The Washington Informer - March 27, 2025

U.S. Department of Education Closure Incites Conversations about School Choice, Educational Equity

5While D.C.-based educator

word about the

that District public and public charter schools stand to lose, she remains in solidarity with parents who’ve long fought to directly control their child’s academic trajectory. (Courtesy Photo)

Upon Pardoned Officers’ Return to MPD, Karen Hylton Applies Pressure Locally and Federally ANC 4D Pass Resolution in Criticism of MPD Chief Smith’s Council Testimony

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

Recently, while testifying before the D.C. Council’s Committee on Public Safety and Justice, Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) Chief Pamela Smith confirmed that Terence Sutton and Andew Zabavsky—the men convicted for their coverup of the vehicular pursuit that killed Karon HyltonBrown— were reinstated.

For Karen Hylton, the late Hylton-Brown’s mother, that revelation has further intensified her

HYLTON Page 23

At large SBOE Member to Keep Pursuing Civil Rights Crusade on the Local Level

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

President Donald J. Trump’s recent closure of the U.S. Department of Education has sparked fears about how communities will fare without federal funding for their schools and another layer of accountability for school districts that deny students access to a quality education.

While D.C.-based educator Preshona Ambri awaits word about the amount of federal dollars that District public and public charter schools stand to lose, she said she remains in solidarity with parents who’ve long fought to directly control their child’s academic trajectory.

“I look forward to the release of the grip…of

SCHOOL CHOICE Page 34

Stateswomen for Justice Luncheon Stresses

the Importance of Organization Powerhouse Panel Emphasizes

By Ashleigh Fields and James Wright WI Contributing Writer and WI Staff Writer

Strategy, Action, Fearlessness, Faith

en for Justice Luncheon at National Press Club in Northwest, D.C. on March 19.

In the heart of Women’s History Month, four enterprising Black women gathered to address the power in their collective voices at Trice Edney News Wire’s annual Stateswom-

Interim U.S. Attorney for D.C. Ed Martin Reveals “Make D.C. Safe Again” Plan

Residents Clash with Martin, Express Anxiety about Mass Incarceration

By Sam P.K. Collins and James Wright WI Staff Writers

Although he’s yet to be confirmed as U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, Ed Martin has hinted at priorities that, for the most part, align with that of President Donald J. Trump, whose focus in recent weeks has been on ridding D.C. of violent crime and homeless encampments. Martin shared his goals at the end of a

“This is the 14th Stateswomen for Justice Luncheon,” said Hazel Trice Edney, founder of the media outlet, during the event themed “We’ve Got the Power.”

“We skipped it one year due to COVID but we have had it ever since.”

JUSTICE Page 34

5 Interim U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Edward Martin addresses the March 25 meeting of the Anacostia Coordinating Council. (Robert R. Roberts/ The Washington Informer)

Preshona Ambri awaits

amount of federal dollars

5Karen Hylton is still seeking answers from District and federal leaders after the officers involved in her son’s death, Terence Sutton and Andew Zabavsky, returned to the Metropolitan Police Department. (WI File Photo/Sam P.K. Collins)

The WI Bridge Turns 10! Center Section

3Hazel Trice Edney, Dr. Zina Pierre, Barbara Arnwine and Julianne Malveaux link hands at the Stateswomen for Justice Luncheon 2025, themed “We’ve Got the Power,” at the National Press Club in Northwest, D.C. on March 19. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

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Virginia Landlord Ordered to Pay $750,000 After Racial Discrimination Eviction Case

A Virginia jury has delivered a $750,000 verdict against a landlord who evicted two families from her Smith Mountain Lake property after discovering one of the tenants was Black, state officials announced.

The ruling is the largest fair housing jury award ever obtained by the Virginia Office of the Attorney General. The previous record was a $200,000 judgment in a 2011 sexual harassment case.

Attorney General Jason Miyares confirmed the verdict against Regina Turner, the owner of Lazy Cove Campground in Penhook. Court filings suggested that Turner had leased lots on her lakefront property to families for years. But when a white couple invited their friends—an interracial married couple with a young child—to rent the adjacent lot, the situation turned into a case of racial discrimination.

The white wife successfully negotiated a lease with Turner. But once Turner saw that the woman’s husband was Black, the state argued that she moved quickly to evict both families, stating she would not have agreed to the rental had she known.

“These families experienced blatant discrimination, and Virginia will not stand for it,”Miyares said. “The people of Franklin County have spoken: Smith Mountain Lake is for everyone.”

The jury took less than two hours to reach its decision, awarding $100,000 each to both families for emotional distress and financial losses. The panel awarded another $550,000 in punitive damages to hold Turner accountable for her conduct and to send a message to others who may attempt similar acts. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

HEERF Funding Elevates Black Colleges Nationwide, Spotlight

on D.C., Maryland, and Virginia

Historically Black Community Colleges (HBCCs) and Predominantly Black Community Colleges (PBCCs), including those in Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, such as Prince George’s Community College, have received significant support through the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF).

The Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies report, “Equity and Emergency: COVID-19 Relief Funding at Historically and Predominantly Black Community Colleges in the South,”reveals that approximately $2.7 billion was distributed among 39 colleges across 10 Southern states as part

of an $80 billion effort by Congress to bolster higher education amid the pandemic.

“The role of HEERF funding in supporting community colleges and their students has been crucial, especially as Black families navigated greater economic and mental health challenges during the pandemic,” said Dr. Kayla Elliott, director of the Joint Center’s Workforce Policy.

The innovative HEERF funding formula, which prioritized Pell Grant recipients, was pivotal in enhancing support for low-income students and tackling systemic educational barriers for Black students.

Former U.S. Rep. Mia Love Dies at 49; Made History as First Black Republican Woman in Congress

Mia Love, the daughter of Haitian immigrants who made history as the first Black Republican woman elected to Congress, died Sunday at her home in Saratoga Springs, Utah. She was 49.

Love had been undergoing treatment for brain cancer and had received immunotherapy through a clinical trial at Duke University’s brain tumor center. Earlier this month, her daughter said she had stopped responding to treatment.

“With grateful hearts filled to overflowing for the profound influence of Mia on our lives, we want you to know that she passed away peacefully,” her family said in a statement posted to Love’s official X account. “We are thankful for the many good wishes, prayers, and condolences.”

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox called Love a “true friend” and said her legacy of service inspired all who knew her.

Love entered politics in 2003, winning a seat on the Saratoga Springs city council before becoming the city’s mayor. In 2012, she narrowly lost her first congressional bid to Democrat Jim Matheson. She returned in 2014 and defeated Democrat Doug Owens by about 7,500 votes, becoming a historic figure in Utah and national politics.

Though she rarely centered her campaigns around race, Love acknowledged the broader significance of her victory in an overwhelmingly white and Republican state.

“Many said this day would never come,” she said in 2014. “They said that a Haitian-American, first-generation, Black, Republican, Mormon woman could not win in Utah.”

During her time in office, Love often kept a measured distance from then-candidate Donald Trump, who was unpopular with many Utah voters. In 2016, after a recording emerged of Trump making lewd comments about groping women, Love refused to attend the Republican National Convention and publicly stated she would not vote for him.

That year, she endorsed Texas Sen. Ted Cruz in the GOP primary. While seeking a third term in 2018, Love attempt-

5Mia Love, the daughter of Haitian immigrants who made history as the first Black Republican woman elected to Congress, died on March 23. (Courtesy Photo)

Collins Council Report: The District’s Most Marginalized Continue to Speak

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

During a March 18 Committee of the Whole meeting, the D.C. Council moved four measures that will appear on the consent agenda of an April 1 legislative meeting.

Those measures include that which reappoints Heidi Tseu to the D.C. Uniform Law Commission and another symbolic renaming of a portion of T Street in Northwest in honor of Louise B. Miller, a Black mother who filed a lawsuit to ensure her son, and other deaf Black youth, could attend school in the District.

Also making it to the April 1 consent agenda are measures solidifying the reappointment of Jinwoo Parks as executive director of the Criminal Code Revision Commission and Lyle M. Blanchard as a trustee member of D.C. Retirement Board.

Please keep in mind that, given the brevity of the March 18 Committee of the Whole meeting, this edition of The Collins Council Report focuses on upcoming budget deliberations, public school HVAC maintenance, organizers’ outcry against D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser’s RENTAL Act, and a District student roundtable conducted by the council’s Committee of the Whole.

A NOTE ABOUT UPCOMING BUDGET DELIBERATIONS

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) is scheduled to present her Fiscal Year 2026 budget proposal to the council on April 2.

From then until May 28, when the finalized budget goes before the council for a first reading, council members will work within their committees and among one another to shape the budget in a manner that best addresses residents’ concerns.

However, in the aftermath of Trayon White’s expulsion from the council, Ward 8 residents won’t have ward-level representation at the table as the council figures out how to work around a $300 million budget deficit.

“There’s a lot of pain,” D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson told The Informer, as he spoke about his engagement with Ward 8 residents.

“And that pain is associated with different problems… There’s also a feeling [that] residents are on their own [without] a representative. They feel left out.”

Since former Councilmember White’s expulsion, Mendelson has been making the rounds at Ward 8 community meetings, including one the Anacostia Coordinating Council (ACC) conducted on March 12 at Living Word Church in Southwest.

At-large D.C. Councilmember Robert White, another citywide council representative, met with ACC in February, and, as recently as that week, participated in a tour of the Residences at St. Elizabeths, a low-income affordable housing community dealing with structural issues, flooding and trash collection five years after its completion.

When Bowser presents her budget proposal, Mendelson, At-large Councilmember White and other members of the council will have the task of

Denmark Technical College, and Edgecombe Community College.

deciding if, in whichever way, they are to make adjustments. There’s also, as Mendelson mentioned on March 18, the question of raising taxes, whether on the District’s well-to-do residents or by other means.

In speaking about this quandary, Mendelson maintains his opposition.

“At some point we tax ourselves out of [voter] support,” Mendelson told The Informer, referencing tax increases under then-Maryland Governor Mar-

43rd Annual Spelling Bee

Bianca Dacres, former Joint Center Workforce Policy Analyst, discussed the strategic impact of this funding model.

“This was the first time a major federal funding formula considered the number of low-income students an institution served by incorporating Pell Grant recipients,” she explained.

Other colleges that benefited from HEERF include Southern University at Shreveport, St. Philip’s College, Albany Technical College, Atlanta Technical College,

The funds facilitated a variety of initiatives, from enhancing online learning platforms to implementing necessary COVID-19 safety measures, which were critical for maintaining educational services during the pandemic.

“This analysis examines HEERF I, II, and III allocations separately and comparatively, illustrating what institutional funding can achieve when policymakers consider the specific needs of each institution’s students,” Joint Center authors wrote. WI

3In the aftermath of Trayon White’s expulsion from the District’s legislative body, D.C. Council Chair Phil Mendelson says ‘there’s a lot of pain’ in Ward 8 as residents navigate without ward-level representation. (WI File Photo/Ja’Mon Jackson)

HOT TOPICS from Page 4

COLLINS REPORT Page 8

AROUND THE REGION

THE PERFECT PORTRAIT HOLIDAY GIFT

black facts

MAR. 27 - APRIL 2, 2025

SOURCE: BLACK AMERICA WEB

MARCH 27

1924 – Renowned jazz singer Sarah Vaughan is born in Newark, New Jersey.

1934 – Acclaimed dancer and choreographer Arthur Mitchell, founder of the Dance Theatre of Harlem, is born in New York City.

MARCH 28

1866 – George Alexander McGuire, founder and first Bishop of the African Orthodox Church, is born in Swetes, Antigua.

1939 – The New York Renaissance Big Five, one of the most successful all-Black professional basketball teams in the 1920s and 1930s, becomes the first all-Black pro team to win a world championship.

MARCH 29

1904 – Granville T. Woods patents the first of two improvements on railroad brakes.

1918 – Award-winning actress and singer Pearl Bailey is born in Southampton County, Virginia.

MARCH 30

1870 – The 15th Amendment, which granted African American men the right to vote, is formally adopted into the U.S. Constitution.

MARCH 31

1797 – Gustavus Vassa, a freed slave whose autobiography, “The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano,” is regarded as one of history’s most influential literary works, dies in southeast England.

1870 – Thomas Mundy Peterson of Perth Amboy, New Jersey, becomes the first African American to vote in an election, a day after the 15th Amendment is ratified. 1878 – Jack Johnson, the first African American world heavyweight boxing champion, is born in Galveston, Texas.

1891 – George “Little Chocolate” Dixon knocks out

Cal McCarthy to win the featherweight title, becoming the first Black world boxing champion in any weight class.

1980 – Track and field star and four-time Olympic gold medalist Jesse Owens dies in Tucson, Arizona, of lung cancer at 66.

1988 – Toni Morrison’s “Beloved,” a novel about the remembrances of a former slave in post-Civil War Ohio, wins the Pulitzer Prize for fiction.

APRIL 1

1868 – Hampton University, one of the nation’s 107 historically Black colleges and universities, is founded in Hampton, Virginia.

1899 – North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company, a Black-owned business founded in downtown Durham, opens for business.

1917 – Famed African American composer and pianist Scott Joplin, known as “the King of Ragtime,” dies in New York City at 49.

1950 – Prominent Black physician, surgeon and medical researcher Charles Richard Drew dies in Burlington, North Carolina, at 50 from injuries sustained in an automobile accident.

1984 – One day before his 45th birthday, iconic soul singer Marvin Gaye is fatally shot by his father during a dispute at the Los Angeles house they shared.

APRIL 2

1918 – Black artist Charles White, best known for “The Contribution of the Negro to American Democracy,” a mural at Hampton University, is born in Chicago.

1932 – World renowned Black cowboy Willie “Bill” Pickett dies at 61 in a Ponca, Oklahoma, hospital after he was kicked in the head by a horse.

1984 – John Thompson becomes the first African American head coach to win a major collegiate championship when his Patrick Ewing-led Georgetown Hoyas defeat the University of Houston 84-75 in the NCAA mens’ basketball title game.

AROUND THE REGION

view

P INT

BY SARAFINA WRIGHT

The boxing world is mourning the loss of the legendary George Foreman. The heavyweight champion and entrepreneur died at 76. How will you remember Foreman’s legacy?

MICHAEL MADDEN / HARRISBURG, PENN.

EMMANUEL OGUGUA / WASHINGTON, D.C.

George was a great human being. He was funny, had a great spirit, and was a hard hitter. May his soul rest in peace.

Rest in peace, Big George. I got into boxing because of him.

JEFFREY HUNTER / BROOKLYN, N.Y.

TESS VAUGHN / Rest in peace, sir. I still have my tabletop grill!

Rest in peace king! George Foreman gave so much to the boxing world and his community. His famous fight with Muhammad Ali is something to be remembered in history books.

MICHAEL DANIEL / ATLANTA, GA.

George Foreman was definitely a legend in so many ways. May he rest in peace.

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

AROUND THE REGION

COLLINS REPORT from Page 5

tin O’Malley that his successor, Larry Hogan, used to differentiate himself as a state-level executive.

In the aftermath of previous tax increases, including those on hotel stays and property taxes, and another intended to fund pay equity initiatives, Mendelson said the District has gone far enough in its demand of well-to-do residents.

“I made the note at the town hall that we have the most progressive… tax structure in the country of any state,” Mendelson told The Informer. “When you compare it to the other states we are the best in terms of [taxing] upper-income people.”

Another point Mendelson brought up concerned what he described as priorities that get lost over time as D.C. residents continue to pay taxes.

“We sustain a program by raising this tax [and] three [or] four years later, the tax is disconnected from the program,” he said. “The program gets cut or eliminated [but] the tax doesn’t.”

On July 15, Ward 8 residents will cast their vote for the candidate they want to serve the rest of former Ward 8 Councilmember White’s four-year term. Be on the lookout for future reporting this budget season that centers Ward 8 residents navigating this unique political environment.

THE BATTLE AGAINST MAYOR BOWSER’S RENTAL ACT CONTINUES

In the midst of a budget battle on Capitol Hill, housing advocates are steadily pushing back against D.C.

5Students share their lived experiences, challenges, and actionable solutions to pressing community issues with Ward 8 State Board of Education Representative LaJoy Johnson-Law. District public school students and teachers are speaking out about their struggles to secure HVAC repairs in the dead of winter. (WI File

Mayor Muriel Bowser’s RENTAL Act.

Their qualm centers on a provision of the legislation, formally known the Rebalancing Expectations for Neighbors, Tenants, and Landlords Act, that excludes residents of majority market-rate apartments from the Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act (TOPA).

District tenants have used TOPA to intercept their landlord’s sale of the building to a third party and jump start a process that allows them to purchase their apartment building as a residents’ association. For decades, residents have organized in such a manner and, with the help of nonprofits and developers, secured bank mortgages to stay in place.

Despite the hurdles that residents often face to secure financing during property sales, housing advocates credit TOPA with slowing displacement, even if incrementally. Even so, the council continues to chip away at the law, including in 2018 when council members approved legislation exempting tenants of single-family homes from TOPA protections. More recently, as Bowser articulated her vision for a new downtown, the council exempted residents of downtown office-to-rental conversions from right of first refusal during property sales.

Damiana Dendy said she sees the RENTAL Act as the latest instance where elected officials are acting at the pleasure of landlords and banks, all at the expense of tenants.

“We’re paying the mortgage. We’re paying for the maintenance,” said Dendy, a D.C. Jobs and Justice housing organizer, on March 18 as she stood in front of the John A. Wilson Building. “The landlords simply just have access to capital that we don’t.

Why does that doom us to a life of renting?”

Dendy, currently in the middle of a process afforded to her by TOPA, took to a bullhorn as she questioned Bowser’s intentions.

“Why would the mayor not want us to be homeowners?” Dendy said. “We need to have more homeownership options that are not single-family homes. We need to have people who are in apartments that become co-ops, that can become condos.”

Another key provision of the RENTAL Act makes permanent an emergency measure that the council approved last fall to re-establish pre-pandemic protocols around eviction and emergency rental assistance certification.

While announcing the legislation, Bowser, flanked by developers and realtor association leaders, framed it as a means of preserving D.C.’s rental housing stock, which landlords and banks say could collapse under the widespread nonpayment of rent. Her remarks came amid a battle at The Residences at St. Elizbeths, where some low-income tenants, in consultation with Dendy and D.C. Housing and Justice are organizing against what’s been described as management’s failure to address structural and safety issues.

As reported in another section of this report, housing advocates joined At-large Councilmember White for a tour of St. Elizabeths on the day preceding their protest. The Informer unsuccessfully attempted to gather comment from the council member about the visit. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

Photo/Ja’Mon Jackson)

Analysis: Budget Plan Favors Wealthy, Devastates District and Low-Income Residents

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

The new budget framework approved by Congress may result in sweeping changes to the federal safety net and tax code. The most significant benefits would flow to the highest earners while millions of low-income families face cuts.

A new analysis from Yale University’s Budget Lab shows the proposals in the House’s Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Resolution would lead to a drop in after-tax-and-transfer income for the poorest households while significantly boosting revenue for the wealthiest Americans.

Last month, Congress passed its Concurrent Budget Resolution for Fiscal Year 2025 (H. Con. Res. 14), setting revenue and spending targets for the next decade. The resolution outlines $1.5 trillion in gross spending cuts and $4.5 trillion in tax reductions between FY2025 and FY2034, along with $500 billion in unspecified deficit reduction.

Congressional Committees have now been instructed to identify policy changes that align with these goals.

Three of the most impactful committees—Agriculture, Energy and Commerce, and Ways and Means— have been tasked with proposing major changes.

The Agriculture Committee is charged with finding $230 billion in savings, likely through changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps. Energy and Commerce must deliver $880 billion in savings, likely through Medicaid reductions. Meanwhile, the Ways and Means Committee must craft tax changes totaling no more than $4.5 trillion in new deficits, most likely through extending provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.

Although the resolution does not specify precise changes, reports suggest lawmakers are eyeing steep cuts to SNAP and Medicaid benefits while seeking to make permanent tax provisions that primarily benefit high-income individuals and corporations.

“Cuts to lifesaving safety net programs like Medicaid and SNAP are not only a direct assault on the people who rely on them, but also on our

values and our principles,” said New York Lt. Governor Antonio Delgado (D). “We cannot standby silently, we must fight back.

To examine the potential real-world impact, Yale’s Budget Lab modeled four policy changes that align with the resolution’s goals:

• A 30% across-the-board cut in SNAP funding.

• A 15% cut in Medicaid funding.

• Permanent extension of the individual and estate tax cuts from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.

• Permanent extension of business tax provisions including 100% bonus depreciation, expense of R&D, and relaxed limits on interest deductions.

Yale researchers determined that the combined effect of these policies would reduce the after-tax-and-transfer income of the bottom 20% of earners by 5% in the calendar year 2026. Households in the middle would see a modest 0.6% gain. However, the top 5% of earners would experience a 3% increase in their aftertax-and-transfer income.

Moreover, the analysis concluded that more than 100% of the net fiscal benefit from these changes would go to households in the top 20% of the income distribution. This happens because lower-income groups would lose more in government benefits than they would gain from any tax cuts. At the same time, high-income households would enjoy significant tax reductions with little or no loss in benefits.

Cuts Could Exacerbate Matters for Black, Low-Income D.C. Residents

A separate study last year revealed that Black and low-income communities in the District are already faced with challenges, where 21.8% of residents live below 200% of the federal poverty level.

As of June 2024, 260,218 D.C. residents relied on Medicaid and CHIP for health and long-term care.

Proposed cuts could eliminate coverage for many, exacerbating health disparities.

Medicaid spending in the District totaled $4.2 billion in fiscal year 2022, with the federal government covering 78.2%. Since the end of the COVID-19 continuous enrollment provision in March 2023, D.C. has disenrolled 67,619 people from Medicaid.

AROUND THE REGION

Also, in 2022, over 140,000 D.C. residents received SNAP benefits. Cuts to SNAP would hit Black communities hardest, as they disproportionately rely on food assistance programs.

In 2024, 11,910 D.C. residents enrolled in the Affordable Care Act marketplace plans, with 22% receiving premium tax credits. Eliminating these credits would increase healthcare costs for thousands of small business owners and self-employed workers.

Households earning $743,000 or more would receive an average $62,000 tax cut, surpassing the annual incomes of many D.C. Medicaid recipients.

“This budget prioritizes billionaires over working families,” said Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.).

Medicare beneficiaries in D.C. could also face challenges. In 2024, 95,577 residents were enrolled in Medicare, with 71,021 in Part D coverage. Recent measures capped

monthly insulin costs at $35, benefiting nearly 4,855 D.C. users in 2020. These protections could be undermined under the new budget.

While the House plan includes a $4 trillion debt ceiling increase, it projects to reach thelimit by November 2026. With essential programs for health, food, and education at risk, D.C. residents—particularly marginalized communities — face heightened economic insecurity under the proposed cuts.

“These results indicate a shift in resources away from low-income tax units toward those with higher incomes,” according to the the Budget Lab report. WI Read more on washsingtoninformer.com.

FREE GROCERIES FOR DC SENIORS!

AROUND THE REGION

The Woman’s National Democratic Club honors women leaders at the annual Women’s History Month Reception, a candid, for-this-audience-only “girl talk” illuminating the ways that these sheroes navigate trials, uplift one another, and work together to effect change in their communities. Attendees included elected officials like former D.C. Mayor Sharon Pratt, the first African-American woman mayor of a major U.S. city, and current District Mayor Muriel Bowser (center). (Courtesy Photo)

“I know the world is bruised and bleeding, and though it is important not to ignore its pain, it is also

contains

–

https://www

Charles Eugene, Kenneth Cobb and Williamson Hawkins read the latest news in The Washington Informer. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

– Toni Morrison

Stefan Lockridge Carries Forth Family Legacy of Community Activism

By James Wright WI Staff Writer

The name “Lockridge” in Ward 8 is synonymous with political and civic activism, community engagement and educational advocacy. Now, Stefan Lockridge is working hard to make sure his family’s legacy continues in the future.

“My family business is community activism,” Lockridge told The Informer. “My father and uncle engaged in community activism and so were their spouses. I learned a lot being around them.”

Lockridge is son of the late William O. Lockridge–who served on the D.C. Board of Education as the Ward 8 representative for years until his death in 2011–and Wanda Lockridge, a former chair of the D.C. Democratic State Committee and works in the Office of the Ward 8 Council. Wanda Lockridge served as the chief of staff for then D.C. Ward 8 Council member Trayon White (D) since he took office in 2017, but White was booted off the legislative body earlier this year because of ethics violations and alleged violation of criminal laws.

He is also the nephew of the late R. Calvin Lockridge, a former D.C. School board president.

Lockridge is one of six individuals who will be honored at the 60 th Anniversary Gala for The Washington Informer on March 28 at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library in Northwest, D.C.

“I am super excited to be recognized for selfless service,” Lockridge, 38, said. “I do not go out looking for these things. I love The Informer, and I understand their legacy. They know what legacy is.”

LOCKRIDGE

HANDLES HIS BUSINESS

Wanda Lockridge said when her son was young, she and her husband would take him to community meetings with them.

“He didn’t have much of a choice then, he had to go to meetings with me or my husband,” she said. “When he was with me at advisory neighborhood commission meetings, Mary Cuthbert, a colleague,

5

would entertain him.”

The proud mother said when he got older, the younger Lockridge opted out of attending meetings with her, saying “I had enough.” While the interest in direct civic community activism faded, his passion for supporting residents of neighborhoods east of the Anacostia River did not.

He followed in the footsteps of his father and other kin and pursued a career in education. Lockridge is a graduate of Wilson High School and Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.

“Music is my thing, particularly music production,” he said. “I wanted to pursue music and stay in the industry and make money.”

The passionate arts educator presently teaches at KIPP DC instructing ninth-12th graders the basics and intricacies of music production and the recording industry. He has been at KIPP for five years, a part of his 17-year career as an educator.

Lockridge said he is undaunted by the negative behavior of some students because he can relate to them in some ways that other educators cannot.

“It is not bad for me. I grew up in a neighborhood that was tough,” he said. “I really have a passion for

music. Besides, I was young when I started teaching and not much older than the kids I taught.”

Jacque Patterson serves as a D.C. Board of Education at-large member and is employed by KIPP as its chief community engagement and growth officer. The politician and leader at KIPP celebrated Lockridge’s work as an educator and in the community.

“Service to the community is in Stefan’s DNA,” said Patterson, 60, in a statement to The Informer. “His parents, the late William Lockridge and mother, Wanda Lockridge, had him at community meetings as a youth. It was ingrained in him and now shows as an educator in the ward and on the board of the William O. Lockridge Community Foundation (WOLCF).”

Continuing his father’s work and legacy, Lockridge serves as vice chair of the foundation named in his father’s honor, with his mother leading the charge as chair.

Founded in 2011 after its namesake’s death, William O. Lockridge Community Foundation is a nonprofit with the mission of supporting the educational goals and aspirations of Ward 7 and 8 students. The foundation offers emergency financial aid, scholarships, and activities such as international travel opportunities to students.

Lockridge said one of his charges with the foundation is to protect the legacy of his father and collaborate with public relations and social media. He said the organization’s staple event “Dancing with the Scholars” serves as the nonprofit’s primary fundraiser, and he is integrally involved with bringing it to life annually.

“Dancing with the Scholars takes months to plan,” he said, “and I make sure that the audio and visual equipment works to make it a success.”

While she is elated to see her son celebrated by The Informer, Wanda Lockridge is always beaming with pride and in support of her son’s accomplishments.

“I am proud of him,” she said. “He is a third-generation educator. It is so important to have Black men as educators.”

WI @JamesWrightJr10

With the “Lockridge” name being synonymous with political and civic activism in Ward 8, Stefan Lockridge is working to ensure his family’s legacy continues. (Courtesy Photo)

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY

Prince George’s County Political Updates

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

FEDERAL JOB CUTS LEAVE THOUSANDS OF MARYLANDERS UNEMPLOYED

The Trump Administration’s concerted efforts to reduce federal spending and fire federal workers are being felt across Maryland, especially in Prince George’s and Montgomery Counties.

Attorney General Anthony Brown (D) has sued to reinstate these workers, who they argue were illegally fired. He is joined in the suit by several other Attorney Generals, including D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb and Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison.

“President Trump’s unlawful mass firings of federal workers are a blatant attack on the civil service, throwing thousands of hardworking families into financial turmoil,” said Brown in a statement announcing the suit. “Instead of following the law and notifying states, his administration blindsided Maryland, forcing us to deal with the devastating economic fallout and social consequences.”

Brown emphasized the need to take a stand against the president’s decisions, in order to advocate for residents’ needs

“We won’t stand by while he disrupts lives and undermines our state,” said Brown, “which is why I’ve taken legal action to stop these unjustified terminations and protect Marylanders.”

Councilmember Wala Blegay (D- District 6) has cautioned that

these firings will worsen the economy, leading to a possible recession and wide-scale home foreclosures.

“Our biggest scare is that if people are not able to land jobs easily after being laid off from the federal government, that they’re not having income coming in, we’re going to start to see a high number of foreclosures,” Blegay told the Bowie Sun.

More than 5,000 Marylanders have filed for unemployment since January, and more than 2,000 Marylanders registered for a job fair in College Park that was largely aimed to assist laid off federal workers.

“I left a job I was at for 18 years to come to the federal government,” said laid off federal worker Lawana Brown during the March 12 job fair. “Only to be let go in less than two years because they thought I’m not good enough.”

MD CARES (Community, Aid, Resources, Empowerment, Sustainability), a new community coalition to support residents amid job uncertainties, has been formed as a Facebook group and has a Linktree to provide digital resources to laid off federal workers. This group has shared the information on several recent job fairs.

“Federal employees are crucial in providing essential public services; they offer even-handed expertise to political leaders, ensure consistent service across presidential changes, and uphold their constitutional duty to serve the public,” said Prince George’s County NAACP President Linda Thornton Thomas about the mission of MD CARES.

WI

CONGRESSMAN GLENN IVEY CALLS FOR NEW SENATE LEADERSHIP, DEMOCRATIC LEADERS CRITICIZE CONTINUING RESOLUTION

During a spirited town hall in Suitland High School’s auditorium, U.S. Rep. Glenn Ivey (DDistrict 4) called for Sen. Chuck Schumer (D- NY) to be replaced as the Senate Minority Leader.

“I respect Chuck Schumer. I think he had a great career. But it may be time for Senate Democrats to get a new leader,” said Ivey during the March 17 townhall. “We’ve got a limited number of shots at being able to fight back against the Trump administration and what they’re doing. We can’t afford to miss the moment again.”

Schumer and eight other Democratic Senators recently signed the budget agreement to prevent a government shutdown, despite the concerted effort of House Democrats to oppose the proposal.

Both Democratic U.S. Sens. Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks voted against the continuing resolution.

“I will be voting ‘No’ on cloture

and on the Republican continuing resolution. A continuing resolution will allow President Trump to continue doing what he’s doing: looting our government to pay for tax cuts for billionaires, conducting a witch hunt against our patriotic civil servants, threatening to cut Social Security benefits and Medicaid,” Alsobrooks explained.

The former Prince George’s county executive turned senator cited the negative impact that greater authority for the Trump Administration would have on Maryland.

“To allow the president to continue what he’s doing would be in direct contradiction with my mandate: to fight for Marylanders,” Alsobrooks continued. “We have a unique opportunity at this moment to course correct and pass a clean, bipartisan funding bill that would address some of these concerns and mistakes. That is what Marylanders need and deserve in this moment of chaos.”

Ivey represents a congressional district with among the highest percentage of federal workers, whose very livelihoods have been under attack by the Trump Administration since his swearing in. He emphasized the sting of the continuing resolution for his constituents.

“The people in my district and around the D.C. metropolitan area are most concerned of the impact on government employees and this is having a devastating impact on the DMV and all around the country and 80% of government employees live outside the Washington area,” Congressman Ivey explained.

Schumer argued that closing the federal government would have been too great a risk to accept.

“I want to fight, and we are fighting. We are going to fight every day on this – every day,” said Schumer. “I understand we want to stick it to them. We’re going to stick it to them and fight smart and win.”

Democrats stretching the ideological and generational divide from Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi (D- CA) to Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (DNY) have criticized the decision of Senate Democrats to pass the continuing resolution.

“I myself don’t give away anything for nothing,” said Pelosi when asked why she didn’t agree with the decision of Schumer and several other Senate Democrats to sign on to the continuing resolution. “We could have, in my view, perhaps, gotten them to agree to a third way.” WI

5More than 2,000 Marylanders gather for a College Park job fair on March 12. Similar job fairs in other counties have seen large turnout amid federal job cuts. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

Prince George’s County Local Updates

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

COUNCILMEMBERS

FISHER AND WATSON

HOST AKA DAY

Dozens of women donning pink and green filled the rows of the Prince Geoge’s County Council chamber on March 18 as Councilmembers Wanika Fisher (D- District 2) and Ingrid Watson (D- District 4) hosted a joint Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA) Day on March 18.

The day included a two-hour reception in the Wayne K. Curry Administration Building to honor the sorority members’ contributions to the county.

“As a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., I am honored to celebrate the remarkable women of AKA who have dedicated themselves to service and leadership in Prince George’s County,” said Fisher. “This event is an opportunity to highlight their impact and express gratitude for their ongoing contributions.”

Often spotted sporting the sorority’s trademark colors, Fisher holds strong pride in the work her sorority has done to advocate for progress and social change. She cited famous members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. as some of her biggest inspirations, including: former Secretary of Aging Gloria Lawlah, former Prince George’s Councilmember Dorothy Bailey,

HOT TOPICS from Page 4

ed to maintain that independence, criticizing Trump’s policies on immigration and trade, though she continued to support the party’s tax agenda.

She lost that race by fewer than 700 votes to Democrat Ben McAdams.

The morning after her defeat, Trump singled her out during a news conference. “Mia Love gave me no love, and she lost,” he said.

“Too bad. Sorry about that, Mia.”

After leaving Congress, Love served as a political commentator on CNN and as a fellow at the University of Sydney. Earlier this month, she wrote

civil rights icon Coretta Scott King and Vice President Kamala Harris.

“The role is enormous. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc has been serving all mankind since 1908,” she said. “We have been passionate about women and children , health, small business, equity and more.”

Alpha Kappa Alpha is the first historically African-American sorority, founded in 1908, and there are nine active chapters across Prince George’s.

“We wanted to bring our sorority sisters here to the council meeting to show them the process of what we do,” said Watson. “It’s all about education, and I think they learned a lot today from our Council session. Some of our executive leaders shared information on the budget and other things we thought were important to them.”

R. Nicole Sharp, a member of the sorority who originally graduated from Norfolk State University, attended AKA Day after hearing about the event at a chapter meeting.

“We previously had AKA on the Hill and those who couldn’t make it to that, were able to come to this. I serve on the Social Action Committee for my chapter, personally, and I believe political advocacy is super important in this political climate. We focus on civic advocacy as a non partisan organization,” she said. “I am a resident of the county and I felt compelled to get more involved and know

a heartfelt op-ed for the Deseret News, reflecting on her life, her illness, and the nation she loved. She expressed a desire for America to become less divided and more compassionate.

“Some have forgotten the math of America — whenever you divide you diminish,” she wrote.

In the piece, Love praised her parents, who immigrated to the United States with just $10 and a belief in the American dream. She said she was raised to believe in hard work, resilience, and the ideals of liberty — values she carried into public service.WI Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

more about what’s going on. To represent AKA is just as important as my other civic engagements.”

WI

REGINALD F. LEWIS MUSEUM PLANS MARCH

29TH HBCU DAY

Baltimore’s Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History and Culture is planning an HBCU Day on March 29 to offer opportunities for local students to apply to historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and learn more about the application process.

“As we celebrate our 20th anniversary, this is the perfect time to honor the museum’s namesake,” said Reginald F. Lewis Museum President Terri Lee Freeman. “We are excited to mark this milestone with a year of programming including HBCU Day, recognizing that Mr. Lewis’ experience at Virginia State University was instrumental in his formative years.”

The day’s events will include college admissions counselors conducting on site admissions, a Greek step show, info sessions on funding college, resource tables with community organizations,

and panel discussions on HBCU activism, moderated by Dr. Ida Jones of Morgan State University.

“Seeing this exhibit come to life is incredibly moving, and I want to thank the Reginald F. Lewis Museum for honoring my husband’s legacy with such care and dedication,” said Loida Nicolas Lewis.

Lewis was one of the wealthiest African-Americans in the 1980s, becoming the first Black person to

run a billion dollar company: TLC Beatrice International Holdings Inc. He was a graduate of Virginia State University, the first fully state-supported four year HBCU.

“Mr. Lewis’ story is one of perseverance, excellence, and breaking barriers,” the late businessman’s wife continued, “values he gained in part from his HBCU education as a Virginia State University alum.” WI

5County Councilmembers Wanika Fisher and Ingrid Watson (centered) invited AKA sorority members from across the County to attend a Council session, then hosted a reception to recognize the contributions of AKA across Prince George’s. (Rob Roberts/The Washington Informer)

5Students celebrating their graduation from Howard University, a historically Black university in Northwest, D.C. Baltimore’s Reginald F. Lewis Museum is hosting HBCU Day on March 29. (Courtesy Photo)

BUSINESS

By James Wright / WI Staff Writer

BOWSER ADMINISTRATION CELEBRATES ITS MARCH MADNESS WITH NEW DEVELOPMENT, GREEN BOOK

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser loves March Madness.

No, not the NCAA men’s and women’s basketball tournament but “DMPED March Madness,” the District’s annual showcase of agencies that deal with economic development and business matters during the month of March, sponsored by the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED).

“You have the opportunity to be excited about the opportunities in D.C. as you are about your brackets,” said Bowser at the events’ March 25 kickoff in Northwest in front of 120 people including entrepreneurs, city officials and residents.

The Bowser administration used DMPED March Madness to announce that the city has been selected to bring a new Therme Group facility to Poplar Point located in Ward 8. The Therme Group would develop 15 acres of the 110 acres at Poplar Point into a state-of-the-art health and wellbeing destination along the banks of the Anacostia River.

Therme Group is known globally for its urban wellbeing facilities that offer customers amenities such as thermal baths, several saunas and wet rooms, thermal and mineral pools, waterslides, relaxation beds, immersive arts, a wide variety of restaurants and an abundance of tree and plant life. The Poplar Point facility will be known as Therme DC.

“We know that Therme DC is a great fit for Poplar Point,” said Bowser. “Not only will it create jobs and opportunity, but it will

brief

also serve as a catalyst for economic growth along the Anacostia waterfront in Ward 8. This is a unique economic driver for Ward 8—creating jobs, attracting visitors, and delivering new opportunities for our residents.”

Viewed as one of the last significant waterfront development opportunities on the East Coast, the Poplar Point site has remained undeveloped for decades. With the arrival of Therme DC, the site is expected to include a 70-acre riverfront park and trail system and 25 acres for mixed-use development.

The Therme DC project is estimated to generate $1.5 billion in tax revenue over 25 years, 5,000 local construction jobs during development and 720 permanent positions upon completion.

Wanda Lockridge, a Ward 8 resident and the former chair of the D.C. Democratic State Committee, will serve as Therme DC’s director of engagement by company officials.

Therme DC officials expressed satisfaction on coming to the District.

“We are grateful to Mayor Bowser for her bold vision to reimagine Poplar Point in Washington, DC. As Therme expands globally, we are proud to anchor our U.S. presence in the District–bringing an innovative model of urban wellbeing to the nation’s capital,” said Robert Hanea, Chairman and CEO of Therme Group. “Therme DC will foster community in Ward 8, deliver meaningful economic impact, boost tourism, and provide Washingtonians with access to nature and renewal. By combining cutting-edge technology with our commitment to sustainability and holistic wellbeing, we are setting a new standard for how cities can integrate wellness into everyday life. We look forward to working hand in hand with the District to make this vision a reality.”

Nina Albert, the deputy mayor for Planning and Economic Development, also championed Therme DC’s entrance to the District.

“The District seeks unique destinations that will enhance and diversify the visitor experience in Washington, D.C.,” said Albert. “Therme DC has the added benefit of being a wellness amenity and job creator for D.C. residents, not to mention accelerator of development at Poplar Point.”

Additionally, the release of the Fiscal Year 2025 Green Book, the annual guide about the procurement opportunities with the District government, was announced at the event.

“We are proud to be the bridge between opportunity and success for our local businesses,” said D.C. Department of Small and Local Business Development Director Rosemary Suggs-Evans. “The FY25 Green Book, along with grants like Business-to- Business, showcase our unwavering commitment to empowering CBEs and fostering innovation. These tools are designed to help our businesses not only compete but thrive in a way that strengthens communities and contributes to a resilient, inclusive D.C. economy.” WI

SMITH

INDUCTED INTO AFRICAN AMERICAN CREDIT UNION

HALL OF FAME

Girado Smith, president and CEO of Educational Systems Fed-

3 Nina Albert, deputy mayor for Planning and Economic Development, and Rosemary Suggs-Evans (far right), director of the D.C. Department of Small and Local Business Development, speaking with local entrepreneur Pierre Batchler, owner of PARADYCE clothing company at Sycamore & Oak in Southeast D.C. (WI File Photo)

6 Girado Smith is the president and CEO of the Educational Systems Federal Credit Union. (Courtesy Photo/ Girado Smith Linkedin)

eral Credit Union (ESFCU) has been inducted into the African American Credit Union Coalition’s (AACUC) Hall of Fame.

Smith’s induction took place on March 4 during the AACUC’s Governmental Affairs Conference in the District, and is one of five credit union leaders who was inducted in the organization’s Hall of Fame.

“I’m overwhelmed by the memories and moments we’re able to capture during the Hall of Fame,” said Renée Sattiewhite, AACUC president and CEO. “The evening bridges the gap between our seasoned veterans and the next generation, reminding us of the work that’s been done and that’s still needed to advance equity and access to financial capital within communities of color. The event continues to be one of our most consequential events to honor those present and past who have shaped our movement.”

As the leader of ESFCU, where he previously served as the chief financial officer for over 18 years, Smith has led the credit union’s financial operations and strategic

direction.

Last December, ESFCU and Howard University Employees Federal Credit Union announced that they had merged to significantly expand the range of financial services available to employees, students, alumni and family members of Howard University as well as Howard University Hospital.

In April of 2024, the Washington Business Journal named ESFCU as the 12th largest credit union in the Greater Washington area.

Smith said he was pleased with the induction.

“It is truly an honor to be inducted into the AACUC’s Hall of Fame,” said Smith “This recognition is not just a reflection of my efforts but also the incredible team I’ve had the privilege of working with during the past 18 years. Together we continue to innovate, grow, and make a lasting impact on the communities we serve. I am truly humbled by this recognition and look forward to the bright future ahead of us.” WI @JamesWrightJr10

Prince George’s County Business Updates

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

ACTING COUNTY EXECUTIVE TARA JACKSON INTRODUCES

BALANCED BUDGET PROPOSAL

Acting Prince George’s County Executive Tara Jackson has introduced a balanced budget for the upcoming fiscal year that includes cuts to nearly every agency. The proposed budget is a reflection of both the state’s fiscal issues and of the impact that federal spending cuts and the layoffs have had on the county.

“This year is difficult. We know that we must be extremely careful because of the unexpected,” said the acting County Executive on March 13. “The

unexpected additional cost, unexpected loss of grants and unexpected loss of revenue, loss of revenue that will likely come from the elimination of federal jobs.”

The budget proposal is roughly $5.7 billion, with an estimated deficit of $170 million that is expected to grow. Nearly 85% of the budget is allocated to education and public safety, leaving little wiggle room for cuts.

“When there’s uncertainty, we have to be conservative,” she explained.

The plan also includes a $2.50 monthly tax increase on phones, both cellular and landline, totaling a $3.50 monthly tax on each phone line, which would generate roughly $37 million annually. Jackson also seeks to delay the implementation of a senior property tax credit.

“Residents will feel these cuts, but they will help us maintain the fiscal responsibility that’s needed to protect

our community,” Jackson continued. “One of the things we’ve done in this budget is we’ve made sure we limit the use of reserves. Because we may need those reserves in the coming months.”

Prince George’s has nearly 75,000 federal workers, and credit rating agencies have further cautioned about the impact that federal firings can cause. WI

GIANT OPENS

NEW LOCATION IN BOWIE’S SOUTH LAKE MARKETPLACE

Bowie’s South Lake Marketplace will open a new Giant, adding to the list of local shopping options for the 381-acre development. This new Giant will replace the location on Crain Highway, which will close for good on March 27.

“We are thrilled to open our new store in the South Lake Marketplace community bringing our neighbors a modern, customer-focused destination that creates the best shopping experience,” said Giant Food President Ira Kress. “It’s not just a grocery store:

it’s a vibrant hub where families can connect, find great value, and explore the new features we’ve brought to this new development.”

The new Giant will open on Friday, March 28. There will also be an instore Ledo’s within the Giant, the 50th location of its type.

All staff members were offered the opportunity to transfer to the nearby store and loyal customers will not experience an interruption in service as the new store will open the following morning.

Gary Michael, the president of site

developer NAI Michael, is delighted to welcome Giant Food as the anchor tenant for South Lake Marketplace.

“Giant’s long-standing commitment to the communities the company serves coupled with their exceptional customer experience aligns perfectly with our vision for South Lake,” he said. “This flagship store will serve as a cornerstone for the South Lake development and the Giant opening marks a significant milestone as we continue to build a dynamic, walkable community.”

WI

5 Bowie’s South Lake Marketplace will open a new Giant, replacing the location on Crain Highway, which will close for good on March 27. (WI File Photo/Ja’Mon Jackson)

NATIONAL

Trump Signs Executive Order for Federal Elections

Activist Warns New Mandates

‘Blueprint for Authoritarian Control’

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

President Donald Trump has signed a sweeping executive order overhauling the way federal elections are conducted in the United States. This latest mandate has prompted widespread alarm from voting rights advocates, Democratic lawmakers, and constitutional experts who say the move is an overt attempt to undermine democracy and centralize power.

The executive order requires documentary proof of U.S. citizenship to register to vote in federal elections and mandates that all ballots be received by Election Day. It also calls on states to share voter rolls with federal agencies and threatens to cut off federal funding to states that do not comply.

In addition, the order claims the country has failed “to enforce basic and necessary election protections.”

Although the Constitution grants states broad authority over how elections are run, Trump’s directive seeks to federalize key aspects of voting access, effectively pressuring states into compliance or face financial penalties.

Critics argue that the order is consistent with Trump’s long-running strategy of sowing doubt about election integrity. Since losing the 2020 election to former President Joe Biden, Trump has repeatedly pushed false claims of widespread voter fraud and has attacked various voting methods— especially mail-in ballots—before, during, and after elections.

“This isn’t your typical MAGA voter suppression. It’s a blueprint

for authoritarian control,” warned Max Flugrath of Fair Fight Action, one of the organizations at the forefront of protecting voting rights.

Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) voiced strong opposition to the order, highlighting how it could disproportionately affect everyday Americans.

“Now Trump wants to make it HARDER to vote if your name doesn’t exactly match on every document,” Crockett posted on social media. “That hits married folks who change their names, disaster survivors who lost paperwork, and so many others. This ain’t about security—it’s suppression.”

Activist Tom Joseph of Chicago dismissed the move as legally meaningless, suggesting it was more of a political stunt than a legitimate policy change.

“Trump’s latest ‘executive order’ (EO) to change the election process is dead on arrival,” Joseph said. “He has zero authority over elections. He’s trying to distract from the Signal intelligence disaster. His EOs are a window into his fantasy world where he’s a king. He can’t function in a system with three equal branches of government.”

WORKING TO MAKE GOOD ON A PROMISE

With Trump’s storied criticism of voter fraud, MAGA supporters are expressing major support for the order, while some Democrats and citizens worry the president is inching closer to a dictatorship.

“Great news for election integ-

rity! Thanks to President Trump’s executive order, we can ensure that only legal citizens vote in our elections,” one social media user commented on X, formerly known as Twitter. “It’s about time we put an end to voter fraud.”

During the campaign trail for the 2024 election, Trump said to a group of supporters, “If you vote for me this November, in four years, you don’t have to vote again. We’ll have it fixed so good, you’re not gonna have to vote.”

For many, the executive order is seen as an attempt to make good on that promise.

“The convicted felon who should have his voting rights taken away now thinks he has the power to ‘order’ that all citizens show proof of citizenship in federal elections,” wrote a social media user on X, in response to the executive order. “Trump thinks he is Putin or a king, he does not have the power to issue this executive order. He is a criminal.”

The order mirrors provisions in the proposed Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, a bill pushed by congressional Republicans that would require proof of citizenship to vote. By signing the

executive order, Trump bypasses the legislative process entirely, even as the SAVE Act struggles to gain traction in Congress.

United States Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) released a statement criticizing the executive order, and emphasizing it “will disenfranchise millions of eligible American voters.”

“The executive order signed today by Donald Trump is a blatant federal attack on states power and eligible American voters everywhere,” he said. “Let’s be clear: this action aims to make free, fair, and accessible elections nearly impossible.” WI

Remembering my Grandmother, Viola Liuzzo

On

the

60th Anniversary of her Death by the KKK, Her Granddaughter Reflects on Her Legacy

By Christina Prado WI Special Writer

The Civil Rights movement of the 1960s is still relevant today; for a while, our society veered toward equality for all, but racism continues to try and rear its ugly head.

This month marks the 60th anniversary of the march from Selma to Montgomery, and it also marks the 60th year my family has been without our matriarch, my grandmother, Viola Liuzzo.

The Ku Klux Klan murdered her on March 25, 1965.

After the successful four-day march, she was driving marchers back to Selma and killed.

My mother, Sally, was only 6 years old at the time. When I look at my child, who turns 6 this year, I realize how passionately Viola must have felt about leaving her family behind and joining the marches. Her love for all ran strong, and she wanted her children to live in a better world.

The impact of her sacrifice continues to resonate, not only in his-

NATIONAL Page 17

5 President Donald Trump’s new executive order requires documentary proof of U.S. citizenship to register to vote in federal elections and mandates that all ballots be received by Election Day. (WI File Photo/Anthony Tilghman)

5 Christina Prado is the granddaughter of Viola Liuzzo, who was killed by the Ku Klux Klan on March 25, 1965, as she was driving marchers back to Selma. (Courtesy Photo)

NATIONAL from Page 16

tory books but in our family’s daily lives.

Just recently, my son came home from kindergarten, eyes wide with excitement, eager to tell me about something he had learned in school.

“Mom, we talked about a man named Martin Luther King Jr. today!” he said.

That moment was both heartwarming and eye-opening. It made me realize how much my son still has to learn about his family’s history.

I proudly told him Dr. King knew his great-grandmother and attended her funeral. Of course, I saved the deeper details of that tragic connection for when my son is older, but the thought lingered: history is not just something we learn in school; for my family, it is something we carry in our blood.

Reflecting on the Legacy: ‘The Fight is Not Over’

It is an honor to be the granddaughter of Viola Liuzzo, but her

sacrifice is still felt deeply within our family generations later.

How lucky am I to have a grandmother whose name is recorded in history books? How many kids can say that their grandparent is a historical figure taught in school, someone whose legacy is studied in classes across the country?

But with that honor comes pain.

Not many grandchildren have had to see autopsy photos of a grandmother they never got the chance to meet. It is a strange and somber experience that has shaped my perspective on life and legacy.

Anyone who knows me knows I am tough and strong-willed, traits I am sure I inherited from my grandmother. Although I never had the chance to meet her in person, I feel a connection to her through the stories, photographs, and memories passed down through my family.

I’ve always felt a deep pride in what she stood for: her courage, determination, and unwavering belief in justice. At the same time, I have grown up watching my mother

yearn for the mother she lost, and that has been incredibly difficult.

The loss of Viola was not just a historical event but a profoundly personal tragedy that shaped my family for generations.

I have often thought about what it would have been like to know my grandmother as a retiree instead of as a figure in black-and-white photographs. What would it have been like to hear her tell stories about the Civil Rights Movement firsthand, rather than only being able to read about her in books and online archives?

When I search for her name, I see images and articles pop up instantly, which is both a privilege and a heartbreak.

One day, I found video footage of her marching, which was incredible. But then, there are other images, such as pictures of the car she was murdered in. That’s quite literally part of my DNA and my family’s history, frozen in those photos. It’s surreal and painful, a constant reminder of what was taken from us.

Still, we must remember the blueprint those before us laid out: a message of love, equality, and standing firm in our beliefs.

Viola was one of many who fought for a future where people of all races could stand together as equals.

Though hatred and racism are still rampant in our world today, we can look to the past and find guidance in examples of heroes like King and my grandmother.

While I never got to hear my grandmother’s voice or feel the warmth of her embrace, I carry her with me every day. She was more than just a name in history books; she was a mother of five, an educator, a fighter, and a believer in justice.

Her story reminds us that change sometimes comes at a cost, and we must ensure that the price is not paid in vain.

The fight for equality is not over, and as long as her story is remembered, neither is her mission. WI

5 Christina Prado is the granddaughter of Viola Liuzzo, who was killed by the Ku Klux Klan on March 25, 1965, as she was driving marchers back to Selma. (Courtesy Photo)

n Brochures

n Business Cards

n Banners

n Canvas Bags

n Color Copies

n Contracts & Vouchers

n Church Fans

n Fax & Scan n Programs

n Posters & Signs

n Tithe Envelopes

n Tickets & Flyers n T-Shirts n Mugs & Glassware

n Notary

Xhuma in Action: GW’s Taste of Africa Bridges the African Diaspora

Pan-Africanism Thrives as Attendees Embrace Heritage, Shared Experiences

By Mya Trujillo WI Contributing Writer

For the 17th consecutive year, the George Washington University (GW) African Students Association (ASA) hosted Taste of Africa, with the goal of unifying the African Diaspora.

Embodying this year’s theme “Xhuma” the Zulu word meaning “to connect,” the dishes, dances, fashion shows and musical performances featured during the function fiercely celebrated diasporic similarities and differences.

By tailoring it to this theme, the multicultural celebration immersed attendees into many of the diaspora’s nuances, demonstrating the Pan-African principle of global solidarity.

“Inspired by the resilience of African artistry, which has been used to shape history, tell stories and overcome struggles, this theme highlights how heritage, creativity and community remain deeply connected– celebrating the strength, unity and cultural evolution of African traditions across generations and regions,” GW ASA wrote in a post on Instagram.

During the diverse event, GW Afro-Caribbean dance team XOLA performed routines to Brazilian Afrohouse music and Nigerian Afrobeats, wearing traditional grass skirts.

Attendees were also given food from different regions such as Nigerian jollof rice, Kenyan beef samosas, West African chicken dibi and much more.

With performances highlighting intricate Afrocentric hairstyles, an audience dressed to the nines in African garments and aromas of bay leaves and cumin wafting through the venue, the “Mother Continent” was truly brought to GW’s student center.

“When people hear ‘Africa’ they think of villages, but Africa is really beautiful,” said Zimbabwe-born Future Chamba, a candidate for a Master of Business Administration in finance at GW, as Afrobeats and R&B sounded from the next room.

“Africans are united. They are one, and they are lovely.”

CELEBRATING, TAPPING INTO AFRICAN CULTURE WHILE STUDYING IN D.C.

Adorned in a navy blue dress with a bodice made of Ankara fabric showcasing vivid blues, greens, yellows and oranges, Nigerian-born Oluwatosin Adewumi attended Taste of Africa despite being a student at Morgan State University. After her friends told her about the event, she decided she had to travel from Baltimore to Washington to broaden her horizons and connect with a multitude of people.

“I felt like it’s meant for me to network and meet new people, not just in Baltimore. I can [now] say I have friends everywhere,” Adewumi told The Informer. “I came today… to just put myself out there.”

Considering GW enrolls approximately 2,800 international graduate students, celebrating multiculturalism is a critical part of the university’s culture, and Taste of Africa gives students born on the African continent who seek a chance to experience everything they miss about their homes.

Chamba attended Taste of Africa to feel more connected to home.

“I miss everything about Africa. Everything I know is Africa,” Chamba told The Informer. “I came [to Taste of Africa] to get an appreciation of African culture, history and more.”

Even though he didn’t see Zimbabwe represented at the celebration, Chamba appreciated the diversity and

authentic depictions it provided the audience. Rather than promoting harmful stereotypes of violence, poverty and helplessness, the event showcased the Africa that people like Chamba know and love so well.

Chamba’s classmate Tendai Sambo, who was also born in Zimbabwe and is pursuing an MBA in finance at GW, believes events like this tear down barriers created by the confines of national borders and further bridge members of the diaspora to each other. He attended this affair to observe how different nationalities interact with each other.

His favorite part of the night was seeing everyone’s traditional textiles and the commitment to Taste of Africa’s dress code– African attire. Just as hairstyles and songs have been utilized in history by the diaspora as a form of resilience and storytelling, fashion can represent a region’s customs through intricate patterns, vibrant colors and materials used.

Geometric patterns are notable in traditional African dress. They typically feature zig-zags, checkerboards, circles and more. Zig-zags, also known as Nkyinkim, represent the ups and downs of life’s path, reminding those wearing the pattern to remain prepared for any obstacles that may come their way.

Textiles and design methods that have been passed down through generations can symbolize a person’s pride in their heritage and identity, acting as a token of solidarity among different tribes and nations within Africa. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

5 Leslie Noukemeu, Bree Starke and Oluwatosin Adewumi (pictured above) don traditional patterns at the 17th Annual Taste of Africa event at George Washington University. The traditional patterns are not only symbols of pride in one’s African identity, but of global solidarity between the diaspora. (Mya Trujillo/ The Washington Informer)

AARP DC Staff Report

It has been said that a budget is a set of priorities put in numbers. Show me your budget, and I’ll see what you value. For over 65 years, AARP has advocated in a non-partisan way for older Americans to have what they need to live their best life at any age, choosing where they want to live, and never being discriminated against because of their age, gender or financial status.

Currently, the Mayor is in the process of developing the District’s budget for Fiscal Year 2026. With volunteers and staff, we fight for the issues important to our 78,000 members in the District, and all District residents over 50 along with their families and caregivers.

During the FY2026 budget process, AARP DC is working to improve services and the lives of older adults by fighting for:

• Homecare Partners Homemaker Program – In 2024, there were approximately 76,000 caregivers providing 69 million hours of care per year in the District, totaling $1.37 billion in unpaid labor annually. Additionally, caregivers in the District spend over $7,200 on average for out-of-pocket caregiving costs per year. AARP is fighting to ensure Homecare Partners Homemaker Program’s budget is not cut and the six-month funding deficit is filled.

• Funding and Implementation of Certified Nurses Amendment Act of 2024 – DC lost 4000 formerly licensed certified nurses aides and home health aides when they decided

Standing Up for Seniors Across the District!

not to renew. Inadequate staffing for the elderly population has resulted in burnout for direct care employees and negative health and financial outcomes for patients, including a higher frequency of medical errors, mortality, and unpaid labor by family members. AARP has called on the Council to fully implement and fund this bill.

• Preventing cuts to legal aid services to seniors – Legal Counsel for the Elderly is one of the primary sources of legal services for the most vulnerable senior residents, and these services save the District money by preventing the wrongful exploitation of seniors, and causing these individuals to be more dependent on subsidies to survive. AARP is working to ensure the Access to Justice Grant is fully funded to ensure older adults have access to affordable and pro bono legal services.

As the budget process moves forward, AARP DC will continue its fight to ensure adequate funding, staffing, and resources are available to improve the well-being and quality of life for older adults in the District. But we can’t do it without your help!

We will keep fighting for the policies you care about and help all residents 50 and over in all 8 Wards live their best lives. If you want to volunteer with us to make real improvements in your neighborhood, your Ward, or across the District, join us! If you are interested, please email dcaarp@ aarp.org with your name, contact information, which Ward you live in and what issues you care most about!

For the latest and most up to date information on the issues listed here, and for upcoming announcements, please visit our website, aarp.org/dc, and follow us on social media at facebook.com/ aarpdc or x.com/aarpdc.

HEALTH

USDA Cuts Expected to Impact Food Outcomes Across D.C.

By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Health Reporter

The future of food security among low-income Washingtonians, and Americans nationwide, faces growing threats amid the Trump administration’s massive $1 billion slash in funding to food assistance programs across the country. Working to combat the sting of federal cuts, local health and food policy leaders are banning together to prevent worsening food access and health disparities across the District.

“Many neighborhoods in the Dis-

trict do not have access to healthy food,” said D.C. Councilmember Christina Henderson (I-At-large), during the District’s Committee on Health public hearing March 17. “Approximately 330,000 residents are living in areas that are classified as low food access at this point, [with] 111,000 earning less than 185% of the federal poverty line.”

With the District battling food insecurity and federal cuts, Henderson introduced the Farmers Market Support Amendment Act. The bill aims to establish a support program within the Department of Health to

assist farmers markets, particularly in low-food access areas. It includes a grant program to incentivize market expansion and standardized permitting with reduced fees, while sustaining affordability for both community vendors and shoppers alike.

“As you all know, farmers markets are essential for improving access to healthy, affordable [foods] and supporting small farmers and District small businesses, as well as helping to build community,” Henderson said during the hearing.

This legislation comes as federal programs are being cut including the U.S. Department of Agriculture canceling the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program (LFPA) and Local Food for Schools Cooperative Agreement Program (LFS).

The LFPA annually was responsible for funding roughly $500 million worth of food deliveries to food banks, while the LFS was set to allocate approximately $660 million to allow schools and childcare facilities to purchase fresh food options from local farms.

In a statement to The Hill, the USDA explained that both programs “no longer effectuate the goals of the agency.”

With the threat of losing more federal funding dollars, Henderson and local leaders want legislation in place to help local farmers and entrepreneurs who work to provide access to healthy food for all residents.

“Ward 8 has been a food desert for decades, leaving residents with limited access to fresh, healthy, and affordable food. Unfortunately, this is still true in 2025. The Farmers Market Support Amendment Act of 2025 (Bill 26-0109) is a critical step

toward addressing food insecurity and creating real food equity in our city,” ANC Commissioner 8C Chair Salim Adofo wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Adofo, a Ward 8 D.C. Council candidate, emphasized how the legislation could help Ward 8 residents and all Washingtonians.

“This bill will provide much-needed support to farmers markets in low-food-access areas, like Ward 8,” he said, “by streamlining permits, providing grants, and ensuring affordability for vendors and shoppers alike.”

LOCAL FARMERS MARKETS

Currently, there are 53 independent farmers markets operating across all eight wards of the District.

Throughout most of the city, many of these markets host shoppers that use both federal and local food assistance programs, and the District offers a bevy of benefits for low income residents, including the Farmers Market Nutrition programs for women, children and seniors, as well as the Produce Plus Program. All efforts work in concert to support residents restricted to healthier food choices.

Eager to support the continuation of the local farmers markets economy, Stefan Templeton, CEO and founder of the Farmers Alliance, attested to the value of funding local farmers and organic food markets to improve food security outcomes across the city. His organization operates in collaboration with the UDC School of Agriculture’s CAUSES program, in spaces around the District, while working closely with other suppliers

such as Ward 8 Farmers Market.

“By giving our small to medium-sized producers a voice in Washington, we are really focused on providing healthy and affordable food to our communities, especially those in low food access [areas],” Templeton said. “This is primarily and should be presented as a matter of food security and public health. Foremost, we must recognize the farmers markets are an integral part of the solution. They’re proven tools for expanding access to fresh local food while strengthening community ties.”

Not only is USDA funding critical to local farmers, but data in the District and nation show comorbidities like diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity, with poverty and scarce food options.

These varying health concerns continue to inspire local wellness advocates like Pamela Hess, executive director of Arcadia Center for Sustainable Food and Agriculture, to continue supporting efforts to improve food outcomes in underserved communities.

“When I started with Arcadia, exactly 12 years ago, last week, I went out in our mobile markets, which go out into Wards 7 and 8, Ward 5, and Ward 2. When I was out there, I saw a lot of people missing lower limbs, and because I used to be a war correspondent, I presumed that these people were veterans, [as] the signature, visible injury of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan was a lower limb amputation,” Hess told the council. “So I asked my staff, ‘There seems to be a lot of war veterans here?’ And they said, ‘No, this is diabetes.’”

Hess compared numbers, reveal-

HEALTH Page 21

5 The Farmers Market Support Amendment Act aims to establish a support program within the Department of Health to assist farmers markets. (WI File Photo/Demarco Rush)

HEALTH

Measles Cases Found in County, Two Students Die of Flu

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Writer

Maryland has reported multiple measles cases being tracked in Prince George’s County following international travel. This case is not tied to a recent case in Howard County.

The following times have been listed as potential times for contact with measles by the Maryland Department of Health.

• March 5: Dulles

International Airport

• March 5, 13, 15 and 17: Kaiser Permanente

Largo Medical Center

• March 14: Reagan

National Airport and on a Metro Yellow Line train

• March 17: Passport Toyota in Suitland

“Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) is working closely with the Prince George’s County Health Department following a confirmed case of measles at John Hanson Montessori in Oxon Hill,” read a statement from PGCPS. “The last known exposure on campus occurred on March 12, 2025. In accordance with privacy laws, we cannot provide additional details about the individual who tested positive.”

Measles is highly contagious. The Centers for Disease Control cites that nine out of 10 in close proximity to an infected person will become infected if they are not vaccinated. The symptoms, which show up one to two weeks after contracting measles, include coughing, runny nose, watery eyes, rash, and a high fever that may spike to more than 104° F.

The Maryland Department of Health also cites ongoing measles outbreaks in New Mexico, Texas,

HEALTH from Page 20

ing 2,000 amputations over 20 years of war, versus a score of roughly 180,000 diabetic amputations in the United States annually.

Through her organization’s work in the community, Hess understands the tremendous service that local producers bring to the health of District residents, and insists the community mutually supports the local farm economy.

and Oklahoma.

“Be Wise Immunize! Did you know #measles is one of the most contagious diseases, but entirely preventable with the MMR vaccine,”

Prince George’s Health wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. “Schedule an appointment with your doctor to #StayProtected.”

FLU SEASON STILL RAMPANT, TWO LOCAL YOUTH TRAGICALLY DIE

Two elementary school students, one at Chesapeake Math and IT(CMIT) Academy North Elementary School in Laurel, Maryland, and one at John Bayne Elementary School, tragically died from the flu in early March.

“It’s deceiving sometimes to see the sun out and shining and think that maybe we have moved past the ugly head of flu season, but that’s not the case. So, it’s important for us to pay attention,” said PGCPS Superintendent Millard House II.

House sent a letter to parents about measures to prevent illness, and advised that parents don’t send sick children to school.

A mask mandate is being considered, particularly for schools with more than 10% of the student population experiencing illness.

In addition, Prince George’s County State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy released a statement on X, sending condolences to the students’ families and encouraging Prince Georgians to use local resources to protect themselves from the flu.

“I am deeply saddened to learn about the tragic loss of two students in our community due to the recent rise in flu cases,” said Braveboy, who won the Democratic primary for the

“[Many] People will have a limb cut off because we can’t be bothered to provide affordable, good quality food that’s convenient and people actually want to eat it. And so, that’s where the mobile markets come in,” said Hess. “Our mobile markets have been serving D.C. since 2012 and we have moved more than $2 million worth of food. Don’t tell me that there is no demand for this food in these neighborhoods. There is.” WI

next Prince George’s county executive earlier this month. “My heartfelt condolences go out to their families, friends, and all those impacted by this heartbreaking news.”

Flu shots are provided at the Prince George’s County Health Department’s Cheverly location from Monday through Friday from 9 am. to 3 pm. and PGCPS will be providing in-school flu shot clinics for students, staff, and families, free of charge, for this flu season.

“We want our children and our schools to be safe,” Braveboy wrote in her statement posted to X, formerly known as Twitter. “Please take a moment to review health and safety measures with your family.”

5 There are multiple reports of measles cases in Maryland, and two elementary school students died from the flu in Prince George’s County. (Courtesy Photo)

EARTH OUR

Cherry Blossoms’ Role in Washington’s Tree Canopy

As Climatic Risks Increase, it’s Critical to Protect All Trees in the District

By Mya Trujillo WI Contributing Writer

As springtime emerges in the Northern Hemisphere, the sun sets later, temperatures start to rise and Washingtonians prepare for the vast amount of people that will flood into the city to admire the lush pink flowers on the cherry blossom trees lining the Tidal Basin.

Further, DMV residents and visitors alike will tap into all the city-wide programming for the National Cherry Blossom Festival, which runs until April 13.

“From cherished traditions to exciting new experiences, this year’s celebration will unite our community and welcome visitors from around the world to create unforgettable memories,” said National Cherry Blossom Festival President and CEO Diana Mayhew at a February press conference.

Originating in 1912 when Tokyo City’s Mayor Yukio Ozaki gifted the District approximately 3,000 Yoshino cherry trees, the celebration symbolizes the friendship between the United States and Japan.

While a large concentration of the picturesque trees is located at the Tidal Basin, there are many planted across the city.

“From seeing the cherry blossom trees across all eight wards to participating in Petalpalooza, there are so many reasons to come together as a community all season long,” D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser wrote in a social media post on the first day of spring and the National Cherry Blossom Festival.

MAPPING CHERRY

TREES AND THEIR

LASTING IMPACT

Casey Trees, a nonprofit that has worked toward restoring and protecting the District’s tree canopy since 2001, curates a cherry tree map which includes data from the National Park Service (NPS) and the District Department of Transportation’s Urban Forestry Division.

According to Vincent Drader, communications director at Casey Trees, the cherry blossoms account for 17,000 of the 2.1 million trees that form Washington’s total tree canopy–roughly 0.8%.

“It’s not a huge percentage, but of course you can’t drive anywhere in D.C. without seeing the cherry blossoms, so it’s still not an insignificant portion of [the tree canopy],” Drader told The Informer. “People come here to see the trees, [so] I think the cherry blossoms kind of inspire this love of trees that might extend to any tree.”

Aside from the low percentage of these Japanese trees compared to others in the city, their smaller size also contributes to the low impact they have on the overall quality of the District’s canopy, as larger trees offer more shade and help cool the city.

The two most common cherry blossom varieties in the District are Yoshino and Kwanzan cherry trees, which measure between 30 and 50 feet at maturity, where the American Beech, one of the most common variations in the city, measure between 60 and 80 feet at maturity.

Despite this large difference, arborist Lou Meyer with Davey Tree shares the same sentiment as Drader, that the sakura-flower-adorned trees are still significant to arbor culture and diplomatic relations.

“I think their environmental impact is huge for symbolism in getting people to recognize that trees are not

5 Although cherry blossoms are not native to Washington, they aren’t considered invasive species, as they’ve become integral to the city’s culture. While it’s important to plant native trees like maples and oaks, the Japanese trees inspire a love for nature that is necessary in improving the environment. (Jacques Benovil/The Washington Informer)

only beautiful, but they’re important, part of our green infrastructure and should be celebrated,” Meyer told The Informer. “We’ve got international relations not only in politics and business, but very literal connections environmentally with other countries… that we partner with.”

PRETTY IN PINK: THE CHERRY BLOSSOMS APPROACH PEAK BLOOM

Each year as the festival approaches, the NPS uses the Davey Tree Nature Clock to predict when the trees will enter each bloom stage, and when peak bloom will occur. The clock mainly pulls data from weather stations at airports across the U.S. and is utilized by plant experts year-round to calculate peak bloom and pest emergence times for various plants.

The cherry blossoms undergo five stages before peak bloom: green buds in the first stage, visible florets in stage two, extending florets in stage three, elongated peduncled (or stalks) in the fourth stage and the emergency of puffy blossoms in stage five.

“We’re thrilled to announce that the cherry trees have reached stage five– Puffy White,” declared the NPS via X (formerly known as Twitter) on March 23. “The blossoms are starting to show, now we’re just waiting for them to open. Peak bloom is next!”

Peak bloom, when 70% of the tree is in blossom, is expected on March 28

mac Conservancy reported that over a century, the Potomac River’s water levels increased by about 11 inches. This greatly endangers the beloved trees in Potomac Park.

Last spring, roughly 150 trees were removed from the Tidal Basin, as increasing water levels were submerging roots.

“Because the waterway is overflowing its bank, it is flooding those root zones, which is hurting those cherries,” Meyer explained.

To help further protect the cherry blossoms during the springtime celebration, visitors should avoid walking on the trees’ root systems, refrain from picking flowers off branches, must not break any branches and should be mindful of dissuading children from grabbing onto and hanging from branches.

After a tree was damaged in 2020 the National Park Service took to X, then known as Twitter, to remind people of cherry blossom etiquette.

and is projected to last between three and five days before the flowers begin falling off. The flowers’ abscission lasts approximately one to two weeks.

“March 28 is supposed to be peak bloom, but things can change between now and then,” Meyer said. “If you have three or four cold days in a row you might see peak bloom being pushed back to March 30.”

In 2024, the planet reached its hottest temperatures on record due to climate change.

That same year, the sakura flowers reached peak bloom on March 17– the earliest date for this stage in the cycle on record. According to the Environmental Defense Fund, a series of days above a certain temperature–depending on the tree varietal– causes earlier peak bloom times.

“The EPA and the NPS have been tracking the bloom times for the cherry blossoms, specifically the Yoshino cherry trees, for over 100 years now,” said Drader. “On average, we’re blooming about eight days earlier than when they started tracking that.”

According to Meyer, on very warm days, flowers are prompted to begin budding, but when immediately followed by colder temperatures, the buds are forced back inside as they can’t thrive in those temperatures. This back-and-forth process depletes trees’ energy, negatively affecting their overall health.

Higher temperatures weren’t the only climatic effect on the cherry blossoms in 2024. For instance, The Poto-

“Let’s not [forget] the First Rule of Peak Bloom - do not climb the trees!! The trunk of this Yoshino cherry broke under the weight [of] climbers today. It cannot be saved and will be removed tonight. #ProtectTheBlossoms,” NPS wrote.

STRENGTHENING D.C.’S TREE CANOPY FOR A GREENER FUTURE

The District’s overall tree canopy, which can hopefully help protect the city against climate change, is also negatively affected by it. Urban trees can help reduce the amount of kilowatts needed to cool the city, take carbon out of the air and absorb stormwater.

Because of these environmental benefits, the Department of Energy and Environment has set a goal to cover 40% of the city with a healthy tree canopy by 2032.

Drader believes that such a goal can only be reached if the city’s residents take the steps to get more native trees planted in areas of need. He urges people who are fond of cherry blossoms to plant trees like tulip poplars (his favorite tree), Northern Catalpas or Southern Magnolias. These trees have a higher environmental impact on the area and also grow beautiful flowers.

“As much as people notice trees for the one week that is peak bloom in cherry blossom, I’d love for people to notice trees all year round,” Drader said.

WI

HYLTON from Page 1

resolve to hold the Trump and Bowser administrations accountable for Sutton and Zabavsky becoming free men. Since Jan. 21, when President Donald J. Trump announced the pardons, Hylton’s been making the rounds at D.C. Council legislative meetings, mayoral press conferences and other events, asking D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) whether she falsely identified her son as an “illegal immigrant” to compel Trump’s pardon of the two beleaguered officers.

“I really and truly believe Bowser has a part in that,” Hylton told The Informer. “At the end of the day, Trump doesn’t know Karon. He doesn’t know what’s going on in D.C. In order for him to say what he said, someone had to tell him that.”

As Hylton recounted, Trump’s pardon of Sutton and Zabavsky happened amid what she described as her unsuccessful appeal of their sentences of five-and-a-half years and four years, respectively, which she said sparked concerns about whether Trump pardoned the two officers preemptively.

During Hylton’s March 19 exchange with Bowser in Room G9 of the John A. Wilson Building, Bowser denied misrepresenting HyltonBrown’s citizenship status to Trump before uniformed officers forced Hylton out of the room. Since that episode, Hylton has been sending letters to the White House, U.S. Justice Department, and Supreme Court, all in criticism of an executive decision she said has no legal standing since Sutton and Zabavsky hadn’t yet spent a minimum of five years in federal custody.

“They’re all lawyers and each one of them knows about the law,” Hylton said in reference to U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi and Chief Supreme Court Justice John Roberts. “Sutton has been sitting at home all this time on bond. At the end of the day, it’s discrimination against Karon.”

Another pressing question that Hylton said sits at the front of her mind concerns whether Bowser and the council will eventually challenge the presidential pardon with the same level of vigor they’ve exhibited during other instances when Trump and Congress interfered in local affairs.

“It’s definitely unconstitutional and no one is saying anything,” Hylton said.

QUESTIONS PERSIST ABOUT SUTTON AND ZABAVSKY’S STATUS AND THEIR OBSTRUCTION OF JUSTICE CHARGE

According to Metropolitan Police Chief Pamela Smith, Sutton and Zabavsky, though reinstated, are not on patrol.

“Any type of additional training, mandatory training that they should have received during the time period that they were out, they have to go back through that,” Smith said to D.C. Councilmember Janeese Lewis George (D-Ward 4) on March 11, during an Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) oversight hearing conducted by the D.C. Council’s Committee on the Judiciary and Public Safety. “Any other training based on our policy with respect to the number of years or the number of days or months a sworn employee… has been out of work.”

In 2022, a jury convicted Sutton and Zabavsky of second-degree murder, conspiracy to obstruct, and obstruction of justice. It was the first time in recent history that local law enforcement officers faced legal consequences for an on-duty death.

Prosecutors detailed a high-speed pursuit throughout the Brightwood community that ended in the Kennedy Street corridor in Northwest, where Hylton-Brown, a moped rider, exited an alleyway, crashed into a moving vehicle and sustained injuries that he would succumb to days later. Evidence showed that the then-former MPD officers cleared debris from the street on the night of the collision, allowed for the continuation of traffic, and declined to call colleagues tasked with preserving crash scenes.

In a moment that sparked criticism among Ward 4 community members, and at least one jurist, on March 11, Smith referenced an MPD Internal Affairs Bureau investigation as she denied that Sutton and Zabavsky obstructed justice in Hylton-Brown’s death.

“It’s my understanding that there was no cover up and there was no obstruction of justice…based on body worn camera footage [and] the fact when the officer responded to the station and spoke with his supervisor,” Smith said. “Also, the draft report

HYLTON Page 25

OUR EARTH

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: 54-2025

BOND ADVISOR AND COUNSEL SERVICES

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) Office of Capitol Programs (OCP) requires qualified licensed and insured entity to provide bond related consulting services for DCHA.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available beginning Monday, March 24, 2025, 2025, and can be found on Housing Authority Market Place at: https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com

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

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

PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Monday, April 7, 2025, by 12:00 p.m.

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

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: 33-2025

General Construction for Judiciary House

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) Office of the Executive Director (OED) requires licensed, qualified professionals for General Construction for Judiciary House.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available Monday, March 17, 2025, and can be found on Housing Agency Marketplace at: https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

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

PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Monday, April 14, 2025, at 12:00 p.m

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

EDUCATION

Sylvia Ruth Foundation Celebrates Driving Youth Literacy, Bright Futures With 3rd Annual Gala

By Jada Ingleton WI Digital Equity Fellow

Compassion, philanthropy, and a familial presence among scholastic advocates, lit up Alabama Avenue SE at the Third Annual Sylvia Ruth Foundation Gala on Saturday, March 22. The celebratory tradition commemorates and fuels a generational mission to mold young minds and forge paths for underserved communities in youth literacy and education, particularly first graders east of the river.

“Our students, they’re really concerned about just survival, and when they’re faced with so much trauma and so [many] differences in life, their opportunities are shortened. But the opportunity of having a book, [a] colorful book with pages that they can sit and read [is powerful],” said Dr. Chunita Pilgrim, principal of Burrville Elementary School, on Saturday. “A book, just as tangible as that.”

Hosted annually at St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church, the Sylvia Ruth Foundation event featured a dinner, live auction and family-style night of fun that demonstrated the instrumental village it takes to raise, or in this case, propel a child forward.

The glamorous evening welcomed guests donned in formal attire, coupled with the right sneakers to set the auction off and celebrate all night long.

However the event was more than a party. Guests were filled with the deep-rooted spirit to uplift Black scholarship in remembrance of the visionary that brought the foundation to its fru-

ition: late education activist Sylvia Ruth, who died at age 81 in 2021.

“[Sylvia Ruth] believed wholeheartedly that every Black child had a great potential, and she really wanted to make sure that they had whatever resources they needed in order to go to college and beyond,” said Stephanie Byrd, daughter of the foundation’s namesake and a member of the board.

PAVING THE WAY FOR A CHILD’S LOVE TO READ

With the support of community members and education leaders, the Sylvia Ruth Foundation has continuously soared to higher heights since its founding in 2021.

The organization partners with elementary schools to build in-class libraries and offers financial aid to Howard University students, where Ruth formerly attended and worked.

Sylvia Ruth Foundation has been fueled in the mission to end disenfranchisement and generational poverty for African Americans across the board, with a particular focus on establishing a healthy relationship with reading for first graders.

Many educators, including Principal Jaimme Trahan of Neval Thomas Elementary School in Northeast, D.C., stressed that first grade is the vital stage to introduce those literacy values.

“First grade is that first year where you really get exposed to rich text and the ideas that you would be learning to love reading,” said Trahan in an introduction video presented at the gala. “When you become solid in first grade as

a reader, it can change your life in schools.”

The Sylvia Ruth Foundation has personally spearheaded the call to increase avid readers in Wards 7 and 8, establishing six first grade classroom libraries within its first three years, including at the Neval Thomas and Burrville elementary schools located in Ward 7.

Burrville Elementary – or as Pilgrim likes to call it, “the Ville on the Hill” – is the most recent adoption of the foundation, officially opening two first grade classroom libraries, each supplied with more than 300 books, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Northeastern school on March 21.

“The joy on their faces,” Pilgrim said with a smile, “it was remarkable to see.”

As principal, Pilgrim shared some of the realities of serving in a historically underfunded subdivision like Ward 7, reiterating the means of survival that’s apparent for both students and educators alike.

According to the principal, more than 99% of the students at Burville qualify for free or reduced lunch, and the school holds a high population of Title I students, which refers to a student from a low-income family who attends an elementary school receiving additional federal funding under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA).

“My budget is limited, as many of you may know, so the opportunity for me to buy classroom li-

braries for all of my students, that’s not possible–but this foundation made it possible,” Pilgrim shared with the room on March 22.

FURTHERING A LIFELONG COMMITMENT TO SERVE YOUTH

During the celebration, the communal live auction acted as leverage to further some of the initiatives prompted by the foundation.

Guests bid on luxurious Maryland getaways such as a week long vacation to Ocean City and a one-night stay at the Hyatt Place Baltimore Inner Harbor, plus a few personal items like a bottle of Moonshine liquor, and Black art, including an imagined portrait of Nelson Mandela, Barack Obama, Malcolm X, and the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

As board member Mary Warren joked to the eager bidders: “You got your tennis shoes on, you can run,” she also added that all donations would go towards equipping the classroom libraries with essentials like bean bag chairs and Sylvia Ruth Foundation custom rugs.

Moreover, Byrd told The Informer that the fundraiser would help enhance another pivotal initiative of the organization – opening up student college funds.

Thus far, she proudly announced, the non-profit has already opened up five college savings funds for three infants and two first grade students.

“Talking to parents who are disenfranchised, parents who are surviving, when you say college to them, they go, ‘Oh no, my child’s not going to college.’ And so that child hears that, especially in first grade…it becomes an uphill battle,” Byrd, principal at Payne Elementary in Northeast, explained. “But for a child to hear you have a college savings fund early on, it just sets the bar.”

Pilgrim applauds the Sylvia Ruth Foundation’s unwavering commitment to the advancement and generational wealth of Black youth, adding she is “proud to partner” in the legacy of Ruth and the founding board’s vision.

As educators remain adamant to uphold the values of education and literacy improvement, the Burville principal encourages community members to continue the campaign for underserved youth, especially east of the river.

“We are in schools and we push literacy, push reading, but if they are modeling that as well at home–having students [be] a part of reading directions…having the students more involved in what they see, little things that’s consistent will make the difference,” Pilgrim told The Informer. “If we can get the community involved that way, I think it would strengthen literacy. It would show that we’re valuing literacy, and that’s what I would love to see more of in Wards 7 and 8.”

WI

5 Sylvia Ruth Foundation founding board members Mary Warren, Stephanie Byrd (Sylvia Ruth’s daughter), and Beverly Lathan (far right) pose with Ward 7 partner Principal Dr. Chunita Pilgrim at the 3rd Annual Sylvia Ruth Foundation Gala on March 22. (Jada Ingleton/The Washington Informer)

‘Blossom Kicks for Kids’ Sparks Creativity among D.C. Students

By Demarco Rush WI Contributing Writer

The National Cherry Blossom Festival held its second annual ‘Blossom Kicks for Kids’ exhibit, featuring shoes designed by students throughout District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) on Wednesday, March 19 at Gallery Space at Gallery Place in Downtown, D.C.

The shoes were provided by Downtown Locker Room (DTLR) for students to showcase their creativity.

Diana Mayhew, President and CEO of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, was ecstatic about the designs the students had come up with.

“I’m so proud to be here today,” Mayhew told The Informer. “We have here on display 63 pairs of beautifully designed Nike Air Force 1’s by D.C. students from middle to high school.”

HYLTON from Page 23

that came out of it, there really was no cover up.”

The Informer recently filed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request for MPD internal affairs investigation.

Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Brendi Bluitt counts among those who continue to question the findings of MPD’s internal investigation into Sutton and Zabavsky’s actions on the night of Oct. 23, 2020.

“To say there was no cover up or obstruction of justice when a jury found it was the case sows seeds of doubt and mistrust in the system,” said Bluitt, who’s in her first term as commissioner for Single-Member District 4D03. “I don’t understand how the internal investigation could’ve found there was no cover up or obstruction of justice when the opposite part was found during the trial.”

On March 18, Advisory Neighborhood Commission 4D approved a resolution that Bluitt, along with ANC 4D Chair Jenn Kauffman and Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Abel Amene drafted. They are demanding: Sutton and Zabavsky’s

Designs ranged from superhero themed to never-before-seen styles.

One student, Elizabeth M. from Alice Deal Middle School, paid homage to the festival by creating cherry blossom tree themed shoes.

For Elizabeth, working on the design awakened an interest in the fashion field.

“I feel like I definitely would design something in the future. Not necessarily shoes but like shirts or pretty much everything,” she told the Informer.

Nickoy Boswell, student at Charles Hart Middle School, echoed those sentiments.

“It was something new and I liked it and I wish that I can do this in the future,” said Nickoy.

Crystal Boswell, Nickoy’s mother, was thrilled DCPS gave students this outlet to create.

“I thought it was a great opportunity for the school to bring this to the kids,” she told The Informer.

termination, clarification on the training and discipline that officers receive in violation of vehicular pursuit protocols, and data about MPD Fourth District’s vehicular pursuits and use of force during the last calendar year and the first quarter of 2025.

Bluitt, who also submitted testimony to the March 11 Committee of the Public Safety and Judiciary meeting, called the resolution part of an effort to boost MPD transparency.

“Residents are warranted in their concern that these officers are patrolling the Fourth District, and we have no clarity of whether they will be serving here or in another area, in public-facing roles or desk roles,” Bluitt said.

Time’s of the essence, she said.

“It’s unfortunate that we’re at this point,” Bluitt told The Informer. “A community, a mother, a family is hurting. The longer these officers sit with MPD, and the longer it takes for justice to be served, it’s going to continue causing pain and hurt.”

WI Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

The festival’s initiative was created to “bridge art, fashion and community engagement.”

Lloyd Ferguson, DMV native who goes by the artist name of “Swaggy Picasso,” worked with Events DC to help finalize the students’ shoes. Ferguson, who has helped custom-design sneakers for many professional athletes including Golden

State Warriors Point Guard Stephen Curry, was proud of the work that went into the event.

“I wanted to help kids bring their vision to life. Lots of work has went into this. We’ve had to prep [the shoes], tape them, clean them up and make them look nice,” Ferguson explained. “It was hard work but I loved it.”

His colleague, David Zambrano, who owns custom sneaker business Dez Customz, emphasized the importance of creativity for District youth.

“D.C. and creativity go hand in hand,” said Zambrano. “I think any opportunity you have to allow a child to be creative it’s extremely important, it could change their life.” WI

5 Students across District of Columbia Public Schools debuted fresh sneakers at the second annual ‘Blossom Kicks for Kids,’ featuring shoes like these Cherry Blossom themed kicks designed by Elizabeth from Alice Deal Middle School. (Demarco Rush/The Washington Informer)

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Trump Cult Seeks Creative Ways to Honor Him

We Must Confront Unprecedented Efforts to Memorialize a Living American President

As his staunch MAGA base and some GOP leaders work to memorialize President Donald Trump—despite his history of racism and hate-filled rhetoric— civil rights and equity advocates must work to push back against the executive orders threatening American democracy and some of the nation’s most vulnerable citizens.

“Elon Musk, Donald Trump and the other members of the current MAGA Government are all dangers to democracy,” social media user John Stoddard wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. “Voting for Trump in the U.S. presidential election was a big mistake which will affect the whole world, not just the USA.”

In just over two months in office, Trump has eliminated federal diversity, equity and inclusion programming, increased tariffs, threatened revoking funding for institutions teaching aspects of Black history, and with the Department of Government Efficiency, under the direction of Elon Musk, terminated or furloughed thousands of federal workers around the nation.

Despite such challenges, weeks ago, Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC) announced plans to honor President Donald Trump by adding his portrait to the $250 bill, which is presently not in American currency.

“I’m grateful to announce that I am drafting legislation to direct the Bureau

of Engraving and Printing to design a $250 featuring Donald J. Trump,” Wilson wrote on X. “Biden inflation has destroyed the economy, forcing American families to carry more cash. Most valuable bill for the most valuable president.”

Wilson, who famously yelled: “You lie” as President Obama addressed a joint session of Congress in 2009, hopes that Trump will sign his legislation into law on or before July 4, 2026, the day the United States will celebrate its 250th anniversary.

Presently, four American presidents appear on American currency: George Washington on the $1 bill, Thomas Jefferson on the $2 bill, Andrew Jackson on the $20 bill, and Ulysses Grant on the $50 bill.

Although Alexander Hamilton and Ben Franklin were not presidents, they appear on the $10 and $100 bills, respectively.

It is important to note that since 1866, the law has forbidden the depiction of any living person on American currency notes, bonds, or securities.

Further, there are many deserving, barrier-breaking Americans who have yet to appear on currency.

In 2016 the Obama Administration announced plans to replace Jackson on the $20 bill with the 19th-century abolitionist Harriet Tubman, who died in 1913. However, during his

first administration, Trump canceled plans for Tubman’s likeness to replace Jackson’s, declaring the proposed new currency “pure political correctness.”

Although Trump knocked down commemorating a great American and Civil War hero, Wilson’s legislation is among several initiatives from the president’s MAGA supporters to honor his likeness while he’s still living. One member of Congress has suggested designating the president’s birthday as a federal holiday. Two others have introduced bills to rename Dulles Airport in his honor and to add his likeness to Mount Rushmore.

“This is exactly what the American Revolution was fought to prevent,” Princeton University Professor Sean Wilentz said in an interview with Politico, “[efftots] to transform a sitting president into a kind of deified individual.”

With such plans proposed and racially and socially regressive executive orders already in place, we all have a duty and obligation to stay vigilant as Trump implements MAGA rule on the government. So many people, including many who voted for him, are already feeling the pain of his rule. Despite his pleas against it, it’s up to every American to stay “woke” to the president and GOP’s plans, in order to combat injustices and threats to democracy. WI

Dismantling the Department of Education Leaves the Futures of Vulnerable Children Without Essential Oversight and a Consistent Plan

According to a new poll conducted by Data for Progress, a progressive think tank and advocacy group, the majority of likely voters oppose the president’s decision to abolish the U.S. Department of Education (ED) by executive order.

Sixty-one percent of survey respondents “somewhat” or “strongly” opposed the idea of eliminating the department, with 70% of likely voters who attended college opposing the plan.

But negative poll percentages have not stopped the president from moving forward as he clings to the notion – one which cannot be verified – that the federal bureaucracy is the barrier and reason

why children aren’t learning more. If the answer to improving test results and the academic achievement of children rests with transferring educational goals and curriculum into the hands of states, we fear that a lot of children will be left out in the cold without advocates who can ensure that no child is left behind.

Congresswoman Alma S. Adams (D-N.C.), a ranking member of the House Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workplace Safety and a former teacher of 40 years, says dismantling the department would take billions away from the futures of more than 26 million students nationwide.

“It is cruel just for the sake of it and targets our most vulnerable children – students with disabilities who rely on the ED for special programming and funding,” Adams said. “Hungry kids use ED funds for free school lunches, oftentimes their only reliable meal throughout the day. Low-income students use their schooling to build a better life for themselves.”

Perhaps our children would be better served if, before dismantling the Department of Education, the president and members of Congress look at those states who are making progress on meeting or exceeding reading and math score goals and explore how they’re doing it.

TO THE EDITOR

I sincerely hope that the furloughed government workers get some reprieve from this tyrant administration. I appreciate Eleanor Holmes Norton’s work in helping reinstate their jobs and careers.

Heidi Johnson Washington, D.C.

Eliminating any national direction, guidance and plan and turning things over to the states sounds like an easy way to surrender, and there’s too much at stake to wave the white flag without carefully considering the impact.

Logically, one might expect that there will be significant differences in the methods used to educate children from one state to another. But without federal oversight in play, who will call state leaders on the carpet when vulnerable children are not given the resources they require or which they’re entitled to receive?

Educating youth is a monumental task but it’s the key to the future of our nation. To politicize the pro-

Congratulations to Abigail, the Prince George’s County Spelling Bee winner! I’m wishing her the best in her journey as she advances to the national bee!

Robb Perkins Laurel, Md.

cess by which we educate our children is more than absurd, it’s reckless. Even more, it paves the way for a wider difference between the opportunities that exist for children who come from financially secure environments versus those who are living in poverty.

Without standards in place that all states must follow, the belief that education is the most effective and efficient means of leveling the playing field in America will be nothing but a pipe dream.

Let’s pull up our sleeves, stop pointing fingers and work together. We can solve this problem. We can improve public education. Our children deserve as much.

WI

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS

Guest Columnist

Charlene Crowell

Plans to Shutter Education Department Add to Financial Aid Confusion

facing a front-line assault.

The chaos and confusion resulting from systemic changes and closures at multiple federal agencies have now reached the $242 billion budget of the Department of Education. With the agency’s workforce cut in half, and plans announced to shut it down, millions of students and families who rely on federal financial aid for higher education are

State attorneys general in 20 states and the District of Columbia filed a lawsuit challenging the agency’s gutting. According to the AGs, the department is a congressionally authorized executive agency with laws creating its various programs and funding streams. As such, the executive branch lacks the legal authority to unilaterally incapacitate or dismantle it without an act of Congress.

“The administration’s lay-off is so massive that ED will be incapacitat-

ed and unable to perform essential functions,” said Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown. “As the lawsuit asserts, the administration’s actions will deprive students with special needs of critical resources and support. They will gut ED’s Office of Civil Rights, which protects students from discrimination and sexual assault. They would additionally hamstring the processing of financial aid, raising costs for college and university students who will have a harder time accessing loans, Pell Grants,

Marc H. Morial

and work study programs.”

“This administration may claim to be stopping waste and fraud, but it is clear that their only mission is to take away the necessary services, resources, and funding that students and their families need,” said New York Attorney General Letitia James.

While it is encouraging for state attorneys general to file legal challenges against administration actions, and education advocates to raise their voices and influence to thwart these changes, every day

Killing the MBDA Won’t Just Cripple Black Businesses — It’ll Weaken America

“We must also provide an expanded opportunity to participate in the free enterprise system at all levels — not only to share the economic benefits of the free enterprise system more broadly, but also to encourage pride, dignity, and a sense of independence. In order to do this, we need to remove commercial obstacles which have too often stood in the way of

I applaud coach Leonard Hamilton’s decision to resign at the end of this season. The time has come when the most successful men’s head basketball coach in Florida State University history must give his full attention to seek God’s guidance for the next exciting chapter in his life. Many of us know about his

minority group members — obstacles such as the unavailability of credit, insurance, and technical assistance. Involvement in business has always been a major route toward participation in the mainstream of American life. Our aim is to open that route to potentially successful persons who have not had access to it before.”

—

President Richard M. Nixon

The Trump administration’s efforts to rewrite American history under the guise of fighting a

mythical “anti-white” racism took a dangerous turn this week as the White House issued an executive order effectively gutting the Minority Business Development Agency.

Since President Nixon established it over 50 years ago, the MBDA has provided government financing and contracting opportunities that have fueled the growth of minority-owned businesses and strengthened our communities.

The National Urban League

waged a decade-long fight to elevate the MBDA to a statutory agency because its role in driving economic equity and closing the racial wealth gap is irreplaceable.

In fiscal year 2023 alone, the agency facilitated $1.2 billion in capital, secured $1.6 billion in contracts, and generated or saved more than 14,000 jobs.

Dismantling the MBDA is the latest example of right-wing extremists rolling back hard-won civil rights victories that have helped level the economic playing field.

that passes without direct relief makes borrowers’ financial challenges harder and more difficult to resolve.

For example, even before legislation was enacted to avert a government shutdown in March, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) predicted the popular Pell Grant program that over six million students rely upon faced a $2.7 billion funding shortfall this year. Pell Grants, the single largest

Under the pretense of race neutrality, they are actively working to erase policies that acknowledge and address systemic disparities.

In March 2024, a federal judge in Texas appointed by Donald Trump ruled in favor of a lawsuit brought by white entrepreneurs, arguing that the MBDA’s mission of supporting minority business owners amounted to unconstitutional racial discrimination. While the judge acknowledged that racial

unprecedented and unparalleled accomplishments, accolades, and achievements on the basketball court. He is lauded by FSU’s president and athletic director for his 23 years of distinguished service. He broke the color barrier at the University of Tennessee-Martin by being the first Black player and in the Southeastern Conference by being the first Black assistant coach.

Most of us already know about his history-making dynasty — his record of graduating 97% of

his players, his six times being named national Coach of the Year by various organizations and his being the fifth-winningest coach in the Atlantic Coast Conference — so let me talk about the spiritual strength and substance of coach Leonard Hamilton.

As his pastor for 20-plus years, I know Coach Hamilton to be a man of God and a friend of God. Coach Hamilton is a faithful, forthright, and family man. His contributions to his church, the

body of Christ, this community, and this country are impressive, impeccable and inspirational.

Coach Hamilton has been a good friend, role model, and trusted adviser. He has given much of his invaluable time by singing in the men’s special choir, encouraging young church members to pursue their goals, speaking at retirement celebrations for members, and supporting foreign mission programs, community empowerment initiatives, and other special ministries.

Coach Hamilton is in several basketball halls of fame, but most importantly, he is a hall of fame for his character, compassion, and commitment to moral integrity and excellence. He has successfully mentored, motivated, molded, and forever made an incredible impact on the lives of young student athletes. These men are a powerful testimony to his greatness. He was called by God to a

Rev. Dr. RB Holmes Jr.

Guest Columnist

Guest Columnist

Now That Things Are Crystal Clear!

Not so long ago, nearly everybody except 92% of Black women pretended they didn’t know what Project 25 was. They did that all the way up to Election Day while listening to what the “would-be king” was clearly saying. Make no mistake, he told us over and over again.

Even normally sensible white women on the subject of women’s

rights, Hispanics who thought they were more privileged than Black people and some members of our own families voted for him anyway. Don’t say we didn’t try to tell you where this administration was going — and his direction included all of us — even the young people who voted for him anyway while we prepared for the disaster.

You no longer have to wonder where Trump is headed. He’s demonstrated who he is and who he cares about. That would be himself first, and not even about his like-minded

The Resistance Begins

attacks on our most vulnerable communities. But we have also seen something else — something more powerful than fear, more resilient than oppression.

The time for despair is over. The time for action is now.

We quickly saw what this administration is willing to do. We have watched as the foundation of our democracy is chipped away, as families are torn apart, and as justice is twisted into something unrecognizable. We have seen the pardons, the policies, and the

An Idaho middle school teacher recently made headlines for refusing to take down a classroom poster she said she was told was “controversial” and “an opinion.” The poster shows a drawing of hands in many different skin tones, each with a red heart in the center. The controversial opinion written at the top? “Everyone Is

We have seen resistance. Resistance is not just a word; it is a call to action. It is refusing to accept injustice as the status quo. It is the courage to fight back even when the odds are stacked against us. And make no mistake — this fight is not just about politics. This is about survival. This is about ensuring that our children inherit a

people chosen to be in his Cabinet to carry out his dirty work. (I know Scott and Donalds are glad he didn’t choose them! But for the fact their skin is Black, he might have! Ha! Ha!) Now look at his choices for education, health care and earned benefits like Social Security, and veterans care for those who worked to save even people like him and those who dodged the part about being a soldier to keep the country safe that he’s now tearing down.

Those who voted for Trump because he was a “strongman” should

now know what he meant. The word has different meanings, but they should have listened to his niece and nephew who long ago told us how Trump treated his own family, telling us about his nephew’s son to “let him die” and refusing to help! His niece, Dr. Mary Trump, was out early trying to help us understand who this man really is — but too many didn’t listen.

I don’t know where you were when Vice President Kamala Harris was allowing you to see who he is during debates — that were no contest.

Alongside her, he didn’t even get off the ground. She was so far ahead of him in intelligence and accomplishments! She would never have relied on Vladimir Putin to honor his promise to stop the Russians from bombing the innocent people of Ukraine. I will just bet you thought the “would-be king” was so powerful he could have pulled that challenge off about ending that war the day he was president! Now you see how the Ukrainians are still bravely holding

Page 50

country where democracy, equality and justice are not just empty promises but lived realities. So, what must we do?

MOBILIZE AT EVERY LEVEL

Change does not start at the top. It starts in our neighborhoods, our schools and our local governments. If we want to push back, we must organize. We must show up — to city council meetings, to school board elections, to state legisla-

tures. We must make our voices heard in the places where policies take shape. Grassroots movements have always been the backbone of progress. Now, more than ever, we must use our collective power to demand change.

VOTE LIKE OUR LIVES DEPEND

ON IT — BECAUSE THEY DO Elections have consequences. The last election proved that beyond a doubt. Now, every single

race matters — local, state and national. We cannot afford to sit this out. We cannot afford to think our votes don’t count. Voter suppression efforts are ramping up, targeting marginalized communities with surgical precision. That means we must be relentless in making sure every eligible voter is registered, informed and ready to cast their ballot. We must protect our right to vote as fiercely as we protect our families, because, in

Welcome Here.”

Sarah Inama, a sixth-grade world civilization teacher at Lewis and Clark Middle School in the West Ada School District, said in interviews that she first hung that poster when she began working at the school several years ago, but was asked by the principal to take it down in January because only “content neutral” signs should be in the classroom. She said she was later told by the school district’s chief academic officer that because of changes in the polit-

ical environment, “what might be controversial now might not have been controversial three, six, nine months ago, and we have to follow that,” and was told that her poster qualified as a personal opinion, which was not permitted for classroom signs, because “not everyone believes everyone is welcome here.” After thinking about it over a weekend, she said she came to this conclusion: “There are only two opinions on this sign: Everyone is welcome here or not everyone is welcome here.”

She felt she had to stand up for the one she wanted her students to believe.

Ms. Inama said she was also asked to take down a second poster that had been hanging in her classroom featuring bars in the colors of the rainbow with these words in block letters: “In this room everyone is welcome/ important/accepted/respected/ encouraged/valued/equal.” She is now involved in an ongoing dispute with the district, but says she has received hundreds of messag-

es from supporters ranging from people within her community to strangers from as far away as South Africa and New Zealand. A local company is making T-shirts featuring the image and message on the “Everyone Is Welcome Here” poster for a campaign started by families and students in the district who are planning to wear them on the day they return to school from spring break. Ms. Inama told a local reporter that

WILLIAMS

Rep. Ron Reynolds

Marian Wright Edelman

Guest Columnist

E. Faye Williams

LIFESTYLE

Things To Do, DMV!

By Tait Manning WI Intern

As March comes to a close, this week is full of opportunities to welcome the start of spring and kick off cherry blossom season.

From Planet Word’s Cherry Blossom Wishing Tree to a spring cleaning event for cars, check out a handful of the many events happening to keep your spirit – and social life – lit.

To keep up with all the fun, don’t forget to check out the Washing-

OLIVIER AWARD WINNER

ton Informer Calendar to stay upto-date on DMV happenings year round.

THURSDAY, MARCH 27

Read the Room 7:30 p.m. | $10.00

DC Improv, 1140 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, D.C., 20036

Some stand-ups really know how to work a room, particularly with crowd work, the art of chatting with the audience when on stage. When

SLEEPOVA

BY Matilda Feyis . ayo . Ibini

DIRECTED BY Paige Hernandez

Panelists will explore the complexities of identity, belonging and race through the lens of the Black immigrant experience. (Courtesy Photo)

done right, it creates a conversational atmosphere–sometimes building a bridge to a comedian’s best jokes, and sometimes leading to totally unscripted, in-the-moment laughs.

In the DMV, Tim Miller is one of the best at crowd work. At “Read the Room,” he hosts a lineup of local talents doing a mix of crowd work and material.

Chadwick A. Boseman’s “Deep Azure” Takes the Stage at Howard Theatre

for Iftar or simply donating to the cause, this support helps provide hope and care where it’s needed.

SATURDAY, MARCH 29

BLACK IN AMERICA AND BRITAIN: IMMIGRANT NARRATIVES

5 p.m. - 6 p.m. | $10.00 Olney Theatre Center, 2001 Olney Sandy Spring Road, Olney, MD, 20832

care. Enter Roda, here to help take on the season with the ultimate spring tune-up experience at their Allergic to Car Care pop-up.

Join Roda at Union Market for a hands-on car care event designed to help drivers shake off the season’s sneezes and keep their vehicles running smoothly. Guests can enjoy: free car care, a build-your-own allergy survival kit and a live DJ.

7:30 p.m. | $750.00

The Howard Theatre, 620 T Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20001

The Historic Howard Theatre will come alive with the power of storytelling as a one-night-only staged reading of “Deep Azure,” the poignant and lyrical work written by the late Chadwick A. Boseman, takes the stage.

The play tells the story of a young Black woman with an eating disorder in the wake of her fiancé’s death.

This also serves as a benefit event to raise funds for the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts at Howard University.

FRIDAY, MARCH 28

Iftar for Palestine

7 p.m. - 10 p.m. | $75.00+

Detour Coffee, 946 North Jackson Street, Arlington, VA, 22201

Join Detour Coffee for its fourth annual Iftar for Palestine. This special evening is about coming together as a community to support children in need in Palestine, with 100% of proceeds going directly to aid efforts.

The event will include an authentic Palestinian Iftar meal.

Whether participants are joining

“Sleepova,” written by Nigerian British playwright Matilda Feyisayo Ibini, centers the story of four British girls originating from different communities in the African diaspora.

In a discussion, panelists will explore the complexities of identity, belonging and race through the lens of the Black immigrant experience. The conversation will unpack the distinct challenges faced by African immigrants to the U.S. and Black immigrants to the UK, and how these intersect with the experiences of native-born African Americans and British-born Black people.

Moderated by Dean Stephanie Shonekan, this conversation will not only deepen our understanding of the play’s themes but also fosters a greater appreciation for the diversity within the global Black experience.

Allergic to Car Care?

10 a.m. - 2 p.m. | Free Union Market, 1309 5th Street NE, Washington, D.C., 20002

As cherry blossoms bloom, DMV residents get a little teary-eyed at the sight—of pollen blanketing their cars.

If the thought of vehicle maintenance evokes a sneeze, itch and cough, it might be an allergy to car

SUNDAY, MARCH 30

Cherry Blossom Wishing Tree

10 a.m. | Free Planet Word, 925 13th Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20005

Drop by Planet Word to celebrate peak bloom of Washington, D.C.’s famous cherry blossoms.

Write a haiku or a wish on a paper cherry blossom and attach it to the branches of their mini cherry blossom trees. Over time, decorate the trees with blossoms just like the ones at the Tidal Basin!

Women of Courage

Awards Gala & Fundraiser

7 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. | $175.00

The National Press Club, 529 14th St NW, Washington, D.C., 20045

Join The Emmett Till Legacy Foundation for the 2025 Women of Courage Awards Gala and Fundraiser. This event celebrates women who exemplify the strength, resilience, and courage of Mamie Till Mobley, the mother of Emmett Louis Till.

These 18 remarkable women have demonstrated the ability to transform tragedy into “a lasting legacy of courage and hope” and inspire others through their extraordinary actions. WI

5 Join Olney Theatre Center on Saturday, March 29 for a panel discussing “Sleepova,” a play centering the story of four British girls originating from different African diaspora.

LIFESTYLE

Washington Performing Arts Gala Celebrates Unifying Power of the Arts

By Micha Green WI Managing Editor

As the nation grapples with political division, federal office closures, thousands of employees furloughed, and the eradication of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programming, Washington Performing Arts (WPA) highlighted the arts as a unifying force for positive change.

During the organization’s annual gala on March 22 at Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library in Northwest, D.C., WPA not only showcased local artists, but emphasized the arts as a means of combating challenges.

“Now, more than ever, it is so important that we support the things that bring meaning and beauty to our lives. So tonight is a bold and bright celebration of community, arts education, partnership, and performance,” said Karin “Kari” Paludan, a local soprano and teaching artist who served as the evening’s emcee.

With the theme “Make it Happen Together,” guests, donning

bright, bold and joyful attire, were reminded of the beauty of local arts and breadth of WPA’s work and programming.

“Together we have weathered the recession, the pandemic and political ups and downs,” she said, before adding the work WPA has done celebrates diversity, emphasizes equity, and is incredibly inclusive.

Throughout the evening, artists, students, and guest speakers offered testimonies about WPA’s, hands-on arts education initiatives, including masterclasses and the Let’s Go-Go Initiative, and 50 years of the Embassy Adoption Program.

Jenny Bilfield, Washington Performing Arts president and CEO, underscored WPA’s hopes and ultimate mission.

“We want our performances and programs to be unforgettable and impactful,” she declared. “We provide a platform for artists to do their best and bravest work, and we want our audience and participants to feel uplifted and inspired.” WI

LEADERSHIP HONOR AWARDS

5A young man sings a solo during Washington Performing Arts (WPA) Children of the Gospel Choir’s electrifying performance on March 22 at the WPA annual gala, held at Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library in Northwest, D.C. (Micha Green/The Washington Informer)

Portraits by Keith Tate

Dr. Justine Love Hosted by

Ali Jones Payton DeVaughn Richards Sugar Bear

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Community Support Helps Prince George’s Neema Dance Collective Become Largest Woman-Owned Dance space in the County

By D. Kevin McNeir WI Contributing Writer

As an accomplished dancer, choreographer and entrepreneur, Grace Johnson-Wright, founder and artistic director of Neema Dance Collective, has already run a dance studio housed in several locations and grown a student body of about 10 children to nearly 300 students.

Determined to reach a new plateau for her dance studio, and reach and teach more Black youth, Johnson-Wright recently acquired a 16,000 square feet facility in the Ritchie Station Marketplace, becoming the largest Black-owned and woman-owned dance space in Prince George’s County.

While the new space is a milestone, Johnson-Wright told The Inform-

er that this comes after years of hard work.

“The final batch of paperwork has been under review and moving us toward this day since last November but in my head, it has been a two-year project, process and dream,” she said. “The biggest hurdle we had to overcome was securing capital and funding, which is particularly difficult for those of us in the arts.”

Johnson-Wright added that many banks and other financial institutions often consider businesses like hers to be poor investments. In fact, those who she approached found it hard to believe that hers was a profitable enterprise.

“They were shocked that we had been able to grow from 10 students to more than 400 in just eight years,” she said. “But after they heard the outcry of support from leaders, parents and others from across the county and looked at the impact we’ve had and continue to have on Black youth, they finally approved my request for the capital I needed to grow the business.”

Under her guidance, many of her former students have gone on to secure spots in some of the nation’s most prestigious programs, from The Ailey School and Debbie Allen Dance Academy, to even landing roles on BET and Netflix.

For Johnson-Wright, it’s nothing less than what she has always believed about the possibilities that the Neema Dance Collective and its alumni could achieve.

“Working with positive-minded people, and that includes both our staff and the parents who send their children to us, has been the key to our success,” she explained. “We are more than a studio – we have become a cultural hub that provides training, childcare, and creative outlets for the next generation of dancers in the DMV. Even more important for me is how we have garnered the trust of the Black community who have thrown their full support behind us.”

HARD WORK PAYS OFF IN SPADES

Neema Dance Collective currently has multiple locations, including Temple Hills, District Heights, and the state of Georgia. The studio offers over

25 dance styles and accepts students who are as young as 18 months of age.

Johnson-Wright attributes her success to the support of her family, the extensive training she has received as a dancer, choreographer, and studio owner and the 28 years of dance experience she has under her belt.

Starting at the age of 4, Johnson-Wright studied at Suitland High School’s Visual Performing Arts Dance Program, The Christian Dance Academy, Dance Theater of Harlem, The Ailey School Summer Intensive Program, the Debbie Allen Dance Academy, Maryland Youth Ballet, The Washington Ballet and the Greensboro Ballet.

Along the way, she mastered various genres of dance: ballet, tap, jazz, folk, African, Hawaiian, modern, Horton Technique, ballroom, and hip-hop with certifications in the Cecchetti method.

She continues to give back to R&B artists located throughout the Greater Washington Area as well as several church-based dance ministries.

“I know what it means to combine a mixture of training, a good, competitive product, and a layering of services and the results one can achieve when students are supported and guided by such a portfolio, and that’s what we offer at Neema Dance Collective,” she said. “We’re excited to be the first of our kind to step into such a large space and we know the pressure is on us to do even greater things. And we already have plans to do just that.”

In the future, Johnson-Wright said

people can expect to see the launch of a gymnastics program geared for Black youth, the opening of a home school initiative, and a before-and-after school program to be included among their offerings over the next year to 18 months.

She’s especially excited about the home school program which she said she’s dreamed about for many years.

“Education is the key and if others don’t want to give Black youth the very best training available, we have to do that ourselves,” she said.

She remembers receiving a valuable less from the late Judith Jamison, former principal dance and artistic director emerita for Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.

“I remember when I was with Alvin Ailey and in New York City, far away from home, wondering if I could make it – if I had what it takes,” she said. “Judith Jamison taught me that I could never afford to become a comfortable dancer.”

Now, the entrepreneur and artist is taking the lessons she learned from Jamison, to empower her students.

“She told me that I had to be willing to push myself, to learn new techniques and to expand upon my strengths. The structure Ailey provided for me helped me to become a better dancer, a better choreographer, and a better woman,” Johnson-Wright told The Informer. “And that’s what I want for our students.”

For more information, email Grace Johnson-Wright at ceo@neemadancecollective.com. WI

5A young dancer from Neema Dance Collective displays her prowess. (Courtesy Photo/ Neema Dance Collective)

Ways to Manage Energy Bills

Submitted by Washington Gas

With colder weather this winter, many households experienced higher energy bills due to the extra effort your heating equipment exerted to maintain a warm and comfortable home. As the temperature increases, it is still a good practice to review your bill to check your therm usage. Therms measure the amount of energy your home used, and they can help explain why your bill is higher in winter compared to warmer months.

It’s important to note that as a regulated utility, Washington Gas does not profit from the sale of natural gas. The price we pay for gas is passed directly to our customers, meaning you pay the same amount for natural gas as Washington Gas pays its suppliers.

FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO HIGHER-THAN-EXPECTED BILLS:

• Colder weather: Lower outdoor temperatures typically drive higher gas usage, sulting in higher bills.

• Number of days in a month: The number of days of usage can vary monthly and from previous years, ranging from 28 to 34 days depending on the month and billing cycle. This variation may impact the usage charge for that month compared to the prior month or year.

• Higher seasonal gas usage: More people in your home during the holidays, school breaks, or spending more time at home can naturally lead to increased usage due to hot showers and cooking.

• Changes to household settings: Adjusting your thermostat, such as raising the temperature setting in the winter or reprogramming hourly settings, can lead to increased usage.

TIPS FOR MANAGING YOUR WASHINGTON GAS BILL:

• Budget Plan: Spread the cost of usage evenly throughout the year to avoid surprises. To enroll, visit: washingtongas.com/budgetbill.

• Energy Efficiency Programs: Implementing energy efficiency measures can help save on energy consumption and future energy bills. Learn more about available programs at wgsmartsavings.com.

• Installment Plan: Washington Gas will work with all eligible customers who cannot pay their gas bill, by entering into an Installment Plan agreement or consent order at the request of the customer. To enroll visit: washingtongas.com/install-plan.

FOR DC RESIDENTS:

• The LIHEAP program assists income-eligible District households with heating and cooling energy costs through bill assistance. As of March 8, 2025, the District Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) is no longer accepting applications for its LIHEAP program due to depleted funds. The next enrollment period starts on October 1, 2025. For more information and updates, visit doee.dc.gov/liheap.

• Residential Essential Services (RES), also known as the Utility Discount Program (UDP) assists residents reduce utility costs through bill discounts. If you use natural gas to heat your home, you may qualify for monthly discounts during the heating season (November 1 to April 30) and a 50% discount on the Customer Charge from May to October. UDP is accepting applications until September 30. Apply online at doee.dc.gov/udp.

For more information on energy assistance and payment programs in the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia, please visit washingtongascares.com.

Dear Neighbors,

We appreciate your continued support as we work to improve infrastructure in the District of Columbia. Currently, construction hours are limited to 9:00 AM–3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, which extends project timelines and increases costs. To enhance efficiency and reduce disruptions, we are seeking approval to adjust work hours to 8:00 AM–5:00 PM. This change could accelerate project completion by up to 42%, possibly by several months, allowing for a smoother process and reinvestment into community improvements. Our team is committed to minimizing inconveniences and ensuring a smooth process.

We encourage you to reach out to your Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) to share your support as your input is valuable in shaping this effort. Washington Gas values and is committed to a continuous improvement process. We are grateful for your patience and look forward to your support. If you have questions regarding any of our pipeline replacement construction processes, please call the PROJECTpipes Hotline at 202-624-6400, email Project_ Pipes@washgas.com or visit washingtongas.com/projectpipes.

In a conversation moderated by Zina Pierre, economist Julianne Malveaux, Transformative Justice Coalition President Barabara Arnwine, National Council of Negro Womem (NCNW) President Shavon Arline-Bradley and Washington Informer Publisher Denise Rolark Barnes spoke about their work, current challenges facing the Black community and nation, and offered calls to action.

“I want to say hail to the 92%,” said Arnwine, referring to the high level percentage of support that Vice President Kamala Harris received from Black women in her 2024 bid for the presidency. “It was a historic, record turnout with Black women and they were part of the 75 million Americans who said no to Trump.”

The powerhouse panel tabulated the importance of organizationally and strategically resisting setbacks for minorities amid the Trump administration’s elimination of federal diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs, threats to take away funding for teaching Black history, and seize control of the District’s sovereignty.

“The president’s trying to take over the city, trying to get rid of Home Rule,” Barnes said. “We couldn’t vote for President of the United States. We couldn’t even vote for our own elected officials. We had no power. And that’s what they’re trying to return us to today.”

Malveaux’s remarks largely focused on the government’s attempt to strike support services with attacks on labor and subsidies.

“If you look at Project 2025, the part on labor…. believes in the value of work. Therefore, we do not believe in subsidies. So what that means is, we’re going after food stamps, or TANF… or SNAP,” Malveaux said of the current administration’s actions. “You have to work for your Medicaid. If you’ve got Medicaid, you owe them post.”

The federal effort surrounding subsidies comes amid book bans, memos outlawing the teaching of critical race theory and the dismantling of the Department of Education.

“Once you uneducate people, then you own them,” Malveaux continued. “And when you own them and you don’t believe in subsidies, then you can actually take them.”

As the nation navigates challenges, Barnes shared the true work and mission of the Black Press.

“So when people talk about the Black Press being the voice of the

SCHOOL

CHOICE from Page 1 schools managed by more than 60 local education agencies, while D.C. Public Schools (DCPS), an education agency in its own right, has 117 schools under its purview.

overbearing standards that leave students unequipped for life, writing and analysis,” Ambri told The Informer. “It seems without a federal agency to distribute those funds, they’re essentially leaving us to our local funding but we will find where the funding is flowing to and get it for our children and families.”

Black community, I don’t believe that. We aren’t the voice,” she said. “You all are the voices. And it’s our job to amplify those voices. It’s our job to help to communicate and get those voices out, to make sure the stories are being told.”

STATESWOMEN OFFER CALL TO ACTION

At a divisive moment in the nation and challenging time for Black Americans, the leaders offered the large audience calls to action.

“I lead an organization that was created by Mary McLeod Bethune,” said Bradley. “Mary McLeod Bethune was the foremost radical intellectual of her time.She appeared to be non-threatening but she was playing a radical inside-outside game strategy. She was ahead of her time.”

Bradley noted that the agenda of the founding of the NCNW are the same issues that “were present 90 years ago.”

“The NCNW dealt with housing, economic development, education and good health care back then and we are still dealing with those things now,” Bradley said.”It’s been 90 years too long to talk about the same things.”

Bradley said Jesus Christ was the first civil rights icon and noted that while African Americans have faced “the devil,” meaning presidents who didn’t support civil rights or Black aspirations. However, she said the present occupant of the White House was different from the others.

“This devil wants a monarchy,” she said.

Bradley said Black America must have a strategy to deal with the subtle anti-Black rhetoric and actions of the Trump administration, and her ideas consisted of “five Cs:” con-

sumers, constituents, communications, court, and commitment.

“We need a consumer strategy,” she said, noting that if companies don’t want to embrace DEI, then they do not need Black America’s $1.7 trillion spending power,” Bradley said.

“There must be a constituent strategy because so many of the members of the president’s Cabinet are unqualified to lead the agencies they were appointed,” she continued.

The NCNW president then added the need for a court strategy, saying that Black people must legislate and agitate. Next is communications.

“The Black media is our secret weapon,” she said. “It is our Underground Railroad movement.”

A commitment strategy to Black businesses and institutions was also a critical part of necessary action for Bradley.

“We need to support HBCUs,” she said. “HBCUs should never have to worry about funding.”

Malveaux emphasized the importance of collaborating across organizations in order to combat regressive policies and anti-diversity efforts.

“We have agendas. The issue is the mobilization of our people. And we have so many new organizations,” she said. “But the issue is to get all these people to a table.”

Arnwine said those in power in the country presently do not want to share it with people of color and are blunt about that.

“They do not want to see a multi-racial democracy,” said Arnwine. “They are trying to kill it.”

Barnes emphasized the importance of supporting Black people across the African Diaspora. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

For more than a decade, Ambri has served as an instructor in the Sankofa Homeschool Collective. She said her experience in the D.C.-area homeschool community, one of this nation’s largest, allowed her to teach civics, biology, and more recently GED preparation, in a manner most relevant to those whose families are seeking autonomy from a historically racist system.

As Ambri explained to The Informer, her stints with Sankofa Homeschool Collective, Roots Public Charter School in Northwest and Kuumba Learning Center, based in Southeast, have informed her nuanced position on the issue of school choice— which she presented on Instagram shortly after the Trump administration touted the need for public charter schools and vouchered private schools that are accountable to parents.

Ambri said she wants to incite conversation about how parents, especially those from low-income communities, can and should have a voice and more choices for their child’s education.

“Now, do we need more integrity and accountability within those choices? Absolutely. But that doesn’t mean we throw the baby out with the bathwater,” Ambri, founder of I Am Sun Holistic GED Program at Sankofa Homeschool Collective, said. “Public schools should not go away, and neither should public charters or private school vouchers because parents do, in fact, crave choice and need free [education].”

WITHOUT AN EDUCATION DEPARTMENT, A D.C. PARENT CONTINUES TO ORGANIZE FOR POWER

Amid concerns in the 1990s about low-performing public schools, the District became an epicenter of school choice with the launch of the D.C. Public Charter School Board. Less than a decade later, officials upped the ante with the D.C. Opportunity Scholarship Program, through which District families receive government subsidies for a private school education.

Today, D.C. has 134 public charter

Earlier this year, thousands of District families wrapped up the MySchool lottery, a process where students rank their preference for the public or public charter school they will attend during the next academic year. Those who embark on this annual journey have at their disposal a bevy of public schools, public charter schools, and application-based schools. Education experts credit this scenario, in part, for the breakdown in community cohesion, students’ long cross-city commutes, under-enrollment in Ward 7 and 8 D.C. public schools, and, more recently, funding disparities between public schools and public charter schools.

For nearly a decade, DaSean Jones has used his voice as a member of Parents Amplifying Voices in Education D.C. (PAVE DC) to engage the U.S. Department of Education, along with the D.C. Council and local education leaders, in discussions about these and other education issues of significance. While Jones, a father of four from Ward 7, spoke proudly about what he and other PAVE DC organizers have been able to accomplish, he acknowledged the U.S. Department of Education as a critical tool in advancing causes near and dear to his heart.

“As a parent, I’ve learned to stay actively engaged in my child’s education,” Jones said as he explained what the Trump administration wants to accomplish. “From what I read, Trump wants to get rid of liberal ideologies and the protections that people have when it comes to education.”

Jones went on to predict what would become of his comrades’ organizing efforts with the agency no longer in existence.

“It takes away the voice of the people within our city who won’t be governed by a state,” Jones told The Informer. “Building that rapport will be much harder because there are fewer people available to advocate for and serve our kids.”

In his role as a PAVE organizer, Jones has been making the rounds at mayoral budget forums while speaking with parents, agency heads and elected officials about the looming budget deficit. To this day, he continues to express concern about how to sustain early childhood education, which he credits for his children’s academic success at the K-12 and undergraduate levels. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

5Economist Dr. Julianne Malveaux speaking at the Trice Edney News Wire Stateswomen for Justice Luncheon on March 19 at National Press Club in Northwest, Washington. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

FACTS are pieces of information based upon things that can be measured, counted or seen by anyone.

OPINIONS describe how someone feels or thinks about a thing or event. They can vary from person to person.

How Much is a Glob?

Ask friends to tell you how big a glob is. Color one space for each person’s answer to graph the results.

Which of the following measurements are always the same factual amount? Do the math. Ones with even answers are facts. Odd answers are opinions. Cooking with a recipe that uses measurements everyone understands helps to recreate a food dish that tastes similar each time it is cooked.

Food Truck Facts

Heroes on the Go is a popular sandwich food truck. Read what each customer is saying. Circle the statements that are FACTS in GREEN Circle the OPINIONS in RED

Look through today’s newspaper for five facts. List the facts and circle any you think are fun to know. Whether or not the fact is fun would be your opinion.

Food Advertisements

Find one or more ads in the newspaper that advertise food or a restaurant or a business that sells food. Circle any facts in the ads in green. Circle any opinions in the ads in red. Are there more facts or opinions?

Standards Link: Language Arts: Identify facts and opinions.

The owner has another food truck named Cool Wheels that sells smoothies.

chili and soups they There’s a Heroes on the Go

turkey sandwiches are $9.95 each.

Link: Math: Identify standard measurements.

review wi book

“Black

Girls Gardening: Empowering Stories and Garden Wisdom for Healing and Flourishing in Nature”

By Amber Grossman

c.2025, Workman

$22 / 176 pages

Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer

In a way, it’s kind of a little miracle.

You place tiny little seeds in dirt — DIRT! — and you keep it damp. Wait a week or so, and something grows. Wait a bit longer and that something becomes food or flowers to make you smile. It’s pretty miraculous, when you think about it, so think about reading these books about gardening and plants

Nobody ever said you had to have serious acreage in order to garden; in fact, you can grow your own food on a balcony or in a basic back yard. You’ll want to know how to do it right, though, and in “Black Girls Gardening: Empowering Stories and Garden Wisdom for Healing and Flourishing in Nature” by Amber Grossman (Chronicle Books, $26.95), you’ll get a good overview of what starts underground.

Want inspiration? That’s here, in personal essays about gardening and growing food to nourish one’s self, the family, and your community, written by women who have learned and are willing to share their expertise. You’ll also find chapters on keeping your plants happy and flourishing, how to compost, what tools you’ll want for your garden, how to map out what you’re going to grow, and how to take advantage of “companion planting.” Once you’ve got the hang of things, there are chapters on teaching your kids to grow their own food, and how to spread the love in a community or neighborhood garden.

Full of photos that will make you hungry and that’ll make you want to get outside now and put your hands in the dirt, “Black Girls Gardening” is the perfect springtime read. You’ll dream — and you’ll love how those dreams will taste next fall.

But okay, let’s say that, though it’s very tempting and you can’t wait, it’s a little too early to think about gardening. Good news: it’s never too late to think about plants and in “Mythic Plants: Potions and Poisons from the Gardens of the Gods” by Ellen Zachos (Workman, $22), you can mix your love of mythology with your love of all things green.

For the gardener who loves to read about ancient Greek history, beliefs, and practices, this book is a delight. It’s full of quick-to-read, browse-able chapters that explain the origins and cultures associated with various plants, and the ways that ancient folks used everyday plants and weeds in their lives. Zachos tells readers how modern science, laws, and knowledge compares to what the Greeks knew and thought, and how it’s relevant to your garden today.

Best of all, this book presents the tales of plants that aren’t just food — and plants that aren’t safe to have around, either …

So these two books aren’t exactly what you want? You’re in luck: your favorite librarian or bookseller can steer you in the direction of rows and mounds of books on gardening that will fit your unique space and match your geographical area for best results. Grab these two books or any good gardening book, find a comfortable chair, plant yourself in it, and read.

WI

horoscopes

LIFESTYLE

MARCH 27 - APRIL 2, 2025

ARIES Transformative energies accelerate as the Sun illuminates your personal sector, bringing opportunities for self-reinvention and renewal. Professional advancement comes through assertive communication that demonstrates leadership capabilities. Financial strategies benefit from innovative approaches midweek when you trust your instincts about emerging opportunities. Lucky Numbers: 5, 17, 29

TAURUS Foundations strengthen as Venus harmonizes with Saturn, bringing stability to matters requiring patient cultivation. Material resources expand through careful stewardship aligned with your core values rather than external pressures. Creative inspiration flows midweek when connecting with natural environments that activate your sensory appreciation. Professional recognition comes from demonstrating reliability during transitional circumstances. Lucky Numbers: 6, 14, 32

GEMINI Mental clarity sharpens as Mercury activates your intellectual sector, bringing breakthrough solutions to complex situations requiring versatile thinking. Communication channels open with surprising ease, particularly involving previously stalled negotiations. Networking opportunities multiply midweek, introducing you to individuals whose perspectives complement your approach. Lucky Numbers: 3, 21, 33

CANCER Emotional wisdom guides important decisions as the Moon enhances your intuitive faculties, bringing clarity to situations requiring subtle discernment. Family connections strengthen through nurturing gestures that acknowledge unspoken needs. Financial opportunities appear midweek through careful resource management that balances security with necessary growth. Professional advancement comes when allowing natural empathy to inform leadership approaches. Lucky Numbers: 2, 18, 40

LEO Charismatic influence expands as the Sun empowers your expression, bringing recognition from admirers who appreciate your generous spirit. Leadership opportunities emerge through situations showcasing your ability to inspire collective enthusiasm while maintaining focus. Relationship breakthroughs occur midweek through heart-centered exchanges that deepen mutual appreciation. Lucky Numbers: 1, 19, 27

VIRGO Analytical brilliance solves persistent challenges as Mercury enhances your problem-solving abilities, bringing elegant solutions that demonstrate your meticulous attention. Health improvements result from systematic adjustments to daily routines that optimize efficiency. Lucky Numbers: 4, 16, 30

LIBRA Relational harmony deepens as Venus graces your partnership sector, bringing meaningful developments with important connections in both personal and professional spheres. Negotiation skills prove invaluable in situations requiring balanced consideration of competing perspectives. Aesthetic decisions reach satisfying resolutions midweek, particularly involving shared environments where multiple preferences require integration. Lucky Numbers: 8, 15, 36

SCORPIO Transformative insights reveal hidden patterns as Pluto enhances your perceptive abilities, bringing strategic advantages in situations requiring psychological understanding. Research yields valuable discoveries midweek that significantly influence your long-term planning. Healing conversations allow release of past tensions when creating space for authentic expression without judgment. Lucky Numbers: 9, 24, 39

SAGITTARIUS Expansive possibilities emerge as Jupiter amplifies your visionary thinking, bringing exciting opportunities through educational pursuits or philosophical exploration. Travel plans develop favorably, particularly journeys combining adventure with cultural understanding. Publishing opportunities materialize midweek involving subjects that ignite your passionate interest. Lucky Numbers: 7, 25, 43

CAPRICORN Professional momentum builds as Saturn rewards your disciplined efforts, bringing recognition from authority figures who value your performance. Organizational responsibilities highlight your leadership abilities when navigating complex transitions requiring strategic foresight. Resource management skills prove invaluable midweek during circumstances demanding careful allocation. Lucky Numbers: 10, 22, 41

AQUARIUS Innovative approaches gain traction as Uranus activates your forward-thinking abilities, bringing opportunities to implement progressive ideas addressing collective challenges. Technological insights allow you to navigate developments others find disruptive with surprising ease. Friendship networks expand midweek through unusual circumstances connecting you with kindred spirits who share your values. Lucky Numbers: 11, 26, 38

PISCES Intuitive guidance illuminates your path as Neptune enhances your spiritual receptivity, bringing clarity to situations requiring compassionate discernment. Creative inspiration flows abundantly, especially for artistic endeavors expressing emotional nuance. Healing relationships develop midweek through your ability to sense unspoken needs without becoming overwhelmed. Lucky Numbers: 12, 23, 35

SPORTS

Nationals Park Delivers Big in 2025 with Food, Fun, Family Experiences —

Win or Lose

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

The Washington Nationals may not be among the favorites to win the World Series in 2025, but the team is making sure fans still leave Nationals Park as winners. With an expanded lineup of food vendors, exciting off-field entertainment, and new family-friendly features, Nationals Park is leaning into what they can control: the ballpark experience. Nationals Park has built a reputation for exceptional stadium food, even winning awards for its culinary offerings. The team is stepping it up this season, with 11 new local vendors joining over 30 others already in the mix. Visitors can expect bold flavors, global fare, and creative dishes that reflect the D.C. area’s diverse and dynamic food culture.

Among the newcomers is Kam & 46, bringing Hawaiian and Filipino

street food vibes with offerings like tuna tartare and sisig nachos. Taqueria Picoso, run by Mexico City natives, is serving up homestyle tacos and tortas, while Mush caters to plant-based eaters with veggie-forward sandwiches, bowls, and sides.

In addition, Phowheels, one of the original Vietnamese food trucks in the DMV, is now dishing out banh mi, egg rolls, and Vietnamese tacos at Section 140. Fans can also enjoy Lucky Danger, the popular American-Chinese takeout spot from Chef Tim Ma, which offers dumplings, lo mein, and orange chicken bites.

Thirsty fans won’t be disappointed either. Cotton & Reed, a Union Market rum distillery, will mix up tropical cocktails like strawberry daiquiris and dark ‘n’ stormies. Meanwhile, Electric Cool-Aid is offering boozy slushies at multiple locations.

For those with a sweet tooth or craving a quick snack, the stadium’s

new marketplace stands include items from veteran-owned Dog Tag Bakery, flavor-dusted mini-pretzels from Moore Crunch, and Thai-style popcorn from Party Of Popcorn. Roaming the concourse is a Maracas Ice Pops bicycle cart offering refreshing Mexican-style fruit and cream popsicles.

The team chose its new vendors through a “Pitch Your Product” competition, a “Shark Tank”-style event where 23 DMV-based businesses presented their fare to a panel of judges. It’s the second time the Nationals have hosted the competition, the first being in 2015, which led to the debut of popular vendors like Haute Dogs & Fries.

“I love seeing the real D.C. win,” one social media user wrote on X in

a repost about the park’s new food offerings.

ENTERTAINMENT BEYOND THE GAME

While fans are eating well, they’re also being treated to an entertainment schedule worthy of a headliner tour.

The Nationals Postgame Summer Concert Series returns in 2025, allowing fans to enjoy live performances by artists like Nelly, Sam Hunt, Ja Rule, and Ashanti— free with a game ticket.

Concerts begin about 30 minutes after the final out.

Sundays at Nationals Park offer a full slate of activities. Each Sunday home game features Signature Sundays, where two Nationals players

“District Dribble” Invests in the Community through Basketball

By Demarco Rush WI Contributing Writer

As the spring season begins in the District of Columbia, Mon-

umental Sports is motivating students to hit the hardwood, partnering with D.C. Public Schools to offer all students pre-kindergarten through fifth grade a free basketball and t-shirt.

The initiative, “District Dribble,” is set to deliver 29,000 basketballs to 80 public schools throughout D.C., investing in expanding access to youth sports and building healthy, vibrant communities.

“Growing up in Brooklyn, I vividly remember the joy of receiving my first basketball and spending time at the courts in Sunset Park,” said Monumental Sports CEO Ted Leonsis. “It wasn’t just about the game—it was about the sense of community, friendships, and

the life lessons learned through sports.”

Mayor Muriel Bowser, who joined in to help deliver the first batch of balls on Thursday, March 20, echoed his sentiments on the impact of athletics.

“When kids play sports, they gain confidence, build friendships, and develop lifelong skills like teamwork and perseverance,” said Mayor Bowser.

This initiative comes at a time where America has seen a decrease in students playing sports in recent years.

“We know that being the sports capital isn’t just about our professional teams – it’s also about investing in our youth and making sports and recreation more acces-

sible in our city,” she said.

For eight hours on Wednesday, March 19, volunteers participated in a collected effort to inflate 30 balls at each pump, per hour.

Once the balls were ready to go, they were delivered the following day to 300 students at Browne Education Campus in Northeast, D.C.

The program plans to deliver at a rate of five schools per day to ensure students have them for spring break.

“Our organization wants to ensure every child in D.C. has the same opportunity to experience the same benefits, no matter their background or where they live,” emphasized Leonsis. WI

3With an expanded lineup of food vendors, exciting off-field entertainment, and new family-friendly features, Nationals Park is elevating the ballpark experience.

sign autographs for fans atop the dugout. Vouchers, distributed at Section 103 when gates open, are required to participate.

Families can also take part in Story Time at Nationals Park, where kids can read along with a Nationals player and receive a free book.

One of the most beloved traditions continues with Kids Run the Bases. After every Sunday afternoon home game, children ages 4 to 12 are invited to take a lap around the bases.

In 2025, the Nationals are also introducing $5 Tuesdays, with ballpark staples like beers, hot dogs, nachos, pretzels, popcorn, and sodas all priced at just $5. Tickets start at $12, offering fans one of the season’s best deals.

Further, for fans who want to start the party early, live DJs will spin tracks before Thursday and Saturday home games that begin at 4:05 p.m. or later.

During games, the youngest Nationals fans have their own space too. The Nationals Park Kids Zone, located near the Right Field Gate, features a play structure for children 10 and under.

In addition, no trip to Nationals Park would be complete without a photo with the Racing Presidents or the GEICO Gecko, who make appearances during the fifth inning near Section 131.

“We want to win a World Series every year, but we can’t control that,” said Lisa Marie Czop, senior vice president of ballpark operations. “We can make sure people come to D.C. and fall in love with the ballpark, regardless of what’s happening.” WI

(WI File Photo/ John E. De Freitas)

4Monumental Sports looks to expand access to youth sports and build vibrant communities. (Courtesy Photo/Monumental Sports)

CAPTURE the moment

Howard University staff, students and alumni celebrated the Howard University News Service relaunch and podcast preview in Northwest, D.C. on March 21. Hosted at the MET Building on the university’s campus, the program featured a pop-up shop, special guest speakers and an opportunity to socialize and network. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

Women’s History Month-themed meeting that the Anacostia Coordinating Council (ACC) held at Martha’s Table at the Commons in Southeast. After former D.C. Councilmembers Yvette Alexander, Eydie Whittington, and Sandra Allen lit up the room with their trips down memory lane, Martin revealed a plan he touted as “Make D.C. Safe Again.”

“We decided we would charge more gun crimes in federal district court,” Martin told more than 100 Ward 7 and Ward 8 residents on the afternoon of March 25. “In just about two-and-a-half weeks, we’ve charged 18 new cases in federal district court… We’re going to get them off the streets and we’re going to try to make the streets safer.”

Martin then spoke about youth criminal activity, which he said he plans to attack just as vigorously.

“Frankly, when I look at the juvenile problem closely, it looks like our juveniles are being manipulated by a lot of parts of the system,” Martin said, later criticizing Attorney General Brian Schwalb for his approach to youth crime. “Sometimes it’s their people in the community. Sometimes it’s bad breaks that they have in our school systems, but the fact is that we have a problem and we have to be real about that.”

In January, U.S. Attorney Pam Bondi tapped Martin as interim U.S. attorney for the District, despite his lack of prosecutorial experience. He’s since met with Metropolitan Police Chief Pamela Smith, shadowed police officers on patrols throughout the District, and made visits to famous landmarks, including Frederick Douglass’ house in Anacostia.

Martin, an attorney, currently serves as president of a conservative advocacy group named after prominent anti-feminist Phyllis Schlafly. His resume includes a short stint as chief of staff for then-Missouri Gov. Matt Blunt in the mid 2000s and an unsuccessful bid for Missouri’s attorney general seat in 2012. His March 25 visit as interim U.S. attorney general to Martha’s Table at the Commons followed an appearance at Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) Seventh District Headquarters shortly after entering his role.

Martin reportedly will appear before members of MPD’s Citi-

zens Advisory Committee at MPD Third District Headquarters.

In his remarks on Tuesday, Martin delved into other goals, including: staffing his office, filling federal judge vacancies that’ve spurred a backlog of court cases, and stopping the trafficking of illegal guns from the Baltimore and southern states.

“The ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms) assures me… that they can help us go back up the chain and try to cut the supply of guns, but that’s a challenge,” Martin told community members.

“When you talk to the ATF, they do tell you it’s harder than you think, because what you have is a lot of mules…and then when you arrest them for having the guns, they’re not the ones that are the problem.”

WASHINGTONIANS REACT TO MARTIN’S WORDS, PLAN

The reception from the audience left much to be desired.

Robert Vinson Brannum, a D.C. native with experience as an advisory neighborhood commissioner and CAC member, didn’t mince words as he vehemently criticized Martin, and even facilitators of the March 25 meeting who he said kept him from expressing his thoughts on the microphone.

“This was the biggest dog and pony show,” said Brannum, 72. “He works for the biggest criminal in the world, and he comes here to tell us about crime.”

Later, while speaking to The Informer, Vinson Brannum questioned how Martin, with no intimate knowledge of local affairs, can carry out his job duties to the benefit of District residents.

“How can he go about…making statements about crime in the city when crime in Missouri is just as bad if not worse,” Vinson Brannum said as he paid homage to MPD Chief Smith, now in her second year on the job. “Crime under Pam Smith has gone down… He’s using bogus statistics to promote a false ideology.”

Others in attendance at ACC meeting were: Martha’s Table President & CEO Tiffany Williams; Cora Masters Barry, D.C.’s former first lady; Ronald Moten of CheckIt Enterprises and the Go-Go Museum & Cafe; Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Salim Adofo; Ward 8 D.C. Council candidate Jennifer Galencia Muhammad, and Nee Nee Taylor and Qiana Johnson

of Harriet’s Wildest Dreams.

At times, those who gathered on the second floor of Martha’s Table at the Commons made references to the 1980s and 1990s, a period of mass incarceration, and the dispersal of Disrict residents across the federal prison system. Martin also found critics in the U.S. Shadow Senator Ankit Jain and Masters Barry, each of whom, respectively, mentioned the firing of employees in the U.S attorney’s office and Martin’s lack of acknowledgement of progress made under Smith.

Shortly after the smoke cleared from the arguing and interruptions, Ward 8 resident Brenda Jones said Martin didn’t satisfy her thirst for information.

“He didn’t say anything that people wanted to hear,” Jones told The Informer. “What he should have done is made a few remarks and listened to what the people had to say.”

Lamont Mitchell, ACC chair, said Martin’s appearance at Martha’s table allowed community members to interact with an important figure in the public safety ecosystem.

“He is the chief law enforcement officer in the city, and we have to listen to what he has to say,”Mitchell told The Informer. “He is here, and we have to deal with him.”

During the latter part of Martin’s meeting with community members, Darrell Gaston, Ward 8 resident and restaurateur, asked the interim U.S. attorney what diversion programs, if any, would he implement for youth who come into contact with the justice system, merely as a result of living in their community and hanging around the wrong people.

Gaston, a vocal supporter of punitive measures for repeatedly violent offenders, said it remains to be seen whether Martin will overly rely on prosecution to meet his public safety goals. He said that should never be the case.

“Those that are tremendously out here robbing, killing, terrorizing the community, they deserve to get locked up,” Gaston said. “But my fear is that there are going to be a good number of people who look like me…that are going to get caught up hanging in the wrong neighborhood and become the bystander to whatever agenda that the attorney general has to make D.C. safe again.”

WI @SamPKCollins @JamesWrightJr10

5Howard University sophomores Gaelle Pierre, a legal communications major, and Elijah “Jah” Easley, who majors in TV/ Film, attend the relaunch event on March 21.

5Denise Rolark Barnes, publisher of the Washington Informer newspaper.

5WABJ President Phil Lewis sits with sits with Howard University alumni Asia Alexander, graduating senior Donovan McNeal and senior journalism major Afia Barrie at the HU News Service relaunch and podcast preview.

RELIGION

Hoop Dreams, Faith Realities: ‘American

Fast’ Tackles March Madness, Ramadan with Deep Exploration of Identity

Playwrights, Actors Discuss Muslim Representation, Gender Equity, Diverse Belief Systems

By Jada Ingleton WI Digital Equity Fellow

The latest production of playwright Kareem Fahmy’s “American Fast” brings its A-game to Theater Alliance in Southwest, D.C., with a pensive exploration of identity, faith, and a college athlete’s unshakable love for basketball.

Now showing through April 13, the coming-of-age production follows the intricate journey of senior basketball star Khady (played by Gigi Cammarato), an ambitious player of Muslim faith who’s attempting to navigate the complexities of competing in the NCAA March Madness tournaments during the season of Ramadan.

The ninth and holy month of the Islamic calendar, Ramadan is when Muslims engage in fasting, reflection, and spiritual devotion, while abstaining from food and beverages from dawn to dusk.

With just four characters and a pop-up nested in Theater Alliance, the D.C. debut of “American Fast” exerts a master class in the nuances of faith identity, gender equity, and religious diversity within the arts.

“So much of the play to me when I wrote it is to try to break down… the monolithic idea of what Muslim people are, or what Islam is,” said Fahmy in a pre-show discussion on March 23. “Three of the characters are Muslim, and the way they practice their religion, the way they talk about their religion, the way they feel about their religion is entirely different, and that, in and of itself, is my biggest goal.”

The son of devout Muslims and Middle Eastern immigrants, Fahmy moved to New York from Montreal, Canada in 2003–a time he noted was condemend with “anti-Muslim sentiment” in America following the al Qaeda-led terrorist attacks now widely known as 9/11 (September 11, 2001).

Fahmy admitted it was the push of other local playwrights who insisted it was time to “change the narrative” on the Islamic experience.

He has since dedicated his art to tackling representation and “dismantling” the preconceived beliefs of Middle Easterners and Muslims, leveraging inclusivity in casting such as half-Arabian lead Cammarato and Syrian actress Raghad Makhlouf, who plays Suzan, Khady’s devout Muslim mother from the Middle East.

“With the sound design and the Arabic music, and Suzan [being from Egypt], it felt like the whole space magically took me on a journey to the past. I felt free, like a shift has happened where I felt at home,” Makhlouf told The Informer. “I hope people coming to the theater will see a specific human being with a specific history, but also a lens… into that culture and that world.”

AMBITION VS. FAITH:

‘THE QUESTIONING OF GOD’

Cammarato’s character spends most of the play spiritually conflicted in the war between ambition and faith, which is only troubled by an assertive Coach (played by Renee

Elizabeth Wilson), and male standalone actor Travis Xavier, who portrays Gabe, an African American lapsed Muslim.

With characters addressing topics like what it is to be a “good Muslim,” Fahmy said the play speaks to a much larger conversation about the expectations that come with being of a certain faith, especially for women and communities of color.

“I think people respond negatively to people who strive for excellence and who are ambitious when they’re from under and misrepresented communities. It’s perceived in a different way, so this story wouldn’t be the story if Khady was a white athlete, or a non-Muslim athlete,” Fahmy explained.

Meanwhile, candid monologues and soul-stirring scenes between Cammarato and Makhlouf showcased other perceptual challenges among women of color. Makhlouf spoke of the universal “angry woman,” while both leads addressed the often taboo conversations that center religion, such as internal struggles with God in times of grievance, and how youth connect with faith beyond parental teachings.

Cammarato told The Informer that, while she wasn’t raised Muslim like her on-stage persona, she has always been “deeply spiritual,” and resonates with the journey to redefine spirituality for oneself. She commends Fahmy’s artistic approach to ground the story in

the human aspects of life, such as grief, family and “the questioning of God,” as opposed to appealing to a certain demographic.

“This [play] doesn’t exclude anyone…and it shows that through an underrepresented story that we often don’t hear from which brings that identity into the conversation. It shows that the story belongs in the American theater, because it’s an American story,” said Cammarato.

Aside from pivoting stereotype narratives, Kahmy strives to use “American Fast” as a host for communal conversations about reshaping spirituality and faith perceptions for individuals of all belief or non-belief systems. He noted how theater art can offer an “immediate personal lived experience” to audiences, and “American Fast” in particular aims to spur the avoided conversations about what faith is in a person’s life.

Washingtonian and playwright Kymone Freeman attended the opening weekend matinee, and told The Informer he personally took to the topic of struggling to see God amid times of grief.

Freeman, who does not practice a religion, attributes some of his battle with the ideals of faith to “a fascist Trump regime,” suffrage of women and African Americans, and the “ugliness of wars” that continuously plagues the state of America.

He particularly highlighted Cammarato’s performance, saying, “I felt like she was taking my words out of my own mouth, because I always felt that way.”

“People always want to praise God, but nobody ever wants to blame God,” Freeman told The Informer. “This was a woman of color, and she was struggling. Even though she had the American dream and had it all, it wasn’t enough, because it wasn’t right within.”

The We Act Radio broadcaster looks forward to publishing his own review of the provocative portrayal, and considers it a “mustsee,” especially for young women on behalf of its motion to challenge gender equity.

For his final thoughts, Freeman referenced a conversation between actor Matt Damon and the late Louis James Lipton, former producer and talk show host for Inside the Actors Studio, who often posed the question, ‘If there’s a heaven, what do you want to hear God say to you?’ to guests during his round of questions.

“[Damon] said, in ‘God’s voice,’ of course: ‘There’s an explanation for all the pain and suffering in the world. Come to the back. Let’s have a drink and I will explain it to you,’” Freeman shared. “I think this play attempts to answer that.”

WI

5Renee Elizabeth Wilson as Coach and Gigi Cammarato as Khady in the latest Theater Alliance production, “American Fast,” running until April 13. Written by Kareem Fahmy and directed by Reginald L. Douglas, the 90-minute play explores identity, faith, and a woman athlete’s strength during Ramadan. (Courtesy Photo/Theater Alliance)

Life often places us at crossroads where we must decide whether to stay in a familiar but unfulfilling situation or take a leap into the unknown. Walking away — whether from a relationship, job, friendship or even an old version of yourself — can be one of the most difficult yet liberating choices you’ll ever make. It’s in the space of departure that you truly begin the journey of self-discovery.

In reality, walking away is necessary. We are creatures of habit who cling to what feels comfortable, even when it no longer serves us. We allow fear of change, guilt or hope that things will improve to trap us in situations that stifle our growth.

However, when we stay too long in places that don’t align with who we are, we lose touch with ourselves. Walking away isn’t about giving up — it’s about choosing yourself.

Here are some signs it’s time to walk away: You feel emotionally drained rather than fulfilled. You’ve outgrown the situation but stay out of obligation. You’re compromising your values or well-being to keep the peace. The fear of leaving is the only thing keeping you there.

What’s needed is the courage to actually leave. Departure can be terrifying, especially without a clear path forward. But clarity

WITH LYNDIA GRANT

Walk Away to Find Yourself the religion corner

often comes after the decision, not before. When you step away from what no longer serves you, you create space for new possibilities. Remember that your worth isn’t tied to what you left behind. Walking away doesn’t mean failure — it means growth. It’s OK not to have all the answers. Finding yourself is a process, not a destination. You’re allowed to choose yourself.

Self-preservation isn’t selfishness.

After walking away, finding yourself takes real work. Without the weight of the past, you can rediscover who you are.

Ways to reconnect with yourself include: Embrace solitude — spend time alone to understand your thoughts, desires and passions without outside influence.

Try new things — travel, pick up a hobby or explore different perspectives to allow yourself to evolve. Reflect and heal through journaling, therapy or conversations with trusted friends to process emotions and patterns. Set new standards by defining what you want for your future without settling for less.

Once you’ve walked away from what no longer serves you, you step into a life that does. Finding yourself means shedding what isn’t truly you to become who you were meant to be. It’s a journey filled with uncertainty but also with freedom, growth and endless possibilities.

Walking away isn’t just leaving

— it’s arriving. And in that arrival, you might find yourself. Consider these Scriptures about solitude:

• Jesus often withdrew to desolate places to pray, demonstrating the value of solitude for spiritual reflection and connection with God (as during his 40 days and nights during Lent).

• Stories of David alone in the fields and Joseph in prison remind us that God’s people may be alone temporarily but aren’t forgotten.

• Psalm 27:10: “Though my father and mother forsake me, the LORD will receive me.”

• Psalm 25:16: “Turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am lonely and afflicted.” WI

We are creatures of habit who cling to what feels comfortable, even when it no longer serves us. We allow fear of change, guilt or hope that things will improve to trap us in situations that stifle our growth.

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RELIGION

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

Service and Times Sundays: 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist with Music and Hymns Wednesdays: 12:10 p.m. - Holy Eucharist www.stmarysfoggybottom.org Email: stmarysoffice@stmarysfoggybottom.org

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

Rev Kevin A. O'Bryant Pastor

401 Van Buren St., NW, Washington D.C. 20012 Office (202)-882-8331

Service and Times Sunday Worship 10:30 am Zoom: zoom.us/;/2028828331

Bible Study: Wednesday 7:00pm Communion Every First Sunday "Serve, teach and Live by precept and example the saving grace of Jesus Christ."

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SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000724

Ernest Postell Sr. Decedent

Stephen B. Pershing, Esq. Pershing Law PLLC 1416 E Street, NE Washington, DC 20002

Attorney

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

Pamela Metts, whose address is 2336 14th Street NE, Washington, DC 20018, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ernest Postell Sr. who died on 2/11/2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/13/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/13/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/13/2025

Pamela Metts Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 000151

Katherine P. Dominick aka Katherine Patricia Dominick Decedent

Law Office of Deborah D. Boddie ProbateLawDC

1308 Ninth Street, NW, Suite 300 Washington, DC 20001

Attorney

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

Dannetta R. Dominick, whose address is 4906 Gully Court, Oxon Hill, MD 20745, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Katherine P. Dominick aka Katherine Patricia Dominick who died on 12/4/2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/13/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/13/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/13/2025

Dannetta R. Dominick

4906 Gully Court Oxon Hill, MD 20745 Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 125

Bertha M. Wade aka Bertha Mae Wade Decedent

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

Torree Wade and Trinita Mason, whose addresses are 13211 Suntum Court, Accokeek, MD 20607 and 3433 Memphis Lane, Bowie, MD 20715, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Bertha M. Wade aka Bertha Mae Wade who died on 1/1/2025 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/13/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/13/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/13/2025

Torree Wade Trinita Mason Personal Representative

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Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000150

Josephine Gilmore Decedent

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

Marie Gibson, whose address is 1226 Meigs Place, Apt. 1 NE, Washington, DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Josephine Gilmore who died on December 3, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/13/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/13/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/13/2025

Marie Gibson Personal Representative

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Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000143

Dorothy K. Corpening Decedent

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

Joseph P. Crisp, Jr., whose address is 15220 Sandpiper Place, Waldorf, MD 20601, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Dorothy K. Corpening who died on February 3, 2025 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/13/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/13/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/13/2025

Joseph P. Crisp, Jr. Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 000148

Daquan Malik Dockery Decedent

Marta Batiste 4200 Parliament Place, Ste. 510 Lanham, MD 20706 Attorney

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

Elizabeth Dockery, whose address is 223 54th Street NE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Daquan Malik Dockery who died on 3/25/2022 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/13/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/13/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/13/2025

Elizabeth Dockery Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000859

Sylvia C. Cephas aka Sylvia Colleen Cephas Decedent

Murray D. Scheel

DC Bar Pro Bono Ctr 901 4th Street NW Washington, DC 20001 Attorney

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

Wayne P. Cephas, whose address is 2901 Toles Park Dr., #616, Suitland MD 20746, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Sylvia C. Cephas aka Sylvia Colleen Cephas who died on 5/24/2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/13/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/13/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/13/2025

Wayne P. Cephas Personal Representative

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Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2024 ADM 001308

Dorothy I. Manning Decedent

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

Gail I. Dunlap, whose address is 379 Applesby Lane, Aberdeen, MD 21001, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Dorothy I. Manning who died on September 11, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/13/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/13/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/13/2025

Gail I. Dunlap Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 001029

David Hicks III Decedent

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

Ronald R. Hicks, whose address is 2842 Robinson Place, SE Washington DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of David Hicks III who died on May 31, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/13/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/13/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/13/2025

Ronald R. Hicks Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2024 ADM 001392

David Edward Claybrooks Jr Decedent

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

Charlene Denise Claybrooks, whose address is 1853 Tobias Dr, SE, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of David Edward Claybrooks Jr who died on 4/30/2019 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/13/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/13/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/13/2025

Charlene Denise Claybrooks Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 134

Willetta Barnes Decedent

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

Vikki Mitchell, whose address is 3426 Dix Street, NE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Willetta Barnes who died on October 20, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/13/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/13/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication:

3/13/2025

Vikki Mitchell Personal Representative TRUE

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000801

William Edward Taylor Decedent

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

J. Anthony Concino III, Esq., whose address is 5335 Wisconsin Ave., NW, Suite 400, Washington, DC 20015, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of William Edward Taylor who died on 2/22/2024 without a Will. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/20/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/20/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/20/2025

J. Anthony Concino III, Esq. Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

PROBATE DIVISION

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 FEP 000018

January 12, 2021

Date of Death

Norman James Houston Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Brendan Toner whose address is Apt 8 Pipers Field 16b Comber Road Belfast BT16 2AB Northern Ireland was appointed personal representative of the estate of Norman James Houston, deceased, by the High Court of Justice Chancery Division Court for Northern Ireland County, State of XXX, on June 28, 2022. Service of process may be made upon Gerard F. Fiala 1737 Willard Street NW Apt 4, Washington, DC 20009 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C.

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

Date of first publication: 3/13/2025

Brendan Toner Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000847

Dorothy Duncan Baker Decedent

Howard Haley, Esq. The Haley Firm, PC 7600 Georgia Ave., NW #416 Washington, DC 20012 Attorney

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

Charles A. Baker III, whose address is 5309 Chillum Pl., NE, Washington DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Dorothy Duncan Baker who died on January 20, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/20/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/20/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/20/2025

Charles A. Baker, III Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 000137

Benjamin Scott Custer, Jr. Decedent

Lindsey M. Avedisian 5425 Wisconsin Ave., Suite 600 Chevy Chase, MD 20815

Attorney

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

Adrian Vance Custer, whose address is Joaquin Requena 990, Apt. 301, Montevideo, Uruguay, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Benjamin Scott Custer, Jr. who died on 1/21/2025 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/13/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/13/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/13/2025

Adrian Vance Custer Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 174

Daisy Louise Irby Decedent

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

Janice Jackson, whose address is 15413 Wylie Rd., Brandywine, MD 20613, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Daisy Louise Irby who died on January 21, 2025 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/20/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/20/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/20/2025

Janice Jackson 15413 Wylie Rd. Brandywine, MD 20613 Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 000162

Beatrice Mason aka Beatrice E. Mason Decedent

Mahsa Alaeian

Legal Counsel for the Elderly 601 E Street, NW Washington, DC 20049 Attorney

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

Leon Mason, whose address is 455 Lebaum St., SE, Washington, DC 20032, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Beatrice Mason aka Beatrice E. Mason who died on September 5, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/13/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/13/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/13/2025

Leon Mason Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 000183

Helen W. Patterson Decedent

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

Deneice E. Patterson, whose address is 2006 Rosecroft Blvd., Ft. Washington, MD 20744, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Helen W. Patterson who died on November 22, 2022 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/20/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/20/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/20/2025

Deneice E. Patterson Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 001564

Margaret Brooks Decedent

Beverly Henderson, Esq. 1629 K Street NW, Suite 300 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney

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

Brenda L. Smith and Beverly Henderson, whose addresses are 443 Valley Ave., SE, Washington, DC 20032 and 120 Kenilworth Ave NE, Washington, DC 20019, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Margaret Brooks who died on July 2, 2021 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/20/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/20/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/20/2025

Beverly Henderson Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 001562

Bobbie Toran Decedent

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

Wanda Tindal, whose address is 15 T Street NE, Washington, DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Bobbie Toran who died on 8/11/2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/20/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/20/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/20/2025

Wanda Tindal Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 000161

Constance Y. Crawford Decedent

Mahsa Alaeian Legal Counsel for the Elderly 601 E Street, NW Washington, DC 20049

Attorney

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

Henry W. Crawford III, whose address is 5036 12th St., NE, Washington, DC 20017, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Constance Y. Crawford who died on April 25, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/20/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/20/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/20/2025

Henry W. Crawford III

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 001291

Alton Sylvan Rhoden Decedent

Jamar W. Creech, Esq. 312 Marshall Avenue, Suite 900 Laurel, MD 20707 Attorney

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

Janise Driskell, whose address is 1512 Kings Hill, St Bowie, MD 20721, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Alton Sylvan Rhoden who died on 8/12/2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/20/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/20/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/20/2025

Janise Driskell Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 1387

Bennie Mae Daniels Decedent

Brian L. Kass, Esq. 4301 Connecticut Ave. NW, Suite 434 Washington, DC 20008 Attorney

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

Brian L. Kass, whose address is 4301 Connecticut Ave., NW, Suite 434, Washington, DC 20008, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Bennie Mae Daniels who died on October 27, 2010 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/20/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/20/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/20/2025

Brian L. Kass Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2025 ADM 000182

Alexander Vincent Chase Decedent

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

Esther Stevenson Chase, whose address is 913 Chatsworth Drive, Accokeek, MD 20607, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Alexander Vincent Chase who died on 2/8/2025 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/20/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/20/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/20/2025

Esther Stevenson Chase Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 001270

Robert Lee Ware, Sr. Decedent

Brian L. Kass, Personal Rep. 4301 Connecticut Ave., NW, Suite 434 Washington, DC 20008

Attorney

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

Brian L. Kass, whose address is 4301 Connecticut Ave., NW, Suite 434, Washington, DC 20008, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Robert Lee Ware, Sr. who died on November 26, 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 (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/20/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/20/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/20/2025

Brian L. Kass Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000173

Adenrele Kennith Anifalaje Decedent

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

Monica Singleton, whose address is 637 Gallatin Street, NE, Washington, DC 20017, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Adenrele Kennith Anifalaje who died on 4/18/2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/20/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/20/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/20/2025

Monica Singleton Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 000163

Franchot L. White Decedent

Mahsa Alaeian Legal Counsel for the Elderly 601 E Street, NW Washington, DC 20049 Attorney

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

Maria A. White, whose address is 1309 I Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Franchot L. White who died on July 4, 2013 without a Will and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/20/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/20/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/20/2025

Maria A. White Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 000185

Linda J. Beckles Decedent

Deborah D. Boddie, Esq. ProbateLawDC 1308 Ninth Street, NW Washington, DC 20001 Attorney

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

Vincent Beckles, whose address is 2843 Catalina Street, Clermont, FL. 34711, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Linda J. Beckles who died on December 5, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/20/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/20/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/20/2025

Vincent Beckles 2843 Catalina Street Clermont, FL 34711 Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 000155

Janet Elizabeth Ryan

Decedent

Valerie Edwards, Esq. 1725 DeSales Street NW, Suite 600 Washington, DC 20036

Attorney

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

Susan Ryan, whose address is 239 West Jamison Court, Littleton, CO 80120, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Janet Elizabeth Ryan who died on December 14, 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., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/20/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/20/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/20/2025

Susan Ryan Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000393

Shana Lashawn Bynum Decedent

Nakia Gray 800 Maine Ave. SW, Suite 200 Washington, DC 20020 Attorney

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

Cassandra Yarborough, whose address is 7700 Arehart Drive, #1211 New Carrollton, MD 20784, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Shana Lashawn Bynum who died on May 20, 2021 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/13/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/13/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/13/2025

Cassandra Yarborough Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 000200

Hattie Mae Harris Decedent

Tina Smith Nelson, Esq. Legal Counsel for the Elderly 601 E Street NW Washington, DC 20049 Attorney

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

Mae Phillip, whose address is 708 Randolph St., NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Hattie Mae Harris who died on 4/03/2015 without a Will and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/27/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/27/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication:

3/27/2025

Mae Phillip Personal Representative

TRUE

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 001175

Walter Jordan Decedent

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

Gregory Jordan, whose address is 1448 Congress Pl., SE, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Walter Jordan who died on 8/4/2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/27/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/27/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/27/2025

Gregory Jordan Personal Representative

TRUE

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000207

Odele L. Mouzon Decedent

Bradley A. Thomas, Esq. 1629 K Street, NW, Suite 300 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney

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

Jan E. Mouzon, whose address is 4217 19th Place, NE, Washington, DC 20018, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Odele L. Mouzon who died on January 10, 2025 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/27/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/27/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/27/2025

Jan E. Mouzon

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 000199

Mamie J. Inge Decedent

Mahsa Alaeian

Legal Counsel for the Elderly 601 E Street, NW Washington, DC 20049 Attorney

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

Cassandra Lewis, whose address is 513 Ingraham St., NW, Washington DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mamie J. Inge who died on November 9, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/27/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/27/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/27/2025

Cassandra Lewis Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 001451

Ruby Alene Robinson Decedent

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

Milton Robinson & Michele Robinson, whose addresses are 303 Cedar Point Drive, Glen Burnie, MD 21060, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Ruby Alene Robinson who died on September 16, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/27/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/27/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/27/2025

Milton Robinson Michele Robinson Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000213

Stephen A. Beland Decedent

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

Brian D. Beland, whose address is 17 Mills Path, Lake Ronkonkoma, NY 11779, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Stephen A. Beland who died on February 27, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/27/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/27/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/27/2025

Brian D. Beland

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000251

Estate of Bernice Smith

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE

Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Kevin E. Smith for standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representatives. Unless a responsive pleading in the form of a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is filed in this Court within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth.

In the absence of a will or proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution, enter an order determining that the decedent died intestate appoint an unsupervised personal representative

Date of first publication: 3/27/2025

Kevin E. Smith

4625 Nash Street NE Washington, DC 20019

Petitioner/Attorney:

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 000182

Alexander Vincent Chase Decedent

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

Esther Stevenson Chase, whose address is 913 Chatsworth Drive, Accokeek, MD 20607, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Alexander Vincent Chase who died on 2/8/2025 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/20/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/20/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/20/2025

Esther Stevenson Chase Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000246

Estate of Willie Gold Wooten, Sr. aka Willie G. Wooten, Sr.

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE

Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Christopher Wooten for standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representatives. Unless a responsive pleading in the form of a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is filed in this Court within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth.

In the absence of a will or proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution, enter an order determining that the decedent died intestate appoint an unsupervised personal representative

Date of first publication: 3/27/2025

Tabitha R. Brown 1200 G Street SE, Ste. A Washington, DC 20003

Petitioner/Attorney:

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 001413

Kenneth Louis Price Decedent

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

Gabrielle King, whose address is 225 I Street NE, #609, Washington, DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Kenneth Louis Price who died on October 16, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/6/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/6/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/6/2025

Gabrielle King Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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CROWELL from Page 28

source of post-secondary education grants provided $31 billion in aid with approximately 6.5 million undergraduate students in FY2023. Without additional funding, the grant shortfall is expected to balloon to $10 billion in 2026. Currently, the maximum annual award per eligible student in the formula-based program is $7,395. Most Pell recipients come from families whose total income is $60,540 or less.

It is relevant to note that the new round of cuts to the Pell Grant program is not the first time that significant changes have been made. Instead, the new changes come in addition to others never restored. For example, in the aftermath of the Great Recession in FYs 2011 and 2012, the option for “year-round” Pell, which helped students make continuous progress toward their credentials was eliminated. That same action also cut the number of lifetime semesters a student can receive Pell Grants from 18 to 12 semesters and remains unchanged.

In response to CBO’s disturbing report, a coalition of over 100 higher education organizations signed a February letter appealing to committee chairs and ranking members in both the Senate and the House to act with dispatch. Its signatories included an array of organizations such as: the American Association of University Women, Center for Law & Social Policy, Georgetown University Center on Education & the Workforce, NAACP, National Education Association, National Consumer Law Center, Student

MORIAL from Page 28

minorities face greater challenges in accessing capital — including lower loan approval rates, smaller funding amounts and higher interest rates — his astonishing ruling was that there was insufficient evidence that government policies contributed to these disparities.

This ruling, coupled with the administration’s actions, threatens to undo decades of economic

Borrower Protection Center, and the United Negro College Fund.

“If additional funding is not added to the Pell Grant program very soon, students could face eligibility or award cuts for the first time in more than a decade,” wrote the educators. “Students cannot afford such cuts during a time of rising living costs, and our economy cannot afford to have students lose access to the education and training they need to succeed in the labor market. The maximum Pell Grant already covers the lowest share of college costs in the program’s history, contributing to a persistent “affordability gap” that forces lowand middle-income students to either take out loans or forgo higher education and training entirely.”

And speaking of loans – borrowers understand that when it takes longer to repay principal owed, interest fees rise as well. Further, fixed interest rates on graduate student loans come at a higher price than those for undergraduate loans. New federal direct loans disbursed between July 1, 2024, and July 1, 2025, carry 6.53% fixed interest rates for undergraduate loans, but an 8.08% rate for graduate and professional loans.

In other words, higher education comes with higher costs. And the longer loan repayment takes, the higher and harder it becomes to fully repay them.

Today, many borrowers currently enrolled in affordable, income-based repayment options have been frustrated by a lack of online access to complete mandatory income recertification. Without that timely access, spikes

progress. Eliminating race-conscious programs under the false premise of equality ignores the stark realities of systemic discrimination and denies communities of color access to resources essential for closing the racial wealth gap.

The administration’s decision is not just unlawful and unjust — it is an economic disaster in the making. Minority-owned businesses contribute trillions to the U.S. economy and employ mil-

in monthly payments ensue. As recently reported by Forbes, “This effectively keeps millions of student loan borrowers who had enrolled in SAVE stuck in a forbearance. The forbearance pauses payments and sets interest to zero, but the period does not count toward student loan forgiveness, including for Public Service Loan Forgiveness, or PSLF – a popular program for borrowers working in nonprofit or government settings.”

“For many of us, student loans were supposed to be a path forward, not something that holds us back,” said Mike Pierce, executive director of the Student Borrower Protection Center. “We need leaders that prioritize policies that put working people first.” WI

And

lions of workers. Stripping them of vital federal support will stifle job creation, weaken local economies and widen the wealth divide.

At a time when economic inequality remains one of the nation’s most pressing challenges, the federal government should be expanding opportunities for underserved businesses, not eliminating them. This is not just a policy fight — it is a battle for economic justice, and we cannot afford to lose. WI

ministry of coaching. His leadership extends past the athletes to his coaching staff and others.

FSU should name the Leonard HOLMES from Page 28

Hamilton Basketball Court at the Civic Center, and the Miami Hurricanes should do the same.

Congressman Al Lawson, I, and many others will host a community celebration honoring the

heroic and holy legacy of Coach Hamilton and his family. We salute this godly man who is highly favored and blessed by Almighty God!

WI

WILLIAMS from Page 29

on while the “would-be king” has no influence with Putin.

I can just see all the military people who voted for this man, and look what he has done to them. I hope they can see he cares nothing about anybody not lining his pockets!

Now come on — really, did they have to rob the cemeteries that identified military records so no one would know who Gens. Colin Powell and Cappie James were? Did they think taking down the Pentagon’s website would mean no one would get to know Jackie Robinson

REYNOLDS from Page 29

many ways, they are one and the same.

HOLD CORPORATIONS ACCOUNTABLE

Many companies have profited off our communities while remaining silent in the face of injustice. Others have actively contributed to the dismantling of diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. We cannot allow this hypocrisy to stand. Our dollars are powerful tools of resistance. Where we spend our money, where we invest and what we choose to support sends a clear message. If corporations refuse to stand with us, then we must refuse to stand with them. Economic resistance has long been a strategy for change, from the Montgomery Bus Boycott to today’s targeted boycotts of companies that fuel injustice.

EDELMAN from Page 29

all of the attention has been overwhelming, but in a “good way,” and explained how her students have responded:

“My students have been talking about it a lot as well and it’s been kind of heartbreaking to see them for the first time have to wonder why that sign would be questioned, but they are very resilient and have been just continuously telling me that they support me and support our classroom poster. They truly are my inspiration and every day when I see them, I don’t have one ounce of regret. I have received emails from former students, some even mentioning that they know the poster in

was a military hero or the Tuskegee Airmen were superheroes in protecting what they thought was their country, too? Do they think they can erase Black history by defying schools to teach it?

Now that things are crystal clear, Black people, let’s step up our game. Get involved in making the change we want to see. Let’s teach our own children Black history so they’ll know they come from a great people who refuse to return to the racist past of this country. Let’s support the buycotts! Don’t spend your money where you’re not respected!

WI

SUPPORT AND PROTECT THE MOST VULNERABLE

Communities under attack cannot fight alone. Immigrants facing deportation, families torn apart, and Black and Brown communities targeted by systemic racism — we must stand in solidarity with those most affected. That means donating to organizations providing legal aid and resources. It means showing up at protests, volunteering at community centers and using whatever platforms we have to amplify the voices of the marginalized. When one of us is under attack, all of us are under attack. We will not abandon our own.

STAY LOUD, STAY RELENTLESS, STAY UNIFIED

This administration thrives on division. It seeks to wear us down,

question and remember it making them feel welcome and safe in my classroom. Today one of my students said EVERYONE IS WELCOME might not be something that’s true everywhere, but in this classroom it’s a fact. They have told me that I am doing the right thing. Some wore homemade shirts that say what is written on my posters, and they made friendship bracelets that say everyone is welcome. Some of them want to start a website and make their own posters to give away. They understand why there is nothing wrong with welcoming all unconditionally.”

Once again, children and young people are taking action and sig-

Now come on — really, did they have to rob the cemeteries that identified military records so no one would know who Gens. Colin Powell and Cappie James were?

to exhaust us into submission. We cannot allow that to happen. We must continue to speak out, to share information and to challenge the lies and propaganda that seek to distort reality. Social media, independent journalism and community organizing — these are our weapons in the fight for truth. Silence is complicity, and we refuse to be complicit.

THE ROAD AHEAD

This is just the beginning. The resistance is not a moment; it is a movement. It will not be easy. It will not be quick. But it will be necessary. Our ancestors fought against oppression with fewer resources, with less support, with greater dangers — and they did not back down. We will not be the generation that gives up. We will be the generation that fights back and wins.

This is our moment. This is our fight. And we are just getting started. WI

naling they understand something some adults do not. How many of us remember a teacher or mentor who went out of their way to let us know we were respected, valued, and welcome? How many of us know and appreciate teachers like this in our communities and schools today? How many parents try hard at home to teach their own children to respect and be kind to other people? How many would want their child in a classroom led by a teacher who did not make them feel accepted or welcome? At a moment when educators and education itself are under attack, those who encourage and welcome every student should be told thank you. WI

Washington