Mike Austin Is the Leader Ward 8 Deserves—and Needs Right Now Congress Heights Arts and Cultural Center salutes the Soufside for a decade of growth
Ten Years Strong
By Ashleigh Fields
The Congress Heights Arts and Cultural Center celebrated 10 years of existence on Juneteenth marking the height of a trailblazing legacy with local performances and special appreciations.
The theme was “Soufside Strong, Survival by Design,” hosted at the University of the District of Columbia’s Old Congress Heights campus to pay homage to the community that cultivated an ardent art revolution in Southeast.
“Juneteenth is about resilience. Juneteenth is about reminding black
Special to The Capital News
After careful deliberation, extensive review of each candidate’s record, and deep engagement with residents across our neighborhoods, The Capital News is proud to issue our unequivocal endorsement of Mike Austin as the next Councilmember for Ward 8.
Ward 8 is at a crossroads. Our families are fighting for dignity in healthcare, for safe streets, for economic opportunity, for better schools—and for leadership that isn’t distracted by scandal, self-dealing, or status quo politics. We need a leader who is steady, experienced, principled, and above all, prepared. Mike Austin is that leader.
Let us be clear: integrity matters. In a race where the other candidates
continued on P5
Men gather in Malcolm X park to ‘Stop the Killing’ Read More on P6
Norton introduces bill to honor of D.C. mayors Read More on P10
(Pictured: CHACC Executive Director Keyonna Jones)
(Pictured: Mike Austin, Ward 8 Council candidate)
By Ashleigh Fields
Washington celebrates Women of Excellence
The University of the District of Columbia (UDC) welcomed guests to celebrate six Women of Excellence Award honorees on May 22 at its Theatre Arts campus in the NorthWest quadrant.
Live art, purposeful paintings and performances from theWashington School for Girls and Roosevelt Senior High School’s dance troupe lined the stage to commemorate the group of women dedicated to enriching the District both economically and educationally.
Nicole Mosley, DJ for the Washington Wizards brought proud tunes to the audience while Enora “Nori Nori” Moss of WPGC 95.5 FM served as a bubbly host that applauded women from the District’s community for their service.
Anita M. Berger, the principal at Benjamin Banneker Academic High School was congratulated for the institutions’ 100 percent graduation rate and 100 percent college acceptance rate.
“I am truly honored and humbled to receive this award. I believe, no, I know that women make exceptional leaders, and that truth is exemplified by the strengthened vision of our mayor,” Berger told the audience.
“As a proud native Washingtonian, raised in Ward 5 and a product of D.C. Public Schools, this recognition is deeply meaningful to me. When I began this journey 20 years ago, I never imagined being acknowledged in this way for doing what I love to do,” she added.
“I want to express my gratitude to my families, yes families, my biological families and the babies, and my Benjamin Banneker family, but to my families who listen to all my leadership stories every day, and to those Benjamin Banneker families who helped me create those leadership stories, and my
D.C.P.S. family, who has entrusted me with the autonomy to make decisions in the best interests of our students and have always supported my leadership.”
Berge was honored alongside Danita Johnson who serves as president of the D.C. United soccer team.
“Standing here tonight, also I’m reminded that excellence is not a destination. That’s right. That’s right. It’s a daily decision. It’s how we show up when no one’s watching, how we lead with integrity, and how we lift others as we climb,” Johnson said to the crowd.
“We do it often, and we do it well as women. To the women in this room, you inspire me,” she continued.
“To the next generation, I hope the young women in the back that are going to come out here before and later hear me, you are the ones that keep us going. You are the reason why we do what we do. You don’t have to shrink to lead.”
Her words were echoed by awardee Annie Whatley, assistant vice president of external relations at UDC.
“I accept this award with a deep humility and a renewed sense of purpose to uplift, empower, and advocate for women and girls across our great city. It is a charge to continue the work, lead with compassion, and ensure that the District of Columbia remains not only a capital of power and policy, but also a beacon of equity, opportunity, and excellence,” Whatley said.
“Despite the challenges that we face today, I believe in our collective ability to preserve D.C.’s global significance while improving the lives of all who call it home. I take immense pride in the work I do in my Ward 4 community and at the University of the District of Columbia,” she added.
“It is a privilege to serve alongside dedicated change makers who tirelessly work to improve lives in all eight wards.”
The full list of honorees included Berger, Johnson, Whatley, Dixon, Chief Administrative Officer and President of External Affairs, Monumental Sports & Entertainment, Jackie Leventhal, Chief Brand, Content Officer, Sixth & I and Nimia “Haydee” Vanegas, Entrepreneur and Owner, Haydee’s Restaurant.
The UnTold Stories
Monthly Contributors:
Ashleigh Fields
Donald Isaac
Phinis Jones
Kristal Knight
Shelley Rice
Jacqueline Walker
Content Design & Editor: Sincerely Planned, LLC
Please email the editor with any comments, questions or concerns: thecapitalnewsteam@gmail.com and visit the website: https://www.thecapitalnewsdc.com/
If you would like to submit an opinion piece to the Capital News editor email the article to thecapitalnewsteam@gmail.com by the 15th to be considered for publishing.
If you would like to place a small job advertisement, housing advertisement or automobile advertisement in the paper please email the editor with the information and the paper will contact you about pricing for your ad.
Austin endorsement continued from P1
—Mr. Adofo, Mr. White and Ms. Bunn—are facing lingering questions about financial impropriety, misused funds, and ineffective leadership, Mike Austin stands apart. He is an attorney with an unblemished record. There is not a single cloud of scandal hovering over his professional or personal conduct. At a time when trust in government is at an all-time low, Mike brings the kind of character and accountability Ward 8 can believe in.
But integrity alone is not enough. We need lived experience, and Mike has it in abundance. Born and raised right here in Ward 8, Mike knows what it means to grow up in Southeast D.C., shaped by the wisdom and discipline of a father who was—and still is—a proud union worker. Mike’s life is rooted in the same struggles, triumphs, and aspirations as the people he hopes to serve. He understands what it means to face down systemic barriers while trying to raise a family, protect your children, and build a better life in the face of long odds. That empathy isn’t theoretical—it’s personal.
Mike also brings something that has long been missing from Ward 8’s representation: policy experience and legislative expertise. As a lawyer and former legislative Director, he doesn’t need a crash course in how government works. He’s been writing laws, negotiating deals, and managing high-stakes operations for over a decade. His work with the Deputy Mayor for Greater Economic Opportunity has given him a front-row seat—and an active role—in shaping economic revitalization projects that could redefine the future of our ward. And as a senior executive at United Medical Center, Mike has spent the last eight years quietly doing the grueling work of preserving dignity and access to healthcare for our city’s most vulnerable residents—even as the hospital faced closure.
For those asking, “Where has Mike been these past few years?”—we answer plainly: he’s been on the front lines. Supporting families in crisis. Advocating for overlooked adult students and their families through his volunteer service with Community College Preparatory Academy, Far SE Family Strengthening Col-
laborative and the United Planning Organization. Fighting for Ward 8 residents at UMC, ensuring they received care when there were no other options. Just because you didn’t see him in the political spotlight doesn’t mean he hasn’t been working—he’s been right where we needed him most.
We also want to acknowledge Mr. Adofo and Ms. Bunn—both longtime residents and public servants. Mr. Adofo should be commended for his focus on environmental justice and food access, but his tenure has been marred by division, dysfunction, and persistent ethics questions among his fellow ANC 8C commissioners. Ms. Bunn has served prominent political figures, but her inability to sustain the Bellevue Community Association during absences of two separate Presidents that resulted in the association becoming defunct, while she served as vice chair speaks volumes about her readiness to lead at the Council level.
The question isn’t whether they care—it’s whether they can deliver. And on that score, Mike Austin is the only candidate who is
ready on day one to legislate, to navigate complex city systems, and to bring home the bacon for Ward 8.
Ward 8 can’t afford to lose another four years to inexperience, infighting, or scandal. Our communities deserve a Councilmember who knows our stories, defends our dignity, and fights for our future—not just in campaign speeches, but in council chambers, boardrooms, and private budget negotiations.
Mike Austin has proven that he is that leader. We urge every voter in Ward 8 to stand with us and elect Mike Austin as your next Councilmember. The future of our ward depends on it.
By Ashleigh Fields
Black Men gather in Malcolm X park to ‘Stop the Killing’
A group of Black friends, fathers and focused individuals gathered in Malcolm X park on May 25 to collectively push their “Stop the Killing” agenda. Together, they encouraged attendees to resolve conflicts with peace rather than violence following two of the District’s most deadly years in recent history. Comedian Mike Epps and elected officials made an appearance while different Go-Go bands performed from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the park as organized by the city’s Crisis Management Unit.
“We have to understand the importance of today’s fight, especially for people who look like us,” D.C. Rep. Adeoye “Oye” Owolewa told the crowd.
Neighborhood rivalries and street altercations boosted D.C.’s death toll in 2023 and 2024. The year of 2025 has seen pandemonium subside as the rate of violent crime statistically decreases by the numbers.
“Our communities deserve more love, more healing, and real solutions. We’re not just talking, we’re doing the work. Every life matters,” Oye said.
“The mission continues,” he added.
The Metropolitan Police Department said the 2025 rate of violent crime was down by 23 percent compared to this time last year with 77 homicides recorded in the first six months.
Community leaders said the Stop the Killing event was the perfect time to think about more positive solutions and remedies for spaces in need of healing.
“The event created space for honest dialogue about the urgent need to unite as a community, take care of one another, and reclaim our neighborhoods as safe, nurturing places
(Photo: Courtesy of AP)
to live and grow,” Mistie L. Ayala of the Brightwood Family Success Center said in a statement.
“The Brightwood Family Success Center was proud to stand with our neighbors by offering valuable resources to families in attendance. We remain committed to being a resourceful, welcoming, and safe space for those seeking support, opportunity, and connection,” she added.
“As the event reminded us all: We come together. We stay together. We support each other.”
Go-Go Museum and Cafe founder Ronald Moten also spoke at the event drawing upon the spirit of the park who’s namesake, Malcolm X, passed 100 years prior to the gathering.
Every week drummers gather to play music at the land mass to celebrate the life and legacy of the renowned speaker and human rights activists.
“When they gather at the park to play the drums, they are calling on the spirit of our an-
cestors. And when our ancestors came here to start using drums to organize and escape, they cut their hands off. It’s no mystery that every time we win in history with the civil rights movement, which was organized around music, whether it was in Africa where music was used to organize and celebrate life, to now where we are using sound to push for peace,” Moten said.
“We are here for peace y’all and we have got to teach out young ones.
Democratic lawmakers arrested, detained and criminally charged under the Trump administration
By Ashleigh Fields
A series of incidents involving Democratic lawmakers and law enforcement have recently come under scrutiny due to the use of physical force with elected officials.
Two members of Congress were apprehended by the Trump administration for attempting to inquire about immigration policies and deportation efforts across the country. Rep. LaMonica McIver (D-N.J.) was criminally charged after visiting the Delaney Hall Detention Center in New Jersey alongside her colleagues in May.
She and Reps. Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-N.J.) and Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) toured the facility and exited the gates to return to large crowds of protestors with updates on their findings. Police on site allege that Newark Mayor Ras Baraka (D) attempted to trespass on the property and claimed that McIver impeded or interfered with law enforcement operations.
Baraka was originally charged for federal trespassing and booked at a local precinct before he was released and the interim U.S. Attorney for New Jersey dropped the case against him. However, McIver was offered a plea deal that she rejected while claiming she did nothing wrong.
“The facts of this case will prove I was simply doing my job and will expose these proceedings for what they are: a brazen attempt at political intimidation. This indictment is no more justified than the original charges, and is an effort by Trump’s administration to dodge accountability for the chaos ICE [Immigration and Customs Enforcement] caused and scare me out of doing the work I was elected to do,” McIver said in a statement.
“But it won’t work-I will not be intimidated. The facts are on our side, I will be entering a plea of not guilty, I’m grateful for the support
of my community, and I look forward to my day in court,” she added.
Other lawmakers have also spoken out in her defense after a video recording surfaced detailing the chain of events.
“There is no credible evidence that Rep. McIver engaged in any criminal activity, and she would not have been permitted to tour the facility had she done anything wrong,” House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) and the leadership team wrote.
“House Democrats will not be intimidated by the Trump administration. Not today. Not ever. Everyone responsible for this illegitimate abuse of power is going to be held accountable for their actions,” the group continued. “An attack on one of us is an attack on the American people.”
Their statement was shared weeks before Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) was wrestled to the ground while attending a Department of Homeland Security June presser on the West Coast.
Padilla attempted to inquire about immigration policies when Secret Service drug him out of the vicinity alleging they had no idea he was a sitting Congressman and senior lawmaker for the state.
Democrats again condemned the behavior of law enforcement and questioned why Republicans present didn’t defend their colleague. “I was physically and aggressively forced out of the room, even as I repeatedly announced I was a United States senator and I had a question for the secretary. Even as the National Guardsman and the FBI agent who served as my escorts and brought me into that press briefing room stood silently, knowing full well who I was,” Padilla said while recalling the incident.
The Trump administration alleged that he and McIver acted “inappropriately” and were treated properly as a result of their actions. Demonstrations continue to pop up across the country in protest of the White House’s crackdown on illegal immigrants and race to increase removal efforts.
(Photo courtesy of Associated Press)
Norton introduces bill to honor of D.C. mayors
By Ashleigh Fields
Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (DDC) introduced a bill on June 13 seeking to honor deceased D.C. mayors with the ordering of flag poles at half-staff following their deaths.
“Even though the District is not yet the 51st state it strives to be, we should treat a deceased mayor in the same respect as comparable figures of states, territories, or possessions, which are named in the statute,” Norton said in a statement.
“I can only assume that the omission of the District of Columbia was an oversight and not meant to disrespect a deceased D.C. mayor or the residents of the District of Columbia. Adding D.C.’s mayor to the list of officials who can be honored with flags flown at half-staff is a small but, to D.C. residents, significant way to ensure residents receive the equal treatment they deserve,” she continued.
Current law states that the president shall order the flag to be flown at half-staff “upon the death of principal figures of the United States Government and the Governor of a State, territory, or possession, as a mark of respect to their memory.”
The House Committee on the Judiciary previously passed the bill during the 116th Congress but has seen no progress since.
Norton says D.C. mayors perform many of the same functions as state and territorial governors, should qualify as principals and should receive equal recognition.
The bill is a part of her office’s series of bills to “ensure equal treatment” for the over 700,000 D.C. residents.
www.thecsmi.com
202-563-5033
CHACC salutes 10 years growth continued from P1
huge. It’s not just about the work that they do, but how do they show that work? How can they monetize that work, right? And to have a place like this, that not only is here in creating a space for that, but also provides those additional resources on how to build your business, training about financial stability, finances of businesses, and at no cost, you can’t fathom what that impact is. It’s just, it’s huge,” she added.
During the event, Charlie Whitaker was honored as a Community Service Leader, Ken Sandy was commended as a Community Service Hero and Melat Debala was celebrated as the Women of Color Small Business owner honoree.
Each of the distinguished guests were applauded for their work East of the Anacostia River over years of dedication and discipline for their craft. Executive Director Keyonna said the celebration would not have been possible without the vision from her father, 10 years prior.
“My father is not even from Southside, but came to Southside a very long time ago.
And just had a business mind, an innovative mind to change. And that’s what artists are, they have to be innovative,” Jones said.
“Then on top of that too, like a man that came from Mississippi that had nothing, he had to be very creative himself. And so I think just being in his shadow and seeing him work and really doing my best to be a stand-up reflection of what my father has done. But in my own way,” the executive director added. Jones noted that the center would continue to be a part of efforts to pass down an innovative and self-reflective spirit for generations to come.
The Home Stretch: Voting Day Ward 8 Member of the D.C. Council Special Election
Special to The Capital News
By Shelley Rice
The ballot order has been decided for the candidates who met the nomination guidelines for the Special Election of the Ward 8 Member to the D.C. Council. The final four order listed on the ballot control form published by the DC Board of Elections.
1. Trayon White, Sr. , Democratwww.trayonwhite8.com/
2. Mike Austin, Democrat, www.mikeaustin8.com/
3. Sheila Bunn, Democrat, www.bunnforward8.com/
4. Salim Adofo, Democrat, salimforward8.com/
The list of write-in candidates has grown from our last reporting of three to now six.
• Doc Adams, Republican
• D’Arcy Adelson, Independent
• Jennifer Gelencia Muhammad, Independent
• Mary Roach, Democrat
• Oliver Roy, Democrat
• Delonte Ford Singh, Republican
Candidate forums have been held across the ward by organizations with various interest from the Congress Heights Community Training Corporation to the Washington Area Bicyclist Association. Expelled council member and running candidate Trayon White has been noticeably absent from many.
The Ward 8 Democrats hosted a candidate forum and straw poll at the Go-Go Museum the end of June. All four candidates on the ballot were present and made comment. During the forum, candidates were introduced with ground rules of 1 minute responses.
In the opening question, after noting former Councilmember White being favored at 76% of all those who voted in the general election, candidates were asked “What
(Photos credit to Ward 8 Democrats website)
do you say to the thousands of voters who supported Trayon White understanding the charges against him?
Mike Austin said, “It’s unfortunate, we are in budget cycle with the federal congress people and the president interfering with our local budget and council voting on a budget and hosting hearing and no advocation for Ward 8 right now. We can longer give passes, it’s a privilege to serve in Ward 8 and we have to treat it as such”. Following up Salim Adolfo said “The voters did make a choice back then, but moving forward gives us an opportunity to go a different direction”. Sheila Bunn finished up the round saying, “we are in an unfortunate situation, we need a leader at this time that has no ethical issues to move the needle for Ward 8.”
D.C. Voters may drop your voted mail-in-ballot in ANY Ballot Drop Box at ANY time from 10:00 am until 8:00 pm on Election Day, Tuesday, July 15, 2025.
White commented that “you can never depend on one council member to be the sole source of helping our people, the power is in the people.” The forum concluded with Mike Austin winning the straw poll and Sheila Bunn in 2nd.
2025 WARD 8 SPECIAL ELECTION - MAIL BALLOT DROP BOX LOCATIONS
Registered voters should have received mailed ballots in June.
• Parklands-Turner Library 1547 Alabama Avenue, SE
• Bellevue (William O. Lockridge) Library 115 Atlantic Street, SW
• Department of Human Services
2100 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE
• Navy Yard-Ballpark Metro (WMATA)
SE Corner of M & Half Street SE, (Entrance/ Exit location)
(Pictured: Straw Poll Ward 8 Democrats)
Two Precincts have randomly been selected for public manual audit. Those precincts are 126 and 122
Tuesday, July 1, 2025
Deadline for Board to post a revised citywide list of registered qualified electors in the main public library, and a revised ward list of registered voters in every branch library located within the respective wards.
Thursday, July 3, 2025
Deadline for Board to make a determination on timely filed petitions for poll watchers and election observers credential
Friday, July 11 – Monday, July 14, 2025
Period during which qualified electors may register and cast ballots at Ward 8 Early Vote Centers. Early Vote Centers are open every day during this period between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2025 – SPECIAL
ELECTION DAY
On Election Day, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., qualified electors may register to vote and cast full ballots in person at Ward 8 Vote Centers. All voters who are in line at 8:00 p.m. may cast a ballot. Deadline (8:00 p.m.) to deposit ballots at Vote Centers, drop boxes, or the Board office, and for the receipt of all electronically transmitted ballots.
Tuesday, July 22, 2025
Deadline (5:00 p.m.) for write-in candidate to file an Affirmation of Write-In Candidacy or Declaration of Candidacy with the Board to be eligible for nomination to office.
Friday, July 25, 2025
Deadline for receipt of all mailed ballots
Friday, August 1, 2025
[TENTATIVE] Final count of mail ballots and accepted special and challenged ballots.
If you are not yet registered or need to update your registration, you can do so online or in person. Same-day registration is available during early voting and on Election Day with appropriate identification.
Voter Eligibility
To vote in this special election, you must:
• Be a registered voter in Ward 8 of Washington, D.C.
• Be at least 18 years old by Election Day
• Be a U.S. citizen
Additional Resources
For more information:
• Visit the D.C. Board of Elections website
• Call the D.C. Board of Elections at (202) 727-2525
• Check out the Ward 8 Democrats for local election events and candidate forums.
Voting Day W8 Special Election continued from P10
By Shelley Rice
Maryland Governor Announces Hiring Freeze
The DMV faces another blow to the job market with Maryland announcing it will implement a hiring freeze to address an $121 million gap in the state’s budget.
Gov. Wes Moore told state employees the news via letter, saying the state would offer voluntary buyouts to retiring employees and would not be filling vacant positions.
In the letter to state employees the governor warned, “In these unprecedented times, Maryland is being tested by two storms. An historic fiscal challenge the worst since the great recession and a federal administration that continues to harm maryland’s people and economy.”
Some of the people 5100 new jobs that have been filled during Moore’s tenure are in jeopardy.
The hiring freeze is expected to impact all state agencies except for prisons, hospitals and the University of Maryland. This comes as the state has been courting federal workers that have been laid off by President Donald Trump’s administration.
The governor, in partnership with the General Assembly, produced the balanced budget that had millions of dollars of cuts in it. It was said to be the most reductions that have been seen in a general fund budget in more than a decade, back to the Great Recession to see a governor and a general assembly work together to reduce spend to that extent.
This $121 million personnel reduction was part of that agreement in an effort to minimize the impacts to the state workforce, but also, make sure that there’s no interruption to programs and services for taxpayers and residents in the state.
Read some of the letter obtained by the Press .
(Photos courtesy of Associated Press)
Time Off to Vote in the July 15, 2025 Ward 8 Special Election
EMPLOYEES
District of Columbia law requires employers to post this notice, which advises employees of provisions for taking paid administrative leave to vote in elections held in the District of Columbia and in other places where their employees are eligible to vote.
This notice must be posted conspicuously at all sites where employees report to work or by otherwise providing this notice to employees.
DATES AND TIME S OF V OTING
EARLY V OTING: Friday, July 11, 2025 through Monday, July 14, 2025
Early Voting Vote Centers are open from 8:30 A.M. to 7:00 P.M.
ELECTION DAY: Tuesday, July 15, 2025
Election Day Vote Centers are open from 7:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M.
YOUR R IGHTS:
District of Columbia law (D.C. Official Code § 1-1001.07a) allows you, upon your request to your employer, to take at least two hours from your scheduled working shift to vote:
• in an election held in the District if you are eligible to vote in the District; or
• in an election held in the jurisdiction in which you are eligible to vote
YOUR EMPLOYER MAY:
•require you to submit your request for paid leave to vote a reasonable time in advance of the date you wish to vote; and
•specify the hours during which you may take paid leave to vote, including requiring you to:
•vote during the early voting period for the Election; or
•vote at the beginning or end of your working shift, whether during early voting on or Election Day
YOUR EMPLOYER MAY NOT:
• interfere with, restrain, or deny any attempt you make to take paid leave to vote under the applicable law; or
• retaliate against you for taking paid leave to vote under the applicable law
For more information, call the DC Board of Elections at (202) 727–2194.
By Shelley Rice
Local resources to Beat the DC Heat
DC has been experiencing warmer, more humid, and longer summers. The District government has reported, compared to just a couple decades ago, that the nation’s capital is expected to experience these very hot and humid days more often in the future.
What DC is doing
Several different agencies are in partnership, such as the Office of the Mayor, the Department of Behavioral Health and the Deputy mayor for Health and Human Services.
Outreach specialists in D.C. have mobilized to distribute resources to the homeless population that face the brunt of the heat wave all day and night.
Officials cannot force an individual to seek help or shelter, they instead develop relationships with many extremely homeless people and check on them directly in the encampments.
The teams of outreach specialists monitor areas where those who are experiencing homelessness are known to congregate. The DC Department of Human Services (DHS) is also in partnership and are critical in arranging transportation with the D.C. Department of Transportation for individuals who want to go to a cooling center and do not have reliable transportation.
Teams are passing out water due to the extreme heat, making sure the homeless population stays hydrated, and they know where the resources are if they want to go inside a shelter. Another critical function DHS provides during heat emergencies in promoting heat safety awareness through its social media sites and by direct interaction with people.
Check out resources available to keep you safe from extreme heat.
Learn about free air-conditioned cooling centers
DHS coordinates with a number of agencies in the District, including Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency, in activating cooling centers across the city during heat emergencies.
Did you know that there are accessible cooling centers near you? At 95 degrees Fahrenheit, cooling centers are activated around the city. These centers are open with extended hours and are free to you, and include libraries, rec centers, pools, splash zones, and more. Visit the website at https://ready.dc.gov/apps/dccooling-centers-app/explore to find a cooling center near you.
Visit a free pool or spray park
When it’s hot out, one of the best ways to cool down quickly is to go swimming or splash around in cold water. Free access to indoor and outdoor pools, as well as spray parks is available to DC residents.
Get help with your utilities
The Department of Energy & Environment (DOEE) gives financial assistance, discounts, and energy efficiency programs to help with your utility bills. Visit https://doee.dc.gov/energyassistance or call 202-236-2657.
Get trained in life-saving skills
DC’s Fire and EMS Department (FEMS) provides free non-certification CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and AED (automated external defibrillator) courses as well as paid certification courses that provide more advanced training in CPR, AED, and first aid. Visit the https://fems.dc.gov/service/ cpr-training-program to learn more.
Volunteer with the Community Emergency Response Team
ServeDC offers the opportunity to volunteer with DC’s Community Emergency Response Team, which allows you to learn more about emergency preparedness and help fellow community members during a hazard event. Visit ServeDC to learn more or visit this website https://servedc.galaxydigital.com/agency/ detail/?agency_id=82404.
If you encounter someone who may be in distress because of the heat, call 911. If you are aware of a homeless person who might need help, call 311 or the D.C. Shelter Hotline at 202-399-7093. To learn more about resources available during heat emergencies, visit heat. dc.gov.
By Shelley Rice
HUD plans to move from DC to Alexandria
The Department of Housing and Urban Development will move its employees out of D.C. to Alexandria, Virginia, outing the National Science Foundation from its headquarters, officials announced.
Government officials said it’s the first major agency to relocate its headquarters as part of the Trump administration’s effort to reduce federal real estate.
HUD plans to move from its office at the Robert C. Weaver bulding on 7th Street in Southwest D.C. to 2415 Eisenhower Ave., Alexandria — a building currently occupied by 1,800 employees of the National Science Foundation.
HUD Secretary Scott Turner announced the move during a news conference alongside Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin and Michael Peters, the commissioner of the General Service Administration’s Public Building Service.
About 2,700 employees of HUD are expected to be relocated from the Robert C. Weaver Federal Building to Alexandria, Turner said.
It’s unclear where displaced employees of the National Science Foundation will be moved.
“I would hope that no leader in government or otherwise would expect staff to work everyday in an atmosphere where the air quality is questionable, leaks are nearly unstoppable and HVAC is almost unworkable just to name a few examples in addition to the elevator banks that have been broken for years. It’s time for a change” said Turner.
According to a news release from HUD, the Weaver building would require nearly half a billion dollars over the next four years to meet minimum federal standards. Re-
location is estimated to save taxpayers $500 million in deferred maintenance and an additional $56 million in annual operating and maintenance expenses.
A reporter during the press conference addressed the criticisms from the union representing employees of the National Science Foundation.
Questions were raised regarding the alleged plans from a released a statement criticizing the move and Turner’s leadership. Some of the allegations include:
• a dedicated executive suite for the HUD Secretary on the 19th floor
• construction of an executive dining room
• 5 reserved parking spaces for the Secretary’s cars
• Exclusive use of one elevator
• A space dedicated to hosting the Secretary’s executive assistants
• A potential gym for the HUD Secretary and family
Secretary rejected the claims stating “That’s ridiculous and it’s not true.”
“While Secretary Turner and his staff are busy enjoying private dining and a custom gym, NSF employees are being displaced with no plan, no communication, and no respect,” The American Federation of Government Employees Local 3403 wrote in a statement. “This callous disregard for taxpayer dollars and NSF employees comes after the Administration already cut NSF’s budget, staff and science grants and forced NSF employees back into the office.”
(Photo Robert C. Weaver Federal Building | GSA)
https://www.purewow.com/wellness/month
AQUARIUS
(January 20 to February 18)
Aquarius - ‘I know’
Affirmation: I know I am capable. Humanitarian, independent, and intellectual are a few of the best ways to describe an Aquarius.
PISCES
(February 19 to March 20)
Pisces - ‘I believe’
Affirmation: I believe I have the power to do anything.
Pisces are artistic and compassionate. They easily emphasise with others and do things out of kindness. Due to the purity of their hearts.
ARIES
(March 21 to April 19)
Aries - ‘I am’
Affirmation: I am successful, I am loved, I am allowed to feel good, I am living with abundance. Aries are known for being naturally confident and assertive. If you are an Aries, the most powerful affirmation type for you is “I am.” You can easily manifest your goals since you have this bold and courageous side.
TAURUS
(April 20 to May 20)
Taurus - ‘I have’
Affirmation: I have enough goodness in life, and I have the power to achieve my dreams, suit you the best. Loyal, reliable, tenacious, and resilient are some of the best traits of a Taurus.
GEMINI
(May 21 to June 20)
Gemini - ‘I think’
Affirmation: I think I am one step closer to my dreams; I think it’s time to work hard to achieve my goals. Gemini is often the smartest person in the room. Due to their high levels of intellect.
CANCER
(June 21 to July 22)
Cancer - ‘I feel’
Affirmation: I feel happy, I feel loved, and I feel blessed.
People under the sign of Cancer are loving, emotional, and nurturing. As they naturally flow with their emotions
LEO
(July 23 to August 22)
Leo - ‘I will’
Affirmation: I will do whatever is best for me, I will put myself first, I will not accept the things I don’t deserve.
Famed for their bold and determined personality, Leo is ambitious and focused on their goals.
VIRGO
(August 23 to September 22)
Virgo - ‘I analyse’
Affirmation: I analyse my negative thoughts to make room for positivity.
If you are a Virgo, you probably can’t take a break until everything is perfect according to your standards.
LIBRA
(September 23 to October 22)
Libra - ‘I balance’
Affirmation: I balance work and play. Libras are known for seeking harmony and balance in almost all aspects of their lives.
SCORPIO
(October 23 to November 21)
‘Scorpio - ‘I create’
Affirmation: I create the life of my dreams and I create my happiness. Famed for their intense personalities, Scorpios are driven and passionate. They are naturally brave, intuitive, and creative.
SAGITTARIUS
(November 22 to December 21)
Sagittarius - ‘I see’
Affirmation: I see my true self, I see myself living the life of my dreams, and more. Sagittarius are carefree, creative, and adventurous. They often love to explore the unexplored and enjoy freedom. Their open-minded nature easily draws.
CAPRICORN
(December 22 to January 19)
Capricorn - ‘I use’
Affirmation: I use my mind to manifest my dreams.
People with Capricorn as their zodiac sign are naturally hard-working and persistent. Their loyalty makes them excellent partners in relationships and friendships.
SPECIFICATIONS
(in inches, eidth and height)
FREQUENCY DISCOUNTS ** DEDUCT 20% from base rate if ad buy is for six (6) or more issues.
DISTRIBUTION
WARD 5
BROOKLAND RIGGS & MICHIGAN
ECKINGTON TRINIDAD
EDGEWOOD WOODMORE
WARD 7 & 8
ANACOSTIA CAPITAL VIEW
BENNING ROAD CONGRESS HEIGHTS
MINNESOTA AVE FAIRFAX VILLAGE
GOODHOOPE ROAD FORT DAVIS PARK
DEANWOOD MARSHALL HEIGHTS
HILLCREST RIVER TERRACE
BILLING DATE:
Advertisers will be billed immediately upon publication. Terms are net 30 days from date of invoice.
READERSHIP - 20, 000 (Email subscribers) (pass-along rate of 4 readers per issue)
The Capital News is delivered monthly to high impact and heavity frequented public areas in Ward 5, 7 and 8. Our distribution includes churches, bus stops, post offices, community centers, clinics, coffee shops, barbershops, beauty salons, IHOP and oth er restaurants.
