The Washington Informer - November 16, 2023 by The Washington Informer

RECIPIENT OF THE DC BLACK MBA ASSOCIATION 2023 LEGACY AWARD

Serving Our Community in the DMV

Marion Barry Avenue Sparks Hope, Demand for More Action to Promote Positive Change

Vol 59 No 5..., November 16 - 22, 2023

Observer's 60th Anniversary

Page 18

Project Purpose DC, Capitol Hill Boys Club Uplift Gun Violence Victims in Anacostia By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer Legions of D.C. residents are expected to converge on the 1800 block of Good Hope Road Southeast this weekend in honor of Marion S. Barry, Jr., for whom the corridor has been officially renamed. The D.C. Council approved legislation earlier this year that changes Good Hope Road to Marion Barry Avenue. While the name change, for some residents, brings about anxiety

about demographic changes on the horizon, others, like “Presto,” have wholeheartedly embraced it. Presto, an organizer and music producer, said that Barry’s legacy will evoke pride along a corridor that has experienced exorbitant violence, the likes of which claimed the life of his best friend Bernard “BJ” Hodges and, most recently, injured one of the young people Presto serves through his nonprofit, Project Purpose DC. Presto recounted watching then-

BARRY Page 48

5 D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser held a community walkthrough on Good Hope Road SE in January 2023. Good Hope Road SE will be officially renamed to Marion Barry Avenue SE on Saturday, Nov. 18. (WI File Photo)

Remembering Local Civil Rights Leader Maudine Cooper

Anacostia High School Students Co-Author Environmental Poetry Book

By Kayla Benjamin WI Climate & Environment Reporter

Dewand Hemsley, a senior at Anacostia High School, didn’t know he was going to be helping write a book during the six-week environmental justice internship he signed up for last summer. Neither did any of the other 11 high school participants. “Miss Caroline told us we had to write, and we said we didn’t want to write—then we kept complaining and complaining, complaining, complaining,” Dewand, now a published poet, said with a laugh. “Look at us now, we're like famous.” Dewand spoke with the Informer 5 The student co-authors of the new book “Through My Anacostia Eyes” and the book’s editor, Caroline Brewer, read aloud at a book launch at the University of

POETRY Page 24 the District of Columbia Nov. 8. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

Former President of the Greater Washington Urban League, Top Aide to Three D.C. Mayors By Hamil R. Harris WI Contributing Writer

Maudine R. Cooper, a civil rights advocate and a native of Mississippi who worked for three D.C. mayors before becoming President of the Greater Washington Urban League has died. She was 82. “It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our

COOPER Page 48

5 Maudine Cooper, who served as president and CEO of the Greater Washington Urban League for 23 years, has died. (Courtesy Photo/ History Makers)

Celebrating 59 years. Your credible and trusted source for Black news and information.

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wi hot topics

COMPILED BY STACY M. BROWN, WI SENIOR WRITER; RICHARD ELLIOTT, WI CONTRIBUTING REPORTER

House Lawmakers Pass Bill to Avert Government Shutdown Amidst Intense Capitol Hill Drama House lawmakers on both sides of the aisle rallied behind newly elected Speaker Mike Johnson’s bill to avert a government shutdown, deferring the GOP’s fight for deep spending cuts until after the holiday season. On Capitol Hill, the heated debate reached fever pitch, underscoring the importance and pressure surrounding the legislative maneuver. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, addressing the chamber before the vote, criticized far-right MAGA Republicans, who opposed the bill. “If you don’t believe in governance, you’re okay with this. When we had the three weeks of no action on the floor because... we didn’t have a speaker, they were okay with that because they don’t believe in governance,” Pelosi said in slamming Republicans. The day’s events were as high on controversy as they were on tension, with recently ousted Republican Speaker

Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) allegedly engaging in a physical altercation with Rep. Tim Burchett of Tennessee in the halls of Congress. “It was just a cheap shot by a bully,” Burchett said. “And then I chased after him. And we had a few words.” In a separate incident, Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) challenged the Teamsters president to a brawl during a Senate hearing, prompting Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vermont) to intervene and demand Mullin to “sit down.” Ultimately, House Democratic leadership endorsed Speaker Johnson’s two-step continuing resolution in a statement, describing it as “devoid of harmful cuts and free of extreme right-wing policy riders.” They pledged their support, urging Congress to unite in advancing supplemental national security and domestic policy funding requested by President Joe Biden. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer told reporters he wanted the Senate to vote on the bill “as soon as possible.” WI

Fort Totten Park Investigation Unearths WWI-Era Munitions, Prompts Ongoing Closure

In Memoriam Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, Sr. Wilhelmina J. Rolark THE WASHINGTON INFORMER NEWSPAPER (ISSN#0741-9414) is published weekly on each Thursday. Periodicals postage paid at Washington, D.C. and additional mailing offices. News and advertising deadline is Monday prior to publication. Announcements must be received two weeks prior to event. Copyright 2016 by The Washington Informer. All rights reserved. POSTMASTER: Send change of addresses to The Washington Informer, 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E. Washington, D.C. 20032. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. The Informer Newspaper cannot guarantee the return of photographs. Subscription rates are $55 per year, two years $70. Papers will be received not more than a week after publication. Make checks payable to: THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E Washington, D.C. 20032 Phone: 202 561-4100 Fax: 202 574-3785 news@washingtoninformer.com www.washingtoninformer.com

PUBLISHER Denise Rolark Barnes STAFF Micha Green, Managing Editor Ron Burke, Advertising/Marketing Director Shevry Lassiter, Photo Editor Lafayette Barnes, IV, Editor, WI Bridge DC Austin Cooper, Our House Editor Desmond Barnes, Social Media Stategist ZebraDesigns.net, Design & Layout Mable Neville, Bookkeeper Angie Johnson, Office Mgr./Circulation REPORTERS Kayla Benjamin, (Environmental Justice Reporter) Stacy Brown (Senior Writer), Sam P.K. Collins, Curtis Knowles, Brenda Siler, Lindiwe Vilakazi, Sarafina Wright, James Wright PHOTOGRAPHERS Shevry Lassiter, Photo Editor, Roy Lewis, Jr., Robert R. Roberts, Anthony Tilghman, Abdula Konte, Ja'Mon Jackson

4 NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023

The National Park Service (NPS) and U.S. Army are conducting a thorough investigation into the discovery of World War I munitions earlier this spring at Fort Totten Park, a scenic haven off of Fort Totten Drive NE in D.C. While an area within the park remains cordoned off with imposing cement barriers and stern "no trespassing" signs, officials said they are bracing themselves for potential revelations about the historical secrets hidden beneath its serene surface. According to officials, two metal canisters were found on April 18 during unapproved work by a neighboring property owner that moved about 10 feet of dirt onto NPS land. Experts from the Army carefully examined both canisters and found that one held a 75-mm projectile that was about 3 inches across and 11 inches long, and the other held a Livens projectile that was about 6 inches across and 19 inches long. Preliminary assessments indicated that the 75-millimeter projectile posed no threat.

Later tests on the Livens projectile at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Edgewood, Maryland, on Aug. 2 showed that the liquid inside was 99.994% water and 0.0006% acetophenone. Acetophenone is a harmless chemical that is often used in the perfume industry to add flavor to foods and dissolve plastics and resins. The military said that the amount of acetophenone in this case, which was about the same as one grain of sand in a million, did not pose any danger and was deemed non-hazardous. Residents and visitors are urged to adhere to safety guidelines considering the ongoing investigation. NPS said if encountering a munition, following the three Rs of explosives safety is crucial: recognize the potential danger, retreat without approaching or disturbing it, and report the incident promptly by calling 911 and notifying local law enforcement. WI Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

Marilyn Mosby Found Guilty of Perjury Marilyn Mosby, Baltimore State’s Attorney from 2015 ecutors and the 12 members of the jury declined to offer to January of this year, was found guilty of two counts of comments. perjury stemming from her early withdrawal of retirement Mosby did not testify during the trial. The trial began on funds citing financial hardships. She was federally indicted Nov. 6 and lasted for three days. She faces a maximum of in January of last year, and the trial was delayed multiple five years per charge. times, including to be moved from Baltimore to GreenShe will face two additional charges of mortgage fraud belt. relating to two Florida home purchases as well. Mosby withdrew $90,000 from her retirement account When asked for his reaction to the verdict, Gov. Wes for the purchasing of homes in Florida for her purported Moore said: "No matter where you fall on this, this is a travel business, Mahogany Elite Enterprises. The defense tough day for the city, and I'm just praying for her. I'm argued that her business did take a substantial hit due to praying for her kids." the pandemic’s impact on travel, while the prosecution arMosby is most widely known for choosing to charge six gued that Mosby did not suffer financial issues stemming officers in the murder of Freddie Gray in 2015. solely from the pandemic. None of the officers were found guilty. She also called for Following the trial, the only comment Mosby gave a pause in arrests for quality of life offenses such as cannabis was “I’m blessed, I have nothing else to say,” as she left possession and prostitution in 2021, citing the lack of pubthe Greenbelt courtroom. Her public defenders, the pros- lic safety value. WI

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D.C. Auditor, Police Union at Odds about Police Staffing Study By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

This weekend, Chris Magnus, deputy auditor for public safety, is scheduled to meet with the D.C. Police Union to discuss whether the union will facilitate interviews with Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) sergeants, detectives and patrol officers for a police staffing study. This meeting comes just weeks after the police union filed a lawsuit against the Office of the D.C. Auditor (ODCA) for a report it previously released about MPD officer reinstatements. As explained in a letter ODCA sent to then-MPD Chief Robert J. Contee III last year, the police staffing study, commissioned by D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson (D) and D.C. Councilmember Charles Allen (D-Ward 6), sets out to determine MPD’s officer staffing needs. Data will be collected about service calls made by community members, department-initiated activities, administrative activities, and the effects of work schedule on staffing. MPD personnel will also be interviewed about how they view their job. Once completed, ODCA will most likely recommend a staffing model intended to improve MPD’s effectiveness, efficiency and accountability. However, it remains to be seen if, or when, ODCA will reach the finish line in this endeavor.

As of Monday evening, ODCA hasn’t interviewed any MPD officers, detectives or sergeants. D.C. Auditor Kathleen Patterson explained during a recent council breakfast that the holdup stems from MPD Chief Pamela Smith’s insistence that ODCA’s direct contact with patrol officers, sergeants and detectives for the study violates the police union’s collective bargaining agreement. Patterson said that argument has no merit because ODCA doesn’t employ MPD officers. “I think we’ll get there one way or another,” she told The Informer. Patterson reached out to Mendelson, D.C. Councilmember Brooke Pinto (D-Ward 2), chair of the council’s Committee on Public Safety and Justice, and other council members during the latter part of last month to request that they further examine Smith’s views on police representation and police union involvement in ensuring officer accountability. In her Oct. 20 letter, Patterson mentioned Smith’s “apparent” refusal as U.S. Park Police chief to launch an internal administrative review of two park police officers who were involved in the shooting death of motorist Bijan Ghaisar. An MPD spokesperson, responding to an Informer inquiry about the police staffing study, said that, since last year, MPD has engaged ODCA and its contractor, PFM Group Consulting, in dozens of interviews,

POLICE Page 8

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2

ANACOSTIA PARK 9AM-12PM ‘CHANGE IS COMING’

Stay Informed! 5 Chris Magnus, Deputy Auditor for Public Safety (Courtesy photo)

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NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023 5

AROUND THE REGION

black facts

NOV 16 - 22, 2023 SOURCE: BLACK AMERICA WEB

NOV. 19

1973 – Tap dancer and actor Savion Glover is born in Newark, New Jersey.

NOV. 20

1866 – Howard Seminary, later Howard University, is founded in Washington, D.C. 1923 – Inventor Garrett Morgan patents the three-position traffic signal. 1952 – The Academy Award given to Hattie McDaniel, the first Black American to win an Oscar, is bequeathed to Howard University, though the trophy never makes it to Howard and mysteriously vanishes. 1962 – President John F. Kennedy issues Executive Order 11063, which prohibits discrimination in housing.

NOV. 21

1969 – Baseball great Ken Griffey Jr. is born in Donora, Pennsylvania. 1984 – Worldwide protests against apartheid begin, largely centralized at the South African Embassy in Washington, D.C.

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SAVION GLOVER NOV. 16

1873 – Composer and musician W.C. Handy, known as the "Father of the Blues," is born in Florence, Alabama. 1901 – Pioneering musician and songwriter Jesse Stone aka Charles Calhoun, who wrote the rock 'n' roll staple "Shake, Rattle and Roll," is born in Atchison, Kansas. 1930 – Famed novelist and professor Chinua Achebe, author of "Things Fall Apart," is born in Ogidi, Nigeria. 2004 – President Bush announces his nomination of Condoleezza Rice as secretary of state. She is the first Black woman to serve in the position.

NOV. 22

1942 – Pilot Guion Bluford, the first African American in space, is born in Philadelphia. 1986 – George Branham becomes the first African American to win a Professional Bowling Association (PBA) title. 1989 – Frederick D. Gregory becomes the first African American to lead a space mission. WI

NOV. 17

1911 – The Omega Psi Phi fraternity is founded on the campus of Howard University. 1972 – Several Blacks are elected to Congress, including Barbara Jordan, the first Black and first woman to be elected from Texas. 1989 – Author Gloria Naylor won the Lillian Smith Award on this date for her novel "Mama Day."

NOV. 18

1978 – The Jonestown Massacre occurs in Guyana. More than 900 followers of cult leader Jim Jones, most of them Black, commit suicide or are murdered. 1994 – Famed jazz singer and bandleader Cab Calloway dies in Hockessin, Delaware, at 86, months after a severe stroke.

6 NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023

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AROUND THE REGION POLICE from Page 5 roundtables, and meetings, released hundreds of data points, and provided clarification as requested. The spokesperson went on to say that while Smith offered to avail herself and police officials ranking higher than sergeant to Magnus, she referred ODCA to the D.C. Police Union out of the regard for the union’s “rights as the exclusive representative of all bargaining unit members on issues pertaining to working conditions.” On Tuesday, Mendelson expressed disappointment that Smith deferred to the police union. Mendelson went on to question the validity of the union’s argument. He said that no other union has ever attempted to stifle ODCA’s efforts to directly engage employees. “Chief Auditor Patterson is interviewing police officers to understand staffing. It has nothing to do with any issue that they bargained,” Mendelson told The Informer.

D.C. POLICE UNION CHAIRMAN GREGG PEMBERTON SPEAKS

On Nov. 9, Magnus sent a letter to D.C. Police Union Chairman Gregg Pemberton referencing previous communication they had about the police staffing study. He said he, once again, attached to the letter ODCA’s contract with PFM Group Consulting LLC and an outline of the nearly 50 products that would come out of the study. Pemberton told The Informer that he’s currently evaluating ODCA’s

5 Gregg Pemberton, DC Police Union Chairman (Courtesy photo)

request, but hasn’t received what he deems sufficient information about the police staffing study. He also expressed skepticism about ODCA’s ability to produce an objective report about MPD.\ The D.C. Police Union’s lawsuit against ODCA, filed in September, calls the ODCA’s 2022 report about the reinstatement of 36 MPD officers libelous and invasive. Pemberton said the report lacked context about the adjudication process that cleared the officers of wrongdoing. “Much of Patterson’s work has negativity toward police officers. We’re aware of her real intent,” Pemberton told The Informer. “We’ve worked with her in the past and it’s come to our demise where she presents that information [so that it] supports her advocacy,” he added. “She’s nothing more than an activist. She’s the council’s bully. They tell her to go out with her baseball bat to harass agencies.”

MPD CHIEF SMITH OUTLINES STAFFING PRIORITIES

As of Nov. 8, MPD has 3,314 officers, more than 40 of which have been hired over the last couple of months. A recently established MPD recruitment team focuses on colleges and universities, and jurisdictions beyond the D.C. metropolitan area where there are fewer competing law enforcement agencies. While speaking to reporters a day after her Nov. 7 confirmation, Smith cited the referral bonus as a recruitment strategy. “Our officers are passionate about what they’re doing. You will find them engaged in peace walks, basketball games with young people, being with boys to get their haircut,” Smith said. Read more on washingtoninformer.com. WI @SamPKCollins

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8 NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023

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Trump’s Role in Capitol Riot Takes Center Stage at D.C. Trial By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

As former President Donald Trump gears up to face a D.C. jury on charges related to his alleged efforts to subvert the 2020 election, the battle over whether the chaos and violence that unfolded at the Capitol on January 6, 2021, should play a central role in his trial. In a new court filing, special counsel Jack Smith’s team has made it clear that the mob that stormed Congress in Trump’s name will be the linchpin of their case. Smith contends that the events of that fateful day were not merely an unfortunate reaction to Trump’s provocative remarks but rather a tool employed by Trump in a last-ditch effort to maintain his grip on power. “On January 6, 2021, lives were lost, blood was shed, portions of the Capitol building were badly

damaged, and the lives of members of the House and Senate, as well as aides, staffers, and others working in the building, were endangered,” Smith asserted in the new court documents. “Yet publicly, the defendant has promoted and extolled the events of that day. While the violent attack was ongoing, the defendant told rioters that they were ‘very special’ and that ‘we love you.’ In the years since, he has championed rioters as ‘great patriots’ and proclaimed January 6 ‘a beautiful day.’ In this case, though, the defendant seeks to distance himself, moving to strike allegations in the indictment related to ‘the actions at the Capitol on January 6, 2021.’” Trump has vehemently demanded that any information linking him to the January 6 insurrection should not be admissible in the upcoming trial. According to Politico, calling witnesses like rioters Dustin Thompson and Dan-

ny Rodriguez to the stand could strengthen Smith’s case. Thompson, who argued at his trial that his decision to maraud through the Senate parliamentarian’s office amid the chaos was a direct result of Trump’s remarks. Rodriguez, who buried a borrowed taser into the neck of D.C. Police Officer Michael Fanone on January 6, has similarly contended that Trump’s lies about election fraud essentially brainwashed him. “Indeed, that day was the culmination of the defendant’s criminal conspiracies to overturn the legitimate results of the presidential election when the defendant directed a large and angry crowd— one that he had summoned to Washington, D.C., and fueled with knowingly false claims of election fraud—to the Capitol to obstruct the congressional certification proceeding,” Smith emphasized. “When his supporters did so,

5 Trump is demanding information linking him to the Jan. 6 insurrection inadmissible. (WI File Photo)

including through violence, the defendant did not try to stop them; instead, he encouraged them and attempted to leverage their actions by further obstructing the certification. Contrary to the defendant’s claims, then, the indictment’s alle-

gations related to the actions at the Capitol are relevant and probative evidence of the defendant’s conduct and intent, and they are neither prejudicial nor inflammatory,” Smith concluded. WI @StacyBrownMedia

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NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023 9

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CAPTURE THE MOMENT

The 100 Black Men of Prince George’s County, Inc. held a networking event at MGM National Harbor’s Felt Lounge on Friday, Nov. 10. The purpose of the event was to discuss the organization’s mission and initiatives, and kickoff their upcoming holiday masquerade gala. Pictured (L-R): Jude Joseph, Wes Webb, Steve Taylor, Marcus Skelton, Anthony Hill, Kenneth Middleton, Dr. Lamont Bunyon (President), Lorenzo Wooten, Willie Beverly, Manel Coleau, Deames Peoples, Maynard Smith, Melvin Crenshaw, and Walter Kirkland (Shevry Lassiter/The Washington Informer)

Who’s Reading the Informer? Delmus Nelson reads the Washington Informer. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

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“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” – Howard Thurman THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

Spatial Disparities: Nearly 30% of D.C.’s New Homes on Only 5% of Land

AROUND THE REGION

Report Reveals Concentrated Housing Growth in D.C. By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

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opment in select neighborhoods has both benefits and drawbacks. Brooks and Schuetz discovered that putting a lot of homes in places with lots of public transportation helps developers achieve economies of scale, which lowers the soft costs per housing unit for big projects. Researchers also found that vertical development makes more money in places with more expensive land. This method encourages people to live car-light lives and brings in more tax money through new stores, restaurants, and entertainment places. Additionally, Brooks and Schuetz highlighted the detrimental consequences of excluding affluent, predominantly white communities from new construction, and continued restrictions on access to essential amenities, including public transportation, high-performing schools, and enhanced environmental conditions. “Avoiding short-term conflicts over zoning changes may delay addressing long-term economic and racial disparities,” they cautioned. WI @StacyBrownMedia

modate single-family, multifamily, or commercial/industrial development. Notwithstanding land categorized as “Other,” scholars emphasize the importance of mentioning that a segment is occupied by parks owned by the National Park Service and government facilities, rendering them improbable candidates for conversion. A distinctive aspect of the highgrowth neighborhoods was limited land allocation exclusively for single-family homes in 2003. While the median D.C. neighborhood dedicated approximately 60% of land for that purpose, the top five developing areas designated less than 8% for single-family homes, with two having none. “The District’s strategy of reallocating underused non-residential land to housing has successfully created substantial amounts of housing over the past 20 years,” researchers Leah Brooks and Jenny Schuetz wrote in the report. Brooks serves as the director for the Center for Washington Area Studies at George Washington University, and Schuetz is a senior fellow at Brookings. They acknowledged that focusing devel-

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5 Five neighborhoods experiencing the highest growth accounted for nearly 30% of the new housing built in the District between 2000 and 2020. (Courtesy Photo/ Brookings)

Apart from a notable decline during the 2007–2009 Great Recession, the nation’s capital has seen a surge in housing demand over the past two decades, supported by what industry insiders called strong market fundamentals. From 2000 to 2020, the District of Columbia’s population swelled by approximately 130,000 individuals, marking a 20% increase. However, a new report highlights why this growth needs more uniformity citywide. Brookings found that five neighborhoods experiencing the highest growth accounted for nearly 30% of the new housing built in the District between 2000 and 2020. Even more strikingly, in terms of growth, the next five neighborhoods produced 10% of the new housing despite collectively occupying a mere 5% of the city’s land area. Most of these high-growth areas are centrally located, with a significant share near the region’s employment opportunities. Clusters of growth surround downtown and the Union Station/NoMa neighborhood. Nine of the top 10 areas are north of the National Mall, except Navy Yard, home to the Nationals baseball stadium. District officials enacted a new citywide zoning law in 2016, formalizing years of primarily technical, minor modifications. Although rezoning resulted in minor modifications to land use allocations and structure types in most neighborhoods, it offered a dual opportunity to augment housing capacity. The initial approach, as detailed in the report “Where 20 years of new housing was built in Washington, D.C. – and where it wasn't,” entailed the conversion of land that was previously undeveloped to accommodate housing. This phenomenon was demonstrated by areas of land that were originally classified as “Other” in 2003 but underwent rezoning to accom-

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PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY Prince George’s Business Updates By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

GREENBELT: NEW SITE OF FBI HEADQUARTERS

The General Services Administration announced on Nov. 8 that Greenbelt has been selected as the site of the new headquarters for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The headquarters will be located walking distance from the Greenbelt Metro, one of the benefits touted by proponents of the site. The site is expected to have over 7,500 jobs and would cost an estimated $3.5 billion. "This is a game changer. The economic ripple effects are so massive and will bring so much to the city," said Greenbelt Councilmember Ric Gordon in a phone interview. "I'm so thankful for our congressional delegation, County Executive and Governor for getting this done. There is no better place to put this than Greenbelt. This is a win for Greenbelt!" The three site locations under consideration were Greenbelt and Landover in Prince George’s, along with Springfield in northern Virginia. The decision has disappointed Virginia leaders including Democratic Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, who have questioned the selection criteria and accused the Biden administration of caving to political pressure. Equity, access to transportation, and site cost were among the evaluation criteria. “They’re fighting for their residents, and I’m fighting for mine,” said Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks (D) in an interview about the site selection. “We are taxpayers too, we just

12 NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023

want to make sure that federal dollars benefit all communities.” The White House has come out to call this “a fair and transparent process by the [General Services Administration (GSA)], in consultation with the FBI.” Wi Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

BOARD OF EDUCATION MEMBER JACKSON CALLS FOR ACCOUNTABILITY IN TOBACCO STORES

Prince George’s Board of Education Member Branndon Jackson (District 6) sent out a letter on Nov. 1 addressed to tobacco stores, warning them of potential consequences if tobacco products are sold to Prince George’s County Public School students. “It has been brought to my attention that businesses in the tobacco industry, specifically within my district, have routinely broken federal and state tobacco rules and regulations by selling tobacco products to our scholars. I’ve received numerous complaints of tobacco retailers breaking these laws by local parent leadership organizations. I cannot standby and allow this to continue, because the introduction of tobacco products to our children can be detrimental to their overall developmental process,” said the letter. “Additionally, I will be reaching out to the Chief of Police to see how we can more closely monitor the transactional activity of local tobacco retailers.” Previous legislation by the Prince George’s County Council aimed to limit the hours and ex-

5 The FBI’s new headquarters will be located near the Greenbelt Metro Station. The J. Edgar Hoover building, pictured here, has been in use since 1975.(Courtesy Photo/ Wikimedia Commons) 5 Board of Education Member Branndon Jackson (District 6) has sent out a letter to tobacco stores, calling for accountability and an end to tobacco sales to PGCPS students. (Anthony Tilghman/ The Washington Informer)

cessive lighting used at some tobacco stores in the County while restricting new stores to industrial zones. Wi

DR. MONICA GOLDSON APPOINTED TO EDTECH GROUP’S BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Dr. Monica Goldson, the former CEO of Prince George’s County Public Schools, has been appointed to the Board of Directors for Paper, an educational technology platform that helps to connect students with tutors best suited for their academic needs. "During my tenure as the CEO of PGCPS, I gleaned that addressing students' needs extends beyond the confines of traditional classroom settings. To foster their engagement and expedite their learning, we must employ unconventional approaches,” said Goldson in an email to The Informer. “By assuming a role on Paper's Board of Directors, I can guarantee that students nationwide access these same opportunities. This commitment will assure that the time and engagement students invest yield substantial returns, resulting in enhanced educational experiences and outcomes for stu-

dents in every school district they are a part of." “With Dr. Monica Goldson's appointment, Paper is well-positioned to further its mission of providing transformative educational solutions that empower students throughout their educational journeys,” the company stated in a press release announcing her appointment. Dr. Goldson was appointed to the State Board of Education in June, and she was also appointed by President Biden to the President’s Board of Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities and honored with the Women Who Mean Business Award. Wi

AUTHENTICALLY HYPE LEVERAGES TIK TOK TO PROMOTE BRAND

Authentically Hype, an apparel brand founded last year by a Prince George’s native, has leveraged its social media to better connect with potential clients. Brand founder Alexis Harvey became an entrepreneur during her time studying marketing in Chicago, and hasn’t looked back since. “I wanted to develop a brand that not only encouraged me in my pursuit as an entrepreneur, but others as well because it is such a unique journey. I came up with the design concept and the brand identity along with the help of my family, my team,” said Harvey. “Tik Tok has allowed me to

5 Capitol Heights Councilmember Victor James painted a fence to prepare for the reopening of Emmet Street Community Garden. (Courtesy Photo/ Councilmember Victor James)

connect my website to an online shop providing the business with versatile ways to produce content and sell products online. Some of the features have been helpful such as auto editing, suggestive friends list, and connecting me with audiences that are interested in what my brand represents through their algorithm formula.” Born out of self-love and self-transformation, Harvey’s brand focuses on comfort and high-quality materials. Authentically Hype currently offers hoodies, sweatpants and tee shirts. Wi

UPDATES Page 13

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Prince George’s Political Updates

Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

HYATTSVILLE RENT STABILIZATION LEGISLATION INTRODUCED

Hyattsville’s City Council is raising the issue of rent stabilization and a rent stabilization bill is being introduced in the Chamber. Rent stabilization was discussed during a city meeting on Nov. 6, and is likely to be voted on during the upcoming meeting on Nov. 20. As the measure is sponsored by nine of the 11 Councilmembers, it is likely that it will pass. “Core aspects of Hyattsville's civic identity are diversity and affordability. Rent increases in Hyattsville, however, have been growing at unsustainable levels, resulting in gentrification, displacement, and increasing levels of financial insecurity,” said Councilmember Danny Schaible (Ward 2). “Rent stabilization, as proposed, will promote long term affordability and provide current and future residents increased housing security and opportunities for prosperity.” The Prince George’s County Council passed legislation to im-

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

plement a 3% rent increase cap in March, and rent stabilization legislation has passed in Mount Rainier. Montgomery County passed a 6% rent increase cap in July. Wi

VETERANS HONORED IN PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

Arthur Martin, an 86 year old veteran who was the first African-American to operate on the Alvin Deep Research Vehicle, was given a citation by Congressman Glenn Ivey (D–District 5) on the steps of the Capitol Building on November 6 to thank him for his service. He recently qualified for several additional awards for military service, including the Army Good Conduct medal, National Defense Service medal and Vietnam Service medal. The Alabama native graduated in 1954 from Tuskegee University with a degree in Engineering and now resides in Camp Springs. He was also among the first soldiers deployed into Vietnam. The Economic Development Corporation, who just hosted their inaugural gala, held a veter-

5 Sergeant Arthur Martin (center, wearing hat) with his wife Emma, daughter Pamela, son Michael and Congressman Glenn Ivey as Sergeant Martin is awarded for his military service. (Courtesy Photo/ Office of Congressman Glenn Ivey)

an’s luncheon on Nov. 8 at Martin’s Crosswinds in Greenbelt. In July, the County’s Commission for Veterans hosted a Veteran’s Night

at Baysox stadium and over 2,000 attended the game. Prince George’s is home to the largest veteran population in the

state, with an estimated 52,000 veterans currently living in the County. Wi

UPDATES from Page 12

EMMET STREET COMMUNITY TURNIP TOUR PROMOTES HEALTHY GARDEN RE-OPENS Emmet Street Community FOOD AND BUSINESS Garden, which had been closed DEVELOPMENTS for more than three years, was The Turnip Tour is offered by The Capital Market to connect cultural heritage, business development and healthy food access. While the tour has no more planned events this year, there were five trips scheduled from June through early November. On Nov. 4, Bernard Holloway, RISE co-director, attended The Capital Market’s cultural heritage celebration and remembrance program at Ridgeley Community off of Central Avenue and Ritchie Road. Future trips on the tour will be posted in their Eventbrite. Wi

reopened on Oct. 21 during the City’s health fair. Capitol Heights Councilmember Victor James, who advocated for the garden’s reopening, encouraged people to contribute to the space, and practiced what he preached by pitching in and painting a fence. Participants came to the grand reopening, cleaned out raised beds, pulled weeds and repaired broken sections of fencing to restore life to the community garden. Wi

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NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023 13

BUSINESS ir efs By James Wright / WI Staff Writer

CROWE CONFIRMED AS DLCP DIRECTOR

Tiffany Crowe’s confirmation as the permanent director of the District’s Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) was met with resounding approval by the D.C. Council on Nov. 7. Crowe was appointed as the acting director on Sept. 7 by Mayor Muriel Bowser. She holds the distinction of becoming the agency’s first permanent director after the October 1, 2022 reorganization that had the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs transitioning into the newest agencies: DLCP and the Department of Buildings. She expressed gratitude for her historic appointment and confirmation. “Our entire team is excited to continue the critical work we started eight short weeks ago,” Crowe said. “We have already expanded our Business Resource Center, and we are continuing to implement new regulations intended to stimulate business growth, protect

consumers, and promote the overall economic health of the District of Columbia. Thank you for your support as we work to accomplish our simple mission: support businesses and protect consumers.” Crowe has worked as the senior advisor in the Office of Market Intelligence at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and served as the chief operating officer and chief administrative officer at the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs from 2019-2021. She previously worked as the senior advisor and counsel to the Associate Director of Supervision, Enforcement, and Fair Lending at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau from 2012-2019, providing guidance on operational, legal, and strategic matters. More recently, Crowe worked as an associate chief technology officer at the Office of the Chief Technology Officer, where she led a team tasked with critical enterprise applications for the District, including procurement, human resources, messaging, and IT service

5 Tiffany Crowe is the permanent Director of the D.C. Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection.

request platforms. WI

WASHINGTON WIZARDS SUPPORT BLACK BUSINESSES

The Washington Wizards has initiated its fourth consecutive Black-Owned DMV campaign that will be presented by Capital One. The campaign showcases Black businesses in the D.C. metropolitan area. Six businesses will be recognized, one each month, during the 2023-2024 season. The businesses will be featured on the team’s Black-Owned DMV page, the social channels, in-game acti-

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14 NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023

vations during marketing assets, and on the Monumental Sports Network. Bithenergy will be recognized in November, followed by T/W Tote in December and Milk & Honey in January 2024. Miche Beauty will be showcased in February and GMG Management Consulting Inc., is set to be highlighted in March. The final business recognition will be Morel’s Exquisite Design. Businesses picked for the Black-Owned DMV program must operate within a 75-mile radius of the Capitol One Arena located in downtown Washington, D.C. To learn more about the program, go to Washingtonwizards.com/BlackOwnedDMV. WI

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNCIL BANS REAL ESTATE APPRAISAL BIAS

The Prince George’s County Council, during its Nov. 7 session, unanimously enacted a bill establishing a ban on real estate appraisal bias in the county. The bill—The Real Estate Appraisal Bias Ban Act of 2023--was proposed by Council members Mel Franklin (D-At Large), Calvin S. Hawkins (D-At Large) and Sydney Harrison (D-District 9). The measure prohibits real estate appraisers from considering race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, marital status, disability, familial status, or national origin in their appraisal analysis. The bill also di-

rects the Office of Human Rights to publicize its role in enforcing the ban, including instructing residents on how to file a claim. Violators could be fined up to $10,000. Franklin said the goal of the bill is fair and equitable real estate assessments for county residents. “Racial and other discrimination in the appraisal of real estate has been documented numerous times across our country, including right here in Prince George’s County,” he said. “Appraisal bias costs working families millions each year in equity and generational wealth in the value of their homes, the largest asset for most families. When someone’s home is devalued just because of the color of their skin, it is a violation of their civil rights and basic humanity. Prince George’s County has long been a standard bearer for homeownership for Black and Brown communities. There must be zero tolerance here and anywhere in our nation for real estate appraisal bias.” The law will take effect 45 days after it becomes law. WI

ANDERSON, GRANT SWORE ONTO ABC BOARD

Steven Walker, deputy chief of staff to D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, swore in two members to the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Board on Nov. 8. Donovan W. Anderson joined the board as chairman on November 3, 2015 and was sworn into another four-year term. Anderson, an attorney who resides in Ward 7, will continue as chairman, an executive role, during his third term. Newcomer Silas H. Grant, Jr., resides in Ward 5. Grant is a former staffer for D.C. Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie (I-At-Large), who formerly served on the council representing Ward 5 as a Democrat. The other member is former Deputy Fire Chief James Short Jr., a resident of Ward 7 whose term ends in May 2024. The service term for Anderson and Grant ends on May 7, 2027. The ABC Board is an independent body that meets to adjudicate, administer, and enforce alcohol and medical cannabis laws in the District. Board members are appointed by the mayor and confirmed by the D.C. Council. WI @JamesWrightJr10

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Anti-Cybercrime Entrepreneur Offers Advice on Preventing Hacks James Wright WI Staff Writer As the holiday season emerges, shoppers are increasingly turning to the Internet and utilizing digital tools to obtain goods and services and that is where hackers can tap into their information and cause havoc in people’s lives according to cybersecurity experts. “What was once a comparatively minor threat—people hacking for fun or for bragging rights—has turned into full-blown economic espionage and extremely lucrative cybercrime,” said FBI Director Christopher A. Wray. Wray’s concerns are verified by a May 18 article—The Impact of Cyber Crime on the Economy-- on the website UpGuard. The article reported the World Economic Forum saying cybercrime has grown to such an extent that it can be described as the world’s third largest economy, after the U.S. and China. Plus, the article said cybercrime will generate $8 trillion in 2023 and it could reach $10 trillion by 2025.

FIGHTING CYBERCRIME

Keith Collins is the CEO of

BUSINESS

BlackOps CSO LLC, a cyber awareness firm based in Sicklerville, New Jersey. Collins said he advises his clients on fighting cybercrime from the perspective of a hacker. “If you are using a computer or any digital device, you can bet hackers are studying your online habits,” Collins, 52, said. “They are studying who you interact with. When they figure you out, that is when they strike with a fake email that will get into your system.” Collins advises his clients to get several layers of protection for their devices, change passwords frequently and try to keep as much personal information from cyberspace as possible. He noted hackers no longer sit in front of computer screens but use automated systems to get people’s information. He said if a cybercrime is committed such as money deducted from a bank account electronically and without approval, a police report should be filed. “People can’t stop hacking from taking place, but they can make it difficult for the hackers,” he said. WI @JamesWrightJr10

Stay Informed! 5 Keith Collins runs BlackOps CSO, a firm that educates organizations on cyber awareness.

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NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023 15

NATIONAL

3 Historians said the connection between the Black American and Palestinian struggles has been evident for many years. (Courtesy Photo/Mark Mahoney, Dream In Color)

Parallel Paths: Black American and Palestinian Solidarity Takes Root By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer Recently, author, speaker, and writer Leron L. Barton encapsulated the substance of solidarity between African Americans and Palestinians in remarks that provide one possible explanation for the persistence of pro-Palestine demon-

strations at the White House and across the country. Significantly, Barton’s Newsweek opinion piece emphasizes to readers the reasons why President Joe Biden will persistently encounter obstacles in securing the kind of Black community support for his first election. “Black American and Palestinian solidarity is not only rooted in

struggle but hope, fighting, resilience, laughter, endless battling, sadness, and doing it all over again the next day,” Barton observed. “This is what I see for my Palestinian brothers and sisters trying to hold on to a land that does everything it can to make them let go.” Barton noted that the challenges encountered by African Americans and Palestinians are intricately interconnected. “This is why I cry for the deaths of Palestinian and Israeli people,” he declared. “This is why I do not refer to it as ‘The Conflict,’

16 NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023

but as ‘The Occupation.’ This is why I have hope for and will continue to support Palestine as they fight to be recognized as people, human beings that deserve freedom and equal treatment as their Israeli neighbors, just as I, a Black man, will continue to fight for the freedom of my people in America. Our struggle is intertwined. When they win, we win.” Michael Fishbach’s 2018 book “Black Power and Palestine: Transnational Countries of Color” concurs with Barton. Fishbach extensively examines the impact that Middle Eastern conflicts had on the American Civil Rights Movement. “Much about how American peoples of color create political strategies, a sense of self, and a place within U.S. and global communities,” Fishbach said. He said the repercussions of the 1960s and 1970s on the United States remain profound and structural in nature. The historical viewpoint highlights the lasting impact that these interrelated conflicts had. Recent controversies have illuminated the complexities of solidarity movements. Black Lives Matter Chicago received criticism for posting a graphic that appeared to celebrate Hamas’ violent attack on civilians at a concert. The graphic has since been deleted. The image featured a paraglider with the Palestinian flag and the words “I stand with Palestine.” The group later clarified, stating, “We stand with Palestine and the people who will do what they must to live free.” Scholars say that the link between

the difficulties of Black Americans and Palestinians has been clear for a long time. Because the protests over the Gaza war and the shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri, happened close to each other, people from different cultures shared tips on how to deal with tear gas. Bassem Masri, a well-known activist in Ferguson and a Palestinian American, was one of these people. In 2015, Black activists and Palestinian advocates showed their support for each other by going to occupied areas publicly declaring support for each other. In 2020, nationwide demonstrations ensued in response to the police killing of George Floyd, which sparked parallels to the predicament encountered by the Palestinian people. Scholar Sam Klug, an authority on African American history, drew attention to the parallel meaning of the expression “I can’t breathe” in both instances. “People were painting George Floyd murals in Palestine,” Klug explained. “Palestinians were being attacked by Israeli security services, and saying, ‘I can’t breathe.’ Over time, African Americans have looked at Palestine, and Palestinians have also looked at what is going on in the United States.” Because of this, Democrats are becoming more aware of the problems experienced by Biden’s reelection campaign. There have been concerns and even alarms raised about Biden’s support among Black voters, who propelled him in 2020. Cliff Albright, who helped start the Black Voters Matter Fund, said backing Biden for practical reasons might not mean being as excited about him. Albright told the Washington Post that voters may not be as interested in the 2024 race because they are disappointed with Biden’s position on Israel. “People fundamentally misunderstood what Black voters said in 2020,” Albright said. “The depth of support was never there. The enthusiasm was never there for Biden. We were very pragmatic. We knew he was the best chance to beat Trump.” WI @StacyBrownMedia

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President Biden Plans First-Ever White House Initiative on Women’s Health Research By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

President Joe Biden has announced the establishment of the first-ever White House Initiative on Women’s Health Research, an effort to address the longstanding gaps in women’s health research. The White House Gender Policy Council and First Lady Jill Biden will oversee the project. Its goal is to completely change how the country studies women’s health and how much it costs. “To achieve scientific breakthroughs and strengthen our ability to prevent, detect, and treat diseases, we have to be bold,” President Biden stated. “That’s why today, we’re establishing a new White House Initiative on Women’s Health Research so that my administration—from the National Institutes of Health to the Department of Defense—does

everything we can to drive innovation in women’s health and close research gaps.” Despite comprising more than half of the population, women have historically been understudied and underrepresented in health research. The lack of investment in women’s health research has led to significant gaps, hindering our understanding of conditions that disproportionately affect women. Jill Biden, a longtime advocate for women’s health, emphasized the need for change. “Every woman I know has a story about leaving her doctor’s office with more questions than answers,” the First Lady stated. “Our new White House Initiative on Women’s Health Research will help change that by identifying bold solutions to uncover the answers that every woman and her family deserves.” The initiative will coordinate

efforts on behalf of the Office of the First Lady and the Gender Policy Council, and its chair is a renowned expert in women’s health research, Dr. Carolyn Mazure. Previously a Norma Weinberg Spungen and Joan Lebson Bildner professor in Women’s Health Research at the Yale School of Medicine, Mazure brings a wealth of expertise to her role as chair. The presidential memorandum establishing the White House Initiative outlines critical objectives, including creating an initiative comprising executive departments and agencies across the federal government. The White House said members of the Initiative will deliver concrete recommendations within 45 days to enhance women’s health research, address disparities, and maximize investments in the field. Focusing on high-priority issues like heart attacks in women and

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NATIONAL

5 First Lady of the U.S., Dr. Jill Biden will help with the President's recent White House Initiative on Women's Health Research. (Courtesy photo/whitehouse.gov)

menopause would help get things done faster. It will also involve scientific, private, and charitable groups looking for new public-private partnerships to encourage new ideas and ensure that all women’s health research progresses.

“Our goal is to pioneer the next generation of discoveries in women’s health, improving the lives of millions of women,” Mazure stated. WI @StacyBrownMedia

NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023 17

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Sacramento Observer’s 60th Anniversary Gala: A Historic Celebration of Black Journalism

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

In a dazzling and elegant celebration, the Sacramento Observer, a beacon of the Black Press, commemorated its 60th anniversary, bringing to3 Sacramento Observer publisher Larry Lee accepts a resolution from Regina Brown-Wilson, executive director of California Black Media during The Observer’s 60th anniversary gala celebration. Courtesy Photo/Russell Stiger Jr.)

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gether community leaders, supporters, and acclaimed artists. The event, held at the landmark Sacramento Memorial Auditorium in California’s capital city, not only honored the historical significance of the Observer but also highlighted its enduring relevance in today’s dynamic media landscape. The Observer enjoys as rich a history as any other newspaper – Black, or white-owned. It began with the vision of its founders, Dr. Bill and Kathryn Lee. In 1963, the couple embarked on a mission to establish a publication serving as a voice for the Black community in Sacramento. From its humble beginnings, the Observer rapidly evolved, becoming one of the fastest-growing publications in the history of African American journalism. Larry Lee, the impassioned publisher who took over the newspaper after his father’s death in 2019, emotionally absorbed the significance of the celebration. “I think the celebration was a wonderful example of how we should honor an institution as important as any,” Lee stated. He underscored the power of vividly illustrating the historical importance of the Observer through various mediums, including a 100-page book, videos, and testimonials. Lee emphasized the Observer’s and the Black Press’s commitment to serving communities that often are underserved by mainstream media. “I was born in the Black Press, and I’m going to die in the Black Press,” Lee declared. “The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) represents that to me. I love NNPA, and I love the Black Press.” The NNPA is the trade association of more than 230 African American-owned newspapers and media companies in the United States, of which The Observer is a member. Frank McComb, a world-renowned soul jazz recording artist who graced the event with a stirring performance of a bevy of jazzy tunes, shared his honor in being part of the celebration. “To be called to such an event, I feel honored because of the history,” he said. McComb emphasized the importance of having a vision, not just a dream, drawing inspiration from the

Observer’s founder, who had a vision leading to this influential institution’s establishment. California Secretary of State Shirley Weber, the first African American to serve in that role, praised the Observer’s impact. “The Observer has meant so much not only to the city of Sacramento but to the state,” Weber said during a pre-event cocktail party. She recognized the publication’s role in highlighting the community’s greatness and the state of California. “The love and trust we all have in the Observer really is unmatched,” she stated. The celebration included the presentation of the Observer’s 60th-anniversary Living Legacy Awards to individuals who have made significant contributions to the community. Among the recipients were Weber, Margaret Fortune, Chet Hewitt, and Bishop Parnell Lovelace Jr. The Color of Music Orchestra, which celebrates Black classical composers and performers, backed McCombs during the evening and opened the night with a stirring rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” Adrienne Bankert, an award-winning national news anchor, served as the Mistress of Ceremonies, and the Rev. Mark Meeks of the City Church provided the benediction. The event also included an invocation by Pastor Tamara Bennett and a Native American Land Acknowledgment by Albert Titman Sr. of Miwuk, Nisenan. Earlier this year the Observer won the 2023 National Newspaper Publishers Association’s Newspaper of the Year, and Lee earned Publisher of the Year honors. NNPA President and CEO, Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., Washington Informer Publisher Denise Rolark Barnes, Wave Newspapers CEO Pluria Marshall Jr., and the NNPA’s Let It Be Known morning show team, including Producer Greer Marshall and digital stars Dawn Montgomery and Totally Randie, were among those representing the Black Press. “The celebration … the evening, set the bar for all of the Black Press,” Dr. Chavis proclaimed. WI @StacyBrownMedia

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COMPILED BY OSWALD T. BROWN, WI CONTRIBUTING WRITER

5 Pro-Palestinian supporters demonstrate at the entrance to the Israeli embassy in Pretoria, South Africa. (Courtesy Photo)

Tens of thousands of South Africans took part in a march in Cape Town on Saturday, Nov. 11, in support of Palestinians living in Gaza, demanding that the Israeli ambassador be expelled. The enclave has been under intense fire from Israel, which went to war to eliminate the militant group, Hamas, after it staged a bloody cross-border assault on Oct. 7. The marchers were led by clergy from different faiths chanting "free Palestine," including anti-apartheid cleric, Dr Allan Boesak, who called for the Israeli embas-

sy to be shut down. "That apartheid state that’s been waging a war of extermination for the last 75 years against our people,” he said to the crowd amid cries of “shut it down”. “That apartheid state that cannot stop murdering the children. For every Palestinian child in a coffin, we say shut it down. Every piece of land stolen from our people in Palestine, shut it down," he said. Palestinian officials say over 11 thousand people have been killed in Gaza, 40 percent of them children, since the start of Israel’s war. Israeli officials say around 1,400 people, mostly civilians, were killed in Hamas’ attack, during which about 240 others were taken hostage. Demonstrator, Anjali Kooverjee, said she believed it was her moral duty to stand up for human rights. "I believe that any violence toward any person, no matter what race, religion, sexual orientation you are, is completely wrong,” she said, “and what’s happening in Gaza and in Palestine at the moment is a complete violation of human rights." The South African government on Monday said it would recall all its diplomats from Israel to signal its concern over the situation in Gaza. Pretoria has long been a vocal supporter of the Palestinian cause, with the ruling African National Congress often linking it to its own struggle against apartheid. Mandla Mandela, grandson of former president, and Nobel Peace Laureate, Nelson Mandela, took part in the protest. WI

caribbean now Solemn Tribute: Remembrance Day Reflections in Barbados In an atmosphere that seemed to have borrowed its solemnity from the heavens, Bridgetown emerged Sunday, Nov. 12, as a bastion of honor, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of Barbados. Prime Minister Mia Mottley, with her characteristic determination, led 5 Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley led a procession of dignitaries, Army veterans, and government officials in a tribute to the courageous souls who valiantly confronted the tumult of a procession of dignitaries, Army veterans, and World Wars I and II, Barbados Today reported on Sunday, November 12, Government officials in a tribute to the courageous souls who valiantly confronted the tumult 2023, in an article written by Rawle Toney. of World Wars I and II. (Courtesy Photo) The Prime Minister was unable to participate in last year’s Remembrance Day activities due to her commitment as the keynote speaker at the Nelson Mandela Memorial Lecture in South Africa. Like clockwork, the annual Remembrance Day spectacle unfolded at the Cenotaph, where the island’s heroes are duly remembered and celebrated. Prime Minister Mottley, along with President Dame Sandra Mason and representatives of the Diplomatic Corps, orchestrated a symphony of respect by laying wreaths. The Barbados Legion and various uniformed organizations joined the poignant procession. National Heroes’ Square served as the stage for a parade that transcended mere marching; it became a sincere ode to the fallen, where an interdenominational service provided a spiritual backdrop, accompanied by a gun salute and prayers that resonated through the air. Remembrance Day, affectionately known as Poppy Day for the floral tradition that adorns lapels, is a Commonwealth affair but holds a special place in the hearts of Barbadians. It’s a day when Barbadians collectively tip their hats to the brave souls who made the ultimate sacrifice. Read more on Barbados Today. WI

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Transforming Healthcare and Wellness in the Workplace: Our Vision for a Healthier Future workplace goes beyond employee satisfaction; it is a strategic imperative for any forward-thinking organization. CareFirst is committed to being a partner in your wellbeing journey, offering the resources and support needed to build a healthier, more productive, happier workforce. Together, we can drive a positive change in our workplace and

By Mallory Kusterer Healthcare doesn’t exist in the vacuum of our doctor’s office. It exists all around us—at home, at work, and in the communities where we live. And our ability to live our healthiest lives within the physical or virtual confines of a “9-5” job is no exception. In many ways, the lines between home and work are often blurred, and for more than half of the U.S. population, our place of work is inextricably linked to our health, as 54% of Americans have employer-based health insurance coverage. Furthermore, the connection between employee health and workplace productivity is more evident than ever, and it is crucial to recognize the significance of fostering a workplace culture that is inclusive of our health and prioritizes wellbeing on all fronts—physical, mental, behavioral, social, and financial. What if you had resources at your disposal to get healthy and stay healthy, avoiding costly care down the road? What if healthcare solutions were flexible enough to meet you wherever you are on your wellness journey—whenever and however it was most convenient for you? What if a payer was more than just your insurance, but was your partner in healthcare? At CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield (CareFirst), we’re dedicated to improving health outcomes for everyone and creating thriving communities where we can all live our best, healthiest lives. We’re committed to transforming the way you engage with healthcare. CareFirst is not only here for you when you’re sick, but we offer tools and services to support you at every stage of wellness. CareFirst wants to change the way you think about healthcare,

in the broader community, where health and wellbeing are integral components of our collective success. Mallory Kusterer is the Director of Specialty Markets at CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield. In her position, she is responsible for all specialty lines of business, connecting members with

a comprehensive suite of products and services that align with CareFirst’s mission of advancing affordable, accessible, and equitable healthcare to improve holistic health and wellbeing. Learn more about CareFirst’s wellness services and programs available to employers and their members in the 2024 Blueprint for Wellness in the Workplace

5 Mallory Kusterer, Director of Specialty Markets at CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield

and as the largest not-for-profit health insurer in the mid-Atlantic region, we’re continuing to identify opportunities to deliver care through innovative solutions to more than 3.6 million members. Digital resources provide anonymous and confidential support. Virtual-first primary care models include urgent, preventive and behavioral services that offer affordable, transparent, and convenient care options. Holistic solutions offer alternative treatment options, including meditation, breathwork, yoga, and more. And services like mental first aid training can help you identify, understand, and respond when someone else may be experiencing a mental health concern or crisis. In addition to physical and behavioral services, live and on-demand fitness courses, weight loss management and nutrition counseling, smoking cessation and financial planning tools round out a comprehensive approach to addressing wellbeing. Our goal is to meet members where they are, knowing that everyone’s needs are different and constantly evolving. Supporting wellness in the

Care for wherever you find yourself. Everyone’s needs are different. That’s why we bring you a full range of care options that work with your life—from anytime, anywhere.

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NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023 21

HEALTH Mayor Bowser Officially Declares Public Emergency

District Issues Long Awaited Response to Opioid Crisis & Youth Violence By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Health Reporter After public discourse and community activism calling attention to the District’s rising drug challenges, D.C. Mayor Muriel E. Bowser officially declared the opioid crisis a public emergency on Monday, Nov. 13. This decree comes a week after the District council unanimously voted on a resolution agreeing the mayor should enact a public emergency. The opioid abatement commission congruently voted to declare the epidemic a public emergency the following day. “I want to acknowledge and declare this emergency, not to just say that the work to curb opioid overdoses isn’t already happening, but in some cases to speed up that work [and] the procurement of services,” said Bowser during

5 (Courtesy photo)

22 NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023

Monday’s press conference at the John A. Wilson building in downtown Washington. As of July 31, 296 opioid overdoses had been reported by the D.C. Medical Chief Examiner. This year is expected to exceed last year’s record, projecting more than 507 opioid related fatalities by the end of the year. Taking immediate effect, the emergency order will suspend certain contracting, allowing quicker access to provide services. The order will also guide District agencies to utilize a collective overdose-tracking system in order to ensure outreach teams can respond to hot spot areas around the city more effectively. Mayor Bowser’s declaration of a public emergency follows the onset of the District’s opioid abatement advisory commission, as well as the recent opening of the city’s

5 D.C. Mayor Muriel E. Bowser officially declared the opioid crisis a public emergency on Monday, Nov. 13. (Ja'Mon Jackson/ The Washington Informer)

first stabilization center at 35 K Street NE. The new stabilization center has already provided care to 139 residents, two-thirds of which were transported by fire and emergency services personnel, as reported by Robert Holman, medical director of D.C. Fire and Emergency Medical Services (EMS).

THE OPIOID CRISIS AND CITY YOUTH

The opioid epidemic is trickling down to one of the District’s most vulnerable populations: youth. Drug prevention specialists continuously work to warn residents of the rising dangers of illicit drugs, particularly fentanyl, penetrating the city’s drug market. Incidents of marijuana unknowingly laced with fentanyl, and recreational use of an increasingly popular cocktail called “boot,” a mix of meth with ecstasy and other drugs, are becoming popular dangers among the city’s younger population. Some critics of the opioid crisis suspect that drug abuse lies beneath the influx of youth violence and crime in the District.. “It’s an umbrella with respect to our children that we have to talk about. I think this is a great opportunity, but I also want you to understand that this is a medical issue, as opposed to just a psychosocial issue,” Dr. Edwin Chapman stated to his colleagues during the second opioid abatement commission meeting. While the youth opioid crisis has become a growing issue of concern across the District, resi-

dents residing across jurisdiction lines are also feeling the rising detriment of overdoses, calling for greater attention to address the emergency. Within just three weeks, Parkdale High School in Loudoun County has recorded nine overdoses of teenage children. The frightening incidents pushed Virginia Governor Glenn Younkin to call for an executive order for the Department of Education to issue guidance to local schools mandating correspondence to notify parents after an overdose takes place. “We are trying to crack the drug rings, we are trying to stop the flow. Unfortunately, right now, they have been winning. And so every child is at risk,” Virginia Governor Youngkin proclaimed during a press conference addressing the student emergency. According to the Virginia Department of Health Office of Chief Medical Examiner's Fatal Drug Overdose Quarterly Report, the state has seen a consistent increase in annual opioid fatalities since 2013, with a total of 559 overdose deaths in just the first quarter of 2023. Based on the growing quarterly trends, the numbers are expected to surpass the total opioid fatalities of 2022, a total of 2,141 deaths, by the end of this year. Although D.C. annual numbers of opioid fatalities pale in comparison to Virginia’s, primarily due to the size of the state as opposed to the city, local drug prevention advocates predict incidents may be higher than expected among the District’s youth population.

“We have several overdoses every day that are not recorded,” said Demetrius Jones, Opioid Abatement Commission member and community mobilizer for the District of Columbia Prevention Center. “Even though we have legislation in place for people to not be charged for paraphernalia or drug possession if they call the police or ambulance to save a person, a lot of times if they have narcan in their hand they may forgo calling 911,” Jones explained. “A lot of times [the kids] don’t want their parents to know that they have an opioid use disorder.” While recent efforts are a significant start to containing the issue, Ambrose Lane Jr. emphasized the need for swiftly examining recovery resources in communities most affected by the opioid epidemic. As chief of the District’s Health Alliance Network, Lane Jr. said immediate action is necessary in order to place a firm grip on the issue before it continues to worsen in months and years to come. “The data shows it is Wards 8, 5, & 7 in that order, in the number of opioid deaths in the city. The money that Dr. Bazon pointed out totals almost more than $50 million already being spent,” Lane Jr. proclaimed, referencing the opioid abatement commission meeting. “So there does need to be an analysis of how that money is being spent and how effective it is before one dime of the opioid abatement money is spent. We need legislation to address this issue.” WI

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Family Caregiving

It takes more than love to care for a loved one. We want to hear your story.

Most caregivers will feel unprepared. But it’s a role you and 74,000 others in the District play every day. No matter how much you love the person you’re caring for, being a caregiver can be a lot to manage, especially when the role is to care for grandchildren. In the District, over 7,000 children under 18 live in a grandparent-led household. DC’s Grandparent and Kinship Caregiver Program provides a subsidy to eligible residents raising their grandchildren, greatgrandchildren, great-nieces or nephews, to help offset the costs of caring for those who may otherwise end up in foster care. Are you, or someone close to you, a District grandparent caring for grandkids? We want to hear from you! Scan the QR code with your phone and share your story! Your stories are powerful—showing your struggle, illustrating your love, and making the case for action. To learn more, visit aarp.org/dc.

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NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 10/31/23 2023 9:42 23AM

OUR

EARTH

POETRY from Page 1 following a book launch held at the University of the District of Columbia Nov. 8, where he and his co-authors read aloud from their poetry to an auditorium seating dozens of cheering supporters and local media. He held up his copy of “Through My Anacostia Eyes: Environmental Problems and Possibilities,” which features four of his own poems. “It was emotional when I started reading it,” said Dewand in an interview after the book launch. “And then when I wrote it—it just feels joyful.”

LITERACY AND EXPLORING NATURE

Caroline Brewer, who edited the book and worked with the students to write their poems using a curriculum she designed called Nature-Wise, said that she sees poetry as a uniquely “playful” form of writing. She has spent two decades supporting children’s literacy, working with thousands of students of all ages to build confidence in reading and writing through creative projects. “We wanted them to write about the environment through the lens of their own personal experiences as residents of Anacostia, as students of Anacostia High School, as young people, as young African Americans,” Brewer said. “This is, I believe, the fifth book I've done with students, and I think this is the most powerful, because they really put their hearts and souls into it.” The internship itself is a paid opportunity for students led by Xavier Brown with the University of the District of Columbia, the U.S. Department of the Interior and environmental nonprofit Conservation Nation, along with other partners. Participants went on field trips each week: their schedule included touring the En-

24 NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023

vironmental Protection Agency, working in (and eating from) urban gardens around the city, identifying bird calls in the park and boating along the Anacostia River. “I want to be a geological mining engineer… when I become a geological engineer, I'm going to learn about and be focused on not hurting the environment,” junior Marcus Williams said. “I learned about environmental racism, which is a major thing in Southeast because of us not having a lot of resources and green areas inside of Southeast.” Marcus said the internship also offered opportunities to develop skills like public speaking and professionalism. The students gave presentations and heard from environmental experts during the program, along with spending two days each week working on their writing. Brewer’s curriculum provided writing prompts to get students started. Some of the poems are autobiographical; others

5 Dewand Hemsley at Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens. (Courtesy Photo/ Conservation Nation)

focused on reflections from the internship experiences or required students to do outside research to describe the lives of a plant or animal species of their choice. Overall, Brewer said, the goal was to enable students to develop confidence in their literacy skills while connecting to the natural world and examining environmental issues in their own backyard. “It addresses the challenges that our young people have in seeing themselves as capable readers and writers, and as people who can give voice to issues as complex as what's happened historically to the Anacostia River and what’s happening now [for example],” Brewer explained. “All of these issues were brand new to the students. And yet, once they got the opportunity to learn more about what was happening, they were fearless in

5 The front cover of the nearly 70-page paperback, published earlier this year. (Courtesy Photo/Conservation Nation)

expressing their opinions, expressing their ideas and being creative about writing about what was going on.” Below are excerpts from a few student poems. “Through My Anacostia Eyes” can be purchased at any online bookstore.

IF I WERE THE ANACOSTIA RIVER

By Keveon Graves, Jeremiah Wright, Kahri Borum, Marcus Williams, Dewand Hemsley, Dearontre (Dre) Daise, DeMirio Wimbush, Germaine Williams, NeKaeyla Roach and Royana Easterling If I were the Anacostia River, I know what I would see: trash, bass, Carolina wrens and skinny branches that have fallen from trees If I were the Anacostia River, I know what I would hear: birds chirping, ducks quacking, cars roaring, and wind blowing in my ear … If I were the Anacostia River, I

know what I would love: the green of the trees, clean water, less pollution, more wildlife and fish that people can eat, and the peace symbolized by the dove

WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW BY LOOKING AT ME By Dewand Hemsley

What you don’t know by looking at me is that I’m the baby of the family. My sister protects me like a mother bear protects her cubs. … What you don’t know by looking at me is that I’m from a place where my mom didn’t want me to grow up; a place that I want to make it out of; a place from where I want to make it to the NFL.

POETRY Page 25

The Informer's Our Earth page turns 1 year old this fall. We want to know what you think and what we can do better in year 2! Please let us know with this 3-minute survey.

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OUR EARTH

POETRY from Page 24

WHAT YOU DON'T KNOW BY LOOKING AT ME by Nekaeyla Roach

4 Nekaeyla Roach at Kenilworth. (Courtesy Photo/Conservation Nation) 6 Dearontre (Dre) Daise at Kenilworth. (Courtesy Photo/ Conservation Nation)

IF I WERE AN EAGLE By Dearontre (Dre) Daise

If I were an eagle, I know what I would see: fish, insects, land, and big and tall trees … If I were an eagle, I know what I would love: flying high up in the sky, and the wild spaces of my life, which give me a perpetual shove. WI

What you don't know by looking at me is that I am the diamond that grew through broken concrete. That means I got tough skin and I'm brilliant too. I come from a neighborhood where we don't know the difference between fireworks and gunshots; between what's supposed to be fun and what's trying to kill you. When I was a child, I would play outside, running the streets with my hair all over my head. On the Fourth of July, I would always hear fireworks and see them fly. One time, I stopped running, turned around and looked back. I see everybody dropping to the ground. Somebody yells out, "Those aren't fireworks. Those are gunshots." "Everybody get down!" I'm going to wind up with a knot on my head, I would think, because of how fast, how hard, I fell. … I am the diamond that wants to attend Spelman University to become one of the best Black women lawyers as a career. I want to rise to the top, so I know I can't stop being the diamond that grew through broken concrete because fulfilling my dream is near.

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4 Dearontre (Dre) Daise at Kenilworth. (Courtesy Photo/Conservation Nation)

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MY SUPERPOWER IS LISTENING by Marcus Williams

My superpower is being able to sit down and listen to another person. … Allowing their voice to be heard means their words flow out their mouths and they never have to worry about the situation again. … It’s a feeling similar to when you’re lying down on a patch a grass and you can feel the breeze.

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5 Marcus Williams at the University of District of Columbia’s rooftop garden. (Courtesy Photo/Conservation Nation)

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NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023 25

EDUCATION Libation Ceremony Honors the 272 Enslaved People Sold by Georgetown University Student Groups, Descendants Continue to Put Pressure on the University to Make Amends By Ra-Jah Kelly WI Contributing Writer In 2016, local college students called public attention to what is believed to be the largest slave sale

linked to an existing institution of higher education. In 1838 Jesuit priests, at what is now known as Georgetown University, sold 272 enslaved people. Recent scrutiny led to the creation of multiple

5 Tristan Porter, one of the descendants of 272 enslaved people sold at what is now Georgetown University, and a current Georgetown student, leads a libation ceremony on Nov. 5. (Matthew Bailey//The Washington Informer)

groups and committees-- some independent and some with university support-- to determine if and what reparations should be made to the descendants of those sold.

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“You never really think that you would be in that number,” said Tristan Porter, a senior at Georgetown majoring in liberal arts. “Two-hundred-seventy-two out of the millions and millions and millions that suffered through this form of human trafficking, I think is, divine intervention, I guess was what we'll call it.” Porter, 36, had to halt his pursuit of a bachelor’s degree at Howard University due to financial constraints. However, his road to Georgetown was an interesting journey. While living and working in Charlotte, North Carolina, Porter received an email from Richard Cellini, former leader of the Georgetown Memory Project, notifying him and his mother of their lineage linked to the 272 people sold by Georgetown University. The Georgetown Memory Project (GMP), an independent research group, had identified 232 of the original 272 enslaved people, and over 10,000 living descendants by 2021, according to the latest update on their website. Porter applied to Georgetown, believing his “descendant” status might bring additional financial aid. Although the GMP includes academic scholarships as part of its mission, Porter’s assumption proved incorrect. While no student descendants have yet received such scholarships, they are granted “legacy” status, akin to

that given to children of donors or alumni. Melisande Short-Colombe, who graduated in 2021, was among the first descendant students admitted to Georgetown. In 2017, a genealogist from the Georgetown Memory Project informed her of her heritage. “Legacy status at any university or school is conferred on students whose families have made significant contributions to the university or come from long, multigenerational student backgrounds at the institution,” Short-Colombe explained. “So what did that mean for students who were descendants of those enslaved and trafficked by the institution? As an adult, I needed to find out what that meant.” Despite her lineage, Short-Colombe did not receive scholarships specifically for descendants. Post-graduation, she took a position at the university, continuing to work "in community with Georgetown around its slavery, memory and reconciliation."

MORE EFFORTS TO SEEK REPARATIONS, RECONCILIATION

The Descendants Truth & Reconciliation Foundation, affiliated with Georgetown University and the Jesuit church, was established in response to the revelations

EDUCATION Page 38

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New Funding Cuts Can Make Life Harder for Black Students By Aziah Slid Word in Black

Time and time again, teachers call for more money to buy materials for classroom projects and pay for field trips. Principals and CEOs want additional funds to keep their schools up-to-date technologically and culturally. And school psychologists and counselors have requested more mental health providers and services within school walls. But, with the fate of Title I funds resting in the hands of an upcoming House of Representatives vote on funding, all the things education professionals are pushing for may just get a bit harder. Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives want to cut 80% of funding for Title I, a federal program that sends money to schools based on the number of

children from low-income backgrounds enrolled there. For almost 60 years, Title I programs have been used to decrease class sizes, pay for teacher assistants, create afterschool programs, pay for resources to teach reading and math, and offer countless other necessities for underserved students. The House bill, which could be approved as early as next week, would potentially wipe away nearly $15 billion for historically and currently underserved school districts. “Some schools have been underfunded for decades, leaving their students, especially those who are Black, Brown, or live in rural areas, without the facilities and resources they need to come into their brilliance,” Becky Pringle, president of the National Education Association said in a statement. “Every

student — and I do mean every — should have access to a great public school, which is why we must protect Title I funding.’’ The House bill, which could be approved as early as next week, would potentially wipe away nearly $15 billion for historically and currently underserved school districts. To add insult to injury for Black students, the bill would also ban the use of funding to teach “critical race theory,” a term that is not defined in the legislation, according to reporting from Chalkbeat. The dramatic cuts, which would slash 28% of the overall education budget, would also directly impact more than 50,000 Head Start slots, wipe out over 200,000 educational jobs, and eliminate Title II grants used to recruit and retain teachers. Studies show that highest-need districts — which often have large

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EDUCATION

5 Republicans want to cut Title I education funds by 80%, potentially eliminating $15 billion for underserved schools and students. (Courtesy Photo)

Black and Brown student populations — already receive substantially less state and local funding than lower-need districts. Funding from Title I programs is intended to fill those gaps.

The NEA is encouraging its members and supporters to email their elected officials and urge them to “oppose the draconian cuts in education funding proposed by the House GOP.” WI

NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023 27

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EDITORIAL

Dig for the Stories, Take Photos and Cherish the Moments This Holiday Season Thanksgiving is a week away, and as the holiday season swings into full gear, some people are making plans to spend festive time with loved ones near and far. Holiday gatherings can be a wonderful opportunity to catch up on all people’s important updates, milestones, and sometimes, new family gossip. However, get-togethers can also offer a moment to learn about family history– from hilarious stories of the past, to anecdotes that tell a story about strength, resilience, courage, and ingenuity. While some old stories might be just that– old– others can allow for learning little-known family facts or fun narratives that offer insight about the world back then and today. While you might think you know all about the people around you, asking an elder aunt, uncle or grandparent about their childhood or where they were for a moment in history, affords them the opportunity to consider their past, while also giving you a moment to spend some quality time with that person. Further, take photos of and with your loved ones. While you have the opportunity to gather with family, be sure to capture the happy moments. In the world of social media, photos can be posted for other family and friends to appreciate, but taking pictures aren’t simply for likes or the gram. Taking pictures, as the saying goes, lasts longer. Photographs can be passed down from generation to generation. Even without people present to share their stories, the photographs tell a narrative of its own. Photographs offer a glimpse into moments in time, and allows families to physically archive memories. Finally, cherish the moments in real time. There’s so much happening in the world and in our individual lives, but leave the negativity at the door and come into family gatherings ready to spread love and joy. Even when your family is sometimes part of the problem, make a choice to find ways to choose happiness and remember, joy is contagious, so to spread it unapologetically. Prioritize digging for the stories from elder family members, taking pictures, cherishing the moment and you’ll be sure to make lasting memories this holiday season. WI

Why Street Names Matter Throughout history, streets and alleys were given names to tell stories, identify neighborhoods or memorialize people or events. As history evolves, so do streets often renamed to reflect a more relevant and contemporary time. In D.C., three years after the murder of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on April 15, 1968, the D.C. Council approved the renaming of Nichols Avenue in Southeast to Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue on King’s birthday, January 15. Ten years later, in 1982, Portland Street, which intersects with King Avenue, was renamed Malcolm X Avenue. And, on Saturday, November 18, another street that intersects with King Avenue, Good Hope Road will be renamed Marion S. Barry Avenue in honor of the four-time mayor of the District of Columbia, who died on November 23, 2014. Barry Avenue joins dozens of D.C. streets permanently or ceremonially renamed, mostly for men we might add, whose numerous and collective contributions impact the lives of all D.C. residents. These street signs tell the story of individuals who fought for the District to become the first to free its enslaved people, contributed to this democracy, sought to uplift residents economically, spiritually and scientifically, and who died hoping their lives were not lived in vain. It would be wonderful if street names alone would magically recreate neighborhoods reflective of the hopes and dreams of those for whom they were renamed. And in some strange way, they do. Barry Avenue reflects the role he wanted government to play in serving people where they are, of promoting entrepreneurship and providing services to those impacted by poverty and drug addiction. It is a corridor that provides affordable housing, supplies children and adults with a library where they can read and to learn, and a park intended as a safe place for seniors. Street names represent the hope that those for whom they are named will be fulfilled. WI

(Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

TO THE EDITOR I really enjoyed all of the photos in the latest edition of the Washington Informer. From the march in support of Palestine, cute kids, to the basketball game between MPD and the young folks. Outstanding work! Morris Vick Laurel, Md.

I don’t know if you have done so, so forgive me if you have. But I would love to see the Washington Informer do a book review on Sheila Johnson’s new memoir. I had only known surface details about her, but boy was I blown away to learn about her brilliance, business acumen, and perseverance through many dark moments. Sheila is, without a doubt, a part of D.C. history and would most definitely be deserving. Phyllis Barron Washington, D.C.

Readers' Mailbox The Washington Informer welcomes letters to

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the editor about articles we publish or issues affecting the community. Write to news@washingtoninformer.com. or send to: 3117 Martin Luther King Jr Ave., SE, Washington, D.C. 20032. Please note that we are unable to publish letters that do not include a full name, address and phone number. We look forward to hearing from you. NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023 29

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist

Julianne Malveaux

Biden Beware, Young Folks Don't Care

There is no question how I will vote in a contest between President Joe Biden and the toxic prior president. Biden wins every time. But I'm just me — I'm not the pollsters, the young'uns, the rural votes, and the disaffected. Listing Biden's accomplishments and comparing them to those of others might be instructive if people paid attention to facts. Too many voters are motivated by feelings,

and they aren't feeling good about their own economic circumstances, the uncertainty of recession, about our international involvement, especially in Ukraine, and even about his age and his health. Now, for a month Israel has been brutally bombing Gaza, bombing hospitals, refugee camps, schools and more. They say it is retaliation for the brutal Hamas on Israel on Oct. 7, which no one condones, and most have repudiated in strong terms. But an eye for an eye leaves everyone blind, and in their bloodlust to retaliate

Guest Columnist

against Hamas, Israel has slaughtered nearly 10,000 innocent Palestinians, including thousands of children. They have denied the Gazan population the mere basics, like drinking water, electricity, fuel and health care, reducing doctors to performing surgery in the dark and without anesthesia. They have denied requests for a cease-fire or even a humanitarian break, leaving as many as two million people stuck in Gaza without border openings. Whatever inhumanity Hamas perpetrated on Oct. 7, Israel has increased it exponentially.

A recent Saturday was a balmy pleasant day in my D.C. neighborhood. A friend and I were walking toward a local restaurant when we encountered group of young people who had just come from the Palestinian March to the White House. There were six or seven of them, diverse, a couple of Black folks, a white guy, and two women wearing the keffiyeh, the checkered black and white scarf that Yasser Arafat wore, a symbol of Palestinian solidarity. Another carried the Palestinian flag, the black, white, green stripes with a red triangle at the left. I

asked them how the march went, and they were exuberant. But one woman, then another, then another said harshly, I will never vote for Joe Biden. I voted for him before, and I won't do it again. What about the alternative, I asked. Would you rather have the Republican alternative. One young woman lowered her head and her voice. "I don't care," she said. "Biden has betrayed us." Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.) has said much the same thing, accusing

MALVEAUX Page 53

Marian Wright Edelman

A Place at the Table

I've shared before the description of an editorial cartoon my father kept pinned up in the vestibule of our church that made a deep impression on me I have never forgotten. It was a blackand-white drawing by the Pulitzer Prize-winning artist Herblock that was originally published in The Washington Post in October 1947. The picture showed a group

of well-dressed, happy people sitting at a banquet table overflowing with place settings, goblets and so much food the table cannot hold any more: a roast, gravy boats, bread and butter, covered dishes, heaping platters of sides. Hovering behind them and filling the rest of the image is a crowd of gaunt, wide-eyed hungry children dressed in rags. There are too many of these skeletal figures to count; the starving masses go on and on into the distance. Back at the table, one of the dinner guests is speaking

Guest Columnist

cheerfully to his smiling companions. The caption reads: "Shall we say grace?" In his last book, "Where Do We Go from Here: Chaos or Community?," Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. wrote: "Not too many years ago, Dr. Kirtley Mather, a Harvard geologist, wrote a book entitled Enough and to Spare. He set forth the basic theme that famine is wholly unnecessary in the modern world. Today, therefore, the question on the agenda must read: Why should there be hunger and

privation in any land, in any city, at any table, when man has the resources and the scientific knowhow to provide all mankind with the basic necessities of life?" Dr. King went on: "There is no deficit in human resources; the deficit is in human will…The well-off and the secure have too often become indifferent and oblivious to the poverty and deprivation in their midst. The poor in our countries have been shut out of our minds, and driven from the mainstream of our societies, because we have

allowed them to become invisible. Ultimately a great nation is a compassionate nation. No individual or nation can be great if it does not have a concern for 'the least of these.'" Do we have the will to be truly great? As Americans celebrate Thanksgiving in a few weeks, many people will indeed be deeply blessed and grateful to be able to gather with family and friends around a table that looks like the

the executive order abolishing segregation in the armed forces and ordered the full integration of all branches. As expected, Truman's order received resistance from politicians, military officers and all segments of the public who not only opposed integration in the military but everywhere. Regardless of the racial resistance, Black men and women continued to serve their nation with honor. It takes a special person to love their country and fight for it when the love and appreciation are not always returned. Matthew Delmont speaks about

the Black newspapers of the 1930s and how they provided extensive coverage of the rise of fascism in Europe. They laid the groundwork for Black Americans to recognize and relate to the serious threat posed by Adolf Hitler and the Nazis. Many of those who chose to enlist and serve in the military saw how Hitler identified with Jim Crow laws in the U.S. South to justify his treatment of European Jews. When we continue to recognize Veterans Day, we should honor the

EDELMAN Page 53

David W. Marshall

The G.I. Bill's Effect on Black Veterans

Our nation recognizes Veterans Day by honoring America's servicemen and servicewomen for their courage, honor, patriotism and sacrifice each year. As we do so, we cannot forget how national recognition and appreciation were not always free of deceit and hypocrisy. In his book, "Half American: The Epic Story of African Americans Fighting World

War II at Home and Abroad," historian Matthew Delmont writes about the crucial contributions of more than one million Black Americans who served in WWII. He details the dual battle Black service members waged in fighting fascism overseas and racism at home, including how the Black press played a vital role in helping Black Americans understand the true threat of fascism and why something had to be done to stop its spread. Stories from the Black perspective are often omitted from school textbooks. In 1940, Black Americans made

30 NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023

up almost 10% of the total U.S. population —12.6 million out of a total population of 131 million — and the Army became the nation's largest minority employer. From the 2.5 million Black men who registered for the draft, more than one million joined the armed forces. In addition, thousands of Black women and these inductees served in all branches of service and operation areas during the war. The journey for these men and women was different from their white counterparts. On July 26, 1948, then-President Harry Truman signed

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OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist

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

Just Wondering

I have a lot of books in my home. They range from children's books to Bibles to right-wing writers to progressive writers to comic writers to biographies. I read as many of them as I can. I have too many to think I could ever read everything in all of them. When people, including children, come to my home, their eyes are wide open with excitement as they walk around my shelves. I

never ask them which of the books they found exciting, sad, happy, or just curious. I must admit that I have not yet read half of them, but I aspire to do so. Today, I walked down an entire wall of my books that I had hardly had time to notice since I placed them on the shelves. My eye fell on one book called "We Charge Genocide," edited by William L. Patterson with a preface by Ossie Davis. I opened the book and the prologue by Jarvis Tyner read, "BLACK LIVES MATTER." As I read further, the statement

Guest Columnist

made was "Black lives matter" is the rallying cry heard all across the country. Hundreds of thousands have taken to the streets protesting police misconduct and murder. Nationally African Americans are disproportionally victims of police misconduct and murder. "Black lives matter" is a call to bring an end to this nationwide racist policy of systemic singling-out of African Americans for the use of deadly force by police. The Black Lives Matter movement descends politically and is a continuation of the 1951

petition, "We Charge Genocide." Those who participated in putting this book together researched, circulated, and signed the petition. They said things that were well-documented evidence and showed that well-documented evidence proved that racism in the U.S. was not simply individual acts by racists but by a system of oppression. They showed that racism, terror, beatings, lynching, and discrimination were systemic. This was mainly expressed within the U.S., but ultimately proof of racism was taken to an

international arena. As I read on, I thought about Ron DeSantis and Greg Abbott and their efforts to block the reading of things about this country they don't like and should just be buried. As I was thinking about that, I ran across an article about an Arkansas librarian who was recently fired for upholding her First Amendment right to provide truths. As sad as it is for a country that proclaims the right to own a firearm under all circumstanc-

WILLIAMS Page 54

Marc H. Morial

Wes Moore's Efforts to End Racial Gap Earn Him the NUL President's Award

"The racial wealth gap is intentional. It was created. It was created by the Homestead Act. It was created by urban redlining. It was created by the inequitable distribution of the GI bill. It was created by unfair appraisal values. It was created by racist procurement policies. The racial wealth gap was created by the misguided choices of people in pow-

er. The only way to reverse bad policy choices is with good policy choices. Policies that fix the foundation of what's broken." – Maryland Gov. Wes Moore It's an ambitious goal for any governor: Eliminate the racial wealth gap. Racial inequality has cost the American economy $16 trillion over the last two decades, and it's projected to cost another $1 trillion over the next 10 years. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore

Guest Columnist

has made eliminating the racial wealth gap in his state his top priority. Nearly a year into his term, his administration has advanced over a half-billion dollars in procurement awards to minorityand women-owned businesses. He's signed the Maryland Access to Banking Act, promoting the growth of financial services in lowto moderate-income communities. Maryland's minimum wage has been boosted to $15 an hour two years ahead of schedule. The Family Prosperity Act of 2023, which

expands and makes permanent the state's Earned Income Tax Credit and significantly expands its Child Tax Credit, is expected to lift tens of thousands of Maryland's children out of poverty. And he's working with lawmakers to address the appraisal gap from historic redlining, which he called "one of the greatest wealth thefts in our state's history." In recognition of these accomplishments and others, the National Urban League honored Moore with the President's Award

at the 67th Annual Equal Opportunity Dinner on Wednesday. The Equal Opportunity Dinner is an annual fundraising event that celebrates trailblazing leaders in industry, media, the arts, and government who personify the National Urban League's mission of equal opportunity for the underserved. Also honored this year along with Moore were National Urban League Trustee Donna Epps, Verizon's senior vice presi-

past 12 months were the hottest on record. This fight has always been about our future but increasingly it's also about our present. Voters get it. This was especially evident in Virginia, where voters forcefully denied the Republican governor's bid for full control of the state government. The electoral rebuke of Gov. Glenn Youngkin and his views — in which Democrats didn't just protect their state Senate majority but also gained control of the state House — effectively ends his push

to undo the climate progress enacted under his predecessor. Youngkin sought to roll back emissions standards aimed at moving Virginia away from the sale of new vehicles with internal combustion engines as of 2035. And he has been waging an effort to withdraw Virginia from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative cap-and-trade program. LaTwyla Mathias, who leads Progress Virginia and worked

MORIAL Page 54

Ben Jealous

Voters Spoke: Climate Action is Here to Stay

This month's election results should be a wakeup call to any politician who had been unsure of Americans' desire for robust climate action and support for a green economy. In states and counties that are red, blue, and everywhere in between, voters favored forward-looking candidates who embraced both the need for and

the economic benefits of aggressive climate action. As much of the reporting on this election cycle has already pointed out, reproductive freedom was clearly a heavy driver of Democratic performance on Election Day. That shouldn't overshadow the fact that, in marquee races, well-funded attacks against strong climate policies from the Far Right and fossil fuel interests were ignored or rejected by the voters they hoped to sway. And it doesn't diminish the role that issues like clean energy

and a healthy future for our planet and our communities played in galvanizing voters. The climate crisis is here. It's not politely knocking at our door; it's banging it down. Americans in every corner of this country are hyperaware of it, especially after the dangerous and deadly heat waves and wildfires many of us experienced this year. What we're seeing in our backyards is connected to a larger, global crisis that is affecting all life on this planet we call home. Just-released research shows that the

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JEALOUS Page 54 NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023 31

LIFESTYLE WASHINGTON INFORMER'S

Things To Do, DMV!

By Ra-Jah Kelly WI Contributing Writer 5 The hip hop duo Clipse makes their Kennedy Center debut with a headlining performance at the Concert Hall for a special one-night-only event. (Courtesy Photo)

Check out a handful of the many events happening in the DMV this weekend. To keep up with all the fun, don’t forget to check out the Washington Informer Calendar. Keep your outlook vibrant and remember, there’s always something happening in the DMV to keep your spirit-- and social life-- lit.

THURSDAY, NOV. 16

Affordable Housing at The Westerly Enjoy the full Southwest experience at The Westerly, a dynamic apartment community just one block from Waterfront Station and three blocks from The Wharf. To learn more about affordable housing at The Westerly and DHCD’s eligibility, orientation and registration requirements for the affordable housing lottery visit, www.DHCD.dc.gov

TheWesterlyDC.com/Housing-For-All 877.554.3801 350 MAPLE DRIVE SW WASHINGTON, DC 20024

32 NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023

Hajar Yazdiha and Gene Demby discuss “The Struggle for the People’s King” Time: 7:00 p.m. | Free with registration Loyalty Bookstores, 827 Upshur Street NW, Washington, DC, 20011 Loyalty Bookstores and The DC Public Library host author Hajar Yazdiha and NPR's “Code Switch” co-host Gene Demby. The event celebrates the release of Yazdiha's book "The Struggle for the People’s King," which focuses on how political forces have reshaped the memory of the Civil Rights Movement. Yazdiha, an assistant professor of Sociology and CIFAR Global Azrieli Scholar, and Demby will discuss the misuse of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy by white, right-wing movements since the 1980s and its impact on democracy and civil rights perceptions. Writing with the 4 Elements of Hip-Hop: MCing Time: 6 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. | Free with registration Virtual Event The National Museum of African American History and Culture marks 50 years of hip-hop with a workshop led by Anthony McPherson, an international slam poetry champion. The event focuses on storytelling through rap, emphasizing the use of rhyme as a key poetic device. McPherson, known for his work that combines different art forms and character impressions to explore themes of

race, art, and his biracial identity, will guide attendees in using rap for storytelling, particularly in themes of positivity and escapism. He has been featured on platforms like Button Poetry, HuffPost, and Upworthy.

FRIDAY, NOV. 17

Baltimore Symphony Orchestra: Beethoven's Symphony No. 4 Time: 8:00 p.m. | $10+ The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center, 8270 Alumni Drive, College Park, MD, 20742 The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, under the leadership of its 13th music director, Jonathon Heyward, will perform Beethoven's Fourth Symphony. At 31, Heyward is the youngest music director of the top-funded U.S. orchestras and is notably the only American and the only Black conductor in this group. Also, Heyward will co-host a conversation with ethnomusicologist Stephanie Shonekan, dean of UMD College of Arts & Humanities. Shonekan is the author of works such as “Soul, Country, and the USA: Race and Identity in American Music Culture,” “Black Lives Matter & Music,” and “Black Resistance in the Americas,”. Clipse at The Kennedy Center Time: 8:00 p.m. | $79+ Kennedy Center, 2700 F St., NW, Washington, DC, 20566 The hip-hop duo Clipse makes their Kennedy Center debut with a headlining performance at the Concert Hall for a special one-night-only event. Clipse began dominating hip-hop in the early aughts with a string of hits aided by their frequent collaborations with Pharrell Williams and The Neptunes. Clipse will bring their unique storytelling and lyrical prowess to the renowned venue, promising an unforgettable experience. This exclusive performance at the Kennedy Center highlights their celebrated career and offers a very rare opportunity to witness their artistry live.

SATURDAY, NOV. 18

Citi Shamrock Classic Women's Basketball Time: 1:00 p.m. | $10+ Entertainment & Sports Arena, 1100 Oak Drive, SE, Washington, DC, 20032 The 10th-ranked Notre Dame women's basketball team is set to face 23rd-ranked Illinois in the second annual Citi Shamrock Classic hosted in Washington, D.C. Gary Quinn, NBC Sports vice president of Programming, highlights this game as a key event for Notre Dame fans, coinciding with the football team's final home game of the season, also broadcast on NBC and Peacock. This double-header presents a must-see day of sports for Notre Dame enthusiasts nationwide. Armand Hammer "We Buy Diabetic Test Strips" The Physical Experience Time: 7:00 p.m. | $20+ Union Stage, 740 Water Street SW, Washington, DC, 20024 Brooklyn-based hip-hop duo Armand Hammer, are embarking on one of Pitchfork's 40 Most Anticipated Tours of 2023. Formed in 2013, the group is renowned for their thought-provoking and gritty hip-hop style, exemplified in their latest album “We Buy Diabetic Test Strips.” The album, featuring production from notable names like Jpegmafia, ElP, Kenny Segal, Black Noi$e, and Steel Tipped Dove, represents what Elucid describes as “a clear and obvious magical moment” in their recording process. Rapper and producer Quelle Chris is the opener.

SUNDAY, NOV. 19

Alexandria Cars & Coffee Time: 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. | Free Hollin Hall Shopping Center, 7900 Fort Hunt Rd, Alexandria, VA, 22308 Alexandria Cars & Coffee, a local branch of a popular nationwide regular event, has been meeting since 2012 at the Hollin Hall shopping center. This gathering is known for its welcoming atmosphere, uniting car enthusiasts who share a passion for their vehicles. Attendees can expect to see a diverse array of cars, reflecting the group's inclusive motto, “If you think it’s cool, I’m sure we will, too!” The event offers a way for people to connect over their shared interest in unique and varied automobiles. Beat Street at The Kennedy Center Time: 2:00 p.m. | $10 Kennedy Center, 2700 F St., NW, Washington, DC, 20566 Read more on www.washingtoninformer.com WI

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LIFESTYLE

African and American Artistic Minds Meet in Phillips Collection Exhibition By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer Spanning seven galleries, “African Modernism in America 1947-67,” running until Jan. 7 at the Phillips Collection in Northwest, D.C., highlights the contributions of African art, and features the works of famous Black American artists. With pieces primarily from the Fisk University collection of gifts from the Harmon foundation, the 70 paintings, sculptures, and works on paper, are rooted in a history that not only showcases the strength of Black art, but reveals a backstory about historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and African artists. “Its presentation in Washington, D.C., has added significance given the pivotal role of Howard University and other HBCUs in providing early institutional support to African artists in the U.S.,” said Phillip Collection’s Vrandenburg Director and CEO Jonathan P. Binstock.

ORGANIZING 20 YEARS OF AFRICAN AND BLACK AMERICAN ART

“African Modernism in America, 1947-67” is organized into four sections. The sections are titled “Art from Africa of Our Time,” “Modernism Within Africa,” “Modernism Between Africa and America,” and finally, “The Politics of Selection.” This last section features a new commission by Nigeria-based artist Ndidi Dike. Dike constructed an immersive mixed-media installation that examines viewpoints, biases, prejudices, allegiances, and omissions found in the Fisk University collection and the archives from the Harmon Foundation, one of the largest funders of Black art, especially at HBCUs. “Being an artist wasn’t highly regarded for women,” said Dike when speaking of how she was discouraged from pursuing her art in particular sculpting. “Sculpting comes into play in my wall hangings, and in almost every other media I try to deal with.”

5 “That Evening Sun Goes Down” by South African artist Peter Clarke in 1960, from the Fisk University Galleries, Gift of the Harmon Foundation. (Courtesy Photo/Phillips Collection)

NAVIGATING “AFRICAN MODERNISM”

When first arriving on the third floor at the Phillips Collection, I suggest going to the room where a timeline mural traces the evolution from which the “African Modernism” exhibition was created. The timeline contains an extensive history of Black American and African artists gathering worldwide as the interest grew within the diaspora. Also participating in these international meetings of creatives were not just fine artists but musical artists, like Nina Simone. Twenty years of sharing knowledge between Black American and African artists brings to Washington, D.C., a gift of colorful landscapes and country history from 15 African countries, including Ghana, Uganda, Nigeria, South Africa, Ethiopia, Sudan, Morocco, Zimbabwe, Kenya, and many more. Visitors will leave needing to return many times to view “African Modernism,” to take in the full exhibit. Visit the Phillips Collection website for hours and special programs associated with the exhibition: phillipscollection. org. WI

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NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023 33

LIFESTYLE

Comedic Drama ‘The Weekend’ Offers Immersive, Engaging actor Faheem Saadiq AbEntertainment for Audiences said dus-Salaam, 59. By Dr. Patrise Holden WI Contributing Writer What happens when the same Airbnb is unknowingly booked by two separate groups of strangers for a girls trip and guys getaway? A weekend full of fun, suspense, romance, drama and laughs. “The Weekend,” written by husband and wife team Gil and Pam Nelson of Timeless Entertainment, is a comedic drama centered around relationships. The play follows two groups of friends who accidentally meet at an overbooked Airbnb and the dynamics that occur as the two groups of strangers navigate a threeday weekend together. With more than 1000 attendees flocking to the Bowie Center for the Performing Arts Nov. 1112, for “The Weekend’s,” two-day run, the Nelsons emphasized that the mission of their work was beyond entertaining the crowds. They

hoped to offer art with a message. “For the past few years, the whole world has been going through huge transitions. Our goal was to have a play that was really funny, but also showed respect for serious issues and life challenges that affect all of us.” With 15 years as an actor and 13 years as a writer and producer, Gil Nelson is able to take his many years of experience to effectively communicate as a director. With a large cast of 20 actors, ranging from 10 to 60 years old, Nelson’s experience enables him to uniquely identify with the actors in his stage plays. “Positioning of the actors on stage, especially with a cast this large, timing of lines, understanding the audience, and writing plays that are relatable to people of different ages and backgrounds is a talent at which Timeless Entertainment excels,”

CREATING EXPERIENCES

“The Weekend,” offered attendees stellar theatrical performances and an experience at once. Accompanied by a live band, upscale set design, and performances of timeless music classics, the audience did not simply attend “The Weekend,” they participated in an immersive event. As dynamics between the friend groups develop during the play, the characters decide on women against men talent competition. Audience members danced, shouted, cheered, and sang along to favorites like: “My Mic Sounds Nice” by Salt n Pepa, “Tell Me” by Dru Hill, and “Who Can I Run To?” by Xscape. For many, this interactive sing-along was one of the highlights of the play. “Theater, with the advent of home streaming services, is be-

5 Faith Malonte (middle) has a tense moment with Lorenzo Lynch (left) while his love interest Lasonya Olden (right) looks on. (Courtesy Photo/Clarence Johnson, MrXclusive2k)

coming a dying art. When you are in live theater, there is a different kind of connection that happens. There is a type of energy that cannot be experienced anywhere else,” said the show’s

Musical Director Marcia Holton, 55. “[Theatre] is community, It is an experience shared, it is tapping into our culture and who we are as a people.” WI

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LIFESTYLE

Hundreds Attend Dancing with the Scholars (DWTS) By, Austin R. Cooper, Jr. WI Contributing Writer Dancing, friendly competition and supporting students brought out close to 300 people for “Dancing with the Scholars XIIII,” at THEARC on Nov. 4. An annual fundraiser hosted by the William O. Lockridge Community Foundation (WOLCF), Dancing with the Scholars honors the organization’s namesake, and celebrates his work, legacy and teachings. “The very first time that I ever wanted to get involved in the community I was walking on Savannah Place, this was in 2000, and Mr. Lockridge walked to me and asked what I was doing. I was running for ANC at that time,” said Dr. Jacque Patterson, At-Large representative on the D.C. State Board of Education (SBOE). “‘Young man, let me tell you how

to do this and how you serve your community,” Patterson said Lockridge told him. He was amazing and I try hard every day to honor him on the SBOE.” This year’s Dancing With the Stars theme was “Battle of the Schools,” and the program included a dance competition with students from first-place winners Ballou High School, second-place winners KIPPDC, second, and Anacostia High School, which placed third. “[Dancing what the Scholars] was awesome,” said Carol Holley, director of the Southeast Highland Community Center. “To know that this fundraising event raises money for our Wards 7 and 8 youth, it’s worth every dime donated. I thank the foundation for all it offers our kids.” WI Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

5 Wanda D. Lockridge, founder and chairwoman of the William O. Lockridge Community Foundation, was presented a Lifetime Achievement Award at Dancing with the Scholars on Nov. 4. (Courtesy Photo)

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NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023 35

LIFESTYLE

‘FILLING IN THE PIECES IN BLACK’

New Exhibition Showcases A Journey of Artistic Diversity and Collaboration By Andrew S. Jacobson WI Contributing Writer The art exhibition "Filling in the Pieces in Black," curated by June Sarpong and presented in collaboration with Maruani Mercier and Saatchi

36 NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023

Gallery, has emerged as a pivotal moment in the art world, reflecting a profound commitment to diversity and inclusivity. Integral to the exhibition's success is the partnership between June Sarpong and Maruani Mercier. Laurent Mercier, since joining his

partner Serge Maruani in 2013, has been on a mission to further diversify the gallery's roster. His strategic decision to include artists like Lyle Ashton Harris and Hank Willis Thomas in the gallery's lineup predates the Black Lives Matter movement, underscor-

ing the gallery’s foresight and commitment to diversity. In a recent interview, Mercier revealed his process of involving June Sarpong in the project. "I was searching for influential personalities for whom diversity matters and stumbled upon June. Her immediate acceptance to curate her first show was a testament to her incredible personality – smart, well-connected, and very hands-on. Working with June was a seamless and collaborative experience. She's someone you can't refuse anything to, and that's how we managed to bring together 32 participating artists." Mercier elaborated on the challenges and triumphs of organizing the show. "It was a 24/7 job for my team, coordinating artworks from 32 artists across 12 countries to two different locations on time. The logistical challenges were immense, especially with artists being late in responding and delivering. Mickalene Thomas' work, for instance, cleared customs just hours before the opening." Sarpong, in her curator's note, emphasized the importance of presenting a multifaceted representation of the Black experience. "Our human story is rich and intersecting... This ensemble of artists fills in where key components are often missing, aiming to fill in the vibrance, courage, dignity, sensuality, beauty, color, love, strength, humanity, grace, and joy,” explained Sarpong. Sarpong said the show aimed to redefine the past narrative, refocus the present, and reshape the future of the Black experience, historically marred by colonialism and the Transatlantic slave trade. The London opening of the show was a particular highlight. "What was planned as a seated dinner in the galleries turned into a walking dinner due to the overwhelming turnout. It was an incredible success," Mercier noted. He also mentioned a unique LED event organized by W1Creates on Oxford Street, where Flannels department store lit up with artworks from the exhibition, offering an immersive experience in their basement. Among the featured artists, Nate Lewis, a formerly D.C.-based artist, stands out. His participation, along

5“Filling in the Pieces in Black,” presented in collaboration Maruani Mercier and Saatchi Gallery, features Duke Ellington School of the Arts graduate Hank Willis Thomas and formerly D.C.-based artist Nate Lewis. Pictures is Hank Willis Thomas’ “A PLACE TO CALL HOME (AFRICA-AMERICA),” 2009. (Courtesy Photo)

with other artists like Hank Willis Thomas, who attended Duke Ellington School of the Arts, adds depth to the dialogue the exhibition seeks to foster. Lewis, reflecting on the significance of the exhibition, remarked, “It’s really important that Black artists' work is starting to be received now and that there’s a platform and audience for it. This serves as encouragement to other Black artists to know that their abilities and visions matter.” A star-studded opening in London co-hosted by figures like Roland Rudd, David Schwimmer, and Tine Tempah, was a testament to the show's broad appeal. The event, sponsored by the London Stock Exchange Group, brought together change agents, thought leaders, and creatives. Guests dined at tables designed by Yinka Ilori and enjoyed dishes by award-winning chef Akwasi Brenya-Mensa, inspired by cuisines from the African Diaspora. "Filling in the Pieces in Black" is not just an art exhibition; it is a vibrant, living conversation that invites viewers to engage with the rich tapestry of the Black experience. It stands as a powerful reminder of art's ability to transcend boundaries and foster a deeper understanding of shared humanity. The gallery is open in Belgium until Jan. 6. WI

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NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023 37

LIFESTYLE

A Night to Remember – Celebrating and Honoring the DC Black MBA Community Submitted by DC Black MBA On Saturday, October 28, 2023, the MGM National Harbor - Bellagio Ballroom became the stage to celebrate and honor success. The National Black MBA Association – Washington, DC Chapter hosted its annual scholarship and awards gala, the "Odyssey of Excellence: Celebrating Journeys, Charting Destinies." This prestigious event recognizes the outstanding achievements of individuals, corporations, and institutions that have gone above and beyond to uplift and empower the Black community in the Washington, DC area. Among the night's highlights were award presentations to outstanding individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the success and longevity of the DC Chapter. The honorees were selected for their unwavering commitment to service, academic excellence, collaborative efforts, and outstanding leadership. Member of the Year: Brian K. Stratton The coveted Member of the Year Award was bestowed upon Brian K. Stratton, an outstanding member of the DC Black MBA Association who has gone above and beyond in providing service to the Chapter, chapter members, and the community. His dedication to ensuring the success and longevity of the DC Chapter has set a standard for excellence. Student of the Year: Tydearian “Ty” Cocroft Ty Cocroft was honored with the Student of the Year Award for displaying exemplary scholarly aptitude throughout his graduate career while also dedicating time to advance equity, equality, and justice amongst minorities. Ty's commitment to academic excellence and social justice exemplifies the values of the DC Black MBA Association. Distinguished Service Awards: Kayla Dailey and Geneva Flemons Kayla Dailey and Geneva Flemons were recognized with the

38 NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023

Distinguished Service Award for their consistent support of the programs and efforts of the DC Black MBA Association. Their dedication was particularly evident when they were asked to pivot into new roles with little transition time, showcasing their commitment to the success of the association. Academic Partner of the Year: The University of the District of Columbia The University of the District of Columbia was awarded the Academic Partner of the Year for leading the way in paving a path of excellence for minority students. The institution's close collaboration with the DC Black MBA Association has been instrumental in delivering valuable programming to students and members. Collaborative Partner of the Year: Boris L. Henson Foundation The Boris L. Henson Foundation received the Collaborative Partner of the Year Award for its continuous partnership with the DC Black MBA Association. Their commitment to providing professional development and programming for the benefit of minority professionals centered on quality mental health has significantly impacted the community. Corporate Partner of the Year: Ernst & Young, LLP Ernst & Young, LLP, was honored with the Corporate Partner of the Year Award for its consistent collaboration with the DC Black MBA Association. The organization's dedication to providing professional development and programming for the benefit of minority professionals has contributed to the association's success. Entrepreneur of the Year: Rahama Wright Rahama Wright was recognized as the Entrepreneur of the Year for her successful organization and management of a business undertaking, displaying a record of success and contributing to the local economy. President’s Award: Mahima Richards Mahima Richards received the prestigious President’s Award for making a significant contribution to the DC Chapter and the Black community.

3 L to R: Mahmia Richards, Brian Stratton, Dr. Carletta S. Hurt, Geneva Flemons, Kayla Dailey, Tydearian Cocroft. (BLUES Photography/ Malika Winzor)

4 L to R: Dr. Carletta S. Hurt, Denise Rolark Barnes, Jessica Faith (News4). (BLUES Photography/ Malika Winzor)

3 L to R: Priscilla Burke, Brian, Strattton, and Andrea Pyatt. (BLUES Photography/ Malika Winzor)

This award is a testament to her outstanding leadership and commitment to the association's mission. MBA of the Year: Carson Edwards Carson Edwards, an executive with Marriott International, was awarded the MBA of the Year for exemplifying the values and mission of the DC Black MBA Association through his partnership, support, and leadership. Legacy Award: Denise Barnes Denise Barnes of the Washington Informer was honored with the Legacy Award for demonstrating significant contributions through her commitment in quality and uplifting coverage of the DMV area, her commitment to the DC Black MBA Association and the mission of the Chapter. The "Odyssey of Excellence: Celebrating Journeys, Charting Destinies" gala also presented over

$25,000 in scholarships to student members – undergraduate to doctoral studies. The receipts for the Marriott LOT Scholarships were Jahnai Williams and Arian Risper. The graduate student scholarship winners were Angel Johnson, Marvin Peterson, Priscilla Bruke, Brian Stratton, Eloise Ntekim, Channen Paddyfote, and Priscilla Burke. The event celebrates the achievements of the awardees while highlighting the collective efforts of the National Black MBA Association – Washington, DC Chapter in fostering a community of excellence, empowerment, and success.

EDUCATION from Page 26 about the 272 enslaved people who were sold. The foundation has stated it “is not pursuing reparations in the sense of individual payments.” Instead, it is committed to “investing in the educational aspirations of descendants and future generations and in pursuing truth, reconciliation, and transformation in the human family.” In October, the foundation, in partnership with the GU272 Descendants Association, announced $27 million in new funding. The Thurgood Marshall College Fund is slated to administer some of these funds in the form of scholarships for descendants starting in fall 2024. While the specifics of scholarship distribution and eligibility are yet to be detailed, the 2024 academic year is poised to be the first in which descendants could receive dedicated scholarships at Georgetown and other universities nationwide. Nonetheless, Porter and other student advocates press for more action from the university, such as increasing awareness of the 272's history and establishing physical memorials on campus. "They've taken some steps to kind of rectify, or right the wrongs if you will, but there's certainly a lot more that could be done," Porter said. In line with these efforts, the student organization Hoyas Advocating for Slavery Accountability (HASA) held a libation ceremony by the Reiss Science Building, which was erected over an old graveyard, which included enslaved people of Georgetown, who died before the sale. Porter served as master of ceremonies for the event, featuring speeches and entertainment. Short-Colombe included among the speakers and there was a performance by singer-songwriter Jordan Curls. Freshman Dream Champell Aldrich, a biology major, joined HASA after learning about this history during orientation. “This school wouldn’t exist, and I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for the enslaved people who labored, worked, and died here,” Aldrich said. WI

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NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023 39

Find your way through the cranberry vines.

Some people like the tart _________ of cranberries. Others _____________ them with sugar, maple syrup, or honey.

While they are tart, cranberries can be eaten ______ or chopped raw into salsa, salads, and other dishes. Most cranberries are used to make _________, sauce and craisins. Craisins® are dried cranberries that look like reddish __________.

mericans eat about 400 million pounds of cranberries a year! Many are eaten at Thanksgiving, but there are lots of ways to eat these little red, tangy berries all year round.

Canned cranberry sauce is a popular Thanksgiving side _________. It can also be enjoyed on turkey sandwiches.

Cranberries are native to North America. Native Americans used them for both food and medicine.

MILLIONS OF BARRELS

Cranberry Chart Use the chart to answer the questions! 5 4

Craisins® is a trademark of Ocean Spray Cranberries, Inc.

Which state grows the most cranberries? About how many millions of barrels of cranberries does New Jersey grow? About how many more millions of barrels of cranberries would Massachusetts need to grow to catch up with Wisconsin?

3 2

NOTE: 1 barrel equals 100 pounds of berries.

1 WISCONSIN

MASSACHUSETTS

OREGON

Ways to Eat Cranberries

NEW JERSEY

SOURCE: USDA Economic Research Service and USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service

Standards Link: Number Sense: Interpret data from charts and graphs.

Healthy Berries

Cranberries are high in Vitamin C. Long ago, sailors and pirates took barrels of cranberries on long voyages. Eating the berries prevented a disease called scurvy.

Growing and Harvesting Cranberries

Number the pictures in order. 1. Cranberry vines are planted in sandy soil. 2. They grow into long vines that crawl along the ground. 3. When the cranberries are ripe, the farmers flood the field. 4. Cranberries have little air pockets inside that cause them to float to the top of the water. 5. Farmers wearing rubber “waders” walk through the floating cranberries and push them into a big vacuum in the center of the field. 6. The berries are sucked out of the water and end up in a big truck.

Cranberry plants can live and grow for 100 years!

Living Things Scavenger Hunt Bee Power

Cranberry farmers need bees. The bees pollinate the plant’s blossoms, so they turn into berries.

Standards Link: Reading Comprehension: Sequence events in the correct order.

Look through the newspaper for: 5 things that are alive 4 things to eat 3 things made from something alive 2 things people need to survive 1 thing that you like to eat

Standards Link: Language Arts: Follow written directions.

BEES CRANBERRY EAT FARMERS FIELD FLOAT FLOOD FOOD GROW MEDICINE RED RIPE TANGY VINES WATER

Ingredie

With the h each of the • 1 cup cranb • 1 red • 1 gre • 1 chil • ½ red • 1 clov

Mix the fol • ½ tsp • ½ tsp • 1⁄8 tsp • Zest • 6 oz f conc

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Standards Link: Letter sequencing. Recognize identical words. Skim and scan reading. Recall spelling patterns.

Put Things in Order

Read a newspaper article and write down the main things that are reported. Number the things that happened in order: first, second, third. Is the order of your list the same or different from the article? Why could that be? Standards Link: Analyze passages to sequence events.

What’s your opinion? Do you like cranberries? Why or why not?

KID SCOOP IS SPONSORED BY

40 NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023

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With hund Kid Scoop features six high-intere activities fo school! Get sample tod

wi book review "Laws of Annihilation" By Eriq La Salle c.2023, Poisoned Pen Press $16.99 413 pages

Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer One thing or another. You have to choose, you can't have both. This one or that one, that or the other, think about it and then pick a side. Or maybe you don't even have to think about it. Maybe, as in the new novel "Laws of Annihilation" by Eriq La Salle, the decision was made decades ago. Agent Janet Maclin wasn't entirely unprepared for the news but still, it's tough to learn that you have incurable cancer and that death is near. The diagnosis explained her constant pain and the ravaging of her entire body on a daily basis but it didn't explain how she was going to break the news to her two partners in the department. Detective Phee Freeman and Detective Quincy Cavanaugh were not just partners, but friends — maybe the only friends Maclin had anymore — and she was reluctant to share her news. She was not going to survive this, so why would it matter? They were busy enough on a huge case; there was no need to add anything else. A young Black man had been caught spray-painting hate symbols on a Jewish synagogue and the mob that witnessed his deed chased the young man to his death. Did this lead to the bloody, gruesome murders of Jewish rabbis who had called for peace in the community? Were those deaths connected to the disappearance of a man named Spider, who was heavily involved in an Islamic group in Harlem and who was the young man's uncle? And where was Ezra Pearl, an influential man in the Jewish community who'd been filmed leading the chase that caused the young man's death? The Mayor of New York was calling for calm but with both sides demanding revenge, two people missing, and a killer (or two) on the loose, Maclin knew that calm wouldn't be that easy. Neither would solving what was a growing list of violent crimes. As New York City seethed, she hoped she'd live long enough to see this end. Crack open "Laws of Annihilation" and you might think you'd stepped onto a random sidewalk in a major city somewhere in America. The events in the book are entirely plausible, given current events in the world today and last summer's heatwave. You can almost feel the tension. You can almost smell it. That realism sharpens the vicious gruesomeness of the murders that pepper this story, as does the authenticism in the details pertaining to religions. The latter is subtle, as author Eriq La Salle leads readers to understand without detracting from the story itself. And that story …? Well, let's just say that if you plan on sharing this book, you might want to get someone their own copy. Yours will be ripped from ferocious, eager page-turning … It may go without saying that this thriller contains violence, profanity, and a relatively quick, relatively chaste bedroom scene, but a warning bears repeating. Still, if you love a good thriller with a decent cliffhanger, "Laws of Annihilation" is one thing you should read. WI

horoscopes

LIFESTYLE NOV 16 - 22, 2023

ARIES The street signs you see on Monday and Tuesday all seem to be upside down and, as much as you'd like to get a lot done, you can't even tell where you are. Don't be frustrated. Just focus on other people. By Wednesday, street signs will be returned to normal, and a sense of order as well as possibility will be restored. Thursday brings one adventure after another. Lucky Numbers: 11, 17, 20 TAURUS Dreaming of the future consumes you on Monday and Tuesday, not just of flying saucers and teleportation technology but also, for example, what you'll look like in the future, what kind of job you'll have, who you'll be spending your life with. You might want to talk this stuff over with a friend. On Wednesday and Thursday, pacing is a primary theme. Are you going too fast or not fast enough? Lucky Numbers: 2, 30, 44 GEMINI On the one hand, you're frustrated about your career and dreaming of making a change. On the other, everything is too blurry on Monday and Tuesday to do anything about it. Communicate your feelings another day when you'll be able to articulate them better. For example, on Wednesday when you're surrounded by friends who'd love to be asked for advice. Lucky Numbers: 4, 9, 35 CANCER On the one hand, you're frustrated about your career and dreaming of making a change. On the other, everything is too blurry on Monday and Tuesday to do anything about it. Communicate your feelings another day when you'll be able to articulate them better. Lucky Numbers: 10, 17, 32 LEO Sometimes pictures of products online can be deceiving. Do some more research, even online, before typing in your credit card number. Tuesday brings you more evidence that no amount of new gadgetry can solve certain problems, and Wednesday and Thursday are so full of learning that you feel like you're in school again. Even the trees seem to have something to teach you. Lucky Numbers: 1, 19, 48 VIRGO The stacks of clutter in your living room and bedroom are so daunting that you practically need a sailboat to get from this side of the room to that. Reorganizing your life on Monday and Tuesday brings you solace, but it also draws your attention to how much more disorganized other people are than you. Don't feel like you have to straighten up someone else's life. Let them be messy. Is it really that important? Lucky Numbers: 8, 18, 32 LIBRA You and you-know-who are almost a circus act at this point. You have incredible chemistry. Duality is a big theme on Monday and Tuesday, and flexibility is key. Wednesday and Thursday are also decidedly relationship oriented, not just romantic relationships but also your one-on-one relationships at home, work, and the gym. Lucky Numbers: 3, 9, 10 SCORPIO You and your friends are birds of a feather on Monday and Tuesday, and you're at the front of the formation. You love making decisions about which trees to fly to next (you truly love the flock), but you also have goals that have nothing to do with your pals. When a conflict arises on Wednesday or Thursday, make a conscious effort to support someone else's plan. It might be something of a sacrifice for you, but it will also absolve you of responsibility. On Friday and Saturday, more compromise is required, but you'll get to fly solo on Sunday. Just stay out of trouble. Lucky Numbers: 8, 15, 48 SAGITTARIUS You're having trouble getting the engine to turn over on Monday. You have the right keys. You're doing what you usually do, but you're not getting the results you usually get. How annoying! Tuesday will be like this too. Don't sweat it. On Wednesday and Thursday, the opposite will be true. The most impossible-seeming tasks are a snap. Crazy! Lucky Numbers: 32, 38, 40 CAPRICORN Maybe it's time to clear the sheets off the bed and create a play on your mattress. Bring in a lamp from the living room. String up some decorations. The more creative you are in the first half of the week the better. In the second half of the week, your total lack of creative outlets stalls you. Your family needs you. Your boss needs you. Who doesn't need you? Lucky Numbers: 27, 52, 54 AQUARIUS Your credit card is maxed out and you can only find about ten cents between the couch cushions. Is this cause for a personal crisis? Of course not. So it's tuna sandwiches for you on Monday and Tuesday. No big deal. By Wednesday you'll have developed such a taste for tuna sandwiches (you've gotten it down to a technique with capers and everything) that you won't mind. Lucky Numbers: 11, 12, 17 PISCES You are happiest when you're helping someone else out, when it's your shoulder that's absorbing huge salty drops. Not that you like your friends to be sad. It's just that when they're sad, you like to be the one who can make them happier. Have you considered a clown costume? Wednesday and Thursday are filled with riddles and puzzles, many of them of your own devising, and Friday is about the softer side of life (it's a day full of moisturizers). Lucky Numbers: 34, 39, 56

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NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023 41

SPORTS Georgetown Day Captures Second Straight DCSAA Title in Volleyball

By Ed Hill WI Contributing Writer

Georgetown Day School’s volleyball team is quietly establishing itself as the top program in the District of Columbia State Athletic Association (DCSAA) Playing in their third straight championship, the Hoppers made easy work of rival Jackson-Reed, 3-0 in the 2023 DCSAA championship at Howard University Burr Gymnasium on Friday, Nov. 10. The number-one seed, Jackson-Reed (22-3), which has also been a force in the sport, was also playing in their second championship in

three years and fourth appearance and fourth overall since 2017. The two schools had split in their previous meetings, Jackson-Reed winning in 2021 and Georgetown Day last year. "Experience plays a great role when you get to this level," said Georgetown Day Head Coach Brandon Wiest. "Our seniors did a great job of setting the tone for us. They followed the lead of the seniors from last year and what they were able to accomplish." The Hoppers, who came in as the number-two seed, left little doubt as they bolted out to the early lead in the first, winning 25-11. The

5 Georgetown Day School defeated Jackson-Reed in the 2023 DCSAA championship at Howard University on Nov. 10. (Courtesy Photo)

Tigers, who are young with mostly sophomores, appeared to have early jitters and committed several miscues during the entire match. The veteran Georgetown Day squad made them pay. "In the pre-game and in every huddle, we talked over and over again about not letting up," noted Weist. "Jackson-Reed is a very strong offensive team so it was important that we

kept the pressure on." Georgetown Day got off to the early start and outscored the Tigers, 25-11 in the first set. Jackson-Reed appeared to settle down and played with more purpose early on in the second set and stayed close until the Hoppers finished with a flurry to take the 25-18. "We didn't show up to play and it boils down to who makes the few-

est errors," said Jackson-Reed Head Coach Dr. Perette Arrington, who led her team to the only DCSAA title by a DC Public school. From there, senior setters Clara Yiu and Jocelyn Torres and outside hitter Aaliyah Howell combined to secure their second straight title with a 25-12 third set. Yiu, the Hoppers team captain, was named the tournament MVP. WI

DeMatha, Good Counsel Advance To WCAC Championship could impact on a possible later rematch in the playoffs, Gardner quickly responded, "We didn't show everything. We have a lot Back on Oct. 21 after DeMatha more and the result will be the pulled out another thrilling, 21same." 14 overtime win over its rival St. Well he was right as his team won convincingly, 21-3 in the semifinals of the WCAC playoffs at the Prince George's Learning Center in Landover, Maryland, on Nov. 10, a cold and rainy Friday night. The win was a vindication of sorts for the Stags, who were eliminated, 21-3 in last year's semifinals by their rival. The dominant program has won 24 WCAC championships, but with St. John's, 5 The DeMatha Stags defeated the St. John’s Cadets 21-14 in an overtime win on Nov. 10. (Courtesy Photo) Gonzaga and By Ed Hill WI Contributing Writer

42 NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023

John’s, Stag junior quarterback Denzel Gardner made a prediction. In the heat of the moment of victory when asked if he was concerned that they may have shown too much in the win and that it

Good Counsel all becoming stronger, the Stags have not won a title since 2016. DeMatha (9-1), ranked number-three in the area, parlayed the running of Bud Coombs, who scored all the touchdowns and a stingy defense led by junior linebacker Emmit Laws that made life miserable for the defending champs. Coombs scored the game's first touchdown on a 55-yard run that set the tone. He would later score on a one-yard plunge that gave the Stags a 14-3 halftime lead that seemed larger. The Cadets (5-5), ranked number-seven in the area, could not get anything going against the relentless Stags defense. Coombs' last touchdown was set up by a fourth down sack by Laws to send them to the WCAC championship on Nov. 21 against number-one seed, Good Counsel (9-1), which took care of number 14 Gonzaga (5-5), 20-2 in the other semifinal. The game will be played at Navy-Marine Corps

Memorial Stadium in Annapolis, MD and will kick off at 7 pm. It will be a rematch between the two local powers. Both have played national opponents this season. In the regular season meeting, Good Counsel defeated the Stags, 35-28 in an overtime thriller. The Falcons, who were ranked in the Top 25 earlier in the season, boast a senior-laden squad of Top Division 1 prospects and will again be a serious challenge for the Stags. They have reeled off nine straight wins after an early season road loss. Coombs said that his team is prepared for the challenge. “We just outwork everybody,” Coombs said. “We work harder. We lift harder. We run harder. We’re just built different.” For years, DeMatha was no stranger to these championships, having made a habit out of this, with a conference-record 24 championships. But its WCAC rivals — St. John’s (5-5), Gonzaga and Good Counsel — had all captured titles since the Stags’ last in 2016. WI

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CAPTURE the moment

5 Ben’s Chili Bowl was presented the Lifetime Legacy Award during the 2023 Chamber’s Choice Awards Gala, “Elevate Advocate Connect,” held Nov. 10, at the Washington Hilton Hotel in Northwest. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

5 District of Columbia Mayor Muriel Bowser receives an award at the 2023 Chamber’s Choice Awards & Gala, “Elevate Advocate Connect,” held Nov. 10, at the Washington Hilton Hotel celebrating 85 years of advocacy for the DC business community. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

3 The Children’s National Medical Center was presented the Community Impact Award at the 2023 Chamber’s Choice Awards & Gala, “Elevate Advocate Connect,” held Nov. 10, at the Washington Hilton in Northwest. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer) 6 The Business Leader of the Year award was presented to David Wilmot at the 2023 Chamber’s Choice Awards & Gala, “Elevate Advocate Connect,” held Nov. 10, at the Washington Hilton Hotel celebrating 85 years of advocacy for the DC business community. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

5 Dante’s Partners was presented the Business of the Year Award at the 2023 Chamber’s Choice Awards & Gala, “Elevate Advocate Connect,” held Nov. 10, at the Washington Hilton Hotel in Northwest. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

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NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023 43

RELIGION First Baptist of Glenarden and Zion Church Partner with the Prince George’s Police Gun Buyback Program By Hamil R. Harris WI Contributing Writer The First Baptist Church of Glenarden and Zion Church are teaming up with the Prince George’s County Police Department to offer cash gifts for guns on Nov. 18. This is the second year that the two mega-churches have given out thousands of dollars in gift cards, which is part of an enforcement effort aimed at getting guns off the streets. The anonymous buyback program will take place this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Glenarden, Parking Lot B, 600 Watkins Park Drive Upper Marlboro, Maryland.

In exchange for each weapon, donors will receive cards with various cash points based on the type of gun. Shotguns and rifles can be traded in for $75, handguns for $125, and automatic or semi-automatic guns for $175. “The church must play an active role to work with our local government to help to keep our communities safe,” said the Rev. John K. Jenkins Sr., senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Glenarden in a statement. “In addition to prayer and fasting, there are practical ways to reduce gun violence on our streets.” The buyback program the two churches had with the Prince George’s County Police Depart-

5 Over the last two years, 425 guns were returned during a gun buy back, resulting in $52,260 gifted to the community in exchange for those weapons being taken off the streets. (Courtesy photo/Zion Church)

ment last year has resulted in the collection of 1200 weapons and Pastor Jenkins said the program works. Jenkins added that the buyback program is a safe and anonymous way for people to exchange their firearms in return for gift cards– “no questions asked.” Daniel Williams, spokesperson for Zion Church, said unlike past gun buyback programs, this year youth from the church will share their perspectives about community safety and gun violence.

Why the Black Church Needs to Go Green By Willy Blackmore Word in Black For generations of Black Americans, the church was the place to go if you had a problem.

“Any issue that we had was most often brought to the church first for a solution,” is how Gloria Ricks, president and CEO of Mount Zion Community Outreach in Augusta, Georgia, put it to FastCompany last

5 Black Americans go to church, higher than any other demographic group. But when it comes to the climate crisis, the Black church is not generally fulfilling that long-standing role as the first stop for solutions. (Courtesy Photo /Pixabay)

44 NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023

October. “As a Black woman who grew up in Black churches, that’s all we knew.” To this day, even as religion is on the wane in the United States, that relationship remains very strong: almost 75% of Black Americans go to church, higher than any other demographic group. But when it comes to the climate crisis — one of the chief problems facing Black communities today — the Black church is not generally fulfilling that long-standing role as the first stop for solutions. In fact, according to a new survey on climate and religion from The Public Religion Research Institute, the majority of Black Christians in particular do not believe in human-caused climate change. The survey, which looked at various religious groups of all races and racial groups on the whole, found

“A few months back, Zion hosted the funeral for the 16-year-old young lady who was killed through gun violence at Duval High School,” Williams said,” this is a topic that is very important and relevant to us.” Prince George’s County Council Vice Chair Wala Blegay applauded the efforts of the two churches to curtail gun violence. “It takes a village, the police can't do this alone, everyone needs to be part of this effort.” On Nov. 7, the Council held a town hall where lawmakers, clients

and dozens of care providers talked about various issues involving mental health. “Our public safety partners have stated that mental health has a correlation to some of those committing crimes because people are not addressing their mental health problems,” Blegay said. For more information on the gun buyback visit fbcglenarden.org/ gunbuyback. First Baptist Church of Glenarden Worship Center WI

that 60% of Black Americans believe that human activity is driving climate change, slightly more than the 56% of white Americans (and significant less than the 78 and 73% of AAPI and Latinx Americans, respectively, who believe the same). The survey also found that only 56% of Black Protestants agree that most days they feel a deep spiritual connection with nature and earth. No wonder given that Black folks are more likely to live in urban areas that lack tree cover or green space and more likely to live in close proximity to highways and factories. But within specific Black religious groups, concerning opinions about the causes of climate change are held by large majorities: nearly 75% of Black Protestants believe that the increase in flooding and other natural disasters show we are living in biblical end times, and perhaps unsurprisingly, just 19% of Black Protestants view climate change as a crisis. Among

white evangelicals 62% see natural disasters as a sign of end times. These views persist despite the fact the Black communities are on the frontlines of climate change — suffering disproportionately from both environmental pollution and the effects of sustained greenhouse-gas emissions, like heat waves, floods, and violent storms. Because of that, many Black clergy members who understand both the realities of climate change and the disconnect within some communities are working to bring more talk about environmental justice into the Black church. Ricks of Mount Zion is part of The Black Church-The Green Movement coalition, which provides training to pastors across the country to help bring climate concerns into their preaching — and hopefully helping to turn some of these numbers around, one congregation at a time. WI

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RELIGION the religion corner WITH LYNDIA GRANT

Are You Ready for Death?

And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. — Revelation 21:4 KJV After recently attending two funerals in the same weekend, I found myself looking at each and every person, thinking of how every person walking this earth today will die someday in the future, a date that only God knows. It caused me to pause and consider how many of us live our lives as if we will be here forever. We work every day to make our living, pay mortgages, pay our rent, car notes and all of the things this life requires. But as Matthew 24:13 reminds us, "But of that day and hour, no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but my Father only!” And as John 9:4-5 KJV says, "I must work the works of Him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh. when night cometh, no man can work, I am the light of the world." These thoughts were spurred by those two funerals. The first was in North Carolina on Saturday, Nov. 4 for a young woman only 27 years old. She was the granddaughter of a very dear friend and sorority sister. Her services were very nice, with at least 300 people in attendance.

Then the second funeral was held less than 24 hours later, this time for a very close sorority sister who was brought into Gamma Phi Delta Sorority, Inc., by me and my sisters. I wrote a tribute to her recently right here in The Religion Corner. She was rather young, too — only 61 years old. As most of us do, once the funerals are over and we are back at home, we tend to reflect and ponder our own lives and how we have been living. We will ask ourselves, do we need to make changes? Is God pleased with how I've been living my life? Have I forgiven everyone who has caused me trepidation? and the list goes on and on. These funerals did cause me to ponder, too. I thought of my life insurance, my homegoing services, who would I tell my family to get to sing for my services. Just as we know we have to prepare grocery lists and prepare budgets, we also have to prepare for that day when your family and friends will memorialize you. You will not be here in your body any longer, your spirit returns back from whence it came. Scripture says to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. Folks, handle your business. I know most of us really don't want to think about this or enjoy such thoughts, but it is just as much a

part of our lives as living each day is. You decide if you want to be buried in the ground, or you want to be cremated, or do you really want to be buried in a mausoleum. For your homegoing services, how do you want that service to run? Singers or no singers? Reflections or no reflections? So many decisions. Take the bull by the horns, and treat your end-of-life plans just as seriously as you plan for the beginning, as you plan your bills each month, and as you plan your grocery list. I close with these Scriptures: · Revelation 21:4 — “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” · Romans 14:8 — For if we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord. · Ecclesiastes 12:7 — Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it. · Philippians 4:19 — And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. WI

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RELIGION The Miracle Center of Faith Missionary Baptist Church Bishop Michael C. Turner, Sr. Senior Pastor 9161 Hampton Overlook Capitol Heights, MD 20743 Phone: 301-350-2200 / Fax: 301-499-8724 Service and Times Sunday Worship Times : 7:30 AM 7 10:00 AM Communion: 1st Sunday Sunday School: 9:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday, 12 Noon Bible Study in homes: Tuesday 7:00 PM Website: www.themiraclecenterFMBC.com Email: Miraclecenterfmbs@gmail.com Motto: “We Walk by Faith, Not by Sight”

Blessed Word

Pilgrim Baptist Church

Church of Living Waters

Rev. Louis B. Jones II Pastor

Rev. Paul Carrette Senior Pastor

700 I Street, N.E. Washington, D.C. 20002 (202) 547-8849 Service and Times Worship Sundays: 7:30 & 11:00 AM 5th Sundays: 9:30 AM 3rd Sundays: Baptism & Holy Communion Prayer & Praise: Wednesdays @ Noon & 6:30 PM www.pilgrimbaptistdc.org

Covenant Baptist United Church of Christ

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

Reverend William Young IV 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)

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

Mount Carmel Baptist Church

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

Services and Times Sundays: 10:00am Worship Services Bible Study: Wonderful Wednesdays in Worship and the Word Bible Study Wednesdays 12:00 Noon; 6:30 PM (dinner @ 5:30 PM) Sunday School: 9:00 AM – Hour of Power “An inclusive ministry where all are welcomed and affirmed.” www.covenantdc.org

Mount Olivet Lutheran Church

“Friendliest Church in the City” Website: mountolivetdc.org Email: mtolivedc@gmail.com

Dr. E. Gail Anderson Holness - Senior Pastor Rev. Ali Gail Holness-Roland Assistant & Youth Pastor

46 NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023

12801 Old Fort Road • Ft. Washington, MD 20744 Office (301) 292.6323 • FAX (301) 292.2164 Service and Times Sunday Worship 10:15 am Sunday Church School 11:00 am Youth Sunday every 4th Sunday Prayer Call @ Noon every Tuesday & Thursday 978.990.5166 code: 6166047# Virtual Bible Study Wednesday Facebook & Zoom 7:00 pm “A Growing Church for a Coming Christ” www.adamsinspirationalamec.org

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”

St. Stephen Baptist Church

Third Street Church of God

Bishop Lanier C. Twyman, Sr. / Senior Pastor 5757 Temple Hill Road, Temple Hills, MD 20748 Office 301.899.8885 – Fax 301.899.2555 Service and Times Sunday Early Morning Worship 8:00 AM Sunday School 9:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship 11:00 AM Tuesday: 7:00 PM – Kingdom Building Bible Institute Wednesday: 12:30 PM – Mid-Day Bible Study Wednesday: 7:00 PM – Evening Bible Study Baptism - 3rd Sunday – Communion 4th Sunday Free Food Giveaway – Every Tuesday, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm “We are One in the Spirit” www.ssbcmd.org | secretary@ssbcmd.org

Campbell AME Church

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

Service and Times Divine Worship, Sunday 10:00 a.m. Communion 1st and 3rd Sunday

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

www.livingwatersmd.org

1306 Vermont Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20005

Rev. Dr. James Coleman Pastor

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

Service and Times Sunday Service: 8:30am& 11:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM Communion Service: First Sunday

Rev. Terrance M. McKinley Senior Pastor

Adams Inspirational A.M.E. Church

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

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

John F. Johnson Reverend Dr.

All Nations Baptist Church

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

Harold Andrew Assistant Pastor

Crusader Baptist Church

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

Emmanuel Baptist Church

Rev. Cheryl J. Sanders, Th.D. Senior Pastor 1204 Third Street, NW Washington, DC 20001 202-347-5889 office / 202-638-1803 fax Services and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM Sunday Community Worship Service: 8:30 AM “Ambassadors for Christ to the Nation’s Capital” www.thirdstreet.org Live Stream Sunday Worship Service begins @ 12:00 noon www.thirdstreet.org

Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Reverend John W. Davis Pastor 5101 14th Street, NW / Washington, DC 20011 Phone: 202-726-2220 Fax: 202-726-9089 Service and Times Sunday Worship Service - 8:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Children’s Church - 11:00 a.m. (1st & 3rd Sundays) Communion - 10 a.m. 4th Sunday Sunday School - 9:15 a.m. (4th Sunday 8:15 a.m.) Prayer Meeting & Bible Study - Wednesday 7:00 p.m. “A Church with a past to remember – and a future to mold” www.mtzbcdc.org

Florida Avenue Baptist Church

Reverend Christopher L. Nichols Pastor

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

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

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

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

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

Shiloh Church of God 7th Day Elder Jonathan M. Carson Senior Pastor

5701 Eastern Avenue, Hyattsville, MD 20782 Phone: 301 559-5262 Service and Times Sabbath Worship @ 1:00 pm in-person/FB/Zoom Tuesday - Prayer@ 7:30 pm on Zoom Wednesday - Bible Study@ 7:30 pm on Zoom Friday - Sabbath School@ 7:30 pm on Zoom Web: shiloh7thday.org Email: shiloh7thdaycomm@gmail.com "A culturally diverse church of edification, deliverance and transformation"

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

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RELIGION 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

Rehoboth Baptist Church

Rev. Lance Aubert Imterim Pastor 1251 Saratoga Ave., NE Washington, DC 20018 (202) 269-0288 Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:45 AM Sunday School: 9:15 AM Holy Communion1st Sunday: 10:45 AM Prayer Service: Wednesday at 6:30 PM Bible Study: Wednesday at 7:00 PM Bible Study: Tuesday at 10:30 AM

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"

Eastern Community Baptist Church Damion M. Briggs Pastor

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

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

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

New Commandment Baptist Church

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

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

Promised Land Baptist Church

Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church

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

Foggy Bottom - Founded in 1867 728 23rd Street, NW - Washington, DC 20037 Church office: 202-333-3985 - Fax : 202-338-4958 Service and Times Sundays: 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist with Music and Hymns Wednesdays: 12:10 p.m. - Holy Eucharist

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

401 Van Buren St., NW, Washington D.C. 20012 Office (202)-882-8331 Service and Times Sunday Worship 10:30 am Zoom: zoom.us/;/2028828331 Bible Study: Wednesday 7:00pm Communion Every First Sunday

"Serve, teach and Live by precept and example the saving grace of Jesus Christ."

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

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

First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Rev Kevin A. O'Bryant Pastor

Website: Theplbc.org Email: churchclerk@theplbc.org

Dr. Joseph D. Turner Senior Pastor

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

Rev. Stephen E. Tucker Senior Pastor

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

Matthews Memorial Baptist Church

2616 MLK Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Office 202-889-3709 - Fax 202-678-3304 Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 9:30 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday 9:30 AM Sunday School: 8:15 AM Bible Study: Wednesdays at Noon Baptism: 4th Sunday 9:30 AM

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

The Rev. E. Bernard Anderson Priest

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

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

Dr. Lucius M. Dalton Senior Pastor

Sermon On The Mount Temple Of Joy Apostolic Faith Elder Herman L. Simms Pastor

Rev. Richard B. Black Interim Pastor

Mount Moriah Baptist Church

Rev. Curtis l. Staley Pastor

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

Lincoln Park United Methodist Church

Israel Baptist Church

Website address: www.mmbcdc.org

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 “ Email Address: admin@pbc712.org

Mt. Horeb Baptist Church

Rev. Oran W. Young Pastor

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

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

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

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

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BARRY from Page 1 Ward 8 Councilmember Barry help Ron Moten and Juahar Abraham of Peaceoholics broker a truce between his neighborhood, Choppa City, and Woodland Terrace. He said that experiencing that moment with Hodges and other young people inspired his decision to join the Marine Corps in 2007. Presto would serve and rise through the ranks of the Marines for a decade. He later returned to his old stomping grounds to help young people, just as he said Barry did for him and several others. For Veterans Day, Presto and other members of Project Purpose DC took a group of young people to the National Museum of the Marine Corps, located not far from Marine Corps Base Quantico in Prince William County, Virginia where he was stationed for two years. On Nov. 16, Project Purpose is scheduled to host “Healing through Poetry” at the Capitol Hill Boys Club Artist Gallery on Marion Barry Avenue. That event features Queen Gwalla the DC Poetess and a slew of other spoken word artists, some of whom hail from the Anacostia community. Presto said this counts among numerous efforts to help young people explore their interests and overcome

5 (Pictured L-R) Mark Garrett and Dietrich Williams, co-founders of Capital Hill Boys Artist Gallery, join forces with Presto, the dynamic community organizer and founder of Project Purpose DC, standing outside of the gallery in SE DC. (Matthew J. Bailey/The Washington Informer)

the allure of the streets. Though he expressed doubt that conditions would change overnight with the renaming of Good Hope Road, Presto told The Informer that people can unify around Barry’s legacy to improve their lives. “This is a good way to hit ‘reset,’” Presto said. “Marion Barry did a lot for our people. As long as that street is named Marion Barry Avenue, young people will look up and say his name. He fought [for us] and was on the ground. The impact is definitely felt [because] a lot of us went

COOPER from Page 1 beloved Maudine Cooper, a leader whose impact will reverberate well beyond her lifespan,” the Urban League said in a statement after passing. “Today, we mourn the loss of a visionary whose legacy will forever inspire and guide us.” For 23 years, Cooper served as president and CEO of the Greater Washington Urban League. Under her leadership, she expanded the organization from the District into Maryland reaching Prince George’s County and Montgomery County. “Maudine Cooper was a dear friend and mentor. On behalf of our Board of Directors and staff, thank you for your service and commitment to the movement. You will always be loved and missed,” said current Greater Washington Urban League President and CEO George H. Lambert Jr. “Maudine R. Cooper’s loving heart and legacy will continue to inspire us as we will always honor her memory and strive to up-

48 NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023

“D.C. has a veterans department, and I am satisfied with it,” Plush, 61, said. “They are doing an okay job.” hold the values she so passionately championed,” added Lambert, who offered condolences and words of encouragement to the Cooper family. In 2000 Cooper, with several million in grants and funds rescued an abandoned funeral home at 2901 Fourteenth Street, NW, and transformed it from blight in a part of the city gutted during the 1968 riots after the death of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and restored as the new headquarters for the Urban League. “It looked like bombed-out Beirut," Cooper told Washington

right when we could’ve gone left. That’s a great thing.”

FURTHER CEMENTING THE MAYOR FOR LIFE’S LEGACY

During the latter part of April, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) signed into law the Marion Barry Avenue Designation Act of 2023, which officially designated Good Hope Road in Southeast as Marion Barry Avenue. This milestone follows the 2018 Post reporter Yolanda Woodlee in her story about the ribbon for the renovated building. "I couldn't envision this." On that day in 2004, Marc H. Morial, president of the National Urban League, then D.C. Mayor Anthony A. Williams, and former D.C. Council member Jim Graham (D-Ward 1) were all present as they walked into a building that received a $4.2 million resurrection. For the Government of the District of Columbia, Cooper served as a senior department leader under three mayoral administrations: Marion Barry, Adrian Fenty, and Vincent Gray. Cooper was born on September 30, 1941, in Benoit, Mississippi. Like so many Black families at the time, her family soon moved north to St. Paul, Minnesota, in search of a better life. Cooper was accepted at Howard University where she graduated with a degree in Business Administration in 1964 and her Juris

COOPER Page 52

unveiling of a statue in Barry’s likeness outside of the John A. Wilson Building in Northwest and the naming of a room in Busboys and Poets’ Anacostia location in Barry’s honor a year later. D.C. Councilmembers Trayon White (D-Ward 8), Janeese Lewis George (D-Ward 4), Brooke Pinto (D-Ward 2), Matt Frumin (D-Ward 3), Robert White (D-At large), Vincent C. Gray (D-Ward 7), Anita Bonds (D-At large), Charles Allen (D-Ward 6), Christina Henderson (I-At large), Kenyan McDuffie (I-At large), and Brianne Nadeau (D-Ward 1) introduced the legislation in January. The council unanimously approved it during two readings in March and April. An emergency declaration designated the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Operations and Infrastructure, along with any other office of the mayor’s choosing, as the entity responsible for helping residents and business owners living along Good Hope Road secure identification and other documentation reflecting the name change. Barry, widely known as D.C.’s “mayor for life,” passed away on November 23, 2014 at the age of 78. At the time of his death, Barry was in his third consecutive term as Ward 8 D.C. council member. Throughout his nearly 50-year political career, Barry served as an Atlarge school board member, At-large D.C. council member,, Ward 8 D.C. Council member, and, most notably, as D.C. mayor. He did so, at times, with overwhelming support across the District, especially from residents living east of the Anacostia River. Barry, who served as a member of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, made history in 1979 when he became the first civil rights activist elected mayor of a major U.S. city. His most notable accomplishments as mayor include the D.C. Summer Youth Employment Program that many D.C. residents credit with giving them their first job. He also expanded the D.C. government and shepherded contacts to minority-owned firms, which in turn expanded D.C.’s Black middle class. By the late 1980s, amid an explosion in crack-cocaine use, D.C’s murder rate skyrocketed and the local government experienced deficits that affected essential city services. All the while, Barry’s drug and alcohol abuse became more of a focal part, which inspired a federal investigation.

In 1990, Barry suffered the only electoral loss of his political career when Sharon Pratt Kelly defeated him in his mayoral re-election bid. At the time, Barry was standing trial for drug possession charges stemming from an FBI sting. Upon his conviction and release from federal prison in 1992, Barry reentered D.C. politics. He ran for the Ward 8 council seat under the slogan “He May Not Be Perfect, But He’s Perfect for D.C.” defeating the incumbent Wilhelmina Rolark. In 1994, he secured another mayoral term when he defeated Kelly. That moment in D.C. politics, in part, affirmed Barry’s resonance with D.C.’s mostly Black electorate. Years later, under intense pressure from congressional Republicans and the D.C. Control Board, Barry decided not to run for mayor again. He spent the rest of his life and political career as a consultant, and mostly as the Ward 8 council member. In that capacity, he advocated for economic development, criticized the marginalization of Black businesses in the ward, and continued his grassroots work with many of those who would continue in his stead, including Ward 8 Councilmember White. White, in his second term as Ward 8 council member, often mentions Barry and the late William O. Lockridge among his mentors. White’s office opted to reserve comment about the renaming for the ceremony, scheduled for Nov. 18.

GOING BEYOND A STREET RENAMING

Marion Barry Avenue starts at downtown Anacostia at Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue and extends east into Ward 7 to Naylor Road and Alabama Avenue in Southeast. In recent years, the D.C. Department of Transportation and other agencies have set their sights on improving traffic flow at the intersection of Marion Barry Avenue and Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue. The corridor has also experienced a bit of economic development with the opening of storefronts and sit down restaurants. However, residents,and advisory neighborhood commissions in particular, have expressed frustration with openair drug markets, the presence of a methadone clinic and liquor stores, and violent crime. In October, Council member Pinto conducted a public safety walk along portions of Marion Barry Av-

BARRY Page 52

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NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023 49

LEGAL NOTICES

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

2023 ADM 227

2023 ADM 001283

2023 ADM 001202

Roy Wise Decedent

Estate of Mumbi Grace Fuller aka Mumbi Grace Mogaki

Rose Marie Mells Decedent

Shari Kleiner 5614 Connecticut Ave., NW, #107 Washington, DC 20015 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Shari G. Keiner, whose address is 5614 Connecticut Ave., NW, #107 Washington DC 20015, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Roy Wise who died on 12/26/2022 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/2/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/2/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/2/2023 Shari G. Kleiner Personal Representative

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Lucy Sandra Mumo for standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representatives. Unless a responsive pleading in the form of a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is filed in this Court within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth. In the absence of a will or proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution, enter an order determining that the decedent died intestate appoint an unsupervised personal representative Date of first publication: 11/2/2023 Lucy Sandra Mumo 14801 Cartagena Dr. Gainesville, VA 20155 Petitioner/Attorney: TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

TRUE TEST COPY

Janelle Jordan 9701 Apollo Drive, Suite 100 Upper Marlboro, MD 20744 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Jemetria M. Dudley, whose address is 2000 Burning Bush Lane Conyers, GA 30094, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Rose Marie Mells who died on June 5, 2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/2/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/2/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/2/2023 Jemetria M. Dudley Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

LEGAL NOTICES Deed Conveyance of Trust & Notice of White Flag Surrender In God We Trust. Deed Conveyance of Trust. Notice of White Flag Surrender. Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: "Jeremy Dylan Creager©", in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, the beneficiary and heir of: “Divine Core Legacy Trust©”, corp. sole Dba.: “JEREMY DYLAN CREAGER©", "JEREMY D CREAGER©", “JEREMY CREAGER©”, “CREAGER, JEREMY DYLAN©” having reached the age of majority, hereby affirms to declare a Deed Conveyance of the following trust’s, being duly certified hereby affirms the following: under the natural laws governing Californian Americans, i hereby declare and proclaim the following from this day forward in harmony with my nationality status and jurisdiction, the trust’s currently doing business as: “Creager Family Trust”, and “Perfect Darkness Trust” are hereby conveyed with 100% (one hundred percent) clear, clean, and perfected Title Deed Conveyance to “Divine Core Legacy Trust©”. pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article III, as a minister of yhwh's covenant, and Internationally Protected Person. Notice of: LAWS AND CUSTOMS OF WAR ON LAND (HAGUE, IV), ARTICLE: 32, 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Claim pursuant to Public Law 87-846, TITLE II, SEC. 203. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title : This order is to preserve legal and equitable title, and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, conveyed to "Divine Core Legacy Trust©". 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: "jeremy dylan creager©", nom deguerre: "Jeremy Dylan Creager©", as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of: "Divine Core Legacy Trust©", an Inter Vivos Unincorporated Divine Grantor Trust. This deposit is not to be commingled with general assets of any bank, nor depositary / trustee / agent / bailee / donee / debtor. This deposit is not limited to, but including discharge and set off, of any and all outstanding liabilities as accord and satisfaction. Public Law 97-116 sec. 12 sub-sec. b of sec. 274. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente.

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2023 ADM 001215

2023 ADM 001309

2023 ADM 001127

2023 ADM 001165

LaVerne B. Rodgers Decedent

Estate of Dalaneo M. Martin

Theresa I. Lewis Decedent

Lafayette Sessoms Decedent

Jennifer E. Loud, Esq. The Loud Law Firm 1439 Holly Street, NW Washington, DC 20012 Attorney

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE

Tamara Jones, Esq. The Legal Courthouse, PLLC 6218 Georgia Ave., Suite 1-682 NW Washington, DC 20011 Attorney

Sharon Legall 1325 G Street NW Suite 500 Washington, DC 20005 Attorney

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

Diane Baxter, whose address is 1805 Tulip St., NW, Washington, DC 20012, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Theresa I. Lewis who died on July 21, 2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/9/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/9/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Dwayne L. Sessoms, whose address is 3909 Lakehouse Rd., Apt 16, Beltsville, MD 20705, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Lafayette Sessoms who died on 7/30/2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/9/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/9/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/9/2023 Rashad L. Rodgers Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

2023 ADM 001161 Tol Winslow Shackelford Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Joslyn P. Scott, whose address is 5206 Decatur Street, Hyattsville, MD 20781, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Tol Winslow Shackelford who died on June 30, 2023 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/9/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/9/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/9/2023 Joslyn P. Scott 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

Rashad L. Rodgers, whose address is 3600 West Broad Street, Apt. 240, Richmond, VA 23230, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of LaVerne B. Rodgers who died on August 4, 2023 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/9/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/9/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

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

Washington Informer

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

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

LEGAL NOTICES

Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Terra Martin for standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representatives. Unless a responsive pleading in the form of a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is filed in this Court within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth. In the absence of a will or proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution, enter an order determining that the decedent died intestate appoint an unsupervised personal representative Date of first publication: 11/9/2023 Edward G. Varrone, Esq. 1825 K Street, NW Suite 1150 Washington, DC 20006 Petitioner/Attorney: TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Date of first publication: 11/9/2023 Diane Baxter Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Date of first publication: 11/9/2023 Dwayne L. Sessoms Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

In God We Trust Declaration of Nationality Notice of Special Appearance: I am that I am: ''Taddeo Kavuma Kintu©'', in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: ''KINTU, TADDEO KAVUMA©'', corp. sole d.b.a: ''TADDEO KAVUMA KINTU©'', and any derivative thereof are under Copyright 1977, having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a: ganda Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable allegiance to The Buganda Kingdom, The Moorish Empire, Societas Republicae Ea Al Maurikanuus Estados, The Constitution for the united States of America, Article III Section 2, The Lieber Code, Hague Conventions of 1899 & 1907, The Geneva Conventions, [United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples] and all natural laws governing moors and baganda, and hereby declare and proclaim my nationality in good faith as a: ganda Moorish American. I am that I am: ''Taddeo Kavuma Kintu©'', from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality/Status/Jurisdiction, shall be known as: “taddeo kavuma©''. Notice of White Flag Surrender: as "hors de combat", pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article III, as an minister of YHWH’S covenant and an Internationally Protected Person. NOTICE-OF-LAWS-ANDCUSTOMS-OF-WAR-ON-LAND-(HAGUE, IV), ARTICLE: 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Claim pursuant to Public Law 87-846, TITLE II, Sec. 203. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title: This order is to preserve legal and equitable title and to reserve all rights, title, and interest in the property, Re: MARYLAND-DEPARTMENT-OF-PUBLIC-HEALTH – DIVISON-OF-VITAL RECORDS - BALTIMORE, MARYLAND, STATE-FILE-NUMBER: 119-77-22241 ''TADDEO KAVUMA KINTU©'', to the depositor: “taddeo kavuma©'', a.k.a. “Taddeo Kavuma Kintu©”, nom de guerre: ''kintu, taddeo kavuma©''. 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: “taddeo kavuma©'', a.k.a. ''Taddeo Kavuma Kintu©'', nom de guerre: ''kintu, taddeo kavuma©'', as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of: ''Katana’s Leopard Trust©'', an Inter Vivos Unincorporated Divine Grantor Trust. This deposit is not to be commingled with general assets of any bank, nor depositary / trustee / agent / bailee / donee / debtor. This deposit is not limited to, but including: discharge and set off of any and all outstanding liabilities as accord and satisfaction. Notice: I am in union and good faith with the United States, the United States of America, and the United Nations. I am not a heathen, sovereign citizen, terrorist or any title and/or status of like kind. Inter alia enaetatum fuit. All rights reserved.

Washington Informer

50 NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

LEGAL NOTICES

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

2023 ADM 000448

2023 ADM 001251

Duke Wilson Decedent

Louise M. Mims Decedent

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

Sharon Legall 1325 G Street, NW Suite 500 Washington, DC 20005 Attorney

Jennifer Wilson, whose address is 4761 Fern Flat Road, Aptos, CA 95003, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Duke Wilson who died on 12/14/2022 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/9/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/9/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/9/2023 Jennifer Wilson Personal Representative

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Denise M. Mims, whose address is 3815 Crystal Lane, Temple Hills MD, 20748, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Louise M. Mims who died on 07/26/2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/9/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/9/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/9/2023

TRUE TEST COPY

Denise M. Mims Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

LEGAL NOTICES Phase 2 Declaration of Nationality Protocol In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality. Notice of White Flag Surrender. Notice of Special Appearance: I am that I am: " Babafunke Ajamu©/Wendall Carl Goins© ", in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: “BABAFUNKE AJAMU/WENDALL CARL GOINS ", corp. sole Dba.: "WENDALL C GOINS©/Babafunke Ajamu©", Wendall Goins, WENDELL CARL GOINS, Wendell C Goins, Wendell Goins, WENDELL GOINS, WENDELL C GOINS, OLOYE ABIODUN, AKILI TARISHI, having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as an: American Moor, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, Al Maghreb Al Aqsa, Estados al Marikanos, Societas Republicae Ea Al Maurikanuus Estados, The Constitution for the united States of America, Article III Section 2, The Lieber Code, Hague Conventions of 1899 & 1907, The Geneva Conventions, [ United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples ], and all natural laws governing moors, and hereby declare and proclaim my nationality in good faith as an: American Moor. I am that I am: " Babafunke Ajamu©/Wendall Carl Goins© ", from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: "babafunke ajamu© ". Notice of White Flag Surrender: as "hors de combat", pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article III, as a minister of The Moorish Empire, and Internationally Protected Person. Notice of: LAWS AND CUSTOMS OF WAR ON LAND HAGUE, IV), ARTICLE: 32, 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Claim pursuant to Public Law 87-846, TITLE II, SEC. 203. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title: This order is to preserve legal and equitable title, and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, Re: Commonwealth of Pennsylvania – Department of Health: STATE FILE NUMBER, 01760301949 " WENDALL CARL GOINS© ", is as a special deposit order, conveyed to " House of Goins Trust© ". 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: " babafunke ajamu", nom deguerre: " Babafunke Ajamu/ Wendall Carl Goins© ", as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of: " HOUSE OF GOINS TRUST© ", an Inter Vivos Unincorporated Divine Grantor Trust. This deposit is not to be commingled with general assets of any bank, nor depositary / trustee / agent / bailee / donee / debtor. This deposit is not limited to, but including: discharge and set off, of any and all outstanding liabilities as accord and satisfaction. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente.

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

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

2023 ADM 001157

2023 ADM 001247

Teresa A. Driver aka Teresa Antoinette Driver Decedent

Mary Wigenton King Decedent

Melinda M. Bolling, Esq. 2108 31st Street, SE Washington, DC 20020 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Vanessa D. King, whose address is 3311 16th Street, NE, Washington, DC 20018, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Teresa A. Driver aka Teresa Antoinette Driver who died on July 16, 2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/16/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/16/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/16/2023 Vanessa D. King Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES

Gretchyn G. Meinken, Esq. 616 N. Washington, St. Alexandria VA 22314 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Donna Maria Jeffries, whose address is 392 Trefoil Place Waldorf MD 20501, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mary Wigenton King who died on March 6, 2022 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/16/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/16/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/16/2023 Donna Maria Jeffries Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2023 ADM 000401

2023 ADM 001262

2023 ADM 001252

2023 ADM 001332

2023 ADM 1270

Bennie C. Jackson Decedent

Bradley Delaine Hampton, Jr. Decedent

Mary Green Decedent

Estate of Eileen Crawford aka Eileen Elizabeth Crawford

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

Peggy A. Miller, Esq. 5130 7th Street, NE Washington, DC 20011-2625 Attorney

Claudette M. Ward aka Claudette Michelle Ward aka Claudette Murray Decedent

Kevin Judd, Esq., whose address is 601 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Suite 900-South Building, Washington, DC 20004, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Bennie C. Jackson who died on March 10, 2021 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/16/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/16/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/16/2023 Kevin Judd, Esq. Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Antonio X. Maruder, whose address is 2425 Blueridge Ave., Apt 501, Silver Spring, MD 20902, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Bradley Delaine Hampton, Jr. who died on October 9, 2022 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/16/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/16/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Ruth Green, whose address is 6305 7th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mary Green who died on September 5, 2022 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/16/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/16/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/16/2023

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Fern C. Clark and Monica L. Crawford for standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representatives. Unless a responsive pleading in the form of a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is filed in this Court within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth. Admit to probate the will dated April 22, 1983 exhibited with the petition upon proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution by affidavit of the witnesses or otherwise Date of first publication: 11/16/2023 Aimee D. Griffin, Esq. 5335 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Suite 440 Washington, DC 20015 Petitioner/Attorney:

Ruth Green Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Date of first publication: 11/16/2023

TRUE TEST COPY

Washington Informer

Antonio X. Maruder Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Siara P. Hines, whose address is 2219 Town Center Dr., SE #319, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Claudette M. Ward aka Claudette Michelle Ward aka Claudette Murray who died on May 19, 2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/16/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/16/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/16/2023 Siara P. Hines Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Washington Informer

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023 51

LEGAL NOTICES

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

2023 ADM 242

2023 ADM 001244

2023 ADM 1264

Robert Micheal Smith aka R. Micheal Smith Decedent

Ernestine P. Knowles Decedent

Benjamin Jones aka Benjamin Franklin Jones Jr Decedent

Jennifer C. Concino 5335 Wisconsin Avenue NW Suite 400 Washington, DC 20015 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Sarah Beaulieu, whose address is 530 Antler Court, Saline, Michigan 48176, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Robert Micheal Smith aka R. Micheal Smith who died on December 30, 2022 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (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 5/16/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/16/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/16/2023 Sarah Beaulieu Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Deborah D. Boddie, Esq. Probate Law DC 1308 Ninth Street, NW Suite 300 Washington, DC 20001 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Ward R. Knowles, whose address is 12717 Layhill Road, #102, Silver Spring, MD 20906, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ernestine P. Knowles who died on April 16, 2023 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/16/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/16/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/16/2023 Ward R. Knowles Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2023 ADM 001281

2023 ADM 001208

Jose D. Flores Decedent

Olga Akinyi Ooro Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Maria M. Paredes Flores, whose address is 3611 10th St., NW, Washington, DC 20010, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jose D. Flores who died on 5/3/2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/16/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/16/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/16/2023 Maria M. Paredes Flores Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

52 NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Juelane Holton, whose address is 5703 31st Place, Hyattsville, MD 20782, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Olga Akinyi Ooro who died on July 17, 2020 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/16/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/16/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/16/2023 Juelane Holton Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Howard Haley, Esq. The Haley Firm, PC 7600 Georgia Ave, NW #416 Washington, DC 20012 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS James Robert Hrobowski III, whose address is 1323 Tewkesbury Pl., NW, WDC 20012, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Benjamin Jones aka Benjamin Franklin Jones Jr who died on 8/29/2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/16/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/16/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/16/2023 James Robert Hrobowski III Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

COOPER from Page 48 Doctorate from Howard in 1971. During the Civil Rights Movement, the National Urban League played a key role in integrating the South and improving the quality of life for generations of African Americans. In 1973, Cooper joined the National Urban League and in 1973 she became assistant director for Federal Programs and became vice President for the Washington Operations Legislative Office in 1980. Colleagues remember Cooper as having a joyous personality. She loved working with the Urban League because it provided her the opportunity to put her legal training and her commitment to social justice into action. In 1983, Cooper left her post at the National Urban League to join the D.C., government as director of the Office of Human Rights under Barry. During her legal career, Cooper took on several high-profile cases. In 1987 she was appointed to head

the Minority Business Opportunity Commission. Then in 1989, Barry approached her to become his Chief of Staff. She served in this position for the last two years of his third term. In 1990, Cooper began serving as prresident and CEO of the Greater Washington Urban League, an affiliate of the National Urban League and an organization devoted to education and training, housing and community development, and services for the aging and the environment. Cooper was a member of numerous organizations and boards, such as the District of Columbia Bar Association, the NAACP, the D.C. Agenda Project, and Leadership Washington. In 1992, Cooper received the prestigious Isaiah Award for the Pursuit of Justice, presented by the Washington, D.C. Chapter of the American Jewish Committee, and in 1998, she was named McDonald's Black History Maker of Today in the Washington, D.C., area. WI

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Notice of Union County, New Jersey, newspaper of general circulation, Union County LocalSource, publication dates: 11/9/23. 11/16/23, 11/23/22, 11/30/23, Account Number: 221475. In The Moorish Empire, Estados al-Marikanos, Societas Republicae Ea Al Maurikanuus Estados, D.b.a.: Union County, New Jersey, united States of America. Notice of White Flag Surrender: as "hors de combat", pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article III, as a ministers of The Moorish Empire, and Internationally Protected Persons, specially appearing as: “Gordon Henry Chrichlow Jr, co-Trustee of Gordon Chrichlow Trust; Shanta Chrichlow co-Trustee of Gordon Chrichlow Trust”, “Gordon Chrichlow Trust”, “ Gordon Henry Chrichlow Jr”, “Shanta Chrichlow”, Trustee, entitlement holder, for the Unincorporated Inter Vivos Trust, “ Gordon Chrichlow Trust ”, permanently domiciled at: 701 State Route 440 STE 16 PMB 1071, Jersey City, New Jersey [07304] u.S.A.. Notice of: LAWS AND CUSTOMS OF WAR ON LAND (HAGUE, IV), ARTICLE: 32, 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title. This Notice is to preserve legal and equitable title, and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, as Allodium Absolute Title Estate in Fee Simple, Tax Exempt, for religious, scientific, educational, and charitable purposes, of the following described Real Estate, being formerly known as: Borough of Roselle, County of Union, State of New Jersey, formal known as Lot 10, Block 2905 FORMERLY known as Lot 215 Block 183.H, BEING the same premises conveyed to GTA Developers and Builders, LLC by Deed from Bernice L. Thomas, Single, dated March 14, 2022, recorded on July 21, 2022, in the Union County Clerk/Register’s Office in Deed Book 5975, Page 169. Which has a refused address of: [ 207 Cavell Street, Roselle, New Jersey 07023], located at or near Latitude: 40.645010" N, Longitude: -74.256820" W. Being the same property described in [ Union County, New Jersey, among the said Land Records.] Notice of Private Property. The aforementioned private property is not available for trespass. Any and all trespassers shall incur a $1,000,000.00 [One Million Dollar], non-judicial penalty at each evidenced occurrence, that is immediately due upon presentment. Trespassers waive any and all defenses and agree to a Fieri Facias order commanding the County Sheriff, of wherever any property of the DEBTORS may be found, either getting the money by seizure, attachment, or levy, and sell sufficient personal property, real property, goods, chattels, and real estate, in full satisfaction of the debt. Notice of Special Deposit. Said Real Estate is as a special deposit order, conveyed to the for the Unincorporated Inter Vivos Trust, “Gordon Chrichlow Trust ”. Borough of Roselle, Union County, TAX ACCOUNT NUMBER 2714, is as a special deposit order, and as Accord and Satisfaction, conveyed to the Unincorporated Inter Vivos Trust, to “Gordon Chrichlow Trust”. 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: “ gordon henry chrichlow jr©”, and, “shanta chrichlow”, as a special deposit order in lawful money, exclusively for the benefit of: “ Gordon Chrichlow Trust ”. This deposit is not to be commingled with general assets of any bank, nor depositary / trustee / agent / bailee / donee / debtor. This deposit is not limited to, but including: discharge and set off, of any and all outstanding liabilities as accord and satisfaction. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente.

BARRY from Page 48 enue. The Office of Deputy Mayor for Public Safety is expected to provide a report in December about long-term interagency responses to substance use along the corridor. As reported in a previous Informer story, a Bowser administration official said that move is in deference to residents who are frustrated with plans that haven’t seemed to work. Muralist and teaching artist Mark Garrett said he sees the newly named Marion Barry Avenue as a call to the D.C. government to directly improve the material conditions of the people along the corridor. He told The Informer that anything less than that would be an affront to the values that Barry represented. Earlier this year, Garrett and his colleague Dietrich Williams turned a vacant laundromat on the 1600 block of Good Hope Road into the Capitol Hill Boys Club Artist Gallery. Garrett said the space facilitates the development and representation of artists from Wards 7 and 8 who’ve been left out of mainstream galleries. He told The Informer that the gallery’s location gives him and Williams access to those who they’ve always wanted to represent. They have set out to accomplish that goal through an artist residency program, art club, and long-term

relationships with neighborhood elementary and middle schools. In December, the Capitol Hill Boys Club Artist Gallery will host a showcase that features art created by an Anacostia resident who lost his life earlier this year. Garrett said he’s conducting that showcase with support from the artist’s family, particularly his widow, who’s also an artist. This project follows the completion of a mural in honor of the late Hodges. In speaking about the violence and drug activity that has overtaken soon-to-be Marion Barry Avenue, Garrett noted what he described as the bigger picture. He said that residents can’t easily access a full-service grocery store within walking distance of their homes. This is one of several quality-of-life issues that deserves the city’s attention, Garrett told The Informer. “There’s a froth of money that wasn’t here during Marion Barry’s time to usher in all the changes needed to create a new scenario,” Garrett said. “But it doesn’t always include the likes of poor and disenfranchised people having a livable wage, affordable housing and access to safe and healthy grocery stores. It goes to show you that in the heart of Anacostia, there are changes that need to be made.” WI @SamPKCollins

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MALVEAUX from Page 30 President Biden of supporting the genocide of Palestinians. The first Palestinian to serve in Congress, Tlaib's principled outspokenness has attracted the ire of her colleagues. Republicans have attempted to censure her for her pro-Palestinian comments. Meanwhile, Palestinians are dying, and our nation's rabid support of Israel seems to sideline concerns about innocent Palestinian civilians who have been victims of the extreme Israeli response to the Hamas provocation. President Biden is walking on a tightrope, and his balancing act isn't working well, especially for young Palestinians and other young people of color. He must, and he has, condemn the Hamas attack. But many think he has bent too far backward to mollify

EDELMAN from Page 30 one in the cartoon, with "enough and to spare." The tablecloth and menu might be fancier for the holiday, but in many homes, the basic sight of a table with enough food for everyone to eat what they like and go to bed full is an everyday occurrence. Thanksgiving may be the only meal of the year when some families pause together long enough to truly give thanks for the food in front of them. But there are millions of others who never take a seat at the dinner table for granted. There were 44 million people in our nation living in food insecure households

MARSHALL from Page 30 untold stories of Blacks who enlisted from northern cities like Chicago, Cleveland and New York and would have to travel to military bases in the Jim Crow South for training. Based on the letters written to the NAACP, Black soldiers explained how they would be safe once deployed to war in Europe compared to the danger they faced while being trained on military bases in Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi. Each year we recognize Veterans Day, we should remember how a million Black World War veterans were denied the benefits associated with the GI Bill. The original G.I. Bill lifted a generation into the ranks of the middle class by providing a wide range of benefits to World War II veterans, including low-cost mortgages, low-interest loans to start a business or farm, unemployment compensation and funds to

Israel while minimizing Palestinian civilian losses. Given who he is, and how he is, he has, perhaps, done his best. But his best is not enough for those who cringe at Israel's aggression, which did not start with the response to the Hamas Oct. 7 attack. Between 2008 and September 2023, more than 6,400 Palestinians were killed by Israelis. You can push people so hard for so long before they respond. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, while necessarily singing from the Biden hymnbook, offers a measured attempt to broker a peace, a cease-fire, a time-out. His very careful comments are a credit to the Biden-Harris administration, but they aren't enough to quell the anger that many young people feel about the administration's failure to call for a cease-fire. How many Palestinians must die in hospi-

tals, refugee camps, and in their homes to satisfy Netanyahu's bloodthirsty quest for revenge? President Biden beware. Many young people don't care about all the good you've done doesn't matter when you turn your back on people who are being decimated by the bloodthirsty despot Netanyahu. In the midst of a cordial impromptu sidewalk conversation, I saw an angry determination in the eyes of the young people, who'd driven from New York to participate in the protest on Nov. 4. I will never vote for Biden, one of them said, with an edge to her voice missing from our prior cordial conversation. President Biden, what will you do about that? You need these young people to win in 2024. Don't ignore them. WI

last year. These neighbors are likely not choosing between apple or pumpkin pie, but between paying for groceries or for rent, heat, electricity, medicine or clothing. Pandemic-era emergency supports that helped close gaps in food insecurity ended in recent months, but hunger certainly did not. Yet some programs that parents and children rely on for essential food remain at risk for cuts. Until our nation makes a permanent change in "concern for 'the least of these,'" there will be millions still searching for their place at America's table of plenty.

God, we thank You for this food

I end with a grace. pursue a college education. When the original G.I. Bill ended in 1956, nearly 8 million World War II veterans had received education or training, and 4.3 million home loans worth $33 billion had been provided. However, these same benefits were regularly denied to Black World War II veterans and their families, thus denying Black families and their descendants the opportunity to build prosperity and generational wealth. As employment, college attendance and wealth surged for whites, disparities for their Black counterparts continued to widen. While the GI Bill's language did not specifically exclude Black veterans, it was structured in a way that ultimately closed the doors for 1.2 million Black veterans who bravely served and sacrificed for their nation. Historian Ira Katznelson wrote, "No greater instrument for widening an already huge racial gap in postwar America than the G.I. Bill." "The quickest ways to overcome

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for the hands that harvested it for the hands that prepared it for the hands that provided it and for the hands that served it. And we pray and will act for those without enough food in Your world and in our land of plenty. WI

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poverty in this country are through education and homeownership. The denial of these benefits to Black veterans returning from service has impacted the accumulation of generational wealth for Black families across the country," said Rep. James Clyburn. As a result, Reps. Clyburn and Seth Moulton earlier this year introduced the Sgt. Isaac Woodard Jr. and Sgt. Joseph H. Maddox G.I. Bill Restoration Act. The legislation, which is intended to address the deceit and hypocrisy surrounding the implementation of the original G.I. Bill, will extend access to VA loans and educational assistance to the surviving spouse and certain direct descendants of Black World War II veterans. As we celebrate Veterans Day, we should also remember the hundreds of Black veterans who were attacked and lynched upon returning home. WI

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54 NOVEMBER 16 - 22, 2023

es, the right to enjoy free speech, freedom of religion, the press, to assemble, to petition. This librarian said, "I would rather be fired for upholding the First Amendment instead of sued for violating it." She was fired for refusing to enforce book bans. Her name is Patty Hector. To me, Ms. Hector is a shero for standing up as she proclaimed that

MORIAL from Page 31 dent for public policy and strategic alliances, and acclaimed actor and philanthropist Wendell Pierce. In his moving acceptance speech, Moore acknowledged the inspiration of his grandfather, James Thomas. Born in South Carolina, Thomas fled to Jamaica when he was 6, chased out of town by the Ku Klux Klan. While many of his family members vowed never to return to the United States, Thomas did. "He would say, ‘This country wouldn't be complete without me,'" Moore recalled with a smile. Though he passed down to his children, his grandchildren and great-grandchildren "a remarkable

honoring the book ban would effectively erase people of color and marginalize LGBTQ people, and she refused to do that! The book I mentioned I'm currently reading would be banned in that Arkansas town. If I were a child, would that stop me from reading my book or would I find a way to read it anyway? As responsible adults, don't allow anyone to prevent our children from reading books some ignorant, insecure person wants to prevent them from

reading. We must show them our children will have an opportunity to read books — even if we have to buy them and put them on our bookshelves at home! Let's purchase them for our children, enroll them in after-school programs that teach them the truths they have a right to know, and not allow them to grow up believing a sterilized version of history that pleases narrow-minded, insecure people who can't handle the truth. WI

legacy," what he didn't pass down was wealth. "It's not because he didn't work hard enough," Moore said. "It's not because he didn't dig deep enough. It's because he chose to serve a country that wasn't prepared to serve him." Moore's father died suddenly when Moore was only 3 years old, prompting his mother to move with him and his two sisters to the Bronx to live with his grandparents. They lived there until Moore was 14, when the family returned to Maryland. Moore credits the influence of his grandfather, whom he called "Papa Jim," with keeping him safe from the gang violence that enveloped his neighborhood. When

Moore had a run-in with police, his grandparents mortgaged their home so they could afford to send him to military school in Pennsylvania. In January, Moore was sworn in as Maryland's first Black governor and third Black elected governor in U.S. history on a Bible that belonged to "Papa Jim," along with one that belonged to Maryland native Frederick Douglass. In his first year, Moore truly embodied the National Urban League's mission of empowering communities and changing lives. We look forward to working with him as he furthers that mission and urges other governors and lawmakers to follow his lead. WI

JEALOUS from Page 31 to mobilize voters in this year's election, said that among her organization's digital ads this cycle — which were shown to voters of color, young voters, and women — the ads focused on climate were the top performers. "Our research shows that climate voters care about freedom: the freedom to breathe clean air, the freedom to live in a healthy environment, and the freedom to make decisions for themselves," Ms. Mathias said. "Black and brown voters showed up on Tuesday because they know we've fought too long and too hard to let special interests take these freedoms from us." "By electing climate champions, we can fight back on growing health risks and pollution in marginalized neighborhoods, defend our neighbors with severe medical conditions, make sure that our communities have an opportunity to get trained in new jobs so that the transition to clean energy

"Our research shows that climate voters care about freedom: the freedom to breathe clean air, the freedom to live in a healthy environment, and the freedom to make decisions for themselves," Ms. Mathias said. doesn't leave anyone behind, and protect the progress we've made with the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative." So, as we discuss all the fundamental rights that were on the ballot this year and will be in 2024 — abortion, the right to vote, gender equality, workers' rights, and more

— let's not forget that the results of this week's elections prove that the right to a clean environment and a habitable planet is a major election issue an ever growing number of Americans — especially those communities on the front lines of the climate crisis. WI

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