The Washington Informer - January 7, 2021

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Outrage Surges in Wisconsin as Prosecutors Decline to Charge Officers in Jacob Blake Case Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

Blake, an unarmed African American, was shot seven times in the back by Police Officer Rusten Sheskey as his children sat in the backseat of his car and watched in horror.

Police said they were responding to a domestic disturbance report – one which Blake reportedly had attempted to quell.

As the has become commonplace in such instances when prosecutors decline to pursue charges, Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers had stated his intention to deploy 500 National Guard troops in preparation for protests and civil unrest.

5 A mask illustrates a somber litany. (Courtesy photo)

The Kenosha, Wisconsin police officer who shot Jacob Blake last August will not face criminal charges; neither will the other officers involved.

In what’s become an all-too familiar story surrounding America’s systemic disregard for Black lives, Kenosha District Attorney Michael Graveley said the evidence didn’t support charging officers.

“It is my decision that no Kenosha law enforcement officer, in this case, will be charged with any criminal offense based on the facts and the laws,” Graveley said.

D.C. Prepares for Pro-Trump Demonstrations, Possible Unrest

Raphael Warnock, Jon Ossoff Win Georgia Senate Runoffs Biden and Democrats Feeling Just ‘Peachy’

Businesses Board Up Windows, Mayor Calls for National Guard and the threat of violence.

Hamil Harris WI Contributing Writer Inauguration of the nation’s 46th president Jan. 20 will be unlike any other in U.S. history with the gleam of the U.S. Capitol overshadowed by clouds left by the nation’s 45th president.

Already the transition from President Donald Trump to President-elect Joe Biden is being met in downtown D.C. with boarded-up buildings, blocked streets

“Avoid the downtown area and especially avoid people who are coming here to look for confrontations,” D.C. Muriel Bowser said Jan. 3.

She enhanced the warning Jan. 5 in a letter to Trump administration officials indicating that in anticipation of pro-Trump demonstrations, the D.C. police will be augmented by unarmed members of the D.C. National Guard amid the threat of demonstrations by Trump supporters Jan. 6.

“It is not a very good feeling, com-

SAFETY Page 8

BLAKE Page 36

Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

5 Raphael Warnock (top) and Jon Ossoff (Courtesy photos)

The racial awakening in the United States last year after the police killings of Breonna Taylor and George Floyd may have propelled a sweep for Democrats in the January 5, 2021 Georgia Senate runoffs, paving the way for President-elect Joe Biden to push his legislative agenda without fear of obstruction.

With about 3,000 absentee votes remaining outstanding from Chatham County as of early Wednesday

morning, unofficial tallies indicate that both Democrats, Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff, have defeated Republican incumbents Kelly Loeffler and David Perdue.

If the unofficial results hold, Warnock will go to Washington as the first Black Democratic senator from the South and Georgia’s first African-American senator.

Ossoff will also make history, arriving on Capitol Hill as the first Jewish senator from the Peach State.

With 98 percent of the results re-

ELECTION Page 25

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COMPILED BY WI STAFF WRITERS WILLIAM J. FORD AND JAMES WRIGHT

law enforcement. She said they threat,” she said.

Still Available for Increase in Maryland had come together to bring a Among the programs Marlow sense of uniformity in the way wants to see implemented are Maryland Residents When L.Y. Marlow's 23-year-

By Tia Carol Jones WI Staff Writer

domestic violence victims and stricter restraining order policies, old daughter told Because of theher the father survivors are treated. more rights for victim's families of continued her daughterrise threatened her “She's using her own personal to intervene on behalf of a viclife, the life of their child, story, her own personal pain to tim, a domestic violence assessin andCOVID-19 shecases, knewuninsured something had to be push forward,” Davis-Nickens ment unit coupled with further done. training for law enforcement M a rOut y l a nofd eher r s frustration said about Marlow. with law enforcement's handling Davis-Nickens said anyone agencies, a Child's Life Proteccan sign up for of health the situation, she decided to who reads Marlow's book will tion Act and mandatory counselcare covstart the Saving Promise cam- “get it.” She said she “puts the ing for batterers. erage this week paign. case in such a way, the average “If we are ever going to eradithrough March “It seems to be through a vicious Maryland cycle person can Connecget it.” She said at the cate domestic violence, we must 15.

Coverage Health 5 will Taylor Smith, and Nick two of the that myat family end of the day,The the book look left, at both sidesBalmadier of the are coin. tionwon't can beturn found https://bit.ly/3ogxTwn. employees at Vigilante Coffee Co. in College Park loose,” Marlow said. Marlow people begin a dia- We need to address both the vic-on Dec. costs from Medicaid and privatehelp health plans willto have30.

(Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer) shared her story with the audi- logue about domestic violence. tim and the batterer,” Marlow cover COVID-19 tests at doctor’s offices, urgent ence at the District Heights Also present at the event was said.of workers in Maryland will start Hundreds care centers and emergency rooms. Coverage dates Domestic Violence Symposium Mildred Muhammad, the ex- their Marlow would also soon like toassee to see paychecks increase the state’s will begin based on when enrolled in a plan: Until on May 7 at the District Heights wife of John Allen Muhammad, programs designed raiseThe 75minimum wage rise from $11 to to $11.75.

Jan. 15, coverage starts Friday, Jan. 1.

Between Jan. Municipal Center. The sympo- who was sentenced to six consecawareness among in 1. State cent increase went into effect children Friday, Jan. 16 and 15, coverage begins Feb. 1. Between sium was Feb. sponsored by the utive life terms without lawmakers parole public and aprivate schools.

She Hogan overrode veto by Gov. Larry Feb. 16and through 15, coverage would start Family YouthMarch Services by a Maryland jury for his last role year in tofeels childrenincrease need tothe be hourly educat-wage up gradually March 1.

The previous COVID-19 special enrollCenter of the city of District the Beltway Sniper attacks in ed about domestic violence. to $15 by 2025. For businesses with 14 or fewer ment period from the onset of the pandemHeights and the began National Hook2002.

Mildred Muhammad is “Wefigure have will to stop pas-this year employees, the rise tobeing $11.60 March through Dec. 15 with nearly 100,000 UpicofinBlack Women. the founder of After the Trauma, sive-aggressive with poor chiland up to $15 by 2026. This year, the coronavirus Marylanders enrolled.

An estimated 72,000 enMarlow has written a book, an organization that helps the dren about domestic violence,” pandemic has hampered thousands of businesses rolled in Medicaid and almost 35,000 registered in “Color Me Butterfly,” which is a survivors of domestic violence Marlow said. in the state with merchants purchasing hand saniprivate health plans. story about four generations of and their children.

Marlow has worked to break tizer stations, cleaning supplies, masks, gloves and domestic violence. The book is “I lived in fear for six years. Six the cycle of abuse in her family, other for workers and their business. inspired by her own experiences, years in fear is a long time.

It isequipment and is confident the policies she Customers are asked and those of her grandmother, not an easy thing to come out is pushing toforwear willmasks startand thatmaintain social distancing.

Taylor Smith, 21, works at Vigher mother and her daughter. of,” she said. process. ilante Coffee Co. in College Park and praised the She said every time she reads Mildred Muhammad said “I plan to take these policies to owners, and Ashley Vigilante, for making excerpts from her book, she still people who want to help a Chris Congress and implore them to work environment comfortable. minimum can not believe the words came domestic violence victimthe must change our laws,” Marlow“A said. wage increase would be great,” said Taylor, from her. “Color Me Butterfly” be careful of how they go into “I will not stop until these poli- who’s worked atcies theare coffee shop since August. “Everywon the 2007 National “Best the victim's life, and understand passed.” one here is hard working.

Chris Ashley are Books”Ward Award. that she may be in “survival Tia Carol Jones can be and reached 8 D.C. Coungreat.

They really want to make sure we’re ok and “Icilmember was just 16-years-old when mode”. at tiacaroljones@sbcglobal.net Trayon protected.” my White eye first addressed blackened and my “Before you get to 'I'm going the lips problems bled,” Marlow said. of to kill you,' it started as a verbal WI residents Elaine Davis-Nickens, The Overlook at OxonpresidentRun of theapartments National Hook-Up have “We cannot keep doing this,” she said. “They need to of Black Women, said there is no had recently with pipes tell us something. What are we going to do? We are seconsistency in the way domestic that have frozen and niors. The coronavirus is going on – we are at risk because violence issues are dealt with by then burst. we are 65 and older.”

On Jan. 3, residents White appeared on the scene to assess the situation. He learned from manage- 5 Trayon White represents told WJLA the complex’s management has been taking ment of The Overlook Ward 8 on the D.C. Council. care of the residents. that two pipes burst at (WI File Photo) “The property management has been extremely rethe apartment complex sponsive to the needs of residents and they are moving and flooded units, acthem around to ensure they have somewhere safe to go cording to WJLA-TV (Channel 7) reports. Carolyn and warm tonight,” the councilmember said.

Hunter, a resident at the complex, said the incident To make sure that the situation doesn’t happen again, has occurred before.

White said it is the responsibility of the District of Co“[I was] crying – I was just upset,” Hunter told a lumbia Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) to take action.

WJLA reporter. “Every room in my apartment had “So, DCRA has to look at that,” he said. “They have water in it. Every room.” been here already. My staff has been here earlier. This is an Hunter said her dwelling remained livable but oth- old building that got remodeled and so we are looking at er apartments in the complex had too much damage how old the pipes are because if this is reoccurring, then for habitation. there needs to be a greater solution to the problem.”

Councilmember White Investigates Repeated Flooding at The Overlook

“

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.

“

SOMETHING NEW EVERYDAY

Women the Cycle of wi hotBreak topics Domestic Violence Health Care Coverage Minimum Wage Sees

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L.Y. Marlow

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Community Leaders Advise New D.C. Council on Top Priorities James Wright WI Staff Writer

The District of Columbia Council’s latest legislative session got underway Jan. 2 but the ceremonial flourish of council members being sworn in was greeted by the voices of elected community leaders imploring the first majority female council in two decades to focus on key priorities.

D.C. Councilmembers Robert White (D-At Large), Christina Henderson (I-At Large), Brooke Pinto (D-Ward 2), Janeese Lewis George (D-Ward 4), Vincent Gray (D-Ward 7) and Trayon White, Sr. (D-Ward 8) took the oath of office in front of the John A. Wilson Building in Northwest.

D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson (D) presided over the ceremony while D.C. Attorney Karl Racine (D) administered the oaths to Robert White, Pinto and Trayon White and D.C. Superior Court Chief Judge Anita Josey-Herring swore-in Henderson, George and Gray.

During his remarks, Trayon White talked about his accomplishments in Ward 8 since becoming a councilmember in 2017. He spoke about his shepherding of Dream Grants for businesses specifically east of the Anacostia River, the new St. Elizabeths East Hospital, dealing with the homicide crisis and new amenities such as a library branch, recreation centers and grocery stores.

However, Mustafa Abdul-Salaam, the advisory neighborhood commissioner for district 8C05, reacted to the remarks with what he thinks is the need to unite the ward.

“We need Trayon White to provide leadership and a common vision for the ward,” Abdul-Salaam said. “Ward 8 has been fragmented for some time and if we are united, we can maximize resources for the benefit of ward residents.

In order to deal with the pandemic and gentrification, we need a community-based plan. If we don’t have a plan, we have no negotiating leverage with developers and the city government.”

In addition, Salaam said Trayon White should work to strengthen his relationship with the ward’s commissioners.

“He needs to close that gap,” he said.

“It would seem that each commissioner in this ward has an agenda and it should not be like that. We all need to work together for the good of the ward.”

Some of Salaam’s counterparts elsewhere in the city voiced the need in

Ward 4 for both unity and inclusion.

George, in her speech, talked about how she plans on being the councilmember for every Ward 4 resident.

Stacey Lincoln, who serves as the commissioner for 4A02, encourages George’s inclusivity and said her predecessor, Brandon Todd, didn’t practice that.

“Brandon Todd has his group of people that he talked to in the ward,” Lincoln said. “He really didn’t reach out to anyone else. If George reaches out to everyone, she could make a difference.”

Commissioner La Roya A. Huff of 4B09 served on Todd’s staff. She agreed with Lincoln that George should focus on outreach but said a special group of ward residents need attention.

“We have a lot of senior citizens in our ward,” Huff said. “About 18,000 of the ward’s 84,000 residents are seniors, the second largest bloc in the city other than Ward 5. Councilmember George should make sure she reaches them. Some seniors don’t have access to technology like Zoom, but they can work with paper. She needs to reach all populations so that we can all move forward.”

Gray talked about how Ward 7 has progressed since his re-election to the council in 2016. He noted success toward building the St. Elizabeths hospital and the development of a health care system in Wards 7 and 8.

Patricia Malloy, the 7C06 commissioner in the Lincoln Heights and Richardson Dwellings area of Ward 7, said Gray should pay more attention to the economic development projects in the ward. She specifically pointed out the lack of funding for the Strand Theater restoration project for which funding was snatched away recently and sent to an out of town project.

Malloy said Gray needs to find someway to restore funding to the Strand Theater and spearhead the building of the Deanwood Town Center which has been in the planning stages for years.

“We have been waiting for the development of the Strand Theater,” Malloy said, speaking of the first movie venue for Blacks east of the Anacostia which opened in 1928 but has been shuttered for decades. “Last month, the D.C. Housing Authority sent $6 million that was meant for the Strand to build a community hospital in Los Angeles.

Vincent Gray needs to find money to put back into the project. We also need for the Deanwood Town Center, which

is across the street from the Strand, to get started. We want him to become more focused on the development of these projects.”

Former D.C. Citizens Federation President W. Earl Williams, a resident of the Hillcrest neighborhood of Ward 7, said the councilmembers should address urgent issues adversely affecting residents of color.

“I think the D.C. Council should reject the comprehensive plan,” Williams said, speaking of D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser administration’s amendments to the District’s long-term growth proposal. “The mayor’s changes don’t benefit the people, especially those who are working class and low-income.”

Lou Fields Reports- LIVING

COVID NOW!

Williams mentioned the coronavirus’s devastating affect in the District, saying the council must assist economically ailing residents.

“People who are dealing with a possible eviction and joblessness should be the council’s priority,” 5 Restoration of the Strand Theater, a 1928 landmark, would be he said. “I know the part of Far Northeast development, which is to include the proposed eviction rate will be Deanwood Town Center. (WI File Photo) very high for people of color when the mayor lifts the public tect people who don’t have a high inhealth emergency when COVID-19 come in this city.” WI @JamesDCWrighter comes under control. We need to pro-

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1891 – Writer Zora Neale Hurston is born in Notasulga, Alabama.

1955 – Singer Marian Anderson (top right) becomes the first Black person to perform at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City.

2002 – Shirley Franklin is sworn in as mayor of Atlanta, the first Black woman to be elected mayor of a major Southern city.

JAN. 8

1811 – Charles Deslandes leads the German Coast Uprising, a slave revolt in Louisiana.

1922 – Charles Young, the first Black man to achieve the rank of colonel in the U.S. Army, dies at 57 while on a reconnaissance mission in Nigeria.

1967 – R&B singer-songwriter R. Kelly is born in Chicago.

JAN. 9

1866 – Fisk University, a historically Black institution, opens in Nashville, Tennessee.

1914 – The fraternity Phi Beta Sigma is founded at Howard University.

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1935 – Earl G. Graves, entrepreneur and publisher of Black Enterprise magazine, is born in New York City.

1946 – Harlem Renaissance-era poet Countee Cullen dies at 42 of high blood pressure and uremic poisoning.

JAN. 10

1750 – James Varick, the first bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, is born near Newburgh, New York.

1888 – A.B. Blackburn patents the railway signal.

1938 – Baseball Hall of Famer Willie McCovey is born in Mobile, Alabama.

1957 – The Southern Christian Leadership Conference is founded in Atlanta.

JAN. 11

1971 – Mary J. Blige, "The Queen of Hip-Hop Soul," is born in New York City.

1987 – Three scientists announce they have discovered evidence of a woman who lived in Africa 200,000 years ago and may be the mother of the human species.

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JAN. 12

1948 – Supreme Court rules that Blacks have the right to study law at state institutions.

JAN. 13

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6 - JANUARY 7 - 13, 2021

1835 – Isaac Myers, pioneer of the African American trade union movement, is born in Baltimore.

1873 – P.B.S. Pinchback ends service as Louisiana governor.

1913 – Sorority Delta Sigma Theta is founded at Howard University.

1953 – Don Barksdale (above) becomes the first Black to play in the NBA All-Star Game.

1989 – Poet and literary critic Sterling A. Brown, D.C. native and longtime Howard University professor, dies in Tacoma Park, Maryland, at 87.

WI

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pletely, as a small business,” said business owner Manish Kansal.

Kansal manages Barmy Wines & Liquors, one of the many businesses shielded in plywood downtown. Kansal told NBC 4, “Being boarded up, we feel there is a loss of business for sure because people who walk around think the business is closed.”

Bowser and the police expect an even larger crowd than at the past two pro-Trump events late last year. On Monday night, D.C. police already blocked people from driving down H Street near Black Lives Matter Plaza.

The mayor said earlier in the day that she isn’t ruling out implementing a curfew, if necessary.

Bowser’s office has also issued a reminder that the District’s gun laws forbid possession of a firearm within 1,000 feet of a demonstration and guns are illegal on U.S. Capitol and National Park Service grounds, including Freedom Plaza and the National Mall, according to MSN News.

On Monday D.C. police arrested the leader of the alt-right extremist group Proud Boys shortly after he arrived in the city for this week’s proTrump demonstrations, charging him with the theft and burning of a Black Lives Matter banner from a historically Black church during another rally last month in protest of President Trump’s loss in the November election.

Enrique Tarrio, who identifies himself as Afro Cuban, was taken into custody shortly after arriving at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport Jan. 4, according to a spokesman for the Metropolitan Police Department that is preparing for massive protest by right wing groups.

5 The Proud Boys wreaked havoc in Washington, D.C. last month during a protest over the presidential election outcome and returned to the city for demonstrations on Tuesday and Wednesday. District of Columbia residents were asked to avoid going downtown. (WI File Photo/Anthony Tilghman)

Bowser activated the city’s emergency command center and mobilized the national guard prior to Wednesday’s protests that police said. could turn violent.

“No one has the right to violate the law by bringing in a weapon, by destroying property or by antagonizing other people,” Bowser that comes at the start of a week where there are several planned rallies in protest of Congress’ expected certification of the Electoral College’s results Wednesday.

Tarrio has been charged with a single misdemeanor count of destruction of property in connection with the vandalism of the banner from Asbury United Methodist Church and was released from police custody Tuesday with a directive to remain outside the city.

Tarrio was also in possession of two high-capacity firearm magazines at the time of his arrest and subsequently charged with possession of a high-capacity feeding device, authorities said.

Asbury was one of two Black churches, along with Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church, that had its Black Lives Matter banner desecrated during the Dec. 12 demonstrations, in which thousands of Trump supporters converged on downtown D.C. to protest President-elect Joe Biden’s win in the presidential election.

Participants clashed with counter protesters during the protests, which resulted in four stabbings and 33 arrests.

The Proud Boys chairman willfully claimed responsibility in the following days for setting one of the banners on fire, though he said he was uncertain

which one it was. He denied that his actions were fueled by racism or religion, however.

Tarrio’s arrest came the same day that the Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church filed a lawsuit in D.C. Superior Court against Tarrio and the Proud Boys, blaming the group for the vandalism.

“White supremacists like the Proud Boys would rather see the country burn than to see it united together under justice and freedom for all,” said Kristen Clarke, president and executive director of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, which supported the church’s suit. “Black churches and other religious institutions have a long and ugly history of being targeted by white supremacists in racist and violent attacks meant to intimidate and create fear.

“Our lawsuit aims to hold those who engage in such action accountable,” Clarke said. “We are proud to represent Metropolitan A.M.E. which has a long history of standing against bigotry and hate and whose courage and determination to fight back is a beacon of hope for the community.”

Rev. Ianther Mills, pastor of Asbury United Methodist Church, the oldest African American church in the District, told The Informer in the days following the Dec. 12 incident, “They tore down our sign and burned it in the streets but we will put a bigger sign to fight for justice and create the beloved community.”

But after Mills and church officials replaced the banner, it was again vandalized and torn down. WI

‘The World According to Dominic’ will return next week.

8 - JANUARY 7 - 13, 2021

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AROUND THE REGION

Ex-D.C. Councilmember Brandon Todd Joins Washington Gas James Wright WI Staff Writer Former D.C. Councilmember Brandon Todd, who represented Ward 4 from 2015-2021 as a Democrat, has been hired by Washington Gas to be director of corporate policy.

“We are delighted to have Brandon join the Washington gas team—his perspective, depth and breadth of experience, along with a deep-rooted commitment to the D.C. area and surrounding communities, will shape our corporate policy objectives across all three of our service territories,” Donald “Blue” Jenkins, the president of Washington Gas, said.

Todd started his new job on Jan.4 at the District-headquartered utility com-

“I’m excited to join Washington Gas — a company committed to serving its customers with affordable and reliable energy and giving back to the community.” pany. His duties include spearheading the company’s public policy group, supervising federal, state and local government relations in the District, Maryland and Virginia. Washington Gas has over 1.2 million customers in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.

In addition, Todd will develop and execute Washington Gas’s external relations strategy advocating for its business and policy priorities among public regulators, legislators and im-

portant partners and stakeholders. The former D.C. councilmember will also be the company’s link to government, community organizations and industry trade groups.

A graduate of Eastern Senior High School, with a bachelor’s degree in communications from Bowie State University and a Master of Business Administration from Trinity Washington University, Todd worked on the campaigns and in the council office of then-

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Ward 4 D.C. Councilmember Muriel Bowser. When Bowser became mayor in 2015, Todd won a special election in May that year to succeed her.

Todd chaired the Committee on Government Operations. In the June 2020 Democratic Party primary, Todd lost his re-election bid to Janeese Lewis George.

Todd said he looks forward to working for Washington Gas. “I’m excited to join Washington Gas—a company committed to serving its customers with affordable and reliable energy and giving back to the community,” he said. “I am looking forward to the opportunity to be a part of a great team and lead the company’s public policy efforts.” WI @JamesDCWrighter

5 Brandon Todd represented Ward 4 on the D.C. Council from 2015-2021.

(WI File Photo)

JANUARY 7 - 13, 2021 9

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WORDS TO LIVE BY “Good advice may be sometimes better than feeding a brother; helping him to some lawful employment, better than giving him money; so, defending his case and standing by him when wrongfully accused may be better than clothing him; better to save a brother’s house when on fire than to give him one.”

– Prince Hall

“A Charge” [June 1792]. On Jan. 4, 1787, Hall, founder of the first Black Masonic lodge, and others, petitioned the Massachusetts legislature for funds to return to Africa – the first recorded efforts by Blacks to do so.

10 - JANUARY 7 - 13, 2021

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AROUND THE REGION

Mendelson Changes D.C. Council Committees for New Legislative Session James Wright WI Staff Writer D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson has reorganized the D.C. Council to reflect the interests of members and has created two subcommittees on the coronavirus pandemic’s effect in the District and redistricting.

“I’ve made these recommendations after meeting with all members individually, at length to discuss reorganizations,” Mendelson said. “I have done my best to consider their priorities and suggestions.”

The departure of Brandon Todd and David Grosso from the council and the arrival of new D.C. Councilmembers Christina Henderson (IAt Large) and Janeese Lewis George (D-Ward 4), fueled changes in the committee structure. Mendelson made it clear last year that freshman legislators such as Henderson, George and D.C. Councilmember Brooke Pinto (D-Ward 2) will not chair committees because of their inexperience.

The council voted on Jan. 4 to approve the changed committee structure.

The agencies under the Committee on Government Operations that Todd chaired will be merged with the Committee on Facilities and Procurement to become the Committee on Facilities and Government Operations. D.C. Councilmember Robert White (D-At Large) will chair the committee, Mendelson said.

Grosso chaired the Committee on Education and shared its jurisdiction with the Committee of the Whole, to which all councilmembers belong and Mendelson supervises. However, under the new plan, the education committee has been disbanded and all educational issues will be dealt with by the Committee of the Whole.

D.C. Councilmember Trayon White (D-Ward 8) chairs the new Committee on Recreation, Libraries and Youth Affairs overseeing the city’s public libraries, cultural agencies and the Office of Cable Television. D.C. Councilmember Brianne Nadeau (D-Ward 1), chair of the Committee on Human Services, now has oversight over the Board of Ethics and Govern-

Get Covered. Stay Covered.

5 Phil Mendelson serves as the chairman of the D.C. Council. (WI File Photo)

ment Accountability (BEGA) and D.C. Councilmember Anita Bonds (D-At Large) has gained jurisdiction of the Executive Office of the Mayor under a new Committee on Housing and Executive Administration.

D.C. Councilmembers Vincent Gray (D-Ward 7), Kenyan McDuffie (D-Ward 5) and Mary Cheh (D-Ward 3) retained chairmanships of their committees dealing with health, business and economic development and transportation and environment, respectively. D.C. Councilmembers Charles Allen (D-Ward 6) and Elissa Silverman (I-At Large) keep their committees, Judiciary and Public Safety and Labor and Workforce Development, respectively.

Allen and Gray have been tapped

by Mendelson to co-chair a subcommittee on the coronavirus pandemic’s negative economic effect in the District. The chairman also appointed Silverman to lead a subcommittee addressing changes to ward and advisory neighborhood commission boundaries as a result of the 2020 census.

Allen said he embraces his new responsibilities.

“I’m grateful for the trust to continue our work at the council on the important and urgent issues of public safety: ending gun violence, moving

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he said. “I look forward to working with my friend and co-chair, Gray, and in partnership with Mayor Muriel Bowser and her team as we work together for the common goal of the

District’s strong recovery.”

WI @JamesDCWrighter

JANUARY 7 - 13, 2021 11

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY MD Lawmakers Prepare for Upcoming Session William J. Ford WI Staff Writer

When the 442nd Maryland General Assembly convenes Wednesday, Jan. 13, it will be the first time in history lawmakers convene remotely.

With the exception to vote on the budget and other piece of legislation, lawmakers will not interact in Annapolis with constituents, lobbyists, interns and even some staff. Committee meetings and public hearings will be held virtually.

“I think it will be a very different session,” said Del. Jazz Lewis (D-District 24) of Glenarden. “This is new for all of us. Just like in life, it will throw an audible. I’m urging everyone to be flexible and patient.”

The coronavirus pandemic has forced students to receive instruction at home, restricted indoor dining in some jurisdictions and caused some businesses to close.

On the last day of 2020, the state’s Health Department reported about 276,662 confirmed cases and 5,727

deaths. During that time, Maryland ranked 25th and 18th in the nation, respectively. according to the Johns Hopkins University COVID-19 data tracker.

During the 90-day General Assembly session, a possible change may be scheduling hearings on Saturday “because we expect more people to participate in the process, which is good,” Lewis said.

One of the first bills members in the House of Delegates will present deals with police reform slated to come before the House Judiciary and Senate Judicial Proceedings committees.

A major recommendation would be to repeal the controversial Law Enforcement Officers’ Bill of Rights. Part of the state statute currently allows officers five days to receive counsel and be interrogated for an alleged offense. Other reforms include banning chokeholds and requiring officers to take mental health and behavioral assessments from a licensed mental health professional before being hired.

Another proposal may be to incorporate a use-of-force statute. An officer who violates it could face up to five years in prison for recklessness and up to 10 years in prison if committed “knowingly and willfully.”

5 Marion Gray-Hopkins, center, and mother of Gary Hopkins, Jr., speaks at a police reform rally Oct. 17 in Forestville. Gray-Hopkins stands alongside other mothers whose children died from police-involved shootings. (File: Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

Lawmakers also plan to override Gov. Larry Hogan’s veto issued in May on the $3.8 billion annual Blueprint for Maryland’s Future education plan. Hogan rejected it saying the state cannot afford additional spending on new programs while spending money to fight a pandemic.

However, Democrats and education advocates say the comprehensive plan provides money to hire guidance counselors, offer mental health and behav-

ioral services for students and expand early childhood.

House Speaker Adrienne Jones will reintroduce the bill to provide nearly $577 million for the state’s historically Black colleges and universities, according to the legislation filed on the General Assembly website.

Lawmakers approved the bill this year to settle a 14-year-old lawsuit

SESSION Page 36

State Lawmakers to Focus on Alcohol Sales, School Board Representation in Prince George’s County William J. Ford WI Staff Writer During the annual Maryland General Assembly, state lawmakers review legislation for its re-

spective jurisdictions and hope for approval from their colleagues in the House and Senate chambers.

The usual in-person meetings, public hearings, negotiations and handshakes with lobbyists and ac-

5 Various types of wine sold at Food Lion supermarkets. (Photo courtesy of Food Lion)

12 - JANUARY 7 - 13, 2021

tivists during the 90-day session won’t happen this year because of the coronavirus pandemic.

According to proposed legislation from the Prince George’s County House Delegation, lawmakers from the majority Black jurisdiction have begun online discussions on items such as vehicle height monitoring systems, to require the livestreaming of Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission meetings and regulation of concrete batching plants.

A few bills that may receive a little more discussion include alcohol-related bills such as one to entice grocery stores to sell beer and “light wine” with at least three liquor stores within a square mile.

One of the strategies seeks to open supermarkets within food deserts. “[The bill] can help address the issue of food desserts that have been pervasive in the county,” said Del. Jazz Lewis (D-District 24) of Glenarden, who plans to sponsor the bill. “Here’s what our community needs. Let’s work this out.”

The 24th legislative district houses three municipalities in the 20743

zip code with poverty rates above the county average of 8.7 percent.

According to 2018 U.S. Census data, those locales are Capitol Heights (10.7 percent), Fairmount Heights (13.6 percent) and Seat Pleasant (17.8). These municipalities are located inside the Beltway that border the District.

Del. Wanika Fisher (D-District 47B) of Hyattsville has a similar bill grant class A licenses to grocery stores permitting the sale of beer and light wine, but prohibit consumption on the store premises. The county’s Board of License Commissioners would grant approval for no more than three supermarkets to occupy a license within a legislative district.

Beer and wine are already sold at two Food Lion stores, one in Upper Marlboro and the other in Laurel.

Both grocery stores are located outside the Beltway.

Prince George’s lawmakers with the delegation’s education committee reviewed two proposed bills Dec. 30.

One focused on a previous bill

submitted last year by Del. Jay Walker (D-District 26) of Fort Washington to incorporate 150 minutes of physical activity, including includes 90 minutes of physical education, into the daily curriculum for elementary students.

The other measure would reconfigure school board members to convert all members to at-large representatives in the county.

Del. Ron Watson (D-District 23B) of Upper Marlboro said he contacted officials in neighboring Montgomery County. According to that county’s website, its board has a hybrid structure with two members who serve at-large, five who represent districts and one student member.

“The intent of that piece of the legislation was to remove parochialism and ensure that each member of the school board was properly bedded by the entirety of Prince George’s County residents,” Watson said. “It is not

SCHOOL Page 13

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PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

Housing Advocates Contend Evictions Violate COVID-19 Protections

William J. Ford WI Staff Writer

Attorney Carisa Hatfield told a short story about a client named “Holly” from Baltimore City who got evicted from her apartment in August, one month before the eviction moratorium became lifted nationwide.

Holly, a human trafficking survivor, has lived in and out of homeless shelters since September and increased her exposure to COVID-19 due to housing instability.

“If Holly had been able to stay in her unit, she would not be facing housing instability and increased exposure to COVID-19,” said Hatfield, who works with the Homeless Persons Representation Project based in Baltimore. “We all are searching for [ways] to maintain stable housing…”

Hatfield and other housing advocates, financial representatives and a chief judge testified at a virtual hearing Monday, Jan. 4 of the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee on the effects of housing during the coronavirus pandemic.

Although confirmed cases continue to rise in the state, evictions continue to take place in the state’s District Court.

Between July 1 and Nov. 30, about 2,547 evictions have been

SCHOOL from Page 12 looking at the county in a wholistic manner. Wherever you represent from a district perspective, it’s important you keep a countywide focus.”

Del. Julian Ivey (D-District 47A) of Cheverly has a similar bill to Watson’s, but it seeks to keep each member representing nine districts.

Both bills would eliminate the four appointed members whose terms expire by 2022 and 2023. In addition, refer to the chief executive officer of the school system to the better-known title as “superintendent.”

The school board has been an all-elected body before, but it became a mix of elected and appointed members after state lawmakers approved a bill in 2013 led by former County Executive Rushern L. Baker III.

executed in Maryland, according to Chief Judge John Morrissey.

Morrissey said the majority of evictions before September are from cases filed before the pandemic affected the state in midMarch.

The figures decreased in October to 653 and in November to 511 because of restrictions in court operations, he said.

Morrissey said the courts biggest court filings deal with failure to pay rent cases that average about 55,000 per month.

A decrease in evictions may occur after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention extended an eviction moratorium through Jan. 31.

In addition, Gov. Larry Hogan issued a state of emergency as an added measure to restrict them during the pandemic.

However, housing advocates insist landlords use a major loophole from both the state and CDC orders to continue eviction proceedings.

Maryland District Court remains in phase two operations until March 14, but four tenant/ landlord cases may continue: rent escrow, emergency breach, wrongful detainer and tenant holding over.

The tenant holding over case allows a landlord to file paperwork

in court when a tenant’s lease expired. In addition, a landlord isn’t required to provide an explanation as long as the tenant receives a notice first.

Erin Bradley, vice president of government affairs for the Apartment and Office Building Association of Metropolitan Washington, said the best way continues to be communication. About 20 percent of the organization’s members reside in Prince George’s County and 17 percent in neighboring Montgomery County.

“We recommend that residents come to property management staff as soon as possible to discuss payment options, the issues they’re facing and what options are available to them,” she said. “If they open the dialogue early…to not fall on last resort efforts.”

Another suggestion would be reforming the eviction process through a holistic approach such as mediation between a landlord and tenant before a civil suit gets filed in court.

Five state senators are working on legislation to allow renters to be represented by housing attorneys to assist in legal matters.

“We propose the District Court not just be a court of collections,

5 Members of the Maryland Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee and those testifying during a briefing on housing during the COVID-19 pandemic. (Screen grab: Courtesy of Maryland General Assembly)

but a hub for holistic problem solving [and] facilitating service triage,” said Zafar Shah, attorney with Public Justice Center in Baltimore. “That is a best practice we have seen.”

State Sen. Robert Cassilly (R-Harford County) said there’s nothing wrong in going to court.

“The system’s we’ve got where

we encourage the landlord to go into court promptly is not a bad thing,” he said. “Because you’re in court, we hold landlords’ feet to the fire. They [judges] really do pay attention to the needs of both the tenants and the landlords who are in need as well.” WI @jabariwill

Baker said while in office the current structure allows for the county government to become more involved in the school system which includes the superintendent to appoint school board chair, the county executive appoint three members and County Council chose one person.

During the meeting, Lewis asked if there’s any data to show if the proposed at-large structure has any influence on outcomes in the classroom.

“There have been no significant gains in student achievement with the different configurations of the school board,” Watson said. “What it is in fact is bringing our school board in line and in the norms that other school boards operate effectively.”

WI @jabariwill

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JANUARY 7 - 13, 2021 13

BUSINESS Workers Brace for Pandemic Impact on Retirement New Survey Shares Financial Fears of the Future Sarafina Wright WI Contributing Writer As a result of the COVID-19 outbreak, the disease caused by the coronavirus, U.S. workers are facing another economic challenge: retirement.

According to “Retirement Security: A Compendium of Findings About

U.S. Workers,” a new report released

by Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies [TCRS] found one in five U.S. workers [21 percent] indicate their confidence in the ability to retire comfortably has declined in light of the pandemic – and only 27 percent are confident in a comfortable retirement.

About 6,500 workers participated in the survey.

“Before the pandemic, the retirement prospects for many workers was iffy at best,” said Catherine Collinson, president and CEO of Transamerica Institute and TCRS. “The pandemic has exacerbated that situation.”

“Millions of workers have experienced negative impacts to their employment, ranging from pay cuts and furloughs to job loss. Some workers have even dipped into their retirement accounts to make ends meet.

“It will take years for many workers to financially recover – and some may never recover. Help from policymakers is needed to strengthen the U.S. retirement system.”

When asked of their expectations of the incoming Biden administration: *49 percent of the workers said safety nets, especially health care should be addressed, and the anticipated Social Security funding shortfall should be eliminated; *47 percent said out-of-pocket healthcare expenses and prescription

Giant Food Spotlights Products Owned

by Minority Businesses

The Latest in the Grocer’s Diversity Efforts Sarafina Wright WI Contributing Writer Giant Food says it’s stepping up to champion diversity by updating shelf labels to help customers identify goods from minority-owned businesses.

Starting this month, all 164 Giant stores will use shelf labels to inform shoppers of products offered by businesses that are women, Black, Asian-Indian, Hispanic, LGBT, Asian-Pacific, or veteran owned.

Over 3,100 products in Giant stores will fall under the new initiative that the Washington area grocer says will strengthen relationships with shoppers.

“Giant Food is proud to better highlight our diverse suppliers,” said Ira Kress, president of Giant Food.

“We're committed to making it easier for customers to identify product attributes that are important to them by fostering a diverse and inclusive network of suppliers that reflects the unique backgrounds and experiences of our Giant family, our customers and our communities.”

Products that will have the new shelf labeling will include items from

14 - JANUARY 7 - 13, 2021

Black-owned brands like Shea Moisture, Mielle Organics, Mixed Chicks and Curls in the health and beauty department and food items like Iya Foods, Trade Street Jam Co., Goya Foods, Glory Foods and more.

Giant says the new shelf labels are just one example of its commitment to giving customers the tools to quickly identify products with characteristics that are important to them.

In 2017, Giant rolled out the HowGood rating system which identifies products based on factors ranging from ingredient sourcing to labor practices.

In 2018, Giant also launched Guiding Stars, the nutrition navigation program that takes the guesswork out of nutrition by decoding product labels into one clear rating says the grocer.

In line with the company’s latest diversity efforts, the grocer announced in September a commitment of $500,000 to support community organizations and local HBCUs in the fight for racial equity.

“The support we receive from Giant Food is instrumental in our ability to cultivate the next generation of leaders,” Gabrielle Webster, president & CEO of Boys & Girls Club of Greater

5 Updated shelf labels at Giant Food.

(Photo courtesy of Giant Food)

Washington said. “Giant Food was the catalyst to our partnership with Blessings in a Basket which has enabled us to provide over 2,400 meals monthly to our members during this critical time.

“Most recently, they have become the program sponsor for our Teen Takeover initiative which focuses on character development, workforce development, healthy lifestyles, and community. Despite the chaos surrounding our youth, we are able to provide safe spaces to thrive and grow, due to this wonderful partnership.”

WI

(Photo courtesy of Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies [TCRS])

drugs should be more affordable; *42 percent said Medicare expected funding shortfalls should be addressed; and *37 percent said innovations for affordable long-term caref should be established.

“Policymakers can pave the way for improving retirement security by enacting legislation and implementing reforms that can ensure the sustainability of government benefit programs, encourage employers to offer benefits to their employees, and help prepare workers for long, healthy, and productive lives,” Collinson said.

Other priorities cited by workers include expanding access to employer-sponsored retirement plans, IRAs, and other savings programs, implementing financial literacy curriculum in schools, increasing access to affordable housing, expanding the Saver's Credit, creating incentives for individuals to obtain ongoing training and education, and allowing employers to match employees' student loan payments as a contribution in their retirement accounts.

“Workers share many retirement-related risks; however, by increasing an understanding of the differences across demographic segments, we can identify solutions to help those in greatest need,” Collinson added.

Other key findings from the survey include: Approximately half of workers [52 percent] have experienced one or more negative impacts to their employment including job loss, furloughs, reduced hours, reduced pay and forced retirement.

LGBTQ workers are among the most impacted. Sixty-five percent of LTBTQ workers have experienced one or more negative impacts to their employment, compared with only 50

percent of non-LGBTQ workers.

As a result of the pandemic, 33 percent of all workers have already and/ or plan to take a loan and/or withdrawal from their qualified retirement account such as a 401(k), 403(b), or similar plan or IRA. LGBTQ, urban, millennials, and men are among the workers more likely to be dipping into their retirement savings says TCRS. Credit card debt may pose a threat to retirement security for many, especially members of Generation X, says the report. Thirty-four percent of all workers cite paying off credit card debt as a financial priority, including 45 percent of Generation X workers.

Moreover, if their finances have been or were to be negatively impacted by the pandemic, 35 percent of Generation X workers indicate they would rely on credit cards.

Only 27 percent of workers have a written financial strategy for retirement, according to the report, which also finds legal documentation is also lacking.

Only 22 percent of workers have a medical power of attorney or proxy, which is more important now than ever amid the pandemic says the report.

“From a societal level to individual households, the pandemic has disrupted nearly every aspect of our lives and laid bare weaknesses in our retirement system,” Collinson said.

“As we navigate the pandemic with an eye toward the future, policymakers, industry, employers, and individuals have a tremendous opportunity to work together and create a stronger, sustainable, and inclusive system in which everyone has the ability to live, work, and retire with dignity.”

WI

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BUSINESS

Harvard and the ELC Team to Build Pipeline of Black Executives Move Furthers Diversity Efforts in Corporate America Sarafina Wright WI Contributing Writer

Harvard Business School [HBS] and the Executive Leadership Council [ELC] have announced a collaboration to provide enhanced programming and executive education opportunities for the most senior Black executives in corporate America.

The ELC is comprised of more than 800 current and former Black CEOs, senior executives and board directors at Fortune 1000 and Global 500 companies.

The ELC says its mission to open channels of opportunity for Black executives to positively impact business and communities, aligns well with the goals of the HBS Action Plan for Racial Equity, a plan to advance racial equity both within and beyond the school.

“HBS must do more to create opportunities for Black talent to succeed and take up leadership roles,” said HBS Dean Nitin Nohria.

“The Executive Leadership Council

has demonstrated the ability to create these opportunities and harness the power of Black talent. Together, we can create a tremendous and unique opportunity for ELC scholarship recipients, ELC members and the HBS community.”

The effort will target three areas: support for ELC Scholars, executive education, and Master of Business Administration curriculum and case development.

The mission of The ELC's scholars program is to build a pipeline of Black corporate talent by supporting the academic achievement and development of Black undergraduate and graduate students.

The school will provide financial support to the student scholarship program and assist in identifying potential internship opportunities for ELC Scholars at HBS, partner companies and alumni-led organizations.

The two organizations will also work together to create a course customized for ELC members, while also providing them with access to existing

HBS Executive Education courses, programs and networking opportunities with executives from around the world, says the school.

Throughout the fall, HBS hosted a speaker series featuring diverse thought leaders covering a range of inclusion topics.

The school says HBS will tap into ELC’s network of alumni to provide support for students.

“ELC's commitment to professional growth of Blacks in the corporate sector and to leadership in the Black community in general is uplifting and powerful,” Ron Chandler, chief information officer and co-chair of HBS’ Anti-Racism Taskforce said.

“A strategic partnership between the Executive Leadership Council and Harvard Business School would not only cultivate immediate greatness but can have phenomenal second and third order impacts for years and decades to come.”

This announcement comes after renewed attention has been placed on Fortune 500 companies for the lack of

Black representation on the executive level.

In September, Wells Fargo CEO Charles Scharf said the lack of diversity at the bank is due to a “very limited pool of Black talent,” a statement which drew ire resulting in a publicly issued company-wide apology.

Following the incident, Scharf pledged to double the number of Black leaders over the next five years at the bank.

Last year, another pledge was made by dozens of corporations with the “The Board Challenge” where CEOs pledged to add a Black director to its corporate boards within the next year.

The Board Challenge launched with the support of companies and non-profit groups like the ELC, the NAACP and the National Urban League.

“America has been reminded again in tragic fashion that we must redouble our efforts to build a more inclusive society. Business leaders can't let this moment pass us by without playing our part and taking this tangible

(Photo courtesy of Pexels)

step to build a more diverse boardroom,” said Brad Gerstner, founder and CEO of Altimeter Capital and co-founder of The Board Challenge.

“As a next step, we are encouraging companies to take the pledge and add a Black director in the next 12 months. The Board Challenge is a movement to accelerate these changes and help companies tap into the energy and talents of all underrepresented groups.”

WI

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JANUARY 7 - 13, 2021 15

NATIONAL In First Act of New Congress, Congresswoman Jackson Lee Introduces Reparations Bill

Stacy M. Brown Senior Writer

With the start of the 117th Congress this week, congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas), a senior member of the House Com-

mittees on Judiciary, Budget and Homeland Security, has reaffirmed her quest for legislation that could eventually provide reparations for slavery victims.

On Monday, Jan. 4, Jackson Lee re-introduced H.R. 40, a bill that

2021 Urban Journalism Workshop Learn print, radio, television & digital The Washington Association of Black Journalists encourages Washington, D.C.-area high school students to apply to its annual Urban Journalism Workshop (UJW). The winter/spring 2021 session celebrates 35 years. Longtime Chicago Tribune and St. Louis Times Dispatch reporter George Curry, former Washington Post reporter Athelia Knight and others started the program in 1986. UJW gives students the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of print, radio, TV and online news. Current and former journalists with The Washington Post, NPR, The Washington Informer and other outlets volunteer to teach and mentor participants. Seniors who enter the program’s essay contest compete for a scholarship.

•

Sessions are held for eight consecutive Saturdays 9am - 4pm from 27 February – 17 April, finishing with a closing ceremony in early June.

•

High School students, grades 9-12, in the greater D.C.-area are eligible to apply.

•

Scholarship criteria includes an essay, stories produced in the workshop, class attendance and participation in all eight sessions.

would fund a committee to explore whether African Americans should receive reparations for slavery.

While it does not directly introduce payments, the Commission would study racial inequities and policy solutions.

“In short, the Commission aims to study the impact of slavery and continuing discrimination against African Americans, resulting directly and indirectly from slavery to segregation to the desegregation process and the present day,” Jackson Lee said.

The Congresswoman also serves as the ranking member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations.

“The commission would also make recommendations concerning any form of apology and compensation to begin the long-delayed process of atonement for slavery,” she added.

Under H.R. 40, the Commission would include members appointed by the White House and both Congressional chambers.

The bill has had increased support with 147 co-sponsors in the House, all Democrats.

Because Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and Republicans in the Senate have indicated strong opposition to taking the measure up in that chamber, the Georgia runoff elections count as a huge step toward securing passage of the bill.

Two Senate seats remain at stake in Georgia with Democrats Jon Ossoff and the Rev. Raphael Warnock squaring off against Republicans Kelly Loeffler and David Perdue.

“The impact of slavery and its vestiges continue to affect African Americans and indeed all Americans in communities throughout our nation,” Jackson Lee remarked.

“This legislation is intended to examine the institution of slavery in the colonies and the United States

5 Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas) (Courtesy photo)

from 1619 to the present and further recommend appropriate remedies.

Since the initial introduction of this legislation, its proponents have made substantial progress in elevating the discussion of reparations and reparatory justice at the national level and joining the mainstream international debate on the issues,” she said.

Jackson Lee noted that some have “tried to deflect” the importance of these conversations by focusing on individual monetary compensation.

“The real issue is whether and how this nation can come to grips with the legacy of slavery that still infects current society. Through legislation, resolutions, news and litigation, we are moving closer to making more strides in the movement toward reparations,” Jackson Lee said.

The Texas congresswoman noted that she expects more co-sponsors to come forward during the new Congress.

“Today, there are more people at the table — more activists, more scholars, more CEO’s, more state and local officials and more Members of Congress,” she declared.

“However, despite this progress and the election of the first American president of African descent, the legacy of slavery lingers heavily in

this nation. While we have focused on the social effects of slavery and segregation, its continuing economic implications remain largely ignored by mainstream analysis.”

“These economic issues are the root cause of many critical issues in the African-American community today, such as education, healthcare and criminal justice policy, including policing practices. The call for reparations represents a commitment to entering a constructive dialogue on the role of slavery and racism in shaping present-day conditions in our community and American society.”

“I believe that H.R. 40 is a crucial piece of legislation because it goes beyond exploring the economic implications of slavery and segregation.

It is a holistic bill in the sense that it seeks to establish a commission to also examine the moral and social implications of slavery. After its study, the Commission would offer proposals concerning the long-term impact of slavery and bring about solutions to these ongoing disparities in the African-American community,” Jackson Lee said.

WI Twitter: @StacyBrownMedia Facebook: StacyBrownMedia

TWO RIVERS PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOL REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

To download the application, learn more about the Urban Journalism Workshop and/or the essay contest and scholarship, visit www.ujwonline.org or contact UJW Coordinator Trina Williams at ujwdc@aol.com.

Applications and required materials must be received by 30 January 2021.

16 - JANUARY 7 - 13, 2021

Architect Firm Two Rivers PCS is soliciting proposals from a licensed firm to develop design and engineering drawings in the renovation of existing spaces in school facilities. To request a copy of the RFP, email Gail Williams at procurement@tworiverspcs.org. Proposals are due by February 19, 2021.

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

HEALTH COVID-19 UPDATE

Hospitals at Breaking Point; Vaccinations Face Deadly Delays

England, Scotland, Japan Among Nations Initiating Lockdowns D. Kevin McNeir WI Editor As the U.S. coronavirus death toll topped 350,000 deaths on Jan. 2, the optimism that came with the recent news that several pharmaceutical companies had developed highly effective vaccines for the deadly COVID-19 virus has quickly waned as hospitals in the U.S. and in other countries report

they’re at the breaking point.

Adding to the woes of medical personnel and people worldwide fighting for their lives is the slower than expected process of administering the vaccines to those either already hospitalized or most at risk.

And then, there remain reports that in several U.S. states, including Colorado, California and Florida, as well as in nearly a dozen European nations,

Asia, Australia and South Africa, a new version of the virus has been detected – 17 mutations at last count according to the World Health Organization.

Daily death rates have surged so precariously, with hospitals unable to keep up with the demand, that several countries, most notably England, Scotland and the city of Tokyo, Japan, have reinstituted lockdowns which prohibit citizens from leaving their homes expect to purchase food or for medical emergencies. Schools have once again been closed as have most businesses.

Meanwhile, like the U.S., many nations find themselves unable to meet their goals of inoculating citizens with the vaccine. In some instances, like in Italy, less than 40 percent of the total population says they are willing to take the vaccine.

In the U.S., during a press conference in Annapolis on Tuesday, Jan. 5, Maryland officials announced that, for now, no variant of the COVID-19 virus has been contracted in the state.

Jinlene Chan, the state’s acting deputy public health secretary, said the spread seems to be occurring due to those traveling from one city or country to another.

5 Hospitals are overwhelmed with the number of ambulances showing up with patients. (Courtesy photo)

Chan said the variant appears to spread easily but there isn’t any evidence it would cause hospitalization, “severe disease, or increase the risk of death,” adding that the current COVID-19 vaccine should be able to fight the variant. Still, Chan noted that more studies continue.

“We are staying extremely vigilant and working very closely with our CDC partners,” she said. “We are conducting the sequencing that is needed to be able to detect the potential variant here in Maryland.”

However, on Jan. 5, the number of COVID-19 patients hospitalized nationwide shattered the record set

during the waning days of 2020, now eclipsing 131,000. Officials state that hospitals in the West and South have seen the highest numbers of hospitalizations.

In some U.S. hospitals, including those in Los Angeles County, ambulance crews have been instructed not to bring patients to hospitals if they believe that the survival of individuals is hopeless. They’ve further been told to treat and declare such patients dead on the scene so as to preserve and maintain hospital capacities.

WI Staff Writer William J. Ford contributed to this report. WI @dkevinmcneir

DC MAP (Mortgage Assistance Program) COVID-19

is available to provide emergency mortgage support to District homeowners experiencing unanticipated financial hardship due to sudden decrease or loss of income.

Take the survey to see if you qualify for mortgage Call the hotline at 1-833-429-0537 assistance through DC MAP COVID-19 at or email DCMAP@dchfa.org www.dchfa.org/homeownership/

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JANUARY 7 - 13, 2021 17

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africa now

COMPILED BY OSWALD T. BROWN

Niger Presidential Election Heads for Run-Off Feb. 20

Niger is set for a second round of vote as no candidate clinched the needed majority for a first round win in the Dec. 27 vote.

Former prime minister and favorite to win Mohammed Bazoum, of the ruling party, came first with 39.33 percent of the vote.

He will go head to head with former president Mahamane Ousmane, who placed second with 16.99 percent of votes, according to results announced by the electoral commission Saturday.

The right hand man of outgoing president Mahamadou Issoufou, who was hoping for a one-touch victory in the first round, will now have to seek alliances before the second round of polls on Feb. 20.

Voter turnout was pegged at 69.67 percent, with 5.2 million voters out of 7.4 million registered voters out of a population of 23 million. These must be validated by the Constitutional Court.

Former prime ministers Seini Oumarou was third, Albadé Abouba, fourth, obtaining 8.95 percent and 7.07% of the votes, ahead of former Foreign Minister Ibrahim Yacouba, who was fifth with 5.38% of the votes, respectively.

The other former president in contention, Salou Djibo, came in sixth with 2.99% of the vote.

This is the first time in Niger's history that an elected president will succeed another elected president.

A key hurdle for the winner of the February run-off vote will be to stem jihadist’s attacks in the Sahelian country that have killed hundreds of people.

Some 500,000 refugees and others have been displaced from their homes, according to the United Nations.

WI

caribbean now UK Travel Ban Extended Until Jan. 31 The Government of Jamaica has extended the travel ban on flights coming in country from the United Kingdom until Sunday, Jan. 31, 2021.

Additionally, all non-Jamaicans who have been in the UK within the last 14 days prior to intended arrival date in Jamaica who may seek to enter the island through another country will not be permitted to enter Jamaica.

Jamaicans who have been in the UK within the 14 days prior to intended arrival date and who seek to enter the island through another country will be tested and placed in state quarantine for a minimum of 48 hours until the results are returned. If negative, they will be allowed to transfer to home quarantine to complete the 14-day mandatory quarantine period. If positive, they will be transferred to isolation at a location that is approved by the Minis-

try of Health and Wellness.

“The Ministry of Health & Wellness is monitoring the situation in the UK, including the outcomes of virological investigations, while preparing for an expected surge in local cases of COVID-19,” Minister of Health & Wellness Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton said. “These factors will influence the Ministry’s recommendation regarding the lifting of the travel ban.”

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health & Wellness will continue to work with the various airlines to support the repatriation of UK residents, who are in the island and wish to return to the UK. Cargo flights from the UK will continue to be exempted from the travel ban.

WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

EDUCATION Lawsuit Alleges Abuse of Special Needs DCPS Students Sam P.K. Collins WI Contributing Writer

While District leaders continue to push for the reopening of K-12 campuses during the COVID pandemic, some parents, particularly those of special-needs students, said they’re happily embracing all that has come with distance learning, including significant improvements to their child’s physical and emotional health.

This has proven especially true for Gold Ukegbu, one of five parents who filed a civil suit in November against D.C. Public Schools (DCPS) citing allegations of abuse of her daughter and other special-needs children at River Terrace Education Campus, Walker-Jones Education Campus and Ludlow-Taylor Elementary School.

“I will be one parent who advocates for homeschooling,” said Ukegbu, the mother of a non-verbal, developmentally delayed child who uses a wheelchair and suffers from a bevy of ailments, including scoliosis and aspiration pneumonia.

Last March, shortly before the District-wide transition to distance learning, Ukegbu reluctantly returned daughter to River Terrace after suffering a broken femur bone and back skin injuries, all under circumstances that Ukegbu said she hasn’t been able to determine.

Though school officials attributed the injuries to the negligence of a bus driver, Ukegbu said they have yet to produce an official report. She has been attempting to document the abuse and have her daughter placed in a well-regarded charter school for special-needs children since well before the start of the pandemic.

Neither has happened yet, but Ukegbu said her daughter can now enjoy a routine that involves schooling, physical therapy, pediatrics and napping under the guidance of her mother and siblings.

“When my daughter was at school, we [always] had a problem,” Ukegbu told The Informer. “Either she didn’t wear her hat, or she forgot to put on her jacket. There were always complaints and [the staff] was too careless and in a hurry. At home, my daughter has her own time for schooling and it works well for her.”

A LAWSUIT YEARS IN THE MAKING

The quintet’s civil suit, filed on the behalf of their children on Nov. 22 in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, outlines abuse episodes that allegedly occurred during the 2018-2019 academic year, and in the months preceding the COVID-19 pandemic.

For instance, a teacher allegedly struck a student in the face at River Terrace in front of three staff members, while a nonverbal autistic youngster at Ludlow-Taylor suffered blunt-force trauma to his face.

In the aftermath of their children’s injuries, Ukegbu and the other plaintiffs mentioned in the civil suit filed police reports. The reports, none of which resulted in prosecution, petitioned for charges of simple assault and second-degree cruelty to children.

Yaida Ford, one of two attorneys representing the five parents, said DCPS officials had been notified through various means about the alleged use of unlawful restraints at River Terrace, Walker-Jones and Ludlow-Taylor.

The suit alleges that administrators at River Terrace hadn’t taken the necessary steps to create an educational environment for disabled children that’s equitable to that of their non-disabled counterparts. That includes hiring qualified behavioral specialists and improving the manner in which administrators report on-campus incidents of abuse.

“Parents are tired of having to send their kids into an unstable and unpre-

dictable environment,” Ford said.

“When the child is nonverbal, the parent has to jump through hoops to find out what happened to them,” she added. “It says something about the state of education in the nation’s capital. You would expect D.C. to be a leader in the education of vulnerable populations. We are just as bad here, if not worse than other jurisdictions who lack our resources.”

In a statement to The Informer, DCPS declined to comment on the pending litigation but said it’s actively working with the Office of the Attorney General to address the lawsuit.

SECURING ACCOUNTABILITY

Joakima Jones, another parent mentioned in the civil suit, echoed Ford’s

LAWSUIT Page 26

5 Gold Ukegbu, one of five parents who filed a civil suit in November against DC Public Schools (DCPS) for the alleged abuse of her daughter and other special-needs children, said she’s considering homeschooling her 14 year old. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

ASSOCIATION FOR THE STUDY OF AFRICAN AMERICAN LIFE AND HISTORY®

THE 2021 BLACK HISTORY MONTH

VIRTUAL FESTIVAL CELEBRATING THE 95TH ANNUAL BLACK HISTORY THEME

The Black Family: Representation, Identity, and Diversity Monday, February 1, 2021

Wednesday, February 24, 2021

FREE COMMUNITY EVENT - OPEN TO PUBLIC Announcement of the Black History theme and Introduction of ASALH’s Inaugural Virtual Black History Month Festival

FREE COMMUNITY EVENT - OPEN TO PUBLIC Diving with a Purpose

Saturday, February 6, 2021 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. EST

FREE COMMUNITY EVENT - OPEN TO PUBLIC ASALH Prince George’s County Truth Branch Event Featuring a conversation with Dr. Bernice King

FREE COMMUNITY EVENT - OPEN TO PUBLIC From the Continent to the Americas: Foodways, Culture and Traditions in the African American Family

Wednesday, February 10, 2021 FREE COMMUNITY EVENT - OPEN TO PUBLIC Presentation of the Inaugural ASALH Book Prize

Sunday, February 28, 2021 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. EST

Sunday, February 28, 2021 7:00 p.m. EST FREE COMMUNITY EVENT - OPEN TO PUBLIC ASALH and PBS Books Present: A Conversation with Ngugi Wa Thiong’o and Sundiata Cha-Jua

Marquee Event

Saturday, February 20, 2021 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. EST (TICKETED EVENT: $50.00) Finding Our Roots in African American History A Conversation with… Henry Louis Gates and Evelyn Brooks Higginbotham

Henry Louis Gates, Jr.

Evelyn Brooks Higginbotham

Acclaimed for his scholarship, his documentary films about African, Afro-Latin, and African American History, and his popular television series, “Finding Your Roots,” Henry Louis Gates, Jr., has brought fascinating African American family stories to the wider public. The Black History Month Festival in 2021 is proud to feature a conversation between ASALH’s national president Evelyn Brooks Higginbotham and Henry Louis Gates, Jr., who will share his thoughts and motivations in popularizing Black History through the heritage of African American families and communities and their search for roots.

ASALH BRANCHES WILL HOST VIRTUAL PROGRAMS THROUGHOUT THE MONTH ASALH BRANCH EVENTS CAN BE FOUND AT ASALH.ORG/BRANCH-EVENTS

ASSOCIATION FOR THE STUDY OF AFRICAN AMERICAN LIFE AND HISTORY THE FOUNDERS OF BLACK HISTORY MONTH WWW.ASALH.ORG | 202-238-5910 | #ASALH

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

#ASALHFAMILY

#ASALHFAM

#ASALH2021

JANUARY 7 - 13, 2021 19

Getting Through Grief Submitted by AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia Human beings are pretty resilient. Most of the time, we can experience a loss and then continue on with our lives. In between the loss and the time when we move on, though, we may need to grieve what’s gone. Grief helps us get through our feelings about the loss. When we grieve, we honor how we feel and start to adapt to the change. Grief is our natural and healthy response to loss.1 We can feel grief over many types of losses. Some kinds of losses may have come up for you during the pandemic. We might need to grieve the loss of a loved one, home, or job. We may feel sadness over changes in our health or our loss of social connection. We can even grieve the loss of an ideal — such as our sense of normalcy or safety.1

HOW TO MOVE THROUGH GRIEF

• First, name it. Try to identify

why you are feeling sadness or anger. Write down your thoughts and feelings each day. Writing about our emotions may improve our physical and mental health.1 • Accept how you feel. Grief shows up in different ways for different people. You may notice sadness, anger, or fatigue. These are all normal ways to feel.2 • Stay in touch. Support from trusted friends and family can help us move on. We can stay connected through phone calls and online hangouts such as social media.1 • Take care of yourself. Eat a healthy diet. Get the sleep you need.

Grief can take energy, so it’s important to keep your body in good care.2 • If you have lost a loved one, celebrate the life they had. Set aside a time to remember and honor them with others who held them dear.2

HELPING HANDS

If you feel overcome or are having trouble moving on from grief, it may help to talk to a specialist.

They can help you work through it so you can get back on track. If you are an AmeriHealth Caritas District

of Columbia enrollee, call Enrollee Services at 202-408-4720 or 1-800408-7511. Or you can call the D.C. Department of Behavioral Health Hotline at 1-888-793-4357.

The information in this material is for educational purposes only. It is not to take the place of a primary care provider (PCP) or a behavioral health (BH) specialist. If you have questions, talk with your PCP or BH specialist, or visit the sources listed in this material. If you think you need to see a PCP or BH specialist because of something you have read in this information, please contact your PCP or BH specialist.

Never stop or wait to get medical attention because of something you have read in this material.

Sources: 1.

“Grief and COVID-19: Mourning Our Bygone Lives,” American Psychological Association, https:// www.apa.org/news/apa/2020/04/ grief-covid-19.

2. “Grief: Coping With the Loss of

Your Loved One,” American Psychological Association, https://www.apa. org/topics/grief.

3. “Stress Relief From Laughter?

It's No Joke,” Mayo Clinic, https:// www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/ stress-management/in-depth/stress-relief/art-20044456.

All images are used under license for illustrative purposes only. Any individual depicted is a model

The Laughter Medicine Whether you laugh from a toddler’s antics or a TV commercial, the laughing does you good. Laughter may have many health benefits over the short and long term.3 Laughter is known to lift moods, but it doesn’t stop there. A good laugh actually produces changes in the body.

Laughter may:3 • Improve body functions. It can stimulate your heart, lungs, and muscles and help you take in more oxygen from air. When you laugh, your brain also releases a hormone that increases your sense of well-being.

• Relieve stress. A good laugh can briefly raise and then lower your heart

#BestMe

rate and blood pressure. It can help your muscles relax and circulation improve. These can leave us feeling more relaxed.

• Reduce pain. Laughter is thought to help the body produce its own natural painkillers.

• Boost immunity. Negative thoughts can add stress to your body’s systems, which may decrease your body’s ability to fight sickness.

But positive thoughts can help your body resist stress and, potentially, help your body fight illness.

• Improve mood. An easy laugh may help you connect with others.

Find us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/amerihealthdc. / Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/amerihealthcaritasdc. / Find us on Instagram at www.instagram.com/amerihealthcaritasdc.

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Rewards Program

I got a gift card for getting my annual physical. You can too.

You can get a $25 gift card if you: • Are an AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia enrollee • Are 12 – 21 years old • Get an annual physical exam

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All images are used under license for illustrative purposes only.

Any individual depicted is a model.

AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.

20 - JANUARY 7 - 13, 2021

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS

EDITORIAL

Contee’s First Task Must Be Reducing D.C.’s Homicide Rate

2020 will be remembered for years to come in the District including its continued rise in reported homicides – 198 according to the Metropolitan Police Department’s [MPD] website. The total reflects a 19 percent increase from 2019’s 166 homicides. Even more, the nearly 200 homicides mark a 16-year high for D.C. So, while much attention has rightfully been given to the ongoing health pandemic, it’s impossible to ignore the surge in D.C.’s homicide rate which had been steadily declining for a 25-year period until 2015 when death totals spiked and then began to annually rise.

In fact, 2020 counts as the deadliest year in the District in over a decade based on data from MPD. But what concerns us even more is how the homicide rate points to a tale of two “cities.” MPD data indicates that in the city’s reported deaths, communities east of the river – that is in wards 7 and 8 – accounted for more than half of all homicides.

We’ll take the word of several DCist reports which point to the summer as the time when homicides began to precariously surge after reaching 100 in July and breaking 170 in November.

What remains unclear – an explanation for these deaths.

Just days ago, we applauded the appointment of veteran MDP officer Robert Contee who took over as Mayor Muriel Bowser’s choice for MPD’s new police chief.

Tragically, before Contee had time to settle into his new position, the District would report its first homicide in 2021: the death of a 22-year-old woman killed early Sunday morning by an errant bullet. Allegedly, as the woman, Kaailyah Rainey and her mother were returning to their home along Wheeler Road in Southeast, a furry of shots rang out – an estimated 40 in total. The mother attempted to avoid the melee, driving several blocks away to Wahler Place. But her daughter would die after being taken to a nearby hospital.

The police say they’re treating her death as a homicide but have no suspects at this time nor do they know what events may have led up to the shootings.

Our community is already overwhelmed with the disproportionate number of deaths related to COVID-19, unemployment and potential evictions. Now, we fear that the mental and emotional well-being of Blacks throughout the District will be further endangered due to this surge in homicides.

We look to Chief Contee to take this assault on our lives as his first priority. But we realize that it will take a village if he and the rest of the MPD are to be successful.

Ironically, Blacks often criticize others for “snitching” on those who commit heinous deeds like the murder of an innocent by-stander – until the person who’s murdered is someone they love.

The time to take back Chocolate City is long overdue. WI

Another Trump Super-Spreader Event Comes to D.C. On the eve of the Electoral College votes by the U.S. Congress on Wednesday, Dec. 6, an estimated 30,000 Trump supporters returned to the nation’s capital to demand lawmakers ignore the voters’ choice of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris as the new President and Vice President of the U.S. They came to protest the duty of the Congress members to declare the winner of the presidential election and present a threatening show of force in hopes of persuading Congress to ignore its Constitutional mandate.

Many of them came armed with weapons and knowingly ignored D.C.’s stringent gun laws. Others went with the mal intent to ignore public safety by aggressively attacking others and damaging public property.

They ignored warnings by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to maintain social distancing. They continuously and consistently ignore calls by the nation’s top medical experts to keep social distancing and wear a mask.

With all they attempted to ignore during a national pandemic, they are responsible for promoting hate and violence while holding another super-spreader event putting even more D.C. residents and the nation at risk of contracting the deadly COVID-19

TO THE EDITOR Happy 2021!

A Proud Moment for D.C.

Happy New Year! I'm looking forward to a better, more prosperous 2021. I will continue to do the things that work for me and push myself to get rid of the waste.

I look forward to more stories from The Washington Informer, especially your different supplements, which are my favorite!

I'm glad to hear that the leader of the "Proud Boys" has been arrested for stealing from that historic Black church and vandalizing property. Our great city has to stand up to these people who think they can come here and act a fool because they're so filled with hate. Kudos to the city's leadership.

Denny Lampkin Washington, D.C.

Janeata Parker Washington, D.C.

virus.

Once again, we must commend Mayor Muriel Bowser for her steadfast attempts to keep D.C. residents safe by closing down venues that were continuing to serve despite the COVID-19 pandemic and by discouraging residents from going downtown for any reason on the day of the protest. She issued a warning to the protestors not to bring their guns into the District, and she confidently confirmed that D.C.’s well-trained MPD is well-equipped to handle the protestors and coordinate federal support if needed. “We

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

will not allow people to incite violence, intimidate our residents, or cause destruction in our city,” she warned. And, she stuck to her words.

Yet, thanks to Donald Trump, District residents and the nation were exposed to voices of hatred and hopelessness, spewing from the mouths of protestors, who may have unknowingly spewed droplets containing COVID-19 into the air at another one of his super-spreader events.

We welcome the day when super-spreader events, and its host, are behind us. WI

JANUARY 7 - 13, 2021 21

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist

Julianne Malveaux

We Were Guinea Pigs for the U.S. — It Isn't Just Tuskegee

People who don't know Black history have probably heard more about the Tuskegee syphilis "experiment" in the past month than they have in their whole lives. The chattering class has used the debacle of allowing hundreds of Black men live with untreated syphilis to monitor its effects to explain the resistance that many Black Americans have to accepting the COVID-19 vaccination, thus imperiling the possibility of "herd" immunity.

It wasn't just the men, enticed into

the study with the promise of lifetime health care, who suffered. Dozens of wives were also infected because they didn't know their partners had syphilis. At least nineteen children were born with syphilis because they were untreated. There was no known treatment for syphilis when the study, which was supposed to last just six months, began in 1934. Penicillin was the widely accepted remedy in the late 1940s, but none of the men in the study were offered it. The study is referred to as the "Tuskegee" experiment, but it really needs to be called the United States Public Health Service experiment. Our government

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initiated and funded this abomination and used Tuskegee as its base for this putrid study.

This was not the first time, though, and it is not likely to be the last when Black bodies were experimented on for white comfort. During enslavement, "doctor" often purchased enslaved people to experiment on them. After Reconstruction, when Black folks died from being overworked, often their relatives were not told of their demise, but nearby medical schools used their bodies to teach medical students about anatomy.

It was legal in 32 states to sterilize Black women (and others considered

"marginal" without their permission.

In Alabama, in 1973, the Reif sisters, aged 12 and 14, were involuntarily sterilized in a federally funded clinic.

An Essence magazine writer broke the story with the help of a whistleblower.

The offending physician seemed to think the girls were mentally deficient and incapable of caring for the children they had not yet conceived. That was their decision to make, not his.

Between 1929 and 1976, at least 7,000 people were sterilized in North Carolina by judicial order. Thousands more were sterilized by order of local judges. The state set aside $10 million in 2014 to pay some of the oppressive

state policy victims, but many don't qualify because they lack documentation. Those sterilized were treated as guinea pigs.

J. Marion Sims, known as the "father of gynecology," perpetuated some of the more chilling experiments on Black women's bodies. He performed sterilizations, unnecessary C-sections, and more on Black women and worked on them until he could perfect the technique to use on white women. Sims performed many of the painful operations without anesthesia. In other cases, Black women

MALVEAUX Page 37

Marc H. Morial

Tamir Rice Decision Shows Trump DOJ Again Protecting the Powerful

"Anyone with decent vision can see from the parking-lot video of the shooting that the claim that Loehmann was able to repeatedly warn Tamir warrants incredulity. In less than two seconds, Garmback screeches to a halt in the cold mud, Loehmann pops out of the passenger door, and he fires the shot that eventually killed Tamir.

He'd have had to be speaking like one

of those speed readers dictating legal disclaimers on radio advertisements.

However, despite that common-sense view of things, Fishman and Reddick reportedly encountered tension within the DOJ. You see, they had to write a memo requesting a grand jury to subpoena documents and testimony from witnesses, and that memo needed approval from a deputy assistant attorney general who works alongside Trump political appointees within the DOJ. And no one responded. … Quite simply, the DOJ let the clock run out on

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accountability for two cops involved in killing an unarmed Black child." — Jamil Smith, Rolling Stone The decision not to charge the officers who shot and killed a Black child on sight encapsulates everything that is wrong with the Department of Justice under the current administration.

Once again, it has protected the powerful at the expense of the powerless.

Once again, it has failed to seek justice for a Black life.

Tamir Rice was a child playing with a toy. It would have taken Timothy

Loehmann and Frank Garmback only a few seconds to ascertain that he posed no threat to anyone. But they didn't bother to spend even those few seconds because all they needed to see was the color of Tamir's skin to decide he was a threat.

They didn't even bother to stop their car completely. As Judge Ronald B. Adrine wrote in his ruling that probable cause existed to charge the officers, "This court is thunderstruck by how quickly this event turned deadly. … the Zone Car containing

Patrol Officers Loehmann and Garmback is still in the process of stopping when Rice is shot."

The toy gun wasn't even in Tamir's hands when the officers shot him. The video "does not appear to show him making any furtive movement prior to or at the moment he is shot," Judge Adrine wrote. Tamir's arms "do not appear to be raised or outstretched."

A grand jury declined to indict the officers in 2015, calling the kill-

MORIAL Page 37

A. Peter Bailey

Black Folks Should Focus On Our Group's Strengths

It is way past the time for serious Black folks in this country to resolve that in 2021 we are focused all of our attention on identifying, analyzing and building upon our strengths as individuals and as a group.

This will do much more to protect our economic, cultural, political, educational, health, legal, technological and self-defense interests than using

22 - JANUARY 7 - 13, 2021

our meetings to tell can-you-top-this horror stories about the latest actions of white supremacists. If we build upon our strengths, it will send a clear message to those whose goal is to keep us in a permanent position of second-classhood.

Contrary to popular propaganda and beliefs of our enemies and, unfortunately, too many Black people, we do have strengths. Only a strong group of people could have survived the physical and psychological attacks

that have been inflicted on us in a basically white supremacist society.

That's why one of the first things we should do is put together a national conference during which we will have divisions in the above listed arenas of economics, culture, politics, health, education, legal, technology and self-defense. Each division would be required to come up with plans of action in their field that will advance our group's interests in their particular field of action. If a hostile move

is made by proponents of white supremacy against us in their arena they should be able to provide us with concrete guidance on how to deal with it.

Believe me, I am well aware that what I am proposing is not going to happen overnight. But I do believe that there are enough serious Black folks in this country to begin laying the groundwork in 2021.

I share the belief expressed by the great journalist-historian Lerone Bennett Jr., who noted, "Given the way

we are forced to live in this society, the miracle is not that so many families are broken, but that so many are still together. That so many Black fathers are still at home. That so many Black mothers are still raising good children.

It is the incredible toughness and resilience in Black people that gives me hope."

Those of us who share Brother Lerone's hope most definitely must walk the walk in 2021.

WI

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OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist

Marian Wright Edelman

Hope for the New Year

We are beginning the new year during very perilous times for children and for our nation and world, but in the face of overwhelming challenges and threats to safety and well-being, this is also a new chance to fight back against depression, fear and despair and determine to keep pushing forward. I share again an adapted version

of Madeleine L'Engle's poem "First Coming" (used by permission in my book "Guide My Feet" as published in "Imagining the Word"): God did not wait till the world was ready, till … nations were at peace.

God came when the Heavens were unsteady, and prisoners cried out for release.

God did not wait for the perfect

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time.

God came when the need was deep and great.

God dined with sinners in all their grime, turned water into wine.

God did not wait till hearts were pure.

In joy God came to a tarnished world of sin and doubt.

To a world like ours, of anguished shame

God came, and God's Light would not go out.

God came to a world which did not mesh, to heal its tangles, shield its scorn.

In the mystery of the Word made Flesh the Maker of the stars was born.

We cannot wait till the world is sane to raise our songs with joyful voice, for to share our grief, to touch our

pain, God came with Love: Rejoice! Rejoice!

These words are once again a reminder and encouragement for all we must and will do in the new year. As the holy season comes to a close and the time for new beginnings emerges, let's commit to moving forward together with purpose, determination and hope.

WI

Stacy M. Brown

Remembering the Silver Linings of 2020

There was little to celebrate or be happy about in 2020, particularly for Black America. So, as the calendar turns to 2021 and many wish friends, family and associates a happy new year, we'll place an overwhelming emphasis on the "new year" portion of the sentiment.

The year began with devastating news as the world learned that a helicopter carrying NBA legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gigi, had crashed into a mountainside just out-

side of Los Angeles. Bryant, his young daughter, the pilot and six other passengers were all killed in the accident.

In unfortunate, but anticipated news, 2020 headlines continued to report on two areas of disproportionate death tolls for Blacks: Police killings of unarmed African Americans and the novel coronavirus pandemic, which disproportionately affected communities of color.

While some might argue that detecting a silver lining over the past 365 days is difficult, there was good news.

The outgoing year saw many firsts and accomplishments for African Americans, including many from the National Newspaper Publishers As-

sociation (NNPA), representing the Black Press of America.

Presidential candidates Joe Biden, Tom Steyer and Michael Bloomberg all sat for interviews with NNPA President and CEO Benjamin F. Chavis Jr. Chavis, a civil rights icon, also helped raise the profile of the Black Press when he launched "The Chavis Chronicles," a national television show with American Public Television.

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation continued a campaign with the NNPA to raise awareness about education barriers for students of color and bridging the learning gap for minorities. That partnership has proven even more vital during the pandemic.

Askia-At-Large

The United States and much of the world underwent an awakened awareness that Black Lives Matter now more than ever in 2020.

Following the deaths of Breonna Taylor, George Floyd and others, major sports leagues, corporations and others began acknowledging their responsibility in the fight for social justice and civil rights.

Led by LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers, NBA players exerted their popularity and authority by successfully demanding that the league honor the Black Lives Matter movement.

Because of the players' actions, the NBA opened its arenas to use as polling places and the league agreed to

promote social justice and civic engagement.

Major League Baseball and the National Football League also instituted initiatives with promises to do more for minorities at all levels.

The Google News Initiative (GNI) Innovation Challenge awarded Black Voice News (BVN) $300,000 in support of "Save the Black Press," a bold call to action to innovate revenue and sustainability solutions at Black news organizations through the creation of the Data Access and Content Discovery Hub (DACDH).

way, they deserve to still win, even though they lost, badly.

Funny thing, though. There are some Republicans in high office who are not Trumpsters, who are not willing to entertain the delusional lie that The Donald has been peddling, really since the day he took office — that he's destined to rule, that the old rules don't apply to him, and that there is no power which can check him.

The folks who have stood up and said no to the attempted fascist coup de état, are the judges and local offi-

cials who are not auditioning for roles in the Trump fantasy show. More than 50 federal judges — including three appointed by The Donald to the Supreme Court, and dozens appointed by him to lower courts — have laughed him out of court because there is no evidence to support his baseless claims of voter fraud.

These judges, you see, have lifetime appointments, and no reason to hope for future favor from the Trumpsters.

BROWN Page 37

Askia Muhammad

Trump Republicans are Shameles

Donald J. Trump's America is a place I don't want to live in.

What's worse is that there are estimates that more than 55 million of the 74 million people who voted for the impeached, philandering, inveterate liar who claims that the presidential election was stolen from him are willing to go along with his dangerous, treasonous delusion, and

some are willing to kill other people in this country in order to retain him in office.

These Trumpsters insist that because he got more votes than any other sitting president, he should remain in office. The only thing is that the other candidate got even more votes than he did. They say — and this is the troubling part — that the votes from their opponents shouldn't count. What's worse, they're not ashamed to admit it.

Like the fascists in Nazi Germany,

these Trumpsters are proud of themselves for holding on to such views.

They want the country to be like it used to be when Black folks would step off the sidewalk to permit White folks to pass. This cannot end well.

There are two dueling ideals in this dystopian America. One side played by the rules, even as the other side erected every obstacle imaginable along the way, and they won. But the cheaters are now willing to openly declare that because they are white, and accustomed to everything going their

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ASKIA Page 38 JANUARY 7 - 13, 2021 23

LIFESTYLE Community Members React to Contee’s Appointment as MPD Chief Sam P.K. Collins WI Contributing Writer In just a matter of minutes, Robert Contee became chief of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) during a Jan. 2nd swearing-in ceremony.

The action came less than two weeks after D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) revealed Contee as her choice for the police department’s top spot, touting the District native’s experienc-

24 - JANUARY 7 - 13, 2021

es as a youth and police officer as vital in curbing violent crime.

Among some residents however, there remains some skepticism about Contee’s ability to, not only reduce crime, but embrace the deep-seated institutional changes that local grassroots organizers coalesced around in the aftermath of George Floyd’s death last year.

“Acting Chief Contee has been with MPD for 31 years. Why would I ex-

pect him to act any differently?” Black Lives Matter DC (BLM DC) Core Organizer Anthony Lorenzo Green told The Informer.

In its public statement released the day following Bowser’s announcement, BLM DC condemned Bowser for ignoring the D.C. Police Reform Commission’s recommendation for an open, transparent police-selection process.

BLM DC organizers also criticized Contee’s stewardship of the Investigative Services Bureau, under which the Narcotics and Special Investigations Division has been alleged to employ police jump outs and stop-and-frisk tactics much like what spurred protests in the Deanwood community nearly three years ago.

“I wouldn’t expect Contee to say that what he describes as community policing is creating more trauma, violent incidents, and lives lost on the streets,” Green continued. “His entire record [involves] using police to lock up as many people as possible to keep the streets safer, but the streets aren't safe and haven't been for 31 years.”

On Saturday, hours before officially becoming acting police chief, Contee

5 Anthony Lorenzo Green, core organizer for Black Lives Matter DC (Courtesy photo)

arrived on the scene of the police-involved shooting along Georgia Avenue in Northwest. Officers recovered a handgun at the scene. Contee later reaffirmed his commitment to tackling gun violence, and reducing the volume of illegal guns on the streets.

With 167 homicides at the end of 2020, the District’s murder rate reached levels not seen since 2008.

The mayhem carried on into the new year when, on Sunday morning, MPD officers found a 22-year-old woman on Wahler Place in Southeast suffering from gunshot wounds and surrounded by dozens of shell casings.

She would later succumb to her injuries under circumstances that have yet to be determined.

Contee’s predecessor Peter Newsham often clashed with the D.C. Council about the best means of curbing violent crime, and the degree to which police activity is scrutinized.

In years past, while the council embraced holistic means of crime prevention, such as the Neighborhood Engagement Achieves Results Act, Newsham often touted the need for gun recovery and to focus on repeat offenders. Had he stayed on the force, Newsham would’ve been up for review this year under legislation passed by the council amid last summer’s racial justice protests.

During those protests, MPD faced criticism for officers’ alleged mistreatment of protesters. Meanwhile, Newsham and Bowser continued to combat any notion that MPD should be defunded, even after the police-involved shooting death of 18 year-old Deon Kay in Congress Heights and a police chase and fatal shooting by officers in Northwest of 20 year-old Karon Hylton-Brown.

Given these circumstances, longtime Ward 8 community member and anti-crime stalwart Sandra Seegars recommended that Contee, if approved by the D.C. Council, should be able

to carry out his job without any interference from who she described as overzealous legislators.

“None of the council members have been on the police force. They don’t know the job; they just know what they see,” said Seegars, founding member of Concerned Residents against Violence, or CRAV. “Anyone could sit back, nitpick and play Monday morning quarterback,” she added. “Police have a dangerous job and every council member who’s complaining about the police should spend a weekend in Congress Park, Woodland or Fourth Street. Let’s see what they say after that.”

The Informer unsuccessfully attempted to acquire details about the police chief confirmation process from D.C. Councilmember Charles Allen, chairperson of the council’s Committee on the Judiciary and Public Safety.

Since joining MPD as a cadet in 1989, Contee rose through the ranks of the department, serving various roles within the First, Second, and Sixth District. He most recently acted as assistant chief of the Investigative Services Bureau.

Hailing from Carver Terrace in Northeast, Contee was no stranger to the societal ills that plagued District residents during the 1980s and 1990s.

On the morning of Dec. 22, a fully uniformed Contee, flanked by Bowser and other city officials, highlighted that point as he revealed intimate details of his upbringing, and what he hoped to accomplish.

“We will be laser-focused on crime in our communities,” Contee said. “I know the feeling of being a survivor of violent crime. My father was stabbed on Minnesota Avenue [and] we never caught the person. MPD will be relentless in our pursuit of suspects. I will listen intently in our communities and stakeholders.” WI @SamPKCollins

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LIFESTYLE

Baseball Legend Helps Rebuild Africatown Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer Africatown is considered a dying municipality in Alabama that sits along the Gulf Coast and three miles north of Mobile.

At its peak, Africatown had about 12,000 residents. Now, about 1,800 people call it home. It is famous – or infamous – for the Clotilda, the last slave ship that landed in the United States in 1860.

It is the home of some of the last survivors of the transatlantic slave trade and the birthplace of legendary New York Mets outfielder Cleon Jones, who caught the final out in the 1969 World Series that clinched victory for the Miracle Mets.

Through their charitable “Last Out Community Foundation,” Jones and his wife of more than 50 years, Angela, help repair storm-damaged homes in Africatown and assist the small community in rebuilding efforts.

Jones, 78, actively participates in the efforts.

“Like I tell my wife, I’m old, but I’m not dead. I can walk up the ladder and do what needs to be done,” Jones remarked. “In my younger days, I could walk up the ladder, but

ELECTION from Page 1 ported, Warnock defeated his opponent, 50.6 percent to 49.4 percent while Ossoff turned back Perdue 50.2 percent to 49.8 percent, according to CNN projections.

The razor-thin margins of victory by both Democrats would be summarized by veteran Black journalist Roland Martin who has been reporting from Atlanta for the past month and posting to his podcast, “Roland Martin Unfiltered.”

“We say it like it’s just a passing thought but it’s true, ‘every vote counts,’” he said as Warnock’s victory appeared imminent.

The projected wins also sent a resounding message from Georgia to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Kentucky): “You’re fired!”

The victories mean that McConnell and the Republicans no longer control the Senate. It also puts an end to McConnell’s moniker as “The Grim Reaper” – a title indicating his propensity for ensuring that vital leg-

I could jump off the house getting down. I can’t jump off the house anymore. Now I walk down the ladder. I have to be careful.”

The “Last Out Community Foundation” was formed to raise funds to refurbish and build affordable homes, combat blight and provide youth programs in Africatown.

Growing up in the small community during the 1940s and 1950s left a mark on him, stated Jones, who credits greats like Jackie Robinson, Hank Aaron and Billy Williams to form the person he became – one who, despite his success, never forgot his roots.

“We service the community by painting houses and restoring houses,” Jones told the New York Post.

“And since the storms (Hurricanes Sally and Zeta), we’ve had a lot of roof problems in which the storms blew the roof off.

“When I grew up in this community, we had 12- to 14,000 people.

Now we are looking at 1,800. That says we are a dying community. I know I can’t replicate the community, but we can still fight to restore it as best we can and preserve the history of the community.”

Jones is best remembered as a vital member of the 1969 Mets. islation passed by the House would routinely die in his “graveyard.”

“Because this is America, the 82-year-old hands that used to pick somebody else’s cotton went to the polls and picked her youngest son to be a United States senator,” Warnock said, a reference to his mother made during a victory speech early Wednesday.

“I stand before you as a man who knows that the improbable journey that led me to this place in this historic moment in America could only happen here,” he added.

“What happened last night was stunning,” Warnock said in his first interview on Wednesday with CNN. Warnock said he plans to return to his pulpit on Sunday morning.

“It’s the people who teach you how to be an effective pastor . . . and an effective senator,” he said. “I don’t plan to become a politician.”

He also said that he’s proud of the people of the Georgia and his colleague Ossoff who was mentored by

ELECTION from Page 30

During the 1960s, the Mets had a reputation for frequent losses, suffering a record 120 defeats in their debut year of 1962.

In their first six years, the Mets lost an average of 108 games. But, in 1969, the underdog Mets launched themselves into the 1969 World Series and the history books when against all odds, they miraculously defeated the mighty Baltimore Orioles.

Jones closed his glove on the final out, a flyball by the Orioles’ Davey Johnson that sent all of New York into a celebration.

Now, Jones wants to celebrate giving others in his beloved community a second chance.

“It takes money and manpower and materials, all of those things,” Jones said.

“What I’ve been doing is reaching

5 Africatown entrance (Courtesy Amy Walker via Wikimedia commons)

out to businesses in the area seeking materials and help to do certain things. The people, they reach out to you — maybe not as much as you would like or hope, but they hear you. With the pandemic, it just adds fuel to the fire. You don’t get a chance

to shake hands with people and reach out to them where you can make things happen.”

WI Twitter: @StacyBrownMedia Facebook: StacyBrownMedia

IPR NORTHEAST, LLC- INVITATION TO BID IPR Northeast, LLC – ITB: Certified MBE/WBE/SDB/8(a) Businesses Project: DC Water: RFP No. 170190 Soapstone Valley Park Sewer Rehabilitation – Washington, D.C. Bid Date: January 18th, 2021 Quotes Returned: January 13th, 2021 Scopes: •

Open Cut Work o Installation and Removal of Heavy Equipment Paths o Installation and Removal of Temporary Access Bridge o Utility Pole Relocation o Guard Rail Replacement o Milling and Overlay o Portland Cement Curb and Gutter o Replacement of Manhole Frames o Replacement of Manhole Covers o Replacement of Manhole Steps o Concrete Sidewalks o 15-inch RCP- Install New Line o Standard Triple Catch Basin Replacement

• Sewer Bypass Pumping- Turnkey Pricing for 15” and above diameter • Cleaning/CCTV/Inspection o Sewer Manhole and Structure Inspection o Cleaning & CCTV Inspection of Sewers for Cleaning – 10” -18” Sewer • Manhole Rehabilitation o Manhole Rehabilitation with Cementitious Coating o Product shall be sewer seal No. F-170 by Sauereisen or approved equal

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JANUARY 7 - 13, 2021 25

LIFESTYLE

T-Pain’s Search for ‘Hood’ Recipes Begins and Ends with Ramen Noodles Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

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A $600 check and Ramen Noodles trended on social media, thanks to lawmakers’ agreement on a new stimulus package and a tweet by hip-hop superstar T-Pain.

As many lashed out at members of the House and Senate over what’s considered a paltry $600 and one-time direct payment to struggling Americans – France and Germany, by comparison, provide its citizens with more than $7,000 per month in direct stimulus payments during the pandemic – T-Pain posed an intriguing question to his more than 1.2 million Twitter followers.

“What’s some hood recipes y’all do with random [stuff] in the house that I can try?”

While the responses included “hot sauce sandwiches,” “Queso dip” and “tuna noodle casserole,” T-Pain’s timeline was filled with various meals that featured Ramen noodles. The responses also arrived with cooking instruction for the wheat-based instant noodles that are a staple of Japanese diet.

“Ramen noodles cooked Hot flaming Cheetos crunched up Bologna 3 Cheese slice Tortilla Layer: tortilla, two cheese slice, ramen noodles, cheese slice, Cheetos, bologna, roll up like a burrito, grill on each side till crunchy,” offered Twitter user @3BlueStarMom. “This was my go-to when I was in law school & dirt poor.”

Twitter user @electricmonae offered her Ramen noodle suggestion: “Ramen noodles with Conecuh sausage cut up in it.”

LAWSUIT from Page 19 sentiments, saying that DCPS has sufficient resources to adequately support special-needs children, including her daughter.

In the spring of 2019, River Terrace reported an incident to MPD involving a teacher who allegedly pushed Jones’ daughter in her abdomen, pulled her ear and locked her in a cabinet in a classroom. Much to her chagrin, when the youngster returned to River Terrace at the start of the next school year, the staff member was still employed there.

Jones said that incident compelled

5 T-Pain (Toglenn via Wikimedia common)

Not to be outdone, @JoannaSimkin added: “Ingredients: Ramen packet ground meat (I do turkey). Frozen green veggie; brown the meat and season with 1/2 the ramen packet (it’s salty to use it all). Boil the noodles and frozen veggie together. Drain and dump in browned meat pan, add a little butter, and sauté for a minute.”

Lawmakers agreed on a $900 billion stimulus package that is far lighter than the more than $2 trillion CARES Act, which was signed into law earlier this year and provided direct payments of $1,200 for individuals who made $75,000 or less and $2,400 for couples who earned $150,000 or less.

The CARES Act also provided an additional $500 per dependent child.

The latest bill, which many expect President Donald Trump to sign, contains direct payments of $600 per adult and $600 per dependent child.

The new round of checks is based on the same provisions of the CARES Act. The bill also provides $300 of weekly enhancement in unemployment benefits – down from $600 in the CARES Act. The arguably paltry sum in the new legislation has angered many who noted that Americans are losing jobs by the millions, and evictions are soaring.

T-Pain’s desire to find a cheap meal, intentional or not, reflects many others trying to make ends meet.

It also highlighted an obsession with Ramen noodles.

“Crush up some Ramen, dump it into a microwave safe bowl, grab a can of those little canned sausage things chuck em in it,” @Qtpop wrote. “Can of veggies, chuck em in it, juice and all. nuke for a bit [and] stir.” WI Twitter @StacyBrownMedia Facebook/StacyBrownMedia

her to seek psychological treatment for her daughter.

These days, Jones’ daughter is a student at St. Coletta of Greater Washington, a Capitol Hill-based charter school designed to help children and adults with intellectual disabilities fulfill their potential and become recognized as contributors to society.

If not for the pandemic, Jones said she would allow her daughter to return to the school, primarily because of the social atmosphere and staff members’ passion for helping youth, what she described as the total opposite of what River Terrace provided.

“I really want River Terrace to be

held accountable for what they’re doing,” said Jones, whose daughter’s multiple disabilities, including cerebral palsy and epilepsy, prevent her from independently carrying out a wide range of daily activities.

“I want them to utilize the resources they have,” Jones continued. “There’s no way that D.C. Public Schools can tell me that they don’t have the resources. They’re just not using it appropriately. The aides and all the other staff members need to care. At Coletta, the staff was compassionate, and they care.

It wasn’t about money, but about service.” WI @SamPKCollins

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LIFESTYLE

wi book review "Cheeky: A Head-to-Toe Memoir"

By Ariella Elovic c.2020, Bloomsbury $26.00 / $34.99 Canada 256 pages

horoscopes

JAN 7 - 13, 2021

ARIES Visions and dreams are possible today as you walk the dividing line between the past and the future. You can send your mind out on your timeline to see yourself in five or ten years in the future. Today's a good day for journaling, dream interpretation, remote viewing, and astral projection.

Lucky Numbers: 2, 4, 26 TAURUS Today, you are a dog with a bone, unable to let go until you get what you want. This could mean getting a refund from a company, straightening out a billing error, getting a professor to change your grade, or getting a city official to listen to your complaint. You're digging in your heels.

Hopefully, your opponent is not a Taurus as well or else the standoff may last the entire day. Lucky Numbers: 21, 27, 42 GEMINI Today, you are absorbing information like a sponge. You might be able to learn by sleeping with the book under your pillow. Concepts flow into your head and suddenly make sense. Of course, everything else is flowing into your head, too. News, podcasts, songs, and silly videos are there, too.

Today's a good day to shut off electronics for a 24-hour dopamine detox. Lucky Numbers: 6, 28, 55

By Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer You hate your eyebrows.

Or maybe that should be "eyebrow," singular. It's like a six-inch caterpillar crawling above your nose, just one long unibrow and you hate it. You're not in love with your hair on your head, nor on your legs or underarms. You could stand to lose a few pounds, buy new clothes, or find a new deodorant or, as in the new book "Cheeky" by Ariella Elovic, you could learn to love your body.

When she was six years old, Ariella Elovic was perfectly comfortable in her skin. She danced and played and ran without considering how she looked; wore swimsuits and comfortable, loose-fitting, unfashionable clothing without worry; and she barely even noticed her unibrow. But though her family never gave her reason to be ashamed, at some point during her preteen years, Elovic learned to hate her body.

Her mission two years ago: "to reclaim at least some of [the] confidence, feistiness, and joy" she felt as a child.

Mirrors were once a place to make funny faces until they "became the meeting place for myself and my inner critic," says Elovic. She has a "round face" that she was self-conscious about, and she wasn't happy with her smile.

The evening she forgot to wax her brows before a date gave her a smidge of courage.

On a hot, humid New York City night, her "Yentas" (best friends) helped her realize that her hair was beautiful. She started developing in fourth grade and still can't quite get over the fact of wearing bras every day for life; she was inspired by a Yenta to stop shaving her armpit and leg hair; and she has made her peace with food. There's no shame in passing gas or using the bathroom, she reminds readers, and no need to be a "contortionist" anymore.

"Your body is yours to feel at home in," she says and to, "enjoy, take care of, and love."

While "Cheeky" is a fun book to read, and it's message should resonate with any woman who hates shaving, wearing heels, hates tight clothing, tweezing and waxing, it's not a book for just anyone.

It's true that anyone can read what's inside here (and many will benefit from doing so), the sweet spot, it seems, is an audience of women who are between the ages of roughly 16 and 30. Author Ariella Elovic speaks to that group with a sort of serious-fun manifesto for self-love, self-acceptance, and an end to senseless embarrassment that doesn't dissolve into cutesy little-girl language or things we can't talk about. Openness, honesty and a no-secrets tone, in fact, are the main thing, making this book feel as if you're reading a long, illustrated letter from a BFF or wise big sister you haven't seen for a while.

Be aware that that takes readers into dressing rooms and bathrooms and it doesn't hold back, neither in word nor illustration. This book lives up to its name for the right reader – but for one who's unprepared, "Cheeky" might raise eyebrows. WI

CANCER Consider the rules and guidelines you have chosen to live your life by. Look at their origin, especially ones you picked up on a whim. Everyone lives by a set of rules, but today, you could realize there are particular rules that are keeping you financially hamstrung. Time to break a rule. Like a river overflowing beyond its banks, you too can exceed the boundaries you've given yourself. Lucky Numbers: 16, 23, 58 LEO Your desire to be grounded is thwarted by the floaty energy today. You may want to confab with a business partner, but it's impossible to concentrate, and you may end up doing Jell-O shots by teatime. You may want to sit down with your sweetheart to talk finances, but instead of budgets, you binge Netflix. Don't be hard on yourself today Lucky Numbers: 30, 32, 43 VIRGO You may love your sweetheart, but today you're at cross purposes. You may have announced you've given up sugar, and then your partner spends the afternoon baking coffeecake from scratch.

Or your partner may decide to stick to a budget as you are filling an online shopping cart to the brim. Today, supporting each other is paramount for keeping the peace. Lucky Numbers: 17, 34, 38 LIBRA Risk assessment may go a little haywire today, and Libra natives should be aware that your judgment may not be quite as focused as usual. It's easy for the scales to tip and go overboard, especially in the areas of work and business investment. Lucky Numbers: 10, 33, 44 SCORPIO Fertility energy is strong today, so keep that in mind as you are planning your schedule.

There are also possibilities of activity with kids or younger relatives. And this is an excellent day for doing art projects, painting, sewing, or woodworking, though keep in mind precision may be difficult. For projects needing exact measurements or skillful cuts, put them off for another day. Lucky Numbers: 10, 31, 48 SAGITTARIUS Today, you might do some baking or make a big pot of soup filled with root vegetables and herbs. Lay a puzzle out on the dining room table and gather some family members to put it together as you talk and laugh. In the evening, in front of the fireplace or candles, you may want to pull some Tarot cards and look at the year to come. Lucky Numbers: 8, 36, 45 CAPRICORN Ambitious Capricorn native, you are likely ready to jump on projects, but this aspect is not helpful for making business decisions. Time to look at the bigger picture, long-term goals, and to visualize yourself on that path. Today, create a virtual vision board of words and pictures you can use as your screensaver for your phone and computer. This will keep your goals in the forefront of your mind and help you stay motivated. Pleasing others is not possible today. Lucky Numbers: 24, 32, 54 AQUARIUS Today, your ability to attract abundance is strong. Start with some Feng Shui by dusting off your lucky money cat or putting stacks of coins on the windowsill in the kitchen. Sit down with your journal and write 20 ways money can come to you. And if you can't think of 20, then think of 50 sources. By the time you finish this exercise, you'll recognize that money can come to you from all directions. Lucky Numbers: 21, 44, 50 PISCES Today's a day to access information from the Universe. This is a good day to sit in meditation or with your journal and look for answers to questions about life purpose and finding love. You may hit muddy waters at first as you stir up the energies with your questions. But as you sit quietly, the water clears, and your angels and guides begin to whisper to you. Lucky Numbers: 1, 5, 11

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JANUARY 7 - 13, 2021 27

SPORTS Washington Clips Eagles’ Wings to Reach Postseason

Prepare for Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Bucs Daniel Kucin, Jr. WI Sports Writer It was a simple scenario for the Washington Football Team to advance into the postseason – win or go home in their showdown against the Philadelphia Eagles on Jan. 3.

And in a back-and-forth contest with momentum swings galore, Washington slipped past the Eagles, 20-14, and became just the third team in NFL history to make the playoffs with a record below .500 (excluding the 1982 strike season).

With their top signal-caller back, Alex Smith, back in the lineup for the first time since being injured Dec. 13, the team got off to a fast start, scoring on the opening drive for the first time all season – capped with a toss from Smith to wide receiver Terry McLaurin from 5 yards out.

"It was tough being at home last week," said McLaurin about coming back from injury after being in a walking boot. "My focus was just trying to be out here; I didn't really care about catches or yards. I just wanted to be out here for my guys, all that we've been through

this year, all of the ups and downs, it was for this moment right here.

It wasn't pretty, but we came out on the other side, and we're champions."

Washington Football Team safety Kamren Curl kept the party going after intercepting a pass from Jalen Hurts intended for Zach Ertz on the ensuing drive. Washington kicker Dustin Hopkins then eventually booted a 42-yard field goal to take a double-digit lead, 10-0.

"Coach [Ron] Rivera teaches us how to win," Curl said. "We try to win every week; that's how we came into the season. It was hard, it was a long season, but we kept our faith. For the whole season, we were always in the race . . . we stayed in the race and we finished it off."

As the first half ended, Washington held a narrow 17 – 14 lead.

Both teams grappled to gain any form of momentum in the second half, which resulted in Smith throwing two interceptions. Hurts struggled as well (7-20, 72 yards, 1 interception) and benched for former Washington quarterback Nate Sudfeld after failing to convert on fourth down in the waning sec-

SPORTS Page 35

5 Washington Football Team wide receiver Terry McLaurin grabbed seven receptions for 40 yards and a touchdown against the Philadelphia Eagles on Jan. 3.

(Daniel Kucin, Jr./The Washington Informer)

Bianca Smith Hired by Boston Red Sox First Black Woman Coach for MLB Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer Bianca Smith, an African-American woman, has made baseball history.

Smith, who most recently served as an assistant baseball coach and hitting coordinator at Wisconsin’s Carroll University, was named a coach in the Boston Red Sox minor league system.

Smith, 29, becomes the first Black woman to coach in professional baseball.

She will work with the team’s infielders at the Red Sox minor league facility in Fort Meyers, Fla. “She was a great candidate coming in,” Ben Crockett vice president of Red Sox player development, told the Boston Globe, confirming Dec. 31 that the hire is official.

“She’s had some really interesting experiences and has been passionate about growing her skillset and development herself.”

That Smith’s historic hiring hap-

28 - JANUARY 7 - 13, 2021

pened in Boston, a city where angry mobs violently attacked school buses carrying Black children to previously all-white schools in the 1970s, could be a sign of racial progress.

The Red Sox have had a history of racism at Fenway Park.

In 2019, four fans hung a banner that read “Racism is as American as Baseball,” from the famed Green Monster.

Last year, retired baseball star Torii Hunter told ESPN that he was called the N-word several times by fans as young as “little kids.”

He later said that he had heard more racist remarks in Boston than any other city.

“When I went to Boston, it was so consistent. After a while, I just kind of shoved it off, and I went out and played. I played with aggression, though,” Hunter relayed.

He added that he felt uncomfortable with the idea of his family living in Boston if he had signed there.

“That’s why I got the no-trade clause, the list of teams, and I put

Boston in there,” Hunter added.

“I love Boston. I wanted to play there. It just hit me that I can’t have my wife and my kids in this area,” he continued.

“There is no way I can do that because I don’t ever want them to go through that, and if they do, I don’t know what I would do, and I would be the angry Black guy, and that wouldn’t be good.”

Hunter’s comments prompted the Red Sox to issue a statement acknowledging his experience.

The team noted that, in 2019, there were seven reported incidents of fans using racial slurs at Fenway Park.

In 2017, Baltimore Orioles star outfielder Adam Jones said he was on the receiving end of racial slurs at Fenway Park no less than 100 times.

Fans even threw bags of peanuts at him, Jones said.

But the hiring of Smith is barrier breaking. She joins a list of female Major League Baseball coaches, including Rachel Balkovec of the New York Yankees, Rachel Folden of the

5 Bianca Smith (Courtesy photo)

Chicago Cubs, and Christina Whitlock of the St. Louis Cardinals.

Last year, Alyssa Nakken of the San Francisco Giants became the first onfield female coach in Major League Baseball.

Smith becomes the first African American woman coach.

She once served as an intern for the Texas Rangers and Cincinnati Reds.

Smith also played softball at Dartmouth from 2010-12 before work-

ing as director of baseball operations at Case Western Reserve University from 2013 to 2017 and as an assistant coach with the University of Dallas in 2018.

“It’s a meaningful [hire],” Crockett said of Smith’s addition. “Meaningful thing for the organization.”

WI Twitter: @StacyBrownMedia Facebook: StacyBrownMedia

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Let Us Help You When You Need it the Most Submitted by Washington Gas Washington Gas is dedicated to support our customers who are experiencing financial challenges in paying their bill. We recently introduced Washington Gas Cares, a program designed to connect customers with energy assistance programs and a variety of flexible payment plans. We will be there to help our customers every step of the way to support them and meet their essential energy needs.

By bringing our solutions together in a single location -www.washingtongascares.com - we are providing convenient access to all payment and energy assistance offerings.

In addition, our Washington Gas Cares team has been busy reaching out to customers proactively to help them find an option that makes the most sense depending on their circumstances.

This proactive outreach is a key component of Washington Gas Cares. Our team is hard at work contacting customers by phone, automated messaging or email communication outreach to provide personal guidance and a better understanding of the status of a bill that is past due and how best to get it back on track. We are here to help guide you through multiple assistance options, simply check out www.washingtongascares. com.

“Washington Gas is dedicated to the communities, families, neighbors and individuals we serve. It’s part of who we are and what the Washington Gas Cares initiative is all about – to lend a helping hand when customers can use it the most,” said Blue Jenkins.

“Our team stands ready to support customers facing difficult decisions when paying their bills -- we can identify the right energy assistance option and payment plan that fits a customer’s budget and schedule during a time of need. Customers can also contact us directly. We are here to help.”

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• Customers can apply for payment assistance through several existing programs across Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia.

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ment arrangement plans using our self-service online option.

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• Customers can aid those struggling to pay their bill through an act of kindness. For example, through our Gift of Warmth program, customers can help pay a gas bill for their friend, neighbor or fellow customers.

• Customers can also donate to the Washington Area Fuel Fund.

More than 35 years ago, Washington Gas and The Salvation Army created the Washington Area Fuel Fund (WAFF) to help families in need pay their heating bills.

Washington Gas offers a number of payment plans to help you manage your account: - Automated Payment Plan – Customers can pay their bill automatically every month through the Automated Payment Plan.

Washington Gas will continue to bill each month, but, on the payment due date, the bill amount will be automatically deducted from the customer’s checking account which will avoid the need for check writing, postage and/or waiting in line. If a customer is enrolled in Washington Gas’ eBill program, an electronic notification will be sent every month to the customer’s registered email address with a link to view the electronic bill. However, if a customer prefers to receive a paper bill each month, customers can still pay their gas bill automatically through the Automated Payment Plan (APPL).

- Deferred Payment Plan – all eligible customers who cannot pay the “past due bill amount” as well as the “current charges” on their gas bill can enter into a deferment/pay agreement/ or consent order at the request of the customer.

- Budget Plan – spreads the cost of winter heating over the entire year.

We calculate your average monthly payment based on historical natural gas usage, adjusted for normal weather and projected gas costs. Periodically, we review your account to confirm that our monthly estimate is on target.

PREPARE FOR WINTER – MONEY AND ENERGY SAVINGS

As seasons change, customers may notice a fluctuation in their bill amounts because more energy from natural gas is being used to heat their homes. It is recommended that customers take simple steps (such as caulking, weather-stripping and insulating any openings where air may infiltrate) to help manage their home energy costs and stay safe, warm and energy-smart when temperatures begin to drop. The typical low-income home saves an average of 25 percent on energy consumption and saves an average of more than $275 annually in heating and cooling costs after weatherization services.

Washington Gas is dedicated to support our customers who are experiencing financial challenges in paying their bill. We recently introduced Washington Gas Cares, a program designed to connect customers with energy assistance programs and a variety of flexible payment plans.

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HELP YOU WASINGTON GAS CARES FLEXIBLE PAYMENT OPTIONS There are several payment options available to help manage your Washington Gas bill.

RECEIVE PAYMENT ASSISTANCE If you’ve fallen behind, please let us help you. There are proven payment assistance programs available to help you manage your Washington Gas bill, including the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and the Washington Area Fuel Fund (WAFF) bill.

ENERGY SAVINGS RESOURCES We offer rebates on high-efficiency natural gas equipment, helping to reduce your energy consumption and save money on your utility bills.

Learn more, visit www.washingtongascares.com

Customer Service: 844-WASHGAS (844-927-4427) Natural Gas Leaks/Emergencies: 911 and then 844-WASHGAS (844-927-4427)

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JANUARY 7 - 13, 2021 29

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30 - JANUARY 7 - 13, 2021

The Electoral College: History Repeats Itself Trump’s Loss, Lincoln’s Victory and the Expulsion of Objectors Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer It is usually just a formality but like many things initiated in 2020, there’ll be nothing routine about verifying the Electoral College vote count when Congress’s joint session commences on Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021.

The usual mundane and procedural vote count faces an inexplicable challenge by more than 100 Republican members of the House and a dozen GOP senators in support of President Donald Trump. Allegedly, Trump has even pressured Vice President Mike Pence, who will preside over the meeting, to overturn the votes which President-elect Joe Biden won 306 to 232 over Trump.

The U.S. Constitution mandates that the vote count is verified, a procedural matter after electors officially cast their vote on Dec.14, reaffirming Biden’s victory. Federal law dictates January 6 as the date on which the Electoral College votes are verified in Congress.

The gathering, which begins at 1 p.m., proceeds with the vice president opening sealed certificates from states in alphabetical order. He then hands them to four individuals referred to as “tellers” – a Democrat and a Republican from each chamber.

The members review the certificates and then announce the states’ votes. If there’s no objection, the process continues until all the votes are counted.

However, objections – which must be submitted in writing and signed by at least one member from each chamber – are expected to resonate throughout the halls of Congress. Once an objection is recognized, the vote-counting stops and the joint session splits for two hours of debate on each complaint. A vote to sustain the objection and dismiss the state’s votes occurs afterward.

To dismiss a state’s vote, the majority in both the House and Senate would have to vote to sustain the objection – both chambers must agree, or the protest is dismissed. Following that action, the joint session reconvenes. After the objection is voted on, the joint congressional session reconvenes and continues with the count. The process repeats if there is another formal objection to a different state’s vote.

As the Democrats control the House, and no member of the party has expressed any willingness to side with the GOP, experts predict that the

collective effort will face defeat.

Republicans currently maintain a slim majority in the Senate but some of their members have taken a public stand against the objections.

The GOP-led insurrection focuses on states like Georgia and Wisconsin – specifically in predominately Black areas like Atlanta and Milwaukee.

Ironically, the first recorded instance of such widespread objections within Congress occurred in 1861, after Abraham Lincoln claimed the presidency, winning just 40 percent of the popular vote.

According to researchers at The Stanford Advocate newspaper, more Senators followed their states out the door in December and January as states seceded.

“Some simply didn’t show up for the next session; others made formal resignations,” the newspaper reported. Crowds lined up in the frigid dawn to hear Sen. Jefferson Davis’s farewell address, during which he made clear he thought secession was justified because he believed Lincoln would end slavery.”

When the Senate reconvened, the remaining members had had enough.

Sen. Daniel Clark of New Hampshire proposed a resolution to expel 10 senators on several grounds.

“They engaged in [a] conspiracy for the destruction of the Union and gov-

ernment, or, with full knowledge of such conspiracy, have failed to advise the government of its progress or aid in its suppression,” Sen. Clark remarked, the Advocate reported.

The Constitution required a twothirds majority to expel a member of the Senate. Before that moment, only one Senator had been expelled, and more than six decades had passed since that time.

The motion passed 32 to 10; those expelled included two senators from Arkansas, North Carolina, Texas, and Virginia, plus James Chesnut, Jr. (South Carolina) and Alfred O.P. Nicholson (Tennessee).

Within seven months, four more were expelled for offering aid to the enemy, including John C. Breckinridge of Kentucky, whom Lincoln had beaten in the 1860 election.

“Almost all of the expelled men joined the Confederacy in leadership positions. Four died during or shortly after the war; when the Confederacy surrendered, four escaped to other countries, and two were briefly imprisoned,” The Advocate continued.

“Within a few years, all had resumed distinguished careers, though none ever returned to the Senate.” WI Twitter: @StacyBrownMedia Facebook: StacyBrownMedia

GEORGIA from Page 25

company that makes documentaries, ended the hopes of the 77-year-old Perdue for a second six-year term.

Both elections required runoffs after no candidate received more than 50 percent of the vote in November’s general election.

More than three million Georgia residents flocked to the polls before Tuesday’s runoffs, contributing to an historic voter turnout for a runoff election.

Each of the four candidates received more than two million votes in the tight contests.

The election came as Trump continued to ramp up unsubstantiated claims of election fraud in the state.

In Fulton County, election workers reportedly faced death threats and racial slurs.

County Director of Elections Richard Barron said an unidentified man made a bomb threat against the county, prompting a visit to the individual’s home by the FBI.

the late Rep. John Lewis.

The election, which shifted in favor of Democrats after votes were counted late Tuesday from heavily Black-populated DeKalb County, proved karma symbolic for some.

Following a near-decade war against the Voting Rights Act and the undisputable suppression of hundreds of thousands – if not millions – of African-American Democratic votes, Republicans lost the White House and the Senate, in large part, because traditional red states like Georgia flipped.

Democrats also count as the majority in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Warnock, 50, the senior pastor at Ebenezer Baptist Church, where the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. preached and served as pastor, will serve for a two-year term in a seat which became vacant after former GOP Sen. Johnny Isakson retired early.

Ossoff, 33, who owns a production

GEORGIA Page 36

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RELIGION the religion corner WITH LYNDIA GRANT

12 Things That Make Men Rich, Pt. 1 Now that we're finally in the new year, let's hope that we will all have fun! It is a time of setting new goals for yourself, both personal and for your business or career. Allow me to share this series of 12 articles, which have been my most successful in the sixteen years of my experience writing The Religion Corner for The Washington Informer.

My life changed 38 years ago as a result of reading a new book.

Though I'm the daughter of two preachers, my clarity became much clearer once I read the principles outlined in "Think and Grow Rich," the book researched for 20 years by Napoleon Hill. He teaches how our thoughts control our actions and, thus, can make or break us. Here is how it all began.

In 1908, a young man named Napoleon Hill was invited to the mansion of America's first billionaire, Andrew Carnegie. A young, ambitious reporter with plans to write his way to success, Hill quizzed Carnegie for an article he planned to write to make money to pay his way through college.

Carnegie, impressed by the young writer, offered him a position the average man would have rejected.

He said, "Mr. Hill, I would like to commission you to study the lives

of 500 of the greatest achievers of our time. These men will include men in the industrial field, business owners, inventors, merchants, farmers, statesmen, artists of all types and many others.

"Take as much time as you need — observe them, interview them and learn from them. Then, write an article, one in which you validate the beliefs that success is based on universal laws others can achieve.

From those great achievers, you might learn and be able to describe the process of making steel or the process of providing a service used.

In a similar manner, I want you to describe in this article the process of the laws to success.

"You will accomplish this mission by documenting the beliefs and behaviors of all these great men and women by sharing what it is they have in common with each other. I will not pay you any money; during this project, you must support your own self while discovering these new ideas.

"Your goal will be the publication of a 'success-type' book, similar to an encyclopedia in the category of laws of success. This book will share laws and every step one must take in order to use a thought and make it into a success. Include all spiritual components of faith that are required. Notice how each person had unwavering faith in order to accomplish their idea.

Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Hill only had 60 seconds to accept, and he said yes. More than 100 years later, incredibly, over 20 million people have learned the principles of success because of his decision, and all of his principles are based on Christianity. In fact, he wrote an entire chapter on faith.

Hill teaches us how to put our faith to work. Scripture teaches us that "faith without works is dead."

Hill said he spent three hours each morning and three hours each night reading the Bible, doing his meditation, and visualizing the goals and dreams he wanted to accomplish for that day. Scripture says "faith cometh by hearing” and John 14:13 KJV says, "And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son." Pay close attention to what his research has taught millions.

Here, I share enough of his research to inspire you to want to learn more about the process and to go into action too.

The first of those 12 principles that makes men rich is the value of having a positive mental attitude.

Notice how this principle heads the list, and it is not about money. Look for details in my column next week.

This is my fourth run on the universal laws to success. The series continues to be my most popular among the list of topics I wrote about over nine years. WI

John F. Johnson Reverend Dr.

5101 14th Street, NW / Washington, DC 20011 Phone: 202-726-2220 Fax: 202-726-9089

1306 Vermont Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20005

“A Church with a past to remember – and a future to mold” www.mtzbcdc.org

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Mount Olivet Lutheran Church

Reverend John W. Davis Pastor

Service and Times Sunday Worship Service - 8:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.

Children’s Church - 11:00 a.m. (1st & 3rd Sundays) Communion - 10 a.m. 4th Sunday Sunday School - 9:15 a.m. (4th Sunday 8:15 a.m.)

Prayer Meeting & Bible Study - Wednesday 7:00 p.m.

(301) 864-6070

Service and Times Divine Worship, Sunday 10:00 a.m.

Communion 1st and 3rd Sunday “Friendliest Church in the City” Website: mountolivetdc.org Email: mtolivedc@gmail.com

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JANUARY 7 - 13, 2021 31

RELIGION The Miracle Center of Faith Missionary Baptist Church

Pilgrim Baptist Church

Bishop Michael C. Turner, Sr. Senior Pastor

Rev. Louis B. Jones II Pastor

9161 Hampton Overlook Capitol Heights, MD 20743 Phone: 301-350-2200 / Fax: 301-499-8724

700 I Street, N.E. Washington, D.C. 20002 (202) 547-8849

Service and Times Sunday Worship Times : 7:30 AM 7 10:00 AM Communion: 1st Sunday Sunday School: 9:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday, 12 Noon Bible Study in homes: Tuesday 7:00 PM

Service and Times Worship Sundays: 7:30 & 11:00 AM 5th Sundays: 9:30 AM 3rd Sundays: Baptism & Holy Communion Prayer & Praise: Wednesdays @ Noon & 6:30 PM

Website: www.themiraclecenterFMBC.com Email: Miraclecenterfmbs@gmail.com Motto: “We Walk by Faith, Not by Sight”

www.pilgrimbaptistdc.org

Covenant Baptist United Church of Christ

Blessed Word of Life Church

Church of Living Waters

Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church

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

St. Stephen Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Michael E. Bell, Sr., / Pastor 2498 Alabama Ave., SE - Washington D.C. 20020 Office: (202) 889-7296 / Fax: (202) 889-2198 - www.acamec.org Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 8:00am and 11:00 AM Sunday Church School - 9:15am & Sunday Adult Forum Bible Study - 10:30 AM 2nd & 4th Monday Women’s Bible Study: 6:30 PM Tuesday Jr./Sr. Bible Study: 10:00 AM Tuesday Topical Bible Study: 6:30 PM Tuesday New Beginnings Bible Study: 6:30 PM Wednesday Pastoral Bible Study: 6:30 PM Wednesday Children’s Bible Study: 6:30 PM Thursday Men’s Bible Study: 6:30 PM Friday before 1st Sunday Praise & Worship Service: 6:30 PM Saturday Adult Bible Study: 10:00 AM “The Amazing, Awesome, Audacious Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church”

Third Street Church of God

Dr. Dekontee L. & Dr. Ayele A. Johnson Pastors

Reverend William Young IV Pastor

Bishop Lanier C. Twyman, Sr. Senior Pastor

Rev. Cheryl J. Sanders, Th.D. Senior Pastor

4001 14th Street, NW Washington, DC 20011 (202) 265-6147 Office 1-800 576-1047 Voicemail/Fax

3845 South Capitol Street Washington, DC 20032 (202) 562-5576 (Office) / (202) 562-4219 (Fax)

5757 Temple Hill Road, Temple Hills, MD 20748 Office 301-899-8885 – fax 301-899-2555 Services and Times Sunday Early Morning Worship: 7:45 AM Church School: 9:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship: 10:45 AM Tuesday: 7:00pm/Kingdom Building Bible Institute Wednesday , 12:30 PM Mid-Day Bible Study Wednesday: Prayer/Praise/Bible Study-7:30 PM Baptism & Communion Service: 4th Sunday – 10:30 AM

1204 Third Street, NW Washington, DC 20001 202-347-5889 office / 202-638-1803 fax

Services and Times Sundays: 10:00am Worship Services Bible Study: Wonderful Wednesdays in Worship and the Word Bible Study Wednesdays 12:00 Noon; 6:30 PM (dinner @ 5:30 PM) Sunday School: 9:00 AM – Hour of Power

Service and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 11:00 AM Communion Service: First Sunday Prayer Service/Bible Study: Tuesday, 6:30 PM

“An inclusive ministry where all are welcomed and affirmed.” www.covenantdc.org

www.blessedwordoflifechurch.org E-mail: church@blessedwordoflifechurch.org

Campbell AME Church

“Ambassadors for Christ to the Nation’s Capital” www.thirdstreet.org Live Stream Sunday Worship Service begins @ 12:00 noon www.thirdstreet.org

Rev. Dr. Alton W. Jordan Pastor 800 I Street, NE - Washington, DC 20002 202-548-0707 - Fax No. 202-548-0703 Service and Times Sunday Morning Worship: 11:00 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday Sunday School: 9:45 AM Men’s Monday Bible Study: 7:00 PM Wednesday Night Bible Study: 7:00 PM Women’s Ministry Bible Study: 3rd Friday -7:00 PM Computer Classes: Announced Family and Marital Counseling by appointment E-mail: Crusadersbaptistchurch@verizon.net www.CrusadersBaptistChurch.org / “God is Love”

Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church Bishop Alfred A. Owens, Jr.; Senior Bishop & Evangelist Susie C. Owens – Co-Pastor 610 Rhode Island Avenue, NE Washington, DC 20002 (202) 529-4547 office • (202) 529-4495 fax

Sunday Worship Service: 8:00 AM and 10:45 AM Sunday Youth Worship Services: 1st & 4th 10:45 AM; 804 R.I. Ave., NE 5th 8 AM & 10:45 AM; Main Church Prayer Services Tuesday – Noon, Wednesday 6:00 AM & 6:30 PM Calvary Bible Institute: Year-Round Contact Church / Communion Every 3rd Sunday The Church in The Hood that will do you Good! www.gmchc.org / emailus@gmchc.org

Isle of Patmos Baptist Church Reverend Dr. Calvin L. Matthews Senior Pastor 1200 Isle of Patmos Plaza, Northeast Washington, DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-6767 - Fax: (202) 526-1661 Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM Holy Communion: 2nd Sunday at 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM Sunday Church School: 9:20 AM Seniors Bible Study: Tuesdays at 10:30 AM Noon Day Prayer Service: Tuesdays at Noon Bible Study: Tuesdays at 7 PM Motto: “A Ministry of Reconciliation Where Everybody is Somebody!”

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

St Marks Baptist Come Worship with us...

Dr. Raymond T. Matthews Pastor and First Lady Marcia Matthews St. Mark's Baptist Church 624 Underwood Street, NW Washington, dc 20011 Services and Times Sunday School: 9:00 AM Worship Service: 10:00 AM Wed. Noon Day prayer service Thur. Prayer service: 6:45 PM Thur. Bible Study: 7:15 PM

Twelfth Street Christian Church

Rev. Dr. Henry Y. White

Reverend Dr. Paul H. Saddler Senior Pastor

2562 MLK Jr. Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Adm. Office 202-678-2263 Email: Campbell@mycame.org

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

Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 AM Sunday Church School: 8:45 AM Bible Study Wednesday: 12:00 Noon Wednesday: 7:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 PM “Reaching Up To Reach Out” Mailing Address : Campbell AME Church 2502 Stanton Road SE - Washington, DC 20020

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

Services and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM Sunday Community Worship Service: 8:30 AM

Crusader Baptist Church

Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 AM Communion every Sunday: 11:00 AM Sunday School: 10:00 AM Bible Study Tuesday: 12 Noon Pastor’s Bible Study Tuesday: 6:30 PM Motto: “Discover Something Wonderful” Website: 12thscc.org / Email: Twelfthstcc@aol.com

Turning Hearts Church Virgil K. Thomas, Sr. Senior Pastor/ Teacher 421 Alabama Ave. SE Washington, DC 20032 Phone: 202-746-0113 Fax: 301-843-2445 Service and Times Sunday School: 10:15 AM Sunday Worship Service: 11;15 AM Children’s Church: 11:15 AM Tuesday Bible Study: 6:30 PM Motto : “A Great Commitment to the Great Commandment” Website: www.turningheartschurchdc.org Email: gr8luv4u2@gmail.com

32 - JANUARY 7 - 13, 2021

Mount Carmel Baptist Church Reverend Dr. Paris L Smith, Sr. Senior Pastor 901 Third Street N.W. Washington, DC. 20001 Phone (202) 842-3411 Fax (202) 682-9423 Service and Times Sunday Church School : 9:00 AM Sunday Morning Worship: 10:10 AM Bible Study Tuesday: 6: 00 PM Prayer Service Tuesday: 7:00 PM Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday 10:10 AM themcbc.org

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

RELIGION Shabbath Commandment Church Bishop Adrian A. Taylor, Sr. Pastor 7801 Livingston Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 301-534-5471 Service and Times Sabbath School 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 AM Service 11:00 AM Praise & Worship Preaching 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM Motto: “A Church Keeping It Real for Real.”

Website: Shabbathcommandmentchruch.org Email: Praisebetoyhwh@gmail.com

Zion Baptist Church Rev. Keith W. Byrd, Sr. Pastor 4850 Blagdon Ave, NW - Washington D.C 20011 Phone (202) 722-4940 - Fax (202) 291-3773 Service and Times 9:00 a.m. – Sunday School 10:15 a.m. – Worship Service Wed. Noon: Dea. Robert Owens Bible Study 7 PM Pastor’s Bible Study Ordinance of Baptism 2nd Sunday, Holy Communion 4th Sunday Mission: Zion shall: Enlist Sinners, Educate Students, Empower the Suffering, Encourage the Saints, And Exalt our Savior. (Acts 2: 41-47) www.zionbaptistchurchdc.org

St. Luke Baptist Church Rev. Aubrey C. Lewis Pastor 1415 Gallatin Street, NW Washington, DC 20011-3851 P: (202) 726-5940 Service and Times Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM Sunday School: 9:15 AM Holy Communion: 11:00 a.m., 3rd Sun. Bible Institute: Wednesday - 1:30 PM Prayer Meeting: Wednesday - 12:00 Noon

All Nations Baptist Church Rev. Dr. James Coleman Pastor 2001 North Capitol St, N.E. - Washington, DC 20002 Phone (202) 832-9591 Service and Times Sunday Church School – 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service – 11:00 AM Holy Communion – 1st Sunday at 11:00 AM Prayer – Wednesdays, 6:00 PM Bible Study – Wednesdays, 7:00 PM Christian Education / School of Biblical Knowledge Saturdays, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM, Call for Registration Website: www.allnationsbaptistchurch.com All Nations Baptist Church – A Church of Standards

Israel Baptist Church

Rev. Daryl F. Bell Pastor 2324 Ontario Road, NW Washington, DC 20009 (202) 232-1730 Service and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 AM Baptismal Service: 1st Sunday – 9:30 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday – 11:00 AM Prayer Meeting & Bible Study: Wednesday -7:30 PM “Where Jesus is the King”

Dr. Earl D. Trent Senior Pastor

2409 Ainger Pl.,SE – WDC 20020 (202) 678-0884 – Office / (202) 678-0885 – Fax “Moving Faith Forward” 0% Perfect . . . 100% Forgiven!

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

Service and Times Sunday Worship: 8:00 AM & 10:45 AM Baptism/Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday Family Bible Study Tuesdays – 6:30 PM Prayer Service: Tuesdays – 8:00 PM www.emmanuelbaptistchurchdc.org

Sermon On The Mount Temple Of Joy Apostolic Faith

Lincoln Park United Methodist Church Rev. Richard B. Black Pastor

Elder Herman L. Simms Pastor

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

1301 North Carolina Ave. N E Washington, D C 20002 202 543 1318 - lincolnpark@lpumcdc.org www.lpumcdc.org

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

Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:45 AM Sunday School: 9:15 AM Holy Communion1st Sunday: 10:45 AM Prayer Service: Wednesday at 6:30 PM Bible Study: Wednesday at 7:00 PM Bible Study: Tuesday at 10:30 AM

Mount Moriah Baptist Church Dr. Lucius M. Dalton Senior Pastor

Service and Times Sunday Worship: 10:00 AM Holy Communion: First Sunday 10:00 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday @ 12 noon and 6:30 PM Motto: "Faith On The Hill"

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

The Apostolic Faith is still alive –Acts 2:42

New Commandment Baptist Church

Eastern Community Baptist Church Damion M. Briggs Pastor

Rev. Stephen E. Tucker Senior Pastor

1636 East Capitol Street, NE Washington, DC 20003 Telephone: 202-544-5588 - Fax: 202-544-2964

8213 Manson Street Landover, MD 20785 Tel: (301) 322-9787 Fax: (301) 322-9240

13701 Old Jericho Park Road Bowie, MD. 20720 (301) 262-0560

Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 7:45 AM and 10:45 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sundays at 7:45 AM & 10:45 AM Sunday School: 9:30 AM Prayer & Praise Service: Tuesdays at 12 noon & 6:30 PM Bible Study: Tuesdays at 1 pm and 7 PM Youth Bible Study: Fridays at 7 PM

Service and Times Early Morning Message: 7:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 10:00 AM Sunday Church School: 9:00 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday 7:30 AM & 10:00 AM Prayer, Praise and Testimony: Wednesday 7:00 PM Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM

Service and Times Sunday Worship: 11 AM Sunday School: 10 AM Wednesday Mid-Week Worship, Prayer & Bible Study: Wed. 7 PM

Rehoboth Baptist Church

Reverend Peter R. Blue Sr. Pastor

Rev. Curtis l. Staley Pastor

2001 Brooks Drive District Heights MD. 20744 240.838.7074

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

Service and Times Sunday Worship Experience: 10:15am Sunday School: 9:00am Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday Morning Noontime Bible Study: Tuesday @ 12:00pm Prayer Meeting/Bible Study: Tuesday @7:00pm Theme: "Building On A Firm Foundation"

Service and Times Sunday Service: 10:00 AM Sunday School for all ages: 8:30 AM 1st Sunday Baptism: 10:00 AM 2nd Sunday Holy Communion:10:00 AM Tuesday: Bible Study: 6:30 PM Prayer Meeting: 7:45 PM

Email: revprbstmbc@gmail.com Website: www.stmatthewsbaptist.org

Motto: “Where God is First and Where Friendly People Worship”

“Real Worship for Real People” Website: www.easterncommunity.org Email: ecc@easterncommunity.org

“A Church Where Love Is Essential and Praise is Intentional”

Foggy Bottom - Founded in 1867 728 23rd Street, NW - Washington, DC 20037 Church office: 202-333-3985 - Fax : 202-338-4958

Shiloh Baptist Church

Matthews Memorial Baptist Church Dr. Joseph D. Turner / Senior Pastor 2616 MLK Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Office 202-889-3709 - Fax 202-678-3304 Service and Times Early Worship Service: 8:00 AM Worship Service: 11:00 AM New Member’s Class: 9:45 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday, 11:00 AM Church School: 9:45 AM Wednesday 12:00pm Bible Study Prayer, Praise and Bible Study: 7:00 PM Saturday Bible Study: 11:00 AM Baptism 4th Sunday: 11:00 AM “Empowered to love and Challenged to Lead a Multitude of Souls to Christ”

Peace Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Michael T. Bell 712 18th Street, NE Washington, DC 20002 Phone 202-399-3450/ Fax 202-398-8836 Service and Times Sunday Early Morning Prayer & Bible Study Class: 8:00 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 10:00 AM Wednesday Service: 12:00 PM “The Loving Church of the living lord “

4504 Gault Place, N.E. / Washington, D.C 20019 202-397-7775 – 7184 Service and Times Sunday Church School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service : 11:00 AM The Lord’s Supper 1st Sunday Prayer & Praise Services: Wednesday 7:00 PM Bible Study: 7:30 PM Saturday before 4th Sunday Men, Women, Youth Discipleship Ministries: 10:30 AM A Christ Centered Church htubc@comcast.net

Christ Embassy DC

Kelechi Ajieren Coordinator 6839 Eastern Avenue, R1 Takoma Park, MD 20912 (202) 556-7065 Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 AM Wednesday Bible Study: 7:00 PM Friday Evening Service: 7:00 PM ; Last Friday “…Giving Your Life a Meaning” www.Christembassydc.org Christ.embassy.dc@hotmail.com

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

First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Mt. Horeb Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Wallace Charles Smith Pastor

Rev. Oran W. Young Pastor

Rev. Dr. H. B. Sampson, III Pastor

9th & P Street, N.W. - W. D.C. 20001 (202) 232-4288

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

2914 Bladensburg Road, NE Wash., DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-3180 - Fax: (202) 529-7738 Service and Times Worship Service: 7:30 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Worship Service: 10:30 AM Holy Communion: 4th Sunday 7:30AM & 10:30 AM Prayer Services:Tuesday 7:30 PM. Wednesday 12 Noon

www.stmarysfoggybottom.org Email: stmarysoffice@stmarysfoggybottom.org

Service and Times First Sunday Worship Service (one service): 10:00 AM Second, Third, Fourth, and Fifth Sunday Worship service: 7:45 AM and 10:55 AM Sunday Church School/Bible Study: 9:30 AM Thursday Prayer Service: 6:30 PM

All are welcome to St. Mary’s to Learn, Worship, and Grow.

Email: sbc@shilohbaptist.org Website: shilohbaptist.org

Service and Times Sundays: 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist with Music and Hymns Wednesdays: 12:10 p.m. - Holy Eucharist

Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 10:00 AM Sunday Church School: 8:45 – 9:45 AM Holy Communion: Every First Sunday Intercessory Prayer: Monday – 7:00-8:00 PM Pastor’s Bible Study: Wednesday –7:45 PM Midweek Prayer: Wednesday – 7:00 PM Noonday Prayer Every Thursday

Rev. Dr. George C. Gilbert Senior Pastor

Email Address: admin@pbc712.org

Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church The Rev. E. Bernard Anderson Priest

Holy Trinity United Baptist Church

Florida Avenue Baptist Church

Reverend Christopher L. Nichols Pastor

Rev. Dr. Jerryl V. Moody Pastor-Elect

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

St. Matthews Baptist Church

Emmanuel Baptist Church

King Emmanuel Baptist Church

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

Service and Times Sunday School for All Ages: 8:00 AM Sunday Worship Services: 9:30 AM Midday Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 11:30AM Evening Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 7:00 PM Laymen's League: Thursday 7:00 PM Email: Froffice@firstrising.org Website: www.firstrising.org “Changing Lives On Purpose “

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

JANUARY 7 - 13, 2021 33

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

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

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

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

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

In God We Trust

2020 ADM 000779

2020 ADM 000495

2020 ADM 784

2020 ADM 000667

”, nom deguerre: “ quiles, gabriely marie© ”, in full life, in pro-

Margaruietta Engricia Jackson Decedent

Jean M. Harris aka Gene M. Harris Decedent

Lavania E. Hall Decedent

Mable L. Battle Decedent

James Larry Frazier, Esq. 918 Maryland Ave., NE Washington, DC 20002 Attorney

Edward G. Varrone, Esq. 1825 K Street, NW Suite 1150 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney

Nakia Gray, Esq. 800 Maine Ave, SW, Suite 200 Washington, DC 20024 Attorney

Joan M. Wilbon 1120 Connecticut Ave., NW Suite 1020 Washington, DC 20036 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Yves Cartier Gaskins, whose address is 227 Missouri Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Margaruietta Engricia Jackson who died on August 28, 2020 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 6/30/2021. 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 6/30/2021, 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: 12/31/2020

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Steven Weinberg, whose address is 2141 P Street, NW, Suite 103, Washington, DC 20037-1045, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jean M. Harris aka Gene M. Harris who died on June 24, 2018 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 7/1/2021. 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 7/1/2021, 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: 12/31/2020

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Andre Tyrone Curtis and Helen Allen, whose addresses are 5959 Sudley Rd., West River, Md. 20778 & 212 35th St., NE, Washington, DC 20019, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Lavania E. Hall who died on April 15, 2016 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 6/30/2021. 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 6/30/2021, 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:12/31/2020

Gregory Battle, whose address is 20118 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mable L. Battle who died on 5/4/2020 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 6/30/2021. 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 6/30/2021, 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: 12/31/2020

Steven Weinberg Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY

TRUE TEST COPY

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

Washington Informer

Washington Informer

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

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION

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

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

2020 ADM 000576

Denys H. Vaughn-Cooke Name of Deceased Settlor

2020 ADM 000766

2020 ADM 760

Alice T. Lucas Decedent

NOTICE OF EXISTENCE OF REVOCABLE TRUST

Jeanne Wilson Woods Decedent

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

2020 NRT 27

Kathy Brissette-Minus, Esq. Law Office of Kathy Brissette-Minus, LLC 9701 Apollo Drive, Suite 230 Largo, MD 20774 Attorney

Denys H. Vaughn-Cooke (Name and address of deceased Settlor) whose address was 1501 Hamilton Street, NW, Washington, DC 20011 created a revocable trust on December 21, 2001, which remained in existence on the date of his/her death on March 10, 2020, and Anika Vaughn-Cooke, whose address is 7149 Boyer Street, Philadelphia, PA 19119 is the currently acting trustee, hereinafter the Trustee. Communications to the Trust should be mailed or directed to Anika Vaughn-Cooke at 7149 Boyer Street, Philadelphia, PA 19119.

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

The Trust is subject to claims of the deceased settlor’s creditors, costs of administration of the settlor’s estate, the expenses of the deceased settlor’s funeral and disposal of remains, and statutory allowances to a surviving spouse and children to the extent the deceased settlor’s residuary probate estate is inadequate to satisfy those claims, costs, expenses, and allowances.

Jacquelin L. Fulse, whose address is 5800 Lawton Court, Lanham, MD 20706, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Alice T. Lucas who died on March 7, 2020 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 7/7/2021. 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 7/7/2021, 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: 1/7/2021 Jacquelin L. Fulse Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

34 - JANUARY 7 - 13, 2021

Claims of the deceased settlor’s creditors are barred as against the Trustee and the trust property unless presented to the Trustee at the address provided herein on or before July 7, 2021 (6 months after the date of the first publication of this notice.) An action to contest the validity of this trust must be commenced by the earliest of (1) March 10, 2021 (One year from date of death of deceased settler) (2) July 7, 2021 , 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice) or (3) Ninety days after the Trustee sends the person a copy of the trust instrument and a notice informing the person of the trust’s existence, of the Trustee’s name and address, and of the time allowed for commencing a proceeding.

The Trustee may proceed to distribute the trust property in accordance with the terms of the turst before the expiration of the time within which an action must be commenced unless the Trustee knows of a pending judicial proceeding contesting the validity of the trust or the Trustee has received notice from a potential contestant who thereafter commences a judicial proceeding within sixty days after notification..

This Notice must be mailed postmarked with 15 days of its first publication to each heir and qualified beneficiary of the trust and any other person who would be an interested person within the meaning of D.C. Code 20-101 (d).

Gregory Battle Personal Representative

Gloria Lavern Keaton Decedent

James Larry Frazier, Esq. 918 Maryland Avenue, NE Washington, DC 20002 Attorney

Anthony M. Rachal III 5004 Cathedral Ave., NW Suite 200 Washington, DC 20016 Attorney

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

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

Jeanette W. Planes, whose address is 5548 Mulligan Way, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jeanne Wilson Woods who died on July 22, 2020 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision.

All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before July 7, 2021. 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 July 7, 2021, 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.

Isaac A. Keaton, III, whose address is 607 Milton Drive, Wilmington, Delaware 19802, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Gloria Lavern Keaton who died on August 2, 2019 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding.

Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 7/7/2021. 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 7/7/2021, 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: January 7, 2021

Anika Vaughn-Cooke Signature of Trustee

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

Washington Informer

the beneficiary and heir of: ‘‘ QUILES, GABRIELY MARIE© ’’, corp.sole Dba.: ‘‘ GABRIELY MARIE QUILES© ’’. I being Trustee of ‘‘ QUILES, MIAELIZABETH© ’’, corp.sole Dba.: ‘‘ MIAELIZABETH QUILES© ’’, having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, as “hors de combat”, pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article III, and Lieber Code, as Taino moorish Americans, and ministers of The Moorish Empire, and Internationally Protected Persons. Notice of LAWS AND CUSTOMS OF WAR ON LAND (HAGUE, IV), ARTICLE: 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Claim pursuant to Public Law 87-846, TITLE II, SEC. 203. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title : This order is to preserve legal and equitable title , and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, Re: [1] THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH REGISTRY OF VITAL RECORDS AND STATISTICS, REGISTERED NUMBER: 120, STATE FILE NUMBER 065545, ‘‘ GABRIELY MARIE QUILES© ’’, is as a special deposit order conveyed to “ Gabby Boost Trust ”. [2] The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Registry of Vital Records and Statistics, REGISTERED NUMBER: 2115, STATE FILE NUMBER: 007279, ‘‘ MIA ELIZABETH GUZMAN© ’’ whos legal name is “MIAELIZABETH QUILES© ” is as a special deposit order conveyed to “ Gabby Boost Trust ”. Individual Trust being an Unincorporated Divine Grantor Inter Vivos Trust. Inter alia.

This deposit is not to be commingled with general assets of any bank, nor depositary/ trustee/ agent/ bailee/ donee/ debtor. This deposit is not limited to, but including: discharge and set off, of any and all outstanding liabilities as accord and satisfaction. All Rights Reserved.

El.Darrell Golidy is a member of League Of Indian Nations of North America, and subject to the National Indian Government.

El. Darrell Golidy tribal #G000101760 is a subject of the National Indian Government, one that owes allegiance to the sovereign and is governed by her laws. Extraterritorial Jurisdiction in Morocco

Isaac A. Keaton, III Personal Representative

Jeanette W. Planes Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

pria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue,

Date of first publication: 1/7/2021

Date of First Publication: 1/7/2021

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Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: “ gabby boost©

hereby affirms the following: Notice of White Flag Surrender: NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Andre Tyrone Curtis Helen Allen Personal Representative

Yves Cartier Gaskins Personal Representative

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SPORTS from Page 30 onds of the scoreless third quarter.

Sudfeld did not fare any better, as he threw an interception on his second pass attempt at the start of the fourth quarter to Washington defensive back Jeremy Reaves.

Though Smith gave Philadelphia life by throwing another interception on the ensuing drive, the Eagles gave possession away just as quickly as they received it when Sudfeld fumbled and rookie phenom defensive end Chase Young scooped it up.

Four plays later, Hopkins nailed a 42-yard field goal to seal the Eagles' fate, securing Washington’s first time in the playoffs in five years.

Final score: Washington 20 – Eagles 14.

NEXT UP: CELEBRATED QB TOM BRADY

The Washington Football Team (7-9) enters the postseason backed by one of the league's best defensive units. Heading into Saturday night's (Jan. 10) matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (11-5), the Burgundy and Gold have only allowed 20 points or fewer in seven straight games (longest active streak in NFL).

"When we were 1-5, we could've stopped, and I feel like that is a testimony to the brotherhood, said Young looking ahead.

"It feels good. Everything that we have been through this season with my team, it's just a brotherhood . . . our love for one another, but we're not done. It's go time, it's that time."

Since Smith has been the starter in Washington, the Burgundy and Gold is 5-1, but only boasts a record of 2-8 with all other quarterbacks under center this season.

"I think it speaks way more to the [team] character we have, [with] everything stacked against us," Smith said. "For us to kinda getting off to the slow start that did to find a way to battle back and finish it off like this, I think says a lot about the character that we have in the locker room."

Tampa Bay is hot coming into the wild card playoff game, winning four consecutive contests, including a 44-27 drubbing of the Atlanta Falcons on Jan. 3.

Led by future Hall of Famer Tom Brady, the Tampa Bay offense has been hitting on all cylinders, and the former sixtime Super Bowl Champion has thrown for 4,633 yards, 40 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.

However, Tampa Bay's defense will have to try and contain McLaurin, who recently joined Gary Clark as the only players in Washington history with more than 2,000 receiving yards over their first two seasons. WI danielkucin88

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Wisconsin’s African-American community reportedly remains outraged.

“We are immensely disappointed in Kenosha District Attorney Michael Gravely’s decision not to charge the officers involved in this horrific shooting,” nationally renowned civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump, and his co-counsels Patrick A. Salvi II and B’Ivory LaMarr, declared in a statement on Tuesday, January 5.

“We feel this decision failed not only Jacob and his family but the community that protested and demanded justice,” the statement continued.

Officer Sheskey’s actions sparked outrage and advocacy throughout the country, but the District Attorney’s decision not to charge the officer who shot Jacob in the back multiple times, leaving him paralyzed, further destroys trust in America’s justice system, Crump and his team proclaimed.

“This sends the wrong message to police officers throughout the country. It says it is OK for police to abuse their power and recklessly shoot their weapon, destroying the life of someone who was trying to protect his children,” the attorneys continued.

“This is not the news we were hoping for but our work is not done and hope is not lost. It is now our duty to broaden the fight for justice on behalf of Jacob and the countless other Black men and women who are victims of racial injustice and police brutality in this country.”

“We will continue to press forward with a civil lawsuit and fight for systemic change in policing and transparency at all levels. We urge Americans to continue to raise their voices and demand change in peaceful and positive ways during this emotional time,” the attorneys said. WI Twitter: @StacyBrownMedia Facebook: StacyBrownMedia

and a figure agreed to by the plaintiffs, Maryland HBCUs Matters Coalition, alumni and other advocates.

Because Hogan vetoed the bill for the same reason as the education plan and a deadline to settle the suit by Dec. 1 didn’t occur, the HBCU legislation died and must be resubmitted.

OTHER MEASURES

Lawmakers will review, discuss and try to approve hundreds of other bills on health, education, government services and the environment.

With the coronavirus pandemic affecting the nation, state Sen. Malcolm Augustine (D-District 47) of Cheverly plans to propose a plan to provide hazard pay for frontline and health care workers such as nurses, grocery store clerks and public safety personnel.

As a way to boost support, similar legislation will reportedly be filed in the House of Delegates by fellow Prince Georgian Del. Dereck E. Davis (D-District 25) of Mitchellville.

Augustine said exactly how much funding would be provided in additional pay continues to be worked on.

“During a crisis, which we are in, we need to provide protections to essential workers who have to go to work in or-

GEORGIA from Page 30 “The person said that the Nashville bombing was a practice run for what we would see today at one of our polling places,” Barron said.

“Several” county staffers also received death threats, Barron said.

“And we have had innumerable racial slurs thrown at our staff, mostly via phone but some on social media as well, and that’s been a really disappointing – just disconcerting turn of events,” he said.

Barron added that the President’s claims of voter fraud have not helped.

Late Tuesday night, Twitter flagged a post by the President as a “disinformation alert.”

In the tweet in which Twitter ad-

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der to complete their duties,” he said.

“We have asked them to be there for us. We need to be there for them and making sure they are working in a safe environment.”

Another Prince George’s legislator, Del. Joseline Peña-Melnyk (D-District 21) of College Park, will present several bills during the 2021 session that include implicit bias training for doctors and nurses in the state. A hearing on the bill has already been scheduled for Jan. 26 before the Health and Government Operations Committee on which she serves as the vice chair.

Sen. Melony Griffith (D-District 25) of Upper Marlboro plans to file a similar bill in the Senate.

Peña-Melnyk, whose district includes portion of Prince George’s and Anne Arundel counties, sponsored a bill approved last year to incorporate implicit bias training for doctors and other health care professionals who conduct prenatal care services. The bill went into effect Friday, Jan. 1.

“I worked on this for the last seven months,” she said about the new implicit bias training bill. “We need to put on a racial equity lens … to make life better for the Black and brown community.

Everyone should be treated fairly.”

WI @jabariwill ministrators inserted a strike-through line and stamped as disinformation, Trump wrote, “Looks like they are setting up a big ‘voter dump’ against the Republican candidates. Waiting to see how many votes they need.”

The President posted the tweet as votes in heavily-populated African-American locations like DeKalb County were being tabulated and reported.

“When I moved to Georgia 19 years ago, Roy Barnes, the last Democratic governor, was about to be tossed out for opposing the Confederate flag,” tweeted Jelani Cobb, a staff writer with The New Yorker and a professor at Columbia University.

“The fact that the state is now close to being represented by a Black man and a Jew in the U.S. Senate is stunning.”

Warnock, during his CNN interview on Wednesday morning, when asked about the improbability of his victory, ended his remarks with the following: “In America, anything is possible,” he said.

WI Editor D. Kevin McNeir contributed to this report.

WI @StacyBrownMedia

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MALVEAUX from Page 22 were given so much mind-numbing morphine that they became addicted.

Sims is credited with inventing the specula, a tool routinely used in most gynecological exams. Actually, he used a spoon, then improved on it, for the examinations. Sims had quite the career, serving for a time as president of the American Medical Association.

There was a statue of him in New York's Central Park and tributes to him all over the country. Blessedly, the Central Park statue was taken down in 2018 after several protests. Why was it there in the first place?

In her book, "Medical Apartheid: The Dark History of Medical Experimentation on Black American from

MORIAL from Page 22 ing a "perfect storm of human error, mistakes, and communications by all involved." However, because grand jury proceedings are shrouded in secrecy it's unknown what evidence the grand jurors heard or what recommendations the prosecutors made.

After a judge granted grand jurors in the Breonna Taylor case permission to speak publicly, the public learned that prosecutors had not given them the opportunity to bring homicide charges against the officers. Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron falsely claimed the grand jury "agreed" that the shooting was justified.

The city of Cleveland last year settled a wrongful death lawsuit filed by Tamir's family for $6 million.

This brutal year of COVID-19 has

BROWN from Page 23 Comcast Chairman and CEO Brian Roberts announced that Comcast would fight injustice and inequality against race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, or ability. With that, Roberts committed $100 million to a three-year plan to advance social justice and equality. The initiative includes a $75 million cash commitment and $25 million in media.

Facebook announced that 15 member publishers of the NNPA would receive $1.288 million in grants through the Facebook Journalism Project's relief fund for local news.

The social media giant said more than 200 news organizations would receive nearly $16 million in grants, which stem from $25 million in local news relief funding announced in March as part of Facebook's $100 million global investment in the news.

Colonial Times To The Present" (Doubleday, 2006), Harriet Washington details the many ways Black bodies were guinea pigs for white experiments. That's not all. The Institute of Medicine has documented that Black folk with broken bones are less likely to get pain medication than whites. And the very recent COVID-19 death of African American physician Dr. Susan Moore, who was denied pain medication and was described as "intimidating" by the medical staff, illustrates how the medical establishment treats too many Black people.

Having said all that, I'll still be standing in lines soon as my number is called for the COVID-19 vaccination. I prefer the Pfizer vaccination from the research I've done, but I'll

take the Moderna if available. Why? I'm over 60, diabetic, and thus at high risk for getting COVID-19. I want to travel again, get on a plane, and see my mama and my friends. I don't know about eating out — my culinary skills have improved. But I know that my limited exposure to the world has gotten on my last nerve.

We were their guinea pigs, and the medical establishment has been negligent toward Black people. By now, though, enough white people have had the vaccination that by some wicked irony, they are my guinea pigs.

Get the vaccination if you can, medical racism notwithstanding. Black folks are twice as likely to die from COVID-19 as white people. Protect yourself! WI

seen armed protesters storm state capitols, threatening lawmakers and even menacing police, and not one was harmed. The armed protesters were white.

In Kenosha in August, police nonchalantly allowed accused killer Kyle Rittenhouse, armed with a AR-15style rifle, to walk by them even as witnesses shouted that he had just shot someone. Rittenhouse is white.

The same week as the Kenosha killings, police in Utah arrested an unharmed Richard Grant Lees after he fired shots at the officers with assault rifle. Lees is white.

Time and again, Black people are considered a threat just for existing, while violent white men are cosseted.

A Justice Department that does not consider Tamir's death a crime is a Justice Department that has decided

that white officers must never be held accountable for taking Black lives, under any circumstances. Among those recently pardoned by President Trump were a white police officer who unlawfully ordered her police dog to attack people of color; a Border Patrol agent who brutalized a Latino man trying to cross the border; an immigration agent who illegally harassed Latino store owners, and a sheriff who defied a court order to stop racial profiling and who once said it was "an honor" to be compared to the Ku Klux Klan.

It may be too late for the incoming Biden Administration to re-examine this case. But we expect the new Attorney General to be committed to police accountability, and to pursue such cases with a sincere motivation to seek justice for the victims rather than to protect their killers. WI

MSNBC named Rashida Jones the first Black person and Black woman president of the network. Jones, who quickly becomes the most prominent woman in cable news, is scheduled to step into the top role on Feb. 1, Black History Month, replacing Phil Griffin, who had been at the cable news channel for more than 25 years.

Mellody Hobson, a Princeton graduate who, in 2019, earned the Woodrow Wilson Award, the university's highest honor, was named Chairwoman of the Board of Starbucks.

With the promotion, Hobson became the only African American woman to chair a Fortune 500 company.

Midshipman First Class Sydney Barber, a mechanical engineering major from Illinois, was named Brigade Commander for the spring semester at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. Barber, a track star with a stated desire to work as a Marine Corps

ground officer, becomes the first Black woman to lead the Naval Academy's student body.

The Brigade Commander heads the Academy's day-to-day activities and trains the class of approximately 4,500 midshipmen. Barber becomes the 16th woman to serve in that role.

There were significant changes in the world of entertainment as Valeisha Butterfield Jones, a leader, global influencer and culture shifter, who co-founded the Women in Entertainment Empowerment Network (WENN) and served as the National Youth Vote Director for President Barack Obama's 2012 reelection campaign, was named the Recording Academy's first Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer.

While the traditional annual festival which hosts more than 350,000 peo-

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BROWN from Page 23 ple on Los Angeles' Crenshaw Boulevard wasn't in the cards because of the pandemic, Bakewell Media and the Los Angeles Sentinel found a new way to bring even more people together. The 15th annual Taste of Soul, the largest one-day street festival in Southern California, took place virtually in October.

Carol H. Williams received Ad Age's Vanguard Award during this year's Women to Watch Awards event.

Williams, the CEO of Carol H. Williams Advertising, was honored for a lifetime of significant achievements, including being named to the AAF Advertising Hall of Fame.

2020 also answered the question, "What do Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Delores Tucker, Roland Martin, Gayle King and Brent Staples have in common?" Each has made the Ebony Power 100 List, which annually recognizes leaders in their respective fields whom the iconic publication's editors say have "positively impacted the African American community."

Retired NBA Star Junior Bridgeman announced the purchase of Ebony for $14 million. Ebony's archives were previously sold for more than $30 million.

With death and hospitalizations piling up from the pandemic, a Black woman, Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett, was at the forefront of a National Institutes of Health's team that worked with Moderna on its coronavirus vaccine.

Corbett, an expert on the front lines of the global race for a SARS-CoV-2 vaccine, will go down in history as one of the key players in developing the science that could end the pandemic.

Many others on the front lines of

ASKIA from Page 23 Federal elected officials — more than 125 in Congress, and a dozen in the Senate, who do need the Trump vote to stay in office — who are trying to outdo one another in dancing to The Donald's discordant tune, are spineless and unwilling to tell the truth, lest they fall from favor.

This is how Germany and Italy slipped into fascism before World War II. This is how the United States almost slipped into total fascism when Reconstruction was torn down and hateful white power rule over the freed slaves was reestablished. The fascist takeover only involved the Southern, former Confederate states, so the Northern Union states went along with the lawless suppression of Black folks.

Now, Confederatism has spread to every corner of White America. A

the fight to educate and advocate for African Americans are also celebrated. African American physicians at the University of Virginia, including Drs. Ebony Hilton, Leigh-Ann Webb, Taison Bell, Rochanda Mitchell and Cameron Webb, all proved to be trusted and vital sources of objective information throughout the pandemic.

Critical care nurse Sandra Lindsay, an African American in New York, became the first person in the country to receive Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine.

In November, the ticket of Joe Biden and Sen. Kamala Harris earned 306 electoral college votes and recorded more than 81 million popular votes to defeat President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence.

Harris will become the nation's first African American and first woman vice president.

In December, L+M Development Partners formally announced financing for a $349 million development project on the Bronx Harlem River waterfront in New York, including the Universal Hip Hop Museum. Construction is scheduled to commence in January.

The NNPA embraced online video and went "viral."

With the goal of presenting each of the NNPA member media companies via an online panel format, the NNPA entered into online streaming aggressively under the theme, "Save Local Journalism." Each of the streams featured up to four publishers who were able to share valuable insights, creativity, challenges and solutions.

Live audience interaction, in the form of questions and comments from those viewing the streams verified that the series of NNPA livestreams with

African American newspaper publishers were an instant hit.

Other livestreams included interviews with superstars and legends like Ice Cube, Stephanie Mills, Ziggy Marley, Sugar Ray Leonard, Isiah Thomas, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and LL Cool J. Because of the livestreams, the NNPA gained new followers on all of its social media platforms and a dramatic increase in visitation to the BlackPressUSA.com website.

The 2020 Virtual NNPA Annual Convention — a first completely online event for the NNPA — proved wildly successful with several hundred thousand attendees viewing the event live and over the days that followed.

NNPA Livestream guests included a host of Congress members, including Congressional Black Caucus Chair Karen Bass (D-Calif.), Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), Rep. Yvette Clarke (D-N.Y.) and many others.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams, former U.S. Surgeon General Regina Benjamin and Meharry Medical College President and CEO James Hildreth also appeared on livestreams with the NNPA. Live broadcasts also included several from the 2020 Afro-Comic Con, including a special broadcast featuring comedian Sinbad. The NNPA's Dr. Nsenga Burton hosted a series of livestreams on the future of higher learning post-COVID-19 featuring the presidents of America's historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).

America was also introduced to the NNPA's newest livestream series, "Ask Alma," an interactive advice show.

The NNPA plans to broadcast even more live events in 2021. WI

majority of white folks in fact voted for The Donald. In their rallies, they proudly display both Confederate flags and United States flags. Why would they display the flag of the losing side in the country's bloodiest war, alongside the American flag?

Why would they erect statues and name streets, schools, even military bases after these traitors? Because in the minds of white folks, the Rebel cause didn't really lose.

So it is today. The Donald, and his millions of followers declare, and they seem to fervently believe, that the 81 million people who voted for his opponent, are simply illegitimate.

They don't count.

The ballots cast against The Donald, even though they elected these same dissenting Repugnikkkans, are invalid they claim. They say this right before our eyes. You can't make this stuff up.

The saddest part about it all, is that Black people, who prop this system up and make up more than a third of the military forces, are pacified because a new Black "first" was announced: a first to get a Ph.D. in some obscure scientific discipline; a first to win a prize in some stuffy, white, cultural category.

Black people keep mistakenly thinking that this will be the generation — despite indisputable evidence that just the opposite is taking place — this will be the generation which will reform these hateful white people, and after 400-some-odd years, white folks will treat us better.

That's a shame. I'm sick of being sick of white people who have no shame when it comes to their white agenda and their hatred of Black people.

In fact, I'm nauseated by them.

WI

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