The Washington Informer - December 5, 2013

“Criticism may not be agreeable, but it is necessary. It fulfills the same function as pain in the human body.

It calls attention to an unhealthy state of things.” – Winston Churchill

Edelman Examines John F. Kennedy’s Legacy See Page 27

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C e l e b r a t i n g 4 9 Ye a r s o f S e r v i c e

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Serving More Than 50,000 African American Readers Throughout The Metropolitan Area / Vol. 49, No.8 Dec. 5 - Dec. 11, 2013

Mayor Vincent Gray spars with reporters at a Tuesday morning press conference where his decision to seek reelection for a second term and echoes of a 2010 campaign scandal dominated the proceedings. /Photo by Khalid Naji-Allah

Gray Jumps into the Fray

By Barrington M. Salmon WI Staff Writer Ward 8 Council member and four-time D.C. mayor Marion S. Barry has often said there’s no more difficult job than being mayor of the District of Columbia.

But early Monday, Mayor Vin-

cent C. Gray (D) ended months of speculation by announcing his intention to run for a second term. He reiterated his desire to continue serving as the chief executive of the Nation’s Capital at a Dec. 3 press conference, and swatted away reporter’s questions about a 2010 campaign scandal that has dogged his ad-

ministration for more than three years.

“I’ve said what I’ve said and said it repeatedly,” Gray, 71, asserted, referring to his previous statements that he wasn’t aware of campaign aides’ actions. “I’ve said what I plan to say about this.

I’ve said enough.”

“I intend to talk about the

future of this city. The foundation has been laid. That issue [the campaign scandal] was from three-plus years ago. It will be taken care of. There are tens of thousands of people who weren’t here in 2010. People get in the campaign because they want to. They like the title. We have a vision and will continue

Visit us online for daily updates and much more @ www.washingtoninformer.com.

Ben’s Chili Bowl Plans to Open New Locations Page 4

Parents Advocate for Children Living with Autism Page 12

Follow us on

Interracial Dating on the Rise in the District Page 29

to articulate that vision. Candidates need to say where they want to take this city.”

Gray presides over a city – that despite myriad problems – is a growing technology hub, which sees 1,100 people move here every month, where the skyline is

See GRAY on Page 8 and on DCTV 95 & 96

The CoLumn

My Market, My Giant!

8th & O Street Store

Giant’s Market at O Street held an all premier night with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Attendees were treated to free product testing and live music, raffles and kids entertainment.

DC Mayor Vincent Gray, Council Members Vincent Gray, Tommy Wells & Jack Evans all came out for the opening. Even Tony “The Tiger”, Luck the Leprechaun for Lucky Chams were on hand to welcome the new grocery story to the area. The store is located at 8th & O Street in Northwest Washington, DC. DC Mayor Vincent Gray & Alexander M. Padro (Dir. of Shaw Main Streets, Inc.)

Mr. & Mrs. Ibrahim Mumin (Progressive Partners, LLC)

Jessica Anderson, Jodie Kans, & Robin Anderson

Ira Kess & Dean Wilkinson

DC Council Member Vincent Orange

Giant Employee Cindy Seyfferth

Giant’s Shrononda & Phil

Giant Employees Margaret & Tom

DC Council Member Tommy Wells

DC Council Member Jack Evans Giant Employees Thomas, Terry, & Quanique

Giant ‘s Suzette & Shannon

News Anchor Sam Ford)

Giant Employee Yvette

Pauline, Cola & Quanique with Tony “The Tiger”, et al

Want to be a Social Sightings?

Margaret with her daughter in-law and her son & grandson

Subscribe www.SocialSightings.com

Kurt Pommonths, Sr, Photographer • Photo Enhancer • Graphic Designer

Social Sightings-The CoLumn is published in the Hill Rag, DC Mid-City, East of the River & The Washington Informer Newspaper 2003 © SOCIAL SIGHTINGS ALL RIGHTS RESERVED — DUPLICATION IN ANY FORM REQUIRES WRITTEN PERMISSION | E-mail SocialSightings@aol.com

2 December 5, 2013 - December 11, 2013

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FLASHBACK

12/5/2013 – 12/11/2013 AROUND THE REGION Black Facts Page 6 VIRGINIA Page 14 PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY Page 15 BUSINESS William Reed’s Business Exchange Page 19 COMMENTARIES Pages 27-28 SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS Pages 41-44 RELIGION Lyndia Grant’s Religion Column Page 46

In recognition of The Washington Informer’s 50th Anniversary in October 2014, we are looking back at some of the newsworthy moments we covered in D.C. history. With the countless numbers of photos we have in our archives, there are many faces and events we cannot identify. But who could look beyond these pretty little faces in this group of young dancers who surely delighted the audiences that watched them perform. If you recognize them, let us know where they are today. /WI Archives.

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SOMETHING NEW EVERYDAY www.washingtoninformer.com Visit our updated Web site and give us your comments for a chance to win a gift from The Washington Informer Email comments to: rburke@ washingtoninformer.com

Women Break the Cycle of Domestic Violence

By Tia Carol Jones

law enforcement. She said they threat,” she said. had come together to bring a Among the programs Marlow sense of uniformity in the way wants to see implemented are When L.Y. Marlow's 23-year- domestic violence victims and stricter restraining order policies, old daughter told her the father survivors are treated. more rights for victim's families of her daughter threatened her “She's using her own personal to intervene on behalf of a viclife, and the life of their child, story, her own personal pain to tim, a domestic violence assessshe knew something had to be push forward,” Davis-Nickens ment unit coupled with further done. Out of her frustration said about Marlow. training for law enforcement with law enforcement's handling Davis-Nickens said anyone agencies, a Child's Life Protecof the situation, she decided to who reads Marlow's book will tion Act and mandatory counselstart the Saving Promise cam- “get it.” She said she “puts the ing for batterers.

Mrs. Virginia Ali and sons, left to right,case Nizam, Haidar Ben’s Chili Bowl, a Washington institution, paign. in such a and way,Kamal. the average “If we are ever going to eradiplans expand future. courtesy of Ben’s Chili Bowl “Ittoseems toinbethea near vicious cycle/Photo person can get it.” She said at the cate domestic violence, we must that won't turn my family end of the day, the book will look at both sides of the coin. loose,” Marlow said. Marlow help people begin to have a dia- We need to address both the vicshared her story with the audi- logue about domestic violence. tim and the batterer,” Marlow ence at the District Heights Also present at the event was said.

Domestic Violence Symposium Mildred Muhammad, the exMarlow would also like to see on May 7 at the District Heights wife of John Allen Muhammad, programs designed to raise Municipal Center. The sympo- who was sentenced to six consec- awareness among children in sium was sponsored by the utive life terms without parole public and private schools. She Family and Youth Services by a Maryland jury for his role in feels children need to be educatCenter of the city of District the Beltway Sniper attacks in ed about domestic violence.

Buthave we to want Boulevard, had previ-is ence.

Heights and theSummers National Hook- 1725 By Margaret 2002.Wilson Mildred Muhammad “We stoppeople being who pasously been occupied popular are friendly andwith are poor customer Up of Black Women. the founder of Afterby thea Trauma, sive-aggressive chilWI Contributing Writer hamburger Marlow has written a book, Arlington oriented.” an organization that restaurant, helps the service dren about domestic violence,” @margaretsumme10 “Color Me Butterfly,” which is a Ray’s Hell Burger.

“It’s a great strip The two-story H Street, survivors of domestic violence Marlow said. story about four generations of [mall],” said Kamal Ali, “and it has and their children.

Marlow has worked to Bowl, break Northeast Ben’s Chili Ben’s Chili Bowl fans living domestic Thewho book “I livedlot.” in fear for six years. Six which the cycle abusean inupper her family, will of include level outside of violence. the District dis-is a parking inspired by herto own years in fear is a long time. and is confident the policies she Unlike the concession standsIt atis restaurant called “Ben’s Upstairs” like long drives theexperiences, restaurant’s and those of her grandmother, FedEx not an easy thing to come out is pushing for will start that Field and Nationals Park, is scheduled to open sometime landmark U Street location can her mother and her daughter. of,” the she smaller said. Reagan National before process.

June 2014. The Arlington take heart. Additional Ben’s eat- and She said every time she reads Airport Mildred Muhammad said “I plan to take policiesor to eatery, the Arlington and location will openthese in January eries openfrom nexther yearbook, in Arlington, excerpts she still H people who want to help a Congress and implore them to Street, Northeast Ben’s Chili February 2014. The opening for Va.’s Ronald Reagan Aircan not believe theNational words came domestic violence victim must change our laws,” Marlow said.

Bowls will not be franchises. the Reagan National Airport loport, Wilson from and her. on “Color Me Boulevard.

Butterfly” be“Franchising careful of how they togogrow into “I will not stop until these poliis a way Another Ben’s District restaurant cation is planned sometime bewon the 2007th National “Best faster. the victim's life,have and understand cies are passed.”

We don’t to do day- fore will openAward. on 10 and H Streets in May 31, 2014.

Books” that she may be in “survival Tia Carol Jones can be reached to-day managing, but we get our Northeast.

Ben’s Chili Bowl customers in“I was just 16-years-old when mode”. at tiacaroljones@sbcglobal.net royalties, and customers get their terviewed shortly after Thanksgivlooked atand expanmy“My eyefather first had blackened my “Before you get to 'I'm going Kamal Ali said. sion was a much welcomed the news about the lips when bled,”he Marlow said. younger half-smokes,” to kill you,' it started as a verbal ingWI “The strategy is to operate the restaurant’s new locations. man.

But the money wasn’t presithere Elaine Davis-Nickens, at the oftime minorities [to in- H Street, Northeast and Wilson dent thefor National Hook-Up “The Arlington restaurant might crease their businesses],” said of Black Women, said there isKano Boulevard locations in ways where be easier for me to go to if they mal Ali, one of founder we can learn things outside of the have more parking spaces,” said consistency in restaurant the way domestic Ben Ali’s sons Ben’s violence issueswho are operates dealt with

by U Street flagship store. This will Judy Wongsam, 44, of Northwest.

Chili Bowl. Ben Ali died in Octo- give us a true test before we decide “The H Street location might how to build out our restaurants ber 2009 at age 82. not work [for me] because it Kamal Ali, 51, said expansion and brand.” would be hard to find parking. I Loyal customers of the 55-yearof the Ben’s Chili Bowl business could see myself driving to the and brand began with the opening old restaurant need not worry suburbs to go to the Ben’s Chili of two concession stands at the about their favorite half-smokes, Bowl in Arlington, especially if FedEx Field football stadium in chili-hamburgers, hot dogs and they have parking.”

Landover, Md. and four in Nation- other favorites tasting differently Other loyal patrons of Ben’s als Park on South Capitol Street in in the new locations.

Chili Bowl agree.

“That’s where staff training Southeast. Ben’s Chili Bowl also “I would consider going to the opened Ben’s Next Door, located comes in,” Kamal Ali said. “The Ben’s Chili Bowl in Arlington,” product will be consistent in evnext to the original restaurant. said Jason Small, 47, of Centre“We have a larger development ery Ben’s Chili Bowl location. It’s ville, Va. “It would be closer to like McDonald’s.

You can go to plan for the ‘DMV [District, Md. and Va.]’” said Kamal Ali. “We any McDonald’s anywhere and the where my family and I live, and I conducted market research; we ex- food will taste the same.” There love the food.”

There’s a general consensus. amined ‘foot traffic’ to restaurants will be some Ali family members “I’d eat at the Arlington Ben’s in Virginia, the disposable income supervising and working in the H because L.Y. Marlow of residents in the area, and other Street, Northeast and Arlington lo- Chili Bowl, definitely, it would be closer,” said Darrell factors that would determine the cations, he said. best chances of being successful.

Kamal Ali anticipates that the Douglas, who also lives in AlexanWe considered opening in Ball- newer restaurants combined will dria, Va. Whatever their location, said ston, Clarendon or Rosslyn, Vir- generate approximately 100 jobs. ginia. But we liked the location in “We will train people, and we Kamal Ali, “We thank the commu/ www.washingtoninformer.com Arlington.” will take people with experience, nity for many years of support and The Arlington, Va. space at some experience, or no experi- the opportunity to serve them.” wi WI Staff Writer

Ben’s Chili Bowl to Open Va. and H Street Locations

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We have to stop being passive-aggressive with poor children about domestic violence. I plan to take these policies to Congress and implore them to change our laws. I will not stop until these policies are passed.

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WEEK OF dec 5 TO dec 11

Black Facts of paying white teachers more than black teachers.

1987 – Kurt Schmoke becomes the first black mayor of Baltimore, Maryland.

December 5

1870 – Legendary black cowboy William “Bill” Pickett is born in Travis County, Texas.

Standing only 5’7” and weighing 145 pounds, he is considered one of the toughest men every to be called a cowboy.

1932 – The “King of Gospel” Rev. James Cleveland is born in Chicago, Illinois.

1932 – Flamboyant singer-performer “Little Richard” is born and raised in Macon, Georgia. He becomes one of the founding fathers of rock-and-roll.

1957 – New York becomes the first city to pass a law banning racial or religious discrimination in housing with the Fair Housing Practices law.

December 9

1925 – Comedian Redd Foxx is born in St Louis, Missouri. He was raised on the Southside of Chicago. He gained black fame as a standup comic on the socalled “chitlin circuit” – shows that only played to African American audiences. He became a national celebrity in the 1970’s with the popular television series “Sanford and Son.” Foxx died in Los Angeles in 1991 shortly after the IRS seized most of his property to collect back taxes.

He died of a heart attack.

December 6

1849 – Harriet (Ross) Tubman escapes slavery in Maryland.

But she becomes perhaps the greatest “conductor” on the Underground Rail Road returning to the South 19 times and helping an estimated 300 slaves escape.

1961 – Revolutionary psychiatrist and writer Frantz Fanon dies in Washington, D.C. where he had gone for medical treatment. In his writings, the Martinique-born Fanon explored the psychological aspects of racial oppression and black liberation. His most famous works were “Black Skins, White Masks” and “The Wretched of the Earth”.

December 10

1846 – Norbert Rillieux invents the “multiple effect pan evaporator” which revolutionizes the sugar industry and makes the work much less hazardous for the workers. He also researched Egyptian hieroglyphics. He died in Paris in 1894.

1964 – Martin Luther King,

Jr. is awarded the Nobel Peace prize for his leadership of the American Civil Rights Movement.

1967 – R&B legend Otis Redding dies when the twin-engine plane he was piloting crashed into a lake as it was headed for a concert in Wisconsin.

December 11 1917 – Thirteen black soldiers were hanged for their participation in the so-called Houston riot.

The “riot” had occurred in August of 1917 when whites objected to the presence of Black soldiers in the city. Roughly 100 Black soldiers grabbed rifles and marched on downtown Houston. Within two hours they had killed 15 whites including 4 police officers.

1926 – Blues legend Willie Mae “Big Mama” Thornton is born in Montgomery, Alabama. She became the Big Mama of the Blues, with a powerful voice, a fiery stage presence and a 6-foot- 350-pound frame.

Thornton recorded “Hound Dog” in 1956 with the Johnny Otis band which Elvis Presley copied and made famous years later.

December 7

BUYING RECORDS

1931 – Comer Cottrell is born. Cottrell founds the ProLine hair care products company. He also becomes the first black to own part of a professional baseball team when he buys into the Texas Rangers in 1989.

December 8

1936 – The Gibbs v. Board of Education in Montgomery County, Maryland decision is rendered. It was the first of a series of court rulings which eliminated the practice

Frantz Fanon

Buying Vinyl Records from 1950 to 1986, Jazz, Rock-n-Roll, R&B, Disco, Soul, Reggae, Blues, Gospel, and record format 33 1/3, 45s, and some of the older 78s.

Prefer larger collections of at least 100.

CALL JOHN @ 301-596-6201 6 December 5, 2013 - December 11, 2013

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around the region INTERVIEWS AND PHOTOS BY TIMOTHY LINDEN

Viewp int Chelsea Jones Crawford

Washington, D.C. I did not participate in Black Friday this year. I typically try to avoid the big crowds, and figure that I can get the same deals at some other point in the year. As a matter of fact, one store that my husband went to had actually marked up the price on an item.

And I think that’s pretty typical of all the stores. While the discounts might seem to be really great, in reality, they’re actually not. So I just choose to wait until later in the year to buy my Christmas gifts.

www.washingtoninformer.com

Brian Crawford

Washington, D.C. I was very limited in my participation of Black Friday this year. I had one store in mind that I wanted to go to, but the item I wanted to purchase was marked up in price. I participated in Black Friday about four years ago and the experience was so bad that I decided then that that was enough for me. What I do now is locate one store I like that’s not in a mall, and try to get in and out really quickly.

BLACK FRIDAY, THE DAY AFTER THANKSGIVING, IS CONSIDERED THE BUSIEST SHOPPING DAY OF THE YEAR. DID YOU PARTCIPATE IN BLACK FRIDAY THIS YEAR, OR ARE THE CROWDS JUST TOO MUCH FOR YOU TO HANDLE?

Reginald J. Ruffin

Takoma Park, Md. Black Friday is a commercialized holiday that was created to bring in more sales and [create] a buying frenzy. If I find out that something I need will be on sale during Black Friday, then I’ll participate and try to take advantage of the good deal. Otherwise, you can find just as good of deals by doing some research and by using coupons. I did stop by one store this Black Friday just to see if there were any good deals.

James Woods

Washington, D.C. I just stayed at home, [enjoyed] extra turkey and watched football [on] Black Friday. I didn’t go out to buy anything. I’ve found that I can find the same deals online. To me, Black Friday is [overrated] every year. You can find the same deals, and ones that are even better, on different holidays throughout the year. I participated in Black Friday a couple of years ago, but it was too much of a hassle with the crowds – I’m getting older – and don’t want to have to deal with all of that chaos.

The Washington Informer

Nathaniel Curtis

Takoma Park, Md. I stayed at home this year. I actually haven’t participated in any of the Black Fridays. When you get my age, 74, each day is like Thanksgiving and Christmas.

I don’t think the deals on Black Friday are really that good. People actually spend more money because they buy things that they wouldn’t have otherwise. There are a lot of gimmicks used by stores to get people out to spend more money.

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Gray continued from Page 1

dotted with cranes, construction is booming, and city officials continue looking for ways to diversify the local economy. Gray has also gained credibility and national prominence for refusing to shutter city operations during the October federal shutdown and for his robust defense of D.C.’s autonomy and independence.

Gray has rebounded well from what could best be described as an “anni horribiles.” He endured revelations of a $653,000 shadDenise Rolark Barnes ow campaign which emerged Independent Beauty Consultant during the course of a federal www.marykay/drolark-barnes.com investigation into campaign ir202-236-8831 regularity, and four of his 2010 campaign aides pled guilty to various offenses. Last year, Council member David Catania (I-At Large) and his colleagues Muriel Bowser (D-Ward 4) and Mary Cheh (D-Ward 3) demanded that Gray step down. Catania argued that the revelations delegitimized Gray’s victory and so tainted his tenure that whether the mayor knew of the shadow campaign or not, he should resign.

Then, as now, Gray denied any wrongdoing and steadfastly refused to step down.

U.S. Attorney Ronald Machen, a frequent and relentless critic said in the past that the guilty pleas were bad marks against an election already stained by proof that Gray campaign aides made illicit payments to Sulaimon M. Brown, a minor mayoral candiwho was offered money in upper and lowercase, flush left as indicated on artwork at these point sizes: Consultant name in 11-point Helvetica date, Neue Bold; Independent n 9-point Helvetica Neue Light; Web site or e-mail address in 9-point Helvetica Neue Light; phone number in 9-point Helvetica Neue Light. and a job to batter Mayor Adrint Beauty Consultant: Only Company-approved Web sites obtained through the Mary Kay® Personal Web Site program may be utilized. an Fenty in forums prior to the election.

“In 2010, the mayoral campaign was compromised by backroom deals, secret payments

8 December 5, 2013 - December 11, 2013

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D.C. Council member Jack Evans (D-Ward 2). /Courtesy Photo

and a flood of unreported cash,” Machen said after the guilty plea of Gray’s longtime friend and associate Jeanne Clarke Harris.

“The people of this city deserve better. They deserve the truth.”

Ten candidates – including four members of the D.C. Council – have secured ballot petitions for the April 1 Democratic primary. Gray’s incumbency gives him widespread name recognition and as he illustrated during a presentation about his administration’s five-year economic development plan, he has a record on which he proudly plans to run.

Alexander M.Padro, executive director of Shaw Main Streets, said he’s very pleased Gray threw his hat in the ring.

“Am I surprised that he’s running? No, I was hoping he was going to. I told other candidates that I couldn’t support them until he decided,” he said.

“The incumbent is always the man to beat. They have to polish their stuff but he has a record he can run on. The city is in the best condition it’s been for a long time, and it’s in the best shape financially. If Machen had anything – a smoking gun – he would have pulled the trigger already.”

“I’ve known the mayor for quite a while. I supported [former Mayor Adrian] Fenty. It’s always the incumbent who delivers. There’s no reason to change the horse in mid-stream.”

Padro, 49, a New York native who moved to the D.C. metro area in 1994, said Gray has delivered on his promises to renovate the Kennedy Recreation Center and Shaw Middle School and spearhead the development of the O Street Market.

“He’s always been very ap-

proachable and doesn’t have to be embarrassed to do what he’s promised to do,” said Padro. “It’s about 70 percent complete with everything that’s to be done in the community. Hopefully, we’ll have the mayor around in the next few years to thank him.”

Gray’s Chief of Staff Chris Murphy said he expected his boss to run. “He has a great track record and wants to see a number of projects completed,” he said. “I don’t think he feels his job is done.”

D.C resident Michael Ball said he has no problem with Gray’s announcement.

“One longstanding issue is housing and I’m not talking about projects,” said Ball, a 44-year-old Northeast resident who works as a security officer.

“We always talk about jobs but rent is so high right now. I want to see him do something different. I don’t know what he can do. There has to be other programs for housing.”

“They need to improve social services. I see so many people like myself who have worked for all of our lives and still can’t get help at times. But then you see millions of people who live off of social services and do nothing for a living. I don’t know what they are doing about that system. Everything is handed to people.”

Adrian Teutsch, 31, a project manager for an international printing organization, pointed to some unresolved issues.

“I’m of the mind that there hasn’t been much change. We keep getting stuck in the same roundabout,” he said. “The taxes are too high for the amount of health and social programs.

See Gray on Page 9 www.washingtoninformer.com

around the region

Drivers. Bikers. Walkers.

• Safely share the road.

Do not run in front of an approaching streetcar.

• Streetcars cannot go around cars parked on the tracks. Park within the white lines and do not double park.

Mayor Vincent Gray spent more than an hour discussing his five-year economic development plan before responding to media questions about his decision to run for a second term. /Photo by Khalid Naji-Allah

Gray continued from Page 8 I liked some of Mayor Fenty’s [programs]. There are so many transients in the city that they don’t care. I was born and raised here and I expected to be treated as such. That’s my main worry.

Gentrification has taken away from what has made D.C. great.”

“I think Gray has a good shot.

The city is on the upswing and kind of recession proof. It’s a good thing for him because there will always be jobs here. I think he’ll probably win.”

Gray’s announcement produced predictable responses from opponents.

Ward 6 Council member and mayoral candidate Tommy Wells said Gray isn’t fit to serve as D.C.’s mayor for another term.

“Vince Gray was elected under false pretenses and doesn’t deserve a second chance because www.washingtoninformer.com

he ran a corrupt campaign,” said Wells, 56. “I’ve known Vince Gray for years and I’m disappointed that he let me down and everyone in [the District] down.”

When approached to comment about Gray’s entry into the race, D.C. Council member Jack Evans (D-Ward 2) declined.

However, his Ward 4 colleague Muriel Bowser (D) didn’t mince words.

“We always expected for the mayor to be in the race,” said Bowser, 41. “Our campaign strategy is around beating him.”

Venture capitalist and entrepreneur Michael D. Ein lauded Gray’s performance.

“I think he’s done a great job,” said Ein, CEO of the venturehousegroup in Northwest. “The city’s a lot better place than when he came into office.”wi WI Staff Writers Sam P.K. Collins and James Wright contributed to this story.

Testing on H Street Begins in December

• Streetcars travel at or below the posted speed limit and must obey all traffic signals.

on H Street this December as

It’s Electric. Be Safe.

it’s tested and certified for the

• Streetcars are powered by electricity—use caution when approaching a work zone.

• The overhead wire or “catenary” is energized at 750v DC. Do not attempt to climb the poles, touch the wires, or throw things at them.

DC Streetcar will be in motion

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AROUND THE REGION

By James Wright WI Staff Writer

Alexander Reveals Choice for D.C. Mayor Although D.C. Council member Yvette Alexander (D-Ward 7) isn’t on the ballot in 2014, it’s no surprise who she’d like to see win the Tuesday, April 1 Democratic Party mayoral nomination.

“I am supporting [D.C. Mayor] Vincent Gray,” Alexander, 52, said during the Ward 7 Democrats meeting on Nov. 23 at the Capitol View Library in Southeast.

Alexander is one of three members of the D.C. Council whose name will not appear on the ballot in 2014. The other D.C. Council members who aren’t running for re-election or for another office are Marion Barry (D-Ward 8) and D.C. Council member David Grosso (I-At Large).

Gray, 71, recently announced that he will seek a second term in office.

In other news, the Ward 7 Democrats will hold their 11th Annual Holiday Celebration and Children’s Winter Clothing Drive on Saturday, Dec. 14 at The Chateau nightclub in Northeast from 3-7 p.m.

Ed Potillo, the chairman of the Ward 7 Democrats, said that the event isn’t just another political gathering – it’s a way to help others.

“We are supporting the ward’s children,” said Potillo, 45. “There are many elementary school children in the ward who do not have enough clothing and we want to help them.”

Ethel Delaney Lee Dinner Draws Crowd The Ward 4 Democrats held their Fourth Annual Ethel Delaney Lee Dinner, a gala fundraiser, on Nov. 23 at the Washington Ethical Society in Northwest.

More than 100 people attended the event that honors Ward 4 residents and organizations.

“The Ethel Delaney Lee Awards Dinner was established in 2010, to recognize the contributions of community members who continue to give of their time, talent, and treasures, to make our city and our Ward 4 better for all,” said Brandon Todd, 30, the president of the Ward 4 Democrats.

Lee thanked those who attended the gala but said that all Democrats need to unite behind President Obama and fight those

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while the Georgia Avenue Family Support Collaborative received the 2013 Outstanding Community Service Award.

D.C. Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D) and D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson (D) made remarks and paid homage to Lee. “The strength of our party is in its units,” said Norton, D.C. Council member Yvette Alexander 75, referring to or(D-Ward 7) isn’t up for re-election in 2014. ganizations like the /Courtesy Photo Ward 4 Democrats.

“What you are doing here tonight in honoring Ethel Delaney Lee has not been done enough.”

Ward 8 Democrats Announce Committee Chairs Natalie Williams, the president of the Ward 8 Democrats, announced on Nov. 16, the committee chairs for the 20132015 term.

The committees perform the lion’s Brandon Todd currently serves as the president of share of the work the Ward 4 Democrats. /Courtesy Photo for the Ward 8 Democrats and the chairmen help the president set the policies who would oppose him. and procedures that govern the “The members of Congress organization. need to take off their suits and The Rev. Anthony Motley will put on their true outfits, white serve as the new chair of the key sheets,” said Lee, 87, to the deIssues and Legislation Commitlight of the crowd. tee.

The committee deals with Lee is a co-founder of the the organization’s positions on Ward 4 Democrats and has political issues facing the ward worked with and mentored such politicians as former D.C. Coun- and the city.

Other chairs include Angelicil members Arrington Dixon and Charlene Drew Jarvis, for- sa Young of the Program Demer D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty velopment Committee; Arnehl and D.C. Council member Mu- Lyon on Seniors; 8E02 Advisory riel Bowser, who happens to be Neighborhood Commissioner a candidate for District mayor in Anthony Muhammad on the 2014.

Youth Outreach Committee and Dr. Betty Catoe-Strudwick Verna McKelvin on Public Relaand Terry Goings received the tions.

2013 Woman and Man of the “I am confident that each of Year Awards. Retired Pepco exthese individuals is more than ecutive Beverly Perry, Channel 9 capable to perform tasks that Newscaster Bruce Johnson and have been entrusted to them Advisory Neighborhood Comwith the highest levels of commissioner 4B02 Faith Wheeler mitment and professionalism,” walked away with a President Award of Excellence trophy said Williams, 43.wi www.washingtoninformer.com

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Local Nonprofit Launches Respite Care Center

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer @SamPKCollins Shaquilla Henry walked into F.A.C.E.’s Place Respite Care Center in Silver Spring, Md. determined to help her son strengthen his cognitive abilities through music therapy, arts and crafts, and sensory games. Nine months ago, her family physician diagnosed the youngster with autism and she has struggled to address his special needs while balancing other obligations.

That morning, she watched in awe as Jaylen, 5, eagerly played with blocks, scribbled stick figures, poured a container of glitter onto a blank sheet of paper, and horsed around with other children. She said the experience has given her a glimmer of hope.

“Once Jaylen gets more acclimated [to the exercises], I know

it will be a great experience for him,” said Henry, 29. “It’s good to find places like this in the area for help. He’s very active and always wants to learn. I would like for him to communicate more and form full sentences when he asks for things,” said Henry who lives in Laurel, Md. Henry and a dozen other parents recently gathered to share their stories while their children participated in a variety of activities at an open house for F.A.C.E.’s Place Respite Care Center on Nov. 16. Facing Autism with Children Everywhere (F.A.C.E.), a Silver Spring-based nonprofit that provides services for children with autism and their parents, hosted the four-hour event and showcased its array of services available for $40 per session.

“Autism diagnoses are on the rise. The fact is that it is not going anywhere,” said Shanté Harris-Su-

perville, 40, founder and executive director of F.A.C.E. “Parents who need help and want to help others are spreading the word. The need is out there,” said Harris-Superville who lives in Silver Spring, Md. Two in 1,000 children are diagnosed with autism in the United States every year according to a report released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2012. Diagnoses have risen steadily nationwide among minority children since the 1980s in part due to the increase in government-funded subsidized incentives. Variations of the disorder on the autism spectrum include Asperger syndrome and Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified (PDDNOS). Symptoms often appear in the first six months of a child’s life and include a lack of responsiveness to their name and external stimuli, infrequent eye contact, an

Shanté Harris-Superville (left), executive director of Facing Autism with Children Everywhere (F.A.C.E.), briefly chats with a parent during a four-hour open house for the nonprofit’s respite care center on Nov. 16.

F.A.C.E.’s Place Respite Care Center, slated to officially open in January 2014, provides an array of services for autistic children and their parents for $40 per session. /Photo by Shevry Lassiter

inability to take social cues, repetitive behavior, and atypical eating habits.

While parents of autistic children living in Maryland can obtain early intervention that includes in-house speech therapy and enrollment in specialized school programs, resources that aid in their

day-to-day care often dwindle by the time children reach the age of nine, leaving parents to care for their children at a critical juncture in their development.

Harris-Superville, whose son was diagnosed with PDD-NOS in 2008, started F.A.C.E. in January

See AUTISM on Page 13

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Rowan (left), 9, and Jaylen (right), 6, drew stick figures and poured glitter on blank sheets of paper during an open house for F.A.C.E.’s Place Respite Care Center in Silver Spring, Md. on Nov. 16. /Photo by Shevry Lassiter

AUTISM continued from Page 12 after coming to this realization.

The nonprofit as she envisioned it, would challenge negative perceptions about the developmental disorder and create a space where overwhelmed parents can receive the help they need once their child reaches an age where state-funded resources are not readily available.

“If those aftercare programs are taken away by the time children reach [the age of] 10, there is not much for them to do,” said Harris-Superville. “Even if they have siblings, there is still not the same level of social interaction and stimulation they need. That social interaction helps them interact with their peers. Without that care, there is a lot of regression.”

F.A.C.E.’s Place Respite Care Center’s official launch, slated for January 2014, follows a 5K charity event in April during which more than 100 people jogged and walked around a six-lane indoor track at the Prince George’s County Sports and Learning Complex in Landover, Md. The nonprofit also released “What Autism Looks Like,” a calendar in which local children pose with Washington Redskins and Baltimore Ravens cheerleaders and readers learn more about each child’s interests.

Organizing these events has provided Harris-Superville the opportunity to collaborate with other organizations and pool resources to reach a wider audience in the Washington metropolitan region. Anya Remy, founder and director of Puzzl’d, a Silver Spring-based autism awareness organization, spent much of the morning selling T-shirts and socks and chatting with parents about her experiences as the mother of an autistic child.

Profits generated from the

sales of the merchandise go into a scholarship fund that will enable one child to attend a session each month free of charge. Remy said that working with F.A.C.E. has allowed her to challenge the stigma around autism and show parents that they are not alone in meeting the demands of raising an autistic child.

“People in our community don’t want to think anything is wrong especially if something doesn’t look wrong. This [respite care center] is a funky way to raise awareness in our community,” said Remy, 29. “I often think about how cool it would be for my peers [with autistic children]. They need some place to look. This will help. There are so many resources here,” said Remy who lives in Silver Spring, Md. NeCole Reese, a biological research assistant at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research in Silver Spring, Md., purchased a T-shirt and kept a watchful eye on her son Rowan, 9, as he dashed across the room and played with the other children. She said that she appreciated the few hours of relaxation the respite care center provided.

“Most parents use respite care as a getaway,” said Reese, 32. “This center is a special place for both the kids and the parents. Shanté is a very good friend of mine so I’m here to support [her] just as she has supported me. It is extremely important and I appreciate that she has started this organization,” said Reese who lives in Silver Spring, Md. wi For more information about Facing Autism with Children Everywhere (F.A.C.E.), visit http://www.facethemovement.org/the movement.html.

To learn more about the F.A.C.E.’s Place Respite Care Center, visit http://facesplace.org.

www.washingtoninformer.com

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December 5, 2013 - December 11, 2013

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virginia briefs Ceramic sculptures by Jessica Gardner will be on display at NOVA-Manassas Dec. 4 to Jan. 31, including the piece pictured here. /Courtesy Photo

news@washingtoninformer.com

Ceramic sculptures by Jessica Gardner will be on display at the Manassas Campus of Northern Virginia

NOVA-Manassas hosts successful Science Symposium

More than 150 people attended a Science Symposium Nov. 18 at the Manassas Campus of Northern Virginia Community College.

Presentations by researchers from the National Institutes of Health, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Georgetown University, George Mason University, Virginia Commonwealth University, Bode Technology Group and CERES Nanosciences covered such topics as biotechnology, nanoscience, cancer research, bioinformatics, cell biology, neuroscience and forensics.

During the symposium, NOVA’s Biotechnology Program was highlighted several times, with a NOVA biotechnology graduate presenting the first talk and words of praise from speakers who have employed biotechnology students. Many opportunities for future partnerships such as internships, job opportunities and transfer options for NOVA students were discussed.

“The event provided enrichment opportunities for students and professional development for science faculty. It also established a connection between the science that is taught in our classrooms and research that goes behind the information in textbooks,” said event organizer Ia Gomez, assistant dean of science at NOVA’s Manassas Campus.

Prince William County Department of Economic Development and NOVA’s Office of Student Success sponsored the event and provided the networking breakfast and lunch. To learn more, contact Gomez at igomez@nvcc.edu.

14 December 5, 2013 - December 11, 2013

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Community College Dec. 4 to Jan. 31. The exhibition is free and open to the public 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fridays, and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays, except when NOVA is closed for winter break (Dec. 24 to Jan. 1).

The campus is at 6901 Sudley Road. For more information, contact Barbara Lash at blash@ nvcc.edu or 703-257-6657.

Gardner uses ceramic figures and interactive toys in her sculptures to trigger playful memories. She also incorporates second-hand children’s clothing.

“My imagination is sparked by the past experiences of each piece of clothing I select,” she said. “The importance of used textile is both conceptual and technical. This clothing once protected a young child and is now imbued with history. These remnants of childhood are preserved in clay, capturing a moment that life’s haste has left behind.”

Gardner lives in Manassas and teaches studio art courses at NOVA. Her work has been shown throughout the United States and published in “500 Teapots, Volume 2.” She holds a master of fine arts degree from Georgia State University and a post-baccalaureate certificate in ceramic arts from the University of Florida.

Northern Virginia Community College is the largest institution of higher education in the Commonwealth of Virginia and one of America’s largest community colleges. NOVA enrolls more than 75,000 students at its six campuses in Alexandria, Annandale, Loudoun, Manassas, Springfield and Woodbridge, and through the Extended Learning Institute. For more information about NOVA and its programs or services, call 703-3233000 or visit the College’s Web site, www.nvcc.edu www.washingtoninformer.com

Prince George’s Approves Minimum Wage Increase Regional Efforts Raise Wages to $11.50

By Joshua Garner WI Staff Writer @JoshuaGarnerDC More cash will end up in the wallets of minimum wage workers in Prince George’s County thanks to the county council’s approval of legislation that will bump hourly earnings to $11.50 by 2017.

Council members unanimously approved the legislation on Nov. 27 mirroring similar legislation in Montgomery County and the District to phase in gradual hikes to current wages by more than a dollar a year over the next four years. Montgomery County approved raising its minimum wage early last week in legislation that reflects Prince George’s County.

“This small change over four years is not going to end poverty – we know this,” said Councilwoman Andrea Harrison, 50, (D-Dist. 5) of Glenarden. “This small change is going to give people hope.”

In Maryland, the minimum wage in both Prince George’s and Montgomery counties hasn’t been raised since 2009, when the state minimum wage jumped from $7.10 to $7.25. In the District, members of the D.C. Council plan to vote on similar legislation this week. Efforts to raise the minimum wage for employees who work for big-box retailers in the District stalled earlier this year.

Still, opponents fear its impact on small businesses and that the hike might hinder business growth in Prince George’s County during a wobbly economy. Though the medium income in Prince George’s County hovers above $71,000, it lags behind most jurisdictions in the region. Additionally, the county has been slower than other jurisdictions in regaining jobs lost during the recession.

“We are largely a bedroom community. We don’t have enough jobs,” said David Iannucci, deputy chief administrative officer for Economic Development and Public Infrastructure, at a recent town hall meeting that discussed economic development in the county. “Too many of our residents leave the county [for work].”

However, the legislation re-

ceived applause by civil rights and labor groups like the NAACP and CASA de Maryland, whose members packed the county council hearing room during the final vote and cheered when the bill passed.

“I’m so proud of this [county council]. They are one of the most progressive councils in the state,” said Bob Ross, president of the Prince George’s County Branch of the NAACP. “If you don’t work for minimum wage, you don’t know what impact [this has].”

The current state and federal minimum is $7.25 an hour, about $15,000 annually for fulltime workers, leaving minimum wage employees well below the poverty line, according to the county. Under the county’s legislation, annual wages could be more than $22,000 for full-time workers by 2017.

“People don’t think about [the fact that] these are people working to make ends meet as best they can,” said Councilwoman Mary Lehman (D-Dist. 1) of Laurel. “We need to keep that in mind when we have this kind of discussion … this was the right thing to do, it’s more than fair.”

Council members agreed that the wage increase won’t end financial hardships of minimum wage earners but said that extra income would lift the regional economy.

“A rising tide floats all boats,” said Councilman Derrick Leon Davis (D-Dist. 6) of Mitchellville.

The legislation still needs to be approved by County Executive Rushern L. Baker III (D).

Harrison said she isn’t concerned about a veto from Baker, 55, because the council has enough votes to override any possible action. Still, Harrison said the council decided to take action after seeing similar legislation hit a brick wall in Annapolis earlier this year.

“We can’t guarantee what [the state legislature] is going to do, anything can happen between now and April so why wait?” she said.wi

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Prince George’s Councilwoman Andrea Harrison (D-Dist. 5) of Glenarden spearheaded legislation to raise minimum wage in the county. /Courtesy photo

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Bob Ross, president of the Prince George’s County Branch of the NAACP. /Courtesy Photo

Councilwoman Mary Lehman (D-Dist. 1) of Laurel. /Courtesy Photo

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December 5, 2013 - December 11, 2013

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Shannon Whren, Phenomenal Award-worthy Playwright, Domestic Violence Survivor and Advocate is hosting a Holiday Ball benefitting Domestic Violence Victims and their families during this wonderful giving season. This year’s theme is “Toyland: Where a Kid Can Be a Kid and You Can, Too”!

Come experience Toyland come alive right before your very eyes! $20.00 donation is requested, which entitles you to one (1) ticket to use, or bless someone else, to attend this event, and to bring one (1) new, unwrapped toy on the event date, or by December 19, 2013 to 2243 Oxon Run Drive, Temple Hills, Maryland 20748, if you are not planning to attend.

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Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid. /Courtesy Photo

Senate Clears Way for Obama Nominations ‘Nuclear Option’ Trumps GOP Obstruction for Now

By Barrington M. Salmon WI Staff Writer @bsalmondc The new year will reveal to the public and others, what the actual effects of a Democratic move to blunt Republican overuse of the filibuster will have on relations between both parties.

Last month, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, finally tired of Republicans’ calculated attempts to deny President Barack Obama any chance to choose members of the judiciary and cabinet, and triggered what’s commonly referred to as the “nuclear option.”

The Senate voted 52-48 on Nov. 21 to remove the GOP’s primary weapon of blocking Obama nominees. Going forward, a simple majority of 51 will allow executive branch and judicial nominees below the tier of the Supreme Court to be considered in the full Senate for a straight up-and-down vote.

That replaces the need to have a super-majority of 60 votes.

Reid’s decision is delayed recognition that without this landmark change Obama would neither have the opportunity to exercise his constitutional right to shape the judiciary as he sees fit, nor be able to choose members of his cabinet and administration.

“The American people believe Congress is broken. The

American people believe the Senate is broken. And I believe the American people are right,” said Reid. “During this Congress – the 113th Congress – the United States Senate has wasted an unprecedented amount of time on procedural hurdles and partisan obstruction. As a result, the work of this country goes undone. Congress should be passing legislation that strengthens our economy and protects American families. Instead we’re burning wasted hours and wasted days between filibusters.”

“Even one of the Senate’s most basic duties – confirmation of presidential nominees – has become completely unworkable. For the first time in history, Republicans have routinely used the filibuster to prevent President Obama from appointing his executive team or confirming judges.”

But Reid and the Democrats’ move has political pundits and experts saying that it could make already poisonous relations between the Democrats and the GOP even worse, if that’s possible. Republicans wasted no time in firing back.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), promised retaliation, saying Republicans would exact revenge next year

See FILIBUSTER on Page 17 www.washingtoninformer.com

around the national region

at the polls.

“It only reinforces the narrative of a party willing to do or say anything to get its way,” he said in published reports.

“Once again, Democrats are threatening to break the rules of the Senate … in order to change the rules of the Senate.

And over what? Over a court that doesn’t have enough work to do.”

“Some of us have been around here long enough to know that the shoe is sometimes on the other foot. You may regret this a lot sooner than you think. The solution to this problem is at the ballot box. We look forward to having a great election in 2014.”

Political analyst Avis Jones-DeWeever praised Reid’s move, saying it was long overdue.

“Oh good Lord, it was past time,” she said during a recent interview. “He took his time and hesitated because of the nature of the change. I think he was backed into a corner because of the unprecedented level of obstruction. He did so in a limited way but I wish he had done it sooner. I think he should broaden it because it doesn’t include Supreme Court nominees and others.”

DeWeever, 44, president and CEO of Incite Unlimited, LLC., a local consulting firm, said it has been interesting to hear reactions.

“People are saying it’s undemocratic, but we’ve had a tyrannical minority,” she said. “There are consequences to elections.

This president has been hampered like no other president by the complete bastardization of the filibuster.”

“The Circuit Courts with their right wing ideologues illus-

trate that the GOP has done an amazing job of court packing and solidified it by not allowing Obama to provide balance.

If we don’t exercise the power that we have, we’ve already lost.

There’s no point in winning elections and not being able to govern.”

And what of any future Republican retaliation? “ … We will cross that bridge when we come to it,” said Jones-DeWeever. “Ninety-nine percent of what this president has tried to do has died in Congress. Democracy wasn’t working because the other side was obstructing.”

Obama had been thwarted by Senate Republicans who consecutively blocked all three of his nominees to the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals. They also rebuffed Rep. Mel Watt (D-N.C.), nominated to head the Federal Housing Finance Agency.

“The D.C. Circuit, considered the nation’s second-highest court, has three vacancies.

These are judgeships created

by Congress. Chief Justice John Roberts and the Judicial Conference of the United States believe that these vacancies should be filled, not removed.

And my constitutional duty as President is to nominate highly qualified individuals to fill these vacancies,” Obama said recently. “Judge Robert L. Wilkins, Patricia Millett and Nina Pillard received the highest possible rating from the non-partisan American Bar Association.

They have broad bipartisan support, and no one has questioned their merit. Yet, Senate Republicans have blocked all three from receiving a yes-or-no vote.” “… Four of my predecessor’s six nominees to the D.C. Circuit were confirmed. Four of my five nominees to this court have been obstructed. When it comes to judicial nominations,

Saturday

December 7, 2013

Billy Martin. /Courtesy Photo

I am fulfilling my constitutional responsibility, but Congress is not.”

The GOP has used filibusters in an unvarnished and unabashed attempt to maintain the ideological makeup and conservative tilt of the U.S. Court of Appeals. The Court is considered by many to be the second most important in the country because of the judges’ work in shaping the country’s laws, and interpreting the constitutionality and import of regulations and federal legislation as it relates to the environment, energy policy, voting rights, national security and campaign finance laws.

Local attorney Billy Martin was one of several lawyers and civil rights activists with The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights who partic-

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ipated in a conference call demanding that the Senate move on Wilkins and other nominations.

“We [the National Bar Association] was founded when lawyers of color were barred, not allowed to use the Circuit Court library,” he said. “Justice Thurgood Marshall and Charles Hamilton Houston used the law to enforce and demand civil rights for all of our people. Using filibusters is unconscionable. It’s not fair, not just.

The rule of law says everyone should have the opportunity to vote. A vote up or down is what the Constitution demands.”

Former Florida Congressman Allen West said Reid has created a dangerous precedent.

“The filibuster ensured that the minority have their rights protected. The Founding Fa-

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thers put it there,” said West during an interview following the Senate’s action. “If Democrats are in control until Jesus comes, then they won’t have to worry about what they did.”

“Republicans have threatened to do it before but they would never have done this,” said West, 52, now a Fox News contributor. “This should give us sincere concern. Reid should have followed the established rules of the past 215 years. If you want to argue a case for filibusters, that’s one thing. About 90 percent of [Obama] nominees were confirmed. This is a violation of checks and balances. If you don’t want any opposition or people to bring up issues of concern, then you can do what they did.”wi

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PROTECT YOUR FAMILY WITH ESTATE PLANNING

When most people think about estate planning, they immediately think about a Will. A Will is an instrument you can use to make sure that your last wishes are fulfilled after you are dead. It will let the world know who you wanted to leave your assets to and who you did not want to leave assets. It is a document that becomes operative to protect your estate only after you die. What about while you are alive? How do you protect yourself while you are alive?

While you are alive there are many other issues concerning your estate or the estate of a love one that need to be considered besides a Will. As a court appointed attorney who works in the Probate Court for the District of Columbia, I have seen how a person’s rights can be undermined simply because of poor planning. The loss of your loved one’s freedom can be protected by having a good lawyer draft important estate documents that give you and your loved ones greater control over their lives.

One of the most important documents that should be considered is the Durable Power of Attorney.

This document can be narrowly tailored for things such as a financial matters or it can be a broader document that encompasses financial matters, business matters, real estate matters and so on. The important thing about the Durable Power of Attorney is that it lets you choose who you want to handle your personal affairs as opposed to the courts deciding for you. There are any numbers of reasons your loved ones may be pulled into the system. A situation may arise where a bank officer feels that a customer can longer handle their finances, so the officer may decide to contact Adult Protective Services (APS). This can trigger an investigation and a government official may decide to petition the court to have your loved one deemed mentally incapacitated. A hearing will be held on the issue of your loved one’s mental capacity, and if he/she is deemed mentally incapacitated the court will appoint a Guardian (a person to handle your personal matters) and /or a Conservator (a person to handle the loved one’s financial matters). These representatives are hard to get out of your life once they are appointed by the court. So it’s best never to invite them into your life in the first place. If you have a good Durable Power of Attorney that designates a concerned family member or friend as the Guardian and/or Conservator this can help in preventing the court from appointing a stranger who may not have your loved one’s best interest in mind.

You should also consider collateral planning, such as having a Living Will, Health Care Durable Power of Attorney, and Trust drafted.

A Living Will lets you give directions concerning what medical treatment you want and don’t want in the absence of your ability to do so. A Health Care Durable Power of Attorney (HCPOA) is intended to allow an agent to make healthcare decisions for a person when/he she becomes mentally or physically unable to make health care decisions. Finally, you may also want to consider a Trust. A trust is a document that allows a person (Trustee) to act on behalf of a beneficiary.

Don’t wait until something bad happens (family member is arrested, or taken to the hospital, or a concerned person contacts the government) to protect yourself and/or your loved one’s estate. Act now!

The writer is an attorney with 19 years of experience. He has practiced law in the Superior Court for the District of Columbia - Probate Division for 6 years. He is available to draft estate documents, represent clients in Will contests and Guardianship and Conservatorship matters. He may be reached at the contact information below.

Andrellos Mitchell Attorney & Counselor at Law 717 D Street, NW Suite 300 Washington, DC 20004 202-271-9400 acmclient@aol.com www.andrellosmitchell.com

      •   •  •  

 

      

•     •   • 

    Fiduciary Panel Attorney - Superior Court of the District of Columbia - Probate Division Former DC Fraud Bureau Examiner - Insurance Administration  Former Law Clerk for the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)

www.andrellosmitchell.com 18 December 5, 2013 - December 11, 2013

The Washington Informer

Finds Racial Wealth Gap Growing

Although most Sunday school children are warned against the “love of money,” by adulthood it is the lack of it that becomes the source of many problems. When finances are so fragile that even a small shortfall presents a big problem – a few hundred dollars might as well be a million – you do not have what you need.

Now new research finds that the ability to reach some level of financial security or well-being can be like a chicken and the egg question: Which comes first – the problem or the lack of money?

To determine how family financial assets changed over time, researchers at Brandeis University’s Institute on Assets and Social Policy (IASP) interviewed a group of families in 1998 and again 12 years later. The original sample of participants was evenly split between Blacks and Whites. All were working or middle class, had children ages three to 10 years old, had similar life aspirations and were selected from the same three cities.

At the beginning of the study, the wealth gap between Blacks and Whites was clearly evident.

In 1998, the median net financial wealth, excluding home equity, for Blacks in the sample was more than $16,000 lower than for White families. Additionally, the gap in median net worth, which does include home equity, was $108,000.

These disparities only grew over time. By 2010, the gap in net financial wealth had grown to more than $80,000, while the gap in median net worth grew to almost $280,000. Importantly, the exacerbation of the racial wealth gap happened despite the fact that Blacks gained ground in income and educational attainment.

For example, in 1998 Black family median income was $48,106 compared to the median White family income of $80,400.

By 2010, the racial income gap had narrowed to $28,000, with Black median income at $56,000 and White median income slightly less at $84,000. Similarly, although the proportion of Blacks achieving a college education consistently lagged behind that of Whites, the size of that dis-

By Charlene Crowell

parity decreased over time. The gap between the proportions of Blacks and Whites receiving at least a college education shrank from 28 percentage points in 1998 to 22 percentage points in 2010.

IASP found that among the Black families followed, few or no financial assets were a result of the frequency of three factors: Financially assisting family members – extending beyond the nuclear family unit to include adult siblings, parents, nieces and nephews; Increased periods of unemployment and work in occupations with fewer benefits; and Falling or stagnated home values.

The tough choices that these families face often lead to decisions to early use retirement assets, particularly to manage periods of unemployment, health care costs or a child’s college education. However, their premature usage forces more financial stress in later years.

Conversely, when families are able to secure stable jobs with non-wage benefits for present and future financial security, the ability to build wealth is significantly enhanced. Family inheritance and/or financial assistance to purchase a home were also cited as benefits to growing wealth.

Earlier research by the Center for Responsible Lending found that communities of color, both Black and Latino, experienced disproportionate losses of wealth because of foreclosures. These were also the same communities that were targeted for high-cost, unsustainable sub-

See CROWELL on Page 19 www.washingtoninformer.com

BUSINESS Business Exchange

Presidential Medal of Freedom Awards Snub Booker At the White House, President Barack Obama recently awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 16 luminary recipients.

Along with the Congressional Gold Medal, the Presidential Medal of Freedom is considered the highest civilian award in the United States. The award recognizes those individuals who have made “an especially meritorious contribution to the security or national interests of the United States, world peace, culture or other significant public or private endeavors.” Since its establishment by President John F. Kennedy 50 years ago, “more than 500 exceptional individuals from all corners of society” have been Presidential Medal of Freedom recipients.

Four African Americans counted among this year’s list or recipients: Bayard Rustin received the distinguished medal posthumously for his work in civil rights. Rustin is recognized for his leadership in social movements for civil rights, socialism, pacifism and non-violence. Rustin promoted and accomplished non-violent protest success alongside the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. He was a leader of the early 1947–1955 Civil Rights movement and helped initiate a 1947 Freedom Ride on interstate busing.

Eighty-two-year-old Ernie Banks is known to many as “Mr. Cub.” One of the greatest baseball players of all time, Banks played 19 seasons with the Chicago Cubs. He played in 11 All-Star Games, hit over 500

CROWELL continued from Page 18 prime mortgages.

The irony of these findings is that owning a home has been the traditional gateway to building family wealth. In many instances a home purchase also represents the single largest investment that many families make in their lifetimes. But for homeowners still living in areas heavily hit by foreclosures, many now owe more than their homes are worth.

For these unfortunate families, www.washingtoninformer.com

By William Reed home runs, and became the first National League player to win Most Valuable Player honors in consecutive years.

Cordy Tindell or “C.T.” Vivian, is a distinguished minister, author, and organizer. A leader in the Civil Rights movement and friend to King, he participated in Freedom Rides and sit-ins across our country. Dr. Vivian also helped to establish numerous Civil Rights organizations.

Oprah Gail Winfrey was honored as one of the world’s most successful broadcast journalists.

Winfrey, 59, is an American media proprietor, talk show host, actress, producer, and philanthropist. Winfrey is best known for her multi-award-winning talk show The Oprah Winfrey Show which was the highest-rated program of its kind in history and was nationally syndicated from 1986 to 2011. She has been ranked the richest African American of the 20th century and the greatest Black philanthropist in American history. She is currently North America’s only Black billionaire.

Again in 2013, President Obama has neglected to award a Presidential Medal of Freedom to 95-year-old Simeon Saunders Booker, Jr. A legendary journalist who chronicled “Black Life in America” for 65 years, “Mister Booker” is steeped in Black culture and race issues. Booker dehomeownership has lost, not grown wealth.

At the time of year when family and loved ones gather in thanksgiving, it can be difficult to celebrate the season. Yet if nothing else, let us be thankful for the resilient spirit that enables us to survive – in spite of lingering financial challenges.wi Charlene Crowell is a communications manager with the Center for Responsible Lending. She can be reached at Charlene.crowell@responsiblelending.org.

serves recognition for the attentiveness he has provided Blacks over the years. Booker was born in Baltimore, Md. in 1918. The issue of paying honor to Booker for his work in a timely manner will require all of our efforts.

JET magazine continues as the No. 1 African-American newsweekly. The publication has been a staple in Black Americans’ homes and businesses since 1951, when it was founded by the late great entrepreneur John H. Johnson. As Washington Bureau Chief for JET, Booker has a long and legendary history of recording movements for Civil Rights. In the 1950s, he covered many of the major events that affected the lives of Black Americans, such as the desegregation of Little Rock’s Central High School and administrations of 10 U.S. presidents. Booker made his mark in 1955 with coverage of Emmett Till’s murder and trial. Booker rode with the Congress on Racial Equality’s Freedom Riders in 1961. Booker is well regarded for the weekly “Ticker Tape” columns he penned that gave note to Blacks’ achievements.

The hordes of Black Americans who swept Obama into the Oval Office, twice, are asked to lobby the president on behalf of getting the Medal of Freedom to Booker in 2014. Let’s persuade Obama to show Booker similar support as have his peers.

During Black Press Week 2007, Booker was honored with the National Newspaper Publishers Association’s News Maker of the Year Award. In 2013, Booker was inducted into the National Association of Black Journalists’ Hall of Fame. He’s been honored by the National, and Capital, Press clubs as well.wi William Reed is publisher of “Who’s Who in Black Corporate America” and available for projects via the BaileyGroup.org

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health

Conference Tackles the Stigma Surrounding HIV/AIDS

By Freddie Allen Special to the Informer from NNPA

In 1992, Beverly Becton, addicted to drugs and suffering from pneumonia, began to scream as she sat in a hospital room alone at the D.C. General Hospital in Southeast, Washington, D.C. “Oh God, why me? Oh, God why me?,” Becton screamed.

Becton had just learned that she was HIV-positive at a time

when many in the Black community and health care providers still believed that a positive test was an automatic death sentence.

Becton said that the doctor who told her that she was HIV-positive, left her in the room without providing any treatment information, counseling or referrals.

Becton called a niece and told her about the diagnosis.

Her niece freaked out. Later, Becton would tell the niece that she “was just playing” that she hadn’t contracted HIV. Becton’s

older sister told her not to tell anybody else.

“My sister sent me into total denial,” said Becton. She continued to use drugs and avoided treatment as she waited to die.

The virus that causes AIDS that had killed so many others didn’t send her to her grave.

“One day I just got tired of dying, killing myself,” said Becton. Seven years after receiving her first diagnosis, Becton decided to get help, tackling the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS

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Beverly Becton. /Courtesy Photo

head on.

Becton, 52, now an AIDS activist, shared her story at the International Conference on Stigma at Howard University last week. The event featured lectures and panel discussions on the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS and other health issues in an effort to raise awareness about what conference organizers called “major barrier to prevention and treatment of HIV and a violation of human rights.”

The audience included health care providers, students, community leaders, activists, and people living with HIV/AIDS and their family and friends.

Jeanne White Ginder, Ryan White’s mother, was the keynote speaker during the morning session. She talked about how her son, desperately wanted to be treated like everyone else at time when little was known about HIV/AIDS. In 1984, Ryan White, born with hemophilia, gained national prominence when he was barred from attending school following an AIDS diagnosis at 13 years old, making him one of the youngest hemophiliacs to be diagnosed with AIDS. White won that battle, but after facing discrimination, protests and threats of violence in his hometown of Kokomo, Ind., White’s family moved and White transferred to a new school in Cicero, Ind., where students received HIV/ AIDS education and training from physicians and health care providers before he arrived. Students and school officials at the new school welcomed White with open arms.

White died in April 1990 following complications from a respiratory infection. Four months later, Congress passed the Ryan White Comprehensive AIDS Resources Emergency (CARE) Act, also known as the Ryan White Care Act. CARE is the largest government-run program that provides services for people living with HIV/AIDS. The Ryan White Care Act focuses on the most vulnerable underserved communities and provides assistance for nearly half a million people every year.

President Obama signed an extension in October 2009 and also worked to repeal a law banning people with HIV from traveling and immigrating to the United States.

“These events are important because they help people understand that [HIV/AIDS] is a health issue and to get accurate information,” said Ebony Johnson, policy and advocacy manager for the Women’s Collective, a non-profit group that advocates for the needs of women living with HIV/AIDS and those at risk for becoming infected.

Johnson added that conferences such as the International Conference on Stigma can help people living with HIV come out of isolation and help them realize that they are not alone that they can be successful and access services and find support networks.

Johnson said that a lot of the fear about the HIV/AIDS comes from the notion that it began as a gay White man’s disease.

See HIV on Page 22 www.washingtoninformer.com

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HIV continued from Page20 “Then, it was a sex worker and drug user disease, then it was a disease of promiscuous people,” said Johnson. “Researchers, doctors and health care providers are still trying to outlive those negative monikers and bring this into a health conversation. But it’s hard because of the transmission route, it’s hard because it does involve sex, it involves pleasure, and it involves how people see themselves and how people realize their mortality.”

Johnson said that health care providers, community stakeholders have to be vigilant about re-messaging and repackaging what HIV is and what the possibilities for a better quality of life with treatment and also what health outcomes can be achieved.

Johnson continued: “People want to know that they can be healthy, that they can date, that they can have babies and that technology exists. I still think that we are late to the party when it comes to helping people understand that.”

Groups such as Metro TeenAIDS try to help young people get there a little bit earlier.

“First, you have to realize that stigma exists,” said Tafari Ali, education outreach coordinator for Metro TeenAIDS, a community

health organization dedicated to partnering with young people to end HIV/AIDS. “A lot of young people don’t want to admit it.”

That tunnel-vision can have dire consequences among young people in the Black community.

Young, Black males 13-24 years-old accounted for 38 percent of new HIV infections, compared to 16 percent White males in the same age group, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Black men were 31 percent of all new HIV infections and accounted for 70 percent of new HIV infections among blacks.

While Blacks represent around 14 percent of the total U.S. population, they accounted for 44 percent of all new HIV infections in 2010, a rate that was eight times higher than infection rate for Whites, according to the CDC. Whites represented 31 percent of the new HIV infections in 2010.

Ali said that Metro TeenAIDS combats the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases and infections by empowering young people with information and training them as peer counselors to go out and educate their family, friends and classmates.

“We understand that health barT:9.75” riers minority communities face as well as the stigma S:9.25”associated with

/Courtesy Photo

HIV/ AIDS that prevents many minority populations from seeking medical care and adhering to treatment,” said Commander Jacqueline Rodrigue, deputy director of the Office of Minority Health at the Department of Health and Human Services.

“Even though we have made significance progress to fight against this national and global epidemic, HIV/AIDS continues to impact communities across our country and around the world especially our communities of color and other communities that live their lives on the margins of society.”

Speaking during the opening plenary session of the International Conference on Stigma, Rodrigue said that AIDS continues to be shocking and misunderstood and its heaviest burden continues to fall upon those who are least likely to have a voice and a place at the table when it matters the most.

“What stands between us and an AIDS-free generation is partly due to the persistent stigma that even now continues to spread fear, ignorance, discrimination and isolation and undermines efforts for prevention treatment and care,” said Rodrigue. “Breaking the silence, w e must continue to have dialogues like this to promote open, honest and respectful discourse in order to turn the tide.”wi

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The Washington Informer

December 5, 2013 - December 11, 2013

23

LIFELINE

education noiger eht dnuora

Did you know?

You may qualify for assistance in paying your home phone bill. Discounts for basic telephone service are available to eligible District of Columbia low-income residents.

Verizon Washington, D.C. Lifeline Plans: Verizon Washington, D.C.’s Lifeline service, known as “Economy II,” offers reduced rates on Verizon’s monthly telephone bill and one-time discounts on the cost of installing phone service. Additionally, toll blocking is available to Economy II customers at no charge.

Economy II Service*: $3.00 per month for unlimited local calling. Value-added services are not included (e.g., Call Waiting, Caller ID). No connection charges apply. Also, customers will not be charged for the federal subscriber line charge. Economy II customers who are 65 years of age or older can have this service at a further reduced rate of $1.00 per month. * Full terms and rates for these services, including terms of eligibility, are as set forth in federal and in Verizon’s tariffs on file with the Public Service Commission of the District of Columbia. Rates as stated here are effective as of September 1, 2011. But, the rates and other terms are subject to change in the future.

Restrictions:

Eligibility: District residents who have been certified by the District Department of the Environment’s Energy Office (DDOE) as income eligible may apply for the Economy II program this program. To apply, schedule an appointment with DDOE by calling 311.

Households in which one or more individuals are receiving benefits from one of the following public assistance programs may be income eligible.     

Food Stamps Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) Supplemental Security Income Public Assistance to Adults Temporary Disability Assistance Program

Ifetayo Youth Ensemble representatives Isoke Senghor hugs First Lady Michelle Obama after accepting the 2013 National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award.

 No other working telephone service at the same location  No additional phone lines  No Foreign Exchange or Foreign Zone service  No bundles or packages  No outstanding unpaid final bills  Bill name must match eligible participant  No separate Lifeline discount on cellular or wireless phone service  Business lines are not eligible  Phone number must match eligible participant  Must be a current customer or establish new service with Verizon

Project AIM representatives Miranda Luna (center) and Andrea Gates-Ingle (right) accept the 2013 National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award from First Lady Michelle Obama.

Contact DDOE at 311 to apply To learn more about the Lifeline program, visit www.lifelinesupport.org.

Storycatchers Theatre representatives Ryan Sims (center) and Meade Palidofsky (right) accept the 2013 National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award from First Lady Michelle Obama. /Photos courtesy of Ralph Alswang

First Lady Michelle Obama Recognizes 12 After-school Programs at the White House First Lady Michelle Obama invited the 12 winners of the 2013 National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award to the White House to recognize their effectiveness in developing learning and life skills in young people by engaging them in the arts or humanities.

The 12 community-based organizations from across the country were chosen from a pool of more than 350 nominations and 50 finalists to receive the

24 December 5, 2013 - December 11, 2013

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highest honor awarded to such programs in the United States.

One international program was also recognized with the International Spotlight Award for a remarkable youth-oriented cultural program.

The awardees were recognized

by Mrs. Obama for using engagement in the arts and the humanities to generate a wide range of outcomes, including increases in academic achievement, graduation rates, and college enroll-

ment, as well as improvements in literacy and language abilities, communication and performance skills, and cultural awareness.

The ceremony included a live performance of African music and dance by the Ifetayo Youth Ensemble of Brooklyn and a speech by a member of Project AIM, an arts program for hospitalized children fighting cancer in El Paso, Texas, two of this year’s awardees. wi www.washingtoninformer.com

around EDUCATION the region BRIEFS Two “Experienced Operator” Charter Applications Approved

by DC Public Charter School Board The DC Public Charter School Board (PCSB) recently granted conditional approval to Harmony School of Excellence-DC (Harmony-DC) and Democracy Prep DC (DPDC) to each open one school under the Board’s “Experienced Operator” application procedure. With this conditional approval, the schools could open as early as August 2014.

Founded in 2000, Harmony operates a network of 40 high-performing college-preparatory science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (“STEM”) schools in Texas serving more than 25,000 students. On a 6-0 vote with one recusal, the Board gave conditional approval to Harmony-DC’s plan to open one school in DC with students in grades kindergarten through fifth, adding one grade each year until it serves students in grades K-12.

“When I visited Harmony I saw active learning with a high level of engagement -- and with Harmony’s STEM focus, I think that would be a very worthy addition to the District of Columbia,” said Board Vice Chair Darren Woodruff.

As part of its normal Experienced Operator application review, PCSB examines the background, experience and track record of the operator. With Harmony, the staff conducted additional outreach including to the Texas Education Agency, U.S. Department of Education, Texas State Board of Education and the National Association of Charter School Authorizers.

The second approval was for Democracy Prep, which opened its first charter school in New York in 2006 and now serves 2,300 students at five schools in Harlem, NY and Camden, NJ. On a 5-1 vote with one recusal, the Board gave conditional approval to Democracy Prep’s proposal to open a prekindergarten-three through fifth grade school in Ward 7 or Ward 8.

PCSB Board members praised Democracy Prep’s record of improving the performance of students from below grade level to high performance.

“Democracy Prep’s commitment to working with underserved and underprivileged students and moving them to proficiency is noteworthy,” said Board Chair John H. “Skip” McKoy. “Democracy Prep Public Schools is thrilled that the DC Public Charter School Board approved our charter application so that we can open a school in Washington, DC. We are excited to be given the opportunity to educate scholars in our nation’s capital,” said Alice Maggin, Senior Director of Communications, Democracy Prep.

PCSB previously approved one Experienced Operator application

DCPS Chancellor Kaya Henderson. /Courtesy Photo

in 2012 from Rocketship DC, which is planning to open one elementary school in August 2015.

DCPS Chancellor Kaya Henderson Shows Nation the Possibilities District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) Chancellor Kaya Henderson issued a statement (a portion of which follows) recently after the National Assessment Governing Board released the results from the 2013 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), known as the Nation’s Report Card. DC students made tremendous growth from 2011 to 2013. 4th grade reading went up 5 points, 4th grade math went up 7 points, 8th grade reading went up 6 points, and 8th grade math went up 5 points, all compared to only 1 to 2 point growth in the nation. DC and Tennessee saw the largest growth of any other state in the nation from 2011 to 2013.

“DC is showing the nation that when you embrace higher expectations for teachers and for students, they rise to the challenge. This work is difficult and it takes time, but our breakthrough gains demonstrate that the reforms we have put in place are working, and our students are making great progress.

“I am confident that the approach we have taken to ensure great teaching and high quality content is key to our success. I am so proud every single day of our students and our educators. When you walk into our schools, you see a dramatically different classroom then you would have seen several years ago. Our teaching force improves every single year. We have been relentlessly focused on making sure that there’s a highly effective teacher in every single classroom, and a highly effective school leader in every single building.”

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December 5, 2013 - December 11, 2013

25

Editorial

opinions/editorials

Workers Fighting Back The last decade has not been kind to American workers who have taken a beating, compliments of structural changes in the economy, globalization, a labor union attacked and weakened by Republicans, a punishing recession and the 2008 housing crash and economic meltdown.

Wages and compensation for all but America’s most wealthy have remained stagnant for decades and overall, economic security for the middle class and working poor has corroded significantly. The Occupy Movement signaled the first indication of the willingness of different segments of society to take to the streets to voice their strident opposition to the policies and politics that created or exacerbated these social and economic conditions.

More than 46 million Americans are mired in poverty, even as the stock market soars to new heights, corporations, banks and pharmaceutical companies rake in record profits and the top one percent of the wealthiest Americans are awash in immense wealth.

Against this glum backdrop people could be forgiven if they just threw up their hands in frustration or curled up in a ball, but in cities across the United States, workers are fighting back. This despite the ruling elite – via the police – crushing the dissent and dispersing the Movement, and the Democratic Party appropriating vital parts of the Occupy message prior to the 2012 general elections.

People’s anger, rage and frustration, however, have not diminished.

On Black Friday, disgruntled workers participated in strikes and protests at 1,500 Walmart stores around the country, including one in Alexandria, Va., which drew more than 200 protestors. OUR Walmart, an employee group backed by organized labor, is insisting that employees must be able to work a schedule that isn’t arbitrary, insufficient and unpredictable; that they have the opportunity to earn at least $25,000 a year; and protestors seek an end to what they say is Wal-Mart’s retaliation against activists.

As writer Richard Kirsch of the Next New Deal related in a Nov. 23 story, in Washington State, unionized workers at Boeing rejected a contract which traded job guarantees for concessions that would severely eat away the pay and benefits of younger workers.

The Boeing workers’ fight, he said, mirrors “the dramatic fight of fast-food workers for a minimal living wage, risking their jobs every time they take a day off to demonstrate, is one end of a corporate economy based on low wages, no benefits and no unions.That corporate strategy, aimed at maximizing profits, is destroying America’s middle class, wrecking the engine that powered the U.S. economy.”

“On the other end of the middle class are workers like Boeing’s, who have fought together through their union for the good pay, pensions, health benefits and job security that characterized the increased prosperity and lowered income inequality of America in much of the second half of the 20th century. But despite being a hugely profitable corporation, with dominance in the world aerospace market, Boeing is eager to follow the Wal-Mart/fast-food model of the 21st century economy.”

American workers gained a powerful new ally in Pope Francis, who in his apostolic exhortation, “Evangelii Gaudium,” released last week, excoriated market-based capitalism.

“Some people continue to defend trickle-down theories which assume that economic growth, encouraged by a free market, will inevitably succeed in bringing about greater justice and inclusiveness in the world. This opinion, which has never been confirmed by the facts, expresses a crude and naïve trust in the goodness of those wielding economic power and in the sacralized workings of the prevailing economic system,” the Pope said.

Politicians and their corporate overlords won’t walk away without a fight, which means workers must be vigilant, form coalitions and strategize to be successful in turning the woeful economic tide.

26 December 5, 2013 - December 11, 2013

Combating a Social Ill Wizards, Keep the As someone who conducts re- Momentum Going! search and teaches critical media studies, I was pleased to read “When Cyberbullying Gets Real,” by Bianca Brooks and Sohpie Varon in the paper’s November 21 edition.

Cyberbullying is an issue that demands our attention. While the article details the increase in bullying in the media, specifically social media networking sites, it also mentions how we can use media to combat bullying. This speaks to a larger conversation on the importance of media literacy. Schools should begin to think about how we can educate our youth on the social and technological functions of media.

With this knowledge, we can address cyberbullying via media, and also, explore ways to challenge and overcome other injustices and discriminatory practices that circulate in various media forms. I am grateful that the Washington Informer recognizes the importance and power in media, and I look forward to more articles published on this issue.

Jane Peters Washington, D.C.

The article by Stacy Brown, “Should the Wizards Tank the Season?” published in the November 21 paper, makes some good points about the upcoming NBA draft and its highly rated prospects.

But I would disagree with the notion of the Wizards tanking for any reason; they tank enough trying to win. The Washington Wizards need another big man, and unless the draft has a good big man we shouldn’t try to do anything but win.

The Wizards have enough good swingmen and guards, and those are the positions that all the individuals mentioned in Mr. Brown’s article play. Yes, they would add depth to our team, and probably a lot of excitement, but to tank for that, I don’t think so.

The Wizards need to get used to winning, and that might mean looking at individuals other than the players, like the general manager and coaches.

What Do You Think?

We’d Like To Know.

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The Washington Informer welcomes letters to the editor about articles we publish or issues affecting the community. Write to: lsaxton@washingtoninformer.com or send to: 3117 Martin Luther King Jr Ave., SE, Washington, D.C. 20032. Please note that we are unable to publish letters that do not include a full name, address and phone number. We look forward to hearing from you.

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opinions/editorials

Guest Columnist

By Lee A. Daniels

Food Stamp Cuts: Children Will Go Hungry “Are there no prisons? And the workhouses, are they still in operation?”

Is that what the government and the people of the United States are about to say to Americans who have such low incomes they need the government food stamp program to help them put food on their tables?

Most of all, is American society willing to let the 21 million American children – one quarter

of all American children – who live in households that get food stamps endure, not just less to eat, but actual hunger?

You recognize the quotation above, I’m sure. It’s uttered with a contemptuous sneer by Charles Dickens’ unforgettable wealthy miser Ebenezer Scrooge in the 1938 film version of Dickens’ classic tale, “A Christmas Carol.”

In his story Dickens used the plight of poor children, especially the poor health of Tiny Tim, the youngest son of Scrooge’s clerk Bob Cratchit, to dramatize

the daily emergency the poor face—and the imperative that their well-being is all of humankind’s “business.”

That’s the imperative facing America now because the budget for the food stamp program is in danger of being severely cut back. That possibility, of course, will affect the 26 million adults in the program, too. But it’s most damaging and far-reaching impact will be on the children – those who constitute part of the future of American society.

So, especially this year, while

Guest Columnist

Thanksgiving for millions of Americans remains its usual holiday of family cheer and an over-abundance of food, millions of food stamp recipients must anticipate they’ll have significantly less to eat this week – and next week, and the week after that, and …

The reason is twofold. First, on November 1 Congress let expire a provision of the 2009 economic stimulus package that had increased families’ and individuals’ monthly food stamp allotment to help them cope with

the impact of the Great Recession. That crisis had produced a deluge of people – overwhelmingly, the newly jobless and the working poor – to need aid in buying enough food to eat. As a result, the number of food stamp enrollees soared from 26 million in 2007 to more than 47 million now.

That program’s expiration has reduced the amount individuals and families get: by $11 for one person to $36 for a family of

See Daniels on Page 53

By Marian Wright Edelman

“Ask What You Can Do For Your Country” a courthouse library researching how many Blacks and Whites had been executed in Georgia’s history. When a White man burst in grinning and shouting loudly, “Hot damn, they got him,” it took me a moment to realize he was talking about President Kennedy. I rushed with others to the nearest television set to see the news and could barely get away quickly enough from the hateful glee of some of the White citizens surrounding me.

The memory of their celebra-

I was a brand new law school graduate in my first months of work with the NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund in New York City on the fateful day in November 50 years ago, when John F. Kennedy was assassinated. I had begun the day visiting a young Black male death row client in a rural Georgia prison accused of killing a White farmer and had returned to Atlanta where I was sitting in

tion still makes me sick.

So much of the deep lingering sadness over President Kennedy’s assassination is about the unfinished promise – unspoken speeches, unfulfilled hopes, the wondering about what might have been.

President Kennedy would not be the last leader or citizen who stood up for equal justice to be slain. His death and others that followed remind us that our dreams and commitment to justice cannot depend on a

Guest Columnist

single leader or be destroyed if one, a few, or many are lost to acts of hate and violence. The Civil Rights Movement continued. We must always refill and ensure there is a critical mass of leaders and activists committed to nonviolence and racial and economic justice who will keep seeding and building transforming movements. When one leader passes many more must be ready to step up to the plate and keep working to ensure a more just America and world.

When President Kennedy was elected, many Black Americans, like so many Americans, were captivated by his youth and energy and promise and were especially hopeful that he might move the country in a new direction on civil rights.

President Kennedy grew as he saw the massive violent resistance to change of some Southern Whites unfolding before him that would not go away and

See Edelman on Page 53

By James Clingman

A.G. Gaston: Find a Need and Fill It One of the greatest entrepreneurs in this nation, Arthur George Gaston, offered these wise words of advice to prospective business owners: “Find a need and fill it.” If there is anyone we can look to for an example of how business is done it is certainly A.G. Gaston. Starting out by lending his money to fellow miners, A.G. parlayed his earnings into personal profit with the interest he made. That www.washingtoninformer.com

reminds me of my days in the U.S. Navy when I used to do the same thing. In addition to being paid for pressing their uniforms and shining their shoes, every payday I would lend money to my shipmates, and require the principal and interest be repaid the following payday. I guess I had a little A.G. Gaston in me back then.

What it all amounts to is heeding those famous words. Businesses are primarily built on the needs of consumers, and as I have said before, sometimes an

entrepreneur can turn a want into a need with slick marketing and advertising campaigns. Gaston used his fill a need statement to his advantage; it is said that when he died in 1996, at 103 years of age, his net worth was in the tens of millions of dollars—one estimate had it as high as $130 million. He filled needs by starting a burial insurance service, complete with cemetery plots, a construction firm, a motel, a radio station, a business college, and other ventures.

This phenomenal business-

man is just another in a long line of Black entrepreneurs who understood what it took to start and grow a business, and they did it quite well, despite the hurdles, discrimination, setbacks, rejections, and failures. From Anthony Johnson in the 1600s to John and George Johnson in the 1950s and 1960s, to Bob Johnson in the 1980s until the present, Black entrepreneurs have made their mark in this nation, and not only should we appreciate their accomplishments, we should also learn from them.

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Another thing we can learn from Gaston’s life is how the connection between the Civil Rights Movement and Black economic empowerment worked.

Blacks were not allowed to stay in most motels in Birmingham in the 1960s; Gaston built his own motel and allowed MLK and his team to stay there and use it as their “war room.” When King was put in jail by Bull Connor, it was Gaston who put up the bail money to get him released. It

See Clingman on Page 53

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opinions/editorials

Guest Columnist

By Harry C. Alford

The Day we Lost “Camelot”

Oh, how I remember November 22, 1963. It was the day that ended America’s love affair.

In November, 1960 we elected a new kind of president. My parents hosted a voting station in our living room. I watched with much curiosity all of the neighbors coming to our house to vote for the president of the United States. At the end of the day my mother and her vol-

unteers hand counted the votes that came in. Then, she would call them in. In the end, John F. Kennedy won the election by the closest margin in history. He was so handsome and the new first lady, Jacqueline Bouvier, was of star quality. America viewed them as King and Queen. Happy days were coming.

On January 17, 1961, outgoing President Dwight D. Eisenhower gave us a warning during his farewell speech: “A vital element in keeping the peace is our military establishment. Our arms

must be mighty, ready for instant action, so that no potential aggressor may be tempted to risk his own destruction…This conjunction of an immense military establishment and a large arms industry is new in the American experience. The total influence — economic, political, even spiritual — is felt in every city, every statehouse, every office of the federal government. We recognize the imperative need for this development. Yet we must not fail to comprehend its grave implications. Our toil, resources

Guest Columnist

and livelihood are all involved; so is the very structure of our society.

“In the councils of government, we must guard against the acquisition of unwarranted influence, whether sought or unsought, by the military–industrial complex [Emphasis mine]. The potential for the disastrous rise of misplaced power exists, and will persist. We must never let the weight of this combination endanger our liberties or democratic processes. We should take nothing for granted. Only an

alert and knowledgeable citizenry can compel the proper meshing of the huge industrial and military machinery of defense with our peaceful methods and goals so that security and liberty may prosper together.”

We ignored this stern warning by one of our greatest leaders in American history. We had Jack and Jackie and life would be just a “bowl of cherries.” Television and the news industry guided us down a path of make believe.

See lee daniels on Page 54

By Julianne Malveaux

Walmart Workers Shouldn’t Have to Donate Food to Co-workers

For the past year, an organization called OUR Walmart, has protested, raised questions and asked their employer, one of the nation’s largest companies, to treat them fairly. They have asked for better wages, more full-time hours, and for the opportunity to earn benefits.

Walmart has responded with well-timed publicity moves.

They will allow same sex couples health insurance and other benefits, but only if someone is work-

ing full time (at least a third of Walmart workers are employed part time). There were headlines about the same-sex marriage benefit, but none about the low wages that many receive, and the hurdles they must clear to get the health care benefit.

The average Walmart worker earns $8.81 an hour; but too many earn the minimum wage ($7.25 cent an hour), even as they work part time. According to Walmart’s CEO. at least half of its workers earn less than $25,000 a year, which isn’t

enough to live on in a city with living costs as high as those in Washington, D.C. Yet, Walmart threatened to withdraw from agreements they had with the District of Columbia when the City Council said they would require a $12.50 minimum wage from “big box” stores.

With the District caught between a rock and a hard place – no jobs or low-paying jobs – they blinked and subscribed to the notion that any job is better than no job. The District will end up subsidizing those work-

ASKIA-AT-LARGE

ers who can’t make it with their Walmart pay. They’ll be the ones lining up for food stamps, subsidized housing, and other income-enhancing programs.

No wonder Walmart wants to help workers during this holiday season. In Canton, Ohio, and in other Walmart stores, managers are asking workers to donate food so that their coworkers may have a pleasant Thanksgiving. If Walmart paid associates enough, workers would not have to transfer food and opportunities to their colleagues. Indeed,

since most Walmart stores have a food section, why wouldn’t the company offer their lowest paid workers a gift certificate for $100 or so? Or, why not just pay workers so they don’t need to seek holiday supplements during the holidays. Walmart doesn’t want to pay people what they are worth, just what they can get away with.

Walmart chooses to suppress wages, so they have also made a choice to encourage some work-

See malveaux on Page 54

By Askia Muhammad

Can Obamacare Be Fixed?

If you let some people tell it, the Affordable Care Act (ACA, aka “Obamacare”) is suffering from an incurable, genetic disorder. That is: it was parented by President Barack Obama.

Never mind that back in 2010 the law required at least 218 yes votes in the House of Representatives; at least 51 votes in the Senate; and in 2012 at least five votes confirming it when it came

before the U.S. Supreme Court.

None of that matters. The DNA test proves it: “Barack Obama, you are the daddy! You alone are to blame!”

What’s more, the Johnny-Reb, Tea Party, Ku Klux Kaucus in Congress has managed to convince many of the most vulnerable, and most in need of the very relief that the ACA provides, to be adamantly against the law.

In Texas for example, where Republican Gov. Rick Perry could not count to three in a 2012 GOP presidential candi-

28 December 5, 2013 - December 11, 2013

dates’ debate, and where neophyte Sen. Ted Cruz made a fool of himself reading “Green Eggs and Ham” in a futile 41hour faux-filibuster against Obamacare; in Texas there are more children in need, without any health insurance than any other state, though Texas is not nearly the most populous state.

Still, a majority of Americans believe it’s too soon to label the Affordable Care Act a failure and that the problems that have plagued the law’s rollout will eventually be fixed, this accordThe Washington Informer

ing to a CNN/ORC International poll released Nov. 27. But the GOP tar-and-feather-Obama campaign managed to convince almost four in 10 Americans to now call Obamacare a failure, with 45 percent saying its flaws will never be fixed.

At the same time, the president’s job approval fell to its lowest level ever, and even his trustworthiness and likeability fell to unprecedented lows after the ACA went into effect Oct. 1 with its Internet enrollment site often frozen under the crush of

consumers seeking information about the health insurance “exchanges” that were to provide a gateway to the hundreds of private insurance plans available.

Support for the plan eroded even further when some consumers who already had private health insurance were told that their policies were being cancelled or their rates were being increased in order to bring all insurance coverage into compliance with the improved stan-

See muhammad on Page 54 www.washingtoninformer.com

/Photo courtesy of OKCupid.com

Interracial Dating Gains Popularity Online The District Ranks among Top Cities for Mixed Couples

By Stacy M. Brown WI Contributing Writer Interracial dating has continued to be all the rage, particularly online where singles are more likely to seek romance outside of their respective races.

Statistics compiled by the popular dating website, OKCupid. com, and others, show that black men and white women primarily seek mates from different backgrounds, and District residents count heavily among those with a preference for interracial unions.

“To gain a clear insight and yes, just being nosy and exercising my single black male inquisitiveness, I joined a number of dating sites and what I found striking was on sites specific to black people, black men in particular, there was no shortage of white women who identified themselves as such in profiles and pictures seeking black men,” said author Ronald Hanna, a Southeast resident who penned his 2012 self-published book, “It’s All in the Game.”

In a study published last month, researchers at the University of California, San Diego, found that while many users logging onto various Internet dating sites tended to initially reach out to their own race, they were far more likely to respond to meswww.washingtoninformer.com

Supermodel Iman and her husband rock star David Bowie. /Courtesy Photo

sages from individuals from different ethnicities and races.

The researchers analyzed the first interactions of more than

126,000 Americans who use OKCupid.com and other web-based services.

They discovered that once in-

dividuals responded to members of another race, both parties easily engaged in conversation. “… People are avoiding others from a different racial background [initially] because they think others won’t be interested,” said the study’s author, Kevin Lewis, a sociologist at the University of California, San Diego.

Lewis said once initial contact has been made, online participants become more comfortable communicating with individuals of a different race.

More than 50 percent of black men and 60 percent of white women each noted in their profiles that they preferred to date outside of their race, according to the Pew Research Center in Northwest, which conducted a study between 2008 and 2010 about online dating.

Conversely, only about 20 percent of black women said that they’re seeking male companionship from a different race.

“There are black women whose profiles state, point blank, that they are seeking a white man,” Hanna said. “I’m an analytical [thinker] and I perceived in many cases that white women were specifically seeking out a black man for [intimate] purposes. That’s been occurring … since slavery.”

For those who maybe flirting

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with the idea of an interracial relationship, authors Christelyn D. Karazin and Janice Littlejohn, have mapped out a strategy for finding a mate in their 2012 book, “Swirling: How to Date, Mate, and Relate: Mixing Race, Culture, and Creed,” published by Atria, a division of Simon and Schuster.

Karazin, a black columnist for Madame Noir magazine who also writes the blog, “BeyondBlackWhite.com, and Littlejohn, a veteran journalist who has worked for the Associated Press, Essence and Vibe, chronicled their personal experiences of interracial dating and marriage and why it’s become important for black women who might be interested in having a male partner of another race.

“The lamentable truth is that at least two million of us are in jeopardy of never experiencing [true love], especially within our own race,” said Karazin, 40, who lives in Los Angeles. “The shortage of black men is real and black women are fighting like alley cats for the half a handful of eligible and marriageable brothers.”

Littlejohn, who also lives in Los Angeles, said black women shouldn’t settle. “So as the world swirls, black women are stuck in See DATING on Page 30

December 5, 2013 - December 11, 2013

29

LIFESTYLE

Education

Or Incarceration

/Photo courtesy of eharmony.com

Khalil Abdullah-editor, writer, New American Media: Prison Privatization: The Second Middle Passage Alonzo Crawford – filmmaker, educator Film screening: Crowded: The Baltimore City Jail Saturday, December 7, 2013 3-6PM Emergence Community Arts Center 733 Euclid Street, NW, Washington, D.C.

Black Men’s Optimal Health Students Against Mass Incarceration Kwame Ture Society

WMATA/DC DOT Certified DBE Firms Subcontractor Bids Andrews Federal Center Bus Garage Solicitation Info: Material Testing, Earthwork, Site Utilities, Landscaping, Fencing, Site Paving, Concrete, Masonry, Steel, Waterproofing & Caulking, Millwork, Division 8 – Doors and Windows, Division 9 – Finishes, Division 10 - Specialties, Bridge Cranes, Jib Crane, Portable Cranes, Elevators, Fire Protection , Fuel Systems Hensel Phelps 4437 Brookfield Corporate Dr., Suite 207 Chantilly, VA 20151 Contact: Jarett Lowman for information jlowman@henselphelps.com Phone: 703.828.3200 Fax:703.802.1580 Hensel Phelps is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer

30 December 5, 2013 - December 11, 2013

/Photo courtesy of Vincinati.com

DATING continued from Page 29 lives filled with made-for-soapopera drama and settling for less than they deserve,” said Littlejohn, the book’s co-author and a black woman.

“It is telling when a woman with her masters degree and making a decent amount of money decides to steal a car with her man just to prove she loves him, or a Christian woman and mother of four opts to marry a man serving a three-strikes sentence in prison because she doesn’t want to be alone anymore … and all because black women fear cultural isolation from their own community when they mix date and marry.”

Karazin said there are many myths that are being perpetrated The Washington Informer

as to why black men seek white women and white women seek black men to develop relationships. “If you go online and read some of the things being said, it can kill your soul,” she said.

“There is an element of escapism involved and I can’t quantify how many [interracial] couples have met online searching for love, but I do believe that the overwhelming majority are looking for true love.”

Various studies show that nearly 18,000 D.C. residents are multiracial, with about 7,000 who identify themselves as being black or of another race.

The United States Census Bureau reported that while about 6.9 percent of married couples in America are interracial, the percentage in the District stands at nearly 11 percent.

Twenty percent of Washington, D.C., couples who married between 2008 and 2010 are of mixed-race, said Census officials, who also noted that the percentage of all married couples in the District stands at just 10.2 percent.

“Well, what it proves is that love can be found outside of your race, especially here in the District,” said Marilyn Shaw, 48, a clinical psychologist in Northeast.

“You can call it the forbidden fruit, or you can call it jungle fever, but whatever you might say it is, the facts are that black men are dating white women and white men are dating black women. As someone who’s black and married to a white man, I’m happy to say that it’s not exclusive or elusive company any longer.

It truly is whatever and whoever makes you happy.”wi www.washingtoninformer.com

a million reasons to

Bring your stamped letter to Macy’s addressed to Santa At The North Pole, and drop it into our special Santa letterbox. We will count them up, and for each letter received, we’ll donate $1 to Make-A-Wish® up to $1,000,000... and we’ll deliver them to the Post Office.

Share your holiday spirit with us! #MacysBelieve

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Comments? Opinions?

Email us at:

We like to hear from you!

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This CFC season consider giving back to a veteran who has given so much to us.

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The Mini Cooper Countryman features an exemplary balance between driving fun and fuel economy. /Photo courtesy of BMW of North America

Countryman: Mini’s Thrilling Bite-sized Crossover

By Njuguna Kabugi WI Contributing Writer If you have ever circled around a city block looking for a free space, struggled to parallel park into what seemed like a safe opening only to realize that your car was way too long, then you may appreciate why millions of drivers love the Mini Cooper.

With legendary turbocharged engines, coupled with sport-tuned suspensions that allow drivers to charge around town like energizer bunnies, the tiny cars offer a unique sporting blend of classic British mini-car charm combined with precise German engineering and construction.

Based on the original British made Mini first introduced in 1959, the modern Mini – now owned by BMW – is far bigger than the original. Building on the philosophy that the only way to enable middle-class commoners easy entry to the upper crust of the British automotive club is through a “more is more” approach, BMW has added a dizzying 13 models to the Mini lineup since the car was re-launched in the U.S. a decade ago.

Take this week’s test car – the Mini Countryman which is actually not a mini but a midi – a stretched, Mini with four fullsized doors and 700 pounds more weight than a standard hatchback. The Countryman is compact and a feature-packed The Washington Informer

crossover that manages to still look like a Mini while also giving a new take on what a compact utility vehicle should be, minus all the extra size and weight.

Customers can choose from three engine variants. The standard 1.6 liter, four cylinder Cooper engine (121 h.p.) is the standard powertrain, while the turbocharged Cooper S engine is an option delivering 181 h.p.

There is also the ultra-sporty John Cooper Works Countryman, powered by a turbocharged 208 h.p. engine. The all-wheeldrive system fitted as standard on John Cooper Works is also available as an option for the regular Minis. All models can be ordered with a six-speed automatic gearbox as an alternative to the standard six-speed manual.

I drove the ultra-sporty John Cooper Works Countryman. On the road, my red Mini radiated attitude with its black stripes, black top and black mirrors, 18-inch wheels and three-inch-diameter dual exhausts (for a 1.6-liter 208 h.p. four-cylinder engine). The car’s all-wheel-drive system uses an electromagnetic center differential to distribute drive seamlessly between the front and rear axles. This ensures the engine’s power always finds its way to where it can be converted most effectively into forward motion.

Though not as quick or precise as a regular Cooper Works hatchback, the Countryman vari-

ant still delivers surprising vigor while cruising on the highway or turning corners in tight urban streets.

The added height gives the Countryman a more accommodating interior. Driving cabin feels less claustrophobic compared to the hatchback and adult passengers appreciate the extra rear space. Numerous cup holders and storage facilities make it easy to take drinks and travel utensils along, and there is an additional storage compartment behind the decorative strip on the passenger side.

In addition to the anti-lock system, our Countryman came with HID lights, leather seating, navigation, automatic climate control, and parking sensors.

While there’s a Countryman for almost anyone – be watchful of the bottom line as you check the options. The base Cooper Countryman retails just above $22,000.

Our full featured Countryman John Cooper Works model came with a $34,850 sticker price. Fuel economy is stated as 27 miles per gallon city/35 mpg highway for the base Countryman with manual transmission. Our car, equipped with an automatic transmission, checked in at 23 mpg city/30 mpg hwy. wi www.washingtoninformer.com

LIFESTYLE

Griot

What Do You Think?

We’d Like To Know.

“Band-Aid for a Broken Leg”

E-mail Us: news@ washingtoninformer.com

By Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer You sure had lots of choices.

Plan A or Plan B? This one or that? It was a big decision and you made it with as much information as you could find. Now you hope you’ve gotten the health care coverage that works best for you and your family.

But what if there was no option, or that health care was days away, dispensed in a tent with little technology? In the book “Band-Aid for a Broken Leg”

by Damien Brown, you’ll read about one doctor’s experiences, literally in the field.

Growing up in relative affluence, Damien Brown only had the barest notion of hardship until he was in his 20s. By then, he’d lived on several different continents, had seen the effects of misery and poverty, and had decided that he “wanted to help.

Or at least try, in some capacity.”

So, following graduation from med school in Australia, he signed on with Médecins Sans Frontiéres and was sent to Mavinga, Angola, on Africa’s southwest side. It would be his home for six months.

Dubbed The Edge of the World by Portuguese colonists, Mavinga was little more than a collection of dusty buildings and tents surrounded by land mines. Brown’s job was to relieve the doctor whose stint was up but, never having been in charge of a hospital before, he was terrified.

It didn’t go well at first.

Brown didn’t speak Portuguese, and the language barrier gave his staff extra reason to complain about Novo Doctor. The illnesses he saw were things he’d only ever read about before. Pawww.washingtoninformer.com

Sports Photos

Write Us: The Washington Informer 3117 MLK Ave, SE Washington, D.C. 20032

by Damien Brown c.2013, Allen & Unwin $25.95 / $28.50 Canada 345 pages

View

tient treatment was hampered by lack of X-rays, oxygen machines, and modern testing; and a near-primitive surgery suite with hand-operated equipment. Improvisation was common, sanitary conditions often proved to be an issue and, between adrenaline-rush emergencies, there was incredible boredom.

Six months. That’s all Brown signed on for and he counted the days – until he suddenly realized that things were better. His colleagues had become friends and his time in Mavinga was up too soon. From there, he “slid finally into Melbourne” and a hospital with modern equipment.

But the difference was “a glaring, uncomfortable reminder of the disparities…” and Brown missed Africa.

“By mid-year,” he says, “I’m trawling the aid-worker websites…”

You might think for a minute that “Band-Aid for a Broken Leg” would be like those commercials you see on TV, filled with misery meant to touch your heart.

And you’d be wrong.

Oh, there’s heart-touching here, yes. Author Damien Brown doesn’t miss a chance to share the mind-boggling things he saw, but we’re also privy to the goodness, too. That makes this book a nice balance between suffering that will make you very thankful for what you’ve got, and grace and forbearance that will make you smile.

This is the kind of book that will open your conscience – and maybe your wallet. It’s both jaw-dropping and humorous.

And if you’d love a story about a life you may never lead in a place you may never visit, “Band-Aid for a Broken Leg” is a good choice.wi

by John De Freitas

at:



Save the Date Please join us for

‘Tis the Season A H O L I D AY C E L E B R AT I O N

Featuring the Bowie State University Community Jazz Band Ensemble

And Morris Wilson, accompanied by Virgil Crawford

Saturday, December 14, 2013 Two Shows, 4PM and 6PM Presented by the Fine and Performing Arts Center In partnership with The Foundation for the Advancement of Music & Education, Inc. (FAME)

Bowie State University Fine and Performing Arts Center 14000 Jericho Park Rd Bowie, MD 20715 Cost $15 Your donations support our Arts program.

Tickets and RSVP: 301.860.3753 Information: events@bowiestate.edu Purchase tickets online at donation.bowiestate.edu/holidaycelebration

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33

Horo scopes

dec 5 - dec 11, 2013

ARIES A humanitarian cause may get you out to a meeting with others of like-mindedness this week. You’ll meet some interesting people, and also get a new view of how you are perceived by others if you go. Enjoy! Soul Affirmation: I spend the week celebrating me. Lucky Numbers: 19, 27, 44 TAURUS Everybody’s in a full-moon frenzy regarding relationship issues. Listen to what others are saying, and chart your own course through this week. If you are in a relationship, remember what brought you together with this person in the first place, and be glad for what you’ve had. Soul Affirmation: My smile is a radiant light to those I encounter. Lucky Numbers: 8, 21, 29 GEMINI Your intuition is trying to tell you something. Be still for a bit and let the message come. You know when to exercise caution, and when to let go and revel in pleasure. There’s much pleasure in your life this week. Soul Affirmation: I keep my eyes open for business opportunities this week. Lucky Numbers: 5, 12, 28 CANCER Put one of your new ideas into action this week and see how it feels as you work through your routine. You are in command of how you think this week, so use this beneficial energy to accomplish some of the things you’ve wanted to do. Soul Affirmation: I paint my world in colors of the rainbow. Lucky Numbers: 10, 19, 24 LEO Every positive idea you have is likely to be challenged this week, so you may want to keep your brilliance under wraps until at least tomorrow. Your ideas are sound and good; don’t take others’ rude behavior personally. Soul Affirmation: I let go and let the spirit run my life this week. Lucky Numbers: 19, 30, 42 VIRGO This week’s the week to communicate those ideas.

People will seem to be much more receptive and less grouchy.

Make sure that your ideas have some practical actions that can be taken, so that people will know how to respond to you. Soul Affirmation: I love many people this week. Lucky Numbers: 6, 12, 19 LIBRA You are the messenger of freedom this week, and if you are not careful with your words, you’ll find that some people don’t want to be liberated. Not to worry, just go your merry way and enjoy yourself. Others will learn from what you are doing. Soul Affirmation: I let my instincts light my way this week. Lucky Numbers: 18, 20, 45 SCORPIO Your creativity is pulling you in a wonderful direction. Act on your impulse to create beauty in your life. Pay attention when your nearest, dearest friend is trying to tell you something. Your impatience to get to the next project could cause you to miss a valuable signal. Soul Affirmation: Charm is my middle name this week. Lucky Numbers: 23, 27, 54 SAGITTARIUS Keep a low profile at a family get-together.

Someone wants to scuffle, but won’t be able to if you don’t present yourself as a target. Your checkbook needs looking into; you’ll feel better if it’s balanced. Soul Affirmation: I am patient with all that comes my way this week. Lucky Numbers: 32, 45, 51 CAPRICORN Your home life is important to you this week.

Get the family together to take care of some fall clean-up chores and make it a party that everyone will remember with joy. Take the lead on bringing happiness to the occasion. Soul Affirmation: I seek connection with the best that is in me. Lucky Numbers: 23, 43, 46 AQUARIUS Daydreaming will work wonders for your spirit this week. Let your imagination fly freely and follow up on ideas in a leisurely way. You are able to accomplish some very rewarding and life-affirming tasks. Soul Affirmation: I celebrate those around me. Lucky Numbers: 9, 50, 52 PISCES Congratulations on your positive attitude this week!

While others may be dragging, your spirit is full of energy.

Enjoy the power-surge of good feelings, and you’ll be lifting others’ spirits just by being you. Soul Affirmation: The true path is mapped out by my impulses. Lucky Numbers: 14, 17, 19

34 December 5, 2013 - December 11, 2013

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Black Nativity

By Stacy M. Brown and Huda Mu’min WI Contributing Writers

The buzz surrounding the new holiday film, “Black Nativity,” might turn out to be more about the talent assembled for the Silver Screen version of Langston Hughes’ masterpiece, than about the birth of Jesus Christ, which is the prevailing theme of the stage play.

The film, which opened nationwide on Wednesday, Nov. 27, stars Hollywood powerhouses Forest Whitaker and Angela Bassett. It also features music superstars Jennifer Hudson, Mary J. Blige and Jacob Latimore while the score for the movie includes new tracks from Raphael Saadiq and Laura Karpman.

However, audiences ultimately will decide whether, “Black Nativity,” keeps the integrity of Hughes’ play, which happened to be one of the first by an African American to appear on Broadway, also known as the Great White Way. “The movie is a reflection on our time and the everyday miracle of forgiveness, but I did not want an obvious big miracle holiday movie with just the conspicuous hand of God reaching down,” said the film’s director, Kasi Lemmons.

“I believe that miracles happen every day even in tiny waves and I think that forgiveness is one of those great miracles that [by] opening your heart, you will also open a universe to different possibilities,” said Lemmons, 52, who’s directing credits also include the 2007 film, “Talk to Me,” the story of Washington D.C., radio personality, Ralph “Petey” Greene, an ex-con who became a popular radio talk show host and community activist in the 1960s.

Hughes’ stage play also focused on miracles and forgiveness, and opens with barefoot singers clad in white robes with candles in hand, singing, the Negro spiritual, “Go Tell It on the Mountain.”

The late Mike Malone, the co-founder of the Duke Ellington School of the Arts in Northwest, staged “Black Nativity,” in theaters around the world, including Paris, Hong Kong, New York and Ohio. The production has become a holiday tradition in many locations, especially in www.washingtoninformer.com

Washington, D.C., where staff and students at Ellington will again perform the play beginning Wednesday, Dec. 4.

For the Silver Screen production of “Black Nativity,” Latimore, 17, portrays, “Langston,” a frustrated teen from Baltimore.

The story chronicles his journey from the single-parent home he shares with his mother, Naima, portrayed by Hudson, to New York where he spends Christmas with his estranged grandparents, the Rev. Cornell Cobbs (Whitaker) and Aretha Cobbs (Bassett).

While the family feuds over past misgivings and a lack of trust, Langston ultimately discovers the meaning of faith and forgiveness.

“I think as parents we all want the best for [our children] and [our] family and [we] want to provide for them,” said Hudson, 32, who catapulted to fame in 2004 as one of the 12 finalists on the popular Fox television talent show, “American Idol.”

Hudson, a multiple Grammy Award winner, made her film debut in the 2006 Silver Screen production of, “Dreamgirls,” which she earned an NAACP Image Award, a Screen Actors Guild Award, a Golden Globe Award and the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.

“I understand Naima, I understand her stubbornness, and not wanting to forgive her family,” Hudson said.

Lemmons and producers of the one hour and 33-minute film’s distributor, Fox Searchlight Pictures, hope “Black Nativity,” benefits from the success of other African-American movies this year, including the recently released, “The Best Man Holidays,” “12 Years a Slave,” and, “The Butler.”

However, various cinema trade publications noted that the enthusiasm surrounding “Black Nativity” did not translate well at the box office, as the film took in an estimated $3 million during the holiday weekend.

Whether or not theatergoers eventually flock to see the movie, Lemmons said she’s thrilled with the film’s end result. And, she considers herself fortunate to have been able to bring together such a star-studded cast that also features the

LIFESTYLE

Film Features StarStudded Cast

/Courtesy Photo

rapper, Nas, and actor and singer, Tyrese Gibson.

“Getting them all together was a huge challenge,” Lemmons said in an earlier inter-

view. “But, I pretty much got my first choices. Also, (Latimore) is just this amazing kid and I knew that this movie rested on the shoulders of this kid. He was

Help build Washington, DC’s first elevated park OVER the Anacostia River! Join us for a community design meeting about the 11th Street Bridge Park—a new civic space being planned in the nation’s capital. This is an opportunity to provide your input on this exciting project. Two opportunities to join the conversation!

Saturday, December 7, 2013 Morning Session

Afternoon Session

8-9 am Open House 9 am-12 noon Community Meeting Matthews Memorial Baptist Church 2616 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave. SE; Washington DC 20020 John H. Kearney, Sr. Fellowship Hall – enter through the back of the building Closest Metro: Anacostia Station Church parking available Light refreshments will be provided RSVP: https://dcbridgepark1.eventbrite.com or call 202.669.0951

2-3 pm Open House 3-6 pm Community Meeting 200 I Street SE; Washington DC 20003 Multi-purpose room on the 1st floor (just past the security desk) Closest Metro: Navy Yard Station Metered street parking available Light refreshments will be provided NOTE: This is a government building— BRING I.D. to go through security RSVP: http://dcbridgepark2.eventbrite.com or call 202.669.0951

the first actor I auditioned and I knew as soon as he walked into my house … this was an extraordinary young man. I love this kid.”wi

About the 11th Street Bridge Park As the old 11th Street river bridges that connect Washington, DC’s Capitol Hill and historic Anacostia neighborhoods are being replaced, the District government and a local nonprofit organization, Building Bridges Across the River at THEARC, will transform this aged infrastructure into the city’s first elevated park: a new venue for healthy recreation, environmental education, and the arts.

For more information on the Bridge Park visit: http://bit.ly/DCBridgePark Questions? Contact Scott Kratz by E-mail: SKratz@thearcdc.org or phone: 202.669.0951

These community design meetings are supported by:

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December 5, 2013 - December 11, 2013

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LIFESTYLE

‘Running from Crazy’ Documentary Airs on OWN

By F. Sia Turay Special to the Informer The acclaimed documentary Running from Crazy, the latest project from two-time Academy Award winner Barbara Kopple (Harlan County USA, American Dream), which world premiered at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year, was released theatrically November 1, and will follow with a debut on OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network in 2014.

Hailed as one of the most distinguished families in American literature, the Hemingways have always exposed their brilliance while often living in the shadows of deep emotional struggle.

Two-time Academy Award winning filmmaker Barbara Kopple’s newest documentary focuses on Mariel Hemingway, a granddaughter of the legendary writer Ernest, as she explores her family’s disturbing history of mental

illness and suicide. As a child, Mariel grew up on the Hemingway family farm in Idaho, the same place her famous grandfather took his own life months before she was born. The youngest of the three sisters, Mariel followed her older sister Margaux into acting and modeling, while her oldest sister Muffet struggled with mental illness and drifted in and out of mental hospitals.

Kopple’s bold film intertwines haunting archival footage of the three Hemingway sisters with scenes from Mariel’s life today as she seeks to live a rigorously healthy lifestyle to combat what appears to be a difficult family birthright. Mariel’s courageous journey of introspection and reflection allows her to view her family that has shaped her life through new eyes and, for the first time, strive for peace and acceptance.

“Mariel courageously shares

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(L-R) Sheri Salata, president of OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network and Harpo Studios; Oprah Winfrey, chairman and CEO of OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network and Harpo Studios; Barbara Kopple, filmmaker and Mariel Hemingway at the LA premiere screening of “Running from Crazy.” /Photo Courtesy: OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network

My hope is that this film changes perceptions of the family, and also, more importantly, elicits a new compassion and understanding in how we treat those grappling with suicide or mental illness,” said Kopple. “For me, it’s a moving and powerful story that offers up hope and the sense that none of us are alone in our struggles.”

“Mental illness is overwhelmingly misunderstood and creates fear for so many. I’m hoping Running From Crazy gives people permission to share their stories and know that they are not

her family’s personal story with both heart and dignity in this extraordinary film told through the powerful lens of filmmaker Barbara Kopple,” said Sheri Salata, president, OWN. “Not only is it a compelling and inspiring film, but we also hope it can help encourage important conversations around the topic of mental illness and suicide prevention.”

“Running from Crazy gave me the incredible chance to delve into the rich and complex history of the Hemingways, a family who has left such an enduring mark on literature and culture.

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alone. Perhaps by sharing my life with others they will feel supported in speaking out and getting help,” said Hemingway.

Running from Crazy is produced by Cabin Creek Films for OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network.

Produced and directed by Barbara Kopple. Produced by David Cassidy. Executive producers are Barbara Kopple, Erica Forstadt, Lisa Erspamer and Oprah Winfrey.wi To watch the trailer for Running from Crazy, click here: www.oprah. com/RunningFromCrazy.

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World AIDS Day! The Rev. Frank D. Tucker, senior pastor of the historic First Baptist Church in Northwest, talked to his congregation about HIV/AIDS on World AIDS Day. During his Dec. 1 sermon, he urged everyone to be tested and to be fully aware of their status. He also provided information about various in-home HIV tests. Tucker has partnered with the Leadership Council and Healthy Communities and the National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS to raise awareness within the black community. /Photos by Khalid Naji-Allah

Sign Designer/Fabricator Needed Signarama Silver Spring is looking for a creative, self-motivated designer who either has experience with sign or large format design or is willing to quickly learn. At Signarama Silver Spring, we deliver all kinds of signage including exterior building signs, interior decorative signs, office signs, promotional signage, trade show displays, event signage, logos, marketing materials, window and vehicle graphics. Previous design experience is a MUST. In addition to designing all types of signs, responsibilities also include preparing vinyl mounted signs, banners, posters, window and vehicle graphics.

Some small installations of window and vehicle graphics are also required. Must be adept at multi-tasking and time management to be able to manage all sign design and production activities. At Signarama Silver Spring, we are more than order-takers who simply make signs. We provide a consultative approach to present the very best, high quality solutions to help our customers grow their business or present their organization in the very best light possible. If you value high quality solutions; are customer-focused; can take direction and can manage yourself, we’d love to hear from you. Please be respectful of the existing employees and DO NOT CALL. Please send your resume and salary requirements to info@signarama-silverspring.com.

Signarama Silver Spring MBE/DBE Certified, Woman-Owned Company 9439 Georgia Avenue Silver Spring MD 20910

“Simply gorgeous!” ~The Washington Post

DECEMBER 5–29 at the Warner

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washingtonballet.org or 202.397.SEAT *Includes $2 preservation fee.

Francesca Dugarte as Miss Liberty. Photos by Tony Brown, imijphoto.com and Steve Vaccariello.

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38 December 5, 2013 - December 11, 2013

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Eclectic Holiday Gifts at BZB’s Annual Gift & Art Show!

The 23rd Annual BZB Gift & Art Show kicked off last weekend at Shiloh Family Life Center in Northwest, much to the delight of holiday shoppers. More than 75 local retailers will be on hand to showcase fine jewelry, designer and ethnic fashions plus so much more throughout the holiday season. Those looking for unique gifts can browse, chat with artisans and shop every Saturday through Dec. 21. /Photos by Roy Lewis

Juanita Britton, the producer of the annual extravaganza in Washington, D.C. /Photos by Roy Lewis

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39

MY FAVORITE THINGS…

A

Shantella Y. Sherman

very wise Caribbean friend once told me that “the cheap comes out expensive.” Often, in an attempt to catch a bargain, budget-conscious shoppers find themselves purchasing and replacing the same items and accessories. Face it: Quality Costs. This is gospel when it comes to purchasing clothing, jewelry accessories, and even art. Among my favorite things this holiday season are design staples that once purchased, will easily last until the purchasers’ grandchildren inherit them. Consider building a wardrobe of quality items over time or even through consignment shops – once you know what works. These items also make spectacular gifts! Happy Shopping!

MONIF C / MARINA RINALDI Well-tailored women’s clothing comes in sizes including the double-digits. Two women’s designers, the trendy Monif C. and the classic Marina Rinaldi offer a wide range of professional, casual, and evening attire made to fit a woman’s curves. www.marinarinaldi.com and www.monifc.com. Pair with Kurt Geiger / Carvela shoes or Pikolinos boots for style and glamour.

KNITS & KNOTTS – “The Assyrian” Amazing neckwear should have a combination of great color(s) and texture. For this reason, I love “The Assyrian” necktie designed by Knits & Knotts. Instead of relying on silk, Knits & Knotts uses leather – the perfect finishing touch to first-rate haberdashery. When paired with the classic cashmeres and wools at Everett Hall or Pink, and Bruno Magli Longwing Oxfords, “The Assyrian” takes the fashion game to new heights. www. kandkneckwear.com

BENNI BLACK – Educated Gorgeous Opinionated I have enough of these for people to believe they are my initials. When it’s time to switch from the professional to the casual, Benni Black’s EGO line of T-shirts and logo tops is essential.

Educated, Gorgeous, Opinionated – what an affirmation! Designed to travel well and flatter wearers, EGO is the new white cotton business shirt. www.benniblack.com

NAJEE DORSEY ART As an historian whose focus includes the Great Migration, I am mesmerized with the artwork of Najee Dorsey. Using mixed media, including period ephemera and photos, Dorsey’s work is among the most exceptional I’ve come across in years.

In addition to bridging the past and present, Dorsey’s work is thought-provoking and inspiring. Make wall space for what are bound to be great investments. www. najeedorsey.com

BVLGARI - B.Zero1 Four Band 18 Karat Rose Gold and Green Marble Long celebrated for jewelry designs that combine unexpected and whimsical materials with precious metals and stones, Bvlgari, in collaboration with Anish Kapoor, a world-renowned architect and designer, recently released the new marble line of B.zero1 rings. Designed around the spiral motif, the pink gold and marble (in green, brown and blue) is “to die for.” www. bvlgari.com

40 December 5, 2013 - December 11, 2013

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Woodson Defeats Wilson 25-13

sports

Wilson wide receiver Maurice Carter pulls in a touchdown pass with Woodson defensive back Malik Gant in hot pursuit during the 2013 Turkey Bowl on Thursday, Nov. 28 at Eastern High School in Northeast. Woodson defeated Wilson 25-13. /Photo by John E. De Freitas

Woodson running back Jai Carson streaks by Wilson defensive back Mathew Thorne to make a first down during the 2013 Turkey Bowl on Thursday, Nov. 28 at Eastern High School in Northeast. Woodson defeated Wilson 25-13. /Photo by John E. De Freitas Woodson fans celebrate with the Turkey Bowl trophy on Thursday, Nov. 28 at Eastern High School in Northeast. Woodson defeated Wilson 2513. /Photo by John E. De Freitas

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December 5, 2013 - December 11, 2013

41

sports

Wizards Defeat the Los Angeles Lakers 116-111

Washington guard John Wall splits two Lakers defenders to score two of his 31 points on Nov. 26 at the Verizon Center in Northwest. The Wizards defeated the Lakers 116-111 before a sellout crowd. /Photo by John E. De Freitas

Los Angeles guard and former Maryland Terrapin Steve Blake drives past Washington center Washington forward Martell Webster scores two of his 20 points on Nov. 26 at the Verizon Center Marcin Gortat on Nov. 26 at the Verizon Center in Northwest. The Wizards defeated the in Northwest. The Wizards defeated the Lakers 116-111. /Photo by John E. De Freitas Lakers 116-111. /Photo by John E. De Freitas

42 December 5, 2013 - December 11, 2013

The Washington Informer

www.washingtoninformer.com

REDSKINS

sports

Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III is sacked by New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck in the fourth quarter of National Football League action at FedEx Field in Landover, Md., on Sunday, Dec. 1.Washington fell to New York 24-17. /Photo by Khalid Naji-Allah

New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz beats Washington Redskins corner back DeAngelo Hall in the fourth quarter of National Football League action at FedEx Field in Landover, Md., on Sunday, Dec. 1.Washington fell to New York 24-17. /Photo by Khalid Naji-Allah

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Washington Redskins wide receiver Joshua Morgan returns a kickoff at the beginning of the fourth quarter of National Football Action at FedEx Field in Landover, Md., on Sunday, Dec. 1.Washington fell to New York 24-17. /Photo by Khalid Naji-Allah

The Washington Informer

December 5, 2013 - December 11, 2013

43

sports

sports

The Starting Five. /Courtesy Photo

Jabril Trawick. /Courtesy Photo

Hoyas Turn Up the Heat at Home Georgetown Basketball Team Ready to Make a Run

By Stacy M. Brown WI Contributing Writer

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It didn’t take long for the Georgetown University Men’s basketball team to get used to some good old fashion home cooking.

After nearly a month on the road, and a long way from Washington, D.C., the Hoyas returned to the Verizon Center in Northwest and blew out the Bison of Lipscomb University, 70-49, before a sparse, but festive, crowd of more than 8,100.

The victory marked the road-weary Hoyas’ third straight win and the team’s 45th consecutive triumph against non-conference opponents at the Verizon Center dating back to 2006.

The Hoyas began the season by traveling to Seoul, South Korea, where they lost 82-75 to Oregon.

After a brief stop at home where they defeated Ohio’s Wright State, the Hoyas flew to Puerto Rico where they won three straight games, including a Nov. 24 contest against No. 10 ranked Virginia Commonwealth University.

“I think we know what we need to do to win games,” said head coach John Thompson III. “Every shot that the other team gets is a tough, contested shot and then we get the rebound.

If we do that, then everything else will fall into place,” said Thompson, 47, the son of the Hoyas legendary former coach, John Thompson.

Junior guard Jabril Trawick enjoyed the team’s return to the District, he said.

The third-year star scored the first two baskets against Lipscomb, a college located in Nashville, Tenn., which sparked a 13-0 Hoyas run to open the second half in the game, played on Saturday, Nov. 30.

“My mindset in the second half The Washington Informer

was to come out and just bring the energy on both sides of the floor,” said Trawick, 20. “I ended up getting a couple of transition baskets and I actually got some rebounds so I knew that would help keep a lead on Lipscomb.”

Trawick finished with eight points and seven rebounds, but his overall play impressed Thompson.

“He played hard and he got us going and all of a sudden the other guys started to feed off of his aggressiveness and his assertiveness and his energy,” the head coach said.

The Hoyas, who are 4-2 on the young season and have totaled nearly 17,000 miles of air travel already this year, will continue their home stand on Thursday, December 5 with a 9 p.m. game against North Carolina’s High Point University.

The team then tips-off against Colgate on Saturday, Dec. 7 at noon at the Verizon Center before taking 10 days off to prepare for the home stand finale against North Carolina’s Elon University.

“We have to continue to get better.

We have to get to the point where the other team can’t score. It is just as simple as that,” Thompson said.

The head coach also appears determined to rid the Hoyas of any potential distractions. Just prior to the game against Lipscomb, Thompson announced that junior forward Greg Whittington had been cut from the team.

The promising 6-foot-8 Whittington hadn’t played for the Hoyas since last season because of academic issues, university officials said.

Whittington, 21, also suffered a brutal injury last year, tearing his anterior cruciate ligament. Team officials declined to say specifically why they cut Whittington or what the Hoyas

would do to replace the former 2011 All-Met Player of the Year at Oakland Mills High School in Columbia, Md. Cutting Whittington means the team will not get one of its leading scorers and top rebounding forwards back this season. Whittington averaged 12 points and 7 rebounds in 13 games last year and his rehabilitation from the injury appeared to be ahead of schedule.

Sports analysts at ESPN said Whittington would have been the Hoyas top player entering this season with the departure of Otto Porter Jr. to the National Basketball Association (NBA). The Washington Wizards selected Porter, 20, with the third pick in the draft this year and signed him to a four year, $19 million contract.

It isn’t known whether Whittington will transfer to another school, play professionally overseas or attempt to hook up with an NBA team.

“It doesn’t matter, our team continues to mature and get better,” said Hoya fan, Avery Anderson, of Alexandria, Va. “If [Whittington] was any kind of distraction, you know Coach Thompson wasn’t going to put up with it for long,” said Anderson, 31.

“Do you think the coach’s dad would have?”

Like many Hoya fans, Anderson has high hopes for this year’s team.

Others agree.

“Our conference is decent, but I think as the season progresses, we’ll get stronger and the guys will be more acclimated to playing together,” said Nick Bowen, 34, also of Alexandria.

“I think we can do big things and I’m glad that we got that long road trip out of the way early. I think that will help, not having to take long trips in the middle of the season.”wi www.washingtoninformer.com

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The Religion Corner

religion

When It’s Safe to Trust In the Bible, the book of Genesis, chapter 37, there’s an interesting story of Joseph and how his brothers envied him and the love his father showed him by making Joseph an elaborate colorful coat; read the story. For many reasons, jealousy got the better of them, so they sold him to the Ishmeelites for 20 pieces of silver. Here’s how they did it. Joseph trusted his brothers, never expecting them to try to destroy him. The thought never crossed his mind.

They take Joseph to Egypt and sell him to Potiphar, captain of the guard; and because of Joseph’s faithfulness and his gift of interpreting dreams and how they come true; Joseph was able to help the king to understand a very worrisome dream he had.

Because of this one spiritual act, which worked, the king rewarded Joseph by making him second in command, after the king.

Eventually, because of a drought throughout the land, Joseph’s brothers had to flee their old land and go to the Ishmeelites for help. Not knowing it was their brother Joseph they saw, they were shown mercy. Joseph did forgive them in his heart, and he did help his brothers.

God is with us when life is unfair and he sees our struggles, just as he was for Joseph. We must remember that He is always with us, as we pray, as we rely on Him, and as we do our best. We are serving the Lord, not man.

God doesn’t guarantee that we will never, ever be treated unfair-

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ly, but He does guarantee that, no matter what happens, He will be there.

If we practice praying without ceasing, and always do our best and stay connected to Him, and maintain a clear conscience about our actions God will help us to endure. We will definitely be victorious, just like Joseph.

What unfair treatment are you experiencing right now? Pray about it, stay connected to God. We are shaped into the person we become from the moment of our conception. Jeremiah 1:5 says it best: “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you.�

When you make moves without a Word from On High, Holy Spirit, we make major errors.

Sometimes, we even perish! This tale shows how we suffer the consequences from listening to our own thoughts, trusting the wrong people rather than listening to the Lord.

You’ve probably read how the scorpion wants to cross a river, but he can’t swim. Goes to the frog, since he can swim, the scorpion asks for a ride. The frog says, “If I give you a ride on my back, you’ll go and sting me.� The scorpion replies, “It would not be in my best interest to sting you since I’ll be on your back and we both would drown.� The frog thinks about this logic for a while and accepts the deal. The frog takes the scorpion on his back. Braves the waters. Halfway over the frog feels a burning spear in his side and realizes the scorpion has stung him after all. And as they both sink beneath the waves the frog

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cries out, “Why did you sting me, Mr. Scorpion, for now we both will drown?� the scorpion replies, “I can’t help it, it’s in my nature.�

The meaning of the story is clear: creatures (including people) will remain true to their natures, regardless of external influences. The frog takes the scorpion at its word and agrees to transport the scorpion, despite the fact that there’s nothing in it for the frog. The scorpion on the other hand will remain true to its innate nature, even though it’s treated with trust and kindness.

Know who you’re dealing with, and pray and ask the Lord when you’re unsure about who to trust.wi

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46 December 5, 2013 - December 11, 2013

The Washington Informer

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religion BAPTIST

african methodist episcopal

Pilgrim Baptist Church

Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church The Reverend Lyndon Shakespeare Interim Priest Foggy Bottom • Founded in 1867 728 23rd Street, NW • Washington, DC 20037 Church office: 202-333-3985 • Fax : 202-338-4958 Worship Services Sundays: 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist with Music and Hymns Wednesdays: 12:10 p.m. - Holy Eucharist www.stmarysfoggybottom.org Email: stmarysoffice@stmarysfoggybottom.org All are welcome to St. Mary’s to Learn, Worship, and Grow.

700 I. Street, NE Washington, D.C. 20002 Pastor Louis B. Jones, II and Pilgrim invite you to join us during our July and August Summer schedule! Attire is Christian casual.

Worship: Sundays@ 7:30 A.M. & 10:00 A.M. 3rd Sunday Holy Communion/Baptism/Consecration Prayer & Praise: Wednesdays @12:00 Noon @ 6:30 P.M. – One Hour of Power!

(202) 547-8849 www.pilgrimbaptistdc.org

Blessed Word of Life Church Dr. Dekontee L. & Dr. Ayele A. Johnson Pastors 4001 14th Street, NW Washington, DC 20011 (202) 265-6147 Office 1-800 576-1047 Voicemail/Fax Schedule of Services: Sunday School – 9:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service – 11:00 AM Communion Service – First Sunday Prayer Service/Bible Study – Tuesday, 6:30 PM www.blessedwordoflifechurch.org e-mail: church@blessedwordoflifechurch.org

Covenant Baptist United Church of Christ Drs. Dennis W. and Christine Y. Wiley, Pastors 3845 South Capitol Street Washington, DC 20032 (202) 562-5576 (Office) (202) 562-4219 (Fax) SERVICES AND TIMES: SUNDAYS: 10:00 am AM Worship Services BIBLE STUDY: Wonderful Wednesdays in Worship and the Word Bible Study Wednesdays 12:00 Noon; 6:30 PM (dinner @ 5:30 PM) SUNDAY SCHOOL: 9:00 AM – Hour of Power “An inclusive ministry where all are welcomed and affirmed.” www.covenantbaptistdc.org

Twelfth Street Christian Church

Campbell AME Church Reverend Daryl K. Kearney, Pastor 2562 MLK Jr. Ave., S E Washington, DC 20020 Adm. Office 202-678-2263 Email:Campbell@mycame.org Sunday Worship Service 10: am Sunday Church School 8: 45 am Bible Study Wednesday 12:00 Noon Wednesday 7:00 pm Thursday 7: pm “Reaching Up To Reach Out” Mailing Address Campbell AME Church 2502 Stanton Road SE Washington, DC 20020

(Disciples of Christ) 1812 12th Street, NW Washington, DC 20009 Phone: 202-265-4494 Fax: 202 265 4340

5101 14th Street, N.W. Washington, DC 20011 202-726-2220/ 202-726-9089 Sunday Worship Service 8:00am and 11:00am Sunday School 9:15am Holy Communion 4th Sunday 10:00am Prayer and Bible Study Wednesday 7;00pm TV Ministry –Channel 6 Wednesday 10:00pm gsccm.administration@verizon.net

Rev. Paul Carrette Senior Pastor Harold Andrew, Assistant Pastor 4915 Wheeler Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 301-894-6464 Schedule of Service Sunday Service: 8:30 AM & 11:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM Communion Service: First Sunday www.livingwatersmd.org

St. Stephen Baptist Church Lanier C. Twyman, Sr. Bishop 5757 Temple Hill Road, Temple Hills, MD 20748 Office 301-899-8885 – fax 301-899-2555 Sunday Early Morning Worship - 7:45 a.m.

Church School - 9:30 a.m.

Sunday Morning Worship – 10:45 a.m.

Tuesday – Thursday - Kingdom Building Bible Institute – 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday – Prayer/Praise/Bible Study – 7:30 p.m.

Baptism & Communion Service- 4th Sunday – 10:30am Radio Broadcast WYCB -1340 AM-Sunday -6:00pm T.V. Broadcast - Channel 190 – Sunday -4:00pm/Tuesday 7:00am

“We are one in the Spirit” www.ssbc5757.org e-mail: ssbc5757@verizon.net

Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church Rev. Dr. Michael E. Bell, Sr., • Pastor 2498 Alabama Ave., SE • Washington D.C. 20020 Office: (202) 889-7296 Fax: (202) 889-2198 • www.acamec.org 2008: The Year of New Beginnings “Expect the Extraordinary”

Crusader Baptist Church

Sunday Morning Worship 11:00am Holy Communion – 1st Sunday Sunday School-9:45am Men’s Monday Bible Study – 7:00pm Wednesday Night Bible Study – 7:00pm Women’s Ministry Bible Study 3rd Friday -7:00pm Computer Classes- Announced Family and Marital Counseling by appointment E-mail: Crusadersbaptistchurch@verizon.net www.CrusadersBaptistChurch.org

“The Amazing, Awesome, Audacious Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church”

“God is Love”

Rev. Cheryl J. Sanders, Th.D. Senior Pastor 1204 Third Street, NW Washington, DC 20001 202.347.5889 office 202.638.1803 fax Sunday School: 9:30 a.m.

Sunday Worship: 11:00 a.m.

Prayer Meeting and Bible Study: Wed. 7:30 p.m.

“Ambassadors for Christ to the Nation’s Capital” www.thirdstreet.org

Reverend Dr. Calvin L. Matthews • Senior Pastor 1200 Isle of Patmos Plaza, Northeast Washington, DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-6767 Fax: (202) 526-1661

Rev. Dr. Alton W. Jordan, Pastor 800 I Street, NE Washington, DC 20002 202-548-0707 Fax No. 202-548-0703

Sunday Worship Services: 8:00a.m. and 11:00a.m.

Sunday Church School - 9:15a.m. & Sunday Adult Forum Bible Study - 10:30a.m.

2nd & 4th Monday Women’s Bible Study - 6:30p.m.

Tuesday Jr./Sr. Bible Study - 10:00a.m.

Tuesday Topical Bible Study - 6:30p.m.

Tuesday New Beginnings Bible Study - 6:30p.m.

Wednesday Pastoral Bible Study - 6:30p.m.

Wednesday Children’s Bible Study - 6:30p.m.

Thursday Men’s Bible Study - 6:30p.m.

Friday before 1st Sunday Praise & Worship Service - 6:30p.m.

Saturday Adult Bible Study - 10:00a.m.

Third Street Church of God

Isle of Patmos Baptist Church

Sunday Worship Services: 7:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

Holy Communion: 2nd Sunday at 7:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

Sunday Church School: 9:20 a.m.

Seniors Bible Study: Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m.

Noon Day Prayer Service: Tuesdays at Noon Bible Study: Tuesdays at 7 p.m.

Motto: “A Ministry of Reconciliation Where Everybody is Somebody!”

Website: http://isleofpatmosbc.org Church Email: ipbcsecretary@verizon.net

Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church Bishop Alfred A. Owens, Jr.; Senior Bishop & Evangelist Susie C. Owens – Co-Pastor 610 Rhode Island Avenue, NE Washington, DC 20002 (202) 529-4547 office • (202) 529-4495 fax Sunday Worship Service: 8 AM and 10:45 AM Sunday Youth Worship Services: 1st & 4th 10:45 AM; 804 R.I. Ave., NE 5th 8 AM & 10:45 AM; Main Church Prayer Services Tuesday – Noon, Wednesday 6 AM & 6:30 PM Calvary Bible Institute: Year-Round Contact Church Communion Every 3rd Sunday The Church in The Hood that will do you Good! www.gmchc.org emailus@gmchc.org

ST Marks Baptist Come Worship with us...

St. Mark's Baptist Church 624 Underwood Street, NW Washington, dc 20011 Dr. Raymond T. Matthews, Pastor and First Lady Marcia Matthews Sunday School 9:am Worship Service 10:am Wed. Noon Day prayer service Thur. Prayer service 6:45 pm Thur. Bible Study 7:15 pm

We are proud to provide the trophies for the Washington Informer Spelling Bee

Reverend Dr. Paul H. Saddler Senior Pastor Service and Times Sunday Worship Service 11:00 a.m.

Communion every Sunday 11:00 a.m.

Sunday School 10:00 a.m.

Bible Study Tuesday 12Noon Pastor’s Bible Study Tuesday 6:30 p.m.

Motto; “Discover Something Wonderful.”

Website: 12thscc.org Email: Twelfthstcc@aol.com

Mount Carmel Baptist Church

Mt. Zion Baptist Church Rev. John W. Davis, Pastor

Church of Living Waters

52 Years of Expert Engraving Services

Joseph N. Evans, Ph.D Senior Pastor 901 Third Street N.W. Washington, DC. 20001 Phone (202) 842-3411 Fax (202) 682-9423 Sunday Church School : 9: 30am Sunday Morning Worship: 10: 45am Bible Study Tuesday: 6: 00pm Prayer Service Tuesday: 7:00pm Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday 10: 45am themcbc.org

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The Washington Informer

December 5, 2013 - December 11, 2013

47

religion religion Baptist

Advertise Your Church services here: call Ron Burke at

202-561-4100 or email rburke@washingtoninformer.com Zion Baptist Church

All Nations Baptist Church Rev. Dr. James Coleman Pastor 2001 North Capitol St, N.E. • Washington, DC 20002 Phone (202) 832-9591

Website: www.allnationsbaptistchurch.com All Nations Baptist Church – A Church of Standards

“Where Jesus is the King”

Israel Baptist Church

4850 Blagdon Ave, NW • Washington D.C 20011 Phone (202) 722-4940 • Fax (202) 291-3773

1251 Saratoga Ave., NE Washington, DC 20018 (202) 269-0288

Rev. Aubrey C. Lewis Pastor 1415 Gallatin Street, NW Washington, DC 20011-3851 P: (202) 726-5940 Sunday Worship: 11:00 a.m.

Sunday School: 9:15 a.m.

Holy Communion: 11:00 a.m., 3rd Sun. Bible Study: Monday - 7:00 p.m.

Prayer Meeting: Thursday - 7:00 p.m.

2324 Ontario Road, NW Washington, DC 20009 (202) 232-1730 Sunday School – 9:30 am Sunday Worship Service – 11:00 am Baptismal Service – 1st Sunday – 9:30 am Holy Communion – 1st Sunday – 11:00 am Prayer Meeting & Bible Study – Wednesday -7:30 pm

Rev. Dr. Morris L Shearin, Sr. Pastor

St. Luke Baptist Church

Rev. Daryl F. Bell Pastor

Sunday Church School – 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service – 11:00 AM Holy Communion – 1st Sunday at 11:00 AM Prayer – Wednesdays, 6:00 PM Bible Study – Wednesdays, 7:00 PM Christian Education School of Biblical Knowledge Saturdays, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM, Call for Registration

Rev. Keith W. Byrd, Sr. Pastor

Sunday Worship Service 10:15AM- Praise and Worship Services Sunday School 9:00am Monday: Noon Bible School Wednesday: Noon & 7PM: Pastor’s Bible Study Ordinance of Baptism 2nd Holy Communion 4th Sunday Mission Zion Baptist Church Shall; Enlist Sinners, Educate Students, Empower the Suffering, Encourage the Saints, and Exalt Our Savior. (Acts 2:41-47) www.zionbaptistchurchdc.org

King Emmanuel Baptist Church

Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 A.M. Sunday School: 8:30 A.M. Holy Communion1st Sunday: 10:00 A.M. Prayer Service: Wednesday at 6:30 P.M. Bible Study: Wednesday at 7:00 P.M.

Mount Moriah Baptist Church Dr. Lucius M. Dalton, Senior Pastor 1636 East Capitol Street, NE Washington, DC 20003 Telephone: 202-544-5588 Fax: 202-544-2964 Sunday Worship Services: 7:45 am and 10:45 am Holy Communion: 1st Sundays at 7:45 am and 10:45 am Sunday School: 9:30 am Prayer & Praise Service: Tuesdays at 12 noon and 6:30 pm Bible Study: Tuesdays at 1 pm and 7 pm Youth Bible Study: Fridays at 7 pm

Advertise Your Church services here: call Ron Burke at

202-561-4100 or email rburke@washingtoninformer.com

Advertise Your Church services here: call Ron Burke at

202-561-4100 or email rburke@washingtoninformer.com

Web: www.mountmoriahchurch.org Email: mtmoriah@mountmoriahchurch.org

St. Matthews Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Maxwell M. Washington Pastor 1105 New Jersey Ave, S.E • Washington, DC 20003 202 488-7298 Order of Services Sunday Worship Services: 9:05 A.M. Sunday School: 8:00 A.M. Holy Communion 3rd Sunday Morning Prayer Meeting: 7:00 P.M. (Tuesday) Bible Study: 7:30 P.M. (Tuesday) Theme: “Striving to be more like Jesus “Stewardship”.

Philippians 3:12-14; Malachi 3:8-10 and 2 Corinthians 9:7 Email: stmatthewbaptist@msn.com Website: www.stmatthewsbaptist.com

Rehoboth Baptist Church

Salem Baptist Church

Emmanuel Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Clinton W. Austin Pastor 2409 Ainger Pl.,SE – WDC 20020 (202) 678-0884 – Office (202) 678-0885 – Fax “Come Grow With Us and Establish a Blessed Family” Sunday Worship 7:30am & 10:45am Baptism/Holy Communion 3rd Sunday Family Bible Study Tuesdays – 6:30pm Prayer Service Tuesdays – 8:00pm www.emmanuelbaptistchurchdc.org

Sermon On The Mount Temple Of Joy Apostolic Faith

Florida Avenue Baptist Church

Holy Trinity United Baptist Church

Dr. Earl D. Trent Senior Pastor

Rev. Dr. George C. Gilbert SR. Pastor

623 Florida Ave.. NW • WDC. 20001 Church (202) 667-3409 • Study (202) 265-0836 Home Study (301) 464-8211 • Fax (202) 483-4009

4504 Gault Place, N.E. Washington, D.C 20019 202-397-7775 – 7184

Sunday Worship Services: 10:00 a.m.

Sunday Church School: 8:45 – 9:45 a.m.

Holy Communion: Every First Sunday Intercessory Prayer: Monday – 7:00-8:00 p.m.

Pastor’s Bible Study: Wednesday –7:45 p.m.

Midweek Prayer: Wednesday – 7:00 p.m.

Noonday Prayer Every Thursday

9:30AM. Sunday Church School 11:00 Am. Sunday Worship Service The Lord’s Supper 1st Sunday Wednesday 7:00pm Prayer & Praise Services 7:30pm. Bible Study Saturday before 4th Sunday Men, Women, Youth Discipleship Ministries 10:30am A Christ Centered Church htubc@comcast.net

Matthews Memorial Baptist Church

Advertise Your Church services here:

5606 Marlboro Pike District Heights, MD 20747 301-735-6005

Dr. C. Matthew Hudson, Jr, Pastor

Elder Herman L. Simms, Pastor

2616 MLK Ave., SE • Washington, DC 20020 Office 202-889-3709 • Fax 202-678-3304

Sunday Apostolic Worship Services 11:00 A.M and 5:00 P.M Communion and Feet Wash 4th Sunday at 5:00 P.M Prayer/Seeking Wednesday at 8:00 P.M. Apostolic in Doctrine, Pentecostal in Experience, Holiness in Living, Uncompromised and Unchanged.

The Apostolic Faith is still alive –Acts 2:42

New Commandment Baptist Church Rev. Stephen E. Tucker Senior Pastor 13701 Old Jericho Park Road Bowie, MD. 20720 (301) 262-0560 Services: Sunday Worship 11 AM Sunday School 10 AM Wednesday Mid-Week Worship, Prayer & Bible Study - Wed. 7 PM “A Church Where Love Is Essential and Praise is Intentional”

Shiloh Baptist Church

Early Worship Service 7:30a.m Worship Service 10:45a.m.

New Members Class 9:30a.m.

Holy Communion : 1st Sunday -10:45a.m Church School 9:30a.m.

Prayer, Praise and Bible Study: Wednesday 7p.m Bible Study : Saturday: 11a.m.

Baptism: 4th Sunday – 10:45a.m “Empowered to love and Challenged to Lead a Multitude of Souls to Christ”

Peace Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Michael T. Bell 712 18th Street, NE Washington, DC 20002 Phone 202-399-3450/ Fax 202-398-8836 Sunday Morning Worship Service 7:15 am & 10:50 am Sunday School 9:30am Sunday Morning Worship Service 10:50am Wednesday Prayer & Testimonies Service 7:30pm Wednesday School of the Bible 8:00pm Wednesday - Midweek Prayer Service 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm “The Loving Church of the living lord “ Email Address pbcexec@verizon.net

First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Rev. R. Vincent Palmer Pastor

Rev. Alonzo Hart Pastor

Rev. Dr. Wallace Charles Smith Pastor

Rev. Reginald M. Green, Sr., Interim Pastor

621 Alabama Avenue, S.E. • Washington, D.C. 20032 P: (202) 561-1111 F: (202) 561-1112

917 N St. NW • Washington, DC 20001 (202) 232-4294

9th & P Street, N.W. • W. D.C. 20001 (202) 232-4200

602 N Street NW • Washington, D.C. 20001 Office:(202) 289-4480 Fax: (202) 289-4595

The Church Where GOD Is Working....

And We Are Working With GOD

Sunrise Prayer Services - Sunday 7:00 a.m.

Sunday Morning Prayer Service: 8:00 a.m.

Sunday Church School: 9:15 a.m.

Sunday Morning Worship: 10:40 a.m.

Third Sunday Baptismal & Holy Communion:10:30 a.m.

Tuesday Church At Study Prayer & Praise: 6:30 p.m.

Morning Worship: 8:00 a.m Church School : 9:30 a.m.

Morning Worship: 10:55 a.m.

Bible Study, Thursday: 6:30 p.m.

Prayer Meeting,Thursday : 7:30 p.m.

Sunday Service: 10 am Sunday School for all ages: 8:30 am 1st Sunday Baptism: 10: am 2nd Sunday Holy Communion: 10 am Tuesday: Bible Study: 6:30 pm Prayer Meeting: 7:45 pm Motto: God First

48 December 5, 2013 - December 11, 2013

The Washington Informer

Sunday Worship Services: 7:45am & 11:00am Sunday school For All Ages 9:30am Prayer Services Wednesday 11:30am & 6:45pm Bible Institute Wednesday at Noon & 7:45pm “Changing Lives On Purpose “ Email: Froffice@firstrising.org Website: www.firstrising.org

call Ron Burke at

202-561-4100 or email rburke@washingtoninformer.com

Pennsylvania Ave. Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Kendrick E. Curry Pastor 3000 Pennsylvania Ave.. S.E Washington, DC 20020 202 581-1500 Sunday Church School: 9:30 A.M. Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 A.M. Monday Adult Bible Study: 7:00 P.M. Wednesday Youth & Adult Activities: 6:30 P.M. Prayer Service Bible Study

Mt. Horeb Baptist Church Rev. Dr. H. B. Sampson, III Pastor 2914 Bladensburg Road, NE Wash., DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-3180 Fax: (202) 529-7738 Order of Services Worship Service: 7:30 a.m.

Sunday School: 9:00 a.m.

Worship Service: 10:30 a.m.

Holy Communion: 4th Sunday 7:30 a.m. & 10:30a.m.

Prayer Services: Tuesday 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday 12 Noon Email:mthoreb@mthoreb.org Website:www.mthoreb.org For further information, please contact me at (202) 529-3180.

www.washingtoninformer.com

legal notices

legal notices

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

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

Foreign No. 2013 FEP 133

Administration No. 2013 ADM 1119

October 4 2011 Date of Death

Etta C. Vaughn Decedent

Walter Daughtry Name of Decedent

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

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Bernard M. Taylor whose address is 1622 Golfcourse Drive, Mitchellville, MD 20721 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Walter Daughtry, deceased, by the Register of Wills/Orphans’ Court for Prince Georges County, State of Maryland, on July 26, 2013.

Service of process may be made upon Frederick Walker, 5506 Central Ave., SE, Washington, DC 20019 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C. The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real property: 2218 R St., SE, Washington, DC 20020

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

Date of first publication: December 5, 2013

CLASSIFIEDS SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2013 ADM 1143 Patricia C. Gladden Decedent

Janice M. Williams, whose address is 5711 Birchview Place, Clinton, MD 20735, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Etta C. Vaughn, who died on March 16, 2012 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 June 5, 2014. 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 June 5, 2014, 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: December 5, 2013 Janice M. Williams Personal Representative

James Larry Frazier, Esq. 918 Maryland Avenue, NE Washington, DC 20002 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Jacqueline Celand Gladden, whose address is 4921 G Street, SE, Apt. 302, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Patricia C. Gladden, who died on October 1, 2013 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 May 21, 2014. 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 May 21, 2014, 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: November 21, 2013 Jacqueline Celand Gladden Personal Representative

Bernard M. Taylor Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

TRUE TEST COPY

Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer

Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer

Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

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

Administration No. 2013 ADM 1142

Administration No. 2013 ADM 584

Lionel Hamin Decedent

Alwin W. G. Harding Decedent

James Larry Frazier, Esq. 918 Maryland Avenue, NE Washington, DC 20002 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Mary Hamin, whose address is 2403 Glenn Road, Gaston, SC 29053, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Lionel Hamin, who died on May 21, 2011 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 May 21, 2014. 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 May 21, 2014, 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: November 21, 2103 Mary Hamin Personal Representative

legal notices

here: call Ron Burke at

202-561-4100 or email

Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer

www.washingtoninformer.com

Paula G. Levadas 1829 K Street, NW, Suite #300 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Trudah Harding, whose address is 619 Allison Street, NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Alwin W. G. Harding, who died on April 8, 2011 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 May 21, 2014. 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 May 21, 2014, 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: November 21, 2013 Trudah Harding Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

TRUE TEST COPY

rburke@washingtoninformer.com

CLASSIFIEDS

Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer

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The Washington Informer

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STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENT AND CIRCULATION

1. PUBLICATION TITLE: The Washington Informer; 2. PUBLICATION NUMBER: 008882; 3. FILING DATE: December 1, 2013; 4. ISSUE FREQUENCY: Weekly; 5. NUMBER OF ISSUES PUBLISHED ANNUALLY: 52; 6. ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION PRICE: $45; 7. COMPLETE MAILING ADDRESS: 3117 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE, Washington, D.C. 20032-Denise Rolark Barnes (202) 561-4100; 8. COMPLETE MAILING ADDRESS OF HEADQUARTERS: 3117 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE, Washington, D.C. 20032; 9. COMPLETE MAILLING ADDRESS OF PUBLISHER, EDITOR AND MANAGING EDITOR: Denise Rolark Barnes, Publisher and Editor, 3117 Martin Luther King Jr., Ave., S.E., Washington, D.C. 20032; Denise W. Barnes, Managing Editor, 1422 Meridian Place, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20010; 10. The Washington Informer Newspaper Co., Inc., 3117 Martin Luther King Jr Ave S.E., Washington, D.C. 20032; OWNER: Denise Rolark Barnes, 3117 Martin Luther King Jr., Ave., S.E., Washington, D.C. 20032; 11. N/A; 12. TAX STATUS: N/A; 13. PUBLICATION TITLE: The Washington Informer, 14. ISSUE DATE FOR CIRCULATION DATA BELOW: November 20, 2013; 15. EXTENT AND NATURE OF CIRCULATION: (a.) Total Number of Copies (Net Press Run): Average No. of Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months; 17,288; Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 17,000; (b.) Legitimate Paid and/or Requested Distribution (By Mail and Outside the Mail): (1) Outside-County Paid/Requested Mail Subscriptions stated on PS Form 3541 (include direct written request from recipient, telemarketing, and Internet requests from recipient, paid subscriptions including nominal rate subscriptions, employer requests, advertiser’s proof copies, and exchange copies: 136/63; (2) In-County Paid/Requested Mail Subscriptions stated on PS Form 3541 (include direct written request from recipient, telemarketing, and Internet requests from recipient, paid subscriptions including nominal rate subscriptions, employer requests, advertiser’s proof copies, and exchange copies:: 72/7317 ; (3) Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales and Other Paid or Requested Distribution Outside USPS: 16,230/16426; 4. Requested Copies Distributed by Other Classes of Mail Through the USPS (e.g. First Class Mail): 10/6; (c.)

Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation (Sum of 15b (1), (2), (3) and (4): 16,475/16,813; (d.) Nonrequested Distribution (By Mail and Outside the Mail): (1) Outside-County Nonrequested Copies Stated on PS Form 3541 (include Sample copies, Requests Over 3 years old. Requests induced by a Premium, Bulk Sales and Requests including Association Requests, Names obtained from Business Directories, Lists, and other sources): 0/0(2) I-County Nonrequested Copies stated on PS Form 3541 (include Sample copies, Requests Over 3 years old.

Requests induced by a Premium, Bulk Sales and Requests including Association Requests, Names obtained from Business Directories, Lists, and other sources): 0/0; (3) Nonrequested Copies Distributed Through the USPS by Other Classes through Mail (e.g. First-Class Mail, Nonrequester Copies mailed in excess of 10% Limit Mailed at Standard Mail or Package Services Rates): 0/0; (4) Nonrequested Copies Distributed Outside the Mail (include Pickup Stands, Trade Shows, Showrooms and Other Sources); 400/0; (e.) Total Nonrequested Distribution (Sum of 15d (1), (2), (3), and (4)): 400/0; (f.) Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and 15e):16,875/16,813; g. Copies not distributed:200/387; h. Total (sum of 15F and 15g): 17.075/17,000; i. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation 97%/100%; 17. Publication Statement of Ownership for a Requester Publication is required and will be printed in the November 8, 2012 issue of this publication. 18. Signature and title of Publisher/Owner: Denise Rolark Barnes, Date: November 5, 2012; I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including civil penalties.)

50 December 5, 2013 - December 11, 2013

CLASSIFIEDS

The Washington Informer

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Daniels continued from Page 27 four. The amounts seem small.

But for food stamp recipients – the jobless, the disabled, the working poor – who have no financial cushion, the amounts can be the difference between eating and eating less – or not at all.

And now, as Congress considers appropriations for the farm bill, which includes the budget for the food stamp program (its official name is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP), Democrats and Republicans in Congress have suggested two wildly-differing cost-cutting measures for the program. The truly-draconian Republican version would cut $40 billion from the SNAP over the next decade. The Democrat-

edelman continued from Page 27 realized that the pent-up demand for freedom also would not go away.

The burning of a Greyhound bus in Alabama and attacks not only on Freedom Riders but on a federal government official forced his hand. And he, like so many other Americans, was repulsed by the scenes that flashed across television screens of police dogs and fire hoses attacking Black children and youths who challenged Bull Connor’s and the Birmingham establishment’s Jim Crow policies. We saw and must not forget how courageous and sustained actions from ordinary citizens fed up with injustice can inspire, provoke, and push politi-

clingman continued from Page 27 goes to show the importance of having an economic base from which to fight for civil rights.

In his review of the book, Black Titan, written by Carol Jenkins and Elizabeth Gardner Hines, David Beito wrote, “Gaston’s wealth and cordial ties with the white elite gave him a certain amount of clout that others did not have. His favorite methods were quiet negotiation, deal making, and, if necessary, private threats. He was often effective.

For example, the ‘Whites Only’ signs on the drinking fountains in the First National Bank came down after Gaston threatened to pull his account. Many have forgotten the extent to which Blacks were exerting economic pressure successfully to bring integration in the decade before the Civil Rights Act of 1964.”

Beito went on to suggest that

ic version proposes a $4 billion reduction.

Whichever version – or some legislative compromise that meets somewhere between those two poles – wins out, we should not look away from what it will produce.

Children will go hungry.

From voluminous research, we know that healthy eating helps infants and children properly develop their intellectual, social and emotional skills. Depriving infants and children of nutrients from healthy foods can undermine their ability to do well in school and be able to recognize and adjust to the codes of proper behavior as they grow up.

We know what hunger does to infants and children: it damages them, often for life.

And we know what not going

hungry and eating healthy foods does to children: It gives them a chance to live productive lives.

Given the economic challenges America will face over the coming decades, isn’t the wise course to insure that those 21 million children whose parents or guardians receive food stamps continue to have as much chance as possible to contribute to the future American society?

After all, the benefits of combining pragmatism and compassion now are far better for America’s future than pretending that the costs of callousness will not come home to roost.wi

cal leadership at the top.

President Kennedy responded to the movement’s persistent and sacrificial actions with passion and major action of his own. He made an eloquent speech to the nation on June 11, 1963 and sent a landmark civil rights bill to Congress one week later. The nationally- televised speech he gave introducing the bill once again inspired many Americans to share his vision that America could and must be better. His tragic death created a political climate that, combined with President Lyndon Johnson’s masterful political leadership, resulted in enactment of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 – the latter pushed by civil rights demonstrations in Selma.

Fifty years later, and after the deaths of Medgar Evers, Martin Luther King, Robert Kennedy, Andrew Goodman, James Chaney, and Michael Schwerner, and countless other nonviolent warriors for justice, the fight against intolerance, violence, and hatred in America is far from over.

So I hope, as we remember a young President who asked us not to ask what our country can do for us but what we can do for our country, that we will renew our commitment to building with urgency and persistence a just America where every child is valued and enabled to achieve their God given potential regardless of the lottery of birth.wi

the Civil Rights Movement was the by-product of the economic foundation first laid by individuals such as [Booker T.] Washington and Gaston.

Isn’t it amazing that in spite of the obvious fact that economics runs this country, Blacks in 2013 still place more emphasis and expend more energy on politics and so-called civil rights, than we do on economic empowerment? Booker T. once shared that a society does not have to be compelled to associate with a Black man who is educated and has $50,000 to lend. A.G. Gaston took that to heart and used it to his great financial advantage as well as for others.

To all of you future and current entrepreneurs out there, make sure to take some time to study Black business owners, especially those from the late 1800s and early to mid-1900s.

S.B. Fuller, Annie Malone, Madam C.J. Walker, Anthony Over-

ton, Sarah Washington, Phillip Payton, Herman Perry, Wendell Dabney and others are examples of what we should be doing today as business owners. Of course, there are many contemporary Black entrepreneurs we must study as well.

Booker T. Washington said, “America will have no internal peace until there has been a grant of full economic rights and opportunities to Black America.” We have a role to play in that ideal, brothers and sisters, by establishing viable businesses, growing them, and creating jobs for ourselves. Let’s get busy and remember to “find a need and fill it.”wi Jim Clingman, founder of the Greater Cincinnati African American Chamber of Commerce, is the nation’s most prolific writer on economic empowerment for Black people. He is an adjunct professor at the University of Cincinnati and can be reached through his Web site, blackonomics.com.

www.washingtoninformer.com

Lee A. Daniels is a longtime journalist based in New York City. His latest book is Last Chance: The Political Threat to Black America.

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MUHAMMAD continued from Page 28 dards required by the ACA. The House even approved – with dozens of defecting Democratic votes – the “Keep Your Health Plan Act,” intended to dismantle some of the ACA’s features.

It is easy to see, these have probably been the president’s worst two months in office. For his part however, the president sought to redirect some of the political blame for the rollout of the federal health insurance exchange to Republicans, characterizing GOP lawmakers as rooting for the law’s failure.

“One of the problems we’ve had is one side of Capitol Hill is invested in failure,” the president said at the Wall Street

Journal’s CEO Council meeting here on Nov. 19. “We obviously are going to have to remarket and rebrand, and that will be challenging in this political environment.” The president also voiced frustration with the hostile political atmosphere challenging his signature legislative victory, and indeed every effort he has put forth. The president said Washington needs to “break through the stubborn cycle of crisis politics and start working together.”

“You know, people call me a socialist sometimes,” Obama continued. “But no, you’ve got to meet real socialists. You’ll have a sense of what a socialist is.”

Republicans condemn anything and everything the Obama administration does. Case in

54 December 5, 2013 - December 11, 2013

alford continued from Page 28

At 10:30 A.M. on November 22, 1963, my friend Charles Marion ran into our locker room where we were dressing to return to class. “Cicero, they shot the President. President Kennedy is dead!!!” I thought there must be a mistake. This doesn’t happen in “Camelot.” I walked outside the gym and there it was. All hell was breaking loose as hundreds of students were running in circles screaming at the top of their lungs. Teachers were shouting “Go home! School is closed!”

I got home and turned on our black and white TV. There it was: The cold truth that our president was assassinated right in front of his beautiful First Lady and the nation was going into an emotional tank. Life in America has not been the same since that day.

We didn’t listen to President Eisenhower. We would soon be in a war beyond historical proportions. Other assassinations would occur: Robert Kennedy,

Malcolm X, Dr. Martin Luther King and anyone else who was considered to be in the way. At the time of Dr. King’s assassination in 1968, we were receiving 500 body bags per week from Vietnam. Five hundred young Americans (disproportionately Black) were coming home dead.

Richard Nixon, whom Jack Kennedy defeated, would soon become president. FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover would suddenly die and the assassinations came to an end – coincidental?

Camelot never returned and we are still at war with no end in sight. I pray that one day we can return to such times but that won’t happen until we put the Military Industrial Complex in its proper place. President Eisenhower was correct.wi Harry C. Alford is the co-founder, President/CEO of the National Black Chamber of Commerce ®. Website: www.nationalbcc.org.

Email: halford@nationalbcc.org.

malveaux continued from Page 28 ers to provide token assistance for their coworkers who are not well paid. Walmart has put the onus of fair pay on workers helping one another, not the company helping its workers.

While many Walmart employees will be concerned enough abut their colleagues to contribute, they must also ask why a food drive is necessary. In asking that question, they might also ask what impact food stamp cuts will have on their colleagues.

There is nothing magic about the $12.50 an hour wage. Some jurisdictions will push their minimum wage to $11 an hour and others will ask for more. Many retail workers say that a $15 an hour wage is the least that they can survive on. A household headed by two part-time Walmart workers qualifies for

a number of federal programs.

If Walmart paid each of its workers $12.50 an hour, the pay increase would not substantially reduce profit. Indeed, the profit stream might increase if employers are more productive, less likely to seek new jobs, and more likely to exercise pride in their work.

The National Labor Relations Board just announced that it would prosecute Walmart for its illegal treatment – firing or disciplining – 117 striking workers. Many of these actions were initiated in last year’s “Black Friday” when some workers did not want to work Thanksgiving Day or the day after, and others used the occasion to educate the public about their low pay levels.

This year Walmart will open at 6 a.m, two hours earlier than last year. Your dinner will hardly be digested before you head to the store. So while Walmart

profess to be concerned about some workers having a good Thanksgiving dinner, they are hardly concerned about when they will have the opportunity to enjoy it, unless they opt for the Thanksgiving dinner Walmart will offer to its “associates” who are forced to work on Thanksgiving.

Enough, Walmart! Pay the people fairly. Pay them wages not giveaways. Stop threatening organizers. Have respect for your workers. Live up to the publicity that you keep churning out. Indeed, divide the publicity budget among your workers who will sing your praises when they are paid a living wage.wi Julianne Malveaux is a Washington, D.C.-based economist and writer.

She is President Emerita of Bennett College for Women in Greensboro, N.C.

point: when the U.S. announced that it was relocating its Vatican embassy into a shared compound with the embassy in Italy, it was brushed off as no big deal by the Holy See. But for Republicans in Congress, it was just the latest “anti-religion pursuit” by the Obama administration.

A website set up by the National Republican Senatorial Committee reported: “The media is reporting that President

Obama plans to close the U.S. Embassy to the Vatican,” the site reads. “This is just the latest anti-religion pursuit of this Administration, a slap in the face to Catholic-Americans around the country that weakens America’s position as a global leader.”

The embassy is not closing, nor will the size of the staff assigned to Vatican affairs be reduced, but the State Department estimates that the relocation will

save the federal government $1.4 million a year. No matter.

The sad reality is that instead of working to reduce this country’s skyrocketing health care expenses, or make anything else operate correctly for that matter, there are too many folks who simply despise the president, and they would rather see the entire country suffer than to see this president succeed at anything.wi

World tensions were mounting – China, Indo-China, Soviet Union, Cuba, the Iron Curtain, etc. were hot but still we danced and smiled. I remember welcoming my cousin home from his military stint. He told me that this place called Vietnam was exploding. “They are blowing people away!” I like everyone else would ignore him.

In the spring of 1963, President Kennedy came to my home town to visit our military installations. The whole high school was bussed out to Point Mugu Naval Station. There, on the runway, he walked out of Air Force One and we all stood in awe. He walked past me and I froze like a rock – he was god like. My cousin Jeanie merged from the front line screaming and crying and then shouted, “He shook my hand! Oh Lord!!”

That’s how we were – a nation in love with Jack and Jackie.

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