Angela Alsobrooks makes history as Maryland’s first black female Senator
By Ashleigh Fields
Angela Alsobrooks was elected to serve as Maryland’s first Black female Senator on Election Day after beating out the state’s former Gov. Larry Hogan in a landslide race.
“In two years, America will celebrate its 250th birthday, and in all those years, there have been more than 2,000 people in the United States Senate, and only three have looked like me,” Alsobrooks said in her acceptance address.
The only women who came before her were Carol Moseley Braun of Illinois, Kamala Harris of California and Laphonza Butler who was appointed to serve in the upper chamber after the death of Dianne Feinstein in 2023.
Alsobrooks will begin her historic tenure in January alongside Lisa Blunt Rochester of Delaware who broke barriers by becoming the first woman and Black person to represent the state this year. “To each and every Marylander, I say this. I will make your care my concern. Your hope, my focus. And your dreams, my work in the days and years to come,” Alsobrooks promised constituents.
She has already begun attending preparational meetings in the Capitol for the incoming freshman class of Senators.
President Biden Honors the 2024 NBA ChampionsRead More on P10
(Pictured: Democratic Senate candidate for Maryland Angela Alsobrooks and former Maryland Republican Govenor Larry Hogan)
Black lawmakers boast unprecedented numbers in 119th Congress
By Ashleigh Fields
For the first time in history, there will be 67 Black lawmakers in Congress. Many of those members will also join the Congressional Black Caucus to push for legislation that uplifts minority communities across the nation.
“Instead of just having a quartet, now you’ve got a whole choir,” New York Rep. Gregory Meeks said in an interview with NBC News. “And we will be loud, we will be clear, and we’re going to be constant and consistent, because this administration is a danger.”
He added that the group will advocate for the Affordable Care Act and continuation of the Affordable Connectivity Program which helps provide the internet at a reduced price to citizens with a heavy focus on rural areas. “Black Americans have believed in the ideals of what America can and will be, despite us not always having a seat at the table or being in the forefront of the Founding Fathers’ minds,” he continued.
Meeks said the CBC will spend the next two years pushing for fair and just laws.
“We’ll be making it clear that in just two years, we can reverse and stop some of the things, some of the tragedies, of the administration-elect and that their policies will be putting the plague on our communities, as well as poor white communities,” Meeks, the ranking House member of the Foreign Affairs committee added. “It’s going to have an effect on the whole country.
(Pictured: Members of the Congressional Black Caucus )
The UnTold Stories
Monthly Contributors:
Ashleigh Fields
Donald Isaac
Phinis Jones
Kristal Knight
Shelley Rice
Jacqueline Walker
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DC Council reforms Local Rent Supplement Program Eligibility Act
By Ashleigh Fields
DC Council members recently met to review the city’s standards for rent supplemental programs. Together, they agreed that individuals with criminal records and undocumented immigrants are oftentimes left without support due to the law’s prerequisites for housing vouchers.
As of Oct. 17, the lawmakers decided that applicants cannot be removed from Local Supplemental Rent Programs solely on the basis of having a criminal record and they cannot be asked about their immigration status. They will also be given a chance to self-certify in cases where they cannot provide requested physical eligibility documentation.
“The primary goal of the bill is to ensure the availability of housing assistance to categories of individuals who are barred from receiving federal housing vouchers, including those with criminal records, who are seeking asylum, who are undocumented, or who
are unable to provide required physical documentation of their eligibility,” the Council shared in a release.
“After all, the very reasons that some categories of individuals are barred from receiving federal housing vouchers are often the same reasons that these individuals most require housing assistance in the first place.”
The Council decided to only use criminal records or convictions in determining eligibility when a resident is credibly accused of engaging in unsafe conduct while already receiving supplemental funding.
In order for such consideration to take place, the resident must be determined to be a threat to neighbors, based on a preponderance of the evidence, according to the agency.
(Photo courtesy of the Associated Press)
Mayor Bowser Unveils Marion Barry Jr. Legacy Murals
By Ashleigh Fields
City officials, lawmakers and D.C. residents gathered on Nov. 23 to remember the life and legacy of former Mayor Marion Barry. Three panels composed by Nabeeh “Nabi” Bilal, co-founder of CreativeJunkFood represent the leaders vision, impact and legacy showcasing his hand in ending apartheid, organizing the Million Man March and his political resilience.
“Today is the 10th anniversary of the passing of DC’s Mayor for Life, Marion Barry. A champion of the last, the lost, and the least, Mayor Barry challenged us to dream bigger, to do more, and to persevere through adversity,” Bowser said in honor of the event.
“His legacy lives on through the programs he championed, the lives he touched, and the pride he instilled in our city,” she added. “As
we reflect, let us continue to build a DC that uplifts every resident and embodies his unwavering spirit of progress.”
The artwork is being preserved at the Marion Barry Jr. building and will be maintained by the Department of General Services.
“Marion Barry is a larger-than-life figure, and we are honored to pay tribute to his legacy through this project,” said artist Nabeeh Bilal. “As DC natives, we grew up with him as our Mayor and” “recognize his pivotal role in shaping the city we know today. This project is a labor of love and gratitude to our Mayor for Life.”
Barry’s work lives on through his wife Cora Masters Barry who said the event paid homage to his dedication to the District.
“My husband really loved Washington, DC and its residents. The mural captures some of the major contributions he made to the City, and some of the people who worked with him to help build the City and empower its residents,” said former DC First Lady, Cora Masters Barry.
“I was thrilled that so many residents and visitors were able to join us on this inspirational, entertaining, educational, and historical day, as we honored a man, Marion Barry Jr., whose legacy and love of this city was so deep and strong.”
(New Legacy Mural honoring Marion Barry Jr.)
Monica Ray joins Events DC Board of Directors
Special to The Capital News DC
It was a chilly day where D.C. temperatures got into the 30s for the first time this season, November 13, 2024, a little before noon, Monica Ray, the Executive Director of Congress Heights Community Training and Development Corporation (CHCTDC), was officially sworn in to the Washington Convention and Sports Authority (Events DC) board by Mayor Muriel Bowser!
As the official convention and sports authority for the District of Columbia, Events DC owns and manages some of the most visited venues across the nation’s capital including:
• Walter E. Washington Convention Center
• Entertainment & Sports Arena
• DC Armory
• The Fields at RFK Campus
• Festival Grounds at RFK Campus
• Skate Park at RFK Campus
• Nationals Park
• Carnegie Library at Mt. Vernon Square
• Gateway DC
• R.I.S.E. Demonstration Center Events DC drives investment and growth, innovation and community benefits through hosting athletic, entertainment, cultural and corporate events at its properties. It is an economic force hospitality and tourism in the District. It’s worth noting, the Convention Center alone generates over $400 million in income annually for the city.
Monica’s appointment is a significant milestone, bringing a passionate advocate for community development and empowerment to the table. With her deep commitment to driving positive change, her presence on the board will amplify efforts to bring impactful events and opportunities to D.C., especially for underrepresented communities. Monica’s leadership will ensure that the voices of all D.C. residents are heard, shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for the city.
During the November 2024 Board of Director’s Meeting Angie Gates, celebrated her 2
year anniversary as CEO and President of the Board and welcomed Marisa Flowers and Ray. Gates said she was “excited to have them join to continue to fulfil mission to create unique experiences that result in jobs, economic impact and lasting memories for residents tourist and guests.”
Events DC Governance Board of Directors
The twelve-member Board of Directors is comprised of local leaders from the District’s business community who are appointed by the mayor, and with the exception of three ex-officio members, confirmed by the Council of the District of Columbia. The Board members, who serve staggered four-year terms, represent specific business segments of the community. The Board meets at 10 a.m. on the second Thursday of each month at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center (801 Allen Y. Lew Pl NW); for date or time changes for individual meetings, please see the website Notice of Public Meetings. Members include:
Leif Dormsjo
Chairman, Board of Directors
Nina Albert
Member, Strategic Initiatives & Sports/Entertainment Member, Finance Committee
Cherrie Doggett
Treasurer, Board of Directors
Member, Strategic Initiatives & Sports/Entertainment Member, Finance Committee Member, Community Grants & Engagement
Alan Bubes
Member, Strategic Initiatives & Sports/Entertainment Member, Community Grants & Engagement
Marisa Flowers
Jay Haddock Ortiz
Principal, Absolute Hospitality Chairman, Operations Committee Member, Finance Committee
Solomon Keene* Member, Operations Committee
Brian Kenner
Member, Community Grants & Engagement
Member, Strategic Initiatives & Sports/Entertainment
Glen Lee
Chairman, Finance Committee
George T. Simpson
Member, Strategic Initiatives & Sports/Entertainment Member, Community Grants & Engagement
(Photo courtesy of Congress Heights Community Training and Development Corporation. Mayor Muriel Bowswer swearing in Monica Ray)
Mayor Bowser Awards $10M to Keep Students Safe Traveling
Mayor Muriel Bowser and the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Public Safety and Justice (DMPSJ) recently announced the award of $10 million for the Fiscal Year 2025 Safe Passage, Safe Blocks program. Four community-based organizations have been awarded.
The Safe Passage, Safe Blocks program facilitates monitoring and impactful engagement services to over 122 pre-designated routes and Metro stops within 12 priority areas: Anacostia, Brookland, Columbia Heights, Congress Heights, Eastern/Stadium Armory, Fort Totten, L’Enfant Plaza, Minnesota Avenue, NoMa, Petworth/Brightwood, Potomac Avenue, and Tenleytown. The Safe Passage program supports students as they travel to and from school.
• Gathering and analyzing program data to identify trends and ensure effective program implementation.
“When students feel safe on their commutes to school, we know they are more likely to show up and be successful, so we’re grateful to the Safe Passage teams who are helping our students succeed.” said Mayor Bowser. “The Safe Passage, Safe Blocks program goes hand in hand with our work to ensure students are in school every day, on time,”
The Safe Passage, Safe Blocks program consists of several components, including:
• Overseeing student commute routes within designated priority areas.
• Collaborating with schools, District agency staff, other Safe Passage teams, and the local community to identify, intervene, de-escalate, and report incidents of community violence.
• Promoting consistent attendance by encouraging students to attend classes daily and on time.
• Engaging with students, families, businesses, civic associations, institutional facilities, and community members in the priority areas to foster support for the Safe Passage program.
• Ensuring staff suitability and active participation in all training and technical assistance programs.
“As we work to build safer, stronger neighborhoods, our ambassadors play a vital role as trusted adults for our students,” said Deputy Mayor Lindsey Appiah. “Safe Passage Ambassadors serve as our eyes and ears in the community, fostering relationships, supporting our youth, and ensuring that our students get to and from school safely.”
The grantees and priority area assignments for Fiscal Year 2025:
Residents and students can easily recognize
Safe Passage Ambassadors throughout the community by their green vests.
For more information, visit safepassage. dc.gov.
The District celebrates the Third Year of Growth in Public School Enrollment
Special to the Capital News
Mayor Muriel Bowser along with the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) announced that total enrollment has increased for the third consecutive year in public schools across the District of Columbia. Highlighting both DC Public Schools (DCPS) and public charter schools seeing the highest enrollment totals since OSSE began compiling public school enrollment data in 2007.
Preliminary, unaudited data show enrollment for the 2024-25 school year at 99,770 students, which is an increase of 1,121 students citywide, or 1.1%, from the 2023-24 school year.
Adding a pat on the back to the city’s commitment to education, Mayor Bowser said, “Our city has made historic investments in education, because when we invest in our students, we invest in the future of the District.” “We know we have great people in our schools, we have great programs, and when families see and experience that, then they trust us with their children.
According to data compiled by OSSE, DCPS recorded a 1.4% increase—a total of 743 students—while public charter schools saw a gain of 0.44%—a total of 208 students. Overall, public and public charter school enrollment in the District has increased by 14.2% in the last decade.
Mayor Bowser reminded families to attend this year’s EdFEST, DC’s annual public school fairs, which will be held in person in early December ahead of the My School DC lottery application period, opening on Monday, December 16.
“Schools across the District offer a wide range of innovative programs that not only meet the needs of our students but get them excited about learning,” said Interim Super-
Preliminary Enrollment Numbers for School Year 2024-25 and Public School Enrollment Since 2007
intendent Dr. Antoinette S. Mitchell. “We are committed to continuing this momentum and ensuring that every student in DC has access to a high-quality education.”
As the District’s state education agency, OSSE conducts an annual enrollment audit of public schools to ensure accuracy and transparency. The preliminary numbers below are based on a snapshot of data certified by local education agencies in October 2024. This marks the beginning of an enrollment audit and certification process that takes several months and is conducted in collaboration with an independent auditor. The chart below tracks enrollment trends since 2007 with preliminary unaudited numbers for the 2024-25 school year. Final, audited enrollment figures will be published by OSSE in early 2025.
*Note: State-level enrollment subtotal does not equal DCPS + Charter totals due to student duplications. Duplications have been removed from the state level numbers but may still exist at the sector level in these preliminary, unaudited figures. Students enrolled in non-public placements (n=502) are not included in the counts above.
**These figures represent preliminary data.
Final audited enrollment figures will be published by OSSE in early 2025.
Ahead of the 2025-26 school year lottery application period, this year’s EdFEST will once again be offered as two events, both designed to provide families more focused school options and education services for their needs. EdFEST for students entering grades 9 through 12 will take place Saturday, December 7, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Eastern High School. EdFEST for students entering pre-K 3 through grade 8 is on Saturday, December 14, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at DC Armory. Admission is free, but event registration is required. Families can register for EdFEST at myschooldc.org/events/edfest.
There are several ways families can get to EdFEST. Free parking is available at DC Armory Lots 1, 2, and 3. The closest Metro station is Stadium-Armory on the blue, orange, or silver lines. Families can also use the Metrobus via routes B2, D6, and 96. An Uber discount code (donated via Education Forward DC) will also be sent to all who register for the events.
EdFEST 2024 offers more than just school information—it connects families with valuable resources. Attendees can:
• Meet representatives from public and public charter schools participating in the My School DC lottery.
• Speak with My School DC staff and Parent Advisory Council members about the lottery process.
• Access interpretation services in multiple languages, including Spanish, Amharic, Mandarin, Vietnamese, and French.
• Receive flu, COVID-19, and routine childhood vaccinations (appointments can be made during registration).
• Enjoy free meals for youth at the pre-K 3 through grade 8 EdFEST while supplies last.
“EdFEST 2024 offers a unique opportunity for families to explore the many public and public charter school options in the District and to meet representatives from the wide array of schools and educational campuses that participate in the lottery,” said State Superintendent Mitchell. “We’re committed to ensuring DC families have the resources and information they need to make the best choices for their child’s academic journey. I encourage families to take full advantage of these events.”
On social media, use #EdFEST24 and tag @ MySchoolDC on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram. For more information on EdFEST or the school lottery, visit MySchoolDC.org or call the My School DC hotline at (202) 888-6336.
Visit OSSE’s website for more enrollment data and information about the annual enrollment audit.
President Biden Honors the 2024 NBA Champions, the Boston Celtics
Special to The Captal News DC
President Joe Biden The White House was welcomed “Coach Joe” Mazzulla and the Boston Celtics to the South Lawn to celebrate the franchise’s unprecedented 18th NBA championship.
Biden welcomed the NBA’s 2024 champions and gave them a tour of the Oval Office. The President noted that welcoming the NBA Champioms has been followed since Bill Russell’s 1963 Boston Celtics met with President John F. Kennedy. Biden acknowldeged “ It’s a tradition that I’ve had the honor to continue.” In all, the league’s most-decorated franchise has won at least one title in eight of the last 13 presidential administrations.
President Biden lead with a fun fact secret, saying “ Let me just say, all of you may not know this, but my Secret Service name is “Celtic” — for real — because I’m Irish.”
President Biden offered congratulations to the team ownership, players, coaches, staff, and family members, along with diehard fans, like the governor, with honor saying ” I feel a special pride in this trophy. From this old Irish Celtic to all you Celtics, congratulations.”
President Biden charmingly highlighed Coach Joe and said “Joe is the youngest head coach to win a title since the great Bill Russell.” With applause President Biden smoothly commented “I told him I used to be the youngest; now I’m the oldest. I liked being the youngest better.” and the crowd joined in laughter.
Coach Joe Massulla and the Boston Celtics team had a few surprised for President Biden as well. He handed off the microphone saying “Two of the great Celtics champions, Jayson Tatum and Derrick White, here to present you with some gifts for the team.”
President Joe Biden holding up a custom jersey with his name on it, presented by the Boston Celtics’ Jayson Tatum (L) and Derrick White, as he welcomes the 2024 NBA Champions Boston Celtics to the White House in Washington, DC, during a ceremony on the South Lawn, November 21, 2024.
President Joe Biden welcomes the 2024 NBA Champions Boston Celtics to the White House in Washington, DC, on the South Lawn, November 21, 2024.
VIRGO
(August 23 to September 22)
Affirm:“ I am on a road that leads to self-discovery.”
Blindly working hard and aiming for perfection may not bring you the results you seek, especially if you live in circumstances where privilege may give opportunities to a few and take them away from others. Seek help where you can and lend a helpful hand to others when it’s your turn. What goes around comes around... and it does not make you weak to ask for help.
LIBRA
(September 23 to October 22))
Affirm:“ I am at peace with my past and I look forward to my future.”
Need for caution and safety but also talks about a transitional stage between one chapter and another. Since this is December and we are gearing up towards a new year with new goals, now’s your time to think about what you would like to leave behind and what you would like to bring forward with you.
SCORPIO
(October 23 to November 21)
Affirm:“ I am open to making new friends who enrich my life.”
urges you to be quick on your feet and take all the opportunities that come your way. This will allow you to close the year on a powerful note and begin 2025 with a healthy spirit and great inner drive. Some of you may even benefit from making lists during this month that help you stay on track as to what you wish to accomplish and what you wish to change in your life.
SAGITTARIUS
(November 22 to December 21)
Affirmation:“ I am organized, disciplined, and using my time wisely.”
Be a social player — meet new people, engage with new ideas, be inspired by various sources, and lean on the strengths of more than one individual. What comes out of that will only be beautiful. You may benefit from doing this on a yearend vacation or staycation to uplift your spirit before you move into the new year.
December Horoscopes
Source: https://stylecaster.com/
CAPRICORN
(December 22 to January 19)
Affirm:“ I am in tune with my purpose and I’m passionately pursuing it..” goals cannot succeed without firm plans in place. Use this month to make solid plans before stepping into 2025 and embrace the new energy of the new year! Journaling and mind mapping can help you get things in order.
AQUARIUS
(January 20 to February 18)
Affirm: “I am protecting my energy by setting firm boundaries.”
love cannot be purchased or bartered for. You must nurture love for it to grow strong, so don’t damage your finances trying to gain someone’s love by purchasing them expensive gifts during the holidays. Instead, allow sentiments to be your strong suit this month and think ahead. This will allow you to invest in something truly big and beautiful or go on an extended vacation with your family.
PISCES
(February 19 to March 20)
Affirmation:“ I am enough just as I am.” stepping out of your comfort zone does not always have to be uncomfortable. Sometimes it may be the very thing driving you, like a thrill ride into the unknown. Let December be such a period for you so you can enter 2025 with greater courage and inner strength.
ARIES
(March 21 to April 19)
Affirmation:“ I have the power to create a life that is filled with adventure.”
“Look within to find your power. Meditation and living life with healthy habits that improve you physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually can help you reconnect with that source within you. Watch the food you eat, which fuels you like the flames in the card. .
TAURUS
(April 20 to May 20)
Affirm:“ My dreams are coming true right before my very eyes.”
Reveals an inner need for introspection and reflection on the past. As we near the end of 2024, this exercise will benefit you and invigorate you for the 2025. You will also discover talents you may have allowed to become dormant because you did not receive enough encouragement in the past. Be your own cheerleader and set strong boundaries so you can nurture what you discover.
.
GEMINI
(May 21 to June 20)
Affirm:“ I have faith that everything happens for a reason.”
The holiday season can sometimes be stressful, especially if you don’t align with your family on certain values. You may realize that your friends and family members’ actions get under your skin. Recognize the sadness and allow the grief to help you move toward calmer waters.
CANCER
(June 21 to July 22) Affirm:“ I leave everyone better than they were before.”
Take it easy in December and allow the days to bring you peace, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Set strong boundaries and don’t allow anybody to guilt you. You deserve to enjoy the end of the year just like anybody else! Let this period be a time of introspection so you can walk into 2025 with the greatest strength possible.
LEO
(July 23 to August 22)
Affirm:“ I attract opportunities that bring me financial prosperity.”
hard work must always be attached to a goal. Only then will you know how much effort to expend and where to extend yourself. Working hard just for the sake of it may be an underlying symptom of emotional turmoil and a need to escape through workaholicism. Meditating can bring you the peace you need so you spend your efforts and energy appropriately.
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