The Washington Informer - February 27 2020

WI Bridge Center Section

Vol. 55, No. 20 • February 27 - March 4, 2020

High School Seniors Find Ways to Make Their Own Black History Milestones

By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill

5 ‘African Americans and the Vote’ was the theme of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) 94th annual Black history luncheon on February 22 at the Renaissance Hotel in Northwest. (L-R) ASALH Award Committee Chair, Dr. Shelia Fleming-Hunter; Secretary of the Smithsonian Institute Lonnie Bunch, recipient of the Legacy Award; ASALH President Dr. Evelyn Brooks Higginbotham; and ASALH Executive Director Sylvia Y. Cyrus. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer) For more photos go to Page 26

Message to Committee: Fully Fund Maryland’s HBCUs

By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill

Kayla Moore testified Tuesday in Annapolis on how she participated in an exchange program while at Coppin State University in Baltimore with students at Frostburg State University.

Moore recalled how the state distributed more money to Frostburg to deal with pregnancy and opioid challenges in their respective communities.

“Our state is struggling to fill our schools with qualified, diverse educators, but we will never meet this need if we continue to essentially divest from our four HBCUs,” said Moore, 23, a second-grade teacher at University Park Elementary in Prince George’s County. “Doing

so poses a negative impact on graduating high school seniors who want to be educators in Maryland, ultimately stunting the recruitment of diverse educators from our state, for our state.”

Moore joined dozens of other alumni, students and other supporters to tell the House Appropriations Committee to fund Maryland’s four Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Specifically, for the committee to give a favorable recommendation on legislation sponsored by House Speaker Adrienne Jones for the governor to include $57.7 million in the state’s operating budget beginning in fiscal year 2022 for the state’s HBCUs. Before testimony continued at the more than one-

HBCU Page 16

When the Maryland Department of Education released its new report card format in 2018, it featured a star rating to provide a more comprehensive look at student success such as the progress of English language learners, chronic absenteeism and other academic measures.

For high schools, one of the measures highlight graduation rates the state catalogs for schools to follow students through a cohort when they enter the ninth grade and graduate 5 Helena Eshun of Central High within four or five years.

School. (Anthony Tilghman/

SCHOLARS Page 22 The Washington Informer) SECOND OF A TWO-PART SERIES

Food Deserts Continue within City’s Southeast Neighborhoods

Should Residents Trust Recent Promises and Announced Plans of Elected Officials? heid” disproportionately experienced among poorer communities in the District, specifically residents In last week’s news story, of Wards 7 and 8, acknowlwe focused on the impact that years of “food apartFOOD Page 50

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Women the Cycle of wi hotBreak topics Domestic Violence Bowser Cuts Ribbon on Ward 6 Family Housing Program

COMPILED BY WI STAFF WRITERS WILLIAM J. FORD, JAMES WRIGHT AND WI EDITOR D. KEVIN MCNEIR

By Tia Carol Jones lawtheenforcement. they threat,” said.

Mayor Muriel Bowser recently cut ribbon to TheShe Aya,said the short-term familyshe housing WI Staff Writer

had sites come together bringIt’sa the next Among the programs Marlow site in Ward 6 and the latest of the eight opening in theto District. piece within sense of uniformity in the way wants to see implemented are her strategic plan to end homelessness – Homeward DC – and continues the momentum When L.Y. Marlow's 23-year- domestic violence victims and stricter restraining order policies, reforming thethe District’s response system for families experiencing homelessness. old toward daughter told her fathercrisissurvivors are treated. more rights for victim's families “The Aya embodies our DC Values and serves as a reminder that when Washingtonians of her daughter threatened her “She's using her own personal to intervene on behalf of a viconthe hardlife times, neighbors ward across the District are here to help,” Bowser life,fall and of their child,in every story, her own personal pain to tim, a domestic violence assesssaid. “This beautiful facility will serve as landing spotDavis-Nickens for families that provides them with she knew something had to be pusha forward,” ment unit coupled with further the support to get backsaid to living the dignified lives that done.

Out ofthey herneed frustration about Marlow. and independent training forthey law enforcement withdeserve.” law enforcement's handling Davis-Nickens said anyone agencies, a Child's Life ProtecAya follows openings short-term housing siteswill in Wards 5, 7and andmandatory 8. of theThe situation, she the decided to ofwho reads family Marlow's book tion4,Act counselAnother, The W.J. Rolark, opened in the summer of 2019 and is operating as a site in Ward start the Saving Promise cam- “get it.” She said she “puts the ing for batterers.

8 until it transitions to Permanent Supportive Housing. in Ward 3“Ifis expected to going to eradipaign. case in such a way,The theBrooks average we are ever open in April 2020, followed by a site in Ward expected to open inthe Wintercate 2020-2021.

The “It seems to be a vicious cycle person can1 get it.” She said at domestic violence, we must openedend the Patricia Placebook for Women, low-barrier in early 2016. thatBowser won'tAdministration turn my also family of the Handy day, the will alook at bothshelter sidesinofWard the 2,coin.

The Aya, families will have access service-enriched programming thatneed will assist them stabilize loose,”At Marlow said. Marlow help to people begin to have a dia- We to address both theand vic-exit homelessness. includes familylogue units, about on-sitedomestic parking, an indoor play and space, a conference room, adminshared her The storysitewith the 50 audiviolence. timactivity and the batterer,” Marlow space for staff and providers and amenities. thewas launchsaid. of Homeward DC in 2016, the District has enceistrative at the District Heights Alsoother present at theSince event Domestic Symposium reducedViolence overall homelessness by more than 11 Muhammad, percent and reduced by 45 percent.

Mildred the family ex- homelessness Marlow would also likeBowser’s to see FY 2020 on May 7 at the District Heightsto support budget included $47 million services, including theprograms creation of adesigned comprehensive wife ofhomeless John Allen Muhammad, to street raise outreach Municipal The sympo- individuals network Center. to connect unsheltered vital housing firstconsecsupports. awareness among children in who wastosentenced to six sium was sponsored by the utive life terms without parole public and private schools. She Family and Youth Services by a Maryland jury for his role in feels children need to be educatCenter of the city of District the Beltway Sniper attacks in ed about domestic violence.

Heights and the National Hook- 2002. Mildred Muhammad is “We have to stop being pasUp of Black Women. the founder of After the Trauma, sive-aggressive with poor chilMarlow has written a book, the held dren about domestic violence,” The nation’s airports could an turnorganization into a cha-that helps Metro three hearings this week for commut“Color Me Butterfly,” which if is atheysurvivors domestic violence Marlow otic mess for passengers miss theofOct. 1 ers to comment on said. proposed changes by the transit story about for fouracquiring generations Marlow has break deadline theofnewand Realtheir IDchildren. driver’s agency. The proposed $3.8worked billiontofiscal year 2021 domestic The booklaw is requires “I lived in fear for six years.

Sixincludes the cycle of increase abuse in from her family, license. violence.

As of Oct. 1, the airline pasbudget a fare $6 to $7 and inspired own experiences, years in fear is a long time.

It is ofand is confident theafter policies sengersbytoherpresent a Real ID-compliant driver’s expansion late-night service moreshe than three and those of her grandmother, not an easy thing to come out is pushing for will start license or ID card – which require more proof of years. Some Metrobus routes could that be changed her mother and than her daughter. of,” she process. identification regular licenses -- said. at Transsuch as Routes 83 and 86 in College Park in Prince She said every time she reads Mildred Muhammad said “I plan to take these policies to 60 minportation Security Administration checkpoints George’s County to increase frequency from excerpts from her book, she still people who want to utes helpto a30 minutes Congressonand imploreand them to Howin airports.

Saturday Sunday. can not believe the words came domestic violence victim must change our laws,” Marlow said.

So far, states that include Maryland, Real ID ever, Metro proposes dozens of cuts at routes they’ve from her. “Color Me Butterfly” be careful of how they go into “I will not stop until these policompliant since 2011, have issued about 95 milidentified with terms like “redundancy,” “efficiency,” won the 2007 National “Best the victim's life, and understand cies are passed.” lion Real IDs, resulting in two thirds of peoor “low ridership.” Some of those include Route 3A Books” Award. that she may be in “survival Tia Carol Jones canVirginia be reached ple expected to board planes on and after Oct. (Annandale Road) in Northern and the D1 “I was just 16-years-old when mode”. at tiacaroljones@sbcglobal.net 1, just seven months to get them.

Passengers route (Glover Park-Franklin Square) and combine my eye first blackened and my “Before you get to 'I'm going without the Realsaid.

D could end up being denied D2 (Glover Park-Dupont Circle) with the G2 route lips bled,” Marlow to kill you,' it started as a verbal WI boarding and left stranded.

(P Street-LeDroit Park) in Northwest. The agenElaine Davis-Nickens, presi- Those passengers without IDs will be required to present a cy’s board of directors are scheduled to approve the dent of theReal National Hook-Up passport, military ID or Global Entry card to budget in March and begin to implement approved of Black Women, said there is no pass through security, even for domestic flights. changes when the new fiscal year begins July 1. consistency in the way domestic violence issues are dealt with by

Airports Brace for Chaos as Hearings Held on Proposed New ID Deadline Approaches Metro Changes Grow Heated

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CIRCULATION Paul Trantham

“

We have to stop being Ben’s Chili Bowl Bound for Baltimore’s Horseshoe Casino passive-aggressive with poor The Ben’s Chili Bowl chain has decided to open a restaurant north of the District in Baltimore and will establish a restaurant in the Horseshoe Casino children about domestic Baltimore. Scheduled to open in March, it will be Ben’s second location in Maryland, with its concession stands in FedEx Field in Landover serving as the violence.

I plan take these first.

Kamal Ali, co-owner of Ben’s, saysto the family looks forward to coming to Baltimore.

“We got policies a call from Caesar’sto inviting us to come there,” Ali said. “We visited Congress and the site and thought it was a great idea to move in there. Washington and Baltimore are cousin citiesthem and we thought was a great idea to our be in Baltimore.” implore toit change Baltimore City Councilmember John T. Bullock (D), a former District government employee, referred to the move as “wonderful.” laws. will not stopanduntil “It’s exciting to see aIBlack-owned business expand Ben’s Chili Bowl is a powerhouse in the food industry,” he said. these policies are passed.

“

In Memoriam Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, Sr. Wilhelmina J. Rolark

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L.Y. Marlow

AROUND THE REGION

Go-Go Becomes the Official Sound of D.C.

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Contributing Writer @SamPKCollins With the stroke of a pen, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser made go-go the official music genre of the District, a historic milestone culminating what had been a monthslong fight — on the streets and in the Wilson Building — to preserve the sound and culture endemic to what people once called “Chocolate City.”

On Feb. 19, elected officials, go-go industry leaders and fans, and longtime District residents converged on Culture House DC in Southwest on for a celebratory gathering marking the institutionalization of a well-regarded musical genre that, for a couple decades, had been maligned by local authorities as a cause of intra-community violence.

For Council member Kenyan McDuffie (D-Ward 5), the passage and signing of the legislation he championed could pave the way for a renewed relationship between the District and native Washingtonians.

“Go-go is D.C.’s indigenous musical genre, and I am pleased to have championed the efforts at the Council to designate it as the official music of D.C.,” McDuffie said. “I look forward to working with Mayor Bowser and her administration for a thorough and impactful implementation, which will bring the go-go community closer to the District’s al-

ready strong economy and, in doing so, make our city more equitable and prosperous for all.”

Earlier this month, the D.C. Council unanimously approved passage of the bill that would designate go-go as the District’s official music genre and approve government-funded programming that supports and preserves the go-go sound and culture. In June, McDuffie introduced the legislation amid the growth of an internationally recognized effort to solidify go-go’s presence in the District and fight the telltale signs of displacement and cultural genocide.

Subsequent public hearings attracted the likes of go-go scholar Natalie Hopkinson, Big G of the Backyard Band, Michelle Blackwell, Ron Moten, and several others who’d stood on the front lines of what had become the Don’t Mute DC Movement.

Since April, when go-go supporters coalesced around Donald Campbell of Central Communications at his T-Mobile franchise on 7th Street and Florida Avenue in Northwest, the Don’t Mute DC movement has channeled the frustration of go-go’s marginalization into numerous public functions at the Reeves Center on 14th Street in Northwest, Freedom Plaza on Pennsylvania Avenue in Northwest, United Medical Center in Southeast, and other District landmarks.

Supporters have also parlayed the

energy around this issue to revive a campaign for a go-go museum, the first iteration of which will launch this spring at Check-It Enterprises on Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue in Southeast.

Go-go emerged in the 1960s and 1970s as a hybrid of funk, blues and salsa, thanks in part to the late Chuck Brown and his contemporaries. Throughout the decades, variations would grow out of the go-go sound, indicative of the influence of the dominant musical genre in urban

communities at that time. Throughout the early 2000s, a bevy of upand-coming groups — including the Takeova Band, or TOB — popularized the bounce beat sound that’s mainly characterized by the use of the rototoms.

Since April, TOB lead mic Chris has emerged as a voice in the go-go community supportive of its preservation and other causes of significance to District residents. On Wednesday morning, hours before Bowser would sign McDuffie’s bill into law, TOB kept Allison Seymour and other newscasters grooving to the bounce beat on the set of WTTG-

TV’s “Fox 5 Morning News” — perhaps as a sign of what’s to come.

“Making go-go the District’s official music is a start. Shows are being documented and people are getting their business together,” Chris told The Informer. “Once we get legit with paperwork, LLCs, and all of that, that’s when go-go will turn the corner and we [would] need to go in the studio and perform. The whole mystique would change even more.

Go-go is the only music [genre] where you can perform every week.

It don’t stop — that’s why we call it go-go.”

WI

5 Go-Go legends (L-R) E (Optimystic Tribe/Lissen), Sugar Bear (EU), Bubba (Backyard Band), James Funk (RE and Proper Utensils) and Buggie (Backyard Band) are just a few of the well-known go-go musicians who attended the ceremonial signing of a bill making go-go the official music of the District of Columbia.

(Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

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FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020 5

AROUND THE REGION

black facts

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1844 – The Dominican Republic declares its independence from Haiti.

1872 – Charlotte E. Ray, the first Black American female lawyer in the United States, graduates from Howard University School of Law. 1897 – Famed opera singer Marian Anderson (top), the first African American singer to perform at the White House and the first African American to sing with New York’s Metropolitan Opera, is born in Philadelphia.

1988 – Figure skater Debi Thomas becomes the first African American to win a medal in the Winter author of “Invisible Olympics.

Man,” is born in Oklahoma City.

FEB. 28 1984 – Michael Jackson wins eight Grammys for his 1927 – Singer-songwriter, actor and record-breaking “Thriller” album. social activist Harry Belafonte is born in FEB. 29 Harlem, New York.

1940 – Hattie McDaniel (right) becomes the first African American to receive an Academy Award, winning in the Best Supporting Actress category for “Gone with MARCH 2 1807 – Congress the Wind.” votes to ban the African slave trade.

1867 – U.S. Congress enacts charter to establish Howard MARCH 1 University in Washington, D.C. 1913 – Famed novelist and scholar Ralph Ellison, 1962 – Basketball great Wilt Chamberlain scores 100 points for the Philadelphia Warriors in a 169–147 win over the New York Knicks, an NBA record.

1990 – Carole Gist becomes the first African American to be crowned as Miss USA.

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1821 – Thomas L. Jennings patents a dry-cleaning process, becomes the first Black American to receive a patent.

1836 – Jefferson Franklin Long, the first African American from Georgia to be elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, is born in Knoxville, Georgia.

1865 – The Freedmen’s Bureau, a federal government agency that aided freed slaves in the South during the Reconstruction era, is established.

1991 – Black motorist Rodney King is beaten by Los Angeles Police Department officers following a high-speed car chase. The incident is captured on video and incites a massive riot in Los Angeles after the officers’ acquittals a year later.

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1877 – Black inventor Garrett Morgan is born in Paris, Kentucky.

1954 – J. Ernest Wilkins Jr. is appointed assistant secretary of labor by President Eisenhower, becoming the first African American to hold a sub-Cabinet position in the federal government.

WI

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AROUND THE REGION

view P INT

BY SARAFINA WRIGHT

According to multiple studies, the academic achievement gap for ethnically-diverse students is even wider in the STEM fields. What can we as a community do to make STEM appealing to our youth?

Sun rooms

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Solid virgin vinyl replacement

DEBBIE JENNINGS / WASHINGTON, D.C.

More programs like “Sid the Science Kid” would be very helpful.

RACHEL BRYANT / WASHINGTON, D.C.

Give them a chance to experience where they live and see outside the seat of the classroom. I was really excited that my son would take chemistry. I told him he would get a chance to experiment with the elements. He told me they don’t do that anymore. That’s what the school lacks.

17

TRACIE WALLER /

HILLSBOROUGH, NEW JERSEY

This is why I’m getting my daughter interested in STEM. It starts at home. The school can’t do everything. We are doing our first summit this weekend.

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KIA BROOKS /

ERIAL, NEW JERSEY

The first letter of STEM is science! Who is teaching science when most can’t read at grade level? How can you teach technology when most have antiquated systems for engineering and math?

WILL SMITH / LANCASTER, CALIF.

The right type of hip-hop, conscious hip-hop, can actually convince kids to participate in STEM. What we should do is make it a requirement to be in a STEM program in order to sign up for a basketball league.

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FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020 7

The World According to Dominic

BY D. KEVIN MCNEIR / WI EDITOR / @DKEVINMCNEIR

Trump Says We Have Nothing to Fear from Coronavirus – But Blacks Remember ‘Tuskegee’

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Federal health officials have taken off the kid gloves when speaking about the coronavirus which has already claimed more than 2,700 lives globally while leaving over 80,000 people in at least 33 countries sickened and suffering from a variety of respiratory illnesses.

The virus, which scientists say can be contracted or transmitted by and to humans and animals alike, presumably through sneezes, coughs and contaminated surfaces, has moved far beyond its ground zero point of origin, Wuhan, China, with confirmed cases in countries whose leaders just weeks ago believed they had little fear. But with new outbreaks in Asia, Europe and the Middle East in countries that include Italy, Iran and South Korea, there’s renewed concern that we’re in the early stages of a global pandemic. Scientists estimate that each infected person could spread it to somewhere between 1.5 and 3.5 people without effective containment measures.

As American financial markets decline to their lowest point since Feb. 2018 and with growing uncertainty about how long the virus will remain a threat or how severe interruptions in normal business

operations will become as more plants close, citizens are forced to remain in their homes and travel from country to country is suspended indefinitely, a new reality has emerged.

Federal health officials now conclude that the virus will almost certainly spread in the U.S. and advise hospitals, businesses and schools to begin to prepare for the inevitable immediately. In other words, the question is not “if” this will happen but instead exactly “when,” based on comments shared by Dr. Nancy Messonnier, director of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases in a news briefing earlier this week.

She says the Americans should get ready and prepared “in the expectation that this could be bad.”

Children may relish in the fact that “social distancing measures” could lead to eventual school closures. Workers may similarly celebrate the predicted canceling of those annoying meetings and conferences with directives from their employers to stay in and work from home.

For now, we just do not know what the future holds.

That’s why President Trump confounds me yet again. On Tuesday, the U.S. reported 57 cases – 40 connected to the Diamond Princess cruise ship where passengers were stricken with the virus after it docked in Japan. Yes, they’ve been isolated and there appear to be no signs of sustained transmission in American communities – for now.

But it’s irresponsible for the president to refute his own health officials, downplaying the threat and telling U.S. citizens that the virus “is very well under control in our country.”

I’m not sure that I’m so worried that I’m going to begin wearing a mask whenever I leave my home, or cancel plans for trips within the U.S., but given the frequency with

which Trump has twisted the truth or caused anyone with a semblance of common sense to doubt the veracity of his assertions, I am unable to put my faith in his Tweets aimed as allaying our fears.

Perhaps the Republicans who number among his base may be willing to follow the Pied Piper of Pennsylvania Avenue into the unknown but Blacks would do well to remember that the government has smiled in our faces but spoken with forked tongues – much to our detriment.

This time, we have no need to look to conspiracy theories to support our concerns. All we need to do is remember the Tuskegee experiments which began in 1932. Then, when no known treatment existed for syphilis, 600 men were initially enrolled in the project, told they would receive free medical care – with one group with latent syphilis given placebos even after penicillin became a recommended treatment in 1947.

Researchers, bent on tracing the disease’s full progression, provided no effective care as the men died.

Those associated with the study withheld the truth for decades until the experiment was forced to shut down in 1972. By then, death from the disease or related complications also leading to death had totaled some 128 men, with over 40 spouses also becoming infected, passing it to 19 children at birth.

Of course, the coronavirus is a case far different in scope from the Tuskegee Experiment in which the disease could have been treated, halted and eventually eradicated.

But should we be so eager to trust those who have violated us with such ease, allowing needless suffering and death to claim the lives of Black men, women and children?

Whose warning should we head – federal health officials who the man who has promised to “make America great again?” WI

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AROUND THE REGION

District Election Roundup

By James Wright WI Staff Writer @jamesdcwrighter

CANDIDATE FORUM TAKES PLACE IN WARD 8

The National Black United Front, along with the District branch of the NAACP and the Federal City Alumnae chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, Inc., sponsored the “Ward 8 Candidate Forum 2020” at Busboys & Poets in the Southeast-based Anacostia community, Feb. 20. Salim Adofo, representative, Advisory Neighborhood Commission, District 8C07, hosted the event. Eighty citizens attended the forum.

Dalton Patterson, a candidate for the U.S. shadow representative position, talked about how he would work to get a D.C. statehood bill passed in the U.S. Congress. Representatives from the presidential campaigns of Peter Buttigieg and U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) spoke about their candidates and how, if either were elected to the White House, they would improve conditions for District residents.

The D.C. State Board of Education panel consisted of at-large candidate Jacque Patterson and Ward 8 resident and candidate Dr. Carlene Reid.

Patterson said he will advocate the use of social media to get more working parents involved in their children’s education and wants more vocational education offerings in the school system.

Reid said she would like to see a teacher’s and parent’s seat, respectively, on the board and will work to implement more technical education programs that will lead to residents making livable wages.

D.C. Councilmember Trayon White (D-Ward 8) participated in the Ward 8 council panel with Democratic candidates Christopher Hawthorne, Mike Austin, Richard Campbell, Yaida O. Ford, Stuart Anderson, Jeronda Hilton, Nelson Jackson, Sr., Danielle Platt and Nate Derenge, a Republican.

White noted when he came into office in 2017, no money existed in the budget for crime prevention efforts. However, due to his advocacy efforts, $16 million has since been allocated. The councilmember also said he succeeded in restoring a portion of the money for

Ward 8 schools that D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser had proposed to eliminate in last year’s budget (FY 2019).

The District party primaries take place on June 2 with the winner facing either independent Christopher Cole or Derenge in the Nov. 3 General Election for the Ward 8 council seat.

The final panel consisted of candidates for the two at-large council seats that will be decided in the Nov. 3 General Election. D.C. Councilmember Robert White (D-At Large) participated as the only candidate of his party while Markus Batchelor, Eric Rogers, Marcus Goodwin, Jeanne Lewis and Chander Jayarman spoke on why they would best represent the District as the independent, at-large legislator.

Robert White said if re-elected, he will push for a better education system for all residents, more affordable housing and the expansion of opportunities for returning citizens. Batchelor said as a councilmember, he will be a fighter for affordable housing and more-equitably-funded public schools.

Before the end of the forum, Adofo shared his own “breaking news.”

“I am going to run...for re-election as a commissioner,” he said.

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5 Salim Adofo serves as a commissioner for 8C07 in Ward 8. (WI File Photo)

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Tyrell M. Holcomb, the chairman of the ANC, 7F, recently dropped out of the Ward 7 D.C. State Board of Education race. He addressed his reasons on social media.

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5 Tyrell M. Holcomb serves as the chairman of the 7F advisory neighborhood commission. (WI File Photo)

“When I ran for ANC, I committed to seeing a number of projects completed,” he said on Twitter. “These projects will be the catalyst for economic development, business and career opportunities and a chance to see transformative change that includes our community in the process.

To fulfill my pledge to those I’ve been honored to serve the last three years I will not seek the Ward 7 State Board of Education seat and will instead run for commissioner for a third term.” WI

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AROUND THE REGION CAPTURE THE MOMENT Attorney Clinton Wallace Chapman (seated) celebrated by friends and family during his 95th birthday on February 22 at the Century Limited Club in Northwest with his wife Cathy (seated) and daughters (L-R) Carolyn Chapman Mitchell, Cheryl Chapman Henderson, and Clarissa Chapman Bowie.

(Shevry Lassiter/The Washington Informer)

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“[We’re] going to change the world. One day they’ll write about us. You’ll see.”

– Viola Liuzzo,

The mother of five and member of the NAACP Detroit branch, traveled from her home in March 1965 to help the SCLC register Black voters in Selma. Shortly after arriving and while driving a Black man from Montgomery to Selma, the Ku Klux Klan shot and killed her. Liuzzo, 39, remains the only known white female killed during the Civil Rights Movement.

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AROUND THE REGION

BID INVITATION FOR CONSTRUCTION OFMONTGOMERY COUNTY CAPITAL CRESCENT TRAIL TUNNEL (70% DESIGN ESTIMATE) Your bid is due to us on or before March 6, 2020 @ 5:00 PM (EDT)

5 Maryland’s finest received their flowers. (Timothy Cox/The Washington Informer)

Maryland Live! Casino Salutes African-American Movers and Shakers

7th Annual Black History Heroes Event Honors Local, Statewide Leaders

By Timothy Cox Special to Washington Informer An enthusiastic throng of about 300 well-dressed citizens gathered at the Center Stage area of Maryland Live! Casino in celebration of Black History Month, acknowledging the 7th Annual Black History Heroes which toasted Black local and statewide leaders.

The special affair, hosted by Live! Casino & Hotel, along with the Maryland-Washington Minority Companies Association (MWMCA), took place on Thursday, Feb. 20.

In the process of celebrating individuals and organizations alike, several honorees received special plaques denoting their individual awards. Dr. Sheila Brooks, founder/CEO of SRB Communications, delivered the welcome address, also handling emcee duties.

Special awards were presented

by Cordish Company officials (Maryland Live Casino owners) including Anthony G. Faranca and Zed Smith, executive vice president and general manager of Live Casino & Hotel and COO of the Cordish group, respectively. Wayne Frazier, Sr., president/

CEO of MWMCA, also served as an award presenter.

The Rev. Jerome Stephens, community outreach director for Maryland Sen. Benjamin Cardin, delivered the prayer and described the ceremony as “a worthy tribute to our leaders, past and present.”

In a special commendation letter from Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan, the governor stated, “This celebration seeks to honor and recognize Black history heroes.

“Maryland is steeped in African-American history,” he wrote.

“Numerous African-American leaders have called Maryland home including Frederick Douglass, Benjamin Banneker and Harriet Tubman. We are proud to celebrate these and other historical heroes here in Annapolis and across our state.”

Morgan State University’s 10th overall president, David Wilson, attended the event and received a plaque for his contributions to the academic and larger community.

As an honoree, Wilson acknowledged the achievements of other awardees including Maryland House Speaker (District 10)

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FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020 11

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY School Construction Bills Receive Plenty of Support

By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill Surrattsville High School Principal Katrina Lamont said additional money for public school construction would allow the school in Clinton to expand its career and technical education programs.

Glenn Dale Elementary Principal Heather Porterfield said the top option for her school would be a new structure altogether, as the building’s original foundation was built in 1928.

“Any new schools built in the northern part of [Prince George’s] County would benefit the students because it would alleviate overcrowding,” said

Porterfield, adding that the building capacity is only 440 while the current student population stands at 597. “We are well over capacity. Classroom space at Glenn Dale is very tight. We also have nine temporary buildings outside Glenn Dale Elementary. The students still need that service because those are their learning environments.”

Similar stories from hundreds of educators, advocates and parents in the county echo the need for new buildings or renovations of existing ones to relieve classroom congestion.

So far, Maryland lawmakers are nearly in accord, as the House of Delegates overwhelmingly approved a $2.2 billion construction plan 128-6 this month.

5 A home economics classroom inside Surrattsville High School in Clinton is shown here on Feb. 19. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

Sen. Douglass J.J. Peters (D-District 23) of Bowie, one of the sponsors of the Senate version, said lawmakers in that chamber will work off the House version of the bill, which offers a few additions.

For instance, the House bill calls for opportunities for students to receive career and technical education programs “that lead to an identified job skill or certificate.”

The bill would also extend the public-private partnership (P3) agreement Prince George’s County will use from

2021 to 2022. The majority-Black jurisdiction will be the only one to use this option toward public construction projects, with the rest of the state obtaining money from bonds through the Maryland Stadium Authority.

The bill pushes for minority businesses and local hiring on various projects statewide.

Public school building projects still must meet the approval of the state’s Interagency Commission on School Construction, according to the legislation, titled the Built to Learn Act.

Md. Lawmaker Floats Statewide Ban on Plastic Bags

By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill

5 Maryland could become the ninth state in the nation to ban plastic carryout bags. (William J. Ford/The Washington Informer)

ANNAPOLIS — The Rev. Cheryl Bryant said her city of Baltimore has begun to look much cleaner after its ban on plastic bags last year.

That’s why she supports a bill sponsored by Sen. Malcolm Augustine (D-District 47) of Cheverly calling for a statewide ban on plastic carryout bags from all stores.

“I understand that God has placed mankind on this Earth to be good stewards of our environment. This is a job that we can’t take lightly,” Bryant said Thursday, Feb. 20 during a public hearing before the Senate Finance Committee in Annapolis. “They hang from our trees like grotesque ornaments. On windy days, they fly over our heads like ghostly figurines. Nobody wants these bags.”

Not all plastics would go away. According to the legislation,

12 - FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020

the ban would be for “point of sale purchases,” but not for packaging items such as fruit, frozen foods, dry-cleaned clothes or potted plants.

Stores would be required to charge at least 10 cents for the sale of every durable carryout bag, though the money would remain with the businesses.

All businesses that don’t comply with the law would be charged a $500 fine for each violation.

Augustine conducted a PowerPoint presentation with pictures of plastic bags picked up off the ground in Prince George’s County and a percentage of the majority of customers who don’t use disposable bags in stores such as Aldi.

The bill also proposes forming a 16-member work group to provide recommendations by Dec. 1 to the governor and General Assembly on items such as: • Evaluating current state and municipal policies and requirements for the management of sin-

gle–use products.

• Assessing how to reduce the environmental impact of single–use products.

• Evaluating potential economic impact on low-income residents.

The group would include at least four state lawmakers, two representatives of the solid waste management industry, a resident 30 or younger who works or volunteers in a community to reduce waste, and a representative of the Maryland Retailers Association.

If approved by the legislator, Maryland would become the ninth state in the nation to ban plastic carryout bags.

Augustine stressed that the 10cent implementation is not a fee, rather “a price floor of 10 cents.”

“We’re trying to change behavior,” he said. “This is trying to get away from the throwaway culture that we have when people are just

PLASTIC BAGS Page 18

“On the whole, it’s an excellent work product,” Peters said of the bill sponsored by House Speaker Adrienne Jones.

On Feb. 19, several county executives banded together for the second time in as many months before the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee to champion the construction plan, part of a concerted effort by the executives to support the revamping of Maryland’s public educational system.

Although the Democrats control the legislature, Republican Gov. Larry Hogan presented a similar bill that would create an estimated 27,000 new jobs and $1.2 million in wages.

“That level of collaboration emphasizes that this proposed investment transcends party lines and geographic boundaries,” said Howard County Executive Calvin Ball. “We know that our children and our educators in Howard County and those throughout Maryland are counting on this historic investment.”

Phyllis Wright of District Heights in Prince George’s suggests incorporating mandates to ensure officials follow through on any work orders.

Wright transferred her two children, enrolled in third grade and fifth grade, to William Hall Academy in Capitol Heights after mold was discovered in 2017 at District Heights Elementary.

The school closed for the 2018-19 school year and children attended the former Forestville High School building in the interim.

“I am so proud of my two girls,” she said. “When students [have] a place that is nice and clean, they have pride about their school. When you have a school that is run-down, it takes something away from the children.” WI

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PGCPS BRIEFS

Compiled by Dorothy Rowley WI Staff Writer

TEACHER OF THE YEAR NOMINATIONS

Nominate an outstanding educator for the prestigious Teacher of the Year Award. Candidates must be in their sixth year of teaching and plan to remain in the classroom during the 2020-21 school year.

The submission deadline is at 5 p.m., Friday, March 6.

COLLEGE WORKSHOP AT UM

On Saturday, March 7, students in grades 6-12 and their families can learn about the college admissions process, how to prepare for applications, financial aid, and the overall college experience. This annual college preparation workshop at the University of Maryland’s College Park campus is presented in Spanish and English.

er brother, James Michael Scott, a forward for the Philadelphia 76ers.

His brother and mother constantly pushed him to excel in academics.

Now, as he prepares to graduate high school, it is clear their efforts paid off.

Derrick plans to attend a service academy and major in civil engineering.

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

STUDENT CENSUS CONTEST

PGCPS middle and high school students can plug into Census 2020, civics and your creativity by submitting their best 30-second public service announcement on why it’s critical for families to complete their census forms.

Individuals or groups — can enter the contest to help promote the importance of full Prince George’s County participation in the U.S. census.

Participating students or groups must create a 30-second public service announcement (PSA) promoting the importance of full Prince George’s County participation in the upcoming census.

Entries must be received by 11:59 p.m., March 11.

All students featured in videos must have a completed 2019-20 SY media release form on file with their school.

Entries will be judged on criteria including originality, creativity and concept. WI

SCHOLAR OF THE WEEK

Derrick Griffin a senior at Chesapeake Math and IT Academy, loves art and painting, head to toe, and as an entrepreneur, customizes his own sneakers, having already designed more than 10 pairs of shoes.

Derrick, who holds a 3.92 GPA, participates in the Project Lead the Way program where he’s enrolled in Advanced Placement courses in Statistics, Environmental Science, Calculus AB and English Language and Composition classes.

The varsity basketball player is also a member of the National Honor Society, Student Government Association, Toastmasters International and Vex Robotics club.

Derrick’s role model is his old-

5 Derrick Griffin, a senior at Chesapeake Math and IT Academy, loves art and painting, head to toe, and as an entrepreneur, customizes his own sneakers.

(PGCPS photo)

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FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020 13

BUSINESS

D.C. Business News You May Need to Know Compiled by WI Editor D. Kevin McNeir

is. And I defy the District to say otherwise.”

AAA LABELS DC’S TRAFFIC TICKETING AS ‘PREDATORY’

DEADLINE FOR SUMMER YOUTH EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM, FEB. 29

D.C., long known as one of the most notorious cities for issuing traffic fines, recently broke new territory, having issued more than $1 billion in tickets over the past few years.

“I don’t know another local jurisdiction in the entire nation that has generated as much money from traffic tickets, parking tickets and moving violations,” John Townsend, public relations manager, AAA Mid-Atlantic, said in a recent interview with WJLA. “That tells us that things are out of control and out of hand in the District of Columbia.

Townsend, who closely monitors DC’s ticketing behavior, said the ticket issuing boils down to a money-making operation that has yet to prove the high fines have made anyone safer, adding that there’s been no evidence which shows the amount of the fine modifies a motorist’s behavior.

“We’ve looked high and low,” Townsend said. “We looked across the globe and we have not found one major study that proves there is a link between the amount of the fine and compliance. No one really believes this is about traffic safety any longer which is the reason we’re withdrawing support for the automated enforcement program in the District. It’s predatory ticketing. That’s precisely what it

Hundreds of longtime or native Washingtonians, now adults and successfully established in their careers and chosen professions, routinely point to getting their start during their teen years here in the District – beneficiaries of the City’s long-heralded and now-titled work initiative, the Marion Barry Summer Youth Employment Program [MBSYEP]. And while applications for the upcoming summer became available Jan. 31, and continue to be processed on a first-come, first-served basis, there’s still time to apply.

The deadline to apply is Saturday, Feb. 29 for DC residents, ages 14-24 and eligible to work in the U.S. Youth must have an email address and a valid Social Security number to apply and should visit www.summerjobs.dc.gov. if interested. Space remains limited.

CAREFIRST BLUECROSS BLUESHIELD TO COVER INSULIN, DIABETIC SUPPLY COSTS

announced it will offer insulin and diabetic supplies coverage to members at $0 out-of-pocket, prior to meeting a deductible in 2021. Beginning January 1, 2021, CareFirst will provide access to preferred brand insulin and diabetic supplies, such as glucometer test strips and insulin syringes, as a covered benefit with no member cost-sharing in plans where CareFirst sets the health benefits and manages the financial risk, referred to as “fully-insured” plans.

The cost of insulin and other prescription drugs continue to increase, creating affordability challenges for members. Medication is the largest contributor to overall spend at CareFirst, exceeding $2.5 billion annually, and the costs continue to grow at an unsustainable rate. In 2019, members in fully-insured plans paid nearly $6M in out-of-pocket costs for insulin, which averaged to approximately $119 per fill.

“This is one step among a series of aggressive actions that CareFirst is and will continue to take to confront a health crisis that is facing the nation,” said CareFirst President and CEO, Brian D. Pieninck. WI

To advance its mission to provide affordable access to health coverage, CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield [CareFirst] recently

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BUSINESS

Hairstylist on Crusade to Turn Black Salons into Business Powerhouses

By Curtis Bunn Urban News Service When Najah Aziz nodded off during an annual job performance review, she knew she had to make a move. She wanted out of the insurance business and into the hair salon, feeding a passion she developed as a child styling her six sisters’ hair.

Quitting the security of corporate America after 16 years came with a second ambition: to inject a new sense of professionalism into the African American hair industry.

Aziz eventually took the leap and put her evening cosmetology classes to work. Fifteen years later, she is a nationally recognized stylist, owns the Like The River Salon in Atlanta and wages a one-woman national crusade with “Beauty Beyond The Hair” clinics.

She travels the country up to 20 times a year to run four-hour “look and learn” sessions, three-hour business seminars for salon operators and a seven-hour “Short Hair Boot Camp.”

Students get a crash course on busi-

ness etiquette, marketing, community service and client retention and growth.

“The model for African American salons has been broken for a long time,” Aziz said. “It’s been broken in the way the businesses operated, the way business was conducted, the way stylists presented themselves, the atmosphere in salons.

“I was a client long before I became a hair care professional and so I noticed all the issues,” she said. “I sat in a salon for six hours to get my hair done.

I watched stylists talk on the phone as they worked. I saw people coming in off the street selling products to clients, while listening to rap music blast away.

And none of it felt right. In fact, it was all disappointing.”

Aziz hosts some sessions at her award-winning salon where she coaches stylists individually and in groups.

And she offers hourlong phone mentoring to share business advice.

“I believe in her mission of being more professional in our culture because it allows us to move in arenas that were not available to us,” said Loriane Robinson, stylist and owner of In God’s

Hands Beauty Salon in Chicago. “We were completely blinded to the fact that the beauty industry is bigger than making money doing hair.”

Robinson first spotted Aziz on Instagram and embraced her teachings in a 2016 session in Chicago.

“I’ve learned that our industry also has to first be about being professional, on time for work, building your image, social media presence, continuing to be a student,” she said. “When we apply her knowledge, create new habits, we can experience this multibillion-dollar industry in a fresh and new way.”

Jasmine Ashley, owner of a Los Angeles salon that bears her name, said, “Every time I see Najah, she drops a jewel or several. I’ve learned from her that staying relevant, current and professional at all times holds more weight than stylists know.”

Aziz said she started slowly with one or two clients a day. But she studied hair videos in her off-hours and observed other stylists’ work, gradually building her clientele.

“My intent was always to educate

5 Najah Aziz and Jasmin Ashley (Photo courtesy Najah Aziz)

myself,” she said. “Even now, all this time later, I’m excited about learning and improving.”

Her salon is a soothing environment where clients have limited wait time because there is no double-booking.

Aziz flexes her community-service muscle three times each year, offering complimentary hair care services to homeless women in Atlanta.

“I believe in giving back,” she said.

Her formula seems to work. More than 285,000 fans follow her on Instagram, hair magazines feature her work and annual industry mega-events like

the Premier Hair Shows and International Beauty Show give her platforms to teach and tell her story.

“Najah is so amazing,” said Brooklyn stylist Gillian Garcia. “I support her mission. It’s time the ‘Black salons’ treat our gifts, talent and purpose with a little more respect.

“I totally love that Najah continually references her corporate experience because we are professionals also. She has shown you can be creative, professional and business-savvy. She’s released an inner power within me and I have not been the same since I met her.” WI

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NATIONAL HBCU from Page 1 hour hearing, Del. Maggie McIntosh (D-Baltimore City), who chairs the Appropriations Committee, praised Moore.

“You are an example of what we want to more toward in Maryland,” she said before a rousing applause.

As for the bill, it stands as one of the top priorities of the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland that seeks to end the ongoing 13year HBCU lawsuit.

The money would be designated this way, annually: $24 million for Morgan State University; $16.7 million for Bowie State University; $9.6 million for the University of Maryland Eastern

FREE

Shore; and $7.2 million for Coppin State University.

According to the bill, money would be used to pay for scholarships and support services, recruit faculty, expand existing programs and implement new ones, academic support and marketing.

The bill also requires the state Higher Education Commission, named a defendant in the suit, to study and review its current policies and practices “with respect to academic program review.”

A report would be issued to the governor, Jones and Senate President Bill Ferguson by Dec. 1 One on the main reasons for the bill comes from a court decision that the state failed to

5 Dozens pack the House Appropriations Committee room Feb. 25 to testify and show support of legislation that proposes to include $57.7 million annually to Maryland’s four Historically Black Colleges and Universities. (William J. Ford/The Washington Informer)

eliminate a . . . policy of unnecessary duplication of programs at Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the state that has exacerbated the racial identifiability of Maryland’s [HBCUs].”

The annual amount would

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continue until 2030, estimated to equal a total of $577 million, a settlement figure as agreed upon by the plaintiffs, Maryland HBCUs Matters Coalition, alumni and other advocates in the suit.

Gov. Larry Hogan offered to settle for $200 million which the Black Caucus called “unacceptable.”

Ewa Okulate, who attends the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, agrees.

“As we see with our other counterparts, we do not receive as much funding and we’re here to say, ‘That’s not ok,’” said the 20-year-old senior with a double major in English and marketing. “We need to fund for our first-generation students and people who need more opportunities at HBCUs.” Inside the packed hearing room, several offered their

support of the bill with a few amendments.

One would be to ensure each school receives at least $10 million annually. The legislation proposes the two smaller schools, Coppin State and Eastern Shore, receive less at $7.2 million and $9.6 million, respectively.

Michael D. Jones, an attorney with Kirkland Ellis and lead counsel for the plaintiffs, said each school should be allowed to hire its own consultant. The bill states for one consultant to assist the institutions “as a collective with programmatic development.”

If the bill becomes approved with the amendments, Jones said his clients would dismiss the suit.

He thanked the legislators for being “on the verge of making history.” WI

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NAACP Hears Students’ Reports of RaciallyCharged Campus Attacks

By Hamil R. Harris WI Contributing Writer At a time when students of color are besieged by racially driven attacks, NAACP used its monthly telephone conference on Feb. 19 to host a discussion titled “The State of Black Students in America.”

Tiffany Dena Lofton, national director of the NAACP’s Youth and College Division and the event’s moderator, fielded a range of questions from students from across the country that were answered by a diverse panel of guests.

Lofton opened the call by talking about the role and responsibility of the NAACP. “If we want solutions that please us and make our lives better, they have to be driven by the people on the phone and the people affected,” she said.

The panelists included Brandon Evans, president of the University of Hartford chapter of the NAACP; Brea Baker, program director of Inspire Justice; Zellie Imani, co-founder of the Black Liberation Collective; Delanie Seals, a high school senior and organizer of #HeadWrapsMatter; and Yoel Haile, political director of the Afrikan Black Coalition.

When one caller asked about discrimination on predominantly white campuses, Imani said, “one of the most common problems is the white supremacy on these campuses and the complacency by the university officials.”

“If you bring an incident to their attention, often times they will make it seem as though it is an isolated incident,” Imani said. “Students have to demand that they feel safe on their campuses. These universities need to do something systemically and policy-wise.”

Just last week, students who staged a sit-in at Syracuse University in protest of hate crimes and racial rhetoric on the New York campus were handed suspension letters.

To date, no student has been reprimanded for the hate crimes during the fall semester.

Such incidents have increased in regularity in recent years, with

sometime tragic results.

In May 2017, Army 2nd Lt. Richard Collins, a Black student at Bowie State University, was fatally stabbed by a white man on the campus of the University of Maryland, just days before he was to graduate.

Three months later, Neo-Nazis, “alt-right” members and white supremacists chanted “Jews will not replace us” as they marched with torches through the University of Virginia campus in Charlottesville. A subsequent clash with counterprotesters resulted in three deaths, including a young woman killed when a reported Nazi sympathizer drove a vehicle into crowd of demonstrators.

High school student Delanie Seals, who has long pushed for culturally sensitive dress code policies at her Oklahoma school, said such inclusive measures are necessary.

“When you have people who look like you and have experienced the same things as you, you get more empathy and more support when it comes to issues that concern you,” Delanie said.

“Even before I was able to vote, I was making sure that I was contacting my state representatives and telling them the issues that I see in our schools,” she said. “I think it’s very important for Black residents to tell their representatives what they’re struggling with and their concerns.”

Haile ended the conference call by quoting Kwame Ture: “If your people are oppressed and you are not making a contribution to end the sufferings of your people, by your very act of inaction, you are against your people — there is no middle ground.”

“None of us has the luxury to sit out of the struggle,” Haile said.

“We shouldn’t ever have the feeling that we get to sit out on the struggle of healing our people.”

To stay connected, text 2020 BLACKOUT to 40649 and learn ways to help in your community. For more updates, follow @NAACP on Twitter and @NAACP_YC on Instagram. WI

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FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020 17

NATIONAL Democratic Presidential Candidate Tom Steyer Backs D.C. Statehood

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia

5 Tom Steyer (Campaign photo)

LAS VEGAS — If New York philanthropist and Democratic presidential candidate Tom Steyer wins his party’s nomination and goes on to defeat President Trump in November, proponents of D.C. statehood would have an advocate in the Oval Office.

“Tom is in full, unequivocal support of statehood for the District of Columbia,” said Johnnie Cordero, a Steyer surrogate and chair of the Democratic Black Caucus of South Carolina.

Tiffany Vaughn-Jones, Steyer’s communication director, said he signed the D.C. Statehood Pledge last year, affirming his support for the nation’s capital becoming America’s 51st state.

The pledge reads: “I pledge to support admitting Washington, D.C. into the Union as a state of the United States of America.”

For the first time in 25 years, the U.S. House of Representatives held a hearing on statehood in October, and the measure has garnered more support than ever before.

“As an aside, I would never support a candidate who opposed statehood for Washington, D.C.,” Cordero said.

Steyer sat down for an exclusive fireside chat at Las Vegas’ Four Seasons Hotel on Thursday, Feb. 19, with the Black Press of America.

The interview was livestreamed just one day after the Democratic debate and before the Nevada causes.

As president, Steyer said he also would pledge $125 billion over 10 years to continuously fund and fortify historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).

During the interview, conducted by National Newspaper Publishers Association President and CEO Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., Steyer pledged to end the school-to-prison pipeline that has affected millions of

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minorities.

He also promised a living wage for workers, a 10 percent tax cut for everyone making under $250,000 a year, affordable health care for all Americans, and reparations for African Americans.

Steyer told Chavis that he’d fight to correct the wrongs done to African Americans and would use the power of the presidency to help the plight of the nation’s more than 64,000 missing Black women and girls.

“There is no policy area in America that I don’t think has a substantial, often unmentioned, but important aspect about race,” Steyer told Chavis.

Cordero said Steyer has a track record of tackling issues that are paramount to Black life.

“What I have said from the very beginning is that it is presumptuous to think, and certainly to say, that you have the Black vote in your pocket,” Cordero said. “I spoke with almost every candidate

except Elizabeth Warren. Early on, I endorsed Tom Steyer, and what I said to him is what I said to all of the candidates. I told him if he wanted to reach the Black community in South Carolina, he needed a plan, and I laid out that plan.

“You can come in and kiss some babies and pat people on the head, shake hands and think all of a sudden you’re OK,” he said. “We know that nobody is going to walk into the White House and wave a magic wand and change things. What we’re interested in is the candidate who understands our issues, who has empathy. And we believe Tom Steyer has integrity and character and that he will fight for us and our issues when he becomes president.

“So when you talk to me about housing, criminal justice, or wages or education or climate, I think it’s absolutely unrealistic to talk about it without bringing up the racial aspect of it, specifically regarding the Black community,” Cordero said.

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PLASTIC BAGS from Page 12

several amendments, include designating half of the monies collected from 10-cent durable-bag charge for the counties to use for water quality projects, litter reduction and providing reusable bags for residents.

At least six people outright disagree with the measure.

Restaurateurs and advocates said food products such as crabs are sold with both paper and plastic bags. In addition, several jurisdictions in the state make exemptions for packaging in food service.

“The bag fee will change behavior,” said Eric King of Sea King Seafood Market and Crab House in Ellicott City. “People are going to be using reusable bags and I don’t think that’s very sanitary, using the bags for multiple things.”

Minority Whip Stephen Hersey Jr., member of the Finance Committee, asked environmental advocates who agree with the 10-cent measure if they would support Montgomery County possibly losing $2.5 million.

“Our objective is to get plastic out of the environment,” replied Sydney Jacobs of the Maryland Sierra Club.

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quickly throwing bags all over the place.”

Alexandra DySard, environmental and partnership manager for MOM’s Organic Market, said the business banned plastic bags 15 years ago. “[Plastic bags] are not recyclable,” she said. “There are no public works departments, no recycling municipalities, or curbside recycling programs that accept this time and there’s no monetary value for them.”

One major stipulation would enforce the state law and override any of county plastic-ban programs.

For instance, Montgomery County would lose about $2.5 million annually with the elimination of its 5-cent bag law, which was instituted in January 2012.

Adam Ortiz, director of Montgomery County’s Department of Environmental Protection, said the county uses money for programs such as anti-litter campaigns, restoration and outreach grants, the installation of 140 pet waste stations in 43 communities and dozens of markers and art projects.

Alex Butler of the Maryland Association of Counties asked for

2/12/20 5:03 PM THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

NATIONAL

Clyburn, Black Vote Loom Large Over Democrats’ Debate in South Carolina

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia

Longtime South Carolina U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn garnered nearly as much attention as anyone during the 10th Democratic presidential debate held in Charleston on Tuesday, February 25.

And, Clyburn does not number among those running for president.

However, each of the candidates understands that the powerful congressman’s endorsement could tip the scales for Saturday’s all-important primary.

With Clyburn’s backing, a candidate could more-easily garner the lion’s share of the Black vote which many serves as the ticket to the nomination and, perhaps, the presidency.

Immediately out of the gate, Sen. Bernie Sanders and Sen. Amy Klobuchar mentioned Clyburn, who has earned a reputa-

tion in the Palmetto State as a “Kingmaker” because of his influence in South Carolina Democratic politics.

However, NBC News reported late Tuesday that Clyburn would endorse former Vice President Joe Biden, which the network says could help “cement what Biden has predicted would be a firstplace finish in South Carolina.”

Earlier on Tuesday and just before the debate, Biden gave an exclusive interview with the Black Press of America in which he said African Americans will likely select the next president.

“The Black vote will determine the nominee … and hopefully the next president. The Black Press is the heart and soul as to why I got involved,” Biden told National Newspaper Publishers Association [NNPA]President and CEO, Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr., during the 45-minute discussion, live-streamed to millions of viewers around the nation.

The NNPA serves as a trade association of Black-owned newspapers and media companies around the country, including the Washington Informer.

“The Black community brought me to the dance,” Biden stated.

During the debate, Biden expanded on his mission to capture the Black vote.

“I’ve worked like the devil to earn the vote of the African-American community,” Biden said. “I don’t expect anything. I plan to earn the vote.”

The debate began with moderator Norah O’Donnell asking Sanders how he would convince voters that a Democratic Socialist in the White House would be better for the economy.

The Vermont senator responded by attacking former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg.

“The economy is doing really great for people like Mr.

DEBATE Page 46

5 Rep. Jim Clyburn (Courtesy photo)

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Central Bank of Nigeria to Create 10M Jobs for Smallholder Farmers in 5 Years The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) said that it would create about 10 million jobs in five years through support to small-scale farmers nationwide.

Isaac Okoroafor, director of corporate communications of the Apex Bank, said that the bank would create the jobs by providing strategic support to smallholder farmers and off-takers that would buy agricultural produce from the farmers, Daily Trust reported.

According to Okoroafor, the job creation target will be achieved through strategic financing to farmers of cassava, cocoa, maize, tomatoes, cotton, fisheries, poultry, oil palm, among other agricultural primary agricultural produce that is cultivated in this country.

He said that apart from funding, the bank will also provide the farmers with high yielding seedlings and extension services to ensure that they succeed.

“The CBN is doing everything possible to support local farmers and anchor companies to ensure that the economy is expanded which will create a value chain and our target is to create five million jobs in the next five years to reduce the banditry, kidnapping and other social vices that are being witnessed today,” he said.

Okoroafor said that the intention of the bank is to bring back the farm settlements with each section of the country engaging in the crop that had been the economic mainstay of the country before the discovery of crude oil in commercial qualities.

He explained that the CBN “is desirous of returning the farm settlements back to the country. Nigeria used to be the largest exporter of oil palm, but today we import oil palm but with the coming to assist with finance, improved seedlings and support of anchor companies the farmers will produce more knowing that their produce will be immediately bought after harvesting at no loss to them.”

Okoroafor advised small and large scale farmers to take advantage of the support being provided by the CBN in view of its multiplier implications for farmers’ welfare and the nation’s economy. WI

caribbean now Caricom to Mount Fact-Finding Mission to Haiti Even though the situation in Haiti is complex and there are a number of views on the way forward, it cannot continue without the intervention of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Dominica Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit said at the news briefing following the conclusion of the 31st Inter-Sessional CARICOM Summit in Barbados Feb. 18-19.

Skerrit said heads of government agreed to mount a mission led by Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, the CARICOM secretary-general. The mission will also include representatives from the Bahamas, Barbados and Jamaica.

“We recognize that Haiti is part of the Community and we have a responsibility and a duty and obligation to assist a Member State in unraveling its challenges and to work with [it] towards lasting solutions,” Skerrit said.

Barbadian Prime Minister Mia Mottley, who chairs CARICOM, anticipates that the mission would have been completed when regional leaders meet for the CARICOM-Mexico Summit in March.

She expressed satisfaction about engagements with Haitian Foreign Minister Bocchit Edmond, and noted her earlier conversation with Haitian President Jovenel Moise.

“The first step is for us to have the legitimacy and the integrity of facts that we can rely upon, and that therein after we then work with the relevant players to see how best we can work with Haiti to ensure that they don’t face instability within their boundaries,” Mottley said.

The CARICOM chairman also noted that finding a lasting solution to the crisis in Haiti was critical to minimizing the fatalities which occur when citizens risk their lives by attempting to cross treacherous seas to get to places like Turks and Caicos and The Bahamas. WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

From the desk of

MIKE BLOOMBERG Dear Reader, Thank you for taking the time to learn about The Greenwood Initiative.

As someone who has been very lucky in life, I often say my story would only have been possible in America — and that’s true. But I also know that because of the artificial barriers of discrimination, my story likely would have turned out very differently if I had been Black, and that more Black Americans of my generation would have ended up with far more wealth, had they been white.

Building Generational Wealth for Black Families is Critical. That’s why I launched The Greenwood Initiative in Tulsa last month. I visited the site of the Black Wall Street Massacre, where a white mob decimated the prosperous community of Greenwood.

It is to the memory of the lost lives and promise of Greenwood that we’ve dedicated The Greenwood Initiative: a plan to address the systematic bias that has kept Black Americans from building wealth.

THE GREENWOOD PLAN WILL: • Create 1 million new Black homeowners • Double the number of new Black-owned businesses • Invest $70 billion in the country’s 100 most disadvantaged neighborhoods

Fixing the System for Black Families. When I was mayor of New York, I was proud to take on the systematic inequality that held back too many New Yorkers. We increased education funding, built 650 new schools and raised Black graduation rates to record highs. We led an ambitious effort to reduce poverty and managed the largest amount of affordable housing in the nation. And as President, I will work even more aggressively to combat inequality nationwide.

I understand that undoing generations of systematic discrimination won’t happen overnight, but we can make progress with a clear vision and a comprehensive plan. I’ve included a pamphlet along with this letter that lays out my plan. When I’m President, implementing The Greenwood Initiative: will be a top priority.

Join me in ending the systemic inequality that has held Black Americans back for too long!

Sincerely, Mike Bloomberg

For more information visit

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Virginia Washington Informer

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FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020 21

Size: 9.85” x 10.935”

HEALTH SCHOLARS from Page 1 The state hasn’t released graduation rates for 2019 but the figures in 2018 for Prince George’s County Public schools reported 78.4 percent, the second lowest in the state in front of Baltimore City.

The county’s attendance rate of 93.6 percent rests in the middle of the pack among other school districts and slightly above the state average of 93.5 percent.

The department notes a piece of advice on its website for principals: keep the focus on student achievement.

“One strategy for focusing staff and stakeholders on your student achievement goals is to display the progress toward attainment of the goals on a bulletin board, display case or school wall,” according to the department. “The display should allow staff and stakeholders to quickly see where you are, where you are heading and how the journey is going. You should not miss a communication oppor-

tunity to reinforce that your top instructional priority is improved student achievement.”

Rhetoric and recommendations aside, three Prince George’s high school seniors remain well on their way to boosting this year’s graduation percentages in three short months when they officially conclude their high school careers. And while they have yet to decide upon the higher education institution they’ll ultimately attend, the three say they’re clear about the career goals which include prosecutor, entrepreneur and pediatrician.

In honor of Black History Month, The Washington Informer interviewed Helena Eshun, Courtney Hill and Ja-Kyra White to discuss what the lessons learned and to identify the more significant influences on their young lives.

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5 Ja-Kyra White of Surrattsville High School. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

‘I’M GOING TO MISS SURRATTSVILLE HIGH’

Ja-Kyra White, 18, says she knew she wanted to work with children as a little girl, specifically as a neonatologist to help care for infants, either born with health challenges or prematurely. Her decision came after visiting some of her grandmother’s 15 grandchildren, including a set of quadruplets, in local neonatal intensive care units.

“It made my interest a little more hands-on and more than just saying, ‘Hey, I want to do this.’ I was really observing it.” Ja-Kyra said.

To ensure future success, the high school senior enrolled and continues to participate in various activities at Surrattsville High School in Clinton including serving as class president the last four years.

In the ninth and 10th grades, she labeled pills inside a pharma-

CASINO from Page 11 Adrienne A. Jones.

Former Negro League infielder Luther “Luke” Atkinson, 82, served as keynote speaker and shared insight on his playing days under the tutelage of legendary Hall of Fame pitcher, Leroy “Satchell” Paige.

But he also noted that in those days, Black athletes had no choice but to accept both the poorest of playing conditions

ceutical lab as part the Health Occupation Program at Howard University in Northwest.

She currently takes two dual enrollment courses at Bowie State University. Upon graduating in May with about 160 others, she’ll have earned 21 college credits which include hours secured at Bowie State with her mother who’s currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in education.

In between cheerleading practice alongside her younger sister, 10th-grader Tiara Pinkard, JaKyra serves as an intern at a local child care center learning how to work with children.

Inside the school of about 710 students, she credits art instructors Charles Griffin and MeShawn Carter as in-school influences. Besides advice on classwork and life, she said Griffin helps review fliers she produces for various events while Carter has mentored her as a Class of 2020 sponsor.

She’s clearly made the most of her four years boasting 14 accepand meager salaries – far below wages earned by whites.

“We didn’t have agents back then,” he repeated.

Atkinson now volunteers for the Hubert V. Simmons Museum of Negro League Baseball Inc., located in Owings Mill. While Rayner “Ray” Banks, a Hall of Fame cofounder, serves as exhibits manager.

Cordish Companies, in a corporate statement, said its commitment to the City of Baltimore

tance letters from schools that include North Carolina A&T State University, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Old Dominion University in Norfolk and Philander Smith University in Little Rock She hasn’t chosen a school yet where she plans to study Biology but she praises Surrattsville in preparing her for a post-high school career.

“I’ve been here for four years.

It’s become a routine to come here and be guided by the same people – seeing friends that I still have and talking to underclassmen and doing stuff with them. I don’t know if I’m going to miss high school but I’m going to miss Surrattsville,” she said.

‘DOING SOMETHING BIG’

Courtney Hill recalls when he made the honor roll for the first

SCHOLARS Page 23 and other communities throughout the state remain viable as ever.

“Live! is recognized as one of the top corporate philanthropists in the region, while contributing millions of dollars annually to neighboring communities, charitable, non-profit and business groups,” the statement noted.

A soulful performance by a Temptations tribute band closed out the evening’s festivities.

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THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

HEALTH

SCHOLARS from Page 22 time his freshman year at Northwestern High School in Hyattsville. But the next two years his English and math classes became harder as did his teachers whom he found as “really, really, challenging.”

Still, he kept his grades high enough so he could continue to participate as a member of the school’s wrestling team. This year, injury has relegated him to the sidelines where he still cheers on his teammates.

Courtney describes his senior year at the school which has about 2,300 students as the most “laid back year I’ve had in a long time.

Something I dreamed [of ] for years. It finally came to me.”

Along with a half-day schedule, he’s achieved a 3.5 grade point average. However, the impact of his academic challenges as a sophomore and junior have resulted in his current cumulative grade point average of 2.1.

Although he praises his mother as an inspiration, he also gives credit to his entrepreneurship teacher, Beverly Jackson, remaining focused on his job at ChickFil-A and poised to pursue culinary arts after he graduates in May. He’s received correspondence from trade schools Lincoln Tech and International Culinary Center of New York City – labeled one of the best culinary institutes in the country.

But Jackson, he says, persuaded him to think bigger, thus his recent decision to apply to Prince George’s Community College, particularly after realizing it could be more affordable than matriculating at a trade school.

Courtney organized a “vision board for 2020” with a focus on learning in and out of class with the possibility of applying to community college and major in business. After obtaining an associate’s degree, he plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree at a four-year college or university. “[Jackson] was like, ‘Why go to a trade school and only focus on one thing?’ If I’m stuck on something, [then] I’m going to be stuck on it. For her to change my mind to be an entrepreneur, it’s crazy,” he said. “I don’t want to be a guy out here who can’t sign a contract.

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5 Courtney Hill of Northwestern High School. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

I want to know how to read it before I sign it. I want to be one of the Black people in America doing something big,” he said.

‘I KNEW THAT I COULD DO BETTER’

Most high school seniors don’t spend their final year inside another building but Helena Eshun and her Central High School classmates have done just that – traveling different routes to the former Forestville High School due to ongoing renovations at their school in Capitol Heights.

“I live five minutes away from the old Central [in Capitol Heights] and I live about 20 minutes away from this Central,” Eshun said.

“This school is actually bigger than the old Central but me and my peers just love the old Central because it’s home.”

The 17-year-old senior admits she endured a rough start her freshman year at Central with fights and other problems. But she received tough love from her volleyball coach, Tiffany Hall, who also serves as the school’s English chairperson.

“She sat me down and she literally yelled at me and had me crying,” Helena said. “She knew my siblings because they went to Central before me. She knew what type of family I come from. She really changed my

whole perspective. I knew I could be a better student and person than who I was in the ninth grade.”

From the 10th grade on, she has improved her grades, making the honor roll, participating in numerous school activities and joining groups which include the student government association. And, she would be chosen as the president of the Class of 2020. Additionally, she serves as parliamentarian on the school’s National Honor Society with whom she’s been a member for the past two years.

Central serves as an International Baccalaureate school with a student population of almost 800, allowing Helena to take advanced courses in chemistry, history, World Literature and art.

Moreover, her perseverance has paid off with her receiving over 20 college acceptance letters that include: Xavier University, Morgan State University, Norfolk State University and Stevenson University in Owings Mills. She plans to major in criminal justice, attend law school and become a prosecutor.

She says she’s leaning toward matriculating at a Maryland-based college.

“It’s more convenient for me and family. I want to be close, but not too close. I’m not [that] close with my family but I can’t leave them,” she said.

WI

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EDUCATION Blacks and STEM: The New Horizon for Youth and Entrepreneurs

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia According to the federal government, members of racial and ethnic minority groups project to become the majority of America’s population in the next 30 years.

Today, however, they account for just 28 percent of America’s STEM workers. Still, despite underrepresentation, Black innovators have

made countless discoveries that have defined current STEM fields.

So much so that the online magazine, ID Tech, highlighted some African Americans, past and present, who they said should routinely garner recognition for their achievements.

Those highlighted included astronaut and doctor Mae Jemison, surgical technician Vivien Thomas and search engine inventor Alan Emtage.

But young African Americans are also taking advantage of the STEM field where lucrative careers await.

In Maryland, De’Rell Bonner, an IBM on-site liaison for the P-TECH program at Carver Vocational-Technical High School, has worked furiously since last fall to help bridge the gap between classroom and career.

Bonner provides students with mentors, arranging paid internships, scheduling workplace visits, facilitating practical training on topics like personal finance, and counseling students on career goals.

“This summer we have 11 students who are interning at IBM in a wide range of roles across several business units and learning everything from artificial intelligence to our global business sales,” Bonner said in an earlier interview.

“There are options available to these students, but for all of the students, this is their first professional internship in the tech industry,” he said.

The six-week summer program is an example of what IBM and P-TECH schools like Carver are all about.

NMAAHC Holds STEM Day for Black Youth

By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Contributing Writer The National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) on Saturday hosted STEM Day, an event to provide mentoring opportuni-

ties by STEM professionals to Black youth, an underrepresented group among aspiring scientists and engineers.

Created with the intent to inspire the Black youth, many Black professionals in the STEM (science, technology, engineer-

5 Leah Tadege, a 5th grader and National Society of Black Engineers Jr. (NSBE) plays with engineering modules during Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Day at the National Museum of African American History and Culture on February 22. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

24 - FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020

ing and math) career sectors are working to revitalize a sense of confidence and interest from Black children when it comes to pursuing related careers.

“Naturally, the kids are drawn to STEM, but the parents aren’t enforcing it into their character,” said Shawn Moseley, father of two STEM students and member of the National Society of Black Engineers, one of the participating organizations. “I have introduced my kid, [who] isn’t naturally drawn to STEM. But I see other parents that have joined the program for the same reason, but aren’t enforcing it. So when there are competing schedules with sports and STEM, they take them to sports. I think we definitely don’t enforce the value of STEM over any other subject.”

Another of the event’s participants was Black Women in Science And Engineering (BWISE), an organization created by Erika Jefferson to maintain and champion Black women in the STEM

“This summer we have 11 students who are interning at IBM in a wide range of roles across several busi-

ness units and learning everything from artificial intelligence to our global business sales.”

– DE’RELL BONNER Short for Pathways in Technology Early College High School, the P-TECH program offers a free associate degree in cybersecurity and assurance or computer information systems through a partnership with Baltimore City Community College, along with a high school diploma.

Ultimately the skills taught are fields. BWISE set their exhibit in honor of biomedical engineer Patricia Bath, a trailblazer in health sciences and the first African American to receive a residency at New York University in ophthalmology, as well as the first African American woman to receive a medical patent.

Bath would work to later invent the Laserphaco Probe made for cataract treatment in 1986 — a game-changing invention that has assisted and influenced the work of numerous health physicians since.

“I’m an optometrist and I directly benefited from her invention,” said Dr. Helene Clayton-Jeter, who attended Saturday’s event. “I co-manage patients with an opthamologist, and with her invention, it enabled patients that lowered their risk for infection, and inflammation. So when they came back to me for treatment, my success, as far as the visual success, was enhanced because of her invention.”

Wanda Scott, director of BWISE’s D.C.-area chapter, said that while African American representation within the health

designed to be aligned with jobs, so involvement from companies like IBM who help guide what skills can be taught and offer employment to students who complete the program are also crucial to the model.

Students work with leading professionals, are paired with an

STEM Page 46 sciences and engineering fields is low, part of the solution is fostering an atmosphere of inclusion.

“We’ve learned for many years that it’s not about the lack of aptitude, but it’s about the stimulation and about the belonging once you get there,” said Wanda Scott, director of BWISE’s D.C.-area chapter. “If you talk about diversity and inclusion, they do all these initiatives and then once we get in position, we feel like we don’t belong. We’re not supported, we’re not acknowledged. It’s not so much about getting the young people into it. If you get them into it, they’re not going to stay because of the environment they are entering into.”

T’Keyah Payne, a 16-year-old student from Chester High School in Pennsylvania who attended the event as part of a school trip, said she has had a knack for engineering since the 7th grade and plans to continue feeding her passion once she begins undergraduate studies in a few years.

“When I graduate high school, I want to go to college and major in engineering,” she said. WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

DCPS

BRIEFS Compiled by Dorothy Rowley WI Staff Writer

BARD EARLY COLLEGE

D.C.’s Bard Early College, which opened this year in Southeast and provides students with the opportunity to simultaneously earn an associate’s degree while working on their high school diploma, is part of a larger network of eight schools that include locations in New York, Maryland, New Jersey, Ohio and Louisiana.

The program has some strong data results to share after being in existence for the past 20 years, including that more than 90 percent of its alumni enrolled in college within 18 months of graduating high school.

Students are taught by college faculty in undergraduate seminars.

IMPACT REVIEW

As part of DCPS’ IMPACT teacher review system, American University will participate in the school system’s convening of national experts to discuss improvements, with inclusion of a representative from the Washington Teachers’ Union.

DCPS has begun gathering in-

formation for the review. In the fall, 78 percent of DCPS teachers completed a survey and provided anonymous feedback about the evaluation system.

Teachers again will have an opportunity in the spring to provide feedback through IMPACT-related questions in a further survey.

Also, in the spring, DCPS Chancellor Lewis Ferebee will work with the district’s Teacher and Principal Advisory Boards on potential strategies.

STANDING OVATION

When it comes to educating students, #StandingOvation2020 Teacher of the Year Ashley Kearney says, “Attendance is half the battle.”

Read more about how Ashley’s guiding her Ron Brown High School students at washingtoninformer.com.

fessional learning experiences on how to build relationships with families through home visits.

The Family Engagement team also encourages high school staff and teachers to partner with families on creating a path to college and works to improve effectiveness and frequency of information shared with families and what they can do to support their child’s learning at home.

The team also equips parent leaders and parent leadership organizations with skills and mindsets to effectively partner with schools.

For questions and to provide feedback, call 202-719-6613 or email ofpe.info@dc.gov. WI

EDUCATION

5 StandingOvation2020 Teacher of the Year Ashley Kearney (DCPS photo)

ENGINEERING DAY

DCPS recently celebrated “Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day.” The event encouraged girls to consider a route into engineering and the #STEM world — inspiring a generation to grow up to be the innovators and problem-solvers of the next generation.

FAMILY ENGAGEMENT TEAM

DCPS’s Family Engagement team works to build and sustain academic oriented relationships with families while training teachers to conduct Academic Parent Teacher Teams and home visits.

In the process, DCPS teachers are provided with year-long pro-

5 DCPS’ recent “Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day” was all about encouraging girls to consider a route into engineering and the #STEM world. (DCPS photo)

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020 25

CAPTURE the moment

For more photos, visit www.washingtoninformer.com

3 Rita Gay who was one of the first African Americans to be in the White House’s Situation Room attend the celebration.

5 Attorney Clinton W. Chapman, holding his signature martini glass, celebrated his 95th birthday on February 22 in Northwest. Over 33 years ago, Chapman was a personality spotlight in the Washington Informer for being a role model in the community. Several of his friends and family whose lives he inspired, attended the celebration. (Photos by Shevry Lassiter/The Washington Informer) 3 (L-R) Anita Proust, Betty Scott, Cathy Chapman, Jerri Strickland, Joan Stanard, and Elynore Herron, a group of women who have been friends for the past 60 years, attend the celebration.

The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) held its 94th Annual Black History Luncheon on February 22 along with a book signing.

(Photos by Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

3 (L-R) WJLA Co-anchor Maureen Bunyan who served as the mistress of ceremonies with Maria Marable Bunch wife of Secretary of the Smithsonian Institute Lonnie G. Bunch III 4 Washington Informer Charities board members attend the Black history luncheon as guests of Denise Rolark Barnes, publisher of the Washington Informer.

5 Dorothy Gilliam, the first African-American female reporter at the Washington Post, was one of the featured authors at the event.

26 - FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS

EDITORIAL

Democratic Debates: A Raucous Tirade Offering Little on Plans for the Future

After watching Tuesday night’s Democratic presidential candidates slug it out during the political season’s 10th nationally-televised debate, about the only thing one could be sure of is that it offered very little in moving undecided voters toward their decision on which of the remaining hopefuls might serve their interests and needs the most.

With rare exception, whether by design, frustration or outright anger, most of the commentary bore troubling similarity to a reality show like ‘Housewives” than a conversation among those seeking the highest office in the land. Even if they once agreed on and even went along with former first lady Michelle Obama’s strategy which she offered during the 2016 Democratic Convention in Philadelphia, “when they go low, we go high,” it seemed that most have since abandoned such notions.

Sen. Klobuchar’s summary following the debates encapsulated what we fear as well – that if the Democrats aren’t careful and continue along the current vein of back-biting, finger-pointing and holding fast to attacking their opponents because of formerly-held and policy decisions made in the past, that the White House will all but be guaranteed to remain in the hands of President Donald Trump.

As the temperature in the building continued to escalate as one candidate after another yielded to the temptation to outshout the person with the mic, refused to obey time limits allotted for their remarks or insisted upon finding less than subtle ways to plunge the dagger as deeply as possible into the hearts of their colleagues, little time remained for voters to hear what matters most – an explanation of the candidates’ platforms and conclusive evidence why they should be elected president.

Super Tuesday looms largely and just around the corner when close to 40 percent of the delegates will be up for grabs. But if the childish antics we saw on Tuesday continue to dominate the discussion, we’re concerned that it won’t really matter who comes in first, second or even third place.

Voters with a modicum of commonsense will probably have decided to focus on other things, even deciding that while they cannot see themselves voting for Trump, they similarly cannot give their vote to any of the Democratic choices. No decision and a refusal or inability to cast their vote for any of the Democratic candidates would still result in a decision – just one that allows the Trump base to have their way for another four years.

We sure miss Corey Booker and Kamala Harris at lot more than we may have once predicted and it’s not because of their racial identity. Rather, looking back, it was clear that they knew how to keep their remarks focused on their unique skills and their plan for making life better for all Americans.

Those were the days.

WI

Tear them Down, Build them Up!

A bill introduced a year ago by Ward 5 Councilmember Kenyon McDuffie and others would lay the groundwork for more statues and monuments to be built in the District honoring women and African Americans, particularly those who are natives of the District. Today, there are approximately 150 statues in the nation’s capital, with only one honoring an African-American woman – Mary McLeod Bethune – and less than a dozen honoring African-American men.

The Diverse Washingtonians Commemorative Works Amendment Act of 2019 (Bill 23-233) would allow the Council or any other private entity to sponsor a commemorative work on public space. It would require the Commemorative Works Committee to commission such works to have a monument erected in each Ward by a specific date. Additionally, accompanying legislation would establish an advisory commission to study monuments, markers and symbols throughout the District to assess their cultural and historical appropriateness.

At a public hearing held in late January, former Councilmember Frank Smith, founder and director of the Civil War Memorial and Museum in Northwest, reinforced the economic benefit to the City that monuments in neighborhoods have. “People will come and see the White House and other downtown sites,” he said, “but it’s the memorials off the beaten path that keep them here longer.”

Chairman Phil Mendelson talked about the legislation at various Black History events in February while McDuffie said at the hearing that the bill is an important attempt to “reconcile symbols and monuments that often have complicated and blatantly racist

TO THE EDITOR Word to the Wise Felt good seeing a quote from my countryman Oliver Tambo in The Informer. The quote is deep and powerful and just as true today as it was then.

Lee Seegers Washington, D.C.

Schools Need Pros on LGBTQ I read “LGBTQ Training Proposed in Prince George’s Schools” very interesting story. Whether people are comfortable with it or not, it’s needed. There are lots of gay kids and someone not liking them being gay won’t “un-gay” them. We need competent professionals in the schools to help those that need it.

Phyllis Latimer Hyattsville, Md.

histories behind them.”

On the other hand, they also may aim to bring attention and much-needed recognition to the long line of native Washingtonians who have made cultural and historic contributions,” he said.

To date, the only monument in the District dedicated to an African-American native Washingtonian is Duke Ellington. Other monuments devoted to African Americans include Dr. Carter G. Woodson, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Josh Gibson of the Homestead Grays and busts of A. Philip Randolph and Sojourner Truth, to name a few. A statue hon-

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oring Mayor for Life Marion Barry was dedicated outside of the John H. Wilson Building on Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W. in 2018.

The proposed legislation has not passed although the period for public comment has expired. Still, we’re encouraged that the Council will eventually approve the bill upon which we expect to see monuments erected throughout the District honoring the men and women who dedicated their lives to making the District a great place to live. Their contributions must not be forgotten.

WI

FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020 27

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist

By Benjamin F. Chavis Jr.

Big Insurance Must Help End Surprise Medical Billing It is a serious financial problem that far too many African-Americans — from impoverished individuals to working-class families — face these days in the bewilderingly complicated health care market: Getting hit with an unexpected bill after a hospital stay or visit to the emergency room.

Known as “surprise medical billing,” these unexpected costs arise

when a patient goes to a hospital for emergency or non-emergency care, only to find out afterwards that one of the medical providers who administered care was not covered in the patient’s insurance network.

This outrageous situation benefits one group and one group alone: powerful insurance executives, who have managed to get off the financial hook for such bills, even as insurers shrink insurance coverage networks to wring more and more profits out of the system.

But this predatory practice is

Guest Columnist

overwhelming to a family already dealing with the emotional and financial burdens of a medical crisis, typically adding thousands of dollars in unexpected expenses that can wipe out savings accounts or otherwise strain tight household budgets.

So, what can be done to stop and end surprise medical billing?

The good news is that both Republicans and Democrats in Congress agree that legislation is needed to protect patients against unexpected medical charges. But as with many complicated issues con-

fronting Congress, lawmakers have been divided on the details of such legislation.

Part of the paralysis in Congress stems from confusion and disinformation, as insurance executives and their allies try to frame the debate to their advantage.

When Congress tried to address the issue last year, for example, the insurance lobbying machine swung into action, attempting to place the blame for surprise bills on out-ofnetwork medical providers who end up having to charge patients when

insurers refuse to cover a medical bill.

Big insurance almost got its way in that legislative debate when a handful of lawmakers threw support behind a legislative proposal that would shield insurance companies from paying what they ought to pay. The legislation, championed by Sen. Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.), specifically called for setting benchmarked rates for out-of-network medical providers.

benefit of the entire nation, he first, with the support of a Senate and House of Representatives corrupted by the goal of perpetual power, began to pass laws which had no effect other than to enrich the wealthy. When his laws and executive orders didn’t directly enrich the already-rich, they were motivated by a racist and infantile effort to erase the legacy of President Obama.

Many have grown so weary of the on-going litany of breaches of presidential protocols, practices and traditions that they have giv-

en up their protests of his conduct for the safer tact of “praying for divine relief.” Many more, I believe, have failed to correctly anticipate how the pieces of his strategic jigsaw puzzle fit together.

Our government of three coequal branches has been coopted by an Executive Branch which has manipulated the judiciary with the lifetime appointments of scores of unqualified judges and enlisted the assistance of a cooperative Senate to maintain the grid-

CHAVIS Page 57

By E. Faye Williams

45 and ‘Normalcy’ Normalcy.

Dictionary.com defines normalcy as: the quality or condition of being normal, as the general economic, political, and social conditions of a nation; normality. While overly broad, it’s easy to believe that most citizens of this nation would accept this definition as accurate. Amazingly, the example given for word usage was: After months of living in a state of tension, all yearned for a

return to normalcy.

Not so amazingly, I accept that our loss of normalcy shapes the state of our current national distress. What’s worse — under #45 — there is little hope of relief from the state of flux we now endure.

Confusion and uncertainty occupy more space in my future concerns than at any other time in my life.

What is certain is that I yearn for a time, as those just a few short years ago, where things weren’t perfect, but where we weren’t subject to the unlawful, perverse whims of a would-be tyrant and those who

Guest Columnist

would support him blindly.

The majority of voters knew better. We voted, and not for him.

We knew him to be racist, misogynistic and lacking in values and character. He was self-described, and described by those closest to him, as a disruptor whose primary goal was to destroy the institutional fabric of the nation. Although not completely successful, in three years we have seen him take giant steps toward his singular rule as we hope, pray and act to prevent his stated goals.

Rather than working for the

WILLIAMS Page 57

By Marian Wright Edelman

Joyous Birthday, Dear Friend John Lewis!

I am joining countless others this February 21 to wish one of our greatest moral civil rights warriors and servant leaders, Congressman John Lewis (D-Ga.), a joyous 80th birthday and many more. As Black History Month continues, how fitting to be able to celebrate a genuine hero whose courage and nonviolent actions changed American history.

After his announcement that he was fighting cancer, the outpouring of praise, gratitude, and love for him was immediate, along with confidence in his willingness to face a fight. As he said himself, “I have been in some kind of fight — for freedom, equality, basic human rights — for nearly my entire life…So I have decided to do what I know to do and do what I have always done: I am going to fight it and keep fighting for the Beloved Community.

We still have many bridges to cross.”

John Lewis has set a high bar for

28 - FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020

how to confront adversity. Speaking to college-age leaders at a Children’s Defense Fund (CDF) Freedom Schools National Training at CDF-Haley Farm, he told them when he was their age getting into “necessary trouble” shaped his life’s mission. Growing up poor in rural Troy, Alabama, he desperately wanted an education and was encouraged by a teacher to read all he could. Excluded from his segregated county library like so many of our generation, he said: “I tried to read every-

thing, the few books we had at home, the magazines. We were too poor to have a subscription to the local newspaper, but my grandfather had one, and when he would finish reading his newspaper each day, I would get that newspaper and read it.” He listened to the radio to hear the news outside his small community, and started hearing about events that would change his life: “In 1955, 15 years old in the 10th grade, I heard of Rosa Parks. I heard of Martin Luther King Jr. I heard his voice on an old radio, and it seemed

like he was saying, ‘John Lewis, you, too, can do something … You can make a contribution.’” He decided then that was exactly what he would do.

He tried first to integrate his local library. A year later, as a high school senior, he applied to all-White Troy State College (now Troy University), near his home. His application was never answered. Although temporarily discouraged, he persisted in push-

EDELMAN Page 57

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OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist

By Marc H. Morial

National Urban League, BET Networks Launch #ReclaimYourVote “Voter suppression isn’t guns and hoses and bully clubs and Bull Connor. It’s administrative burdens that interfere with your right to vote. In the south they try to stop you from getting on the rolls … and to stay on the rolls … and have your ballot be counted.

We need our democracy to work, we

need poverty to end, we need disenfranchisement to be a thing of the past, because when people are suppressed or oppressed it rages. It may be silent for some time but eventually it will come out.” — Stacey Abrams During a hearing in 2017, California Congresswoman Maxine Waters secured her place as a social media hero when she dismissed the evasive meanderings of Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin with the stern and

Guest Columnist

uncompromising retort, “Reclaiming my time.”

Now, the National Urban League and BET Networks have turned Rep. Maxine Waters’ iconic catchphrase, into rallying cry. #ReclaimYourVote is a social change campaign committed to harnessing Black collective power and increasing Black participation in the 2020 census and the 2020 election.

With its primary channel reaching

more than 90 million households, BET Networks is the nation’s leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African American audience.

The biggest part of Russia’s insidious operation to disrupt the 2016 presidential election was aimed at dissuading Black Americans from voting, as our 2019 State of Black America® report revealed. This illegal foreign op-

eration unfortunately aligned perfectly with a wave of racially-motivated voter suppression laws that have swept the nation over the last several years. #Reclaim Your Vote is our response.

Fully half the states in the nation have enacted restrictive voter suppression laws, aimed at racial minorities, over the past 10 years. The 2013 Supreme Court decision in Shelby v.

MORIAL Page 58

By Charlene Crowell

White House Budget Proposal Cuts $5.6B from Education

For consumers, businesses, organizations and governments alike, annual budgets typically reflect not only line items but priorities as well. As A. Philip Randolph reminded us more than 50 years ago with the release of the “Freedom Budget,” such documents reflect the morals of our nation, especially when they show how much we value the most vulnerable among us.

The recent White House fiscal year 2021 proposal would

fund the Defense Department at $636.4 billion, a slight increase above that of fiscal 2020. At the same time, $339.1 billion in budget cuts are proposed. These cuts would severely affect the nation’s social service safety network, composed of a wide range of services and programs such as food stamps, consumer financial protection, low-income energy assistance, enforcement of federal laws, transportation projects, environmental remediation and more.

And at a time when higher education is increasingly essential to the nation’s economic future, the White House proposal would

Askia-At-Large

eliminate $5.6 billion, a 7.8% reduction from current levels.

“Eliminated programs include Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grants, which duplicates Pell Grants but are less targeted on those who need the most help,” the Education budget summary states. The summary also notes how the budget “protects students by eliminating default for impoverished borrowers” and “closing loopholes currently allowing high-earning graduate degree-holding borrowers to avoid repaying their student loans, leaving taxpayers holding the bag.”

To be clear: no one really choos-

es to default on a student loan.

Defaults occur when loan payments exceed a borrower’s ability to repay, not a willful choice. A significant number of these defaults were incurred at high-cost for-profit colleges.

Research and analysis by the Center for Responsible Lending find that although for-profit college enrollment represents 6% of all college students, these schools generate over 33% of all students who default on their loans. Further, CRL found that only 21% of all for-profit students in fouryear programs graduate within six years.

Today there are over 44 million student loan borrowers whose growing reliance on loans corresponds with the still-rising cost of higher education. Except for the financially well-off, student loans are being used more, not less, and include consumers of varying income levels.

If these cuts take effect with Congress’ approval, the federal commitment to higher education will become yet another funding retreat begun nearly a decade ago at the state level.

“State funding for public colleges and universities has steadily

CROWELL Page 58

By Askia Muhammad

Farrakhan in Detroit

This is the 90th year since the Nation of Islam was born in Detroit. It was in the “Heavenly Valley” neighborhood of the city’s long-since gentrified “Black Bottom” district. The Nation was founded by the man known as “Master” W. Fard Muhammad, who revealed himself on July 4, 1930, to declare independence from the white man’s 400 years of oppression for Black

people in America.

Fard Muhammad was a somewhat mysterious man from The East, the Holy City Mecca, Arabia. It is said of him that he visited all the places on earth inhabited by humans, that he spoke 16 languages and wrote 10, that he pictured and learned the language of the beings on Mars, that he spoke the language of the birds.

What is absolutely known of Fard Muhammad is that he went door to door selling silks, inviting people he met to attend meetings in the homes

of their neighbors. In 1930 this man taught that Black people are not Negroes, or coons, but in fact descendants of the Original Man who created the heavens and the earth. He taught that Black people should come out of the names of their former slave masters, into their “original” names.

Before Fard Muhammad disappeared in 1934, he had given more than 25,000 names to Black Detroiters.

And there, he also found his disciple — Elijah Poole, later named Muhammad, a Chevrolet plant worker originally

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

from Sandersville, Ga. — who would teach the message of Islam: there is no God but Allah, and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, of Freedom, Justice and Equality to the downtrodden. Muhammad Mosque No. 1 was born in the Motor City.

Elijah Muhammad moved with his family to Chicago, where Mosque No. 2 was established. Then, persecuted by authorities and hounded by unfaithful followers from within, Mr. Muhammad fled for seven years to Milwaukee, Mosque No. 3, and to Washington,

D.C. Mosque No. 4.

In Washington in 1942, Mr. Muhammad was arrested by the FBI and imprisoned for five years for “draft evasion,” even though he was 45 years old, at the time and the draft ended for men at age 42.

Prison became a fertile recruiting ground, as many of men in the movement — the F.O.I. (Fruit of Islam) — volunteered to follow their leader to jail.

Five years later, one of the movement’s

ASKIA Page 58

FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020 29

Where there’s team wins, there’s DC Water.

Join DC Water in hydrating the community.

Visit the Hydrate DC Hub to learn more. www.HydrateDC.org #HydrateDC 30 - FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020

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BLACK HISTORY month

A. Peter Bailey Reflects on Malcolm X’s Assassination, 55 Years Later

Discussion Focuses on Lingering Controversy Surrounding Activist’s Murder

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Contributing Writer @SamPKCollins As Pan-Africanists reflected upon the life and contributions of Malcolm X and bemoaned his tragic death on Feb. 21, 1965, one of his closest colleagues says the focus should remain not on the alleged triggerman who evaded prosecution for decades but the top-level intelligence officials who sought to prevent Malcolm X in allegiance with several African leaders from bringing the U.S. government before the United Nations (UN) Commission on Human Rights.

Just one day before the 55th anniversary of Malcolm X’s assassination, veteran journalist A. Peter Bailey led a conversation at the Watha T. Daniel/Shaw Library in Northwest with

an intergenerational audience during which he provided evidence in support of his belief. The three-hour event served as a rare opportunity for anxious listeners to glean from a wealth of Bailey’s experiences that he secured as a result of the years spent with the man whom he describes as his “master teacher.”

During the program, Bailey, a founding member of Malcolm X’s Organization for Afro-American Unity [OAAU], criticized “Who Killed Malcolm X?” – the newly-released Netflix docuseries featuring Bailey and other significant figures of that era – for failing to demand a more thorough examination of the FBI, CIA and other government agencies who he alleges benefited from the deaths of Malcolm X, Martin Luther King, Jr. and others who had risen to worldwide prominence.

“I haven’t seen the whole [documentary] but people tell me it was lacking in [that part] when he became a factor in affecting U.S. foreign policy,” Bailey said during the event coordinated by the D.C.-based organization “Positive Black Folks in Action.”

“Dr. King [also] talked about connecting the Civil Rights Movement to movements in Africa and Asia,” he continued. “Though he and Brother Malcolm had one [confirmed] meeting, people had quiet meetings to bring these two brothers together.”

“No one’s saying they would’ve been homeboys but they could’ve developed something. [Then-CIA Director] J. Edgar Hoover was well aware of that.”

On February 21, 1965, gunmen rushed and fired several shots at Malcolm X shortly after he approached the podium at an OAAU rally at the Audubon Ballroom in Harlem. Malcolm X, 39, died at the scene in front of his pregnant wife, daughters and comrades – including Bailey with whom he had spoken moments earlier.

During Thursday’s event, Bailey, one of Malcolm X’s pallbearers and author of “Witnessing Brother Malcolm X: The Master Teacher,” revealed plans for a book centering on Malcolm X’s travels throughout Africa after his departure from the Nation of Islam (NOI). The work will include speeches, papers, news releases, media coverage and FBI files on the OAAU that Bailey says highlight the activist’s pivot to human rights – a term of global significance which characterized the apartheid-like conditions afflicting African-Americans domestically.

By 1964, Malcolm X, censured by

5 A. Peter Bailey, a founding member of Malcolm X’s Organization for

Afro-American Unity (OAAU), reflects on the contributions of Malcolm X during a conversation at the Watha T. Daniel/Shaw Library in Northwest on February 21. (Brigette Squire/The Washington Informer)

the NOI, had officially defected from the organization he helped grow in prominence and number for more than a decade. The split from his mentor, the Honorable Elijah Muhammad, would allow him to more actively pursue involvement in the Civil Rights Movement including a visit to Selma during which he spoke before young Black activists and met with Coretta Scott King.

Later, during travels abroad, Malcolm X conferred with several African heads of state and appeared before the newly-formed Organization of African Unity (OAU) in Cairo where he tied American racism to the European colonization afflicting Africans on the continent.

The OAAU, which Malcolm X founded in 1964, had been inspired by the OAU – a collective of newly-liberated African countries. At the time of his death, a growing number of African leaders had signed on to the campaign to bring the U.S. govern-

Tubman Descendants Commit to Fighting Illiteracy

Learning Center Programming Targets Prison Industrial Complex

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Contributing Writer @SamPKCollins Harriet Tubman counts among several figures mentioned and venerated during Black History Month, not only for her more-than-a-dozen trips along the Underground Railroad but her crucial roles as a Union Army spy and proponent for women’s suffrage in the decades after the Civil War. Nearly a century since her death, some of Tubman’s descendants have set out to both honor and preserve their noble ancestor’s legacy and tackle 21st century systems and attitudes which continue to funnel legions of

young Blacks into the prison industrial complex – considered by some as a form of modern-day slavery.

“Harriet Tubman wasn’t given an opportunity to learn how to read. If she was alive, we know she’d want to make sure people learned,” said Rita Daniels, the maternal great-greatgreat grandniece of Harriet Tubman and co-founder of the Harriet Tubman Learning Center [HTLC] in Powder Springs, Georgia.

Daniels, born in Tubman’s final resting place of Auburn, New York, launched the Center in 2015 in efforts to reduce youth illiteracy and break the school-to-prison pipeline – a concept which refers to an academically-challenged student’s jour-

5 Rita Daniels, maternal great-

great-great grandniece of Harriet Tubman (Shevry Lassiter/The Washington Informer)

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ney from suspension and expulsion to incarceration.

Since its inception, HTLC has operated as the only Harriet Tubman-themed entity in the U.S. operated by her family members.

“A lot of our students are reading at lower-grade reading levels so we offer a phonics program, as well as STEM, cultural arts and youth entrepreneurship,” Daniels told The Informer.

“If youth have a skill, that’s a bonus for them. We offer so much in our programming for high school dropouts to get back on track. We have to get our kids out of this position that’s making them go to jail.”

Like Tubman and her contemporaries, prison inmates across the country, many of whom remain

ment before the U.N. Commission on Human Rights.

From the OAAU’s founding until Malcolm X’s assassination, Bailey worked closely with him, primarily as editor of the OAAU newsletter “Blacklash.”

Years earlier, Bailey, then a Howard University student, listened to Malcolm X speak on then-Lenox Avenue in Harlem. That moment, he told audiences members Thursday, dispelled his misconceptions about Malcolm X and piqued his interest in Black nationalism.

“I never heard anyone speak about race with the clarity, knowledge, wisdom and commitment he did,” Bailey said. “[Brother Malcolm] said that white supremacy is dominant with varying degrees of intensity. The most important thing I learned from him was about the attacks on the mind. After that [speech], whenever he spoke in New York City, I was there,” he said. WI Black, find themselves forced to manufacture products for the U.S. government, corporations and nonprofits around the clock for nominal wages. This issue became an electoral matter earlier this year when Democratic presidential candidate and former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg acknowledged that his campaign used prison labor to call voters.

For those serving time in state and federal prisons, the struggle to navigate society starts in school. Experts define fourth grade as the “watershed year” for any student, as reading proficiency determines a young person’s likelihood of entering prison later in life.

According to the Department of Justice, six-out-of-10 inmates in the

HARRIET Page 40

FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020 43

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Grit and Ambition Fuel Brooklyn Woman’s Quest to Make French Champagne for Americans

By Curtis Bunn, Urban News Service A Division of Zenger News Marvina Robinson was far from home—5,951 miles, to be exact— but as she stood in a vineyard in France’s fabled Champagne region, a glass of bubbly in her hand, she could visualize the grand ambition she hatched in New York.

She had traveled to France seven times in 18 months to visit wine makers, taste their magic, study the business. The result was a rare American champagne brand owned exclusively by a black woman. Stuyvesant Champagne, its name an homage to the Bedford-Stuyvesant community in Brooklyn where she grew up launched in February to tasty reviews.

Robinson offers a Grand Re-

serve, pale gold with sea-green highlights, a floral aroma, a spicy palate mixed with apples and gingerbread. And there’s a Brut Rosé, salmon-colored, smelling of raspberry and currants and tastes like fleshy cherry.

But those refined descriptions offer no hint at the hurdles she cleared to make her champagne dream come to life. Stuyvesant Champagne is Robinson’s fourth business startup. And this one “was not an easy process,” she said.

“Lots of challenges.”

It began with a financial commitment of $60,000—her money, not investor funding.

Robinson stretches that money to cover production costs, bottling, packaging and maintaining a privately owned, independent vineyard that stretches between the Ardre and Aisne valleys.

She had to travel repeatedly to France, a costly proposition. “I live in New York. Champagne-makers are in France. I had to get there.

Face-to-face interaction was important,” she told Zenger News.

Then came the language barrier. Robinson speaks no French and had to rely on her bilingual business manager or hire a translator when she visited countless independent vineyards to choose a partner to grow her grapes.

A stickler for details, she returned the first shipment of 500 bottles because the foil that wraps the cork was not what she ordered.

“Every day is too much,” her friend Tyeisha Delk told Zenger.

“Imagine a black woman in a white male dominated business doing it her way and making it happen. She knows the risks involved, but we say, ‘Every day is a

learning curve. Hit a bump in the road, embrace it.’”

“As an entrepreneur, she puts me in a good frame of mind,” Delk added. “She motivates me.

She knows her stuff. And what she doesn’t know she learns. . . She gets her hands dirty. She works and she works with confidence.”

Delk, who owns the custom jacket company KIC NYC, was not surprised by Robinson’s forgeahead mindset. The pair communicated constantly while Robinson was in Europe.

“I didn’t go to France but I felt like I was there because we talked every day,” Delk said. “She’s determined. When she told me about creating her own champagne, I was like, ‘Really?’ Not like I doubted her, because I haven’t seen her have

CHAMPAGNE Page 50

5 Marvina Robinson (Courtesy

photo)

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FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020 45

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Clergy of Various Faiths Push for Participation in 2020 U.S. Census

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Contributing Writer @SamPKCollins

As U.S. Census Bureau operatives gear up for the tens of thousands of home visits, public forums and online and telephone submissions that will take place at the height of the 2020 season, agency officials continue to collaborate with faith leaders of various religions and denominations to debunk misconceptions about the process among communities of faith.

However, as Bishop Reginald Jackson of the African Methodist Episcopal [AME] Church revealed during a recent gathering of faith leaders in the District, the difficulty for some of the clergy lies in convincing some of their colleagues about both the significance and benefits of this oncein-a-decade undertaking.

“In Georgia, the Census is on

the agenda of every meeting we have,” Jackson, who presides over more than 500 AME churches in the state, said on Tuesday as he revealed his plans to designate the third Sunday in March for pastors to preach about the 2020 U.S. Census.

Jackson, one of six faith leaders who spoke during the 2020 Census Interfaith Partner Summit at the Washington National Cathedral in Northwest, said attempts to rally religious leaders in Delaware and New Jersey inspired his latest idea, centered on the need for collective action.

“We need to make sure our community counts – that all of us are counted, ” Jackson said. “It’s important to emphasize to the individual [even if that’s] a library, a hospital, or a school. If you [aren’t] counted, that means all of us are being negatively impacted because of your dereliction.”

On April 1, also known as

Census Day, households across the U.S. will receive an invitation to participate in the 2020 Census via online, by phone, or mail. A month later, the U.S. Census Bureau will dispatch representatives to enclaves throughout the country to count those who have been overlooked or didn’t respond to initial outreach efforts.

Though the 2020 U.S. Census plays a significant role in determining the allocation of federal funding and the shape of congressional representation, among other facets of the American experience, marginalized groups harbor concerns about how the government uses the data collected and whether their personal information will remain secure.

A recent survey conducted by National Latino Elected and Appointed Officials and Educational Fund and Latino Decisions found that three-out-of-four Latinos feared that the Trump admin-

5 A panel of clergy leaders discuss strategies to increase US Census

participation. (Courtesy photo)

istration, which unsuccessfully attempted to secure the addition of a citizenship question on the 2020 U.S. Census, would abuse the information collected. Meanwhile, activists in Asian American communities said they want data that reflects the diversity of one of

the country’s fastest-growing populations.

Among African Americans, the Urban League and other civil rights-era advocacy organizations have mulled over how to venture

CENSUS Page 43

As we celebrate Black History Month in February, we recognize and honor the accomplishments of so many African Americans who have helped shape the face and future of our nation.

FREDERICK DOUGLASS 46 - FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020

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Nikki Giovanni’s Latest Poem,‘Vote,’ Right on Time

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

OPC-DC

Legend Encourages The Black Vote In 2020 Election

Office of the People’s Counsel

By Curtis Bunn, Urban News Service A Division of Zenger Nikki Giovanni is 74 now, a generation removed from the height of her poetic power. But she remains fiery and talented and has a lot on her mind.

The author of countless poems that center on love and civil rights, Giovanni wants a new president.

Just as important to her, she said, is that the Black community exercises its right to vote.

She spoke about a lot Sunday during an event honoring scholar and intellectual W.E.B. DuBois at Clark Atlanta University. But it all came down to voting, which is not surprising considering her background.

Giovanni is an icon because she penned powerful, self-affirming poems during the 1960s civil rights movement. Born Yolande Cornelia Giovanni Jr., she is most famous for her first book, “Feeling Black, Black Talk,” and her most noted poem is “Nikki-Rosa,” a thoughtful remembrance of growing up in a loving African American home near Cincinnati.

She expanded her voice to speak out on injustices, earning the 2008 Black Enterprise Legacy Award and countless other honors along the way. She calls herself “an old lady,” but her commitment to Black people and equal rights persists.

“I don’t care who you vote for,” Giovanni said. “Just vote, because there’s not a person on that [debate] stage who hasn’t lied or done something. They all did something … against us.

“But we must make sure they can’t silence us,” she said. “We must not go [vote] because we don’t like someone. Fannie Lou Hamer. Fannie Lou organized the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party. … She knew she could be killed. But they didn’t murder her.

But they did pull her off the bus and beat her and beat her and beat her. They tried to scare her.

“I made a promise to myself that if I am even sort of alive, I will

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH

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Trailblazer in consumer advocacy, education, protection 5 Nikki Giovanni (Photo courtesy

1975 – 1977

Curtis Bunn)

vote.” Giovanni said. “Fannie Lou Hamer took a hell of a beating so I could vote, and so I will … and everyone else should, too.”

She read from her just-written poem that she said she may call “2020” or “Vote”: It’s not a hug, or a toy at Christmas It’s not a colored egg at Easter Or a bunny hopping across the meadow It’s a vote, saying you are a citizen Though sometimes it is traveling and sometimes a no.

It can be male of female It can be right or left I can disagree But I am a citizen I should be able to vote from prison I should be able to vote from the battlefield I should be able to vote when I get my driver’s license I should be able to vote when can I purchase a gun When I’m in the hospital Or the old folk’s home Or if I need a ride to the polling place I am a citizen I must be able to vote.

Folks were lynched Folks were shot.

Folks communities were gerrymander

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Folks who believed in the Constitution were lied to Burned out, bought and sold because They agreed that all men and women were created equal.

Folks vote to make us free It’s not cookies or cake

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But it is icing that is so sweet Good for us, my country tis of thee.

Here is “Our people were not uneducated, they were un-degreed.

“When you think about this country, we made it.”

A proud graduate of Fisk University HBCU “People ask me about Black Lives Matter and I say I love them because I do.”

WI

FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020 47

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

B. Smith, Renowned Restaurateur and Model, Dies at 70

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Lifestyle maven, restaurateur and model B. Smith, one of the first African American women to grace the cover of Mademoiselle, died Saturday at her Long Island, N.Y., home. She was 70.

Her death came five years after she announced that she had been diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease.

“Heaven is shining even brighter now that it is graced with B.’s dazzling and unforgettable smile,” her husband Dan Gasby wrote on Facebook.

Smith, whose full name was Barbara Elaine Smith, began her career as a model in the 1960s and became one of the first African American women on Mademoiselle’s cover in July 1976.

She ran three B. Smith restaurants — in NYC, Sag Harbor and D.C. — until she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease at the age of 64 in 2013.

However, Smith began suffering from memory problems years before her diagnosis. She once froze for several seconds while being interviewed on the “Today Show,” prompting a doctor’s visit that led to her diagnosis. A few months later, she wandered away and was missing in New York City for a day.

She wrote a book in 2016, “Before I Forget,” in which she shared her struggles with the disease. Additionally, both Smith and Gasby had worked to raise awareness for the disease and its effects on the African American community. WI

Katherine Johnson, NASA Mathematician of ‘Hidden Figures’ Fame, Dies at 101 WI Staff Report

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Katherine Johnson, a Black mathematician and one of the inspirations for the hit movie “Hidden Figures,” died Monday. She was 101.

The recipient of the 2015 National Medal of Freedom and a 2016 People magazine honoree as being among the 25 Women Changing the World, Johnson enjoyed a brilliant 33-year career at NASA. Her life story was told on the big screen in “Hidden Figures,” the award-winning 2016 movie starring Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer and Janelle Monáe.

After leaving a teaching job in 1953, Johnson began working for NASA and was able to calculate the trajectory for numerous space missions, including for the spaceflight of Alan Shepard, the first American in space, and the trajectory for the famed 1968 Apollo 11 flight to the moon.

When astronaut John Glenn went to the moon, Johnson said her “Hidden Figures” crew acted as the computer for the mission. She said calculating everything involved in the flight became like a geometry problem.

“I felt most proud of the success of the Apollo mission,” Johnson told NNPA Newswire. “We had to determine so much. Where you were, where the moon would be and how fast the astronauts were going.

“We were really concerned but the astronaut had to do it just as we laid it out.

I was looking at the television and hoping that we’re right,” she said.

Johnson began working at NASA’s predecessor, the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics, in 1953 at the Langley, Virginia, laboratory.

She was the first woman in NASA’s Flight Research Division to receive credit as an author of a research report for her work with Ted Skopinski detailing the equations of an orbital spaceflight.

NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine called Johnson “an American hero.”

“Her pioneering legacy will never be forgotten,” Bridenstine tweeted Monday. WI

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FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020 49

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Former BET Host Ed Gordon Talks Black Power, Politics in New Book

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia

From Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s dream in the 1960s to Barack Obama’s reality in the 2000s, Black America has made great strides since the civil rights movement.

But, for every Oprah Winfrey and Bob Johnson, there remains too many African Americans in poverty.

“So to ask what’s the state of Black America is really asking a broad question,” said former “BET Tonight” host

Ed Gordon. “There’s those who’ve achieved great fame and notoriety, some power and some wealth. But there’s some in abject poverty with very little opportunities that come their way that would be able to elevate them out of the situation they’re in.”

Those are just some of the topics Gordon tackles in his new book, “Conversations in Black: On Power, Politics, and Leadership.” For the 272-page book, Gordon sat down with several African American influencers, including Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.), actor, singer and activist Harry Bela-

fonte, hip-hop star T.I., famed radio host Charlamagne tha God and former Georgia state Rep. Stacey Abrams.

“When you talk about Harry Belafonte, Stacey Abrams and Maxine Waters, each of those people has a platform and a following,” Gordon said. “I didn’t just want to just talk to traditional Black leadership because as we look out at the landscape today, those are leaders, but so is Charlamagne and T.I. They don’t necessarily see themselves as leaders, but they certainly have an active role, and someone like Harry Belafonte, you know, was an entertainer back in

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the day, and he was certainly part of the civil rights movement and integral part of it.

“And I think that’s how you define leadership,” he said. “And so what I did is I tried to have a broad base of people who I thought could speak to different elements and different positions in our community.”

For those who argue that Gordon may have missed specific African Americans, he said he couldn’t fill every slot.

“They’ll be people who read into this, and I’ll tell them to write the next book,” Gordon said.

Born in Detroit in 1959, Gordon anchored “BET News” and later hosted “Conversations with Ed Gordon” and “BET Tonight.”

His interviews included President George H.W. Bush, hip-hop star Tupac Shakur, Academy Award-winning actor Sidney Poitier, and superstar singer Whitney Houston.

Gordon, who landed the first on-camera interview with O.J. Simpson after the former football star was acquitted of double murder in 1994, has also has worked at MSNBC and NBC News.

He said he wrote the book in a conversational style, and, in talking to the many celebrities and politicians discussed in the tome, nothing surprised him.

However, the openness of those he spoke with proved surprising, he said.

“There wasn’t anything that either I had already covered, or am covering.

But, sometimes we think something is a Black problem, and I say, ‘no, it’s an America problem,’” Gordon said. “We have an issue. This country has an issue.

That’s the way it should be looked at.

But I was pleasantly surprised by the candor, and the In the book, there are times that they speak out against Black leadership.

“There are some who speak out against President Obama, which isn’t always easy to do in our community,” he said. “They deal with issues and I wanted the book to read as if we were all in the backyard at a barbecue around the kitchen table. Just talking politics, and even talking about Madea and what do you think about Tyler Perry?

“Madea is a dilemma in our community,” Gordon said. “You know, many people love what Tyler Perry has done as a mogul, but don’t particularly like his art. There are other people who

5 Ed Gordon (Courtesy photo)

love in his art and just think that anybody who sees it otherwise are being ridiculous. So we deal with real issues — Black people talk.”

Gordon said Black people must realize the importance of the 2020 presidential election and not only be proactive in getting out to vote, but after the election, they must hold accountable whoever wins.

“It’s less for me about whether Donald Trump gets another four years,” he said. “If he does, as Stacey Abrams says, ‘Buckle in,’ it’s going to be a sad state of affairs for this country. But it’s more about the judicial appointments and the legislative direction of this country.

If he gets another four years, he gets the appointments, the lifetime appointments that happen, and some of these federal seats will affect not only us, but it will affect your children and potentially your grandchildren.”

Gordon said he believes the 2020 election will be a good gauge of where Black America is terms of asserting their power and the understanding of that power.

“We need to not only vote for the people that we think are best for our interests, but we need to then demand of those people that they follow through,” he said. “It’s not enough to complain about Trump. It’s not enough to vote and give it away. It would be best if you did your homework, decide who you’re voting for.

“And, you know, as we know, statistically, we’re going to vote for Democrats,” Gordon said. “But you need to then demand of that Democrat to say, ‘All right. Bernie, Joe, Elizabeth, whomever it is, this is what you owe the Black community.’ If you did it, and when they did it, then you go demand that they pay you back.” WI

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Ella Josephine Baker: A Suffrage Champion and True Civil Rights Icon

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia

This is part of an ongoing Washington Informer series about the Women’s Suffrage Movement and an initiative that includes Informer Publisher Denise Rolark Barnes that will use the lens of history, the fabric of art and culture and the venue of the public square to shine a light into dark places, equipping all with a compass to chart the way forward.

The initiative lives in the institutional home of the Washington Informer Charities.

The Speaking While Female Speech Bank, the first online collection of women’s speech from across time and around the world, includes two speeches by Ella Josephine Baker — “Address at the Hattiesburg Freedom Day Rally” in 1964 and

“Making the Struggle Every Day” in 1974.

Born in 1903, Baker was just a teenager when the 19th Amendment became law enabling women the right to vote. Her youth didn’t prevent Baker from attacking unfair policies and standing as a firm advocate of women suffrage.

“Ella Baker used her powerful voice to speak out for the world she believed in, one in which every human being is respected, regardless of race, gender, and ethnicity,” said Dana Rubin, founder of The Speaking While Female Speech Bank which celebrates women’s public speech with more than 1,800 examples of women using their voices for change.

“This was in an era when women’s ideas and voices were generally not well received in the public square,” Rubin said of Baker’s advocacy.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

“At the famous March on Washington, in August 1963, only two women spoke — Ella Baker, and Josephine Baker, the dancer, and performer. Ella Baker was a powerful role model for generations of women, especially African-American women — but truly all women — who can look up to her and see an example of a strong woman stepping up and speaking out for her beliefs,” Rubin said.

Aneika Simmons, a professor of business at Sam Houston State University in Texas, said women like Baker are important because they manifested both courage and hope.

“They were courageous enough to persistently fight against an unjust system that subjugated and discriminated against them purely based on color,” Simmons said.

“They were hopeful enough to believe that a new way of living that included both liberation and opportunities were possible, despite their race and ethnicity,” she said.

Simmons also noted that Baker graduated as valedictorian from Raleigh’s Shaw University in 1927.

“As an educator, I am particularly

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5 Ella Josephine Baker (Courtesy photo)

inspired by her as she understood the power of education, and how to build on this foundation through her efforts with the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee

and the National Association of the Advancement of Colored People,” Simmons said.

For the full version of this story, go to washingtoninformer.com. WI

FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020 51

BLACK HISTORY MONTH Negro League’s Legends Honored at Prince George’s Soiree

By Hamil R. Harris WI Contributing Writer

Andrew “Rube” Foster was more than a gifted baseball pitcher who in 1903 used his sizzling screwball to go 54-1 for the Cuban X Giants.

On Feb. 13, 1920, Foster organized the owners of various Negro baseball teams to form what would become the Negro National League that gave people of color safe venues to enjoy sports.

This month, the Publick Playhouse in Cheverly was adorned with memorabilia and descendants of legends as the Negro League Legends Hall of Fame Inc. honored Foster and some of the local legends of an era that has become a distant memory.

Prince George’s County Council Chairman Rodney Streeter

(District 7), who chaired the Feb. 11 event, said that it is important to remember the Negro National League during Black History Month.

“Even though they were excluded from the game by their white counterparts, they persevered and went on,” Streeter said. “But there is a deeper meaning. It talks about the history of Black people: We are not only talented, we are compelled to move forward.”

Dwayne Renal Sims, founder of the National League Legends Hall of Fame, said that it was important to start a national tour of the Negro Leagues legends in Prince George’s County, where many sandlot baseball teams blossomed long before Jackie Robinson integrated Major League Baseball in 1945.

The commission assembled an

impressive collection of photos and artifacts of the teams that played across the county. There were names such as the Brentwood Flashes, Clinton Yellow Jackets, Deanwood Eagles, Glenwood Braves, Lakeland, Laurel Allstars, Mitchellville Tigers and the Vista Yankees.

In the 1920s Foster organized teams in Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, New York, Ohio and Pennsylvania. In the years that followed, other leagues followed: The Negro Southern League (1920), the Eastern Colored League (1922), the Negro National II, and the Negro American League (1936).

“It’s just a great honor to have a Foster to be a big part of African American history,” said William Douglas Foster, an Upper Marlboro resident and great-nephew of Rube Foster.

In honor of Black History Month, MMTC celebrates FCC Commissioners past and present: FCC Commissioner Geoffrey Starks; first African American woman FCC Commissioner and Acting Chair Mignon Clyburn; first African American FCC Commissioner Benjamin Hooks; Former FCC Commissioners Andrew Barrett and Tyrone Brown; and Former FCC Chairmen Michael Powell and William Kennard.

52 - FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020

5 Program honorees pose for the camera. (Hamil Harris/The Washington Informer)

Foster said he has been to the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York, twice because his grandfather Bill Foster was also inducted.

“My grandfather was one of one of the best left-handed pitchers in the game,” he said.

Cecilia Calloway, daughter of

legendary singer and bandleader Cab Calloway, also spoke during the event because her father also owned a Negro League team. She even performed her own version of Calloway’s famous scat singing.

“I am here to bring resolution

HARRIET from Page 31

north to Canada. For her countless acts of bravery, Tubman gained the name “Moses,” cementing her place in history as an American patriot.

Throughout much of Black History Month, Daniels and other family members have made appearances at the Thurgood Marshall Center for Service and Heritage in Northwest and other cities including Philadelphia, Detroit and Mobile, Alabama with the hopes of opening HTLC branches. They’ve also embarked on an endeavor to get their ancestor a posthumous U.S. Medal of Honor.

For Kalen Nash, Daniel’s grandson and key facilitator of HTLC activities, preserving Tubman’s legacy has made him more mindful of how he represents himself and his family.

“When my grandmother told me, I was shocked,” said Kalen, 17, who first learned about his connection to Tubman three years ago. “I plan to honor Harriet Tubman’s legacy by keeping the learning center going and I want young people to know that she was an honorable person who helped others. I like that she kept going back and forth [on the Underground Railroad] through a bunch of states.” WI

federal prison system are functionally illiterate while more than 80 percent of youth who make contact with the courts also struggle with reading.

During the era of legalized slavery, slaves would be severely punished or killed if found with books or attempting to learn how to read. After the Civil War, the link between illiteracy and incarceration persisted with the implementation of the 13th Amendment and facilitation of sharecropping, chain gangs and other forms of exploitative labor. Experts have credited the 13th Amendment as the precursor to Black Codes and other laws of the late 19th and 20th century that limited the movement of newly-freed Africans and legitimized the terroristic acts levied against them.

After escaping servitude, Tubman made several return trips with only the stars as her guide, leading slaves to freedom in Philadelphia and other northern cities along the Underground Railroad. In 1850, the passage of the Fugitive Slave Act compelled Tubman, who had never lost a passenger, to take people further

LEGENDS Page 43

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FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020 53

LIFESTYLE When Baldwin Meets Shakespeare, the Result is Electrifying Revival of ‘The Amen Corner’ Delivers the Goods Gloriously

By D. Kevin McNeir WI Editor @dkevinmcneir James Baldwin holds a seat of revered dominance within the canon of American literature from essays that predict a dark, ominous future for humanity if left to their own devices, to masterful novels timeless in the skillful tackling of themes about the Black community and the daily warfare they have long endured

due to centuries of firmly-entrenched racism. Even more, it is Baldwin’s undeniable, unique ability to manipulate language, create lasting images and paint pictures with words that have served him best and provided us with unforgettable tomes.

However, Baldwin also challenged himself as a scribe for the theater, settling on a story which in true Shakespearean fashion, forges the angst of the existential world with the unbridled pathos

54 - FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020

5 Cast of “The Amen Corner” (Photo by Scott Suchman)

of the Black Church in a tale about a Black youth coming into manhood — forced to choose between the ill-fitting familiar or to step out into a strange new world pregnant with unimaginable possibilities.

For their first work of the new season and decade, Shakespeare Theatre Company in Northwest offers a very special gift in the rarely-produced “The Amen Corner” — the most-celebrated of the two works Baldwin penned for theatrical performance.

The play, which continues

through March 15, blends the musical vibrancy of the Black Church with a script replete with lyrical brilliance in a soaring presentation which tugs at our heartstrings and brings us to our feet in celebration and praise throughout the course of the production.

Chicago native Whitney White, the play’s director, describes the work as an “epic — part riveting family drama, part ‘Julius Caesar’ which reads like a Black Tennessee Williams or Arthur Miller.”

“Baldwin is one of the greatest minds of our times — a novelist, a poet, an activist — whose career as a playwright was short-lived only because of the more pressing political tasks that demanded his attention,” White said. “This work focuses on a woman struggling to keep her son safe and close to her as her seat of power as the pastor of a small church in Harlem is being undermined by many of the elders.”

“American audiences are not trained to receive the Black epic other than ‘Porgy and Bess’ even though there are so many others that deserve equal places of prominence on the stage. This piece offers a multitude of complex messages and rhythms and it challenged me — forcing me to bring my entire self to the process.”

White held auditions in New York City and in the District whose actors, she says, “remind me of Chicago’s artists — almost like repertory actors because

they’re so good at what they do.”

“I needed an ensemble with great voices who were also heavy-hitting actors,” she said.

“As I read the script — this story of a woman fighting to keep her life together — it spoke to me fiercely and brought me to my knees. And while it premiered on the campus of Howard University in the 1950s it’s still a bold, contemporary story.”

“My gateway drug into the arts was through music and I loved performing. But eventually I hit a wall. I knew there was more out here than being the token Black girl in the musical, or the drug addict or the girlfriend.

Things came together with the help of my teachers in one quiet moment. Now, as an emerging director, I can hire the cast, the crew, the designers — and it feels good to be able to do more for more people,” White said.

As an example of being able to do more for others, White, perhaps fortuitously, reached back to an actor she met years ago — one who welcomed the then-newcomer with open arms and who so impressed her that she vowed to one day cast her in one of her productions.

That actor, the heralded, award-winning Chicago native E. Faye Butler, stars as Sister Moore, a cantankerous, godly woman whose character resembles that church elder who tires of being “second fiddle” and thirsts for power to take hold of

AMEN CORNERPage 44

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CENSUS from Page 34 out into hard-to-count areas and speak to those who believe that participating in the U.S. Census will bear minimal benefits.

In anticipation of the count, U.S. Census Bureau officials have launched a nationwide media blitz which includes print media, billboards, television and the Internet to stress the importance of the Census and to assure skeptics that safeguards had been put in place to facilitate the ethical use of data.

They have also conferred with the other religious leaders, including the following who served on the February 18 panel: The Rev. Gabriel Salguero, National Latino Evangelical Coalition; Sister Judith Ann Karam of the Sisters of Charity of St. Augustine and Catholic Health Association; Vikshu Kumar Gurung of the Buddhist Society of Nebraska; Hurunnessa Fariad of the All Dulles Area Muslim Society Center; and Rabbi Menachem Creditor of the United Jewish Appeal-Federation.

On the stage of the Charles A. Perry Auditorium at the Washington Cathedral, panelists represented congregations populated

by African Americans, refugees, undocumented immigrants and adherents to old-world spiritual systems that discourage modern technology.

For Gurung, a refugee who fled Bhutan as a child, people in precarious situations like his need someone they can trust to convey crucial information about the U.S. Census.

“When our families first came

LEGENDS from Page 40 to our ancestors,” she said after the audience watched a video of Calloway and his band performing “Minnie the Moocher” at the Cotton Club.

Sam Allen, 83, who played with the Kansas City Monarchs in the 1930s, had people laughing as he talked about playing in the final years of the Negro Leagues and when Major League Baseball started recruiting minorities.

“There were 10 of us in the outfield and they said that they were taking two, which meant that

here, [they were] advised not to share their personal information.

So when I went [door to door], they didn’t want to share and I had to assure them that the information provided to the [U.S. Census Bureau] is safe, secure and very confidential,” he said.

“I had to tell them this is for the welfare of our families, faith communities and neighbors and that this will address hunger, poverty and homelessness. It wasn’t easy to interpret in 2010; [this time} I hope it will be a lot easier .” WI

In anticipation of the count, U.S. Census Bureau officials have launched a nationwide media blitz which includes print media, billboards, television and the Internet to stress the importance of the Census and to assure skeptics that safeguards had been put in place to facilitate the ethical use of data. eight of us were going home,” said Allen, who came up from Norfolk, Va., for the event.

The Negro Leagues were still engaged in baseball up to 1960 but only the top players were signed by MLB. As a result Allen was signed by a minor league and one of his most precious moments was slamming a big hit at Yankee Stadium in New York.

“We used the major league stadiums when they had away games,” Allen said. “We made a lot of money for Major League Baseball because we would fill up the stadium.” WI

LIFESTYLE "SPLENDIDLY REALIZED...majestic and sprawling."

–The Washington Post

"A MUST SEE." –DC Metro Theater Arts

THE

AMEN CORNER

BY JAMES BALDWIN DIRECTED BY WHITNEY WHITE

NOW PLAYING Tickets start at $35 This project is supported in part by:

ORDER TODAY!

Restaurant Partner:

ShakespeareTheatre.org | 202.547.1122 Photo of Mia Ellis and Antonio Michael Woodard.

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FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020 55

LIFESTYLE AMEN CORNER Page 42 the reins and the seat of authority — the pulpit.

But to do so, she will need to be manipulative and conniving.

And Butler succeeds with relentless aplomb.

“Sister Moore isn’t simply a caricature and to become her I had to take her seriously,” Butler said. “Whitney is brilliant and she dug deeply into the canon to figure this play out. Some may view it as a musical because of the songs that figure so promi-

nently — songs we know from our own culture and which resonate with the Black community. But this is a play — make no mistake — just one with music.”

“I grew up in a household that had tons of music but I always knew I wanted to be an actor. Art was always around me. Mahalia Jackson was my godmother and my mother exposed us to opera, ballet, you name it.”

“Still, when I talk to younger actors, I tell them I’ve always preferred being a working artist instead of a star. Sometimes you

have to accept pay that’s below your usual amount. Sometimes a working artist doesn’t get the big check or the celebrity status. But this business is one that’s fleeting so you have to have a light. For me, acting isn’t something I do — it’s who and what I am,” said Butler who says when she’s not on stage, she assumes “roles” that truly matter: mom, grandma, wife.

“The only thing they care about is where are the cookies and what’s for dinner,” said Butler, who besides appearing on

stages nationwide also performs across the U.S. in concert, cabaret, club and theatre venues with her big band, EFO Orchestra.

A STRONG CAST MAKES THIS SHOW POP

Other cast members who bring their A-game to the stage include Mia Ellis (Margaret Alexander) — the pastor of the church whose past suddenly comes roaring back, forcing her to reexamine her priorities, the choices she’s made and the path on which she will ultimately travel; Harriett D. Foy (Odessa); Chike Johnson (Luke); Phil McGlaston (Brother Boxer); and Antonio Michael Woodard (David), the man-child eager to find his place in the world, hungering for someone to provide a roadmap as he steps out into unchartered waters.

Butler, Foy and Woodard in their lead roles are required to not only deliver their lines with emotion and power but must also take center stage on several of the songs. And they do not disappoint.

However, the true prima donna remains actress Nova Y. Payton who stars as Sister Douglass while asserting herself as the “voice” in the production. A native Washingtonian, Payton says she first got the acting bug at the tender age of three, actually pre-

ferring dance over singing. But as a church singer and having grown up, like Butler, in a house where the music of the Dramatics, the Chi-Lites, Sarah Vaughan and Mahalia Jackson were fixtures on the family playlist, she has forged a successful career because of her vocal prowess.

“This play wasn’t too difficult to prepare for because I grew up with a woman like Sister Moore in my church,” she said. “Actually, most of the characters in the play are folks we’ve all grown up with. And the women, both in the play and in real life, take their roles seriously.”

“I had no knowledge of this play prior to be invited to audition. But being part of this play with the music too has been great. Even more, it’s the message that’s so profound. We all have a past, we all make mistakes but we all, hopefully, learn and grow from those mistakes.

The play also reminds us to be careful pointing fingers at others because you also have several fingers pointing back.”

“But I would say the greatest lesson which Baldwin shares is a simple one, but also profound.

Our past does not determine who we are, unless we allow it to,” she said.

For tickets or information, go to www.shakespearetheatre.org or call 202-547-1122.

WI

5 Chlké Johnson as Luke in “The Amen Corner” (Photo by Scott Suchman)

56 - FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020

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LIFESTYLE ‘The New Green Book’ Challenges Global Anti-Blackness

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Contributing Writer @SamPKCollins

“Traveling while Black” has become a phenomenon that highlights the harsh reality that people of African descent endure when they venture beyond their own communities. Instead of basking in the freedom that comes with expanding one’s horizons, many Black travelers find that racism has no boundaries.

With the launch of “The Global Green Book: A Black Survival Guide” comes an opportunity to globally build upon Victor Hugo Green’s attempts to highlight venues — Blackowned or otherwise — where Black people can receive various services and accomodations with dignity and respect when traveling.

The guide, released late last year, accompanies an online map that’s regularly updated with help from travel ambassadors across the world.

“We won’t settle for just being accepted,” said Sinclair Skinner, creator of the Global Green Book, an online version of which can be found on ILoveBlackPeople.com. “When we go somewhere, we should be treated amazingly. If we don’t set that standard, no one will set it for us.”

The Global Green Book compiles recommendations across the world for legal services, transportation, finance, health, education and child care, beauty and food. In the months since its inception, people perusing ILoveBlackPeople.com have been able to pinpoint Blackowned and Black-friendly places on nearly every continent.

Recent recommendations include hotel accomodations in Kitwe, Zambia, and an investment firm in Liberia.

“This book and app is not about promoting businesses, but the love and humanity of Black people,” Skinner said.

“The information is powerful but we have to unlock it with-

in each and every one of us. We have to make sure this decade is the last time Black people were disrespected and didn’t know where to go.”

Over the past few years, owners of online platforms have coalesced around efforts to challenge dominant narratives about Black people’s global awareness.

For instance, TravelNoire curates images of Black people traveling across the world.

However, not even the increased awareness has quelled concerns about the harsh treatment people of African people face while abroad. July 7 will mark three years since a group of white men attacked and killed Bakari Henderson, a college graduate vacationing in Greece.

Henderson’s death sparked conversation about the xenophobia Black people encounter in their travels.

For writer and photographer Nakia Brown, the human element has proven the most important aspect of her tour across Africa since December, which has taken her through parts of Uganda and Tanzania, including

a compound owned by the family of late Tanzanian President Julius Nyerere.

Within a matter of weeks, Brown’s expedition will end in Accra, Ghana. By that time, she said, she should have the material needed for an upcoming literary work that features men and women holding snippets of her poetry written on a large white poster board.

Many of these African women and men engaged in dialogue with the native Baltmorean about the global African liberation struggle, Brown recounted.

“The African principle of community is important to apply in travel,” said Brown, a Pan-African activist who is fluent in Swahili. “This trip wouldn’t have been possible without people on the ground.

“It’s better to know someone in the village than to know the village — and that’s how I conduct my travels,” she said. “At the end of the day, it’s the experience that matters. I wouldn’t travel somewhere if I didn’t have a human connection to that place.” WI

5 (WI File Photo/Shevry Lassiter)

2019/20 SEASON MATTHEW WHITAKER

Special guests: WPA Children of the Gospel Choir

SAT, FEB 29, 8pm • SIXTH & I Teenage jazz organ sensation Whitaker plays “like the second coming of Ray Charles” (CBS Sunday Morning).

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Members of WPA and Alfred Street Baptist Church Choirs Theodore Thorpe III, artistic director Plus special guests: Darin Atwater, Joseph Joubert, Issachah Savage, Konshens the MC, and Joel Thompson

SUN, MAR 1, 7pm • KENNEDY CENTER CONCERT HALL 100+ male voices bear witness to the struggles and celebrate the achievements of African American men.

Co-presented with Alfred Street Baptist Church.

Special thanks: Encompass Supply/Rudy Burwell and Mona Mohib; Pepco, An Exelon Company; Trista L.P. Colbert and Theodore Colbert; and the friends and family of Jenny Bilfield.

TICKETS: (202) 785-9727 WashingtonPerformingArts.org FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020 57

LIFESTYLE DEBATE from Page 19 Bloomberg,” Sanders quipped.

Bloomberg, whose $3.5 million ad campaign with NNPA is the most substantial single advertising buy in Black Press history, also answered questions about his stop and frisk policy that targeted African Americans during his tenure as mayor of New York City.

“We let it get out of control, and when I realized that, I cut it back by 95 percent,” Bloomberg stated. “And, I’ve apologized and asked for forgiveness. I’ve met with Black leaders to try and get an understanding of how I can better position myself and what I should have done and what I should do next time,” he said.

Hedge fund billionaire Tom Steyer has also courted the Black vote.

5 The candidates. (Courtesy photo)

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“There are really five key skills that we’re working with the students over the course of the summer to really build and cultivate their competencies,” Bonner said.

“We recognize that for many of our students, this is their first professional experience and through partnering with the school, through being able to play a significant role at the school level, then thinking of their workplace learning opportunities, we can really ensure that these young people

Last week in Las Vegas, he, too, sat down with Chavis for a live interview and noted that African Americans comprise more than half of his staff.

“There is no policy area in America that I don’t think has a substantial, often unmentioned, but important aspect about race,” Steyer said. “So, when you talk to me about housing, criminal justice, or wages or education or climate, I think it’s absolutely unrealistic to talk about it without bringing up the racial aspect of it, specifically regarding the Black community.”

Sen. Amy Klobuchar said rural health care could be better served by expanding critical access hospitals and using educational incentives on loan paybacks to draw people into health care careers where shortages currently exist.

Immigration reform would allow

doctors from other countries to live and work in rural areas, she added.

Former South Bend, Indiana, Mayor Pete Buttigieg, pitched a solution that called for “better housing, wages, and criminal justice reform” to help many African Americans in need of health care.

Meanwhile, Sen. Elizabeth Warren quoted the King James Bible when asked about her campaign motto.

“It’s Matthew 25, and that is: ‘Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me,’” Warren said.

“It is how we treat other people and lift them up. That is why I am in this fight. That is why I am running to be president and it is why I will be an effective president.”

WI

are developing technical competencies,” he said.

“Technology is changing every day. So, what’s important is that we allow the students to really see – based on what they know, or the descriptions that they read – where their interests are,” Bonner said.

“We anticipate that technology changes and that their interests will also change,” he said.

With technology-related employment in the state growing – by more than 3,700 new jobs last year alone – the IBM internships at P-TECH Carver counts as crucial to the future of many.

“These young people have to seize the moment – and they are doing exactly that through these internships,” Bonner said.

“I start by teaching them about what’s at stake and encouraging them to leverage this opportunity to change the scope of their life,” he said.

“Opportunities like these internships don’t come often … these young people could conceivably graduate with not only their high school diploma, but a free associate degree, and they will have the decision to go to a four-year university, or they can apply for career opportunities,” Bonner said.

With hard work, he said it all pays off.

“I think it’s really important to help these students make their own future. IBM is committed to ensuring them that we will provide them with the opportunity,” Bonner said. WI

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LIFESTYLE

wi book review “Blair Underwood Presents Olympic Pride, American Prejudice”

By Deborah Riley Draper and Travis Thrasher c.2020, Atria $28 390 pages

By Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer You’ve always held such promise.

People could see it in you, starting when you were small: you were going to go places, do good, make a mark on the world. They were proud to know you, happy to watch you land until — except — as in “Blair Underwood Presents Olympic Pride, American Prejudice” by Deborah Riley Draper and Travis Thrasher, the promise was broken but not by you.

Although Eddie Tolan was one heckuva runner, and though he’d won two gold medals, by 1933, he was done. The 1932 Olympics were over and so was Tolan’s career because he knew that opportunities for African American athletes were few and “simply getting by may be his best path forward.”

Ralph Metcalfe hated to see that, but it wasn’t entirely bad news. He, too, was a medal winner in ‘32, and he had his sights set on running the 100-meter dash in Berlin in 1936. Competition was tough enough — seeing Tolan literally out of the running was a relief.

Metcalfe wasn’t the only African American athlete hoping for glory in Berlin.

Max Robinson knew he’d have to run against Jesse Owen and that would take some planning. No problem; Max had to set an example for his little brother, Jackie Robinson anyhow. Archie Williams wanted to run, but he wanted an education more; medals were good, but his future held a degree in engineering.

Louise Stokes was a record-breaker, and she and Tidye Pickett were fast friends, in part because they were the only two Black women on the 1936 track team and sticking together helped them deal with the racism from inside and outside that team.

Altogether, there were 18 African American athletes who boarded a luxury cruise ship and set sail for Berlin — but not quickly. Not until officials decided that despite what Germany and its leader represented, America would compete against the Nazis …

Believe it or not, it’s not the descriptions of the competitions that make “Olympic Pride, American Prejudice” so heart-pounding — although that’s pretty exciting stuff.

It’s not the fact that authors Deborah Riley Draper, Blair Underwood, and Travis Thrasher show the outrageous racism endured by elite athletes of the time, and were then forgotten — although you’ll have to pick your jaw up every few pages, so beware.

No, the thing inside this book that’ll make you catch your breath is something that swims just beneath the story, something so malevolent that the authors don’t, initially, even have to give it a name to scare readers plenty. You’ll absolutely love the stories of these athletes, each of which starts in their childhoods and moves forward to their competitions and beyond. After knowing what they endured, and disappointments they had because of racism, you may feel like righting more wrongs that have already been remedied.

These things are true. But it’s a maniacal dictator that gives this book its chill.

Step up and find this tale, then step back in time. If you need a fascinating history book now, “Olympic Pride, American Prejudice” holds that promise. WI

horoscopes

FEB 27 - MAR 4, 2020

ARIES You may be working on a big project possibly feeling overwhelmed at first, but quickly getting a handle on things if you put your mind to the task. Mercury also links up with Jupiter in Capricorn — protective Jupiter watches over you from your house of career indicating you can move forward on projects with confidence. Lucky Numbers: 1, 5, 12 TAURUS You may be attracted to the concept of minimalism or living an entirely different lifestyle off the grid in your own cozy yurt. You may feel these are just dreams, that you don’t have the means or the courage to change your life. But this is a powerful aspect and when you face it head-on it turns positive.

The process of change can take time, but it’s more possible than you think. Lucky Numbers: 38, 47, 59 GEMINI This week both the sun and moon are traveling through your most elevated house, making you visible to everyone. If you own a business, this is a good time to do promotions and connect with influential people. At your job, you are seen by management as well as your fellow coworkers. Recognition for what you do well is possible now. Lucky Numbers: 4, 15, 39 CANCER The week begins with the moon in Pisces, your ruler, moving to the top of your chart. Just like you gaze up at the moon in the sky, now others are looking up to you. The sliver of the new moon is small but noticeable. As you speak others listen. As you request, others follow your orders. People around you are waiting to help you. Make your pronouncements. Lucky Numbers: 5, 19, 35 LEO You may become emotional about some aspect of what is owed to you. Those who promised to watch out for you may be falling down on the job. This could be a professional person such as a broker or insurance agent, but because the emotions wrapped up in this, it’s more likely a family member or close friend.

You may feel the need to express your feelings about this matter. Lucky Numbers: 32, 39, 44 VIRGO Your house is full of fun and romance. This is a great combination if you’re looking for love or are already in a committed relationship. The new moon is a small shaving of warm light hanging in the sky.

There is good energy for connecting with others today especially that special someone. If you want to meet someone new, don’t hide behind the curtains in your house. Lucky Numbers: 6, 27, 33 LIBRA Bring on the barest sliver of the new moon—visible in your house of health and daily routines.

Mercury is still retrograde in Pisces, reminding you that nothing is more important than taking care of your health. It’s good to look at your routines and the decisions you make throughout the day. Ask yourself if your choices support good health and longevity. Take a little time for meditation, some stretching or a last-minute Tai chi class, as any of these will benefit you. Lucky Numbers: 22, 28, 43 SCORPIO This is a good time for doing taxes, organizing paperwork, or shredding. Venus in Aries is also angling tensely with Pluto. Pluto can loop you into obsessive thoughts especially when Venus is involved.

To break the loop give yourself permission to obsess no more. It may not stop immediately, but this will cause it to lessen. Lucky Numbers: 5, 17, 21 SAGITTARIUS The sun in Pisces connects with Pluto in Capricorn in your house of money on Feb. 28.

This is a reminder of your powerful will. If you set your mind to something you can achieve it. The success may not be today, but every step you take toward your goal gets you there sooner. Tis type of aspect brings the most success when you approach it with courage and conviction. Consider what action you can take today on your biggest goals. Lucky Numbers: 3, 11, 36 CAPRICORN This is a day where you could go a little overboard in everything you do. You might become obsessed with a family member’s suggestions for your life or be very focused on some physical aspect of yourself. Once in the obsession, it can be difficult to break free. But there is power here, too. Focus your emotions on something productive and beneficial rather in defining everything as irritating or frustrating and a breakthrough can happen. Lucky Numbers: 6, 10, 16 AQUARIUS The sun in Pisces links up with Pluto in Capricorn in your house of psychic ability on Feb. 28. Pluto sees beneath things, the motivations, and the real reasons for action. Now you can see your own blocks in relationships. There can be trust issues. But with this powerful aspect, you can remind yourself that in relationships the person you must trust the most is yourself. Lucky Numbers: 9, 25, 30 PISCES This is a lucky day when you may be eager to change something. It’s good today to examine your ideas. Break your routine and unplug for a while. Tackle old problems with new ideas. Mercury is retrograde in Pisces and so there can be issues around communication, but this energy is a good aspect and protective. Arguments most likely will be followed by a happy resolution. Lucky Numbers: 6, 35, 40

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FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020 59

SPORTS For more photos, visit www.washingtoninformer.com

HU Men’s Swimming & Diving Team Downs Crosstown Rival

Howard University men’s swimming & diving team went crosstown and defeated rival Catholic, 162-134, improving their record for the season to 6-2. The freshmen trio of Miles Simon (Atlanta), Arion Solomon (Fairburn, Ga.) and Luke-Kennedy Thompson (Nassau, Bahamas) led the way, each recording a pair of individual victories. Simon won the men’s 200 Free (1:44.95) and 200 Back (1:57.14) with times that rank 10th and fourth, respectively, in all-time in program history. Thompson also secured a place in the school’s record book, winning the 1000 Free (9:57.63) – the third-fastest mark in Howard’s history. Additionally, the Bahamas native took gold in the men’s 200 IM, clocking in at 1:59.23.

Solomon earned victories in the 50 Free (21.86) and 100 Butterfly (52.94).

Other notable individual wins included: sophomore Miguel Davis, Jr. (Washington/200 Breast/2:17.06) and freshmen Mark-Anthony Beckles (Chaguanas, Trinidad & Tobago/100 Free/47.08) and T’lez Foulkes (Durham/100 Breast/1:00.42). HU also claimed wins in a pair of relay events: 200 medley relay (1:37.47) and 200 free relay (1:27.08).

Newcomer Reese Samuel (Pittsburgh) finished runner-up in the men’s 200 Butterfly (1:58.99) – the sixth-best time in program history. Meanwhile, third-year Bison Jalen Watson (Miami) continues to improve on the board, registering a new personal best (177.05) in the men’s 1-meter dive which ranks fourth all-time in school history.

5 Freshman and sophomore swimmers provided significant victories for the Howard University Men’s Swimming and Diving in the team’s recent win over crosstown rival Catholic. (Photo courtesy Mark Coleman)

Ex-Terps Star Walt Williams Reflects on Kobe Bryant

5 Walt Williams (Courtesy photo)

60 - FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020

By Timothy Cox Special to The Informer Following a recent basketball game between Big 10 rivals Maryland Terrapins and Iowa Hawkeyes, former NBA player and Terps standout Walt Williams responded to the recent tragic death of Kobe Bryant.

“I can’t say I really knew Kobe all that well, but as a competitor, It was amazing how he seemed to improve year after year,” said Williams, who starred at Maryland from 1988-92 and played 11 seasons in the NBA, retiring in 2003. “That’s what really stood out to me, about him. It’s really a sad situation and I pray for his family and all the other people who were involved.”

Williams’ comments came just days after the Jan. 26 helicopter crash that killed Bryant, his daughter Gianna and seven others. The tragedy rocked the sports world and beyond, as evidenced by a Feb. 24 public memorial service at Staples Center in Los Angeles that drew thousands of celebrities and fans.

Williams is no stranger to tragic events himself.

The Crossland High School (Temple Hills, Md.) graduate, is often credited with helping to resurrect the Maryland basketball program after the drug-related death of legendary Terrapin Lenny Bias in 1988 and the ensuing scandal that resulted in the dismissal of longtime Maryland head coach Lefty Driessel.

In the immediate days after Bryant’s death, the Xfinity Center on Maryland’s campus was shrouded with sadness. Prior to the Jan. 30 game against Iowa, the PA announcer acknowledged the incident to the nearly sold-out 18,000 seat arena, in addition to the Jan. 21 death of Morgan Wootten, the Hall of Fame basketball coach from DeMatha Catholic High School in Hyattsville, Maryland.

Williams, now 49, is a member of the Maryland University basketball media relations staff and a sideline radio broadcast reporter. He’s also a financial adviser. WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

SPORTS

Wizards Start Slow After All-Star Break

5 Cleveland Cavaliers forward Tristan Thompson drives against Washington Wizards forward Moritz Wagner during the Cavaliers’ 113-108 win at Capital One Arena in Northwest on Friday, Feb. 21. (John E. De Freitas/The Washington Informer) 4 U.S. guard Kyle Fogg looks over Puerto Rico guard Angel Rodriguez for a passing lane during the U.S.’s 95-73 win in the qualifying round for the 2021 FIBA AmeriCup at Entertainment and Sports Arena in Southeast on Sunday, Feb. 23.

(John E. De Freitas/ The Washington Informer)

(Top left) Washington Wizards guard Bradley Beal attempts to fend off Cleveland Cavaliers guard Collin Sexton during the Cavaliers’ 113-108 win at Capital One Arena in Northwest on Friday, Feb. 21. (John E. De Freitas/The Washington Informer)

U.S. Tops Puerto Rico in FIBA Qualifier

5 U.S. forward Jalen Jones prepares to shoot over of Puerto Rico forward Isaiah Pineiro during the U.S.’s 95-73 win in the qualifying round for the 2021 FIBA AmeriCup at Entertainment and Sports Arena in Southeast on Sunday, Feb. 23. (John E. De Freitas/The Washington Informer)

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

5 U.S. forward Justin Anderson gets tied up with Puerto Rico forward Isaiah Pineiro during the U.S.’s 95-73 win in the qualifying round for the 2021 FIBA AmeriCup at Entertainment and Sports Arena in Southeast on Sunday, Feb. 23. (John E. De Freitas/The Washington Informer)

FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020 61

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62 - FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020

edged by most city officials as an inequity of services potentially threatening the health and well-being of an estimated 160,000 citizens who live in Southeast, it’s an injustice that remains unabated.

Specifically, the stark difference in the number of full-service grocery stores in more affluent portions of D.C., as high as 10 in some wards while as few as two and one in Wards 7 and 8, respectively, has seemingly been an issue prioritized by a mere handful of the District’s elected officials.

But as we reported last week, D.C. Councilmember Vincent C. Gray (D-Ward 7) says that with previously-passed legislation which he sponsored allowing the City to use recently-reported surplus dollars toward the cost for the construction of several full-service grocery stores in the two Southeast, it’s simply a question of whether these citizens’ longtime requests will be heeded.

Now, he says, with the Mayor and City Council entering into the throes of the FY 2021 Budget process which occurs each year during the month of March, residents have a perfect opportunity to attend public hearings, make their demands known and to then hold those elected to represent their interests responsible.

Gray points to nine sites identified as a result of legislation he originally brought to the Council several years ago and include the St. Elizabeths East Campus in the heart of Ward 8, Deanwood Town Center on the north end of Ward 7 and the long-anticipated Skyland Town Center which borders the two Southeast wards as examples of projects that could be jumpstarted in relatively short order.

“We have had major corporations engage in negotiations only to renege on their promises much to the dismay of members of the Council and the residents who live East of the River,” he said. “But if we were to move forward with dedicated partners with more urgency targeting some of the nine sites to which I earlier referred, it would restore promises made by certain entities going back several years.”

“Further, with more full-service grocery stores up and running in Southeast, along with the many amenities they would offer, it would make moving into either

Southeast’s Talented Tandem

5 Vincent Gray (top) and Trayon White (Courtesy photos)

Ward 7 or 8 even more attractive.

We’d have an opportunity to really do something good.”

“No one is ‘not’ supporting this.

Last year as City Council chairman, Phil Mendelson could have gotten what we’ve long requested done. This year he has told me that if the mayor sends it down – that is as a dedicated line item in the FY 2021 budget – that he will support the venture.”

“We’ve got to do the right thing – this is one of those times we really must. Those who live in Wards 7 and 8 collectively suffer from the worst health disparities in the District. But consuming heathier food as available in newly-built full-service grocery stores will certainly help to stave off these health disparities, also warding off those that some residents already face,” Gray said. WI

CHAMPAGNE from Page 32

Robinson said she takes daily walks in Brooklyn and returns home to a cup of tea to stay level-headed. “It can be stressful. But after my morning ritual, I’m ready to go.”

A handful of Brooklyn stores stock Stuyvesant Champagne, and she has her eye on expanding and opening a lounge in Brooklyn that she’ll call Coupette NYC. Direct orders from her website have driven most of her sales.

“It’s exciting to see it in its packaging,” she said. “But we have a long way to go.” WI

an idea that she didn’t pull off. But this one was big.”

Robinson’s packaging blends in with more famous champagnes on store shelves. Aficionado Monica Cooper of White Plains, New York said the two bottles—the Grand Reserve priced at $56 and the Brut Rosé at $68—look sophisticated yet understated.

“It’s divine,” Cooper said. “Both are elegant and hold their own against many of the popular champagne brands.”

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

RELIGION the religion corner WITH LYNDIA GRANT

Charles Drew: A Black History Month Tribute

Last Friday, former D.C. Council member Charlene Drew Jarvis, my mentor, was my radio show guest. She began her illustrious career following in her father’s footsteps. Graduating with her doctorate in neuropsychology, or the study of the brain, she had a delightful and promising job at the NIH. However, she felt a call upon her life to help her city, following the murder of Dr. King. Our city was broken, she answered the call and served 21 years admirably.

When Dr. Jarvis shared about her father, Dr. Charles R. Drew, I knew my chance to share a bit of his story was now. A pioneering African-American medical researcher, Charles Drew made some groundbreaking discoveries in the storage and processing of blood for transfusions. He also managed two large blood banks during World War II. Growing up in D.C. as the son of a carpet installer, Drew graduated from Dunbar High School in 1922, and his athletic abilities in track and football afforded him the opportunity to attend Amherst

College on a sports scholarship.

He earned his bachelor’s degree at Amherst in 1926, but didn’t have enough money to pursue his dream of attending medical school just yet. Working as a biology instructor and coach at present-day Morgan State University in Baltimore, he applied to medical schools and enrolled at McGill University in Montreal.

He was a top student, won a prize in neuroanatomy, and became a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha, a medical honor society.

Graduating second in his class in 1933, he went on to earn his Doctor of Medicine and Master of Surgery degrees.

Completing his internship and residency, he then studied with Dr. John Beattie, and they examined problems and issues regarding blood transfusions.

Following his father’s death, Drew returned to the U.S. and became an instructor at Howard University’s medical school. He did a surgery residence at Freedmen’s Hospital in D.C., in addition to his work at Howard.

In 1938, Drew received a Rockefeller Fellowship to study at Columbia University and train at the Presbyterian Hospital in New York City. Continuing his exploration of blood-related matters with John Scudder, Drew developed a meth-

Mt. Zion Baptist Church

od for processing and preserving blood plasma, blood without cells.

Plasma lasts much longer than whole blood, making it possible to be stored or “banked” for longer periods of time. He discovered that the plasma could be dried and then reconstituted when needed.

His research served as the basis of his doctorate thesis, “Banked Blood,” and he received his doctorate degree in 1940. Drew became the first African-American to earn this degree from Columbia.

As World War II raged in Europe, Drew was asked to head up “Blood for Britain.” He organized the collection and processing of blood plasma from several New York hospitals, shipping roughly 14,500 pints of plasma.

Spearheading another blood bank effort in 1941, this time for the American Red Cross, he worked on developing a blood bank to be used for U.S. military personnel. Not long, Drew became frustrated with the military’s request for segregating blood donated by African Americans.

At first, the military didn’t want blood from African Americans, but later said it could be used for African-American soldiers. Drew was outraged by this racist policy, resigning from his post after only a

John F. Johnson Reverend Dr.

5101 14th Street, NW / Washington, DC 20011 Phone: 202-726-2220 Fax: 202-726-9089

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“A Church with a past to remember – and a future to mold” www.mtzbcdc.org

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Mount Olivet Lutheran Church

Reverend John W. Davis Pastor

Service and Times Sunday Worship Service - 8:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.

Children’s Church - 11:00 a.m. (1st & 3rd Sundays) Communion - 10 a.m. 4th Sunday Sunday School - 9:15 a.m. (4th Sunday 8:15 a.m.)

Prayer Meeting & Bible Study - Wednesday 7:00 p.m.

LYNDIA Page 56

(301) 864-6070

Service and Times Divine Worship, Sunday 10:00 a.m.

Communion 1st and 3rd Sunday “Friendliest Church in the City” Website: mountolivetdc.org Email: mtolivedc@gmail.com

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FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020 63

RELIGION The Miracle Center of Faith Missionary Baptist Church

Pilgrim Baptist Church

Bishop Michael C. Turner, Sr. Senior Pastor

Rev. Louis B. Jones II Pastor

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

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

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

Blessed Word of Life Church

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

Covenant Baptist United Church of Christ

Church of Living Waters

Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church

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

St. Stephen Baptist Church

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

Third Street Church of God

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

Rev. Dr. Alice Greene Interim Pastor

Bishop Lanier C. Twyman, Sr. Senior Pastor

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

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

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

5757 Temple Hill Road, Temple Hills, MD 20748 Office 301-899-8885 – fax 301-899-2555 Services and Times Sunday Early Morning Worship: 7:45 AM Church School: 9:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship: 10:45 AM Tuesday: 7:00pm/Kingdom Building Bible Institute Wednesday , 12:30 PM Mid-Day Bible Study Wednesday: Prayer/Praise/Bible Study-7:30 PM Baptism & Communion Service: 4th Sunday – 10:30 AM

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

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

Campbell AME Church Rev. Dr. Henry Y. White 2562 MLK Jr. Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Adm. Office 202-678-2263 Email: Campbell@mycame.org Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 AM Sunday Church School: 8:45 AM Bible Study Wednesday: 12:00 Noon Wednesday: 7:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 PM “Reaching Up To Reach Out” Mailing Address : Campbell AME Church 2502 Stanton Road SE - Washington, DC 20020

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

Services and Times Sundays: 10:00am Worship Services Bible Study: Wonderful Wednesdays in Worship and the Word Bible Study Wednesdays 12:00 Noon; 6:30 PM (dinner @ 5:30 PM) Sunday School: 9:00 AM – Hour of Power “An inclusive ministry where all are welcomed and affirmed.” www.covenantdc.org

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

Services and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM Sunday Community Worship Service: 8:30 AM “Ambassadors for Christ to the Nation’s Capital” www.thirdstreet.org Live Stream Sunday Worship Service begins @ 12:00 noon www.thirdstreet.org

Crusader Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Alton W. Jordan Pastor 800 I Street, NE - Washington, DC 20002 202-548-0707 - Fax No. 202-548-0703 Service and Times Sunday Morning Worship: 11:00 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday Sunday School: 9:45 AM Men’s Monday Bible Study: 7:00 PM Wednesday Night Bible Study: 7:00 PM Women’s Ministry Bible Study: 3rd Friday -7:00 PM Computer Classes: Announced Family and Marital Counseling by appointment E-mail: Crusadersbaptistchurch@verizon.net www.CrusadersBaptistChurch.org / “God is Love”

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

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

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

Website: http://isleofpatmosbc.org Church Email: ipbcsecretary@verizon.net

St Marks Baptist Come Worship with us...

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

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

Mount Carmel Baptist Church

901 Third Street N.W. Washington, DC. 20001 Phone (202) 842-3411 Fax (202) 682-9423 Service and Times Sunday Church School : 9:00 AM Sunday Morning Worship: 10:10 AM Bible Study Tuesday: 6: 00 PM Prayer Service Tuesday: 7:00 PM Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday 10:10 AM themcbc.org

64 - FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

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

Website: Shabbathcommandmentchruch.org Email: Praisebetoyhwh@gmail.com

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

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

All Nations Baptist Church Rev. Dr. James Coleman Pastor 2001 North Capitol St, N.E. - Washington, DC 20002 Phone (202) 832-9591 Service and Times Sunday Church School – 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service – 11:00 AM Holy Communion – 1st Sunday at 11:00 AM Prayer – Wednesdays, 6:00 PM Bible Study – Wednesdays, 7:00 PM Christian Education / School of Biblical Knowledge Saturdays, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM, Call for Registration Website: www.allnationsbaptistchurch.com All Nations Baptist Church – A Church of Standards

Israel Baptist Church

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

Dr. Earl D. Trent Senior Pastor

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

623 Florida Ave.. NW - WDC. 20001 Church (202) 667-3409 / Study (202) 265-0836 Home Study (301) 464-8211 / Fax (202) 483-4009

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

Sermon On The Mount Temple Of Joy Apostolic Faith

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

Elder Herman L. Simms Pastor

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

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

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

Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:45 AM Sunday School: 9:15 AM Holy Communion1st Sunday: 10:45 AM Prayer Service: Wednesday at 6:30 PM Bible Study: Wednesday at 7:00 PM Bible Study: Tuesday at 10:30 AM

Mount Moriah Baptist Church Dr. Lucius M. Dalton Senior Pastor

Service and Times Sunday Worship: 10:00 AM Holy Communion: First Sunday 10:00 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday @ 12 noon and 6:30 PM Motto: "Faith On The Hill"

Service and Times Sunday Apostolic Worship Services 11:00 A.M and 5:00 PM Communion and Feet Wash 4th Sunday at 5:00 PM Prayer/Seeking: Wednesday at 8:00 PM Apostolic in Doctrine, Pentecostal in Experience, Holiness in Living, Uncompromised and Unchanged.

The Apostolic Faith is still alive –Acts 2:42

New Commandment Baptist Church

Eastern Community Baptist Church Damion M. Briggs Pastor

Rev. Stephen E. Tucker Senior Pastor

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

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

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

Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 7:45 AM and 10:45 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sundays at 7:45 AM & 10:45 AM Sunday School: 9:30 AM Prayer & Praise Service: Tuesdays at 12 noon & 6:30 PM Bible Study: Tuesdays at 1 pm and 7 PM Youth Bible Study: Fridays at 7 PM

Service and Times Early Morning Message: 7:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 10:00 AM Sunday Church School: 9:00 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday 7:30 AM & 10:00 AM Prayer, Praise and Testimony: Wednesday 7:00 PM Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM

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

Rehoboth Baptist Church

Reverend Peter R. Blue Sr. Pastor

Rev. Curtis l. Staley Pastor

2001 Brooks Drive District Heights MD. 20744 240.838.7074

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shiloh Baptist Church

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

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

4504 Gault Place, N.E. / Washington, D.C 20019 202-397-7775 – 7184 Service and Times Sunday Church School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service : 11:00 AM The Lord’s Supper 1st Sunday Prayer & Praise Services: Wednesday 7:00 PM Bible Study: 7:30 PM Saturday before 4th Sunday Men, Women, Youth Discipleship Ministries: 10:30 AM A Christ Centered Church htubc@comcast.net

Christ Embassy DC

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

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

First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Mt. Horeb Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Wallace Charles Smith Pastor

Rev. Oran W. Young Pastor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 10:00 AM Sunday Church School: 8:45 – 9:45 AM Holy Communion: Every First Sunday Intercessory Prayer: Monday – 7:00-8:00 PM Pastor’s Bible Study: Wednesday –7:45 PM Midweek Prayer: Wednesday – 7:00 PM Noonday Prayer Every Thursday

Rev. Dr. George C. Gilbert Senior Pastor

Email Address: admin@pbc712.org

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

Holy Trinity United Baptist Church

Florida Avenue Baptist Church

Reverend Christopher L. Nichols Pastor

Rev. Reginald M. Green Interim Pastor

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

St. Matthews Baptist Church

Emmanuel Baptist Church

King Emmanuel Baptist Church

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

Service and Times Sunday School for All Ages: 8:00 AM Sunday Worship Services: 9:30 AM Midday Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 11:30AM Evening Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 7:00 PM Laymen's League: Thursday 7:00 PM Email: Froffice@firstrising.org Website: www.firstrising.org “Changing Lives On Purpose “

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

FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020 65

LEGAL NOTICES SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2020 ADM 000032 Dorothy M. Woodland aka Dorothy Marie Woodland Decedent Caren M. Webb, Esq. 1308 Ninth Street, NW Suite 250 Washington, DC 20001 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Robert R. Woodland, whose address is 920 Peabody St., NW, Apt #12, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Dorothy M. Woodland aka Dorothy Marie Woodland who died on November 10, 2019 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/13/2020. 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 8/13/2020, or be forever barred.

Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 2/13/2020 Robert R. Woodland Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES

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

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

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

2020 ADM 000063

2020 ADM 000032

2019 ADM 000772

2020 ADM 000033

Grady Lee Barton Decedent

Melvin Douglas Burwell Decedent

Renee Yvette Hunter Decedent

Willie B. Hackett Decedent

Nakia V. Gray, Esq. 800 Maine Avenue, SW Suite 200 Washington, DC 20024 Attorney

Bradley A. Thomas, Esq. 1629 K Street, NW Suite 300 Washington, DC 20006-1631 Attorney

Steve Larson-Jackson 1629 K. Street, NW Suite 300 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney

Nakia V. Gray, Esq. 800 Maine Ave., Suite 200 Washington, DC 20024 Attorney

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

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

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

Ophelia Barton, whose address is 4223 Wheeler Road, SE, Washington, DC 20032, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Grady Lee Barton who died on January 4, 2020 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision.

All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/13/2020. 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 8/13/2020, or be forever barred.

Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

LilliAnn Williams, whose address is 509 T Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Melvin Douglas Burwell who died on November 7, 2019 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision.

All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/13/2020. 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 8/13/2020, or be forever barred.

Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Angelique C. Carroll, whose address is 5520 Walker Mill Road, Capital Heights, Maryland 20743, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Renee Yvette Hunter who died on July 9, 2019 without a Will, and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding.

Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/13/2020. 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 8/13/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 2/13/2020

Date of first publication: 2/13/2020

Date of first publication: 2/13/2020

Ophelia Barton Personal Representative

LilliAnn Williams Personal Representative

Angelique C. Carroll Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

TRUE TEST COPY

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills Washington Informer

Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills Washington Informer

Francis Bernard Beckwith, Jr. Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Date of first publication: 2/20/2020

Clara L. Jackson whose address is 9917 Elm Street, Lanham, Maryland 20706-4711 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Thomas Jackson, deceased, by the Orphans Court for Prince Georges County, State of Maryland, on November 21, 2016.

Service of process may be made upon Caren M. Webb, Esq. 1308 Ninth Street, NW, Suite 250, Washington, DC 20001 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 estate.

1841 M Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Michael Bernard Beckwith whose address is 8549 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 1413, Beverly Hills, California 90211 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Francis Bernard Beckwith, Jr., deceased, by the Superior Court for Los Angeles County, State of California, on September 5, 2019.

Service of process may be made upon Deborah D. Boddie, Esq., Probate Law DC, 1308 Ninth Street, NW, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20001 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 estate.

1030 Quebec Place, NW. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Gerald Turner Reginald Turner Personal Representative

Date of first publication: 2/20/2020

Date of first publication: 2/20/2020

TRUE TEST COPY

Clara L. Jackson Personal Representative

Michael Bernard Beckwith Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills

Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills

Washington Informer

Washington Informer

Inez L. Turner Decedent

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

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

Steve Larson-Jackson, Esq. 1629 K Street, NW, Suite 300 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills

TRUE TEST COPY

Washington Informer

Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills Washington Informer

66 - FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020

Washington Informer

Thomas Jackson Name of Decedent

Rhoda J. Shorter Decedent

Christine J. Spruill Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills

May 5, 2019 Date of Death

Valton Reeves Decedent

Date of first publication: February 20, 2020

TRUE TEST COPY

October 14, 2016 Date of Death

2019 ADM 001380

Cherie A. Jackson Personal Representative

Rena Wilson Personal Representative

2020 FEP 000010

2020 ADM 000115

Date of first publication: 2/20/2020

Date of first publication: 2/13/2020

2020 FEP 000011

2020 ADM 000114

Christine J. Spruill, whose address is 17 Stonegate Drive, Silver Spring, MD 20905, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Rhoda J. Shorter who died on November 11, 2019 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before August 20, 2020. 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 August 20, 2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Washington Informer

Rena Wilson, whose address is 855 Venable Place, NW, Washington, DC 20012, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Willie B. Hackett who died on October 3, 2017 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/13/2020. 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 8/13/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

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

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

Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills

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

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

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

Cherie A. Jackson, whose address is 1116 Hamilton Street, NE, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Valton Reeves who died on November 18, 2019 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/20/2020. 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 8/20/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

LEGAL NOTICES

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

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

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

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Gerald Turner and Reginald Turner, whose addresses are 4404 7th St., NE, Washington, DC 20017 and 10314 Marlboro Woods Dr., Cheltenham, MD 20623, was appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Inez L. Turner who died on October 4, 2019 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding.

Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/20/2020. 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 8/20/2020, or be forever barred.

Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills Washington Informer

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

LEGAL NOTICES “Notice is hereby given that the following named company at the address listed herewith has made application to engage in the business of loaning money for the license year ending December 31, 2020 as provided by the Act of Congress, approved February 14, 1913. Anyone desiring to protest against the issuance of this license should do so in writing to the Commissioner of the Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking, 810 First Street, NE, Suite 701, Washington, DC 20002, in the manner prescribed by said Act: See DC Code Title 26, Chapter 9 and 16 DCMR 2.”

Company: Genesis Block, LLC Address: 2701 N Thanksgiving Way Ste 100, Lehi, UT 84043

FDOP 02/20/2020

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION 2020 NRT 000005 Rhoda J. Shorter Name of Deceased Settlor NOTICE OF EXISTENCE OF REVOCABLE TRUST Rhoda J. Shorter whose address was 1600 Trinidad Avenue, NE, Washington, DC 20002, created a revocable trust on July 18, 2018, which remained in existence on the date of her death on November 11, 2019, and Christine J. Spruill, whose address is 17 Stonegate Drive, Silver Spring MD 20905, is the currently acting trustee, hereinafter the Trustee. Communications to the Trust should be mailed or directed to the following: Christine J. Spruill at 17 Stonegate Drive, Silver Spring, MD 20905.

The Trust is subject to claims of the deceased settlor’s creditors, costs of administration of the settlor’s estate, the expense of the deceased settlor’s funeral and disposal of remains, and statutory allowances to a surviving spouse and children to the extent the deceased settlor’s residuary probate estate is inadequate to satisfy those claims, costs, expenses, and allowances.

Claims of the deceased settlor’s creditors are barred as against the Trustee and the trust property unless presented to the Trustee at the address provided herein on or before 8/20/2020 (6 month after the date of the first publication of this notice.) An action to contest the validity of this trust must be commenced by the earliest of (1) November 11, 2020, (One year from date of death of deceased settlor) (2) 8/20/2020, (6 months from the date of first publication of this notice) or (3) Ninety days after the Trustee sends the person a copy of the trust instrument and a notice informing the person of the trust’s existence, of the Trustee’s name and address, and of the time allowed for commencing a proceeding.

The Trustee may proceed to distribute the trust property in accordance with the terms of the trust before the expiration of the time within which an action must be commenced unless the Trustee knows of a pending judicial proceeding contesting the validity of the trust or the Trustee has received notice from a potential contestant who thereafter commences a judicial proceeding within sixty days after notification.

This Notice must be mailed postmarked within 15 days of its first publication to each heir and qualified beneficiary of the trust and any other person who would be an interested person within the meaning of D.C. Code 20-101(d).

Date of First Publication: 2/20/2020 Christine J. Spruill Signature of Trustee TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

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

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

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

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

2019 ADM 741

2020 ADM 000133

2020 ADM 000036

2020 ADM 000011

Rodney Eugene Gill Decedent

Vannie L. Taylor III Decedent

Roberta D. Gabel Decedent

Nakia V. Gray, Esq. 9701 Apollo Drive, Suite 100 Largo, MD 20774 Attorney

Dalton Howard, Esq. 4020 Lee Street, NE Washington, DC 20019 Attorney

Jeffrey K. Gordon, Esq. 5335 Wisconsin, Avenue, NW #700 Washington, DC 20015 Attorney

Mary E. Moss aka Mary Ethel Moss aka Mary Ethel Moody Decedent

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

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

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

Kimberly Fahrenholz, whose address is 1707 N Street, NW, Suite 2, Washington, DC 20036, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Rodney Eugene Gill who died on January 9, 2019 without a Will, and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding.

Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/20/2020. 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 8/20/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Adriane E. L. Dorrington, whose address is 48 Madison Street, NW, Washington DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Vannie L. Taylor III who died on October 13, 2019 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding.

Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/27/2020. 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 8/27/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 2/20/2020

Date of first publication: 2/27/2020

Carol J. Light, whose address is 3001 Veazey Terrace, NW, #1119, Washington, DC 20008, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Roberta D. Gabel who died on December 12, 2019 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding.

Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/27/2020. 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 8/27/2020, or be forever barred.

Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Kimberly Fahrenholz Personal Representative

Adriane E. L. Dorrington Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills

Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills

Washington Informer

Washington Informer

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

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

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

2019 ADM 337

2020 ADM 000113

2020 ADM 000135

Robert Charles McDuffie, Sr. aka Robert C. McDuffie Decedent

Matthew Ginyard Decedent

Julia Matthews Decedent

Julius P. Terrell, Esquire 1455 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Suite 400 Washington, DC 20004 Attorney

Caren M. Webb, Esq. 1308 Ninth Street, NW Suite 250 Washington, DC 20001 Attorney

Valerie J. Edwards Antonoplos & Associates, Attorneys at Law 1725 DeSales St., NW Suite 600 Washington, DC 20036 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Gale McDuffie, whose address is 3245 Walnut Street, NE, Washington DC 20018, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Robert Charles McDuffie, Sr. aka Robert C. McDuffie who died on November 19, 2018 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/27/2020. 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 8/27/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 2/27/2020 Gale McDuffie Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills Washington Informer

Attorney Ethel Mitchell 8403 Colesville Road #1100 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Attorney

Date of first publication: 2/27/2020

Date of first publication: 2/27/2020 William R. Moody Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills

Washington Informer

Washington Informer

November 21, 2011 Date of Death Helen E. Staten Name of Decedent

Otis Ginyard, whose address is 3346 Blaine Street, NE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Matthew Ginyard who died on January 3, 2012 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., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/27/2020. 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 8/27/2020, or be forever barred.

Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Katie Bernice Matthews, whose address is 125 57th Street, SE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Julia Matthews who died on October 6, 2019 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision.

All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/27/2020. 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 8/27/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills Washington Informer

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

Date of first publication: 2/27/2020 Katie Bernice Matthews Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2020 FEP 000013

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

Otis Ginyard Personal Representative

William R. Moody, whose address is 4005 Vine Street, Capitol Heights, MD 20743, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mary E. Moss aka Mary Ethel Moss aka Mary Ethel Moody who died on October 13, 2019 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/27/2020. 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 8/27/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Carol J. Light Personal Representative

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

Date of first publication: 2/27/2020

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

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Nykysha N. Bethea whose address is 2930 M Street, SE Washington, DC 20019 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Helen E. Staten, deceased, by the General Court of Justice for Guilford County, State of North Carolina, on June 7, 2016.

Service of process may be made upon Nykysha N. Bethea, 2930 M Street, SE, Washington, DC 20019 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: 2930 M Street, SE, Washington, DC 20019. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Date of first publication: 2/27/2020 Nykysha N Bethea Personal Representative Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020 67

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

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

2020 ADM 000126

2019 ADM 000917

Debora Tinong Ebei aka Deborah E. Tinong Decedent

Bennie Prophet Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Martin Agwonjang Tinong, whose address is 2110 Maryland Ave., NE Apt. 303, Washington DC 20002 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Debora Tinong Ebei aka Deborah E. Tinong who died on June 8, 2019 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/27/2020. 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 8/27/2020, or be forever barred.

Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 2/27/2020 Martin Agwonjang Tinong Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills

Ronald Dixon Bynum & Jenkins 1010 Cameron Street Alexandria VA, 22314 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Ronald Dixon, whose address is Bynum & Jenkins, 1010 Cameron Street, Alexandria, VA 22314, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Bennie Prophet who died on March 18, 2019 at 5426 Clay Pl., NE, Washington, DC without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/27/2020. 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 8/27/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 2/27/2020 Ronald Dixon Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY

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Washington Informer

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

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

2020 ADM 000118

2020 ADM 000142

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Fostenia W. Baker Decedent

Cora Thomas aka Cora B. Thomas Decedent

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

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

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Tonya Chevelle Gadson, whose address is 3319 Somme Ave., Norfolk, VA 23509, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Fostenia W. Baker who died on January 23, 2020 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/27/2020. 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 8/27/2020, or be forever barred.

Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Julia B. Bowman, whose address is 1313 Robert Lewis Avenue, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Cora Thomas aka Cora B. Thomas who died on December 15, 2019 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/27/2020. 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 8/27/2020, or be forever barred.

Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 2/27/2020

Date of first publication: 2/27/2020

Tonya Chevelle Gadson Personal Representative

Julia B. Bowman Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

TRUE TEST COPY

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LYNDIA from Page 51 few months.

After creating two of the first blood banks, Drew returned to Howard University in 1941 to continue as a professor. He became the chief surgeon at Freedmen’s Hospital and eventually became the first African-American examiner for the American Board of Surgery.

Honored with the Spingarn Medal for “the highest and noblest achievement” by the NAACP, in recognition of his blood plasma collection and distribution efforts, it was a first.

For his final years, Dr. Drew remained a highly regarded medical professional. On April 1, 1950, while en route to a medical conference with three other physicians at the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama, Dr. Drew was driving when his vehicle crashed near Burlington, North Carolina. His passengers survived, but Drew succumbed to his injuries. He left behind his wife Minnie and their four children.

Drew was only 45 years old at the time of his death. WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

CHAVIS from Page 28

he survived the brutal police attack on the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama that shocked the nation, he shows us there are still many bridges to cross. The man who has been called the “moral conscience of Congress” spoke out on the floor of the House as he and his colleagues voted to impeach President Trump: “Our nation is founded on the principle that we don’t have kings. We have presidents, and the Constitution is our compass.

When you see something that is not right, not just, not fair, you have a moral obligation to say something, to do something. Our children and their children may ask us: what did you do? What did you say? … We have a mission, and a mandate, to be on the right side of history.”

In January, as he condemned the Trump administration’s drone strike in Iraq without congressional authorization, he issued another warning: “Failure to learn from the lessons of history means that we are doomed to repeat mistakes of the past.” Let’s all pray for his health and strength and follow his example as he keeps pushing our nation forward.

WI

Media Training ■ Image Branding ■ On-Camera Coaching

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Doris McMillon President

om ennis.c

ing against the segregated status quo.

Without telling anyone, including his parents, he wrote a letter to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. asking for help.

Dr. King sent the teenager a roundtrip Greyhound bus ticket to come to Montgomery and meet with him.

John Lewis had already been admitted to American Baptist Theological Seminary (now American Baptist College) in Nashville, Tennessee, a historically Black institution. Over spring break, 18-year old John took Dr. King up on his offer: “So in March of 1958, I boarded a Greyhound bus [and] traveled to Montgomery… Meeting Martin Luther King Jr., meeting Ralph Abernathy, meeting Rosa Parks, and later meeting Jim Lawson, who taught me the way of peace, the way of love, the way of nonviolence, changed my life and set me on a path. And I haven’t looked back since.”

He explained that his parents and community had not taught him to challenge segregation: “When I would ask my parents about those signs they would say, ‘That’s the way it is. Don’t get in the way. Don’t get in trouble.’”

But his experience in the civil rights movement taught him a different and crucial lesson he shares with today’s young leaders: “I got in trouble. I got in good trouble, necessary trouble. I say to you, you’re more than lucky. You are blessed, and you have to use whatever you see to pass it on to someone else. Bless someone else. Be bold. Be brave. Be courageous. Speak up. Speak out. You must get out there and push and pull and help change things and bring about a nonviolent revolution, a revolution of values, a revolution of ideas … Someone must put out and say what is going on is not right, it is not fair, it is not just, and we are here to do something about it.” He left the audience with a final encouragement: “Go out there and be a headlight and not a taillight. Get out there and get in the way, get in good trouble, necessary trouble, and be yourself. It will all work out.”

Our country is a profoundly different place today because John Lewis has spent his life speaking out boldly and acting nonviolently against injustice. A courageous servant leader, he has always remained willing to get into necessary trouble. Decades after

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EDELMAN from Page 28

are those of a monarch, not a president. But he’s already told us of his intention to remain in office — like a king.

It’s not normal to be able to “boil a frog.” The key to boiling the frog is to turn the heat up gradually so it won’t notice.

Even when our “normal” is disrupted by perverse mismanagement, we have the capacity to access and reject the disruption.

We have the capacity and the responsibility. WI

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lock of legislative inaction. Within the executive branch, he has established a revolving door of cabinet and staff that make his judgments and whims the only constants in administration policy.

Most alarmingly, his recent forays into the judicial process — military and civilian — are disturbing to the core. His act of reversing the judgment of a military court released a war criminal with

the additional effect of eroding confidence in the military chain of command and the standards of conduct service that members are bound to uphold.

The recent pardons/commutation of sentences for 11 federally convicted criminals are within his constitutional authority, but were they purposed to uphold justice?

To the contrary, I believe they were issued with the desire to condition the public to accept any action he might choose to take. His actions

You Can Say It Like A Pro!

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WILLIAMS from Page 28

Alexander “to ‘solve’ the surprise billing problem would literally insulate insurance companies from covering these costs, at a time when profits for insurance companies have reached record highs.”

Surprise medical billing is a problem we can no longer ignore, particularly at a time when roughly twothirds of Americans say that they are concerned about their ability to pay for an unexpected medical expense for themselves or for a family member. And this practice is especially hard on African Americans and other people of color in the U.S. who already face significant barriers to health care and who generally receive a lower quality of care than the rest of the nation.

WI

Photo

But far from solving the problem, this approach would make matters worse. It not only frees insurers from their responsibilities. It fails to compensate providers for the cost of the care that they actually provide. And that, in turn, means either patients will get stuck with the bill or medical providers will have to absorb big losses that ultimately jeopardize their ability to stay in business.

Fortunately, the proposed bill stalled after the medical community warned that the benchmarked rate favored by the insurance industry would allow insurers to exert a new troubling level of control over health care prices and the larger health care delivery system.

Now, as Congress begins to take up the issue once again, health insurance companies that evaded significant scrutiny last year seem to be drawing close scrutiny now, both inside and outside of Washington.

Speaking to a group of faith leaders and policymakers in South Carolina, an important stop for the 2020 Democratic presidential primary, Rev. Al Sharpton criticized the surprise medical billing legislation backed by insurers and stressed the urgent need to deal with the continued lack of access to adequate health insurance coverage for minority communities.

“Washington is getting it wrong,” he wrote in an opinion piece published after his South Carolina trip, adding that the bill introduced by

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70 - FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 4, 2020

MORIAL from Page 29 Holder, which gutted a key provision of the Voting Rights Act, opened the floodgate for racially-motivated voter suppression.

Texas, for example, passed a strict voter ID law that allows voters to use a handgun license to vote, but not a student ID from a state university.

According to the Brennan Center for Justice, more than 80 percent of handgun licenses issued to Texans in 2018 went to white Texans, while

CROWELL from Page 29 declined, contributing to higher tuitions for most students,” said James Kvaal and Jessica Thompson, co-authors of a new policy brief by the University of New Hampshire’s Carsey School of Public Policy. “State funding is not only declining but it is also distributed inequitably.”

Even so, the White House education budget proposal would carve out more than $2 billion for Career and Technical Education (CTE) state grants and CTE national programs. Eligible CTE

ASKIA from Page 29 most effective spokesmen heard the message from family members in jail, he used his time on lockdown to study, study, study, dictionaries, whatever sources of knowledge he could find.

He emerged Malcolm X. Three years after that a wildly popular calypso singer known as “The Charmer” joined on to the movement and became Louis X. Thanks to the time, the surge of the civil rights movement, and the brilliant leadership of Brother Malcolm, the Nation grew exponentially. By 1964, when Malcolm X left the movement, the name of the “Black Muslims” was known far and wide. Despite the controversy surrounding Brother Malcolm’s departure and assassination the movement continued to grow, with Louis X, now Louis Farrakhan as the chief deputy.

The Nation of Islam grew and grew, reforming some of the most recalcitrant members of the Black community — many from prisons — into upright, model citizens. It was an engine of economic development and progress, emphasizing Black Unity, and the demand that Blacks be separated from the authority of white America, into a separate state or territory of their own.

That message still resonates today.

After 41 years of laboring in the vineyards, in February, 1975 Mr. Muhammad went away, some say he died,

more than half of the students in the University of Texas system are racial or ethnic minorities.

Meanwhile, Russia’s campaign to disrupt and influence our democracy continues. We must be vigilant against misinformation about the candidates and any efforts to mislead voters about the election. One of the most common tactics of hostile foreign actors is to abuse the trust in movements like #BlackLivesMatter to insinuate themselves into online communities to spread lies and dis-

suade Black people from voting.

The nationwide #ReclaimYourVote campaign will layout the most significant issues, break down otherwise confusing processes, and highlight specific ways where we can reclaim our collective power by harnessing the power of media, entertainment and technology to drive civic engagement.

The next phases of #ReclaimYourVote will focus on rallying the community around the critical matters that directly affect them with issues-based content and comprehensive analysis. WI

recipients could be private businesses offering short-term, training or apprenticeships. Under the proposal, Pell Grants could be also used for CTE training, siphoning off funds traditionally used at twoand four-year institutions.

“As states begin to think about their long-term career and technical education strategies, I would encourage them to continue to act boldly and break down the silos that exist between education and industry so that all students are prepared for the in-demand, high-paying jobs of today’s economy and tomorrow’s,” said Educa-

tion Secretary Betsy DeVos. What does seem to be bold is an administration that consistently and deliberately seeks new ways to benefit private enterprise at the public trough. These new funding streams are also accompanied by departmental deregulation that “streamline and reduce unnecessary costs with accreditation,” states the budget summary.

Sounds like in the name of “deregulation,” this administration is intent on eliminating more “checks and balances” on the use of public monies.

WI

the faithful believe that he is alive and with Allah (God) Who is, according to the message a living man.

The most anticipated time of each year in the Nation is the celebration of Master W. Fard Muhammad’s birthday — Saviour’s Day, Feb. 26, 1877, the same day the treacherous Hayes-Tilden Compromise was agreed to which removed federal troops from the South, and left the newly freed slaves in the hands and at the mercy of the merciless former slavers, the Ku Klux Klan, the White Citizens Councils. Every year followers would flock to Chicago to see and hear Mr. Muhammad deliver his annual Saviour’s Day address. My first Saviour’s Day was in 1970, 50 years ago, at the Gen. Richard L. Jones Armory on the Southside of Chicago.

After Mr. Muhammad’s departure in 1975, the movement descended into chaos. His son and successor, Emam Warith Deen Muhammad, changed the religious message, dismantled the economic engine and changed the name to the World Community of Islam. By that time, all of the militant movements of the civil rights era had been taken down — SNCC, the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee, the Black Panthers, the Republic of New Africa, all gone.

In 1981, Minister Farrakhan reorganized the Nation of Islam, at a Saviour’s Day convention, at which he declared

the NOI would “never fall again.” I also attended that Saviour’s Day event. In the 39 years since the The Minister has literally rebuilt the nation into a powerhouse again, and this year as the NOI enters its 90th year, he took the celebration back to its birthplace Detroit.

Despite his age — he’ll be 87 in May — Farrakhan spoke multiple times during the weekend, including his address Sunday, which looked to me like a miniature edition of the Million Man March, with 15,000 in attendance, including busloads of young men from around the Midwest, the Chair of the Detroit City Council, and the Mayors of Flint, and Benton Harbor, Michigan in attendance. It was awesome.

The minister spoke for three hours Sunday, even offering words of consolation to President Donald J. Trump, who is likely to be reelected. Comparing himself to Jonah, who preached to the King of Nineveh nearly 3,000 years ago, Minister Farrakhan said there is only one way America can be saved from the divine destruction that has been preached in the name of Master Fard Muhammad for nearly 90 years now: “Repent.”

America must repent and give justice and a land of our own to the Black man and woman in America. I believe that Farrakhan’s recitation of Mr. Muhammad’s message is true and correct. Time will tell. WI

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