The Washington Informer - March 28, 2024

Baltimore Bridge Catastrophe: Key Bridge Collapses, Crews Search for Missing People Engineers Talk Structures’ Safety, Residents Process Tragedy

By Stacy M. Brown, Kayla Benjamin and Hamil Harris WI Senior Writer, WI Climate & Environment Writer, WI Contributing Writer

In one of the ultimate nightmares, the Francis Scott Key Bridge, an iconic lifeline for Baltimore’s bustling metropolis, was ripped apart in a thunderous clash with a colossal container ship, unleashing chaos in and around Charm City and tragedy for at least seven families.

When the ship, known as the Dali, hit the support column, the once-sturdy structure crumbled beneath the vessel’s onslaught, sending people and vehicles plummeting into the icy depths of the Pata-

psco River around 1:30 a.m. on Tuesday, March 26.

Officials immediately declared that they didn’t suspect terrorism or any sabotage.

Emergency crews raced against time, battling the elements to rescue survivors trapped in the wreckage.

At 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, two individuals were reportedly rescued while the search intensified. One of the victims reportedly suffered critical injuries. As of Wednesday morning, six people are presumed dead, but crews are still searching for them. The missing individuals are reportedly adult men of Latino descent who live near the collapse.

Widow of Man Killed in D.C. Fire Truck Crash Reflects on $13.5 Million Judgment T’Anita Coles-Green Says OAG Tried to Tarnish Her Late Husband’s Name

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

In February, a D.C. jury awarded more than $13.5 million to the family of DeAngelo Green, a man killed in 2018 when a D.C. fire truck sped through a red light at the intersection of 12th Street and Rhode Island Avenue in Northeast and struck his car.

T’Anita Coles-Green, Green’s widow and mother

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

Angel Gregorio: Champion for the Home-Cooked Meal

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

Since Angel Gregorio launched The Spice Suite, District residents have come to know her as a curator of spices and social entrepreneur on a mission to empower Black women. In recent years, Gregorio’s also garnered a reputation as a Black mother who works miracles in the kitchen. At any giv-

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

en time during the week, she’s posting Instagram reels showcasing her home cooked meals that bear a striking similarity to what one would find at a fivestar restaurant.

Each time, the caption reads “We got food at home!” --- what Gregorio calls an ode to her grandmother, and other Black matriarchs, who never thought twice about driving past a fast

In the days leading up to April 3, when Fiscal Year 2025 budget deliberations are expected to start, District residents continue to question what will become of essential services and safety nets they depend on to stay afloat in an expensive city.

"We’re facing an unprecedented crisis," declared Baltimore Fire Chief James Wallace, his voice heavy with emotion on the morning of the collapse. BUDGET Page 48

5 Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed early Tuesday morning after a colossal ship clashed with the structure, unleashing chaos in Baltimore and tragedy for at least seven families. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

5DeAngelo Green and T’Anita Coles-Green (Courtesy Photo)

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

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

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Feds Raid Diddy Combs’ Homes in Los Angeles, Miami Amid Mounting Sex Assault Allegations

Music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs finds himself under the glare of federal investigation lights in a development that has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry. Law enforcement has confirmed that Combs is the subject of a federal investigation, with allegations ranging from sex trafficking to drug and firearm-related offenses.

Since November, several lawsuits against Combs have fueled the investigation’s growth. Federal officials in Manhattan have already interviewed three women and a man, with more interviews scheduled. The interviews involve accusations that include sex trafficking, sexual assault, and

involvement in illegal narcotics and firearms distribution.

Federal agents, identified as Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), wasted no time in executing search warrants on Monday, March 25. The raids targeted Combs’ properties in Los Angeles and Miami, with the warrants issued out of the Southern District of New York.

During the Los Angeles raid, footage captured the music mogul’s sons, Justin and Christian “King” Combs, being handcuffed by authorities. There has been no confirmation regarding whether they were detained or charged.

The specter of an investigation looms large over Combs following public scrutiny triggered by allegations from his former romantic partner, Cassie Ventura. In a lawsuit filed under the New York Adult Survivors Act, Ventura accused Combs of physical and sexual abuse spanning years.

Read more on washingtoninformer.com WI

Biden and Allies Forge Legal Arsenal Amid Fears of Trump’s Election Sabotage

In the shadow of a contentious political landscape, President Joe Biden and his close circle have reportedly embarked on a strategic campaign to fortify their defenses against potential electoral sabotage. With a wary eye on the twice-impeached and four-times indicted Donald Trump’s lingering ambitions and a Republican Party fueled by the specter of the “Big Lie,” Biden’s team is meticulously crafting legal strategies to navigate a potential showdown in the 2024 presidential election.

Citing sources familiar with Biden’s concerns, Rolling Stone reported that officials have revealed an ongoing apprehension that Trump may resort to nefarious means to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat, particularly in a closely contested election. With memories of the tumultuous aftermath of the 2020 race still fresh, Biden’s inner circle is bracing for a potential reprise of Trump’s scorched-earth tactics, buoyed by a relentless assault on truth and democratic norms.

“President Biden has been worried, for a while now, that Donald Trump is going to try to steal the election, if it’s very close on Election Day,” a source familiar with Biden’s think-

ing told Rolling Stone. “If that ends up being the case, we are… also expecting the Republican Party to go into overdrive to help him steal it. We are continuing to build out the infrastructure to ensure that doesn’t happen — again — if President Biden wins and Trump and MAGA Republicans try to confuse [everyone] and sow chaos.”

A spokesperson for the Democratic National Committee told Rolling Stone that the national party is also setting aside “tens of millions of dollars in a robust voter protection program to safeguard the rights of voters to make their voices heard against relentless attacks from Donald Trump and the GOP.”

“Meanwhile, the Trump campaign and the RNC have invested in an army of conspiratorial, election-denying legal staff to undermine our elections and make it harder for Americans’ ballots to be counted,” the DNC spokesperson said. “We won’t let Republicans get away with these baseless attacks on our democracy, and we will continue to use every tool at our disposal to strengthen our democracy as MAGA extremists attempt to tear it down.” WI

Black Opry Revue Comes to Wolf Trap and Beyoncé’s ‘Cowboy Carter’ to Release March 29

From the first performer ever on the Grand Ole Opry DeFord Bailey, to celebrated singers Charley Pride, and Ray Charles, Black artists have long performed country music. While Black performers have not always been celebrated or widely embraced in country music, current African American artists are working to honor the legacies of those who came before them, and stake their claims and contributions to the genre.

DMV audiences will get a glimpse into the world of African American country artists through the Black Opry Revue, featured at Wolf Trap in Vienna, Virginia, on Friday, March 29.

Singer Sug Daniels is one of the artists part of the Back Opry Revue. She described her music style as a Folk/

Americana/Roots mix, which can be heard in her latest single, “Take Your Time.” In performance with Daniels on the Black Opry Tour will be Roberta Lea, Tylar Bryant, Rachel Maxann, and Grace Givertz.

There has been a resurgence recently with chart-topping country singers like Darius Rucker, Mickey Guyton, Kane Brown, Jimmie Allen, Brittney Spencer, Willie Jones, and The War and Treaty.

Further, Black country artists have also gotten a boost since Beyoncé announced that “Act 2: Cowboy Carter,” her follow-up album to the “Renaissance album,” will be released on March 29.

Read more on washingtoninformer.com WI

5 Sean “Diddy” Combs (WI File Photo)

Questions about Campaign Finances, Ward 7 Dems’ Influence Dominate Ward 7 D.C. Council Race

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

On Saturday, March 23, the Ward 7 Democrats tallied more than 300 votes in a straw poll that followed what, at times, became a contentious Ward 7 Council Candidate Forum.

In the end, Wendell Felder, Eboni-Rose Thompson and Veda Rasheed secured the top three spots with 126 votes, 81 votes, and 47 votes respectively. More than half of the respondents who converged on Ryland Epworth United Methodist Church in Southeast also expressed their desire for the Ward 7 Democrats to endorse a candidate.

While Felder relished in the victory, he maintained an evenkeeled mood the next day as he and campaign volunteers knocked on doors throughout Kingman Park, the stomping grounds of Ebony Payne, a Ward 7 D.C. Council candidate who placed fourth in the straw poll.

“With such a crowded race, everything that shows a separation from the pack is good,” Felder told The Informer. “I think that we’re one step in the right direction but much work needs to be done,” he continued. “We want to get in front of residents, hear their concerns and come up with a collective vision that moves Ward 7 forward.”

In December, Felder announced his candidacy for the Ward 7 D.C. Council seat while in his capacity as president of the Ward 7 Democrats. He resigned from his role weeks later, citing a need to avoid accusations of impropriety.

By the time Felder resigned, D.C. Councilmember Vincent C. Gray (D-Ward 7) had already announced that he wouldn't seek reelection. Since that announcement, the field of candidates expanded from five to a dozen.

On Saturday, the Ward 7 Democrats split the candidate forum into two parts.

The first forum was scheduled to feature Villareal “VJ” Johnson, Jr., Denise Reed, Dwight Deloatch, Jr., Nate Fleming and Roscoe Grant, Jr. while the second forum featured Felder, Thompson, Rash-

eed, Payne, Ebbon Allen, and Kelvin Brown.

Grant didn’t attend Saturday’s event. He secured no votes in the straw poll.

Meanwhile, Brown placed fifth with 18 votes while Johnson placed sixth with 9 votes. Reed, Fleming, Deloatch, and Allen secured 8 votes, 5, votes, 3 votes, and 1 vote respectively.

FELDER SHARES

PLATFORM ON PROSPEROUS FUTURE

On Saturday, Felder, whose political experience also includes stints as an advisory neighborhood commissioner, told voters he wanted to shape a prosperous future for Ward 7 via public safety, economic growth, quality schools, and senior wellbeing.

During the forum, Felder told Washington Informer reporter and moderator James Wright, Jr. that he would like to sit on the council’s Committee on Business and Economic Development if elected. He pledged to form a task force dedicated to boosting economic development and touted home ownership as a pathway to economic mobility.

Felder’s other focus areas included the launch of an application high school in Ward 7 and the inclusion of the violence interrupter program into the Executive Office of the Mayor. Felder also expressed a desire to ease security officers’ transition into the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and help police cadets navigate the Home Purchase Assistance Program (HPAP).

As it relates to Metro’s anticipated budget shortfall, Felder pledged to conduct monthly meetings with Washington Metro Area Transit Authority (WMATA) General Manager Randy Clarke and add a bus stop near Kingman Park.

In what became one of the forum’s more intense moments, Felder questioned Payne about whether out-of-towners represented the majority of her campaign funding sources. He followed up with a question about how Payne was able to purchase what some

describe as expensive campaign mailers, robocalls and commercials that aired on a major cable television network.

Felder, later speaking to The Informer, said that the aforementioned inquiries highlight the question of Payne’s ability to maintain transparency and truly represent Ward 7 residents’ interests.

“Residents need to know where money is coming from,” Felder said. “Ebony’s had five mailers. She’s sent out several text messages. She also has more than 1,000 yard signs in public spaces. She’s had several commercials. None of that’s been reported on her finances.”

WI Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

5 Ward 7 Democratic candidates, including (left to right) Eboni-Rose Thompson, Ebony Payne, Ebbon A. Allen, Veda Rasheed, Wendell Felder and Kelvin E. Brown, and more than 300 voters flocked to the Ward 7 D.C. Council candidates forum at Ryland Epworth United Methodist Church in Southeast D.C. on Saturday, March 23. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

AROUND THE REGION

MAR.

MARCH 28

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.

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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.

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.

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.

APRIL 3

1950 – African American historian, author and journalist Carter G. Woodson, known as the "father of Black History," dies in his Washington, D.C., home of a heart attack at 74. 1961 – Legendary comedian and actor Eddie Murphy is born in the Brooklyn borough of New York City.

1990 – Iconic jazz vocalist Sarah Vaughan dies at her Hidden Hills, California, home of lung cancer at 66. WI

EDDIE MURPHY

MARVIN GAYE

BY SARAFINA WRIGHT

What’s something you remember from your childhood that a younger person from the current generation may not understand?

LINDA WOFFORD / HOUSTON, TEXAS.

The Original Little Rascals, stage planks, and being home before those street lights came on.

GLORIA FRAZIER / WINSTON SALEM, N.C.

Watching Soul Train, going to the Apollo Theater, and New York Subway Trains were pretty safe to ride at any hour.

JULIUS DAVIS / CHARLESTON, S.C.

Speed Racer and Wonder Twins!

MERELE WILDER / COLUMBUS, OHIO

Saturday morning cleaning, cartoons, and Soul Train!

TAMMY ROBINSON / WASHINGTON, D.C.

Watching Fat Albert and Soul Train on Saturday mornings and School House Rock while me and my sisters cleaned up the house.

Councilmember Lewis George Faces Two Challengers in Re-election Bid

Lisa Gore, Paul Johnson Zero in on Public Safety and Constituent Services

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

An upcoming candidate’s forum scheduled at Emory Fellowship United Methodist Church on Georgia Avenue in Northwest will provide Ward 4 voters who are registered as Democrats the opportunity to learn about those who are running in the Democratic primary for the Ward 4 D.C. council seat.

The April 16 event counts among the Ward 4 Democrats’ latest efforts to educate voters about the political process. Ward 4 Democrats President Candace Tiana Nelson told The Informer that, above all else, voters should learn about the inner workings of District government, including which entities they can turn to in order to address specific problems.

“Sometimes, you have to go back to the basics and remind folks that, in a town like this, you have an international D.C., a national or federal D.C. and a local D.C.,” Nelson said. “It seems like sometimes [they are] not all connected. Additionally, you have to remind people about Government 101.”

Nelson designated public safety and senior affairs among Ward 4’s

pressing issues. She said that public safety not only included violent crime, but what she described as the slow emergency response and disjointed government communication in the aftermath of house fires that have broken out throughout Ward 4 in recent months.

While Nelson mentioned that voters, party affiliation notwithstanding, desire more immediate responses to violent crime, she said that she often hears concerns about how the D.C. government could better address its underlying causes.

“It’s about the community support that could help be the medicine, if not the cure, for public safety,” Nelson said. “That could be the answer to concerns about parents and children,” she continued. “Voters should be looking for the candidate that’s focused on establishing community support in their role as a legislator.”

COUNCILMEMBER JANEESE LEWIS GEORGE RUNS FOR RE-ELECTION

On June 4, Democratic voters in Ward 4 will decide whether to re-elect D.C. Councilmember

Janeese Lewis George (D-Ward 4).

Lewis George, a millennial and Democratic Socialist who chairs the D.C. Council Committee on Facilities and Family Services, is currently in her first term as the Ward 4 D.C. council member.

Last November, Lewis George launched her re-election campaign at The VIP Room in Northwest. Guests included D.C. Councilmembers Robert White (D-At large), Brianne Nadeau (D-Ward 1), and Zachary Parker (D-Ward 5). Those who spoke on her behalf included Nelson and Aaron Jenkins.

Despite her appeal among legacy Washingtonians, transients and grassroots activists, Lewis George has challengers in Advisory Neighborhood Commission Chair Lisa Gore (ANC 3/4G) and Paul Johnson, a Ward 4 D.C. Democratic Party committeeman.

Gore and Johnson, both of whom worked with Lewis George in their capacity as advisory neighborhood commissioners, are calling into question the degree to which the incumbent has represented Ward 4 residents’ interests on the D.C. Council.

Lewis George later told The

5Councilmember Janeese Lewis George represents Ward 4 on the D.C. Council and is running for re-election. (WI File Photo/Shedrick Pelt) most

Informer that the experience of native Washingtonians of the millennial generation inspired her campaign focus.

“We love the progress of our city, but we just want to be part of it,” Lewis George said. “Our Black homeownership numbers are down. People who are doing well can’t afford the rent. The dream we were sold is crumbling,” she continued. “We want to raise our families. It’s such a beautiful community. We just want to be a part of it. Policies impact our ability to do that.”

LISA GORE SAYS COUNCILMEMBER LEWIS GEORGE IS DISTRACTED BY NATIONAL AGENDA

's labyrinthic education and social service programs, and ensuring the equitable distribution of safety improvements and infrastructure investments.

Gore, a former juvenile probation officer and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development special agent, also said she wants to better include MPD in conversations about crime prevention. Those overtures, she said, would also extend to council colleagues and the mayor.

Crime is a major concern, she emphasized.

“People are concerned about crime -- shootings, break ins, auto thefts,” she continued. “We hear the shooting coming from that side of the ward. You have to look at it from a ward-level perspective and what people are facing.”

chair of Advisory Neighborhood Commission 4C, and currently Ward 4 Democratic Party committeeman and Fourth District MPD Citizens Advisory Council executive committee member, he’s established that type of rapport.

Stakeholders, he said, include seniors, faith-based institutions, small business owners, social service agencies, and law enforcement.

One of Johnson’s campaign focus areas is workforce development, specifically the coordination between Birth-to-Three, Universal Pre-K, the K-12 education system, and the University of the District of Columbia. He told The Informer that he wants to strengthen pathways of employment for various learners, particularly those who want to pursue vocational education.

Gore, a one-time At-large D.C. Council candidate, said she jumped into the Ward 4 D.C. Council race at the behest of residents who expressed concern about Lewis George’s engagement over the last two years.

She also recounted discussing this issue with Lewis George, who she said didn’t present a plan to rectify it.

As Gore explained to The Informer, her qualm with Lewis George involves what she describes as the Ward 4 council member’s focus on a national political agenda rather than local issues. For instance, she cited Lewis George’s introduction of a bill last October that provides local news organizations with government-funded vouchers.

“I’m not saying that the legislation is necessarily bad. I’m saying I don’t believe that [should be] the focus of Ward 4,” Gore said. “We have people living and sleeping in their cars, and people who are terrified about crime. When you put out legislation like that, you’re signaling to the ward your priorities.”

If elected, Gore wants to increase Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) staffing, expand senior housing, and push for the reinstatement of the D.C. Council’s Committee on Education. Other areas of focus include assessing and tailoring early interventions to District students’ needs, helping parents better navigate D.C.

PAUL JOHNSON PRIORITIZES PRAGMATISM, NOT IDEOLOGY

Johnson too said that he wants to ensure that Ward 4 residents feel connected to the Ward 4 council office. If elected, he wants to bet ter engage residents and foster pro ductive working relationships with other D.C. council members and the mayor.

His goal, he said, involves work ing toward solutions based on pragmatism, not ideology.

“Residents are troubled by the trends and direction of public safety in the ward,” Johnson said. “They’re concerned with the dis tress that our small businesses are in, in terms of their ability to stay open and sustain themselves… They’re longing for representation on the council that’s going to show up for them, and work for their concerns in a way that demon strates leadership.”

In years past, Johnson has en gaged Ward 4 residents in matters of opioid use, transportation, the local creative economy, tenant or ganizing, recreation, and equitable zoning and land use. He said that, as a council member, he wants to conduct listening sessions that in clude all residents and ward-wide organizations, including those whose ideologies differ from his.

He told The Informer that, through his work, formerly as

He explained that he wants his public safety approaches to focus on all Ward 4 residents, not just who he calls a vocal few.

“We need to make sure our constituents have a stake and buyin for what happens in Ward 4,” Johnson said. “If you’re not talking to the broad, diverse community

and attuned to its needs, then you become out of step and there’s no equity.”

Read more on washingtoninformer.com WI WARD

5Advisory Neighborhood Commission Chair Lisa Gore (ANC 3/4G) is running for the Ward 4 D.C. Council seat. (Courtesy Photo/Lisa Gore, Facebook)

5Paul Johnson, a Ward 4 D.C. Democratic Party committeeman is running to represent Ward 4 on the D.C. Council. (Courtesy Photo/Paul Johnson)

The Newsletter

Dr. Carla Hayden, the Librarian of Congress, reads The Washington Informer. (Jacques Benovil/The Washington Informer)

“If they don't give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.”

– Shirley Chisholm

https://www washingtoninformer com/calendar/

The DC Public Library sponsored a panel discussion at the Martin Luther King Junior Public Library that featured veteran music executives and a music performance by Grammy-nominated artist, Yo-Yo. (L-R) Jamise Harper, Dr. LaJoyce Brookshire, Pamela Crockett, Thomasina Perkins, and Audra Washington Madison.

Seven Students Participate in Marion Barry Jr. Youth Oratorical Contest, Winner Emphasizes Voting, Advocacy

Orators Inspired by Late Mayor’s Life, Work and Legacy

By James Wright WI Staff Writer

When Aziza McClain-Baxter walked out of the backstage of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library auditorium on March 24, she walked confidently toward the auditorium’s glass podium and in front of 40 people seated above her.

McClain-Baxter was the last participant out of seven in the Marion Barry Jr. Youth Oratorical Contest.

The competitors before her had centered their speeches on the life and work of the late Barry, who served the District as both a mayor and Councilmember, and is affectionately called D.C.’s “Mayor for life.”

A 12th grader at BASIS DC Public Charter School, McClain-Baxter’s speech clearly characterized the need for African Americans to vote.

Influenced by the contest's theme,"The Ballot Box: Marion Barry Jr. Legacy on the Right to Vote as a Vehicle of Change,” she focused on “democratic ideals” and “encouraging citizens to participate in their civic duty.”

“Voting alone is not the absolute vehicle for change,” McClain-Baxter said, before proceeding to talk about the voting rights advocacy of Barry and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and how their work highlighted the need to confront voter suppression and practices such as gerrymandering in redistricting.

McClain-Baxter’s speech earned her first place in the contest, winning a $1,000 educational achievement grant. Zhevyn Shorter-Carson, a 10th grader at Dunbar High School placed second and won $750. Third place went to Armani Bailey, a 12th grader at Benjamin Banneker High School, who received $500.

The four other competitors— Tynel Caldwell-Cowan, a freshman at Friendship Online Academy, Bereket Mengistu Mara, an 11th

grader at Cardozo Education Campus, Serenity Shamburger, a 12th grader at Idea Public Charter School and Yasmine Shaner, a 10th grader at McKinley Technology High School—were guaranteed a $100 gift from Norm Nixon, the president of Marion Barry Youth Leadership Alumni Association. All orators received a gift bag and a certificate.

CONTINUING

BARRY’S LEGACY

The oratory contest is a product of Marion Barry Jr. Legacy Foundation in which former Cora Masters Barry, the late mayor’s widow, and Michael C. Rogers, a former District city administrator, serve as founder-president and chair of the board of directors, respectively.

The District’s former first lady said her husband cared about the youth of the District.

“Marion would be proud that 165 students throughout the District submitted applications to compete in The Marion Barry, Jr. Youth Oratorical Contest,” Barry, 78, told The Informer. “As the first chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, Marion spent his life fighting for the rights of others, including the right to vote. It is very appropriate

that this year’s topic is ‘The Ballot Box: Marion Barry Jr. Legacy on the Right to Vote as a Vehicle for Change.’”

The goal is for students to be inspired by her late husband’s work and legacy.

“It is my hope that these students’ lives will be impacted by their research, and that it will influence all of them to work hard to effectuate positive change, like Marion Barry did,” she said.

Linda Wharton Boyd, a longtime public relations professional, chairs the contest. She said the orator’s speeches were judged on their content, organization, originality, language, style, and bibliographical resources.

“I am honored to have had the opportunity to work with students throughout the District, in preparing them to compete in the Marion Barry Jr. Youth Oratorical Contest,” Boyd said. “Our children and youth are the future. Their enthusiasm to learn was extremely impressive. Not only did this competition provide the mechanism for them to learn about Mayor Barry, but it also helped them sharpen their writing and public speaking skills.” WI

@JamesWrightJr10

5Aziza McClain-Baxter, a 12th grader at BASIS DC Public Charter School, emerged as the winner of The Marion Barry Jr. Youth Oratorical Contest that took place on March 24. (Courtesy Photo/Ron Thomas)

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY

Prince George’s County Political Updates

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

MARYLAND SENATE RACE UPDATES: HOGAN LEADS ALSOBROOKS, TRONE IN RECENT UMD SENATE POLL

Former Governor Larry Hogan (R) is currently leading both Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks (D) and Rep. David Trone (D) by double digits in a March poll conducted by the University of Maryland, putting the U.S. Senate majority in play for Republicans.

Hogan led Trone 49% to 37%, and Alsobrooks 50% to 36%.

However, 55% of poll respondents were in favor of Democratic control of the U.S. Senate.

Trone led Alsbrooks 34% to

27% in the most recent head to head polling, with many Maryland Democrats still undecided.

Alsobrooks has made healthcare and abortion access some of her staple issues in the campaign to compare with her competitors, while Trone is emphasizing his dedication to criminal justice and work in Congress to address both addiction and Alzheimers.

When asked in a March 7 Axios interview if he supported codifying Roe v. Wade into federal law, which would protect reproductive rights especially in Southern states, Hogan did not agree.

"If Marylanders want to vote for that, they should have the right to do that," Hogan said regarding the upcoming statewide ballot referendum to enshrine reproductive rights in the Maryland constitution. "They're already completely protected in Maryland." WI

CONGRESSMAN TRONE USES SLUR DURING HEARING, ALSOBROOKS GARNERS NEW ENDORSEMENTS

During a March 21 congressional hearing, Congressman Trone used a racial slur which he claims was accidental and has apologized for.

“Today, while attempting to use the word ‘bugaboo’ in a hearing, I used a phrase that is offensive,” Trone said in a statement. “That word has a long, dark, terrible history. It should never be used any time, anywhere, in any conversation. I recognize that as a white man, I have privilege. And as an elected official, I have a responsibility for the words I use, especially in the heat of the moment. Regardless of what I meant to say, I shouldn’t have used that language.”

Following this incident, Alsobrooks was endorsed by Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) and Congressional Black Caucus members Reps. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.), Congressman Gergory Meeks (D-NY), Rep. Joyce Beatty (D-Ohio), Rep. Yvette D. Clarke (D-NY-), and Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas). She’s also been endorsed by longtime Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-Md), Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) and Comptroller Brooke Lierman (D), and three African Americans currently serving in the U.S. Senate.

“I am excited to support Angela and am confident she'll be a voice that is sorely missing in the Senate,” said Lee, who just came

in fourth in California’s open primary for U.S. Senate. “At a time when there is so much at stake for our country, we need someone who will fight for our rights - from decisions about our own health care to our fundamental democracy. Angela is the candidate who will not only take on those fights, but who can beat Larry Hogan in November. She’s the leader both Maryland and the U.S. Senate needs.”

"The enthusiasm and support behind our grassroots campaign is growing as we continue our fight for Marylanders across the state," said Alsobrooks following the newest round of endorsement.

If County Executive Alsobrooks advances to the general election, she is not required to vacate her position. WI

CONGRESSMAN IVEY CELEBRATES 14TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT

In celebration of the 14th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) passage, Rep. Glenn Ivey (D- Md.) took a healthcare tour of his congressional district on March 23. During the tour, Ivey emphasized how the landmark bill has expanded healthcare access to tens of millions of Americans and protects those with pre-existing conditions from discrimination.

Kingdom Fellowship AME Church’s First Lady Shawna Watley joined Ivey during the tour,

and the Prince George’s County Office of Social Services and Office of Veterans Affairs served as partnering organizations.

“Joining Shawna Watley of Kingdom Fellowship AME Church on the 14th anniversary of the passage of the Affordable Care Act for an area-wide healthcare tour, it is vitally important to recognize Obamacare’s impact on our communities,” said Ivey.

The tour began at the Fresenius Medical Center in Fort Washington, followed by a lunch at the NuVegan Cafe in College Park and ended at the Riderwood Senior Living Community in Silver Spring.

“Whether it’s the service and care of dialysis centers like Fresenius, or preventative measures that prevent chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease by eating at NuVegan, or understanding our senior citizens and their healthcare needs at the Riderwood Village, I remain committed to reaching our residents from southern Prince George’s County to Burtonsville and everywhere in between.”

He also expressed gratitude to the businesses and organizations that helped make the tour successful and possible.

“I want to thank the staff at the Fort Washington Dialysis Center, Vernon Woodland of NuVegan Restaurant in College Park, and the kind and active retirees at Riderwood for a day of informative discussions and insights into our healthcare system,” Ivey said.

“Your voice helps me represent you better in the fourth Congressional District and in the US Congress.” WI

5 A campaign sign supporting Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks in Largo, not far from her campaign HQ. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

5 Rep. Glenn Ivey (D) (left) presented a proclamation to NuVegan owner Vernon Woodard during the politician’s late March healthcare tour of his congressional district. (Courtesy Photo/Office of Congressman Glenn Ivey)

Prince George’s County Local Updates

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS RECEIVE MENTORING FROM WOMEN LEADERS

Twenty female students from high schools around the DMV received mentoring from local women leaders on March 21.

Hosted at Prince George’s County Community College (PGCC), the event’s goal was to expose students to various women industry leaders and to raise awareness about different options for college and career pathways.

Some of the speakers included women leaders and executives from the Prince George’s County government, PGCC, CareFirst, Exxon Mobil, EY, Fearless Arts Media, George Mason University, Guidehouse, Howard University, Management Solutions Consulting Group, Mortenson Construction, Pepco, Preferred Capitol Cleaning, Prince George’s Community College, and the Prince George’s County Government.

President and CEO of the United Way of the National Capital Area Rosie Allen-Herring served as one of the speakers and her organization, which partnered with Women United to host this mentoring session, plans to continue offering support to Prince George’s County Public Schools students.

“They heard from female panelists and roundtable moderators on what steps they took to achieve success in their chosen fields. The day also highlighted the need for menstrual equity and the challenges families face in obtaining products to support the women in their household in achieving their own academic or career goals,” said Sinikka Mondini, an event spokesperson. “The students and female leaders participated in a kit-packing activity for all attendees to provide feminine hygiene products back to their respective schools.” WI

LOCAL WOMEN’S ONLY GYM OPENS

SECOND LOCATION IN HYATTSVILLE

Just four years after opening her first location, Her Flex Fitness owner

Samiyah Williams is proud to build an intentional safe space while uplifting other women’s fitness journeys. A gym operated by and for women, Williams opened a second location in Hyattsville and began offering classes in February.

“I wanted to create a name that lets women know that this space is for you,” said Williams. “I really just wanted to have an outlet for women to come in, love on themselves, be selfish for an hour.”

To describe the space, Her Flex Fitness member Alexis Anderson had three words: “empowering, transformative, special.”

Even though it wasn’t easy to get off the ground, Williams hopes to expand to more locations in the future. Her first location is in Forestville on Marlboro Pike. In 2022, she expanded the space to double her parking and grow her client base. WI

M&T BANK ANNOUNCES

SPANISH-LANGUAGE BUSINESS INCUBATOR PROGRAM

M&T Bank launched their second annual Spanish-language business accelerator on March 21.

Led by representatives from M&T and the Prince George’s Economic Development Council (PGEDC), the seven week program will offer courses on business planning, establishing credit, managing bank accounts, marketing, branding, and licensing. Sessions will be held entirely in Spanish, and small business owners interested in participating in the program must complete an online application by April 5, be fluent in Spanish, based in Prince George's, and in good business standing.

"We’re excited to bring our 0-100 Small Business Accelerator back this year as we continue to support Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs in Prince George’s County," said M&T Bank’s Regional Sales Manager Vickie Mejia. "The response we received to last year’s program was overwhelming, and we are grateful to work with [PGEDC] to expand this year’s offering. Ultimately, our program is an investment not only in the entrepreneurs who participate in the program but the social capital of the wider community."

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

The 0-100 Business Accelerator Program’s courses will be held on Thursdays from 6:00 to 8:00 pm ET, at PGEDC, 1801 McCormick Drive, Largo, Maryland, and the program will conclude June 14 with a graduation.

There will also be an award ceremony for the first place winner of a $4,500 pitch competition, funded by M&T Bank.

Registration is free for the first 30 participants.

“We are thrilled about the return of the impactful 0 to 100 Business Accelerator Program and Pitch Competition. This year, the program has been specialized to provide more growth and strengthening opportunities for businesses,” said Rocio Treminio-Lopez, who was recently appointed as Latin Business Liaison for PGEDC. “With the use of one-on-one mentoring sessions, each business will receive specific mentoring and resources to help them succeed, which will have positive reverberations throughout the county.” WI

5 Her Flex Fitness, a women's only gym in Prince George’s, just opened their second location in Hyattsville. Their first location, located in Forestville, is pictured here. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

BUSINESS

By James Wright / WI Staff Writer

OCTFME HONORS

RAYMONE BAIN

The D.C. Office of Cable Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment (OCTFME) recognized public relations entrepreneur Raymone K. Bain as the 2024 Women’s HERstory Month DC Star for March.

Known as the “spokesperson to the stars,” Bain is renowned for her work in public relations, media, and crisis management through her company Raymone K. Bain Companies LLC. Bain, a graduate of Spelman College, has worked on projects that complement her blend of political savvy and entertainment industry expertise, making her for many as a go-to strategist.

She has worked with boxers Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson, tennis

briefs

star Serena Williams, entertainers Kennth “Babyface” Edmonds, Steve Harvey, Janet Jackson and Michael Jackson, celebrated as the “king of pop.” Additionally, she has worked with the late District mayor and council member, Marion S. Barry and presently works with his widow, Cora Masters Barry.

“Raymone K. Bain’s remarkable career and achievements are a testament to her unwavering dedication, pioneering spirit, and exceptional skills,” said LaToya Foster, director of OCTFME and District Film Commissioner.

“Her contributions to the entertainment industry, sports management, and community initiatives are truly remarkable, and her impact will be felt for generations to come. Con-

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Engineer

Blackhawk Network, Inc. in McLean, VA seeks DevOps Engineer. Handle automated sw app deployments to prod & post-prod envir. Occasional telecommuting permitted (hybrid). $139,589 to $157,500/yr. Email resume to humanresources@bhn.com specifying job code 91354. EOE.

TWO RIVERS PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOL REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Technology Equipment

Two Rivers PCS is soliciting price quotes to acquire 11-inch Chromebooks and Google enterprise management licenses. To request a copy of the RFP, email Gail Williams at procurement@tworiverspcs.org. Proposals are due by Monday April 15, 2024.

gratulations on your incredible legacy Raymone and thank you for your outstanding leadership and service.” WI

THE LATE MIRINDA JACKSON PRAISED

Local leaders and organizations have been honoring the life of Prince George’s County Council Minority Business Enterprise Compliance Manager Mirinda Jackson, who died March 20.

“[Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation (PGCEDC)] mourns the passing of Mirinda Jackson,” PGCEDC posted on X March 21. “She fought for balance in ensuring minority participation in business. Mirinda Jackson, a true champion of Prince George's County.”

Jackson was celebrated for her 15 years of work in the position and her dedication to equity in business.

“Mirinda was a wonderful person who brought a pragmatic, clear-thinking approach to the important work of advocating for small and minority businesses in Prince George’s County,” said David Iannucci, PGCEDC president and CEO, Prince. “She was always willing to help companies reach their ultimate goals. She will be sorely missed.”

Marva Jo Camp, PGCEDC board vice chair, also reflected on Jackson’s life and legacy.

“Mirinda reflected the best of Prince George’s County,” Camp said. “She was a tireless advocate for minority, small and women-owned businesses, she was a community servant and a

nomic opportunity across the D.C. region,” said Nancy Stark, Wacif board chair. “With her creative approach to leadership, we’re confident Shannan is the right person to expand on Wacif’s success and introduce new strategies to increase access to capital and opportunities for even more entrepreneurs in the region.”

Herbert received her bachelor’s in business administration from Howard University and an MBA from Loyola University Maryland.

(Courtesy Photo) mentor to so many. Mirinda was kind and caring, and she gave of herself unselfishly every day. I will miss my dear friend but will hold onto the memory of her beautiful smile, her wise counsel, and sweet spirit. Rest in Peace my good and faithful sister.”

Dawn Medley, FSC First president and CEO, noted Jackson was a member of her organization’s board for six years.

“Mirinda was more than just a colleague and board member; she was a visionary leader and icon of Prince George’s County whose dedication and passion were instrumental in shaping the direction of our organization,” Medley said. “She brought wisdom, experience, and unwavering commitment to every meeting and initiative, inspiring us all to strive for excellence.” WI

WACIF TAPS SHANNAN HERBERT AS NEW CEO

The Washington Area Community Investment Fund (Wacif) recently announced that Shannan Herbert will be its new CEO.

Herbert, who will start on April 1, has held the role of executive vice president of Inclusive Credit at Stratyfy, a woman-owned, mission-focused fintech company, and was the executive vice president and chief credit officer for City First Bank in the District, one of the country’s largest Black-led banks.

“Shannan’s passion for financial inclusion and removing barriers that prevent the flow of resources in communities of color aligns with Wacif’s mission to promote equity and eco-

“I’ve always admired Wacif’s unwavering commitment to community building—not just in providing loans to create greater opportunity throughout the District, but in deeply investing in the critical supports needed to foster a vibrant community, such as food security and affordable childcare,” said Herbert. “Wacif has made a measurable impact on the lives of many and has never been stronger. I am excited to steward it into this new chapter in partnership with the community, our team, our board, and our partners.” WI

2024 ROBUST RETAIL GRANT PROGRAM

The Bowser administration has announced that applications are open for the 2024 Robust Retail Grant Program.

The program, managed by the D.C. Department of Small and Local Business Development, supports retail businesses based in the city by offering $10,000 in small business grant funding. Applications are being accepted through April 15.

“Investing in retail businesses means more jobs and greater opportunities for Washingtonians,” said Mayor Muriel Bowser. “When we support retail businesses, we are not only investing in the prosperity of our community, but we are also building stronger neighborhoods and supporting the dreams and investments of entrepreneurs in D.C.”

To qualify, businesses must be listed as for-profit, consumer-facing small and independent retail firms with fewer than 25 full-time employees that operate a licensed retail location.

Funding from the program can be used for such things as rent, employee wages and salaries, insurance costs, taxes, and debt obligations. Awardees will be announced during the week of April 28-May 4.

For more information, visit dslbd.dc.gov.

WI

@JamesWrightJr10

5 Shannan Herbert will serve as the new CEO for the Washington Area Community Investment Fund (Wacif).

5 Raymone Bain is a public relations entrepreneur in the District and is celebrated as the 2024 Women’s HERstory Month DC Star for March. (WI File Photo/ Robert R. Roberts)

This Women’s History Month, Regional Philanthropist Leader Talks Career, Finances and Motivation

Sponsored content from JPMorgan Chase & Co.

Women’s History Month is a time to come together to celebrate and recognize the achievements and contributions of women throughout the years. For this Women’s History Month, we sat down with Alicia Wilson, Head of Regional Philanthropy for North America at JPMorgan Chase to learn about her career journey, what motivates the work she does and how you can take charge of your career and finances.

1) What has been key to your success throughout your career?

• God. Trusting him to direct my career has been central to my success. This has allowed me to focus on not just doing the best job I can do, but to help make a significant impact to those I’ve been able to touch in my more than two decades in the workplace. Growing up in Baltimore I’ve always wanted my career to impact my community, so I’m conscious of how I can use my platform, position and the opportunities around me to help make a difference.

2) Looking back, what is one thing you wish you knew when you were first starting out in your career?

• I wish I knew that your career journey is about taking advantage of every single opportunity, and that no experience in your journey – good or bad – is a waste. Today, I try to take everything with a grain of salt and lean into any opportunity that is presented to me to learn and grow, even if it may seem

scary. With a bit of dedication and hard work anything can be possible.

3) What are some tips for women to take charge of their career and finances?

My three tips are:

• Start wherever you are and take charge of your finances and career. Do not think it’s about lost time, or what you could’ve done when you were in your 20s. You’re the only person that can drive your growth and success.

• Get advice from people that are doing well financially and career-wise. While we might want to go to our “comfort circle” to get advice, it’s actually about going to the “circle of discomfort” – the people that are going to be critical advisors and help you move your career and finances forward.

• Be willing to take risks in your career. The people who are willing to take risks ultimately have the sort of career that they’ve been wanting and working towards. So start now!

4) How has your local community shaped you?

• Everything about who I am, how I lead, and what I do is inspired from

The Newsletter

the rich upbringing that I had in Baltimore. I still live in the same neighborhood I grew up in, and that’s by choice. Baltimore is a city of grit, passion, brilliance and authenticity, and this is what I try to bring to everything I do. Every single investment that I get to be part of and help craft, I’m reminded of what communities are in need of on a day-to-day basis. When I talk about philanthropy and impacting communities, I talk from a sense of felt-need versus observed-need because I’ve witnessed the challenges and it gives me a lot of joy to be a part of the solution.

What woman organization has inspired you and your career?

• My community has been a lifelong collective network, including Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., a historically African American sorority, founded by college-educated women dedicated to public service with an emphasis on programs that assist the African American community. This organization has been a positive, motivating force in my life. I’ve been blessed to meet so many women that I can call on daily to get encouragement, council, advice and uplifted, and that I know are of service and scholarship who care deeply about the community.

5) How can people get involved to celebrate and support women at work?

• I regularly participate in the JPMorgan Chase’s internal employee Business Resource Groups, Women on the Move, Black Organization for Leadership Development and Black Executive forum which enable employees to share ideas, grow professionally and connect with colleagues who have similar interests. These employee initiatives are very powerful tools to helping people not feel alone but supported at work and beyond. If your company

has a similar program I encourage you to get involved. For more inspiration, whether it’s to help advance your own career or support women in your field, explore JPMorgan Chase’s Women on the Move initiative by visiting jpmorganchase. com/impact/people/women-on-themove.

Alicia Wilson manages JPMorgan Chase’s local Philanthropic plans across more than 40 markets in North America. She works with senior leaders in corporate responsibility to ensure the firm’s footprint is creating meaningful impact in Canada and the United States, and is based out of Washington D.C. and lives in Baltimore, MD.

5 Alicia Wilson, Head of Regional Philanthropy for North America

U.S. Plummets in World Happiness Rankings According to 2024 Report

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

According to the newest World Happiness Report for 2024, the United States has dropped in the worldwide happiness rankings.

Released on March 20, America plunged eight spots from its previous ranking, marking the first time in the report’s 12-year history that the nation has failed to secure a position among the world’s top 20 happiest countries.

Released on the UN’s International Day of Happiness, the report, a collaborative effort among Gallup, the

Oxford Wellbeing Research Centre, the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, and the World Happiness Report’s Editorial Board, sheds light on the shifting landscape of happiness worldwide. While perennial frontrunners like Finland and Denmark continue to dominate the top spots, the U.S. finds itself in an unfamiliar position of decline.

Historically, the pursuit of happiness has been ingrained in the American ethos, symbolizing freedom, opportunity, and prosperity. However, in recent years, several factors have been identified that could contribute to its demise.

Political turmoil and the hate and confusion that has come with the candidacy and trials of the twice-impeached and four-times indicted former president Donald Trump, economic inequality, diminishing social cohesion, and a pervasive consumerism culture often undermine many Americans’ well-being.

Additionally, the pressures of modern life, including work-related stress, a lack of affordable healthcare, and

political polarization, have taken a toll on mental health and overall happiness levels.

Moreover, the advent of social media and digital technologies, while providing connectivity, has also been linked to increased feelings of isolation and comparison, negatively impacting subjective well-being.

The new happiness report highlights that “some countries, like Finland and Denmark, consistently rank

Preventable Tragedies: Unintentional Shootings by Children Remain a National Concern

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

The devastating consequences of firearm mishandling, and inadequate storage continue to haunt families across the United States.

In 2016, 14-year-old JaJuan McDowell fell victim to an unintentional shooting, a stark reminder of the dangers posed by unsecured firearms. Eight years later, JaJuan’s mother, Jul-

vonnia McDowell, still grapples with the pain of her loss, advocating tirelessly for safe firearm storage practices.

“When guns aren’t securely stored, the result is unimaginable pain and trauma,” McDowell shared during a televised interview with NBC News.

McDowell has dedicated her efforts as a volunteer for Moms Demand Action, a grassroots arm of Everytown for Gun Safety, a nonprofit that advocates for gun control and against gun vio-

lence. “This is an issue that impacts us all. Regardless of whose gun it is, the consequences can be devastatingly personal.”

According to data provided by Everytown, at least 157 lives were lost, and 270 individuals were injured last year due to unintentional shootings by children. These incidents predominantly involve teenagers aged 14 to 17 or children aged five and under, often resulting in self-inflicted injuries or harm to another child.

Sarah Burd-Sharps, senior director of research at Everytown, highlighted the familial bonds shattered by such tragedies.

“In many cases, the victim is a sibling, cousin, or friend, leaving multiple families grappling with sorrow and regret,” she stated.

Everytown urges federal and state authorities to enhance efforts in tracking and disseminating data on these incidents to formulate effective preventive strategies.

“Nearly every day, a child gains access to a loaded firearm with tragic outcomes. Yet, these incidents are entirely

preventable,” emphasized Burd-Sharps.

Heartbreaking stories abound, including the death of a 2-year-old girl in Indiana who found a gun at home and the shooting of an 8-year-old boy in Alabama with a firearm taken from his mother’s car. In Florida, a 12-yearold boy died, and 15-year-old sustained injuries because of the negligent handling of a gun by a 14-year-old.

Last year, the nation witnessed the highest number of unintentional child shootings recorded by Everytown since tracking began in 2015, with 411 incidents resulting in injuries or fatalities. However, data collection has faced challenges due to inconsistent reporting and documentation.

Everytown’s 2023 report, “Preventable Tragedies: Unintentional Shootings by Children,” offered a detailed analysis of incidents from 2015 to 2022, which detailed how critical secure gun storage remains.

Researchers stressed that “ensuring firearms are stored securely—unloaded, locked, and separate from ammunition—is paramount.” WI

@StacyBrownMedia

among the world’s happiest. The U.S. isn’t one of them.”

Breaking new ground, the report introduced separate rankings by age group, revealing differing happiness levels across generations. Notably, a significant decline in the wellbeing of Americans under 30 is what has caused the U.S. to fall in the rankings overall.

At the global level, averaged across all ages and regions, inequality of happiness has increased by more than 20% over the past dozen years.

Among those born after 1980, happiness falls with each year of age.

Among those born before 1965, life evaluations rise with age.

John F. Helliwell, emeritus professor of Economics at the University of British Columbia and a founding editor of the World Happiness Report, emphasizes the importance of understanding these generational disparities. “There is a great variety among countries in the relative happiness of the younger, older, and in-between populations,” he commented.

“Effective policy making relies on solid data,” stated Jon Clifton, CEO of Gallup. “Today’s World Happiness Report attempts to bridge some of these gaps... It provides analytics and advice for evidence-based planning and policymaking,” he stated.

Jan-Emmanuel De Neve, director of Oxford’s Wellbeing Research Centre, calls for immediate policy action in light of concerns about drops in happiness among youth, adding,

“To think that, in some parts of the world, children are already experiencing the equivalent of a mid-life crisis demands immediate policy action.” WI

@StacyBrownMedia

5According to the newest World Happiness Report for 2024, released March 20, the United States has dropped in the worldwide happiness rankings. (Courtesy File Photo)

5Everytown data reveals at least 157 lives were lost and 270 individuals were injured last year due to unintentional shootings by children. Advocates across the country, such as Julvonnia McDowell (center), are working to combat the devastating consequences of firearm mishandling and inadequate storage. (Courtesy Photo)

White House Announces $6 Billion Federal Student Debt

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

In another significant move toward alleviating financial burdens on public service workers, President Joe Biden declared the approval of nearly $6 billion in federal student debt cancellation on March 21. According to the White House, the initiative should benefit about 78,000 eligible people, including teachers, nurses, and firefighters.

The impact could resonate notably within the District of Columbia, where more than 21% of the workforce is employed in the public service sector, with average hourly wages hovering slightly above $25.

Biden emphasized the measure’s significance, highlighting the workers’ dedication to their communities and addressing past administrative oversights that denied them rightful relief.

“From day one of my administration, I promised to fix broken

student loan programs and make sure higher education is a ticket to the middle class, not a barrier to opportunity,” Biden affirmed. “I won’t back down from using every tool at my disposal to deliver student debt relief to more Americans and build an economy from the middle out and bottom up.”

The latest announcement marks another stride in the administration’s efforts to provide relief through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness programs, designed to forgive remaining debt for eligible borrowers who have fulfilled specific payment criteria while employed by approved organizations.

The move follows a similar action in January, when approximately $5 billion in debt was forgiven for about 74,000 public-sector borrowers. Since assuming office, Biden has sanctioned a historic nearly $144 billion in federal loan forgiveness, benefiting approximately 4 million borrowers nationwide. WI @StacyBrownMedia

5President Joe Biden declared on Thursday the approval of nearly $6 billion in federal student debt cancellation, an initiative that should benefit about 78,000 eligible people, including teachers, nurses, and firefighters. (WI File Photo)

Biden and Harris Fight Against House Republicans’ Budget Threatening Health Care

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

Resolute in their stance against the recent budget proposal by House Republicans, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris are intensifying their efforts to lower healthcare costs and safeguard crucial provisions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), Medicaid, and Medicare.

In a Fact Sheet, the White House noted that Biden and Harris underscored the administration’s commitment during a visit to North Carolina, where they outlined a comprehensive strategy to make health care more affordable for all Americans.

“The draconian measures in the Republican budget, which the Republican Study Committee created and which the House Republican leadership supported, have alarmed people because they could destroy crucial health care programs,” administration officials said. Among its provisions, the budget seeks to slash a staggering $4.5 trillion from the ACA, Medicaid, and the Children’s Health Insurance Program, potentially leaving millions of Americans without access to essential health coverage.

Key aspects of the Republican budget include eliminating funding for the ACA’s Marketplace and Medicaid expansion, jeopardizing coverage for over 45 million individuals. Further-

more, the proposed transformation of Medicaid into block grants “could imperil the health care of an additional 60 million Americans, leading to increased difficulty in qualifying for coverage and potential cuts to critical benefits,” officials argued.

The budget threatens the well-being of seniors and individuals with disabilities by proposing cuts to Medicaid home care services and nursing home payments, which could result in diminished care quality and longer waitlists for essential services.

In addition to dismantling crucial consumer protections established by the ACA, such as coverage for pre-existing conditions and prohibitions against insurance company abuses, officials said the Republican budget would also convert Medicare into a “premium support” program, potentially raising premiums for millions of seniors and exacerbating prescription drug costs.

“Contrary to this regressive agenda, President Biden and Vice President Harris are staunch advocates for expanding access to affordable health care,” officials asserted. “Under their leadership, a record-breaking 21 million Americans have enrolled in ACA coverage this year, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to extend health care to more citizens.”

The White House argued that the administration’s initiatives have yield-

ed tangible benefits, including average annual savings of $800 per individual on health insurance premiums. They claimed that the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, which Biden championed, has given Medicare the authority to negotiate lower prescription drug costs, ensuring that seniors and people with disabilities can access affordable medications.

Biden and Harris insisted they are committed to further lowering healthcare costs and enhancing coverage for all Americans. Their proposed measures include:

• Making premium tax credits permanent.

• Expanding Medicaid coverage in states that have not adopted expansion.

• Investing in home care services to address waitlists for older adults and individuals with disabilities.

White House officials said the president and vice president’s agenda prioritizes mental health care access, consumer protection against surprise medical bills, and crackdowns on unwarranted fees in health care services.

By advocating for Medicare to negotiate drug prices for at least 50 drugs annually and capping out-of-pocket prescription drug costs, the administration aims to alleviate financial burdens on individuals while safeguarding the integrity of health care programs.

In contrast to the Republican budget’s assault on health care, officials asserted that Biden and Harris remain steadfast in their commitment to protecting and strengthening vital health care programs for generations to come.

“By ensuring that the wealthy con-

JUDGEMENT from Page 1

to his six children, said the road to victory wasn’t easy. In addition to the emotional toll of her husband’s death, she dealt with what she described as the D.C. government’s attempt to tarnish his name.

“I knew who my husband was. They tried to make it like his life didn’t matter,” Coles-Green said. “His death took a toll on everyone’s lives,” she continued. “I wanted to speak out during court. It was traumatic to hear the way they tried to assassinate his character.”

tribute their fair share and dedicating savings from Medicare reforms to the program’s sustainability, they seek to uphold the fundamental right to accessible and affordable health care for all Americans,” officials said.

WI

@StacyBrownMedia

Attorney General (OAG) cited a toxicology report that said Green had PCP in his system at the time of the crash. The government's attorneys argued that Green’s past drug use and incarceration could diminish the amount of support he could provide his children, and ultimately the amount to be awarded.

Attorneys later said that the D.C. Office of the Medical Examiner destroyed the late Green’s blood sample that it tested for drugs. In court, Lightfoot questioned whether the D.C. government actually tested Green's blood.

If

to pay for the repair that was done, as well as storage, and bill fees.

Please reach out to us within 2 weeks of this posting, otherwise the car will be auctioned.

In 2019, Coles-Green filed a lawsuit against the District. Per Bill Lightfoot, the family’s attorney, getting to a jury trial would take years, due to what he described as D.C. Fire and Emergency Medical Services’ (DCFEMS) delay of releasing the dashcam footage from March 9, 2018.

A Metropolitan Police Department spokesperson told The Informer that the fire truck dashcam footage recovered by investigators at the scene of the crash was not operational.

During the trial to determine damages, the D.C. Office of the

Ultimately, D.C. Superior Court Judge Yvonne Williams threw out the toxicology report, saying that it didn’t indicate that Green took the drug on the day of the crash. The jury later ruled in favor of Green’s family on the basis of what Lightfoot described as lost parental guidance.

“Deangelo wasn’t a stay-at-home dad, but he took care of them,”

Lightfoot told The Informer. He represented Coles-Green alongside attorney Allyson Kitchel. “Dressing them, feeding them, taking them to school, doing extra events.”

JUDGEMENT Page 22

5Fighting against the recent budget proposal by House Republicans, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris are intensifying their efforts to lower healthcare costs and safeguard crucial provisions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), Medicaid, and Medicare. (WI File Photo)

From Waste Bins to Climate Wins

Since 2022, Washington Gas has teamed up with WUSA9 for multiple Recycle Days. On March 9, our Springfield, Virginia, location volunteers welcomed hundreds of vehicles to drop off items rerouted from landfills to recycling facilities. All that behind-the-scenes work resulted in 26 tons of old paper being reclaimed for a new future.

Want to see something even more inspiring? Check out the cumulative results from our five sponsored Recycle Days.

PAPER: 252,000 POUNDS (129 TONS)

With the average ream of copy paper containing 500 sheets, 129 tons of paper equals over 25 million pages. That’s enough to stack as high as about 20 Washington Monuments and enough square footage to paper more than 270 U.S. football fields.

ELECTRONICS: 133,000 POUNDS (60 TONS)

Electronic devices are especially problematic in landfills. Their glass alone can take 1-2 million years to decompose, so every reclaimed electronic is a win. Rescuing old items can also reduce the high-energy needs of raw mining and first-time refining. For example, steel is 100% recyclable and can be repeatedly reused at the same quality, while recycling aluminum uses 95% less energy than producing the metal from its original ore.

TREES: 2,100 SAVED (EQUIVALENT)

When envisioning the 2,100 tree equivalents saved overall, picture preserving

more than half of the 3,800 flowering cherry trees along the National Mall. Since trees love hydration, they’ll be extra happy to learn that the five combined Recycle Days have conserved more than 154,000 gallons of water.

We thank WUSA9 and everyone in the DMV for being outstanding partners in making small changes that led to staggering results. While we’re very proud of these initiatives, the planning and work toward our energy future are only getting started.

TRASH + TRILEMMA

As we celebrate the immediate wins from Recycle Days, our world is also

goals includes making intelligent, innovative energy decisions that support lower-carbon solutions and long-term efficiency. For example, Washington Gas is making a strategic investment of $1.7 billion over the next five years in pipeline modernization.

From Recycle Days to modernizing our infrastructure, these interlocking steps can help resolve the Energy Trilemma. Our distribution networks enable us to deliver natural gas today and can also provide a foundation for delivering lower-carbon solutions in the years ahead. In the short run, we will primarily pursue energy efficiency and renewable natural gas (RNG) projects. These are ready-now technologies that we will continue to innovate into the future.

facing what is known as the Energy Trilemma. If you’re not familiar with this term, it refers to the challenge of balancing our energy systems to be reliable and affordable while supporting climate goals, now and in the future.

• Reliability means ensuring that energy supplies are consistent and dependable to run homes, businesses and services without interruptions. In 2023, the Washington Gas reliability rate was 99.86%.

• Truly affordable energy must be equally available and cost-effective for all. The American Gas Association (AGA) confirms that using natural gas has saved families $125 billion over 10 years.

• Supporting climate

Landfills produce methane because of significant accumulations of biostock: a mix of food and landscape waste, biosolids, manure, digestate, sludges and other organic materials. (Yummy.)

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that, in 2019 alone, the food retail, food service and residential sectors generated 66 million tons of wasted food, with about 60% of this going to landfills. Municipal solid waste landfills, in 2021, generated about the same greenhouse gas emissions as 23.1 million gasoline-powered passenger vehicles driven for one year.

Now for the good news. Specialized facilities can collect and process biostock to create concentrated methane gas (RNG). When injected into natural gas pipelines, RNG can provide a readily available renewable energy source. Washington Gas has partnered with various companies to support safe RNG integration into our existing natural gas distribution infrastructure. Strategically located across the DMV service territory, these resources will help ensure reliable, affordable energy while supporting long-term climate goals.

From recycling to RNG, Washington Gas is proud to be the DMV's modern energy partner. We will soon share more about our plans, including the 2024 results update for our Accelerated Pipeline Replacement Programs.

Please stay tuned, and thank you for 175 years of support. We are honored to provide the safe, reliable energy that powers the DMV.

RECYCLING + RNG

While they may seem unrelated, recycling events and RNG share a common thread: transforming waste into wins. Just as recycling helps keep trash out of landfills, RNG technology can convert organic landfill waste into lower-carbon fuel options.

Renewable natural gas can be an exciting, powerful strategy for managing municipal landfill methane emissions.

Women cadres and veterans of the liberation struggle of Rwanda have embarked on planting trees to combat desertification in Eastern Province and other parts of the country. The tree-planting initiative was launched in Bugesera District on March 23.

Historically, 40 or 50 years ago, Rwanda’s Eastern Province had enough forest cover. But it experienced deforestation as people cut trees in search of agricultural land, charcoal, firewood as well as construction materials, according to Rwanda Forestry Authority.

“Bugesera District, historically, has faced drought due to deforestation. This caused food insecurity in some communities. By planting trees in this region, rains will be back and thus crops will grow,” said Maj. (Rtd) Betty Mukarugwiza, a member of Organization Ndabaga, a non-governmental organization (NGO) founded by women cadres and veterans of the liberation struggle of Rwanda from 1990 to 1994.

She mentioned that in the last 30 years, women, after liberating the country, have significantly contributed to national development, a trend that needs to be nurtured and maintained.

“We still have a long journey to go and, therefore, combating climate change is timely because it is one of the main drivers of hunger. We have to fight against stunting and malnutrition by planting fruit trees,” she noted.

The organization has been actively engaged in empowering women and promoting community development since its establishment in 2001.

With a commitment to improving the wellbeing of its members and fostering peace and security in Rwanda and neighboring countries, Ndabaga has embarked on a transformative journey to address the challenges posed by climate change and environmental degradation.

Rwanda, like many other nations, faces the adverse impacts of climate change, including increased frequency of extreme weather, loss of biodiversity, and disruptions to agricultural systems.

“With over 30% of its surface covered by forests, Rwanda recognizes the importance of environmental conservation in mitigating climate change and ensuring food security for its population,” she said.

The project also seeks to strengthen the resilience of 5,000 households in Bugesera to climate change impacts, distribute 500,000 agroforestry trees and 350,000 fruits trees across different regions of Rwanda. WI

Freeport, Grand Bahama – the second most populated city in The Bahamas – is poised to be the “fastest-growing economy in the Caribbean,” according to a March 22 report from The Tribune, one of largest daily newspapers in the island nation.

Derek Newbold, the Grand Bahama Port Authority’s (GBPA) chief investment officer, told The Tribune that the GBPA had opened a satellite office in Nassau earlier in the week to capitalize on the momentum generated by Freeport’s $2 billion investment pipeline.

With Freeport’s infrastructure currently servicing just 20% of the 250,000 people it was designed to accommodate, Newbold explained that the Nassau office will function as a first point- of-contact to help educate Nassau-based businesses on how The Bahamas’ second city functions and the tax benefits/concessions available to them under the Hawksbill Creek Agreement.

In August of 1955, the then Government of The Bahamas signed The Hawksbill Creek Agreement with American investor Wallace Groves, granting his company, the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA), 99 years for the exclusive right to develop some 50,000 acres of undeveloped land on the island of Grand Bahama. In return, Groves agreed to provide infrastructure which included, the dredging of a deepwater harbour, the construction of an airport, hospital, schools and other amenities. As an added incentive the government granted the GBPA control of the administration and issuance of business licenses.

Groves and other investors subsequently acquired additional acreages that were developed into what is now the city of Freeport. To encourage investment, the Hawksbill Creek Agreement allowed the GBPA to not pay taxes on income, capital gains, real estate, and private property until 1985—a provision that extended the agreement a further 49 years. This has since been extended to 2054. WI

COLORECTAL CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

Raising Awareness About the Disease Increasingly Affecting Younger Adults

By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Health Reporter

In August 2020, the world was shocked to learn celebrated actor Chadwick Boseman, who portrayed the powerful title character in Marvel Studios’ “Black Panther,” died after a private, years-long battle with colon cancer. While many were surprised by the news of Boseman’s passing at 43, studies show the actor’s 2016 diagnosis and death four years later matched recent statistics: colorectal cancer is affecting younger adults and Black Americans at alarming rates.

With statistics showing African Americans and young adults particularly affected by colorectal cancer, physicians are using March-- Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month--- to emphasize the importance of preventative measures and screenings to combat fatal outcomes from the disease.

According to the American Cancer Society, there are an estimated 106,590 new cases of colon cancer (52,380 in women and 54,210 in men) and 46,220 new diagnosis of rectal cancer

JUDGEMENT from Page 18

The jury tapped into Green’s story.

“For a case of this magnitude, the city took the attitude that they wanted the people in the District to decide what would happen. The people have spoken through the jury verdict. The elected officials should pay the family,” Lightfoot continued.

An OAG spokesperson, responding to an inquiry about the possibility of an appeal, said the office is exploring its legal options.

At the time of his death, Green served as a maintenance worker at So Others Might Eat, also known as

(18,890 women and 27,330 in men) recorded in 2024.

Moreover, African Americans run greater risk in developing the disease. Studies reveal Black people are 20% more likely to get colorectal cancer, and 40% more likely to die from the illness.

Further, while diagnosis rates have gradually decreased for older individuals, experts are seeing increasing rates of colon cancer diagnosis in people under 55. Millennials are found to have twice the risk of colorectal cancer compared to people born in the 1950s.

“The rate of being diagnosed with colon or rectal cancer each year has dropped overall since the mid-1980s, mainly because more people are getting screened and changing their lifestyle-related risk factors. From 2011 to 2019, incidence rates dropped by about 1% each year. But this downward trend is mostly in older adults. In people younger than 55 years of age, rates have been increasing by 1% to 2% a year since the mid-1990s,” accord-

SOME. The ages of his four female and two male children currently span between 8 and 21 years old.

When the D.C. fire truck plowed head on into Green’s car, the car hit another vehicle and a pregnant woman crossing the street. Evidence later presented in court showed that the driver of the fire truck violated departmental policies that allow fire truck drivers to run red lights only if they slow down or stop beforehand.

Coles-Green said that, since her husband’s death, she’s struggled to provide for her children on one income. She told The Informer that time constraints preclude her from working overtime. There’s also the issue of providing emotional sup-

ing to the American Cancer Society. Currently, the American Cancer Society has reportedly invested $64 million in colorectal cancer research, supporting work to lower colorectal cancer risks, investigate new treatments, and promote positive ways to live a quality life after receiving a colorectal cancer diagnosis.

RISKS AND WARNING SIGNS OF COLON CANCER

The colon, which runs about 5 feet long and divides into five major segments, plays a critical role in the body’s digestive system, processing waste and matter left from the food and nutrients broken down by the stomach and small intestine. Its primary task is to remove salts and water from this matter, and further transform it into solid

port to the young women who lost their father figure and the young men who looked forward to learning some of the trades that their father mastered.

Despite the circumstances, ColesGreen expressed some satisfaction with the outcome.

“No [dollar] amount can amount to a life, but it will be able to give DeAngelo’s children the life they wanted,” Coles-Green said. “DeAngelo worked hard to make sure they were going to where they needed to be for their future. They will be able to go to the schools they want and have the financial support they lost.” WI @SamPKCollins

waste for the body to discharge.

Cancer can develop in any of these five segments, underscoring the importance of colonoscopy screenings.

The lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer averages about one in 23 for men and one in 25 for women, while expected to cause an estimated 53,010 deaths over 2024. But despite the numbers, a person’s chances for developing the aggressive disease largely depend on their personal risk factors.

While researchers are still working to provide concrete reasons behind rising rates of colorectal cancer cases in younger adults, a number of dietary and lifestyle factors promote greater risk for developing the disease. Younger patients are also found to have more cases of rectal cancer compared to colon cancer - both closely related organs within the digestive system.

Research shows that an overwhelming amount of colorectal cancers are typically associated with obesity, type II diabetes, frequent antibiotic use, and physical inactivity. Further, environmental exposures including microplastics, alcohol consumption, low-fiber and high-fat diet, and tobacco use for years (often decades before a patient’s diagnosis) lead as major contributors to the slow-developing illness.

Physicians have found key warning signs and symptoms prevalent in people under 50 who are diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, seeing blood with bowel motions, and iron deficiency anemia are alarming signs that could indicate a presence of the disease.

THE IMPORTANCE OF SCREENING

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that adults age 45 to 75 be screened for colorectal cancer.

However, those who are at an increased risk of developing the disease, including people with a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps, inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis), should receive a doctor’s opinion on when to begin screening, how often to get tested, and which test is appropriate for them.

The variation of methods used to screen for colorectal cancer includes a stool test. Options include: guaiacbased fecal occult blood test, fecal immunochemical test (FIT), or FITDNA test, flexible sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, and CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy).

Mayo Clinic gastroenterologist Dr. Derek Ebner emphasizes the importance of adopting healthy lifestyle habits to reduce risks of colorectal cancer to the best of one’s ability.

“Abiding by a healthy lifestyle is critical. Following a well-rounded diet, staying physically active, for instance, perhaps can be protective,” Ebner said in a Mayo Clinic News Network report published by Detroit News. “The other key, though, is just being very mindful of those symptoms, and then also underscoring the importance of screening.”

5 People were shocked to learn actor Chadwick Boseman died after a private battle with colon cancer, but recent studies show colorectal cancer diagnoses are affecting young adults and African Americans at alarming rates. (WI File Photo)

By Louis Davis, Jr.

For most of us, Social Security is – or will be -- essential for helping to cover daily living expenses and pay bills as we get older. The bottom line is that Social Security is your money, earned through a lifetime of hard work. Yet there are persistent misconceptions about its long-term financial stability and how it works. Here are facts behind four of the most stubborn Social Security myths.

MYTH #1: SOCIAL SECURITY IS GOING BROKE.

The facts: Social Security will not run out of money, as long as workers and employers continue to pay payroll taxes. It’s a pay-as-you-go system: Revenue coming in from payroll taxes largely covers the payments going out. But Social Security does face longer-term funding challenges.

For decades it collected more than it paid out, building a surplus that stood at $2.83 trillion at the end of 2022. But the system is starting to pay out more than it takes in, largely because the retiree population is growing faster than the working population and is living longer. Without changes in how Social Security is financed, the surplus is projected to run out in 2034, according to the latest annual report from the program’s trustees. Even then, Social Security will still be able to pay benefits from incoming payroll tax revenue. But it will only be enough to pay about 80% percent of scheduled benefits, according to the latest estimate. If Congress doesn’t take action in the next 10 years to protect and save Social Security, your Social Security could be cut by 20%—an average of $4,000 a year. The last time Congress took major

Four Myths About Social Security

action to shore up Social Security’s nearly depleted reserves was 1983.

MYTH #2: THE GOVERNMENT RAIDS SOCIAL SECURITY TO PAY FOR OTHER PROGRAMS.

The facts: Social Security is primarily funded with workers’ and employers’ payroll taxes and has never been part of the federal government’s general fund. The federal government does, however, borrow from Social Security and in return issues Treasury bonds. The federal government has to pay back any money it borrows from Social Security with interest. The government has always paid it back in full, and annual interest payments increase Social Security’s assets, to the tune of $66.3 billion in 2022.

MYTH #3: YOU GET MORE SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS IF YOU COLLECT EARLY.

The facts: Your annual payments will be larger the longer you wait to start collecting your benefits. You can begin receiving retirement benefits at age 62, but it will cost you. Say you were born in 1960. If you claim Social Security at age

62, you’ll get 70% of the benefit amount calculated from your lifetime earnings. If you wait until full retirement age—in this case, 67—you’ll get 100%. If you delay taking your benefit past the full retirement age of 67, Social Security increases your benefit 8% a year until you hit 70. There’s no financial incentive to delay past age 70.

MYTH #4: YOU LOSE A PORTION OF YOUR BENEFITS PERMANENTLY IF YOU TAKE BENEFITS AND KEEP WORKING.

The facts: Not true. Social Security does have a rule, called the “earnings limit” or “earnings test,” that can temporarily reduce your payments if you are still working. But it doesn’t apply to all working beneficiaries, and it is not permanent. The rule only covers

people who claim benefits before full retirement age and continue working. In this circumstance, Social Security withholds a portion of your payments if your earnings from work exceed a set cap, which changes every year and differs based on how close you are to full retirement age. How-

ever, any withheld money is credited back to you, and the benefits you receive later will be higher. You can find out more about your Social Security at AARP’s Social Security Resource Center (aarp.org/retirement/social-security).

EARTH OUR

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

Black Women Making History in Environmental Justice Across Industries

By Kayla Benjamin WI Climate & Environment Writer

Black women have long led the fight against pollution and the way toxins disproportionately harm Black, brown and low-income communities. It’s an intersectional fight, with factors like age, disability, income, race and education all factoring into a person’s or community’s risks for toxic exposures.

In celebration of Women’s History Month, check out how these history-makers are tackling environmental justice in the architecture industry, the courtroom and the boardroom.

SEEKING JUSTICE, FROM THE COUNCIL TO THE COURTROOM: LARUBY MAY, LAW FIRM PARTNER WITH MAY JUNG LAW FIRM

Hair relaxers. Baby formula. Talcum powder. All three of these products have faced lawsuits over hidden health impacts—and LaRuby May, former Ward 8 council member and current law firm partner, has fought for consumers in all three cases.

“You don't listen to me when I protest, you don't listen to me when I sign a petition, you don't listen to me when I say you're a bad guy. But you listen to that judge when that judge says $3 billion,” May said. “So that's why I think the legal arm becomes an opportunity to look at environmental discrimination, toxins or just any of those things that have continued to harm, disproportionately, Black and brown communities.”

May traces some of her interest in fighting environmental and chemical injustices back to her upbringing in

Pensacola, Florida. At the time, the small city housed the nation’s third largest Superfund site, a former wood treatment plant that had poured chemicals directly into the soil during its operation.

But her path from writing an undergraduate paper about that Superfund site to filing suits against harmful chemical producers was not exactly a straightforward one. Soon after moving to the District in 1997 to get her graduate degree from George Washington University, May started a nonprofit called the Gift Center. Funded by a Virginia philanthropist and located on Minnesota Avenue SE, the organization focused on “longevity,” providing support to a group of 32 kids all the way from toddlerhood to college age and beyond.

May left the nonprofit in the mid-2000s to start law school at UDC. While there, she took a job in then-Councilmember Marion Barry’s office. From there, she became more involved in the Ward 8 community where she lived and worked with Adrian Fenty’s and Muriel Bowser’s mayoral administrations.

“[I was] that person, sometimes a well-received bug in people’s ear and sometimes that gnat that they’re trying to slap out,” May said. “In folks’ ear about, ‘hey, what about Ward 8? What about Ward 8? What are we doing for Ward 8?’”

When Barry died in 2014, May ran for his council seat and won. She lost re-election, and said that she now counts both the chance to serve on the council for a term and the “opportunity to be unsuccessful” the second time around as “tremendous blessings.”

Already armed with her JD, May decided to try her hand next at practicing law. She saw a need for a community-centered real estate lawyer

amidst Ward 8’s fast-growing developments, so she opened up her own law practice with real estate law in mind.

May is now one of two partners at May Jung Law Firm, which primarily works in civil rights, personal injury, workers' compensation and mass tort law. Much of the May Jung team is made up of women of color. May said that’s rare, particularly among firms participating in mass tort cases—civil suits involving lots of plaintiffs harmed by an action (or inaction) of one or a few big actors.

“Our perspective on the fight is just different,” May said of an ongoing case about hair relaxers’ link to ovarian, uterine and endometrial cancers. “They didn't just put out a bad product—they put out a bad product and put it into Black, poor communities… You knew it was bad for my community, and you didn't care.”

The firm places heavy emphasis on fighting for fairness in what May describes as “David and Goliath” cases against big companies or other powerful entities.

“We're gonna be a part of the slingshot that comes in and knocks you down, and make sure that we get justice for people,” May said.

PUSHING FOR CLEAN AIR EVERYWHERE: GLORY DOLPHIN

In celebration of Women’s History Month, check out how these history-makers are tackling environmental justice in the architecture industry, the courtroom and the boardroom.

HAMMES, CEO AND FOUNDATION DIRECTOR FOR IQAIR

The road to business leadership at a global air quality company began in high school for Glory Dolphin Hammes. She spent her teenage years in Santa Monica leading her school’s Black Student Union, volunteering for beach cleanups and participating in protest movements—including some in support of the United Farm Workers Union and communities fighting chemical pollution.

“Essentially, that was the beginning of sort of understanding how

the environment actually impacts the human being, and human existence,” Dolphin Hammes said. “And knowing that it's something very much so that needs to be cared for, as we care for our own existence.”

Today, Dolphin Hammes leads the North American division of IQAir, a Swiss company that sells clean air technology and operates the world’s largest free air quality monitoring system. The mother of two also founded the nonprofit IQAir Foundation in 2017 and now serves as its director.

“I started the foundation just out of pure passion for taking what it is that we do and making that accessible for folks that could not afford it,” Dolphin Hammes said. “The foundation allows us to have a vehicle through which people who truly need mitigation [of air pollution]— because they are environmentally impacted—can afford it.”

The foundation helps provide schools with air filtration systems and partners with community groups to offer air quality monitoring technology and data sharing services in areas exposed to air pollution.

“Knowledge is power. And as people find out, and as they become more knowledgeable about the air quality surrounding them, they actually gain power and they gain choice in the matter,” Dolphin Hammes said. “They're able to make informed choices about things that impact the air that they're breathing.” WI

5 LaRuby May, partner at May Jung Law Firm and former Ward 8 council member. (Courtesy Photo)

5 Glory Dolphin Hammes, CEO of IQAir’s North American division and director of the IQAir Foundation. (Courtesy Photo)

EDUCATION

A Slew of Legislation on the Way to Tackle Truancy

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

As District schools and agencies struggle to tackle chronic absenteeism, the D.C. Council and the Executive Office of the Mayor are gearing up to have, between them, four comprehensive bills in circulation to address this issue.

This week, D.C. Councilmembers Zachary Parker (D-Ward 5) and Charles Allen (D-Ward 6) followed in At-large D.C. Councilmember Robert White’s footsteps with the introduction of bills that address various facets of the District’s truancy problem, including family engagement, social services, interagency collaboration and public safety.

As Council members discuss proposed bills and the Mayor’s Office gears up to introduce legislation, some residents are concerned that lawmakers are not looking at the whole picture when working to tackle chronic absenteeism.

PARKER’S SHOWING UP FOR STUDENTS AMENDMENT ACT

Parker said his bill, titled Showing Up for Students Amendment Act, follows conversations with the Child and Family Services Agency (CFSA).

“We heard from CFSA that many of the referrals they get, they aren’t investigating or supporting families because it doesn’t rise to the level of neglect that would allow them to intervene,” Parker told The Informer. “This bill makes clear for parents that there’s a red line for educational neglect. It would allow CFSA to take seriously the cases that need to be taken seriously.”

Parker’s bill defines educational neglect as the accumulation of

30 unexcused absences in a school year, without any “reasonable efforts to ensure or improve attendance.” It also requires CFSA to show that District agencies have provided legally required support to a child before designating them as in need of supervision.

The bill also includes a provision that expands the set of valid excuses for a student’s absence, including threats of violence, the serious illness of a family member, housing displacement, the District’s failure to provide legally required transportation, and family court proceedings.

It establishes a process by which families will receive summer home visits if a student accumulated more than 20 unexcused absences in a school year. Before reaching that threshold, students with at least seven absences within a 120day period would be referred to the Department of Human Services to be connected to housing and other services.

If those efforts don’t curb truancy, students under the age of 13 would be referred to CFSA after 20 absences. Meanwhile, those who are over the age of 13 would go to the Office of the Attorney General after 25 absences.

The threshold currently stands at 10 days for students under 13 years old and 15 days for students older than 13 years old. Parker said the increase in time before referrals to CFSA and OAG would allow for DHS’ supports to take effect.

Not long after Parker announced the Showing Up for Students Amendment Act, grassroots activists took to social media to criticize what they described as the continuation of a trend where Black and brown people are criminalized and separated from their children.

PARKER REBUFFED THAT CHARACTERIZATION

“It’s not even about separation,” Parker said. “Some of CFSA’s work is around corrective action plans. Because of the [current] statute, they essentially can know a child is at home for 50 days, but as long as there’s no evidence of physical or sexual assault, they can’t intervene.”

EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE MAYOR WORKS TO ADDRESS CHRONIC ABSENTEEISM

The most recent D.C. School Report Card showed a slight decline in chronic absenteeism from 48% to 43.6%. According to the report, more than half of the District’s Black students missed more than 10 instructional days during the 2022-2023 school year.

The report also showed more than half of pre-kindergarten students being chronically absent. More than 50% of economically disadvantaged students, foster children, housing-insecure students and students with disabilities also recorded absenteeism rates of above 50%.

Last week, a Bowser administration official told The Informer

within a marking period.

They would have to do so referring them to CFSA or the OAG, the bill says.

Other provisions of the bill designate schools with rates of absenteeism above 20% as priority areas for the Safe Passage Safe Blocks program by the 2027-2028 school year. The bill would also add a new funding category to school budgets to address chronic absenteeism while allowing principals more latitude in the spending of at-risk dollars. District schools and the Department of Human Services would also have to submit status reports to one another about students’ attendance and participation in a diversion program.

The bill also funds the expansion of the Office of the Neighborhood Safety and Engagement’s Leadership Academy to five high schools with the highest rates of chronic absenteeism and their corresponding feeder middle schools.

that D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) was gearing up to introduce legislation that addresses truancy and chronic absenteeism. By Monday, Bowser was still fleshing out details in preparation for an early April release, the administration official said.

On Tuesday, Allen expressed his frustration about truancy rates and what he called the Bowser administration’s lack of willingness to change the tide. While he told The Informer that an omnibus package combining elements of the truancy bills in circulation remains a possibility, he spoke out against provisions that threatened parents with jail time.

Those provisions, Allen said, are rumored to be in Bowser’s bill. What he instead suggested was more support for schools, especially those facing staff and resource reductions. “

The threat of jail time doesn’t accomplish anything for a mom,” Allen said. “Not every kid that’s missing school is going to commit crime.”

Allen’s Truancy Reduction Bill

If passed, Allen’s bill, titled The Chronic Absenteeism and Truancy Reduction Act, would further compel District schools with the highest truancy rates to meet and intervene with students who accumulate five unexcused absences

“It’s about urgency and a multifaceted approach,” Allen said. “We can’t ask schools to do more with less money and less staff. Creating a new funding category based on absenteeism and truancy is the way to get money in our schools and put more control of that money on the school level.”

A CONCERNED CITIZEN WEIGHS IN

For months, Jessica Giles has demanded an interagency response to chronic absenteeism. In her role as executive director of Education Reform Now DC, she continues to make a case that chronic absenteeism and low postsecondary enrollment are closely connected.

Giles extolled the D.C. Council’s recent efforts to address chronic absenteeism, telling The Informer that legislation must aim at removing systemic barriers, addressing root cause and executing evidence-based practices. She however remained concerned about how to ensure seamless implementation of bills amid talks of a budget crunch.

“At the end of the day, there’s no silver bullet,” Giles said. “Truancy is a symptom of issues affecting students’ lives. Funding is going to be critical. That’s something I’m looking out for in the budget. Attendance is at the center of it all.”

WI @SamPKCollins

5 D.C. Councilmember Zachary Parker is one of the local legislators working to address chronic absenteeism through his bill, the Showing Up for Students Amendment Act. (WI File Photo/Robert R. Roberts)

Designed to strengthen the bond between sports fans.

Oluseyi and his father bond over sports. This connection inspired Oluseyi’s team at Comcast to create AI Highlights, which captures the greatest moments in sports so fans can watch them anytime, even from across the world.

comcastcorporation.com

America’s Dysfunctional 118th Congress

Despite congressional gridlock, House members can cite success in one area: driving their colleagues to resign. Currently, 45 members are set to retire at the end of their terms next January.

Further, some like former U.S. Rep Ken Buck (R-Colo.) are either unable or unwilling to serve out their terms.

“No rearview mirror,” said Buck, who first announced his retirement in November 2023, before declaring in mid-March he would not complete his term.

“Since this Congress started, there have been efforts to impeach the Secretary of Defense, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the President, the Attorney General, the FBI Director, and in fact, they did impeach the Secretary of Homeland Security.” Buck continued. “We have a very tragic circumstance in Ukraine. We have a spiraling debt, all kinds of out-of-control problems, and we focus on messaging bills that get us nowhere.”

Buck is the second GOP-majority member of the House to resign in frustration. Rep, Mike Gallagher (R-Wis.) will resign his seat on April 19, leaving Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) in a politically precarious position of having just one vote to spare on legislation.

According to National Public Radio, at the end of 2023, the first session of the 118th Congress, the House voted 729 times on legislative measures. However, only 27 bills became law, making “this Congress the least productive in years.”

Of those 27 bills signed into law, several were noncontroversial, such as renaming two Veteran Administration health clinics. Another commemorated the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Marines.

America deserves a better Congress. Washington, D.C., in particular, which is represented by Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D), who can only vote in committee, but not on the floor of the House, deserves a better Congress.

The more than 700,000 D.C. residents who do not have full voting representation in the House, even though they are American citizens, pay federal taxes, and serve in the military, deserve a better Congress.

It’s time House Republicans fall out of line with the political instructions of former President Donald Trump and stop focusing on political nonstarters such as impeaching President Joe Biden, with the elections eight months away. The House GOP would better serve the citizens of Washington, D.C., by working with Norton, District Mayor Muriel Bowser, and the D.C. Council to find solutions to local issues including affordable housing, crime, and unemployment.

Those who live under “taxation without representation” certainly deserve better; so does America. WI

History Shows America Has Long Been Complicit in the Chaos in Haiti, It’s Time to Step Up to the Plate

By all assessments and with foreign aid blocked, Haiti faces one of the worst moments in its history, plunged into a serious humanitarian, political and security crisis which escalated following the assassination of president Jovenel Moïse in 2021.

Americans are now fleeing Haiti by any means possible as relatively small criminal gangs have joined forces to take over the capital, expanding their control over significant parts of the island nation and gaining access over key infrastructures including airports, ports and hospitals.

Meanwhile, as the demands of gangs for an immediate political transition have stalled and with Haiti’s leadership in shambles, the future of the county and its citizens remains in limbo.

Normally, one would expect America to step up to the plate and provide aid given its status as the most powerful, Democratic nation on the planet. Instead, Republicans recently refused to release $40 million in security assistance – a decision supported by doubts about how it would be used and whether it could fall into the hands of the gangs to whom the upheaval has been attributed.

But history is a good teacher. The flood of ideas released by the American and French revolutions stirred the souls of slaves leading to those in Brazil, Charleston, South Carolina and throughout the Caribbean fighting for freedom.

When Haiti, following the Haitian Revolution, secured their independence from the French on January 1, 1804, it should have been a moment for other nations in the Western Hemisphere to celebrate.

However, for countries like America and England whose wealth had been gained on the backs of Black bodies, it was a moment of fear. More than 200 years later, the underlying racism of whites and that fear of Black people rising up over centuries of injustice have not disappeared..

America has long been complicit in the chaotic conditions that still persist in Haiti. It’s time we admit our shortcomings and change that.

If we can insert our influence to stave off famine in Gaza – a situation now predicted by world health experts – then certainly we can do the same for Haiti.

WI

My sincere regards and best wishes to those impacted by the tragedy of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore. Salute to the governor and all working hard to recover from this crisis.

Lavar Ellison Washington, D.C.

TO THE EDITOR

I really enjoyed the story about civil rights activist Dorie Ladner by Hamil Harris. Sadly, I had never heard of her, and I’m grateful I now know her story. May she rest well, and may the history books remember her.

Carla Adams Laurel, Md.

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

The Ridiculous Retiring Republicans

House Speaker Mike Johnson (RLa.) needed Democrats to narrowly avert the government shutdown that loomed large if congressional budget legislation was not passed by Saturday, March 23. Many Republicans did not vote for the budget legislation; Democrats saved the day. Some Republicans would rather shut government down, inconveniencing if not disabling millions of people, than to do their job and

work with their colleagues across the aisle to pass legislation. What is wrong with these ridiculous Republicans?! Why are they so opposed to doing their work?

Republican dysfunction has been a byproduct of the 45th president's confusion. He still keeps insisting that he won the 2020 election, when it is clear that he did not. His intransigence led to the violent insurrection of January 6, and has apparently split the Republican party. There are those who believe in the Constitution and compromise, and these are those who believe in disrup-

Guest Columnists

Julianne Malveaux

tion. The worse of that pack is Marjorie Taylor Green, the Georgia Republican who seems better suited for a circus than the halls of Congress. She is loud, rude and out of control, yet, with the support of a handful of her colleagues, she can bring congressional activities to such a screeching halt that the body couldn't even pass gas without drama. Republican dysfunction has become so challenging that dozens of members say they won't run for another term. Others are leaving, retiring, in the middle of their term because so little is getting done. While I acknowledge

their right to resign whenever thy want to, I think they are cheating their constituents. They ran for two-year terms. They accepted salaries, staffed offices, met with constituents. Stepping down in the middle of their two-year term is disruptive and costly, and it leaves their constituents without representation.

While the Republican resignations of Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.), Bill Johnson (R-Ohio), Ken Buck (R-Colo.) and Mike Gallagher (R-Wis.) narrow the dominant party's majority, I think it is selfish and in very bad form because these representatives don't like the way

Kaili Moss and Jillian Burford

D.C. Crime Bill Fails to Address Root Causes of Violence and Incarceration

Mayor Bowser has signed the "Secure DC" omnibus bill passed by the D.C. Council last month. But we already know that this bill will be disastrous for all of D.C., especially for Black and brown residents.

While proponents claim that this legislation "will make D.C. residents safer and more secure," it actually does nothing to address the root of the harm in the first place and instead maintains a cycle of violence, poverty, and broken community ties. The omnibus bill calls for increased surveillance, drug-free

Elections will always be the ultimate battlefield where the fight for social and cultural changes will be won or lost. Through elections, candidates will place their political and cultural mandates before the voters, and those mandates are either validated or rejected, allowing voters to choose candidates most aligned with their own political and cultural preferences. Future state

zones, and will expand pre-trial detention that will incarcerate people at a significantly higher rate and for an indeterminate amount of time before they are even tried. This bill will roll back decades of nationwide policy reform efforts and initiatives to keep our communities safe and whole, which is completely contradictory to what the "Secure" D.C. bill claims it will do. What is unfolding in Washington, D.C., is part of a dangerous national trend. We have seen a resurrection of bad crime bills in several jurisdictions across the country — a phenomenon

policy experts have named "zombie laws," which are ineffective, costly, dangerous for communities of color and, most importantly, will not create public safety. Throwing more money into policing while failing to fund preventative measures does not keep us safe.

The D.C. crime bill and so many others like it are reminiscent of the ‘94 crime bill, which produced new and harsher criminal sentences, helped deploy thousands of police and surveilling methods in Black and brown communities, and incentivized more states to build prisons through a massive infu-

sion of federal funding. While it is not at the root of mass incarceration, it significantly accelerated it, forcing a generation of Black and brown families into a never-ending cycle of state-sanctioned violence and incarceration. Thirty years later, despite spending billions each year to enforce these policies with many of these provisions remaining in effect, it has done very little to create longterm preventative solutions. Instead, it placed a permanent moving target on the backs of Black people, and the D.C. crime bill will do the same.

The bill calls for more pretrial deten-

Congress works anymore and are tired of the far right and their shenanigans. Why not stay, call it out, and change it? The ridiculous Republicans are more afraid of the former president than they are of their own shadows, yet if they called him out, perhaps others would look at notice that the emperor is not wearing clothes, and indeed is stark naked beneath the cloak that is woven from lies, bombast, vitriol and absurdity.

Special elections are costly. One es-

MALVEAUX Page 49

tion. When our loved ones are held on pretrial detention, they are held on the presumption of guilt for an indeterminate amount of time before ever seeing a judge, which can destabilize people and their families. According to experts at the Malcolm Weimer Center for Social Policy at Harvard University, just one day in jail can have "devastating consequences." On any given day, approximately 750,000 people are held in jails across the nation — a number that beats our nation's capital population by

legislation and laws result from the cultural mandates won on the election battlefield.

Not all political and cultural mandates are unbiased and free from hidden agendas. As a result, the fight on the election battlefield is not always fair. The misinformation and ulterior motives behind mandates are obvious to some voters but not all. Through a long series of voter suppression, anti-CRT, and now anti-DEI laws, we have seen evidence that the original mandates were often unjust and undeserved.

The anti-DEI effort remains a con-

servative backlash to the George Floyd and the Black Lives Matter movements. State lawmakers fully understand they have the legislative means to control how individual states respond to the history of institutional racism. They know they have the authority to establish and pass laws that will make it more difficult to expose components of institutional racism and then strategically dismantle them.

It is called a culture war for a reason.

It is a long-term war with multiple battles, some won and some lost. As we go from one election battle to the next,

each side's response to the last victory or loss will determine the success or failure of the next fight. There will always be countermoves and adjustments needed from the previous election. So, as states continue to pass anti-DEI laws, what is the response from those who are the defenders of diversity, equality, and inclusion?

Mayor Randall Woodfin of Birmingham, Alabama, said last month on social media, "To the parents of minority athletes who are helping their children decide if they want to play sports at those institutions: Would

you be cool with your child playing at schools where diversity among staff is actively discouraged? Although I'm the biggest Bama fan, I have no problem organizing Black parents and athletes to attend other institutions outside the state where diversity and inclusion are prioritized. If supporting inclusion becomes illegal in this state, hell, you might as well stand in front of the school door like [former Alabama Gov. and famously staunch segregationist George] Wallace."

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS

As the state of Alabama was in the news again, doing more things that are not in the best interest of women or Black Americans, it dawned on me that such actions are nothing new for some of the state's leaders. During this Women's History Month and the immediate past Black History Month, it's been my pleasure to honor two of Alabama's best who are truly remarkable people!

Recognizing the Best of Alabama

Alabama is on the list of the Montgomery Bus Boycott case where Rosa Parks sat on the bus resisting segregation on buses. She held her seat and was arrested. That act ignited a great response in Montgomery and across the nation — earning her the names "Mother of the Civil Rights Movement" and "First Lady of Civil Rights." Rosa is being honored during this Women's History Month, and after Sojourner Truth's historic placement that I led in the U.S. Capitol, Rosa proudly stands there with a memorial in Statuary

Guest Columnist

Dr. E. Faye Williams, Esq. (Ret.)

Hall. A bill has been initiated to legalize a federal holiday honoring her.

The Alabama Supreme Court just issued a decision on another subject adding to the negative history of Alabama. One is the IVF case granting personhood to embryos. The most recent case is regarding the governor of Alabama signing a sweeping bill into law against diversity, equity and inclusion.

Fortunately, Alabama has a native son who continues to work to make the state a better place for both women and Black people to live. I had

the honor of working with him in Washington, D.C., this past week. That honor goes to Johnny Ford, who served six terms as mayor, a remarkable feat for anybody anywhere, but especially in Alabama. Now a city councilman in Tuskegee, Johnny Ford continues to be known worldwide as Mayor Ford and he now serves as founder and leader of the World Conference of Mayors. He is recognized and highly respected everywhere he goes.

During the past week, he was in D.C. visiting the White House's

Urban Tech Program Prepping Thousands for Jobs of the Future

Hundreds of members of the Urban League community have embarked on new careers in technology and thousands more are on the path, three years into a major partnership with Google and the Tides Foundation that launched or expanded the Urban Tech Jobs Program in 11 local affiliates. Urban Tech Jobs Program features a multi-layered approach

Guest Columnist Guest Columnist

that includes technology awareness, basic skill building, digital literacy, technology job training and upskilling for workers currently in the technology field.

The Google/Tides partnership, layered over existing workforce, integrated case management, and wrap around services, allowed the National Urban League to launch Digital Training Academies or Tech Academies, depending upon each community's needs.

The first year of the program centered on community engagement

that resulted in broad community digital divide discussions, the creation of Program Design Committees composed of key stakeholders, and the development of digital and tech training curriculum.

In year two, Urban League affiliates began implementing the new curriculums under Digital Training Academy and Tech Academy.

Now, at the end of year three, the program has exceeded benchmarks for job placements, productivity software training and basic skills training, and has become a model for expan-

A Full-Court Press to Get the Lead Out

There's nothing quite like seeing a kid who was born healthy but now suffers cognitive impairment and is prone to outbursts of anger. As a volunteer restoring six-story walk-ups in Harlem in the early '90s, I saw how lead paint chips and dust were wreaking havoc on the kids in those low-income buildings.

The kids not only lived in a cloud of despair but in a cloud of lead-infused dust. The former made achieving their dreams difficult. The latter made it impossible. Fast forward a few decades and the threat of lead poisoning has continued to manifest in public health crises. It was at the heart of the well-publicized water crisis in Flint, Michigan, that started in 2014 … and the subsequent notas-well-publicized water crises in Benton Harbor, Mich., and Pittsburgh just a few short years later.

Now, thanks to community organizers, advocacy groups, the federal government, and even some private companies, we're seeing a major push to eliminate the lingering threat of lead. It is thanks to the hard work of activists like Gabriel Gray. Gray is an organizer with Pittsburgh United, a local advocacy group that works on clean water and housing issues. She came to this work during her own city's water crisis.

Only finding out about the crisis once there was a run on bottled

sion into other Urban League affiliates and create new curriculums for the jobs of the future being created by the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

More than 400 participants have been placed in jobs, more than 2,500 have received skills training, and nearly 10,000 have been made aware of the opportunities available in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math(STEM).

The Austin Area Urban League Tech and Career Academy is an approved Texas Workforce Commis-

Office of Intergovernmental Affairs, USAID, Prosper Africa, AON, the U.S. Department of State's City and State Diplomacy event by special invitation. He was welcomed by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. He also had an audience with D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser.

During this time, he was working for the best interest not only of Alabama but for mayors in seven key areas: Trust, Trade, Tourism, Technology, Twin Cities, Treasury and WILLIAMS Page 50

sion Career School & College and a Texas Workforce Solutions Training Partner, offering diverse pathways to obtain training and certifications for traditional and nontraditional technology careers.

Chicago Urban League's Drone Academy — the first of its kind in the city of Chicago — was made possible by a partnership with oil and gas company BP plc and MySkaut Urban Air Mobility. Drones, also known as unmanned aerial vehicles

water in all the local stores, Gray applied with the Pittsburgh Water and Sewage Authority (PWSA) for a lead line replacement for her home and was denied. Then she started organizing with her neighbors. "Because of the work the Pittsburgh United Our Water Campaign did to hold PWSA accountable, it is now the only public water authority in Pennsylvania to be governed by the state's Public Utility Commission (PUC). However, my neighborhood borders an area with a different wa-

ter authority not governed by the PUC — the Wilkinsburg-Penn Joint Water Authority. We're now working with Wilkinsburg-Penn to stress the importance of equity in its lead line replacement plans, after finding that environmental justice communities had been slower to receive replacements than other communities in that authority's jurisdiction." The increased focus on stopping lead poisoning is also thanks to tireless

Marc H. Morial

Ben Jealous

LIFESTYLE

Things To Do, DMV!

By Jada Ingleton WI Intern

This weekend’s list of events is a surefire way to honor the legacies and cultural hitters of the nation’s capital, with a hint of artistic appreciation and social advocacy.

Kick the weekend off by diving into ocean life and climate change studies with Science on a Sphere Gallery Talks & Tours, or using Friday to uncover the realities of Black farming.

Of course, with spring on the cusp and cherry blossoms in bloom, this weekend welcomes spring-filled fun with the Blossom Kite Festival and Cherry Blossom Dining Cruises. Natives can honor the legacies of DMV changemakers by joining A Conversation: The Enduring Legacy of Frederick Douglass, or enjoying the rhythmic blues of Duke Ellington’s jazz and music.

In the mood to keep the artistic trend going? Enjoy a Friday night performance of Finesse2Tymes and New Impressionz, or help bring awareness to domestic violence in a 5K Marathon.

To keep up with all the fun, don’t

forget to check out the Washington Informer Calendar.

Keep your outlook vibrant and remember, there’s always something happening in the DMV to keep your spirit-- and social life-- lit.

THURSDAY, MARCH 28

Science on a Sphere Gallery Talks & Tours

11 a.m. - Noon | Free

National Museum of Natural History, Constitution Ave. NW & 10th St NW, Washington, D.C., 20004

Come explore the blue planet with National Museum of Natural History Ocean Educators. Through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)'s Science on a Sphere technology, guests will encounter a series of interactive visualizations projected on the Sant Ocean Hall's giant globe. Watch sea turtles migrate coast to coast, track ships through global waters in real-time, explore the changing climate patterns shaping our planet, and much more!

A Conversation: The Enduring Legacy of Frederick Douglass

6 p.m. - 7 p.m. | Free with registration

National Portrait Gallery, 8th St NW & F Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20004

The renowned abolitionist, author and orator Frederick Douglass was the most photographed American of the 19th century. In conjunction with the National Portrait Gallery's exhibition

"One Life: Frederick Douglass," this panel discussion will explore the ways Douglass used speeches, personal narrative and images to further his activism.

Hear from the exhibition's

co-curators: John Stauffer, the Sumner R. and Marshall S. Kates professor of English and of African American Studies at Harvard University; and Ann Shumard, the National Portrait Gallery's senior curator of photographs. Joined by Kenneth B. Morris, Douglass's great-great-great-grandson, they will discuss the freedom fighter's ongoing legacy.

WI

FRIDAY, MARCH 29

DC Premiere: Farming

While Black After Five, Films

7 p.m. - 9 p.m. | Free

National Museum of Natural History, Constitution Ave. NW & 10th Street NW, Washington, D.C 20004

Presented on behalf of the Environmental Film Festival, ”Farming While Black” examines the historical plight of Black agronomists in the United States and the rising generation of farmers reclaiming their agricultural heritage and reconnecting with their ancestral roots. The film chronicles the work of Soul Fire Farm co-founder Leah Penniman and two other Black farmers and the impact of their work, collectively, as leaders in sustainable agriculture and food justice movements. A conversation with film subject and author Leah Penniman and director Mark Decena will follow.

Finesse2Tymes & New Impressionz

9:00 p.m. | $30.00+

Privilege DC Nightclub & Live Performance Venue, 1115 U Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20009

Join Privilege DC Nightclub & Live Performance Venue for a

night of unforgettable entertainment! Get ready to experience the ultimate party with Memphis rapper Finesse2Tymes & musical group, New Impressionz. This event promises to showcase the best in music, dancing, and vibes. Located on U Street Northwest in Washington, DC, this is the place to be for a night you won't forget. WI

SATURDAY, MARCH 30

Blossom Kite Festival

10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. | Free Washington Monument, 130 17th Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20006

Join the National Cherry Blossom Festival at the Washington Monument Grounds for activities, music, competitions, and performances. The Blossom Kite Festival is an annual kite event usually held on the National Mall during the National Cherry Blossom Festival. The festival was founded in 1967 by aviation pioneer Paul E. Garber, the first curator of the National Air and Space Museum (NASM).

Kite enthusiasts, beginners, families, and friends are all welcome.

Shades of Domestic Violence: 5K Walk & Run

10 a.m - 4 p.m. | $25.00+

Prince George's Sports & Learning Complex - Indoor Field House/ Track, 8001 Sheriff Road, Landover, MD 20785

The Shades of Domestic Violence 5K marathon is a family-friendly community event to promote domestic violence awareness and provide resources and

support to survivors. Come and enjoy fun music and good company with a walk/run to raise money for transitional housing organizations and homeless shelters for domestic violence survivors.

A portion of proceeds from this event will go to support housing services at N Street Village in Washington, D.C. WI

SUNDAY, MARCH 31

Robert Glasper-Black Radio:

A Duke x Dilla Celebration

8 p.m. - Midnight | $85.00+ Kennedy Center, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20566

In honor of Duke Ellington's 125th and hip hop's 50th birthdays, five-time Grammy Award-winning pianist, composer, producer, and founding Kennedy Center Hip Hop Culture Council Member Robert Glasper celebrates the iconic musical legacies of Ellington and hip hop legend J Dilla through his genre-shattering brand-Black Radio.

Cherry Blossom Dining Cruises

9:30 a.m. | $52.00+

City Cruises, 580 Water Street SW, Washington, D.C., 20024

Treat yourself to a delicious brunch, lunch, or dinner cruise and revel in the sights of the cherry blossom trees as you tour some of the most iconic landmarks in the country like Old Town Alexandria, the National Harbor, and the Washington Monument. Reservations are available daily from March 22 until April 14 (some exclusions apply). WI

5 NOAA’s Science on a Sphere technology promises an interactive and educational opportunity to explore ocean life and the climate change shaping our planet. (Courtesy Photo)

5 National Portrait Gallery’s Portrait of Frederick Douglass. (Courtesy Photo)

‘Ellington 125’ Opens Doors to Hear a DC Music Icon

By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer

Celebrating what would have been his 125th birthday, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is honoring music icon Duke Ellington, a globally renowned artist with local roots.

The Kennedy Center presents “Ellington 125,” where audiences will hear traditional arrangements and many new interpretations of Ellington’s compositions.

Many may put Ellington, a D.C. native, in the jazz category, but the composer’s work includes sprawling orchestral pieces, swing, and faith tunes. In his 50-year career, Duke Ellington performed over 20,000 times in Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and Asia.

The National Symphony Or-

chestra (NSO) recently presented “Symphony Swing! An Evening of Duke Ellington,” with Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser conducting. The first half of the evening featured Ellington’s orchestral compositions with solos from pianist Sullivan Fortner and saxophonist Grant Langford. Performances of Ellington’s familiar songs were included in the second half of “Symphony Swing,” featuring vocalists Bilal, Aloe Blacc, and Alita Moses.

More concerts continue through the end of April, exploring other interpretations of Ellington’s work through hip-hop, faith music, and solo piano. Artists will include Robert Glasper, Cyrus Chestnut, and the Jefferson High School Jazz Band.

To see the full schedule of events for “Ellington 125,” visit: kennedy-center.org. WI

DC

Arts

New this year!!

GENERAL OPERATING SUPPORT

• A third application category for capacity building: This cohort will support small arts and humanities organizations that have not previously been awarded a grant by CAH

• Multi-year funding: To provide GOS organizations with greater stability and longer-term planning, a multiyear funding resource is being offered for fiscal years 2025 and 2026.

Submission Deadline: 10 pm ET, Thursday, April 11, 2024

EAST ARTS

This grant program goals are to:

• Provide access to high-quality arts and humanities experiences for residents who reside in the NE and SE quadrants of the District of Columbia.

• Enhance the quality of life by supporting a vibrant community identity through the arts and humanities.

Support activities that highlight and elevate the creative excellence and accomplishments of artists and arts programming in the NE and SE quadrants of the District.

PROJECTS, EVENTS, OR FESTIVALS

This grant opportunity program goals:

• Provide access to high-quality arts and humanities experiences for all District of Columbia residents.

• Improve quality of life by supporting vibrant community projects within the arts and humanities.

• Strengthen the creative economy through investments in local individuals and organizations.

Submission Deadline: 10 pm ET, Thursday, April 11, 2024

dcarts.dc.gov/service/cah-grants

202-724-5613

5 In celebration of Duke Ellington’s 125th birthday, the Kennedy Center is presenting concerts honoring the American icon who changed how the world heard music. (Courtesy Photo/ Smithsonian Institution, National Portrait Gallery, Irving Penn, 1971 and printed 1984)

Comics Bring the Laughs as Kevin Hart Receives the 25th Annual Mark Twain Prize

By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer

Top comics too0k to the Kennedy Center stage to salute one of their own when the 25th Annual Mark Twain Prize for American Humor was presented to Kevin Hart on March 24.

The comedian, actor, producer and philanthropist was celebrated with a royal roasting, as comics shared funny tales about the honoree, who was sitting in a box seat with his family. The event will premiere on Netflix on Saturday, May 11, during the “Netflix is a Joke Fest.”

So far, Hart has sold a half billion tickets to his live performances, shared David M. Rubenstein, honorary chairman of the Mark Twain Prize and immediate past chairman of the Kennedy Center, who presented the comedian with the Mark Twain bust.

“I did not start doing what I was doing to get awards,” Hart said. “I just fell in love with the idea of comedy.”

PRAISING HART WITH JOKES, CELEBRATING HIS JOURNEY

Hart’s peers shared their love for his comedy, laying sincere accolades on him, after landing many jokes at his expense. Jerry Seinfeld, Chris Rock, Dave Chappelle, Jimmy Fallon, Tiffany Haddish, Nick Cannon, Dave Burd, aka Lil Dicky, Chelsea Handler, and Regina Hall were some of the many artists to pay homage to Hart’s career.

Actress and D.C. area native made the audience laugh as she referenced Hart as her movie husband since she had starred in eight movies with him.

“That means I get half,” said Hall, to a roar of laughter.

One of the funniest and most

touching performances came from comedian Keith Robinson. He came on stage walking with a limp and using a cane because he had experienced two strokes. Robinson, one of Hart’s mentors, spoke about being in the hospital after his stroke in 2021, and the hospital decided to move him to the section where COVID patients were being treated. He called his friend, Hart.

“What? They can’t do that. I got you,” Hart said in response to Robinson’s medical team and situation.

As it turned out, Hart would use the catchphrase “I got you,” according to fellow comics taking the stage, then disappoint them by not showing up. How do you turn a serious health issue into belly laughs and a standing ovation? Robinson showed us.

During the salute to Hart, some of the best action was seeing comedians watch each other. Witnessing Chappelle, Rock and Seinfeld reacting to their colleagues were clues to which jokes landed well.

In receiving his award, Hart thanked his mother for the man he is today, talked about his journey to success and honored his children.

“I breathe for you. I live for you.” WI @bcscomm

MC Lyte Releases Empowering Anthem “Woman” Featuring Hip Hop Icons

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia

In a powerful ode to womanhood, MC Lyte, the mogul, voice-over artist, and hip-hop legend, is dropping her latest single, “Woman.” The track collaborates with fellow hip-hop pioneers Salt from Salt-N-Pepa, Big Daddy Kane, and R&B crooner Raheem DeVaughn.

Produced by Warryn Campbell, “Woman” is a bold and lyrical celebration of women across the globe.

The single, a joint venture between My Block Inc. and Sunni Gyrl Inc., with distribution by Vydia, promises to uplift and inspire all women. Lyte, known for her groundbreaking career spanning over 30 years, was the first MC LYTE Page 38

5 Hip-Hop legend and voice-over artist MC Lyte, the mogul, voice-over artist, and hip-hop legend, is dropping her latest single, “Woman,” in a powerful ode to womanhood.

5 Comedian, actor and producer Kevin Hart received the 25th Mark Twain Prize for American Humor at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on March 24. (Courtesy Photo/Scott Suchman)

April 6 | 1–9 PM

Celebrate spring during a day-long free, all-ages celebration all along the banks of the Anacostia River.

Immerse yourself in festival fun featuring:

Over a dozen performances across three stages, including Mama Moon and the Rump Shakers, Black Alley, and Perro Sombra

Dazzling choreographed Official National Cherry Blossom Festival Fireworks Show!

A Pet Comfort Station presented by Mars Petcare

SUPPORTING SPONSOR

Mars Petcare

iHeart Radio

Brookfield Properties

Saturday, April 13

10 AM - 12 Noon Constitution

Experience the splendor of the Nation’s Springtime Parade featuring:

Iconic Hip-Hop Group

Sugar Hill Gang

20 Marching Bands from across the country

Grand helium balloons including Shrek, Smurfette, and Hello Kitty

Four Local Families Received Vehicles from National Auto Dealers Association and Area Dealers

Four local families received vehicles at the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) headquarters through a partnership with Vehicles for Change (VFC) and four area automotive dealerships.

“Individuals are empowered when they have access to transportation because it enables them to conveniently reach their workplaces, educational institutions, grocery stores, and healthcare facilities,” said Martin Schwartz, Vehicles for Change founder and president. “It also grants them the ability to engage in community, family, and social activities.”

The vehicles not only offer recipients access to personal mobility, but also the opportunity to build their own credit portfolio and enhance their financial literacy. Each family will pay $950 for their vehicle, be provided with a 12-month loan through Sandy Spring Bank and receive a 6-month/6,000-mile warranty.

“Every day, our members see firsthand the benefits, opportunities and freedoms a vehicle brings to its owner’s life and family,” said Mike Stanton, NADA president and CEO.

“That’s why we’ve been engaged and supportive of VFC for several years and are excited to further embrace their mission this year.”

In addition to sourcing the donated vehicles, the NADA Foundation donated $5,000 per vehicle to cover the costs associated with awarding these cars, including refurbishing the vehicles and making necessary repairs.

“Access to a vehicle – by having reliable personal transportation – is paramount to a families’ ability to thrive,” said NADA 2024 Chairman Gary Gilchrist. “Not only will the

vehicles here today give the recipients opportunities they might not have otherwise, but they also help families build their credit.”

Sport Automotive Group in Silver Spring, Md., awarded a Toyota RAV4 to Candice McNair, a single mother of two daughters and a clerk in Annapolis, Md., who will use her vehicle to pursue her bachelor’s degree in health administration.

The Stars Shine on Elton John and Bernie Taupin 2024 Gershwin Prize Honorees

By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer

Global musical talent gathered recently to honor Sir Elton John and Bernie Taupin, one of the longest and most successful entertainment partnerships. Lyricist Taupin and music composer John received the 2024 Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song before a packed house at the D.A.R. Constitution Hall.

ABOUT NADA

Nissan of Bowie in Bowie, Md., awarded a Nissan Versa to Toni Brown, a single mother of a teenage son and a medical secretary in Baltimore, Md., who will use her vehicle to alleviate the financial burden of her daily commute and access medical appointments.

Rosenthal Automotive Group based in Reston, Va., awarded a Nissan Altima to Tammy Carter, a single mother of two teenage daughters and a patient access specialist in Prince William County, Va., who will use her vehicle to decrease commuting time and transport her children to extracurricular activities.

Carter Myers Automotive Group based in Charlottesville, Va., awarded a Kia Rio to Adrianna Boyer, a single mother of two young children and a sales administrator in Loudon County, Va., who will use her vehicle to get her son engaged in afterschool activities.

“This car is not just a mode of transportation; it’s a lifeline that will bring back normalcy to our lives,” said Boyer. “Now, with the joyous addition of a car to our lives, I can foresee a positive shift. The ability to go to the grocery store, attend doctor appointments, and respond swiftly to emergencies is a game-changer.”

The National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA), founded in 1917, represents more than 16,000 light-vehicle and commercial-truck dealerships with 32,500 domestic and international franchises. New vehicle franchised dealers are directly responsible for more than one million U.S. jobs.

ABOUT VEHICLES FOR CHANGE (VFC)

VFC accepts and repairs donated cars and awards them to pre-qualified families for as little as $950, enabling low-income families to become self-sufficient. Eligible families are referred to VFC through partnering social service-type agencies. As a nonprofit organization, VFC receives 99 percent of its car donations from the public. Since 1999, VFC has awarded over 8,000 cars to low-income families, changing the lives of more than 28,000 people. VFC’s Full Circle Auto Repair and Training Center is an employer-driven, paid internship social enterprise designed to provide auto technician training to individuals with multiple barriers to employment, including many recently released from incarceration. The interns repair the donated vehicles as a part of their hands-on training. VFC car donors gain a substantial tax advantage unavailable to most other charities. For additional information about Vehicles for Change or to donate a vehicle, visit www.vehiclesforchange.org

The host for the evening was entertainer Billy Porter, who walked through the audience introducing each segment of a tribute concert showcasing the memorable songs of the honored duo. John and Taupin showed their excitement for the various arrangements of their hits as performed by Brandi Carlile, Annie Lennox, Metallica, Maren Morris, Charlie Puth, Jacob Lusk of Gabriels, and Joni Mitchell and Garth Brooks, previous Gershwin Prize honorees. PBS stations nationwide will premiere the concert at 8 p.m. ET on Monday, April 8.

HOW THE JOHN AND TAUPIN PARTNERSHIP BEGAN

“More than 50 years ago, they came from across the pond to win over Americans and audiences worldwide with their beautiful songs and rock anthems,” said Librarian of Congress Dr. Carla Hayden. “We’re proud to honor

Elton and Bernie with the Gershwin Prize for their incredible impact on generations of music lovers.”

John and Taupin's collaboration has resulted in over 35 gold and 25 platinum albums. The Librarian of Congress selects honorees in consultation with a board of scholars, producers, performers, songwriters, and music specialists.

“Elton John and Bernie Taupin have written some of the most memorable songs of our lives,” said Hayden. “Their careers stand out for the quality and broad appeal of their music and their influence on their fellow artists.”

GRATEFUL APPRECIATION FOR AMERICA

Both John and Taupin agree about the impact of American music on their careers.

“When I grew up as a little boy in suburban London, the only good music I heard was American. British music sucked,” said John, getting a laugh from the audience.

“Everything I’ve written emanates from the American songbook,” Taupin explained. Elton responded, “But he drives a Volvo.”

That light joking between the two displayed the upbeat nature of their professional and personal relationship over 56 years.

Learn more on the Library of Congress website at loc.gov. WI

5 left to right: Toni Brown received a Nissan Versa from Damon Lester, Nissan of Bowie

5 Elton John and Bernie Taupin were awarded the 2024 Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song during a tribute concert held at D.A.R. Constitution Hall. On stage for the ceremony were (L-R) lyricist Bernie Taupin, Librarian of Congress Dr. Carla Hayden, and composer Sir Elton John. The concert airs on April 8 on PBS. (Courtesy Photo/Library of Congress)

5 left to right: Tammy Carter; Toni Brown; Adrianna Boyer; Candice McNair received vehicles at the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) headquarters through a partnership with Vehicles for Change (VFC) and four area automotive dealerships.

Animals curl up to go to sleep and the sky begins to darken. It isn’t anything to worry about, though. It’s a solar eclipse!

Whoa! It’s the middle of the day.

During a solar eclipse, people and animals sometimes get a little confused!

The sun is surrounded by a layer of gases that are hard to see until a total eclipse. This layer is called the corona. The corona is very dim. It’s usually hard to see because the Sun is so much brighter.

During an eclipse, the corona shines around the outside of the moon’s shadow. Use the code to discover what the word corona means.

When the Moon blocks the Sun’s light, it casts a ___________ on part of the Earth.

In that path, the Moon completely Where

How

It’s easiest for people to see a solar eclipse when it happens over land. Use the letters and numbers found along the correct path through the maze to reveal how often a total solar eclipse is visible on land.

The Moon’s shadow follows a long path as the Earth ________. This is called the

The only people who will ______ the total solar eclipse will be people in the _______ of totality.

A solar eclipse is visible on the Earth’s surface approximately: Sometimes the Moon only blocks part of the Sun’s light. This is called a partial solar eclipse.

Select two sentences from the newspaper. In one sentence, black out each of the nouns. In the other, black out each of the vowels. Give the sentences to a partner. Which one is easier for them to understand? The one without nouns, or the one without vowels?

review wi book

"Pride and Joy"

By Louisa Onomé

c.2024, Atria Books

$27.99

336 pages

Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer

You never have just one.

That's how it goes when something bad happens: another undesirable event usually follows it, then another, layer by layer until you think you can't handle it anymore. You offer up a prayer, please stop, and eventually, you find your way. You catch a breath. As in the new book "Pride and Joy" by Louisa Onomé, you live to rise again.

Mama Mary Okafor said she didn't want a fuss on her birthday. It was Good Friday, God's day, and she wasn't competing with Him. Then her daughter, Joy, convinced her that people would also be going to church to celebrate her day, too, and that changed everything.

Mama wanted a party and, good daughter that she was, Joy rented a six-bedroom Toronto mansion for it. She hired caterers, a DJ, florists, there'd be a tent by a swimming pool and cousins and Aunties and Uncles were coming.

The thought that one little thing might go wrong made Joy feel sick.

She was a therapist, for heaven's sake. She should know how to deal with anxiety brought on by being the imperfect daughter of a Nigerian mother. She should know how to deal with people who'd be asking where her husband — her ex-husband — was.

It would be fine, until it wasn't: Mama went to lie down for a nap and she never woke up. Hours before the party, with caterers on their way and family arriving late, Joy's mother was dead and her brother hadn't yet arrived. Then Joy's Auntie Nancy announced that she'd seen a brown cow on the way to be with Mama at the hospital, and a cow portended a miracle: by midnight the next night, Mary Okafor would wake up and resume her life.

As news spread among Toronto's Nigerian community and the house filled with strangers and family that Joy didn't want to deal with, she wished her twin sister was still alive. Heaven help her, she wanted her ex-husband to come. She dreaded seeing her brother.

Most of all, Joy simply wanted her Mama …

First things first: are you going to cry?

Maybe, but "Pride and Joy" isn't really a tear-jerker. Much of what you'll read here is hilariously chaotic, as author Louisa Onomé pulls a great big family together in a large house that somehow gets smaller by the page. This constriction leaves readers with a tight story, despite many layers of irritation, total disorder, culture clashes, intergenerational exasperation, and love — heavy on that latter. Even better, we appreciate the slammed doors, eye-rolling, and kissed teeth because Onomé makes the family in this novel complicated but entirely relatable.

horoscopes

You don't have to have a sprawling family to understand that, but you might wish you did after you enjoy this book. Bring tissues, to be sure, because you might need them. Bring a dictionary, too, because Igbo and Italian both feature in here (but only a little). Overall, if you're looking for a sweet, funny book to read, "Pride and Joy" is the one. WI MAR. 28 - APRIL 3, 2024

ARIES As the week begins, you're especially enthusiastic about a creative date plan or playing hooky to spend quality time with your love. You'll also be inclined to wear your heart on your sleeve and open up about your steamiest and dreamiest desires, and expressing what you want makes for major magic! Later, you could feel especially stressed out by a lack of work/ life balance. You might be inspired by asserting yourself with an authority figure, but tread lightly. Lucky Numbers: 19, 29, 48

TAURUS Early in the week is an ideal time to share your wildest thoughts, fantasies, and pitches with your colleagues or friends. Do your best to let the ideas flow without judgment, and you could inspire a pitch that is truly unique and impressive. Later in the week, a sweet night in could be exactly what your heart yearns for. If you're attached, you'll feel like you can be completely at ease and yourself with your love. Lucky Numbers: 11, 22, 39

GEMINI At the beginning of the week, you're on a roll professionally, coming up with a bevy of creative, thought-provoking ideas alongside your colleagues. You'll be feeling pumped and productive, so take advantage of the moment and have that brainstorm. It's sure to pay off! Later, the cosmos heightens your desire to connect in a physical and heartfelt way with your significant other or new romantic interest. You'll also be especially tuned in to your gut. For this reason, you can trust that you can fully embrace whatever it is you're feeling passionate about. Lucky Numbers: 4, 8, 12

CANCER At the start of the week, you should be pumped to apply for a new gig or get your financial plan even more organized and firing on all cylinders. Your confidence and mental acuity are high, so you can accomplish whatever you set your mind to. Going back to the drawing board to analyze what has and hasn't worked in the past may be especially useful now. Later, you could find yourself in the midst of a power struggle with your significant other or business partner. Although it might feel challenging to make sense of it in the moment, there's a lesson to be learned here. Lucky Numbers: 15, 20, 50

LEO Early in the week, you're hitting major personal goals. You're especially capable of putting what's in your heart into words now, so call that daunting meeting with your boss and pitch that ambitious passion project. Your drive, determination, and inner fire are sure to come across. Later in the week, you may feel like bowing out of your usual routine so you can indulge in your daydreams. Getting swept up in a bit of escapism for the moment can help. Lucky Numbers: 5, 11, 45

VIRGO Early in the week, your efforts to get ahead on a group project are enhanced by a focus on creativity, putting your imagination to work, as well as collaborating with friends and, if you're attached, your significant other. Allow yourself to get swept up in the moment and run with your wildest ideas and you're sure to succeed. Later, you'll be especially tuned in to your needs, your passions, and how your nearest and dearest are feeling. Lucky Numbers: 13, 15, 21

LIBRA At the start of the week, it's a perfect time to brainstorm and put your nose to the grindstone on a group project with coworkers. Your colleagues can feed off your enthusiastic energy! Later in the week, you'll be motivated to put your most creative eye toward your professional efforts. If you've wanted to pitch that out-there, now is the time. Tuning in to your heart, being true to yourself, and following your intuition can set you up for recognition and rewards. Lucky Numbers: 28, 32, 52

SCORPIO At the start of the week, you'll be tempted to shrug off your usual routine and dive into a colorful, imaginative fantasy, ideally with your significant other or a potential partner. This could look like playing hooky from work and hitting the road or merely having a date during which you let yourselves get carried away and enjoy spontaneous fun as opposed to sticking to a planned agenda. Lucky Numbers: 4, 10, 26

SAGITTARIUS When the week begins, you'll be ready to take a risk on the job. You might be inclined to make a presentation for a bold project, call a meeting with a higher-up to share your most ambitious ideas, or apply for an exciting new opportunity. You're driven to put what's in your heart into words and you'll do it well! Later in the week, you might have to contend with emotional stress, especially with regard to a confusing dynamic with a relative. Lucky Numbers: 11, 32, 46

CAPRICORN At the start of the week, expressing your physical needs comes more naturally than usual, and you'll do well to put whatever it is you want out there. Later, the cosmos is signaling tension and a possible power struggle with your significant other or a close colleague. Try to steer away from allowing your ego to take the reins. Instead, focus on the tasks and how you can cooperate and cross the finish line together. You'll come out even stronger as a team. Lucky Numbers: 1, 22, 59

AQUARIUS As the week starts, you'll have extra oomph and focus to work toward a shared goal with your significant other or business partner. You're able to share ideas back and forth more fluidly and come up with a dynamic game plan that you're both pumped about. Later in the week, butting heads with a boss or overdoing it with your fitness routine could take a toll on your wellness. You'd do well to take a time-out to rest and move forward feeling more centered. Lucky Numbers: 7, 13, 26

PISCES Making progress on your current wellness regimen is easier than usual early in the week. Your mind is sure to be buzzing with ideas for stepping up your daily workouts, experimenting with delicious recipes, or trying a new wellness approach like acupuncture. Discussing your options with someone you trust has you feeling you even more fired up. Later, you could easily find yourself confused or off track when it comes to an important project at work. Trying to stay in the moment and focused on the task at hand can make this passing phase less frustrating. Lucky Numbers: 31, 33, 35

SPORTS

Davis Receives Award For Leading Howard University Athletics

By Ed Hill

WI Contributing Writer

Howard University is witnessing a renaissance for Bison athletics under the leadership of Kery Davis. For his leadership, he was named the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) Athletics Director of the Year by the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA).

Davis is the first from Howard to receive the prestigious NACDA honor and only the sixth in Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) history.

Having served as athletic director since 2015, the award-winning Davis came to the university with no experience in college athletics. He previously served as the senior vice president of Programming for HBO’s Sports division.

"When I left HBO after 17 years, I thought long and hard whether my obituary would reflect my time there as my contribution. However, once I got to Howard, that all changed. I felt

female rapper nominated for a Grammy Award and the first rap artist to perform at Carnegie Hall.

“We were in a studio, me, Kane, Raheem with Warryn Campbell and the music was already done,”

Lyte told The Informer. “We were listening to it trying to assess what might happen. Raheem went into the booth and started singing ‘woman,’ and just hearing that I was like, ‘this is an ode to women.’

Lyte noted how she often speaks about her experience, and contemplates how everyone can celebrate women, particularly sending a message to individuals of color that their struggle isn’t in vain.

“My greatest hope is the acknowledgement of what has been

room,” Frederick said in a statement announcing his appointment.

GROWING HOWARD ATHLETICS, FURTHERING A REPUTATION OF EXCELLENCE

Even with all that motivation, Davis admitted that he faced a challenge of a program that had minimal success over the years. During one period, Howard had seven different directors over a 12year period.

that I was on the shoulders of those who came before me,” Davis told The Informer.

The athletic director said that he was drawn to Howard following an early influence from one of the university's iconic graduates.

"My first job out of college at Dartmouth, I worked for Vernon Jordan," said Davis of the late civil rights leader. "He wore the Howard brand with so much pride and often talked about what it meant to him. That inspired me."

Former Howard President Wayne A.I. Frederick was convinced Davis was perfect for the role when he was appointed almost a decade ago.

“As an experienced student-athlete, sports executive, and administrator, Kery Davis comes to Howard with the requisite skills and passion to lead our athletics program. Under Davis’ leadership, I have no doubt that Howard’s student-athletes will continue to flourish at the highest levels on the field and in the class-

and what has gotten us here,” Lyte affirmed.

The multi-hyphenate performer also noted “women are taking back their power.”

“There are many women who sit in their power and have the ability to nurture and empower others, but there’s so many others who have yet to understand that they can claim their power back: whether… starting their own business, empowering young people in their community, and realizing it takes a village,” she explained.

WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT, SERVING AS A POSITIVE INFLUENCE

"When I came in, the plan was to match the athletic experience of the program with the cultural, academic and societal reputations," he said. He further explained how he developed that formula.

“I think the blueprint for our success started with the women's volleyball team. My first year, the team played at (perennial power) Penn State in the NCAAs and we were outclassed. They came back the next year and went to Wisconsin for the tournament. Then the third year, they went to Penn State again and were more competitive this time. I was convinced after talking to the volleyball coach, Coach (Shaun) Kupferberg, that if we could put some resources into the program, we could have something."

Using that modus operandi, it has worked for Davis who has established the Howard University program to be one of the best in college athletics.

In his role, Davis oversees Howard University’s 500 student-athletes and 21 collegiate sports programs, the most of any HBCU. Under Davis, the athletic programs have achieved remarkable academic success, winning awards for their graduation rates and culminat-

With her new single, “Woman,” Lyte continues pushing boundaries and inspiring audiences worldwide with her timeless message of empowerment and resilience.

“Hip-hop, in my era, and that prior to me, was all about leadership, stepping out in the world having a global experience and bringing it back to the community and taking stories from our communities and spreading it worldwide,” Lyte stated.

“I know there are certain people who can benefit from some inspiration and loving guidance. ‘Strength, courage, wisdom,’ the words of India.Arie, in that order— seeing who you are and reclaiming your power and reminding others of how much respect is due to the woman of color.”

WI

ing in the highest department GPA in recent history.

Since Davis took the reins in 2015, the Bison have won 31 conference or national championships, led by the women's volleyball team’s six conference championships, including five in a row from 2015 to 2019.

The 2023 athletic season was indeed a comprehensive championship year for Howard on the fields of competition, as the Bison swept the MEAC's highest honors by winning the 20222023 MEAC All Sports honors, the Talmadge Hill Men's All Sports and the Mary McLeod Bethune Women's All Sports awards. Howard has also succeeded in the classroom and the community.

PARTNERSHIPS, TEAMWORK, AND WORKING TOWARD THE FUTURE

Davis has expanded Howard University's identity by partnering with the iconic Jordan brand. Howard is one of six athletic programs– basketball and football– sponsored by Jordan. In addition to assisting with facility enhancements, the partnership is further set to collaborate on an exclusive Howard line of Jordan brand merchandise and apparel.

Further, Davis has negotiated numerous sponsorship deals with nation-

al brands, including AT&T, Rocket Mortgage, Nissan, and Nuna Baby.

He said that the formula for success in athletics at a place like Howard is: "You have to have believe in a mission and follow it through.”

Davis explained that at HBCUs, leaders must “be willing to think outside the box and use what limited resources you have wisely.”

He also said that it’s important to “have a strong team of people who share the mission.”

Davis noted the team effort of Paul Bowden, senior associate athletic director for Student Athletic Support Services, Chevonne Mansfield, executive senior associate, senior woman administrator, Nicholas Latham, associate athletic director for Operations, and Nichole Williams, assistant athletic director of Administration.

"They all share the belief in the mission of student-athletes and their welfare, education, culture and when you don't always have the resources,

While the program has improved throughout his nine years of leadership, Davis isn’t done working to strengthen Howard athletics.

"We have a great opportunity as a program for growth," said Davis. "We have a good team and staff, and we will continue to make Howard University a formidable force in athletics."

WI

5During Kery Davis’ tenure as director, Howard University’s Athletics Department has thrived both academically and athletically. (Courtesy Photo)

MC LYTE from Page 32

CAPTURE

the moment

Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff partnered with the U.S. Space Force to emphasize the significance of STEM education with elementary school students. Lt. Gen. DeAnna M. Burt joined Emhoff and visited Takoma Elementary School in Washington to observe a balloon rocket ship competition amongst fourth and fifth graders.

(Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

RELIGION

Pastors Use Messages from Holy Week and Easter to Promote Progress and Equity

By Hamil R. Harris WI Contributing Writer

The Rev. Dr. Henry P. Davis III and members of First Baptist Church of Highland Park will begin Easter weekend by hosting a Good Friday service where seven pastors will preach the seven last words Jesus spoke from the cross.

While Good Friday services are an annual tradition in many churches, locally and around the globe, Davis said he and other participating pastors are also focused on issues that remain pressing during the Lenten season, Easter and beyond.

“You have the issue of rising crime, immigration in America. You have a lot of divides,” Davis said. “I try my

best to help people understand the bigger issues.”

Davis, who noted that “Jesus was always involved in the lives of people,” started faith-based courses to assist people with various challenges.

“Economically, we have programs to help people with their finances as well as programs for business owners that we are trying to empower them through knowledge,” Davis said. ”We are trying to teach a younger group how to utilize the tools we gave them for the rest of their lives.”

The Rev. Tony Lee, pastor of Community of Hope African Methodist Episcopal Church in Temple Hills, Maryland will preach from the words, “It is Finished,” during the Good Friday service. Like Davis, Lee plans to emphasize

the important work that still needs to be done to address issues in the community, nation and world.

“What is important for us now is to share the value of shared humanity and how we are all God’s children,” Lee said. “The situation in Gaza and the Congo is when our humanity and Christianity cause us to have an impact whenever we can. Jesus died for us all, and we allow people to be killed like cattle.”

The Rev. Matthew Watley, pastor of Kingdom Fellowship in Beltsville, Maryland said his church is full of changemakers, guided by God.

“Our mission is that we are kingdom disciples trying to make the kingdom different,” Watley told The Informer. “ We just can't go to church. We were saved to serve and to make a difference where God has sent us.”

The church recently celebrated the fourth anniversary of Kingdom Care Outreach Ministry, which Watley said feeds “people at seven locations in two different counties.”

A TIME FOR RESURRECTION IN BLACK AMERICA

As Easter nears, religious leaders and civil rights advocates have been inspired by the reason for the season— resurrection— to promote progress and equity.

“Palestine has over 30,000 of their loved ones who are deceased,” said Dr. Jamal Bryant, pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church. “I pray that resurrection will look different for the people of Haiti, which is in complete chaos… I hope that resurrection will look different in

America in terms of diversity, equity, and inclusion. The second pandemic is hopelessness.”

The Rev. Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., a civil rights veteran and president and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) was also influenced by the Easter season in his emphasis to get people to the polls.

“Easter is about resurrection, and we need to have an economic resurrection in Black America, and that will only happen if we have a massive voter turnout in 2024,” Chavis told The Informer.

“I don't want to see Black America crucified in 2025 because they don't vote,” Chavis continued. “If we get out and vote, we will have a resurrection. Black leadership has to be increasingly vocal to go out and vote.” WI

5 The Rev. Henry P. Davis, pastor of First Baptist Church of Highland Park, said he is focused on addressing pressing issues during the Lenten season, Easter and beyond.. (WI File Photo)

5 The Rev. Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., noted Easter is a time of resurrection and said Black America is in need of an “economic resurrection.” (WI File Photo/Roy Lewis)

Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day, teach him to fish, and he'll eat a lifetime! —

Lao Tzu

It gives me great pleasure to share in my Religion Corner, especially when new and exciting opportunities come along for our youth in low-income areas or in communities where youth are living below poverty lines and are in the path of risks. This exciting company by the name of KSE is mentioned on the White House website, and they are seeking opportunities to work with young people. Such an opportunity in many instances will come along with scholarships. Read more about this exciting chance to take your youth to a higher level, so they can live financially successful lives, for the rest of their life!

National Cyber Director Harry Coker Jr. announced at Fayetteville Technical Community College in North Carolina on March 20, "KSE is offering 100 scholarships for their apprenticeship training program to veterans and military-connected family members." The beneficiaries, spread across the nation, will embark on a cybersecurity transformative journey towards KSE's Cyber Technician Certification (CTC). A press release by the White House states, "KSE, a woman owned tech company dedicated to training the next generation workforce, developed a pioneering neurological-based approach to cybersecurity education through its KSE Ecosystem."

In attendance at the White House event alongside Director Coker was KSE CEO Elias Yassin and President Kameran Evans. Ms. Evans

WITH LYNDIA GRANT

Cyber Training Certification the religion corner

expressed, "We are hoping this KSE commitment and the support from the White House will secure our beloved nation and convince our city and state leaders to invest in KSE's vision in building a cybersecurity career pipeline for inner-city youth to reduce crime, rather than enforcing harsher punishment."

The impact of KSE's initiative is profound, as evidenced by the success stories of former students. Many have transitioned from relying on social assistance programs to securing entry-level positions starting at $100,000 annually. KSE focuses on empowering the nontraditional learners and overlooked communities to recreate themselves by mastering specific job skills.

In the CTC program, entry-level professionals conveniently attend interactive training at minimum two times per week over 12 months, acquiring stackable job skills essential for navigating the cybersecurity landscape. KSE's pledge of 100 scholarships to veterans serves as a beacon, facilitating a smooth transition into cyber-based careers post-military service. The upcoming cohort, commencing on April 17, 2024, will culminate in a Cybersecurity Career Fair.

This company, started in 2021, has built an impressive resume that includes involvement with the White House, U.S. Capitol, NIST NICE, NSF, the D.C. government, the state of Maryland, the city of District Heights, and many industry leading private entities. Today KSE is hosting a free cryptography class at

their Dupont Circle training headquarters in Washington, D.C., as a follow-up to the White House event to showcase their training style.

For organizations, schools or nonprofit groups interested in partnering with KSE Consulting, please contact them at 270-6253577. Take it from me, Lyndia Grant — I'm confirming this information. I have worked with this company while coordinating the White House Lifetime Achievement Awards, working under Rev. Dr. George Holmes. It is wonderful when you soar with eagles; they will take you higher and higher. If you or someone you know are interested in a lifestyle change, and they want to redefine themselves, here are a few pointers:

Ask yourself, "Who am I? Am I doing what I was sent to this planet to do?"

Place this quote where you can see it daily: "If I want to keep on getting what I'm already getting, all I have to do is keep on doing what I'm already doing."

You've got to change your patterns — get a new game plan, a new strategy. Ask yourself, "What have I been doing to produce what I have today?" Repeat after me: "This is my year, I can have my dream!" There's a survey that shows 87% of our selftalk is negative. Stop complaining! Henry Ford tried over 10,000 times. Goethe said, "If I treat a man as he is, I'll make him worse. But if I treat him as he could be, I help him become what he should be." WI

RELIGION

The Miracle Center of Faith Missionary Baptist Church

Bishop Michael C. Turner, Sr. Senior Pastor

9161 Hampton Overlook

Capitol Heights, MD 20743

Phone: 301-350-2200 Fax: 301-499-8724

Service and Times

Sunday Worship Times : 7:30 AM 7 10:00 AM

Communion: 1st Sunday

Sunday School: 9:00 AM

Bible Study: Wednesday, 12 Noon

Bible Study in homes: Tuesday 7:00 PM

Website: www.themiraclecenterFMBC.com

Email: Miraclecenterfmbs@gmail.com

Motto: “We Walk by Faith, Not by Sight”

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

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

Service and Times

Sunday School: 9:30 AM

Sunday Morning Worship Service: 11:00 AM

Communion Service: First Sunday Prayer Service/Bible Study: Tuesday, 6:30 PM www.blessedwordoflifechurch.org

Pilgrim Baptist Church

Rev. Louis B. Jones II Pastor

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

Service and Times

Worship Sundays: 7:30 & 11:00 AM 5th Sundays: 9:30 AM 3rd Sundays: Baptism & Holy Communion Prayer & Praise: Wednesdays @ Noon & 6:30 PM www.pilgrimbaptistdc.org

Covenant Baptist United Church  of Christ

Reverend William Young IV Pastor

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

Services and Times

Sundays: 10:00am Worship Services

Bible Study: Wonderful Wednesdays in Worship and the Word Bible Study Wednesdays 12:00 Noon; 6:30 PM (dinner @ 5:30 PM)

Sunday School: 9:00 AM – Hour of Power

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

Mount Carmel Baptist Church

901 Third Street N.W.

Washington, DC. 20001

Phone (202) 842-3411

Fax (202) 682-9423

Service and Times

Sunday Church School : 9:00 AM

Sunday Morning Worship: 10:10 AM

Bible Study Tuesday: 6: 00 PM

Prayer Service Tuesday: 7:00 PM

Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday 10:10 AM themcbc.org

All Nations Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. James Coleman Pastor

2001 North Capitol St, N.E. - Washington, DC 20002 Phone (202) 832-9591

Service and Times

Sunday Church School – 9:30 AM

Sunday Worship Service – 11:00 AM

Holy Communion – 1st Sunday at 11:00 AM

Prayer – Wednesdays, 6:00 PM

Bible Study – Wednesdays, 7:00 PM

Christian Education / School of Biblical Knowledge

Saturdays, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM, Call for Registration

Website: www.allnationsbaptistchurch.com

All Nations Baptist Church – A Church of Standards

Mount Olivet Lutheran Church

John F. Johnson Reverend Dr. 1306 Vermont Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20005

Service and Times

Divine Worship, Sunday 10:00 a.m.

Communion 1st and 3rd Sunday

“Friendliest Church in the City”

Website: mountolivetdc.org

Email: mtolivedc@gmail.com

Adams Inspirational A.M.E. Church

Dr. E. Gail Anderson Holness Senior Pastor

Rev. Ali Gail Holness-Roland Assistant & Youth Pastor 12801 Old Fort Road • Ft. Washington, MD 20744 Office (301) 292.6323 • FAX (301) 292.2164

Service and Times

Sunday Worship 10:15 am

Sunday Church School 11:00 am

Youth Sunday every 4th Sunday

Prayer Call @ Noon every Tuesday & Thursday 978.990.5166 code: 6166047#

Virtual Bible Study Wednesday Facebook & Zoom 7:00 pm “A Growing Church for a Coming Christ” www.adamsinspirationalamec.org

Church of Living Waters

Rev. Paul Carrette Senior Pastor

Harold Andrew Assistant Pastor

4915 Wheeler Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 301-894-6464

Service and Times

Sunday Service: 8:30am& 11:00 AM

Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM

Communion Service: First Sunday www.livingwatersmd.org

St. Stephen Baptist Church

Bishop Lanier C. Twyman, Sr. / Senior Pastor 5757 Temple Hill Road, Temple Hills, MD 20748 Office 301.899.8885 – Fax 301.899.2555

Service and Times

Sunday Early Morning Worship 8:00 AM

Sunday School 9:30 AM

Sunday Morning Worship 11:00 AM

Tuesday: 7:00 PM – Kingdom Building Bible Institute

Wednesday:  12:30 PM – Mid-Day Bible Study

Wednesday:  7:00 PM – Evening Bible Study

Baptism 3rd Sunday – Communion 4th Sunday

Free Food Giveaway – Every Tuesday, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

“We are One in the Spirit” www.ssbcmd.org | secretary@ssbcmd.org

Campbell AME Church

Rev. Terrance M. McKinley Senior Pastor

2562 MLK Jr. Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020

Adm. Office 202-678-2263

Email: Campbell@mycame.org

Service and Times

Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 AM

Sunday Church School: 8:45 AM

Bible Study: Wednesday: 12:00 Noon, Wednesday: 7:00 PM, Thursday: 7:00 PM

“Reaching Up To Reach Out”

Mailing Address Campbell AME Church

2502 Stanton Road SE Washington, DC 20020

Emmanuel Baptist Church

Reverend Christopher L. Nichols Pastor

2409 Ainger Pl.,SE – WDC 20020 (202) 678-0884 – Office / (202) 678-0885 – Fax

“Moving Faith Forward” 0% Perfect . . 100% Forgiven!

Service and Times

Sunday Worship: 8:00 AM & 10:45 AM

Baptism/Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday

Family Bible Study Tuesdays – 6:30 PM

Prayer Service: Tuesdays – 8:00 PM www.emmanuelbaptistchurchdc.org

Crusader Baptist Church Isle of Patmos Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Alton W. Jordan Pastor

800 I Street, NE - Washington, DC 20002 202-548-0707 - Fax No. 202-548-0703

Service and Times

Sunday Morning Worship: 11:00 AM

Holy Communion: 1st Sunday

Sunday School: 9:45 AM Men’s Monday Bible Study: 7:00 PM Wednesday Night Bible Study: 7:00 PM

Women’s Ministry Bible Study: 3rd Friday -7:00 PM

Computer Classes: Announced

Family and Marital Counseling by appointment

E-mail: Crusadersbaptistchurch@verizon.net www.CrusadersBaptistChurch.org / “God is Love”

Third Street Church of God

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

1204 Third Street, NW

Washington, DC 20001 202-347-5889 office / 202-638-1803 fax

Services and Times

Sunday School: 9:30 AM

Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM Sunday Community Worship Service: 8:30 AM

“Ambassadors for Christ to the Nation’s Capital”

www.thirdstreet.org

Live Stream Sunday Worship Service begins @ 12:00 noon www.thirdstreet.org

Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Reverend John W. Davis Pastor

5101 14th Street, NW / Washington, DC 20011

Phone: 202-726-2220

Fax: 202-726-9089

Service and Times

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

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

Sunday School - 9:15 a.m. (4th Sunday 8:15 a.m.)

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

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

Florida Avenue Baptist Church

Dr. Earl D. Trent Senior Pastor

623 Florida Ave.. NW WDC. 20001

Church (202) 667-3409 / Study (202) 265-0836

Home Study (301) 464-8211 Fax (202) 483-4009

Service and Times

Sunday Worship Services: 10:00 AM

Sunday Church School: 8:45 – 9:45 AM

Holy Communion: Every First Sunday Intercessory Prayer: Monday – 7:00-8:00 PM

Pastor’s Bible Study: Wednesday –7:45 PM

Midweek Prayer: Wednesday – 7:00 PM

Noonday Prayer Every Thursday

Reverend Dr. Calvin L. Matthews Senior Pastor

1200 Isle of Patmos Plaza, Northeast Washington, DC 20018

Office: (202) 529-6767 - Fax: (202) 526-1661

Service and Times

Sunday Worship Services: 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM

Holy Communion: 2nd Sunday at 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM

Sunday Church School: 9:20 AM

Seniors Bible Study: Tuesdays at 10:30 AM

Noon Day Prayer Service: Tuesdays at Noon

Bible Study: Tuesdays at 7 PM

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

Website: http://isleofpatmosbc.org

Church Email: ipbcsecretary@verizon.net

Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church

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

Sunday Worship Service: 8:00 AM and 10:45 AM

Sunday Youth Worship Services: 1st & 4th 10:45 AM; 804 R.I. Ave., NE 5th 8 AM & 10:45 AM; Main Church Prayer Services

Tuesday – Noon, Wednesday 6:00 AM & 6:30 PM

Calvary Bible Institute: Year-Round Contact Church / Communion Every 3rd Sunday The Church in The Hood that will do you Good! www.gmchc.org / emailus@gmchc.org

Shiloh Church of God 7th Day

Elder Jonathan M. Carson Senior Pastor

5701 Eastern Avenue, Hyattsville, MD 20782

Phone: 301 559-5262

Service and Times

Sabbath Worship @ 1:00 pm in-person/FB/Zoom

Tuesday - Prayer@ 7:30 pm on Zoom

Wednesday Bible Study@ 7:30 pm on Zoom

Friday - Sabbath School@ 7:30 pm on Zoom

Web: shiloh7thday.org

Email: shiloh7thdaycomm@gmail.com

"A culturally diverse church of edification, deliverance and transformation"

Holy Trinity United Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. George C. Gilbert Senior Pastor

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

Service and Times

Sunday Church School: 9:30 AM

Sunday Worship Service : 11:00 AM

The Lord’s Supper 1st Sunday Prayer & Praise Services: Wednesday 7:00 PM

Bible Study: 7:30 PM

Saturday before 4th Sunday Men, Women, Youth Discipleship Ministries: 10:30 AM

A Christ Centered Church htubc@comcast.net

Blessed Word

Zion Baptist Church

Rev. Keith W. Byrd, Sr. Pastor

4850 Blagdon Ave, NW - Washington D.C 20011

Phone (202) 722-4940 Fax (202) 291-3773

Service and Times

9:00 a.m. – Sunday School

10:15 a.m. – Worship Service

Wed. Noon: Dea. Robert Owens Bible Study

7 PM Pastor’s Bible Study Ordinance of Baptism 2nd Sunday, Holy Communion 4th Sunday

Mission: Zion shall: Enlist Sinners, Educate Students, Empower the Suffering, Encourage the Saints, And Exalt our Savior. (Acts 2: 41-47) www.zionbaptistchurchdc.org

1415 Gallatin Street, NW Washington, DC 20011-3851

P: (202) 726-5940

Service and Times

Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM

Sunday School: 9:15 AM

Holy Communion: 11:00 a.m., 3rd Sun.

Bible Institute: Wednesday - 1:30 PM

Prayer Meeting: Wednesday - 12:00 Noon

Rev. Curtis l. Staley Pastor

621 Alabama Ave., S.E.- Washington, D.C. 20032

P: (202) 561-1111 - F: (202) 561-1112

Service and Times

Sunday Service: 10:00 AM

Sunday School for all ages: 8:30 AM

1st Sunday Baptism: 10:00 AM

2nd Sunday Holy Communion:10:00 AM

Tuesday:

Bible Study: 6:30 PM

Prayer Meeting: 7:45 PM

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

Pennsylvania Ave. Baptist Church

Israel Baptist Church

Rev. Lance Aubert Imterim Pastor

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

Service and Times

Sunday Worship Service: 10:45 AM

Sunday School: 9:15 AM

Holy Communion1st Sunday: 10:45 AM

Prayer Service: Wednesday at 6:30 PM

Bible Study: Wednesday at 7:00 PM

Bible Study: Tuesday at 10:30 AM

Dr. Lucius M. Dalton Senior Pastor

1636 East Capitol Street, NE Washington, DC 20003

Telephone: 202-544-5588 - Fax: 202-544-2964

Service and Times

Sunday Worship Services: 7:45 AM and 10:45 AM

Holy Communion: 1st Sundays at 7:45 AM & 10:45 AM

Sunday School: 9:30 AM

Prayer & Praise Service: Tuesdays at 12 noon & 6:30 PM

Bible Study: Tuesdays at 1 pm and 7 PM

Youth Bible Study: Fridays at 7 PM

Web: www.mountmoriahchurch.org

Email: mtmoriah@mountmoriahchurch.org

Lincoln Park United Methodist Church

Rev. Richard B. Black Interim Pastor

1301 North Carolina Ave. N E Washington, D C 20002

202 543 1318 - lincolnpark@lpumcdc.org www.lpumcdc.org

Service and Times

Sunday Worship: 10:00 AM

Holy Communion: First Sunday 10:00 AM

Sunday School: 9:00 AM

Bible Study: Wednesday @ 12 noon and 6:30 PM

Motto: "Faith On The Hill"

Damion M. Briggs Pastor 8213 Manson Street Landover, MD 20785

Tel: (301) 322-9787 Fax: (301) 322-9240

Service and Times

Early Morning Message: 7:30 AM

Sunday Morning Worship Service: 10:00 AM

Sunday Church School: 9:00 AM

Holy Communion: 1st Sunday 7:30 AM & 10:00 AM

Prayer, Praise and Testimony: Wednesday 7:00 PM

Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM

“Real Worship for Real People”

Website: www.easterncommunity.org

Email: ecc@easterncommunity.org

The Rev. E. Bernard Anderson Priest

Foggy 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."

Website: Theplbc.org

Email: churchclerk@theplbc.org

Sunday

Monday

Prayer

Sermon On The Mount

Temple Of Joy Apostolic Faith

Elder Herman L. Simms Pastor

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

Service and Times

Sunday Apostolic Worship Services

11:00 A.M and 5:00 PM Communion and Feet Wash 4th Sunday at 5:00 PM

Prayer/Seeking: Wednesday at 8:00 PM

Apostolic in Doctrine, Pentecostal in Experience, Holiness in Living, Uncompromised and Unchanged. The Apostolic Faith is still alive –Acts 2:42

Rev. Stephen E. Tucker Senior Pastor 13701 Old Jericho Park Road Bowie, MD. 20720 (301) 262-0560

Service and Times

Sunday Worship: 11 AM

Sunday School: 10 AM

Wednesday Mid-Week Worship, Prayer & Bible Study: Wed. 7 PM

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

Rev. Oran W. Young Pastor

602 N Street NW - Washington, D.C. 20001

Office:(202) 289-4480 / Fax: (202) 289-4595

Service and Times

Adult Sunday School: 8:00 AM

Sunday Worship Services: 9:30 AM

Youth/Young Adult Sunday School 12:00 PM

Midday Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 11:30AM

Evening Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 7:00 PM

Laymen's League: Thursday 7:00 PM

Email: Froffice@firstrising.org

Website: www.firstrising.org

“Changing Lives On Purpose “

Matthews Memorial Baptist Church

Dr. Joseph D. Turner Senior Pastor

2616 MLK Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020

Office 202-889-3709 - Fax 202-678-3304

Service and Times

Sunday Worship Service: 9:30 AM

Holy Communion: 1st Sunday 9:30 AM

Sunday School: 8:15 AM

Bible Study: Wednesdays at Noon

Baptism: 4th Sunday 9:30 AM

Website address: www.mmbcdc.org

“Where God is Praised, Christ is Obeyed, and People are Loved”

Rev. Dr. Michael T. Bell

712 18th Street, NE Washington, DC 20002

Phone 202-399-3450/ Fax 202-398-8836

Service and Times

Sunday Early Morning Prayer & Bible Study Class: 8:00 AM

Sunday School: 9:00 AM

Sunday Morning Worship Service: 10:00 AM

Wednesday Service: 12:00 PM

“The Loving Church of the living lord “

Email Address: admin@pbc712.org

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

2914 Bladensburg Road, NE Wash., DC 20018

Office: (202) 529-3180 Fax: (202) 529-7738

Service and Times

Worship Service: 7:30 AM

Sunday School: 9:00 AM

Worship Service: 10:30 AM

Holy Communion: 4th Sunday 7:30AM & 10:30 AM

Prayer Services:Tuesday 7:30 PM.

Wednesday 12 Noon

Email:mthoreb@mthoreb.org

Website:www.mthoreb.org

For further information, please contact me at (202) 529-3180

Rev. Aubrey C. Lewis Pastor

Mount Moriah Baptist Church Eastern Community Baptist Church

New Commandment Baptist Church Peace Baptist Church St. Luke Baptist Church

Mt. Horeb Baptist Church

Rehoboth Baptist Church

First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church

Promised Land Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Kendrick E. Curry Pastor

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2022 ADM 849

James Silver Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Barbara E. Johnson, whose address is 5093 Sands Rd., Mail PO Box 253, Lothian, MD 20711, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James Silver who died on February 13, 2018 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (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 9/14/2024. 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 9/14/2024, 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: 3/14/2024

Barbara E. Johnson 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 201

Anna L. Mayo Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Charisma Green, whose address is 670 Rhode Island Ave. #601A, Washington, DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Anna L. Mayo who died on November 16, 2016 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 9/14/2024. 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 9/14/2024, 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: 3/14/2024

Charisma Green 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

2023 FEP 000079

September 5, 2018

Date of Death

Mack L. Pressey Jr

Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESEN-

TATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Milton R Talley III whose address is 1004 Black Oak Court, Fredericksburg, VA 22401 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Mack L. Pressey Jr., deceased, by the Probate Court for Beaufort County, State of South Carolina, on September 17, 2018. Service of process may be made upon Matthew Talley, 4408 6th Place, NE, Washington, DC 20017 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C. The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real property: 1122 Chaplin Street SE, Washington, DC 20019. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Date of first publication: 3/14/2024

Milton R Talley III Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

PROBATE DIVISION

2024 NRT 000009

Adelaide W. Robinson Name of Deceased Settlor

NOTICE OF EXISTENCE OF REVOCABLE TRUST

Adelaide W. Robinson whose address was 217 Quackenbos St., NW, Washington, DC 20011 created a revocable trust on October 10, 2007 which remained in existence on the date of death on October 10, 2023, and Kathy Brissette-Minus, Esq., whose address is Law Office of Kathy Brissette-Minus, LLC, 9701 Apollo Dr., Suite 230, Largo, MD 20774, is the currently acting trustee, hereinafter the Trustee. Communications to the Trust should be mailed or directed Kathy Brissette-Minus, Esq. at Law Office of Kathy Brissette-Minus, LLC, 9701 Apollo Dr., Suite 230, Largo, MD 20774.

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

Claims of the deceased settlor’s creditors are barred as against the Trustee and the trust property unless presented to the Trustee at the address provided herein on or before 9/14/2024 (6 month after the date of the first publication of this notice.) An action to contest the validity of this trust must be commenced by the earliest of (1) October 10, 2024, (One year from date of death of deceased settlor) (2) 9/14/2024 (6 months from the date of first publication of this notice) or (3) Ninety days after the Trustee sends the person a copy of the trust instrument and a notice informing the person of the trust’s existence, of the Trustee’s name and address, and of the time allowed for commencing a proceeding.

The Trustee may proceed to distribute the trust property in accordance with the terms of the trust before the expiration of the time within which an action must be commenced unless the Trustee knows of a pending judicial proceeding contesting the validity of the trust or the Trustee has received notice from a potential contestant who thereafter commences a judicial proceeding within sixty days after notification. This Notice must be mailed postmarked within 15 days of its first publication to each heir and qualified beneficiary of the trust and any other person who would be an interested person within the meaning of D.C. Code 20-101(d).

Date of First Publication: 3/14/2024

Kathy Brissette-Minus, Esq. Signature of Trustee

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 232

Dorothy Elizabeth Parker Decedent

Lisa M. Nentwig, Esq. Dilworth Paxson LLP 1500 Market Street, Suite 3500E

Philadelphia, PA 19102

Attorney

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

Rochelle Kirkley, whose address is 3148 Banneker Drive NE, Washington, DC 20018-1646, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Dorothy Elizabeth Parker who died on October 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 9/14/2024. 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 9/14/2024, 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: 3/14/2024

Rochelle Kirkley

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

Declaration of Nationality Protocol In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality. Notice of White Flag Surrender.

Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: "Pedro Tyri Winfrey© ", in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: “

PEDRO TYRI WINFREY©", corp.sole Dba.: "PEDRO T. WINFREY© "; PEDRO WINFREY, WINFREY, PEDRO T, having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a: Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, Al Maghreb Al Aqsa, Estados al Marikanos, Societas Republicae Ea Al Maurikanuus Estados, The Constitution for the united States of America, Article III Section 2, The Lieber Code, Hague Conventions of 1899 & 1907, The Geneva Conventions, [ United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples ], and all natural laws governing moors, and hereby declare and proclaim my nationality in good faith as a: Moorish American. am that am: "Pedro Tyri Winfrey© ", from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: “tyri azu amadi©” . Notice of White Flag Surrender: as "hors de combat", pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article III, as a minister of The Moorish Empire, and Internationally Protected Person. Notice of: LAWS AND CUSTOMS OF WAR ON LAND HAGUE, IV), ARTICLE: 32, 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Claim pursuant to Public Law 87-846, TITLE II, SEC. 203. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title: This order is to preserve legal and equitable title, and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, Re: Illinois Department of Public Health-Division of Vital Records : STATE FILE NUMBER: 112-1983 6010736, "PEDRO TYRI WINFREY©",

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

PROBATE DIVISION

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 FEP 000014

January 23, 2023

Date of Death

Hattie M. Meade

Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Willie B. Meade whose address is 3703 Eton Way, Upper

Marlboro, MD 20772 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Hattie M. Meade, deceased, by the Orphans Court for Prince Georges County, State of Maryland, on November 7, 2023.

Service of process may be made upon Kathleen T. Gale, 201 Eye Street, NE, Apt 1117, Washington, DC 20002 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C.

The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real property: 1421 G Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Date of first publication: 3/14/2024

Willie B. Meade

Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000199

Chad Alexander Thompson Decedent

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

Robert W. Thompson, whose address is 8702 Reicher Street, Landover, Maryland 20785, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Chad Alexander Thompson who died on 11/9/2023 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 September 14, 2024.

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 September 14, 2024, 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:

March 14, 2024

Robert W. Thompson Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

In God We Trust

In God We Trust Declaration of Nationality Notice of Special Appearance : I am that am: ‘‘ Ayeshah Lael Lacy© ’’, in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: “

LOWTHER, AYEHSAH LAEL© ’’, corp. sole Dba.: ‘‘ AYESHAH LAEL LACY © ’’, corp. sole Dba.: ‘‘ AYESHAH LACY© ’’, corp. sole Dba.: ‘‘ A. L. LACY© ’’, and all derivatives of the name, having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a: Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, Societas Republicae Ea Al Maurikanuus Estados, The Constitution for the united States of America, Article III Section 2, The Lieber Code, Hague Conventions of 1899 & 1907, The Geneva Conventions, [ United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples ], and all natural laws governing moors, and hereby declare and proclaim my nationality in good faith as a: Moorish American. am that I am: ‘‘ Ayeshah Lael Lacy© ’’, from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: ‘‘ ayeshah lacy el© ’’. Notice of White Flag Surrender: as “hors de combat”, pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article III, as a minister of The Moorish Empire, and Internationally Protected Person. Notice of LAWS AND CUSTOMS OF WAR ON LAND HAGUE, IV), ARTICLE: 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Claim pursuant to Public Law 87-846, TITLE II, SEC. 203. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title : This order is to preserve legal and equitable title, and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, Re: STATE OF NEW YORK – CERTIFICATE OF VITAL RECORDS, REGISTER FILE NUMBER : 156 | 70 | 306389, ‘‘ AYESHAH LAEL LOWTHER© ’’, to the depositor: ‘‘ ayeshah lacy el© ’’, nom deguerre: ‘‘ Ayeshah Lael Lacy© ’’. All property, of the same issue and amount, in like kind and specie, is to be returned fully

Declaration of Nationality Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: ‘‘ Craig Steven Lacy, Jr. © ’’, in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: “ LACY JR, CRAIG STEVEN© ’’, corp. sole Dba.: ‘‘ CRAIG SETEVEN LACY JR © ’’, corp. sole Dba.: ‘‘ CRAIG LACY© ’’, corp. sole Dba.: ‘‘ C.S. LACY, JR© ’’, and all derivatives of the name, having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a: Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, Societas Republicae Ea Al Maurikanuus Estados, The Constitution for the united States of America, Article III Section 2, The Lieber Code, Hague Conventions of 1899 & 1907, The Geneva Conventions, [ United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples ], and all natural laws governing moors, and hereby declare and proclaim my nationality in good faith as a: Moorish American. I am that I am: ‘‘ Craig Steven Lacy Jr© ’’, from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: ‘‘ craig lacy bey© ’’. Notice of White Flag Surrender: as “hors de combat”, pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article III, as a minister of The Moorish Empire, and Internationally Protected Person. Notice of LAWS AND CUSTOMS OF WAR ON LAND ( HAGUE, IV), ARTICLE: 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Claim pursuant to Public Law 87-846, TITLE II, SEC. 203. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title : This order is to preserve legal and equitable title, and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, Re: STATE OF PENNSYLVANIA – CERTIFICATE OF VITAL RECORDS, REGISTER FILE NUMBER :109750 | 1972, ‘‘ CRAIG STEVEN LACY JR© ’’, to the depositor: ‘‘ craig lacy bey© ’’, nom deguerre: ‘‘ Craig Steven Lacy Jr© ’’. All property, of the same issue and amount, in like kind and specie, is to be returned fully intact, as a Special Deposit Order of the Depositor / Beneficiary / Bailor / Donor / Principal / Creditor: ‘‘craig lacy bey© ’’, nom deguerre: ‘‘ Craig Steven Lacy Jr© ’’, as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of : ‘‘ Lacy Family Express Trust© ’’, an Inter Vivos Unincorporated Divine Grantor Trust. This deposit is not to be commingled with general assets of any bank, nor depositary / trustee / agent / bailee donee / debtor. All Attorneys with a License from the Bar Association are explicitly prohibited from administering " LACY FAMILY EXPRESS TRUST©" property without handwritten consent from each and every trustee, after said Attorneys have furnished their nationality, and Principal for whom's interest they are working, pursuant to [Public Law 75-583], to Trustees in plain writing. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente. This deposit is not limited to, but including: discharge and set off etc., of any and all outstanding liabilities as accord and satisfaction.

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000193

John H. Brown

Decedent

Joan M. Wilbon

Attorney at Law 1629 K Street NW, Suite 300 Washington, DC 20006

Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Arni L. O’Donnell, whose address is 213 Huron Dr., Forest Heights, MD 20745, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of John H. Brown who died on October 24, 2021 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 9/21/2024. 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 9/21/2024, 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: 3/21/2024

Arni L. O’Donnell 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 000221

Sandra Marie Gray Decedent

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

Kimberly Monique Gray, whose address is 409 South Carolina Ave., SE, Washington, DC 20003, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Sandra Marie Gray who died on June 23, 2014 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision.

A,

D.C.

Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/21/2024, 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: 3/21/2024

Kimberly Monique Gray 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 000252

Jeanne Loretta Parks

Decedent

Xue F. Connelly 616 N. Washington St. Alexandria, VA 22314 Attorney

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

John Brian Parks, whose address is 2149 Shenandoah Rd., Toledo, OH 43607, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jeanne Loretta Parks who died on January 26, 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 9/21/2024. 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 9/21/2024, 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: 3/21/2024

John Brian Parks

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 263

Sylvia Panchita Bello aka Panchita Sylvia Bello Decedent

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

Conchita Bello Shorts, whose address is 16 Aurelle Drive, Fredericksburg, VA 22406, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Sylvia Panchita Bello aka Panchita Sylvia Bello who died on February 29, 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 9/21/2024. 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 9/21/2024, 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: 3/21/2024

Conchita Bello Shorts 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 000209

Bernard T. Steele Decedent

Peggy A. Miller 5130 7th St NE Washington, DC 20011-2625 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Craig E. Smallwood, whose address is 908 Hamilton St., NE, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Bernard T. Steele who died on 1/7/2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/21/2024. 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 9/21/2024, 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: 3/21/2024

Craig E. Smallwood 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 211

Yvonne L. Rouselle aka

Yvonne E. Rouselle

Decedent

Julius P. Terrell 1455 Pennsylvania Ave., NW

Suite 400 Washington, DC 20004

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Vida R. DeVaughn and Avis R. Eichelberger, whose addresses are 5503 Wellsley Dr., East Greensboro, NC 27407, were appointed

Personal Representatives of the estate of Yvonne L. Rouselle aka Yvonne E. Rouselle who died on 11/6/2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/21/2024. 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 9/21/2024, 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: 3/21/2024

Vida R. DeVaughn Avis R. Eichelberger 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

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

2023 ADM 000345

Victoria Spencer Decedent

Kevin Judd, Esq. 601 Pennsylvania Ave., NW Suite 900-South Building Washington, DC 20004

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

Kevin Judd, Esq., whose address is 601 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Suite 900-South Building, Washington, DC 20004, was appointed

LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 001133

Clyde T. Parker aka Clyde Thomas Parker Decedent

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

Brenda Althea Parker and David Rivera, whose addresses are 6435 Orchard Ave., Takoma Park, MD 20912 & 4201 Butterworth Pl., NW Apt. 446, Washington, DC 20016, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Clyde T. Parker aka Clyde Thomas Parker who died on 11/5/2022 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 9/21/2024. 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 9/21/2024, 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: 3/21/2024

Brenda Althea Parker

David Rivera

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 000278

Estate of Arlee Ernest Ray

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE

Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/21/2024. 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 9/21/2024, 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: 3/21/2024

TiRay Michelle Edwards Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

Personal Representative of the estate of Victoria Spencer who died on January 26, 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 (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 9/21/2024. 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 9/21/2024, 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: 3/21/2024

Kevin Judd, Esq. Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Patricia Mosby for standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representatives. Unless a responsive pleading in the form of a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is filed in this Court within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth.

Admit to probate the Will dated March 20, 2009 and the codicil dated January 29, 2015 exhibited with the petition upon proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution by affidavit of the witnesses or otherwise.

Order witnesses to the alleged codicil dated January 29, 2015 to appear and give testimony regarding its execution

Date of first publication: 3/21/2024

Jacobie Whitley 1455 Pennsylvania Ave., NW Suite 400

Washington, DC 20004

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 FEP 000020

January 7, 2023

Date of Death

Carl S. Lee aka

Carl Spencer Lee

Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Duane Joyner whose address is 11946 Autumnwood Lane, Fort Washington, MD 20744 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Carl S. Lee aka Carl Spencer Lee, deceased, by the Surrogate’s Court of the State of New York Court for Kings County, State of New York, on 8/7/2023.

Service of process may be made upon Deborah Robinson, 2600 17th Street, NE, Washington, DC 20018 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C.

The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real estate.

2600 17th Street, NE, Washington, DC 20018; Square 4127 Lot 0821. 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: 3/21/2024

Duane

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000214

Marjorie Sylvia Dow Decedent

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

Ronald Fitzgerald Dow, whose address is 1103 46th St., SE Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Marjorie Sylvia Dow who died on January 22, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/21/2024. 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 9/21/2024, 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: 3/21/2024

Ronald Fitzgerald Dow Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Christen M. Price, whose address is 1950 U Place, SE, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Scott

or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/28/2024, 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:

3/28/2024

Christen M. Price 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 000264

Suzanne Curran Decedent

Elizabeth Ann Fitch 250 W. Pratt St. Suite 1900 Baltimore, MD 21201 Attorney

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

Mary T. Curran, whose address is 827 Balra Drive, El Cerrito, CA 94530, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Suzanne Curran who died on January 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 (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 9/28/2024. 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 9/28/2024, 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: 3/28/2024

Mary T. Curran

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 001453

Ruth Whitener Decedent

Stephanie L. Royal, Esq.

The Royal Legal Group. PLLC 5335 Wisconsin Ave., Suite 440 Washington, DC 20015 Attorney

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

Gladys A. Johnson and Rea D. Johnson, whose addresses are 2951 Hobblebush Ct., Glenarden, MD 20706 & 1005 Jubilee Way, Waldorf, MD 20602, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Ruth Whitener who died on January 20, 2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/21/2024. 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 9/21/2024, 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: 3/21/2024

Gladys A. Johnson Rea D. Johnson

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2018 ADM 001345

Sumpter Darby Jr. Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Dexter Darby, whose address is 5506 8th Street, NW Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Sumpter Darby Jr. who died on 8/2/1991 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 9/28/2024. 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 9/28/2024, 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: 3/28/2024

Dexter Darby Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

2024 ADM 000254

Winfred

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

2024 ADM 281

Sterling Gene Lott Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Sheri A. Lott, whose address is 3011 Minnesota Ave. SE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Sterling Gene Lott who died on January 28, 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 9/28/2024. 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 9/28/2024, 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: 3/28/2024

Sheri A. Lott 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 310

Estate of Gloria Thomas

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE

Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Aretha Somerville, guardian for Jeffrey L. Thomas 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 a disinterested member of the bar as personal representative

Date of first publication: 3/28/2024

Brian L. Kass, Esq. 4301 Connecticut Ave., NW Suite 434

Washington, DC 20008

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 00317

Estate of Winfield L. Thomas

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE

Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Aretha Somerville, guardian for Jeffrey L. Thomas 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 a disinterested member of the bar as personal representative

Date of first publication: 3/28/2024

Brian L. Kass, Esq. 4301 Connecticut Ave., NW Suite 434 Washington, DC 20008

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 000275

Shiyi Zhu Decedent

Jeffrey K. Gordon, Esq.

5335 Wisconsin Avenue, NW #400 Washington, DC 20015

Attorney

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

Gai Yan, whose address is 3621 Newark Street, NW #212, Washington, DC 20016, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Shiyi Zhu who died on December 10, 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 9/28/2024. 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 9/28/2024, 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: 3/28/2024

Gai Yan

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

2023 ADM 001309

Dalaneo M. Martin

Decedent

Edward

Attorney

Tyrell D. Jones, whose address is 22110 Shortfin Mako Court, Katy, TX 77449, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Dalaneo M. Martin who died on March 18, 2023 without a Will and will serve with Court supervision. All

the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/28/2024. 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 9/28/2024, 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:

March 28, 2024

Tyrell D. Jones

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 315

Radmila Popovic Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Neil O’ Flaherty, whose address is 1435 Chapin Street NW #309, Washington, DC 20009, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Radmila Popovic who died on January 18th 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 9/28/2024. 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 9/28/2024, 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: 3/28/2024

Neil O’Flaherty Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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Followers also saw a Spice Suite almond espresso vanilla that she poured into the waffle batter. She served the final product with a side of raspberries.

Days prior, Gregorio made a “quick Monday meal” -- a crispy spicy shrimp quesadilla with chipotle avocado slaw and salad and salsa. She used Spice Suite’s Thai chili-ish, along with The Spice Suite’s Applewood Smoked Sea Salt, Northwest Spice, and Smoked Sweet Paprika blends.

She also threw chimichurri con limo in the mix while her children juiced lemons for a homemade lemonade and “Blacker the berry” tea mix.

In a March 10 Instagram post, Gregorio showed off her freshly prepared shrimp and grits. In her caption, she mentioned making the sauce with butter, heavy cream, along with Spice Suite’s Smoky Sweet Thang and Smoked Applewood Salt blends.

food restaurant.

In an increasingly technological and isolated world, Gregorio told The Informer that she wants her patrons to experiment with the spices in their cabinet and strengthen their family ties while doing so.

“As an adult and mom, I realize the importance of eating at home and the community that’s built within your family or when you invite other people,” Gregorio said. “There’s something significant about taking time to sit together.”

As the company website explains, the atmosphere at The Spice Suite, now located at the Black+Forth shopping mall that Gregorio launched on Channing Street in Northeast, matches Gregorio's home, which she describes as welcoming, engaging and fun.

Each of Gregorio’s Instagram reels, filmed in her kitchen and among family, provides viewers the opportunity to learn about the assortment of spices in the Spice Suite catalog.

These spices, which appear in colorful packaging, are salutes to elements of Black District culture. Examples include “No Salt, Still Bomb” spice blend, “Just a Little Heat” spice blend, and ‘DC or Nothing” spice blend.

“Our branding is very colorful and interesting,” Gregorio said. “There are fun, catchy things that are a nod to Black food and culture. It could just be spices that rep the four quadrants of D.C. No matter your entry point, if you walk into The Spice Suite, something is going to catch your eye.”

Last weekend, followers saw Gregorio go to work with her Spice Suite flavors and KitchenWEAR as she made waffle cones stuffed with home fries, eggs and smoked salmon. She used a Spice Suite cutting board and Spice Suite pyrex.

KEY BRIDGE from Page 1

In a Tuesday morning press conference, Gov. Wes Moore wasted no time declaring a state of emergency and mobilizing resources and support from across the nation.

"We stand united in the face of tragedy," Moore proclaimed.

BRIDGE WAS ‘UP TO CODE’—BUT CODE MAY NOT BE UP TO DATE

Maria Lehman, U.S. infrastructure lead at the global engineering company GHD, said footage of the Key Bridge’s collapse felt eerily familiar. In 1980, a freighter hit the Sunshine Skyway in Tampa Bay, Florida causing a section of the bridge to collapse and killing 35 people.

Gregorio, who earned a spot on Season 8 of MasterChef, told The Informer that she doesn’t consider herself a chef nor does she try to complicate cooking. She said that she uses her spices to accentuate the basic meals that she can make really well. She encouraged parents and caregivers across the District to take on a similar attitude.

“I look in the freezer and I thaw something out,” Gregorio said. “I don’t have a favorite spice. I enjoy experimenting and layering flavors. You can start with something basic. It’s not a flavor thing. It’s about trying the same thing differently. I can cook salmon all week and use a combination of different spices.”

Maryam Thomas counts herself among one of The Spice Suite’s earliest supporters. She said that Gregorio personifies Black female entrepreneurship to the tee.

For nearly a decade, Thomas, a local mother, wife, and school executive, has jazzed up her home cooked meals with flavors and spices from The Spice Suite. She said that she maintained a relationship with the business, not only because of the results that have been produced in the kitchen, but Gregorio’s diligence in evolving her brand.

“Watching Angel’s ascent has been awe inspiring and speaks to the resilience and brilliance inherent in Black women,” Thomas said. “She has brought all the principles of Kwanzaa to life and made them actionable for us.She is a reminder of the necessity for economic empowerment in our community and exemplifies the practices of ‘each one teach one and bring one.’”

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@SamPKCollins

“I had flashbacks,” Lehman said. “The visual was so similar to the visual of Tampa Bay, because it was the same type of structure and it went down the same way… I mean, that was the beginning of my career, I was still in college. But they're haunting images. They burn into your head.”

After the Tampa Bay disaster, Lehman said, engineers adopted new standards for “pier protection.” That typically involves artificial islands or other barriers in the water around the piers holding up a bridge.

Lehman said ships have gotten far

BUDGET from Page 1

Southeast resident and community organizer Charnal Chaney said the people living in her community need such investments at a time when she’s starting to see some positive changes.

Chaney, founder of Bold Yoga LLC, is part of a group helping high school students launch a business cooperative. Along the way, she continues to encounter underlying problems that jeopardize the youths’ collective success.

One example Chaney gave involved some young people who live in dilapidated, mold-infested homes. She also mentioned instances where she and her colleagues had to help parents pay utility bills after they couldn’t access emergency rental assistance.

In those situations, Chaney has relied on an ever-expanding grassroots mutual aid network that pools resources for residents. She said that work has inspired people in her community to jump into advocacy work.

Such results, Chaney said, could be multiplied once the D.C. government commits to expanding programs that have been proven to improve people’s

bigger and heavier than they were when those standards were created. Some pier protection barriers may simply not be large or strong enough to stop a freighter like the Dali.

“These [ships]—they're monsters. I mean, they’re skyscrapers,” Lehman said.

The Key Bridge, which was built in 1977, does have pier protection barriers, known as “dolphins.” But some experts looking at the footage said that the ship may have slipped between the protective objects because it came in at an angle, the Washington Post reported.

The Key Bridge is also what structural engineer Dr. Nehemiah Mabry described as “fracture critical,” which means that damage to one key component can lead to failures in the rest of the structure. The video shows the bridge’s arch falling and the the entire roadway breaking apart immediately after the collision knocks out the supporting pier.

“You see sort of a domino effect across the deck,” Mabry said. “That's where cars begin to fall in, and even to the point beyond the supports that are still intact, because that's all based on sort of that balancing there.”

Fracture critical designs can have advantages, Mabry noted, including the ability to hold a lot of weight—a key factor in a commuting and freight route used by over 35,000 people each day.

quality of life and boost cooperative development.

“We got people who want to step up and do more because they know their voice matters in this city,” Chaney said. “But we need more money in the budget so people who navigate through [the system] can help more people. Things will improve. It’s just a matter of [elected officials] funding social programs.”

CHAIRMAN MENDELSON VS. D.C. MAYOR BOWSER VS. CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER LEE

This year, the 70-day budget deliberation process will start later, due to what D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson called D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser’s delay in submitting the budget to the Office of the Chief Financial Officer (OCFO).

Per a council resolution adopted this year, Bowser was required to submit the budget no later than March 20. In order to meet that deadline, she would have needed to get the budget to

“A bridge is designed to support the vehicles that drive across,” Mabry said. “There's a huge middle span of over 1000 feet—about 1200 feet, I believe—that allows ships like this to pass on a regular basis…the width of the ship was about 150 feet, so you have plenty of room.”

Moore said during Tuesday moring that the structure was “fully up to code.” But Mabry said few bridges’ piers are designed to withstand a direct collision like this one.

‘IT FELL SO FAST’

The collision, captured on video, sent shockwaves nationwide, prompting an outpouring of support and solidarity. Helicopters buzzed overhead, casting their searchlights upon the river’s surface as rescuers scoured the waters for signs of life.

When Kirk Roberts, a retired truck driver in Baltimore County, heard about the bridge collapse, he contacted his brothers and sisters in a group message and said “Prayers going out.”

“I used to drive dump trucks and my last tractor trailer job was in Dundalk,” Roberts, 60, told The Informer. “I have a lot of friends who drive trucks. We used to have to bring cargo out of Pier 5.”

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Read ore on washingtoninformer.com

OCFO on March 10 -- 10 days beforehand -- so that it could be reviewed for financial and legal sufficiency.

That didn’t happen, Mendelson said. During the D.C. Council’s March 19 Committee of the Whole meeting, he told his council colleagues that he saw the signs of a delay earlier in the month as he inquired about the mayor’s progress.

He went on to say that, by not following the proper steps to meet the March 20 deadline, Bowser disregarded the law.

Another qualm that Mendelson expressed concerned Chief Financial Officer Glen Lee’s mandate that Bowser dedicate $250 million of a more-than-$20 billion budget toward the replenishment of the District’s reserves. Mendelson noted that the law doesn’t require that reserves be replenished through direct appropriation. He went on to tell council colleagues the diversion of funds of the reserves would result in across-the-board budget cuts amounting to more than $1 billion.

WI Read ore on washingtoninformer.com

5 Angel Gregorio, owner of the Spice Suite, works to empower others, particularly Black women through her products, recipes, and food and nutrition education.

(Courtesy Photo)

SPICES from Page 1

timate says that each one can cost at least a million dollars. Other estimates (depending on the congressional district) say the tab can be much more. The members of Congress who choose to quit their jobs don't lose anything because they refused to serve their term out, but how does this affect their staff?

Presumably, their replacements would keep everyone on, but nothing is certain. Do these rats who just jumped off sinking ships have any consideration for others or are they just taking the easy way out?

If Republican dysfunction were simply a Republican problem, I'd glee-

MALVEAUX from Page 28 fully lick my chops and make fun of them. But this Republican problem is an American problem as evidenced by the number of times we have avoided a government shutdown in the past several months. House minority leader Hakim Jeffries deserves credit for choosing government efficiency over partisan bickering as he led his caucus to vote for the compromise. But Speaker Johnson is skating on this ice. The obstreperous Marjorie Taylor Green has vowed to remove him from the speakership because she did not get her way. If she proceeds with her threat count on progress on anything — Ukraine, Israel or the border to be delayed until Republicans can get their

MOSS/BUFORD from Page 28

about 100,000. Once detained, people run the risk of losing wages, jobs, housing, mental and health treatments, and time with their families. Studies show that pretrial detention of even a couple of days makes it more likely for that person to be rearrested.

The bill also endangers people by continuing a misguided and dangerous War on Drugs, which will not get drugs off the street, nor will it deter drug use and subsequent substance use disorders (SUDs). Drug policies are a matter of public health and should be treated as such. Many states such as Alabama, Iowa and Wisconsin are treating the current fentanyl crisis as "Crack 2.0," reintroducing a litany of failed policies that have sent millions to jails and prisons instead of prioritizing harm reduction. Instead, we propose a simple solution: listen to members of the affected communities. Through the Decrim Poverty D.C. Coalition, community members, policy experts and other stakeholders formed a campaign

MARSHALL from Page 28

Now that the state's current governor, Kate Ivey, recently signed SB 129, Alabama joins states such as Texas, Utah and Florida, which have banned DEI efforts in higher education. Public universities such as the University of Alabama and the University of Texas depend heavily on revenue generated from student-athletes, but the landscape of collegiate athletics has changed and continues to change.

The NBA established the "one-anddone" rule, which prohibits players from signing with the league until they are 19 years old or one year removed from graduation from their high school class. Since the top NBA hopefuls spend a single season with their

acts together. With the Republican margin shrinking, we can likely count on several weeks of drama before there is a new speaker. The only think that might save Republicans is the fact that their dysfunction might become an electoral issue.

In the interest of bipartisanship, let me say that Democrats have their own brand of dysfunction, which manifests in vocal opposition to President Biden over Gaza (although I agree with the Squad, Sen. Schumer (D-N.Y.) and others on this one). Democrats have wings, but we aren't throwing flames. And the only losers in this Republican farce are the American people.

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to decriminalize drugs and propose comprehensive legislation to do so.

While there are many concerning provisions within the omnibus bill, car chases pose a direct physical threat to our community members. In July 2023, NBC4 reported that the D.C. Council approved emergency legislation that gave MPD officers the ability to engage in vehicular pursuits with so-called "limited circumstances." Sgt. Val Barnes, the head of MPD's carjacking task force, even expressed concern months before the decision, saying, "The department has a pretty strict no-chase policy, and obviously for an urban setting and a major metropolitan city, that's understandable." If our law enforcement officers themselves are operating with more concern than our elected officials, what does it say about the omnibus bill's purported intention to keep us safe?

And what does it mean when the risk of bodily harm is posed by the pursuit itself? On Saturday, Feb. 10, an Eckington resident had a near-miss as a stolen car barreled towards her and her dog on the sidewalk with an MPD officer

university before leaving for the NBA draft, will they be motivated to join the fight against anti-DEI since they are one-, maybe two-year short-timers looking for their big payday on a professional level? College athletes are getting paid now. The NCAA implemented an interim policy on name, image and likeness (NIL), allowing student-athletes to make up to six or seven figures from their personal brand through marketing and promotional endeavors.

University of Southern California basketball player Bronny James, the son of NBA star LeBron James, carries a NIL valuation of $5.8 million, according to the sports news and data site On3. The same site has Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders, son of

in pursuit. What responsibility does the city hold if this bystander was hit? What does restitution look like? Why are our elected officials pushing for MPD officers to contradict their own policies?

Just a few summers ago during the uprisings of 2020, we saw a shift in public perspectives on policing and led to legislation aimed at limiting police power after the highly-publicized murders of loved ones Breonna Taylor and George Floyd — both victims of War on Drugs policing and the powers gained from the '94 crime bill. And yet here we are. These measures do not keep us safe and further endanger the health of our communities. Studies show that communities that focus on harm reduction and improving material conditions have a greater impact on public safety and community health. What's missing in mainstream conversations about violent crime is the violence that stems from state institutions and structures that perpetuate racial and class inequality. The people of D.C. deserve to feel safe, and that includes feeling safe from the harms enacted by the police. WI

Deion Sanders, projected to have a $4.8 million NIL valuation. NIL rules can be complex.

They vary from state to state. States may or may not have regulations. Additionally, colleges and universities often have their own unique rules for NIL. In December 2023, NCAA President Charlie Baker proposed a policy to allow Division I schools to pay athletes directly through NIL deals. If passed, it would be a massive shift to the landscape and business model of college athletics, experts say, giving schools more control and oversight over how NIL money is distributed.

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Training. He was seeking assistance for mayors and other officials in historic Black towns and settlements of the world — including Africa — in three ways: To preserve, protect and promote the rich African American culture, and heritage.

county officials through the National Policy Alliance chaired by Denise Tyler.

or Ford has invited the world to join his organization in establishing The United Nations of Cities."

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His work includes working with other organizations and leaders such as Dr. Kenneth Harris (president of the National Business League), Dr. Charles DeBow Jr. (president of the National Black Chamber of Commerce), and numerous city and (UAV), are aircraft without a human pilot, crew, or passengers on board. Federal aviation regulations require operators to be licensed. The Academy has provided not only the necessary training for the license, but also drones for hands-on experience.

The Urban Leagues of Greater Atlanta, Palm Beach County, Broward County, and Metropolitan St. Louis created Digital Training curriculums to provide a pathway to tech careers through:

• Digital Inclusion: Equipping individuals, families, and community

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advocates like my friend Ruth Ann Norton, who heads the Green & Healthy Homes Initiative (GHHI) in Baltimore.

GHHI was recently chosen to administer $50 million in grants across the mid-Atlantic under the EPA's Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking program created by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Norton says, "We can make homes, schools, child care centers lead-free, as long as we have a comprehensive approach and flexible funding. And we can do this simultaneously as we address climate work, with some of the same funding. It's an opportunity we need to seize if we're going to end lead's toxic legacy."

There are additional rays of hope thanks to healthcare providers like GHHI partner Penn Medicine's Lancaster General Health. The Hospital put $50 million into a community health improvement initiative to eliminate childhood lead poisoning in Lancaster Coun-

He has recently announced the WCM/HBSTA's 2024 40th anniversary in Atlanta. The meeting will be held Aug. 21-25, 2024. This will be held during the 124th annual meeting of the National Business League founded by Dr. Booker T. Washington. The WCM/HBSTA will also meet in Lagos, Nigeria, as a co-convener with Africa's Brain Bank International Conference, chaired by its CEO, the Rev. Queen Mother, Dr. Pam Fomunung. May-

partners with the necessary tools and resources to connect to the internet and use it proficiently.

• Exploration: Teaching participants the skills s needed to increase competency and confidence in technology, as well as spark interest in careers in technology and prepared them to the jobs of the future.

• Digital skills in Workforce: Instilling participants with the technology skills needed to secure and sustain employment stay relevant in a changing marketplace or teach the technology skills needed to start a business.

One important lesson the Urban League community has

ty, Pennsylvania. With a "goal of identifying and remediating lead hazards in at least 2,800 Lancaster County homes," LG Health is setting an example for the private sector. And the Biden-Harris administration's focus on environmental justice and access to clean and safe water is aiding the national effort.

The IRA and bipartisan infrastructure law offer a treasure trove of federal funding to clean up this mess. There are billions of dollars already flowing to states to improve water infrastructure and make drinking water safer. And billions more in environmental justice and energy efficiency investments that can be put towards lead abatement as well. Ruth Ann Norton described how states could apply for Climate Pollution Reduction Grants — a $5 billion program in the IRA — to take a "whole house approach" that makes lead abatement and other key remediations part of a comprehensive approach to building maintenance and electrification. Lead is a global problem.

A recent study by Lancet Plane-

I am pleased to be the Representative/Advocate of the World Conference of Mayors/HBSTA in Washington, D.C., and a member of its board of directors. Among other board officers are the Hon. Samuel Ings, Jimmie Gardner, Alberta McCrory, Ed Jones, Frank Jackson, Deborah Delgado, DeKeither Stamps and Dr. Abdoulaye Mbengue.

Don't forget to vote!

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learned throughout this threeyear process is that STEM careers must be redefined. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and other initiatives have identified a variety of new technology jobs, creating a need for new trainings and curriculum to make sure that Black and Brown communities have access to affordable certifications to support both manufacturing and professional jobs of the future. These fields range from renewable energy generation and electrical vehicle manufacturing to cybersecurity and broadband infrastructure.

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tary Health estimated "5.5 million adults worldwide died in 2019 from cardiovascular disease attributable to lead exposure — a toll more than six times higher than a previous estimate."

That year, the combined price tag of the loss in IQ in children under 5 years old and cardiovascular mortality was an estimated $6 trillion. There is no cure for lead poisoning other than prevention. The investment in future health makes good economic sense for lawmakers, government agencies, and companies alike. Most urgently, states and municipalities need to take advantage of the funds available through IRA and the bipartisan infrastructure law.

And they need to work with community organizations like GHHI and Pittsburgh United, as well as private companies where appropriate, to make sure the funds are administered correctly and equitably. If there was ever a worthy cause for an all-hands-on-deck approach, wouldn't protecting our kids and their futures be it?

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