It’s Teacher Appreciation Week – Let’s Salute our Educators! Vol. 55, No. 30 • May 7 - 13, 2020
Coronavirus Testing Site Opens in Ward 7
New Facility Co-sponsored by HU, Bank of America
By Sam P.K. Collins WI Contributing Writer @SamPKCollins
5 Howard University Faculty Practice Plan (HUFPP) hosts the first day of COVID-19 testing at the Benning Road Center in Northeast. Bank of America awarded a $1M grant to the HUFPP to improve access to COVID-19 testing east of the river. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)
Remote Learning a Challenge for Special-Needs Children By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia Adelle Purdham wants her daughter to learn in the same classroom as everyone else, a desire that didn’t begin with the coronavirus pandemic. Purdham’s daughter Elyse has Down syndrome, and she’s accustomed to an educational plan that provides her with direct learning that often requires an instructor speaking directly to her using clear language and short sentences. Elyse can function in a general education classroom and complete a modified version of the work her classmates do. “The key is to break down activities into small steps and build on what your child can already do,” Purdham said. “You have to personalize what you are teaching. For example, If your child likes minions, then draw minions for counting. Provide an example first, every time you try something new.” In the wake of widespread school closings, districts are wrestling with how to comply with federal special education laws in a digital learning environment, while parents of special needs students are concerned about the potential effects of them
LEARNING Page 38
For at least the next three months, District residents living east of the Anacostia River, regardless of whether they show coronavirus symptoms or suffer from an underlying condition, will have one more place on their side of town that they can count on for testing, courtesy of Howard University [HU] and Bank of America. The collaboration, which has been in the works since D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) declared a public health state of emergency in March, has resulted in the launch of a testing site at Unity Health Care on Benning Road in Northeast.
“We have an opportunity to expand testing to east of the river where the African-American community has been inversely impacted in terms of the number of deaths,” Dr. Hugh E. Mighty, dean of the HU College of Medicine, said in reference to a $1 million grant Bank of America awarded to the Howard University Faculty Practice Plan. The grant funds the operation of the testing center and purchase of personal protective equipment, testing supplies and other relevant materials. Testing will take place twice a week with 50 slots available to members of the community on each day.
TESTING Page 38
Teacher Appreciation Week Returns Amid Season of Unchartered Waters and Pathways Prevailing Mood Overwhelmingly Reflective, Far Less Celebratory By Sam P.K. Collins WI Contributing Writer @SamPKCollins Teachers across the U.S. continue to spend this year’s Teacher Appreciation Week, not in the classroom as has been the norm but in their homes seated at their computers – virtually engaging hundreds of thousands of sequestered students – collectively unable to escape the maelstrom caused by an unprecedented health pandemic. At a time when teachers have rightly garnered recognition for the copious amounts of behind-the-scenes planning and classroom management many have mustered to form
APPRECIATION Page 28
5 Chef James Wiggins of Roosevelt Senior High School in Northwest. (Courtesy photo)
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Tia C. Jones, Ed Laiscell, Odell B. Ruffin, Larry Saxton, Mary Wells, Joseph Young PHOTOGRAPHERS Lafayette Barnes, IV, John E. De Freitas, Maurice Fitzgerald, Joanne Jackson, Roy Lewis, Robert Ridley, Victor Holt CIRCULATION Paul Trantham
Women the Cycle of wi hotBreak topics Domestic Violence COVID-19 Jobs Howard University to
Available Participate in National law enforcement. She said they threat,”in sheMaryland said. had come together to bring a Among the programs Marlow HBCU Graduation Ceremonies sense of uniformity in the way wants to see implemented are
By Tia Carol Jones WI Staff Writer
When L.Y. Marlow's 23-year- domestic violence victims and stricter restraining order policies, About three old daughter told her the father survivors are treated. more rights for victim's families days How-threatened her of her after daughter “She's using her own personal to intervene on behalf of a vicardandUniversity life, the life of their child, story, her own personal pain to tim, a domestic violence assessit sheannounced knew something had to be push forward,” Davis-Nickens ment unit coupled with further will hold done. Outa virtual of her frustration said about Marlow. training for law enforcement commencement with law enforcement's handling Davis-Nickens said anyone agencies, a Child's Life Protecfor theshe decided to who reads Marlow's book will tion Act and mandatory counselofceremony the situation, Class of 2020 on Promise cam- “get it.” She said she “puts the ing for batterers. start the Saving Maryland residents seeking employment may work temSaturday, May paign. case in such a way, the average “If we are ever going to eradiporarily tracers during the coronavirus pandemic. 9, the school “It seems to be a vicious cycle person can get it.” She said at theas contact cate domestic violence, we must A person hired would interview people whocoin. tested positive will won't participate that turn my family end of the day, the book will look at both sides of the for COVID-19, determine who they interacted in a “National loose,” Marlow said. Marlow help people begin to have a dia- We need to address both the vic- with and the process fortim quarantine. state hiredMarlow the University of HBCU Com-with the audi- logue about domestic violence. shared her story and theThe batterer,” Chicago’s National Opinion Research Center to formerly m e natc ethe m eDistrict nt ence Heights Also present at the event was said. job descripCelebration” on Symposium Mildred Muhammad, conduct Domestic Violence the ex-the interview Marlowprocess. wouldAccording also like to to asee tion, the person would work from hometoin araise quiet space. A onMay May16. 7 at theevent District Heights The will be shown onwife Essence Studio. Be- Muhammad, of John Allen programs designed person must work in four-to-six hours shifts Municipal Center. The symposides honoring the graduates, the eventwho plans to sentenced raise mon- to six consec- awareness among children atina time and was make calls seven days and a week between 9 a.m. to sium sponsored by and thetheirutive ey forwas participating schools students. is life Essence terms without parole public private schools. She8 p.m. The jobrole anticipates to last for at least sixto months as a member of Family andthe Youth Services by a Maryland jury for his in feels organizing event along with the National Association children need be educatthe “Contact Tracing Team.” Remote training is schedCenter of Opportunity the city of in District the Beltway Sniper attacks in ed aboutCall domestic violence. for Equal Higher Education, Thurgood Heights andCollege the National Hookuled foristhe week“We of May 17.to stop being pas2002.Negro Mildred Muhammad have Marshall Fund and the United College UpFund, of Black Women. “It is an employment opportunity those currently out the founder of After sive-aggressive with for poor chilJPMorgan Chase and the National Basketball As- the Trauma, Marlow has written a book, of a job,” said Del. Nicole A. Williams (D-District 22) of an organization that helps the dren about domestic violence,” sociation. The idea came from Michael Sorrell, president “Color Me Butterfly,” which is a survivors of domestic violence Greenbelt. “We need as many contact tracers as possible to Marlow said. of Paul Quinn College in Dallas. story“Dear aboutClass four of generations and give their you children. Marlow hasare. worked to breakis affecting identify where the hot sports This pandemic 2020: Weofcannot what domestic violence. The you,” book Sorrell is “I lived in fear for six years. Six the cycleinof abuse her family, communities of color a very hardinway.” COVID-19 took from posted April 28 on inspired by her own experiences, in fearthat is ano long time. is information, and is confident the policies she ForItmore go to https://bit.ly/2A0VKvZhttps://caTwitter. “However, we can give youyears something and of ever herhad.” grandmother, not an easy thing to come out is pushing for will start that reers.norc.org/en-us/job/495613/contact-tracer. onethose else has her mother and her daughter. of,” she said. process. She said every time she reads Mildred Muhammad said “I plan to take these policies to excerpts from her book, she still people who want to help a Congress and implore them to can not believe the words came domestic violence victim must change our laws,” Marlow said. from her. “Color Me Butterfly” be careful of how they go into “I will not stop until these poliwon the 2007 National “Best the victim's life, and understand cies are passed.” Attorney General Karl that A. Racine has be in “survival Books”D.C. Award. she may Tia Carol Jones can be reached lawsuit against Helen a convenience “Ifiled wasajust 16-years-old whenMart,mode”. at tiacaroljones@sbcglobal.net located in Ward and 7, formy price gouging my store eye first blackened “Beforeduring you get to 'I'm going District’s state of emergency. In lips the bled,” Marlow said. to response kill you,'toitastarted as a verbal WI Elaine Davis-Nickens, complaint submitted in presiApril, the Office of the dentAttorney of the National Hook-Up General [OAG] investigated and found of Black Women, said there is nofor 121-oz. bottles of the store was charging $12.99 consistency in the–way Clorox Bleach 200 domestic percent higher than prices ofviolence issues dealt retailers. with byOAG filed suit after fered by otherareDistrict Helen Mart refused to comply with a cease and desist letter ordering the store to reduce its price. Since March 11, OAG has received more than 120 complaints regarding price gouging and issued 23 cease and desist letters. This lawsuit is OAG’s first enforcement action against a company for price gouging during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Price gouging in a time of a public health emergency is illegal, and the Office of the Attorney General will enforce the law against stores like Helen Mart that flatly refuse to adhere to a cease and desist letter that it received from my office,” Racine said. “Residents who believe they are being overcharged should contact OAG. My office will file lawsuits to stop retailers from taking advantage of consumers’ urgent health needs during this crisis.” The District’s Natural Disaster Consumer Protection Act (NDCPA) went into effect when Mayor Bowser declared a state of emergency on March 11. The NDCPA prohibits individuals or businesses from charging higher than the normal average retail price for goods and services. Specifically, the law prevents retailers from raising costs for services more than 10 percent above the price charged within 90 days before the declaration. Helen Mart, LLC, operates a convenience store registered to do business in the District, located at 4907 Nannie Helen Burroughs Avenue, NE. The penalty for price gouging in D.C. is $5,000 per violation. If you believe an individual or business is engaging in price gouging, submit a complaint to OAG by phone, (202) 442-9828 or email, Consumer.Protection@dc.gov.
AG Racine Files First Price Gouging Lawsuit against Ward 7’s Helen Mart
“
We have to stop being passive-aggressive with poor children about domestic violence. I plan to take these policies to Congress and implore them to change our laws. I will not stop until these policies are passed.
“
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Activists Wary of ReOpen DC Group’s Composition
By James Wright WI Staff Writer @jamesdcwrighter
While the Bowser administration has selected District residents with national profiles to co-chair its reopening advisory group and has prominent local leaders on its steering committees, some activists say the organization lacks the presence of the average Washingtonian. Mayor Muriel Bowser’s announcement that District residents Susan Rice, a former ambassador to the United Nations and Obama administration national security adviser, and Michael Chertoff, who served as the Homeland Security secretary under President George W. Bush, as co-chairs of the ReOpen DC Advisory Group, on April 28, didn’t impress Ward 8 Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Regina Pixley at all. “Sooner or later a tiger’s stripes will show up,” Pixley said in an April 28 Facebook post. “Washington D.C. residents please be on notice that this is what Mayor Muriel Bowser thinks about you. These two people don’t have a clue about public safety, public health and public awareness and they sure don’t care about poor Black folks. This is about money.” Bowser charged the advisory group with preparing a report on the process of the District reopening after she lifts the stay-at-home order due to the widespread presence of the coronavirus. The report will be due on May 11. The mayor made it clear that though the group will issue recommendations, the final decision on when to reopen the city will be hers, under the advisement of Dr. LaQuandra Nesbitt, director of the D.C. Department of Health. The advisory group consists of steering committees that deal with a variety of topics ranging from education to real estate and construction. Former D.C. Mayors Anthony Williams and Adrian Fenty serve on the steering committee along with Council Chairman Phil Mendelson, District Chief Financial Officer Jeffrey S. DeWitt, former Assistant
Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services Nicole Lurie and Bowser senior adviser Beverly Perry. Former D.C. Mayor Sharon Pratt serves on the Public Health and Innovation subcommittee while former Council members Charlene Drew Jarvis and David Catania serve as subcommittee co-chairs of Education and Childcare and the Human Services, Social Services and Health, respectively. Ward 8 residents or people who have business interests in the ward serving on the advisory group include former D.C. first lady Cora Masters Barry, entrepreneur Linda Greene, former Council members Eydie Whittington and LaRuby May, Anacostia Economic Development Corporation President and CEO Stan Jackson and anti-gang violence activist and entrepreneur Ron Moten. Salim Adofo, who represents District 8C07 as an advisory neighborhood commissioner, said that while he is impressed by the presence of Ward 8 stakeholders in the group, he wanted more of his colleagues involved in the group. “Commissioners are the people who are on the ground in this city,” Adofo said. “While I understand and support Dr. Rice and Secretary Chertoff as co-chairs because they have local, regional, national and international contacts but there needs to be more people who deal with the everyday activities of people in the neighborhoods.” While Adofo offers some support for the mission and composition of the group, Parisa Norouzi, chair of the DC Grassroots Planning Coalition, joined Pixley in her criticism. “If the mayor really wants to reopen the city to ‘better than normal’ lets name people to the ReOpen Advisory Group who represent a demographic who are inequitably impacted by COVID-19, but are not represented,” Norouzi said. Norouzi said the group had too much of a corporate focus and not enough of the perspective of labor unions, small businesses and senior citizens. She recommended
that Shanta High, president of The Council at Park Morton, as a member of the group as “one who could provide a more grassroots perspective.” Pixley said the thrust behind the group’s mission — determining the process of the District reopening — seems premature. “This city is in no way near ready to reopen and remember the mayor and Dr. Nesbitt said D.C. won’t reach its peak [for coronavirus cases] until June,” she said. Adofo said he is with the mayor on reopening the city “when the data looks right.” “I don’t see that happening until late summer or early fall,” he said. WI
5 Reopen DC Advisory Co-Chairs Susan Rice and Michael Chertoff (Courtesy photo/ Georgetowner)
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1878 – Inventor Joseph Winters receives a patent for a wagon-mounted fire escape ladder. 1943 – The SS George Washington Carver launches at the Richmond Shipyard No. 1 in California.
MAY 8
1911 – Legendary blues guitarist and singer-songwriter Robert Johnson is born in Hazlehurst, Mississippi. 1915 – Henry McNeal Turner, the first Black chaplain in the United States Colored Troops, dies in Windsor, Ontario, at 81.
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1888 – The South American nation of Brazil formally abolishes slavery. 1914 – Boxing great Joe Louis, “The Brown Bomber,” is born in La Fayette, Alabama. 1950 – Music legend Stevie Wonder (top) is born Stevland Hardaway Judkins in Saginaw, Michigan. 1985 – A police helicopter drops a bomb on a Philadelphia row house occupied by MOVE, a Black liberation group founded by John Africa, during a standoff. The explosion killed 11 MOVE members and destroyed 65 neighborhood houses. WI
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In the shadow of the Lincoln Memorial last Sunday evening during a virtual town hall, Donald Trump continued to understate the impact of COVID-19 with new estimates of forecasted deaths totaling nearly 100,000 by the end of May – an outcome which even underestimates what both his own administration and FEMA have predicted. So, while the president ambles along with his unabashed, full-court press launched against the U.S. states, specifically those who reside in their respective governor’s mansion, to reopen their economies, the Trump Administration is projecting – in private, of course – and the Federal Emergency Management Agency [FEMA] project a bleaker future. Estimates included in a recent government report says we’ll experience a steady escalation in cases and deaths from the coronavirus over the next several weeks reaching nearly 3,000 daily deaths on June 1 – double today’s level of about 1,750 – with 200,000 new cases daily by month’s end, up from about 25,000 cases now. Knowing all this, Trump still wants us to believe that the time has come to reopen America’s cities and businesses, promising us that the worst is behind us. “We’re going to lose anywhere from
75, 80 to 100,000 people. That’s a horrible thing. We shouldn’t lose one person over this,” he said during his “fireside chat.” But I wonder if the president believes what he tried to sell us? Surely, he does not. Surely, he does. And so, less than 48 hours after his town hall, Tuesday morning reports pulled back the curtain on an ecstatic, jubilant and euphoric Donald Trump, proclaiming the good news. Yes, state leaders from Texas to Florida and everywhere in between are falling in line, overturning stay-at-home orders and reopening their economies despite failing to achieve benchmarks previously laid out by the White House for when social distancing restrictions could be eased. Even Virginia Governor Ralph Northam, a physician himself, says that with his state’s cities reporting the slowing of infection rates, he’s now prepared to ease restrictions on May 15. Not so for others in the region, including both Maryland’s Governor Hogan and the District’s Mayor Bowser. Over the past few months, the trio who collectively govern the lands affectionately called the DMV had become comrades in arms in the fight against COVID-19. But with Northam’s decision and given the reluctance of both Hogan and Bowser, at least for now, to end restrictions, the pact has been broken. So, the numbers of positive cases are rising, the backlog of requests for tests is overwhelming with testing itself far below what’s needed. Further, the nation lacks a proven contract tracing protocol and program that’s essential as America “reopens.” And yet, Trump says that he’s fully behind those states who reopen ahead of guidance laid down by the federal government – guidelines which he approved. As for the vice president, he’s taken on a new role it appears as the town crier for his boss, announcing that 41 states have either announced their dates for reopening or committed to
firming up plans to reopen soon. We could have hoped for a presidential moment on Sunday – a decision made by our commander-in-chief that motivates, encourages and inspires the American public even as sickness, death, economic woes and heightened states of fear and trepidation swirl around us. Instead, zealots more concerned with the bottom line than ensuring the Constitution’s promise of “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness,” have persuaded the powers that be to push the “open door button.” Thus, the celebration harkening the broad economic reopening of most of America goes on – a move to which health experts strongly object, warning us that the decision to reopen is premature. But why is it imperative that we rush into reopening despite when the true experts have advised just the opposite? Perhaps it’s because there’s no cost too great if the alternative is Trump and the GOP being ousted by voters in the upcoming election. Or it could be, as one former Trump staffer shared on Face the Nation early last Sunday morning, that stay-at-home orders adopted nationwide simply didn’t result in the desired outcome. So? Is failure to reach the desired goal and the boiling over of frustrations fail enough to justify trashing mitigation initiatives and act as if COVID-19 has disappeared as suddenly as it appeared? Not for anyone who can read the lines then and read in between the lines. COVID-19 continues to disproportionately affect African Americans. It has wreaked havoc on the elderly and those already battling other health challenges. And the most current numbers now reveal that Hispanics are testing positive at rates than any other demographic. Blacks already lead all other ethnic groups with at least seven preexisting health conditions which make us more susceptible
COMMENTARY Page 44
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Announcement about New Hospitals Raises Bevy of Questions By Sam P.K. Collins WI Contributing Writer @SamPKCollins Agreements concerning what will eventually become two new state-ofthe-art hospitals intended to bring equity to the District’s health care system have been solidified, the Bowser administration recently announced. If all goes according to the plan, the newly constructed Howard University Hospital and St. Elizabeths East campus-based facility will open to the public within six years. However, some health equity advocates, including Ambrose Lane Jr. of D.C.’s Health Alliance Network, said city leadership hasn’t divulged much in its announcement. Furthermore, they’ve questioned the degree to which the new hospitals, particularly the 136-bed hospital scheduled to open at St. Elizabeths in Southeast, will benefit residents east of the Anacostia River reeling from the health effects of structural racism. “For me and the people in the Health Alliance Network, a level-four trauma center is a non-starter,” Lane told The Informer. “If the hospital that will be on the St. Elizabeths campus doesn’t address infant mortality and at-risk pregnancies, it’s a non-starter. If it doesn’t protect unionized workers, it’s a non-starter. If it doesn’t have a robust community benefits agreement, it’s a non-starter.” Though he expressed some relief at the inclusion of an urgent care center in the hospital agreements, Lane remained critical about the completion dates of 2024 and 2026, respectively, for the St. Elizabeths and Howard University Hospital projects. Additionally, Lane said that, as shown in the dearth of affordable housing and healthy food sources in low-income communities, the District hasn’t done enough to boost residents’ quality of life. “Understanding the budget constraints due to COVID-19 highlights the failure of the District government in providing health equity to residents on the east end,” he added.
Both hospital agreements have been structured as public-private partnership deals, with Howard University Hospital collaborating with Adventist HealthCare, and Universal Health Services with The George Washington University [GWU] and The George Washington Medical Faculty Associates for the launch of the facility based on St. Elizabeths East campus. The St. Elizabeths-based project has the potential of expanding to 196 beds, while Howard’s 225-bed hospital will include centers dedicated to tackling sickle cell disease, women’s health, oral health, trauma and violence prevention, and substance abuse. Howard University Hospital and United Medical Center, as they currently stand, will remain in place until the completion of the new hospitals. In June, the D.C. Council is expected to deliberate on a full agreement developed by Universal Health Services, GWU and The George Washington Medical Faculty Associates for the hospital on the St. Elizabeths East campus. The Bowser administration announced the new hospital agreements amid the novel coronavirus pandemic that, as of Tuesday, has infected more than 5,300 people in the District and claimed more than 260 lives, nearly half of which have been classified as African American. Data compiled by the D.C. Department of Health shows that Wards 7 and 8 account for nearly 30 percent of local COVID-19 cases. In recent weeks, health experts have alluded to underlying conditions affecting African-American communities as a key indicator of the coronavirus’ disproportionate
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AROUND THE REGION CAPTURE THE MOMENT The U.S. Navy Blue Angels and the Air Force Thunderbirds flew over Washington, D.C. to show support and recognize healthcare workers fighting the coronavirus pandemic. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)
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Experts Offer COVID-19 Advice to Black Diabetics
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By James Wright WI Staff Writer @jamesdcwrighter Diabetes, a disease that afflicts many African Americans and has served as an underlying factor in numerous coronavirus-related deaths, doesn’t have to be fatal if the diabetic leads a healthy lifestyle, experts say. “People with diabetes should continue to monitor their blood glucose levels, eat the right foods, get adequate rest and exercise and check in with their doctor,” said Tracey D. Brown, president and CEO of the American Diabetes Association (ADA). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed diabetes as a trigger to the coronavirus. The ADA has reported statistics that 4.7 million, or 18.7 percent, of African Americans are diabetic. In addition, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Minority Health reports that Black adults are 60 percent more likely than white adults to have been diagnosed with diabetes by a physician. The department also reported in 2017 that Blacks are twice as likely as whites to die from diabetes. Brown said the risk of significant harm or death from the coronavirus exists and should be understood. “The data that we have so far, though incomplete, confirms what we already know-that this pandemic poses a greater threat to those suffering from diabetes and other underlying conditions,” Brown said. “One-third of American virus patients have diabetes, even though they make up 10 percent of the population.” In the District, 80 percent of all deaths from the coronavirus are African Americans and 50 percent of those who died from virus had diabetes, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser said at an April 29 news conference. The District’s statistics aren’t unique, said Brown, who noted that Black Chicagoans are six times more likely to get the coronavirus than their white counterparts.
5 Tracey D. Brown serves as the president and CEO of the American Diabetes Association. (Courtesy of ADA)
Brown said 70 percent of coronavirus cases in Louisiana came from African Americans while they constitute 34 percent of the population and in Georgia, 80 percent of that state’s residents hospitalized for the virus are Black even though its African American population stands at 33 percent. Brown said advocacy has become a key component in combating the pandemic. She said the ADA platform planks that tend to deal with African Americans are guaranteeing diabetics who lose their jobs don’t lose their health insurance as well, requiring a zero-dollar copay for insulin under Medicare Part D, reducing the costs of prescription medications and supplies and demanding more tests in underserved and minority communities. Additionally, the National Medical Association has been active in monitoring the effects of the coronavirus, said Dr. Leon McDougle, president-elect of the organization,
DIABETES Page 44
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PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY Maryland Lawmakers to Discuss Coronavirus Concerns in U.S. Prisons By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill Criminal justice reform advocates in Maryland continue to push Gov. Larry Hogan to release more inmates to combat the coronavirus pandemic, especially those 60 and older or with underlying health conditions. The state’s Department of Public Safety and Corrections Services announced last week an inmate in his 60s died April 27 after he contracted the coronavirus before being hospitalized April 13. He was the second inmate who died due to the virus. The House Judiciary Committee will hold a virtual briefing at 9 a.m. Thursday, May 7 to discuss how state prison officials are handling COVID-19 among the state’s 17 facilities. Robert Green, secretary for the state department of corrections,
has been scheduled to participate in the discussion. “Part of the reason why we are doing this briefing is because of the concerns that we have heard with regards to our state correctional facilities,” said Del. Nicole A. Williams (D-District 22) of Greenbelt. “The concern about workers not receiving proper protective equipment when they are coming into work. Not testing and screening employees. There needs to be an extra concerted effort to make sure the inmates are separated from one another. Hopefully [Green] will be able to give us an update about some additional measures [officials] have taken.” Hogan issued an executive order last month for prison officials to release hundreds of nonviolent offenders to combat COVID-19, the infectious disease caused by the novel coronavirus. Although the state
released about 2,000 inmates who were within several months of a release date, 60 and older or nonviolent offenders, advocates argue that others should be also considered for release. One such person is Eraina Pretty, the state’s longest-incarcerated woman. The Baltimore Sun reported Friday, May 1 that Pretty contracted the virus and fits the age criteria and health challenges. Pretty, who grew up in Baltimore, has been at the Maryland Correctional Institute for Women in Jessup for 42 of her 60 years after police charged her ex-boyfriend for armed robbery and murder. Pretty didn’t shoot or kill anyone, but authorities said she was involved in the crimes. Even with the pressure for Hogan to release more inmates, he remains one of the most popular figures in the nation. A joint survey called “The State of the Nation: A 50-state COVID-19 Survey” released Thursday, April 30 shows 80 percent of residents approve of how Hogan is handling the coronavirus crisis, tied for the third-highest such approval rate in the nation with Republican Gov. Charlie Baker of Massachusetts. The survey conducted by researchers at Harvard, Northeastern and Rutgers universities shows at least 87 percent of Maryland respondents somewhat or strongly approve of government restrictions to combat the coronavirus, including stay-at-home orders, limiting restaurants to carryout service and restricting domestic and international travel. The survey conducted April 17-26 with nearly 23,000 respondents happened before several church leaders,
5 Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan speaks during an April 29 press conference at the State House in Annapolis. (William J. Ford/The Washington Informer)
state lawmakers and business owners filed a lawsuit Saturday, May 2 claiming Hogan’s executive orders infringe on their constitutional rights. Three Republican delegates — Dan Cox, Warren Miller and Neil Parrott — are part of the complaint, as are two military veterans who say wearing masks reminds them of the battlefield in Iraq. Antietam Battlefield Kampgrounds of America in Washington County’s Williamsport continues to lose $50,000 a month in revenue, according to the suit. Todd Eberly, political science professor at St. Mary’s College in St. Mary’s, Maryland, said Hogan remains on the side of public health
Unseen Workers in Prince George’s Critical in COVID-19 Fight By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill Doctors, nurses and other health care workers are seen as front-line heroes caring for thousands of people who contracted the coronavirus, but other essential workers are also continuing the daily grind behind the scenes. One such person is Donna Perkins, who’s currently responsible for Prince George’s County’s COVID-19 dashboard that highlights demographics, age, zip code and other data. Meanwhile, Gevonia Whittington directs the county’s Office of Homeland Security,
12 - MAY 7 - 13, 2020
which oversees the offices of Emergency Management and Public Safety Communications, or 911, emergency operations. “I’d also like to offer my personal thanks to all of our public safety officers and Prince George’s County employees,” said County Executive Angela Alsobrooks. “There are so many people who have held Prince George’s County together during this crisis.” The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says COVID-19, the respiratory disease caused by the novel coronavirus, can more severely affect residents with underlying conditions such as diabetes, asthma and severe obesity. Prince George’s
leads the state of Maryland in the number of residents with those chronic conditions. The majority-Black jurisdiction also continues to record the highest number of confirmed cases in Maryland. Black men account for more than half of the state’s coronavirus deaths. At least 60 percent of men infected have died from the virus, but more women are treated. “That is kind of the story we are seeing in our mortality data. We see way more men than women dying from this, especially African American men in an African American jurisdiction,” said Perkins, an epidemiologist and a manager for the
office of assessment and planning in the county’s health department. “The interesting thing is we are seeing more women diagnosed in general.” Perkins has been assigned to work in the county’s Emergency Operations Center in Landover during the coronavirus pandemic. She joins several other employees at the center working double-digit hours five days a week. On the weekends, workers don’t have to always come in to the emergency center because technology allows them to log in remotely from home to check on data and conduct other work.
WORKERS Page 13
versus the economy. In addition, he said, Hogan continues to repeat the state must show a two-week downward trend on hospitalizations and deaths before reopening, similar to statements made on the federal level by President Donald Trump. “It seems to be action driven by science and an abundance of caution,” he said. “If [Hogan] feels any pressure to get things back open, he’s not showing it. He appears to be very confident in the path he’s chosen.” Nevertheless, criminal justice advocates continue to push for the release of those incarcerated. Baltimore State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby held a virtual “Court in the Community” Thursday to discuss how the pandemic has affected the criminal justice system. Mosby was one of the first public officials requesting Hogan to reduce the jail and prison population more than a month ago. The more than one-hour session summarized the need to release older adults and people with underlying conditions. Nicole Hanson Mundell, executive director for Out for Justice in Baltimore, said policies also affect those incarcerated. For instance, she said the governor’s order excludes people charged with violence offenses who’ve served between 10 to 20 years. “These are the individuals who are less likely to reoffend because they just grow out of criminal behavior,” she said. “These are the very individuals who will have to stay behind those walls. That is a crisis in itself.” WI
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Purple Line Part of Virtual Session in Prince George’s By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill Although the coronavirus pandemic continues to affect daily life in Prince George’s County, one form of business is ongoing: construction. Bulldozers, jackhammers and other diggers plow dirt in part of the county’s northern tier to build residences and businesses. About 28 percent of the Purple Line light rail slated for Prince George’s and Montgomery counties has been completed, said Prince George’s County Council member Dannielle Glaros (D-District 3) of Riverdale Park. “Nonprofit partners and community members [are] coming together to make sure … it’s not just the light rail itself that’s built, but were also strengthening our communities,” she said. “Working to make sure that those who are on the alignment are able to benefit from the Purple Line.” Glaros hosted a virtual District 3 town hall Thursday, April 30 for residents in municipalities and communities including College Park, New Carrollton and Lanham. The next day, however, a group of businesses called Purple Line Transit Constructors announced it plans to pull out of the $2 billion project due to constant delays and lack of money from the state. The firms would allow for “an efficient and orderly transition” between 60 to 90 days. If no agreement can be reached during that timeframe, officials with the state’s Department of Transportation and Transit Administration and the construction team — Flour, Meridiam and Star America (which planned to invest $3 million in 36 years to construct, operate and maintain the line) — would need to seek firms to continue the public-private partnership project. “Unfortunately, due to circumstances outside of PLTC’s control, there were multiple delays on the project and PLTC was unable to obtain the time and cost relief to which it is entitled from MDOT/MTA.” Scott Risley, PLTC project director,
said in a statement. “Regretfully, PLTC simply cannot complete the project under these circumstances.” A group of residents in Montgomery County filed a lawsuit in 2014 calling for more environmental analysis before building the 16-mile line, which will service 21 stations between New Carrollton in Prince George’s and Bethesda in Montgomery County. Besides the lawsuit, PLTC said it couldn’t agree with state officials on right-of-way acquisition, changes to regulations and third-party agreements. Veronica Battisti, spokesperson for the Maryland Transit Administration, said in an emailed statement that the project has experienced delays since 2016 in conjunction with litigation. She said the state has been “actively engaged in discussions” on the project and cannot comment until a “settlement is reached.” Work on the project began in August 2017. “We remain committed to continuing negotiations and focused on getting this key transit project completed and operational for the taxpayers of Maryland,” she said. Glaros remains optimistic talks between the state and contractors can be done, especially with roadwork already underway and the project’s impact on current and future jobs. “Any delays in this project is not going to be good for our economy, workers who are going to lose jobs and we have communities with roads that are torn up,” she said Monday, May 4. “There are some complicated negotiations that need to be figured out, but I have no doubt that state and the private partner can find a pathway forward.” With fewer motorists on the road amid the pandemic, key construction projects have been able to continue. Sen. Malcolm Augustin (D-District 47) of Cheverly, one of the nearly six dozen people who listened to Thursday’s session, said the reduced vehicle traffic shows residents understand public health remains a top priority. “Until there has been a clear re-
PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY
5 Road construction continues for the Purple Line light-rail project in Hyattsville. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)
duction in the risks that are out there, they’re in no rush to put their health at risk and the lives of others at risk,” he said. “They are certain folks who aren’t following the social distancing [guidelines]. The larger group of people who are keenly aware … really want to make sure that they are not getting themselves into harm’s way.” Participants in the session also received updates on the resources dealing with the pandemic, possible virtual groundbreakings this summer for two new middle schools and the 2020 census. Jordan Baucum Colbert, coordinator for the census project in Prince George’s, reminded listeners the deadline extension to complete forms by phone, online and mail remains Oct. 31. Baucum Colbert said a jurisdiction with one of the lowest response rates in District 3 is College Park, home of the University of Maryland, attended by thousands of students who come from other parts of the country. As of Thursday, the county’s response rate stands at 43 percent compared to 56 percent statewide. Baucum Colbert said the county’s rate increased by 35 percent since March 22. “We should be proud of that increase. However, we’re a little bit behind neighboring counties,” she said. “What we want to do is just continue
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to encourage our family and friends … to complete their census as soon as they can.” Two public school projects in the district that may finally come to fruition are Glenridge Area and William Wirt middle schools. Both new buildings are slated to each house 850 students with two separate entrances for buses and visitors to help alleviate traffic on both campuses. Those schools are going through a public-private-partnership and the only jurisdiction in the state to conduct projects for schools. Because these projects continue to move along, Glaros said virtual groundbreakings could happen this summer for Glenridge Area in Riverdale Park and William Wirt in Riverdale. “I’ve been working on William Wirt since I came into office a little over six years ago,” she said. “We are finally here at the moment and I’m excited to see that these are still moving forward.” In terms of whether schools will reopen before the last day on June 9, one school board member said he doesn’t think so. “If I was betting man — which I’m not — I would probably bet that we would not go back this year,” said school board member Bryan Swann. “We are prepared for all scenarios. We hope for the best and plan for the worst.” WI
WORKERS from Page 12 Before the daily research and analyzing data begins, Perkins helps organize a virtual check-in with staff and surge planning. One item residents may notice when looking at coronavirus data online shows some higher figures in the county compared with the state Department of Health. The state reports its data at 10 a.m. daily, but the county posts its information later in the afternoon. “I know it is a little confusing for folks, but we wanted to put the most recent information out there,” Perkins said. “It is a team effort. I have a staff person who helps consolidate that information, but the sheer volume of information coming in is substantial.” What she enjoys the most about coming to work comes with a cliché: “we really have a great rapport.” The Kentucky native will celebrate 10 years this year residing in Prince George’s, thanks to her husband who relocated to accept a job as a physicist at Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt. “He’s the smart one,” Perkins said. “I truly love serving the county in which I live in. It’s a very self-serving interest.” For the full version of this story, go to www.washingtoninformer.com. WI
MAY 7 - 13, 2020 13
BUSINESS Sympathy Cards Tough to Find During COVID-19 National Health Pandemic By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia Grief is the normal and natural reaction to a loss of all kinds, including job loss, illness, or death, according to officials at AARP, whose mission is to empower people to choose how they live as they age. The coronavirus pandemic, however, has made grieving much more difficult. Times of mourning and grieving are often isolating and distressing. Along with grief usually comes expressions of sorrow, often to try and lift a grieving individual’s spirit.
However, a recently published report noted that the greeting card aisle is offering a snapshot of the toll of the novel coronavirus has had on retailers who are struggling to meet demand for sympathy cards. “Sympathy cards are selling out,” one anonymous card maker told The New York Times. “It just seems just about everyone knows someone who has died.” CVS, a pharmacy chain and one of the nation’s largest sellers of greeting cards, said it was seeing “higher demand” for sympathy cards than most other types of greeting cards and experiencing shortages in certain stores. Shoppers across the country have
posted on social media that their local Winn Dixie or ShopRite was running out of cards. On Etsy, the online marketplace for crafts and jewelry, searches for sympathy cards from March 1 to April 17 more than doubled from a year earlier, according to The Times. Some of the shortages have been caused by distribution problems. Pharmacies and grocery chains, focused on keeping their shelves stocked with household staples, are not allowing card companies to come into the stores and restock regularly. With stores running out and people unable to leave their homes, many card sales have moved online and are at record levels, suppliers say. “We have created ‘Encouragement Card Bundles,’ in which we offer five notecards, with stamps included, that we delivery directly to our customers. They have been very popular,” said Stefanie MacDonald, owner of Halifax Paper Hearts, a small stationery studio. “We are still seeing our sympathy cards sell when people are picking up groceries,” MacDonald said. In the face of the outbreak, AARP has continued to provide information and resources to help older people and those caring for them protect themselves from the virus and prevent it spreading to others. Additionally, officials at AARP said bereavement, the grief and mourning due to the loss of a loved one, is made more complicated by the necessary
constraints placed on everyone by the pandemic. Many typical coping mechanisms are unavailable during these times, making processing grief much more difficult. “Traditional memorial services are not an option, nor is hugging a friend, sharing a meal, or even saying goodbye to your loved one in person,” Elizabeth Carter, Erwin Tan and Jennifer Peed wrote for AARP the Magazine. They said the pandemic’s universal stressors can exacerbate grief. In Arlington, Virginia, Sending Kindness, a group of volunteers that send handwritten sympathy cards
and grief resources to people across the country who request one, said their cards are free and families of those who lost loved ones to the coronavirus can request a card be sent on their behalf. Sending Kindness has already mailed 100 cards. “Especially in circumstances like this, you might not always know the loved one well or even the family that well,” said group founder Amanda Shaffer. “You don’t know what kind of religious background they may have had. There’s all sorts of family structures. So it’s important to find something that’s all encompassing.” WI
D.C. Residents Grapple With Student Loan Debt During Pandemic By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Contributing Writer
5 Karl Racine (WI File Photo/Roy Lewis)
14 - MAY 7 - 13, 2020
The Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia, and the Student Borrower Protection Center (SBPC), hosted an online webinar sharing strategic advice and information for those District residents struggling to repay private student loans while battling financial hardship induced by the coronavirus pandemic. Attorney General Karl Racine has publicly shared his support of the D.C. Council working to push legislation in place that will help lessen the financial load of families and individuals during the pandemic. “The last thing that District residents who are experiencing financial hardship need is to be harassed by debt collectors,” Ra-
cine said. “I am grateful that the council has passed legislation that restricts most debt collection actions until after this emergency is over.” In October, Black women ranked as having the highest amount of student loan debt of all races revealed in a study conducted by the American Association of University women. The District of Columbia has recently moved legislation in place to acknowledge and relieve those individuals stifled by student loan payments likely embroiled with other financial burdens during the pandemic. On March 27, The Trump administration officiated what is known as the CARES Act — legislation geared towards assisting families and business owners drowning in financial debts amid the nationwide shut down, and other potential emergencies to
come. Fragments of the legislation legally suspended any student debt payments to be made until September of this year, including those who are in forced collections (experiencing wage garnishment and other repercussions), said those actions have also been paused until September. “The courts will reopen, and I think it’s important to understand that if you are in default on a student loan you might end up subject to a lawsuit by a private creditor sooner rather than later, and I think it’s very important to know your rights when that happens,” said Walter Suskind, SBPC deputy director of communications. Ben Wiseman of the attorney general’s office informed webinar attendees of emergency legislation that has additionally been passed in the District, prohibiting all
debt collection activities during the mayor’s declared emergency, and 60 days thereafter. “If you are facing a debt collection activity that you believe violates that law during that time period, please contact our office,” Wiseman said. Suskind presented varying options to help manage individual’s student loan debts, including the Income Driven Repayment Plan (IDR), available through student loan companies for those who find themselves ineligible or not covered under the current legislation. Essentially, if one’s loan company is not instituted under the federal government — they are not covered under the present legislation. “Right now for borrowers that are covered by the CARES act, student loans that are covered are
STUDENT LOANS Page 16
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BUSINESS
Chambers of Commerce on Hand to Aid Black Firms, Leaders Say By James Wright WI Staff Writer @jamesdcwrighter Many Black-owned businesses reportedly struggled to fill out the paperwork for the local and federal government assistance programs as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, but leaders of chambers of commerce say their organizations possess the resources and knowledge to assist entrepreneurs. “Since the coronavirus crisis hit, there has been a lot of interest in our programs,” said David Harrington, president and CEO of the Prince George’s County Chamber of Commerce. “We have an active relationship with the Small Business Administration. We provide one-to-one counseling with businesses. We also help businesses through our Capital Accelerator Program that provides coaching, counseling and access capital initiatives that help businesses.” Since the coronavirus came onto the American scene largely in March, there have been widespread shutdowns of businesses and layoffs of employees due to stay-at-home orders issued by governors and mayors. As a result, many Black businesses have had to shutter their operations in compliance with those orders and Ron Busby, president and CEO of the U.S. Black Chambers Inc., said those African American firms are hurting. The SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), designed to provide financial assistance for small businesses to help pay their employees during the various states of emergencies instituted around the country as a result of the virus, promised to be a source for Black businesses but Busby said that has not been the case. “The first rollout of the PPP left out the majority of Black firms,” he said. “We are in the process of finishing a survey on this but our preliminary findings show that less than 0.02 percent of Black businesses got PPP money. Our research shows the reason for this is Black businesses don’t have a strong relationship with a bank. The PPP funds were processed through banks.” Busby said many Black businesses have a debit or a credit card with their bank and don’t have instruments such as a line of credit or a relationship with a lending officer that could help them access capital.
Busby also mentioned that the PPP tended to favor employee-heavy businesses, noting that of the 2.6 million Black firms in the U.S., only 144,000 have more than one employee. Nevertheless, Busby said his organization provides advocacy and information for its members and the general public. “When issues dealing with Black businesses are concerned, we are at the table to bring inclusion into the conversation,” he said. “We talk to members of Congress about helping Black businesses and we say when you help Black businesses, you help America.” Busby said his organization’s role has become critical since the pandemic started and said somberly that 3540 percent of Black businesses may have to shutter because they don’t have the resources to continue. “The problem Black businesses have is access to capital,” he said. “The average Black business only has $400 in emergency funds. That’s not enough to make it now when the average Black business generates $75,000$80,000 a year. In order to survive, Black businesses must consider options as joint ventures or mergers or simply being bought out. We are in a different era now and we have to look at different ways to survive.”
Busby said his organization offers webinars on such topics as entrepreneurial training, leadership development and how to access capital. Plus, his staffers are available to answer questions on how to get information on government assistance programs, he said. Harrington agreed with Busby that access to capital remains a problem for Black businesses. He said his organization links Black entrepreneurs with member banks with the goal of the two parties to get to know each other and developing a working relationship. Harrington said his staff also assists members when government financial assistance applications, such as the PPP, need to be filled out. “We want to make sure that when one of our members fills out an application for one of the SBA programs it is done right,” he said. “One error will kick the application out of the system.” While Busby and Harrington encourage membership in their organizations for assistance, both said they will help anyone who seeks them out. “We primarily serve our members but if someone needs help, we won’t turn them away,” Harrington said. WI
“We have an active relationship with the Small Business Administration. We provide one-toone counseling with businesses. We also help businesses through our Capital Accelerator Program that provides coaching, counseling and access capital initiatives that help businesses.”
5 Ron Busby (WI File Photo/Robert Roberts)
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NATIONAL Post Office Woes May Hurt Blacks the Most, Experts Say By James Wright WI Staff Writer @jamesdcwrighter
The United States Postal Service has reached a critical point in its more than 200-year existence where it will have to change its business model to be financially solvent or cease operations as most Americans know it and such changes will be a problem for Black employees, experts on the agency says. One of America’s oldest enduring institutions, the post office got started before the founding of the country and the U.S. Constitution mentions it as a priority of the government as a service for its citizens. Postal workers, particularly letter
carriers, have been known to deliver the mail through all types of weather and through wars, recessions, depressions and national emergencies such as the 9/11 attacks. However, the postal service faces challenges such as the growing use of the internet to send messages and to pay bills, plus competitors such as Amazon, FedEx and the United Parcel Service have emerged to perform some of the same tasks. “If the post office doesn’t get the funding it needs, it will have to cease operations,” Gale Thames, second vice president and national labor director for the National Alliance for Postal and Federal Employees. “That will definitely hurt Black employees who are having problems working
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there anyway.” USPS, which hasn’t accepted federal funding since 1970 and largely operates from sales of such items as stamps and shipping costs, has operated in the red for years because of pre-paying health benefits for its retirees and the decreased use of its services. “The agency has struggled within the past 20 years,” Kevin R. Kosar, vice president of research partnerships at the R Street Institute and a postal service expert, said on C-SPAN’s “Washington Journal” on April 18. “The mail volume has dropped 30 percent in the last 10 years. Because of COVID-19, I suspect that there has been a 30 percent drop in mail volume since March since many businesses have shuttered or closed temporarily.” The postal service sought a $75 billion payout from the U.S. Con-
gress from the CARES Act that passed in March. Kosar said members of Congress balked at that amount and instead gave the agency $10 billion in the bill. “The $10 billion that the postal service got in the CARES Act isn’t enough and if there isn’t any intervention by the Congress and the Trump administration, the postal service could run out of money by autumn,” Kosar said. Thames said those financial troubles will directly affect the African American workforce at the agency, which stands at 21 percent. He said the agency’s upper management, less than one percent Black, will make decisions on reductions in force and he believes African Americans, no matter how many years of service, will somehow be the first to go. “African Americans can’t get a fair shake at the post office,” he said. “It
STUDENT LOANS from Page 14
ed in private student loans. The income-driven repayment option provides a way for residents to get current on their loans without having to pay any debt collector. “We are continuing to advocate for pauses in new debt collection lawsuits by these private creditors, including student loan borrowers,” Suskind said. “Not just now, but for the foreseeable future because the economy is not getting better and people are going to continue experiencing stress.” WI
interest-free until the end of September,” Suskind said. “So some of these benefits of IDR aren’t super important right now, but they will be once the CARES Act expires in September because they can help you manage interest that’s accruing on your student loans while you’re not making very large payments on them.” Today, there are roughly 9 million people under this circumstance, particularly those invest-
is a ‘good ol’ boy’ network. I deal with the problems of Black employees all the time and you would not believe the nonsense and unprofessional behavior that Blacks put up with to work there. Thames said senior citizens will be adversely affected by any postal service reduction, too. “Seniors tend to depend on the post office not only for their mail but for medications,” he said. “They will also need the mail for the upcoming elections.” Kosar said communities of color and seniors need the postal service the most. “Because both minorities and the elderly represent vulnerable populations that could be disproportionately affected by the loss of an easily accessible postal facility, it is encouraged that in general, closures do not appear to be occurring in zip codes where these groups are concentrated,” he said. Both Thames and Kosar reject privatizing the postal service as a solution to the agency’s ills. They say only the postal service can perform its duty of delivering mail to citizens in a financially workable model and a private corporation will not be able to do that profitably. Thames made it clear that if Blacks are to have a future at the postal service, more aggressive action must be taken. “If African American employees don’t speak out, they won’t have jobs,” he said. WI
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NATIONAL Josephine St. Pierre: A Suffrage Champion and NAACP Co-founder By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia This is part of an ongoing Washington Informer series about the Women’s Suffrage Movement and an initiative that includes Informer Publisher Denise Rolark Barnes that will use the lens of history, the fabric of art and culture and the venue of the public square to shine a light into dark places, equipping all with a compass to chart the way forward. The initiative lives in the institutional home of the Washington Informer Charities. Josephine St. Pierre Ruffin was born into one of Boston’s leading families on Aug. 31, 1842. St. Pierre’s mother was an English-born white woman, and her father was from the island of
Martinique, and founder of the Boston Zion Church, according to BlackPast.org. The St. Pierres sent their young daughter to Salem, where the schools were integrated due mainly to the work of John Lenox Remond. At the age of 15, St. Pierre married George Lewis Ruffin, the first African American to graduate from Harvard Law School and who later served on the Boston City Council, the state legislature, and became the first Black municipal judge in Boston. After marriage, St. Pierre Ruffin graduated from a Boston finishing school and completed two years of private tutoring in New York. During the Civil War, the Ruffins were involved in various charity works and civil rights causes,
and St. Pierre Ruffin especially was involved in the women’s suffrage movement, working with Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton, BlackPast.org noted. From 1890 through 1897, Ruffin edited Women’s Era, the first newspaper published by and for African American women, and she also founded, with her daughter Florida Ridely and Boston school principal Maria Baldwin, the “Women’s Era Club.” “Believing that a national organization for Black women was needed, she convened the first annual convention in 1895 which drew 100 women from 20 clubs across the United States,” the BlackPast.org editors wrote.
SUFFRAGE Page 23
5 Josephine St. Pierre Ruffin (blackpast.org)
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Zuma Opens Up About Arms Deal as Lawyer Fights Court Over KPMG Delays
Former South African President Jacob Zuma has finally spoken out on his long-awaited arms deal trial. Zuma spoke exclusively to Independent Media on the trial that was set to resume on May 6 but has now been postponed to June 23. Insiders say this move has little to do with the COVID-19 pandemic but the court’s “last-minute hustle to remove KPMG from the witness list,” Independent Media reported. Zuma told Independent Media that he is ready to show South Africans the real thieves. “I’ve always said I wanted my day in court,” Zuma said. “It is time for South Africans to hear the truth. It is time. My silence has always been to keep unity but it is now time.” On April 29, the Jacob Zuma Foundation confirmed to Independent Media that the Constitutional Court had approved Zuma’s withdrawal of his bid for a permanent stay of prosecution. According to Zuma’s foundation, Zuma had not wanted a stay from prosecution, even though his previous lawyer pushed for one. “The former president wants to air his part. The court should allow him to do that. This case has been pending for the last 20 years. There shouldn’t be these delaying tactics against him. This case can no longer be politicized, as it has been from the very beginning. What we want is a fair and just process”, the foundation said. The withdrawal of the bid for a permanent stay of prosecution happened after Zuma axed his longtime attorney Daniel Mantsha and replaced him with Dali Mpofu, an attorney in close links to Advocate and EFF member. According to insiders, Zuma’s family was aggrieved, feeling that Mantsha had “dropped the ball.” The sources also revealed that the National Prosecuting Authority had “silently” instituted an investigation into accounting firm KPMG. It is believed that KPMG was going to take the witness stand against Zuma but may face Mabuza’s brunt in court since the firm’s grave reputational damage in the recent years. In a letter Independent Media is in possession of, Mabuza attorneys wrote to the court to seek clarity on why the state has instituted an investigation into KPMG on the eve of the trial.
caribbean now Collaborative Effort Needed to Revive Caribbean Tourism
Restoring confidence in travel to the Caribbean in the era of COVID-19 is a formidable challenge, but an effort should be made to contribute some of the best minds to share in an international collaborative strategy to restore visitor confidence in Caribbean holiday making. DeLisle Worrell, former governor of the Central Bank of Barbados and international economic consultant, suggested the above in his May Economic Letter, which he shared with the local media, the Barbados Advocate reported. “What may be done to revive Caribbean tourism? Foreign exchange earnings are the glue that keeps Caribbean economies running,” Worrell said. “Everything that we buy in these islands is either imported or produced locally, with the use of imported materials, fuel and other inputs. In the absence of an adequate inflow of foreign exchange, all production and commerce slows down. The main source of foreign exchange in many Caribbean economies is tourism … if commerce and business begin to revive before tourism does, the economy will soon exhaust itself of foreign reserves, as well as whatever foreign exchange it is able to borrow from the IMF, the World Bank, Inter-American Development Bank, the Caribbean Development Bank and elsewhere. “It is the travelers who visit the Caribbean from North America and Europe and the airlines who bring them that hold the key to reviving the economies of the Bahamas, Barbados, Jamaica and other tourism dependent countries,” he said. “Therefore, the first priority for our government is collaboration on a strategy for resumption of Caribbean tourism. Caribbean governments should partner with the Caribbean Tourism Organisation, the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association, major international airlines, major hotel interests, tour companies and other stakeholders, in discussing protocols for bringing the international travel standstill to an end.”
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Boosting Your Spirit During COVID-19 Submitted by AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia
May is Mental Health Month, and many of us could use a lift. Even before the appearance of the coronavirus in the United States, one in five adults in this country was experiencing a mental illness each year. One in six U.S. youth ages 6 to 17 experiences a mental health disorder each year. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) sends a positive message each May: Those who experience mental illness are not alone.1 During these difficult times, it’s natural for any of us to feel anxious or sad. Most of us have never faced circumstances like these before. We may not know how to manage our feelings or help our loved ones. Try these tips to raise your spirit:2 • Take breaks from following the news. It can be hard to hear about the pandemic repeatedly. • Take care of your body. Take deep breaths or stretch. Try to eat well-balanced meals. Exercise, get plenty of sleep, and avoid alcohol
and substance use. • Talk with people you trust. Share how you feel.
BOOSTING THE SPIRIT THROUGH SPIRITUAL PRACTICE
Another way to feel a lift is through a spiritual practice. You may feel better from activities of quiet reflection, like meditation. You may already have such a practice, or you can search online for tools to help you relax. You can include the practices you like in your daily routine.3 Some ways to practice on your own are:3 • Listening to spiritual music • Reading spiritual texts • Engaging in meditation or prayer • Learning about important people who share your practice
THE WONDER OF GOOD MENTAL HEALTH
Another way we can boost our mental well-being is to find a sense of wonder. We can benefit from finding
#BestMe
Rewards Program
meaning in our experiences. Think of places, people, and experiences that give you feelings of peace, joy, or inspiration. These feelings can give you a valuable timeout.3 Some ways to practice this are:3 • Spending time outside. Protect yourself and others by using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for social distancing. Try to stay at least 6 feet from others, and avoid crowded places. • Finding arts to enjoy. Some examples are painting, photography, reading, writing, or music. You can create your own or enjoy the creations of others. Many resources are available online for learning how to do these and for seeing others’ work. • Getting in touch with your body through walking, dance, or other movement around your house. Remember to talk to a health care provider before starting an exercise program. AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia (DC) covers many of the behavioral health services available for D.C. Medicaid enrollees. If you or someone you care about is feeling
afraid, sad, or depressed, AmeriHealth Caritas DC enrollees can call Member Services at 202-408-4720 or 1-800408-7511. Or you can call the D.C. Department of Behavioral Health hotline at 1-888-793-4357. The information in this material is for educational purposes only. It is not to take the place of a primary care provider (PCP) or a behavioral health specialist. If you have questions, talk with your PCP or behavioral health specialist. If you think you need to see a PCP or behavioral health specialist because of something you have read in this information, please contact your PCP or behavioral health specialist.
Never stop or wait to get medical attention because of something you have read in this material.
Sources: 1. “Mental Health by the Numbers,” NAMI, https://www.nami.org/Learn-More/ Mental-Health-By-the-Numbers. 2. “Manage Anxiety and Stress,” CDC, https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/ prepare/managing-stress-anxiety.html. 3. “Faith and Spirituality,” NAMI, https:// www.nami.org/Find-Support/Living-with-aMental-Health-Condition/Faith-Spirituality. 4. “Why Care?” NAMI, https://www. nami.org/Get-Involved/Awareness-Events/ Why-Care. All images are used under license for illustrative purposes only. Any individual depicted is a model
#BESTME CORNER
It’s Mental Health Month — Why Care?
Care is more than a four-letter word. It’s a feeling that can become an action. It can help those living with mental health conditions become their #BestMe. Our words and actions can help lift barriers that keep people from building their best lives. NAMI hosts the WhyCare? campaign. WhyCare? is a way to share the importance of mental health treatment, support, and services. You can join this national conversation by sharing your stories through text, graphics, or video on social media. You can talk about why you care for others, and how others have cared for you. Use the hashtag #WhyCare to find others in the conversation. Add #BestMe to help you connect with others talking about this in your area.3 Standard messaging and data fees may apply. Minors should obtain permission from their parent or guardian before posting.
I got a gift card for getting my postpartum checkup. You can too. You can get a $25 gift card if you: • Are an AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia member • See a midwife or OB/GYN within three to eight weeks (21 – 56 days) after giving birth
Visit www.amerihealthcaritasdc.com/giftcard to learn more. Note: A member cannot get more than $50 in incentives each year.
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All images are used under license for illustrative purposes only. Any individual depicted is a model.
AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. English: ATTENTION: If you speak English, language assistance services, at no cost, are available to you. Call 1-800-408-7511 (TTY/TDD: 202-216-9885 or 1-800-570-1190). Spanish: ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-800-408-7511 (TTY/TDD: 202-216-9885 o 1-800-570-1190). Amharic: ማሳሰቢያ፡ አማርኛ መናገር የሚችሉ ከሆነ፣ ከከፍያ ነጻ የሆነ የቋንቋ ድጋፍ አገልግሎት ይቀርብልዎታል፡፡ በስልክ ቁጥር 1-800-408-7511 (TTY/TDD: 202-216-9885 ወይም 1-800-570-1190) ይደውሉ. 1-800-408-7511 اﺗﺼﻞ ﺑﺮﻗﻢ.ﺎن ﻓﺈن ﺧﺪﻣﺎت اﳌﺴﺎﻋﺪة اﻟﻠﻐﻮﻳﺔ ﺗﺘﻮاﻓﺮ ﻟﻚ ﺑﺎ، إذا ﻛﻨﺖ ﺗﺘﺤﺪث اﻟﻠﻐﺔ اﻟﻌﺮﺑﻴﺔ: ﻣﻠﺤﻮﻇﺔ: Arabic .(1-800-570-1190 أوTTY/TDD: 202-216-9885 )رﻗﻢ ﻫﺎﺗﻒ اﻟﺼﻢ واﻟﺒﻜﻢ
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Nursing Home Resident’s COVID-19Related Death Raises Questions By Sam P.K. Collins WI Contributing Writer @SamPKCollins Even amid finalizing funeral arrangements and remembering the deceased’s penchant for gifts and vivid childhood memories, family members of the late Gloria Bea Johnson said they continue to search for answers about the circumstances of her April 15 coronavirus-related death — particularly why staff at Stoddard Baptist Global Care at Washington Center for Aging Services, a local nursing home and Johnson’s residence of nearly a decade, hadn’t immediately notified family members of her admission to the hospital two days prior. In the weeks since Johnson’s death, other concerns that some of bereaved family members have expressed involve Johnson’s medical condition since late March, when they said they last had a phone conversation with the quarantined resident. They also said they questioned whether staff members at Stoddard Baptist Global Care at Washington Center for Aging Services notified the family members of other residents about Johnson’s COVID-19 case and previous cases they said might have occurred on the campus. “I never received a call from the nursing home. They should have called me right away,” said Malaika Hayward, a Northeast resident and Johnson’s niece who said she’s the nursing home’s primary contact for Johnson. Hayward told The Informer that upon Johnson’s admission to Washington Hospital Center, doctors told her family that she had pneumonia and showed symptoms of the novel coronavirus, for which she would later test positive. Hayward and her mother have since embarked on an effort to secure Johnson’s medical chart from Stoddard Baptist Global Care at Washington Center for Aging Services to get a sense of what happened since they had last spoken to Johnson. In recounting the events of April 13, when her aunt had been transferred to Washington Hospi-
tal Center, Hayward stressed that neither she or her mother heard anything from Stoddard Baptist Global Care until well after hospital staff called her mother. From April 15 until April 23, when Hayward said she finally received a COVID-19-related automated voice message that Stoddard Baptist Global Care sent to all residents’ family members, she recalled learning more, in casual phone conversations with lower-level nursing home staff members, about what she described as lapses in communication between the hospital and the nursing home, and the nursing home and some lower-level staff members. “Aunt Gloria got to Washington Hospital Center four in the morning, [but] I got a call from a nurse at the nursing home at 9:45 a.m.,” Hayward said as she explained what transpired after first learning about her aunt’s condition from her mother. “I didn’t even give them a chance to say anything. [Washington Hospital Center] thought a nurse at the nursing home called me. They’re supposed to call me. They call for a scratch, rash, or open wound, but they wouldn’t call and tell me this.”
STODDARD BAPTIST GLOBAL CARE RESPONDS
In response to an Informer inquiry, a Stoddard Baptist Global Care representative attributed the five-hour time window between the late Johnson’s April 13 admission to Washington Hospital Center and an attending nurse’s contact with Hayward to the facilitation of administrative procedures, including confirmation of Johnson’s actual location and documentation of the transfer and the circumstances surrounding it. In their statement, Stoddard Baptist Global Care said that Johnson exhibited no signs of COVID-19 in the 30 days leading up to her hospital admission. As had also been done with the facility’s more than 250 residents, nursing homes staff members conducted three daily body temperature checks on Johnson. They
5 Stoddard Baptist Global Care at Washington Center for Aging Services. (Courtesy photo)
said records indicated nothing out of the ordinary, other than an observation of Johnson frantically washing her hands on the morning of April 13. Per guidelines outlined by Stoddard Baptist Global Care, residents experiencing an elevated temperature of more than 100 degrees Fahrenheit, appetite loss, and other COVID-19 symptoms undergo testing with the approval of the familial contact. Within a two-day period, the nursing home establishes contact with the family and transfers the resident to a special unit. Upon confirmation that a resident or staff member contracted the coronavirus, Stoddard Baptist Global Care mails letters and schedules robocalls to update family members about on-campus conditions, while providing updates to the family council president. No determination had been made of whether other Stoddard Baptist Global Care residents or staff members contracted the coronavirus.
EXAMINING THE BROADER IMPLICATIONS
Johnson’s death happened as nursing home watchdogs across the U.S. have bemoaned the increased likelihood of elder negligence amid the cancellation of
NURSING HOMES Page 44
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HEALTH
Black Dad Pens Controversial Coronavirus Song After Son Denied Test WI Staff Report A 60-year-old father who calls himself “The Undiscovered Artist” has penned a powerful but controversial tune about the coronavirus after his 39-year-old son was denied a test. It is called the “Coronavirus Song (The Rona Song) and it creatively represents a voice with which most in the Black community can easily resonate as reports continue to reveal that many African Americans are being denied tests and thus are dying from COVID-19 at higher rates. The Undiscovered Artist, whose real name is Irvin Lee, hails from the Greater Washington Area. He says the personal experience motivated him to write, produce and sing the song. “It was very scary,” Lee said.
“My son was experiencing shortness of breath and other symptoms and immediately began self-isolating himself to try and protect his family. But when he went to the Emergency Room to try and get a diagnosis, they told him that he didn’t qualify for a test even though he has health insurance. This angered me.” Thankfully his son turned out to be okay. The whole experience, however, inspired him to create a song to which others facing similar experiences may be able to relate. The song, which took him just two weeks to complete serves as a perspective that millions in the Black community can understand. It speaks to the confusion, frustration and disappointment that many are feeling as local and national data confirms that not only
5 Irvin Lee, The Undiscovered Artist, composes music at his computer. (Photo Irvin Lee)
are African Americans more likely to die from coronavirus but many Blacks continue to be denied testing. “I had to write a song to capture this,” Lee says. “My style of writ-
No matter what pops up, getting care has never been easier
24
ing is heavily influenced by artists like Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye who, during their time, created music about the struggles and injustices with which many people had to deal.”
CALENDAR
Officially titled the “Coronavirus Song (The Rona Song)” by The Undiscovered Artist, the song can be heard online at Coro-
SONG Page 29
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MAY 7 - 13, 2020 21
EDUCATION Special Ward 8 Graduation Ceremony in the Works By Sam P.K. Collins WI Contributing Writer @SamPKCollins As the reality of perpetually postponed proms, graduation ceremonies and cookouts continues to set in for high school graduates across the D.C. metropolitan area, some Ward 8 community members have embarked on a mission to host commemorative events for high school seniors that fall within the restrictions imposed during the coronavirus pandemic. At a date to be determined later this month, hundreds of D.C public and public charter high school graduates who call Ward 8 home will participate in a daylong ceremo-
DCPS
BRIEFS Compiled by Dorothy Rowley WI Staff Writer
CORONAVIRUS UPDATES
D.C. Public Schools will remain closed and students will participate in distance learning through the end of the school year on May 29. School officials will continue to provide updates regarding the coronavirus pandemic on topics, including: - Latest updates. - School calendar changes. - Meal sites.
22 - MAY 7 - 13, 2020
ny that follows the social distancing guidelines outlined by the Bowser administration. In addition to this special graduation, the outdoor field at Stanton Elementary School on Naylor Road in Southeast will house a display of lifesized high school graduation photos of each celebrant. Such a combination, Ward 8 community leader and parent India Blocker-Ford said, aims to lay to rest any anxiety young people may have about not being recognized for their hard work. “We couldn’t allow the kids to not have a graduation,” Blocker-Ford said. Blocker-Ford said she, Jimmie Jenkins of Manpower DC, and - Distance learning. - Additional resources for families. - Letters to families.
DCPS DISTANCE LEARNING
DCPS has prepared printed packets of learning materials for pre-K through 8th grade and of each graduation requirement course for high schoolers. These activities will continue classroom learning at home and engage students during a period of school closure. These instructional materials were designed to meet the needs of all students including English learners and students with special needs. Families can pick up hard copies of printed materials at their school on designated days when notified by DCPS via social media and email. Meanwhile, printed materials to support learning from home will be available at schools for pickup Tues-
Ward 8 Council member Trayon White brainstormed this idea in late March, a couple weeks into the District’s public health emergency. By that time, they along with several other community members had doled out untold amounts of food, toiletries, and other items to Ward 8 residents under the volunteer services network known as Mutual Aid. “We’ll do a graduation with 10 students every hour and a half on a football field. We’ve gotten that far, but that’s where we are,” Blocker-Ford said. “My daughter is a senior, and this is something we’ve been waiting for her entire life.” Last month, to the chagrin of some graduating seniors, Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) announced that D.C. Public Schools’ (DCPS) distance-learning program would continue through the end of the school year on May 29. On Friday, the DCPS central office recognized college-bound seniors during virtual College Signing Day festivities that took place on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. While officials have yet to finalize senior graduation plans, the school system’s 100-hour community service requirements have been waived and seniors’ grades have been closely monitored in development of summer credit recovery plans for those who’ve fallen short.
GRADUATION Page 45
5 Graduations today can be as special as past ceremonies with a bit of ingenuity. (Courtesy photo)
day and Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. These materials will cover the next two weeks of learning.
TMA DISTANCE LEARNING
The Warriors at Thurgood Marshall Academy are engaging in virtual activities during Week 7 of distance learning. Here are a few of their favorites: - Students in Pathways2Power participated in a focus group with the Deputy Mayor for Education’s office, sharing their tips and strategies for keeping students engaged in distance learning. - AP U.S. History students competed in the annual citywide History Day contest — online this year — and several qualified for the national competition next month! -10th graders Zoomed with Howard University law students in a virtual Howard University Law Academy discussion, earning valuable community service hours in the process.
5 The Warriors at Thurgood Marshall Academy engage in virtual activities during Week 7 of distance learning. (Courtesy of TMA)
CHARTER SCHOOL LOTTERY RESULTS
The results for the 2020-21 lottery and waitlist are in, showing that more families seek a seat at a Tier 1 PK-12 public charter school. According to DC Public Charter School Board’s staff analysis, roughly 70 percent of applicants on waitlists are waiting for a seat at a Tier 1 public charter school.
This is the first year Latin American Montessori Bilingual PCS, a Tier 1 school, participated in the My School DC lottery. The school had a total of 1,630 waitlisted students, the longest such list of any public charter school program. As of early April, 638 of these students were on the waitlist for PK3 across the campus’ two locations. WI
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EDUCATION
Show Teachers Our Appreciation Year Round
By Elizabeth Davis Special to the Washington Informer You often don’t appreciate what you have until it’s gone. Or you don’t fully realize the value of something that you’ve taken for granted. It took a series of teacher strikes in 2018 for the public to recognize and acknowledge the severe and chronic lack of classroom resources for students and teachers. During this painful coronavirus pandemic, the public is seeing in real time the amazing and heroic work that nurses and other healthcare workers are performing
SUFFRAGE from Page 17 She named the organization the National Federation of Afro-Am Women, which a year later united with the Colored Women’s League to become the National Association of Colored Women. Mary Church Terrell was the organization’s president while Ruffin and several others served as vice presidents. Although the Women’s Era Club later disbanded, Ruffin remained active and became one of the founding members of the Boston NAACP in 1910.
during these unbelievably stressful times. The fact is that teachers and nurses have always been heroes in their fields -- doing whatever it takes to make sure that their students and their patients thrive and survive. Yet let’s be honest; they don’t get the appreciation they deserve during “normal” times. As one example, both sets of professionals have voiced a similar problem -- overcrowded classrooms and unsafe nurse-to-patient staffing levels. Both problems adversely affect students and patients, respectively, but too often management tunes out reports from the front lines and little to nothing is done to improve the conditions. Educators and healthcare professionals know their situations better than anyone and need to be heard and respected year round. National Teacher Appreciation Week, is officially May 4-8, though it shouldn’t take a “Hallmark” holiday to appreciate the work that educators do every week of the year. Today, people are seeing teachers’ ingenuity and flexibility to make sure kids are educated while school buildings are closed. Online distance learning has substituted for in-class instruction. But in Washington, D.C., shockingly, the District of Columbia Public Schools didn’t take into consideration the fact that economic circumstances prevent up to half of DCPS families from affording a laptop or access to the internet. Incredibly, DCPS has more than 16,000 laptops in storage for test-
ing purposes but didn’t fully distribute them for continuing learning during the pandemic. Even once they began distribution, it was only after unrelenting pressure from teachers and the community. To fill the void, the Washington Teachers’ Union initiated a partnership with Fox 5 Plus, WDCA-TV, to present daily lessons on TV for all grade groups. Of course, they’re not as comprehensive as online instruction, but they follow DCPS curriculum and are lively and engaging. The purpose is to make sure that learning doesn’t stop for any child, no matter their economic circumstances. More than a dozen DCPS teachers -- and even DCPS librarians during National Library Week -are recording these lessons for TV and doing it on their own time (as DCPS requires) out of a feeling of personal obligation to make sure that all kids get educated. The online and TV lessons provide a window for the public into the caliber of teachers our children are lucky to have. They know their subject matter well and present their lessons with enthusiasm and smart examples and applications to capture the essence of the subject and students’ imagination. The next time you have a chance, thank a teacher for what they do. It especially would be appreciated if the acknowledgement didn’t just come during this special week, but another time or two throughout the year. They deserve it.
“Working side-by-side with Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton for women’s right to vote, only to have the rights of efforts sidelined is typical of Black women’s experiences throughout history,” National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President Marcela Howell said in an email this week. “Ms. Ruffin, like other Black women in her time, fought for passage of the 19th Amendment only to have her vote bargained away and her role in the women’s suffrage movement written out of history.
“While we see sexism and racism inextricably intertwined, not everyone does,” she said. “A victory for white women — whether it is the right to vote, the right to higher education, the right to better pay — does not mean that we will share in that victory. The fight for Black women’s rights, in all areas of our lives, must be intersectional — addressing racism, sexism, and classism – is we are to achieve real power. Ms. Ruffin knew this.” Josephine St. Pierre Ruffin died in Boston on March 13, 1924. WI
Elizabeth Davis is president of the Washington Teachers’ Union.
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A Message from Greg A. Adams to Kaiser Permanente’s Nurses This month as the nation celebrates you, I want to express my personal gratitude and appreciation for the 63,000 nurses across Kaiser Permanente. Throughout our 75year history, nurses have played a critical role in Kaiser Permanente’s mission — to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. 2020 marks the 200th anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s birth. It is through Florence’s work on the front lines of a crisis, caring for injured soldiers during the Crimean War, that modern nursing was solidified as a profession. In the early 1900s, it was nurse Lavinia Dock who served at the front lines of the public health movement, devoting her life to improving the health of the poor, women’s rights, and the profession of nursing. And today, nurses are once again standing and leading at the front line as we face one of the largest health care crises in the world. Against the current backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, your pledge to serve is unwavering as you care for among the sickest patients and protect the health of many others with caring knowledge, skill, and wisdom. As caregivers, scientists, and researchers, your experience, expertise, and innovation will continue to play an important role as we lead through this crisis. Know that Kaiser Permanente celebrates you every day, every month, all year long. Sincerely,
Greg A. Adams Chairman and CEO, Kaiser Permanente
24 - MAY 7 - 13, 2020
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OPINIONS/EDITORIALS
EDITORIAL
Blacks Living East of the River Deserve an Equal Playing Field, Not More Platitudes
Last weekend, prominently featured, as we say in the print media industry, “above the fold” – that is on the top of the front page – The Washington Post published a news story entitled, “We’ve Been Suffering.” Its focus was on Ward 8 with a subhead which read, “For a D.C. ward beset by poverty and violence, the coronavirus adds a new layer of pain.” The article was well-researched with extensive data about how those living in the ward have been hit the hardest among the District’s population by coronavirus. But it was also personal for some D.C. residents including D.C. Councilmember Trayon White, Sr. who recently announced the death of his grandmother who after contracting COVID-19 had died just days earlier. White, upon being questioned by the reporter for more details about her life, changed the direction of the conversation insisting that the struggles his family has faced are commonplace. “We’ve been suffering from people dying in Ward 8 for the last 30, 40 years,” he said noting a legacy of health challenges that disproportionately impact Blacks that include diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, suicide and homicide. “It’s always people of color dying in the city. It’s nothing new,” he added. As the writer continued, we’re told that there are other obstacles which routinely hinder many Black men and women in Ward 8 from successfully navigating through and away from communities plagued by the “inner city blues” – challenges like unemployment, violent crime and drug addiction. The coronavirus, we’re told, has only added more layers to the pain in lethal dosages. Now what? How will life change for the better for today’s or tomorrow’s generations of Blacks who live east of the Anacostia River given this latest report which shows the great divide for those who reside in Ward 8 versus those who hail from Georgetown? Will this be the spark that levels the playing field? We doubt it. Trayon White’s agitated response and the statistics highlighted in the article are reflective of what’s been talked about and lived for decades. We know the monsters that plague our community. But we similarly know the monsters who prefer to maintain the status quo. Let’s change the trajectory and begin to have some pointed conversations that allow for true equality in the District – justice for all one might say. Let’s see those who are in power put the money and investments where they’re needed the most. Maybe then the stories about life east of the river will be dominated by successful tales instead of woeful fables filled with platitudes. WI
Decisions to Reopen Will Be Evaluated at the Polls Clamoring from citizens across the country for their states to lift its stay-at-home orders and to open up businesses, malls, parks and beaches is getting more boisterous each day. Those who feel most vulnerable to the novel coronavirus disease – COVID-19 – are moving with extreme caution, while others are ignoring social distancing guidelines and protesting mask-less for business to reopen as usual. Front and center are large groups of mostly white people, and few others, captured by the media protesting in mass with signs and bullhorns outside of statehouses demanding legislators to lift orders and reopen immediately. They are part of a national ReOpen Movement that is defying the science about the spread and severity of COVID-19 and focusing more on the loss of income and quality of life impacting families since the pandemic warnings began in March. Their demands are growing and it is evident that city and state legislators are succumbing to the pressure. This movement begs the question. Since reports have indicated that African Americans are being impacted disproportionately by COVID-19, do white people ostensibly feel safer? Is there some misperception that if they – white people – live, work and attend schools in disproportionately white communities, they are less likely to contract a virus that disproportionately impacts and kills Black people who live somewhere else?
TO THE EDITOR Pandemic Shouldn’t Cause Food Crisis People going without food is a major issue and it shouldn’t be in the “richest nation” in the world. What a crime it is to read about folks not having enough food at home while being forced to be home without pay. And then they have to jump through hoops to get assistance. I sure will be glad when things are back to normal.
My Two Cents I’ve been tuning in to The Washington Informer’s live videos on Facebook and I must say I’ve really been enjoying them. One suggestion I have is letting some of your faithful readers like myself join in and give our perspective on some of the issues. I wouldn’t mind being a guest at all! Charlene O’Dell Washington, D.C.
Greta Thomas Washington, D.C.
That word “disproportionately” is critical and significant. Congressman Karen Bass (D-CA), chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, told reporters not long ago that it is dangerous for COVID-19 to be classified as a Black disease. It will create a false sense of security among the general public, while Black people could be villainized for their susceptibility due to a history of comorbid conditions. Her prediction is playing out all across the U.S. while federal and local authorities
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warn that the virus is continuing to spread and taking lives. There is no doubt that everyone is experiencing the pressure of being isolated in their spaces with nowhere to go and no one to interact with in person. The impact is devastating all across the board. It is an agonizing position to be in as a legislator, realizing that the safety and well-being of your constituents rest in your hands. But that’s why we elect them. And, this pandemic will help us decide who among them must go. WI
MAY 7 - 13, 2020 25
OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist
By Julianne Malveaux
What Do You Have to Lose? Your Health or Your Job
A little less than four years ago, the president tried to get Black votes with the question, “What do you have to lose?” The coronavirus offers a bleak answer. Trump was notified of the danger of the pandemic in January, but didn’t begin to address the issue until late February. Hospitals ran short on supplies like gowns, masks and tests. Governors had to ask, then plead
with the president for ventilators and other supplies. And in the beginning, the president dismissed the seriousness of the virus, claiming it would “go away.” And after weeks of “staying in place” and wearing masks, the daily death toll has not yet stabilized. Of course, the Black community, along with Native Americans and Latinos, are hit hardest because of differences in spatial location, income and age. With some of the nonsense Trump has spouted, one might also think that he
Guest Columnist
is deliberately targeting the Black community for damage. What do we have to lose? Our jobs or our lives. Consider the United States Postal Service (USPS), which has been a staple employer in the African American community. Back in the day, my mom used to talk about “Ph.D.s working at the Post Office,” because academic employment was scarce and segregated, and the Post Office paid decently. Many a Black family made it to the middle class with postal wages.
And now the president is declaring war on the USPS. Why? 45 has incorrectly said that fees for mailing packages are “too low,” that USPS is subsidizing internet companies (he means Amazon) with low package fees. But studies have shown that the prices paid for mailing packages more than cover their actual costs. Twenty-one percent of the USPS’ roughly 625,000 employees are African American, and nearly 17 percent are other people of color. Might this be one of the reasons
that 45 keeps lashing out at the USPS? He says that unless the USPS raises its fees for package delivery, he will deny the USPS any COVID-19 aid. I’m not suggesting that his animus toward the USPS in general, and Jeff Bezos and Amazon in particular, is precisely because so many people of color work for the Post Office. Still, I do not think that his attitude toward Black people is unrelated to his ire at the USPS.
MALVEAUX Page 45
By Annette M. Alston
COVID-19 Exposes How Blacks are in Danger in Medical Facilities My mother prays every day that my father, who has been in and out of the hospital over the past few years, won’t have to suddenly go into the hospital during this COVID-19 pandemic. We know that when and if he does, he will likely die because my mother, who has always been my father’s first responder, won’t be able to be with him when he goes in. My mother has saved my father’s life on more than one occasion. Once, when my father was told that he could go home from the hospital while he was still bleeding from
the rectum. “It’s probably diverticulitis acting up. He can go home.” My father was ready, but Mom told the doctor he wasn’t leaving until he could tell her why he was bleeding and the bleeding had stopped. “I have no way of giving you a transfusion at home if you need it,” she told my father. Another time was when he was overdosed in a rehab facility. Fortunately, Mom decided to drop by the nursing home before attending another errand. My father was despondent when she arrived and my
Guest Columnist
mother realized what had happened before the nurse did and demanded that they call the ambulance immediately. He was slipping away. COVID-19 is shining light on a health care system that has always lacked adequate oversight. The New Jersey Department of Health just released its first wave of self-reported COVID-19 totals. There are more than 18,000 cases throughout the state’s long-term care facilities with an 18% fatality rate. Aside from my family’s personal experience and startling statistics,
historically, Black people collectively, have never had reason to fully trust America’s health care system. Statistics prove that Black people are dying from the coronavirus in disproportionate numbers to white people. Seventy percent of those who contract COVID-19 nationwide and die of it are Black. U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams and Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s leading experts on infectious diseases, both tried to explain the disparity was due to a number of factors that Black people have historically
died from in disproportionate numbers to white people. “Underlying health issues like heart disease, diabetes, lung disease.” Adams goes on to term it as part of the legacy of growing up poor and black in America. Other experts speak to the issue of Blacks having more exposure in forward-facing jobs that are less valued and have less protection. The multitude of factors stems from disparities that are tied to racism. Racism that goes back to the treatment and ex-
to health care professionals who were present. If no such person was present, they should have left Number 45’s performance and found other health care professionals who could provide concrete information about the deadly virus. By not doing so and treating the “press conference” as serious, they for all practical purposes actively participated in Number 45’s charade. To some degree, they were aiding and abetting the Trumpettes who worship Number 45 as
the quintessential white American male. In my opinion, he is what at least 90% of male Trumpettes admire or aspire to be. It was very revealing to see so many members of the press corps from prominent press giants such as The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, MSNBC, CNN, etc., willingly participate in Number 45’s charade. I say willingly because surely they are not ignorant. WI
ALSTON Page 45
By A. Peter Bailey
How Journalists Aid and Abet No. 45 For eight straight days, I forced myself to watch the “press conferences” presented by Number 45 (aka Donald J. Trump). The show was supposed to provide an update on the status of the destruction caused by COVID-19. My objective was not to get any valuable information from Number 45; rather, I focused on how the journalists at the show re-
26 - MAY 7 - 13, 2020
sponded to his daily dose of misinformation and, much too often, untruths. Eventually, I found myself as disgusted with the journalists as I was with the president. They would ask question after question as though they were really at a serious press conference rather than at a performance by a narcissistic man who uses the words “fantastic” and “incredible” more often than the previous dozen presidents combined. It was evident that Number 45
was conducting a political rally rather than a press conference. He used the occasion to deliver political messages and guidelines to Trumpettes throughout the country. If the attending press corps had been serious, they would have sat quietly as Number 45 delivered his spiel. When he stopped and inquired about questions, not a single journalist present should have responded. Since the event was supposed to provide an update on COVID-19, they should have directed their questions only
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OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist
By Sandra Edmonds Crewe
People Will Never Forget How You Made Them Feel
Grief is often a misunderstood emotion. It is described as a strong emotion that is experienced when there is a loss of a person or thing. Although we all experience it, we do not experience it the same way. Because grief is such a common emotion, many have developed
rote responses such as “I am sorry for your loss,” “My heart goes out to you,” “You have my deepest condolences,” or “This too will pass.” These responses when given from the heart are important, but they do not always go to the depth of the feeling and pain that is being experienced because of the loss. The coronavirus brings with it multiple layers of grief and loss for
Guest Columnist
families and communities. Every day the news reports on lives that were lost during the COVID-19 pandemic. What makes the death of a loved one more painful during this pandemic is the inability to offer closure through memorial services or other family traditions. Some families are personally affected by a family loss while others experience the loss vicariously or indirectly from exposure to the
loss of others. While death is the ultimate loss, there are other losses as well that we are experiencing individually and collectively. The grief that we experience with these losses is sometimes minimized because of the number of deaths globally as well as the local deaths in the District of Columbia and the metropolitan area. Whether the grief is associated with the death of a person, the loss
of freedom, or loss of an event, special care is needed to support the individuals or communities who are experiencing it. When thinking about grief, one size does not fit all. For example, the loss of a pet for some is the equivalent to the loss of a family member. For others, the loss of a job is as devastating to them as other losses.
set a new walking goal. That helps to keep my mind off negative things I might be thinking if I just sat around saying “Poor me.” Often when you are looking for answers, you can find them within yourself. Get the attention off yourself while thinking of something else. Read a good book — one that you can’t put down until you’re finished. Call a friend to share what you’ve just read. If you tell the story of what you’ve read in an exciting manner, it’s possible you can get your friend’s mind off the negative and proceed to do just what you’re doing. Don’t tell yourself you can’t do
certain things. Learn to do the thing you’ve been saying you can’t do. Gather facts instead of sitting around in fear. Get involved in an online seminar or learn a new language. There’re so many great things you can do. In my case, along with Bishop Joe Simon, I’m soliciting unregistered voters. Along with members of the National Congress of Black Women, we’re teaching people how to register online. It’s easy. Help by steering people who aren’t registered to https://www.usa.gov/register-to-vote. Tell them to check Voting and Elections and follow
CREWE Page 46
By E. Faye Williams
Looking for Answers?
This coronavirus that has us sheltering in place has taken some through many different emotions. Some have experienced fear, concern, stress and many negative feelings. There’re some who’ve used this time to do positive things that carry with them hope and good feelings about what they’ve been able to do for themselves and for others. I encourage you to try looking on the bright side of what’s
going on in your life. I’ll tell you first what I do. Every day, several times each day, I say a prayer for someone or something and I immediately feel better. I take a walk outside and just observe the beauty of the flowers, the sky and environment in general. I find there’s always something out there that makes me smile. Even though I have on my mask and gloves, I bow my head each time I come near anyone just to let them know I see them and I acknowledge their humanity. I can’t always tell if they acknowledge my recognition of them, but I feel good knowing I have acknowledged them.
Askia-At-Large
There’re so many things one can do so as not to sit around and bemoan the fact that this virus may have changed our lives forever. It’s so important to be physically and mentally active. In my case I walk between four and five miles per day. One day during the past week, I walked 5.2 miles. Imagine how excited I was about that extra .2 miles! That may not sound like such a big deal, but I knew how long it had taken me to get there! I put that in my success column. You don’t have to do all the big things immediately. Try a gradual approach to whatever it is you set as a goal. In my case, I’m ready to
WILLIAMS Page 46
By Askia Muhammad
A Word More Powerful Than Ku Kluxers’ Guns
You may have noticed that some white people have gotten bolder and bolder about brandishing assault-type weapons in public. Not just in public places — lately they have gone to storming or surrounding what should be secure buildings like the Michigan and Kentucky state capitol buildings while those legislatures were in session.
The well-organized protests (rumored to use paid actors and stuntmen) are meant to intimidate. But who is “skeered” by these hooligans? Not me. These modern Ku Kluxers/ terrorists want to foment a rebellion against all lawful authority that doesn’t cave to their demands. Some Michigan lawmakers wore bulletproof vests in the legislative chamber when they stormed the chambers. My, how the worm has turned. More than 50 years ago, Black Panther Party founders Huey
Newton and Bobby Seale went to the steps of the California State Capitol with unloaded guns, and white Americans went ballistic. Laws were quickly enacted and a full-out repression campaign was launched by state and federal authorities to repress and eliminate the threat of (as North Carolina Black activist Robert F. Williams wrote in his 1962 book “Negroes With Guns.” Dozens and dozens of Panthers were murdered by police. Hundreds and hundreds were jailed.
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These white guys, with their Confederate flags, nooses and Nazi slogans — who call themselves some kind of “Boogaloo-jihadeen” — have up until now gone mostly unchallenged by law enforcement authorities and have even been praised by Donald J. Trump. So much for any semblance of “Equal Justice Under Law” in this country. For now, they rally under the banner of reopening the government. But there will be more and more demands as time goes on. A few years
ago, in some Western states these lawless terrorists fought the federal government. One of their leaders had been illegally grazing his cattle on government land without paying the required fees. When they were arrested, there were bloody gunfights. A protester lost his life. This time, Michigan (not Mississippi) Gov. Gretchen Whitmer issued a rebuke of the armed protesters who gathered inside the state
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LIFESTYLE Bureau to Resume 2020 Census Field Operations in Select U.S. Locations By D. Kevin McNeir, WI Editor @dkevinmcneir The U.S. Census Bureau, in coordination with Federal, State and local health officials, will begin a phased restart of some 2020 Census field operations in select geographic areas this week. Updates on the operations resuming by location are available at 2020census.gov. This webpage will be updated weekly as 2020 Census operations resume across the U.S. The health and safety of Census Bureau staff and the public remains of the utmost importance. Returning staff will receive safety training to observe social distancing protocols in the COVID-19 environment. For their safety and
APPRECIATION from Page 1 an ideal academic environment, some instructors say deem it fitting to both commend and support those parents successfully navigating home necessities as well as guiding their child’s learning. “There’s so much going on [so] to all of a sudden ask to be appreciated is ridiculous. This situation is so strenuous,” said Remy Mallett, a first-grade, third-year teacher at Hendley Elementary School in Southeast – one of three D.C. Public Schools [DCPS] instructors featured in this report because of their ingeniously-crafted online lessons. Throughout DCPS’ distance-learning program, Mallett has used Twitter and YouTube to show her students how to count and recognize syllable sounds. She’s also utilized social media as a way to engage parents unsure of how to help their young ones grasp important concepts.
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the safety of the public, the Census Bureau has ordered Personal Protective Equipment for all field staff, including those who work in a field office. These materials will be secured and provided to staff prior to restarting operations. As part of the phased restart of operations, the Census Bureau will resume dropping off 2020 Census invitation packets at front doors of households in areas where the majority of households do not receive mail at their home. This operation is also known as Update Leave. About 5 percent of households are counted in the Update Leave operation, where census workers will confirm or update a household’s physical location address and then leave a
census questionnaire packet. The Census Bureau began delivering census materials to these households on March 15. However, this operation was suspended on March 18 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Update Leave operation does not require interaction between households and a Census Bureau employee and follows the most current federal health and safety guidelines. In states that have resumed the Update Leave operation, protocol revisions include fingerprinting for new hires to keep applicants moving through the hiring process.
Area Census Office (ACO) staff will begin returning to the office as necessary to support the Update Leave operation, as well. Households that receive 2020 Census invitation packets are strongly encouraged to respond promptly to the 2020 Census using the census ID included in the questionnaire packet. People can respond online, by phone or by completing and returning the paper form by mail. Responding with the census ID or by completing and returning the paper questionnaire helps ensure the best count of their community.
BEING COUNTED MATTERS AND IT’S EASIER THAN YOU MAY BELIEVE
For Mallett, these efforts align with her attempts and those of her colleagues to derail long-entrenched systemic inequity which the coronavirus pandemic has only exacerbated. “I don’t plan on or anticipate being appreciated,” she said. “The way I feel appreciated is that trust and the relationship [where students and parents] can voice their concerns and tell me what they need from me.” As many parents find themselves reeling from the sudden shutdown of their jobs, DCPS officials have coordinated the packaging of nearly a quarter-million meals, maintaining 10 free food sites throughout the District. The central office has also provided care packages for pre-kindergarten families that include books, art activities and cleaning supplies. Partnerships with philanthropic partners have supported the distribution of laptops, Wi-Fi access and other technology essential for distance learning. And teachers have become increas-
ingly creative about how to present material to a student population dealing with these changes. Through his online “Quarantine Kitchen” lessons, Chef James Wiggins demonstrates the need for mathematics and science to his students as he guides them in combining ingredients commonly found in the kitchen to make biscuits, pancakes, apple butter cookies and other treats. Wiggins, a teacher at Roosevelt Senior High School in Northwest since October, said “Quarantine Kitchen” allows students to express their creativity in their cooking videos and embrace recipes that encourage a balanced diet. “Because of what I do with the culinary arts, it will now be in the forefront of the core competencies,” Wiggins said in reference to the eventual launch of Roosevelt’s culinary arts NAF academy. “This is paving the way for the math teacher [and] young people are seeing the need for health, wealth and nu-
trition,” he added. “More people are tuning in to ‘Quarantine Kitchen.’ We send out the ingredients the week before and when I show up on Wednesday we go at it. I’m excited about where this is going.” Virtual learning has been scheduled to continue to the end of the academic year (May 29) but D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) has still not announced how things will proceed this summer or in the fall. But some teachers, including Carmen Garner, say they’re remaining focused on the present, ensuring that schools can meet their students’ socioemotional needs, despite the unique circumstances. “Our administration has done a great job of building that bridge between the class and virtual world. Our mentoring program connects with kids once a day and we’re doing lessons in front of the screen,” said Garner, an art teacher in his fourth year at Shepherd Elementary School in Northwest
who serves as a socioemotional faculty leader. In his YouTube lessons, a costumed and animated Garner salutes his students for their artistry and parents for their support. He, with the help of an English teacher, later outlines an art project that incorporates language arts, math and other disciplines. In one video, he showed students how to create a story where the main character, an animal, solves a problem. That premise bears a similarity to what Garner and other teachers have faced in recent weeks. “The only difficult thing is resources, like getting books and finding materials but our [leadership] has told us not to stress and get overwhelmed during these times,” said Garner, a D.C. resident of two decades hailing from Springfield, Massachusetts. “They put us at ease and let us know there’s not too much they wouldn’t make available for us,” he said. WI
A series of YouTube public service announcements [PSA] currently airing which features young children sharing messages like, “The census is coming,” “Count me,” or “Count us.” Their meaning, one might say, remains “elementary.” In other words, far too often, children are
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CENSUS from Page 28 not counted. In fact, nationwide, the last census missed nearly 2 million children under age five – an oversight or mistake that especially hurts children for the next 10 years. The census informs funding decisions for roads and hospitals. But it also provides things that children (or their parents and caregivers) need: libraries, schools, childcare programs and more. That’s why it’s imperative that you count everyone in your home, including all children, in the 2020 Census.
SO, WHAT DO YOU NEED TO KNOW?
1) The census is easy, safe, confidential (all responses are protected by federal law) and important and can be completed at www.2020Census.gov. 2) While the self-response period began March 12, households can still respond three ways: online, by phone or by mail. 3) While only English or Spanish are available in paper form,
there are 12 other languages supported for phone or mail options. Meanwhile, COVID-19 has delayed many census-related, in-person outreach activities. In fact, many organizations have already switched to digital outreach strategies including livestreams and twitter chats. Still, the challenge remains reaching many of the hardest to count [HTC] populations who will inevitably be missed by digitally-based strategies. Many citizens took advantage of online opportunities to increase their knowledge on the nuts and bolts of the 2020 Census a few days ago during Digital Weekend (May 1-3).
WHY IS YOUR PARTICIPATION IN THE CENSUS IMPORTANT?
The census is more than just a head count as its results will impact every U.S. state and territory for the next 10 years. Besides the count being used to appropriately allocate federal funds which annu-
LIFESTYLE
SONG from Page 21
navirusSong.com and streamed on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon Music, Tidal, Google Music Play and more. Lee says he will donate a portion of the proceeds to families affected by COVID-19. He is also using the song as the perfect opportunity to kick off his very own independent record label called Music U Can Feel, which promises to release more compelling songs about serious topics.
ally support vital programs and services which include Medicaid, Head Start, schools, hospitals and roads, the census also helps to determine the number of seats in the House of Representatives and a state’s number of votes in the Electoral College and the state’s voting district boundaries. Only basic information is asked on the census about your house-
YES, BLACKS ARE BEING DENIED TESTS WITH DEADLY RESULTS
#1 – According to NBC News, 63-year-old Deborah Gatewood from Detroit was a healthcare worker who was denied a test three times from the very hospital where she worked. Sadly, she died from the virus just two weeks later
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#2 – Twenty-five-year-old Bassey Offiong, according to Detroit News, was a college student at Western Michigan University. He was denied a test multiple times and consequently died fighting the virus just a few weeks before he was set to graduate. #3 – According to USA Today, 56-year-old Gary Fowler ‘begged’ for a test but was turned away multiple times. He later died at home. #4 – The Guardian reports that Kayla Williams, a 36-year-old single mother of three from London also died from the virus just a day after she called emergency services and was told that she could not be admitted to a hospital because she was not a “priority.” #5 – Most recently, CBS News has confirmed that 30-year-old Rana Zoe Mungin, a social studies teacher from Brooklyn, was rushed to the hospital three times and denied a test each time. She later died after being placed on life support for about a month.
If I could do one thing, I’d make sure we stay healthy. If you could do one thing for your community, what would it be? More walk-in clinics? More funding for health services closer to home? Completing the 2020 Census is a safe and easy way to inform billions in funding for hundreds of services and programs in your community. Respond online, by phone, or by mail.
Complete the census at:
2020CENSUS.GOV Paid for by U.S. Census Bureau.
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LIFESTYLE A CONTINUING SERIES
COVID 19 UPDATE Strategies to Survive, Sustain and Succeed
As Southern States Reopen, African-American Lives are Still Hanging in the Balance Most States Scratch Stay-At-Home Orders Despite Experts’ Warnings By Sarafina Wright WI Contributor In recent weeks, several southern states have begun rolling back stayat-home restrictions put in place to stop the spread of COVID-19, the respiratory disease caused by the novel coronavirus. States such as South Carolina, Florida and Georgia have reopened retail stores, restaurants, parks and beaches, while also green-lighting many nonessential businesses to welcome back workers even as the number of coronavirus cases and deaths continues to rise around the nation. The numbers are especially troublesome for African Americans, who have bore the brunt of the public health emergency. According to a recent report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Black people infected
with COVID-19 are dying from it at disproportionate rates. In Georgia, African Americans make up roughly 30 percent of the state’s population, but more than 50 percent of COVID-19 deaths and 36 percent of the almost 30,000 confirmed cases, according to the state’s health department. Georgia has been a focal point in the burgeoning “Reopen” movement where protesters have taken to the streets in several states to urge local governments to abandon stay-at-home orders that came as a response to the coronavirus pandemic. Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp said in an interview with The Associated Press that he stands by his decision to reopen the state, despite criticism from political foes and even allies such as President Donald Trump. “I mean, people are not going
5 File photo of recent reopen protest
to do that, No. 1,” Kemp said. “No. 2, many people are going to lose their home, or the dwelling that they’re renting, and they won’t have anywhere to shelter in place. So for all those people that are saying all those things, they’re also not dealing with the reality of what working Georgians are having to deal with.” Kemp has authorized the opening of bowling alleys, tattoo parlors, gyms, salons, and movie theaters; vacation rentals are slated to open this weekend. Kemp said Georgia’s drastic state budget sit-
Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp said in an interview with The Associated Press that he stands by his decision to reopen the state, despite criticism from political foes and even allies such as President Donald Trump.
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uation is the push to restart the economy. The economy is the driving force many governors of Southern states cite as reason for reopening. South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster said the virus will continue to spread and still presents a serious threat, but residents want to get back to work. “We have become highly educated and informed on what we’re dealing with and that is one of the main things and, also, the willingness to comply of the people in our state,” McMaster said. “Those are the things that have allowed us to move back into where we want to be in our economy.” Several Black faith and civil rights groups wrote a joint letter to publicly voice their disapproval of states reopening prematurely, saying these actions demonstrate reckless disregard for the health and life of Black residents, especially in states with significant Black populations. Sherrilyn Ifill, one of the letter’s authors, spoke to NPR about the message they want to send to Black communities. “Governor Kemp in Georgia and other governors made the de-
cision that they would begin to reopen their states,” said Ifill, president and director-counsel of the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund. “We saw, of course, last week that even Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves reversed himself as the numbers began to rise in Mississippi. But a number of governors, including in Florida and Georgia, have insisted on reopening. “This has become a kind of savage and feral contest between politics and public health, and African Americans are caught in the middle,” she said, adding that such decisions are life-or-death matters for many African Americans who face everyday health disparities and underlying health conditions. Ifill said she believes the safety of African Americans during this pandemic is a civil rights issue and urges them to stay home. “We regard this pandemic as a grave threat to the health and life of our people, and as a threat to the integrity and vitality of the communities we are privileged to serve,” she said. “For these reasons, we encourage all Black churches and businesses to remain closed during this critical period.” WI
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Washington Gas – Assisting Our Customers Continues during the COVID-19 Pandemic Submitted by Washington Gas As the country continues to navigate the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, at Washington Gas, we recognize the impact the public health crisis is presenting to our customers, neighbors and community. During these challenging times, we want to assure you that we are there for you every step of the way to provide support and remove any added stress that comes with this uncertainty. As an essential service provider, our work continues so that you can use natural gas an energy source for your daily needs. That means we continue to perform essential system maintenance and construction in the community where needed. Our crews practice precautionary safety protocol such as safe social distancing of at least 6 feet when conducting work onsite. We commit to maintaining the highest standard of safety, so we can deliver energy reliably to you at all times. We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we work through this, together. We’ve called the DC region home since our founding more than 171 years ago and have been here through the good and the bad. We are dedicated to continuing to provide support, assistance and reliable service as we face this unprecedented time, all while looking out for each other. Together we stand to emerge even stronger. Important reminders and information for our customers
DISCONNECTIONS SUSPENDED AND LATE FEES WAIVED
Washington Gas is suspending disconnections and waiving late fees on customer bills until we get past this crisis. These actions are automatically in place and do not need to be requested.
WALK-IN OFFICES CLOSED
Please note that our Walk-in offices on H Street and in Anacostia will remain closed during this public health emergency.
CALLING US – HELP US TO SERVE YOU
Customer service remains a priority at Washington Gas, but the COVID-19 crisis is requiring us to make some adjustments. Customers may experience longer than normal hold times, so we ask that you only call us if absolutely necessary. In addition, we are currently prioritizing our service orders and focusing on: responding to emergency calls and service turn-on requests. We are deferring routine service visits at this time.
EMERGENCY CALLS – AVAILABLE 24 HOURS A DAY/7 DAYS A WEEK
We remain available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to respond to emergency calls. If you think you smell gas or are experiencing a natural gas-related emergency, please call 911 and then call us at 1-844-WASHGAS (927-4427).
MANAGING YOUR ACCOUNT AND PAYING YOUR BILL ONLINE IS QUICK AND EASY
Most billing-related inquiries can be managed online at www.washingtongas.com/ebill where you can easily pay your bill and access the latest information on your account and view the latest updates 24/7. We encourage all customers to sign up for our free, E-bill service, which is also accessible at www.eservice. washgas.com.
ADDITIONAL PAYMENT OPTIONS AND PAYMENT ASSISTANCE
While disconnections are currently suspended and late fees waived, we are aware that you may be concerned about the future and
the possibility of a large bill. We offer several payment arrangements designed to meet your needs.
IN-PERSON PAYMENT AVAILABLE AT 7-ELEVEN
• You can make quick and easy cash payments at any local 7-Eleven store. There is no charge for this payment option.
TELEPHONE PAYMENT OPTION
• By phone 844-WASHGAS (844-927-4427) using your checking account information or debit / credit card free of charge.
PAYMENT ASSISTANCE
If you or someone you know reside in the District of Columbia and are having difficulty paying a natural gas bill, please contact the Department of Energy & Environment (DOEE) at 311 or online to determine eligibility for the following programs. Although eligibility for most programs depends on household size and total household income, other factors may apply depending on the program. If you reside in Prince George’s County and require assistance paying your natural gas bill, please call the Prince George’s County Department of Social Services at 301-909-7000.
WAFF
Washington Gas and The Salvation Army created the Washington Area Fuel Fund (WAFF) to help families in need pay their heating bills. Utility assistance is available regardless of the type of fuel used to heat a home. That means residents do not have to be customers to receive assistance and, in general, a family of four earning up to $75,050 could be eligible. Anyone seeking to receive funds from WAFF can fill out the application at http://salvationarmynca.org/ gethelp/ through May 31.
WORK CONTINUES TO IMPROVE OUR COMMUNITIES
While COVID disrupts our daily lives, Washington Gas is still working to ensure the safety and reliability of our system with the work of PROJECTpipes, our 40-year plan to upgrade, enhance and modernize infrastructure in Washington, D.C. YOU MAY SEE US WORKING IN YOUR AREA Construction crews are following safety protocols during construction. For everyone’s safety, we practice social distancing. Please stay 6 feet away. Our schedule is dependent on the weather, our ability to access customers’ property to complete our work, and other circumstances beyond our control. However, we will not be entering customers’ homes to complete regular PROJECTpipes activities during the state of emergency. For more information, call the PROJECTpipes Hotline at 844-WASHGAS (927-4427) or email PROJECT_pipes@washgas.com
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LIFESTYLE Kenyan Health Professionals Threaten Strike Amid COVID-19 By Maureen Ojiambo Urban News Service Health care workers in Kenya are set to strike if the government does not increase compensation and give COVID-19 workers protective gear. “Front-line health care workers should be provided health insurance and treated equitably,” said Seth Panyakoo, secretary-general of the Kenya National Union of Nurses. In a joint press conference last week, the Kenya Union of Clinical Officers, Kenya National Union of Nurses, Kenya National Union of
Medical Laboratory Officers, and the Kenya National Union Pharmaceutical Technologist announced all nurses, laboratory practitioners, clinical officers and pharmacists would stay home “if the Ministry of Health would not ensure harmony, equity and the principal of equal pay for work of equal value as provided in the employment act.” The Kenya Health Professional Society issued a seven-day industrial strike notice if the government of Kenya does not improve compensation and protection for COVID-19 health care workers.
In addition to lacking personal protective equipment, health care workers cite unequal compensation as part of the problem. Wages vary among the state-run providers, many health care workers do not receive health insurance, and a special risk allowance for COVID-19 workers has been inequitably distributed, which has ranged from $30 to $200. Health care workers have asked for equity “in vain,” said the unions, who also insist those health care workers especially trained to serve on the front line of the COVID-19 pandemic. Even heading to work is a problem as health care workers are frequently harassed between home and work. “Most health officers are being harassed by the police during curfew time, either when leaving for work or going home,” said George Gibore, secretary-general of Kenya’s National Union of Clinical Officers. “The scarcity of public transport during the pandemic has put most health workers at risk and unnecessary expense.” The unions conducted a survey the first week of April, which showed most health care workers face transportation challenges as well as fear of unwittingly trans-
mitting the virus to their families. “We have done the analysis,” Gibore said. “We know health care workers are at a higher risk than any other person.” To mitigate harassment, some health care workers — but not all — receive a “commuter allowance” to subsidize transportation. The unions have requested a consistent payment as part of their demands to avoid a strike. “Within seven days, if this issue will not be addressed, we will be back here to announce a nationwide strike,” Panyakoo said. “We will no longer sit back and see others enjoy the privileges given to the labor movement while health care workers are suffering.” The potential strike comes when the government is in dire need of health care workers, a challenge named by the World Health Organization as “a critical shortage.” Statistically the country has one doctor for every 10,000 people, but the majority of those doctors work in the exclusive private care system. Most Kenyans use the public health care system, which in the past has been plagued by corruption, misappropriation of funds, and strikes due to poor working conditions.
Kenya reported 16 new positive cases for COVID-19 on Friday, raising the total number of cases to 336 and 14 deaths, said Health Chief Administrative Secretary Rashid Amani in a press conference. More than 20 patients are health care workers. The new patients were among 945 tested in 12 counties over a 24-hour period. The government imposed a dusk to dawn curfew in the most affected and populated counties, including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kwale and Kilifi. Movement between counties is prohibited until further notice. “The government may not win the war against COVID-19 if it does not take into consideration the heath workers’ affairs,” said Mohammed Duba, chair of the Kenya Health Professionals Society. Kenya’s Ministry of Health has refuted claims that health care workers do not have enough personal protective equipment, said after reports emerged of health care workers placed into quarantine after coming in contact with COVID-19 patients The first case of COVID-19 was confirmed in Kenya on March 13. A total of 16,738 tests have been conducted. WI
5 Kenyan healthcare workers demand better pay and benefits amidst COVID-19 on April 24. They say that if conditions are not met within a week, they are prepared to hold a strike. (Photo by Maureen Ojiambo / Zenger)
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LIFESTYLE
Streaming Films Eligible for Oscars for This Year Only By Sarafina Wright WI Contributing Writer Films that debuted on streaming services instead of movie theaters due to the coronavirus pandemic will be eligible for the Oscars for this year only. The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences announced last week that the change for the 93rd Academy Awards represents the impact of the pandemic on the film industry. “The Academy firmly believes there is no greater way to experience the magic of movies than to see them in a theater. Our commitment to that is unchanged and unwavering,” said Academy President David Rubin and CEO Dawn Hudson. “Nonetheless, the historic tragic COVID-19 pandemic necessitates this temporary exception to our awards
eligibility rules. The Academy supports our members and colleagues during this time of uncertainty.” Traditionally for films to be eligible for an Oscar they have to have a theatrical run in Los Angeles County of at least seven consecutive days, where screenings must occur at least three times a day. Now, films that had a previously planned theatrical release but instead went straight to an on-demand service, such as Universal’s “Trolls World Tour,” may qualify for best picture and other categories. This also includes films slated to be shown at film festivals that were canceled. Some movie studios didn’t take the streaming services route, opting instead to postpone the release of new films such as “Mulan” and “Fast and Furious 9.”
5 And the winner is... (Photo courtesy of Todd Wawrychuk / ©A.M.P.A.S.)
When movie theaters open again the Academy says it will expand its qualifying theaters beyond Los Angeles County to include California’s Bay Area, New York City, Chicago, Miami and Atlanta. “We’ll be flexible on our rules this year because we understand how unprecedented and devastat-
ing this is,” Hudson said. The Academy is making other changes as well. They will condense the sound editing and sound mixing categories into one and prohibit DVD screeners for 2022’s 94th Oscars in an effort to become more carbon-neutral. “Our primary message is take
care of yourselves,” Hudson said. “We recognize the importance of their work being seen and also celebrated, especially now, when audiences appreciate movies more than ever.” The 93rd Oscars is scheduled to air Sunday, Feb. 28 on ABC. WI
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MAY 7 - 13, 2020 33
LIFESTYLE
‘The Banker’ Offers Inspiring True Story With Great Performances By Jacob Smith Urban News Service
The true story of two Black entrepreneurs drives “The Banker,” an inspiring story of rising above limitations to succeed in America. In one of the strongest performances of his career, Anthony Mackie plays Bernard Garrett, who showed great promise as a businessman in the 1960s but had to overcome Jim Crow to make it out of a small town in Texas. Garrett moves to California and meets seedy-but-successful entrepreneur Joe Morris, played by Samuel L. Jackson. Together they come up with a plan to conquer Los Angeles real estate. The duo hires working-class white man Matt Steiner, played by Nicholas Hoult in another strong performance, to pretend to be the head of their business so they can get their feet in the door of the biggest real estate and banking business empires in town.
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The first half of the film focuses on Garrett’s rise, culminating in a witty and clever plot to overtake the biggest building in L.A.: the home of the bank that refuses to see him. Much like Garrett, Steiner comes from humble beginnings and as the white face of a Blackowned business quickly adapts to the world of finance. His ambitions, though, become the entire operation’s downfall. Things go well until they catch the attention of the federal government, which accuses them of fraud. The three leads carry this compelling real-life drama. Mackie puts his soul into portraying Garrett, drawing on his own plight and success. Samuel L. Jackson gets by on charisma alone, but makes a good wingman for Mackie without upstaging him. The film loses direction when the action shifts back to Texas. Unsatisfied by dominating the real
estate scene in Los Angeles, Garrett wants to take over banks that don’t lend to Black people in his hometown. The move proves to be too much for Garrett to handle, becoming a story within the story. The Fair Housing Act of 1968, which banned discrimination in selling and renting real estate, is mentioned, but not explained in enough detail considering its importance in the story’s arc. And the film’s second act includes a distracting shift in tone as the capitalist pursuit of wealth becomes a self-righteous chase for social justice. As Garrett’s character develops, the script establishes he is too smart for the mistakes he made. Pride becomes his enemy, and the Act II changes nearly knock the film off track. Fortunately, “The Banker” overcomes adversity by not letting its faults overshadow its strengths: sharp costume design, crisp cinematography, great set
5 Samuel L. Jackson (center) leads a star-studded cast in ‘The Banker.’ (Photo courtesy Apple TV)
design and stellar acting. Business and finance majors will have a ball with this story, which show the importance of capitalism and wealth management with strong storytelling and conviction. The cast carries the compelling real-life drama, which illustrates — and could inspire lower- and middle-class viewers to think about — the power of
wealth and how to obtain it. One of the most provocative films of the early film season, “The Banker” is a perfect pick for the age of quarantine entertainment. It’s currently available on the Apple TV+ streaming service. If you ever want the motivation to look at your life and do better, this is the film for you. WI
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LIFESTYLE
wi book review “When We Do Harm: A Doctor Confronts Medical Error” By Danielle Ofri, M.D. c.2020, Beacon Press $26.95 272 pages
By Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer You felt wonderful. Never better. In the peak of health, fit as a fiddle — until you weren’t. Then you were achy, miserable, feverish, nauseous. Blame a virus, but is that the case? Or, as in the new book “When We Do Harm” by Danielle Ofri, is modern medicine the culprit? In 1999, the Institute of Medicine released a shocking report claiming that up to 98,000 patients die each year in the U.S. from medical errors. Wondering if that’s high, low, or spot-on, Ofri, a physician at New York’s Bellevue Hospital, decided to “get to the bottom of this.” To begin: how do mistakes happen in the first place? “Sicker patients have many more treatments … than the average person,” she says, and “the sheer number of moving parts … nearly guarantees that there’ll be at least one thing … that doesn’t go as planned.” Electronic medical record-keeping can be a reason for mistakes. If medical personnel are not given ample time to think, simple human error can cause missteps. Being too careful and experiencing alarm fatigue can both be surprisingly large problems. Diagnostic tests can give wrong answers or yield too much information; short-staffing can be a big issue; and racism happens, even if someone has no outward bias. But, there’s good news: nurses are empowered now more than ever before, as are patients. Instituting checklists has also helped in many places, such as operating rooms. Interns and residents are no longer required to work long hours with no sleep, and medical knowledge gets better every day. So what can the average patient do to lessen the chances of being on the wrong side of an error? Pay attention to your nurses, says Ofri; they are frontline personnel. Know your medical history. Demand your doctor’s undivided attention at medical appointments, and know what questions to ask. Bring someone with you, if you can. And look overseas at Denmark — they have one key thing figured out. Admit it: at some time in the past weeks, the thought of illness has entered your mind a time or two. This book will give you a lot more to think about. Don’t think that “When We Do Harm” is a lot of blame-passing, though. By considering all possibilities and holding a mistake of her own up for examination and castigation throughout this book, author Danielle Ofri offers not excuses but reasons for why things go wrong in a medical setting, which could help medically-minded readers to feel better and do better. Don’t rest, either: later chapters dive back into reality by discussing the elephant in the room, which is the possibility of malpractice lawsuits. These two sides balance this book nicely, even before further underscoring drives home the points Ofri makes as she shares two major, dry-mouthed and heartbreaking story-arcs that are illustrative, impactful, relevant and downright painful. Not just for medical personnel, “When We Do Harm” is accessible for anyone who is or has ever been a patient. It’s neutral, thoughtful, insightful, it reads like a thriller that’s narrated, and that’s pretty wonderful. WI
horoscopes
MAY 7 - 13, 2020
ARIES You may need to request a payment, or you might be negotiating the salary for a future job. You’re particularly clearheaded now, so don’t miss out this positive energy! It’s the perfect time to state your case and arrange for the best amount. Even if you don’t have a meeting, this energy is good for planning what you want to say and for rehearsing your pitch. Lucky Numbers: 2, 16, 23 TAURUS Time to get more schooling? You may feel you are not knowledgeable about a topic at work. It’s also possible that a specific job you’re considering may exceed your knowledge base. Don’t panic! It’s not time to run back to school. Lucky Numbers: 3, 6, 7 GEMINI It’s time to figure out what you want and where your passions lie. Let go of the expectations of parents and society. Over the next few months, remember what you wanted to do when you were younger. Ask yourself what you would do if money wasn’t involved. Think about what you would do if you knew you could not fail. These are the questions to begin your search for answers. Lucky Numbers: 15, 25, 52 CANCER The world is spinning too fast. Meditate today on how to skip steps to get where you want to be. You might be a little blind to how much others love you. Use the energy to sit down and have a frank discussion about what you want, what your partner wants and how you can make each other feel loved. Lucky Numbers: 14, 16, 23 LEO There is an emphasis on your finances this week and the need to differentiate between wishful thinking and realistic optimism. Good financial opportunities are coming, but if you’re in a dreamlike state you can miss them. There is an opportunity to be noticed by a supervisor or person of authority. Yet there is the temptation to be invisible. This is an excellent aspect for recognition, but the person has to see you to bestow it on you. Don’t make it too hard for others to give you applause. Lucky Numbers: 2, 15, 22 VIRGO You have the power to change a small thing to give yourself big results in the future. If you write 100 words a day you could write a book within the year. If you spend 30 minutes a day drawing in the year, you would have an amazing portfolio. Eat 100 calories less per day and at the end of the year, you would be 10 pounds lighter. Make a small change today for a big difference in the future. Lucky Numbers: 3, 5, 18 LIBRA You may be considering refinancing your house or obtaining a consolidation loan to reduce debt. This aspect is good for concentrating on difficult tasks such as wading through the terms and conditions of the contract. Mercury and Pluto offer you the power to negotiate and get what you want. You can focus on a single issue and no one can dissuade you. Lucky Numbers: 11, 30, 31 SCORPIO What’s happening at home? It’s possible your landlord has some new house rules. For those Scorpios who own a house, you might be refinancing or renovating the house at this time. This aspect can be irritating as things don’t go smoothly without paying close attention. This is not something you can delegate. Get involved. Lucky Numbers: 9, 19, 51 SAGITTARIUS Today you can focus on difficult things, excavating into records to uncover issues and finding discrepancies. This is a good day to create a written budget—one you can really stick to. This aspect is about focus and ambition but it’s important to recognize it is your daily habits that take you from where you are now to where you want to be. Today you have the ability to create a system for success. Lucky Numbers: 23, 29, 46 CAPRICORN You are likely to have an epiphany to help you understand yourself better come May 9. Mercury angles toward Pluto in your house of self-confidence. This is a powerful aspect for confidence and certainty of your abilities. Your mind is focused and clear. You see the motivations of others and how things are connected. You may see the outcome before it happens. Don’t rush through today, pause to look at the world and give it some thought. You will receive hidden messages of what’s to come for you in your future. Lucky Numbers: 2, 15, 26 AQUARIUS It’s time to give yourself a break. Step back and allow yourself a day where you do the things you want to do. Practice self-care. Explore your feelings about those in your life and about the direction you’re going. This is a good day to do a little magic, feng shui, or meditation. Light a candle and make a wish. Explore automatic writing or practice some psychic self-defense. Lucky Numbers: 4, 30, 41 PISCES If you’re looking for a new job or have been negotiating a promotion, now is the time to firm up the agreement. Don’t hesitate to ask for what you want. This is a powerful aspect allowing you to spot problems and negotiate through issues. Your ability to concentrate is strong and you are able to whittle things down to what is most important. This is a day you can persuade others. Lucky Numbers: 10, 14, 26
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MAY 7 - 13, 2020 35
SPORTS For more photos, visit www.washingtoninformer.com
Get Ready for the Antonio Dynamic Duo in Washington By Daniel Kucin Jr. WI Contributing Writer @danielkucin88 When asked if he would like to be referred to as a wide receiver or running back, Washington Redskins third-round pick and former Memphis University playmaker Antonio Gibson had a candid, straightforward response. “I want to be referred to as a weapon,” Gibson said. The No. 66 overall pick of the 2020 NFL draft obviously does not lack confidence, similar to Liberty University fourth-round pick Antonio Gandy-Golden (142 overall), who went to a smaller NCAA Division I FBS school. “I definitely feel like I have had somewhat of a chip on my shoulder,” Gandy-Golden said. “The small school thing comes up a lot with me for some reason, even though I have produced. I just felt like I need to get my name as far as that goes. But I plan on coming into the league and playing right away, at least getting into the game and showing exactly what I can do. Whether it be at receiver or anything else.”
“I want to be referred to as a weapon.” For Gibson, he had to tough it out for two years at East Central Community College in Decatur, Mississippi, before garnering the attention of Memphis. In comparison, Gandy-Golden did not go to an NCAA football powerhouse, being only the eighth player drafted in the school’s history. “Basically, I could overcome anything I feel like,” Gibson said about transferring from community college to Memphis. “If you know about the JUCO route, it’s pretty tough. I’ve seen a lot of great athletes come and go. I mean to like, coming in and, like, gone in a week. I remember one, I won’t say his name, but he came in and simply because he was, like, ‘I miss my mom, I’m homesick.’ “So it’s pretty tough out there, so I’ve learned from myself that I can overcome anything, just need the right mindset,” he said. Gibson powered through the adversity, though, and was named to the MACJC First Team All-State South Offense in JUCO before playing for the Tigers. During his senior year at Memphis, the 6-2, 221-pound wideout had 38 receptions for 735 yards
receiving for eight touchdowns and rushed for 369 yards and four touchdowns on the ground. He averaged a whopping 19.3 yards per reception and 11.2 yards per carry. The selection of Gibson marks the second-highest draft pick from Memphis, trailing only behind former running back Richard Williams, who was drafted at No. 56 in 1983. Though their routes to the NFL were not the most conventional, the two offensive threats cannot wait for second-year quarterback Dwayne Haskins to throw them the rock. The young gunslinger will now have two players with unique and versatile skillsets to build off his strong finish last season. As for Gandy-Golden, he finished his career appearing in 45 games with 240 receptions for 3,814 yards and 33 touchdowns at Liberty. He
was one of the most productive receivers in the country last season, totaling 79 receptions for 1,396 yards (17.7 avg.) and 10 touchdowns. Both players share the same name, style of play, versatility, confidence, consistency and tenacity as they look to also share their success together. “I have definitely talked to [Gibson] a good bit,” Gandy-Golden said. “We became pretty close at the combine I would say just from being so close with each other with everything we did. I was 17, and he was 18. It was kind of necessary, just to reach out and congratulate each other after the fact. And just voice how excited we are to be on the same team together.” WI
4 Dwayne Haskins, Washington Redskins second-year quarterback, will have two new unique and dynamic players to throw the ball to this upcoming season. (Daniel Kucin Jr./The Washington Informer)
36 - MAY 7 - 13, 2020
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SPORTS
Redskins Sign Moss, Add Depth with Undrafted Free Agents By Daniel Kucin Jr. WI Contributing Writer @danielkucin88 The Washington Redskins left no stone unturned in the wake of the 2020 NFL draft, recently signing some notable undrafted free agents. Washington agreed to terms with Louisiana State University tight end Thaddeus Moss, University of Colorado quarterback Steven Montez, Temple University wide receiver Isaiah Wright and University of Missouri wide receiver Johnathon Johnson, adding depth to a strong draft class. Moss, son of former Minnesota Vikings star and Hall of Fame wide receiver Randy Moss, was one of the most talked-about offseason acquisitions. There are only three other tight ends on the current depth chart after the team released Jordan Reed and Vernon Davis retired. Between Jeremy Sprinkle, Logan Thomas and Richard Rodgers, they all have only caught 189 receptions for 1,785 yards and 18 touchdowns in their respective NFL careers collectively so far, the bulk coming from Rodgers, who is
entering his seventh season in the league. Moss, a 6-foot-3, 249-pound standout, corralled 47 receptions for 570 yards and four touchdowns last season while averaging more than 12 yards per catch. In LSU’s 42-25 win in the BCS championship game over Clemson, Moss had five receptions for 36 yards and two touchdowns. “This isn’t an underdog story,” Moss said in a Twitter statement after signing as an unrestricted free agent. Montez had an impressive collegiate career for the Buffaloes, completing 824 passes for 9,710 yards while throwing 63 touchdowns and 33 interceptions. The 6-5, 235-pound quarterback will add depth behind second-year quarterback Dwayne Haskins and newcomer Kyle Allen, who was acquired from the Carolina Panthers this offseason. However, one draft analyst sees him as a project player moving forward. “Montez has good size with decent arm talent and mobility but has failed to take steps forward as a three-year starter,” said NFL analyst Lance Zierlein. “He’s slow to get through progressions and
doesn’t filter through coverages well enough to craft sustainable passing plans. Teams may see him as a developmental prospect based upon physical traits. Still, his interceptions were mostly easy takeaways, and that doesn’t figure to improve against faster talent on the back end.” Wright, a 6-2, 220-pound receiver, played four seasons at Temple and accounted for 134 receptions for 1,552 yards and 12 touchdowns. His best statistical season came during his sophomore year when he hauled in 46 balls for 668 yards and four touchdowns. “Big slot receiver with desired size and athletic ability but lacking speed and consistency of play,” Zierlein noted in Wright’s draft profile. “While he is talented with the ball in his hands both after the catch and as a return specialist, he lacks sharp route-running, and overall separation burst to uncover consistently against man coverage.” Johnson registered 153 receptions for 2,190 yards and 13 touchdowns while rushing for 135 yards on seven attempts during his stint with the Tigers in the competitive Southeastern Conference (SEC). WI
5 The Washington Redskins have signed Thaddeus Moss, son of Hall of Fame wide receiver Randy Moss (pictured). (Daniel Kucin Jr./The Washington Informer)
NCAA Moves Toward Allowing Pay for Athletes By Sarafina Wright WI Contributing Writer The NCAA has moved closer to allowing student-athletes to profit from endorsement deals, business ventures, personal appearances and social media concerning their names, images and likenesses. The support for the rule change came Wednesday, April 29 at a meeting of the NCAA’s board of governors, which backed compensating athletes for sports- and non-sports-related activities, but made clear that no university or college should pay student-athletes for their participation. “As we evolve, the [NCAA] will continue to identify the guardrails to further support student-athletes within the context of college sports and higher education,” said Val Ackerman, commissioner of the Big
East and working group co-chair. “In addition, we are mindful of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on higher education, college sports and students at large. We hope that modernized name, image and likeness rules will further assist college athletes during these unprecedented times and beyond.” The NCAA appointed a group six months ago to figure out how to give student-athletes a chance to make money while also maintaining a distinction between college sports and professional leagues, according to an ESPN report. The recommendations made by the group include allowing athletes to make money from advertisements, allowing them to hire agents, and requiring athletes to disclose the details of all endorsement contracts to their athletic department. The board’s recommended chang-
es will now move to the rules-making structure in each of the NCAA’s three divisions for further consideration. The divisions are expected to adopt new rules concerning name, image and likeness rules by January that would take effect at the start of the 2021-22 academic year. The significant step towards compensation for student-athletes comes after decades of debate about whether revenue-generating college athletes should receive pay. Michael V. Drake, chair of the board and president of Ohio State, said he supports allowing promotions and third-party endorsements for athletes but admitted such a move is uncharted territory. However, critics such as former NCAA players and groups representing college athletes say the NCAA is late to its own party and they doubt it will truly put athletes’ interests first.
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Jay Williams, an ESPN analyst who won a basketball national championship with Duke in 2001, said the NCAA’s change of heart isn’t out of kindness, but a response to the NBA’s new G League pathway program that allows top high school prospects to skip college and make money immediately before eventually landing in the NBA. “Now we see the NCAA say we’re trying to expedite name, image and likeness, but that’s what it should’ve have been five years ago. They are just behind the 8-ball once again,” Williams said. In September, California passed its “Fair Pay to Play” law, which prohibits punishment for college athletes who accept endorsement money from a third party using their likeness. California’s law is set to go in effect in 2023. Several other states have put forth similar legislation.
Ramogi Huma, a noted NCAA critic and founder of The National College Players Association, believes the push by the NCAA has been prompted by politicians who have created state laws challenging the current rules, ESPN reported. Huma said he’s helping various states draft legislation and speaking with members of Congress about the issue. He said he believes most states will continue with their legislative efforts no matter what the NCAA proposes. “I think most are going to continue full-steam ahead,” Huma told ESPN. “Even if the NCAA does everything that advocates want, states will still move forward to make sure it’s cemented in law and to make sure the NCAA can’t go back on things or leave any gray areas to interpret later. “This is a make-or-break moment for the NCAA,” he said. “Time is running out. On the state level, they’re going to move forward.” WI
MAY 7 - 13, 2020 37
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38 - MAY 7 - 13, 2020
TESTING from Page 1 By the time Mighty, accompanied by HU President Dr. Wayne A.I. Frederick and Lawrence Di Rita of Bank of America’s Greater Washington regional office, commemorated the testing center’s launch on Tuesday, all spaces for that day had been booked. “This is the perfect place to come. It allows us to bring the test here rather than have people come to the other side of the river,” Mighty added. “People are embracing it.” “Howard has been in the community for more than 100 years. This is to remind folks that we care about their health,” said Mighty, also HU’s vice president of clinical affairs. The testing center launch, which follows HU’s facilitation of telehealth services for patients dealing with other chronic ailments, comes amid reports from the DC Department of Health that African-American District residents, particularly those living in Wards 7 and 8, have counted among a significant portion of positive coronavirus cases and deaths. HU officials said half of positive coronavirus cases at the hospital since the start of the pandemic came from Wards 7 and 8. Addi-
LEARNING from Page 1 missing months of needed in-person education and services. Since schools began online learning, it’s not been so easy for Elyse while her mother serves as her primary instructor. For Elyse, and students like her, virtual programs don’t easily replace the in-person lessons at brick-and-mortar schools. As a former teacher, Purdham is aware of the challenges the pandemic has brought to personalized special education. “My experience has been that the disruption to my daughter’s daily routines, including school routines, has been upsetting for my daughter on a certain level,” Purdham said. “On the one hand, she is enjoying more family time. My husband has been working from home, and as I already work from home, we are now all together. “On the other hand, trying to parent [and] educate three kids at different levels while trying to work has been challenging, and kids pick up on their parents’ stress,” she said. Although the coursework may not always be hard, simply navigating through the multiple menus of the online platform, finding assignments, up-
5 Pictured L to R: Dr. Hugh E. Mighty, dean of College of Medicine; Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick, president of Howard University; and Larry Di Rita, Greater Washington, D.C. Market President, Bank of America, at the new Ward 7 testing site. (Photo courtesy Howard University)
tionally, figures released on Monday night showed that east of the Anacostia River accounted for nearly 30 percent of infections and more than 35 percent of the over 250 deaths reported by health officials. Frederick told The Informer that Howard University, as an historically-significant institution of higher learning and producer of top-notch future medical professionals, must play a key role in filling the gap in COVID-19 testing and contact tracing. “It’s important to find out who
has the coronavirus in Wards 7 and 8 and assist them with everything from self-quarantine to getting to other people who have been exposed,” he said. “The facility that we have set up here has been one of those investments. When I came back in the fall for my eye exam, I heard some of the people in the waiting room being grateful for not having to go to the other part of the city.” “That’s ultimately what the investment has to be. We should be in the business of wellness,” Frederick said. WI
loading completed work, and submitting items through an app can be quite exasperating, said Lisa Collum, CEO of Top Score Writing, an online learning system that makes teaching writing easier, accelerates student learning and increases writing test scores on average. “For many of our students, especially those with learning exceptionalities, their need for one-on-one learning still exists,” Collum said. “There are various online resources available for teachers to use that can help provide this oneon-one experience for the students who need it.” Jason Kahn, a child development expert, co-founded Mightier, which is dedicated to helping children with special needs develop social and emotional skills. “It is true that the most vulnerable children have been hit disproportionately hard by school closures,” Khan said. “Students often have an array of special and general education supports and are often in inclusive environments where they can count on not only the supports of highly-trained adults but also their peers.” Some solutions Khan offers parents are recognizing that children are going to mirror adults emotionally, and that right
now is a particularly challenging time. “Parents should not take on extra stress to try to make a perfect environment for their child, as that could backfire,” Khan said. “Rather, families need to prioritize what works in their household.” It’s also essential to understand the supports that schools have put in place, and it’s vital to give children space to ask questions, he added. “Everyone is processing the pandemic and shutdowns in different ways,” Khan said. “By giving your child a space to talk about it and letting them know it’s OK to talk about it, you’ll learn what is important to your child and how they are approaching the situation.” For Purdham, each day has proven a chance for more learning. She and Elyse even created a video on Facebook Live to introduce beginner-level French to her peers. “My daughter appreciated the individual attention and was, therefore, more onboard with participating,” Purdham said. “Every day is a new chance for more learning, so don’t beat yourself up if a day goes by and you get nothing accomplished. We are all doing the best we can.” WI
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RELIGION the religion corner WITH LYNDIA GRANT
My People Perish for the Lack of Knowledge, Pt. 4
For the past few weeks, I have shared with you how African Americans who suffer with type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity and heart conditions are most affected by the worldwide coronavirus pandemic. Why? The deaths have occurred because their bodies were weak and couldn’t fight. In contrast, those who are eating proper items such green leafy vegetables, adding exercise to their regimen and cutting out most of their carbohydrates and sweets have much better results. My family’s struggle with type 2 diabetes, and how we suffered the great loss of our mother, Fannie Estelle Hill Grant, in such a horrific manner, was due to our lack of knowledge. Mother only lived 12 years after her diagnosis. For new readers, here is the short version of her story. She lost both legs and was extremely sad and depressed! Who wouldn’t be? Mother underwent kidney dialysis, had high blood pressure and suffered seven strokes. She was only 61 when she had her first major stroke, which resulted in paralysis. She lived 12
more years, dying at age 73. There is an excellent quote from Edward Stanley: “Those who think they have no time for healthy eating will sooner or later have to find time for illness.” And in Scripture, 3rd John 1:2, it says “Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.” Let’s take a look at some wellknown Blacks who died from complications of type 2 diabetes: - Norman Whitfield, a songwriter, producer and chief architect of the Motown Records sound in the ‘60s and ‘70s, died in Los Angeles in 2008 at age 67. He had recently emerged from a coma, which occurs when one is eating all of the wrong foods and drinking highcarb, super-sweet drinks. - Vernita Lee, mother of Oprah Winfrey, died on Thanksgiving Day in 2018. - “Touched by an Angel” star Della Reese died in 2017 at age 86. She once guested on my radio show to remind folks to change their eating habits and exercise, but it was too late by the time she learned what to do herself. Type 2 diabetes gives equal opportunities. It is not about financial status, but it is about diet and exercise. Dr. Griffin Rodgers of the Na-
Mt. Zion Baptist Church
tional Institutes of Health once told me during an interview, “Our genetic makeup says a lot about what we are likely to become. Risks vary, depending on our two parents; you inherit half of your genes from one parent and half from the other. It could be that susceptibility gene, you may have been lucky to not inherit. Our environment and diet have much to do with it. NIH studies we’ve funded, determines our environment begins in utero. The infant born to that mother when they have diabetes is more likely to develop diabetes later in life than an infant born to that same mother who was not affected by gestational diabetes. “A good prescription is exercise and maintaining your weight at a level that your doctor approves,” he said. It may not be our fault when it is in our genes, but when it isn’t discussed very much, you don’t have a chance, which is why I promised to tell this story for life. Rodgers concluded by saying, “A good prescription is, one, get checked early and regularly; two, learn how to eat properly when you discover you are a candidate; and three, exercise and lose weight. You will save yourself and your loved ones from experiencing a life filled with pain, unnecessary suffering and regrets!” WI
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Mount Olivet Lutheran Church
Reverend John W. Davis Pastor
Service and Times Sunday Worship Service - 8:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Children’s Church - 11:00 a.m. (1st & 3rd Sundays) Communion - 10 a.m. 4th Sunday Sunday School - 9:15 a.m. (4th Sunday 8:15 a.m.) Prayer Meeting & Bible Study - Wednesday 7:00 p.m.
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Service and Times Divine Worship, Sunday 10:00 a.m. Communion 1st and 3rd Sunday “Friendliest Church in the City” Website: mountolivetdc.org Email: mtolivedc@gmail.com
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MAY 7 - 13, 2020 39
RELIGION The Miracle Center of Faith Missionary Baptist Church
Pilgrim Baptist Church
Bishop Michael C. Turner, Sr. Senior Pastor
Rev. Louis B. Jones II Pastor
9161 Hampton Overlook Capitol Heights, MD 20743 Phone: 301-350-2200 / Fax: 301-499-8724
700 I Street, N.E. Washington, D.C. 20002 (202) 547-8849
Service and Times Sunday Worship Times : 7:30 AM 7 10:00 AM Communion: 1st Sunday Sunday School: 9:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday, 12 Noon Bible Study in homes: Tuesday 7:00 PM Website: www.themiraclecenterFMBC.com Email: Miraclecenterfmbs@gmail.com Motto: “We Walk by Faith, Not by Sight”
Blessed Word of Life Church
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
Church of Living Waters
Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church
Rev. Paul Carrette Senior Pastor Harold Andrew Assistant Pastor 4915 Wheeler Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 301-894-6464 Service and Times Sunday Service: 8:30am& 11:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM Communion Service: First Sunday www.livingwatersmd.org
St. Stephen Baptist Church
Rev. Dr. Michael E. Bell, Sr., / Pastor 2498 Alabama Ave., SE - Washington D.C. 20020 Office: (202) 889-7296 / Fax: (202) 889-2198 - www.acamec.org Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 8:00am and 11:00 AM Sunday Church School - 9:15am & Sunday Adult Forum Bible Study - 10:30 AM 2nd & 4th Monday Women’s Bible Study: 6:30 PM Tuesday Jr./Sr. Bible Study: 10:00 AM Tuesday Topical Bible Study: 6:30 PM Tuesday New Beginnings Bible Study: 6:30 PM Wednesday Pastoral Bible Study: 6:30 PM Wednesday Children’s Bible Study: 6:30 PM Thursday Men’s Bible Study: 6:30 PM Friday before 1st Sunday Praise & Worship Service: 6:30 PM Saturday Adult Bible Study: 10:00 AM “The Amazing, Awesome, Audacious Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church”
Third Street Church of God
Dr. Dekontee L. & Dr. Ayele A. Johnson Pastors
Rev. Dr. Alice Greene Interim Pastor
Bishop Lanier C. Twyman, Sr. Senior Pastor
Rev. Cheryl J. Sanders, Th.D. Senior Pastor
4001 14th Street, NW Washington, DC 20011 (202) 265-6147 Office 1-800 576-1047 Voicemail/Fax
3845 South Capitol Street Washington, DC 20032 (202) 562-5576 (Office) / (202) 562-4219 (Fax)
5757 Temple Hill Road, Temple Hills, MD 20748 Office 301-899-8885 – fax 301-899-2555 Services and Times Sunday Early Morning Worship: 7:45 AM Church School: 9:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship: 10:45 AM Tuesday: 7:00pm/Kingdom Building Bible Institute Wednesday , 12:30 PM Mid-Day Bible Study Wednesday: Prayer/Praise/Bible Study-7:30 PM Baptism & Communion Service: 4th Sunday – 10:30 AM
1204 Third Street, NW Washington, DC 20001 202-347-5889 office / 202-638-1803 fax
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 E-mail: church@blessedwordoflifechurch.org
Campbell AME Church Rev. Dr. Henry Y. White 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
Turning Hearts Church Virgil K. Thomas, Sr. Senior Pastor/ Teacher 421 Alabama Ave. SE Washington, DC 20032 Phone: 202-746-0113 Fax: 301-843-2445 Service and Times Sunday School: 10:15 AM Sunday Worship Service: 11;15 AM Children’s Church: 11:15 AM Tuesday Bible Study: 6:30 PM Motto : “A Great Commitment to the Great Commandment” Website: www.turningheartschurchdc.org Email: gr8luv4u2@gmail.com
40 - MAY 7 - 13, 2020
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
“We are one in the Spirit” www.ssbc5757.org / E-mail: ssbc5757@verizon.net
Services and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM Sunday Community Worship Service: 8:30 AM “Ambassadors for Christ to the Nation’s Capital” www.thirdstreet.org Live Stream Sunday Worship Service begins @ 12:00 noon www.thirdstreet.org
Crusader 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”
Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church Bishop Alfred A. Owens, Jr.; Senior Bishop & Evangelist Susie C. Owens – Co-Pastor 610 Rhode Island Avenue, NE Washington, DC 20002 (202) 529-4547 office • (202) 529-4495 fax
Sunday Worship Service: 8:00 AM and 10:45 AM Sunday Youth Worship Services: 1st & 4th 10:45 AM; 804 R.I. Ave., NE 5th 8 AM & 10:45 AM; Main Church Prayer Services Tuesday – Noon, Wednesday 6:00 AM & 6:30 PM Calvary Bible Institute: Year-Round Contact Church / Communion Every 3rd Sunday The Church in The Hood that will do you Good! www.gmchc.org / emailus@gmchc.org
Isle of Patmos Baptist Church Reverend Dr. Calvin L. Matthews Senior Pastor 1200 Isle of Patmos Plaza, Northeast Washington, DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-6767 - Fax: (202) 526-1661 Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM Holy Communion: 2nd Sunday at 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM Sunday Church School: 9:20 AM Seniors Bible Study: Tuesdays at 10:30 AM Noon Day Prayer Service: Tuesdays at Noon Bible Study: Tuesdays at 7 PM Motto: “A Ministry of Reconciliation Where Everybody is Somebody!” Website: http://isleofpatmosbc.org Church Email: ipbcsecretary@verizon.net
St Marks Baptist Come Worship with us... Dr. Raymond T. Matthews Pastor and First Lady Marcia Matthews St. Mark's Baptist Church 624 Underwood Street, NW Washington, dc 20011 Services and Times Sunday School: 9:00 AM Worship Service: 10:00 AM Wed. Noon Day prayer service Thur. Prayer service: 6:45 PM Thur. Bible Study: 7:15 PM
Twelfth Street Christian Church Reverend Dr. Paul H. Saddler Senior Pastor (Disciples of Christ) 1812 12th Street, NW - Washington, DC 20009 Phone: 202-265-4494 Fax: 202 265 4340 Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 AM Communion every Sunday: 11:00 AM Sunday School: 10:00 AM Bible Study Tuesday: 12 Noon Pastor’s Bible Study Tuesday: 6:30 PM Motto: “Discover Something Wonderful” Website: 12thscc.org / Email: Twelfthstcc@aol.com
Mount Carmel Baptist Church Reverend Dr. Paris L Smith, Sr. Senior Pastor 901 Third Street N.W. Washington, DC. 20001 Phone (202) 842-3411 Fax (202) 682-9423 Service and Times Sunday Church School : 9:00 AM Sunday Morning Worship: 10:10 AM Bible Study Tuesday: 6: 00 PM Prayer Service Tuesday: 7:00 PM Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday 10:10 AM themcbc.org
THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM
RELIGION Shabbath Commandment Church Bishop Adrian A. Taylor, Sr. Pastor 7801 Livingston Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 301-534-5471 Service and Times Sabbath School 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 AM Service 11:00 AM Praise & Worship Preaching 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM Motto: “A Church Keeping It Real for Real.” Website: Shabbathcommandmentchruch.org Email: Praisebetoyhwh@gmail.com
Zion Baptist Church Rev. Keith W. Byrd, Sr. Pastor 4850 Blagdon Ave, NW - Washington D.C 20011 Phone (202) 722-4940 - Fax (202) 291-3773 Service and Times 9:00 a.m. – Sunday School 10:15 a.m. – Worship Service Wed. Noon: Dea. Robert Owens Bible Study 7 PM Pastor’s Bible Study Ordinance of Baptism 2nd Sunday, Holy Communion 4th Sunday Mission: Zion shall: Enlist Sinners, Educate Students, Empower the Suffering, Encourage the Saints, And Exalt our Savior. (Acts 2: 41-47) www.zionbaptistchurchdc.org
St. Luke Baptist Church Rev. Aubrey C. Lewis Pastor 1415 Gallatin Street, NW Washington, DC 20011-3851 P: (202) 726-5940 Service and Times Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM Sunday School: 9:15 AM Holy Communion: 11:00 a.m., 3rd Sun. Bible Institute: Wednesday - 1:30 PM Prayer Meeting: Wednesday - 12:00 Noon
All Nations Baptist Church Rev. Dr. James Coleman Pastor 2001 North Capitol St, N.E. - Washington, DC 20002 Phone (202) 832-9591 Service and Times Sunday Church School – 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service – 11:00 AM Holy Communion – 1st Sunday at 11:00 AM Prayer – Wednesdays, 6:00 PM Bible Study – Wednesdays, 7:00 PM Christian Education / School of Biblical Knowledge Saturdays, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM, Call for Registration Website: www.allnationsbaptistchurch.com All Nations Baptist Church – A Church of Standards
Israel Baptist Church
Rev. Daryl F. Bell Pastor 2324 Ontario Road, NW Washington, DC 20009 (202) 232-1730 Service and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 AM Baptismal Service: 1st Sunday – 9:30 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday – 11:00 AM Prayer Meeting & Bible Study: Wednesday -7:30 PM “Where Jesus is the King”
Dr. Earl D. Trent Senior Pastor
2409 Ainger Pl.,SE – WDC 20020 (202) 678-0884 – Office / (202) 678-0885 – Fax “Moving Faith Forward” 0% Perfect . . . 100% Forgiven!
623 Florida Ave.. NW - WDC. 20001 Church (202) 667-3409 / Study (202) 265-0836 Home Study (301) 464-8211 / Fax (202) 483-4009
Service and Times Sunday Worship: 8:00 AM & 10:45 AM Baptism/Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday Family Bible Study Tuesdays – 6:30 PM Prayer Service: Tuesdays – 8:00 PM www.emmanuelbaptistchurchdc.org
Sermon On The Mount Temple Of Joy Apostolic Faith
Lincoln Park United Methodist Church Rev. Richard B. Black Pastor
Elder Herman L. Simms Pastor
1251 Saratoga Ave., NE Washington, DC 20018 (202) 269-0288
1301 North Carolina Ave. N E Washington, D C 20002 202 543 1318 - lincolnpark@lpumcdc.org www.lpumcdc.org
5606 Marlboro Pike District Heights, MD 20747 301-735-6005
Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:45 AM Sunday School: 9:15 AM Holy Communion1st Sunday: 10:45 AM Prayer Service: Wednesday at 6:30 PM Bible Study: Wednesday at 7:00 PM Bible Study: Tuesday at 10:30 AM
Mount Moriah Baptist Church Dr. Lucius M. Dalton Senior Pastor
Service and Times Sunday Worship: 10:00 AM Holy Communion: First Sunday 10:00 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday @ 12 noon and 6:30 PM Motto: "Faith On The Hill"
Service and Times Sunday Apostolic Worship Services 11:00 A.M and 5:00 PM Communion and Feet Wash 4th Sunday at 5:00 PM Prayer/Seeking: Wednesday at 8:00 PM Apostolic in Doctrine, Pentecostal in Experience, Holiness in Living, Uncompromised and Unchanged. The Apostolic Faith is still alive –Acts 2:42
New Commandment Baptist Church
Eastern Community Baptist Church Damion M. Briggs Pastor
Rev. Stephen E. Tucker Senior Pastor
1636 East Capitol Street, NE Washington, DC 20003 Telephone: 202-544-5588 - Fax: 202-544-2964
8213 Manson Street Landover, MD 20785 Tel: (301) 322-9787 Fax: (301) 322-9240
13701 Old Jericho Park Road Bowie, MD. 20720 (301) 262-0560
Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 7:45 AM and 10:45 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sundays at 7:45 AM & 10:45 AM Sunday School: 9:30 AM Prayer & Praise Service: Tuesdays at 12 noon & 6:30 PM Bible Study: Tuesdays at 1 pm and 7 PM Youth Bible Study: Fridays at 7 PM
Service and Times Early Morning Message: 7:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 10:00 AM Sunday Church School: 9:00 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday 7:30 AM & 10:00 AM Prayer, Praise and Testimony: Wednesday 7:00 PM Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM
Service and Times Sunday Worship: 11 AM Sunday School: 10 AM Wednesday Mid-Week Worship, Prayer & Bible Study: Wed. 7 PM
Rehoboth Baptist Church
Reverend Peter R. Blue Sr. Pastor
Rev. Curtis l. Staley Pastor
2001 Brooks Drive District Heights MD. 20744 240.838.7074
621 Alabama Ave., S.E.- Washington, D.C. 20032 P: (202) 561-1111 - F: (202) 561-1112
Service and Times Sunday Worship Experience: 10:15am Sunday School: 9:00am Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday Morning Noontime Bible Study: Tuesday @ 12:00pm Prayer Meeting/Bible Study: Tuesday @7:00pm Theme: "Building On A Firm Foundation"
Service and Times Sunday Service: 10:00 AM Sunday School for all ages: 8:30 AM 1st Sunday Baptism: 10:00 AM 2nd Sunday Holy Communion:10:00 AM Tuesday: Bible Study: 6:30 PM Prayer Meeting: 7:45 PM
Email: revprbstmbc@gmail.com Website: www.stmatthewsbaptist.org
Motto: “Where God is First and Where Friendly People Worship”
“Real Worship for Real People” Website: www.easterncommunity.org Email: ecc@easterncommunity.org
“A Church Where Love Is Essential and Praise is Intentional”
Foggy Bottom - Founded in 1867 728 23rd Street, NW - Washington, DC 20037 Church office: 202-333-3985 - Fax : 202-338-4958
Shiloh Baptist Church
Matthews Memorial Baptist Church Dr. Joseph D. Turner / Senior Pastor 2616 MLK Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Office 202-889-3709 - Fax 202-678-3304 Service and Times Early Worship Service: 8:00 AM Worship Service: 11:00 AM New Member’s Class: 9:45 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday, 11:00 AM Church School: 9:45 AM Wednesday 12:00pm Bible Study Prayer, Praise and Bible Study: 7:00 PM Saturday Bible Study: 11:00 AM Baptism 4th Sunday: 11:00 AM “Empowered to love and Challenged to Lead a Multitude of Souls to Christ”
Peace Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Michael T. Bell 712 18th Street, NE Washington, DC 20002 Phone 202-399-3450/ Fax 202-398-8836 Service and Times Sunday Early Morning Prayer & Bible Study Class: 8:00 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 10:00 AM Wednesday Service: 12:00 PM “The Loving Church of the living lord “
4504 Gault Place, N.E. / Washington, D.C 20019 202-397-7775 – 7184 Service and Times Sunday Church School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service : 11:00 AM The Lord’s Supper 1st Sunday Prayer & Praise Services: Wednesday 7:00 PM Bible Study: 7:30 PM Saturday before 4th Sunday Men, Women, Youth Discipleship Ministries: 10:30 AM A Christ Centered Church htubc@comcast.net
Christ Embassy DC
Kelechi Ajieren Coordinator 6839 Eastern Avenue, R1 Takoma Park, MD 20912 (202) 556-7065 Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 AM Wednesday Bible Study: 7:00 PM Friday Evening Service: 7:00 PM ; Last Friday “…Giving Your Life a Meaning” www.Christembassydc.org Christ.embassy.dc@hotmail.com
Pennsylvania Ave. Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Kendrick E. Curry Pastor 3000 Pennsylvania Ave.. S.E Washington, DC 20020 202 581-1500 Service and Times Sunday Church School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 AM Monday Adult Bible Study: 7:00 PM Wednesday Youth & Adult Activities: 6:30 PM Prayer Service Bible Study
First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church
Mt. Horeb Baptist Church
Rev. Dr. Wallace Charles Smith Pastor
Rev. Oran W. Young Pastor
Rev. Dr. H. B. Sampson, III Pastor
9th & P Street, N.W. - W. D.C. 20001 (202) 232-4288
602 N Street NW - Washington, D.C. 20001 Office:(202) 289-4480 Fax: (202) 289-4595
2914 Bladensburg Road, NE Wash., DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-3180 - Fax: (202) 529-7738 Service and Times Worship Service: 7:30 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Worship Service: 10:30 AM Holy Communion: 4th Sunday 7:30AM & 10:30 AM Prayer Services:Tuesday 7:30 PM. Wednesday 12 Noon
www.stmarysfoggybottom.org Email: stmarysoffice@stmarysfoggybottom.org
Service and Times First Sunday Worship Service (one service): 10:00 AM Second, Third, Fourth, and Fifth Sunday Worship service: 7:45 AM and 10:55 AM Sunday Church School/Bible Study: 9:30 AM Thursday Prayer Service: 6:30 PM
All are welcome to St. Mary’s to Learn, Worship, and Grow.
Email: sbc@shilohbaptist.org Website: shilohbaptist.org
Service and Times Sundays: 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist with Music and Hymns Wednesdays: 12:10 p.m. - Holy Eucharist
Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 10:00 AM Sunday Church School: 8:45 – 9:45 AM Holy Communion: Every First Sunday Intercessory Prayer: Monday – 7:00-8:00 PM Pastor’s Bible Study: Wednesday –7:45 PM Midweek Prayer: Wednesday – 7:00 PM Noonday Prayer Every Thursday
Rev. Dr. George C. Gilbert Senior Pastor
Email Address: admin@pbc712.org
Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church The Rev. E. Bernard Anderson Priest
Holy Trinity United Baptist Church
Florida Avenue Baptist Church
Reverend Christopher L. Nichols Pastor
Rev. Dr. Jerryl V. Moody Pastor-Elect
Web: www.mountmoriahchurch.org Email: mtmoriah@mountmoriahchurch.org
St. Matthews Baptist Church
Emmanuel Baptist Church
King Emmanuel Baptist Church
WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
Service and Times Sunday School for All Ages: 8:00 AM Sunday Worship Services: 9:30 AM Midday Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 11:30AM Evening Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 7:00 PM Laymen's League: Thursday 7:00 PM Email: Froffice@firstrising.org Website: www.firstrising.org “Changing Lives On Purpose “
Email:mthoreb@mthoreb.org Website:www.mthoreb.org For further information, please contact me at (202) 529-3180.
MAY 7 - 13, 2020 41
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICES In God We Trust D eclaration of NationalityNotice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: ‘’ walker,
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2020 ADM 000307
2020 ADM 000091
2018 ADM 1276
beneficiary and heir of: ‘’ WALKER, DEJON DWIGHT© ‘’, corp.sole Dba.: ‘’ DEJON DWIGHT WALKER©
Anntoinette I. Jones aka Anntoinette Ivery Jones aka Anntoinette Jones Decedent
Shirley S. Troubetaris aka Shirley Sturghill Troubetaris Decedent
Nazim A. Karriem Decedent
pedigree subscribes, as an: ani yun wiya Moorish American National , but not a citizen of the
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Deborah J. Akwel, whose address is 1920 18th Street, SE Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Anntoinette I. Jones aka Anntoinette Ivery Jones aka Anntoinette Jones who died on April 24, 2019 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/23/2020. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/23/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 4/23/2020 Deborah J. Akwel 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 2019 ADM 000166 Joshalyn Lawrence Decedent Gilda Sherrod-Ali 1775 I Street, NW Suite 1150 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney
NOTICE OF AFTER DISCOVERED WILL AND NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT Rosetta W. Rhine and Ronnica A. Snowden, whose addresses are 11644 Port Royal Ave., Waldorf, MD 20602 and 248 Artifact Ave., Winchester, VA 22603, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Joshalyn Lawrence, who died on July 21, 2018 with a Will. Objections to such appointment or to the probate of decedent’s Will shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/23/2020. Date of first publication: 4/23/2020 Rosetta W. Rhine Ronnica A. Snowden Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Caren M. Webb, Esq. 1308 Ninth Street, NW Suite 250 Washington, DC 20001 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Samuel D. Warren, Jr., whose address is 18374 Democracy Avenue, Ruther Glen, Virginia 22546, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Shirley S. Troubetaris aka Shirley Sturghill Troubetaris who died on December 10, 2018 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/23/2020. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/23/2020, 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.
42 - MAY 7 - 13, 2020
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Mikal Huda Ba’th and Fatima Karriem, whose address is 6015 8th Street NW, Washington, DC 20011, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Nazim A. Karriem who died on August 1, 2018 with 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., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/30/2020. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/30/2020, 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.
‘’, having reached the age of majority hereby duly affirms to declare my intention to be as my United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to: In God We Trust, the Moorish Empire, The united states of America, Republic ( Major ), The Constitution for the united States of America, Article III Section 2, etc.. In harmony with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and all Natural laws governing moors, I hereby Declare and Proclaim my nationality as an: ani yun wiya Moorish American National. I am that I am: ‘’ walker, dejon dwight© ‘’, from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: ‘’ walker-bey, dejon dwight© ‘’. Notice of 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: ‘’ WALKER, DEJON DWIGHT© ‘’, corp.sole Dba.: ‘’ DEJON DWIGHT WALKER©’’, to the depositor: ‘’ walker-bey, dejon dwight© ‘’, nom deguerre: ‘’ walker, dejon dwight© ‘’. 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: ‘’ walker-bey, dejon dwight© ‘’, nom deguerre: ‘’ walker, dejon dwight© ‘’, as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of : ‘’ DEJON DWIGHT WALKER BEY TRUST© ‘’, an Unincorporated Divine Grantor Trust. This deposit is not to be commingled with general assets of any
Date of first publication: 4/30/2020
bank , nor depositary / trustee / agent / bailee / donee / debtor. This deposit is not limited to, but
Samuel D. Warren, Jr. Personal Representative
Mikal Huda Ba’th Fatima Karriem Personal Representative
and All Attorneys with a License from the BAR Association are explicitly prohibited from administrat-
TRUE TEST COPY
TRUE TEST COPY
every trustee, after said Attorneys have furnished their nationality, and Principal for whom’s interest
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
FDOP 05-07
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
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2020 ADM 000291
2020 ADM 000247
2020 ADM 000173
Jon M. Thomas Sr. Decedent
Helen P. McCormick Decedent
Elisha C. Stanley Decedent
Nakia Gray 800 Maine Ave. SW Suite 200 Washington, DC 20020 Attorney
Bradley A. Thomas, Esq. 1629 K Street, NW Suite 300 Washington, DC 20006-1631 Attorney
Ronald Dixon Bynum & Jenkins 1010 Cameron Street Alexandria VA 22314 Attorney
Date of first publication: 4/23/2020
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Jon M. Thomas, Jr., whose address is 4903 Daisy Creek Terrace, Beltsville, MD 20705, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jon M. Thomas, Sr. who died on January 12, 2020 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/30/2020. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/30/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 4/30/2020 Jon M. Thomas Jr. Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Washington Informer
Talib I. Karim TEC Law Firm 1629 K Street, NW Suite 300 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney
dejon dwight© ‘’, in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, by natural issue, the
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Joseph P. McCormick, II, whose address is 6011 3rd Street, NE, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Helen P. McCormick who died on April 23, 2016 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/23/2020. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/23/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 4/23/2020
including: discharge and set off, of any and all outstanding liabilities as accord and satisfaction. Any ing ‘’ DEJON DWIGHT WALKER BEY TRUST© ‘’ property without handwritten consent from each and they are working, pursuant to Public Law 75-583, to Trustees in plain writing.All Rights Reserved.
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Ronald Dixon, whose address is Bynum & Jenkins, 1010 Cameron Street, Alexandria, VA 22314, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Elisha C. Stanley, 2349 Skyland Terr., SE, WDC 20020 who died on 9/16/19 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/30/2020. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/30/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 4/30/2020
Joseph P. McCormick, II Personal Representative
Ronald Dixon Personal Representative
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COMMENTARY from Page 8 to both contracting and dying from coronavirus. The elderly, whose population in the U.S. has eclipsed any previously recorded totals, remain equally at risk for many of the same reasons, including living with immune systems whose effectiveness in warding off disease and illness declines with age. No use in throwing up my hands and saying, “I’m mad as hell and I can’t take it anymore.” We’re in America – a country where some things never change. Sacrifices must be made for the benefit of the “one percent.” As for Black and brown lives, or the elderly living on food assistance and Medicaid, recent decisions suggest that they – I mean we – are peons, puppets and pawns – America’s “dis-
NURSING HOME from Page 20 family visits and the federal government’s suspension of health and safety inspections and family visits. On April 19, the federal government formalized requirements that nursing homes report COVID-19 cases to families and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Since mid-March, when D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) declared a public health state of emergency, Stoddard Baptist Global Care and other local nursing homes ceased family visits and implemented guidelines issued by the CDC and Center for Med-
posables.” Black lives haven’t mattered for centuries in America. Despite the ugly differences and injustices brought to light in the midst of the new pandemic, I’m not looking for things to change – not significantly. I consider myself to be an optimist – always seeing the glass half full rather than half empty. Still, with the ability to read and given experiences gleaned both personally or vicariously, I’ve learned that the white lights of “privilege” wielded for centuries like a battering ram in the U.S. prioritize power, prestige and over-flowing pockets and pocketbooks. Perhaps, the real color that tips the scale in this mad dash toward reopening isn’t black, white or brown – it’s actually “green.” WI icaid and Medicare Services for long-term care facilities and nursing homes. Both documents prioritized immediate identification and management of severe illness, and communication with the local health department in cases where respiratory illnesses increase. At the time of her death, Johnson suffered from high blood pressure, diabetes and schizophrenia. Even so, family members said they didn’t anticipate any issues as far as maintaining contact with her because of their rapport with Stoddard Baptist Global Care and Johnson’s ability to communicate. “I didn’t know there was anything wrong with her,” said Con-
CENSUS from Page 29
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hold and pertains to each household member: name, age/date of birth, gender, racial/ethnic background and relationship to the head of the household. You will also be asked if the household is one in which residents own or rent their current living space. The census will never ask for: social security #s, money or donations, bank/credit information or anything on behalf of a political party. But there are plenty of attempts to glean information that the federal government deems to be confidential and which is therefore illegal to pursue and might be used to employ scams, so beware. If you suspect any attempts at scams, you should call the Census Bureau, 800-923-8282. As mentioned early, there are over a dozen languages in which people can respond to the census, either online or
DIABETES from Page 11 adding that Black diabetics have to be vigilant in monitoring their health given the widespread nature of the pandemic. “Uncontrolled diabetes resulting in high blood sugars may weaken the immune system and result in more severe illness for COVID-19-infected persons,” he said. “Furthermore, coronary disease is more common in older persons with diabetes and COVID-19-related stress may also be a factor in untimely deaths. Therefore, telehealth visits with their primary care physician is important to help optimize control of diabetes.” McDougle said the the association — the largest organization of Black doctors and surgeons — has held seminars on Facebook dealing with the coronavirus and its members have talked about the pandemic and Black health on such media outlets as C-SPAN and in stance Porter, Johnson’s younger sister and Hayward’s mother. “I’m wondering why she was in the hospital. Obviously, she was very sick before the nursing home decided to call for an ambulance. I felt that she shouldn’t have had to wait until she was in respiratory distress. The Stoddard Baptist Global Care nursing home should’ve offered her a higher degree of medical help being that Gloria was in their care.” WI by phone including: English, Spanish, Vietnamese, Korean, Russian, Arabic, Tagalog, Polish, French, Haitian Creole, Portuguese and Japanese. As for who counts and who should be counted, the rule of thumb is to count people where they live or reside most of the time. If you find it difficult to follow this rule or understand its nuances, individuals should be counted where they were living on April 1, 2020. For those who are currently enrolled and attending college, they should be counted at their school. Those who, while currently at home due to the COVID-19 pandemic, were previously residing on campus, their university is responsible for counting those students. For those who were living off-campus, they will need to submit their own response to the census. While many operations have either been extended or postponed due to
Black newspapers. Brown said her organization offers diabetics guidance on the virus through its website (diabetes.org/coronavirus), including a fact sheet, best practices, planning
guides, legal advice and assistance. Brown said being there for diabetics during the pandemic serves as a goal for her association. “We are here to help in any way we can,” she said. WI
Since mid-March, when D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) declared a public health state of emergency, Stoddard Baptist Global Care and other local nursing homes ceased family visits and implemented guidelines issued by the CDC and Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services for long-term care facilities and nursing homes. stay-at-home orders which may still be in place, field offices are tentatively slated to be reactivated June 1, 2020 with non-response outreach to follow beginning Aug. 11, 2020.
WHAT ABOUT HARD TO COUNT [HTC] POPULATIONS?
Even in the best of times and under normal conditions, it remains a real challenge to complete HTC populations throughout the U.S. A hardto-count population refers to areas where a low percentage of households returned their 2020 Census forms. Some populations are harder to count than others: children under five, people of color (African American, Latinx, Asian American), non-English speakers, immigrants and renters. Additionally, there are identified barriers that often prevent a complete count in households: the household
speaks a language other than English; individuals or families live in a “complex household;” the address was not listed, i.e., multi-unit buildings; and individuals were not included on their household form. As of April 30, the District’s self-response rate (51.7 percent) ranked below the national response rate (55.6 percent). Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Nebraska and Michigan stood at the top, nationally, with self-response rates of 66.2, 63.5, 63.4, 62.7 and 62.3, respectively. Both Virginia and Maryland report far greater self-response rates than their neighbors in the District. In the Commonwealth, Poquoson County, Virginia leads all counties at 72.7 percent with Vienna standing at #1 among all cities at 76.7 percent. As for Maryland, Carroll County leads the way at 70.8 percent with University Park leading all cities at 84 percent. WI
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MALVEAUX from Page 26
ball, public speaking and teen advocacy at Kingsman Academy Public Charter School in Northeast. “We know we [would have] graduated, but we don’t feel like we’re celebrated,” said Ar’Dinay, an aspiring attorney and fashion designer. “I knew things wouldn’t be the same once my dean started going around the school building asking for our addresses to send laptops. We did all this work, and can’t do anything about it. As a reward to us, our first year of college should be free.” WI
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In spite of the circumstances, seniors still need to complete 24 credit hours to successfully attain their high school diploma. Some young people such as Ar’Dinay Blocker said they went to great lengths to reach their goal of a high school graduation. For Ar’Dinay, getting a high school diploma will be a milestone of great significance, especially since she’s the oldest of her siblings and
the first person in three generations of her mother’s family to complete high school. “We put in 12 years of our life for school, and don’t get a chance for the senior experience, as far as graduation, prom, cookouts and all that,” said Ar’Dinay, an 18-year-old Southeast resident and Blocker-Ford’s daughter. After leaving Thurgood Marshall Academy Public Charter School at the end of her freshman year, Ar’Dinay pursued her passion for basket-
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GRADUATION from Page 22
The need for safety and the importance of PPE for health care workers can’t be overstated. However, it’s time to consider loved ones as first responders as well because, in actuality, they are. They are likely the ones who got the patient to the hospital. They can usually answer questions about the patients’ health when the patient cannot. They can sit with the patient and care for their immediate needs when the nurses and doctors cannot or cannot right away. My mother did this often for my father and the nurses I saw appeared to appreciate it. These advocates are first responders as well and should be treated as such and the appropriate PPE needs to be given them. Not the whole family — just one member or friend. Just one advocate that will help balance the scales of a system that is too often fraught with injustice. Just one can make all the difference between life or death. And for Black people who are looking for the tandem race finish line, it’s the only answer. WI
Let us help you develop the communication skills to compete and win!
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perimentation of enslaved Blacks to Tuskegee experiments on Black men to see how their bodies reacted to syphilis to eugenics experimentation on Black and poor communities. African Americans know life or death hang on the issue of advocacy in a system that has never given African Americans reason to trust it. This documented history, documented racism runs in tandem with generations of family stories and today’s statistics. Please excuse Black people if they are a bit paranoid about going into a hospital or nursing home facility by themselves without anyone else in there with them. It’s not just about comfort. It’s about making sure the rules in this tandem race are followed. It’s about accountability — a necessary check and balance. Two nurses I know personally, good nurses that are doing all they can in two hospitals in Northern New Jersey. One of the nurses works out of two hospitals — one in a large
urban area and another in a suburb. They both expressed major concerns about the kind of care patients were receiving. Hospitals are overwhelmed by the number of patients they are servicing, the uncertainties of treatments, and the always rising death toll. Both nurses have expressed the need for someone else to be there with loved ones. One of the nurses was seriously concerned about the use of Do Not Resuscitate orders by doctors. She said doctors were concerned about the escaping air that would put them at risk of contamination. Some nurses and doctors have spoken out and have lost their jobs or have been moved to other locations. Others have remained silent for fear of their jobs. Either this is viewed, it is clear an advocate outside of the system is necessary. Everyone is at risk in the midst of this pandemic, no matter the racial makeup. However, African Americans know that whatever the risk, theirs is going to be greater because the tandem race has no finish line in sight.
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: Sade
ALSTON from Page 26
virus has receded, perhaps a year or so from now, we will be able to measure who carried the higher burden of this coronavirus. But we already know that Black folks are dying, losing their jobs or being exposed to the virus because of the jobs they hold (as an example, Black women are 6 percent of the labor force but 20 percent of medical support staff). We don’t need detailed statistical analysis to conclude that poorer, urban, Black and brown communities are hardest hit. What do you have to lose? Your job, and maybe even your life. The lack of leadership 45 has exhibited during this pandemic disqualifies him for a second term. And those disproportionately impacted who choose to vote for 45, choose to vote against their own interest. WI
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What do we have to lose? Some Black women have found their lives at risk because Trump’s touting of hydroxychloroquine as a “game-changing” coronavirus cure. People with lupus also need hydroxychloroquine for their disease, but Trump’s unseemly huckstering a drug that is not likely to cure the coronavirus has created shortages for hydroxychloroquine. Black women get lupus twice as frequently as white women, and we get it younger and with more complications than white women. Because lupus is more likely to hit Black women at an earlier age, Black women also risk complications from pregnancy because of lupus. Did Trump enthusiastically em-
brace hydroxychloroquine because Black women are more likely to get the disease and he wanted to punish us? Does he have investments in hydroxychloroquine–producing companies? You don’t have to believe in conspiracies to recognize the disproportional impact the shortages of hydroxychloroquine have had on Black women. These impacts of disparate impact are one of the many reasons that race matters and that data on health, income, employment, wealth and other factors must be collected and reported by race. At the same time, there are too many who resist gathering and reporting data by race, facetiously claiming we are all “one nation.” And the myth of “one nation” holds if data are not collected. When the threat of the corona-
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CREWE from Page 27 And for students about to graduate virtually, the loss of the ceremony, the photographs, farewell hugs and best wishes are broken memories. While wanting the celebration and mourning their loss of it, they simultaneously feel uncomfortable that their loss is of an event and not a loved one (some have both). And in trying to console them, sometimes they are reminded that their loss is not as great as others who have experienced the ultimate loss of life. This is a mistake. Comparing and ranking losses does not usually help. In fact, it makes the struggle harder because the individual feels that their feelings are not understood. When reaching out to persons experiencing losses of traditions, we must exercise care in not
minimizing their grief and their feelings of disappointment. It is a time of celebration. While the celebration is perhaps different than what they have worked for, planned for, or dreamed about, it is still a celebration. While acknowledging their loss, we should focus on the celebration. Although physical distancing changes the how, celebrations are still possible. Although on a smaller or different scale, they can take place. Although there is a sense of loss, here is the opportunity to create “new” memorable and meaningful traditions that sometimes will be integrated into future traditions. Let’s all work to ensure that the memory is more about their day. Yes, they will always remember that the day was changed because of the pandemic, but what should also stand out is how they
were celebrated. Will it be a time captured by zoom and shred with family members/networks across the globe? Will it be a time for private time and reflection about the milestone they are achieving? Will there be a list of 20 things that make you smile about the person? As we collectively experience what Pauline Boss refers to as ambiguous losses (losses that occur without closure or understanding), let us make room for celebrations that are memorable and enduring. The poet Maya Angelou reminded us, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” While we may be powerless over many things today, we still have the power to make someone feel good. WI
mind off your fears. Adopt a nursing home. Call the director and find out what products would be helpful for you to donate. Ship the products without ever having to go to the nursing home. If you’re looking for answers, whatever you
do, instead of sitting around in fear, think solutions by making a list of at least 10 things you’re capable of doing. Select from the list and do as many as you can. Don’t just sit around in fear. WI
servile and under control like 170 years ago. Then there is the one-word factor, which will doom these terrorists and hatemongers to fail and fail miserably. The word is: “No.” Let me be emphatic about it. Like we said in the Vietnam era: “Hell no, we won’t go.” Even if they managed to wrest some power somewhere, they cannot rule the resulting ultra-divided nation their ascension will produce. And when — and it will — an external challenge grips the country, they and all their little private guns and militias will be unable to defend their homeland without the support of all the people, especially Black people. No. Hell, no. They have been blinded, and their hearts have been hardened against recognizing the truth, let alone accepting it an amending their wicked behavior. They claim to be Christians, but they have none of the compassion or brotherly love that the Jesus of the Bible demonstrated. They don’t believe that what “you (individuals and nations) sow, so shall you reap.” They think all the earth’s bounties are meant for them to take, to plunder at will. No.
This is not a joyous thing to observe and, sadly, it’s only going to get worse. But Black people are not going back to those terrible times — and all the white men with all the guns in the world can’t bring that about again. So what if Trump is packing the federal courts? More than 30 percent of all federal judges were appointed by this grifter-president and confirmed by his partner in crime, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.). In 1857 the Supreme Court ruled 7-2 against Dred Scott, declaring a Black man had no rights a white man was bound to respect. Again, in 1896 the court ruled by a 7-1 margin in the Plessy v. Ferguson decision. No. We’re never going back to those terrible times again. All we have to say is “No” to their unjust pronouncements. And it doesn’t have to be everybody — just a critical mass, enough resistance, enough people saying no to this attempted white intimidation, no to fighting America’s unjust wars, just saying “No.” Guns cannot undue the resolve of a determined people who, with one voice, say: “No.” WI
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