The Washington Informer - April 17, 2025

D.C.

Emancipation

Day 2025: Preserving History and Keeping Up the Fight

By Sam P.K. Collins and Mya Trujillo WI Staff Writer and WI Contributing Writer

For two decades, District residents celebrated D.C. Emancipation Day—- a holiday marking the end of slavery in the nation’s capital— at an annual parade and concert on Freedom Plaza, during panel discussions, and even online while learning about D.C.’s statehood battle.

Recently, while speaking about the holiday’s significance, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) paid homage to a former D.C. Council colleague who’s credited with bringing D.C. Emancipation Day to fruition.

“I have to acknowledge the leadership of (former) D.C. Councilmember Vincent Orange, who for many years championed the Emancipation Day holiday,” Bowser said.

While Orange did not immediately reply to

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By Sam P.K. Collins and Lindiwe Vilikazi WI Staff Writer and WI Health Writer

For Alyce McFarland, Ward 8’s newest hospital presents opportunities she wished she had as: a mother who gave birth miles away from her home; a sister who recalled watching her

Black Immigrants and Organizers Look at Abrego Garcia Detainment with Concern

Elected Officials and Organizers Stand Against President Trump and Salvadoran President Bekele

By Stacy M. Brown, Sam P.K. Collins, and Richard Elliott WI Senior Writer, Staff Writer and WI Contributing Writer

For years, as the Black Alliance for Just Immigration (BAJI) expanded operations throughout the U.S., executive director Nana Gyamfi oversaw the launch of a District-based policy research office, while collaborating with grassroots groups focused on statehood, police accountability, and migrant

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National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade Culminates Beloved Season with a Taste of D.C., Nationwide Culture

By Jada Ingleton WI Digital Equity Fellow

Wuthering winds, wet weather and low temperatures were no match for the thousands of attendees donning cherry blossom-themed merchandise and high spirits at the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade on Saturday, April 12. Kicking off with the Pink Tie Party in March to raise funds for the festival’s free programming, the parade culminated a month-long series of springtime fun with a

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Our Community in the DMV

17

sibling

5 D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser speaks at a celebration for the opening of Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center GW Health on April 10. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

5Former D.C. Councilmember Vincent Orange, pictured here at the D.C. Emancipation Day 20th Anniversary Parade, Festival and Concert, is credited as a champion for the D.C. Emancipation Day holiday. (Robert R. Roberts/ The Washington Informer)

CEDAR HILL Page 20

5 Dancers from across the nation culminate the National Cherry Blossom Festival with flying colors and a finale performance on April 12. (Cleveland Nelson/The Washington Informer)

5Dozens gather at the Greenbelt courthouse to advocate for the return of Hyattsville resident Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, who a judge ruled was illegally deported to El Salvador. (Courtesy Photo)

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Two Planes Clip Wings at Reagan National Airport as Aviation Safety Worries Grow

5Growing concern over aviation safety continues as two planes clipped wings while taxiing at Reagan National Airport on Thursday, April 10. (Courtesy Photo)

According to NBC News Washington, two planes clipped wings while taxiing at Reagan National Airport on Thursday, April 10.

Gregory Gillian, a passenger on one of the planes, captured video of at least part of the incident and shared it with the station.

The Washington Informer’s Anthony Tilghman was the first to report the collision on social media.

NBC Washington’s Adam Tuss reported that the wingtip of American Airlines Flight 5490 struck American Airlines Flight 4522 on a taxiway at around 12:45 p.m. local time. He said flight 5490, a Bombardier CRJ 900, was headed to Charleston International Airport in South Car-

olina. Flight 4522, an Embraer E175, was headed to JFK International Airport in New York.

Officials at the airport and the Federal Aviation Administration have confirmed the incident, though no additional details about injuries or flight disruptions have been released.

The incident adds to growing concern over aviation safety in the United States. Since President Donald Trump took office in January and moved to gut the FAA and other federal agencies, a series of deadly and non-fatal aviation events have raised red flags across the country.

On Jan. 29, a passenger jet and a Black Hawk helicopter collided in midair and crashed into the Potomac River near Reagan National Airport.

All 67 victims have now been identified. Just two days later, a medical transport Learjet crashed in Philadelphia, killing all six people onboard and one person on the ground. That crash left behind a massive fireball in a neighborhood shortly after the plane took off from a small nearby airport.

Michelle Obama Shuts Down Rumors, Sets the Record Straight About Her Marriage

Former First Lady Michelle Obama is setting the record straight about her marriage, brushing off rumors of a split from former President Barack Obama and calling out the sexist assumptions that fueled them.

In part two of her appearance on the “Work in Progress”podcast hosted by Sophia Bush, Obama addressed the online speculation that ramped up earlier this year when Barack Obama appeared alone at several high-profile events, including the funeral for former President Jimmy Carter and the inauguration of Donald Trump. Critics quickly jumped to conclusions — but Michelle Obama made it clear that her choices had nothing to do with marital discord.

“This year people couldn’t even fathom that I was making a choice for myself,” the former first lady said. “They had to assume that my husband and I are divorcing. This

couldn’t be a grown woman just making a set of decisions for herself, right?”

She explained that such assumptions are the result of unhealthy societal assumptions that have become the norm.

“That’s what society does to us. We start actually finally going, ‘What am I doing? Who am I doing this for?’ And if it doesn’t fit into the stereotype of what people think we should do,” she added, “then it gets labeled as something negative and horrible.”

The bestselling author and former First Lady, who spent eight years in the White House without scandal — unless one counts Barack Obama’s infamous tan suit — said her efforts to make room for her own voice and decisions have often been misinterpreted.

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RAMMYS Look to Highlight Local Restaurants and Individuals

People across the DMV’s culinary and hospitality industries gathered at The Hamilton Live in Northwest, D.C. on Monday, April 14 for the RAMMYS Nominations, hosted by the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington (RAMW). As guests enjoyed plentiful samples of food and beverages from various local establishments, dozens of businesses learned they are finalists for the 43rd Annual RAMMYS, set for Aug. 3 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Northwest, D.C.

From the yearly awards, to the second annual honors ceremony on July 1, the RAMMYS highlight exceptional talent and achievements of the Washington, D.C. region’s dynamic restaurant and food service community.

“We utilize this opportunity to point out the greatness and the uniqueness of our industry,” RAMW president Shawn Townsend told The Informer.

RAMW is the regional trade association representing restaurants and the food service industry in Washington, D.C’s Metropolitan area. Established in 1920, it is an advocate, resource, and community for its members.

During the April 14 event, 20 categories were announced, including Chef of the Year, Hottest Sandwich Spot of the Year, Best Bar of the Year, Best Wine Program, Baker of the Year and Restaurant Employee of the Year.

“Some folks tell me they don’t even have to win the award, just being a finalist is half of the battle [for them],” Townsend said. WI

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

With D.C. Budget Up in the Air, Mayor Bowser Starts Spending and Hiring Freezes

Depending on How Congress Acts, Furloughs to D.C. Government Building Closures to Come Next

By Sam P.K. Collins and Stacy Brown WI Staff Writer and WI Senior Staff Writer

With the House on a two-week recess and D.C.’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget still under siege, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) announced the start of a government-wide freeze on new hires, overtime spending, pay raises, promotions, and non-personnel expenditures.

This freeze, which went into effect on Tuesday afternoon, will more than likely lay the foundation for furloughs and government facility closures that City Administrator Kevin Donahue will recommend toward the end of April. These personnel reductions, intended to spur a cost savings of more than $400 million, are built upon Bowser’s recent increase of the District’s maximum spending cap by 6%, or more than $500 million— as allowed in a 2009 law.

Even though the District stands to close a $1.1 billion budget gap through this method, Bowser, as recently as Monday, admitted that she still has her sights on the District of Columbia Local Budget Act, which the House needs to pass in order to immediately rectify the District’s unique budget quandary.

“Let me be clear. We need the Congress to act,” Bowser said on Monday. “What we’re doing is a stopgap. It doesn’t address the issue. It leaves hundreds of millions of dollars of money that we have that will be in the bank that cannot be used on critical service for the residents of the District of Columbia.”

As of press time, it’s unclear how many front-facing D.C. government positions will be affected by the mayoral order, or the extent to which the spending freeze changes the quality of District services and programs. Facilities that are exempt from building closures are: D.C. public schools educational facilities; St. Elizabeths Hospital; Department of Behavioral Health Stabilization Center; Department of Human

Services shelters; and comprehensive psychiatric emergency program facilities.

Bowser’s seven-page mayoral order allows for District agencies to apply for a waiver when it comes to expenditures that generate revenue, promote public health and safety, and ensure compliance with laws, regulations and court orders. Within 10 days of the order’s start, Donahue is scheduled to present a plan detailing furloughs and government facility closures as additional cost-saving measures.

These recommendations, to be informed by the cost savings incurred by the hiring freeze and the number of waivers received, will lay the foundation for a supplemental budget the Bowser administration will present to the D.C. Council within the 30-day window that opened when Bowser alerted House and Senate committee leadership about her use of Section 817 of the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009 to increase the District’s spending cap.

On Monday, Bowser declined to speak specifically about which programs were on the chopping block, as the matter proved to be more complicated than any budget situation the District has faced in recent years.

“When you talk about cutting $400 million, in some ways it is hard to call it a cut because the money is available,” Bowser said on Monday. “It’s not like we’re talking about cutting services because we don’t have the money. We do have the money. We have to have an approved appropriation from the Congress to spend our own money.”

Earlier this week, the mayor supported her Fiscal Year 2026 budget recommendations to the Office of Chief Financial Officer, despite what administration officials described as the office’s hesitance to address that document while Fiscal Year 2025 expenditures are still in a state of limbo.

Meanwhile, many residents, including those who’ve taken to social media, continue to express their concern about what’s next for the District.

AROUND THE REGION

“Sad,” one social media user wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. “The city will suffer and it’s not our fault.”

In March, House leaders shepherded the continuing resolution that triggered $1.1 billion in cuts to the District’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget while Bowser and other District leaders were navigating a budget season that will shape expenditures for Fiscal Year 2026.

By the time they learned of the budget gap, the Bowser administration was already attempting to rectify an anticipated $300 million budget gap spurred by federal government furloughs.

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5With the D.C. Fiscal Year 2025 budget under siege, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has implemented a government-wide freeze on new hires, overtime spending, pay raises, promotions and non-personnel expenditures. (WI File Photo/Ja’Mon Jackson)

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APRIL 17

facts

APRIL 17 - 23, 2025 SOURCE: BLACK

1872 – Activist and fiery journalist William Monroe Trotter is born on this day in Boston. A close friend of W.E.B. DuBois, Trotter was one of the most militant Black leaders of the late 1800s and early 1900s. He helped found the Niagara Movement, which led to the establishment of the NAACP. Trotter refused to join the NAACP, saying the group was too moderate and elitist. He was also a leading opponent of the accommodationist policies of Booker T. Washington. Trotter’s primary vehicle of expression was his newspaper, the Boston Guardian.

APRIL 18

1977 – Alex Haley, author of “Roots,” is awarded the Pulitzer Prize.

APRIL 19

1910 – The National Urban League is formed in New York City. It was established from the merging of the National League for the Protection of Colored Women, National League on Urban Conditions among Negroes and remnants of the Niagara Movement which had earlier helped found the NAACP. Among the leading organizers were Ruth Standish Baldwin and George Edmund Haynes. Originally founded in part to focus on economic issues affecting Blacks, today the National Urban League is considered the nation’s second-most powerful civil rights organization, after the NAACP.

1971 – Walter Fauntroy becomes the first elected congressional representative from the predominantly Black District of Columbia since Reconstruction. However, Fauntroy did not have voting rights. To this day, the Congressional representative from Washington is still not allowed to vote on major legislation.

APRIL 20

1853 – Harriet Tubman begins her work with the

Underground Railroad, a network of antislavery activists who helped slaves escape from the South. 1971 – The Supreme Court rules that busing can be used to integrate schools.

1984 – Influential cabaret singer Mabel Mercer dies in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, at 84.

1986 – Michael Jordan sets the single-game playoff scoring record with 63 points in a double-overtime loss to the Boston Celtics.

APRIL 21

1966 – Milton Lee Olive III, a U.S. Army soldier who sacrificed himself to save others by smothering a live grenade, posthumously becomes the first African American Medal of Honor recipient of the Vietnam War.

1974 – Lee Elder becomes the first African American professional golfer to qualify for the Masters tournament.

2003 – Singer/songwriter and civil rights activist Nina Simone dies of breast cancer at her home in the south of France at 70.

APRIL 22

1922 – Famed jazz bassist Charles Mingus is born in Nogales, Arizona.

APRIL 23

1856 – Inventor Granville T. Woods, the first American of African ancestry to be a mechanical and electrical engineer after the Civil War and holder of more than 50 patents, is born in Columbus, Ohio. 1872 – Lawyer Charlotte Ray is admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of the District of Columbia, becoming the first Black woman admitted to practice before the District Supreme Court.

2007 – Barbara Hillary becomes the first African American female to reach the North Pole.

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P INT

BY SARAFINA WRIGHT

BELINDA HENDERSON / COLUMBUS, GA. Giving my life to Christ entirely. Spring

S. LAMP / LOS ANGELES, CALIF.

Regular exercise. I always thought I didn’t have time, but even short workouts have boosted my mood and energy levels.

N. KING / WASHINGTON, D.C

TEE HUNDLEY / JERSEY CITY, N.J. Getting a cleaning person!

Creating and sticking to my boundaries.

JARELL RASHID / DETROIT, MICH. Not overthinking so much. Knowing that I can’t control everything and learning to go with the flow.

Our staff is made up of writers, just like you. We are dedicated to making publishing dreams come true. Trusted by authors for nearly 100 years, Dorrance has made countless authors’ dreams come true.

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D.C. Faces Fiscal Meltdown as House Republicans Leave City in Budget Crisis Despite Trump’s Support

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

Washington, D.C., is teetering on the edge of a financial disaster, with Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) and city officials scrambling to prevent a $1.1 billion shortfall that threatens essential services, jobs, and public safety. The crisis stems from Republican-led cuts in the federal government’s stopgap spending bill, which reverts the District to its 2024 budget, even though Congress had already approved the city’s 2025 spending plan.

Bowser, who once tried to build a working relationship with President Donald Trump (R)—going as far as visiting him at Mar-a-Lago in a rare effort to find common ground— now finds herself once again facing the wrath of MAGA Republicans. Her earlier move to dismantle Black Lives Matter Plaza, seen by many as an attempt to appease conservatives, has yielded no favors.

Congress’s failure to act before adjourning for a two-week recess has thrown D.C. into financial limbo, leaving the city unable to access its own locally generated tax dollars.

The DC Local Funds Continuation Act, introduced by Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) and supported by President Trump, passed unanimously in the Senate. It would restore D.C.’s access to its $1.1 billion

budget gap by fixing what Collins called a “mistake” in the Housepassed continuing resolution.

“This bill would simply fix a mistake in the House CR that prevents the District of Columbia from spending its own tax dollars,” said Collins.

Yet House Republican leaders have refused to bring the measure to the floor for a vote, despite endorsements from police, firefighters, labor unions, and even Trump himself. Instead, the House recessed, leaving 700,000 residents of the nation’s capital uncertain about the fate of their city services.

“We’re just starting those conversations,” Jacqueline Pogue Lyons, president of the Washington Teachers’ Union, which represents 6,000 educators serving over 51,000 students, told local reporters. “This could mean larger classroom sizes, fewer services for students with special needs, and the elimination of before- and after-care programs. We’re heading into summer, and this could impact summer school as well.”

At a recent town hall, D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson (D) compared the crisis to a family unable to pay basic bills.

“If you don’t have money, what essential things do you cut off? You have to have food—but do

you cut off the gas? Do you cut off the lights? What if you need medicine?” Mendelson asked.

David Hoagland, president of IAFF Local 36, the firefighters’ union, warned that public safety is at stake.

“If this doesn’t get corrected, when people call 911 in the District, they’re not going to get the same level of help or response that they would normally,” he said.

Hoagland and other labor leaders are calling on lawmakers to pass the Senate bill under “suspension of the rules,” a procedural move that requires a two-thirds majority but allows for quicker passage.

“What we’re pushing for is that they pass the Senate bill under suspension, just get it done,” Hoagland said.

The stakes continue to rise as the city braces for potential layoffs, canceled programs, and curtailed services. In a last-ditch plea before Congress recessed, Bowser tagged both Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson on social media, warning that the cuts would “impact DC police overtime, firefighters, and programs for our kids.” She even reposted Trump’s own message from late March, in which he urged the House to “get it done

5 D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and city officials are scrambling to prevent a $1.1 billion shortfall that threatens essential services, jobs, and public safety in the District. (WI File

Photo/Shedrick Pelt)

Norton Introduces Bill to Modernize D.C. Legislative Transmittal to Congress

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

In an effort to modernize the transmission of legislation from the District of Columbia to the U.S. Congress, Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), has introduced a bill to update the District of Columbia Home Rule Act (HRA).

The proposed legislation would allow the Chair of the Council of the District of Columbia, currently Councilmember Phil Mendelson (D), to transmit bills to Congress electronically, a significant departure from the current physical delivery requirement.

The bill, known as the District of Columbia Electronic Transmittal of Legislation Act, seeks to alleviate the logistical and financial burdens imposed by the current process mandated under the HRA, which requires physical transmission of legislation to the Speaker of the House and the President of the Senate. This process includes a cumbersome 12-step procedure involving the printing of documents and coordination of delivery amidst stringent security and parking restrictions at the Capitol.

FISCAL MELTDOWN from Page 8

IMMEDIATELY.”

But the House ignored both her warning and Trump’s directive, and now the fallout could be widespread.

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) may lose $217 million in D.C. support, threatening more than $500 million in regional funding due to matching clauses in Maryland and Virginia budgets. Without the D.C. contribution, neither state is legally allowed to contribute its share—an outcome that could cripple public transit across the region. With no clear timeline, even city officials remain uncertain about when the axe will fall. Ward 6 Councilmember Charles Allen (D) said it’s up to the city’s chief financial officer to pull the trigger once

“Today, I introduce a bill that responds to the modern age, reflecting practices that are commonplace across federal, state, and local governments,” Norton stated.

She highlighted the inefficiency and outdated nature of the current system, emphasizing that the proposed change would not alter the congressional review process but would streamline how D.C.’s legislation is presented to Congress.

“While I do not believe there should be a congressional review process for D.C. legislation— and I have introduced a bill to eliminate the review process— this bill would not change the review process, except that it would give D.C. flexibility in the form it transmits legislation to Congress,” Norton insisted.

The push for electronic transmittal aligns with federal legislation such as the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act and the E-Government Act, which have long recognized and facilitated electronic transactions and communications within the government. Norton’s bill also points to the practical benefits realized by federal agencies that already

the money runs out.

“We don’t really have a next natural deadline other than the CFO just finally says, ‘Guys, you’re out of time,’” Allen said.

The funding shortfall affects only locally raised D.C. tax dollars—not federal funds. Because of federal control, D.C. is legally barred from accessing that money without congressional approval.

“These are extreme examples,” Allen said, referring to potential school furloughs and four-day school weeks. “But that’s the type of tough decisions we would get to.”

At a Capitol Hill advocacy day last week, Allen was joined by parents and students urging lawmakers to act. But the urgency wasn’t shared.

“None of them felt like their hair was on fire,” Allen said. WI

AROUND THE REGION

conduct official business electronically.

The bill has previously garnered support from the Committee on Oversight and Reform in the 117th Congress, demonstrating a readiness within parts of Congress to update legislative processes. The need for such modernization was amplified following the Jan. 6, 2021, attackon the Capitol, which disrupted the physical transmittal of D.C. legislation, highlighting vulnerabilities in the current system.

“I urge my colleagues to support this bill,” Norton said. “It will reduce unnecessary expenditures and improve the efficiency of legislative operations between the District and Congress.”

WI

4Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.) is is pushing for a bill to update the District of Columbia Home Rule Act. (WI File Photo)

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Greater Metropolitan Association of REALTIST Local Board President Nichelle McDuffie Hagins with Maryland realtors

Simeon Deskins, April Contee and Assaati Ahmad during the National Association of Real Estate Brokers 100-city Building Black Wealth Tour at Eastern Middle School in Silver Spring on April 12. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

Aaron Myers, executive director of DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, reads the latest news in The Washington Informer. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)ormer)

“Not everything that is faced can be changed but nothing can be changed until it is faced.”

WACIF, Building Bridges Across the River Champion Underserved Small Businesses With

‘Resilient Futures’ Program

TD Bank Funds $1 Million Grant for Innovative Solutions, Business Vitality in Washington, D.C.

By Jada Ingleton WI Digital Equity Fellow

As the Washington Area Community Investment Fund (WACIF) moves in a firm belief to compel economic equity, the storied nonprofit welcomes any opportunity to combat systemic injustice working against local entrepreneurs.

Thus, WACIF CEO Shannan Herbert considers the $1 million grant from the 2024 TD Ready Challenge to be a “game-changer” for the DMV region, furthering a mission to drive capital, community wealth building and economic development in a call to serve overlooked small businesses.

“Historical and systemic barriers— along with a deep mistrust of financial institutions—have too often stood in the way of success for many entrepreneurs,” Herbert told The Informer. “We are looking forward to changing lives, changing small businesses, and helping them grow, and with TD’s support, we’re going to make that happen.”

The Resilient Futures: Small Business Financial Wellness and Wealth Building Program was made possible through the partnership of Building Bridges Across the River, Onyx Therapy Group, and TD Bank’s 2024 TD Ready Challenge. Headquartered in Southeast, D.C., Building Bridges Across the River is the nation’s largest social sector non-profit based in Ward 8, while the TD Ready Challenge is an annual initiative to develop measurable solutions and effective programs for communities within the bank’s footprint.

With this year’s problem statement focused on innovative solutions for underserved small business owners, Paige Carlson-Heim, U.S. head of social impact for TD Bank, underscored the importance of establishing financial literacy, not just for a business, but for an individual alone – an ideal the 2024 TD Ready Challenge strives to promote.

“At the end of the day, people need to feel comfortable and secure in their understanding and awareness of ev-

5 WACIF, in partnership with Building Bridges Across the River, is the recipient of a $1 million grant that will launch the Resilient Futures: Small Business Financial Wellness and Wealth Building Program, an effort created out of collaboration with TD Bank’s 2024 TD Ready Challenge. (Courtesy

WACIF Instagram)

erything related to finances, to be able to then focus on their future, and to have confidence in that future,” Carlson-Heim told The Informer, “and that kind of is the underpinning of what we support.”

In addition to financial literacy, the innovative collaboration hopes to explore new, community-centered ways to “engage, listen, and respond,” said Herbert, with a leverage on communal support, technical assistance and economic prosperity.

“Together, we aim to open doors that once felt out of reach and create the kind of supportive, healing environment every entrepreneur needs to thrive,” Herbert said.

‘RESILIENT FUTURES’ PROGRAM TACKLES FINANCIAL LITERACY, COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

WACIF’s honorary selection as a recipient of the 2024 TD Ready Challenge (one of four in the United States) was officially announced on March 19, and according to Herbert, the nonprofit institution has already been in full swing with the inaugural models of the groundbreaking program.

Established in 1987, WACIF prides

itself as a conduit of growth for entrepreneurs and small businesses in local communities, making this initiative a vital tool to build upon existing cohort models that the association utilizes within its own scale.

Herbert specifically cited networking, transparency, and community engagement as key components to ensure efficiency for all participants of the Resilient Futures program, which is open to any underserved local business owner looking to scale an enterprise, according to WACIF.

“What I’m excited about is the ability now to take this cohort model, really, to the next level,” Herbert said, “where we can take some of the feedback that we’ve gotten from participants…and add those additional elements into [this] experience.”

Offerings of the developing initiative include: a “financial freedom-focused approach” to client engagement; a wealth building loan program, which includes a cash collateral grant; and the Ward 8 Small Business Preservation Cohort, amplified through the 11th Street Bridge Park (a project of Building Bridges Across the River) in partnership with Booz Allen Hamilton and the Anacostia BID.

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PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY

Prince George’s County Political Updates

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

on information technology services, cannabis, and gambling.

Balloons and confetti dropping in the Maryland State House on the night of April 7 signified the end of the 2025 legislative session, which included passing a $67 billion budget in the final days and adding additional taxes

Some of the major bills that passed this year were an expansion of youth health care subsidies, a bill to limit the liability for sexual abuse lawsuits at state and private institutions, and the Second Look Act, which would establish additional opportunities for release for inmates who have been incarcerated for 20 years or more.

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) said he opened the session with

three main priorities: modernizing the tax code to give middle-class families tax relief; grow the state economy and diversify off Washington, D.C.; and invest in Marylanders, all of which he says were accomplished with the passage of the budget.

The Rainbow Follows the Storm

By Alexander K. Austin

There’s a saying: “The rainbow follows the storm.” Right now, we’re weathering serious economic turbulence—market shifts, inflation, industry disruption, and rising interest rates are pressuring communities and businesses nationwide. But storms often clear the way for transformation. This is our moment to chart a new path forward—one rooted in Inclusive Economics.

Inclusive Economics is more than a buzzword—it’s a blueprint for resilience. It ensures prosperity reaches beyond the privileged few to small-medium sized businesses. These groups feel the impact during downturns, yet they hold the greatest potential to grow our economies.

Disruption creates opportunity. As legacy systems falter, space opens for new leadership, equitable investment, and bold public-private collaboration. Today, access to capital, equitable procurement, and intentional reinvestment in underserved communities are not optional—they are essential.

We see this happening in Prince George’s County, MD, our business community is proof that equity-focused strategies produce results. Through initiatives like Equity in Procurement, we’re helping historically excluded firms plug into our region’s economic engine.

We can’t simply react—we must reimagine. Now is the time for group economics, for policy reform, and for designing systems were inclusive participation fuels lasting prosperity.

Yes, the storm will be fierce. But our continued momentum to move forward with courage and purpose, we’ll find the rainbow after the storm—an inclusive economy build to include everyone.

work with anyone, we will never compromise when it comes to protecting you. Let’s continue to answer crisis with courage.” WI

LEGISLATIVE BLACK CAUCUS CELEBRATES SESSION VICTORIES

The Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland counted the creation of a Reparations Commission, the expansion of Maryland’s Prescription Drug Affordability Board, and the passage of the Second Look Act as 2025 legislative session victories.

Caucus Chairwoman Del. Jheanelle Wilkins (D- District 20) touted the successes of the group of Black legislators in a successful session amid national issues.

Prior to scheduled visits to South Korea and Japan to bring investments to Maryland beginning on April 12, Moore signed 94 bills into law including energy reform and the Second Look Act.

The governor said local legislators have been working to uplift Marylanders, particularly at a time when President Donald Trump is signing executive orders that threaten federal funding to state programming nationwide.

“At a time when middle-class families need a break, we made sure that 94% of Marylanders will either get a tax cut or see no changes in their taxes,” said Moore. “When the federal government is trying to eliminate the Department of Education and gut funding for Maryland schools, including schools that teach students with special needs, we delivered the largest single investment in K-12 education in the history of our state.”

He also highlighted efforts to bolster programming despite cuts and support those people who have lost or are uncertain about employment due to federal furloughs.

“As Elon Musk’s DOGE continues to lay off thousands of public servants, we have preserved record funding for local law enforcement and helped our federal workers find new opportunities in state government and the private sector,” Moore said. “Maryland is mobilizing. We’re working to grow this state and protect your rights. And while we’re willing to

“In Maryland, we just completed one of the most consequential legislative sessions in recent history,” said Wilkins. “Against the backdrop of national chaos—reckless federal layoffs that disproportionately impact our communities, attacks on diversity, and dysfunction at every level—we stood strong and delivered a bold, unabashed Black agenda.” She emphasized the importance of the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland and the work they are doing toward justice.

“These victories weren’t just about policy: they reflect the power of Black leadership that is inclusive, effective, and deeply committed to the people we serve,” Wilkins continued. “In contrast to the divisive and polarizing policies dominating the national conversation, we demonstrated what real progress looks like—governance rooted in equity and results.”

In the closing minutes of session, some protections for immigrants were passed but advocates, including Cathryn Jackson of CASA, stated more protections are necessary.

Jackson said “it is extremely heartbreaking that the immigration bills have not been prioritized,” emphasizing that this decision could have potentially dangerous consequences for many Marylanders.

“That is leaving the lives of so many people up to chance right now,” Jackson said. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

5Legislators celebrating the Sine Die, marking the end of 2025 legislative session.

(Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

Prince George’s County Local Updates

New Civic Plaza Holds Groundbreaking Ceremony

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

With U.S. Sen. Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Prince George’s Acting County Executive Tara Jackson, and other leaders present for the official groundbreaking ceremony on April 9, the new Civic Plaza is set to open in December, just outside of the Wayne K. Curry Administration Building in Largo.

“This plaza is more than just a construction site; it’s a manifestation of our vision to create a vibrant, inclusive, and walkable Largo,” said Acting County Executive Jackson during the ceremony. “It reflects everything we believe inconnection, culture, and community. As it comes to life, the Civic Plaza will be a place where families gather, businesses thrive, and Prince Georgians come together to celebrate all that makes our county special.”

The plaza plans to include a lawn and stage area for community events and festivals, a playground for children, an artwalk with seating, and a dog park. Once the project is complete, the corri-

dor will eventually include a sports and entertainment zone, a library, amphitheater, and youth sports fieldhouse.

This project is part of the Blue Line corridor’s revitalization and is funded in part by the Maryland Stadium Authority, which traditionally provides funding for professional sports stadiums. County leaders hope to see $2 billion in investment along the corridor, a needed boon for the County economy amid federal budget cuts and mass layoffs of federal workers.

“When we began envisioning the Blue Line Corridor, our goal was to make Prince George’s County a destination for visitors, and a community with amenities that made the area even more enjoyable for residents,” said Alsobrooks, who served as Prince George’s County Executive until December, in preparation to start her post in the senate. “This groundbreaking is a celebration of what happens when we dream big and move together towards it with purpose, and we are excited to see this vision come to fruition.”

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

Saturday, April 26

Montpelier House Museum

Peruse herb and plant vendors for your spring garden, tour the historic mansion, and enjoy a picnic tea with live music.

5Local and federal leaders including U.S. Sen. Angela Alsobrooks and Prince George’s Acting County Executive Tara Jackson attend a groundbreaking ceremony for a new civic plaza on April 9. It is expected to open in December. (Courtesy

Photo/Prince George’s County Council)

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: 55-2025

DOB Raze Permits Letters, Plumbing Disconnect, Abatement Work and Razing

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) Capital Construction and Design (CCD) requires licensed, qualified professionals to be able to solicitate and coordinate with 3rd party testing companies to satisfy hazmat report requirements.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available Wednesday, April 2, 2025, and can be found on Housing Agency Marketplace at:https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Housing Agency marketplace. See registration link below. https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 12:00 p.m

Email LaShawn Mizzell-McLeod, Contract Specialist at LMMCLEOD@dchousing.org for additional information.

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: 59-2025

Comprehensive Risk Assessment for the District of Columbia Housing Authority

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) Office of Financial Management (OFM) requires licensed, qualified professionals to provide Comprehensive Risk Assessment for the District of Columbia Housing Authority.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available Tuesday, April 1, 2025, and can be found on Housing Agency Marketplace at: https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Housing Agency marketplace. See registration link. https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.

Email Abdul Karim Farooqi, Procurement Specialist at afarooqi@dchousing.org for additional information.

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: 53-2025

Fee Accounting – Balance Sheet Account Reconciliation

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) Office of Financial Management (OFM) requires licensed, qualified professionals to provide Fee Accounting – Balance Sheet Account Reconciliation services.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available Monday, March 31, 2025, and can be found on Housing Agency Marketplace at: https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Housing Agency marketplace. See registration link below. https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Monday, April 28, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.

Email Abdul Karim Farooqi, Procurement Specialist at afarooqi@dchousing.org for additional information.

BUSINESS

By James Wright / WI Staff Writer

brief

The 2025 Famous Amos Ingredients for Success Entrepreneurs Initiatives

By James Wright WI Staff Writer

Ferrero North America has launched the 2025 Famous Amos Ingredients for Success (IFS) Entrepreneurs Initiative in partnership with the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc.

Presently in its fifth year, the IFS program creates pathways for early-stage Black business owners to thrive by providing a total of $150,000 in awards each year. IFS awards three recipients $50,000 in addition to mentorship and access to networking and educational resources.

Created to honor the brand founder Wally Amos’ legacy, IFS celebrates the qualities that make business owners unique and fosters long-term success for their companies.

“Wally Amos was boldly original, and his vision and impact are still part of Famous Amos to this day,” said Rachna Patel, vice president of marketing for Famous Amos. “Ingredients for Success pays tribute to the brand’s roots by helping early-stage Black business owners work toward their dreams – ultimately helping fuel a community where individuality

and innovation can thrive longterm.”

Eligible businesses must be at least 90% Black-owned, in operation for five years or less, headquartered in the United States, and owned by individuals 21 years or older.

All qualified submissions are judged by a panel that includes renowned Black entrepreneurs. This year’s judges include: Shawn Amos, entrepreneur, author, and son of the late brand founder; Steve Canal, founder of ONE Venture Group, best-selling author, and branding expert; and Brittany Rhodes – founder of Math Equals Me and previous IFS winner.

Launched in 2020, IFS has since awarded 12 business owners a total of $600,000 over four years, creating positive change and economic empowerment for early-stage Black business owners. In the spirit of the brand’s founder, IFS alumni are “famous” for turning their passions into sustainable businesses – from developing a nostalgic card game to inventing pediatric learning tools to expanding access to healthy food

BUSINESS Page 15

5 The late Wally Amos Jr. was the founder of the Famous Amos chocolate chip cookie, the Cookie Kahuna and Aunt Della’s Cookies gourmet cookie brands. (Courtesy Photo/ Wally Amos Jr. LinkedIn)

BUSINESS from Page 14

in underserved communities.

Famous Amos is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and will commemorate with programs that highlight the past, present, and future. The brand’s new campaign, “Famously You” draws inspiration from the founder, who was known for being unapologetically himself.

To add to the festivities, there will be a limited release of Collectors’ Edition packaging that pays homage to the original graphics from 1975 and features an image of Wally Amos in his signature Panama shirt. The Collectors’ Edition bag is available nationwide wherever Famous Amos Cookies are sold, while supplies last.

HOT

TOPICS from Page 4

In February, a commuter flight in Alaska went down on sea ice, killing 10 people. Other troubling events have followed. A United Airlines flight from Chicago was forced to return to O’Hare after an unexpected issue in the cockpit. A separate aircraft at O’Hare struck a ground vehicle, critically injuring the tug’s driver.

Additional incidents have been reported at airports in Seattle and Houston. A Japan Airlines plane struck a parked Delta jet while taxiing at Seattle-Tacoma International. In Houston, a United flight caught fire on the wing during takeoff following an engine malfunction.

Security lapses have also made headlines. Dead stowaways were found inside the wheel wells of two separate aircraft, and a passenger recently opened an emergency exit door on a plane that was preparing for takeoff in Boston.

A Delta Air Lines flight from Minneapolis to Toronto crashed in February. While investigators haven’t determined the cause, the crash took place during active snowfall and followed two winter storms in the region. Air traffic control recordings from Toronto Pearson International Airport confirmed the plane had been cleared to land shortly after 2 p.m. local time. Controllers warned the pilots of turbulence caused by another aircraft in the landing path.

“It’s very rare to see something like this,” said John Cox, CEO of the aviation safety firm Safety Operating Sys-

“Fifty years ago, my father put his dream into action and founded Famous Amos. Since then, it has grown to become a globally recognized brand, and I’m honored to be a part of its evolution,”said the founder’s son, who also noted he is grateful for being able to judge the competition during, what he called, “a monumental year.” “So many entrepreneurs deserve a chance to grow their business to reach its fullest potential. IFS builds upon the lessons from my father and provides resources to help others’ business dreams become a reality.”

Applications can be submitted at FamousAmosIngredientsForSuccess.com now through April 23. WI

@JamesWrightJr10

tems and a former U.S. Air pilot who has worked on NTSB investigations. “We’ve seen a couple of takeoffs where airplanes have ended up inverted, but it’s pretty rare.”

Cox added that the CRJ900 is a proven aircraft capable of handling difficult weather. “The weather conditions were windy. The wind was out of the west at 27 to 35 knots, which is about 38 miles an hour. But the airplanes are designed and certified to handle that. The pilots are trained and experienced to handle that.”

According to data from the National Transportation Safety Board, more than 140 aviation crashes are currently under investigation across the United States. Three of those are in Washington State. In January alone, the NTSB opened 53 investigations, including seven fatal crashes. There were 71 investigations in February, with six deadly crashes. In March, the board investigated 16 crashes, three of which were fatal.

In 2024, the NTSB recorded 1,417 aviation crashes. Of those, 258 involved fatalities.

The FAA continues to face a critical shortage of air traffic controllers and technicians. Many have cited uncompetitive pay, long hours, intensive training, and mandatory retirements as key reasons for the staffing crisis. The situation has grown more urgent as incidents continue to increase and the number of qualified personnel continues to shrink.

WI Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

BUSINESS

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: 40-2025

Landlord Debt Collection Services

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) Office of Financial Management (OFM) requires licensed, qualified professionals to provide Landlord Debt Collection Services.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available Tuesday, April 1, 2025, and can be found on Housing Agency Marketplace at: https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Housing Agency marketplace. See registration link below. https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

PPROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.

Email Abdul Karim Farooqi, Procurement Specialist at afarooqi@dchousing.org for additional information.

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: 34-2025

Physical Needs Assessment (PNA) Consulting Services

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) Office of Capitol Programs (OCP) qualified professionals to conduct physical needs assessment consulting/environmental assessment consulting services for DCHA.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available beginning Tuesday, April 1, 2025, nd can be found on Housing Authority Market Place at: https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com

To access files respondents are required to Register on the Housing Agency Market Place platform.

Respondents will then need to log in and locate this RFP for all related documents. It is the respondent’s responsibility to check the Housing Agency Market Place site regularly to stay current on the documents that are available as this is the primary communication sit for this RFP.

PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Wednesday, April 30, 2025 by 12:00 p.m.

Email Lolita Washington, Contract Specialist lwashing@dchousing.org with copy to business@dchousing.org for additional information.

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: 46-2025

Industrial Hygienist

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) requires licensed, qualified professional Industrial Hygienist to conduct Lead Based Paint (LBP) activities to ensure the safety and well-being of DCHA occupants.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available Wednesday, April 9, 2025, and can be found on Housing Agency Marketplace at: https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Housing Agency marketplace. See registration link below. https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.

Email LaShawn Mizzell-McLeod, Contract Specialist at LMMCLEOD@dchousing.org for additional information.

NATIONAL

Senators Demand Reinstatement of $12 Billion in Public Health Funding

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

Maryland Democratic U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks, along with Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), have taken a stand against the Trump administration’s recent decision to retract $12 billion in public health funding. The group of bipartisan senators penned a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., calling for an immediate reversal of this decision that threatens essential public health initiatives nationwide.

The administration’s move to cancel the funds, initially designated for states,

CHERRY BLOSSOM from Page 1

celebration of international exchanges and alliances, as well as the beauty and diversity of District culture.

Presented by Events DC, with support from Amazon and Japanese airline ANA, the 2025 parade echoed the foundation of togetherness and cultural excellence that precedes the history of the cherry blossoms in Washington.

The event featured live entertainment, marchers from nationwide, and performers like the Neema Dance Collective, who celebrated their parade-debut this year.

“The parade at the end of the day is one big celebration, and to me, it’s the culmination of the work that we’ve done for the previous year,” said Grace Johnson-Wright, owner and founder of Neema Dance Collective in Temple Hills, Maryland.

The dance company counted among dozens of acts that lit up Connective Avenue in Northwest, D.C., on April 12, which included a plethora of pink decor, along with gigantic floats, all in the name of “blossom magic.”

tribes, and localities to combat health crises like substance abuse and mental health disorders, has led to a lawsuit from 23 states and the District of Columbia. The states took their grievance to federal court in Rhode Island, where Judge Mary S. McElroy issued a temporary injunction against the Department of Health and Human Services.

In their letter, the senators expressed alarm over the sudden withdrawal of funds which were actively supporting critical public health endeavors.

“Last week, without any notice, the Department of Health and Human Services terminated approximately $12 billion in supplemental funding that states and communities were actively putting to use to address urgent

The two-hour celebration commenced with an electric opening performance of “Spring into the Fun,” sponsored by Events DC, which immediately set the tone for the day with boastful energy and literal flying colors.

During the event, live hosts Gio Benitez of ABC News, TV personality Carson Kressley and WJLA’s (the local ABC affiliate) Megan Clarke humorously kept up with the hype on the grounds. In addition, WJLA’s Michelle Marsh and Adam Longo facilitated the televised content that will be nationally syndicated from April 20 to June 30.

Meanwhile, guest appearances like Quad City DJ’s and CAMEO, along with renowned marching bands from the DMV, Florida, Georgia and North Carolina performing musical renditions of popular tunes, proved the parade was a momentous occasion for the nation.

The breadth of DMV culture also shone through the mix of local figures and sponsored presentations at the parade. To name a few treasures: a Metro-themed float, a performance from Miss Maryland 2024 Bridget O’Brien,

5 Maryland Democratic U.S. Sen. Angela Alsobrooks is one of the senators demanding a reinstatement of $12 billion in public health funding. (WI File Photo/Robert R. Roberts)

needs and protect Americans’ health,” the senators wrote.

They warned that eliminating these resources jeopardizes the nation’s ability to manage ongoing disease outbreaks, including bird flu and measles, and exacerbates the fentanyl crisis.

The letter also declared that the cancellation of the grants risks significant job losses in the public health sector and undermines efforts to modernize

and the joint ride along of D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and the Ambassador of Japan, His Excellency Shigeo Yamada, who each took to Connective Avenue in festive attire and all smiles.

“That’s what happens here in D.C.,” said Benitez at the top of the broadcast. “You feel that celebration, and you feel the spirit of spring right here with you.”

As a native Washingtonian, Johnson-Wright shared that she’s been attending the parade and other National Cherry Blossom Festival events since she was a child; but now, being a part of the culminating celebration, brings a much more gratuitous perspective.

“I was nerve-cited, as the kids say, but I was super excited for them to be able to experience this,” said Johnson-Wright. “It seals the deal for me, in my mind.”

HISTORY, IMPORTANCE OF THE NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL AND PARADE

Since its inception in 1927, the

health data systems, build laboratory capacity, and enhance testing capabilities for various diseases.

During Trump’s first administration, the senators said the COVID-19 pandemic killed over 500,000 Americans in 2020 alone. They said the pandemic exposed significant weaknesses in the country’s public health infrastructure and preparedness capabilities while also exacerbating mental health

National Cherry Blossom Festival has served as a spring staple in the nation’s capital. The parade, which started in 1935, has been a means of highlighting the cross-cultural connection with the U.S. and Japan, the beauty of D.C., and the strength of artists, organizations and community leaders in the District, nation and world.

“It’s always an honor to represent our great city,” said John Gibson, chief of operations for the Eastern High School Blue and White Marching Machine, who celebrated its sixth year in the parade with participants holding a Washington Informer banner as the band marched. “There are emissaries from Japan, Japanese visitors come here, and [it’s] not just seeing students from across the U.S., but I think it’s always special when they see Washington, D.C. marching bands and students.”

WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

and substance use crises.

“Over the course of several bills, Congress appropriated supplemental funding to respond to the pandemic, support behavioral health and recovery efforts, and better prepare for future threats,” they wrote. “States and local jurisdictions across the country have been dutifully spending down funds that were obligated to them, consistent with purposes of the appropriations, the length of time they were made available in law, and the conditions of their grants.”

The senators noted that the department’s stated rationale for terminating the grants is that the pandemic is over.

“However, these funds were not appropriated to only be available or used during the pandemic or the COVID-19 public health emergency,” they argued. “Understanding various needs would go well beyond the specific period of the pandemic, Congress appropriated many of these funds without fiscal year limitation to be available until expended. Congress chose not to condition the availability of the funding on whether there was an active public health emergency or limit the period of availability of funding accordingly.”

Further, the senators argued that the reasoning provided by HHS for terminating funds contradicted the original congressional intent for these appropriations.

“The cause given by the department for terminating these funds,” they wrote, “is completely inconsistent with the purposes for which Congress appropriated these funds.” WI

House Passes Anti-Voter Bill Backed by Trump Allies

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

Since the landmark Voting Rights Act of 1965, Republicans have worked relentlessly to chip away at protections for voters — particularly Black Americans, other people of color, and women. Those efforts reached a fever pitch after former President Barack Obama’s historic victories in 2008 and 2012, which sparked what many observers say was the modern white supremacist movement and reignited GOP efforts to suppress the vote.

Now, with Donald Trump’s return to the White House and Republicans emboldened by a far-right agenda, the House has passed one of the most aggressive voter suppression bills in decades — the so-called SAVE Act, or “Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act.” The legislation, passed by a 220–208 vote on Thursday, April 10, would require in-person documentary proof of citizenship to register to vote — a move voting rights experts warn will disenfranchise millions of eligible voters, especially women and people of color.

What’s more, four Democrats — Jared Golden of Maine, Marie Gluesenkamp Perez of Washington, Henry Cuellar of Texas, and Ed Case of Hawaii— broke ranks and supported the bill.

Trump, who once promised on the campaign trail that his supporters would never have to vote again, now appears to be halfway to delivering on that threat.

The SAVE Act, introduced by Republican Rep. Chip Roy of Texas, would amend the National Voter Registration Act to require in-person citizenship verification using documents such as a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate. It would effectively end online and mail voter registration, severely restrict voter registration drives, and allow lawsuits against election officials who do not enforce the new rules.

Voting rights advocates say this would create enormous hurdles for poor people, rural residents, Black Americans, naturalized citizens, and the nearly 70 million women whose current legal names differ from those on their birth certificates due to marriage.

“This is a dangerous and unnecessary attack on voting rights that could block millions of eligible citizens from voting,” said Molly McGrath, director of the ACLU’s national democracy campaigns. “This isn’t about protecting voters or our elections. It’s about politicians who want to protect themselves and pick and choose their voters. But that’s not how democracy works.”

Critics also point out that it is already illegal for noncitizens to vote in federal elections — a crime punishable under law. Federal law mandates that registrants swear under penalty of perjury that they are citizens. Noncitizen voting is exceedingly rare, and courts have repeatedly blocked states from adding proof-of-citizenship requirements in federal races.

The ACLU condemned the bill, citing its resemblance to a now-defunct Kansas law that purged more than 30,000 voters before it was struck down in federal court. The group urged the Senate to reject the measure, which they say would destabilize election administration and disproportionately impact naturalized citizens, Native American voters, first-time voters, and those with limited access to personal documentation.

The NAACP Legal Defense Fund (LDF) also slammed the legislation.

“The SAVE Act erects a discriminatory barrier to the ballot while pretending to ‘solve’ a problem that does not exist,” said Janai S. Nelson, LDF president and director-counsel. “Its true purpose, rooted in fear of the multiracial democracy the United States can and must become, is to limit access to the ballot and stifle the political power of our increasingly diverse electorate.”

Under the bill’s provisions, rural residents without access to government offices, married women whose identification does not match their birth certificates, and young voters without driver’s licenses would face some of the steepest barriers to registration. Studies show that only half of all Americans — and just one-third of Black Americans — hold valid U.S. passports. Nearly half of all Black Americans under 30 do not have a driver’s license with their current name and address.

“The SAVE Act would cause nothing but harm to Black communities, rural communities, and so many oth-

5 An election staff member assists a voter at a polling booth. Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act requires in-person documentary proof of citizenship to register to vote — a move voting rights experts warn will disenfranchise millions of eligible voters, especially women and people of color. (WI File Photo/Anthony Tilghman)

ers who would be stripped of their right to vote if it becomes law,” Nelson said.

The law’s potential effects extend beyond individuals. Voter registration drives, which have long played a crucial role in expanding access to the ballot in marginalized communities, would be all but destroyed. And with racial turnout disparities widening over the last decade, advocates say the stakes couldn’t be higher.

Democratic U.S. Rep. Joe Morelle of New York, the ranking member of the House Administration Committee, denounced the bill.

“My Republican colleagues crafted and passed one of the most damag-

ing voter suppression bills in modern history. There’s no doubt that women, military members, and people of color will be disproportionately impacted,” he said. “The fight to stop this bill — to protect Americans’ sacred right to vote — is not over. I will do everything in my power to ensure every eligible American has access to the ballot box.”

The Senate’s path forward on the SAVE Act remains uncertain.

Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah) has introduced a companion bill with 20 Republican co-sponsors. However, Senate Republicans would still need at least 60 votes to overcome a Democratic filibuster and send the bill to Trump’s desk.

“Republicans want to take us backward by passing their anti-voter SAVE Act,” U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, before the legislation passed in the House.

Despite it moving forward in Congress, Padilla said “this is voter suppression and it’s unnecessary,” in a video clip he posted to X after Congress voted in favor of the SAVE Act.

“Newsflash –– it’s already a crime for noncitizens to vote,” Padilla continued. “The SAVE Act is just an attempt from Republicans to disenfranchise millions of eligible voters under the guise of election security.” WI

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: 58-2025 Accessibility Inspection Consultant

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) Office of General Counsel (OGC) requires licensed, qualified professionals to provide UFAS and ADA Inspection of DCHA Accessible Units SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available Tuesday, April 7, 2025, and can be found on Housing Agency Marketplace at: https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Housing Agency marketplace. See registration link below. https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.

Email LaShawn Mizzell-McLeod, Contract Specialist at LMMCLEOD@dchousing.org for additional information.

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Dollars and Deals: The Lucrative Appeal of Investing in African Real Estate

By Teniola Ayoola WI Contributing Writer

In the tranquil suburbs of Odenton, Maryland, Lanre Famodu, a 45-yearold civil engineer, is living what he calls the “Nigerian Dream.”

Born in the U.S. but raised in Nigeria until his teenage years, Famodu has spent decades building a thriving real estate portfolio in his ancestral homeland. Today, he owns four properties in Nigeria—a hostel, an Airbnb, a private home, and a rental property—all while maintaining a life in America.

“I’ve always felt like a second-class citizen here, despite being born in the U.S.,” he told The Informer. “But I had a vision early in life to invest in Africa, and that vision has become my reality.”

Famodu is not alone.

Across the African Diaspora, a powerful movement is gaining momentum: individuals who have spent decades in Western nations are increasingly turning their gaze back to the continent, not merely as a nostalgic homeland but as a dynamic investment frontier. Real estate has emerged as the vehicle of choice for this growing wave of investors.

Famodu’s story is emblematic of this movement. His first foray into Nigerian real estate came at just 18 years old, when he purchased land to build a hostel for university students. That decision proved prescient: in 2023, he sold the land for 10 times its original value.

“I don’t think I spend much of my earnings on real estate in Nigeria,” Famodu said. “Less than one-third of my American earnings goes into my investment. If I make $100,000 I put in $10,000.”

According to the UN Trade and Development Report and the Review of Black Political Economy, in 2021 alone, remittances to Nigeria totaled $23.8 billion—nearly 10 times the country’s foreign direct investment— and a significant portion of this capital is flowing into property.

“We [Africans in the diaspora] are working twice as hard—paying remittances, building property in the USA, and investing back home in Nigeria/ Africa,” Famodu continued. “It’s a lot to balance. Be informed and avoid

cutting corners. Don’t invest in something that you don’t know.”

BLAXIT, INVESTING IN AFRICA

The trend of owning land and doing business in Africa extends beyond those with direct family ties to the continent.

The “Blaxit” movement—popularized by African Americans seeking to reconnect with their ancestral roots— has sparked a surge of interest in real estate markets across Ghana, Senegal, and Tanzania. Ghana’s “Year of Return” in 2019, which commemorated 400 years since the first enslaved Africans arrived in Jamestown, Virginia, drew over 1.5 million visitors and generated nearly $1.9 billion in revenue, Minister of Tourism Barbara Oteng Gyasi told BBC in January 2020.

Since then, a growing number of African Americans have sought to establish roots in the region, purchasing homes, businesses, and land.

“People are buying short-term rental properties and seeing returns of 15% to 20%,” said Daniel Bloch, founder of Seso Global, a company facilitating real estate investments in Africa. “Rental investments in America simply don’t offer those kinds of

returns. Imagine using dollars to buy an apartment priced in naira and then renting it out in dollars. The potential is enormous.”

Bloch, who is of non-African descent, moved to Ghana in 2016 after identifying a critical gap in the African real estate market: land ownership verification.

What began as a blockchain research project funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has since evolved into a private company that verifies property titles, offers financing, and connects buyers with trusted developers across Ghana, Nigeria, and South Africa.

“The real estate sector has the most potential to drive economic growth, but it’s held back by issues like fraud and unclear land titles,” Bloch explained.

Seso, which he calls the ‘Zillow of Africa,’ uses blockchain technology to create secure, verifiable land registries. The company also offers a unique mortgage solution, allowing diaspora investors to leverage their U.S. or U.K. credit scores to finance property purchases in Africa.

“A lot of Americans and Europeans want to invest, but they fear being scammed. Our goal is to provide transparency and build trust,” he said.

FACING AND AVOIDING INVESTMENT CHALLENGES

Despite the opportunities, the path to successful investment is not without its pitfalls.

Dare Jaiyesimi, a finance professional based in Maryland, learned this the hard way.

In his late 20s, he made his first property purchase in Lagos, hoping to capitalize on the city’s booming population and a housing deficit that grows by an estimated two million units each year. However, Jaiyesimi fell victim to a fraudulent deal, purchasing land that, unbeknownst to him, belonged to the Nigerian military.

“The developer sold me government-owned land,” he recalled. “Three years later, the military put up signs warning people off. It was a hard lesson.” WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

5 Lanre Famodu, a civil engineer residing in Odenton, Maryland, says he is living what he calls the “Nigerian Dream.” (Courtesy Photo)

DMV Agencies, Organizations Commit to Educate Residents About Estate Planning

Estate Planning Guarantees Realization of Generational Wealth, Experts Say

By Zerline Hughes Spruill WI Staff

For many, estate planning sounds like an activity only for the rich and famous. The first definition in many dictionaries, in fact, allude to an estate being a large piece of land in the country owned by a family.

However, the reality is that estate planning is simply the process of communicating one’s end-of-life medical treatment, in addition to figuring out what to do with a life’s worth of accumulations and registering that plan into a legal document.

“It’s not just for really wealthy people,” said Murray Scheel, managing attorney for the D.C. Bar’s Future Planning & Probate Program, during an estate planning workshop at Lamond-Riggs Library.

The event was hosted by the D.C. Department of Insurance Securities and Banking.

“These are not,” Scheel continued, “cookie cutter issues.”

Whether someone is as young as 18, living their golden years, has no property to their name, or has several properties, businesses, children and even pets, planning an estate is the only way to protect personal desires around treatment in case of emergency. Not to mention, it ensures that others, including the government, are not left in charge of making such decisions in one’s absence.

According to Planned Giving, 68% of Americans do not have a valid will. This includes people who have never created a will or trust and those who have not updated their will, which can make them invalid.

Furthermore, 29% of the Black population have a will or estate planning document, according to Caring.com.

With this in mind, several organizations and agencies throughout the DMV are committed to educating residents about the benefits of estate planning, hosting events, free law clinics and discussions.

Estate planning is the ironclad way to ensure generational wealth, which is a dire need for the District’s Black community, according to Brenda Harrison of D.C. Prosperity Wellness Circles, who coordinated last month’s Heir Property Protection Forum and Community Event at the R.I.S.E. Demonstration Center in Southeast, D.C.

During the two-day estate planning workshop, several legal and banking experts–six with doctorates–drilled down the need to protect wellbeing, investments and family by creating wills, trusts and having clear communication with families and friends.

“This is a pathway to revitalize financial living and intentional acquisition of homes, sustainability of home, wealth creation and most importantly, preserving the investments that we have made in our communities,” said Harrison.

According to the Urban Institute, the Blackwhite homeown-

ership gap is wider than it was when segregation was legal. The disparity may be related to the fact that many Black residents are not addressing end-of-life planning at the rate of white residents, which means Black families are unable to inherit property of family members which negatively impacts generational wealth.

Deborah Johnson, corporate responsibility and community engagement marketing manager for JP Morgan & Chase, said when residents prepare to purchase a home, housing counselors talk about the need to reevaluate one’s budget, keep a good credit score and save for unexpected repairs. However, the key to keeping homes in the Black family is left undiscussed.

“One of the recurring things is that culturally, we don’t talk about death,” said Johnson, who led a discussion during the Heir Property Protection Forum and Community Event. “We don’t talk about insurance, we don’t talk about all the tools because we’re operating from a space of lack, not understanding that we have assets. Nothing is said about having a will, having a trust.”

Maryland estate planning lawyer Leah Boston agrees that the Black community suffers greater when it comes to inheriting family property and continuing legacies. Last month, she addressed attendees of Trinidad Baptist Church’s Homeowners Resource Fair in Capitol Heights, Maryland, and spoke on issues including how not having an estate plan negatively impacts Black families.

“All of these government programs that other communities take advantage of because there’s clear title of ownership, we can’t necessary take advantage of because [with heirs’ property] … we all own this one piece of land because there’s not a clear probate that tells the government who owns the land,” said Boston.

Furthermore, being strategic and asking questions is important. Someone writing their will may want to leave a family member in a good place with property, money or both, but this can actually be harmful to some Boston explained.

“A lump sum distribution may cause a beneficiary to lose governmental benefits. If you have a disabled child or you have an elderly parent that’s on Medicaid, Medicare, or getting some sort of disability…and those lump sum distributions from your estate now go to this person, they may get kicked off [from receiving] benefits,” Boston explained. “It’s really sad that these are possible issues that can happen when the simplest thing that we can do is either put together a will or put together a trust or talk with an estate plan attorney.” WI

5 Kim Hooks, student attorney at Howard University School of Law; estate planning attorney Aimee Griffin; and Brenda Harrison of D.C. Prosperity Wellness Circle, organizers of the Heir Property Protection Forum and Community Event at the R.I.S.E. Demonstration Center last month. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

5 Brenda Harrison, D.C. Prosperity Wellness Circle (left), organizer of the Heir Property Protection Forum and Community Event, with event speakers and experts Deborah Johnson (center), corporate responsibility and community engagement marketing manager for JP Morgan & Chase, and Aimee Griffin (right), estate planning attorney. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

HEALTH

slowly die from undiagnosed liver cancer at Greater Southeast Community Hospital; and a godmother whose godson died on the way to Washington Hospital Center near North Capitol Street.

Even so, McFarland told The Informer that the degree to which staff members at the new hospital— Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center GW Health— understand and respect the surrounding community will make all the difference.

“I want for them to listen to the people, for it to be open, and for [the hospital] to be productive, and state of the art, because that’s what we deserve and that’s what we need,” said McFarland, a former advisory neighborhood commissioner and lifelong Ward 8 resident. “I just wanted to be effective,

and have great response times, and I want it to do what it said it was going to do, as far as not only just the trauma center and the maternity ward, but also with the specialty.”

On April 10, McFarland counted among the several dozen who converged on the grounds of Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center GW Health— located at St. Elizabeths East Campus— in celebration of the full-service hospital’s opening.

Days later, the hospital officially opened with 136 beds that can expand to 184, trauma care, and a 54bay emergency department.

As it relates to maternal health and delivery health services, Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center GW Health, has a six-bed well-baby nursery and Level II NICU. Other features include five operating rooms that can expand to seven, an ambulatory pavil-

ion located near a main thoroughfare, 500-car parking garage; and helipad for emergency transport.

Much to McFarland’s relief, Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center GW Health also provides outpatient and specialty services, including: dialysis, infusion, cardiac rehab, physical therapy.

“My daughter suffers from migraines, and her neurologist is [at Children’s National Medical Center] in Lanham, Maryland, and the only other office he has is in Rockville,” she told The Informer. “So either way, I have to travel. Hopefully my daughter will be able to see her neurologist here, and I don’t have to drive 45 minutes.

THE JOURNEY TO A NEW EAST-OF-THERIVER HOSPITAL

Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center—D.C.’s first new hospital in 25 years —officially opened on April 15, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a block party taking place before the big day.

The April 10 ribbon-cutting ceremony at Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center GW Health proved to be a reunion of sorts, as community members, D.C. government officials, and past and current council members converged under a white umbrella, just feet away from the hospital entrance.

As colleagues pointed out, some of the former D.C. Council members in the space—like Vincent C. Gray and Sandy Allen—spent their tenure re-

sponding to healthcare gaps east of the Anacostia River and laying the foundation for Ward 8’s new hospital.

“It starts back to 2000,” D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson said at the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

“When Sandy Allen was in the thick of trying to keep that hospital [D.C. General] from closing and trying to ensure that [residents] had a public hospital and a hospital that was available for all citizens regardless of their ability to pay.”

As Mendelson recounted, the D.C. Council, following the closure of D.C. General, adopted a proposal to establish Greater Southeast Community Hospital, which would become the District’s only publicly funded hospital.

More than a decade later, after at least two bankruptcies, an unsuccessful private-sector acquisition, and a renaming to United Medical Center (UMC), the council pivoted toward the construction of a new hospital east of the Anacostia River. In 2018, the District’s deal with GW Health nearly came to a halt when the council, for a moment, struggled to determine what would become of UMC employees once Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center GW Health opened.

In the years before the 2019 vote to close UMC and launch Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center GW Health, the council, under the direction of Gray, then health committee chair, secured and preserved capital funds for the new hospital.

Community members living near UMC, meanwhile, continued to suf-

fer as regulators forced the closure of the hospital’s obstetrics ward, the only of its kind in that part of the District.

Though Mendelson would go on to acknowledge Gray’s work and former D.C. City Administrator Rashad Young’s role as a negotiator with GW Health, he pointed out that Allen, then chair of the council’s Committee on Health, compelled her fellow council members to think about healthcare more communally.

“Thank you Sandy, for your work on that,” Mendelson said. “It was because of that commitment from council members that we wanted to continue to see…universal access to hospital care.”

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) said just as much about Gray, her mayoral predecessor.

“You know Vince was mayor, chairman of the council, council member, director of human services and tireless advocate for health care in the District of Columbia,” Bowser said. “He also, and I’ll say this because we’re in budget season, protected $300 million in the budget for this hospital. His leadership and passion for this project never wavered. I told people that they’re going to thank the old mayor and the current mayor for getting us here.”

Patrons visiting Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center GW Health also have, within walking distance of the new hospital, the Whitman-Walker Max Robinson Center and CareFirst Arena, along with residences and townhomes that the Bowser admin-

CEDAR HILL Page 21

5D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and local city and health care leaders cut the ribbon for Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center GW Health on April 10. (Sam P.K. Collins/The Washington Informer)

CEDAR HILL from Page 1

HEALTH

HILL from Page 20

istration heralds as part of a commitment to equitable development across the District.

The new full-service hospital’s launch follows that of Cedar Hill Urgent Care GW Health on Martin Luther King, Jr Avenue in Anacostia. It will be integrated with George Washington University Hospital and Universal Health Services (UHS)-supported health centers in Wards 7 and 8.

It also precedes what will be the 2027 launch of a 14-bed emergency department on the Fletcher Johnson Campus in Ward 7.

In her remarks, Bowser spoke about how she made a new hospital east of the Anacostia River as one of her first goals as D.C. mayor.

As she took guests down memory lane, Bowser acknowledged Human Services Director Wayne Turnage as one of her partners in delivering high-quality healthcare access to a community that had been without it for decades.

She also touted the public-private partnership with GW Health and UHS as the ideal arrangement that ensures the D.C. government supports a credible healthcare provider in their work.

“Sometimes when we cut ribbons and we’re open buildings and we deliver on the things that we promise, people think it just kind of happened,” Bowser said. “But I have to tell you, there is a complicated group of work and partnership that got us here today. And so this is a similar one. A fantastic public-private partnership.”

REFLECTIONS ABOUND AS

HISTORY UNFOLDS

While the launch of a full-service hospital east of the Anacostia River, for many, counts as an incredible feat, advocates say the District has a long way to go in bridging healthcare gaps that have plagued Ward 7 and 8 residents for decades.

Residents east of the Anacostia River experience considerably higher rates of cancer, maternal mortality and morbidity cases, opioid overdose fatalities, and gun violence deaths, compared to their counterparts in other wards.

In years past, residents east of the Anacostia River only had George Washington University Hospital,

Howard University Hospital, MedStar Washington Washington Hospital Center, and Children’s National Medical Center—all of which are located west of North Capitol Street— as the only facilities in the District that could treat gunshots.

With the exception of a stabilization center on 35 K Street NE, options are far and few in between for those experiencing substance use crises.

Demetrius Jones, a certified peer recovery specialist, said he’s anticipating what he called a boost to health outcomes and socioeconomic positioning once Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center GW Health opens to the community.

“It’s a great investment into Ward 8 and people east of the [Anacostia] river,” said Jones, who works at Nehemiah Project Respite Center in in Ward 7. “But, the most important part is to have access to health care. They also have access to violence interrupters, they have peer specialists on staff that are welcoming more people to come and sign up.”

Jones went on to say that GW’s reputation provides some relief for those skeptical about the new facility.

“They’re offering jobs in the community, [and] it is run by GW, which is a branded hospital in our community,” Jones told The Informer. “So overall, it’s about us being able to make people aware that they have a hospital in their community for them to be able to get checkups, and also for emergency care.”

Others who spoke at the April 10 hospital ribbon cutting included: Turnage; D.C. Councilmember Christina Henderson (I-At-Large); St. Elizabeths East Redevelopment executive director Latrena Owens; Ward 8 mother Marissa Rayford; and Dr. Anthony Coleman, CEO of Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center.

Henderson, the council’s health committee chair and maternal health advocate, expressed her excitement about the historic moment.

“This is going to be the first time since 2019 that a person will be able to give birth in an actual labor and delivery unit in a hospital east of Ward 7,” Henderson said. “Having these specialties closer to home where folks don’t have to take a train or a bus or a rideshare service to get there is going to be so, so important.” WI

CEDAR

EARTH OUR ACCLIMATE Study Links Rising Temperatures to Mental Health Decline

New Data Reveals Extreme Heat Disrupts Emotions, Sleep Quality and Job Productivity in Bangladesh

By Mya Trujillo WI Contributing Writer

As global warming continues to take the planet by storm, causing some of the highest temperatures recorded since 1850, experts have been exploring the linkages between climate change and mental health, especially in underprivileged and vulnerable communities.

Since 2018, World Bank senior health specialist Dr. Wameq Raza,

Ph.D., and Georgetown University (GU) assistant professor Dr. Shabab Wahid, Ph.D., have been collaborating through the Assessing the Risk of Climate Change on Population Mental and Physical Health Outcomes (ACCLIMATE) study. The two have been examining the intersections between increased temperatures and anxiety and depression, productivity and potentially an increased suicide risk.

“If you look at the entire global pat-

tern of what people have been finding… [in] high-income and low-income settings, when there is heat, people’s mental health seems to deteriorate,” Wahid told The Informer.

Raza and Wahid based their research in their home country Bangladesh, which was ranked as the seventh extreme disaster risk-prone country in the world by the 2021 Global Climate Risk Index. They presented their most recent findings, which inspected how hotter days affect mental and physical health and productivity loss, at Georgetown’s Riggs Library on April 14.

“Clearly, our global climate is changing, and sadly, vulnerable communities are disproportionately impacted,” Christopher King, dean of the GU School of Health, said to attendees. “Longitudinal studies are needed to explore how these changes impact health and well-being. That is why this work is so important.”

EXTREME HEAT, EXTREME CONSEQUENCES

Prone to experiencing heat waves, floods, droughts and cyclones, Bangladesh’s vulnerability to climate change is attributed to its low elevation landscape and the presence of 700 rivers in the country.

According to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department, winds from the Bay of Bengal transport moisture over the South Asian country, resulting in the probability of higher temperatures, as a region’s thermal capacity rises with increased air moisture.

With data collected in 2019 and 2020, Wahid and Raza found that every increase by one degree Celsius in temperature is statistically and significantly associated with 30.5% higher odds of depression and 20% higher odds of anxiety.

“We now know that when temperature goes up, there is a significant correlation with adverse mental health outcomes,” Wahid said to the audience. “What happens to the human being when exposed to high heat that could be leading to [these] declines in mental health?”

ACCLIMATE found that when a person experiences extreme heat– determined by days reaching 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) and above– they are 30% more likely to experience heat exhaustion, 56% more likely to have diarrhea and 14% more likely to have a persistent cough.

In surveys garnering responses from 16,054 individuals from 3,746

households, the duo’s latest research explored how extreme heat may affect a person’s ability to regulate emotions, considering impacts on sleep quality and job productivity, which could possibly contribute to a higher risk of suicide in warmer months.

“The link between extreme heat exposure and suicide is still theoretical to a large extent, and theory suggests that potentially, emotional disregulation and poor sleep quality may be channels through which this risk is driven,” Raza said when presenting to the audience.

By running statistical models, ACCLIMATE found that heat exposure potentially has a 68% direct effect on the risk of suicide, with emotional disregulation contributing to 2.5% of the total effects. Raza and Wahid also assessed that poor sleep quality, indirectly affected by higher temperatures, makes up approximately 29% of the link between higher temperatures and suicide risks.

As heat contributes to such a deterioration in mental and physical health, concerns regarding job productivity are raised, which led the two health professionals to explore the economic impact of extreme heat in Bangladesh. They established that in one month, increased temperatures cause a loss of about 0.3 productivity days, physical illness leads to a loss of 2.73 productivity days and that 1.74 productivity days are more likely to be lost due to mental illness.

The study then explored how this decrease in efficiency could negatively affect the economy. It found that presenteeism and absenteeism in the workplace lead to an economic bur-

den that can cause an annual loss of 0.29% to 0.39% of the country’s total gross domestic product.

“In low or middle-income countries, mental health is a secondary issue,” Raza told The Informer. “So for policymakers, if we can show that they’re actually losing money because of this, [it] starts to turn heads– especially now, given the global financial crunch.”

A GLOBAL CRISIS WITH LOCAL CONSEQUENCES

Nia Jones, a climate-concerned native Washingtonian, attended the health professionals’ presentation. She believes their research methods and discoveries can be applied to other regions, continuing to explore how minority communities are disproportionately affected.

“The thing that kept coming up for me is implications that this would have in the U.S. South, where there is an overwhelming population of Black and brown folks that are also experiencing similar stressors,” Jones told The Informer. “I think we can really… copy and paste their research as a reference point and replicate those studies using similar [methods].”

According to the Environmental Defense Fund, more than half of the Black population in the U.S. lives in southern states, where communities are more at risk of hurricane-related damage and extreme heat exposure.

WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

5 Dr. Shabab Wahid addresses a crowd at Georgetown University’s Riggs Library on April 14, presenting new data from his ongoing study exploring the correlation between extreme heat exposure in Bangladesh and decreased mental health amid a worsening environment. (Mya Trujillo/The Washington Informer)

Chillum Park Reopens with Spring in Full Swing

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Writer

Prince George’s County Councilmember Wanika Fisher (D- District 2) hosted the grand reopening of Chillum Park, which had been closed for years, on April 5, citing the move as crucial for revitalizing community engagement in District 2.

“My top priority was to make safety the central focus of the park redesign. The community was missing a vital space for families to enjoy, and this park is exactly what was needed, as our children deserve a safe place to connect with one another,” said Fisher. “These interpersonal connections foster trust and a sense of safety among residents.”

The council member was active in the process to reopen the park alongside the Maryland-National Parks and Recreation Commission.

Prince George’s Parks and Recreation Director Bill Tyler also noted that this park reopening

would serve both health and recreation purposes for local youth.

“We’re excited to unveil this new playground designed to encourage our youth in Chillum to get outside and live more, play more,” Tyler told The Informer. “Outdoor recreation plays a vital role in physical, mental, and social development of children, and M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County is proud to provide a space where young people can grow, learn, and build lifelong healthy habits.”

With spring having sprung, temperatures rising and children seeking more places for safe recreation, Fisher noted the reopening of Chillum Park comes at a perfect time.

“I am grateful to the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission for bringing this vision to life for all residents of District 2 and every Prince Georgian to enjoy as summer begins.” WI

5 Prince George’s County Councilmember Wanika Fisher (D-District 2) hosts a grand reopening of Chillum Park on April 5, after years of being closed. (Courtesy Photo)

EDUCATION

High Schoolers Learn About Finance at Ward 8’s Bald Eagle Recreation Center

By James Wright WI Staff Writer

High school students aged 1318 from across the District gathered at the Bald Eagle Recreation Center in Southwest to participate in the Fourth Annual Youth Financial Literacy Seminar co-sponsored by D.C. Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking, the D.C. Department of Parks and Recre-

ation and PNC Bank on April 5.

“We know it is gloomy outside, but we are happy that you are here with us today,” said Karima Woods, the commissioner for the Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking, to the gathering of 91 students in Bald Eagle’s gymnasium. “We have so much information that we want to share with you. You are never too young, and you are never too old to focus on

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Woods spoke to the students’ days after Intuit Financial released a survey stating that 85% of high school students say they are inter-

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ested in learning about fiscal topics and 95% responded that those who are participants in such a curriculum find it helpful.

The three-hour program consisted of two classroom workshops on starting a business and creatively making money; three rooms where volunteers supervise games designed to stimulate thoughts and actions on how to make and manage finances; and a Game of Life. A live simulation, the Game of Life allowed students to make decisions based on the type of education, career and lifestyle they want to live.

Emmyrich Vicente, a PNC Bank executive, served as an instructor for the workshop on starting a business.

Using a projected presentation for students to follow along, Vicente emphasized entrepreneurship as a way of living one can

undertake to help the community and also make money.

“Entrepreneurs solve problems and create solutions,” he said. “You can turn your solution to a problem into a business.”

Vicente, 46, explained the various types of business structures such as sole proprietorships and corporations and encouraged his audience to educate themselves about the services of attorneys and CPAs.

He went through the basics of building a business plan and stressing the importance of branding a product or service.

Nicolette Harris, Vicente’s colleague at PNC, taught the workshop on creatively making money. Harris gave her workshop participants four pieces of advice to consider when thinking about their financial future.

“Learn how to budget,” she said. “Understand what it means to pay yourself first. Decide whether you want to go to college or trade school. College is not for everybody. And create a pitch on what you want to do.”

Rounding out the event was a youth entrepreneurial panel made up of Suitland High School entrepreneur Patrick Kamdem and Howard University graduate Patrice Spriggs, with Deanwood Radio Program participants Jordan Williams and Skylar Woods as moderators.

Spriggs, owner of SKINISIN, urged students to pursue their passion in concert with their financial goals.

“If you are passionate about what you are doing, don’t worry about the money,” Spriggs said, “because the money will come.”

WI

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5 Co-moderator Jordan Williams, entrepreneurs Patrick Kamden and Patrice Spriggs, and co-moderator Skylar Woods during a panel at the Fourth Annual Youth Financial Literacy Seminar on April 5 at Bald Eagle Recreation Center in Southwest, D.C.

(Courtesy Photo/Threads)

EDUCATION

Prince George’s County Education Updates

Maryland Educators Make Compromise, Maintain Most of State Education Funding Plan

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

In a move that has been applauded by advocates and educators alike, state legislators voted to trim some parts of the Maryland Department of Education’s signature Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, during the recently concluded legislative session.

“These are the students who really need help with the Blueprint. There is no pause, cut in funding whatsoever,” said Maryland General Assembly Appropriations Committee Chair Del. Ben Barnes (D- District 21).

The decision to trim, while maintaining the basic foundations of the Blueprint, differed from a proposal from Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) that would have implemented a four-year delay in collaborative time and cut roughly $1.5 billion from state schools in coming years. Moore’s proposal largely cited financial difficulties amid a $3 billion budget deficit and efforts from congressional Republicans and the Trump administration to significantly cut federal spending.

The state also lost an additional $458 million in federal funding that

was earmarked for education due to a recent decision by the Department of Education.

Despite financial concerns, the House of Delegates voted 101-38 for House Bill 504 in support of key aspects of implementing the Blueprint plan, and the state Senate gave the bill final approval on a 3413 vote.

Maryland State Education Association (MSEA) President Paul Lemle and several other education advocates have come out to praise the passage of the bill.

“While there is a delay to increased funding dedicated for collaborative time implementation, the final bill is a significant improvement over where this conversation began in January,” Lemle said.

The MSEA president was relieved to maintain this much of the Blueprint, considering the huge cuts that were originally proposed.

“We were able to avoid the near-immediate, outsized cuts to expected funding for students in poverty and multilingual learners, in particular,” Lemle continued, “and we protected the critical expansion of community schools and supports for students in concentrated poverty.” WI

Building Black Wealth: The Power of Saving and Investing with Intention

By DC Black MBA

Financial planning for Black individuals and entrepreneurs requires more than just chasing income goals — it calls for steady, intentional habits that foster long-term growth and resilience. Casey Ariel Thobias, founder and CEO of Blaze Group, emphasizes that financial stability is built through consistency, versus adrenaline-fueled sprints. She suggests simple practices like automatically sweeping 5% of every sale, bonus, or “extra money” into a business savings account, explaining that it’s these small, steady habits that build financial discipline and create lasting momentum.

For those unsure about investing — especially when income is limited or risk feels overwhelming — Thobias encourages a broader perspective. She believes investing that returns more value than was initially put to start. While real estate and the stock market carry a lot of capital return, there are several other profitable alternatives. That could be a savings account with a modest 1% return, a share of stock offering an 8% annual gain, or even a $5,000 investment into a business that eventually generates five times the return in cash flow. There are also certifications or training, such as those in cybersecurity, that count as investments when they increase your earning potential. What matters most, Thobias explains, is alignment: “When you’re deeply connected to the why behind your investment, you’re more likely to stay the course and calculate risk with clarity, not fear.”

Access to trusted financial education remains a significant barrier, but Thobias is helping bridge that gap with tools designed specifically for underserved communities. Through The Blaze Group app, available globally on both iOS and Android, users can access self-paced courses, financial planning resources, and mentorship tailored to entrepreneurs. She shares that the company also licenses its curriculum to chambers, HBCUs, and entrepreneur support organizations, creating broader access to education in entrepreneurial finance and fintech equity.

Ultimately, wealth-building is less about quick wins and more about building purposefully and consistently. Whether setting aside small savings, pursuing aligned investments, or engaging in ongoing financial education, the path forward is rooted in discipline and vision. As Thobias emphasizes, the key to financial empowerment lies in starting small, staying committed, and always understanding your “why.”

5 Several members of the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland alongside students and educators advocating for the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future at the State House in Annapolis during the 2025 legislative session. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

BetMGM

Design Cuisine

Dulles International

Dunkin’

Reagan National

Park West Gallery

The Boeing Company

Capitol Riverfront BID

Chevron

City Cruises

CSI Printing & Graphics

DC Paid Family Leave

The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation

Japan National Tourism Organization

JCAW

JTI

Lexus

LINK Strategic Partners

Ryuji Ueno Foundation

Toyota Motor North America, Inc.

Aflac

Asahi Super Dry

Bridge District

Brookfield Properties

CareFirst BlueCross

BlueShield

Clyde's Restaurant Group

Daikin U.S. Corporation

DC Lottery

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EventEQ

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IKEA

LaCroix Sparkling Water

Lime

Malloy Law Offices, LLC

Marubeni America

Corporation

Microsoft

Mitsubishi Corporation (Americas)

Mitsubishi Electric US, Inc.

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Inc.

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HBCUs are Needed Now More Than Ever

The 107 HBCUs Have Changed America

As President Donald J. Trump reduces the staff and budget of the U.S. Department of Education, eliminates diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, and erase parts of history, leaders and students at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) are considering their futures.

Last month, Trump signed an executive order directing Education Secretary Linda McMahon to initiate the department’s closure. Cuts exceeding 50% were mandated, showcasing a commitment to “efficiency, accountability, and ensuring that resources are directed where they matter most: to students, parents, and teachers.”

The president stated that federal funding for essential programs, including Pell Grants and student financial aid, will remain unaffected; however, this is still to be determined.

“States may be unlikely to compensate for any potential federal funding cuts to their public HBCUs,” Denise Smith, deputy director of higher education policy and a senior fellow at The Century Foundation said in an interview with Stateline. “There’s a genuine concern that resources could be lost at any moment – even those schools already recognize they need to survive.”

Most students at historically Black institutions depend on Pell Grants or other federal aid and one in five Black college graduates comes from HBCUs, making Department of Education funding critical. However, with the elimination of diversity, equity and inclusion programming and the threat to cut funding for teaching parts of history—often called critical race theory— the Department of Education is not the only concern.

Historically Black colleges and universities play a crucial role in American higher education by providing access, support, and opportunities for generations of Black students and other underrepresented communities. These institutions have consistently produced a significant portion of the nation’s Black professionals, including doctors, teachers, engineers, and public servants, and people such as celebrated civil rights leader the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and former Vice President Kamala Harris.

“As a proud graduate of Howard University, I know firsthand that our HBCUs are centers of academic excellence. For generations, these anchors of our communities have played a pivotal role in building and contributing to America’s leadership at home and abroad. Today, graduates from our Na-

tion’s more than 100 HBCUs are in every room where important decisions are made – leading in our schools, hospitals, courtrooms, boardrooms, and at the highest levels of government,” Harris said in May 2024.

Investing in and preserving HBCUs ensures the continuation of this vital pipeline for upward mobility, innovation, and cultural enrichment.

“As we look forward,” Harris continued, “we know that our HBCUs will continue to prepare young leaders to build a better, more just future for our country and the world.”

Saving HBCUs is not just about preserving tradition; it’s about ensuring the futures of people like King, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, and Harris, the first Black and Southeast Asian woman to lead a major-party ticket. Indeed, these institutions foster inclusive learning environments, cultivate leadership, and contribute billions to the U.S. economy each year.

When we invest in HBCUs, we invest in the intellectual capital and potential of a community that has historically faced systemic barriers. Supporting their sustainability means promoting educational equity and empowering future generations. WI

Even the Cost of Being Poor is Rising and That is ‘Why We Can’t Wait’

In the on-again-off-again decisions from the White House about tariffs, it’s often hard to discern whether the percentages, which fluctuate from one nation to another, are part of a financial strategy or just threats aimed at those who refuse to genuflect before America’s newly seated oligarchy.

As many economists predicted, the results of these tariffs have been disastrous as global markets continue to plunge and fears of a recession increase with each passing day.

The president insists that this is all part of his mandate from the voters who helped him gar -

ner the popular vote over his opponent, Kamala Harris, 77.3 million to 75 million votes. But to secure his victory, the president, like most candidates, made promises to voters including, “On day one, prices will go down.”

But that was before the general election. So far, that promise has been broken. For those families who were already struggling to survive and living day to day, it seems that all they’ve been given are promissory notes or checks which have been returned and labeled “insufficient funds.”

Within the last several days,

eggs prices, among other food items, have reached record highs while mortgage rates have surged to over 7%. Further, computer and cell phone prices may make it impossible for some of us to upgrade soon, if the leaders of China and America don’t come to some sort of agreement.

Mandate notwithstanding, Americans have been urged, according to the president’s latest comments on his social media platform, to “Be Strong, Be Courageous, and Patient, and GREATNESS will be the result!”

Perhaps white households can better weather this storm that

TO THE EDITOR

The photos from your photographers covering the various marches and protests throughout Washington were outstanding. I’ve always believed in the saying that a picture says a thousand words, and it’s indeed true. The pictures told the story for me.

I sincerely appreciate your reporting and continuous coverage of the local and federal political landscape. We must have our perspective and say what these times were like for those who will only read about it in history books. Thank you all for your service.

Kelly Harrison Washington, D.C.

continues to brew than Black households. After all, based on 2022 data from the Brooking Institute, the median wealth of a white household is $188,200 –7.8 times more than the average Black household at $24,100.

The problem many Americans face is not about buying a larger home, taking trips abroad or choosing which college they want their children to attend. The problem is finding ways to pay for the essentials.

In a study published by the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, financial experts determined that necessities like groceries, electricity and wireless phone services make up a larger share of Black families’ budgets than Whites. Black households are also spending a larger portion of their income on goods and

Thom Simon Washington, D.C.

services with prices that change more often.

The president wants us to be patient and make another promise, saying good times are just around the corner.

But as the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. exclaimed in his book that chronicled African American activism in 1963, “Why We Can’t Wait,” there is no “right time” for one to pursue civil rights and equality. King believed that waiting for justice only delays it and perpetuates injustice.

“Justice delayed,” King said, “is justice denied.”

The cost of being poor in 2025 is wreaking havoc on millions of Americans, African Americans in particular, and in the words of King, they simply “can’t wait.”

WI

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS

Guest Columnist

Transforming the Road

journey on life’s highway. True compassion is more than flinging a coin to a beggar. It comes to see that an edifice which produces beggars needs restructuring.”

“A true revolution of values will soon cause us to question the fairness and justice of many of our past and present policies. On the one hand we are called to play the Good Samaritan on life’s roadside, but that will be only an initial act. One day we must come to see that the whole Jericho Road must be transformed so that men and women will not be constantly beaten and robbed as they make their

“Donald Trump and extreme MAGA Republicans are doing everything they can to tank our economy, drive us toward a recession and gut the healthcare of the American people by visiting upon them the largest Medicaid cut in history, along with the largest cut to nutritional assistance in American history, all in service of enacting massive tax breaks for their

This passage is from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s sermon at New York City’s Riverside Church on April 4, 1967, a year to the day before his assassination. In his speech in Memphis the night before his murder, Dr. King repeated the biblical parable of the Good Samaritan who stopped and helped the desperate traveler who had been beaten, robbed, and left half dead

Marian Wright Edelman

as he journeyed along the road from Jerusalem to Jericho. The Good Samaritan is traditionally considered a model of charity for his willingness to treat a stranger as a neighbor and friend. Dr. King agreed that we are all called to follow his example and serve those around us who need help. But he reminded us that true compassion — true justice — also requires attacking the forces that leave others in need in the first place.

If travelers are being assaulted on the Jericho Road, we should help bind their wounds, but also work to make the road a safe passageway. If our com-

Marc H. Morial

munities have neighbors in need, and we volunteer at shelters or donate to food pantries and think we’ve done our part, we are only partially right. We have done an important part. But we are not finished if we are not also fighting to prevent and eliminate the violence of joblessness, poor education, poverty, hunger and the inequalities and injustices that feed and accompany them and unjust systems that create them. With true structural change, there would be far less need for charity; without it, the very best charitable efforts will never be enough.

Dr. King, our great 20th-century American prophet, understood this — yet like so many other prophets, his voice was often at odds with leaders or conveniently left unheard by the people in his own land. During Dr. King’s lifetime, President Lyndon Johnson’s War on Poverty attempted to address some of the inequalities in the United States that needed redressing and restructuring, but that vision was not permanent. By August 1968, Richard Nixon accepted his party’s presidential

Trump’s

Budget is a Betrayal of His Promise to Working-Class Americans

billionaire donors like Elon Musk. It’s a toxic scheme that they cannot hide from because it continues to be on full display on the House Floor and on the Senate Floor for the American people.” — House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries I call it the great bait-and-switch.

Betraying his promise not to cut Medicaid, President Trump has pushed through Congress a budget that will require the deepest cut to Medicaid in history, while gutting programs and services that are essential to the health, safety and financial secu-

rity of millions of average Americans. Trump and his allies in Congress are betraying the working-class Americans who trusted them to feed the insatiable greed of billionaires.

In fact, even swiping food from the tables of working families and stripping health care from children and disabled Americans isn’t enough; future generations must be burdened with debt so today’s wealthiest can reap even more. With last week’s vote, Congress not only agreed to slash $1.5 trillion from programs that benefit communities, but also to raise the debt

ceiling by $5 trillion — all to pay for an astonishing windfall for the wealthiest 5% of Americans. While the Trump administration and some Republican lawmakers continue to claim they won’t cut Medicaid benefits, they’re all fully aware that the budget to which they’ve committed absolutely requires cutting Medicaid benefits. Every member of Congress received a memo from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office confirming it is impossible to cut $1.5 trillion in spending without slashing Medicaid.

A Black Mother Seeks to Prevail and Help Others After Her Loss

overcome adversity. But this has been a lonely journey.

Nearly two years ago, I lost my 17-year-old son, Bryce, to a drug overdose. Now, I search for other mothers who have lost their children. Talking helps relieve the hollowness left by this loss, but it’s difficult to find other Black mothers willing to acknowledge and share their grief. Frequently, we — Black women — are celebrated for our resilience, strength and ability to

Losing Bryce to a drug overdose created a profound and unimaginable grief, a permanent ache and a gaping hole in my heart. It’s compounded by guilt, regret and so many unanswered questions. The pain extends beyond Bryce being gone to the dreams and future that will never be. Memories of him are bittersweet, always tinged with envisioning what could have been for my son. I struggle to make sense of how and why this happened while grappling with the societal stig-

ma. Internalizing the blame is too isolating, which is why I am constantly seeking to draw strength from other Black mothers confronting this horrible ordeal.

I grew up in a middle-class family in a Maryland suburb of D.C. My mother was an executive assistant at Pepco, and my dad was a dental technician. Our parents gave my sister and me a nurturing upbringing. Dance classes, gymnastics, cheerleading. At their urging, I went to college, earning a bachelor’s degree in mass communications, and later a master’s in organiza-

tional communication. I have worked for various organizations, including 17 years as senior director of finance and operations at the nonprofit Democracy Alliance. I raised Bryce and his older sister as a single mother, and we were a close-knit family. Bryce remained close to his childhood friends, but he had a girlfriend in high school who led him to a different group. That’s when he started experimenting with drugs. I tried to get him counseling and treatment, but it was never quite enough. He overdosed in his room with naloxone, which could

Nearly every Republican in both the House and the Senate voted for the budget anyway.

Adding insult to injury, the gutting of the social safety net comes just as many more Americans are likely to need to rely on it, as a chaotic tariff policy risks massive job loss and soaring inflation.

The cuts to Medicaid that the budget requires endanger the health and financial security of more than 70 million children, seniors, people with dis-

have savd him, in his pocket. In the aftermath, it’s clear that Black families are not comfortable addressing substance use and mental health because of the stigmas. Our instincts are to sweep it under the rug like it never happened. But it must stop. We need to open up. And Black women need to talk to each other to help each other. Our voices are powerful, and our narratives can impact others if shared. Let’s break the silence together. Recently, I was on a support group

Kimberly Douglas

DOUGLAS

Guest Columnist

Guest Columnist

Guest Columnist

Eliminating Women in Power

In 2024, four women held the rank of four-star general or admiral. One year later, in 2025, there are none. This is just one example of how individuals and groups who believe in social equity and fairness are embroiled in a cultural war, and the opposing side is winning.

With the recent firing of Adm. Lisa Franchetti, the Navy’s first female chief, the U.S. military is left without a sin-

gle woman with a four-star rank. The significance of this firing highlights the fact that the glass ceiling, which had previously been shattered, has not only been put back into place but has also been lowered and made stronger. The barriers women have historically faced in the military have returned with the prospect that Adm. Franchetti may be the last woman to achieve the four-star rank for a while.

Threatened by decades of social progress that produced fairness and justice for all people, the authors of Project 2025 sought to create a na-

tion that allows discrimination in all forms to thrive where we live, study and work. Let’s be honest: In the attack against the hard-fought victories toward social equity, the main culprits are not President Donald Trump or Vice President J.D. Vance. Since the 1970s, the Heritage Foundation has become the puppet master pulling the strings behind the scenes. Many right-wing politicians, media figures and influencers have joined in by effectively turning fear into a weapon in their anti-DEI movement. In this current political climate, fear is far more effective

Does Another Thaddeus Stevens Exist?

With all of this shameful racist stuff going on more than usual, I took the time to read about a man who long ago set the standard for white people to step up and not just say what somebody else should do or what this nation owes Black people. I know it sounds strange for me to be looking for white people to do the right thing, when they hear and see wrong perpe-

trated against Black people or anybody who is not white. As Sam Cooke said, “It’s been a long time coming,” but today, I came in contact with a man who was white and did the right thing about racial respect and justice. If you haven’t read about Thaddeus Stevens, you’ve missed a man who kept hope alive to his dying day. History just wrote him off like those who’ve tried to erase Black history! Mr. Stevens was sort of mentioned in high school — which was a long time ago for some of us, and I doubt that younger people have heard more about him than we,

of a certain age, did. I’ll tell you about this man. I’m not surprised that Trump, DeSantis and others will soon try to erase all of us from history books. They want to get rid of all Black history. Mr. Stevens had a disability and that probably gave him some sense of what it’s like to be different from others around him. You don’t often see me writing about white people’s history on racial justice, but I just had to bring Stevens back to history for doing the right thing years ago.

Stevens was so much better than others from his time. Abe Lincoln is of-

The History They Fear Is the Truth We Carry

The last living link of my family’s story of origin in antebellum Southern Virginia died at age 105 a few years ago. My grandmother, Mamie Todd, was born in 1916. Her grandparents were born into slavery. She fought Jim Crow. She stood up for Black teachers and students in a segregated school system in which she taught in her early ca-

reer. She supported my mom when, at 12, she signed on as a named plaintiff in one of the feeder cases to Brown v. Board of Education. And she stood by my mom every step of the way when three years after that, my mom helped desegregate her high school.

That’s the kind of strength I come from. That’s the kind of history it seems the Trump administration now wants to erase.

The Washington Post and other outlets are reporting that the Trump administration’s scorched-earth campaign to purge diversity, equity and

inclusion from every corner of our federal government has now spread into the heart of the National Park Service (NPS). Web pages about slavery and the Underground Railroad have been edited to downplay the brutal reality of bondage and the contributions of Black leaders. The photo of Harriet Tubman that for years greeted visitors to an NPS page about the Underground Railroad has been deleted. A web page about the Niagara Movement — a precursor to the NAACP founded in 1905 by W.E.B. Du Bois — was rewritten. A statement about the group’s “renewed

than the politics of unity.

The success of the anti-DEI movement is not because their arguments are factual. They succeed because the puppet master and their supporters understand a fundamental truth: when people feel vulnerable, they are more likely to look for someone to blame. Former President Richard Nixon said it best, “People react to fear, not love. They don’t teach that in Sunday school, but it’s true.”

White women are the group that gained the most from affirmative action, which started in the late 1970s.

The same group benefited the most through the DEI initiatives from the late 1990s to 2000s. All of the social gains by white women are now in serious jeopardy. The current administration campaigned on eliminating so-called “wokeness” and “DEI hires” in the federal government, the military and universities, and pressuring corporate leaders to do the same. Right-wing candidates, including Donald Trump, turned social equity into a personal threat. White workers were misled into believing that racial diversity programs

ten given more credit than he deserved for freeing enslaved Black people. While Stevens respected Lincoln, he schooled us on how Lincoln really had no interest in interfering with slavery–he did what was in his best interest. Stevens said that just ending slavery was not enough. Former slaves were due land and resources for what had been happening to them. He maintained that land distribution was owed to them because freedom without economic independence meant nothing. He was outspoken and had no interest in compromise. He disagreed

with Andrew Johnson and supported impeachment of him. Stevens was so opposed to the way Black people were treated that, before he died, he indicated he didn’t want to be buried in the white cemetery!

White supremacists hated Stevens — and they still hate us for no reason other than our being Black. I’m not calling all white people I know racists, but I don’t see any stepping up to the plate to discredit racism, to support reparations, and to call on Trump and

sense of resolve in the struggle for freedom and equality” was shortened simply to a “renewed sense of resolve.”

Heroic Americans gave their lives fighting for freedom and equality. Now, the Trump administration is trying to edit those very words out of the official American story.

Some say these changes are minor. I say they are surgical. They are subtle, yes — but profoundly damaging. As one historian put it, these edits suggest that racism no longer needs to be confronted in America. And that’s the point.

This is not about saving space on a government website. It is about shrinking the story of who we are as a people. Some Park Service employees who edited the websites say they made the changes out of fear. Others were simply guessing what the administration wanted. When workers are deleting key figures and events in Black history without being told, just to stay safe in their jobs, we are in dangerous territory.

We’ve seen this before. Last month,

Ben Jealous

Guest Columnist

David W. Marshall

LIFESTYLE

WASHINGTON INFORMER WEEKEND CHECKLIST

WASHINGTON INFORMER'S

Things To Do, DMV!

By Tait Manning WI Intern

This week is full of spring activities for all ages, with opportunities to celebrate both National Poetry Month and Earth Day.

From poetry open mics to environmental workshops, check out a handful of the many events happening to keep your spirit – and social life – lit.

To keep up with all the fun, don’t forget to check out the Washington Informer Calendar to stay up-to-date on DMV happenings year round.

THURSDAY, APRIL 17

Rap is Poetry Open Mic Night at Galactic Panther Art Gallery

8 p.m. - 11 p.m. | $10.00 Galactic Panther Art Gallery, 1303 King Street, Alexandria, VA, 22314

Galactic Panther Art Gallery presents a poetry night featuring the extraordinary Artie Foxx.

Whether a seasoned poet or a newcomer, this event is a haven for all poetry enthusiasts looking to unleash their inner wordsmith.

Attendees are invited to share their creations during an open mic session and participate in an evening filled with emotion, reflection and inspiration.

We Gon’ Be Alright: Stress, SelfCare, and Resilience Workshop

4:30 p.m. - 6 p.m. | Free Lamond-Riggs/Lillian J. Huff Neighborhood Library, 5401 South Dakota Avenue NE, Washington, D.C., 20011

Presented by The Love Catalyst LLC, this engaging and interactive workshop focuses on stress manage-

5Attendees at a Trap Poetry event in November 2024. On Saturday, April 19, Matt Capone will host another Trap Poetry showcase, where guests will hear from spoken word artists in a lounge setting where poetry can be felt and heard. (Courtesy Photo)

ment, self-care and resilience.

Inspired by Kendrick Lamar’s “Alright,” this session will explore how to navigate life’s challenges, develop healthy coping strategies and build a strong support system.

Through guided discussions and activities, participants will gain practical tools to manage stress and maintain their mental well-being.

FRIDAY, APRIL 18

Earth Day Invasive Plant Removal

The Washington Convention and Sports Authority t/a Events DC Bid Announcement JANITORIAL ENVIRONMENTAL CLEANING AND RELATED SERVICES REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) BID #25-S-212-095

The Washington Convention and Sports Authority t/a Events DC is soliciting proposals from qualified firms to provide Janitorial, Environmental Cleaning and Related Services for the Walter E. Washington Convention Center and Carnegie Library at Mt. Vernon Square.

This Request for Proposal (“RFP”) has a thirty-five percent (35%) set-aside for a Certified Business Enterprise (CBE) as required under the provisions of “The Small and Certified Business Enterprise Development and Assistance Amendment Act of 2014” (the “Act”), effective June 10, 2014.

Interested parties can view a copy of the RFP by accessing Events DC’s e-procurement website at https://eventsdc.bonfirehub.com..

Key Dates

RFP Release Date:                              Thursday, April 10, 2025

RFP Pre-Proposal Conference:           Wednesday, April 23, 2025 at 11:00 AM

RFP Questions Due Date:                   Monday, April 28, 2025 at 12:00 PM

RFP Response Due Date:                    Monday, May 12, 2025 at 3:00 PM

Primary Contact

Gerald Green, Deputy Director, Contracts and Procurement

Email: ggreen@eventsdc.com   • Phone: (202) 249-3028

at Reservation 630 West

10 a.m. - Noon | Free Reservation 630 West Mini-OasisTilden Trailhead, Washington D.C., 20008

Join Rock Creek Conservancy and the National Park Service for an invasive plant removal restoration event in Rock Creek Park.

Invasive plants are a major threat to fragile forests, and stopping their spread helps allow native plants to thrive in the understory.

Tatreez Connections

10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. | $55.00+

Lily’s Chocolate & Coffee, 175 Maple Avenue East, Vienna, VA, 22180

Join Lily’s Chocolate and Coffee for a special hands-on experience exploring the rich history of tatreez (Palestinian embroidery) and practice the fallahi stitch (cross-stitch).

In this hands-on event, participants will stitch a popular tatreez motif, with a kit including enough materials to complete four additional motifs—either during or after the class.

SATURDAY, APRIL 19

Trap Poetry DMV

6:30 p.m. | $20.00+

Ivy City Warehouse, 1360 Okie Street NE, Washington, D.C., 20002

At Trap Poetry, attendees will hear spoken words from their favorite artists and vibe with them in a lounge setting where poetry and music is felt and not just heard.

Curated and hosted by Matt Capone, the event features not only local poets and musicians but also out-of-

town artists and surprise performances during intermissions, creating an unpredictable and exciting atmosphere for performers and audience members alike.

It’s a space where the art of storytelling meets the energy of the streets, blending the raw emotions of trap culture with the introspection of spoken word.

Earth Day Celebration: A Day Unplugged

10 a.m. - 2 p.m. | Free Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Place SE, Washington, D.C., 20020

Step away from the screens and reconnect with nature at Anacostia Community Museum’s Earth Day Celebration: A Day Unplugged.

Join for a fun -filled, educational day celebrating the beauty of the planet with hands-on activities for all ages.

Enjoy gardening sensory play, engage in a tree planting ceremony, paint a miniature planet Earth to take home and discover ways to care for the environment. From a storytime hike to an engaging urban gardening workshop, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

SUNDAY, APRIL 20

Daybreaker DC Coffee Club

10 a.m. - 1 p.m. | $44.00

Flash, 645 Florida Avenue NW, Washington, D.C., 20001

Check out Coffee Club by Daybreaker, a new series of morning cafe parties across the world.

Attendees will enjoy fresh coffee, deep grooves and a community that knows how to move.

The lineup includes a coffee social and breathwork activity, as well two secret DJs and a surprise concert performer, which will be revealed at the event.

MoCA on the Move: Celebrating Spring Family Fun Series

10 a.m. - 1 p.m. | Free Metropolitan Park, South Fern Street Arlington, VA, 22202

This event is part of the “MoCA on the Move” series hosted by the Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington. Held on the central green at Metropolitan Park, it includes live music and hands-on art making activities for the whole family.

This Sunday, attendees can create spring ribbon wands and decoupage eggs for Easter, with live music from Laurel Halsey.

WI

Adam Pendleton’s ‘Love Queen’ at the Hirshhorn: A Fresh Language of Abstraction

By Andrew S. Jacobson WI Contributing Writer

The Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden in Washington, D.C., recently opened “Love Queen,” a landmark exhibition by Adam Pendleton, which is on view now across all four floors of the institution. Known for his interdisciplinary approach and insistence on abstraction as a political and poetic language, Pendleton debuts nearly 40 new paintings alongside a potent video work that expands the conversation around mark-making and modern gesture.

Born in Richmond, Virginia, Pendleton returns to what he calls his, “hometown museum,” with an exhibition years in the making. Love Queen reflects a conceptual rigor and a physical intensity that has become synonymous with Pendleton’s practice, evolving abstraction into something not only seen, but felt.

“This exhibition is about painting as a practice,” said Hirshhorn Director Melissa Chiu during opening remarks. “What were the two most seismic shifts in painting over the past few centuries? Photography and abstraction. This show pushes both forward.”

That push is quiet but seismic—offering not declarations but meditations, not answers but possibilities.

Pendleton’s paintings are both visually and conceptually dense. They blur the formal lines between painting, photography, drawing, and print. Created

with a mix of ink, spray paint, watercolor, and stenciling, the works carry an atmospheric tension—gestures that feel choreographed, yet improvisational.

“Adam and I share a deep commitment to the beauty of painting,” said Head Curator Evelyn Hankins. “But we come at it from different vantage points. The exhibition is an invitation for close looking.”

That invitation culminates in “Resurrection City Revisited: Who Owns Geometry, Anyway,” a video that anchors the exhibition’s final gallery.

Weaving archival footage from the civil rights era with abstract animations, the film holds a mirror up to the rest of the show—reminding viewers that the history of gesture is as political as it is aesthetic.

“It’s the video,” Hankins noted, “that is truly a testament to his expansive understanding of what painting can be.”

Art collector and High Museum of Art Board Member Hassan Smith shared that “Love Queen” was, “one of [his] favorite exhibition[s] of the year.”

While Pendleton’s work can be a bit enigmatic and challenging for newer enthusiasts to absorb, Smith articulated the, “depth, character and brilliance of Adam pour[ing] out from his latest works.”

For Pendleton, this moment is both personal and public.

“These works are about abstract and complex thought,” he told the assemPENDLETON Page 33

EVENT LINEUP

George “Spider” Anderson Music and Arts Festival

May 10 / Park Heights

Maryland Horse Farm Tour

May 11 / Select Farms Across MD

Governor’s Open Golf Tournament

May 12 / Baltimore Country Club

Magic of Maryland Music Celebration

May 14 / Pier 6 Pavilion

Government House Festival Fundraiser

May 15 / Government House, Annapolis

5This Adam Pendleton piece on display at the Hirshhorn offers a haunting alteration of archival imagery, where a bold black triangle interrupts visibility and identity, challenging narratives of representation and presence in Black portraiture and history. (Courtesy Photo/Andy Romer)

LIFESTYLE

For a Family-Friendly Musical, ‘Sister Act’ Soars with Sensational Music, Acting, Story

By D. Kevin McNeir WI Contributing Writer

Having wowed on film and stage for decades, “Sister Act,” is at Ford’s Theatre in Washington, D.C. with a story, music and actors that are sure to have audiences laughing with joy, clapping in appreciation and even shedding a tear or two.

From now until May 17, Ford’s audiences are in for an exciting story about the beloved character Sister Mary Clarence/Deloris Van Cartier, known from the celebrated “Sister Act” franchise. In an outstanding performance, Nia Savoy-Dock stars as Sister Mary Clarence/Deloris Van Cartier.

After years of revisions since the musical’s stage debut in 2006 and film premiere in 1992, the Ford’s production, directed and choreographed by Jeff Calhoun, highlights the characters of Sister Mary Clarence, her villainous boyfriend, Curtis Jackson, and

her “sisters,” with the setting moved from a monastery on the West Coast to Philadelphia.

With a stellar cast and musical direction by William Yanesh, this production comes with a storyline that, in the vein of the historic “Philadelphia Sound,” includes lyrics that are masterfully crafted, telling the story with songs that move the heart and touch the soul.

“‘Sister Act’ is basically the same story in the stage musical version as it was in film but in our production, you learn a lot more about the characters, like mine, Sister Mary Robert,” said standout cast member Kaynysha Williams. “She’s not a character in the film, but she’s a force to be reckoned with in the play.”

THE STORY BEHIND ‘SISTER ACT’

After Bette Midler turned down the role of Sister Mary Clarence/De-

loris Van Cartier in the 1992 comedy film, “Sister Act,” Whoopi Goldberg stepped in and, as Midler later said, “wore the habit all the way to the bank!”

The film grossed more than $230 million worldwide, became one of the most rented videos in the U.S. in 1993, and made Goldberg an internationally acclaimed superstar.

Over a decade later, the stage musical, “Sister Act,” made its world premiere at the Pasadena Playhouse in 2006. It, too, broke all kinds of attendance records. A second regional production followed at the Alliance in Atlanta with Broadway eventually calling in April of 2011, premiering with a newly adapted form.

The new script and music highlights characters and plotlines unknown from the film franchise, offering people like Williams, playing Sister Mary Robert, a chance to shine.

A graduate of D.C.’s Duke Ellington School of the Arts, Williams’

strong performance and rendition of the song, “The Life I Never Led,” is something audiences don’t want to miss.

“My first love is as a singer and songwriter, so when I got a chance to take the lead on one of the songs, I wanted – I needed – to make it mine,” Williams told The Informer. “Thankfully, people have said that I did just that.”

TALENT IN THE FORD’S PRODUCTION

The entire cast in crew puts in hard work for audiences to enjoy in Ford’s production of “Sister Act.”

For Williams, who has appeared in shows around the Washington region, becoming a musical theatre artist has afforded her another way of storytelling through the arts.

“I was a music major in high school and only became involved in musical theater during the end of my undergraduate studies,” said Williams, 32.

“But the process of creating was something that I had so much fun doing that I knew I had to do it again.”

Working on “Sister Act” offered Williams an opportunity to further hone her craft.

“We have a talented crew and cast where there’s nothing but positive energy,” she said. “And along the way, I’m gaining so much knowledge from veterans in the industry who have welcomed me with open arms.”

Playing the bad guy and love interest of Van Cartier is Derrick D. Truby Jr., who takes on the role of Curtis Jackson.

Truby, who is entertaining in the role of Curtis Jackson, was born in

Salisbury, Maryland, grew up in the Rockville/Gaithersburg area and attended Northwest High School in Germantown, Maryland.

“My mom and my grandfather were both extremely gifted singers, so I guess it’s always been in my blood,” said Truby, 31. “Making music has been something that I’ve never been able to escape but it’s not as easy as it seems because it really takes commitment. That said, I love it too much to ever let it go.”

Bringing Curtis Jackson to life allowed Truby to stretch himself as an artist.

“I’m not used to portraying a bad guy, so this was a first,” Truby said. “What I learned was how actors bring their own characters to the role and then how we must feed on our relationships with the other cast members. Even when you’re off your A-game or having a miserable day, you must be ready to step into character. That’s what people come to see. Sometimes, it can be exhausting. But it’s always rewarding when you achieve the required results.”

Both Williams and Truby have been inspired to continue to fulfill their dreams as actors and singers because of the feedback they have received and lessons learned during the current production.

Williams told The Informer she has enjoyed being part of the process of bringing a story that’s best known in film to the stage and is looking forward to working on more projects.

“As for where I go from here,” she said, “I feel like the sky’s the limit.”

“Sister Act” is running at Ford’s Theatre in Washington, D.C. through May 17. For more information, visit fords.org.

WI

5Nia Savoy-Dock (left) stars as Sister Mary Clarence/Deloris Van Cartier, alongside Duke Ellington School of the Arts alum Kanysha Williams (front left) in the role of Sister Mary Robert, in the hit musical “Sister Act,” on stage at Ford’s Theatre in Washington, D.C., now through May 17. (Courtesy Photo/Scott Suchman)

Summit Offers More Than the Ingredients for Success in the Food Industry

By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer

Nearly 400 women are expected to take a deep dive into every aspect of the food business in D.C. on April 25-26 at the third annual Black Women in Food Summit (BWIF) brings renowned chefs, restaurateurs, food writers, food justice advocates, farmers, and food entrepreneurs to steer women toward success in managing the world of food.

Co-founded by Nina Oduro and Maame Boakye, this year’s summit theme is “Limitless: Claiming Space for Abundance.”

“The food system is expansive. When we think about how people consume and experience food, we are looking at it from the ground to the table and beyond,” said Oduro.

Washington D.C.-based Dine Diaspora, the engine behind Black Women in Food Summit, was also co-founded by Oduro and Boakye, and is committed to connecting people and brands to African diaspora food culture. Through their work, the women have intentionally focused on the lack of opportunities for professionals of color, including Black women, to advance food-focused careers.

“We are catalyzers. It is important for us to have a space to nurture

PENDLETON

from Page 31

bled audience. “They ask us to recognize, push, and realize our humanistic spirit and potential.”

As he stood before the paintings, the artist reflected on his early visits to the Hirshhorn and how works by artists like Joan Mitchell, Hans Hofmann, and Jackson Pollock shaped him. Now, his paintings hang in dialogue with theirs, in the museum’s adjoining Revolutions exhibition.

If “Love Queen” is about anything, it’s about taking time.

“This work is not about quick looking,” Pendleton reminded the audience. “Open your eyes. Open your mind. Use your imaginative potential.”

That ethos radiates through the show—from the smallest stenciled mark to the immersive power of the final video.

ourselves,” said Boakye, expressing the need for the summit. “We need to connect to be inspired.”

Raising excitement for this year’s Black Women in Food Summit, Oduro and Boakye hosted a media preview at Elmina in Northwest, D.C., led by chef, author, and television personality Eric Adjepong.

“Women in food and this initiative that these two ladies have started has had a ripple effect,” said the Ghanaian-American chef, celebrating Oduro and Boakye and the mission of the summit. “Started here in the District, and now it’s felt nationally.”

Adjepong emphasized the importance of women in the food and beverage business.

“It’s an honor to have women in this industry with us,” he said. “From shopping, cooking, writing, collaborating, authoring, and all.”

RAVE REVIEWS ABOUT BLACK WOMEN IN FOOD

When visiting the website for this year’s Black Women in Food Summit, women who attended last year’s event sing the praises about what they gained from being in a space of learning and unity.

“These events are great in com-

For audiences, the invitation is clear: slow down, look closely, and form your own relationship with the work. Research the practice. Revisit the rooms. Let the rhythm of Pendleton’s abstraction lead you toward new questions— about art, identity, and the spaces in between.

Chiu and Hankins have created space for Pendleton’s voice to resonate—not just as an artist, but as a thinker, a builder of language, and a contributor to the ever-evolving history of abstraction. As Chiu said, “This exhibition adds to the conversation of where art is today.”

“Love Queen” is on view now at the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, located at Independence Ave and 7th St SW, Washington, DC 20560. The video work plays at the top of every hour.

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munity spaces because it allows us to talk just about food, to enjoy food in a communal space,” says Elle Simone Scott, executive editor of America’s Test Kitchen.

Jamila Robinson, editor in chief for Bon Appétit and Epicurious, emphasized that the summit offers a moment to come together to find ways to address challenges.

“At the Black Women in Food Summit, it is very important to talk about the funding challenges and meet the people who can help,” Robinson said. “There are Black women in all aspects of the culinary industry.”

This year’s summit sponsors include Pepsico, ezCater, New Voices Foundation, Open Table, Rethink Food, ISS Guckenheimer, Niman Ranch, and Women Advancing Nutrition Dietetics, and Agriculture, who are helping advance the work and efforts of wom-

en in the food industry and beyond.

“The reason we are having a twoday summit and why we continue to make this bigger is because women

have come back and asked for it,” said Oduro. “What a space to draw connection and to pour into ourselves. WI

5Maame Boakye and Nina Oduro are co-founders of the Black Women in Food Summit, which will take place in D.C. April 25-26. (Courtesy Photo/Adedayo Kosok, The Art Hype)

housing.

These days, from BAJI’s Brooklyn headquarters, Gyamfi stays abreast of developments in the nation’s capital, especially as President Donald J. Trump and Salvadoran President Niyeb Bukele ignore a Supreme Court ruling supporting the return of Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, a Maryland father illegally deported to El Salvador.

With Trump, as recently as this week, mulling the transfer of “homegrown” prisoners to foreign correctional facilities, Gyamfi said that Black migrants, and all Black people living in the U.S. for that matter, should be worried about what’s to come.

“If we decide that it’s okay for this government to grab people and take them to black holes around the world, we put Black people and particularly Black people fighting for Black liberation in peril,” Gyamfi told The Informer.

Gyamfi expressed her concern that with Abrego Garcia’s race, and the focus on the Latino population in immigration policy matters, the majority of Black people may not appreciate the significance of this moment.

“We’ve got to understand that the real target -- when they talk about getting rid of birthright citizenship, when they’re talking about grabbing people who protest and taking them to black holes, when it comes to criminalizing their existence -- has always been Black people,” Gyamfi said. “Regardless of citizenship and migrant status.”

Gyamfi, a human rights and criminal defense attorney, spends much of her time carving out a space for Black migrants she said are left out of policy discussions centering Central and South American-born migrants.

With Rep. Yvette Clark (D-N.Y.), a daughter of Jamaican migrants, currently at the helm of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), Gyamfi expressed hope that the CBC would aggressively advocate for Black migrants facing the threat of deportation. In the interim, she continues to interact with grassroots groups across the U.S, but particularly in the D.C. metropolitan region, what she calls an important asset in the resistance against anti-Black immigration policy.

“The DMV is an area that has a lot of Black migrants,” Gyamfi said. “Our goal is to make sure that those Black people have meetings…because we wanna make sure that Black migrants are on the right page. It’s not just about injustice. It’s about the future that we want to build, making sure Black migrants are plugging into that as well.”

A COURT BATTLE AND AN IMPASSE

Authorities removed Abrego Garcia, a Prince George’s County resident, from the U.S. on March 15 and sent him to a Salvadoran prison, despite his receipt of a federal protection known as “withholding of removal.”

That status, which barred Abrego Garcia’s deportation, led to his release from immigration custody in 2019.

On April 1, U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis ruled the deportation illegal and ordered the government to “facilitate” Abrego Garcia’s return by April 7. However, the Trump administration quickly appealed to the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which upheld Xinis’ ruling.

The administration then sought a stay from the Supreme Court. Chief Justice John Roberts granted a temporary pause, but on April 10, the high court issued a unanimous ruling reinstating Judge Xinis’s order, requiring Abrego Garcia’s immediate return. The Trump administration has since delayed action, as seen in a U.S. Justice Department court filing this weekend that confirmed Abrego Garcia detainment at El Salvador’s notorious Terrorism Confinement Center.

a request for comment, the mayor emphasized his critical contributions to continuing the Emancipation Day celebrations in the District and highlighted the historic nature of the annual commemoration.

“We have, for many years, hosted a parade in celebration on Emancipation Day,” Bowser continued. “Recognizing that in D.C., because of the Compensated Emancipation Act, that enslaved people were first freed before Juneteenth, before the Emancipation Proclamation.”

The filing, citing Michael G. Kozak of the State Department’s Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, did not outline any steps to comply with the Supreme Court’s order.

Bukele, president of El Salvador since 2019, appears equally adamant about keeping Abrego Garcia in El Salvador, though for a reason that’s sparked some confusion. “The question is preposterous,” Bukele said in the Oval Office during an April 14 meeting with Trump. “I don’t have the power to return him to the United States.”

Abrego Garcia’s case has sparked growing outrage in Maryland with Sen. Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.) leading the call for his safe return.

Organizers are also taking to the streets in solidarity with Abrego Garcia. Over the weekend, protesters rallied outside a Tesla dealership in Owings Mills, condemning a blatant violation of his constitutional and human rights while pledging to protest every Saturday until his safe return. Days later, on Tuesday, the Prince George’s County chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America rallied at the District Courthouse during a hearing about Abrego Garcia’s deportation and detainment.

“He is being held in torturous conditions, without contact from his family and lawyer,” organizers said in a statement. “Even Trump’s own Department of Justice admitted this was an administrative error, yet Kilmar remains in a dangerous facility in El Salvador.”

WI Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

she told reporters on the afternoon of April 10. “Especially in the context of these budget disputes. I’ve called us free-ish, [so] we’re free-ish as citizens until we have two senators and complete autonomy.”

A D.C. EMANCIPATION DAY CELEBRATION FOR THE BOOKS

Bowser, flanked by dozens of District council members, officials, and government personnel, cut a green ribbon on April 10 to celebrate the launch of Cedar Hill Regional Hospital - GW Health— D.C.’s first new hospital in 25 years.

Hours later, news surfaced of the House approved a budget plan, that, amid federal budget cuts, passes Medicare costs onto the District and the 50 states.

More specific to the District’s current budget woes, last week also ended with leaders in the House not passing a bill intended to prevent more than $1 billion in cuts to D.C.’s Fiscal Year 2025 local budget. Bowser, in consultation with D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson (D) and D.C. Chief Financial Officer Glen Lee, recently alerted leaders of the House and Senate Committee on Appropriations to her use of her local authority to increase Fiscal Year 2025 budget appropriations by an amount no higher than 6% of D.C.’s Fiscal Year 2024 local budget.

Though this move, which would reduce the District’s anticipated Fiscal Year 2025 budget gap by more than $500 million, will need D.C. Council approval within 30 days of Bowser’s letter, Bowser administration officials said it doesn’t require congressional concurrence.

As the District navigates a slew of Trump executive orders and an ongoing threat to budget autonomy, Bowser said she’s reminded, now more than ever, about her hometown’s political status. Days before she sent the letter to Rep. Tom Cole (R- Okla.), Sen. Susan Collins (D-Maine) and other congressional leaders, Bowser alluded to the work left to be done in securing autonomy.

“Here in Washington, D.C. I frequently reflect on what it means,”

On April 16, 1862, President Abraham Lincoln signed the District of Columbia Compensated Emancipation Act, which freed more than 3,000 enslaved Black people in the District, compensated former enslavers, and provided assistance to the formerly enslaved who emigrated to other countries. In 2004, with the passage of the D.C. Emancipation Day Act, D.C. Emancipation Day became an official D.C. holiday. The next year, a tradition was born.

This year, that celebration continued on Palm Sunday when, during the D.C. Emancipation Day 20th Anniversary Parade, Festival and Concert, a stretch of Pennsylvania Avenue became ground zero for D.C. history, culture and family fun.

A bevy of community organizations and institutions— including Mary McLeod Bethune Day Academy Public Charter School, the 40+ Double Dutch Club, and the Go-Go Museum & Cafe— marched in a parade that started at 10th Street in Northwest and took a series of floats and cars along Pennsylvania Avenue until celebrants reached Freedom Plaza.

From that point on, thousands of people who converged on 1325 Pennsylvania Avenue NW grooved well into the night to the live sounds of: Anthony Hamilton; Chante Moore; Crank Crusaders featuring Raheem DaVaughn; Black Alley; Tim Bowman, Jr.; DJ Kool; and Washington Performing Arts Children of the Gospel Choir. Britt Waters of ABC7 News served as event host.

DeVaughn, an R&B pioneer who spent his formative years in the District and Montgomery County and Prince George’s County, Maryland, embodied three of his personas— the solo artist, onethird of Crunk Crusaders, and host of WHUR’s 96.3FM’s Quiet Storm— while onstage at Freedom Plaza. WI

Read more on washinbtoninformer.com.

5Senator Chris Van Hollen says that he will travel to El Salvador in an effort to return Maryland resident Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia home to his family during a press conference on the Trump Administration’s cuts to NASA. He was joined in the press conference by Congressmen Steny Hoyer (left) and Glenn Ivey (right). (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

unny Buddies are back, and what do they bring?

Baskets of laughs for Easter and spring!

Complete each puzzle to reveal something funny. Then share all the puzzles and jokes with somebunny!

Find the words by looking up, down, backwards, forwards, sideways and diagonally.

Scrambled Eggs

With a buddy, look through today’s newspaper for the letters that spell Easter Eggs. Cut them out. Take turns mixing up the letters and spelling a new word. A player gets a point for every letter used.

Standards Link: Spelling: Spell grade-level words correctly.

Fun Facts

Cut out a comic strip from the newspaper. Carefully remove the words from the word bubbles, and then paste the strip onto a sheet

Easter Bunny Spotted

Pretend you are a newspaper reporter and you are writing an article about someone who saw the Easter Bunny. Be sure to tell who, what, when, where and why.

© 2025 by Vicki Whiting, Editor Je Schinkel, Graphics Vol.

Help Bianca Bunny circle every other letter to discover the answer!

letters on the correct path through Bucky Bunny’s maze reveals the

review wi book

“Together We Roared: Alongside Tiger for His Epic Twelve-Year, Thirteen-Majors Run” by Steve

Williams and Evin Priest

c.2025, Wm. Morrow

$30 / 320 pages

Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer

Three hundred thirty-six little pockmarks.

Placed atop a thick sliver of wood, the ball they’re on presents a challenge. Whack that dimpled sphere into 18 holes in the ground, do it in as few swings as possible, and you can ace the game. Do it and, as in the new book, “Together We Roared” by Steve Williams and Evin Priest, you could be a champion of a different stripe.

When the first call came, Steve Williams thought it was a prank. It was a late spring night in 1999 and the voice on the other end of the line identified itself as Tiger Woods. Because Williams had a friend on the golf circuit who did an authentic-sounding Woods impression, Williams hung up the phone.

And the phone rang again. And again. Yes, it was Tiger Woods, who wanted to ask Williams to be his new caddy. Williams said he wanted to think about it.

Caddies, say the authors, are weather analysts, topographers, psychologists, mind-readers, and companions. The luckiest ones become friends with their bosses, which is what happened with Williams and Woods – although the fact always remained that Woods was in charge. Williams had to learn what Woods needed on the course, and hew to it firmly.

Sometimes, that meant getting up at “dark-thirty” to be ready to caddy as the sun rose. It meant knowing when Woods wanted a fan or another golfer to leave him alone – and to get rid of the interrupter quickly. It meant telling Woods which golf club was best, given the situation, and knowing when the time was right to argue with him.

As their working relationship deepened, so did their friendship. Williams enjoyed Woods’ “generosity and loyalty.” In turn, he cared for Woods on the course, giving his best for a dozen years until their partnership ended swiftly with the most explosive controversy.

Here are the first and perhaps most important words you need to know before you even touch “Together We Roared”: know golf.

Without a basic understanding of the game, the bulk of this memoir might as well be written in Cyrillic. Authors Steve Williams and Evin Priest talk the talk and their stories are thrilling and inspirational, but only if you know your way around a golf course. If you’ve watched a game with even the slightest knowledge of what’s going on, you’ll love the tiny nuggets of insight because it’s apparent that they come from a respectful insider whose aim is not to gossip. But this can’t be underscored enough: just being a Tiger Woods fan won’t be adequate and you will be thoroughly befuddled more than not. Reading it won’t be the fun you want.

If you’re a fan and a golfer, though, then yeah, this is a book for you. In their introduction, the authors list common questions that they’re asked, and they promise to candidly answer them here. They do, and you’ll be glad. If you love the game, “Together We Roared” will fit you to a tee. WI

horoscopes

LIFESTYLE

APRIL 17 - 23, 2025

ARIES Dynamic energy propels your initiatives forward as Mars energizes your ambition sector, bringing renewed determination to overcome obstacles in your path. Workplace dynamics shift in your favor through bold actions that demonstrate leadership capabilities. Financial planning benefits this weekend from strategic thinking that balances immediate needs with long-term security. Lucky Numbers: 7, 19, 31

TAURUS Practical progress solidifies as Venus enhances your stability sector, bringing tangible rewards for consistent efforts in professional endeavors. Financial opportunities emerge through careful evaluation of resources and thoughtful investment strategies. Creative projects flourish this weekend when combining innovative concepts with reliable techniques that honor your methodical approach. Relationships deepen through meaningful conversations that establish mutual expectations with clarity and patience. Lucky Numbers: 4, 16, 28

GEMINI Mental agility creates unexpected advantages as Mercury activates your communication zone, bringing brilliant solutions through rapid analysis of complex information. Social connections expand through engaging exchanges that reveal fascinating perspectives beyond your usual circles. Lucky Numbers: 3, 15, 33

CANCER Emotional intelligence guides important decisions as the Moon illuminates your intuitive sector, bringing clarity to situations requiring sensitivity to unspoken feelings. Family relationships strengthen through nurturing gestures that acknowledge deeper emotional needs without words. Home environments transform when adjusted to better reflect your current emotional priorities. Lucky Numbers: 2, 14, 26

LEO Magnetic presence attracts significant opportunities as the Sun enhances your influence sector, bringing recognition from those who appreciate authentic leadership and creative vision. Professional breakthroughs emerge through situations that showcase your ability to inspire collective enthusiasm during challenging circumstances. Lucky Numbers: 1, 13, 25

VIRGO Analytical precision resolves persistent challenges as Mercury sharpens your problem-solving abilities, bringing elegant solutions through methodical examination of overlooked details. Health improvements develop through thoughtful adjustments to daily routines based on systematic observation. Organizational systems reach optimal efficiency this weekend when refined through practical application of new information. Lucky Numbers: 6, 18, 30

LIBRA Harmonious exchanges deepen important connections as Venus graces your relationship sector, bringing meaningful developments with key people in personal and professional spheres. Negotiation skills prove valuable during situations requiring balanced consideration of competing perspectives. Aesthetic decisions reach satisfying conclusions, particularly regarding shared environments. Lucky Numbers: 8, 20, 32

SCORPIO Transformative insights reveal hidden opportunities as Pluto enhances your investigative abilities, bringing strategic advantages through psychological understanding of complex situations. Research efforts yield valuable discoveries this weekend that significantly influence your long-term direction. Financial prospects improve through careful analysis of collaborative ventures involving shared resources. Lucky Numbers: 9, 21, 39

SAGITTARIUS Expansive possibilities emerge as Jupiter amplifies your visionary thinking, bringing exciting opportunities through educational pursuits or philosophical exploration. Travel plans develop favorably, especially journeys combining adventure with meaningful discovery. Teaching opportunities materialize this weekend involving subjects that ignite your passionate interest. Lucky Numbers: 5, 17, 29

CAPRICORN Professional achievement builds as Saturn rewards your disciplined efforts, bringing recognition from authority figures who value your reliable approach to responsibilities. Organizational leadership highlights your management abilities during complex transitions requiring careful coordination. Resource allocation skills prove invaluable during circumstances necessitating strategic planning. Lucky Numbers: 10, 22, 40

AQUARIUS Innovative approaches gain momentum as Uranus activates your progressive thinking, bringing opportunities to implement forward-looking ideas addressing collective challenges. Technological insights allow navigation of developments others find disruptive with remarkable adaptability. Friendship networks expand this weekend through unexpected circumstances connecting you with like-minded visionaries. Lucky Numbers: 11, 23, 35

PISCES Intuitive guidance illuminates complex situations as Neptune enhances your spiritual receptivity, bringing clarity to matters requiring compassionate discernment and emotional wisdom. Creative inspiration flows abundantly, especially for artistic endeavors expressing subtle emotional nuances. Lucky Numbers: 12, 24, 36

SPORTS

Local Coaches Look to Parlay Success at National Programs

By Ed Hill WI Contributing Writer

While the nation witnessed University of Florida and University of Connecticut (UConn) crowned as the 2025 NCAA men’s and women’s basketball champions, respectively, throughout March Madness, the DMV watched with pride as players from the area were well represented and dominating on the court.

In the women’s and men’s competitions, the Washington Catholic Athletic Association (WCAC) was in full effect. University of Maryland’s Rodney Rice, a graduate of St. John’s College High School and DeShawn Harris-Smith is a graduate of Paul VI. Further, Duke’s Darren Harris, anoth-

er Paul VI graduate, was also on the national stage in the Final Four.

Graduates of Bishop McNamara were highlighted in the women’s national championship game, with the UConn Huskies’ Qadence Samuels, a graduate from Bishop McNamara, and the runner-up South Carolina Gamecocks Maddie McDaniel.

Although some joke there’s something special in the DMV water when it comes to building strong athletes, the success of local athletes is more than a coincidence. The high school programs continue to produce high-caliber athletes who make a mark on basketball and beyond.

As local high schools are gaining national recognition and rankings, there are some elite academy programs

that have reached a high profile in offering college-like exposure. While the DMV has been dominating on the court, these preparatory programs nationwide have kept a pulse on happenings locally, and recently tapped area coaches to take their athletes to the next level: IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, St. James Academy in Springfield, Virginia, and Montverde in Montverde, Florida.

“It’s only natural that these new elite academy schools bring in qualified coaches who have set a standard for basketball success,” says Oliver, who attended DeMatha Catholic High School and coached at H.D. Woodson in Northeast, D.C and Bishop McNamara in Maryland. “When I came to IMG, it was a smooth transition for me. I always felt that McNamara was a national program so when I got here, it was an easy transition.”

While Oliver’s mission of building excellent overall athletes has remained constant from McNamara to IMG, not everything is the same

“The big difference between the traditional school programs and these like IMG is the college preparation,” he said. “Everything is set up to create a college environment, from the scheduling of classes to strength and conditioning to the schedule and dorm life.”

For Oliver, who left a legacy behind at McNamara as the Mustangs finished the season No. 1 in both the area and the country, coaching at IMG has provided a stronger opportunity to put the athletes first.

“When I was at McNamara and before that at H.D. Woodson, I taught five classes. Here at IMG, I am re-

California Los Angeles (UCLA): Kiki Rice, Zania Socka-Nguemen, and her daughter Kendall Dudley.

In addition, she has been named three-time District of Columbia State Athletic Association (DCSAA) Coach of the Year, two-time ISL Coach of the Year, USA Today National Coach of the Year and Naismith Coach of the Year.

This year’s team ranked No. 2 in the area behind McNamara and No. 10 nationally.

“Tamika Dudley’s impact on the game speaks for itself,” said Elyse Graziano, chief sports officer at The St. James. “She has a track record of elevating programs and preparing athletes for success at the highest levels. Her leadership, experience and ability to develop players make her the perfect fit to grow our basketball program.”

sponsible primarily for boys’ basketball and all the other things that go along with that,” Oliver told The Informer. “There is no limit to the possibilities.”

TAMIKA DUDLEY

TAPPED FOR ST. JAMES GIRLS BASKETBALL PROGRAM

The St. James girls’ basketball program, rooted in the Performance Academy at the Springfield, Virginia sports complex, is a nascent but ambitious endeavor that began taking shape with the facility’s broader athletic vision.

The St. James opened in 2018 as a 450,000-square-foot multi-sport complex, aiming to fill a gap in elite training facilities in the D.C. metro area.

While initially focused on youth sports like soccer and hosting events, the formal girls’ basketball program emerged with the launch of the Performance Academy in August 2024, designed to blend academics and athletics for students grades 6-12.

Enter Tamika Dudley, who served as head coach of the Sidwell Friends School girls’ basketball team for four seasons before recently becoming the new director of girls basketball at The St. James.

At Sidwell Friends, she led the team to a remarkable 112-13 record, including an undefeated season in 2021–22 and No. 1 ranking, and coached the team to three Independent School League championships and three D.C. State Athletic Association titles.

Dudley has coached top high school recruits like Duke’s Jadyn Donovan, and three top players at University of

Dudley’s coaching philosophy emphasizes skill development, leadership and player growth. In 2024, she expanded her impact on the sport by joining USA Basketball as an assistant coach for the Women’s Nike Hoop Summit Team, where she helped guide the nation’s top high school seniors in international competition.

“The St. James offers a great opportunity for me,” said Dudley, considering why she decided to take the new position. “It was super attractive. It is going to be high-level with an outstanding academic model. We are going to be able to attract a select group of kids and it is right here in the backyard. The plan is to build the St. James into a national program.”

STEPHEN TURNER HEADS TO MONTVERDE ACADEMY

The Montverde Academy boys’ basketball team is widely regarded as one of the top high school basketball programs in the United States and boasts alums like NBA stars like Ben Simmons, Joel Embiid and Cooper Flagg, this year’s NCAA Player of the Year as a freshman

The task to continue the success at the program rests on the capable shoulders of Stephen Turner.

One of the most respected high school coaches in America, Turner, during his career as head coach at Gonzaga College High School in Northwest Washington, won almost 500 games, winning numerous WCAC and DCSAA championships and coach of the year awards.

WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

5Stephen Tuner, longtime coach at Gonzaga College High School, will now lead the Montverde Academy boys’ basketball team, widely regarded as one of the top high school basketball programs in the United States. (Courtesy Photo)

5Tamika Dudley, former head coach of the Sidwell Friends School girls basketball team, is the new director of girls basketball at The St. James in Springfield, Virginia. (Courtesy Photo)

CAPTURE the moment

Thousands of onlookers aligned Connecticut Avenue in downtown D.C. on April 12 for the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade, culminating a month-long series of events hosted throughout the District’s cherry blossom season. The celebratory tradition featured gigantic floats, parade balloons, live performances, and the unmatched spirit of D.C culture. (Cleveland Nelson/The Washington Informer)

TOGETHER

for Your Health

Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center

GW Health

Open on

April 15, 2025, in Ward 8

For the first time in nearly 25 years, Metro DC has a new, full-service hospital and it’s located in Ward 8 at 1200 Pecan St. SE, on the St. Elizabeths East Campus.

As part of a growing network that includes GW Hospital, Cedar Hill Urgent Care GW Health, and the future FletcherJohnson Freestanding Emergency Department, Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center GW Health (CHRMC) is building a legacy of care and connection.

From life’s greatest joys to its toughest challenges, we’ll be by your side. Welcoming new life, empowering you to stay healthy, and offering compassion and expertise when you need it most – that’s what it means to be together for your health.

1200 Pecan St. SE, Washington, DC 20032

For more information, scan the QR code or visit cedarhillregional.com.

RELIGION

’Hope is Active:’ Local Fait Leaders Combat Injustice Through Holy Week, Easter Messages

By Hamil R. Harris WI Contributing Writer

At an uncertain time for the District, nation and world, as the Trump administration continues to terminate jobs and programs and furlough federal workers across the country, many local pastors are combining Holy Week and Easter messages with charitable efforts to help their members and beyond.

“It is a tragedy in terms of what we have had to experience,” said the Rev. George Gilbert Sr., co-pastor of Holy Trinity United Baptist Church, in Southeast D.C. “Easter means the same thing that it has always meant, but right now Donald Trump is trying too hard to reshape our government.”

While he was critical of the executive branch, he also called out the judicial and legislative branches for “not stepping up.”

“And the sad thing is that,” Gilbert continued, “even though we have three branches of government, the other branches are not even playing.”

Despite Trump’s control, the Holy

cross, died and resurrected in order to offer hope for the future.

“Jesus endured the pain for all of us, and despite all of the darkness of this week (and time),” said Davis. “Jesus gives hope to all of us.”

While Holy Week and Resurrection Sunday are often filled with activities in churches worldwide, this year local faith leaders, like Davis, are emphasizing the importance of Jesus Christ’s commitment to uplifting all people, and his particular passion for the marginalized, sick, lonely and oppressed.

While he has plans to keep Holy Week traditions alive, such as inviting seven ministers to preach Jesus’ seven last words during the church’s Good Friday service, and a big Easter Sunday celebration, Saturday is about giving back.

Trinity co-pastor emphasized the need for churches to use this divisive time in the United States to work toward unity and justice, using God’s message of love, hope, faith and true equity.

“I have encouraged all of our churches to be steadfast and unmoveable because ultimately God is going to intervene,” Gilbert told The Informer, “and he has always made sure that we are taken care of.”

The Rev. Thomas Bowen, minister of social justice at Shiloh Baptist Church, in Northwest, D.C., said it is important for faith leaders and communities to offer a place of peace and hope during this politically, socially and financially trying time for the District and nation.

“As many of our parishioners face uncertainty and economic threat— particularly those whose livelihoods have been built on good government jobs—we must speak to both their pain and their promise,” Bowen said.

Bishop Joel Peebles, pastor of City of Praise in Landover, Maryland and leader of Global United Fellowship, emphasized the power of the church to combat challenging moments.

“The church is most relevant when the world is at its greatest struggle,” Peebles said.

HOLY WEEK, EASTER OFFERS MESSAGE OF HOPE DESPITE SUFFERING

For the Rev. Henry P. Davis, pastor of First Baptist Church of Highland Park, Holy Week and Easter are a reminder that Jesus suffered on the

”We are going to do grocery and food distributions on Saturday morning,” Davis told The Informer. “On Friday we will worship and on Saturday we will show that Jesus was active in the community.”

Peebles also plans on tapping into Easter programming throughout the week and having pastors air the seven last words of Christ.

“The church has stuff going on all week and internationally Global Fellowship we have things going on around the globe,” he told The Informer.

Focused on helping people navigate uncertainty and challenges, Peebles said his Easter message is simple.

“No matter what you see happening, what looks like a tragedy, God can turn it into a strategy,” he declared.

The Rev. Tony Lee, pastor of Community of Hope AME, in Temple Hills, will be preaching at Highland Park on Friday where he will offer a message of hope despite trials and tribulations.

“You can’t go through the messages of Easter without going through the tragedy of Good Friday,” Lee said. “Even amid the pain and sorrow, there is the hope of Sunday.”

Bowen explained the power of the Good Friday to Resurrection Sunday narrative.

“The message of Easter is clear: Death does not have the final word— hope does,” he said. “But hope must be active.”

As Washingtonians and people around the country navigate challenges, Bowen offered a call to action.

WI

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5The Rev. George Gilbert Sr., co-pastor of Holy Trinity United Baptist Church, in Southeast D.C. says that despite division and political challenges, God will intervene and ensure the nation is taken care of. (Courtesy Photo)

My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations.

— James 1:2 KJV

As we live through a different kind of Holy Week, we find ourselves gathering together in our places of worship to celebrate Good Friday, followed two days later by the Resurrection of Christ; just know, WE are the church!

This is a time when Christians reflect on the passion of Jesus Christ, who died for our sins on Good Friday. The good news is, he rose from the dead, by walking right out of the tomb on Resurrection Sunday, or to some it is called Easter Sunday morning. He died for my sins and yours, to give new life to all who believe.

Saints of God from all faiths, this is not a time for playing church. Allow this time for deep reflection, as you look back over your life, see the salvation of the Lord. His grace and mercy has kept you and me. As you ponder, make a new vow to the Lord to serve him until he calls you home. Just the way they hung Jesus to Calvary’s cross and he suffered, how many times have you found yourself in a situation when you find yourself suffering, and you wonder “What in the world is THIS all about Lord?” I sure have.

WITH LYNDIA GRANT

Trials and Tribulations During Holy Week the religion corner

This time it is not just our usual trials and tribulations, we’re in the midst of tens of thousands of workers who have been laid off from their so-called “good government” jobs, something that has always been guaranteed over the 70-plus years of my life. When my family moved to Washington, D.C., as previous sharecroppers, it was during the Great Migration, when we as African Americans left the South in hopes for a better life. We landed here in D.C., and I heard the phrase over and over again, “get yourself a good government job!” Wow, look at what has happened after years of security among workers. Most workers find themselves living in fear and they will tremble until this era is finally finished.

Just like the song says “Were you there when they crucified my Lord? Were you there when they nailed him to the tree? Oh! Sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble. Were you there when they nailed him to the tree? Were you there when they pierced him in the side? Were you there when the sun refused to shine? Were you there when they laid him in the tomb? Were you there when he rose up from the dead? Sometimes I feel like shouting ‘Glory, glory, glory!’”

It is clear that many will ask “Lord, why do you want us to endure these trials and tribulations; and why should we be told to count

them all joy?”

1 Peter 1:7 says “where the testing of our faith is compared, is like comparing it to the quality and purity of gold.” The Book of James also tells us in 1:2 that these trials have a purpose.

You ARE on a mission, and nothing will stop your run. The Holy Spirit is with you as you walk in your anointed purpose! Are you someone who has not been walking in your purpose? Then take this time given to tens of thousands laid-off workers, when you must stay at home, looking for new opportunities. Look within.

When trials and tribulations came my way, all I could do was have a quick talk with Jesus. I remember saying, “Jesus, I’m in trouble right now, I need you to order my steps!” My steps surely were ordered, miracles happened. God kept me, just as if nothing had happened to me, like he did for the three Hebrew boys. In fact, as if it had been already planned that way. My steps were indeed, ordered by the Lord.

You will know for sure your test did not break you, even during times like this tremendous federal government layoff that’s finding its way through every federal agency. Count it ALL joy. Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that all things work together for good, to them who love God and are the called according to his purpose!” WI

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Mt. Horeb Baptist Church

Rehoboth Baptist Church

First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church

Promised Land Baptist Church

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000167

Alma M. Pryor aka Alma Mae Pryor

Decedent

Julius P. Terrell

1455 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Suite 400 Washington, DC 20004

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Christina Pryor and Robert Pryor, whose addresses are 632 Edgewood Street. NE, Washington DC 20017, were appointed

Personal Representatives of the estate of Alma M. Pryor aka Alma Mae Pryor who died on April 28, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Christina Pryor Robert Pryor Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000221

Harold S. Johnson Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Harold S. Anderson, whose address is 4419 A Street SE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Harold S. Johnson who died on December 19, 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., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Harold S. Anderson Personal Representative

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 1535

Marc John DuBois Decedent

George A. Teitelbaum, Esq. 2416 Blueridge Ave., Suite 200 Wheaton, MD 20902

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Pu Kyong Tuite, whose address is 616 A Street, #6, NE, Washington, DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Marc John DuBois who died on November 23, 2024, with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Pu Kyong Tuite Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 229

William C. Barron Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Quanita M. Bryant, whose address is 7901 Shadow Oaks Drive #1011 Charlotte, NC 20269, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of William C. Barron who died on April 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., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Quanita M. Bryant Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000241

Martha J. Morris

Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Fred D. Morris Jr. and Ronald D. Morris, whose addresses are 1736 Verbena St., NW, Washington DC 20012 & 847 Hilltop Terr. SE Washington, DC 20019, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Martha J. Morris who died on 02/03/2025 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., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Fred D. Morris Jr.

Ronald D. Morris

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000255

Elvira Stamp Decedent

Yvonne Davis Smith 2501 Northampton Street NW Washington, DC 20015 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Jessica O. Stamp, whose address is 7532 Eastern Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20012, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Elvira Stamp who died on December 11, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Jessica O. Stamp Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 001338

Mildred S. Sims Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Linus Sims, whose address is 4725 Queens Chapel Terrace NE, Washington, DC 20017, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mildred S. Sims who died on October 9, 1989 without a Will. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Linus Sims

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2025 ADM 000197

Jeffrey Bruce Norman Decedent

Jeffrey K. Gordon, Esq. 5335 Wisconsin Avenue, NW, 400 Washington, DC 20015 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Robin Norman Depaoli, whose address is 8317 Stonewall Drive, Vienna, VA 22180, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jeffrey Bruce Norman who died on January 5, 2025 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Robin Norman Depaoli Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000204

Daniel Warren Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Jetheda Warren Hernandez, whose address is 5202 Eliots Oak Road, Columbia MD 21044, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Daniel Warren who died on January 31, 2025 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Jetheda Warren Hernandez

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 001293

Lynell Maria Rouse Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Donna June Rouse, whose address is 6704 Weston Avenue Capitol Heights MD 20743, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Lynell Maria Rouse who died on 7/23/2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Donna June Rouse Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000244

Vickie A. Pessagno aka Vickie Anne Pessagno Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Catherine P. Ferguson, whose address is PO Box 1014, Leonardtown, MD 20650, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Vickie A. Pessagno aka Vickie Anne Pessagno who died on February 2, 2025 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Catherine P. Ferguson Personal Representative

Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2022 ADM 000587

Ann D. McCain aka Ann Drusilla McCain Decedent

Aimee D. Griffin, Esq. 5335 Wisconsin Avenue, NW Suite 440 Washington, DC 20015

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Harry Jeffreys, Jr., whose address is 2211 Rosecraft Boulevard, Fort Washington, DC 20744, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ann D. McCain aka Ann Drusilla McCain who died on October 6, 2020 without a Will and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Harry Jeffreys Jr. Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000232

Charles Allen Best Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Teresa Brown, whose address is 7776 Shertall Street Fairburn GA 30213, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Charles Allen Best who died on 3/5/2025 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Teresa Brown Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000308

Barbara Ann Edwards Jones Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Timothy Charles Jones, whose address is 4224 Brooks Street, NE Washington DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Barbara Ann Edwards Jones who died on February 25, 2025 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding.

Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Timothy Charles Jones Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000248

Grace Emiko Watanabe

Decedent

Andre O. McDonald, Esq. 10500 Little Patuxent Parkway, Suite 420 Columbia, Maryland 21044

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Keiko M. Doyle, whose address is 4008 N 195th Street, Elkhorn, NE 68022, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Grace Emiko Watanabe who died on November 15, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Keiko M. Doyle Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 288

Beverly A. Campbell Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Damon N. Jones, whose address is 2130 Kent Ave., W. Bremerton, WA 98312, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Beverly A. Campbell who died on October 7, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Damon N. Jones 2130 Kent Ave. W. Bremerton, WA 98312

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000233

Leithella C. Rose Decedent

Damon Adams 1507 Hadden Manor Ct. Silver Spring, MD 20904 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Dwight A. Smith, Sr., whose address is 717 Jefferson Street, NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Leithella C. Rose who died on December 21, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Dwight A. Smith, Sr. 717 Jefferson Street, NW Washington, DC 20011 Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000240

Bobby Lee Hamm Decedent

Sianei Gbleehai 316 F Street, NE #215 Washington, DC 20002 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Takita Richelle Duckett, whose address is 8508 16th Street 410, Silver Spring, MD 20910, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Bobby Lee Hamm who died on 1/17/2025 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Takita Richelle Duckett Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 1554

Alonzo York

Decedent

Colline Silvera Robinson Kirlew And Associates, PC 7731 Belle Point Dr. Greenbelt, MD 20770

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Colline Silvera, whose address is 7731 Belle Point Dr., Greenbelt, MD 20770, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Alonzo York who died on 5/2/1999 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., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Colline Silvera

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2025 ADM 000236

Catherine E. Adams aka Catherine Everett Adams Decedent

James Larry Frazier, Esq. 918 Maryland Ave., NE Washington, DC 20002 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Iris Adams Carter, whose address is 806 Sero Estates Drive, Fort Washington, MD 20744, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Catherine E. Adams aka Catherine Everett Adams who died on January 29, 2025 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Iris Adams Carter

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

LEGAL

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000249

Cletis Virginia McNatt aka Cletis McNatt Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Mary Downing, whose address is 729 Crittenden Street NE, Washington, DC 20017, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Cletis Virginia McNatt aka Cletis McNatt who died on January 18, 2025 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. Objec

tions to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Mary Downing

729 Crittenden St., NE Washington, DC 20017

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000228

Maria A. Terrell Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Charles Bowman and Andre Bowman, whose addresses are 4258 S. Andes Way Aurora, CO 80013 & 19977 E. Crestline Place Centennial, CO 80015, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Maria A. Terrell who died on November 18, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Charles Bowman 4258 S. Andes Way Aurora, CO 80013

Andre Bowman 19977 E. Crestline Place Centennial, CO 89915 Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 94

Corinne B. H. T-Heard Decedent

Dalton Howard, Esq. 4020 Lee St. NE Washington, DC 20019 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

DeWitt O. Harris, whose address is 104 Snead Dr., North, Fort Myers, FL 33903, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Corinne B. H. T-Heard who died on January 27, 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., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

DeWitt O. Harris Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2025 ADM 000271

Minnie M. Brooks Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Allen G. Brooks, whose address is 8616 Hillview Road, Landover, MD 20785, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Minnie M. Brooks who died on June 16, 2021 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Allen G. Brooks Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 001513

Ellen Silver Decedent

Tamara McDowell Christian, Esq. 1629 K Street, NW Suite 300 Washington, DC 20006

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Aretha Somerville, whose address is 9701 Apollo Drive, Ste 100-AS, Largo, Maryland 20774, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ellen Silver who died on August 30, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Aretha Somerville Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000234

Raymond A. Carter Sr. Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Raecheal Ware, whose address is 9711 Risen Star Dr., Upper Marlboro MD 20772, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Raymond A. Carter Sr. who died on 1/17/2025 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Raecheal Ware Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000305

Elmore Manuel Williams aka Elmore M. Williams Decedent

Bobby G. Henry Jr. 9701 Apollo Drive, Suite 100 Largo, Maryland 20774 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

James Michael Conrad Sr., whose address is 51 Hamilton St. NW, Washington DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Elmore Manuel Williams aka Elmore M. Williams who died on March 13, 2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

James Michael Conrad Sr. Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 293

Rose Nan Ping Chen aka Rose Lai aka Nan Ping Chen Lai Decedent

Lindsey M. Avedisian 5425 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 600 Chevy Chase, MD 20815 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Jessica Horner, whose address is 12330 Loft Lane, Silver Spring, MD 20904, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Rose Nan Ping Chen aka Rose Lai aka Nan Ping Chen Lai who died on January 9, 2025 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Jessica Horner

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 001568

Johannes Aernout Heiko De Beaufort Wijnholds Decedent

Robert M. Reiner, Esq. 4416 East West Highway, Suite 400 Bethesda, MD 20814

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Christine Ruth Nicholson, whose address is 5012 Lowell St., NW, Washington, DC 20016, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Johannes Aernout Heiko De Beaufort Wijnholds who died on April 8, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Christine Ruth Nicholson Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000300

Sean Beeman Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Victoria Beeman, whose address is 1316 Fenwick Lane Apt 619, Silver Spring MD 20910, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Sean Beeman who died on 7/24/2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Victoria Beeman Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000262

Sharon Davis Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Ronald Davis, whose address is 4104 Shell Street, Capital Heights, MD 20743, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Sharon Davis who died on May 27, 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., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Ronald Davis Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2025 ADM 320

George Brookins Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Gary Brookins, whose address is 8828 Cottongrass Street, Waldorf, MD 20603, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of George Brookins who died on September 21, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/17/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/17/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/17/2025

Gary Brookins Personal Representative

of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 289

W. Davidson Tenney Jr. aka Walter Davidson Tenney Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Constantine D. Kyropoulos, whose address is 3133 Connecticut Ave. NW, Apt 827, Washington, DC 20008, was appointed

Personal Representative of the estate of W. Davidson Tenney Jr. aka Walter Davidson Tenney who died on 1/31/2025 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Constantine D. Kyropoulos

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000385

Estate of Harry L. Dishman

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE

Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Pamela Dishman Owens for standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representatives. Unless a responsive pleading in the form of a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is filed in this Court within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth.

Admit to probate the Will dated 10/20/2005 exhibited with the petition upon proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution by affidavit of the witnesses or otherwise

In the absence of a will or proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution, enter an order determining that the decedent died intestate appoint an unsupervised personal representative

Date of first publication: 4/17/2025

Pamela Dishman Owens 10300 Fox Dale Ct. Mitchellville, MD 20721

Petitioner/Attorney:

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 302

Agnes M. Mims aka Agnes Margaret Mims

Decedent

Jeffrey K. Gordon, Esq. 5335 Wisconsin Ave., NW #400 Washington, DC 20015

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

James Thompson, Jr., whose address is 5602 Dover Street, Churchton, MD 20733, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Agnes M. Mims aka Agnes Margaret Mims who died on 1/29/2025 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/17/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/17/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/17/2025

James Thompson, Jr. Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000334

James Hailes, Jr. Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Larry Hailes, whose address is 530 Cedar St. NW, Washington, DC 20012, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James Hailes, Jr. who died on January 15, 2025 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/17/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/17/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/17/2025

Larry Hailes 530 Cedar St., NW Washington, DC 20012

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 1574

Beatrice Dial Phillips aka Beatrice D. Phillips aka Beatrice Dial aka Beatrice Denny Dial aka Beatrice Hellena Denny aka Beatrice Helena Denny Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Paula L. Bowie, whose address is 8065 Norwich Court, Port Tobacco, MD 20677, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Beatrice Dial Phillips aka Beatrice D. Phillips aka Beatrice Dial aka Beatrice Denny Dial aka Beatrice Hellena Denny aka Beatrice Helena Denny who died on October 22, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/17/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/17/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/17/2025

Paula L. Bowie 8065 Norwich Court, Port Tobacco, MD 20677 Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 001218

Newton Antonio Gregorio Decedent

Joey N. Ofori, Esq. 11215-B Lockwood Drive Silver Spring, MD 20901 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Marc Gregorio, whose address is 9204 Glenarden Parkway, Glenarden MD 20706, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Newton Antonio Gregorio who died on June 9, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/17/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/17/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/17/2025

Marc Gregorio Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000319

Denise Chatman

Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Janice C. Waynes, whose address is 11803 Lusbys Lane Brandywine, MD 20613, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Denise Chatman who died on February 12, 2025 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/17/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/17/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/17/2025

Janice C. Waynes

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000336

Pauline J. Coley aka Pauline Jackson Coley Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Arnitta Jayne Coley, whose address is 725 24th St., NW, Apt 501, Washington, DC 20037, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Pauline J. Coley aka Pauline Jackson Coley who died on January 7, 2025 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding.

Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/17/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/17/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/17/2025

Arnitta Jayne Coley

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 001267

Virginia L. Moore aka Virginia Leigh Moore Decedent

Graner S. Ghevarghese

600 14th Street NW, Fifth Floor Washington, DC 20005

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

William Ray Moore, whose address is 114 Donna Place, Cary, NC 27513, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Virginia L. Moore aka Virginia Leigh Moore who died on 1/19/2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/17/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/17/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/17/2025

William Ray Moore

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000318

Constance G. Banner Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Miguel D. Tarver, whose address is 15113 Joppa Pl., Bowie Maryland 20721, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Constance G. Banner who died on 3/2/2025 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/17/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/17/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/17/2025

Miguel D. Tarver Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000322

Ozell E. Wooden, Sr. aka Ozell Elliot Wooden Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Debra Wooden, whose address is 3215 10th Pl., SE, Washington, DC 20032, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ozell E. Wooden, Sr. aka Ozell Elliot Wooden who died on 11/29/2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/17/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/17/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/17/2025

Debra Wooden Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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WILLIAMS from Page 28

nomination, already criticizing President Johnson’s anti-poverty tactics, and suggesting instead: “Let government use its tax and credit policies to enlist in this battle the greatest engine of progress ever developed in the history of man — American private enterprise. Let us enlist in this great cause the millions of Americans in volunteer organizations who will bring a dedication to this task that no amount of

MORIAL from Page 28

abilities and working families, according to a report issued last month by the National Urban League and 10 other leading civil rights and health equity organizations. While the cuts threaten Americans of all backgrounds, communities of color would suffer especially widespread harm: nearly 42 million people, or approximately a third of all people of color in the U.S., rely on Medicaid for health care.

Achieving the spending cuts to which Congress committed will require either:

• Stripping health care away from every single one of the 31 million children covered by Medicaid.

• Ending coverage for all adults age 65 and older who use Medicaid to ob-

money can ever buy.” Instead of worrying about restructuring the edifice that had produced America’s beggars, he believed giving the edifice more power would help; instead of worrying about transforming the Jericho Road, he recommended relying on millions more Good Samaritans. The same threads have been remixed and repeated again and again, alongside the arguments that the safety net is actually a snare, ripe for shredding.

Our nation is now at a moment

tain essential health care.

• Cutting 75% of all Medicaid funding for nursing home services or home and community-based care for older adults and people with disabilities.

The looming cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, meanwhile, endanger the health and financial security of more than 42 million Americans — nearly all of them in families with children, older adults or people with disabilities. The meager $6.20 per person per day that provides necessary nutrition and a measure of balance to precarious household budgets will be diverted to billionaires.

The reality of Trump’s budget stands in stark contrast to his campaign’s pandering to the working class, whom he promised to end “the infla-

DOUGLAS from Page 28 else. I frequently find myself trying to bond with white women dealing with the loss of a loved one to drugs. I long for the connection with other Black mothers who understand this unique pain.

call – the only Black mother on there. We talked about the different issues around shame and guilt, and one of the fathers said he had no shame around this issue. He finds solace in hearing other people’s stories and is in community with others. But I long for that togetherness because it has been hard to find other mothers to connect with who look like me. I have started a Facebook group, Black Moms Against Overdose, seeking a safe place for Black families whose loved ones overdosed. This group is specifically for Black mothers who have lost children to drug overdose, providing a space for us to share our experiences, support each other and work towards healing.

This has been a daily struggle for me. When Bryce first died, some family members advised me not to share Bryce’s story. But talking about it has been healing for me, and I think it would help other Black women to talk about their losses. I have connected with two Black women, one who lost a child to gun violence and another who lost a child in a car accident. It has helped. But honestly, the loneliness that I feel, having lost my child to a drug overdose, is just like nothing

when even acknowledging that inequities exist in the edifice is under attack. Will Americans embrace attempts to hide and accept the deep, unjust structural inequalities and injustices that favor the powerful at the expense of the powerless, the rich at the expense of the poor, and the greedy at the expense of the needy — or return to the call to transform the road?

WI

tion nightmare” and bring down the cost of “groceries, cars — everything.” Instead, his tariffs will cost the typical American household an average of $4,600 a year.

This is a moment that will test lawmakers in both parties. When they no longer can avoid the harsh reality of the budget they approved, will Republicans honor their new rhetoric about being the party of the working class? Will Democrats stand up against a reckless fiscal blueprint?

For our part, together with our partners in the newly launched Fair Budget Coalition, the National Urban League will continue to demand a responsible federal budget that centers fairness, opportunity and economic security for all Americans.

WI

their children because the messages are not getting through. When I first heard about fentanyl, I mentioned it to Bryce a couple of times and warned him that he had to be very careful because it is in everything.

I do draw strength from them. But losing a Black child to a drug overdose is much more stigmatizing for us than it is for them. It goes back to the War on Drugs, where Blacks were profiled, arrested and received harsh penalties for crack cocaine, while whites got lighter sentences for their cocaine use. Black people were stigmatized. I feel like that’s where I’m at in this moment. Some families frequently defuse their loss by labeling it drug-induced homicide and blaming the suppliers. It just seems that Black children, even the victims like Bryce, are routinely viewed as dope dealers and sellers. We need systemic change in the perception of drug overdose victims, particularly in the Black community, to address this stigma that is holding us back once again.

I am hanging on. But it has been the biggest trial of my life. I will never be the same person I once was. My pastor has emphasized that Black parents must understand the dangers of what’s going on and discuss it with

I am participating in a campaign by Vital Strategies to urgently increase awareness of the need to make naloxone, the life-saving medication, more accessible in Black communities. The You Have the Power to Save Lives campaign is running in seven U.S. cities — Louisville, Kentucky; Durham, North Carolina; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Newark, New Jersey; Albuquerque, New Mexico; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and Detroit, Michigan. At the core of this campaign are personal stories, like mine, of individuals directly affected by overdose deaths. I hope it can make a difference.

Working on initiatives like this helps me focus my energy on saving lives. But what I need are Black women to commiserate with, to share our pain and suffering, and band together to overcome our challenges. Your support is crucial, and your presence is deeply valued.

Of course, what I want most I can’t have. Bryce isn’t coming home.

WI

MARSHALL from Page 29

are the reason they can’t get ahead. They were led to believe that DEI initiatives are a threat because of losing opportunities, reverse discrimination and a shift in the status quo. They were misled into thinking that DEI policies unfairly prioritize race and gender over merit.

While a lack of understanding about the purpose and implementation of DEI initiatives contributed to negative perceptions and people being controlled and manipulated, white women should know better; the elimination of women’s power has been a goal of Project 2025. Any attack on DEI is meant to eliminate the power of women — all women.

White women who have obtained promotions and become entrepreneurs, corporate managers and leaders should stop defending the anti-DEI rhetoric. Rather, they should work hand-in-hand with progressives to preserve progress for women of all races. They should work together to learn how to adapt to the destructive changes brought forth by this new administration. White women in corporate

WILLIAMS from Page 29

his current crew to not be so obviously racist!

President John F. Kennedy (not to be confused with Louisiana’s Senator Kennedy) once said that his Harvard education misled him, and he thought that maybe Thaddeus Stevens might have a good point referring to the racial justice he worked for. Voter suppression is back with us, and we must work

JEALOUS from Page 29

we learned that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s DEI purge at the Pentagon included deleting photos and posts about the Tuskegee Airmen. That hit home. Two of my grandfather’s first cousins were Tuskegee Airmen. Those men risked everything for a country that treated them as second-class citizens — and now this administration is reluctant to give them even a photo and a caption.

They even removed a web page about Jackie Robinson’s military service. They later said it was a “mistake.” But when you see how wide this purge has spread, it starts to look less like a mistake and more like a mission.

A recent executive order from President Trump set its sights on the Smithsonian. He is targeting the very muse-

America need to look at the example of four-star generals and admirals to see the source of the real threat. A new strategy that responds to the attack must be developed to reclaim the true narrative of what DEI means and who it impacts. It needs to start with white women who are supporting the anti-DEI movement. Some of them are the loudest opponents of DEI, yet they benefit the most from social equity. Why would a white woman stand out against diversity, equity and inclusion when they have been benefiting from the fight to ensure opportunities for promotions within the governmen, military and private sector?

Overall, the creation of an inclusive environment has allowed pipelines to exist for white women to become future entrepreneurs, corporate managers and leaders. As a result, white men and children making up white households will benefit from efforts that promote justice, fairness and equal opportunities.

Women need to support other women when the true threat and contrast have been made clear

to dismantle it again. Stevens doesn’t deserve to be erased from history while voter suppression still exists. Are you registered? Did you vote in the presidential election of 2024? What Stevens and others worked for is still a vital issue.

Women who changed their names to the names of their husbands, be sure to have your birth certificate or another document to show you are a U.S. citizen. Otherwise, you might walk

ums created to tell the full story of our country. What does this mean for the very existence of the National Museum of African American History and Culture? Or the National Museum of the American Indian?

What happens to truth when it is inconvenient to power?

We cannot rely on oral tradition alone. Our history deserves permanence. It deserves pages and plaques and national monuments and memorials. It deserves official recognition, not redaction.

I think of my family’s own story — the parts that were buried for generations. I’m descended from the main Black leader of the Readjusters, a multiracial political movement that briefly, but very successfully, governed post-Reconstruction Virginia. They were left out of the history books for

during election campaigns. How do we win this cultural war when women are unwilling to support candidates such as Hillary Clinton and Kamala Harris in presidential elections against Donald Trump? Women need to support other women in corporate America. White women outearn their Black and Latino counterparts. Therefore, they must advocate for their fellow women of color when given the opportunity to do so.

Silence against the anti-DEI movement by white women is self-destructive. Desmond Tutu once said, “If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor.” Women need to support other women because Black women have grown tired of fighting for white women who refuse to acknowledge the threat from the puppet master. They refuse to challenge the narrative that women and people of color are being given jobs and promotions at the expense of more qualified and deserving candidates. We know that this backlash rhetoric is not true. Ask former four-star Adm. Franchetti. WI

Whatever you have to prove your citizenship, keep a copy with you. Keep up with the laws and obey them. Stevens was a white man truly fighting for our rights, and was portrayed as an unhinged radical. Let us not do less than he did, or less than John Lewis, Dr. King, Fannie Lou Hamer and others, to ensure our right to vote.

WI

more than a century. Not because they were not important, but because they were.

History is power. That’s why they are going after it.

The Trump administration’s attacks are not about race-blind policy. They are about race-based erasure. They support monuments to those who fought to preserve slavery while censoring stories of resistance. That’s not color-blindness. That’s complicity. It should not have to keep being said over and over again, but we will not let them diminish our communities’ contributions or deny our place in the American story. We are still here. And like the men and women of the Niagara Movement, we renew our sense of resolve. Our resolve is real. And it is rising. WI out on the street one day and be considered “deportable!”

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