Afro e-edition 8-22-2026

Volume 135 No. 3

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AUGUST 22, 2026 - AUGUST 28, 2026

AFRO Photo / Stephen Hopkins

AFRO Photo / Alexis Taylor

The AFRO’s Black Business EXPO continues to grow year over year. Entrepreneurs, local leaders and AFRO supporters gathered on Aug. 13 for the sixth installment of the event, which happened to also fall on the publication’s 134th anniversary. Shown here, AFRO Director of Digital Solutions Dana Peck (left) and Ernest Davis, participating in the question and answer portion of the panel session, which focused on the event’s theme, “Powering Prosperity in the Age of AI.”

AI, innovation and opportunity take center stage at AFRO’s 2026 Black Business EXPO

By Shawn Ware AFRO Intern sware@afro.com The implications of artificial intelligence (AI) on the modern business landscape was the focus of AFRO News’ sixth annual Black Business

EXPO on Aug. 13.

This year, the event date landed on the AFRO-American Newspaper’s 134th birthday, making the occasion more meaningful. Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper, CEO and publisher of AFRO News, said each year the event is a special opportunity for all involved.

“Every year I learn something,” Draper said. “I come to learn as much as I do to host this event. It’s always good to see what our entrepreneurs are doing.”

The event took place from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, located on 830 East Pratt St. and was sponsored by Morgan

State University, PNC Bank, Goldman Sachs, BGE, WEAA radio, WBAL TV, Associated Black Charities, Baltimore BVocal, Commercial Construction, United Bank, Baltimore Development Corp., ADP Baltimore and SECU. “Small business is really the heart

of our communities that we live, work and worship within,” said Toby Smith, vice president and chief relationship officer at SECU. “The more we’re able to give back as an organization and support small businesses coming Continued on A3

O.J. Brigance, Ravens Superbowl champ, dies at 56

By The Associated Press

after that, he and his wife, Chanda, formed the Brigance Brigade Foundation, an organization whose mission is to “equip, encourage and empower” those afflicted with ALS. Despite using a wheelchair and a communication device that translated his messages, Brigance served Continued on A5

afro.com

O.J. Brigance, who won a Super Bowl with the Baltimore Ravens before waging an unyielding battle against amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, has died.

He was 56.

The Ravens announced Brigance’s death on Aug. 17.

“We are devastated by the awful news that we have lost O.J.

Brigance,” Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti said in a statement.

“O.J. was a beloved legend, mentor and man to everyone who was fortunate enough to know him. He was a vibrant person who became one of the first Ravens heroes with his passionate play, including the first tackle in the 2000 Super Bowl.”

Brigance was diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, in 2007. Not long

Kevin Wolf/AP Content Services for Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law

Errin Haines serves as NABJ president.

Thousands convene for NABJ conference in Atlanta

By Kendra Bryant Special to the AFRO

AP Photo/Steve Ruark, File

O.J. Brigance, former NFL linebacker and current director of player development for the Baltimore Ravens, sits at the football team’s practice facility in Owings Mills, Md., Sept. 5, 2012.

The National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) held its 51st annual convention at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis in Atlanta, Ga., bringing together journalists and media professionals for discussions on public policy, the state of journalism and artificial intelligence (AI) in the industry.

With more than 4,000 members nationwide, the convention included members from both the Baltimore Association of Black Journalists (BABJ) and the Washington Association of Black Journalists (WABJ).

WABJ members served as panelists for 60 of 121 conference panels and sessions, covering everything from

voting rights and ICE raids to meteorology.

AFRO freelance writer Ashlee Banks also participated in a panel, titled “Art of the Political Newsletter.”

The sessions served as a time for journalists, young and old, to discuss the issues facing the industry and solutions to problems faced by reporters, editors and decision makers nationwide.

“Black Journalism and Public Policy: Power, Accountability and Narrative” was held Aug. 14 and moderated by Charlyn Stanberry, vice president of government relations at the National Association of Broadcasters. The panel featured Marcus Childress, member of the House Judiciary Committee; Mignon Clyburn,

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commissioner of Federal Communications Commission; Kristal High, founder of nFluence; and Breon Wells, founder of The Daniel Initiative.

“The gap between policy on paper and policy and practice is where journalism lives,” said Clyburn. “It’s where public harm can happen when journalism falls short. While policy may set the rules, the media helps to determine who knows the rules and whether the rules matter.”

Panel members addressed the importance of media in civil rights policy, specifically referencing the Sept. 15, 1955, edition of Jet Magazine, which showcased the brutal killing of Emmett Till.

Continued on A5

A2 The Afro-American August 22, 2026 - August 28, 2026

WHAT’S TRENDING ON AFRO.COM

Family of Tupac Shakur step out of courtroom while others stay to face autopsy photos how many times his cousin was shot and can’t help but think of the ways the night could have played out differently.

Seeing the photos of Shakur’s body made him feel “Very angry, very angry, to say the least, very sad,” Akinyela said.

By Jessica Hill

Some members of Tupac Shakur’s family stepped out of the courtroom Aug. 18 before prosecutors showed photos from his autopsy at the Las Vegas trial of the man charged in the killing of the rap giant.

Others remained in the courtroom to face the grim facts of what happened to his body.

The grisly photos came on the second day of testimony in the trial of 63-year-old Duane “Keffe D” Davis, who is charged with orchestrating the 1996 drive-by shooting in Las Vegas.

He has pleaded not guilty and his lawyer in opening statements called the prosecution’s narrative “fiction.”

Dr. Lisa Gavin, a forensic pathologist and medical examiner for Clark County, Nev., described Shakur’s injuries and explained his cause of death.

Jurors were shown photos of his body. Some relatives who remained in the courtroom looked away.

Tupac’s family in the Las Vegas courtroom

Shakur’s cousin Zayd Akinyela said he wanted to stay

What the forensic pathologist said about the gunshots AP Photo/Frank Wiese, File

Rapper Tupac Shakur still today is remembered for the passion he poured into his music. in court to learn more.

“I feel like the details, especially for people that are close to him, honestly for me helps, helps the grief process. I think we’ve been waiting 30 years to grieve properly,” Akinyela told The Associated Press outside the courtroom. “A lot of people don’t get to grieve until they understand what happened to their loved one and how it happened.” He added, “That’s why I wanted to stay and just see for my own personal closure.”

He said he hadn’t known

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Gavin described three bullets.

One of them caused his lung to collapse and bleed, and doctors ultimately removed the damaged lung in an effort to save his life, she said.

Additional bullets damaged his intestines and other parts of his body, she said.

Jurors looked intently at the photos of Shakur’s body, which was bloated and had multiple chest wounds. The nearly full courtroom was silent. Chest tubes were still in his body from the six days he spent in the hospital before dying. .

Gavin was not at Shakur’s 1996 autopsy but was called as a witness because the examiner who performed it has since died.

Surveillance video of a clash before the drive-by shooting

Prosecutors allege Shakur was killed in retaliation for an attack on Davis’ nephew, Orlando “Baby Lane” Anderson.

The altercation with Anderson, which took place inside of the MGM Grand, occurred just hours before Shakur was shot on Sept. 7, 1996.

Days later, on Sept.13, 1996, Shakur died at the age of 25.

Jurors were shown the casino surveillance video of a group of people beating and kicking someone on the ground.

The video then showed Shakur and his entourage moving quickly through the crowded building in the minutes after.

A few hours later, Shakur, riding in a black BMW with hip-hop mogul Marion “Suge” Knight, was gunned down by shots fired from a white Cadillac

Steve Marcus/Pool Photo via AP

Duane Davis listens as Brent Becker, a retired Las Vegas Metro Police Department homicide detective, testifies by video feed during his murder trial, related to the 1996 killing of rapper Tupac Shakur. that had Davis, Anderson and two other men inside. Davis is not accused of pulling the trigger.

‘Hostile’ witness refuses to revisit the past

After many technical and procedural witnesses, James McDonald brought both hostility and humor to the stand when he testified unwillingly under a court order.

McDonald, like Knight, had been affiliated with the Mob Piru Bloods gang, and worked security for Knight at his Club 662, where Shakur and Knight had been headed when they were fired on. Davis was a member of the rival South Side Compton Crips.

Asked by Chief Deputy District Attorney Binu Palal if he was aware of why Anderson was beaten, he wouldn’t say.

“I’m aware of a lot of things,” McDonald said, “Things that was going on, people ain’t talked about them in 30 years.

Today ain’t one of them.”

He said, “Me or anybody else bringing up the dead is wrong… you’d better treat me as a hostile witness.”

McDonald said he wanted to avoid answering questions that will hurt Davis, even saying the questions Sanft asked were not in his client’s best interest.

He directly addressed the defendant. “What you’re going

through, brother, is what you’re going through,” McDonald said, adding “I didn’t want to be a part of it.” Davis had no visible reaction.

But McDonald also brought several moments of levity.

Asked if there were specific fights or disputes he could remember regarding the gang rivalry, McDonald said, “Are you serious?!” and laughter broke out in the courtroom.

After the testimony concluded, McDonald said prosecutors wanted him to say that he saw Davis and others pull up to Club 662 that night and why Anderson was beaten up at the MGM Grand.

“I’m not gonna send another Black man to prison,” McDonald told reporters the evening of Aug. 18.

Death Row security officer chronicles Bad Boy rivalry

Reggie Wright Jr., a former Compton police officer who owned a security company that was contracted by Knight’s Death Row Records, detailed the way tension had grown between the label and Sean “Diddy” Combs’ Bad Boy Records leading up to the Shakur shooting.

He said he had doubled Shakur’s security guards after he released the video for “Hit ‘Em Up,” one of the most vicious

diss tracks in the history of hiphop, aimed at Bad Boy’s Notorious B.I.G., who was killed six months later. The night Shakur was shot, however, he had only one security guard.

Wright said Shakur was on his way to perform at a charity event at Club 662. Shakur was on probation for California weapons and assault convictions.

After the shooting, Wright went to University Medical Center where Shakur was taken, and said a crowd was gathering there. He called his father, who worked in the Compton Police Department’s gang division, to tell him about the brawl and shooting, and warned him that trouble could be coming there.

Wright testified that he received Shakur’s ashes after he was cremated, and saw that they got to Shakur’s family.

Wright has long been among those rumored to be involved in Shakur’s killing.

Palal asked him if he had anything to do with it.

“Absolutely not,” Wright replied.

See more on AFRO.com This article was originally published by The Associated Press (AP).

AP Writer Rebecca Boone contributed from Boise, Idaho and AP Entertainment Writer Andrew Dalton contributed from Los Angeles.

Arrests mark Moral Monday’s shift from Washington to the states

By Rev. Dorothy S. Boulware Word in Black After weeks of praying, protesting, and getting arrested in the shadow of the U.S. Capitol, Bishop William J. Barber II says the next battle for America’s democracy won’t be fought in Washington.

Instead, the Moral Mondays campaign will shift from confronting Congress to mobilizing millions of infrequent voters on the streets, in church basements, on neighborhood sidewalks, and at polling places across the country.

The new phase of the campaign, however, began Aug. 3 with Barber and several clergy members arrested inside the Hart Senate Office Building.

They were detained after Senate Majority Leader John Thune declined to meet with Barber and other faith leaders who wanted to discuss the SAVE America Act and other legislation they say disproportionately harms poor and low-income Americans.

‘Vision of justice’

The demonstration and arrests

officially launched 100 Days; 1,000 Marches to the Polls, a nationwide voter mobilization effort that moves Moral Monday into communities across the country ahead of the Nov. 3 midterm elections.

In a statement, Barber said the movement’s demonstration in Thune’s office was about confronting injustice, not instigating a spectacle.

“We are not supposed to turn a deaf ear and look the other way,” Barber said. “We are called to be in the public square, as it says in scripture, to go down to the leader’s house and offer a vision of justice and love not rooted in what’s left and right but what is right and wrong.”

The demonstration followed weeks of Moral Monday gatherings in Washington led

by Repairers of the Breach, the social justice organization Barber founded. Since early summer, clergy, labor leaders, voting-rights advocates and directly impacted people have gathered weekly to challenge what they describe as policies harming poor and working-class families.

Those concerns have included

YouTube/Repairers of the Breach

The arrests of Bishop William J. Barber II, center, and other protesters inside the Hart Senate Office Building on Aug. 3 marked the beginning of Moral Monday’s next chapter. Faith leaders plan to shift from confronting Congress to organizing voters in communities nationwide. voting rights, affordable health care, living wages, immigration, poverty and military spending — issues organizers consistently frame as moral rather than partisan questions.

Marching to polls

Monday’s action marked the campaign’s pivot.

Rather than continuing weekly demonstrations in Washington, organizers are calling on participants to return to their home states and build local grassroots movements leading up to Election Day. “We don’t need a march

on Washington,” Barber said.

“We need to march to the polls in the states to change Washington.”

According to Repairers of the Breach, organizers hope to mobilize 5 million low-wage voters, including at least 1 million Black men, particularly in Southern and battleground states. The effort will rely on peer-to-peer texting, phone banking, neighborhood canvassing, voter education and more than 1,000 locally organized Marches to the Polls.

Read more on AFRO.com

August 22, 2026 - August 28, 2026 The Afro-American A3

2026 Black Business Expo Continued from A1 up, the more it leads to stronger communities. It feeds our core vision and purpose at SECU, which is about people helping people.”

Smith served as one of the judges for the EXPO’s “Power Pitch” Competition.

The theme of this year’s EXPO was “Powering Prosperity In The Age Of AI.” Draper said this year’s theme directly impacts business owners.

“Prospering in the age of AI is our topic for today, but technology is always changing. As a business [we] can use AI to really grow, scale and to have some systems that will work for us, and help us be more efficient,” she said.

A panel discussion with AI experts was a key draw of the event. Panelists informed business owners on how to utilize AI as a helpful tool for developing their business models, creating content for social media and what AI could look like in the future.

“AI can help you with marketing, emailing your clients

and can help you with creating a newsletter to stay engaged with your clients,” said panelist Veronica Dunlap, founder and CEO of Lunema LLC. Dunlap said AI can specifically aid Black business with becoming more productive in the future—especially given the other challenges faced.

“What we know is that Black businesses don’t get as much investment as a lot of other mainstream companies,” she said. “What that means is that there are [fewer] funds available to hire team members. In order to maximize AI for your business as a Black business owner, you can use the free version of AI tools to help do things like organize your client list, and for marketing and promotion for your business.”

Dunlap said business owners who use AI for daily tasks can save not only time, but also money. Entrepreneurs who use AI are able to put more energy into building their business so they are “prepared to scale up in the future.”

Aside from the panel discussion, the EXPO displayed a variety of products and services

AFRO Photo / Stephen Hopkins

Shown here, Shawn Boyd (left), Tyree Hudson and Katina Robinson Wright at the sixth annual Black Business EXPO.

AFRO Photo / Stephen Hopkins

Hyacinth Tucker, founder and CEO of “Laundry Basket,” wins the Power Pitch Competition with her AI subscription-based service that assists with laundry services, and makes the hassle of doing laundry simpler for major corporations and local citizens. from business owners in the Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia area. Attendees were able to learn directly from prominent African-American business leaders and network.

“I felt extremely privileged,” said Samantha Potts, an attendee. “I now feel extremely

AFRO Photo/ Alexis Taylor

Matthew Versaggi (left), White House presidential innovation fellow in artificial intelligence (AI); Veronica Dunlap, founder and CEO of Lunema LLC and Dr. Tyrone Thompson, AI government lead and IT modernization expert, speak with Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper (right), CEO and publisher of AFRO News, on the implications of AI during the sixth annual Black Business EXPO.

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informed, less fearful of AI, and I’m ready to move on it.”

Once again, the “Sip and Say” portion of the event proved popular for attendees, as they were able to taste test offerings from Black-owned wine distributors and distilleries.

Shawn Boyd, senior executive of Legacy Partners Distribution, a minority-owned and women-led distribution company, spoke on the importance of representation within the distillery community.

“As a population who are 30 to 40 percent of the consumers of the sealed spirits, we need to choose what we’re putting into our bodies as far as alcohol is concerned,” she said. “Being conscious about the all natural qualities of our spirits is something that we would like to get out there so that we’re not ingesting toxins that are really apparent in a lot of the mainstream brands. We should have something in this [billion-dollar] industry that represents us, looks like us and is made for us.”

Boyd said Legacy Partners Distribution delivers quality spirits that are “just as good, if not better, than the mainstream brands.”

“What we need is the support from our folks first and then we can branch out to other folks, but if we do not support each other, then we’ll never grow as

a people,” she said.

According to the Department of Small and Local Business Development, nationally, “Black-owned small businesses represent about 3 percent of all classifiable firms, despite the Black population making up 14 percent of the U.S. population.

This disparity underscores the need for more support and opportunities for Black entrepreneurs.”

As a final highlight of the night, the “Power Pitch Competition” returned. The panel of judges consisted of Danae Stewart, the regional director for Howard University and PNC Mid South’s Regional Center for Entrepreneurship at Morgan State University; Joseph Wells, the co-director of Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program in Baltimore and Toby Smith. All three judges heard from three entrepreneurs with pitches for businesses that would rely on AI in their daily operation.

The third-place winner of the competition was Eean Logan, the founder of “I Got Drive,” a driving school and foundation aimed at mentorship. The endeavor uses AI to help aspiring drivers and aims to close the transportation gap in Baltimore.

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State student Aniya Keene took second

place with “Testpatient,” a venture that would use AI to assist locals with finding nearby dental care.

Both the second- and thirdplace winners won a business consultation from SECU, an AI consultation and a $750 check.

The first-place winner of the Power Pitch competition was Hyacinth Tucker, founder and CEO of “Laundry Basket,” an AI subscription-based service that assists with laundry services, and makes the hassle of doing laundry simpler for major corporations, as well as local citizens.

Tucker won an interview with WBAL TV, a $1,000 advertisement budget from WEAA radio, a marketing consultation from WEAA Radio, an AI business consultation with Matthew Versaggi and Dr. Tyrone Thompson, a SECU “Maryland Executive Concierge Business Service” package, and the AFRO Media Group’s “Winner’s Business Growth” package, which is a 12 month digital growth package worth $15,000 and a $1,000 check.

“It is amazing that people understand why we do what we do, and understand the mission.

It was a wonderful feeling,” Tucker said. “This is a place for us to come together, learn, meet each other and network, so this was a great experience.”

A4 The Afro-American August 22, 2026 - August 28, 2026

COMMENTARY

The Black August legacy: Continuing the work of Black freedom fighters

By Monifa Bandele The evidence is here: Federal troops on the streets of Washington, D.C., and throughout the United States; relentless attacks on Black political power; public education dismantled; attacks on organized labor; books banned; Black history erased; healthcare pulled from millions of people; the criminalization of protestors; record high numbers of people killed by police and ICE raids.

George Jackson stated it clearly 54 years ago, “… fascism is here … .”

Black people in America have to tell our own history, especially now, as the entire project of telling the truth is under attack. The radical right-wing forces in the United States government are determined to crush our movements, criminalize our leaders, gut our hard-won voting rights protections, eliminate the holidays and commemorations we fought hard for, and edit our history right out of the textbooks. We

Photo courtesy of BlackPressUSA

Monifa Bandele is on the leadership team for the Policy Table for the Movement for Black Lives (M4BL), where she represents the ecosystem member, the Malcolm X Grassroots Movement. refused to be erased. We will fight to protect and expand the days and months dedicated to naming and celebrating all Black history.

Black August is a month that commemorates and recommits our communities to radical resistance. It honors the life, leadership and legacy of George Jackson, murdered by prison guards in August

of 1971. It also demands that we free our political prisoners and celebrate our freedom fighters often erased from the pages of mainstream media and dialogue about Black history.

Founded 46 years ago by Khatari Goulden and other activists held prisoner in California’s prison system, the month is a time to reflect and learn about the legacies of Black revolutionaries and rededicate ourselves to the protracted struggles against white supremacy, colonialism, capitalism and imperialism.

In 1979, the Black August Organizing Committee, through revolutionary leaders like Mama Ayanna Mashana, brought Black August to communities beyond the prison walls to commemorate how we resist oppression every day as part of a continuum of freedom fighting.

This year’s Black August serves as an anchor for the coming months, which will inevitably require our resistance. This August, a lecture series called Black August

Sessions was launched with hopes that it will eventually become a permanent educational and cultural resource.

The objective is not simply to document Black August but to create a living archive that continues advancing the work of the movement throughout the year.

Black people know fascism.

We are the descendants of generations of people whose lives and movements were controlled by violent, ruthless, state-sanctioned institutions.

We had no legal authority over our own bodies. By law, we could not vote, protest, learn, have families, or live free. We did not have the basic rights afforded human beings.

Through military agents of the government and white slavers backed by the laws of the nation, any opposition to our oppression, attempts to end our enslavement, or organized political dissent to white supremacists’ rule over our bodies was violently and brutally suppressed. We remember that even post-chattel slavery, after we defeated the old systems,

new institutions sprang up to continue the project of our forced labor, subjugation and mass incarceration. We remember because our parents and grandparents lived through it. We remember because 1965 wasn’t that long ago. And, we remember because the fights continue as the institutions that force or exploit our labor continue. We remember because the state is still killing us.

Black people fight fascism.

Black August tells the story of those freedom fighters who used every tool available.

It celebrates the births of Mutulu Shakur (August 1950) and Marcus Garvey (August 1887). It tells the story of the Nat Turner Rebellions (August 1831) and the Haitian Revolution (August 1791) to the Watts Uprisings (1965) and the beginnings of the Attica Rebellion at the Manhattan House of Detention (August 1971).

It acknowledges the Ferguson Rebellion (2014), salutes the Montgomery Boat Brawl (August 2023) and tells the story of a people who refuse oppression and demand freedom by

any means necessary.

Black people refuse to concede the future. We just witnessed widespread racist gerrymandering and the politically motivated and unconstitutional gutting of the Voting Rights Act, which Black people made possible to secure our political participation. Now is not the time to give up or give in to these attacks on our rights. Black people have always carried the fight for human rights, social and racial justice and freedom while being under constant attack. Whether it is the FBI’s COINTELPRO campaign of the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s, where Black leaders and organizations were identified as threats to America and targeted for death and distraction, or last month’s “Cuba Report” by Marco Rubio, where Blackled organizations, authors and leaders are being criminalized as domestic terrorists, we fight on. We affirm our right to vote, self-defense and collective self-determination.

See full story on AFRO.com

There’s a storm brewing around election integrity

By Rev. Peter Johnson I grew up in Plaquemine, La., where the older folks could tell you it was going to rain before there was a cloud in the sky.

As a little boy, I would hear one of them say, “A storm is coming.” I would run outside, look up at a bright blue sky and come back convinced they were wrong. “There’s not a cloud out there,” I would say.

They would smile and answer, “Baby, you haven’t lived long enough yet.” Before the day was over, the wind would shift. The air would get heavy.

Dark clouds would gather, and the rain would come pouring down. Back then, I thought they had some kind of magic.

Now, I understand. They had experience. They had survived enough storms to recognize the signs before anyone else could.

Well, I am one of the older people now, and I feel a storm coming. It is gathering around something called election integrity.

Let me be clear: I believe elections should be secure.

Every lawful vote should be

Courtesy photo

Drawing on a lifetime of civil rights experience, Rev. Peter Johnson warns of a gathering storm around election security, urging Black voters to stay vigilant, organized and engaged. protected, every voting system should be trustworthy, and every American should have confidence in the process.

But Black folks have heard the language of “election integrity” before. We have heard words like “order,” “protection,” and “security” used to

justify poll taxes, literacy tests, intimidation and exclusion.

We know that sometimes the words sound reasonable while the results fall hardest on our communities.

That is why we must pay attention not only to what is being said, but also to what is being done.

President Donald Trump says he wants stronger election security. But at the same time, his administration has taken actions that critics say weaken independent election oversight, reduce confidence in federal election institutions and place greater pressure on the systems that help protect fair elections.

That contradiction should trouble us. You cannot claim to strengthen the roof while removing the beams that hold it up.

The bipartisan U.S. Election Assistance Commission was created after the disputed 2000 presidential election to help states improve election administration, certify voting systems and assist local officials. When the leadership of such an agency is weakened, every citizen

should ask whether public confidence is being protected or endangered.

Black Americans, especially, cannot afford to be casual about that question. Our people did not stumble into the voting booth. We marched there. We prayed there. We bled there. We buried people on the road there.

I remember men and women standing in courthouse lines knowing they could lose their jobs, be threatened, humiliated, or turned away. Some dressed in their Sunday clothes because they believed registering to vote was sacred work.

They were not only fighting for the right to cast a ballot.

They were fighting for the right to trust that the ballot would count. That trust is fragile.

Once people lose faith in elections, every defeat becomes fraud, every victory becomes suspicious, and every political opponent becomes an enemy.

Democracy cannot survive long under those conditions.

As a minister, I learned that accountability strengthens trust. Pastors should not count the offering alone.

Finance committees review the books. Trustees examine expenditures. Auditors ask hard questions. That does not weaken the church. It protects the church.

The same is true for elections. Independent oversight is not the enemy of election integrity. It is part of election integrity.

Black voters should also be cautious when politicians raise fears about widespread voter fraud without producing evidence that matches the alarm.

History tells us that imaginary threats have often been used to create very real barriers.

We have seen laws presented as neutral that made it harder for elderly people, students, working families and communities of color to vote. That is why this moment requires wisdom, not panic.

We should register. We should verify our registration.

We should learn the laws. We should vote early when possible. We should help our elders reach the polls. We should watch local election boards, state legislatures and federal

agencies. Most of all, we should refuse to surrender our trust blindly to any politician or political party.

The old folks in Plaquemine taught me to pay attention before the rain started. They noticed the wind. They felt the pressure change. They recognized what others ignored.

I hope I am wrong about this storm. I pray that our elections remain free, fair and trusted. But I have lived long enough to know that rights can be weakened while people are distracted, and institutions can be damaged while leaders insist they are being protected.

Black America must not be caught without an umbrella.

Our ancestors paid too much for the ballot. Our children have too much at stake. This is the hour to stay awake, stay informed, stay organized and keep voting.

The clouds may not be visible yet. But the wind is already changing. There’s a storm coming.

This commentary was originally published by BlackPressUSA.

Beyond renting: Unlocking the door to generational wealth in Maryland

By Janet Currie In Baltimore, home is more than just a place to rest our heads. It is the anchor of our communities, the foundation of our neighborhoods, and historically, the most powerful vehicle for building family wealth.

In our communities, the weight of housing costs is heavy. According to U.S. Census data, more than half of Baltimore renters are spending at least 30 percent of their income on rent. In predominantly Black neighborhoods like Greater Rosemont and Johnston Square, that number climbs past 50 percent. When half of your paycheck goes directly to a landlord, the room to breathe, save and plan for the future is squeezed.

True economic

Courtesy photo

Janet Currie serves as president of Bank of America Greater Maryland. empowerment requires us to shift the conversation from simply managing housing affordability to actively building wealth. But recent data from Bank of America’s Homebuyer Insights Report reveals a striking paradox. While more than half of prospective buyers are optimistic about the market,

they are held back by a lack of confidence and financial anxiety. Over half cite high home prices and 38 percent are waiting for increased income before making their next move.

Perhaps most telling: 53 percent of prospective buyers say they do not understand how homebuying grant programs work. This is a critical gap. The reality is that substantial, transformative financial assistance is available right now in Maryland and these are grants that do not need to be repaid.

Through Bank of America’s Community Homeownership Commitment®, we are working to close this confidence and wealth gap by putting real capital into the hands of first-time and low-to-moderate-income buyers. In many of our local Maryland communities, eligible

homebuyers can access up to $17,500 in combined grants to buy a home: • The Down Payment Grant Program: Offers eligible buyers 3 percent of the purchase price (up to $10,000) to assist with the upfront down payment.

• America’s Home Grant®: Provides a lender credit of up to $7,500 to cover non-recurring closing costs, like title insurance and recording fees, or to buy down the mortgage interest rate.

These are not loans; they are grants designed to tackle the two steepest hills a buyer must climb: the upfront down payment and the hidden costs of closing.

If you have dreamed of

owning a home but assumed it was financially impossible, I urge you to take three steps to reassess your path: 1. Investigate the Assistance: You do not have to save tens of thousands of dollars on your own. Use online resources like our Down Payment Center to see what federal, state and bank grants you qualify for.

2. Lean on Digital Tools: Platforms like the Bank of America Real Estate Center® allow you to search local listings and automatically flag properties that are pre-qualified for down payment and closing cost grants.

3. Start the Conversation Early: Do not wait until you have the perfect

credit score or a massive savings account to speak with a specialist. Investigate a HUD-approved counseling agency that can prepare you for the new challenges of being a homeowner and speak with a local lending officer early in your journey.

They can help you map out your budget, explain your options and build a personalized plan to get you mortgage-ready.

Homeownership is a journey, but you do not have to walk it alone. By demystifying the mortgage process and taking advantage of the resources available today, we can open new doors, build lasting wealth and strengthen the fabric of Maryland for generations to come.

The opinions on this page are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the AFRO. Send letters to The Afro-American ∙ 233 E. Redwood Street, Suite 600G Baltimore, MD 21202 or fax to 1-877-570-9297 or e-mail to editor@afro.com

August 22, 2026 - August 28, 2026 The Afro-American A5

O.J. Brigance Continued from A1 as senior adviser for player engagement with the Ravens, a job he started in 2004.

Brigance is the only player to win a Canadian Football League title and a Super Bowl championship for a team in the same city, Baltimore.

“While winning CFL and NFL championships are great personal remembrances, I wouldn’t say any of these events define me,” he said. “Rather, they are part of an accumulation of life events which catapulted me to do what God wanted me to accomplish. If you were to remove any of

NABJ Continued from A1 “The mothers decision to not only have an open-casket funeral, but also the Black journalist’s decision to publish it is what’s important,” said High. “Black journalists are history keepers. If we don’t tell our story, no one else will. The story is what dictates the policy.”

Public policy issues surrounding affordable housing, voting rights, college admissions and access to health care remain ongoing concerns within the Black communities.

“If there’s something that needs to be fixed in your local community or even the national level, write about it,” said Childress. “Investigative journalism is needed on it. I don’t think journalists realize the power in what they do.”

As trust in government weakens, the conversation called on journalists to bridge the gap between communities and credible information.

“Local journalists actually have the most credible answer in a time where folks are

those events, I wouldn’t be the same person or have the position of influence. With that being said, I consider the Brigance Brigade to be the most significant achievement of my life because of my ability to touch the lives of others.”

Brigance said his career as a professional football player — he played linebacker and on special teams — helped prepare him for the fight against ALS. “Many people think football is all about strength and physical ability,” Brigance said in a 2012 interview with The Associated Press.

“While these are integral parts of one’s success, the fortitude, discipline and the desire necessary to play the sport are characteristics that are readily transferrable to everyday life.”

questioning the government,” said Wells. “Part of my fear, both from a policy standpoint, politically, is that we underestimate the task we’re going to have to dig ourselves out of. The reason why credibility matters even as we’re talking about these storms is because the average voter, the average person, is now second guessing everything. They don’t trust their politicians, elected officials, private sector entities, because everybody has a gimmick.”

Students, educators and seasoned journalists also attended conversations on the integration of AI in curriculums and newsrooms, including “From the Classroom to Newsroom: Powering Next Generation Digital First Journalists” on Aug. 15.

Kim Betton, veteran television anchor, moderated the discussion with Donna Walker, former president of WABJ; Natasha Copeland, NBC4 Washington journalist; Eugenia Ricks, assistant station manager of WCLK 91.9 Atlanta; and Tony Betton Jr., director of programs and communications at Usher’s New Look.

As the way news

consumption changes, the requirements for hiring in newsrooms will include experience with social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok. “There was a time where people would rush home just to catch the news,” said Copeland. “The difference is that now, you don’t have to go looking for news, it finds you.

It’s on your feed. We’re not dumbing it down, we’re just repackaging it. The packaging may have changed but verifying trust and knowing your community is what matters.”

Despite reluctance to AI technology, the skills are becoming crucial within journalism roles. According to Stanford University Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence, people are acquiring AI skills outside formal education and advertising AI skills in their resumes.

“Artificial intelligence is affecting journalism and we’re trying to prepare students in that vein,” said Colin Campbell, multimedia journalism professor at Morgan State University. “We’ve been looking into different tools that are out there, understanding the power of prompts and how we can

Orenthial James Brigance was born Sept.

29, 1969, and played in college at Rice in his hometown of Houston. He began his professional career in 1991 as a linebacker for the British Columbia Lions. He played three seasons with BC, making 20 sacks in 1993, before joining the Baltimore Stallions. In his second season in Baltimore, the team won the 1995 Grey Cup. In 1996, Brigance was signed by the Miami Dolphins as a free agent. He was twice voted a team captain during his four seasons there and was the Ed Block Courage Award recipient in 1999. He was honored with the NFL Players Association’s “Unsung Hero Award” that same season.

Brigance’s lone season with Baltimore was

2000. He had a team-high 10 tackles on special teams during Baltimore’s playoff run, which ended with a 34-7 win over the New York Giants in the Super Bowl.

Brigance played for the St. Louis Rams in 2001 and 2002, and his final game was with New England in 2002.

“I am devastated and at a loss for words. O.J. was one of the most genuine, sincere people I have ever known,” Ravens executive vice president Ozzie Newsome said. “From the moment he arrived in Baltimore, you could feel his energy.

His amazing smile, welcoming nature and infectious personality made everyone around him feel like family.”

See more on AFRO.com

AFRO Photo / Kendra Bryant

Kristal High (left), Breon Wells, Mignon Clyburn and Marcus Childress speak on an NABJ panel session, titled “Black Journalism and Public Policy: Power, Accountability and Narrative,” with moderation by Charlyn Stanberry (right). incorporate that into storytelling. It’s about understanding how media affects individuals, society and then building upon that into responsible and ethical storytelling.”

This year marked Errin Haines’ first convention as NABJ president. Haines participated in several discussions and hosted award ceremonies, including the Salute to Excellence Awards.

The awards recently made headlines after ESPN sports commentator Stephen A. Smith earned one of five Thumbs Down Awards handed out by NABJ. Smith earned his title for

“disparaging” commentary about Black women in the past year.

Smith called the award a “personal hit job” and questioned its connection to journalism. Haines later appeared on “The Roland Martin Show” to discuss the organization’s decision.

“It is in the spirit of our bold and visionary founders and past presidents that I felt that it was important to talk about this now,” said Haines.

“We’re looking at the forces that make it harder for Black journalists to do their jobs and harder for Black communities to be covered fairly and fully.

This includes influential commentators whose rhetoric can reinforce harmful narratives about Black people, particularly Black women.”

Haines said advocacy remains the foundation of her presidency, particularly on behalf of Black women journalists.

“That really is the spirit in which this award was bestowed not only on Stephen A. Smith, but the four other recipients that we chose to recognize this year,” said Haines.

NABJ has announced that the 2027 convention will be hosted in Houston, Texas, Aug. 4-8.

A6 The Afro-American August 22, 2026 - August 28, 2026

Members of Johns Hopkins’ trauma surgery team speak on historic moment

By Megan Sayles AFRO Staff Writer msayles@afro.com Johns Hopkins Hospital made history in February when an all-Black team of trauma and acute care surgeons staffed its service for the first time in the hospital’s history. The five physicians included Drs. Valentine S. Alia, Lawrence B. Brown, Ivy Mannoh, Zachary Obinna Enumah and Ifeoluwa Shoyombo.

As surgeons rotate on and off the service, the team’s composition has since changed. However, members of that original group—including Enumah, a trauma attending, and Brown, a chief resident, continue to care for trauma patients at Johns Hopkins.

For Enumah, the significance of the moment went beyond having five Black physicians working together. He said it underscored the power that representation can have for young people considering careers in medicine—particularly when they do not often see people who look like them

in these positions.

“When young Black students do not see people who look like them in positions of leadership or excellence, they may be discouraged,” said Enumah. “That isn’t to say that non-underrepresented minority (URM) individuals cannot serve as mentors and sponsors to URM students— quite the contrary. But it is a reminder that it is our joint responsibility to encourage, give back and provide mentorship and sponsorship opportunities for those early in the pipeline.”

The Association of American Medical Colleges reports that just 5.3 percent of active physicians were Black in 2024.

Enumah was born into the field. His mother was a family medicine doctor, while his father was a general surgeon.

Growing up, he heard stories about caring for patients on the margins.

His interest in trauma surgery was fueled by his appreciation for the immediate and tangible impact surgery can have on patients, especially those who arrive with

life-threatening injuries.

A typical week for a trauma surgeon or surgical trainee includes starting the day by checking on patients in the hospital, performing emergency surgeries, responding to patients brought in with serious injuries, seeing patients in clinic and remaining available to help with urgent surgical situations, like complex airways.

“Whether it be a terrible motor vehicle collision or a gunshot wound, the ability to meet a patient and within minutes have them trust in you and the health care system is a privilege,” said Enumah. “What is equally rewarding and humbling is meeting and speaking with families of our trauma and emergency general surgery patients—particularly when there is a favorable outcome.”

Brown, who is currently on the service as a chief resident, said the significance of the group was not merely in its shared identities but in the breadth of its academic experiences. Collectively, the doctors had two Ph.D.s and six master’s degrees.

Photo courtesy of Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

Drs. Valentine S. Alia (left), Lawrence B. Brown, Ivy Mannoh, Zachary Obinna Enumah and Ifeoluwa Shoyombo are all members of the first all-Black trauma and acute care surgical team at Johns Hopkins Hospital. The team came together as a team in February.

Despite coming from different backgrounds and educational paths, he said the group maintained a shared purpose: delivering the best care possible, supporting each other and helping develop the next generation of physicians.

“I hope our team’s visibility reminds young people that there is no single path or single image of what a surgeon looks like, and that excellence comes from bringing different perspectives together in service of our

patients,” said Brown.

For young people interested in medicine and surgery, Brown and Enumah shared a few pieces of advice.

Brown’s message was simple: keep going.

“If surgery is your dream, don’t let the fact that you don’t always see people who look like you in certain spaces convince you that you don’t belong there,” said Brown.

“Your presence matters. Your perspective matters. The experiences you’ve had and the community you come from

will make you a stronger physician and a stronger advocate for your patients.”

Enumah advised that they look for mentors and ask for help when they need it. He also stressed that setbacks are inevitable.

“Failure is a part of the process,” said Enumah.

“As many others have said: in life, success is never a straight line. It’s a winding maze or zig-zag where you learn a lot about yourself and a lot about the world as you go through.”

Temu or Shein could be hazardous to your health – especially if you’re Black

Fast-growing e-retailers Shein and Temu offer the latest fashions at impossibly low prices. But research shows Black consumers may be paying a price for looking good.

By Jennifer Porter Gore Word In Black Every day, hundreds of social media fashion influencers inundate TikTok, Instagram and YouTube with videos showing off eye-popping hauls from Temu, Shein, and other low-priced, fast-fashion brands. They film themselves ripping open packages crammed with skirts, shirts, and outfits — often sent free of charge — then model the goods for the camera, enticing other people to buy.

The most popular videos can attract hundreds of thousands of eyeballs; one fashion review alone can garner upwards of 100,000 likes, which can translate into major sales for the brands. For the Asian-based retailers of $10 blouses and $15 jeans, hungry to conquer the U.S. market, the posts are advertising gold.

But there’s ample evidence that those trendy, unbelievably-priced fashions come with a hidden price: potentially lethal chemicals clinging to your skin.

TikToker @PaulsLaw wants you to know about it — and calls out Temu and Shein, two of the hottest online retailers, as brands to avoid.

“Your skin is your largest organ, and it eats everything you put on it!” warns @ PaulsLAW.

He’s not wrong: scientists and public health experts are sounding the alarm about synthetic fabrics and chemical-based products commonly used in the fast-fashion industry. They say cheap clothing and goods are a fast-growing source of illness, from rashes and migraine headaches to breast and prostate cancer.

Unsafe but growing fast

That’s bad news for Black consumers: data shows Black people in general are at higher risk of contracting serious illnesses, and with worse outcomes, than whites. And many of Temu and Shein’s popular social-media fashion influencers are Black people.

Thanks to California’s Proposition 65, Shein and Beverly Hills-based Fashion Nova have been cited for selling products that contain a toxic chemical linked to cancer, birth defects and other reproductive harm. Daily fines for violating Proposition 65 can be up to $2,500 but there’s no evidence Shein was forced to pay the fine.

Last month, the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission called for an investigation into Shein and Temu — arguably the two most popular, fastest-growing, lowest-priced e-retailers — because of concerns that shoppers can buy baby and

toddler products that do not meet U.S. safety regulations.

In response, Temu told the commission it agrees customers should be protected.

“Our interests are aligned with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in ensuring consumer protection and product safety, and we will cooperate fully with any investigation,” a Temu spokesperson told ABC News. The company also said it requires all sellers “to comply with applicable laws and regulations, including those related to product safety.”

While the U.S. is slowly coming to grips with the issue, regulators in Asian and European countries are already taking steps to address it. They have penalized low-priced fashion retailers for selling products containing dangerous levels of toxic chemicals, including lead, formaldehyde and phthalates — man-made chemicals used to manufacture plastics.

Earlier this year, South Korean authorities accused Shein of selling a shoe line that contained 428 times the permitted levels of phthalates and lead. During regular inspections, Seoul authorities examined 93 Shein products and found that half of them are manufactured using toxic chemicals. Exposure to any amount of lead is dangerous

Unsplash / V H

Fast-fashion retailers Temu and Shein have faced scrutiny over concerns that some products may contain potentially harmful chemicals, including lead and phthalates. and the phthalates that make plastics more flexible have been linked to breast cancer, colon, and prostate cancer.

Shein and Temu sell everything from kitchen items, gadgets and baby gear to clothing for infants and adults. And while an estimated 97 percent of clothing sold in the U.S. is imported, there are no federal regulations limiting chemicals in those products.

Meanwhile, as Temu and Shein become more popular in the U.S., their American footprint keeps getting bigger.

Temu and Shein, respectively, are the top two downloaded shopping apps in the Apple Store, blowing past Target, Walmart, and Amazon. Both companies take in tens of billions of dollars in revenue per year.

‘Avoid at all costs’

A casual look on social media shows fast fashion is popular with Black Americans.

But the health risks may not be worth high style for low prices.

Black people are more likely to be diagnosed with cancer than any other U.S. demographic. They also have a lower overall five-year cancer survival rate than white Americans and are more likely to be diagnosed with female breast, lung, and colorectal cancers at later stages when the disease is harder to treat.

But it’s also clear that the warnings are breaking through. A search of “Shein and Temu toxic” on TikTok turns up hundreds of videos from posters talking to their followers about the investigations into toxic clothing.

Organizations like Australia-based Good On You are spreading the word about Shein and Temu, which are on their list of “10 Fast Fashion Brands We Avoid At All Costs.”

Environmental and health advocates recommend that consumers buy clothing made from natural fabrics, like cotton, wool, silk, or leather, rather than synthetic materials. Consumers looking to avoid toxic chemicals can check for third-party certification standards such as the Oeko-Tex Standard 100, Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), the EU Ecolabel, or the bluesign® certification.

Several influencers also warn consumers not to use skin care products the brands sell. One influencer, @ theshaniquadupree, puts on gloves when opening the product bag and tells viewers she will launder the clothing before she wears it.

“Y’all, I really like this outfit,” she jokes to her more than 56,000 TikTok followers. “But I like my ovaries so much more.”

This article was originally published by Word In Black.

August 22, 2026 - August 28, 2026 The Afro-American A7

More than just aesthetics: How Kaizen blends beauty and health

By Shawn Ware AFRO Intern sware@afro.com In May of 2026, Kaizen Beauty, a local luxury nail salon located on 339 North Charles St., brought an elevated and updated approach to self-maintenance to downtown Baltimore.

Ashleigh Brown, the owner of Kaizen Beauty, said it was a full circle moment. She started her journey as a nail technician in the dining room of her apartment.

“I’ve been doing my own nails since 2017 because of terrible experiences that I had in the nail salon that had me frustrated,” said Brown.

“I went on ‘YouTube University,’ taught myself, and then realized, I’m good at this.”

“After having all these bad experiences, I said, ‘Instead of complaining about something, let me be the change I want to see,’” Brown said.

“I realized that I’m not the only person who has these issues. So, based on that, I figured ‘Why not open a Black owned nail salon?”

“While I was still getting my

business administration degree, I enrolled in nail school … , graduated and got my license.”

The hard work didn’t stop there.

“I’ve had other careers as well, in property management,” she said.

“I worked at a small tech startup. I worked at a nonprofit as a director of training and marketing, but all those times, I still had my nail business.”

The notion of seeking change and wanting to improve aligns with the meaning of Kaizen, which Brown said is Japanese for “constant improvement through small changes.”

Brown developed Kaizen’s mission with the community in mind.

“The goal of Kaisen Beauty is not to just provide luxury nail care services, but to focus on the health and hygiene aspect of the nail industry because I do feel like along the years that has been lost,” she said. “The industry is a lot more focused on the aesthetics of it versus nail health, and we’re dedicated to ensuring that you don’t just have beautiful nails, but you have healthy nails.”

The opening of Kaizen Beauty was supported by the Downtown BOOST Program, which supplies

“Representation matters, and there’s definitely a whitewashing of luxury that happens quite a bit.”

-Ashleigh Brown, Owner of Kaizen Beauty

AFRO Photo/ Shawn Ware

Ashleigh Brown, owner of Kaizen Beauty, advocates for representation of Black women in the nail industry. At Kaizen Beauty, located on 339 North Charles St. in Baltimore, the importance of health is prioritized before beauty. grants to Black business owners, and entrepreneurs located within downtown Baltimore. Truist Bank and the Mayor’s Office of Recovery Programs also contributed to the opening. Kaizen is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on all days of the week, except Sunday.

Data USA, an organization that makes U.S. government data accessible to the public, states that “in 2024, 73.7 percent of the manicurists and pedicurists workforce were Asian.” Only 2.89 percent of manicurists and pedicurists were Black.

Brown said she doesn’t let the statistics scare her away from the industry.

“I’ve been doing this business since 2020,” she said. “I know what my market looks like. I had a long

waitlist for people that I couldn’t service and I was fully booked out three months in advance. It was just a matter of staying lean until I was able to scale.”

Brown said it’s important for Black people to see themselves in the nail industry.

“Representation matters, and there’s definitely a whitewashing of luxury that happens quite a bit.

I think social media teaches us that Black luxury is a thing now where you see a lot of women in elevated spaces, but it’s also often with proximity to whiteness,” she added.

“I want it to be a case where … you can romanticize and put luxury in small things, such as getting your services done in an environment that is tailored for you.”

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Aside from scaling her own business, Brown said she has plans for helping others.

“It’s important to me to teach the next generation, which is why next year, we’re going to be starting an apprenticeship program,” she said.

“Ideally, I’d love to start out with high school students.”

She’s also looking forward to offerings for members of the public.

“We are going to be launching business classes for other entrepreneurs that would assist them to get their businesses to a point where they are fundable and scalable,” she said. “And long term, I would love to own my second location, potentially do suites for other business owners and maybe [open] a supply store in the future.”

A8 The Afro-American August 22, 2026 - August 28, 2026

As school season begins, 47th president calls for a revised vaccine schedule

By Jennifer Porter Gore Word In Black President Donald Trump on Aug. 10 revived his attempt to change the nation’s approach to childhood vaccines by signing an executive order that would upend the routine schedule of jabs children receive in their early years.

Titled “Delivering Gold Standard Childhood Vaccine Recommendations for Americans,” the executive order calls for states to voluntarily implement an abbreviated vaccine schedule.

The order also calls for states to “break up” the all-in-one measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine children receive.

The change would reduce from 18 to 11 the number of diseases children currently are recommended to be vaccinated against during childhood. And by breaking up the standard two-dose regimen to deliver the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine, families would have to make more visits to doctors and health clinics to get each shot.

“For example, at one year, you should have five separate visits for vaccines rather than getting them all in the same day,” Trump said from the Oval Office.

The specter of autism is raised again

The combined MMR vaccine has been administered to infants since 1971. Public health experts also say there is no indication that spreading out the vaccines would benefit children.

In fact, several note that children are more likely to miss

doses by having to visit their doctors more often. The change also will require patients to meet additional co-pays for each visit and could increase other out-ofpocket costs.

During his comments on Aug. 10, the president implied that U.S. children receive far more vaccines compared to children in other countries, which is false. He also repeated the thoroughly debunked claim that vaccines, especially the MMR, are linked to autism.

An array of medical, public health and industry experts say Trump’s executive order is extremely unhelpful — especially with its release just as millions of children, teenagers and young adults prepare to return to school.

Increased number of measles cases

Already this year, measles cases have reached a 35-year high in the United States, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reporting measles outbreaks in 45 states and the District of Columbia.

As of Aug. 6, more than 2,400 confirmed measles cases have been reported, with about 1,670, or 60 percent, of the cases striking youths ages 19 and under.

Roughly 93 percent of those affected were unvaccinated, or their vaccination status was unknown, according to the CDC. Ten percent of children under age 5 were hospitalized, according to the statistics.

In a statement, Dr. Andrew D. Racine, president of the

American Academy of Pediatrics, condemned Trump’s order, pointing to “dozens of studies involving millions of people” that disprove the link between autism and vaccines. “[This] executive order is not based on ‘gold-standard science,’” Racine said, adding that “there is no new evidence” to justify the decision. Yet Trump and others “continue to promote this outdated, disproven idea to scare families,” he said, even though “delaying or skipping shots is risky, especially as measles continues to spread and children go back to school.”

Last year, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Public Health Association, and several other medical groups sued Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his department over his decision to stop recommending COVID-19 vaccinations for children and pregnant women. The lawsuit was broadened to include Kennedy’s changes to other CDC childhood vaccine recommendations.

In March, a federal judge issued a preliminary injunction that prevents HHS from implementing those changes.

Some view Trump’s executive order as an attempt to skirt the injunction.

Earlier this year, at least 23 states said they planned to follow the American Academy of Pediatrics’ guidance for immunizations despite rollbacks

by Kennedy and HHS. Immunizations required for school attendance are set at the state and local level.

During the president’s announcement, Kennedy argued for removing vaccine mandates as requirements for attending school. He said the United States “recommended more childhood vaccines than any other peer nation,” while other countries achieve high rates of vaccination through “education, informed consent and public trust rather than mandates.”

In his statement, however, Racine stressed that the American Academy of Pediatrics’ immunization recommendations are “based on decades of research and systematic tracking of real-world experiences.” That includes timing the vaccines for specific ages, he said, “based on when children’s immune systems will respond best and when they are most vulnerable to certain diseases.”

Drug companies raise concerns

U.S. drug company representatives echoed his comments.

The current vaccine schedule “is built on decades of rigorous scientific research and public health expertise designed for the U.S. population,” Dr. Michael Ybarra, chief medical officer with Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, said in a statement. Changing it to match recommendations from foreign countries, he said, “would mean accepting a lower bar of protection against diseases that remain serious and, in some cases, life-threatening for children in the United States.”

Currently, there are no separate, actively licensed vaccines

Unsplash / Mathurin NAPOLY / matnapo

The 47th president’s new executive order seeks to shorten the childhood vaccine schedule and separate the MMR vaccine, drawing strong criticism from pediatric and public health experts. The move comes as measles cases reach a 35-year high, raising concerns about lower vaccination rates and increased risks for children. to prevent measles, mumps or rubella, according to PHRMA. On the same day the president issued the vaccine executive order, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America reiterated its guidance on the importance of several vaccines.

The nonprofit stressed that vaccines intended to protect against respiratory illness including COVID-19, influenza and RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, are health maintenance tools for people who have asthma.

“AAFA endorses the strong scientific evidence supporting the efficacy and safety of the approved vaccines in the U.S.,” the foundation said in a statement.

“There are over 28 million people in the U.S. who have asthma, and this includes about 5 million

children. Respiratory infections are a major cause of asthma exacerbations and emergencies.

Additionally, it is known that children who get sick with (RSV) infection have a higher chance of developing asthma, a lifelong condition.

“AAFA has and continues to recommend influenza, RSV, pneumococcal and COVID vaccines for people with asthma, or for those who come in close contact with those who have asthma.”Three million Black adults in the United States have asthma, making them one of the most affected populations in the nation. And roughly 1 million Black children have asthma, which is nearly twice the rate of white American children.

This article was originally published by Word In Black.

Schools leaders prepare to address distractions in the classroom

By Megan Sayles AFRO Staff Writer msayles@afro.com As schools across Maryland work to keep classrooms focused, educators and administrators are confronting a range of disruptions—from vaping and cellphone use to conflicts over politically-charged issues.

In Prince George’s County, school officials say vaping has become increasingly prevalent among students, while cellphone use is reaching younger grades. In Baltimore City, meanwhile, cellphone-related discipline incidents more than doubled during the 2025-26 school year.

“Vaping in general has increased.

I meet with security directors from around the country, and we’re all seeing the same thing,” said Gary Cunningham, director of safety and security for Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS). “At one time, it was just e-cigarettes. Now we’re seeing vape pens being used for marijuana use.”

Cunningham said the school system has been monitoring how use is changing. Last year, PGCPS recovered nearly 1,000 vapes.

“That’s primarily due to our clear and mesh book bag policies that we have in place,” said Cunningham.

“We’re protecting them, and once we recover them, we do make notification to the parents.”

PGCPS requires students in grades 9-12 to carry clear backpacks, while individual schools decide whether to require them for students in grades 6-8.

Cunningham said disciplinary action is handled on a case-by-case basis. Students found possessing a vape without using it may have the device confiscated without facing discipline, while students caught using

one may face disciplinary action. This can include a required 40-hour alcohol and drug education program.

If a student repeatedly violates the school’s policy on vapes, they could face suspension or other administrative sanctions.

When it comes to cellphone use, PGCPS does not have a districtwide policy. Instead, individual school leaders and teachers establish their own rules.

Though cellphone use among middle and high school students has remained steady, Cunningham said the district is seeing it extend into younger grades, including elementary schools.

He said he would prefer a districtwide ban on cellphone use during class, while still allowing students to use their devices between periods and during lunch.

“In meeting with security directors around the country, what they’ve talked about is that schools that do have the no cellphone use policy see advantages in less class disruptions and fewer fights,” said Cunningham.

“They also see test scores and grades increase.”

Political conflict has become another potential source of classroom disruption for schools across the country.

According to a 2022 study spearheaded by the Civic Engagement Research Group (CERG) and the UCLA Institute for Democracy, Education and Access (IDEA), 70 percent of high school principals reported substantial political conflict over issues such as race, LGBTQ students’ rights and book censorship.

Though some schools have seen students lead demonstrations and walkouts protesting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) policies and cuts to the U.S. Department of Education in recent years, Cunningham said PGCPS has not seen disputes

Unsplash / Sam Balye

Maryland schools are working to prevent and address classroom disruptions ranging from cellphone use and vaping to conflicts over political and social issues. among students over these issues.

“In Prince George’s County, we have not seen any political issues,” said Cunningham. “We do have student government classes, and they allow them to express themselves.”

In Baltimore City, the school system said it could not provide data on how many vaping incidents occurred during the last school year. However, the district noted that possession or use of tobacco products can result in an administrator intervention, a shortterm suspension or a referral response.

Baltimore City Public Schools (City Schools), however, maintains a districtwide cellphone policy that varies by school level. In prekindergarten through eighth grade, schools are required to collect students’ phones when they arrive and store them in a locked location for the school day.

High school students, meanwhile, are required to keep their phones locked in their lockers throughout the school day. Schools can request approval from the district’s Schools Office to use alternative methods for collecting and storing devices.

According to Sherry Christian, spokesperson for City Schools, there were 557 discipline incidents related to cellphone use during the 2025 to 2026 school year—up from 218 incidents over the previous year.

To assess the effectiveness of the district’s current cellphone policy, Christian said City Schools conducted focus groups and a survey, which gathered more than 2,100 responses from school-based staff during the 2025 to 2026 school year.

“More than three-quarters of respondents reported improved student focus and learning due to the prohibition of electronic devices, and more than half reported improvements in school climate, student engagement, conflict and stress,” said Christian. “Staff also reported improvements in classroom management, relationships with students and stress levels.”

As for political conflicts in classrooms, City Schools said it was unable to provide data on whether there have been increases in student disputes related to political or social issues in recent years.

However, the school system noted its Academics Office and Equity Office guide educators on best practices for facilitating discussions and creating inclusive environments, as well as tools for incorporating these principles into school curriculum.

Outside of district policies and disciplinary measures, school officials say addressing classroom disruptions requires the support of families. Cunningham said parents and guardians are often in a position to recognize changes in their children’s behavior or tensions in their personal lives that could affect how they show up in the classroom.

He urged them to stay engaged and take initiative when they believe school officials could benefit from information about what their children are experiencing.

“Parents know when their kids are having a bad day. They know if there’s been a disruption in the community.

They know some of that’s going to spill into the school,” said Cunningham. “If they let us know, then we can prepare for it.”

August 22, 2026 - August 28, 2026 The Afro-American A9

BALTIMORE AREA

LBS panel scrutinizes Sinclair’s influence on Baltimore politics

By Megan Sayles AFRO Staff Writer msayles@afro.com

Photo Courtesy of Dr. Charles Smith

Grand Daughter Ruler Margaret Scott (left), Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott and Grand Exalted Ruler Leonard Polk pose as Scott receives the Elijah P. Lovejoy Award during the Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks of the World’s 125th Grand Lodge and 121st Grand Temple International Convention in Baltimore.

Elks return to Baltimore

By Tavon N. Thomasson Special to the AFRO tthomasson@afro.com Baltimore is used to seeing purple, but from Aug. 7-14 the color floated around more than usual in the downtown Baltimore area, thanks to the Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks of the World (IBPOEW).

The organization returned to Baltimore’s Inner Harbor for the first time since 2017 to hold its 125th Grand Lodge and 121st Grand Temple International Convention.

“It’s a very important milestone in the history of our organization. We, the present Elks, stand on the shoulders of those Elks that have come before us,” said Grand Exalted Ruler Leonard Polk Jr.

Founded in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1898 by Arthur James Riggs and Benjamin Franklin Howard, who were granted a copyright for the fraternity, the IBPOEW was established to create an Elks society for people of color.

Since its founding, the organization and its lodges have been committed to community-focused charitable work.

What began with only a few members has grown into more than 500,000 members across 1,500 lodges worldwide as of 2026.

With this growth comes a heightened responsibility to address the evolving needs and modern challenges facing the communities the Elks have faithfully served for over a century.

“Not only are we being challenged in terms of making sure that the African-American community and communities of color are being served properly, but we’re also being challenged with economic policies that don’t necessarily match up with our communities,” Polk said.

“We are seeing some of the more affluent citizens of this country receive breaks and things of that nature,” he added. “On the other hand, we see families from middle and lower-income [households] that are adversely affected by the inflation that continues to be out of control.”

Polk also pointed to cuts to services for families in need and rising gas

prices as additional pressures facing lower-income communities.

“As it relates to the Elks, we understand those challenges, and that’s why we want to pay attention and try to make an impact in a community where we can make a difference,” Polk said.

The IBPOEW continues to impact local communities through its diverse charitable initiatives.

Local lodges and temples support their communities through a wide variety of charitable services, including student aid, scholarship opportunities, support for veterans, assistance for seniors and families in need, and programs to promote Continued on A10

17-year-old shooting victim dies nearly two weeks after Southwest Baltimore attack

By Megan Sayles AFRO Staff Writer msayles@afro.com Jada Sellers, a 17-year-old who sustained life-threatening injuries during a Southwest Baltimore shooting on July 31, died on Aug. 12.

Her family announced her passing in a Facebook post on Aug. 13, thanking the community for their support amid the trying period.

“Despite our best efforts and earnest prayers, we mournfully announce the passing of Jada Sellers, a daughter, sister, cousin and friend to many,” wrote Anthony J. Brown, cousin of Sellers, in the post. “On behalf of the family, we wish to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who extended themselves in support to Jada and to us during this difficult time.”

Sellers’ death comes after the Baltimore Police Department (BPD) announced that a shooting took place on the 700 block of Lyndhurst Street in Southwest Baltimore on July 31. According

Photo courtesy of Anthony J. Brown

The Baltimore Police Department is investigating the homicide of 17-year-old Jada Sellers, who died on Aug. 12 after sustaining life-threatening gunshot wounds during a July 31 shooting in Southwest Baltimore.

to BPD, officers discovered a young woman suffering from life-threatening gunshot wounds when they arrived on scene.

The woman was transported to an area hospital in critical condition and later identified as Jada Sellers, a student-athlete at Milford Mill Academy.

Sellers was hospitalized at the University of Maryland Medical Center for nearly two weeks before her death.

Milford Mill Academy Athletics honored Sellers’ memory in an Aug. 13 Instagram post, extending their condolences to the teenager’s family.

“Words cannot express our feelings during this unimaginable time,” wrote the post.

“Please keep her family in your thoughts and prayers.”

The homicide investigation remains open and active as BPD works to identify a suspect and motive. Metro Crime Stoppers is offering an $8,000 reward for anyone who can provide information that leads to charges and an arrest in the homicide.

Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle (LBS), a Baltimore-based grassroots think tank, hosted a virtual panel raising concerns about the impact of Sinclair Broadcast Group on the city’s political landscape on Aug. 6.

The panel comes amid a continued debate over the influence of Sinclair Chairman David D. Smith in Baltimore’s media landscape. Smith, who has led the company for decades, personally purchased The Baltimore Sun alongside political commentator Armstrong Williams in 2024. Sinclair owns Baltimore television station Fox 45.

During the conversation, panelists criticized Sinclair’s coverage of Baltimore, arguing that it contributes to negative perceptions of the city, Baltimore City Public Schools (City Schools) and Black youth while advancing a broader political agenda around public safety and criminal justice.

“The nature of Black folks being covered by the media generally has often undermined the humanity of people of African descent,” said Dayvon Love, LBS’ director of public policy. “What makes Sinclair Broadcasting and David Smith’s ownership of the Baltimore Sun more pernicious is that he and his media empire are actively engaged in the Maryland and Baltimore political landscape.”

Ashley Esposito, a Baltimore City school board member, discussed how Sinclair’s coverage has affected the public education system in Baltimore.

In 2017, Sinclair launched Project Baltimore, an investigative reporting initiative it says explores the unique challenges facing Baltimore City and Baltimore County school systems.

According to – Dayvon Love, LBS’ director of public information policy on Fox 45’s website, journalists examine budgets, school facilities, test scores, teacher pay, school violence and athletics among other elements of the education system.

The station describes the initiative’s goal as amplifying the voices of students, teachers and parents and taxpayers who want the best possible performance from their local school systems, while informing the public about how schools are operated, how students are educated and how tax dollars are spent.

Esposito said Fox 45 frequently focuses on negative aspects of City Schools and accused the station of selectively presenting data about student performance.

“A lot of the narrative is that we’re corrupt and that our kids can’t read, which is not true,” said Esposito. “They cherry pick data from our annual scores or report cards.”

According to 2026 data from the Maryland State Department of Education, 31 percent of Baltimore City students

“What makes Sinclair Broadcasting and David Smith’s ownership of the Baltimore Sun more pernicious is that he and his media empire are actively engaged in the Maryland and Baltimore political landscape.”

Continued on A10

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A10 The Afro-American August 22, 2026 - August 28, 2026

Jamar R. Brown takes helm of Enoch Pratt Free Library boards

By Megan Sayles AFRO Staff Writer msayles@afro.com Baltimore-based attorney Jamar R. Brown took over as the chair of the board of trustees and board of directors for the Enoch Pratt Free Library (EPFL) this summer. Brown has been a member of EPFL’s boards since 2020, including most recently serving as vice chair of the board of directors.

As chair, Brown will help oversee the governance and strategic direction of the library system, which encompasses 23 branches and two technology labs. He called the appointment an honor.

“The Pratt is one of Baltimore’s most cherished civic institutions, and I’ve been inspired by its impact as a community hub for learning, social resources and culture,” said Brown.

“It is a great personal and professional privilege to help steward this institution and advance its mission.

Ultimately, I view this as an opportunity to serve the community.”

Brown, a seasoned trial lawyer and appellate advocate, serves as a partner at Rosenberg Martin Greenberg, a business law firm located in downtown Baltimore. As a litigator, he said effective communication and advocacy have been cornerstones of his career. He plans to draw on those skills in his leadership at EPFL, particularly as he works to engage stakeholders and build support for

“It is a great personal and professional privilege to help steward this institution and advance its mission.”

– Jamar R. Brown, Chair of the Enoch Pratt Free Library’s Boards of Trustees and Directors

Photo courtesy of Enoch Pratt Free Library

Jamar R. Brown, a seasoned trial attorney and appellate advocate, is the new chair of the Enoch Pratt Free Library’s board of trustees and board of directors. His role began on July 1. the library system.

Brown’s current term will span three years.

“Jamar is an outstanding leader, and I have every confidence that he will guide the board with insight, integrity and enthusiasm,” said Christine Espenshade, immediate past chair of EPFL’s boards.

In recent years, EPFL has

navigated several transitions, including the appointment of a new CEO and president in September 2024 and the ratification of the system’s first-ever union contract in August 2025.

As the library continues to evolve, Brown said the boards’ top priorities include: strengthening and expanding partnerships with city and state

leaders, securing capital to address aging infrastructure and enhance safety across branches, and bolstering support for staff to ensure they can effectively serve the community.

For Brown, EPFL’s biggest areas of opportunity lie in deepening its role as a civic institution and connecting more Baltimore residents with the library system’s free

resources, services and programs.

“In the years ahead, I hope to work to ensure that the Pratt has the resources to continue to innovate to respond to ever-changing political, social and financial landscapes,” said Brown. “To me that primarily means developing a strong but broad coalition of people—both internally and externally—who are committed to and invested in Pratt’s rich legacy.”

AFRO Photo / Tavon Thomasson

Grand Exalted Ruler Leonard Polk Jr. speaks during the National Antlered Guard Drill Competition on Aug. 11 at the Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks of the World’s 125th Grand Lodge and 121st Grand Temple International Convention in Baltimore.

Elks

Continued from A9

youth development — some of which were featured directly at the convention.

James Chester, president of the Tri-State Association of Maryland, Delaware and the District of Columbia and an Elk of 31 years, shared how his lodge on Maryland’s Eastern Shore gives back to its community.

“We serve the community in several ways. We do dinners for the homeless about once every other month,” Chester said. “This past year, we gave back $150,000 to the churches, non-profit organizations, YMCA, Boys and Girls Club

and Meals til Monday.”

That commitment to charity was on full display during the convention, where the Elks’ youth department organized a backpack giveaway to support students. The event highlighted a core pillar of the organization’s overarching mission: youth development.

The convention featured numerous youth-focused events, including the National Antlered Guard Drill Competition, Beauty and Talent Pageant and the National Oratorical Contest.

For many participants, reaching the international convention is the culmination of a journey that begins in their local lodges, where the progressive level of competitions across fraternity fosters

AFRO Photo / Tavon Thomasson

Participants in the junior and senior divisions listen as winners are announced during the National Antlered Guard Drill Competition at the Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks of the World’s 125th Grand Lodge and 121st Grand Temple International Convention in Baltimore.

opportunities to build skills, confidence and relationships with other youth along the way.

“Some of the young ladies that come here may not have a lot of support from their family,” said Cynthia Polk, grand organizer for the Grand Temple Daughters of Elks and a member of the Beauty and Talent Pageant Department. “But when they come here and they come together, and they start meeting other young ladies, they exchange phone numbers, they exchange emails and they build up those long lasting relationships.”

“The most important piece about all of this is they are always members of the Elks.

And we’re always there to aid

in the system, whatever it is that they need,” she added.

As young Elks were the talk of the convention and being recognized for their accomplishments, the convention also celebrated those who have helped build the organization’s century long legacy. The gala and awards ceremony honored longtime members for their years of service and contributions to their communities.

The Elks also recognized leaders outside the organization. Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott received the Elijah P. Lovejoy Award - the group’s highest honor for a non-Elk for his leadership, visionary public service and efforts to improve the quality of life for Baltimore residents.

Sinclair

Continued from A9

Photo courtesy of Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle

Dayvon Love (left), public policy director for Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle (LBS); Lawrence Grandpre, political commentator for LBS; Ashley Esposito, Baltimore City School Board member; and Stephen Janis, an investigative reporter for The Real News Network; discuss how Sinclair Broadcast Group influences the political landscape of Baltimore.

looking too ‘Trump-y.’ They pull upon basic tropes and certain conceptual frameworks that resonate across the political spectrum,” said Grandpre.

“The end result is advancing conservative, Republican politics in a place that is strongly Democratic.”

Grandpre also argued that this framing can appeal to parents and other community members who are concerned about protecting young people—or themselves— from violence by portraying incarceration as the sole form of protection rather than

Photo Courtesy of Dr. Charles Smith

Angela Swain receives the Brad El Humanitarian Award on Aug. 9 during the Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks of the World’s 125th Grand Lodge and 121st Grand Temple International Convention in Baltimore. highlighting alternatives.

“They prey upon some of our people’s misplaced desires to protect our youth to convince us that incarceration is the only form of protection and care we can hope for,” said Grandpre.

As the panel closed, LBS announced plans to introduce legislation during the 2027 Maryland legislative session that Love said at the very least would prohibit the state of Maryland from doing business with Sinclair and its affiliates.

LBS did not provide further detail on the legislation.

Though Love acknowledged that advancing such legislation will be challenging, he said proposing it will help

LBS underscore its concerns about Sinclair’s coverage.

“I’m sure that many of you can imagine that that’s going to be a really difficult thing to put forward even in terms of getting a bill sponsor and certainly moving it through the legislature,” said Love. “Our hope is that we’ll be making the case as to why Sinclair Broadcasting is such a harmful presence on our political landscape and that we can’t continue to allow Sinclair to continue to take free swings at us.”

The AFRO reached out to Sinclair Broadcast Group for comment on the panelists’ criticisms but did not receive a response by publication time.

August 22, 2026 - August 28, 2026 The Afro-American A11

West Baltimore community honors Marcus Garvey’s legacy at 56th annual celebration

By Andrew Hall Special to the AFRO The 56th annual Marcus Garvey Celebration took place at Harlem Square Park on Aug. 15. In honor of Garvey’s legacy, the West Baltimore community joined together for a day of fun, fellowship and education.

Charles Dugger, one of the original organizers of the celebration which began in 1971, kicked off the event by addressing the the patrons, whom he thanked for continuing to show up every year. Later, in an interview with the AFRO, Dugger spoke on the most important aspects of the festival.

“My favorite part is friendship and fellowship,” he said. “Showing the younger generation that we can come together–not hollering and screaming, not being foolish and loud, just being human.”

Marcus Garvey, a Jamaican-born political activist, dedicated his life and career to the advancement of people of African descent. One of his greatest achievements was the founding the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA), an organization promoting racial pride, economic independence and unity among African people worldwide. Garvey founded UNIA while in Jamaica, but by 1917 the organization was headquartered in New York and eventually grew to have hundreds of chapters nationwide.

Garvey preached a “Back to Africa” message after touring parts of the United States and seeing how African Americans were being treated as they demanded equal civil and human rights in Jim Crow’s America. He created the Black Star Line, purchased the best ships he could and set out on a mission to build a Black shipping empire that would move Black people and goods around the globe. The business faced many uphill battles. Eventually Garvey, who was under constant FBI watch, was convicted of mail fraud and deported back to Jamaica. Though he lived from 1887 to 1940, still today, Garvey is a prominent inspiration to Pan-Africanists worldwide.

Baba Khalil, a member of the UNIA, explained what brings him back to the Marcus Garvey Celebration every year.

“Today is in honor of the honorable Marcus Mosiah Garvey,” said Khalil. “I love my people, I love Black folks and I love Africans. I see us growing and growing to the point where we have our own sovereignty, and we’ll do the things we need to do for each other.”

“Our community has been downtrodden by so much political miseducation … that we need to be awakened and reeducated in order for us to learn who we are and pull together in unity,” he continued.

Coy Hebron, owner of HoodieLife, said it’s important to keep Garvey’s legacy alive.

“He wanted to bring people back to Africa. He started something that a lot of people followed. Then, of course, they had the government who wanted to take them down,” said Hebron.

“So if anybody wants to see someone who’s done something successfully in America, look at Marcus Garvey.”

Hebron was one of many vendors at Harlem Square Park during the celebration. According to him, it was a can’t-miss opportunity to learn and be among his people.

“I enjoyed this ... . I enjoy it every time. I love the people, I love this energy. I’m here to learn more than to sell, actually,” said Hebron. “So that’s

Baba Khalil (left) poses with Yvette “Mama Earth” Williams. Khalil said he loves his people and envisions a future where African sovereignty exists and flourishes.

Charles Dugger addresses the crowd at Harlem Square Park during the 56th annual Marcus Garvey Celebration on Aug. 15. Dugger, one of the original organizers of the celebration which began in 1971, said his favorite part is the fellowship and friendship.

Community leader and mentor Baba Adisa Fatiu says the conversation must continue beyond the Marcus Garvey celebration. Shown here: Baba Adisa Fatiu (left), Jakhi Fatiu, Aleem Sio, Nyame Fatiu and Jahmir Fatiu.

K Love The Poet (left) and Monty Abra listen during a speech at the Marcus Garvey celebration.

Denim Baker enjoys herself at the Marcus Garvey celebration in Harlem Square Park. it for me. I have to be here. I could have been to a couple of different places today, but I always want to be here, no matter what’s on my agenda.”

Ron Hantz, executive director of the Network for Developing Conscious Community (NDCC), echoed Hebron’s sentiment.

“It’s important to show solidarity and community. That’s why we’re here,” Hantz said. “This is a gathering of people from all walks of life to support the diversity of Black folks in Baltimore City.”

Baba Adisa Fatiu, a motivational speaker and mentor, said that the work needs to extend

“Black excellence can’t be a phase. Black excellence can’t be something that we do at certain times of the year.

It has to be something that we do every day, in all ways.”

— Baba Adisa Fatiu beyond just the celebration.

“Black excellence can’t be a phase. Black excellence can’t be something that we do at certain times of the year. It has to be something that we do every day, in all ways,” Fatiu said.

He continued, “This is nice.

Coming out, participating, buying stuff from vendors. What’s going on after that? Us having a conversation and making sure that we stay in contact with each other.

Because I don’t like only coming together when something happens. I want to be able to come together for everything.”

Shown here, Gwendolyn Levi (left), Ishaka-Ra-Hannibal-El and Queen Mother Victory Swift-Gye Nyame. Levi and Swift-Gye Nyame are founders of “A Clarion Call,” which urges organizations across Baltimore to stand against senseless violence.

Ron Hantz (left), executive director the Network for Developing Conscious Communities (NDCC), and Tomiko Shine attend the event.

Shown here, L’Salaam (left) with Baba Khalil, Jardea Jenkins and Monty Abra.

To purchase this digital photo page or photos contact editor@afro.com

A12 The Afro-American August 22, 2026 - August 28, 2026

WASHINGTON AREA

Metro union challenges fare-quoting policy after driver assault

By D. Kevin McNeir Special to the AFRO Metro bus operators and other employees, led by leaders from their union, held a press conference on Aug. 12 at the Silver Spring Metro station challenging a recent policy change that requires drivers to quote fares to customers, claiming that it has led to more driver assaults.

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) changed its policy to require Metrobus drivers to quote the $2.25 fare to each passenger that boards on May 12. The directive reversed a practice that had been in place since around 2015-2017, which told drivers not to state the fare to avoid conflicts.

Union leaders, including Raymond Jackson, president and business agent for Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 689, distributed a safety alert to bus operators and others which made their perspective clear: “For your own safety do not quote the fare!”

“Only a few of us are here today – more would have come but they’ve been told if they came here in their uniforms, they would be disciplined,” Jackson said while further criticizing WMATA’s leadership. “One of our drivers was attacked and punched earlier this month while operating the bus and while he was not seriously injured, it took several days before management followed up on the driver’s health.”

Jackson said the policy is dangerous.

“We believe this new policy has led to both an increase in verbal and physical assaults. If it’s not rolled back soon, it’s just a matter of time before someone gets seriously hurt,” he said.

ATU Local 689 released the video of the Aug. 1 attack by a masked man, who has yet to be identified, to highlight their concerns over safety and the dangers that often occur because of fare enforcement conversations with passengers.

WMATA’s General Manager and CEO Randy Clarke promoted the intent of the policy change as “fare awareness,” aimed at reducing high rates of bus fare evasion.

The AFRO sent a series of questions to WMATA management and asked them to address the union’s concerns and to indicate what changes they might make to better protect bus operators and passengers. WMATA indicated that assaults on front-facing personnel had actually decreased.

AP Photo/LM Otero

Washington Mystics forward Kiki Iriafen has been an integral part of the Washington Mystics team since joining in 2025.

AFRO Photo / D. Kevin McNeir

John Anthony Gaines, a former bus operator and employee with WMATA for the past 17 years, believes bus operator safety is at risk with the reinstatement of a decade-old policy requiring drivers to state fare prices to each customer. He came out in support of the union and its members during a press conference on Aug. 12, 2026, at the Silver Spring Metro station.

“Among frontline Metro personnel, assaults involving bus operators and station managers decreased 22 percent in FY 2026 compared with FY 2025,” Metro said. “More specifically, Metro recorded 152 assaults involving bus operators in FY 2026, down from 194 in FY 2025.”

While several of our questions remained unanswered, a recent post from X@WMATA, spoke to the union’s concerns about safety.

“Safety is our core concern,” the statement read in part. “We remain focused on providing a safe system for all in collaboration with our partners.”

Barry Wilson, a 26-year veteran with the transit system, a former bus operator and current recording secretary for the union, said reinstituting the old policy has led to more harm than good.

“When the general manager came to this same location on May 28, he said it was safe for drivers to quote the fare,” Wilson said. “We are telling him it’s not safe. About 10 years ago, the union

disputed and eventually persuaded management to change its policy and for good reasons.

“We need Randy Clarke to sit down and talk to the union, to understand the challenges we faced in the past, and to stop intimidating workers.”

Jackson shared several recommendations to improve safety and to reduce driver assaults.

“The policy should be terminated, the union should be notified immediately when assaults on drivers occur, and buses should be modified with shields that provide 100 percent protection to bus operators,” he said.

John Anthony Gaines, a D.C. native who has been with WMATA for 17 years, said he remembers when assaults began to escalate in years past and agrees with Jackson.

“When I started as a bus operator, it was our responsibility to quote the fare,” Gaines said. “But as assaults Continued on A13

AFRO BOOK CORNER

D.C. pastor honors ancestors with new book

By D. Kevin McNeir Special to the AFRO As the pastor of one the oldest Black churches in Washington, D.C., Rev. William H. Lamar IV understands the historic significance of the ancestors. Each week, he takes to the pulpit of Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal (AME), an institution with roots dating back to July 6, 1838.

Now, he’s on a mission to honor Black ancestors, Black faith and African-American history in a time where all three are under attack.

Lamar recently published a book entitled, “Ancestors: Those Who Bless Us, Curse Us, and Hold Us,” which has received rave reviews from scholars and theologians alike.

In the book, Lamar deconstructs myths created by white clergy and their members. He seeks to shine light on the Black ancestors

Young Mystics relying on strong bonds to improve while making push toward postseason

By W.G. Ramirez Sydney Johnson remembers the camaraderie he felt as a player at Princeton, and the respect he had for coach Pete Carril and the Tigers’ coaching staff. It was something he vowed to bring with him every stop he made during his basketball career.

So, when he was hired as coach of the Washington Mystics two days before Christmas in 2024, he began laying the foundation for a strong locker room culture by reaching out to the players, or, as he calls it, planting “the seeds of connectivity and realness.”

The growth is showing in Washington, D.C. The Mystics are one of the hottest teams in the WNBA, and despite having their seven-game winning streak snapped in August by the defending champion Las Vegas Aces, they’re in the thick of the playoff race.

According to ESPN, as of Aug. 17, the team ranked fourth in the Eastern Conference Division, with a 20-14 record.

Along with the desire to get better and a competitive nature, Johnson credits the success to relationships and trust, from the coaching staff to an egoless locker room.

“That’s one of our pillars, is just like the humility that we want, that we ask from each other,” he said. “We want direct communication, we want to work hard, we want to be tough, we want to be joyful.

“But we also like the humility to be able to speak to each other, to receive information,

to celebrate each other’s successes — not just our own.

That’s a real part of what we have here.”

A wealth of talent that just got stronger with the signing of veteran Betnijah Laney-Hamilton doesn’t hurt, either.

“The thing that impressed me most about the Mystics is the youth, the energy,” said Laney-Hamilton, who recently made her Mystics debut. “Just the way, regardless of what people think or had to say, just the way that they come out and fight. And so to be a part of that now, I feel like that’s something that I embody as well as a player and as a person. It’s just been everything that I’ve needed.

“The way that everyone’s embraced me, the way that everyone’s been pouring into me ... I couldn’t have asked for a better landing spot.”

Leading the way for Washington this season has been Shakira Austin, the reigning Eastern Conference player of the week. Kiki Iriafen and Sonia Citron have been just as integral.

The three rank among the top 28 scorers in the league, as the Mystics are one of just four teams with at least three players on that list. The league-leading Minnesota Lynx have four, while the Indiana Fever and Atlanta Dream also have three.

“I think from the beginning we kind of knew what this team could do, and I don’t think we really care about the outside noise or what other people are saying,” said Continued on A13

Courtesy photo

The Rev. William Lamar IV is author of the book “Ancestors: Those Who Bless Us, Curse Us, and Hold Us,” which unabashedly challenges America’s centuries-old practice of venerating its white ancestors while denigrating those ancestors whose roots go back to the African continent. that are often overlooked by others. He also asserts that when believers follow

the examples of Jesus and honor their ancestors, they can secure the strength and

courage needed to confront Continued on A13

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August 22, 2026 - August 28, 2026 The Afro-American A13

Bukom Cafe returns—again— Dept. of Parks and Recs opens registration for fall to Adams Morgan programming

By Ozioma Anyanwu Special to the AFRO

In the mid-afternoon, just before happy hour, there are moments in Adams Morgan where a visitor can hear the neighborhood come alive with the Afrobeats in Bukom Cafe. Inside the restaurant, the walls are covered with newly acquired Pan-African art created by the Cameroonian painter Shiri Achu. The kente-patterned mosaic bartop is a part of the cafe’s original decor; it’s now on its fifth opening. Sitting at the bar, I hear this new iteration of the restaurant has patrons animated and commenting favorably.

There is a new energy in this esteemed space.

When Bukom Cafe opened in 1992, it was one of the first West African restaurants in Washington, D.C., according to the original owner, Justice Matey. Over the decades, others like it have come and gone. After New York City, the Washington Metropolitan Region has the second-largest Sub-Saharan African-born immigrant population in the country, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey. Yet, nationalities with significant local populations, like Nigerians, Ghanaians and Cameroonians, are not well represented among the array of the city’s eateries. Businesses catering to residents from those countries are mostly located in the neighboring Maryland and Virginia suburbs.

Nonetheless, with an undeniably West African offering that features dishes from multiple countries, including

Nigeria, Ghana and Senegal, Bukom Cafe has survived and often thrived in its present location on 18th Street for over 30 years. Its menu was first inspired by the West African heritage of Matey and his family.

It’s well-placed in Adams Morgan, given the neighborhood’s international dining scene, according to Kristen Barden, executive director of the Adams Morgan Partnership Business Improvement District.

“Adams Morgan has always been a neighborhood where global cuisine builds the community fabric,” said Barden. “When a longtime business like Bukom Cafe updates its space and brings fresh energy to its reopening, it sends a strong message that legacy businesses still have an important and evolving role to play in Adams Morgan ... .

That balance of history and renewal is part of what keeps the neighborhood vibrant.”

Hemen “Amy” Solomon, Bukom’s newest owner as of February, is a native of Ethiopia who began frequenting the cafe during the 2000s. She believes that Matey wanted it to feel like home.

“That’s the reason he opened this place,” she said. “[Bukom] became a home of the diaspora, but also White, Black, Latino, Asian, [and] Hispanic” community members. All these years later, Solomon said she intends to nurture and grow that same welcoming energy.

When customers came to the reopening, they were initially concerned about the authenticity of the food because she is not West African,

Solomon said. But she insists she is determined to maintain the West African cuisine at the core of Bukom. “ I always loved Nigerian culture because I’m really drawn to … the loudness, yet so much fun and so much depth to it,” she said.

Over the past couple of months, her position has involved some education. For example, she had never tried jollof rice before taking ownership of Bukom. Now it’s her favorite dish, along with goat pepper soup and pounded yam, which she has practiced making by hand.

What makes Bukom’s lasting success even more impressive are the challenges D.C. restaurateurs already have to withstand, including the pandemic, increased wages for tipped workers through Initiative 82, federal layoffs, and the government shutdown. The restaurant and food service industry is the largest private employer in the District, and restaurateurs of all cuisines are making an effort to stay open amid the challenges.

Since last year, federal immigration enforcement has escalated and destabilized the dining industry in D.C., and Black immigrants are being disproportionately impacted.

A record number of D.C. restaurants closed in 2025, the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington’s spring member survey showed, and 54 percent of restaurants reported lower sales while 69 percent reported reduced profitability.

See full story on AFRO.com

Courtesy photos

One of Washington’s longest-running West African restaurants is open once again with renewed energy, as owner Hemen “Amy” Solomon works to honor Bukom Cafe’s cultural roots and community ties.

Mystics

Continued from A12 17.1 points per game. “We just want to come in every day and show up, and just get better game by game.”

The Mystics went from ranking fifth in the league defensively, allowing 84.1 points per game through their first 17 contests, to ranking second over their last 15 by allowing 81.2. They also have

Book Corner

Continued from A12

the injustice Black people routinely face in contemporary American society.

“When I lean into my pastoral spaces, I find a deep connection to our own ancestors,” Lamar said. “I was taught to believe in the communion of saints – the mystical idea that the living and the dead remain connected. We are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses who have trod our path, and who watch and cheer us on.”

at least one win over every team currently in playoff position.

Austin said the team’s chemistry begins in the locker room, with leadership from herself and Michaela Onyenwere, to second-year All-Stars Citron and Iriafen, to rookies who are eager to learn.

“I think just putting all that together and not really allowing ourselves to get complacent,” said Austin, who is

averaging 16.3 points and 9.5 rebounds per game. “Something I will continue to repeat: no one cares about [the] last game, no one cares about our record, our streaks–anything.

“It’s all about what you do in the present, and I think that’s just something we continue to preach: be where our feet are and to continue to get better every day.”

This article was originally published by The Associated Press.

Lamar added that his goal was to do more than simply discuss how Black lives remain bound to their ancestors.

“Throughout the Bible and particularly in the teachings of Jesus, there’s a palpable political message – one which does not separate religion from politics,” Lamar said. “I wanted to try to determine why America keeps doing the same stuff.”

Lamar believes it must be noted that not all ancestors have legacies that should be spoken of with pride, but even those who have awful deeds to their name should be studied so that

history does not repeat itself.

His book explores how the presence of ancestors – even those who dehumanized Black people – continues to shape a nation where the word “ancestor” is rarely used in mainstream media and conversations.

Still, Lamar said in Washington, D.C., ancestral worship is everywhere – from the statues erected throughout the city to the streets named after many of the founding fathers.

“I believe there is a way for Black people to claim America’s ancestors who, if we are

Unsplash / Timothy Yiadom

Registration is quickly filling up for a range of classes offered by the D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation. Programming includes everything from art and aerobics classes to swim lessons, yoga sessions and more.

By AFRO Staff Registration for a range of programs offered by the D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) opened this month. Regardless of age, there is an opportunity for everyone who calls the District home.

“There are still a number of spaces open in fitness classes like strength training, basketball skills and drills, toddler sports, cheer and dance and more,” said Mayor Muriel Bowser, in an Aug. 14 statement celebrating the launch of fall programming.

“DPR is also calling on seniors in DC to register for the DC Senior Games. The games are open to DC residents 50 and older (and those who will be 50 by the end of 2026). There are many sports to choose from and activities and competitions will take place in the coming months.”

The registration for fall classes come at a time where District youths are in need of positive activities and safe outlets to express themselves. While many offerings are aimed at youth, residents of all ages can benefit from numerous opportunities to improve their health and fight statistics that show increased incidence of diabetes, hypertension and obesity in the Black community.

According to information released by DPR, the fall classes offered include the following: • Aquatics programs, including learn to swim, DC Wave competitive

Union

Continued from A12 began to occur and increase, the union pushed to change the requirement and management finally agreed. It seems we’ve come full circle.

“Now, when drivers quote the fare, some are called names and cursed at in honest, we know did not mean us good, like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson,” Lamar said. “We need to know their stories as part of our nation’s history. But we cannot ignore the fact that those men and the generations which followed took advantage of our Black ancestors. They used them for personal gain and have claimed privilege – ancestral privilege – over African Americans.”

Lamar hopes people will recognize that they have all been called to a higher way of living, one in which all humans are treated equally.

swim team and aqua fitness.

• Afterschool and out-ofschool-time programs, including Afternoon Access and Enrichment Zone for students ages 6-13 years old, as well as Young Ladies on the Rise and Young Men, Future Leaders. Teens are invited to join Supreme Teens • Cultural arts, including adult piano, ballet, guitar, theater, creative dance and more • Team sports and athletics, including gymnastics, cheer, soccer, pickleball, tackle football and the Senior Games • Fitness classes, including bootcamp, Zumba, cardio, bike-spin, yoga and senior fitness.

• Cooperative Play programs for children ages 18 months-4 years old.

• Adult enrichment, including Gardening 101 and Nature Photography DPR officials encourage residents to create an account by visiting dpr.dc.gov/ DPRaccount. Offerings are quickly filling up.

As of Aug. 17, though many classes were full, many seats remained, depending on location.

At Ward 8’s Barry Farms Rec Center, for example, registrations are still being accepted for the “Learn to Swim for Youth: Fundamental Aquatic Skills” class, offered to youths between the ages of 11 and 17 on Saturdays, 1:30-2 p.m., from Sept.

12 to Oct. 31. The resident rate is $24, with non-residents welcomed with a fee of $48.

That location also had openings for “Shallow Water Aerobics,” “Afro Beats” Water Aerobics” and two sections of “Senior Swim I: Learning the Basics,” a class aimed at those 55 and up. Afterschool care (free for residents, $50 for non-residents), cheer, zumba and more are all still open for registration.

The Woody Ward Community Center, located in Ward 7, is still accepting registration for a range of classes as well, including artology, competitive boxing and programs for teens – all free for residents. In the same ward, the Rosedale Rec Center still has openings for “Pickleball: Parkinson Therapeutic Support,” “Young Men Future Leaders,” “Young Ladies On The Rise” and a range of athletic programs for all ages at no charge.

Residents can still take advantage of open registration for youth ballet and gymnastics, piano lessons and more for a fee.

In a statement, city officials said that “DPR offers programming at reduced rates to qualifying DC residents. Residents must be approved for reduced rates

by DPR before registering for programs. Complete the online reduced rates application at dpr.dc.gov/ reducedrates.”

A complete list of DPR programs is available, along with more information, at DPRprograms.com.

verbal assaults. Even as drivers attempt to deescalate encounters, some have evolved into physical assaults,” Gaines continued. “One assault is one too many.”

Darin Drummond, a 65-year-old patron of the WMATA system, said even he feels unsafe on buses and believes drivers should drive—not quote fares to

passengers.

“It’s their job to operate the bus and do so safely – that’s their job,” Drummond said. “If Metro isn’t going to put police officers on the buses to protect drivers and riders like me, they should not be required to quote the fare. Handling fare evaders should be someone else’s job – like the police.”

Courtesy photo

Rev. William Lamar IV’s new book, “Ancestors: Those Who Bless Us, Curse Us, and Hold Us,” examines how America celebrates white ancestors while often overlooking or denigrating Black ancestors and their histories. The Washington, D.C., pastor argues that confronting the legacies of both revered and harmful ancestors can help Black Americans draw strength from their history while challenging injustice today.

A14 The Afro-American August 22, 2026 - August 28, 2026

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SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2026ADM000781 IONA TAYLOR HARGRAVE Name of Decedent WILLIAM C. KING, POWERS, LEWIS, & KING LLC 5039 CONNECTICUT AVENUE NW, BUILDING ONE WASHINGTON, DC 20008 Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs NICOLE M. CHESTANG whose address(es) is 251 W. INDIAN CREEK DRIVE, MOBILE, AL 36607 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of IONA TAYLOR HARGROVE who died on MARCH 25, 2026, 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 shall be filed With the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before FEBRUARY 14, 2027, Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before FEBRUARY 14, 2027 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 publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.

Date of first publication: AUGUST 14, 2026 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: AFRO American Newspapers

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2026ADM000787 MARY L. CLINTON Name of Decedent Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs RALPH BELK whose address(es) is 4110 ROCKY MOUNT DRIVE, TEMPLE HILLS, MARYLAND 20748 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MARY L. CLINTON who died on JANUARY 3, 2024, with a Will and will serve without Court supervision.

All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance In this proceeding. Objections to such, appointment shall be filed With the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before FEBRUARY 14, 2027, Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before FEBRUARY 14, 2027 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 publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.

Date of first publication: AUGUST 14, 2026 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Daily Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2026ADM000802 MARY JUANITA COLEMAN Name of Decedent ALYCIA F HERNANDEZ CONSTANT SPRING LAW PLLC 1750 H ST NW, SUITE 360 WASHINGTON, DC 20006 Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs ANITA COLEMAN-LLOYD whose address(es) is 3306 ARDOR TERRACE, BOWIE, MD 20716 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MARY JUANITA COLEMAN who died on FEBRUARY 16, 2009, 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., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before FEBRUARY 14, 2027, Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before FEBRUARY 14, 2027 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 publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.

Date of first publication: AUGUST 14, 2026 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: DWLR AFRO American Newspapers

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2025ADM1114 ANGERLEAN DEAN Name of Decedent ANTHONY GREEN, JR 800 MADISON ST. NW WASHINGTON, DC 20011 Name and Address of Attorney Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs ANITA DEAN whose address(es) is 4345 GORMAN TERRACE SE WASHINGTON DC was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ANGERLEAN DEAN who died on JULY 26, 2024, without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance In this proceeding.

Objections to such, appointment shall be filed With the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before FEBRUARY 7, 2027, Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before FEBRUARY 7, 2027 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 publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.

Date of first publication: AUGUST 7, 2026 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: AFRO American Newspapers Daily Washington Law Reporter

NICOLE M. CHESTANG Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 08/14, 08/21, 08/28/26

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2026ADM000713 WALLACE AKBAR TATE Name of Decedent WILLIAM A. BLAND, ESQUIRE 80 M STREET SE #330 WASHINGTON, DC 20003 Name and Address of Attorney Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs GANELLE JOHNSTON whose address(es) is 2022 MARYLAND AVENUE NE #104 WASHINGTON DC 20002 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of WALLACE AKBAR TATE who died on AUGUST 14, 2021, without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance In this proceeding. Objections to such, appointment shall be filed With the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before FEBRUARY 7, 2027, Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before FEBRUARY 7, 2027 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 publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.

Date of first publication: AUGUST 7, 2026 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Daily Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers GANELLE JOHNSTON Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 08/07, 08/14, 08/21/26

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2026ADM000757 RIVER LEE BOWLING Name of Decedent FERRIS RIDGELY BOND, ESQUIRE BOND & NORMAN LAW PC 13206 CHESTNUT OAK DRIVE GAITHERSBURG, MARYLAND 20878 Name and Address of Attorney Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs JENNIFER CLARK whose address(es) is 551 LOVE AND CARE ROAD - SIX MILE, SOUTH CAROLINA 29682 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of RIVER LEE BOWLING who died on DECEMBER 18, 2022, without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance In this proceeding. Objections to such, appointment shall be filed With the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before FEBRUARY 7, 2027, Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before FEBRUARY 7, 2027 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 publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.

Date of first publication: AUGUST 7, 2026 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Daily Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers JENNIFER CLARK Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 08/07, 08/14, 08/21/26

RALPH BELK Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 08/14, 08/21, 08/28/26

ANITA COLEMAN-LLOYD Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 08/14, 08/21, 08/28/26

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2026ADM000741 FREDERICK D. MATTHEWS, JR Name of Decedent Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs TRACY F. MATTHEWS ROBERSON whose address(es) is 17 WEDGEWOOD DRIVE WEST ORANGE, NJ 07052 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of FREDERICK D. MATTHEWS who died on APRIL 12, 2016, 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 shall be filed With the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before FEBRUARY 7, 2027, Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before FEBRUARY 7, 2027 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 publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.

Date of first publication: AUGUST 7, 2026 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Daily Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers TRACY F. MATTHEWS ROBERSON Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 08/07, 08/14, 08/21/26

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2026ADM000574 NIKO ESTEP, JR Name of Decedent KATHRYN ALI ALI & LOCKWOOD LLP 501 H STREET NE, SUITE 200 WASHINGTON, DC 20002 Name and Adress of Attorney Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs AUTUMN DRAYTON, whose address is 1900 HALF STREET SW #255, WASHINGTON, DC 20024 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of NIKO ESTEP, JR who died on NOVEMBER 3, 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., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before FEBRUARY 21, 2027 Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before FEBRUARY 21, 2027 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 publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.

Date of first publication: AUGUST 21, 2026 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Daily Law Washington Reporter AFRO American Newspapers AUTUMN DRAYTON Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 08.21, 08.28, 09.04.26

ANITA DEAN Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 08/07, 08/14, 08/21/26

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION 2026FEP000111 December 2, 2025 Date of Death JANE R. L. ROBISON aka JANE ROBINSON LEVANT ROBISON Name of Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS PATRICIA L. YOUNG whose address is 3605 28TH STREET, NE, WASHINGTON, DC 20018 was appointed personal representative of the estate of JANE R. L. ROBISON aka JANE ROBINSON LEVANT ROBISON, deceased, by the ORPHANS COURT/ REGISTER OF WILLS Court for MONTGOMERY County, State of MARYLAND, on APRIL 22, 2026.

Service of process may be made upon VICKEY A. WRIGHT-SMITH, 1629 K ST., NW, WDC 20003 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C. The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real property: 2818 27TH STREET, NE, WASHINGTON, DC 20018.

Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills for the District of Columbia, Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Date of first publication: August 21, 2026 Name of newspaper, and/or periodical: AFRO-American PATRICIA L. YOUNG Personal Reperesenative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 8/21, 8/28, 9/04/26

August 22, 2026 - August 28, 2026 The Afro-American A15

A16 The Afro-American August 22, 2026 - August 28, 2026

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CITY OF BALTIMORE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS LEGAL CITY OF NOTICES BALTIMORE OFFICE OF ENGINEERING AND CONSTRUCTION DEPARTMENT WORKS NOTICE OF OF PUBLIC LETTING CITY OF BALTIMORE OFFICE OF ENGINEERING AND CONSTRUCTION DEPARTMENT OF WORKS NOTICE OF PUBLIC LETTING Sealed Bids or Proposals, in duplicate addressed to the Board of OF ENGINEERING AND of CONSTRUCTION Estimates OFFICE of the Mayor and City Council Baltimore and marked NOTICE OF LETTING Sealed Bids Contract or Proposals, in duplicate addressed the Board of for Water 1462-Urgent Need Water toInfrastructure Estimates of the Mayor and City of Baltimore marked Rehabilitation and ImprovementsCouncil Phase II-FY27 will beand received at Sealed Bids or Comptroller, Proposals, in duplicate addressed toInfrastructure the Maryland Board of for Water Contract 1462-Urgent Water the Office of the Room 204Need City Hall, Baltimore, Estimates of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore and marked Rehabilitation Improvements willno be bids received at until 11:00 A.M and on September 16, Phase 2026. II-FY27 Positively will be for Water Contract 1462-Urgent Water Infrastructure the Office of the Comptroller, Room City Hall, Baltimore, Maryland received after 11:00 A.M. Bids will 204 be Need publicly opened by the Board Rehabilitation and Improvements Phase II-FY27 willno be received at until 11:00 A.M oncan September 16, live 2026.

Positively bids will be of Estimates and be watched on CharmTV’s cable channel the Office of the Comptroller, Room 204 City Hall, Baltimore, Maryland received after 11:00 A.M. Bids will be publicly opened by the Board 25/1085HD; charmtvbaltimore.com/watch-live or listen in at (443) until 11:00(ACCESS A.M September 16, live 2026.

Positively willThe be of Estimates andoncan be watched on CharmTV’s cable channel 984-1696 CODE: 0842939) from City Hallno at bids Noon. received after 11:00 A.M. Bidsexamined, will be publicly opened Board 25/1085HD; charmtvbaltimore.com/watch-live or listen byin at (443) Contract Documents may be without charge, atthe Contract of Estimates and canCODE: beFrederick watched live on CharmTV’s cable channel 984-1696 (ACCESS 0842939) from City Hall at Noon.

The Administration 4 South Street Baltimore, Maryland 21202 25/1085HD; charmtvbaltimore.com/watch-live or listen at (443) Contract Documents be examined, without at Contract on the 3rd floor (410)may 396-4041 as of August 21,charge, 2026, in and copies 984-1696 (ACCESS 0842939) City Hall at Conditions Noon.

The Administration 4 South Streetfrom Baltimore, Maryland 21202 may be purchased forCODE: a Frederick non-refundable cost of 100.00.

Contract Documents without at on 3rd floor (410) 396-4041 as found of August 21,charge, 2026, andContract copies andthe requirements ofmay the be Bidexamined, are in the bid package.

All Administration 4 South Frederick Street Baltimore, Maryland 21202 may be purchased for non-refundable Conditions contractors bidding on athis Contract mustcost firstofbe100.00. prequalified by the on floor (410) as found of August 21, bid 2026, and copies and requirements of 396-4041 the Bid are in Committee. the package.

All Citythe of 3rd Baltimore Contractors Qualification Interested may be should purchased non-refundable cost Conditions contractors bidding on athis Contractormust firstof be100.00. prequalified by the parties call for (410)396-6883 contact OBC at 4 S Frederick and 4th requirements of the are found the bid package.

All City of Floor, Baltimore Contractors Qualification Interested St., Baltimore, MDBid 21202.

If a bidinisCommittee. submitted by a joint contractors bidding oninthis Contract must first OBC be prequalified by the parties call (410)396-6883 contact at 4 established S Frederick ventureshould (“JV”), then that event,orthe document that City of shall Baltimore Contractors Qualification Committee.

Interested St., 4th Floor, Baltimore, MD with 21202. a bid submittedpurposes. by a joint the JV be submitted the Ifbid for is verification parties should call (410)396-6883 or contact OBC at 4 S Frederick venture (“JV”), then in that event, the document that established The Prequalification Category required for bidding on this project is St., 4th Floor, Baltimore, MD with 21202. a bid submitted byshall a joint the JV shall be submitted the Ifbid for is verification purposes.

B02551Water Mains.

Cost Qualification Range for this work be venture (“JV”),tothen in that event, the for document thatthis established The Prequalification Category required bidding on project is $5,000,000.01 $10,000,000.00. the JV shall beMains. submitted the bid Range for verification purposes.

B02551Water Costwith Qualification for this work shall be The Prequalification Category requiredbid fordocuments bidding on please this project is $5,000,000.01 to $10,000,000.00.

For further inquiries about purchasing contact B02551Water Mains.

Cost Qualification Range for this work shall be the assigned Contract Administrator Latonia Walston lwalston@ $5,000,000.01 to $10,000,000.00.

For further inquiries about purchasing bid documents please contact baltimorecity.gov and dpwbidopportunities@baltimorecity.gov the assigned Contract Administrator Latonia Walston lwalston@ For**further inquiries about purchasing bid documents please contact baltimorecity.gov and dpwbidopportunities@baltimorecity.gov PLEASE EMAIL THE CONTRACT ADMINISTRATOR theTO assigned Contract Administrator Latonia Walston SCHEDULE A TIME TO PURCHASE/EXAMINE BIDlwalston@ baltimorecity.gov and dpwbidopportunities@baltimorecity.gov ** PLEASE EMAIL THE CONTRACT ADMINISTRATOR DOCUMENTS** TO SCHEDULE A TIME TO PURCHASE/EXAMINE BID PLEASE EMAIL THE CONTRACT ADMINISTRATOR DOCUMENTS** A ** “Pre-Bidding Information” session will be conducted via TO SCHEDULE A TIME TO PURCHASE/EXAMINE Microsoft Teams. Vendor can join via the Calendar inBID the Microsoft A DOCUMENTS** “Pre-Bidding Information” will Passcode: be conducted via Teams App. Meeting ID: 228 531session 402 921 219, kf9K8ks3 Microsoft Vendor can join Calendar in the Microsoft on AugustTeams.

28,2026 at 1:00PM. Callvia inthe number + 667-228-6519 and A Information” will Passcode: be conducted via Teams App.conference Meeting ID:ID228 531session 402 921 219, kf9K8ks3 the“Pre-Bidding phone is 298284712# Microsoft Vendor can join Calendar in the Microsoft on AugustTeams.

28,2026 at 1:00PM. Callvia inthe number + 667-228-6519 and Teams App. Meeting ID:ID228 531 402 921 219,include, Passcode: the phone conference isfor 298284712# Principal items of work this contract butkf9K8ks3 are not on August limited to: 28,2026 at 1:00PM. Call in number + 667-228-6519 and the phone conference ID isfor 298284712# Principal items of work this and contract include,asbut are not Urgent need water main repairs replacement necessary, limited to:but not limited to, replacement/installations of various size including, Principal items of work for this and contract include,asbut are and not Urgent need water main repairs necessary, new ductile iron pipe, valves, fittings, andreplacement appurtenances, renew limited to: including, but not limited to, replacement/installations of various size replacement of existing water services, large and small (residential) Urgent neediron water repairs and as necessary, new ductile pipe,main valves, fittings, andreplacement appurtenances, renew meter settings and meter vaults, replacements/installation of and fire including, but limited to, replacement/installations of various size replacement ofnot existing water services, large and small (residential) hydrants., sidewalk restoration, curb and gutter, roadway paving, new ductile iron pipe, valves, fittings, and appurtenances, renew and meter settings and meter vaults, replacements/installation fire sedimentation and erosion control measures and maintenance ofoftraffic replacement of existing water services, large and small (residential) hydrants., restoration, curb and gutter, roadway paving, as required.sidewalk meter settingsand and metercontrol vaults, replacements/installation fire sedimentation erosion measures and maintenance ofoftraffic hydrants., as required.sidewalk restoration, curb and gutter, roadway paving, sedimentation and erosion control measures and maintenance of traffic as Therequired.

MBE/ MBE goal is 12% The WBE/ DBE goal is 5% The MBE/ MBE goal is 12% APPROVED:

TheAPPROVED: WBE/ DBE goal is 5%

The MBE/ MBE goal is 12% APPROVED:

TheAPPROVED: WBE/ DBE goal is 5%

APPROVED: Clerk,APPROVED: Board of Estimates Matthew Garbark Department of Public Works Director Clerk, Board of Estimates Matthew Garbark Department of Public Works Director CITY OF BALTIMORE Clerk, Board of Estimates Matthew Garbark DepartmentDEPARTMENT of Public WorksOF RECREATION DirectorAND PARKS NOTICE OF LETTING Sealed Bids or Proposals, in duplicate addressed to the Board of Estimates of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore and marked for BALTIMORE CITY NO. RP24823R Rawlings Conservatory Palm House Restoration will be received at the Office of the Comptroller, Room 204 City Hall, Baltimore, Maryland until 11:00 A.M. September 16, 2026. Positively no bids will be received after 11:00 A.M. Bids will be publicly opened by the Board of Estimates in Room 215, City Hall at Noon. The proposed Contract Documents may be examined, without charge, at the Dept. of Rec & Parks at 2600 Madison Ave, Baltimore, Md. 21217 by appointment only on Mondays - Fridays, 8:30am – 4:00pm by emailing benitaj.randolph@baltimorecity.gov as of August 21, 2026 and copies may be purchased for a non-refundable cost of $100.00. A SharePoint link to a PDF of the Construction Drawings will be provided to all prospective bidders. Conditions and requirements of the Bid are found in the bid package. All contractors bidding on this Contract must first be prequalified by the City of Baltimore Contractors Qualification Committee. Interested parties should call (410) 396-6883 or contact the Committee at 4 South Frederick Street, 4th Floor, Baltimore, Maryland 21202. If a bid is submitted by a joint venture (“JV”), then in that event, the document that established the JV shall be submitted with the bid for verification purposes.

The Prequalification Category required for bidding on this project is 13006-Renovation of Historical Structures. Cost Qualification Range for this work shall be $4,000,000.00 to $8,000,000,00. A “Pre-Bidding Information” session will be conducted via Microsoft Teams at 10:00am EST on September 1, 2026. Email your contact information to sharvari.subramaniam@baltimorecity.gov to receive an invite to the Microsoft Team (video conference meeting) no later than 4:00pm EST, August 31, 2026. Principal Items of work for this project are Replacing aluminum-clad windows, restoring historic materials, and repairing exterior elements like stone, metal, and woodwork, updating mechanical, electrical, lighting, and control systems, fixing deterioration at the bases of wrought iron columns. The MBE goal is 0% and WBE goal is 0%.

APPROVED: M. Celeste Amato, Clerk, Board of Estimates

City of Baltimore Department of Finance Bureau of Procurement Sealed proposals addressed to the Board of Estimates of Baltimore will be Received until, but not later than 11:00 am local time on the following dates for the stated requirements.

September 16, 2026 • Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) System- RFQ-000857 ENTIRE SOLICITATION CAN BE VIEWED AND DOWNLOADED BY VISITING THE WEBSITE: cityservices.baltimorecity.gov/suppliers/ bid-opportunities

LEGAL NOTICES BOARD OF LIQUOR LICENSE COMMISSIONERS FOR BALTIMORE CITY NOTICE – AUGUST 2026 Petitions have been filed by the following applicants for licenses to sell alcoholic beverages at the premises set opposite their respective names.

The real property for these applications will be posted on or about August 17, 2026. Written protests concerning any application will be accepted until and including the time of the hearing. Public hearings may be scheduled on or after September 10, 2026 at 10:30 AM in the Liquor Board Hearing Room, located at 200 St. Paul Place, Suite 2300, Baltimore, Maryland 21202. Please visit baltimorecity.gov/llb under the link for “Hearing Schedules” for confirmation of the date, time, and place for all matters being heard by the Board.

1. CLASS “A” BEER, WINE & LIQUOR LICENSE Applicant: Miran, LLC T/a Lou’s Liquors - Maiya Luitel Petition: Transfer of ownership requesting delivery of alcoholic beverages Premises: 4514-16 Harford Road 21214 (City Council District: 3rd; State Legislative District: 43A) 2. CLASS “B” BEER, WINE & LIQUOR LICENSE Applicant: Magoobys Hampden, LLC T/a Magoobys Hampden - Andrew Bradford Unger and Andrew Robert McCormick Petition: New restaurant license requesting live entertainment Premises: 3600 Hickory Avenue, Suite 3 21211 (City Council District: 7th; State Legislative District: 40th) Applicant: Zellas, LLC T/a Zella’s Pizzeria - Jamie Michael Rockstroh Petition: Transfer of ownership requesting outdoor table service and delivery of alcoholic beverages Premises: 1143-45 Hollins Street 21223 (City Council District: 9th; State Legislative District: 40th) Applicant: TOG Kona Baltimore, LLC T/a STK Steakhouse & Kona ToGo - Kathryn D. Barrett and Nicole R. Thaung Petition: Request to expand current licensed premises to include Suite 101 Premises: 1 E. Pratt Street, Suites 101 & 103 21202 (City Council District: 11th; State Legislative District: 46th) 3. CLASS “B”, BEER, WINE & LIQUOR LICENSE (ARENA) Applicant: Ikonic Entertainment, LLC T/a Ikonic Assembly Room - Tracye L. Stafford and Majidah Al-Mateen Petition: Transfer of ownership with continuation of live entertainment Premises: 316-18 Guilford Avenue 21202 (City Council District: 11th; State Legislative District: 46th) 4. CLASS “BD7” BEER, WINE & LIQUOR LICENSE Applicant: GSBR Baltimore, LLC T/a Game Show Battle Room - David Charles Marcus Sauer, John Nicholas Dockendorf, and Samantha Christine Vitek Petition: Transfer of ownership and location of a Class “BD7” BWL license presently located at 1601 Eastern Avenue to 720B Aliceanna Street requesting live entertainment Premises: 720B Aliceanna Street 21202 (City Council District: 12th; State Legislative District: 46th) Applicant: Harford 19th Hole, LLC T/a 19th Hole - Palwinder Singh Petition: Transfer of ownership requesting delivery of alcoholic beverages Premises: 2722 Harford Road 21218 (City Council District: 14th; State Legislative District: 45th) Applicant: Flock Restaurant Group, LLC T/a Flock - Alexander Aaron and Latia Charmaine Barney Petition: Transfer of ownership requesting off-premises catering and delivery of alcoholic beverages Premises: 1415 Washington Boulevard 21230 (City Council District: 10th; State Legislative District: 40th) 5. CLASS “C” BEER, WINE & LIQUOR LICENSE Applicant: Ausby Enterprises, LLC T/a The Groomatory Barber Club Maurice Ausby Petition: New Class C license requesting live entertainment and outdoor table service Premises: 861 N. Howard Street 21201 (City Council District: 11th; State Legislative District: 40th) 6. CLASS “D” BEER, WINE & LIQUOR LICENSE Applicant: New Le Mondo, Inc. T/a Le Mondo - Carly J. Bates Petition: Request for Special Amusement License Premises: 404-06 N. Howard Street 21201 (City Council District: 11th; State Legislative District: 40th) 7. CLASS 1 DISTILLERY LICENSE Applicant: Louthan Distilling, LLC T/a Louthan Distilling - Christopher Saffer and Alexander Rupp Petition: New Class 1 Distillery license requesting delivery of alcoholic beverages Premises: 4251 Harford Road 21214 (City Council District: 3rd; State Legislative District: 45th) Public Notice | Request for Proposals Reservoir Square Café Operations and Transitional Employment The Mayor’s Office of Employment Development (MOED) seeks responses to a Request for Proposals (RFP) from service providers working with Baltimore City youth. The selected organizations will offer occupational skills training for out-of-school youth and career pathways and work readiness training for in-school youth.

The RFP was released on August 14, 2026, and can be viewed on the MOED website at moed.baltimorecity.gov, along with registration information for the September 1 virtual bidders’ conference.

Bidders must provide a digital copy of their proposal to moedrfp@ baltimorecity.gov by 4:30 pm on September 18, 2026.

For More Information: Please call us.

LEGAL NOTICES

CITY OF BALTIMORE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION CITY OF BALTIMORE DEPARTMENT OFCalming TRANSPORTATION Hilton Street Traffic Public Meeting Join us to review proposed traffic calming on Hilton Street from Hilton Traffic Calming Public Meeting Frederick Ave.Street to Edmondson Ave. This meeting will cover a Join us to review proposed calming oncalming Hilton Street from proposed multimodal lane traffic with other traffic features.

Frederick Ave. to Edmondson This meeting Hilton St. Traffic Ave. Calming Projectwill cover a proposed multimodal lane with other traffic calming features.

Hilton St. Traffic Calming Project PUBLIC MEETING

PUBLIC MEETING Wednesday, September 2, 2026 6:00p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, September 2, 2026 Green Street Academy 6:00p.m.

7:30St. p.m.

125 N. to Hilton Green Street Academy Baltimore, Maryland 21229 125 N. Hilton St. or need special If you have any questions, comments Baltimore, Maryland 21229 accommodations, please contact If you have any questions, comments or need dotengagement@baltimorecity.gov subject line Hiltonspecial Street Traffic accommodations, please contact Calming dotengagement@baltimorecity.gov subject line Hilton Street Traffic Or call 410-396-6802 Calming Accommodation requests should be received by Wednesday, OrAugust call 410-396-6802 26, 2026 Accommodation requests should be received by Wednesday, August 26, 2026 Receive regular updates via Facebook, “X” formerly known as Twitter @BmoreCityDOT. ReceiveInstagram regular updates via Facebook, @BmoreDOT “X” formerly known as Twitter @BmoreCityDOT. Instagram @BmoreDOT Veronica P. Perry, MSL, DIRECTOR Baltimore City Department of Transportation Veronica P. Perry, MSL, DIRECTOR CITY OF BALTIMORE Baltimore CityDEPARTMENT Department of OF Transportation TRANSPORTATION CITY OF BALTIMORE

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Baltimore Vision Zero Orleans Street Public Meeting Join usBaltimore to reviewVision proposed calming toPublic retrofitMeeting a high-speed, Zerotraffic Orleans Street dangerous roadproposed to one that is conducive toretrofit a calm,a residential Join us to review traffic calming to high-speed, environment Orleans Wolf Street to Ellwood Street. dangerous on road to oneStreet that isfrom conducive to a calm, residential Baltimore Vision Zerofrom Orleans StreettoProject environment on Orleans Street Wolf Street Ellwood Street.

Baltimore Vision Zero Orleans Street Project

PUBLIC MEETING PUBLIC MEETING

Monday, August 24, 2026 6:00p.m. to 7:30 Monday, August 24,p.m.

2026 Enoch Pratt Free Library 6:00p.m. to Patterson 7:30 p.m. Park Branch 158 Library N. Linwood Ave. Park Branch Enoch Pratt Free Patterson Baltimore, MarylandAve. 21224 158 N. Linwood If you have any questions, comments or need special Baltimore, Maryland 21224 please contact If you haveaccommodations, any questions, comments or need special dotengagement@baltimorecity.gov accommodations, please subject contact line vision Zero Orleans Streetsubject line vision dotengagement@baltimorecity.gov Or callOrleans 410-396-6802 Zero Street Or call 410-396-6802 Receive regular updates via Facebook, “X” formerly Twitter via @BmoreCityDOT. Receiveknown regularas updates Facebook, “X” formerlyInstagram known as @BmoreDOT Twitter @BmoreCityDOT. Instagram @BmoreDOT

Veronica P. Perry, MSL, DIRECTOR BaltimoreP.City Department of Transportation Veronica Perry, MSL, DIRECTOR

Baltimore City Department of Transportation CITY OF BALTIMORE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION PUBLIC NOTICE In an effort to share an update with the community on the upcoming project, a community meeting will be held on the Traffic Calming Plan from Greenmount Ave and 39th St to York Rd and 43rd St. Join us to review the final design of a project that will increase pedestrian visibility, highlighting safety by adding pavement markings, signage, and visual treatments called daylighting and bump outs.

PUBLIC MEETING FOR Greenmount Ave and 39th St to York Rd and 43rd St. Thursday, September 17, 2026 6PM- 7:30 PM 505 York Rd, Baltimore, MD 21218 Virtually: https://bmore.webex.com/bmore/j. php?MTID=md03cfd0d06aa092c4dd9f7a94e1ba727 Meeting access code: 2336 388 8682, Meeting password: September17

By Phone: 408-418-9388 If you have any questions, comments, or need special accommodation, please contact via mail: Community Engagement Department of Transportation, 417 E Fayette St, 5th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21202 Email: DOTEngagement@baltimorecity.gov, Subject: Accommodation Greenmount/ York Or by leaving a voicemail at: 443-396-6802 Accommodation requests should be received by Thursday, September 3, 2026 Comments on the final design should be received by Thursday, October 1, 2026 Receive regular updates via Facebook, at the Baltimore City Department of Transportation’s project website www.streetsofbaltimore.com, on Instagram @BmoreCityDOT or on X, formally known as Twitter, @BmoreCityDOT. Veronica P. Perry, MSL, DIRECTOR Baltimore City Department of Transportation City of Baltimore Department of Finance Bureau of Procurement Sealed proposals addressed to the Board of Estimates of Baltimore will be Received until, but not later than 11:00 am local time on the following dates for the stated requirements.

September 16, 2026 • Decals and Striping for City Vehicles and Equipment- RFQ-000848 ENTIRE SOLICITATION CAN BE VIEWED AND DOWNLOADED BY VISITING THE WEBSITE: cityservices.baltimorecity.gov/suppliers/ bid-opportunities