AIDA DJONDO©": As natural mother, and guardian of: “Beatrice Theophilia Olufumilayo Ayiterou” and “Gedeon Wisdom Adebayor Ayiterou”, the beneficiaries and heirs of: “AIDA AKOEBA DJONDO©”, corp. sole Dba.: “BEATRICE THEOPHILIA OLUFUMILAYO AYITEROU”, BEATRICE T O AYITEROU”, “BEATRICE AYITEROU”, and “GEDEON WISDOM ADEBAYOR AYITEROU”, “GEDEON W A AYITEROU”, “GEDEON AYITEROU”. Having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a: Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, 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: Moorish American. I am that I am: “Aida Akoeba Djondo©” from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: “aida akoeba djondo©”. 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: 45, 46, & 46. 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: REPUBLIQUE TOGOLAISE – JUGEMENT CIVIL SUR REQUÊTE NUMÉRO: 2853/97 DU 16 AVRIL 1997 “DJONDO, AIDA AKOEBA©”, “AIDA AKOEBA DJONDO©”, "AIDA A DJONDO©", "AIDA DJONDO©", & Re: REPUBLIQUE TOGOLAISE – ACTE DE NAISSANCE NUMÉRO 1888 DU 10 OCTOBRE 2008 “BEATRICE THEOPHILIA OLUFUMILAYO AYITEROU©”, “BEATRICE T O AYITEROU©”, “BEATRICE AYITEROU©”, “AYITEROU, BEATRICE T O©”, “AYITEROU, BEATRICE T OLUFUMILAYO©”, & Re: REPUBLIQUE TOGOLAISE – ACTE DE NAISSANCE NUMÉRO 200 DU 15 FEVRIER 2011, CERTIFICAT DE NATIONALITÉ TOGOLAISE: T1226998 “GEDEON WISDOM ADEBAYOR AYITEROU©”, “GEDEON W A AYITEROU©”, “GEDEON AYITEROU©”, “AYITEROU, GEDEON WISDOM ADEBAYOR©”: All property, of the same issue and amount, in like kind and specie, is to be returned full intact, as a Special Deposit order of the Depositor / Beneficiary / Bailor / Donor / Principal / Creditor: “aida akoeba djondo”, nom de guerre: “Aida Akoeba Djondo©”, as a special deposit order in lawful money. This deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of: “AIDA AKOEBA DJONDO 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 / done / debtor. All Attorneys with a License from the Bar Association are explicitly prohibited from administering "AIDA AKOEBA DJONDO TRUST©" property without handwritten consent from each and every trustee, after said Attorneys have furnished their nationality, and Principal for whom's interest they are working, pursuant to [Public Law 75-583], to Trustees in plain writing. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente. 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.

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

NOTICE OF LEGAL OWNERSHIP OF PROPERTIES FOR VICTIMS OF MORTGAGE IDENTITY THEFT, CRIMINAL TRESPASSING, HOME TITLE FRAUD AND DECLARATION OF LAND PATENTS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF DEEDS AND RECORDS NOTICE IS BEING GIVEN that Vivienne A. Douglas-Davis aka Vivienne Davis aka Vivienne Douglas is the true and legal owner of the property and land known as (Situated in the City of Conyers, County of Rockdale and State of Georgia: and known as being Book 2024, Page 284; known as being Quit Claim Deed Book 4018 Page 132, Book 4895 Page 236 and Book 5537 Page 20 as shown by the recorded Book 5869, Page 162 of Rockdale County Records as appears by said plat, be the same more or less, but subject to all legal highways). Also described as: [IN THE STATE COURT OF ROCKDALE COUNTY STATE OF GEORGIA (Land Records), [FORECLOSURE DEED CASE # 2019-MAG-4299 & 2020-SV-0016]. This Notice is to preserve legal and equitable title, and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, as Allodium Absolute Title Estate in Fee Simple, Tax Exempt, for religious, scientific, educational, and charitable purposes, of the following described Real Estate Land and property also known as 2527 Bonds Lake Road, Conyers, Georgia [30012] P.P.M. Any claims by any other party/parties are false and constitute fraud. Also filed under FBI case number 329FAT2175733. The above named person/persons being the true and legal owner/owners of the afore mentioned property has been a victim of mortgage identity theft and criminal trespassing, among other crimes. If the property is stolen from the above named true homeowner/owners; it MUST be returned instanter; without delay. The true owner is entitled to what is hers/his without question. Mortgage identity theft occurs when the individual whose information is being used is NOT party to the financial negotiations or contract. Two types of fraud are addressed here. Fraud for profit and fraud for housing and property. Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, the lender or collection agency must stop all collection activity during the investigation. They cannot sell, trade, give away, donate, rent, or loan this account or property to another entity. In this case there is no legal lender or collection agency that has any rights to this or any other properties belonging to the above mentioned legal owner. Any dispossessory actions filed on this/these property/properties constitutes perjury as they have filed misrepresentation of legal facts on court documentation, a federal crime. Be fore warned that anyone having any claims or occupation of said property has participated in one or more of the following crimes; mortgage identity theft (a federal crime), home title fraud, slavery (in violation of 18USC3571; forced compliance to a contract not held), grand theft, violations of oaths of office (as it pertains to judges and court officials and officers of law), theft by taking, theft by deception, misprision of felony, falsification of documents, conspiracy, perjury, denied provisions of the U.S. Constitution, extortion, mail and wire fraud, violations of the laws of Interstate Commerce, and subornation of perjury. The above named person/persons are victims of fraud by the local magistrate and superior courts by the fact that magistrate courts enforced evictions that are not in their jurisdiction even after appeals had been filed and approved. The superior courts failed to hold trials on these appeals as in the State of Georgia, superior court has exclusive jurisdiction in matters of equity (…Chambliss v. Hawkings, 123 Ga. 361, 51 S.E. 337 (1905). Many of the superior courts held secret trials and ruled against the true homeowner without notifying them of a court trial. These officials, herein including All judges, sheriffs and marshals and attorneys; having knowledge of the law and the power to prevent the Constitutional deprivation of the rights of individuals; citizens, herein guaranteed Rights, with intent, without authority and under the color of law did unlawfully; engage in a conspiracy to use the offices, formalities, ceremonies, and power of the U.S. Government, and their official bonds and professional licenses to defraud and betray these individuals herein (Defendants, American Citizens) of their lawful Constitutional exercise of their 4, 5, 6, 7, 13, and 14 Amendment Rights; violated the invariant right to truth in evidence, violations of oaths of office, all of the violations under 18USC3571. These rights are based on Natural Law, hence invariant and not subject to human opinion or prosecution. The true and legal homeowner listed above has been denied the right to truth in evidence, violations of oaths of office, all of the violations under 18USC3571 and all of the violations under these federal crimes as listed: 18USC 4, 241, 872, 876, 1001, 1621, 1622, 1963, 1964. State laws violated include Resident Mortgage Fraud and violations of OCGA 44-11-30, 44-11-32, 44-2-43, 44-2-23, 44-7-50, 44-7-51 and 44-7-58. Civil right violations have also occurred as any claims of “immunity” is a fraud because, if valid, it would prevent removal from office for crimes against the people, which removal is authorized or even mandated under the U.S. Constitution Article 2, Section IV; as well as 18 USC 241, 42 USC 1983, 1985, 1986, and other state Constitutions. Precedents of Law established by COURT cases, which are in violation of law, render violations of law legally unassailable. Such a situation violates several specifically stated intents and purposes of the Constitution set forth in the Preamble; to establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, and secure the blessings of liberty. For JUDGES, or anyone in any branch of government.” “Fraud vitiates the most solemn contracts, documents and even judgments.” [U.S. vs. Throckmorton, 98 US 61, at pg. 65]. “Any false representation of the material facts made with the knowledge of falsity and with intent that shall be acted on by another in entering into a contract, and which so acted upon, constitutes ‘fraud’, and entitles party deceived to void the fraudulent contract and recover damages.’ [Barnsdall Refining Corn vs. Birnam Wood Oil Co. 92 F 26 817]. Anyone having interest in this/these property/properties should notify the District Attorney of the County in which the property is located or the U.S. Attorney’s Office at 75 Ted Turner Dr. SW, Atlanta, Ga. 30303 at 404-581-6102, HUD, the FBI at http://www/fbi/gov/(http://www.fbi.gov/) at (202) 324—3000 or the Mortgage Fraud Hotline at 1-800-437-2838

APRIL 21 - 27, 2022 49

LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE OF LEGAL OWNERSHIP OF PROPERTIES FOR VICTIMS OF MORTGAGE IDENTITY THEFT, CRIMINAL TRESPASSING, HOME TITLE FRAUD AND DECLARATION OF LAND PATENTS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF DEEDS AND RECORDS NOTICE IS BEING GIVEN that James Robert Lee Jones II is the true and legal owner of the property and land known as (Situated in the City of Garfield Heights, County of Cuyahoga and State of Ohio: and known as being Sublot No. 13 in Yamshon Park Allotment of part of Original Independence Township Lot No. 16, Tract No. 1, as shown by the recorded Plat in Volume 91 of Maps, Page 30 of Cuyahoga County Records as appears by said plat, be the same more or less, but subject to all legal highways). Also described as: [IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OHIO (Land Records), [FORECLOSURE DEED CASE # CV-20-937695]. This Notice is to preserve legal and equitable title, and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, as Allodium Absolute Title Estate in Fee Simple, Tax Exempt, for religious, scientific, educational, and charitable purposes, of the following described Real Estate Land and property also known as 5304 East 102nd Street, Garfield Heights OH P.P.M. Any claims by any other party/parties are false and constitute fraud. Also filed under FBI case number 329FAT2175733. The above named person/persons being the true and legal owner/owners of the afore mentioned property has been a victim of mortgage identity theft and criminal trespassing, among other crimes. If the property is stolen from the above named true homeowner/owners; it MUST be returned instanter; without delay. The true owner is entitled to what is hers/his without question. Mortgage identity theft occurs when the individual whose information is being used is NOT party to the financial negotiations or contract. Two types of fraud are addressed here. Fraud for profit and fraud for housing and property. Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, the lender or collection agency must stop all collection activity during the investigation. They cannot sell, trade, give away, donate, rent, or loan this account or property to another entity. In this case there is no legal lender or collection agency that has any rights to this or any other properties belonging to the above mentioned legal owner. Any dispossessory actions filed on this/ these property/properties constitutes perjury as they have filed misrepresentation of legal facts on court documentation, a federal crime. Be fore warned that anyone having any claims or occupation of said property has participated in one or more of the following crimes; mortgage identity theft (a federal crime), home title fraud, slavery (in violation of 18USC3571; forced compliance to a contract not held), grand theft, violations of oaths of office (as it pertains to judges and court officials and officers of law), theft by taking, theft by deception, misprision of felony, falsification of documents, conspiracy, perjury, denied provisions of the U.S. Constitution, extortion, mail and wire fraud, violations of the laws of Interstate Commerce, and subornation of perjury. The above named person/persons are victims of fraud by the local magistrate and superior courts by the fact that magistrate courts enforced evictions that are not in their jurisdiction even after appeals had been filed and approved. The superior courts failed to hold trials on these appeals as in the State of Georgia, superior court has exclusive jurisdiction in matters of equity (…Chambliss v. Hawkings, 123 Ga. 361, 51 S.E. 337 (1905). Many of the superior courts held secret trials and ruled against the true homeowner without notifying them of a court trial. These officials, herein including All judges, sheriffs and marshals and attorneys; having knowledge of the law and the power to prevent the Constitutional deprivation of the rights of individuals; citizens, herein guaranteed Rights, with intent, without authority and under the color of law did unlawfully; engage in a conspiracy to use the offices, formalities, ceremonies, and power of the U.S. Government, and their official bonds and professional licenses to defraud and betray these individuals herein (Defendants, American Citizens) of their lawful Constitutional exercise of their 4, 5, 6, 7, 13, and 14 Amendment Rights; violated the invariant right to truth in evidence, violations of oaths of office, all of the violations under 18USC3571. These rights are based on Natural Law, hence invariant and not subject to human opinion or prosecution. The true and legal homeowner listed above has been denied the right to truth in evidence, violations of oaths of office, all of the violations under 18USC3571 and all of the violations under these federal crimes as listed: 18USC 4, 241, 872, 876, 1001, 1621, 1622, 1963, 1964. State laws violated include Resident Mortgage Fraud and violations of OCGA 44-11-30, 44-11-32, 44-2-43, 44-2-23, 44-7-50, 44-7-51 and 44-7-58. Civil right violations have also occurred as any claims of “immunity” is a fraud because, if valid, it would prevent removal from office for crimes against the people, which removal is authorized or even mandated under the U.S. Constitution Article 2, Section IV; as well as 18 USC 241, 42 USC 1983, 1985, 1986, and other state Constitutions. Precedents of Law established by COURT cases, which are in violation of law, render violations of law legally unassailable. Such a situation violates several specifically stated intents and purposes of the Constitution set forth in the Preamble; to establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, and secure the blessings of liberty. For JUDGES, or anyone in any branch of government.” “Fraud vitiates the most solemn contracts, documents and even judgments.” [U.S. vs. Throckmorton, 98 US 61, at pg. 65]. “Any false representation of the material facts made with the knowledge of falsity and with intent that shall be acted on by another in entering into a contract, and which so acted upon, constitutes ‘fraud’, and entitles party deceived to void the fraudulent contract and recover damages.’ [Barnsdall Refining Corn vs. Birnam Wood Oil Co. 92 F 26 817]. Anyone having interest in this/these property/properties should notify the District Attorney of the County in which the property is located or the U.S. Attorney’s Office at 75 Ted Turner Dr. SW, Atlanta, Ga. 30303 at 404-581-6102, HUD, the FBI at http:// www/fbi/gov/(http://www.fbi.gov/) at (202) 324—3000 or the Mortgage Fraud Hotline at 1-800-437-2838

50 APRIL 21 - 27, 2022

LEGAL NOTICES

In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: “Lorenzo Jon Blakely©”, in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: “BLAKELY, LORENZO JON©”, “LORENZO JON BLAKELY©”, “LORENZO J BLAKELY©”: having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a: Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, 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: Moorish American. I am that I am: “Lorenzo Jon Blakely©”, from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: “lorenzo blakely-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: 45, 46, & 46. 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: REPUBLIC OF INDIANA – INDIANA STATE HEALTH DEPARTMENT – BUREAU OF STATISTICS, STATE FILE NUMBER: 113-77-002378, “LORENZO JON BLAKELY©”: All property, of the same issue and amount, in like kind and specie, is to be returned full intact, as a Special Deposit order of the Depositor / Beneficiary / Bailor / Donor / Principal / Creditor: “lorenzo blakely-el”, nom deguerre: “Lorenzo Jon Blakely©”, as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of: “Lorenzo Jon Blakely 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 / done / debtor. All Attorneys with a License from the Bar Association are explicitly prohibited from administering “Lorenzo Jon Blakely Trust©”, property without handwritten consent from each and every trustee, after said Attorneys have furnished their nationality, and Principal for whom’s interest they are working, pursuant to [Public Law 75-583], to Trustees in plain writing . Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente. 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.

In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: “Michael Dwayne English©”, in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: “ENGLISH, MICHAEL DWAYNE©”, “MICHAEL DWAYNE ENGLISH©”, "MICHAEL D ENGHLISH": As natural father, and guardian of: “Joelee Marie English”, the beneficiary and heir of: “MICHAEL DWAYNE ENGLISH©”, corp. sole Dba.: “JOELEE MARIE ENGLISH”, JOELEE M ENGLISH”, JOELEE ENGLISH”, “ENGLISH, JOELEE M”, “JOELEE MARIE ENGLISH EL©”. Having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a: Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, 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: Moorish American. I am that I am: “Michael Dwayne English©”, from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: “michael english-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: 45, 46, & 46. 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: REPUBLIC OF INDIANA – INDIANA STATE HEALTH DEPARTMENT – BUREAU OF STATISTICS, STATE FILE NUMBER: 113-79-066200, “MICHAEL DWAYNE ENGLISH©”, “ENGLISH, MICHAEL DWAYNE”. & Re: REPUBLIC OF INDIANA – INDIANA STATE HEALTH DEPARTMENT – BUREAU OF STATISTICS, STATE FILE NUMBER: 113-05-067302, “JOELEE MARIE ENGLISH©”, JOELEE M ENGLISH©”, JOELEE ENGLISH©”, “ENGLISH, JOELEE M©” “JOELEE MARIE ENGLISH EL©”: All property, of the same issue and amount, in like kind and specie, is to be returned full intact, as a Special Deposit order of the Depositor /Beneficiary / Bailor / Donor / Principal / Creditor: “michael english-el”, nom deguerre: “Michael Dwayne English©”, as a special deposit order in lawful money. This deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of: “Michael Dwayne English 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 / done / debtor. All Attorneys with a License from the Bar Association are explicitly prohibited from administering "Michael Dwayne English Trust©", property without handwritten consent from each and every trustee, after said Attorneys have furnished their nationality, and Principal for whom's interest they are working, pursuant to [Public Law 75-583], to Trustees in plain writing. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente. This deposit is not limited to, but including: discharge and set off, of any and all outstanding liabilities as accord and satisfaction. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente.

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

2021 ADM 001391

2022 ADM 001495

Margaret W. Stewart Decedent

Karen Erica Duncan Decedent

Samuel C. Hamilton 8601 Georgia Ave. #503 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Attorney

Colline Silvera 7731 Belle Point Dr. Greenbelt, Md 20770 Attorney

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

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

2022 ADM 000159

2021 ADM 001275

2022 ADM 000301

2022 ADM 000268

Minnie D. White Decedent

Fannie A. Bing Decedent

John Leonard Allen Decedent

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

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

Carolyn N. Graham aka Carolyn Nadene Graham Decedent

Gwenavere G. White Dunn and Lori Anne White Carrington, whose addresses are 11224 Westport Drive and 11228 Westport Drive, Bowie, Md 20720 (respectively), were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Minnie D. White who died on 9/11/2018 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/14/2022. 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 10/14/2022, 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: 4/14/2022 Gwenavere G. White Dunn Lori Anne White Carrington Personal Representative

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS John D. Bing, Jr., whose address is 14009 Twelve Oaks Court, Clarksville, MD 21029, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Fannie A. Bing who died on November 12, 2019 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/14/2022. 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 10/14/2022, 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: 4/14/2022 John D. Bing, Jr. Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES

Jasper Dewitt II, whose address is 15413 Brinton Way, Brandywine, MD 20613, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Margaret W. Stewart who died on May 31, 2018 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 10/14/2022. 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 10/14/2022, 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: 4/14/2022 Jasper Dewitt II Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Harrietta Twhanna Allen, whose address is 100 Stevens Road Glen Burnie, Md 21060, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of John Leonard Allen who died on June 13, 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 10/14/2022. 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 10/14/2022, 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: 4/14/2022 Harrietta Twhanna Allen Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Diane Coram, whose address is 1342 Downing St., NE, Washington, DC 20018, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Karen Erica Duncan who died on July 18, 2019 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/14/2022. 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 10/14/2022, 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: 4/14/2022 Diane Coram Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Robert L. Bell, Esq. 245 Farragut Street, NW Washington, DC 20011 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS John W. Garland, whose address is 1926 6th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Carolyn N. Graham aka Carolyn Nadene Graham who died on December 21, 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 10/14/2022. 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 10/14/2022, 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: 4/14/2022 John W. Garland Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

LEGAL NOTICES SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2021 ADM 000677 Estate of Vester L. Chandler aka Vester Lee Chandler NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Akia J. Turner for standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representatives. Unless a responsive pleading in the form of a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is filed in this Court within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth. In the absence of a will or proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution, enter an order determining that the decedent died intestate appoint an unsupervised personal representative Date of first publication: 4/14/2022 Julius Terrell 1455 Pennsylvania Ave., NW Suite 400 Washington, DC 20004 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 2022 ADM 000291

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Marlene Crowell, whose address is 8311 Sunnybrook Court, Brandywine, Md 20613, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Lorena B. Thompson who died on December 28, 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 10/14/2022. 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 10/14/2022, 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: 4/14/2022 Marlene Crowell 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 000311 Estate of Delenia A. Johnson aka Delenia Ana Johnson aka Delenia Johnson aka Delenia Ana Gilkes Johnson NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Jennifer Ann Johnson Green for standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representatives. Unless a responsive pleading in the form of a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is filed in this Court within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth. In the absence of a will or proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution, enter an order determining that the decedent died intestate appoint an unsupervised personal representative Date of first publication: 4/14/2022 Jennifer Ann Johnson Green 10163 Sweet Bay Manor Parkland, FL 33076 Petitioner/Attorney: TRUE TEST COPY

LEGAL NOTICES

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

2022 ADM 000258

2021 ADM 001399

2022 ADM 000121

Rose Marie Selak Decedent

Gwendolyn J. Johnson Decedent

Deborah D. Boddie, Esq. Probate Law DC 1308 Ninth Street, NW Washington, DC 20001 Attorney

Reneesia Bailey, Esq. 5335 Wisconsin Avenue NW Suite 440 Washington, DC 20015 Attorney

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

Leonard Alston, whose address is 1440 N Street, NW, Washington DC 20005, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Rose Marie Selak who died on December 8, 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 10/14/2022. 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 10/14/2022, 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.

Aimee D. Griffin, Esq., whose address is 5335 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Suite 440 WDC 20015, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Gwendolyn J. Johnson who died on 9/27/2020 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/14/2022. 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 10/14/2022, 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: 4/14/2022

Lorena B. Thompson Decedent

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES

Leonard Alston Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: ‘‘ Debra Lee Sue Breckenridge© ’’, in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: ‘‘BRECKENRIDGE, DEBRA LEE SUE© ’’, corp. sole Dba.: ‘‘DEBRA LEE SUE BRECKENRIDGE© ’’, having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a: Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, 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: Moorish American. I am that I am: ‘‘ Debra Lee Sue Breckenridge© ’’, from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: ‘‘ debra breckenridge-bey© ’’. Notice of White Flag Surrender: as “hors de combat”, pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article III, as a minister of The Moorish Empire, and Internationally Protected Person. Notice of LAWS AND CUSTOMS OF WAR ON LAND ( HAGUE, IV), ARTICLE: 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Claim pursuant to Public Law 87-846, TITLE II, SEC. 203. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title : This order is to preserve legal and equitable title, and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, Re: STATE OF ILLINOIS – ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, STATE FILE NUMBER : 112-60-656107, ‘‘ DEBRA LEE SUE BRECKENRIDGE© ’’, to the depositor: ‘‘ debra breckenridge-bey© ’’, nom deguerre: ‘‘Debra Lee Sue Breckenridge© ’’. 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: ‘‘ debra breckenridge-bey© ’’, nom deguerre: ‘‘Debra Lee Sue Breckenridge© ’’, as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of : ‘‘ Debra Lee Sue Breckenridge 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. All Attorneys with a License from the Bar Association are explicitly prohibited from administering "DEBRA LEE SUE BRECKENRIDGE TRUST©" property without handwritten consent from each and every trustee, after said Attorneys have furnished their nationality, and Principal for whom's interest they are working, pursuant to [Public Law 75-583], to Trustees in plain writing. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente. This deposit is not limited to, but including: discharge and set off etc., of any and all outstanding liabilities as accord and satisfaction.

Date of first publication: 4/14/2022 Aimee D. Griffin, Esq. Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Jimmie C. Lawson Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Mark E. Stacey, whose address is 4511 Garrison Street, NW, Washington, DC 20016, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jimmie C. Lawson who died on October 12, 2021 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/14/2022. 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 10/14/2022, 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: 4/14/2022 Mark E. Stacey Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: ‘‘ Wilbur Cedric Samuel Solomon© ’’, in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: ‘‘SOLOMON, WILBUR CEDRIC SAMUEL© ’’, corp. sole Dba.: ‘‘WILBUR CEDRIC SAMUEL SOLOMON© ’’, having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a: Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, 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: Moorish American. I am that I am: ‘‘ Wilbur Cedric Samuel Solomon© ’’, from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: ‘‘ wilbur solomon© ’’. 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: 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Claim pursuant to Public Law 87-846, TITLE II, SEC.203. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title : This order is to preserve legal and equitable title, and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, Re: STATE OF MISSOURI – MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, STATE FILE NUMBER : 124-71-0011491, ‘‘ WILBUR CEDRIC SAMUEL SOLOMON© ’’, to the depositor: ‘‘ wilbur solomon© ’’, nom deguerre: ‘‘ Wilbur Cedric Samuel Solomon © ’’. 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: ‘‘ wilbur solomon© ’’, nom deguerre: ‘‘Wilbur Cedric Samuel Solomon© ’’, as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of : ‘‘ Wilbur Cedric Samuel Solomon 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. All Attorneys with a License from the Bar Association are explicitly prohibited from administering "WILBUR CEDRIC SAMUEL SOLOMON TRUST©" property without handwritten consent from each and every trustee, after said Attorneys have furnished their nationality, and Principal for whom's interest they are working, pursuant to [Public Law 75-583], to Trustees in plain writing. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente. This deposit is not limited to, but including: discharge and set off etc., of any and all outstanding liabilities as accord and satisfaction.

In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: Yomikalan Tashasha June’ Walker©, in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: WALKER, YOMIKALAN TASHASHA JUNE’©, corp. sole Dba.: YOMIKALAN TASHASHA JUNE’ WALKER©, having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a: Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, 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: Moorish American. I am that I am: Yomikalan Tashasha June’ Walker©, from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: yomikalan walker-bey©. Notice of White Flag Surrender: as “hors de combat”, pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article III, as a minister of The Moorish Empire, and Internationally Protected Person. Notice of LAWS AND CUSTOMS OF WAR ON LAND ( HAGUE, IV), ARTICLE: 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Claim pursuant to Public Law 87-846, TITLE II, SEC. 203. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title : This order is to preserve legal and equitable title, and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, Re: STATE OF CALIFORNIA – CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, STATE FILE NUMBER : 104-81-144403 & 104-1981-144403, YOMIKALAN TASHASHA JUNE’ WALKER©, to the depositor: yomikalan walker-bey©, nom deguerre: Yomikalan Tashasha June’ Walker©. 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: ‘‘ yomikalan walker-bey©, nom deguerre: Yomikalan Tashasha June’ Walker©, as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of : Yomikalan Tashasha June’ Walker 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. All Attorneys with a License from the Bar Association are explicitly prohibited from administering YOMIKALAN TASHASHA JUNE’ WALKER TRUST© property without handwritten consent from each and every trustee, after said Attorneys have furnished their nationality, and Principal for whom's interest they are working, pursuant to [Public Law 75-583], to Trustees in plain writing. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente. This deposit is not limited to, but including: discharge and set off etc., of any and all outstanding liabilities as accord and satisfaction.

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

LEGAL NOTICES In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: “Jacqueline Elizabeth Dwyer©”, in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: “DWYER, JACQUELINE ELIZABETH©:, having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a: Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, 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 on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples ], and all natural laws governing moors, and hereby declare and proclaim my nationality in good faith as a: Moorish American. I am that I am: “JACQUELINE ELIZABETH DWYER©”, from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: “jacqueline dwyer©”. 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: 45, 46, & 46. 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: REPUBLIC OF JAMAICA – JAMAICA REGISTRAR GENERAL’S DEPARTMENT – BUREAU OF STATISTICS, STATE FILE NUMBER: BY 3084, “Jacqueline Elizabeth Dwyer©”. All property, of the same issue and amount, in like kind and specie, is to be returned full intact, as a Special Deposit order of the Depositor / Beneficiary / Bailor / Donor / Principal / Creditor: “Jacqueline dwyer”, nom deguerre: “Jacqueline Elizabeth Dwyer©”, as a special deposit order in lawful money. This deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of: “Jacqueline Elizabeth Dwyer 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 / done / 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.

In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: Andre Pierre Harris©®, in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: HARRIS, ANDRE PIERRE©®, corp. sole Dba.: ANDRE PIERRE HARRIS©®, having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a: Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, 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: Moorish American. I am that I am: Andre Pierre Harris©®, from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: andre harris®-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: 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Claim pursuant to Public Law 87-846, TITLE II, SEC. 203. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title : This order is to preserve legal and equitable title, and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, Re: STATE OF CALIFORNIA – CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, STATE FILE NUMBER : 104-82-079139 & 105-1982-079139, ANDRE PIERRE HARRIS©®, to the depositor: andre harris®-el©, nom deguerre: Andre Pierre Harris©®. 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: andre harris®-el©, nom deguerre: Andre Pierre Harris©®, as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of: Andre Pierre Harris® 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. All Attorneys with a License from the Bar Association are explicitly prohibited from administering ANDRE PIERRE HARRIS® TRUST© property without handwritten consent from each and every trustee, after said Attorneys have furnished their nationality, and Principal for whom's interest they are working, pursuant to [Public Law 75-583], to Trustees in plain writing. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente. This deposit is not limited to, but including: discharge and set off etc., of any and all outstanding liabilities as accord and satisfaction.

APRIL 21 - 27, 2022 51

LEGAL NOTICES

Declaration of Nationality In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality. Notice of White Flag Surrender. Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: “ Todd Ragan Mitchell Jr ”, in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: “ MITCHELL JR, TODD RAGAN ”, corp.sole Dba.: “ MITCHELL JR, TODD RAGAN ”, corp.sole Dba.: “ TODD RAGAN MITCHELL JR© ”, “ MITCHELL JR, TODD RAGAN ” , “ TODD R MITCHELL JR© ”, “ TODD MITCHELL JR© ”, “ TODD RAGAN MITCHELL© ”, “ TODD R MITCHELL© ”, “ TODD MITCHELL© ”, “ TODD RAGAN MITCHELL JR EL© ”, &, “ ALI AZAD EL© ”. As natural father, and guardian of: “ Raegan Aniya Taylor Mitchell ”, the beneficiary and heir of: “ MITCHELL, RAEGAN ANIYA TAYLOR ”, corp.sole Dba.: “ RAEGAN A MITCHELL© ”, “ RAEGAN A T MITCHELL©”, “ RAEGAN MITCHELL© ”, “ RAEGAN ANIYA TAYLOR MITCHELL©”, “ RAEGAN ANIYA TAYOY MITCHELL EL© ”, &, “ANIYA AZAD EL©”. 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 our tribal intention to be as our pedigree subscribes, as: Aniyunwiya Moorish American Moslem Nationals, but not citizens of the United States. We declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, 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 our nationality in good faith as: Aniyunwiya Moorish American Moslem Nationals. I am that I am: “ Todd Ragan Mitchell Jr ”, from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: “ ali azad el ”. My beloved daughter, “ Raegan Aniya Taylor Mitchell ”, from this day forward, in harmony with our Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: “ aniya azad el ”. Notice of White Flag Surrender: as “ hors de combat ”, pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article III, as ministers of The Moorish Empire, and Internationally Protected Persons. 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: “ Health, California Department of ”, DBA: STATE OF CALIFORNIA: STATE FILE NUMBER, 104-73-217696: “ MITCHELL JR, TODD RAGAN ”, corp.sole Dba.: “ TODD RAGAN MITCHELL JR© ”, “ MITCHELL JR, TODD RAGAN ” , “ TODD R MITCHELL JR© ”, “ TODD MITCHELL JR© ”, “ TODD RAGAN MITCHELL© ”, “ TODD R MITCHELL© ”, “ TODD MITCHELL© ”, “ TODD RAGAN MITCHELL JR EL© ”, “ ALI AZAD EL© ”, &, “ Health, California Department of ”, DBA: STATE OF CALIFORNIA: STATE FILE NUMBER, 1052008346508: As well as “ RAEGAN A MITCHELL© ”, “ RAEGAN A T MITCHELL© ”, “ RAEGAN MITCHELL© ”, “ RAEGAN ANIYA TAYLOR MITCHELL© ”, “ RAEGAN ANIYA TAYLOR MITCHELL EL© ”, “ ANIYA AZAD EL© ”, all aforementioned entities are as a special deposit order, conveyed to “ Sunray 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 / Guardian: “ ali azad el ”, nom deguerre: “ Todd Ragan Mitchell Jr ”, as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of : “ Nobility 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. Notice of Reference: 0112358-13

092822-43 In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality Notice of Special Appearance: I am that I am: “ Dwayne Smith© “, in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: “ Dwayne,Smith© “ , corp.sole Dba,: “ Dwayne,Smith© “. having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Island, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intentions to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a: Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent and unalienable, allegiance to the Moorish Empire, Societas Republicae Ea Al Maurikanuus Estados. The Constitution of the united States of America, Article lll 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: aniyunwiya Moorish American. I am that I am: “ Dwayne Smith© “ , from this day forward, In harmony with my Nationality /Status/ Jurisdiction, shall be known as: “ Mansa Adon Shaman El “ Notice of White Flag Surrender: as “ hors de combat “, pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article lll, as a minister of the Moorish Empire, and Internationally Protected Person. Notice of: LAWS AND CUSTOMS OF WAR ON LAND ( HAGUE. lV). ARTICLE: 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Claim pursuant to Public Law 87-846, TITLE ll, 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: Public Health, New York Department of, STATE OF NEW YORK STATE FILE NUMBER: #156-70-421432” DWAYNE SMITH© “, to the depositor “ Mansa Adon Shaman El “, nom deguerre: '' Dwayne Smith© “. 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: “ mansa adon shaman el “, nom dequerre: '' Dwayne Smith© “, as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of : “Temple of EL Trust “ an Inter Vivos Unincorporated Devine 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 alla enact fuit. All Rights Reserved.

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

2022 ADM 400

2022 ADM 000304

2021 ADM 001443

Estate of Jacqueline Yvette Fuller Banks aka Jacqueline F. Banks

Delores Belzer Decedent

James Edward Scott, Jr. Decedent

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

Murray D. Scheel Whitman-Walker Legal Services 1377 R Street, NW, Suite 200 Washington, DC 20009 Attorney

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

TRUE TEST COPY

Tandra Belzer, whose address is 1333 Monroe Street, NE, Washington, DC 20017, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Delores Belzer who died on 8/25/2019 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/21/2022. 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 10/21/2022, 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.

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Date of first publication: 4/21/2022

Hazel Scott, whose address is 6080 Igo Rd., King George, VA 22485, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James Edward Scott, Jr. who died on 10/29/2018 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 10/21/2022. 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 10/21/2022, 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.

Washington Informer

Tandra Belzer Personal Representative

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

2022 ADM 332 Estate of Audrey L. Francis aka Audrey Francis NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Dolores J. Nicholls 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.

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Smith T. Banks II 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 April 6, 2006 exhibited with the petition upon proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution by affidavit of the witnesses or otherwise Date of first publication: 4/21/2022 Joan M. Wilbon, Esq. 1629 K Street, NW Suite 300 Washington, DC 20006 Petitioner/Attorney:

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Date of first publication: 4/21/2022 Hazel Scott Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY

Washington Informer

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

2022 ADM 000282

2022 ADM 000153

2022 ADM 000371

2022 ADM 314

Catherine L. Johnson Decedent

Arnold Kramer Decedent

Estate of Patricia Destiny Clark

Rhonda Whitaker Decedent

Jennifer E. Loud, Esquire The Loud Law Firm 7826 Eastern Ave., NW Suite 410 Washington, DC 20012 Attorney

Stevaughn Bush 600 Maryland Ave. SW Suite 800E Washington, DC 20024 Attorney

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE

Julie A. Swerbinsky, Esq. The Geller Law Group PLLC 4000 Legato Road, Ste 1100 Fairfax VA 22033 Attorney

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

Nakia V. Gray 800 Maine Ave SW Suite 200 Washington, DC 20024 Petitioner/Attorney:

Emily Susan Carton, whose address is 1839 Ingleside Terr. NW, Washington, DC 20010, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Arnold Kramer who died on July 22, 2017 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/21/2022. 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 10/21/2022, 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.

TRUE TEST COPY

Date of first publication: 4/21/2022

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Gwendolyn D. Pearson Personal Representative

Emily Susan Carton Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

Date of first publication: 4/21/2022

LEGAL NOTICES

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Gwendolyn D. Pearson, whose address is 516 Rittenhouse Street, NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Catherine L. Johnson who died on 1/16/2020 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/21/2022. 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 10/21/2022, 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.

Admit to probate the Will dated December 3, 2004 exhibited with the petition upon proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution by affidavit of the witnesses or otherwise appoint an unsupervised personal representative

LEGAL NOTICES

Washington Informer

Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Richard L Counts, III and Charlotte Lee Gordon 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 06/09/2002 exhibited with the petition upon proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution by affidavit of the witnesses or otherwise Date of first publication: 4/21/2022 Gretchyn G. Meinken 616 N Washington Street Alexandria, VA 22314 Petitioner/Attorney: TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Erick Whitaker, whose address is 3214 11th Place SE, Washington, DC 20032, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Rhonda Whitaker who died on April 24, 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 (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 10/21/2022. 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 10/21/2022, 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: 4/21/2022 Erick Whitaker Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

52 APRIL 21 - 27, 2022

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

LEGAL NOTICES

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

2021 ADM 00572

2021 ADM 000231

2022 ADM 000189

Hattie Norris Decedent

Robert Taylor Decedent

Aubrey Kendale Wimbush, Jr. Decedent

Valerie Edwards, Esq. 1725 DeSales Street, NW Suite 600 Washington, DC 20036 Attorney

Aimee D. Griffin, Esq. The Griffin Firm, PLLC 5335 Wisconsin Avenue, NW Suite 440 Washington, DC 20015 Attorney

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

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Nailani Norris, whose address is 15 Valley Lake Place, Apt. K Timonium, Md 21030, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Hattie Norris who died on January 16, 2016 without a Will, and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/21/2022. 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 10/21/2022, 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: 4/21/2022

Rhonda Taylor-Murphy Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2022 ADM 000358 Joyce E. Meadows Decedent Aimee D. Griffin 5335 Wisconsin Ave., NW Suite 440 Washington, DC 20015 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Roi F. Reede, whose address is 310 Roosevelt Blvd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Joyce E. Meadows who died on January 4, 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 10/21/2022. 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 10/21/2022, 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.

Roi F. Reede Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Rhonda Taylor-Murphy, whose address is 3728 Roosevelt Place, NE, District of Columbia 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Robert Taylor who died on March 22, 2019 without a Will, and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (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 10/21/2022. 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 10/21/2022, 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: 4/21/2022

Nailani Norris Personal Representative

Date of first publication: 4/21/2022

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

In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality. Notice of White Flag Surrender. Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: " King Chrichlow© ", in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: “ KING CHRICHLOW ", corp.sole Dba.: " CHRICHLOW, KING© ", having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a: Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, 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: Moorish American. I am that I am: " King Chrichlow© ", from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: " king chrichlow© ". 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 CITY OF NEW YORK : STATE FILE NUMBER: 156-21001242: " KING CHRICHLOW© ", is as a special deposit order, conveyed to " King Chrichlow 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: " king chrichlow© ", nom deguerre: " King Chrichlow© ", as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of : " King Chrichlow 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.

Aubrey Kendale Wimbush, III, whose address is 3404 Bitterwood Place #1101, Laurel, Md 20724, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Aubrey Kendale Wimbush, Jr. who died on April 5, 2019 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/21/2022. 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 10/21/2022, 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: 4/21/2022 Aubrey Kendale Wimbush, III Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality. Notice of White Flag Surrender. Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: “ Shantá Shaniqua Chrichlow© ”, f.k.a., “ Shantá Shaniqua Erskine© ”, in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: “ SHANTA’ SHANIQUA ERSKINE© ”, corp.sole Dba.: “ SHANTA’ S ERSKINE© ”, and “ SHANTA’ SHANIQUA CHRICHLOW© ”, corp.sole Dba.: “ SHANTA’ S CHRICHLOW© ”, the natural clan mother of: “ King Chrichlow© ”, the beneficiary and heir of: “ KING CHRICHLOW© ”, 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 our tribal intention to be as our pedigree subscribes, as: Moorish Americans, but not a citizens of the United States. We declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, 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 our nationality in good faith as: Moorish Americans. I am that I am: “ Shantá Shaniqua Chrichlow© ”, from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: “ shantá chrichlow© ”, and “ King Chrichlow© ”, from this day forward, in harmony with our Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: “ king chrichlow© ”. Notice of White Flag Surrender: as "hors de combat", pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article III, as a minister of The Moorish Empire, and Internationally Protected Person. Notice of: LAWS AND CUSTOMS OF WAR ON LAND ( HAGUE, IV), ARTICLE: 32, 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Claim pursuant to Public Law 87-846, TITLE II, SEC. 203. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title : This order is to preserve legal and equitable title, and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, Re: STATE OF NEW YORK : STATE FILE NUMBER: 156-93-015212, “ SHANTA’ SHANIQUA ERSKINE© ”, is as a special deposit order conveyed to “ Shanta Chrichlow Trust© ”. This is also a separate order to preserve legal and equitable title, and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, Re: DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND MENTAL HYGIENE, City of New York: STATE FILE NUMBER: 156-21-001242, “ KING CHRICHLOW© ”, is as a special deposit order conveyed to: “ King Chrichlow Trust© ”, with a 50% interest retained by Trustee: “ gordon henry chrichlow jr© ”, &, a 50% interest retained by Trustee: “ shantá chrichlow© ”. All interest is to remain fully intact until the sole beneficiary, “ king chrichlow© ”, reaches the age of majority. 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 / Trustee: “ shantá chrichlow© ”, nom deguerre: “ Shantá Shaniqua Chrichlow© ”, and/or, “ gordon henry chrichlow jr© ”, as a special deposit order in lawful money. Re: “ SHANTA’ SHANIQUA ERSKINE© ”, “ SHANTA’ S ERSKINE© ”, “ SHANTA’ SHANIQUA CHRICHLOW© ”, and, “ SHANTA’ S CHRICHLOW© ”, this special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of: “ Shanta Chrichlow Trust© ”, an Inter Vivos Unincorporated Divine Grantor Trust. Re: “ KING CHRICHLOW© ”, this special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of: “ King Chrichlow Trust© ”, an Inter Vivos Unincorporated Divine Grantor Trust. All deposits are not to be commingled with general assets of any bank, nor depositary / trustee / agent / bailee / donee /debtor. All deposits are not limited to, but include: discharge and set off, of any and all outstanding liabilities as accord and satisfaction. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente.

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CRIME from Page 12 year after 29 years at the Dallas Police Department, responded. “I don’t know any police officer around me or my executive team that would tolerate police brutality. I don’t tolerate police brutality,” he said to Owens. “I’m sorry for your loss. I don’t tolerate police brutality.” “I love good cops,” he said. “I don’t like a single bad cop. It’s not what the community deserves. I’m here for you but I think it is going to start with us right here. But [we will need] a longer dialogue. I need to know what I can do to contrib-

LEGAL NOTICES In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality. Notice of White Flag Surrender. Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: "Mayah Mitchell©” fka, “Mayah Brooks©”, fka",”Malikita Brooks©” and any and all derivatives in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: "MITCHELL,MAYAH", corp. sole Dba: "MAYAH BROOKS©","MALIKATA BROOKS©","NABILAH AZAD EL©","THE COOKING CAMPUS©", “MALIKATA CAPEHART©",”JOSHUA KHALIL CAPEHART©", "MAYAH CAPEHART©", "MALIKATA HERBERT© ,”MISSY BROOKS©”, MISSY HERBERT©”, “MAYAH MITCHELL EL©”, “MALIKITA BROOKS©",: " As natural mother, and guardian of: "Joshua Khalil Capehart", the beneficiary and heir of: “CAPEHART, JOSHUA KHALIL ©”, corp. sole Dba.: "JOSHUA K CAPEHART”, “JOSHUA CAPEHART”, “CAPEHART JOSHUA”, “JOSH CAPEHART, “JOSH K CAPEHART”, “ JOSHUA KHALIL AZAD EL”. Having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a: Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, 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: Moorish American. I am that I am: "Mayah Mitchell©”, fka, “Malikata Brooks©”,fka,”Malikita Brooks©” and any and all derivatives in full life from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: "nabilah azad el”. My beloved son, "Joshua Khalil Capehart", from this day forward, in harmony with our Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: “ joshua khalil azad 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: State Registar Office of Vital Statistics and Registry : DBA : STATE OF NEW JERSEY: STATE FILE NUMBER, 129-084136, "MAYAH MITCHELL ©", "MAYAH BROOKS©","MALIKATA BROOKS©", “MALIKITA BROOKS©”, "NABILAH AZAD EL©","THE COOKING CAMPUS©", “MALIKATA CAPEHART©”, "JOSHUA KHALIL CAPEHART©", "MAYAH CAPEHART©", "MALIKATA HERBERT©” ,”MISSY BROOKS©”, “MISSY HERBERT©”, “MAYAH MITCHELL EL©”, “MALIKITA BROOKS©", & GEORGIA OFFICE OF HEALTH OFFICE OF VITAL RECORDS: STATE FILE NUMBER, 110-06000043: "JOSHUA K CAPEHART”, “JOSHUA CAPEHART”, “CAPEHART JOSHUA”, “JOSH CAPEHART”, “JOSH K CAPEHART”, “ JOSHUA KHALIL AZAD EL” , is as a special deposit order, conveyed to " JoshZen 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 / Guardian: " nabilah azad el”, nom deguerre: "Mayah Mitchell©”, fka “Mayah Brooks©”, fka, “Malikata Brooks©", fka “Malikita Brooks©” and any and all derivatives in full life ", as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of : "Prana Trust", or : JoshZen Trust", both Trusts being, Inter Vivos Unincorporated Divine Grantor Trusts. These deposits are not to be commingled with general assets of any bank, nor depositary / trustee / agent / bailee /donee / debtor. All Attorneys with a License from the BAR Association are explicitly prohibited from administering " Prana Trust and/or JoshZen Trust© ", property without handwritten consent from each and every trustee, after said Attorneys have furnished their nationality, and Principal for whom’s interest they are working, pursuant to [Public Law 75-583], to Trustees in plain writing. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente. 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. Deo volente. Notice of Reference: 0112358-13

ute to the community in the right way.”

CRIME STATS

The police department distributed an 18-page document of crime statistics for attendees to review. People who couldn’t attend can also view the discussion online. Here’s a summary on the comparison of selected data from Prince George’s police and municipal agencies between Jan. 1 and April 7, 2021 in comparison to the same period this year, respectively. • Murder: 40; 31 • Assaults: 501; 549 • Robbery: 342; 457 • Domestic violence: 412; 431 • Burglary: 325; 363 Aziz said one of the most alarming statistics deals with carjackings, an offense he and other law enforcement officials throughout the D.C. region continue to seek ways to effectively resolve. One of the reasons Aziz attributed to increased criminal activity was a decrease in applicants to the department which currently has 1,464 officers. “We are budgeted for 1,786,” he said. “We need as many police officers as it takes to get the job done.” In terms of those applying to the department, 7,445 applied in 2012. That figure decreased to 5,100 in 2014 and dipped to 1,003 last year. To entice more officers to the department, Alsobrooks said the proposed fiscal year 2023 budget allocates $640,000 which includes incentives for officers to work and live in the county. “We think this is so important to continue to incentivize having officers who live in the communities in which they serve,” she said. “It’s hard to serve people you don’t know or understand.” Beverly John, a community activist from Hyattsville, said Clark expressed valid points on what county and law enforcement officials are specifically doing to protect the community. “We have a question about what is going to keep us safe from the police officers who choose to do us harm,” said John, who cofounded Concerned Citizens for Bail Reform in Prince George’s County. “Everything [county officials] talked about sounded good,” John said. “The community needs to be heard to address the real issue of police reform. It must be done.” WI @WJFjabariwill

APRIL 21 - 27, 2022 53

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54 APRIL 21 - 27, 2022

WILLIAMS from Page 31 of free labor building an economic juggernaut heretofore unknown to the world? Consensus agrees that your party members embarrassed themselves during the confirmation hearing for the Supreme Court for Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson. I'm sure that questions like "What is a woman?" or disparaging her for judicial decisions that are/were consistent with those of her peers was not because she was a woman. Since she is an African American woman, was it because your party didn't think she is an American?

VAUGHAN from Page 31 Month, and with nearly 15 million people ages 12 and older struggling with alcoholism, it's important to share stories like Lisa's to illustrate the journey and the potential of success. Lisa's story reminds us that recovering from addiction is a lifelong journey. Each person who comes to Samaritan Inns — be it the first time or countless efforts

MORIAL from Page 31 white rate: 33% compared to 62%. The survey found that Black and white Americans differ in their views about these economic disparities. A majority of Black respondents, 57%, agreed with the statement, "Wealth inequality between Black and white

Black Americans feel the sting of racism even more sharply in the health care system. An overwhelming 8 in 10 Black respondents feel that race influences the quality of care a person receives, and 2 in 5 said the system had discriminated against them personally.

Is Sen. Tim Scott an American or do you give him a pass because he votes with you — even when his vote is against African American interests? How will you reward Senator Scott for voting against the confirmation of a Black woman whose brilliance on the subject of American jurisprudence runs circles around every member of your party who was in the room when her confirmation vote was taken. Mitch, despite your lame justifications, we have given great thought to you and yours. We are not fooled, and you need to re-educate yourself to the reality that we, too, are Americans! WI

Mitch, despite your lame justifications, we have given great thought to you and yours. We are not fooled, and you need to re-educate yourself to the reality that we, too, are Americans!

— will have the wraparound services to get them to live a healthy and meaningful life. Its mission is to provide structured housing and recovery services in an environment of support and accountability to give men, women, and families at risk of or experiencing homelessness and who suffer from drug and alcohol addictions the opportunity to rebuild their lives. Lisa is now living a great life. With the confidence she gained

from Samaritan Inns, she went back to school to earn her GED and a degree from the University of the District of Columbia. Lisa is married and enjoying a loving relationship with her daughter and grandchildren. She is committed to her relationship with God and as a sponsor for those who reach out to her for support. Lisa does what the good people and support networks of Samaritan Inns have done for her. WI

Americans is a cycle that creates never-ending economic disparity, no matter how hard individual people work." But an even larger majority of white respondents, 71%, agreed with the statement, "Wealth inequality between Black and white Americans can be overcome, but it's up to individual people to change their circumstances." But Black Americans are frustrated about their ability to change their circumstances. Majorities are worried about being paid less, passed over, having to work harder for the same amount, and being discriminated against because of their race. While a plurality of Black respondents, 47%, felt that the professional opportunities they receive have nothing to do with race, nearly as many — 41% — said they received fewer professional opportunities because of their race or ethnicity. Black Americans feel the sting of racism even more sharply in the health care system. An overwhelming 8 in 10 Black respondents feel that race influences the quality of care a person receives, and 2 in 5 said the system had discriminated against them personally. When it comes to the heart of this year’s State of Black America report, voting and democracy, overwhelm-

ing majorities believe in the power of their vote to make a difference in economic opportunity, social and racial justice, and police violence. But nearly as many — 71% — believe that Black and brown communities specifically are often denied the right to vote. Only 45% of Black respondents said voting in their communities is very easy, compared to 59% of white respondents. And Black respondents said the government is doing more to limit voting rights than it is to protect them. "Fifty years since the Civil Rights Movement and ten years since the murder of Trayvon Martin, the real promise of equity has yet to be fulfilled, and young Blacks are growing frustrated with the rate of change," Curry wrote. "Beliefs and behaviors are hard to shift, and while progress has been made, the biases of today manifest in more subtle forms of systemic suppression. "Pragmatic and hopeful, hardworking and vulnerable, the complexities of Black pain and Black pride define the Black experience." The full survey, along with the rest of the 2022 State of Black America report, "Under Siege: The Plot to Destroy Democracy," can be found at www.StateOfBlackAmerica.org. WI

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