The Washington Informer - April 4, 2024

Monumental Sports & Entertainment to Stay in

Gallery

Place/Chinatown After All D.C. Council Funds New Arrangement with Questions

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

Three months and one failed negotiation later, and it appears that the Washington Wizards and Washington Capitals will in fact remain in Gallery Place-Chinatown for years to come.

Ted Leonsis, owner of Monumental Sports & Entertainment, joined D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D), D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson (D), and a slew of other council members on March 27 to announce the deal at Signature Club & Lounge, a newly opened space at Capital One Arena.

A relaxed Leonsis recounted several weeks of meetings he had with Bowser, Metropolitan Police Chief Pamela Smith and other officials -- in the

midst of his negotiations with Virginia government officials -- that he said gave him ease about staying in Gallery Place.

As Leonsis explained however, the tide changed with, not only an arena deal that fell apart in Virginia, but Bowser’s unveiling of her downtown revitalization plan, the D.C. Council’s passage of the Secure DC Omnibus bill, and a revamped arena deal that expands Monumental Sports & Entertainment's physical presence.

“We treat this like it’s big business, but we treat it like it’s a family business. That’s what the mayor, Phil [Mendelson] and the council gave me,” Leonsis said. “D.C. is home and the mayor told me we wouldn’t be leaving. While this is important for the city and the community, we are a profitable business. We generate tax revenue. The community would be attracting more business. It’s a smart deal.”

The deal will extend Monumental Sports and

Advocates Respond to CFO’s Mandate to Replenish Reserves

CFO Glen Lee Sets Out to Clarify Nature of His Role

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

Niciah Mujahid said she had an idea of what to expect this budget season when, during D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser’s budget forums, administration officials gave community members an imaginary $90 to shape their ideal budget, as opposed to $100 in years past.

However, Mujahid said not even that prepared her for

5Glenn Lee emphasized his responsibilities as second-year chief financial officer: certify and keep the budget balanced, make revenue projections, and ensure that the District makes on-time payments to payroll, vendors, and creditors.

(Ja’mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

Local Mother Embarks on Anti-Bullying Crusade Report Shows Less than 20% Compliance with Youth Bullying Prevention Act

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

In the aftermath of her son’s assault at a local public charter school, one mother is leading the charge for bolstering the quality of support services afforded to students with disabilities.

Yolanda Corbett was among more than two dozen parents, community advocates and restorative justice coordinators who met with administrators at Washington Leadership Academy Public Charter School (PCS) on Tuesday, April 2 in demand of a safe academic environment for

White House Easter Egg Roll Emphasizes ‘Egg-ucation’

By Ashleigh Fields WI Contributing Writer

Since 1878, families have gathered on the White House South Lawn to commemorate Easter and the joy of spring. Despite the District’s dreary weather on April 1, more than 40,000 attendees

EASTER Page 22

5 D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson, Mayor Muriel Bowser and Ward 2 Councilmember Brooke Pinto celebrate the decision to keep the Washington Wizards and Washington Capitals in downtown D.C. (Abdullah Konte/The Washington Informer SPORTS Page 35

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Lafayette

Remembering Beloved Actor and Activist

Louis Cameron Gossett Jr.

Louis Gossett Jr., the groundbreaking actor whose career spanned over five decades and who became the first Black actor to win an Academy Award as Best Supporting Actor for his memorable role in “An Officer and a Gentleman” (1982) has died.

Gossett, who was born on May 27, 1936, in Brooklyn, N.Y., was 87. Recognized early on for his resilience and nearly unmatched determination, Gossett arrived in Los Angeles in 1967 after a stint on Broadway.

He sometimes spoke of being pulled over by law enforcement en route to Beverly Hills, once being handcuffed to a tree, which he remembered as a jarring introduction to the racial tensions of Hollywood.

In his memoir “An Actor and a Gentleman,” Gossett recounted the ordeal, noting the challenges faced by Black artists in the industry.

Despite the hurdles, Gossett’s talent shone brightly, earning him acclaim in groundbreaking productions such as “A Raisin in the Sun” (1959 Broadway, 1961 film) alongside Sidney Poitier. His Emmy-winning portrayal of Fiddler in “Roots” (1977) solidified his status as a trailblazer, navigating a landscape fraught with racial prejudice.

Beyond the glitz and glamor of Hollywood, Gossett was deeply committed to community activism.

In 1964, he co-founded a theater group for troubled youth alongside James Earl Jones and Paul Sorvino, setting the stage for his lifelong dedication to mentoring and inspiring the next generation. Gossett’s tireless advocacy for racial equality culminated in the establishment of Eracism, a nonprofit organization dedicated to combating racism both domestically and abroad.

Throughout his illustrious career, Gossett remained a beacon of strength and resilience, using his platform to uplift marginalized voices and champion social change.

Gossett is survived by his children, Satie and Sharron.

Artificial Intelligence Models that Analyze Language in Social Media Posts Fail to Detect Depression in Black People

In a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), researchers from the University of Pennsylvania have uncovered significant disparities in the effectiveness of language-based models for detecting depression on social media, mainly when applied to Black individuals. The study authors called for more inclusive mental health assessment and treatment approaches. The study found that depression, which is a common mental health condition, often leaves clear linguistic traces. For example, first-person pronouns (“I”) and certain groups of words that show negative emotions can be signs of depression among social media users, according to previous research. However, the recent analysis of Facebook posts from over 800 individuals, including equal numbers of Black and white participants, revealed that these predictive qualities

were primarily applicable to white individuals.

“We need to have the understanding that, when thinking about mental health and devising interventions for treatment, we should account for the differences among racial groups and how they may talk about depression. We cannot put everyone in the same bucket,” said Dr. Sharath Chandra Guntuku, a senior author of the study, who expressed surprise over the findings.

Rai said there’s a need for increased representation of Black individuals and other racial and ethnic groups in research to better understand how depression is expressed across diverse populations. The goal is to develop more accurate predictive models and improve mental health interventions tailored to different communities. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

AT&T Data Breach Exposes Millions to Identity Theft Threat

AT&T, the telecommunications giant, revealed over the weekend a significant breach that has exposed the sensitive information of millions of its current and former customers. The breach, discovered on the dark web, has potentially compromised data, including Social Security numbers and passcodes, affecting around 7.6 million current account holders and a staggering 65.4 million former account holders.

In a statement issued over the weekend, the Dallas-based company expressed concern over the breach and its magnitude while highlighting the uncertainty surrounding the origin of the leaked data. Whether the data was sourced from AT&T itself or one of its vendors remains unclear, prompting the company to initiate a thorough investigation.

The compromised information, dating back to 2019 or earlier, encompasses a wide array of personal data, in-

cluding full names, email addresses, mailing addresses, phone numbers, dates of birth, and AT&T account numbers. However, AT&T has assured customers that financial information and call histories remain untouched.

For individuals anxious about the security of their data, AT&T has assured them that affected customers will receive direct communication via email or letters. These notifications began rolling out on March 30, confirmed by an AT&T spokesperson.

AT&T has taken immediate action in response to the breach, resetting passcodes for current users and pledging to cover credit monitoring services where applicable. Additionally, the company has launched a comprehensive investigation, leveraging internal expertise and external cybersecurity professionals to delve into the breach's origins and extent. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

5 Louis Gosset Jr., (Courtesy Photo)

Ramona Edelin, Influential Activist and Education Advocate, Dies at 78

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

Once upon a time, Black Americans were simply known as colored people, or Negroes. That is until Ramona Edelin came along. The activist, renowned for her pivotal roles in advancing civil rights, education reform, and community empowerment, died at her D.C. residence last month at the age of 78. Her death was confirmed this week by Barnaby Towns, a communications strategist who collaborated with Dr. Edelin, and attributed to cancer.

Born on September 4, 1945, in Los Angeles, California, Edelin’s early years were marked by a commitment to education and social justice. According to her HistoryMakers biography, after graduating from Fisk University with a Bachelor’s degree in 1967, she pursued further studies at the University of East Anglia in England. She earned her master’s degree before completing her Ph.D. at Boston University in 1981.

himself African American, immediately he’s international. You’ve taken him from the ghetto and put him on the globe.”

The HistoryMakers bio noted that Edelin’s academic pursuits led her to found and chair the Department of African American Studies at Northeastern University, where she established herself as a leading voice.

“When a child in a ghetto calls himself African American, immediately he’s international. You’ve taken him from the ghetto and put him on the globe.”

Edelin’s contributions to academia and activism were manifold. She was pivotal in popularizing the term “African American” alongside the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson in the late 1980s.

Jackson had announced the preference for “African American,” speaking for summit organizers that included Dr. Edelin. “Just as we were called Colored, but were not that, and then Negro, but not that, to be called Black is just as baseless,” he said, adding that “African American” “has cultural integrity” and “puts us in our proper historical context.”

Later, Edelin told Ebony magazine, “Calling ourselves African Americans is the first step in the cultural offensive,” while linking the name change to a “cultural renaissance” in which Black Americans reconnected with their history and heritage.

“Who are we if we don’t acknowledge our motherland?” she asked later. “When a child in a ghetto calls

Transitioning from academia to advocacy, Edelin joined the National Urban Coalition in 1977, eventually ascending to president and CEO. During her tenure, she spearheaded initiatives such as the “Say Yes to a Youngster’s Future” program, which provided crucial support in math, science, and technology to youth and teachers of color in urban areas. Her biography noted that Edelin’s efforts extended nationwide through partnerships with organizations like the National Science Foundation and the United States Department of Education.

Former President Bill Clinton recognized Edelin’s expertise by appointing her to the Presidential Board on Historically Black Colleges and Universities in 1998. She also co-founded and served as treasurer of the Black Leadership Forum, solidifying her standing as a respected leader in African American communities.

Beyond her professional achievements, Edelin dedicated herself to numerous boards and committees, including chairing the District of Columbia Educational Goals 2000 Panel and contributing to the Federal Advisory Committee for the Black Community Crusade for Children.

Throughout her life, Edelin received widespread recognition for her contributions. Ebony magazine honored her as one of the 100 Most Influential Black Americans, and she received prestigious awards such as the Southern Christian Leadership Conference Award for Progressive Leadership and the IBM Community Executive Program Award. WI

AROUND THE REGION

facts

APRIL 4 - 10, 2024

SOURCE: BLACK AMERICA WEB

birthday in 1934 after a fall from the roof of his Boston home.

1915 – Legendary jazz singer Billie Holiday is born in Philadelphia.

1940 – The Post Office Department issues a stamp honoring Booker T. Washington, the nation's first stamp to commemorate an African American.

1949 – Actress Juanita Hall begins a run on Broadway as Bloody Mary in the musical "South Pacific," a role in which she became the first African American to win a Tony Award for Best Supporting Actress.

APRIL 8

1946 – Bob Johnson, an entrepreneur and media magnate who founded Black Entertainment Television, is born in Hickory, Mississippi.

1974 – Baseball great Hank Aaron hits his 715th career home run, breaking Babe Ruth's then-record of 714.

APRIL 9

1898 – Paul Robeson, singer, actor and civil rights activist, is born in Princeton, New Jersey.

1933 – Publisher and educator Nathan Hare, the first person hired to coordinate a Black studies program at the university level in the United States, is born in Slick, Oklahoma.

APRIL 4

1913 – Musician Muddy Waters, who is often cited as the "father of modern Chicago blues," is born in Issaquena County, Mississippi.

1928 – Famed poet, memoirist and civil rights activist Maya Angelou is born in St. Louis. 1968 – Civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr. is assassinated by James Earl Ray in Memphis, Tennessee. He was 39.

APRIL 5

1856 – Educator and famed African American leader Booker T. Washington is born in Hale's Ford, Virginia.

1937 – Colin Powell, retired four-star general in the U.S. Army and the first African American secretary of state, is born in Harlem, New York City. 1951 – The Municipal Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C., outlaws segregated restaurants in the city.

APRIL 6

1712 – The New York Slave Revolt of 1712, an uprising in which 23 enslaved Africans killed nine whites and injured another six, begins. 1909 – Black explorer Matthew Henson is among a party of six recognized as the first to reach the North Pole.

APRIL 7

1872 – William Monroe Trotter, civil rights leader and editor of The Boston Guardian, is born near Chillicothe, Ohio. He died on his

1939 – Singer Marian Anderson performs Easter Sunday for 75,000 on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial after she is refused permission to sing before an integrated the Daughters of the American Revolution's Constitutional Hall.

2011 – Black engineer Jerry Lawson, inventor of the video game cartridge, dies of complications from diabetes in Mountain View, Calif., at 70.

APRIL 10

1975 – Golfer

Lee Elder becomes the first African American to play in the Masters. WI

MAYA ANGELOU

BILLIE HOLIDAY

BY SARAFINA WRIGHT

Legendary actor Louis Gossett Jr., the first Black man to win a supporting actor Oscar in 1983 and an Emmy winner for his role in the TV miniseries “Roots,” has died at 87. How will you remember Gossett and his legacy?

MARY ROBERTS / WASHINGTON, D.C.

KAREN CLARK / PINE BLUFF, ARK.

A great actor! He leaves us with the memories of his greatness!

He was a great actor. I remember him very well in “An Officer and a Gentleman.” My husband and I went to the drive-in movie theater to see it. I know that dates us because it was a long time ago. But it was a great movie. Rest in peace, sir, and condolences to the family.

NIKITA INGRAM / CHARLOTTE, N.C.

My condolences and prayers to his family and friends. He was one of our brightest lights and represented Black excellence to the fullest! Fly high and take your rest among the ancestors!

MODESTINE JOHNSON / BRADENTON, FLA.

I loved all of his movies. Mr. Gossett was a true trailblazer.

LEVERNE HEARN / DALLAS, TEXAS

I loved, loved his acting capabilities. He’ll truly be missed. Condolences to the family!

AROUND THE REGION

The Collins Council Report

Education for DOC Residents, Healthy Homes Legislation, and Relief for Displaced Condos

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

This edition of The Collins Council Report drops on the cusp of an action-packed budget season.

On Tuesday, April 2, D.C. Council members discussed a bevy of topics. An accompanying article explores the intricacies of the District’s $515 million deal with Monumental Sports & Entertainment. Within the next couple of weeks, readers will learn more about the controversy surrounding project labor agreements and marijuana dispensaries near schools.

For now, feel free to read about the council’s efforts to 1.) ensure free appropriate public education for Department of Corrections (DOC) residents with disabilities, 2.) expand District residents’ access to gas-to-electric appliance conversions, and 3.) provide recompense for long-displaced condominium owners.

A QUESTION OF A FREE, APPROPRIATE PUBLIC EDUCATION FOR YOUNG DOC RESIDENTS

On Tuesday, the D.C. Council unanimously approved the Special Education for Young Adults in the Custody of the Department of Corrections Temporary Amendment Act of 2024. This emergency legislation, in-

5The Council discussed a bevy of topics on Tuesday, April 2, including ensuring free public education for Department of Corrections residents with disabilities, expanding D.C. residents access to gas-to-electric appliance conversions, and providing recompense for long-displaced condo owners. (WI File Photo)

troduced by D.C. Councilmember Brooke Pinto (D-Ward 2), designates the D.C. Department of Corrections as the District agency to provide a “free appropriate public education to DOC residents with disabilities, as dictated by District law and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.

The legislation comes three years after the School Justice Project, Washington Lawyers’ Committee, and the law firm of Terris, Pravlik & Millian, LLP filed a class-action lawsuit against the District for denying students their special education instruction during their incarceration at DOC.

That year, a federal district court judge issued a preliminary injunction in what came to be known as Charles H. v. District of Columbia. The injunction mandated the District to provide students with hours of special education and services mandated by their Individualized Education Program.

It also obligated the District to submit monthly reports documenting their progress in providing students with free appropriate public education.

Shortly after, at the beginning of the 2021-2022 school year, the District designated Maya Angelou Public Charter School, not D.C. Public Schools (DCPS), as provider of educational services at D.C. Jail. Last year, Pinto introduced the Leading Education Access for Reentry and Necessary Success (LEARNS) Amendment Act to enhance special education services D.C. Department of Corrections and,

among other provisions, mandate that the corrections department evaluate students for special education services.

The LEARNS Amendment Act later became part of the Secure DC Omnibus Amendment Act. Sources close to The Informer said that officials within the Bowser administration expressed apprehension about the evaluations, and possible explosion of the special education student pool.

Earlier this week, the Washington Lawyers’ Committee and School Justice Project, in conjunction with law firm Nixon Peabody LLP, filed another federal class-action lawsuit against DCPS, the Office of the State Superintendent of Education, and the Federal Bureau of Prisons (FBOP). This time, the lawsuit focused on alleged deprivation of eligible D.C. students with disabilities of an education that they were entitled to while serving a sentence in FBOP facilities across the U.S.

Representatives of the School Justice Project hinted at this lawsuit last year, telling The Informer that close to onethird of the 125 young people transferred from DOC to FBOP last spring had no high school diploma, nor had their special education accommodations been met.

“No one tracks them,” the representative said. “No one knows if they have a diploma or special education needs.”

Read more on

washingtoninformer.com.

WI

AROUND THE REGION

Pioneers of the Black Press Demand Changes in Black America Stateswomen for Justice Luncheon Prioritizes Voting Amidst Political Turmoil, Election Year

By Jada Ingleton WI Intern

Social justice leaders and members of the Black press delivered a clear message on March 28 at the National Press Club: Black voter turnout is crucial in this next election.

Each March, freedom fighters and Black media makers gather at the Trice Edney News Wire Stateswomen for Justice luncheon to celebrate journalism, women leadership, and address the realities of Black America.

With a theme of “America in Emergency,” this year’s event emphasized the need for a surge in Black voters, particularly with Black women leading the charge.

“I wanted the takeaway to be the level of importance that we hold in the election process. We should never allow ourselves to be taken for granted,” said Hazel Trice Edney, founder of Trice Edney Communications and the correlating news wire. “Our issues are important and we must not only, in the words of Frederick Douglass, agitate, but realize power concedes nothing without a struggle. It never has and it never will.”

Since its inception in 2010, Edney’s annual luncheon aims to recognize some of the women change agents within the community. She considers the event a necessary platform “for women, by women” that ensures credit is being given where it is due.

Dr. Benjamin Chavis, president of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), recognized the

generational impact of Black women in a call-to-action.

“There would be no civil rights movement if it weren’t for Black women,” he began. “If we rise up and break every shackle, every chain and have the best Black voter turnout, then we can get out of this state of emergency.”

The afternoon consisted of a multitude of women leaders who embodied the dedication necessary to fight for true equity and justice for all. Each panelist echoed sentiments of unity and a demand for change.

“We've always been in a battle, and Black women have always been singled out in it,” said Barbara Arnwine, president and CEO of the Transformative Justice Coalition. “To all of these perpetrators of voter suppression, you may think you can win; but the reality is there’s only one victory, and that victory is ours because we will do the fighting. We will never back down, because that's who we are.”

Maka Taylor, founder of Global Gaines Consulting, who attended the luncheon, said she recognizes the power of Black women’s vote, but wondered if emphasizing voting is enough to reach younger populations and enact change where it is needed.

“Black women are the most important voting block there is in [the] United States. We are all the money, we are all the trends...What will it take for us to leverage that to get what we want,” Taylor, a student at University of the District of

Columbia, told The Informer.

As a mother and social economist, Taylor explained there is more to be said about the interpersonal connections that affect the community and voter turnout, and upholds the need for “more tangible” efforts that could be pivotal to the future Black America.

“We have to start with self-accountability,” she explained. “There's a lot in the Black community that is disadvantageous to us as a collective. There are a lot of tenants of Black culture that do not assist us with moving forward.”

The Stateswomen for Justice luncheon reflected both the progress of Black America and the push to continue fighting a greater cause. While there is still much work left to do before casting ballots, there are many freedom fighters determined to foot

5

the bill and advocate for the future of the culture.

“Never forget, we are the difference,” Arnwine said. “Fight for the Freedom to Vote Act, fight for the

Dr. Barbara Reynolds, Dr. Julianne Malveuax, Hazel Trice Edney, Barbara Arnwine, Janice Mathis, Melanie Campbell, and Dr. Symone Campbell served as the honorary women of the day at the 14th annual Stateswomen for Justice Luncheon on March 28. (Jada Ingleton/The Washington Informer)

5CEO and President of the Transformative Justice Coalition Barbara Arnwine, received metaphorical and literal flowers for her birthday and contributions as a renowned civil rights leader. (Jada Ingleton/The Washington Informer)

John Lewis Voting Rights Act. That's how we win for the future and make sure that this country is compelled to be the land of the free.”

“The happiest people are those who do the most for others. The most miserable are those who do the least.”

United Way of the National Capital Area (United Way NCA) with Ernst and Young and Pepco, co-hosted a Women United event for female students from High Point High School and Largo High School in Prince George’s County and H.D. Woodson High School in Washington, DC on March 21 at Prince George’s Community College – Center for the Performing Arts. The event focused on college and career pathways. Pictured: United Way NCA President and CEO Rosie Allen-Herring with students.

AROUND THE REGION

Secrets of Nature Health Food Center to Close, Magnifying Ward 8’s Food Desert

By Ashleigh Fields WI Contributing Writer

Natural remedies, holistic herbs and food for the soul are always on the menu at Secrets of Nature Health Food Center. The Ward 8 store, which officially closed March 29, served as a longtime local staple for residents to access nutritious food east of the river.

Understanding the dire need for healthy food options, Coy Dunston, 76, opened up his shop in 1980 with the mission to save lives.

His passion for nutrition started in 1980, as a recent graduate of Antioch Law (now University of the District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law).

“I took a break to go home just to see my mother,” said Dunston, who was born and raised in Louisburg, North Carolina. “She was complaining about itching and had gone to the doctor.”

Days later she was diagnosed with cancer at Duke University Hospital and was released for denying chemotherapy treatments.

“I felt an obligation to do something, I wasn’t going to wait for her to die. I started researching,” Dunston shared. “One day on the drive to D.C., I stopped to fill up my gas in Richmond. There was a guy there distributing an informational pamphlet about reversing disease and how to get well.”

Intrigued, Dunston attended the meeting advertised after seeing the words “Nature’s sunshine” on the paper. He was determined to learn more about the organization's methods.

“I thought ‘wow,’ this has to be a message to me. I was flabbergasted; I had not heard of anything they were talking about. I immediately got involved. My mother and I started fasting, taking the herbs and doing the things you are supposed to do,” he said. “She lived for 10 years after that. That’s how I got involved in this business.”

Proven successful in this new lifestyle, Dunston set out on a fast track to educating the masses on healthy options, starting “Yours Naturally” on 16th and K Streets

NW with the knowledge needed to provide treatments to cure illnesses and ailments.

“I was there about 10 years and around the eighth year I moved around the corner to the Washington Post’s building where I saw an opportunity to open up a kitchen, my first kitchen,” he continued.

The meals created were served lovingly and filled with natural nourishment– a stark difference from Dunston’s diet while being raised as the son of a sharecropper. He joyfully educated others like him in holistic nutrition for two years, until he was priced out of the building.

“Everything fell apart, I had four stores and didn’t really have anybody to run them. I was trying to do everything by myself. So, I closed them all and moved here,” he said, referencing the location he opened in 1990.

After 44 years of serving the community, Dunston is experiencing the same sense of loss.

“We’re going to relocate and go into a different mode of doing business,” said Dunston referencing his decision to go virtual and sell items through an online shop. “Brick and mortar is okay but the landlords are out of sight and insane, I need to own my building.”

Instead of his longtime routine of welcoming customers for 10 hours daily, Dunston will now complete orders as they are received and plans to deliver food locally through UberEats.

“We need this in the community, I am not happy about this,” said D.C. resident and store retailer Angie White, creator of Luv The Skin U In.

Other neighbors have similar sentiments, recognizing that 51% of the District’s food deserts are located inside of neighborhoods in Ward 8, according to the D.C. Policy Center.

“Secrets of Nature has been an asset to the community as far as herbs, vitamins and healthy foods in a supermarket desert. It’s been an oasis for people to come here to have conversations, meetings about community events, meditation and how to raise their consciousness or awareness of who they are and where they are in the city and in life,” customer Charles Owens told The Informer.

Those dedicated to Dunston's work created a GoFundMe page so that he could continue his mission. He is hopeful that those funds assist him in maintaining the business during these uncertain times.

“I appreciate the patriotism of people who did come and support me,” Dunston told The Informer. “If people want to get involved in helping me build something new there is an opportunity to do that.”

For more information, contact Dunston at (202) 562-0041.

WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com

5Coy Dunston poses next to existential treatments for the mind, body and soul inside of Secrets of Nature DC. Located at 3923 S. Capitol Street, SW, Secrets of Nature (SON) seeks to heal our communities from the inside out by retailing organic foods, supplements and books. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY

Prince George’s County Political Updates

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

COUNTY OFFICIALS SIGN ONTO CEASEFIRE CALLS

Over 20 Prince George’s County elected officials, both current and former, have signed onto a resolution

calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. Their intent is for the County Council to vote on the resolution, adding more pressure for President Joe Biden (D) and Congress to change their stance.

Del. Gabriel Acevero (D- District 39), who introduced the state resolution calling for a ceasefire, attended a March 28 press conference at Hemingway Memorial AME to

announce the organizing effort.

“It is our moral obligation to take a stand against genocide,” said Raaheela Ahmed, former Prince George’s County Board of Education Member, and the primary author and organizer of the letter. “This cruelty must stop.”

The list of signatories includes County Councilmembers Wala Ble-

gay (D- District 6) and Krystal Oriadha (D- District 7), Sen. Joanne Benson (D- District 24), and Brentwood Mayor Rocio Treminio-Lopez, the state’s first Latina Mayor.

“Drawing from my personal experience of my family suffering from the Liberian Civil War in the 1990s, I am steadfast in my support for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza,” said Blegay. “I urge my esteemed colleagues in Prince George’s County to join me in delivering a resolute message to our federal delegation that a permanent ceasefire is not just a strategic imperative, but a humanitarian one, essential to end the death of innocent children and families, the restoration of peace, and the preservation of countless lives.”

Gov. Wes Moore (D) publicly called for a ceasefire during a segment on the Kojo Nnamdi Show in late March, and Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D) has also spoken in support of a ceasefire on multiple occasions.

The Annapolis bill in support of a ceasefire is held up in the Rules Committee and is unlikely to receive a vote, with some Annapolis leadership stating that the issue doesn’t fall under their authority. Acevero has called that hypocritical, considering that the General Assembly passed resolutions to denounce Russia’s acts of aggression towards Ukraine.

WI

DATA PRIVACY BILL WORRIES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS

The Online Data Privacy Act of 2025 (SB 0541), a proposed bill that

would affect data collection and online privacy, has already passed the Senate and is being considered in the House of Delegates. The Maryland Chamber of Commerce and several small businesses testified against this legislation with their concerns.

“We operate completely online. Digital ads are one of the primary ways we find new customers, grow our business, and compete with national brands, said T|W Tote owners Sherika Wynter and Shallon Thomas. “We believe in protecting people’s privacy, but worry the Maryland Online Privacy Act will over-regulate online data collection and use, making it more difficult and expensive for our business to advertise. We urge the Maryland legislature to reconsider this bill to minimize the impact on small businesses like ours."

Some of the concerns noted by the chamber during the testimony include: aligning the definitions and requirements with neighboring states, ensuring that the Office of the Attorney General has sole enforcement responsibility, removing the requirement for permission to use personalized marketing techniques, and extending the date for compliance.

The bill’s fiscal note explains that this would have a meaningful impact on small businesses, particularly those based around data usage.

“The Maryland Chamber of Commerce and its members place a high priority on consumer privacy and believe that privacy laws should provide strong safeguards for consumers but also balance the need for industry to innovate,” the chamber declared in its testimony. “The Chamber recognizes the work and collaboration that have gone into writing SB 0541 compared to iterations of past years.”

WI

5 Over 20 Prince George’s County elected officials, both current and former, have signed onto a resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and held a press conference on the effort on March 28. (Courtesy Photo/Facebook screenshot)

Prince George’s County Local Updates

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

PGCPS CONSIDERS ALTERING SCHOOL START TIMES

The Prince George’s County Public School (PGCPS) system is considering standardizing school start times, something that parents across the County will undoubtedly welcome.

Currently, schools that are mere streets away from each other may have start times that vary by as much as an hour, and school leaders say this has contributed to transportation issues in the county.

“Our focus is clear: to provide students with safe, punctual transportation, while enhancing customer service for all involved,” said Keba Baldwin, the school system’s director of transportation. “We firmly believe these recommendations will swiftly bring about improvements in on-time arrivals, transportation safety and timely communications.”

PGCPS leaders will propose that all elementary schools start at 7:30 AM, all middle schools and academies start at 8:30 AM, and all high schools start at 9:30 a.m.

The time changes would also affect dismissal times. With these changes, 90% of schools would receive 15 minutes or less of a time shift. If approved, the school will begin during the 2024-2025 school year.

WI

LOCAL CHEF ADVANCES IN COOKING TOURNAMENT

Former NFL player and owner of Huncho House Tobias Dorzon is in the quarterfinals for the Food Network show Tournament of Champions. The owner of the Hyattsville, Maryland based restaurant is proud to represent Prince George’s on the national stage.

In the show, hosted by Guy Fieri, competitors have to use ran-

dom equipment and ingredients of the judge’s choosing to test their culinary skills outside of their familiar palate.

He will be competing head to head with 2021 Tournament of Champions winner Manet Chauhan, who specializes in Indian fusion cuisine.

“When I’m in the kitchen, I'm just creating things. It gives me the opportunity just to see people smile, see people happy from what food can do for them,” said Dorzon, adding that he hopes to add a second location in the county.

WI

NATIONAL HARBOR HOTEL SOLD FOR $47 MILLION

The Hampton Inn & Suites in National Harbor was sold to northern Virginia-based SAK Developers for $47 million, roughly $305,000 for each of the 154 rooms.

The hotel sits just across from the MGM National Harbor, a bustling hotel, casino, dining, and entertainment venue.

SAK owns other hotels, including six across Maryland, Virginia and Delaware.

WI

MIAMI DEVELOPER PLANS UPPER MARLBORO DEVELOPMENT

Miami-based developer Global City Development is planning a primarily residential mixed-use community of over 1,000,000 square feet in Upper Marlboro.

The potential site, called the Carozza Property, would host an estimated 600 residential units and 50,000 square feet of retail on Marlboro Pike.

The property sits on 60 wooded acres neighboring Joint Base Andrews.

Their plans have been received by the county’s land use agency and the initial application was approved in late March. WI

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

5 The Prince George’s County Public Schools system is considering standardizing school start times. Pictured is Fairmont Heights High School in Prince George’s County. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer).

4 Huncho House owner Tobias Dorzon is competing in Food Network’s Tournament of Champions. His ambition is to open a second restaurant after the tournament. (Anthony Tilghman/Washington Informer)

Local Mother Starts Nonprofit to Build Community for Moms Second Annual Community Baby Shower Comes to Capitol Heights May 25

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

Kiawana Leaf, founder of the nonprofit BoyMomToo, works to help other mothers receive care and advocates on behalf of those suffering from any barriers related to motherhood including postpartum depression.

“We specialize in meeting the needs of mothers in our community,” said Leaf. “Often, mothers

are forgotten after their children are born. BoyMomToo is dedicated to consistently uplifting and supporting women to ensure they don't lose themselves in motherhood.”

She was motivated to start her nonprofit after becoming a mother, and wanting to offer the same support to others that she received from her community.

While being a business owner is rewarding, she told The Inform-

“Often, mothers are forgotten after their children are born. BoyMomToo is dedicated to consistently uplifting and supporting women to ensure they don't lose themselves in motherhood.”

er that entrepreneurship requires a great deal of commitment, accountability, and dedication.

“To succeed, you must have a deep passion for your work and a strong sense of purpose. It's important to understand that the road to success is not without its sacrifices, losses, and failures,” she said. “Entrepreneurship is not for everyone, and that's perfectly fine. Don't allow societal pressure to steer you towards starting a business if it's not the right path for you. Know your lane, purpose, and calling!

In addition to the day-to-day work of her nonprofit and the prayer calls she hosts every fourth Friday at 10:10 p.m., Leaf will be hosting the second annual Community Baby Shower on May 25 at the House of Healing DMV on Benning Road in Capitol Heights, Maryland.

“We provide games, delicious

food, and a welcoming atmosphere for mothers in the community to bond and build relationships. With the resources that we have within our community, we are able to remove barriers and meet the needs of mothers,” said Leaf, who is also planning a Mommy and Me Health Expo in addition to the baby shower. “We are currently accepting sponsors and donations, and we also have an Amazon baby gift registry for those who wish to contribute in that way.”

WI

5 Kiawana Leaf, a mother and founder of BoyMomToo, announced the second annual Community Baby Shower will take place on May 25. (Courtesy Photo/ BoyMomToo)

BUSINESS

By James Wright / WI Staff Writer

COHEN REACHES PINNACLE OF DECHERT LLP

It is rare for a Black attorney to reach the level of upper management in a large law firm but Vincent H. Cohen Jr., has done that at Dechert LLP, as the global managing partner, leading his organization on a worldwide basis.

“I run the day-to-day operations of our firm,” said Cohen, who works out of the District office, one of 21 globally. “I implement the policies and vision of our firm and it is my job to see that we are profitable and able to provide the best representation and service to our clients.”

Cohen, one of the few Black attorneys managing a major law firm, is a member of the African American Managing Partner and General Counsel Networks. The organization, founded in 2010, is a network of more than 40 Black lawyers in the U.S. who currently manage or have managed a top 200 law firm or one of its offices.

The small number of managing Black lawyers in elite law firms is compounded by low numbers of African Americans employed in that sector, with the National Association for Law

briefs

Placement reporting in 2023 that only 2.4% of partners in those firms are Black.

“We are unicorns,” Cohen, a graduate of Syracuse University and its law school, said. “I am happy that the AAMPGC allows us to get together and network. It is a safe network to talk among us.”

Dechert, founded in 1875 in Philadelphia, has offices in such cities as Austin, Hong Kong, Singapore, London, Paris, New York, Chicago, and San Francisco. The firm has1,000 lawyers employed, 330 as partners. Cohen is the global managing partner in the U.S. with Sabina Comis leading the Paris office. Cohen was promoted to the position in July 2023 and sits on the influential 14-member policy committee that provides direction to the firm.

The firm practices in such fields as antitrust, private equity, real estate, tax, life sciences, international trade and regulation and privacy/cybersecurity. In addition to his management duties, Cohen also practices law as the firm’s regional chair of the U.S. white collar practice and focuses on litigation on behalf of individuals and corporations. A seasoned trial lawyer and investigator, Cohen represents clients in sensitive government and internal investigations, government enforcement matters and complex civil and criminal litigation domestically and internationally.

“It is very challenging to do but I have a good group of people here in the Washington office that are supportive of lawyers,” he said. “My management and practice schedule are never 50/50 and at times it fluctuates.”

Cohen is a former acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, serving in that capacity from April 1, 2015, to October 19, 2015, after a five-year stint as the principal assistant U.S. attorney under U.S. Attorney Ronald C. Machen Jr. As the principal assistant U.S. attorney, Cohen said he managed the daily affairs of the District’s office, which has the largest staff in the country.

“It’s like a lot of Cabinet agencies,” Cohen, 53, said. “The Secretary is the

face of the agency, but it is the deputy that actually manages things.”

Cohen said even though the number of Black people managing major law firms is low, opportunities exist. He said anyone who wants to assume a position like what he has must be prepared. Cohen said he remembers the advice his late father—Vincent H. Cohen Sr., the first Black partner at the law firm of Hogan & Hartson LLP (now Hogan Lovells) in the 1980s-- gave him.

“My father told me ‘Learn what no one else can take from you,’” he said. “Get a skill set that someone will always want you for.” WI

HOMEOWNERSHIP FOR BLACK MILLENNIALS

Only 33% of Black millennials own their home as opposed to nearly two-thirds of their white counterparts, according to a Redfin analysis of the Current Population Survey Annual Social and Economic Supplement in 2023.

The gap between Black and white millennial homeowners is the largest of any generation, but Black people in general are much less likely to own their home than white Americans at any age.

The analysis said high home prices, elevated mortgage rates and a supply shortage are causes for the racial homeownership gap in addition to racist policies such as redlining and discriminatory housing covenants. The

analysis also said Black Americans frequently face discrimination when going through the homebuying process.

Moreover, the analysis said the Great Recession, which took place roughly from December 2007-June 2009, impacted Black millennials earning power by their increased unemployment rate 16% as opposed to whites, 9%.

Plus, Black millennials were adversely affected by the tight lending standards implemented by financial institutions after the Great Recession more than their white counterparts.

“Millennials have consistently tracked behind their parents’ generation when it comes to homeownership because they’ve faced significant financial obstacles and an historic

inventory shortage,” said Redfin Chief Economist Daryl Fairweather. “Young Black Americans started out behind largely because they’re less likely to have property and money passed down from their parents or grandparents, who faced discrimination themselves, and they have stayed behind because they’re facing discrimination and unfair economic circumstances.”

However, Fairweather is optimistic about Black millennial home owning in the future, saying “the Black unemployment rate is at an all-time low and the racial wage gap is shrinking, which should help more young Black Americans get their feet in the homeownership door.”

WI @JamesWrightJr10

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5 Redfin reports 33% of Black millennials own their homes, as opposed to two-thirds of their white counterparts who are homeowners. (WI File Photo)

5 Vincent H. Cohen Jr. is the global managing partner for the law firm Dechert LLP.

Congress Votes to Dissolve House Office of Diversity and Inclusion NATIONAL

By Ashleigh Fields WI Contributing Writer

Members of Congress recently voted to approve a $1.2 trillion federal spending bill on March 23. A majority of the funds will go toward the Department of Defense at $824 billion and a $1 billion investment went to childcare Head Start programs, but funding for education and national diversity and inclusion programs were rolled back.

After signing the bill, President Joe Biden wrote, “This agreement represents a compromise, which means neither side got everything it wanted.”

One of the many entities adversely impacted includes the House of Representatives Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI). It was formed over four years ago with the goal of advising offices within the majority and minority parties.

“Over the past two years, I’ve

had the honor of working at the pleasure of three Speakers of the House across both sides of the aisle, to include Speaker Emerita

Pelosi and Speakers McCarthy and Johnson, as well as in collaboration with the House Democratic Leader Jeffries,” said Dr. Sesha Joi Moon, former director of ODI. “As I led a non-partisan and non-legislative office, I leaned into not making our mission to help create and cultivate a congressional workforce that’s reflective of the American people a red or blue issue – but more so a reflection of all hues of every corner of our country.”

To date, the office has served 453 members of the House, reaching over 228 Republicans and 197 Democrats. Their office officially dissolved on March 25, just two days after the bill passed.

“Again out of desperation provoked by the Republican conference, compromises and bad deals had to be made to prevent our government from shutting down,” Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas) proclaimed. “Obviously, the Congressional Black Caucus and other members who believe in the value of diversity, equity, and inclusiveness have been and continue to be strong supporters of the DEI philosophy.”

She adamantly shared that Congress would, “continue to fight for racial and language diversity.” Her colleagues share the same sentiment.

“Republicans ought to join Democrats in our work to ensure that diverse thoughts, experienc-

es, backgrounds and identities are represented in the People’s House,” expressed Rep. Steny Hoyer (DMd.) who served as Majority Leader when ODI was first established.

“This office served as an important resource for recruiting and retaining people of color to work in Congress and ensure that our government better reflected the country it represented.”

The entity was often charged with presenting analysis on demographics throughout Congress.

One of the studies ODI administered was the House Witness Representation Study, which is designed to examine the level of representation among nongovernmental witnesses called to testify at hearings before House Committees and/or Subcommittees throughout each congressional session. Their last study in 2022 found 61% of non-government witnesses were white, 15% were Black and 7% were Asian Americans which strongly limits the perspectives considered among lawmakers.

ODI also managed to launch a LinkedIn Recruiter Pilot Program during the 118th Congress to help encourage a more diverse influx of staff among Congress. Thousands of applicants responded and a majority self-identified as people of color.

The office’s closure comes despite unprecedented results and their ability to act efficiently while spending less.

“ODI operated below its funding level at a 44.5% spend rate of its full operating budget in fiscal year 2023,” wrote Moon.

The spending bill officially replaces ODI with the Office of Talent Management. Moon plans to transition off the Hill but all nine of her team members have been invited to retain their employment in the newly formed division.

Elizabeth Mihalcea, has been selected as director. She did not respond to The Informer’s request for comment.

“It has been an honor to help ensure that the United States Congress embodied a qualified and representative workforce that reflected the country's vast tapestry,” Moon said reflecting on the conclusion of her inaugural appointment. “As I prepare to transition [from] the Hill after 15 years of federal service at the end of the month, I walk away feeling fortunate for what has been the best job ever.”

WI

5Congressional budget rollbacks surrounding diversity and inclusion programs resulted in the dissolution of the House of Representatives’ Office of Diversity and Inclusion, led by Dr. Sesha Joi Moon. (Courtesy Photo)

Federal Aid Swiftly Released for Rebuilding

Francis Scott Key Bridge After Tragic Collision

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

In a rapid response to the devastating collision between a cargo container ship and the Francis Scott Key Bridge on March 26, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) announced the immediate release of $60 million in Emergency Relief (ER) funds to the Maryland Department of Transportation.

The collision resulted in the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, claiming the lives of six individuals, and causing substantial disruption to regional and national transportation networks.

Transportation Secretary Pete

Buttigieg said he and others in the Biden-Harris administration understand that they must act with urgency and he emphasized the federal government’s commitment to assisting Maryland in the bridge’s reconstruction.

“The federal emergency funds we’re releasing today will help Maryland begin urgent work, with additional resources coming as recovery and rebuilding efforts progress,” Buttigieg said on Thursday, March 28.

He reiterated President Joe Biden’s assurance that the federal government would spare no effort in supporting the bridge’s rebuilding and restoring operations at the Port of Baltimore.

FHWA Administrator Shailen Bhatt echoed Secretary Butti -

gieg’s sentiments, explaining to reporters and others the pivotal role of the Emergency Relief funds in facilitating initial repair efforts. Additionally, FHWA officials said the agency would provide technical assistance, conduct site assessments, and oversee emergency contracts to expedite the reconstruction process.

The closure of the Francis Scott Key Bridge has already had far-reaching implications, disrupting shipping traffic to the Port of Baltimore’s Seagirt Marine Terminal, and impeding vital transportation corridors along the East Coast. FHWA officials said they will continue to collaborate closely with federal,

BRIDGE Page 18

Dreaming of homeownership?

5The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) announced the immediate release of $60 million in Emergency Relief (ER) funds to the Maryland Department of Transportation after Baltimore’s Key Bridge collapsed last week. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

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BRIDGE from Page 17 for a comprehensive response and demanded that Congress endorse federal assistance efforts.

state, and local partners to mitigate supply chain disruptions and manage traffic while prioritizing the safe reopening of the port.

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore’s declaration of a state of emergency helped to enable FHWA to approve MDOT’s emergency relief funding application promptly. Officials have allocated the funds towards debris removal, demolition, detours, emergency repairs, and the design and reconstruction of the affected infrastructure.

Biden also reaffirmed the federal government’s unwavering support for Baltimore. “And to the people of Baltimore, I want to say: We’re with you,” the president declared. “We’re going to stay with you as long as it takes. And like the governor said, you’re Maryland tough, you’re Baltimore strong, and we’re going to get through this together. And I promise: We’re not leaving. It’s my intention that the federal government will pay for the entire cost of reconstructing that bridge, and I expect to — the Congress to support my effort.”

Biden said the tragedy called

Federal officials said FHWA’s Emergency Relief program aligns with broader initiatives to enhance infrastructure resilience in the face of future challenges.

“The Port of Baltimore is one of the nation’s largest shipping hubs. And I’ve been there a number of times as a senator and as a vice president,” Biden remarked. “It handled a record amount of cargo last year. It’s also the top port in America for both imports and exports of automobiles and light trucks.”

The president plans to visit the bridge on Friday and emphasized the importance of the port for hundreds of thousands of commuters and employees.

“Around 850,000 vehicles go through that port every single year, and we’re going to get it up and running again as soon as possible,” Biden continued. “Fifteen thousand jobs depend on that port. And we’re going to do everything we can to protect those jobs and help those workers.”

5President Joe Biden emphasized the importance of rebuilding the Key Bridge and restoring operations at the Port of Baltimore. (WI File Photo/Robert R. Roberts)

HUD Awards Over $30 Million to Combat Housing Discrimination Across the U.S.

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has announced a significant investment of over $30 million in housing organizations nationwide through its Fair Housing Initiatives Program (FHIP). This funding aims to bolster efforts to tackle violations of the Fair Housing Act and eradicate discrimination in housing.

HUD Acting Secretary Adrianne Todman emphasized the administration’s dedication to addressing housing discrimination.

“HUD is committed to rooting out any forms of discrimination in housing, not just through words, but through real resources,” she said.

Todman highlighted the importance of the grants, which will empower fair housing entities at the national, state, and local levels to combat discriminatory practices ef-

fectively.

The grant funding will enable grantees to conduct investigations, testing, and enforcement activities to identify and address discrimination in rental and sales markets. HUD noted that it would prioritize education and outreach efforts to raise awareness among the public, housing providers, and local governments about their rights and responsibilities under the Fair Housing Act.

Demetria L. McCain, HUD’s principal deputy assistant secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity, was among those who noted the ongoing prevalence of housing discrimination despite the passage of the Fair Housing Act over half a century ago.

“Through the collaborative efforts of HUD and its fair housing partners, we continue to make every effort to root out discrimination in housing,” McCain stated.

HUD’s grant allocations include

funding for various initiatives such as the Private Enforcement Initiative (PEI), Education and Outreach Initiative (EOI), Education and Outreach Initiative Test Coordinator Training (EOI-TCT), and Fair Housing Organizations Initiative (FHOI). These initiatives aim to strengthen fair housing enforcement, education, and nationwide outreach activities.

The announcement coincides with the start of National Fair Housing Month, underscoring the importance of ensuring equal housing opportunities for all individuals regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability. As housing discrimination remains a persistent issue, HUD’s investment reaffirms its commitment to upholding fair housing laws and protecting the rights of all individuals.

Overall, officials said HUD’s allocation of over $30 million signifies a significant step forward in the ongoing battle against housing discrim-

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ination. It provides vital resources to support fair housing initiatives nationwide. Through collaboration and investment, HUD officials said stakeholders aim to create more inclusive and equitable housing opportunities for all Americans.

“Today, we’re awarding more than $30 million to help our partners on the ground educate the public, eliminate discriminatory housing practices, and fully enforce the Fair Housing Act,” Todman added. WI @StacyBrownMedia

*100

5At the top of National Fair Housing month, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has announced a significant investment of over $30 million in housing organizations nationwide through its Fair Housing Initiatives Program. (WI File Photo)

Somalia made significant changes to its constitution on Saturday, March 30, granting the president the authority to appoint and dismiss the Prime Minister. This decision, approved by a substantial majority of parliament, follows intense debates within the federal assembly in Mogadishu, according to Rédaction Africanews.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud currently serves as the leader of Somalia.

The amendments, proposed by the Independent Constitutional Review and Implementation Commission (ICRIC), underwent thorough scrutiny. Hussein Idow, the chairperson of the Constitutional Review Committee, announced that three draft provisions concerning religion would undergo further review to ensure alignment with Somali principles and values.

These amendments, under review for almost a decade, gained momentum in late 2023. They aim to address long standing disputes in Somali politics, particularly power struggles between presidents and prime ministers, often fueled by constitutional ambiguities.

One major change establishes a president-appointed prime minister, replacing the previous requirement for parliamentary confidence votes. This adjustment seeks to provide more flexibility in governance, addressing tensions arising from power and resource distribution among clans and regions.

The amended constitution also introduces a five-year term for government bodies, refers to regional state leaders as presidents, and promotes a multi-party system. However, some political figures, including former presidents and state leaders, oppose these changes, citing concerns about insufficient consensus.

In February, the ICRIC proposed amendments covering various topics, including the age of maturity for girls and the criminalization of female genital mutilation. While the approved amendments set the age of maturity at 15 and the age of responsibility at 18, rights groups caution that this may exacerbate the risks of child marriage, particularly for girls.

Human Rights Watch urges Somalia to uphold constitutional protections for children, emphasizing the importance of meeting international human rights commitments.

Guardsman Barbados Ltd commemorated its 20th anniversary of operations on the island with a celebratory dinner on Saturday, March 30, Barbados Today reported the following day.

Delivering the welcome remarks, General Manager Hurtado Mitchell said, “It is a matter of great pride to see our company Guardsman Barbados Ltd growing, embracing good value systems and achieving more than what we ever thought of. Who could have envisioned that one man and two dogs could have evolved into all of this?”

Mitchell credited the employees with being the backbone of Guardsman’s success, adding, “A team can perform best only when it is united.”

Vinay Walia, group managing director for Guardsman Group, affirmed that the company’s scope extends far beyond being a security and cash management company.

“At our core we are a technology organization, what this means is that we provide the latest and best available technology solutions to help our clients meet their needs.” Walia said. “We have brought never before seen technology to our clients and have created a technological platform in operations that are unrivaled in that area.”

He revealed that through a new subsidiary, they will be partnering with governments across the Caribbean to create education labs introducing people as young as 9 years old to the world of artificial intelligence (A.I.) and illustrate how they can use it in all areas of their life.

“All eight subsidiaries are singularly focused on one goal for our clients and that is to save their companies time and money,” Walia said.

WI

Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. (Courtesy Photo/X)

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Raising Awareness About Cervical Cancer, Early Diagnosis, Treatment

How a Beauty Influncer’s Late Diagnosis, Death Educated Masses on the Potentially Deadly Disease

By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Health Reporter

Beauty influencer Jessica Pettway, 36, was one of thousands of women who die each year from the invasive illness of cervical cancer. Having succumbed to the terminal illness only eight months after her diagnosis, Pettway’s tragic story reflects the narratives of many women who have fallen under the radar of proper screening and early treatment for the disease.

Cervical cancer ultimately begins when healthy cells in the cervix, the

EASTER from Page 5

gathered for the annual Easter egg roll, brightening the day by donning pastels and smiles.

First Lady Jill Biden centered activities around the theme of “EGG-ucation” encouraging young children to excel in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math.

lower end of the uterus, convert and become cancerous (malignant). These cells multiply at rapid rates, growing out of control and eventually forming tumors.

Physicians encourage women to see a gynecologist or primary care doctor at least once a year for a full “well-woman check,” particularly to receive PapSmear tests and screenings for Human Papillomavirus Virus (HPV) to identify signs of cancer, increased risk of cervical cancer or precancerous changes.

“Cancer screening is very im-

“I'm a teacher so I love any time we can turn the White House into a classroom. And that's what we're doing today,” Jill shared. “The South Lawn is transforming into our learning playground and school community.”

Amongst the many groups in attendance, were members of Jack and Jill of America Inc., a leadership organization for African-American

5 Jessica Pettway, widely known beauty influencer, shared her journey of cervical cancer before succumbing to the disease on March 11. (Courtesy Photo) portant because it allows us to detect cancers at an earlier stage before they start causing any symptoms,” said Dr. Jeanine Staples, of John Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center at Sibley Memorial Hospital. “The HPV vaccine is important because it prevents [HPV]. There are hundreds of different strains of HPV and a handful of which can cause cancer. Most of the cancers of the cervix are caused by HPV, and so the HPV vaccine offers a chance of prevention of these cancers.”

Before her diagnosis, Pettway initially faced ongoing bouts of “intense”

children and their mothers headquartered in Washington, D.C.

“Although the children may not fully understand the magnitude of the moment, just being on the grounds of the White House with their Jack and Jill friends may spark their interest in why we vote and who our leaders are,” said Courtney Howard, president of the Charleston Chapter of Jack and Jill of America

Throughout the day, President Joe Biden took to participating in activities like the egg roll with local youth and their families. The president also took a moment to emphasize the annual celebration as a moment to spread peace and promote positivity and encourage equity for all.

“With wars and conflict taking a toll on innocent lives around the world, we renew our commitment to work for peace, security, and dignity for all people.” WI

Similarly, at times medical professionals mistake uterine or cervical cancer for uterine fibroids due to the presentation of similar symptoms, particularly in pelvic pain and atypical bleeding.

SEEING THE SIGNS OF ILLNESS

Pettway’s story highlights the various alarms of cervical cancer including: vaginal bleeding after sex, during menopause, or between periods; periods that are heavier than normal; frequent or unexplained pain in the lower back or pelvis; vaginal discharge that is watery and has a strong odor or that contains blood; and pelvic pain or pain during sex.

bleeding. Her condition took a turn for the worst when the morning of July 1, 2022, her husband found her passed out in their bathroom at 4 a.m., as she literally almost died from a lack of blood.

After being rushed to the hospital, her gynecologist told her the excessive bleeding was due to fibroids. However, she was not accurately diagnosed with cervical cancer until February 2023.

“My [gynecologist] made it seem like it was so normal and common. I didn’t think much of it, however I was passing clots the size of a placenta, which was really alarming. They kept me overnight and released me the next day,” Pettway detailed on her social media while keeping followers abreast of her declining health. “On Feb. 8, 2023, he performed an outpatient biopsy on me. When I woke up from the anesthesia, he casually said, ‘Yep you have stage 3 cervical cancer.’ It turns out, it was not a fibroid, but cancer. I was misdiagnosed all this time.”

According to the American Cancer Society, rates of cervical cancer incidence for women ages 30-44 have increased 1.7% each year from 2012 to 2019, while the death rate in Black and Native American women range 65% higher than their white counterparts.

The gradual development into cervical cancer can be mildly unsuspecting before symptoms grow severe. For example, from the initial infection of HPV to developing cervical cancer can be very slow in progression, sometimes taking anywhere from 10 to 20 years.

Various lifestyle patterns can also put women at greater risk for developing the disease including: having sex without condoms, having multiple sexual partners, having a weakened immune system from medications or HIV, or by not getting the HPV vaccine. Likewise, smoking cigarettes, and long-term use of oral birth control can increase the risk of cervical cancer for women; however, a woman’s risk returns to normal after several years off of oral contraceptives.

Similar to fibroid treatment, hysterectomy is a common and effective strategy for managing cervical cancer in people with an early-stage diagnosis. Other surgical treatments to address the cancer include; pelvic lymph node dissection, conization, sentinel lymph node mapping, para-aortic lymphadenectomy, or non-surgical treatments being chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy.

Typically, the five-year survival rate for cervical cancer is 91% when diagnosed at an early stage. However, when the cancer is diagnosed after spreading to nearby organs, tissues, or regional lymph nodes, the five-year relative survival rate drops to 60%.

Pettway diagnosis not only had a major impact on her and her family, but her social media transparency raised awareness about the disease overall.

“Anytime you’re dealing with an illness, it not only affects you, but it changes the lives of those closest to you. This year rocked our world,” Pettaway said in a captioned photo of herself with her husband and two children. “Being wheeled into the ambulance and waving goodbye to my kids, only to see them crying for their mommy, broke me. And watching my husband break down in tears was rough.”

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5 Children pose with their mothers from Jack and Jill of America while playing on the South Lawn. (Ashleigh Fields/The Washington Informer)

Celebrating Oral Health Month: Tips for a Healthy Smile

Submitted by AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia

A nice smile is one of the best ways to boost your mood. But to keep your smile bright, you must take care of your oral hygiene. April is Oral Health Month, and a good time to make sure you’re practicing healthy habits for great oral care.

Good oral health habits help prevent conditions like tooth decay and gum disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adults should:1

• Brush their teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day

• Floss daily to remove plaque in between teeth

• Visit the dentist every six months (twice per year), whether you have natura teeth or dentures

• Avoid using any tobacco products

CHILDREN’S DENTAL HEALTH

Good dental habits in childhood can help long term oral health. You should make your child has their first dental appointment by the time they are 1 years old, or when they get their first tooth.2 Once your child begins eating solid foods, try to feed them fruits and vegetables rather than sugary snacks. Foods that are high in calcium, like broccoli and yogurt, are good for growing strong teeth.2

If your child is nervous about going to the dentist, consider bringing along their favorite toy or telling them about a goody bag they may receive at the end of the appointment. Teaching your child good oral hygiene now will give them a foundation of healthy habits for the future.

DIABETES

If you have diabetes, it is important that you let your dentist know. High blood sugar can make it more difficult to keep your mouth healthy. Unmanaged diabetes can contribute to gum disease, slower wound healing, more infections in your mouth, and other oral health issues.3

PREGNANCY

If you have a little one on the way, keeping up with your oral health is especially important. Poor oral health increases the risk of premature birth and low birth weight. Pregnant women should regularly visit the dentist every six months and follow their dentist’s instructions for dental care. 4

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

Sources:

1. “Oral Health Tips,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,

#BestMe Diabetes Management and Tips for a Healthier Life

https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/basics/ adult-oral-health/tips.html.

2. “Children’s Dental Health,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/ publications/features/childrens-dental-health.html.

3. “Diabetes,” American Dental Association, https://www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-topics/diabetes.

4. “Pregnancy,” American Dental Association, https://www.ada. org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-topics/pregnancy.

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

Living with diabetes requires a proactive approach to daily care and lifestyle choices. AmeriHealth Caritas DC has care management programs for enrollees with special health care needs. These programs can help enrollees learn more about their condition, manage their condition, and may help improve quality of life. Some of these programs are:

• Wellness Circles. Wellness Circles involve six community classes where a health educator will discuss topics like blood sugar, exercise, meal planning, and more.

• Home-delivered meals. AmeriHealth Caritas DC delivers balanced and nutritious meals to enrollees who are pregnant, have diabetes or prediabetes, high blood pressure, or

who have recently left the hospital.*

• Dietitian services. Enrollees are paired with a registered dietitian who meets with them for one-on-one sessions to help create personalized nutrition plans that meet their health needs.

You can also download the Diabetes Guide or visit our Diabetes Care Center page at www.amerihealthcaritasdc.com to read more about AmeriHealth Caritas DC health programs. For more information or to sign up for a program, enrollees can call the Community Outreach Solutions team at 202216-2318.

*Limitations or restrictions may apply.

EARTH OUR

Howard

University

Demolishes Garden Bison Tended for 13 Years Following Rat Complaints

By Asha Taylor and Kayla Benjamin WI Intern and WI Climate & Environment Reporter

After her close friend Mycah Shaw passed away last year, Howard student Alexia Godinez-Thompson found solace in the campus garden, where she and other students had placed a small memorial in her honor.

On March 2, friends stopped by the garden to commemorate the anniversary of Shaw’s death, laying flowers

around the memorial artwork.

Less than two weeks later, the university administration ripped up the garden without informing any of the students who visited or tended it. At least part of Shaw’s memorial was removed along with the fruit trees, crops and flowers torn from the soil.

5 The plot of land on Howard’s campus that had been the Halo G.R.E.E.N. Garden for 13 years, shortly after university administration dismantled the garden, removing plant beds and uprooting fruit trees. (Courtesy Photo/Halo G.R.E.E.N. Garden Club)

the garden was demolished.”

“So Many Memories, Just Gone:” Over a Decade of Work Dismantled

Howard’s only on-campus garden began in the 2010-2011 school year, when four students asked to take charge of an overgrown plot of land near Sankofa Video and Books Cafe.

Priest Amen, one of the four, said that after they had cleaned up the Sankofa plot, the university’s Office of Sustainability asked them about doing the same for a larger spot near the Howard Plaza Towers West residence hall.

“Of course, I see her everywhere I go, and her memory is always present— however, there isn't anything [else] on campus that has been established in her honor,” Godinez-Thompson said. “The garden was a beautiful place for one to be able to see the flowers and stones that were put in place for her and sense her beautiful soul.”

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The garden’s removal on March 11 in response to a rat infestation came as a surprise to the student-run Society of Holistic Living and Meditation,

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which founded the Halo G.R.E.E.N Garden 13 years ago and has tended it ever since. In a press release, the organization said it had recently been working with Howard’s Office of Sustainability on efforts to address the rat problem, but hadn’t been informed of the decision to tear down the garden over spring break.

“The idea of the garden’s complete removal was never mentioned,” Camryn Curtis, the club’s community affairs chair, wrote in an email to The Informer. “It came completely out of nowhere.”

Curtis said that the Halo G.R.E.E.N Garden’s executive board met once with Ariel Triplett, who heads Howard’s Office of Emergency Management, to discuss the rat issue. At that meeting, Curtis recalled being “told that our compost would be removed and that we could use our spring break to come up with solutions and ideas… to avoid rodents.”

Howard’s Office of Sustainability did not respond to a request for comment. Neither did Triplett.

The student newspaper The Hilltop received a statement from university officials saying that multiple students had reported rodents in the adjacent building, Howard Plaza Towers West, and an investigation connected the rodents to the garden’s composting site.

“Our first plan of action was to remove the compost, [and] following spring break we were planning to have urban farmers take a look at our garden to give second opinions,” Curtis wrote. “But we, of course, were not given that opportunity because on day one back from break,

Amen and the others co-founded the Halo G.R.E.E.N. Garden in that plot; the acronym they chose stands for “Gardening Revitalized for Eating Energetically and Naturally.” Ever since, current and former Bisons from the student-run Society of Holistic Living and Meditation have been tending the garden’s soil and the flowers, herbs and food crops it supports. The club met there every single Saturday, and anyone who wanted to lend a hand could join them.

“A former member sent me a video showing what happened to the garden, and it was just devastating,” Amen said. “So much history, so many memories, just gone. It was a very traumatic moment, actually. But then I resigned myself to be like ‘well, it was a blessing that Howard allowed us to have the space for so long.’”

The garden’s abrupt removal last month destroyed five fruit trees—two cherry trees, and one each of fig, peach and apple trees—that had been growing on the land for around 13 years, according to the garden club’s vice president Ixele Akinmowo-Simon.

“We have reason to believe that the garden could have been leveled and rezoned without completely destroying our fruit-bearing trees,” Akinmowo-Simon said in an email, writing as representative for the Halo G.R.E.E.N. Garden club’s e-board. “With more advance notice, we would have made time to harvest growing crops, preserve artwork, and discuss non-harmful/natural methods of extermination in our space.”

Howard’s Physical Facilities Management office, which performed the actual removal, did not respond to a request for comment.

Club members did manage to harvest some vegetables and herbs that remained intact.

They also replanted some of the tulips and African daisies in the plot outside of Sankofa Café—the exact piece

EARTH from Page 24

of land that the garden’s founders had planted those same flowers in more than a decade earlier.

“They Would Always Make These Threats”

In an interview, former Halo G.R.E.E.N. Garden club president Jaylin Ward did not seem surprised to see the Howard administration demolish the green space without warning club members. Ward, who graduated in 2021, said the club experienced a lack of support for the garden from some university offices.

“Some of the people in [Howard’s office of Real Estate Development & Capital Asset Management] would make sad remarks like ‘oh, the ghetto garden,’” Ward said. “I've always heard that they have a plan to bulldoze the garden and stuff like that—they would always make these threats. But I never saw anything in the Howard Forward plan that actually made an intentional effort to turn the garden into something else.”

During their time with the club, Ward said that the university seemed reluctant to provide any financial support for the garden. Even while interning at the Office of Sustainability, Ward said they couldn’t get the administration to direct money to the garden, even when it was already dedicated for campus green initiatives.

“The university does promote the garden on its pages, but was withholding funds from us students,” Ward said. “We won several gift cards from the Home Depot Retool Your School

program, and I never got access to the money.”

HOWARD’S RESIDENCE HALLS: NO STRANGERS TO RATS

The rodent sightings reported at Howard Plaza Towers East and West residence halls would not shock some in the Bison community. Howard made national headlines in 2021, when students occupied the Armour J. Blackburn Center for more than 30 days to protest mold and pest issues in dorms.

“A lot of students don’t realize this is a fight for thousands of students to breathe healthy air in their rooms and not have rats,” one Howard protester told The Informer during the height of what became known as the Blackburn Takeover.

Beyond Howard, the entire District has been experiencing a surge in its rat population since 2022, which the D.C. Department of Health attributed to “new construction, milder winters over the past decade, and trash not being stored properly.” In fiscal year 2023, the city received more than 16,000 rat-related complaints.

“The university's agenda to pinpoint the garden as the source of Howard/D.C.'s rat problem feels very intentional,” Akinmowo-Simon wrote. “There have been rats at Howard for as long as I know, and it feels like a ploy to disregard the Halo G.R.E.E.N. Garden as a space that's used and loved by many.”

The Halo G.R.E.E.N. Garden

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Club recognized the rodent issues connected with the compost bins and executive board members said the group had been trying since at least this summer to work with the university on addressing the problem.

People outside of the garden community would put non-compostable trash in the bins, Akinmowo-Simon said, and that “misuse” made the situation harder to manage.

According to an Instagram comment from the Halo G.R.E.E.N. Garden account, the university told club leaders over the summer that it was “working on getting [them] a proper waste management system” but that “that never occurred.”

Neither the Office of Sustainability nor the Howard University press office responded to questions about the scope of the rat problem associated with the garden’s compost or the school’s efforts to handle it.

According to Akinmowo-Simon, the Office of Sustainability had met with garden leaders several times and expressed a need to “rectify the rodent

issue by leveling the garden, filling the burrows, and performing general extermination.” They said club leaders asked the university to provide a written proposal explaining how and when that work would be done, but administrators did not provide any.

“We were assured that no changes

would be made without our approval/a written proposal from us,” Akinmowo-Simon said. “We were assured that no changes would be made outside of removing the compost bins.” WI Read

202-330-9084

5 The garden’s plot becomes a stretch of fenced-off grass by March 29. (Asha Taylor/ The Washington Informer)

EDUCATION

‘A Different World’ HBCU College Tour Promotes

Networking, Emphasizes Building Generational Wealth

Wells Fargo Diversity Leaders Talk

Importance of HBCUs, Investment in Next Generation of Leaders

By Micha Green WI Managing Editor

With movies such as Spike Lee’s “School Daze,” (1988) television shows like “A Different World,”(1987-1993) and musical performances like Beyonce’s “Homecoming” (2018), his-

torically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) heavily influence American and worldwide culture. For Wells Fargo, supporting HBCUs is not only about sustaining these important institutions, but investing in the future culture drivers of this nation and world.

“When we look at the history,

HBCUs have really transformed the landscape of our country and really developed the Black middle class,” said Ewunike Brady, Wells Fargo’s vice president of Home Lending and African American Strategy Segment leader.

Wells Fargo is teaming up with the cast and people behind “A Different World,” for the HBCU College Tour 2024, to celebrate HBCU culture and offer helpful resources about scholar-

ships, career opportunities, and building generational wealth.

The tour kicked off in Atlanta on Feb. 29, and comes to D.C. on April 9, as cast members from “A Different World” and representatives from Wells Fargo will visit Howard University to celebrate HBCUs and provide resources for financial literacy and growth.

“I think there is direct alignment in the way that we can support this incredible icon and legacy of a television show with the impact it's had on the Black community and culture as a whole,” Brady told The Informer. “As we look at supporting and creating more avenues for generational wealth, being able to support and stand up for HBCUs is a perfect space to have that alignment and to engage as a company.”

The United Negro College Fund’s (UNCF) 2021 “Social Mobility Outcomes for HBCU Alumni,” report reveals HBCUs account for 80% of Black judges, 50% of Black of doctors, and 50% of Black lawyers (according to research from The Network Journal, 2010). Further, UNCF estimates that HBCU graduates working fulltime can expect to earn $927,000 in additional income in comparison to non-college graduates or Black alumni from non-HBCUs.

With a company-wide commitment to overall diversity, HBCUs are a top priority for Wells Fargo, as investing in these institutions supports the next generation of changemakers.

“The leaders from the top of the house, down… we have that same level of commitment and that's diversity,” said Dewy Norwood, senior lead Diversity and Inclusion consultant, overseeing Wells Fargo’s Enterprise HBCU Strategy. “And that's also being able to focus on the work that's specifically

needed within HBCUs.”

Norwood explained Wells Fargo isn’t new to supporting HBCUs, but true to it.

“In the last 12 years, Wells Fargo has provided over $40 million of financial support for HBCUs,” Norwood continued. “Scholarships, programming, community engagement; the work that we're doing from the recruitment perspective; the work that we're doing with diverse suppliers; the work that we're doing with our HBCU Legends debit card collection; or the work that's happening across programs like the ‘A Different World’ tour, all of those are examples of ways that we're engaging communities from a diversity perspective.”

This initiative is yet another step toward not only bolstering Black institutions, but improving wealth opportunities for diverse communities overall.

PROMOTING GENERATIONAL WEALTH, CREATING GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES

Homeownership, according to the Department of Housing and Urban Development, is the primary source to building generational wealth.

“We recognize the power of owning a home when raising a family, planting roots in a community, building equity, and passing down generational wealth to continue the American Dream for generations to come,” President Joe Biden declared in June 2023 as part of National Homeownership Month.

Read more on washingtoninformer.com

WI

5 The “A Different World” HBCU College Tour 2024 will visit Howard University on April 9. (Courtesy Photo)

Black Teachers Help Keep Black Boys Out of Special Education

By Aziah Slid Word in Black

This article was originally published online with Word In Black, a collaboration of the nation's leading Black news publishers (of which The Washington Informer is a member).

In education, it’s an uncomfortable fact: the teaching workforce is overwhelmingly white and female, particularly in grades K-12. Black men in an elementary school classroom, statistics show, are few and far between.

At the same time, studies show, Black boys make up a disproportionate number of children assigned to special-education classes – a component, experts say, in the schools-to-prison pipeline.

Now, a new study has found that Black male elementary school students matched to Black teachers are less likely to be identified for special education services.

The study, conducted jointly by researchers from the University of North Carolina and the University of California-Davis, shed new light on the persistent problem of Black students misidentified as learning disabled or disciplinary problems. But it also underscores the need to increase recruitment of Black male teachers, who make up just 1.3% of the 3.8 million public school teachers in the U.S.

“Our findings add to the growing body of evidence that having access to Black teachers matters to Black children’s educational journeys,” said Cassandra M.D. Hart, an education professor at UC-Davis and the study’s lead author. “We show that access to Black teachers most strongly affects precisely the types of special disability placements that are more subject to teacher discretion, and therefore where the need for services is more questionable.”

The researchers based their study on data drawn from North Carolina, a state with a relatively high number of Black teachers — roughly 15%, compared to 7% nationally.

At the same time, the state’s Black students are overrepresented in special education programs: 17% of Black fifth graders in North Carolina are in special education services, compared to 13% of white fifth graders.

The data comes from more than 540,000 observations of Black children in grades 1 to 4 and their assigned

teachers from 2008 through 2013.

The analysis found that “Black students matched to Black teachers had a reduced likelihood of being newly identified with disabilities,” according to the study. The effect, the study found, was especially pronounced among Black boys — particularly those who were economically disadvantaged.

Compared to their white peers, however, Black students are far less likely to be taught by teachers who look like them, according to the study.

That’s a problem because identifying students who need special educational help “generally (relies) on teacher or administrator discretion” rather than expert medical analysis, according to the study. “These disabilities may be most prone to subjectivity and, ultimately, misclassification.”

IMPORTANCE OF SAME-RACE TEACHERS

Historically, the lack of representation is problematic because Black teachers hold higher expectations for Black students, they are associated with better outcomes for Black students, higher scores on tests, increased attendance, and even high school graduation and college enrollment, according to the study.

With innovative programs like the Center for Black Educator Development, and the Black Mother’s Forum consistently recruiting teachers, and attempting to shift traditional classroom structure, the need for more Black teachers continues to be evident through research like this latest study.

The need to look at how the matching of same-race teachers impact student placement is partially due to substantial research on the gaps that emerge between Black students and other races. That includes differences between enrollment into discretionary educational settings like gifted programs or for special education services.

In looking at the special education-to-prison and foster care-to-prison pipeline – which both stem from fundamental structures in all school types – this research spotlights the need for Black students being taught by teachers who understand their experiences. WI

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Baltimore Tragedy Puts Tenuous Existence of Migrant Workers in the Spotlight EDITORIAL

Last Tuesday, a massive ship filled with containers struck the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore Harbor, resulting in a tragic collapse that killed six men and injured two others as they were thrown into the frigid waters of the Patapsco River. With all six men being Latino migrants who were working on the bridge, the tenuous existence of immigrant workers has once again been cast into the spotlight.

The collapse of the bridge brings greater emphasis on the life-threatening challenges and vulnerabilities that migrant workers face each day – often from the very moment they arrive on U.S. soil in hopes of achieving the elusive “American Dream.”

An estimated 130,000 immigrants are employed in the construction industry in the Baltimore/Washington regions – 39% of the workforce – according to data from CASA, a Latino and immigration advocacy and assistance organization based in Maryland.

Economic hardship comes with the territory for these workers, many of whom live from check to check as seasonal or temporary employees. In addition, given the recent surge in nativism and xenophobia, immigrants are under threat of immigration enforcement while those without proper documentation are in constant fear of being deported.

But the treatment that people from Latin Americans currently face should come as no surprise. After all, since the days when the Pilgrims landed on Plymouth Rock in 1620, America has exhibited a propensity for discriminating against “the other.”

It’s ironic when you consider that those Europeans, who came to this nation in search of religious freedom, almost immediately began to strip away the rights and freedom of the region’s various tribes of the Wampanoag people – indigenous natives who had lived there for some 10,000 years before the Europeans arrived.

And while the 12.5 million Africans shipped to the New World between 1525 and 1866 were not immigrants, but victims in the inhumane slave trade, they, too, were subjected to economic hardship. Based on data from the NIH, between 1619 and 1865, enslaved Africans in the U.S. contributed 410 billion hours of labor – without any compensation.

During World War II, at least 125,284 people of Japanese descent were forcibly relocated or incarcerated despite the fact that two-thirds of the inmates were U.S. citizens.

Since 1980, Mexicans have represented the largest group of immigrants living in the U.S. with the Mexico-U.S. route serving as the largest migration corridor in the world. By 2021, an estimated 10.7 million Mexican immigrants were living in the U.S. But that number’s still 1 million fewer than it was a decade earlier. Still, that hasn’t stopped politicians like Ted Cruz or Donald Trump from advocating for walls, detention camps and easier methods to deport illegals desperately seeking to escape violence and hunger while hoping to secure religious and political liberty and economic opportunity.

On the base of the Statue of Liberty, the words of the poet Emma Lazarus have long served as America’s invitation to beleaguered immigrants: “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free … Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me.”

But that was more than a century ago. And the invitation was not extended to “all” immigrants – just those who could easily pass as descendants of the Founding Fathers.

WI

Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory: Continues

On the evening of April 4, 1968, James Earl Ray shot and killed the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., as he stood on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee. Fifty-six years after the assassination, Americans in general, and Black Americans in particular, all have a responsibility to do what we can to keep achieving King’s “dream.”

In the historic 1963 March on Washington and beyond, the celebrated leader and civil rights martyr outlined his vision of a society where we are judged not by the color of our skin, but rather the content of our character.

Throughout his life, King inspired others through his work with disenfranchised communities across the United States.

The legacy of King is especially relevant in these trying political times. It must be all hands-on deck as the legacies of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Voting Rights Act of 1965 are under assault from not only former President Donald Trump and the GOP, but also the U.S. Supreme Court as well as numerous state legislatures across the country.

The greatest tribute in 2024 in keeping the legacy of King alive is for everyone to exercise their right to vote in November. American Democracy is at stake. If Trump returns to office, his record and past assertions show he will overturn much of what King stood

My heart goes out to all the families of the workers who lost their lives on the Key Scott Bridge in Baltimore. What a catastrophe for the victims and affected families, as well as the citizens of Baltimore whose livelihoods will be impacted. I’m hoping for a swift and efficient resolution.

Tomasina Parker Washington, D.C.

and fought for.

King believed in the principles of freedom and rights to liberty and justice found in the U.S. Constitution and Declaration of Independence. He not only fought for Black people, but stood for what America could be. He dedicated his life to confronting America to live up to its full potential as a beautiful, harmonious melting pot that embraced diversity and emphasized freedom for all.

King often called people like Ray, his murderer “our sick White brothers.” While Ray was a petty racist criminal, his bullet altered the course of world history.

The night before his death, King ended

TO THE EDITOR

I’m so glad T’Anita Coles-Green was able to receive her $13.5 million judgment from the D.C. fire truck killing her husband. It will certainly not make up for the pain or the loss of life, but I hope it offers consolation. I also hope city agencies are safer and consider the District’s citizens while performing their duties.

Harold Murphy Washington, D.C.

his last speech with these words: “So I’m happy tonight. I’m not worried about anything. I’m not fearing any man. Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord!”

King’s vision of a better society is part of “the glory,” he talked about in his final message on April 3, 1968. Post Easter Sunday, we must resurrect King’s “dream,” and help continue his legacy.

May we each not only reflect on, but rededicate ourselves to the life and teachings of King, not only as we remember his martyrdom, but as we push for a more equitable nation and world.

WI

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS

Guest Columnist

A Conversation About Inheritance

that me and my cousins often ask is: What's next for Big Mama's House?

My grandmother, the oldest of 14 siblings, passed away in 2018. She gave birth to seven children. Out of that lineage, none of them had a will. Luckily, all her children get along. Today, one of my aunts actually lives in my grandma's house. And her siblings are supportive of that. Yet, for many that is not the case. However, because she passed intestate, the question

In Texas and many other parts of the country, this experience is far too common. Take my family, for example. You have seven siblings with an equal birthright to my grandma's house. Upon each of their passing, the birthright will be given to their children if they do not leave a will or instructions regarding what to do with their property.

As an example, my mother owns one-seventh of my grandma's house. If it passes without a will, then that

Guest Columnist

Dominique Calhoun

one-seventh is now split between me, my older brother, and younger sister. Each of us would then also become owners of the property as was the case with my aunts and uncles.

Now instead of seven people owning the property, you have nine with me and siblings. That's two additional decision-makers. To further illustrate the problem, what if my aunt, the one who lives in the house, was to pass in the same way — without a will. She has two children. Her daughter still lives in the same city but has her own house. However, her son, who unfor-

tunately passed away, had three children. Now you take one-seventh that my aunt owned and you give one-half of that one-seventh to her daughter. But because my cousin passed (also without a will) his three children now become owners of the same property. You have to take his one-half of one-seventh and divide according to the Texas Estate's code in threes to each of the children who may not own the same percentage. Whew!

You may now see the problem that many of our families find themselves in. And this pattern will continue as

Charlene Crowell

Black Americans Continue to Face Hurdles to Homeownership

the sale or rental of housing by banks, insurers and real estate agents.

The approaching spring season signals not only a change in weather but an annual surge in homebuying. Underscoring this long-standing trend is the annual April observance of Fair Housing Month.

Enacted in 1968, the Fair Housing Act banned discrimination on the basis of race, religion and national origin in

But fair housing for whom? While homeownership has been the primary means for most American families to build and pass on intergenerational wealth, Blacks rank last in their ability to achieve the wealth-building benefits of buying a home.

According to the National Association of Realtors' 2024 Snapshot of Race and Home Buying in America report, disparity between Black homeownership rates and those of other racial and ethnic groups has actually grown larg-

Guest Columnist

er since 2012. Only 44.1% of Blacks owned homes compared to majorities of Asian-Americans (63.3%), and Latinos (51.1%).

"The connection between homeownership rates and net worth is a critical one. Net worth, or the total assets minus household liabilities, is an essential indicator of financial stability and economic well-being," states the report.

After more than 50 years of federal laws — envisioned and enacted in hopes of helping Black America reduce lingering wealth disparities — NAR lists a litany of familiar reasons for

homeownership disparities that read like a set of falling dominoes:

Median household income disparities between whites and Blacks continued to grow over the past decade. In 2012, the income gap between these two groups was $21,540. In 2022, the income gap grew to $27,840.

This gap in income is a determining factor in home affordability. In 45 of the nation's 50 states, according to NAR, Black renters face greater affordability challenges than their white counterparts. The ability to save for a home down payment is seriously di-

David W. Marshall

HBCUs Need the Lobbying Support of Their Students and Alumni

(SNCC), Lewis was the youngest person to speak at the March on Washington in 1963.

Every young person needs to heed the words of the late great John Lewis. "Get in good trouble, necessary trouble, and redeem the soul of America." Lewis made this statement on the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama, on March 1, 2020, while commemorating the tragic events of Bloody Sunday. As a founder and leader of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee

His youth gave him a vision for a more transformative society, and he, at times, found himself at odds with older leaders. Lewis was a living example that young people must achieve the change they want by forcing older people, regardless of race, to embrace equitable change. He desired to see young people in America feel the spirit of the 1960s and find a way to get into good trouble, necessary trouble; believing that young people should push for lasting change

by holding older generations accountable by speaking truth to power. He taught us the importance of speaking up and speaking out. We must be willing to make noise and to always speak up about injustice at any cost. A person's silence is their acceptance. Lewis stated, "When you see something that is not right, not fair, not just, you have to speak up. You have to say something; you have to do something." Justin Jones (age 28) and Justin Pearson (age 29) are two Black Democratic members of the Tennessee House of Representatives who followed Lewis'

example and teachings. They are two of the youngest House members, and they got themselves into good trouble, necessary trouble.

Days after the deadly shooting at Covenant School in Nashville that left six dead, including three 9-year-old children, Jones used a bullhorn at the chamber podium to rally the crowd of people seated in the chamber galleries. He was joined in the gun control protest by Reps. Pearson and Gloria Johnson. They were calling for their fellow lawmakers to take action to prevent more gun deaths. The Republican-led

others pass away. Unfortunately, so many Black families are in similar places.

That's why the National Bar Association, the nation's oldest and largest association of Black attorneys, judges, and law professionals in the country, and the National Association of Real Estate Brokers, the oldest association of Black real estate professionals, are working together to educate Black families about property transfer. It plays a significant role in the creation

CALHOUN Page 53

minished when rental costs are already a financial stretch.

Another problem for would-be homeowners is that due to lower incomes and lack of savings, many Black borrowers often have high debt-to-income ratios. Together, these two factors frequently lead to higher rates of mortgage application denials. In 2022, the highest mortgage denial rates occurred in three Southern states: Mississippi (34%), followed by Arkansas and Louisiana (each at 31%).

Tennessee State House saw the interruption of proceedings as a violation of House decorum rules and eventually voted to expel Jones and Pearson from the legislature without the benefit of full due process. But the two were quickly reappointed to their district seats and easily won landslide victories in special elections.

In the latest unprecedented move by the same Tennessee House, the entire Board of Trustees at Tennessee State University was removed after a

Another Sister Under Attack!

When one of the things you don't have to do is go out to the office belonging to somebody else, you get a chance to be more observant of what's going on around the world. One of the things I've noticed is the great effort to insult, discourage, even destroy Black women who've been most successful among us at doing their jobs! Though I'm not nearly as successful as some of

them, I count myself among them; however, this article is not about me because I'm a Dick Gregory disciple. In my life, I've fought a lot of battles, some regretfully brought on by our own community, and while those can kill your spirit for a while, we have to continue fighting the most damaging challenges for our people who run into even bigger problems.

If you haven't noticed, some of our best and brightest are under attack, and some of our own don't understand what's happening.

There's an organized effort to tear down so many Black women after the power we have shown so that we don't just talk about making a difference, we do it!

In the last presidential election, we let it be known that we have power and we used it, making it clear Black women, with the help of a few others, intended to have a Black woman for our vice president, and through the collective power we have, Kamala Harris is our vice president. We then said — not we want, but we shall have

Marc H. Morial

a Black woman on the Supreme Court. Soon thereafter, Supreme Court Judge Katanji Brown Jackson became a member of the Supreme Court. We continued supporting Black women for high-level positions in many places and we got them. It didn't go unnoticed that when we work together, we make things we want to happen.

Since our successes, the enemy noticed and began figuring out how to put an end to the power we exercised to get so many Black women in the high places they deserved to

be. Dr. Claudine Gay became president of Harvard University. No Black woman had ever done that before — but as soon as she arrived there, some folk realized she was BLACK so she had to go! Fulton County, Ga., elected as their District Attorney Fani Willis. That was OK until she was in charge of trying the Orange Man for attempting to collect votes that were not rightly his! In D.C., the Orange Man came up against Judge Tanya Chutkan

WILLIAMS Page 54

SCOTUS Abortion Case 'Remnants of the Lost Cause Still Blowing In the Political Winds'

Jefferson Cowie, Vanderbilt professor of history

"This is less about policy and more about pure and simple voting harvesting. Obviously, there is very little support for neonatal care or curbing the death penalty, so ‘pro-life' is a ridiculous misnomer. They are less pro-life than they are pro-political power — their own. … This is the remnants of the Lost Cause still blowing in the political winds." –

The Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine's mission statement claims to "uphold and promote" the principle of "providing healthcare with the highest standards of excellence based on medical science."

In reality, the mission of AHM, which is represented by an SPLC-designated hate group, is to deny people healthcare, using standards based on junk science.

The Supreme Court this week heard arguments in AHM's ongoing effort to eliminate the safest and most common method of abortion in the United States by invalidating the FDA's approval of mifepristone, one of two drugs used in the procedure.

AHM's initial victory, granted by the extremist federal judge for whom the group explicitly "shopped," was partially overturned by an appeals court that affirmed the FDA's initial approval,

but invalidated later regulations that expanded access and applications of the medication.

Eliminating or restricting the use of mifepristone would disproportionately harm Black woman, who are nearly three times more likely than white women to die of complications from pregnancy or childbirth – and almost 30 times more likely than women in other wealthy countries. More than 1,200 women died from pregnancy or childbirth in 2021 alone.

Women of color account for six

Tireless Activism and the Latest Region to Go Coal-Free

Jerry Curran has been organizing to retire the Merrimack Station coal power plant in Bow, New Hampshire for 17 years. He is one of many local activists who have brought inspiring tenacity and creativity to the fight to make New England coal-free.

Last week, that goal was realized. After lengthy ne -

gotiations with the Sierra Club, The Conservation Law Foundation, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Granite Shore Power announced it will retire Merrimack and Schiller Stations' remaining coal units by 2028 and 2025 respectively. That means the end of the last coal power plants in New England, which will now join the Pacific Northwest as the second major region in the country to be free of one of the dirtiest ener -

gy sources known to humanity.

I am personally elated. My father's family has been in New England since 1624. I have family in New Hampshire now — the kind of outdoors enthusiasts who helped instill in me my own love of nature.

We never could have gotten to this point without years of activism calling attention to the harm caused by coal. In addition to the economics of clean energy, the incremental wins by activists along the way — including hard-

won legislation and safeguards — are what ultimately made it impossible for the last coal plants to continue.

Curran has examples to share:

"Around 2008, New Hampshire ranked in the top four states in the country for childhood asthma rate. We worked with schools to encourage kids to make those paper dolls that link up and make a chain. They created 18,000 of them — representing the 18,000 children in New Hampshire living with

of every 10 people who seek abortions, and 75% of those seeking abortion care are living at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. The majority of Black Americans live in states where abortion is either effectively banned or severely restricted. Black women are less likely to have the means or ability to travel to other states. Furthermore, pregnant people of color are more likely to experience miscarriage, for which mifepristone

MORIAL Page 54

asthma. We hung the chain of paper dolls across the statehouse in our grassroots lobbying to pass tougher pollution standards for coal plants."

And about that same time period, activists recruited local hairdressers for an event at the state capital in which more than 100 legislators had hair samples taken to be tested for mercury. Most of the results were positive. No level of mercury poi -

Ben Jealous

LIFESTYLE

By Jada Ingleton WI Intern

In an exciting string of events, this weekend’s curation pays tribute to the theatricality and musical influence that the DMV has to offer, with an introduction to networking and entrepreneurship.

Before delving into the rhythms and melodies of jazz and hip-hop, learn the benefits of expanding or developing a small business with Washington, D.C.’s Small Business Expo on Thursday, and

end the night honoring legends of hiphop with the National Hip-Hop Museum Grand Induction Ceremony.

Science fiction lovers with a keen interest in music are in for a treat with a presentation of Star Wars: The Force Awakens In Concert at Strathmore, and Ford Theatre’s production of Little Shop of Horrors.

Celebrate the kick off of Jazz Appreciation Month by joining the College of Southern Maryland’s 19th annual jazz fest or tuning into Jazz & Blossoms, headlined by Gram-

my-winning group Digable Planets.

If you’re looking for something new and inspiring, Cinderella: A Salsa Fairy Tale promises a colorful experience for bilingual children and families to indulge; while Saturday’s annual Bethesda Film Fest will promote a few of the notable filmmakers coming out of the DMV.

To keep up with all the fun, don’t forget to check out the Washington Informer Calendar. Remember, there’s

always something happening in the DMV to keep your spirit-- and social life – lit.

THURSDAY, APRIL 4

Washington, D.C. Small Business Expo

10 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Price depends on package selection

Charles E. Smith Center, 600 22nd St NW, Washington, D.C., 20052

Get ready for a day filled with inspiration, networking, and growth opportunities for small businesses, where guests will have the chance to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, industry experts, and potential business partners.

Discover innovative solutions, gain valuable insights, and learn from successful business owners through engaging workshops, exhibitor booths, and presentations.

Whether an established business looking to expand or a budding entrepreneur with a brilliant idea, the D.C. Small Business Expo is the perfect platform to showcase products, services, and talents.

National Hip-Hop Museum Grand Induction Ceremony

5 p.m. - 10 p.m. | $65.00 Recording Industry Association of America, 1000 F St NW, Washington, D.C., 20004

Eight legends of hip-hop will be honored and celebrated at the National Hip-Hop Museum (NHHM) with an induction into the Museum’s Hall of Fame.

Kurtis Blow, DJ Hurricane, The Fat Boys, Roxanne Shante, Queen Lisa Lee, The B-Boys, and MC Sha Rock make up the list of honorees, who will also participate in a live podcast panel with hip-hop pioneer and NHHM executive

director Master Gee and Jay Quan, noted writer and NHHM historian.

Launched in 2019, the National Hip-Hop Museum of Washington D.C. is the world's first hip-hop museum and the leading organization in hip-hop preservation, history and education.

Email hiphopmuseumdc@gmail.com to purchase tickets.

FRIDAY, APRIL 5

BSO Music Presents Star Wars:

The Force Awakens In Concert

7:30 p.m. | $23.00+

The Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Ln, North Bethesda, MD 20852

Experience J.J. Abrams’ “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” (2015) on the big screen as the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra (BSO) performs the musical score, composed by five-time Academy Award-winning composer John Williams, live on stage.

Lobby entertainment includes surprise character appearances and complimentary photo-ops.

19th Annual College of Southern Maryland (CSM) JazzFest

7:30 p.m. - 9 p.m. | $5.00

CSM La Plata Campus, Fine Arts Building Theater, 8730 Mitchell Rd, La Plata, MD 20646

Join the College of Southern Maryland (CSM) for its 19th annual Jazzfest, April 5-6 on the La Plata campus.

The Randy Runyon Project, composed of members of CSM’s Solid Brass Big Band, will perform a variety of funk, fusion, and jazz classics. Read more on washingtoninformer.com

WI

Spring Has Sprung with MGM National Harbor’s Special Dining, Entertainment Offerings

Tasty Treats, Delicious Drinks, Dancing, Black-Owned Businesses Featured this Spring

By Micha Green WI Managing Editor

Spring has officially sprung and MGM National Harbor is ushering in the season of shift, growth and newness, with special dining and entertainment offerings.

Featuring vibrant, floral decor throughout the hallways, window displays and more, guests are immediately swept into a celebration of spring when walking throughout MGM National Harbor. However, the decor isn’t the only way to dive into the season, as new dishes and beverages throughout the venue offer a literal taste of spring.

“We have breaded shrimp with a secret sauce, and deviled eggs with candied bacon on top, and finished with chives,” said Chef Jillian White of TAP Sports Bar,

at an exclusive “Taste of Spring,” event highlighting several of MGM National Harbor’s restaurants on March 21. There, White also showcased a sweet, fluffy, big hit: strawberry pound cake with lemon curd and fresh berries on top.

Growing up in the DMV area, White said the new menu items pay homage to local fare, with a spin.

Seafood lovers also have a lot to choose from at MGM National Harbor this spring. For those who appreciate ceviche, both Diablo’s Cantina and Voltaggio Brothers Steak House are offering two very different, but delectable options.

The Peruvian style shrimp ceviche at Diablo’s Cantina is sweet and spicy and served with fresh sweet potato chips to scoop all

those bold flavors and create layered, pleasurable bites.

The Voltaggio Brothers’ terrific tuna ceviche was a twist on the traditional dish.

“This ceviche is made with a hibiscus ponzu. The classic ceviche is served over ice. This has coconut ice… [and] flavors of tom kha soup– so coconut, lemongrass, lots of lime leaves, [and] ginger,” said Chef Bryan Voltaggio, describing the dish topped with a serrano pepper slice and accompanied by a tasty tostada with seaweed nori powder.

Using the tostada to gather the almost buttery tuna and all those taste-bud titillating flavors together, creates a perfect and unique approach to ceviche that will leave guests coming back for more before the season is out.

In addition, MGM National

Harbor has new cocktails that scream spring and summer merriment.

Justin Hill at Felt MGM highlighted some of the lounge’s new beverages.

“All these recipes were made by the bar staff here,” Hill told The Informer.

One of the new cocktails, “Do Not Disturb,” which was smooth and a little sweet, is made with Duke and Dame Salted Caramel Whiskey, a Black-owned brand.

“So it’s supporting a good business and drinking a good cocktail,” Hill noted. WI

The Future Depends on Us

5 Chef Jillian White presented breaded shrimp, deviled eggs and strawberry pound cake as part of the new spring offerings featured at MGM National Harbor’s TAP Sports Bar. (Micha Green/The Washington Informer)

Where beauty lives.

5 (L-R) Country musicians Grace Givertz, Roberta Lea, Rachel Maxann, Sug Daniels, and Tylar Bryant took to The Barns at Wolf Trap in Vienna, Virginia for Black Opry

‘Black Opry Revue’ Throws the Covers Off of Black Country Music

By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer

Joy filled the room in Vienna, Virginia, at The Barns at Wolf Trap concert performance of “Black Opry Revue” on March 29, as five talented artists performed their compositions in front of an enthusiastic sold-out audience.

Country music artists Sug Daniels, Roberta Lea, Tylar Bryant, Rachel Maxann, and Grace Givertz took the stage and sat on stools with their instruments, allowing the audience to get to know them.

These five artists had a lot of stories to tell, primarily based on relationships. Audiences heard about finding true love, breakups, and relationship payback. Those themes were mixed in with songs about support with self-awareness, and staying true to the country genre, a few about drinking.

Before leaving the stage, the singers declared it was “Beyoncé Day,” and closed with their rendition of the barrier-breaking Grammy-winner’s song “Texas Hold ‘Em,” from her new album.

LOVE FOR BLACK OPRY

Tria Coleman and her friend Jada Henderson drove three hours from Smithfield, Virginia, for the show.

“This my second Black Opry show,” said Coleman. “I told Jada, ‘You gotta do this!’”

Henderson continued by saying, “It was beautiful. It’s so nice to see Black talent in an atmosphere where you don’t usually see them.”

A production of Black Opry, the revue features Black country music artists performing in different locations around the country.

Corey Petree has followed Daniels and Black Opry for a few years, but this was his first time seeing the artist or show in person.

“I learned about this when it started during the pandemic,” said Petree about “Black Opry Revue.” “I never thought it would come around here for me to be able to see it.”

For more information, visit blackopry.com. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

Revue. (Courtesy Photo/Shannon Flack, Wolf Trap)

Photo: Erik Kvalsvik

council members met with Leonsis.

At the council breakfast preceding Tuesday’s legislative meeting, council members raised concerns to Nina Albert, D.C.’s deputy mayor for planning and economic development, about terms of the agreement that the District government and Monumental Sports & Entertainment are entering.

Albert told council members during Tuesday's council breakfast that the total costs of projects facilitated by Monumental Sports & Entertainment’s over the next three years -- including the expansion of Capital One Arena into a nearby shuttered mall and the construction of a new Wizards practice facility -- stand at $800 million.

70 and X2 bus stops away from the intersection of 7th Street and H Street, facilitate a the creation of a new practice facility for the Washington Wizards, assign 17 Metropolitan police officer to the area surrounding Capital One Arena, and the implementation of a “permanent” drug-free zone.

Parker later said on the dais that the council wasn't giving a blank check to Monumental Sports & Entertainment, but continuing a long-term relationship.

residents and businesses,” she continued. “This arena means a lot to many of us who’ve been around for a long time and it means even more to young people who want to be a part of it.”

THE WEEKS AND MONTHS LEADING UP TO A SEMINAL MOMENT

SPORTS from Page 1

Entertainment’s lease to 2050.

IN SPITE OF QUESTIONS, THE D.C. COUNCIL APPROVES ARENA FINANCING

On Tuesday, April 2, the D.C. Council voted unanimously in support of the Downtown Arena Financing Partnership and Revised Budget Temporary Amendment Act, with D.C. Councilmember Vincent

ANTI-BULLYING from Page 1

her son and others with Individual Education Programs, also known as IEPs.

Days prior, Corbett’s son, a senior who’s diagnosed with autism and ADHD, told her that a group of male students attacked him in the hallways during the transition between classes. That attack, Corbett said, happened just weeks after her son reported experiencing bullying on school grounds.

“I was concerned that my son’s quirks would be escalated to this incident where he has been attacked -- and possibly with a concussion,” Corbett said. “In such a pivotal moment in his transition from high school to young adulthood, what things could come from this interaction?”

Calls for Help Gone Unanswered

Four years ago, Corbett enrolled her son into Washington Leadership Academy PCS, based in Northeast, with the intention of fostering his interest in technology and web development.

By that time, she said he had already been the victim of an assault at his middle school, Inspired Teaching Public

C. Gray (D-Ward 7) absent.

The legislation allocates $515 million in capital funds toward the renovation of Capital One Arena over the course of three years.

In the days and hours leading up to the vote, questions surfaced of whether council members violated the District of Columbia Open Meetings Act, which provides members of the public to observe any meeting where public officials are discussing public affairs.

On Monday, Mendelson maintained that no substantial business had been conducted when he and other

Charter School in Northeast. Although he wouldn’t suffer another on-campus attack for years, and even found some success as a high schooler, Corbett said she often expressed concerns about inconsistent support and inequitable course offerings to students with IEPs.

Those concerns, once again, came to the forefront late last week on March 27.

Film that’s been circulating on social media shows four young men kicking and punching Corbett’s son at the bottom of some steps as he lays face down on the floor.

As Corbett recounted, the group of students, moments earlier, called her son derogatory names and threatened violence against him after he commented on the smell of the hallway.

Corbett said that her son’s efforts to de-escalate the situation proved unsuccessful as one of the young men punched him in the face and another grabbed him by his backpack. When he tried to escape, the alleged attackers pushed him out of the hallway and into the stairwell.

As shown in the video, one of them

Minutes earlier, D.C. Councilmember Charles Allen (D-Ward 6) , cognizant that the $515 million allocated by the council, wouldn’t cover the entire process, inquired about other funding sources. He cautioned against the executive tapping into the funds for PACE, a D.C. Green Bank program that provides long-term financing on building upgrades that curb utility costs.

D.C. Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie (I-At large), chair of the council’s Committee on Business and Economic Development, emphasized the need to approach the process in a “clear-eyed, sober” manner.

For several minutes, other council members -- Allen, and Councilmembers Zachary Parker (D-Ward 5) and Trayon White (D-Ward 8) -- posed questions about proposals to: move the

struck Corbett’s son with a skateboard. Those young men have yet to be identified, Corbett said.

“My son told me the young men were never apprehended by administrators as they ran out of the school building,” she told The Informer. Corbett went on to note that a meeting immediately following the incident didn’t yield a positive outcome, due to what she described as Principal Eric Collazo’s inability to sufficiently outline Washington Leadership Academy PCS’ response to violent on-campus incidents.

“He said he couldn’t present next steps but that they would go to the ‘next level,’” Corbett said. “That’s not a sufficient or specific answer.”

THE DISTRICT ATTEMPTS TO TACKLE BULLYING IN PUBLIC AND PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOLS

On March 28, the day after Corbett’s son reported his assault, D.C.

“It's a green light for us to continue engaging in good faith with Monumental so they can stay in the District,” Parker said. “I want to acknowledge the council for making this possible. Without it, the process of revitalizing Downtown would've been bleak.”

D.C. Councilmember Anita Bonds (D-At large) took a trip down memory lane as she set out to remind her council colleagues of the Gallery Place/ Chinatown before former Washington Capitals, Bullets/ Wizards, and Mystics owner Abe Pollin, and more recent changes that took place in the pandemic era.

“Yes, we’re the council and concerned about how the dollars will be spent but we have a history to pull on and that more immediate history that tells us what without a viable, active downtown and one centered around a sports arena, we would look like back in the day,” Bonds said.

“It wasn’t representative of a progressive community moving forward with

Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) submitted the “Youth Bullying Prevention in the District of Columbia: School Years 2020-2021 and 2021-2022” report.

The D.C. Office of Human Rights (OHR) prepared this report in accordance with the Youth Bullying Prevention Act of 2012.

“Over the last decade, OHR has made significant strides towards the goal of reducing incidents of bullying in the District but there is still more work to be done to protect our youth,” Bowser told D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson (D) in a letter accompanying the report.

The report showed that fewer than 20% of District public and public charter schools complied with the four requirements of the Youth Bullying Prevention Act. This represented a decrease of six percentage points.

Another data point in the report revealed that students returning to in-person learning during the 2021-2022 school year needed help as they reintegrated into the school environment. That year, rates of bullying returned to pre-pandemic levels, with nearly 1,300

This arrangement, Leonsis said, represents what he wanted from the District long before he revealed his intentions to move to Northern Virginia.

Over several weeks, plans for the move across the Potomac River fizzled.

In March, the Virginia General Assembly didn’t include an allocation of $1.4 billion in the state’s budget for the construction of an arena at Potomac Yard. That outcome, engineered by Virginia Senator L. Louise Lucas, an opponent of the deal, followed weeks of organizing by Don’t Mute DC’s Ron Moten and Alexandria, Virginia residents against the proposed move.

In the end, Justin Wilson, mayor of Alexandria, Virginia, revealed that negotiations around the Potomac Yard arena ended. This came just days after the D.C. Office of the Attorney General threatened a lawsuit against Monumental Sports & Entertainment for breach of contract.

On the evening of March 27, shortly after Wilson's announcement, dozens

unique allegations across the public and public charter schools.

Two out of three schools with at least one incident of bullying, according to the report, addressed the situation with suspension, expulsion or referral to law enforcement. A similar proportion of schools implemented restorative justice practices, while 39% of schools used counseling and other mental health services in response to bullying.

According to the report, Global Citizens Public Charter School in Northeast was the only District school that didn’t submit anti-bullying policy for compliance review during the 20212022 school year.

Since its inception, the District’s citywide Youth Bullying Prevention Program (YBPP) has set out to provide agency oversight, case resolution assistance, and resources for parents and community members. WI

5Monumental Sports & Entertainment owner Ted Leonsis (center) has announced the Washington Wizards and Washington Capitals will remain in Gallery Place-Chinatown for years to come after three months discussing a move to Virginia. Leonsis was joined by District leaders (left to right) Ward 5 Councilmember Zachary Parker, Mayor Muriel Bowser, Chairman Phil Mendelson, Ward 2 Councilmember Brooke Pinto, and At-Large Councilmember Robert White. (Abdullah Konte/The Washington Informer)

LIFESTYLE

Hirshhorn at 50: ‘Revolutions’ Offers an Artistic Journey Through Time, Arts Innovations

By: C.M. Watts WI Contributing Writer

In a 50th anniversary celebration, “Revolutions: Art from the Hirshhorn Collection, 1860–1960,” showcases the beauty and breadth of artworks, highlights the evolution of arts and culture, and relays artistic narratives that have worked to empower, reveal truths and promote change.

The Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden opened 50 years ago with 6,000 objects from the collection of Joseph Hirshhorn, a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist. In a 1975 interview published by Creative Arts Television, Hirshhorn described his collecting practice between the years of 1950 - 1969 as almost daily, spending an estimated $1 million per year.

“The Hirshhorn opened in 1974 as a modern art museum,” said Hirshhorn Director Melissa Chiu. “It

has since become a modern and contemporary museum, largely because of Joseph H. Hirshhorn’s vision that his foundational gift should meet the needs of a national museum dedicated to the art of our time.”

In “Revolutions,” Hirshhorn’s prowess is on full display. The exhibition presents 270 works by 126 artists including Reginald Marsh, Joan Mitchell, Georgia ‘Okeefe, Jackson Pollock, Jacob Lawrence, Thomas Eakins, Jasper Johns, Alexander Calder and others.

“‘Revolutions’ reminds us that we are connected to an art-historical continuum through engagement with artists, artwork and ideas—in person and virtually,” Chiu explained.

Organized chronologically, “Revolutions’” expansive layout mirrors the bleed of time from one art historical movement to the next. From largescale portraiture, to cubism, abstract expressionism and beyond, the exhi-

bition highlights artistic production in the wake of social, political, and economic change.

For example, “Aftershock” explores how artists responded to WWII.

Upon entering this section, viewers are greeted by Francis Bacon’s “Study for Portrait V” (1953), an image where the human form has become less recognizable, the color palette dark, and the tone eerie. This journey through the past also proves to collapse our understanding of time.

Within each thematic grouping, works by contemporary artists like Flora Yukhnovich and Rashid Johnson are infused to demonstrate the continuity of modernist impressions.

Conversations emerge as O’keefe’s “Goat’s Horn with Red” (1945) lives next to Loie Hollowell’s “Boob Wheel” (2019), and as Amoako Boafo’s “Cobalt Blue Dress” (2020) sits between paintings by John Singer Sargent and Thomas Eakins,

celebrated figures in American art.

This isn’t the first time contemporary works have been in conversation with the past, but the dialogue here is more than a discussion, it’s also an assertion.

As the nation’s museum of modern and contemporary art, inclusion of

contemporary artists is a bold move that claims authority over who is and who remains relevant and demonstrates how the Hirshhorn has imbued diversity into a founding collection that was primarily white and male. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

5 Hector Hyppolite’s “General Baubou and the Mambo” (1948) is featured in “Revolutions: Arts from the Hirshhorn Collection, 1860-1960” at the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden. (Courtesy Photo/Lee Stalsworth, Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden).

From X to Exhibition: Uzo Njoku's Artistic Vision Comes to Life at Arena Social

By Andrew S. Jacobson WI Contributing Writer

In the vibrant art scene of Washington, D.C., a unique exhibition has emerged from the digital realm of X (formerly Twitter), to the physical space of Arena Social.

Uzo Njoku, a Nigerian-American artist, sparked a journey that turned her online call for artistic collaboration into a dynamic, real-world showcase.

Njoku's vision took root with a series of tweets in November 2023, where she announced her intention to explore her "neighborhood era" through art and invited other artists to join her.

She expressed her desire to host a group exhibit in D.C. during Black History Month.

The challenge of finding a suitable venue led her to consider various options, from colleges to hotels, highlighting the logistical hurdles of turning a digital idea into a physical reality.

Ian Callander, the cultural architect behind Arena Social, saw potential in Njoku's project and offered the venue's 3,000 square feet of space as a canvas for her vision.

“I knew she was going to compile an amazing exhibit and she did just that,” Callander told The Informer.

The exhibition, “The Neighborhood,” which opened in late February and runs until April 7, is more than a display of art, but a celebration of community and culture.

Keem Hughley, a culinary artist, contributed to a special exhibit event on March 9 by providing bites and discussed "Black food pathways in D.C."

“It was myself and my pastry chef, Deandra. So we provided the bites, and then we also did a creative talk based on nourishment,” Hughley said.

Sunday Bamgo and Olubanwo Aruleba, the hosts of the event, added another layer to the conversation, emphasizing the role of food in fostering community connections.

Many guests noted the success of the exhibition at Arena Social is a testament to the power of collaboration and the perseverance required to bring a digital idea to fruition.

5 Sunday Bamgo, Uzo Njoku, Deandra Bailey, Keem Hughley, and Olubanwo Aruleba in front of a vibrant and playful mural on March 9 at Arena Social. (Courtesy Photo/Sunday Bamgbose)

4 Local entrepreneur Ian Callender, the cultural architect behind Arena Social. (Courtesy Photo/Sunday Bamgbose)

New this year!!

GENERAL OPERATING SUPPORT

• A third application category for capacity building: This cohort will support small arts and humanities organizations that have not previously been awarded a grant by CAH

• Multi-year funding: To provide GOS organizations with greater stability and longer-term planning, a multiyear funding resource is being offered for fiscal years 2025 and 2026.

Submission Deadline: 10 pm ET, Thursday, April 11, 2024

EAST ARTS

This grant program goals are to:

• Provide access to high-quality arts and humanities experiences for residents who reside in the NE and SE quadrants of the District of Columbia.

• Enhance the quality of life by supporting a vibrant community identity through the arts and humanities.

Support activities that highlight and elevate the creative excellence and accomplishments of artists and arts programming in the NE and SE quadrants of the District.

PROJECTS, EVENTS, OR FESTIVALS

This grant opportunity program goals:

• Provide access to high-quality arts and humanities experiences for all District of Columbia residents.

• Improve quality of life by supporting vibrant community projects within the arts and humanities.

• Strengthen the creative economy through investments in local individuals and organizations.

Submission Deadline: 10 pm ET, Thursday, April 11, 2024

dcarts.dc.gov/service/cah-grants

202-724-5613

Tickets On Sale Now!

July 5

TLC En Vogue

Jody Watley

John Legend with the Wolf Trap Orchestra

June 4–6

Patti LaBelle

Gladys Knight

June 8

Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue

Big Boi

Danielle Ponder

June 15

Pilobolus re:CREATION

July 10

Ghostbusters in Concert National Symphony Orchestra

July 26

July 21

Nas

30th Anniversary of Illmatic National Symphony Orchestra

KIDZ BOP LIVE 2024

August 10

The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis

Cécile McLorin Salvant

August 15

Boyz II Men

Bell Biv DeVoe

August 17 + 18

The Roots Digable Planets Arrested Development

August 31

An Evening with The Washington Ballet

September 5

…and many more!

WOLFTRAP.ORG

Robert Glasper Blends Duke

Ellington and Hip Hop Together in Musical Celebration

By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer

It was a magic musical takeover when pianist, composer, producer and recording artist Robert Glapser and orchestra director Derrick Hodge beautifully blended the music of American music jazz icon Duke Ellington and hip hop hero J. Dilla at the Kennedy Center on March 30.

“Robert Glasper—Black Radio: A Duke x Dilla Celebration” concert, part of the Kennedy Center’s ongoing series “Ellington 125,” showcased Ellington and Dilla’s and work left audiences with a taste of the artists’ global impact on music

Featured performers included celebrated artists Bilal, Lalah Hathaway, DJ Karriem Riggins, and two of the living members from the rap group De La Soul.

WORTHY HISTORIC MUSICAL TRIBUTES

Ellington’s impact on American music is unquestioned. The D.C. native’s music not only influenced jazz, but classical music, popular music and even the District’s native sound go-go.

However, J. Dilla may not be as widely known. A Detroit native who died in 2006 at age 32, Dilla’s work was impressive and not just in hip hop. He was a member of two groups, Slum Village and the Soulquarians.

Dilla also produced singles and remix projects for artists such as

Janet Jackson, The Pharcyde, Busta Rhymes, Q-Tip, Raphael Saadiq, Brand New Heavies, Erykah Badu, Poe, Talib Kweli, Common and De La Soul. Dilla’s mother, Maureen “Ma Dukes” Yancey, was at the Kennedy Concert and received the DC Mayor’s office accolades for her son’s work.

Whenever five-time Grammy winner Glasper comes to the Kennedy Center, he reminds us why he is considered a prolific music artist. Glasper and Hodge, the two-time Grammy winner who conducted the Black Radio Orchestra and arranged the music for this concert, always take audiences way beyond the music recording.

They opened this celebration with a lovely piano and orchestral arrangement of Ellington’s “Take the ‘A’ Train.” Glasper played around with the audience about not having his setlist, a ploy to bring out Bilal to wild applause.

Bilal, who often performs as part of “Black Radio,” began by singing, “It Don’t Mean a Thing.” Next, the audience heard a long orchestral introduction, with the guitarist sampling The Blackbyrds’ “Rock Creek Park,” which transitioned to Ellington’s “Caravan.” That music segue was pure art.

“It was perfect to work in that nod to D.C.,” said audience member and Northwest, D.C. resident Juan Dunlap about the pairing of The Blackbyrds and Ellington. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

5 Lalah Hathaway and Bilal perform Duke Ellington’s “In a Sentimental Mood” during “Robert Glasper—Black Radio: A Duke x Dilla Celebration,” a tribute concert on March 30 at the Kennedy Center honoring the American music legacies of Ellington at 125 and hip hop producer J. Dilla. (Courtesy Photo/Jati Lindsay)

Corn is used in more than 3,500 ways. To name just a few, there is corn starch, corn syrup, corn oil, popcorn and good old eating corn. Corn is even used to make a kind of fuel called ethanol

Most of the corn grown is dent corn, also called field corn. Dent corn is picked dry and used mostly for livestock feed and ethanol.

Can you find each ear of corn’s twin?

Work with use your more

Each corn ____

Which of these things are partly made of corn?

Batteries Matches Diapers

ANSWER: All of them!

Another popular corn is sweet corn. Sweet corn is sweeter and juicier than dent corn and is the kind we eat!

Corn seeds are planted in the spring. Corn seeds are called kernels.

In the spring, farmers wait until the _______ is warm before planting corn. The corn kernels need warm soil and spring ________ to start growing.

Corn was rst grown in this country more than 9,000 years ago:

The

In the fall, corn plants stop __________. The plants turn brown, and the _____ point down. Farmers wait for the ears of corn to dry, and then they harvest.

Farmers ship their corn to customers. They also _____ their equipment and get ready to plant again in the spring. During the summer, farmers care for their corn plants. They make sure they get enough ________. They check for weeds, diseases and insects that could ________ the plants. It takes science to grow healthy corn crops!

With water and warmth, corn grows about 2 inches a day. Corn ___________ usually grow to about 8 feet tall. The tallest stalk on record was about 45 feet tall—nearly as tall as a four-story building!

Make a Tall Corn Stalk

Corn for many centuries was picked by hand. But there have been many inventions that help farmers.

One machine combines several farming jobs in one machine. It cuts the corn stalks and then brings them through the machine. This machine then separates the kernels from the rest of the plant. The machine is called a:

Roll up sheets of the newspaper to make long rolls. How long is one sheet rolled? Estimate how many more pages need to be rolled to make one long roll that is 45 feet long. Then keep rolling pages and lining them up until you make a 45-foot-long roll—the length of one of the tallest corn stalks measured.

About how two If a gira much taller of corn If a corn 2 inches until 12 670 400 800

The average has about If you plant for it, you If a farmer kernels in will he

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

letters along the correct path through the corn maze reveals the answer!

review wi book

"What Do You Need?"

By Lauren Wesley Wilson

c.2024, Hay House

$25.99

264 pages

Terri

Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer

That wasn't the answer you wanted.

Beating around the bush, hemming and hawing, those aren't answers. A solid yes or no, that's what you require, a simple affirmative or negative, but you may not get it. Is the answer hung up somewhere, or is it being withheld? You may never know but author Lauren Wesley Wilson says you should never stop asking. In her new book "What Do You Need?" your career might depend on it.

A little over a decade ago, new-grad Lauren Wesley Wilson took a job she thought she might like. As it turned out, though, she was the only woman of color in the organization and that held her back; there were, for instance, things that her white colleagues knew that she didn't, "extras" that would've eased her way, insider info that would've made it possible for promotions and better contact-making.

That was a valuable lesson: being "a first-and-only" really does matter in the workplace, a fact that spurred Wilson to try something audacious. She invited a small number of women to a get-together in May of 2011 to ask one another "What do you need?" and to share personal and professional answers. From that gathering, ColorComm Corporation was born, and it currently offers chapters for women of color in many cities.

So what do you need?

First of all, you need to thrive in the workplace, and you need to understand that some places aren't "set up" for that. You need to acknowledge that being first-and-only makes things harder. Ask for a mentor or learn how to find your own with gentle persistence and without being a pest. You'll need to make a good reputation for yourself, and to self-promote. Become a joiner, cultivate a wide mix of contacts, understand your value, learn to assess risks and promote yourself, be willing to work, and know when it's time to walk away.

Finally, invest in yourself the same as you invest in money, clothing, cars and vacations.

"Your career should be just as important."

Pick up "What Do You Need?," hold it at arms' length, and ask yourself if you really need another book of advice on how to get ahead if you're a woman of color. Look closer, page through it, and your answer is likely to be "yes."

Yes, there's a lot of repetition, both within this book itself and when compared to others, but what sets it apart from those similar tomes is its encouragement to continually think so very precisely.

Author

Lauren Wesley Wilson

doggedly returns to her title question to help readers sort through their options with more focus, while case studies and examples steadfastly lead them to apply the lessons inside this book to their own lives and workplaces.

Straight talk and an unwillingness to gloss over the facts complete this book, and make it one you'll want to own. If you need to get ahead and you're ready to concentrate and do the work, "What Do You Need?" might have the answers you've wanted. WI

horoscopes

ARIES Early in the week, the cosmos could shake up your professional path in a meaningful way. You might want to make a play for more responsibility or recognition, feel empowered to lay out all your cards with higher-ups, or be tapped to take on a major project. Later in the week, you could reconnect with loved ones you haven't bonded with in a while, have a family reunion, or revisit emotional issues now so you can work together to find a healing path forward. Lucky Numbers: 1, 28, 31

TAURUS Although you're a creature of habit, you might have a burning desire to get out of your comfort zone, perhaps in regard to your career or a major personal goal. Given the intensity of the moment, you could feel a bit nervous about what the future holds once you make this move. But as long as it feels right intuitively, you're on track. Later in the week, you might have to contend with confusion when working with colleagues and/or romantic interest. Lucky Numbers: 21, 31, 57

GEMINI As the week begins, you'll be considering issues of give-and-take within your closest relationships. You might also have to discuss difficult money concerns. You'll do well to express your needs while respecting a loved one's need to express theirs. Later in the week is an ideal time to brainstorm. There's no limit to the potentially lucrative ideas that you can come up with. Given the energy of the moment, sharing them with colleagues can make for greater rewards. Lucky Numbers: 7, 10, 13

CANCER Facing critical issues with your significant other, business partner, or a close friend could feel imperative at the beginning of the week. You'd do well to open up about how you really feel, then see how you can find a balance between your needs and theirs. Later, the cosmos signals a sweet time for romance. If you find yourself getting swept up in your daydreams, or thinking about another experience you can enjoy with someone, there's no reason to rein it in! Lucky Numbers: 11, 13, 14

LEO Facing a harsh reality related to your wellness and coming up with a realistic game plan you can implement may be necessary. If you haven't been putting your nose to the grindstone to work out, eat healthfully, or prioritize self-care that bolsters your emotional well-being, you might be feeling a setback now. Thankfully, you'll have the energy to make significant, meaningful changes. Later in the week, it could be tough to see any progress on your personal goals. Tuning in to your intuition now can make for momentum down the road. Lucky Numbers: 7, 9, 15

VIRGO Facing a harsh reality related to your wellness and coming up with a realistic game plan may be necessary. If you haven't been putting your nose to the grindstone you might be feeling a setback now. Thankfully, you'll have the energy to make meaningful changes. Later in the week, it could be tough to see progress on your goals. Tuning in to your intuition now can make for momentum.. Lucky Numbers: 12, 18, 32

LIBRA Early this week, you might have to address an ongoing emotional conflict with a loved one. Or you could find that it's time to consider shaking things up with regard to your home, kicking off a major redecorating effort or even planning a move. You can trust your gut to lead the way. Later, the cosmos could throw a wrench in ongoing professional endeavors and create confusion in communications with higher-ups. You might need to go back to the drawing board on a project you thought was completed. Doing your best to take it in stride can help you cope. Lucky Numbers: 17, 30, 38

SCORPIO You might be stressed if you feel like you're not being heard early in the week. Check off all those minor chores on your to-do list so you can take action on these questions. Later in the week, you're inspired to get carried away with one of your wildest fantasies. If you've wanted to hit the road with your significant other, dive into a bold, artistic project, or declare how you feel to a potential partner in a dramatic way, this is the perfect time to do it! Lucky Numbers: 7, 24, 51

SAGITTARIUS At the start of the week, you could be reflecting on what you're willing to give in order to receive something of value (think in terms of your time for money or contending with power struggles in your work relationships). Zooming out and looking at the big picture helps you gain clarity. Later in the week, the cosmos requires that you take special care to express your desires to your partner. Then you can both move forward in an even more rewarding way. Lucky Numbers: 9, 31, 39

CAPRICORN At the beginning of the week, you could be feeling emotionally sensitive, especially when it comes to how others are perceiving you. You'll want to carve out time to prioritize self-care, maybe even putting other responsibilities on the back burner temporarily. Doing your best to think about the current situation puts it all in perspective. Later, your focus turns to an unresolved conflict you may have with your significant other. Lucky Numbers: 10, 16, 17

AQUARIUS At the beginning of the week, you could feel very strongly that you need to spend time decompressing from the stresses of everyday life. You could feel like you've been maxed out, so a time-out for self-care is warranted. Later in the week, your attention could be drawn to areas of your wellness routine that could use bolstering. Whether you've been paying for a gym membership that you rarely use or you feel like it's time to get back to the basics by upping your veggie and water intake, now is the time to take a microscope to the situation and address it in a creative, proactive way. Lucky Numbers: 2, 33, 47

PISCES

Early in the week, you could be enlisted to work on a significant and meaningful group project. If there's a way you can give back to your community, so much the better! You'll feel strongly that collaboration now can advance your goals later. Later, you'll be drawn even more than usual to fun, artistic activities and spontaneous, flirtatious dates. Events will have a way of playing out exactly as they're meant to, so going with the flow will be the best way. Lucky Numbers: 14, 38, 55

SPORTS

Local Girls Basketball Among the Best in the Country

By Ed Hill

WI Contributing Writer

Several players from the DMV area helped their teams reach this year's NCAA Women’s Basketball Sweet 16, including: UCLA’s Kiki Rice (Sidwell Friends), Duke University’s Jaydn Donovan (Sidwell Friends), University of Maryland’s Jakia Brown-Turner (Bishop McNamara), and Ole Miss’ Madison Scott (Bishop McNamara). Further, University of Connecticut (UConn) freshmen Qadence Samuels (Bishop McNamara), UConn junior Azzi Fudd (St. John's), North Carolina State graduate student Mimi Collins (Paul VI), and University of South Carolina freshman Sahnya Jah (Bishop McNamara) are all in the Final Four.

However, the trend of successful women’s basketball stars from the DMV is not a new trend.

For years, local high school girls' basketball got little or no attention from the media. Then along came Gwen "Ms J" Jones in the early 70s. Jones was a standout at Ballou High School in Southeast, D.C. At the prompting of her head coach, the

CFO from Page 1

D.C. Chief Financial Officer Glen Lee’s requirement that Bowser allocate $250 million toward the replenishment of the District’s Fiscal Stabilization Reserve over the next four fiscal years.

“We had a keen sense that a lot of the cuts that would need to happen would come from programs and services, so that unnecessary requirement from the chief financial officer was disheartening,” said Mujahid, executive director of the Fair Budget Coalition, a conglomerate of organizations and District residents fighting for a budget that prioritizes racial justice.

“We have to fill the reserves, but it’s not legally required that we do it right now,” Mujahid continued. “The question is what do we do when we start the budget season with less revenue. How

late Wanda Oates, Donald Huff of the Washington Post came to watch her play against some members of the boy's team and left impressed with her extraordinary skills. It prompted coverage of girls' high school basketball that led to rankings and ultimately allMet selections.

A short time later a guard from St. Anthony's High School in Northeast, Penny Toler, would burst on the scene and take local girls basketball to another level, gaining national attention from recruiters and the media.

The mercurial guard was named All-Met for three years and ultimately a Parade All-American. Toler would go on to star at San Diego State and Long Beach State before being drafted in the first WNBA draft. Toler holds the distinction of being the first player to score a basket in the WNBA.

These groundbreaking women laid the groundwork for the current state of high level of basketball in the DMV.

With the increased attention on women's basketball in the NCAA, this area has officially become a hotbed for national recruiters.

"The talent has always been there,"

do we create tax systems to ensure our government and its residents have what they need to thrive? How do we show up for the community and what are we investing in?”

On Wednesday, hours before Bowser was scheduled to testify before the D.C. Council’s Committee of the Whole about the FY 2025 budget, the Fair Budget Coalition, along with representatives of Just Recovery DC and District residents gathered in front of the John A. Wilson Building with a set of demands.

Their demands centered on the preservation of social programs and a revenue increase via taxes on wealth, capital gains, and high-value homes. As it relates to the latter request, Mujahid said she questions the D.C. Council’s enthusiasm for ensuring the District’s

said Christy Winters-Scott, who started as a standout player at South Lakes High School in Fairfax, Virginia, before going to University of Maryland and helping lead her team to the Final 4. “ "People are just discovering the (girls' basketball) talent in the DMV area. Social media has played a huge role. Now there are 10 million eyes on the players.”

TOP AREA COACHES REFLECT ON LOCAL TALENT

In June 2007, Jonathan Scribner took over as Girls' Varsity Head Coach for St. John's College High School, and under his leadership the Cadets have become a regional and nationally recognized program.

top earners pay their fair share. Mujahid also continues to weigh in on Lee’s $250 million request and Bowser’s late submission of the budget, both of which she said caused the last-minute adjustment to the 70-day budget deliberation process. “We can’t change the timeline but by so much because it’s legally mandated,” Mujahid said. “Yet, because of the delays, community members are getting the short end of the stick. There’s significantly less time for the community.”

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER LEE MAKES HIS CASE

In his March 19 statement before the D.C. Council’s Committee of the

CF0 Page 44

Scribner has four times been named WCAC Coach of the Year and three times USA Today Coach of the Year for Washington, D.C., and recently captured both the WCAC and DCSAA titles in less than a week. He coached all-American and national player of the year, Fudd for four years before she went to UConn and Lindsey Allen, a member of the Chicago Sky of the WNBA.

"I would argue that [local women’s basketball talent] is not new," said Scribner, whose team was again ranked in the Top 20 this year. "I think that the recent rise of women's basketball and March Madness has certainly played a part. I think that they are starting to play at an earlier age. And as the game has evolved, the players are picking up new skills. They are motivated to work on their games more and the commitment level has grown."

Frank Oliver added to Northeast, D.C.’s H.D Woodson High School’s winning tradition, before leaving to coach at Bishop McNamara in Forestville, Maryland. At McNamara, he produced some of the top players in the country including former McDonald All-Americans Scott, Brown-Turner and Madisen McDaniel, who is headed to the University of South Carolina to play for Coach Dawn Staley.

"There is more access to development trainers than there was in the 2000s when I first started,” said Oliver, explaining the wealth of talent. “Another factor has been the growth of the AAU programs… and that has changed the talent pool landscape."

Oliver, who is in his first season as head coach at nationally renowned

IMG Academy in Florida, also cited increased national exposure as a contributing factor.

"There is no substitute for playing against some of the top competition in the country," he said.

Coach Tomika Dudley has had much success over the past 12 years. It started at Northern Virginia's Woodbridge High School, where she won four state titles, before moving on to Sidwell Friends in Northwest, D.C.

In four years, Dudley has compiled a phenomenal 115-15 record, including national rankings each year. The 2021-22 season, she led the Quakers to an undefeated 30-0 record, number-one national ranking and was the first Black woman to receive the prestigious Naismith Coach of the Year award for high school girls basketball.

In the process, Dudley has coached and produced McDonald's All-Americans in Rice, Donovan and recent UCLA commits, her daughter Kendall Dudley and Zania Socka Nguemea.

"We are in a unique situation here in this area in that we can draw from three different areas and that allows us to compete nationally,” noted Dudley, emphasizing the legacy of successful women’s basketball players from the area.

"In my opinion, the DMV has the best talent in the country. Much can be attributed to the history that has been established over the years. The players have the mentality that they have to carry on and maintain that tradition,” said Dudley. “That's why it continues to grow.

WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com

5St. John’s and Sidwell Friends girls basketball teams are both local powerhouse programs in the area. (WI File Photo/Marcus Relacion)

CAPTURE the moment

5The Sakura Taiko Fest Drummers participate in the National Cherry Blossom annual Kite Festival on the National Mall March 30. (Robert R. Roberts/The National Informer)

5Peyton Randall, a student at KIPP DC in Southeast, pictured with her mother Krystle Yerbanga during the National Cherry Blossom Kite Festival. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

5Kite master Mikio Toki demonstrates flying a kite at the annual National Cherry Blossom Kite Festival on the National Mall March 30. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

5Participants build a Lego cherry blossom tree during the annual Blossom Kite Festival, formerly known as the Smithsonian Kite Festival, held March 30 on the National Mall. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

5Kites fill the sky at the Blossom Kite Festival on March 30, a celebratory tradition held on the National Mall during the National Cherry Blossom Festival.(Robert R. Roberts/ The Washington Informer)

3People fill the grass to watch the National Cherry Blossom annual Kite Festival on the National Mall March 30. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

RELIGION

Church Leaders Focus on Youth this Easter, Beyond

By Hamil R. Harris WI Contributing Writer

From Howard University’s Rankin Chapel in Northwest, to Southeast, D.C.’s Pennsylvania Avenue Baptist Church, sanctuaries throughout the District celebrated Easter, not only focusing on Jesus' resurrection, but emphasized how to continue spreading the “good news” to youth.

Bishop Vashti McKenzie, interim general secretary and president of the National Council of Churches and the first woman Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, was the Easter Sunday speaker at Rankin Chapel. Inspired by the biblical book of John’s resurrection narrative,

CFO from Page 42

Whole, D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson (D) called Lee’s $250 million mandate a subversion of the council’s authority as appropriators of funds.

Mendelson also questioned whether Lee, after canceling the free bus fare program approved by the council, would target other programs or call for the termination of agency directors who mismanage their budgets.

Lee, responding to an Informer inquiry about the free bus fare program, said that legislation only allocated funds when revenue projections surpassed the Office of Chief Financial Officer (OCFO)’s budget forecast.

That didn’t happen during two consecutive forecasts, Lee pointed out, which in turn necessitated what some considered a controversial decision during the last budget season.

In recent weeks, Lee, in his second year as chief financial officer, has set out to clarify the nature of his role. He emphasized that he’s only responsible for certifying and keeping the budget balanced, making revenue projections,

McKenzie’s message focused on Jesus' disciple Thomas, often called “Doubting Thomas.”

“Thomas said to them, ‘Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.’ There is a Thomas or Thomasina in every classroom,” the barrier breaking bishop said. “Thomas had questions, (but) Jesus had answers. What is your resurrection testimony?”

During the week, JoAnne Richardson Carter practices international law, but on Sunday, she teaches in the Kids’ Corner at Pennsylvania Avenue Baptist Church.

“There is an entire generation of

By Fiscal Year 2028, the District will have $2.6 billion in surplus funds left, he told The Informer.

and ensuring that the District makes on-time payments to payroll, vendors, and creditors.

children not going to church,” said Carter. “Amid the chaos, it is just good to know that Jesus cares.”

On Sunday, the Rev. Dr. Kendrick E. Curry, pastor of Pennsylvania Avenue Baptist Church, preached a sermon entitled “Do You Remember,” inspired by Luke 24:12.

Before she was the church's First Lady and Associate Minister, the Rev. Karen W. Curry, grew up in Suitland, Maryland and attend-

Failure to follow through on these obligations, Lee said, would trigger the D.C. Financial Control Board -- the congressionally created entity that oversaw the District’s finances during the late 1990s, and led to OCFO’s creation.

“Whatever the disagreements about financial implementation that exist, it's the reason why this office exists,” Lee said. “There's always tension and checks and balances. It's how financial control organizations work in the U.S.”

In the face of pandemic-related revenue depletion, the District has relied on federal funds and its reserves to meet its financial obligations. Last year, the District’s Fiscal Stabilization Reserve fell below what’s needed for 60 days for the first time since before the pandemic. Per Mendelson’s March 19 statement, Bowser’s $250 million allocation would be directed toward that coffer, which had been 12% funded by the end of the 2023 fiscal year.

“It’s important to have set aside [money] to pay bills because of the uneasiness of our revenue,” Lee said. “In the last five or six years, there were always resources to pay bills. There’s not an issue with spending surpluses [but] when you’re doing that, all you have is your checkbook.”

The District’s reserve fund balance currently stands at $5 billion split be-

ed Pennsylvania Avenue Baptist Church as a child with her parents, who helped to integrate the church. She was inspired by her husband’s message of remembrance as she told The Informer the church is reaching out to a new generation of families.

“It's important that we remember the youth, the adults, and the seniors. Re-remember the whole body so that we can function,” she said. “Right now, we need to bring

tween four reserve fund accounts, including general funds from which the District meets its financial obligations throughout the year.

Lee said that a portion of this balance -- approximately $2.3 billion -- will be spent between this fiscal year and Fiscal Year 2027 in place of the COVID-related federal funds that are running out later this year.

By Fiscal Year 2028, the District will have $2.6 billion in surplus funds left, he told The Informer.

Lee said that while tax revenue collected at different points throughout the year replenishes the general fund, he expressed his concern that, due to fewer people working in person, among other factors, the District has “fewer resources available” to facilitate this process.

Case in point: Bowser administration officials told The Informer that revenue growth is expected to grow by 2% annually between FIscal Years 2024 and 2028, all while expenses are growing at a rate of 7.5% annually.

“The mayor and the council have a tough time trying to balance the budget given the growth rate of revenue is

in more young people because those we have worked with and disciplined have grown up.”

Carter echoed those sentiments.

“There is a new generation of young families in the area, and how do we encourage them?”

Mark Carter Jr., 7, is a faithful member of the Kids’ Corner. When he was asked what Easter meant, he said, “It means to me that Jesus has risen from the dead.”

WI

less than what it has been,” Lee said. “There will be less resources to spend, unless we have a dramatic turnaround in the economy, and of course, that’s a different matter.”

DIFFICULT DECISIONS FOR BOWSER ADMINISTRATION OFFICIALS

The Fiscal Year 2025 operating budget that Bowser presented on Wednesday stands at $20.9 billion, 53% of which is dedicated to human support services and public education.

When it came to the District's Fiscal Stabilization Reserve, Bowser dedicated $215 million -- not $250 million -- over four fiscal years. Bowser administration officials said this happened upon the discovery of $35 million in the reserve.

In FY 2025, $100 million will go toward the District’s Fiscal Stabilization Reserve. The remaining $115 million will be split between Fiscal Years 2026 and 2027. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com

5 JoAnne Richardson Carter at Pennsylvania Avenue Baptist Church with one of the Kids’ Corner students. (Courtesy Photo/ Pennsylvania Avenue Baptist Church)

5 Members of Pennsylvania Avenue Baptist Church Kids’ Corner perform as part of a women’s history event honoring Rosa Parks. (Courtesy Photo/Pennsylvania Avenue Baptist Church)

Create in me a clean heart, O' God, and renew a right spirit within me. Psalm 51:10

During these dark days, with our country losing control, with one man who we shall call an Antichrist, Number 45, a former president of the United States, running the United States from the sidelines, it is not a good situation! Let me stay focused on my message for today.

My Mother! April 1 was her earthly birthday, and Dec. 25, 2000 was her heavenly birthday. For 73 years, she lived, preached, prayed and helped others, but most importantly, she cared for her family. When spring arrived, she would remind us, "It's a new season." She wanted us to be sure to remember her annual "spring cleaning" weekend. She would put every child to work on that first weekend of spring, every year. We had to rake the yard, we washed windows, inside and out, she didn't repaint the inside of our home, she made us wash down fingerprints from the walls and doors, you name it. As the old saying goes, every man who had a hand, had a right. We did it as a family.

Yet, when it was all over, we could breathe a sigh of relief. It felt good for everything to be so clean! The clean smell of furniture polish, window washer, and scented detergents, including bleach. Everything was spotless. You know the saying, "the apple doesn't fall far from the tree." When we grow up cleaning for spring, we pretty much will keep that tradition go-

It's a New Season the religion corner WITH LYNDIA GRANT

ing throughout our entire lives — I know I have.

This reminds me of the Bible story of when Jesus was cleaning the temple. Let us compare and contrast the spring cleaning of our home to the cleansing of the temple.

Jesus made everyone get out of the house of God, and cleansed it of its corruption and disorder. He stood against the sinful trappings which worked their way into the House of Worship. The practices of the people of His day were under attack, and in order to make the temple pure and holy again, Jesus cleaned house, as they say today!

Allow that story to speak to your soul, take a moment to look more closely, paying special attention to how this story speaks to us today. It begins, "The Passover of the Jews was near, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem …" (John 2:13)

During Passover, they were celebrating how so many homes that had a blood stain over the door had been spared. These were Jews who felt thankful for being saved, however, the crowds would enlarge to three times the normal size. Just think, then and now, during the Passover season, folks are shopping, buying new clothes, shopping for all of the children, getting them all something new to wear for Easter Sunday. But somehow, they lost control at the space inside the temple.

In the new testaments of Mat-

thew, Mark and Luke, Jesus accuses the merchants of cheating the people. He says, "My house shall be called a house of prayer, but you are making it a den of thieves." (Matthew 21:13)

Perhaps there were some merchants who were raising their prices, but this is not the focus of Jesus' anger, according to John. As far as John is concerned, Jesus is upset because all this buying and selling intruded upon the sacred space for worship. In John's gospel, Jesus says, "Take these things out of here! Stop making my Father's house a marketplace." (John 2:16).

This is a good example of how good intentions often get out of hand; for example, one merchant who had pure intentions set up a small table in the corner of the temple, hoping that a few worshipers might stop by on their way home and maybe buy a couple items, then another businessman does the same thing, then another and another, until, before you know it, the temple was turned into a small shopping area.

Remember as you clean your home, be sure to include cleansing your temple — your body is indeed a temple. Fast, pray and think of God and all of His goodness; maintain control. We have all been indoors, for the most part, for most of the winter season!

Spring is here, and it is definitely a new season!

WI

RELIGION

The Miracle Center of Faith Missionary Baptist Church

Bishop Michael C. Turner, Sr. Senior Pastor

9161 Hampton Overlook

Capitol Heights, MD 20743

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

Service and Times

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

Communion: 1st Sunday

Sunday School: 9:00 AM

Bible Study: Wednesday, 12 Noon

Bible Study in homes: Tuesday 7:00 PM

Website: www.themiraclecenterFMBC.com

Email: Miraclecenterfmbs@gmail.com

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

Blessed Word

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

4001 14th Street, NW Washington, DC 20011 (202) 265-6147 Office 1-800 576-1047 Voicemail/Fax Service and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 11:00 AM

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

Pilgrim Baptist Church

Rev. Louis B. Jones II Pastor

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

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

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

Reverend William Young IV Pastor

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

Services and Times Sundays: 10:00am Worship Services

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

Sunday School: 9:00 AM – Hour of Power

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

Mount Carmel Baptist Church

901 Third Street N.W. Washington, DC. 20001

Phone (202) 842-3411

Fax (202) 682-9423

Service and Times

Sunday Church School : 9:00 AM

Sunday Morning Worship: 10:10 AM

Bible Study Tuesday: 6: 00 PM

Prayer Service Tuesday: 7:00 PM

Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday 10:10 AM

themcbc.org

All Nations Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. James Coleman Pastor

2001 North Capitol St, N.E. - Washington, DC 20002

Phone (202) 832-9591

Service and Times

Sunday Church School – 9:30 AM

Sunday Worship Service – 11:00 AM

Holy Communion – 1st Sunday at 11:00 AM

Prayer – Wednesdays, 6:00 PM

Bible Study – Wednesdays, 7:00 PM

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

Website: www.allnationsbaptistchurch.com

All Nations Baptist Church – A Church of Standards

Mount Olivet

Lutheran Church

John F. Johnson Reverend Dr.

1306 Vermont Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20005

Service and Times

Divine

Worship, Sunday 10:00 a.m.

Communion 1st and 3rd Sunday

“Friendliest Church in the City”

Website: mountolivetdc.org

Email: mtolivedc@gmail.com

Adams Inspirational A.M.E. Church

Dr. E. Gail Anderson Holness Senior Pastor

Rev. Ali Gail Holness-Roland

Assistant & Youth Pastor

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

Service and Times

Sunday Worship 10:15 am

Sunday Church School 11:00 am

Youth Sunday every 4th Sunday Prayer Call @ Noon every Tuesday & Thursday 978.990.5166 code: 6166047#

Virtual Bible Study Wednesday Facebook & Zoom 7:00 pm

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

Church of Living Waters

Rev. Paul Carrette Senior Pastor

Harold Andrew Assistant Pastor

4915 Wheeler Road

Oxon Hill, MD 20745

301-894-6464

Service and Times

Sunday Service: 8:30am& 11:00 AM

Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM

Communion Service: First Sunday www.livingwatersmd.org

St. Stephen Baptist Church

Bishop Lanier C. Twyman, Sr. / Senior Pastor

5757 Temple Hill Road, Temple Hills, MD 20748 Office 301.899.8885 – Fax 301.899.2555

Service and Times

Sunday Early Morning Worship 8:00 AM

Sunday School 9:30 AM

Sunday Morning Worship 11:00 AM

Tuesday: 7:00 PM – Kingdom Building Bible Institute

Wednesday:  12:30 PM – Mid-Day Bible Study

Wednesday:  7:00 PM – Evening Bible Study

Baptism 3rd Sunday – Communion 4th Sunday

Free Food Giveaway – Every Tuesday, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

“We are One in the Spirit” www.ssbcmd.org | secretary@ssbcmd.org

Rev.

Campbell AME Church

Emmanuel Baptist Church

Reverend Christopher L. Nichols Pastor

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

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

Service and Times

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

Baptism/Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday

Family Bible Study Tuesdays – 6:30 PM

Prayer Service: Tuesdays – 8:00 PM

www.emmanuelbaptistchurchdc.org

Crusader Baptist Church Isle of Patmos Baptist Church

Holy Communion: 1st Sunday Sunday School: 9:45 AM Men’s Monday Bible Study: 7:00 PM Wednesday Night Bible Study: 7:00 PM

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

Computer Classes: Announced

Family and Marital Counseling by appointment

E-mail: Crusadersbaptistchurch@verizon.net

www.CrusadersBaptistChurch.org / “God is Love”

Third Street Church of God

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

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

Services and Times

Sunday School: 9:30 AM

Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM

Sunday Community Worship Service: 8:30 AM

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

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

Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Reverend Dr. Calvin L. Matthews

Senior Pastor

1200 Isle of Patmos Plaza, Northeast Washington, DC 20018

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

Service and Times

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

Holy Communion: 2nd Sunday at 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM

Sunday Church School: 9:20 AM

Seniors Bible Study: Tuesdays at 10:30 AM

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

Bishop Alfred A. Owens, Jr.

Florida Avenue Baptist Church

Dr. Earl D. Trent Senior Pastor

623 Florida Ave.. NW WDC. 20001 Church (202) 667-3409 / Study (202) 265-0836

Home Study (301) 464-8211 Fax (202) 483-4009

Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 10:00 AM

Sunday Church School: 8:45 – 9:45 AM

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

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

Midweek Prayer: Wednesday – 7:00 PM

Noonday Prayer Every Thursday

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 Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church

Shiloh Church of God 7th Day

Elder Jonathan M. Carson Senior Pastor

5701 Eastern Avenue, Hyattsville, MD 20782

Phone: 301 559-5262

Service and Times

Sabbath Worship @ 1:00 pm in-person/FB/Zoom

Tuesday - Prayer@ 7:30 pm on Zoom

Wednesday Bible Study@ 7:30 pm on Zoom

Friday - Sabbath School@ 7:30 pm on Zoom

Web: shiloh7thday.org

Email: shiloh7thdaycomm@gmail.com

"A culturally diverse church of edification, deliverance and transformation"

Holy Trinity United Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. George C. Gilbert Senior Pastor

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

Service and Times

Sunday Church School: 9:30 AM

Sunday Worship Service : 11:00 AM

The Lord’s Supper 1st Sunday Prayer & Praise Services: Wednesday 7:00 PM

Bible Study: 7:30 PM

Saturday before 4th Sunday Men, Women, Youth Discipleship Ministries: 10:30 AM

A Christ Centered Church htubc@comcast.net

Zion Baptist Church

Rev. Keith W. Byrd, Sr. Pastor

4850 Blagdon Ave, NW - Washington D.C 20011

Phone (202) 722-4940 Fax (202) 291-3773

Service and Times

9:00 a.m. – Sunday School

10:15 a.m. – Worship Service

Wed. Noon: Dea. Robert Owens Bible Study

7 PM Pastor’s Bible Study

Ordinance of Baptism 2nd Sunday, Holy Communion 4th Sunday

Mission: Zion shall: Enlist Sinners, Educate Students, Empower the Suffering, Encourage the Saints, And Exalt our Savior. (Acts 2: 41-47) www.zionbaptistchurchdc.org

Rev. Aubrey C. Lewis Pastor 1415 Gallatin Street, NW Washington, DC 20011-3851

P: (202)

Israel Baptist Church

Rev. Lance Aubert Imterim Pastor

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

Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:45 AM

Sunday School: 9:15 AM

Holy Communion1st Sunday: 10:45 AM

Prayer Service: Wednesday at 6:30 PM

Bible Study: Wednesday at 7:00 PM

Bible Study: Tuesday at 10:30 AM

Dr. Lucius M. Dalton Senior Pastor

1636 East Capitol Street, NE

Washington, DC 20003

Telephone: 202-544-5588 - Fax: 202-544-2964

Service and Times

Sunday Worship Services: 7:45 AM and 10:45 AM

Holy Communion: 1st Sundays at 7:45 AM & 10:45 AM

Sunday School: 9:30 AM

Prayer & Praise Service: Tuesdays at 12 noon & 6:30 PM

Bible Study: Tuesdays at 1 pm and 7 PM

Youth Bible Study: Fridays at 7 PM

Web: www.mountmoriahchurch.org

Email: mtmoriah@mountmoriahchurch.org

Rev. Curtis l. Staley Pastor

Alabama Ave., S.E.- Washington, D.C. 20032

(202) 561-1111 -

The Rev. E. Bernard Anderson Priest

Foggy Bottom - Founded in 1867 728 23rd Street, NW - Washington, DC 20037

Church office: 202-333-3985

Fax : 202-338-4958

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

Email: stmarysoffice@stmarysfoggybottom.org

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

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

Lincoln Park United Methodist Church

Rev. Richard B. Black

Interim Pastor

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

202 543 1318 - lincolnpark@lpumcdc.org

www.lpumcdc.org

Service and Times

Sunday Worship: 10:00 AM

Holy Communion: First Sunday 10:00 AM

Sunday School: 9:00 AM

Bible Study: Wednesday @ 12 noon and 6:30 PM

Motto: "Faith On The Hill"

Damion M. Briggs Pastor

8213 Manson Street Landover, MD 20785

Tel: (301) 322-9787 Fax: (301) 322-9240

Service and Times

Early Morning Message: 7:30 AM

Sunday Morning Worship Service: 10:00 AM

Sunday Church School: 9:00 AM

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

Prayer, Praise and Testimony: Wednesday 7:00 PM

Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM

“Real Worship for Real People”

Website: www.easterncommunity.org

Email: ecc@easterncommunity.org

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

Sermon On The Mount Temple Of Joy Apostolic Faith

Elder Herman L. Simms Pastor

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

Service and Times Sunday Apostolic Worship Services

11:00 A.M and 5:00 PM

Communion and Feet Wash 4th Sunday at 5:00 PM

Prayer/Seeking: Wednesday at 8:00 PM

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

Rev. Stephen E. Tucker Senior Pastor

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

Service and Times

Sunday Worship: 11 AM

Sunday School: 10 AM

Wednesday Mid-Week Worship, Prayer & Bible Study: Wed. 7 PM

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

RELIGION

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

Sunday Worship Service: 9:30 AM

Holy Communion: 1st Sunday 9:30 AM

Sunday School: 8:15 AM

Bible Study: Wednesdays at Noon

Baptism: 4th Sunday 9:30 AM

Website address: www.mmbcdc.org

“Where God is Praised, Christ is Obeyed, and People are Loved”

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

and Times

Adult Sunday School: 8:00 AM

Sunday Worship Services: 9:30 AM

Youth/Young Adult Sunday School 12:00 PM

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 “

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

Declaration of Nationality Protocol

In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality.

Notice of White Flag Surrender.

Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: "Pedro Tyri Winfrey© ", in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: “ PEDRO TYRI WINFREY©", corp.sole Dba.: "PEDRO T. WINFREY©

"; PEDRO WINFREY, WINFREY, PEDRO T, 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. declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, Al Maghreb Al Aqsa, Estados al Marikanos, Societas Republicae Ea Al Maurikanuus Estados, The Constitution for the united States of America, Article III Section 2, The Lieber Code, Hague Conventions of 1899 & 1907, The Geneva Conventions, [ United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples ], and all natural laws governing moors, and hereby declare and proclaim my nationality in good faith as a: Moorish American. I am that I am: "Pedro Tyri Winfrey© ", from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: “tyri azu amadi©” 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: Illinois Department of Public Health-Division of Vital Records : STATE FILE NUMBER: 112-1983 6010736, "PEDRO TYRI WINFREY©", is as a special deposit order, conveyed to "Thrive Regardless 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: "tyri azu amadi©", nom deguerre: "Pedro Tyri Winfrey", as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of: "Thrive Regardless 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.

Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/21/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/21/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/21/2024

Arni L. O’Donnell Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

2024 ADM 000221

Sandra Marie Gray Decedent

25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication:

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 222

Patricia Lynn Edwards Decedent

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

TiRay Michelle Edwards, whose address is 1503 Shippen Lane,

2024 ADM 000278

Estate of Arlee Ernest Ray

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE

Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Patricia Mosby 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 March 20, 2009 and the codicil dated January 29, 2015 exhibited with the petition upon proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution by affidavit of the witnesses or otherwise.

Order witnesses to the alleged codicil dated January 29, 2015 to appear and give testimony regarding its execution

Date of first publication: 3/21/2024

Jacobie Whitley

1455 Pennsylvania Ave., NW

Suite 400 Washington, DC 20004

Petitioner/Attorney:

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice. Date of first publication: 3/21/2024 Duane Joyner Personal Representative Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/21/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/21/2024

Gladys A. Johnson

Rea D. Johnson

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate

2024 ADM 000238

Scott Blakeman Decedent

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

2024 ADM 00317

Estate of Winfield L. Thomas

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE

Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Aretha Somerville, guardian for Jeffrey L. Thomas 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 a disinterested member of the bar as personal representative

Date of first publication:

Brian L. Kass, Esq. 4301 Connecticut Ave., NW Suite 434 Washington, DC 20008 Petitioner/Attorney: TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

2024 ADM 000229

Fiorina Camelia Branch aka Fiorina C. Branch Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT,

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000275

Shiyi Zhu

Decedent

Jeffrey K. Gordon, Esq. 5335 Wisconsin Avenue, NW #400

Washington, DC 20015

Attorney

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

Gai Yan, whose address is 3621 Newark Street, NW #212, Washington, DC 20016, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Shiyi Zhu who died on December 10, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision.

All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/28/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/28/2024, or be forever barred.

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

Date of first publication: 3/28/2024

Gai Yan Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

Tyrell D. Jones, whose address is 22110 Shortfin Mako Court, Katy, TX 77449, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Dalaneo M. Martin who died on March 18, 2023 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 9/28/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/28/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: March 28, 2024

Tyrell D. Jones

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/28/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/28/2024

Neil O’Flaherty Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

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

2024 ADM 330

Vera

Ellis M. Trappio Jr., whose address is 9205 Sheridan St., Lanham MD 20706, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Vera R. Trappio aka Vera Robinson Trappio aka Vera Trappio who died on 9/14/2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such

LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000321

Floyd T. Robinson aka

Floyd Thomas Robinson Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Corey Speight, whose address is 124 Webster St., NW Apt. 1A, Washington DC, 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Floyd T. Robinson aka Floyd Thomas Robinson who died on September 13, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/4/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/4/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

SUPERIOR

Nadah Rodriguez, whose address is 410 Gallatin St., NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Danielle Gabriel who died on 5/17/2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/4/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/4/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/4/2024

Nadah Rodriguez Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

2024

000296

D. Popper aka Robert D. Popper aka Robert Popper Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO

Mary M. Popper, whose address is 6200 Oregan Ave., NW, Apt. 444, Washington, DC 20015, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of R. D. Popper aka Robert D. Popper aka Robert Popper who died on 11/4/2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/4/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/4/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date

SPORTS from Page 35

of government officials flooded Signature Club & Lounge in celebration of the new deal.

Moments before Leonsis, Bowser and others took to the podium, Monumental Sports & Entertainment personnel escorted Moten out of Signature Club & Lounge, due to what a source told The Informer was an order from higher ups.

The Informer unsuccessfully attempted to gather comment from Monumental Sports & Entertainment, via phone and email, about the incident. The next day, Moten and Leonsis had what Leonsis described on X (formerly known as Twitter) as a “very positive conversation” about Downtown’s revitalization, young people, and go-go music.

Moten confirmed that the conversation happened.

Bowser took on a confident, yet calm tone as she extolled the District's deal with Monumental Sports & Entertainment as further confirmation that Downtown D.C. is an engine of post-pandemic revitalization.

Spooner C. Underwood Decedent

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

Cameron L. Underwood and Spooner C. Underwood

“Our tourism is rebounding and we have the highest per capita restaurant startups. We’re working to drive down crime and [are] coordinated in our approach,” Bowser said. “We came together to fight for our teams,” she continued, referencing her D.C. Council counterparts. “We stand up to our commitment to $500 million in the transformation of D.C. and we identified opportunities to expand [Monumental’s] footprint for an additional $15 million.”

HEAD OF DOWNTOWN BID EXPLORES BIGGER PICTURE

or before 10/4/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/4/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/4/2024

Cameron L. Underwood

The Gallery Place/Chinatown Task Force, formed late last year, is currently embarking on a plan to transform that portion of Downtown into a nationally renowned tourist attraction and engine of economic development.

In February, the task force launched the Clean & Safe Agenda, intended to bring the downtown business community together with District government agencies in a collective effort to curb crime and substance use throughout Gallery Place/Chinatown.

Such efforts, task force members said, will pave the way for the jurisdiction becoming a premier arts and culture district.

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

WI

@SamPKCollins

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CALHOUN from Page 30

of generational wealth. Historically, Black people have lost their property and suffered from gentrification because of the exact problem I described. And it is my belief that for years, we are not been provided the same inheritance toolkits with comprehensive information that our white counterparts have relied on to grow intergenerational wealth for decades.

One of the things I always say is that talking about death doesn't beget death. It doesn't bring about death. It puts a family in a position to retain Black generational wealth. If the most prized possession you own is your house, and if you spent your life toiling to ensure that you could have that house, why wouldn't you do everything you can in life or death to protect it? And it's not to say that this is a failsafe and a magic wand to protect the Black community or that this will ensure that we manage and maintain property within our communities. But it does provide a safeguard from what I will call "The Vultures," the capitalists that come in our communities scheming and finding ways to gain control over the low-hanging fruit that are prized possessions for us.

When discussing how we manage the concept of wealth, we have to reteach our community and retool ourselves to ensure that we're prepared to take care of Big Mama's House. We have to begin to talk about the relationship between our community and death. Not in a negative way. But we need to ensure that our people are educated and told about wills, estates, trusts, and estate plans. We all will likely have something to leave behind; whatever it is, but we must prepare the next generation for it.

Further, we must have conversations about what people intend to do with their property and possessions. I beg; please do not leave it to chance because depending on the jurisdiction that you live in, the outcomes can be very different for you. For example, I live in the state of Texas. If you leave it up to chance, the Texas law says is that the property goes down the lineage. So, as illustrated earlier, if my mother dies without a will or without instructions on what to do with her property, her house belongs to me, my brother, and my sister. And many different outcomes could occur if we can't agree on what to do with it.

If someone fails to pay taxes, it could be seized by the government. Now you have a property that was once beloved and well cared for being lost. To prevent this scenario, the first

thing we must do is change the way we view conversations about death. Secondly, everyone needs to make plain what you want to happen with your property. And lastly, we need to prepare the next generation for what's ahead. In the instructions about what to do with your property, you must also prepare them for everything else that comes with that, meaning that someone must know what is happening in your life.

As attorneys, we have seen bad outcomes when families don't take time to get things in order. The reason is that many people have outstanding debts and obligations that nobody knows about. There may be personal loans and IOUs that a person may have and when they die those obligations come due and creditors begin to attach those debts to the assets that are owned. It would be best to tell someone where all that information is before you pass. There may be hidden accounts. Someone may be happily married, and there is a little slush fund sitting some place. It would be best if you told somebody where this stuff is. It would be best if you wrote it all down to help the next generation deal with your passing.

Write everything down. You can even leave instructions that be in a sealed envelope until you die. Many attorneys keep these types of instructions for you.

Upon a person's passing, all kinds of questions need to be answered. Would Big Mama have wanted a white casket? Does she like blue? What type of flowers should we have at the services? The list of questions is numerous when you want to pay respects to your loved ones. Meanwhile, as a survivor is sitting there trying to answer all of these questions in this moment of grief, all they really want is to celebrate the time that they had with the person. Imagine if all of those questions were resolved. Imagine if you, being the person who passed away, prepared everybody for it. Make it easy for your survivors. What if your son or daughter only had to pick up the phone and call one person?

That one person knows everything that you wanted. Everything is written down — from the burial plot to the funeral home to the casket. Nothing left to chance. Nothing left for someone to have to guess.

Your loved ones don't need to worry about these things. They should be able to talk about the grief they are experiencing or be able to celebrate your life. Let them do that. Don't over-

CALHOUN from Page 52 because the family will want to sell it or make an investment of it. This is why we have partnered.

whelm your loved ones and friends who are already consumed with losing you.

The National Bar Association decided as an organization that we would not hold this information about what to do with death any longer; we want to share it with our families and communities. Personally, at family get-togethers, I go around and ask, 'Do you have your will in order? Just tell me. I'll do it for you for free.'

We partnered with NAREB to say, "We have the legal expertise." And, at some point, NAREB's members will be the ones to help move the property

CROWELL from Page 30

A related and independent perspective from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) notes yet another hurdle to homeownership: closing costs.

"While home prices and interest rates often command our attention, closing costs also contribute to borrowers' monthly burdens. One measure of closing costs is total loan costs," wrote Julie Margetta Morgan in a March CFPB blog. "Total loan costs include origination fees, appraisal and credit report fees, title insurance, discount points, and other fees increased by 21.8 percent — nearly $6,000 — from 2021 to 2022. From 2021 to 2022, median total loan costs rose sharply, increasing by 21.8 percent on home purchase loans."

"Often, closing costs are simply rolled into the total loan amount, rack-

MARSHALL from Page 30

vote by the House, and Gov. Bill Lee signed the legislation into law. The Republican supermajority's calls for a new board were based on multiple audit reports highlighting concerns about the mishandling of finances, housing, and scholarships.

The injustice comes from Tennessee State University, an 1890 land grant institution and the only HBCU in the state, being underfunded for 30 years. Students, alums, and the Black community at large should be aware of the history behind HBCUs and land-grant institutions. The original Morrill Act of 1862 established white-only land grant institutions to teach agricultural and mechanical arts. The Second Morrill Act of 1890 required that states choosing to open a second land-grant institution to serve Black students must provide equitable distribution of funds between their 1862 and 1890 land-

If we can educate the community about these things then maybe we can create better outcomes for families and our communities. What we don't want to happen is what we continuously see. Someone surprisingly receives a letter in the mail from the government because the taxes are due and no one was keeping up the property so now there is a forced sale. Or they find a cloud over the title because creditors are laying claim to it to cover a debt.

We want to help NAREB bring these conversations to families in a

ing up interest for the life of the loan," Morgan continued. "Borrowers who can't bring cash to the table often have to pay more, through higher interest rates or mortgage insurance payments."

But a new proposal by the Biden administration has the potential to lessen the financial heft of these homebuying issues. In a March 12 speech before the Urban Institute, a D.C.-based progressive think tank, Lael Brainard, the Biden administration's economic adviser, shared the White House plan.

"In today's market, too many households that want to buy their first home are locked-out by high costs, while many homeowners looking to rightsize their housing needs are locked-in because the rate they'd get on a new mortgage is higher than the rate on their current mortgage," said Brainard.

Central to the administration's plan are targeted tax credits that would enable more than 3.5 million middle-class

grant institutions. Last year, a letter was sent to the governor of Tennessee from the U.S. Secretary of Education and the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture regarding the inequitable funding for HBCUs.

The letter stated, "Tennessee State University, the 1890 land-grant institution in your state, while producing extraordinary graduates that contribute greatly to the state's economy and the fabric of our nation, has not been able to advance in ways that are on par with The University of Tennessee-Knoxville, the original Morrill Act of 1862 landgrant institution in your state, in large part due to unbalanced funding." If the state funding per student for Tennessee State were equal to that of Tennessee-Knoxville, then TSU would have received an additional $2.1 billion over 30 years. One can easily say that the holding back of critical funding to the tune of $2.1 billion contributed greatly to the university's financial woes.

proactive way. So NAREB President Dr. Courtney Johnson Rose and I said let's go into the community for free, donate our time, and ensure we help protect Big Mama's House — ultimately create Black wealth.

Historically, this information was passed along in the Black church. But we've reached a point where there needs to be more venues for sharing this information. That's what we are creating with this partnership. By mixing lawyers and real estate professionals, we can reach more people and facilitate making Big Mama's House a resource for the next generation.

WI

families to purchase their first home. Eligible consumers would receive up to $10,000 in mortgage relief credit for two years — the equivalent of reducing mortgage rates by 1.5 percentage points on a median home.

"These tax credits would serve as a bridge, as rates are projected to continue to fall with inflation and as our supply investments come online," explained Brainard.

Peggy Bailey, vice president for housing and income security with the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, reacted favorably.

"If policies created the inequities that we have, then we have to have policies to reverse them," noted Bailey. "The only way to do that is to actually talk about Black people, Latinx people, Native Americans very specifically because it's going to take very specific and targeted community investments to make those changes." WI

This week, student leaders from TSU will engage faith leaders, civil rights advocates, and the community on the best ways to organize action. These same students should remember the example of Lewis when considering the unjust ways HBCUs are disenfranchised by lack of fair funding along with the attempts to dismantle HBCU leadership. It may be time for good trouble, necessary trouble when mobilizing alumni and supporters to defend HBCUs.

The state of Tennessee is not alone. The governor of Mississippi received a similar letter from the Biden administration regarding the inequitable funding for Alcorn State University for $257 million. Yet, in a recent state bill, Alcorn State was targeted for closure along with Jackson State University and Mississippi Valley State University. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com

A total and alumni steps needed

WILLIAMS from Page 31

and she became the Orange Man's enemy. Along came New York state Attorney General Letitia James. You know the story. He called her everything but a child of God, but she won the case against him!

Let's go to a case in Baltimore, regarding former State's Attorney Marilyn Mosby. Her case involves the great work on her successfully making Baltimore police pay for

MORIAL from Page 31

is part of the most effective treatment.

The risk of dying from mifepristone, in contrast, is approximately one death per year since the FDA approved it 24 years ago. The death rate for Viagra is 10 times greater.

"Fundamentally, mifepristone is one of the most safe and effective medications used to provide abortion care or treat early pregnancy loss. Without it, pregnancy will be even more dangerous than it already is," the American Medical Association and other medical societies wrote in an amicus brief. "Women are at least 14 times more likely to die during childbirth than

JEALOUS from Page 31

soning is safe.

In 2008, the biggest single-point mercury polluter in the state was Merrimack Station.

Merrimack has also consistently been one of the state's top polluting power plants, period. And it has continued spewing high levels of pollution even in its final years, when it operated only about 50 days a year. It is a so-called "peaker" plant, only supplying energy during times of peak demand for the power grid.

While Merrimack's outsized pollution is a testament to the dangers of coal, it is also a very troubled plant. In February 2023, the New Hampshire Department of Environment Services found the coal plant's particulate matter emissions exceeded EPA limits by 70 percent. Since then, it has operated more than 500 hours in violation of its permit, according to the state.

But this new agreement with Granite Shore Power offers the chance for a drastic change in direction. Jim Andrews, Granite

the death of a young man named Freddie Gray while he was in police custody. I don't have enough space to give you the full story, so I want to direct you to www.baltimore4homes.org to get the full story of why Marilyn was prosecuted. It was for doing her job too well! We have an urgent need for you to go to the site, listen to Angela Rye, Tiffany Cross, et al., and sign the petition we need for an immediate pardon. She's guilty of noth-

during any abortion procedure."

To make the ludicrous case that mifepristone is dangerous, AHM relied on discredited researchers and flawed research. As the ACLU pointed out in its amicus brief, the most cited "expert," self-admittedly "not a really good researcher" was published by a group that accused President Obama of hypnotizing people with his speeches and argued that HIV does not cause AIDS. Another claimed her expert opinions on mifepristone were based on her experience as an OB-GYN, even though she stopped practicing the year mifepristone was approved.

It's clear that AMF's mission has nothing to do with provid-

Shore's CEO, said of Merrimack and Schiller, "I think we're undertaking a bold step forward and making good on a promise to transition our coal fired plants to clean energy facilities. I think these facilities will pave the way for New Hampshire to be a leader in the clean energy economy."

Those words are refreshing. And we will hold Granite Shore Power to them.

Too much is at stake for us not to.

In the past 14 years, communities across the country have mobilized to retire 381 coal plants. That has meant over 54,000 lives saved, 84,000 heart attacks prevented, and nearly 900,000 asthma attacks averted. Moving beyond coal means fewer lives lost to preventable illnesses.

We risk backtracking on this progress, however, if we replace coal plants with gas. The future is clean energy like wind, solar, and battery storage. Gas development, extraction, shipping, and burning all offer intolerable health risks for people.

ing more than having been a Black woman in a powerful position. The powers that be didn't want her there. She's scheduled to be punished with draconian years of imprisonment on May 23, 2024, for what is basically nothing. The Orange Man has over 90 charges, and he's still walking free for years. Let's use the power we have to free Marilyn and allow her to go on doing the great work she was doing.

WI

ing health care or upholding science. The powerful extremist Christian nationalist group, Alliance Defending Freedom, which represents AMF, has also sued one Virginia school district for teaching students about racism and another over teacher diversity training. The organization claims anti-racism policies in schools violate students' constitutional rights.

Moral Majority, which first injected the issue of reproductive rights into right-wing politics, grew out of the fight to keep racially segregated private schools tax-exempt. As its spiritual descendant, AMF remains linked to a white, male supremacist worldview. WI

In 2008, the biggest single-point mercury polluter in the state was Merrimack Station.

Moreover, transitioning to clean energy isn't just the moral choice for our people and our environment; it is the smart one economically. While the closure of these New Hampshire coal plants may not immediately affect energy costs in New England, the long-term benefits of clean energy are undeniable. Fossil fuels like coal and gas create an unbearably volatile landscape for energy costs. That is a burden households should not have to bear. WI

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