VOL. 55, NO. 7 • NOVEMBER 28 - DECEMBER 4, 2019
Remember to Give Thanks this Holiday Season.
Millions Still Have '18 Holiday Debt: Report
Returning Citizens Receive Support at Celebration
By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia
By Sam P.K. Collins WI Contributing Writer @SamPKCollins In the District, six out of 10 returning citizens are arrested within five years of their release from prison. Without stable housing, familial ties or drug addiction/mental health treatment, many of them stand significantly unprepared to take advantage of the District's growing catalog of resources designed for their successful transition. This conundrum inspired two returning citizens homecoming celebrations this year, the most recent of which was held Sunday at a local church. For two hours, dozens of women and men broke bread, gathered toiletries and new clothes, and engaged representatives of D.C. government agencies, financial institutions, job training and drug addiction programs in one-on-one discussions. "The last time we were here, Catholic Charities housed 14 people. Before we get into the middle part of winter, we need to get as many services as possible to our returning citizens," said Russell Patterson Jr., organizer of the event at First Seventh Day Adventist Church on 8th and Shepherd streets in Northwest. Sunday afternoon's program opened with a selection from singer Valerie Dawkins. An audience nearing 100 later listened as their fellow returning citizens, now gainfully employed, reflected on their post-conviction journey. Some of these speakers represented Regional Addiction Prevention, Inc., or RAP,
CITIZEN Page 9
Don't Miss the WI Bridge Center Section
Giving from the Heart 5 Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White hands a food basket to Ward 8 resident Bernice Chatman during his 11thannual Turkey Giveaway at Union Temple Baptist Church in Southeast. Councilmember White distributed food bags at seven different locations throughout the ward. (Shevry Lassiter/The Washington Informer)
Black Friday — the knock-down, drag-out, mother of all shopping days and the traditional start of the Christmas shopping season — is here. With consumers expected to dig deep into their wallets and spend as much as $1.1 trillion this holiday season, the time is now for gift buying, deals and savings. And debt. Lots of debt. A new report from the District-based personal finance website WalletHub show that 35 million Americans still have credit card debt from last holiday season, and nearly one-third of consumers will spend less this year than in 2018. The study also found that 52 percent of people don't think Black
BLACK FRIDAY Page 14
Church Fire Doesn't Quell Congregation's Holiday Spirit By Dorothy Rowley WI Staff Writer For one of the two tight-knit congregations of Brighter Day Ministries, a recent fire has only bolstered what has been perceived as a "divine message" to keep toiling on behalf of its community's most needy residents. While the Oct. 29 electrical fire destroyed the steeple at BDM's Congress Heights campus at 421 Alabama Ave., leaving behind a sopping wet balcony along with other substantial water damage, no harm was done to the sanctuary. The fire also failed to dampen
the congregation's spirit of giving as the holiday season approaches. "We're in the process rebuilding," said George Semple, a trustee at the Congress Heights campus who, along with wife Mable, helps operate its food pantry and clothes closet two days a week. "We're always about serving our community and the fire just helped us to realize the importance of what we do," Semple said. "After the fire, we were still getting food in as usual from the National Area Capital Food Bank, so we had to keep getting it out to
HEIGHTS Page 34
5 Mable Semple works two days a week at the food pantry and clothes closet at Brighter Day Ministries' Congress Heights campus in Southeast. She says that while an Oct. 29 fire took its toll, she and her husband George still choose to come over and reach out to the people. (Dorothy Rowley/The Washington Informer)
Celebrating 55 Years of Service / Serving More Than 50,000 Readers Throughout The Metropolitan Area
Now Published by Dr. Charles Vincent
Her Legacy Continues.
In memory of Mickey Thompson Vincent, Founder and Publisher.
Dr. Charles & “Mickey” Vincent
Hampton University Fundraiser on Martha’s Vineyard
Charles and Reesa Reynolds with Atty. Regina Dillard Ashby and Gregory Ashby.
Dr. Aliya Browne and Reggie Browne
Hampton Student Khari Parrish (‘20) (Marine Biology)
C
alvin Butts, Jr. and his wife April hosted an elegant fundraising event for Hampton University at their beautiful home on Martha’s Vineyard. The guest of honor and keynote speaker was Hampton President Dr. William R. Harvey. Dr. Harvey has been President of Hampton for forty years. He has the distinction of being the longest serving president of any university in the United States. Under his leadership the school’s endowment has increased by more than ten-fold.
Bill and Jennifer Parrish, (‘91 and ‘89) Event Organizers
Event Hosts, Calvin Butts, Jr. (‘02 and ‘02) and his wife April.
Hampton Students Zaire HagansJackson (‘20) and Lauren Smith Onyx II (‘20)
Hampton Student Myles Browne (‘21)
Erica Johnson (‘91) and President Harvey
Dr. Harvey highlighted the schools achievement to date and outlined the current plans for further progress. The school will now expand its IT programs and enter new fields of medical/ cancer research. Corporate partnerships and increased alumni giving are a major part of the strategic plan.
Dean Katherine S. Broderick (Univ. of DC David A. Clarke School of Law) and Dean Danielle Holley-Walker (Howard Univ. School of Law) present the Earl H. Davis Memorial Prizes to the recipients. (here to Michael Wilk: UDC David A. Clarke School of Law)
For further information: www.hamptonu.edu wparrish@noblestrategy.com Calvinbuttsjr@gmail.com Dr. William R. Harvey, President of Hampton University
The Gracious Receptionists
Social Sightings - THE MAGAZINE Subscribe www.SocialSightings.com Kendra Handy/Editor Dr. Charles Vincent/Photographer Brian Young/Graphic Designer l
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Social Sightings-The Column is published in the Hill Rag, DC Mid-City, East of the River Journals, The Washington Informer Newspaper and in the Fairfax, Alexandria, Arlingnton, Loudoun Woman Magazines 2003 © SOCIAL SIGHTINGS ALL RIGHTS RESERVED — DUPLICATION IN ANY FORM REQUIRES WRITTEN PERMISSION | E-mail SocialSightings@aol.com
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SOMETHING NEW EVERYDAY www.washingtoninformer.com
Women the Cycle of wi hotBreak topics Domestic Violence COMPILED BY WI EDITOR D. KEVIN MCNEIR
Greater Mt. Calvary Continues Annual ‘Project Feed law enforcement. She said they threat,” she said. WI5000’ Staff WriterInitiative had come together to bring a Among the programs Marlow By Tia Carol Jones
sense of uniformity in the way wants to see implemented are When L.Y.Mount Marlow's 23-yearviolence Greater Calvary Holy domestic Church and its victims and stricter restraining order policies, oldoutreach daughtercenters told her the father survivors are treated. more rights for victim's families returned for the holidays with of her daughter threatened her “She's using her own personal to intervene on behalf of a vicProject Feed 5000 on Tuesday, Nov. 26 in Ward life, and the life of their child, story, her own personal pain to tim, a domestic violence assess5, Northeast, providing over 2,000 families with she knew something had to be push forward,” Davis-Nickens ment unit coupled with further full Thanksgiving meal boxes and additional prodone. Out of her frustration said about Marlow. training for law enforcement teinlaw and breakfast items. They’ll also partner with with enforcement's handling Davis-Nickens said anyone agencies, a Child's Life ProtecEmail comments to: Kitchen feed 1,500 peoof Carolina the situation, she Restaurants decided to to who reads Marlow's book will tion Act and mandatory counselple who need hot meals on Thanksgiving 11 rburke@ start the Saving Promise cam- “get it.” Day, She said she “puts the ing for batterers. to 3 at their location in Ward 5, 2350 Washington paign. case in such a way, the average “If we are ever going to eradiwashingtoninformer.com Pl “ItNE. seems to be a vicious cycle person can get it.” She said at the cate domestic violence, we must goalturn is to eliminate as much the the book will look at both sides of the coin. that “Our won't my family endhunger of theinday, area asMarlow possible; said. we’re concerned people and loose,” Marlow about help people begin to have a dia- We need to address both the victheir her needs andwith wantthe others to know thatabout we’redomestic not shared story audilogue violence. tim and the batterer,” Marlow just a house of worship. We’re also a place where ence at the District Heights Also present at the event was said. human and physical needs will be met,” said Dr. Domestic Violence Symposium Mildred Muhammad, the exMarlow would also like to see Co-Pastor of Greater Mount Calvary Holy Church.programs designed to raise onSusie May C. 7 atOwens, the District Heights wife of John Allen Muhammad, The program a collaborative commitment by Greater Mt Calvary Holy Church, FamilyinLife Municipal Center. isThe sympo- who was sentenced to six consecawareness among the children Community Center and Owens Bankparole to address the increasing of hunger sium was sponsored by Susie the Crowder utive life termsFood without public and privateissue schools. She in the District 8 people by suffer from hunger with in 5inchildren facing the same – equating Family and where Youth1 in Services a Maryland jury for his1role feels children need to be educat- to Center of adults the city District 641,000 andofover 200,000the children. OnSniper Sunday,attacks Dec. 1,inthe outreach with an all-day Beltway ed about culminates domestic violence. Heights and the National Hookcelebration and Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, 10 – 6 at Greater Mount Calvary, 610being RhodepasIsland 2002. Mildred Muhammad is “We have to stop UpAve., of Black NE. Women. They will give away 10,000 toys to needy with games, caroling, and giftspoor and surprises the founder of Afterchildren the Trauma, sive-aggressive with chilMarlow has written including a book, iPads, an organization thattohelps theanddren for the congregation gift cards, a trip Disney more.about domestic violence,” “Color Me Butterfly,” which is a survivors of domestic violence Marlow said. story about four generations of and their children. Marlow has worked to break domestic violence. The book is “I lived in fear for six years. Six the cycle of abuse in her family, inspired by her own experiences, years in fear is a long time. It is and is confident the policies she and those of her grandmother, not an easy thing to come out is pushing for will start that her mother and her daughter. of,” she said. process. She said every time she reads Mildred Muhammad said shopping “I plan to take these policies to Holiday In Memoriam excerpts from her book, she still people who want season to help a Congress and implore them to lurks just around Those seekingthetowords fill the seat of the late Rep. Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, Sr. can not believe came domestic violence victim must change our laws,” Marlow said. the corner. And small Wilhelmina J. Rolark Elijahher. E. “Color Cummings now total 32 candidates, infrom Me Butterfly” be careful of how they go into “I will not stop until these polibusinesses need tons of The Washington Informer Newspaper cluding widow, Maya Rockeymoore won the Cummings’s 2007 National “Best the victim's life, andnew understand ciesnew are passed.” ways to bring THE WASHINGTON INFORMER Cummings and one of his oldest friends, Kweisi PUBLISHER In Memoriam Books” Award. that she may be in “survival customers throughTia theCarol Jones can be reached NEWSPAPER (ISSN#0741-9414) is Mfume, who represented the districtmode”. from 1987 to Dr. Calvin W. Rolark Rolark, Barnes Sr. Denise “I was just 16-years-old when at tiacaroljones@sbcglobal.net published weekly on each Thursday. door. This year, Small Wilhelmina J. Rolark 1886. officials and say 24my Democrats and eight my eyeElections first blackened Periodicals postage paid at Washing“Before you get toBusiness 'I'm going Saturday Republicans have already registered for the Feb. 4 ton, D.C. and additional mailing ofTHE WASHINGTON INFORMERSTAFF NEWSPAPER (ISSN#0741-9414) is published lips bled,” Marlow said. to kill you,' it started2019 as afalls verbal WI– on Nov. 30 fices. weekly News and advertisingPeriodicals deadline postage on Thursday. paid McNeir, at Washington, special election. And because of Democrats’ overD. Kevin EditorD.C. and additional Elaine Davis-Nickens, presiis Monday to publication. as always, the Saturday mailingprior offices. News and Anadvertising is Monday prior to publication. Ron deadline Burke, Advertising/ Marketing Director whelming the district, the election will dent of themajority NationalinHook-Up nouncements must bemust received two two weeks prior to event. Copyright 2000 by The Announcements be received after Thanksgiving, so Shevry Lassiter, Photo Editor determine who will ofinevitably Black Women, said there is noserve the remainder weeksWashington prior to event. Copyright 2016 reserved. Informer. All rights POST MASTER: Send change of addressthe day after Black Friday and two days before Cyber Lafayette Barnes, IV, Assistant Photo Editor by The Informer. All 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E. Washington, of the term. consistency in Other the wayfrontrunners, domestic besides Mfume es toWashington The Washington Informer, Monday. It is an all-day event. Many businesses stretch rights D.C. reserved. POSTMASTER: Send Johnmay E. De Freitas, Sports Photo Editorpermis20032. No part of this publication be reproduced without written and Cummings’ resigned from violence issues arewife, dealtwho withrecently by changesion of from addresses to The The Wash-Informer out the entire Black Friday/Small Business Saturday/ the publisher. Newspaper cannot guarantee Dorothy Rowley, Online Editor the return of her seat as chair of the state Democratic Party, iningtonphotographs. Informer, 3117 Martin Luther Subscription rates are $30 per year, two years $45. Papers will be received Cyber Monday festivities to offer a long weekend full ZebraDesigns.net, Design & Layout clude Rep. Jill Carter (D), Dels. Talmadge Branch King, not Jr. more Ave., than S.E. aWashington, D.C. week after publication. Make checks payable to: Mable Neville, Bookkeeper of specials and sales to grab customers’ attention. Sat20032. No part of this publication may (D) and Terri Hill (D). Nominees of the primary be reproduced without writtenTHE permisDr. Charles Vincent, Social Sightings columnist urday serves as an annual holiday meant to call attenWASHINGTON INFORMER race will be listed on the special general election sion from the publisher. TheLuther Informer Tatiana Moten, Social Media 3117 Martin King, Jr. Ave., S.E. • Washington, D.C.Specialist 20032 tion to the importance of small businesses in our econballot, April 26. Candidates seeking to capture the Newspaper cannot guarantee the return Phone: 202 561-4100 Fax: 202 Circulation 574-3785 Angie •Johnson, omy and to encourage support for small companies, of photographs. Subscription rates are two-year term which begins in 2021 have until Jan. E-mail: news@washingtoninformer.com $45 per year, two years $60. Papers will especially at the beginning of the holiday shopping 24 to file for the April primary. www.washingtoninformer.com REPORTERS be received not more than a week after season. Many local communities host shopping events publication. Make checks payable to: Stacy Brown (Senior Writer), Sam P.K. Collins, and businesses around the country host sales and spePUBLISHER Timothy Cox, Will Ford (Prince George’s cials to encourage local shoppers to stop by. 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It’s for all small busiVictor Holt PhotoLassiter, Editor Roy John E. DeJr., Freitas, Maurice Fitzgerald, Lewis, Robert R. Roberts, nesses but is especially relevant for retail businesses Zebra Designs, Inc. Layout & Graphic Design Joanne Jackson, Roy Lewis, Robert Anthony Tilghman Ken Harris /www.scsworks.com Webmaster since it falls during the holiday shopping season and is Ridley, Victor Holt well known for the #ShopSmall campaign. AdditionL.Y. Marlow CIRCULATION ally, both online and offline businesses can participate, Paul Trantham as well as local restaurants, small service providers and even B2B businesses. Last year, an estimated 108 million consumers supported small businesses last year on Small Business Saturday. 4 / May 15 - 21, 2008 The Washington Informer / www.washingtoninformer.com
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“
We have to stop being passive-aggressive with poor children about domestic violence. I plan to take these policies to Congress and implore them to change our laws. I will not stop until these policies are passed.
“
4 NOVEMBER 28 -DECEMBER 4, 2019
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AROUND THE REGION Tabled Sex Work Decriminalization Bills Incite Heated Discussion Protesters Confront Council Member at Health Forum By Sam P.K. Collins WI Contributing Writer @SamPKCollins Although a highly contentious 14-hour D.C. Council hearing has, for now, quashed further discussion about decriminalizing sex work in the city, supporters of the Community Safety and Health Amendment Act said they've laid the groundwork for what they predict will be bill's successful passage during the next council session. For Nnennaya Amuchie, an attorney and chair of the Black Youth Project 100's District chapter, a key strategy in continuously promoting the Community Safety and Health Amendment Act as of late involves publicly engaging council members, particularly those opposed to decriminalizing sex work. Such was the case last week when dozens of BYP 100 members interrupted a health forum headlined by Council member Vincent C. Gray (D-Ward 7) at the Marshall Heights Community Development Organization headquarters in Northeast. For 15 minutes, groups of protesters sitting among guests stood up with signs and smartphones in hand, chanting their support of sex work decriminalization and admonishing Gray for missing the Oct. 17 hearing before event organizers escorted them out at the request of older, perturbed audience members. "We recognize decriminalization as a way to reduce arrests and exploitation of [Black women, girls, and non-gender-conforming people]. The industry is underground and sex workers are vulnerable to exploitation when they're criminalized," said Amuchie in her support of policy that doesn't penalize people who make a living by engaging in consensual sex acts. In recent weeks, BYP 100 members have made known their intentions to organize around this issue during the 2020 election, when Gray and other council members seek reelection. "Decriminalization alone wouldn't stop the policing," Amuchie said. "It's just one small part of a larger issue, but we have multiple campaigns for housing,
people making sure the police budget is decreased, and increasing housing and other things. We're also stopping the construction of the new jail. We talk about mass incarceration, but we don't talk about how gender impacts mass incarceration." On its second go-around, the Community Safety and Health Amendment Act, introduced by D.C. Council member David Grosso (I-At Large) in June, had the support of Council members Brianne Nadeau (D-Ward 1), Robert White (D-At Large), and Anita Bonds (D-At Large). Councilman Charles Allen, who co-sponsored the legislation, brought it before the council's Committee on the Judiciary and Public Safety on Oct. 17 during a hearing he later said made him apprehensive about moving forward with it. On that day, several people and organizations on both sides of the issue weighed in until the early morning hours, with opponents of the bill arguing that it would increase human trafficking. In their comments, proponents prioritized curbing sex worker arrests and exploitation by undercover police officers. Discussion about the bill's legal implications, inside and outside the Wilson Building, has happened amid increased complaints and responses to sex workers in Logan Circle, Thomas Circle, and in the eastern parts of the District. A prostitution sting in Northeast this month led to seven arrests, the latest of 57 that have transpired since the start of the operation. Earlier this year, the FBI announced the launch of a sting operation targeting "prostitution bosses" around Northwest's Logan and Thomas circles, both of which have seen an uptick of on-the-street activity since authorities have shut down solicitation websites. Last year, police made more than 60 of their 110 arrests along 14th Street on one block. With the council discussion about sex work decriminalization at its end for 2019, the status quo remains. Some residents have called this move the best course of action for those living in communities plagued with a bevy of issues.
"This [legislation] would add to the melting pot of our existing problems," said Robbie Woodland, ANC commissioner of single-member District 8C03. "D.C. has so much lawlessness. We don't discipline the teenagers who go around jumping people on the Metro. Our law as it stands right now is a joke. If you want to stand outside and sell your body, you should get a criminal record. Do what you feel is necessary, but understand the legal ramifications." WI
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5 Nnennaya Amuchie (Courtesy photo/rewire.news)
NOVEMBER 28 - DECEMBER 4, 2019 5
AROUND THE REGION
black facts
NOV 28 - DEC 4, 2019 SOURCE: BLACK AMERICA WEB
NOV. 28
1929 – Berry Gordy, record producer and songwriter best known as the founder of the Motown record label and its subsidiaries, is born in Detroit. 1960 – Author Richard Wright, whose best-known works include "Native Son" and "Black Boy," dies of a heart attack in Paris at 52. 1961 – Ernie Davis, a halfback at Syracuse University, becomes the first Black Heisman Trophy winner.
NOV. 29
1908 – Politician Adam Clayton Powell Jr., New York's first Black congressman, is born in New Haven, Connecticut. 1919 – Pearl Primus, noted 20th-century choreographer, dancer and anthropologist, is born in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago.
NOV. 30
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1875 – Alexander P. Ashbourne patents an improved biscuit cutter. 1897 – Inventor J.A. Sweeting patents a cigarette-rolling device. 1912 – Famed photographer and film director Gordon Parks is born in Fort Scott, Kansas. 1924 – Shirley Chisholm, the first African American woman elected to the U.S. Congress and the first Black major-party candidate for president, is born in New York City.
DEC. 1
1933 – Grammy-winning singer Lou Rawls is born in Chicago. 1940 – Iconic comedian Richard Pryor is born in
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Peoria, Illinois. 1955 – Rosa Parks refuses to yield her seat to a white man, initiating the Montgomery Bus Boycott, which lasted for approximately a year. 1971 – Arthur Spingarn, lawyer and former NAACP president, dies in his New York City home at 93. 1987 – Novelist James Baldwin dies in France of stomach cancer at 63.
DEC. 2
1884 – Inventor Granville T. Woods patents the telephone transmitter. 1891 – Charles Wesley, historian and educator who served as president of Wilberforce University and Central State University, is born in Louisville, Kentucky. 1922 – Politician and civil rights leader Charles C. Diggs, the first African American elected to Congress from Michigan, is born in Detroit. 1969 – Marie Van Brittan Brown patents a home security system with television surveillance. 1975 – Ohio State running back Archie Griffin becomes the first person ever to win consecutive Heisman Trophies. 1989 – Andre Ware of the University of Houston becomes the first African American quarterback to win the Heisman Trophy.
DEC. 3 Buying Vinyl Records from 1950 to 1986, Jazz, Rock-n-Roll, R&B, Disco, Soul, Reggae, Blues, Gospel, and record format 33 1/3, 45s, and some of the older 78s. Prefer larger collections of at least 100.
CALL JOHN @ 301-596-6201 6 NOVEMBER 28 -DECEMBER 4, 2019
1847 – Frederick Douglass starts The North Star, an anti-slavery newspaper.
DEC. 4 SHIRLEY CHISHOLM
1909 – The New York Amsterdam News, a weekly African American newspaper, is founded by James H. Anderson. 1969 – Black Panthers Fred Hampton and Mark Clark are killed by Chicago police. WI
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AROUND THE REGION
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AROUND THE REGION The World According to Dominic BY D. KEVIN MCNEIR / WI EDITOR / @DKEVINMCNEIR
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8 NOVEMBER 28 -DECEMBER 4, 2019
As I began to clean the house, prepare for Thanksgiving dinner and dig out Christmas decorations a few days ago, it occurred to me that this will be my first holiday season without my mother. Since her death earlier this summer, I have often found myself wishing that I could have one more conversation, one more moment of laughter, one more chance, as Luther Vandross said, to “dance with my [mother] again.” But then I realized I was being selfish. After all, my Mom had enjoyed a fruitful, satisfying 91 years of life. She had relished life with exuberance and joy while obediently following God’s directive to let her “light” shine no matter what storms may have come her way. For as long as I can remember, in all of our letters and cards that we exchanged, we would end them by signing our names and then including four letters: OAOM or OAOS – abbreviations for how we felt about each other which translated to “One And Only Mom” or “One And Only Son.” It was our special way of indicating how much
As I think back and see with vivid clarity, the times she made me laugh, the moments she held me in her arms when I felt like all hope had gone, the way she showed me that even when I had fallen, she was there to help me get back on my feet, I understand both how and why parents love their children unconditionally. we loved one another and how we voiced that unique bond we shared. As her only surviving child after she’d lost both a boy before me and a girl afterwards, both born prematurely and who had died, I have always wondered why I’d been allowed to live, to grow, to mature and get to know this very special woman. In her final years, rather than my seeing the road as one of tragedy and turmoil, I counted it all joy. After all, I had been allowed the special and unique opportunity to care for someone who had sacrificed everything for my good and had cared for me for my entire life. During her final four years of life, she had been overwhelmed with declining physical, emotional and mental abilities caused by Alzheimer’s disease and other life-altering challenges. And while it often seemed like it was more than I could handle, I found a way, somehow, just as she had done over, and over again since the day I had drawn my very first breath, to make a way out of no way. For a few months after her death on July 4th, I fought
against the impulse to retreat within and languish in sorrow, loss, absence and pain. That, however, would have been the easy way out – the coward’s answer to the amazing transition that comes when we become “absent from the body” so that we can be “present with the Spirit.” With that in mind, I eventually found myself reflecting on and celebrating the hundreds of “precious memories” that we collectively shared – moments and experiences that no one on this Earth can ever claim to have relished but me. As I think back and see with vivid clarity, the times she made me laugh, the moments she held me in her arms when I felt like all hope had gone, the way she showed me that even when I had fallen, she was there to help me get back on my feet, I understand both how and why parents love their children unconditionally. Momma may not be here physically but she’s certainly present in my mind, my heart and my soul. So, while I put up the Christmas tree, address greetings cards to those who owe their lives and ancestry to her, sing songs of praise and thanksgiving and pound out familiar “Carols of the Drum” on my piano, I cannot act as if I am all alone. In fact, whether others believe it or not, I am even more convinced that she’s right here with me now – with her grandchildren, her adopted daughter, her two great-grandsons and others who are still alive and who, like me, cannot forget the difference she made in our lives – in my life. I can’t explain why I was given such an incredible “angel” to guide and love me. I can only hope that I will be able to follow her example. Happy Thanksgiving to all and to all . . . “a good night.” And thanks, Momma. WI
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AROUND THE REGION CITIZEN from Page 1 and the Washington Council AFLCIO's Building Futures Construction Pre-Apprenticeship program. The Mayor's Office on Returning Citizens Affairs (MORCA), DC Department of Insurance, Securities, and Banking, and Industrial Bank, among other entities, sent representatives. In her comments to guests, a lawyer from legal advocacy program Rising for Justice issued a call for the Bowser administration to ease the criminal record expungement process. The returning citizens' homecoming celebration preceded a Thanksgiving dinner, open to the public, scheduled for Thursday morning at First Seventh Day Adventist. On Sunday, the first 40 returning citizens who entered the church received $30. An on-site barber also shaped up the men, free of charge. Patterson, first elder at First Seventh Day Adventist and leader of his own prison ministry, said his outreach strategy involved passing out flyers and conversing with people in the trenches. "This is the first time these agencies came in and had a group of people to talk to," he said. "We're touching people, developing relationships, and telling them they need housing and drug treatment." In recent years, the District has increasingly embraced its returning citizens population, as seen in the restoration of their voting rights and discussion about making similar overtures to D.C. residents in the Federal Bureau of Prisons. As it relates to returning citizens' livelihood, MORCA and the Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency collaborate with other government agencies and local service providers to help returning citizens meet their needs. Amid concerns about strengthening intradepartmental collaboration and bridging returning citizen information gaps, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser announced the launch of the READY Center, a one-stop shop of post-conviction resources. Through this program, MORCA, in conjunction with the Department of Corrections, Department of Behavioral Health, Department of Motor Vehicles, and Department of Human Services, connects returning citizens with their needs when they visit 1901 D Street SE immediately upon their release. District residents leaving the prison system return to changed communities and job markets that can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and disconnection. For many, a felony conviction becomes the scarlet letter
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5 The First Seventh Day Adventist Church in Northwest hosted a homecoming celebration and dinner for returning citizens on November 24. (Courtesy photo/ Stuart Anderson)
that prevents employment and eligibility for subsidized housing in an increasingly expensive city. As returning citizen Carlton Everett told The informer, it also invites disrespect from authorities on the streets and in the courtroom. On Sunday, Everett sought legal services regarding what he alleged as his two-hour beating at the hands of security officers at the Safeway on Alabama Avenue in Southeast during the latter part of last year. He said this event transpired just days before his arrest and transfer to United States Penitentiary McCreary in Kentucky. Despite not getting the informa-
tion he requested, Everett beamed at the two suits he received and the prospects of acquiring a commercial driver's license. "I got confirmation and a peace of mind. It's been slow [since I came home] but I've been accomplishing and finding a lot of side work," Everett said. "My [civil suit] was filed in D.C. Superior Court with Judge Flanagan. He gave Safeway 21 days to respond and they failed to do so. I filed a motion for default judgment [and] he kept throwing it out. I have permanent nerve damage [in my hands and wrists]. I deserve justice." WI
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AROUND THE REGION CAPTURE THE MOMENT DYNAMIC DIVAS
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D.C. Election Roundup By James Wright WI Staff Writer @jamesdcwrighter
GASTON SEEKS EDUCATION BOARD SEAT
Darrell Gaston, the advisory neighborhood commissioner for single-member district 8B04, wants to replace Markus Batchelor as the Ward 8 representative on the D.C. State Board of Education. In 2012, Gaston unsuccessfully ran against the late Marion S. Barry Jr. in the Democratic primary for the Ward 8 council seat. Since 2013, he has managed his nonprofit, DC Young Emerging Leaders, as president and CEO. Board of Education seats are non-partisan therefore Gaston's name will be on the ballot for the Nov. 3, 2020, general election. He looks to fill the impending vacancy left by Batchelor, who is running as an independent for an at-large seat on the D.C. Council in 2020. Gaston received his high school diploma from the Friendship Public Charter School - Collegiate Academy and obtained his bachelor's degree from Coppin State University and a juris doctorate from the
Howard University School of Law. He served as a commissioner from 2009-2015 and was reelected to that office in 2018. Regarding his candidacy, Gaston said the District's public school system has failed Ward 8 schools in terms of equity, transparency, accountability and equality and he will work to fix those issues as a board member. "Ward 8 schools should have the same resources and opportunities that schools west of the Anacostia River have," Gaston said. "There needs to be a focus on schools, community partners and parents in the ward so that our students can be successful and on the board of education I will work toward achieving that." Gaston favors a moratorium on new public and charter schools in Ward 8. "Charter schools are popping up in Ward 8 and they aren't serving the best interest of the students," he said. Additionally, he wants the District's deputy mayor of education to come up with a comprehensive plan that would improve students’ academic performance, particularly in Ward 8. On the board, Gaston said school modernization will be a priority. "As a commissioner earlier this
AROUND THE REGION decade, I am proud to have played a key role in the modernization of Stanton, Turner and Moten elementary schools," he said. "Every school should be modernized. I believe that if necessary, the city should take on a debt to modernize the schools."
COLE RUNNING FOR WARD 8 COUNCIL SEAT
Christopher Cole has mounted an independent campaign for the Ward 8 council seat and will focus on improving education opportunities and employment prospects for his neighbors if elected next year. "My slogan is simple — 'Solutions Start with Self,'" Cole said. "Community. Culture. Commitment. I am working to promote positive change and collaboration between residents, businesses and government. I want to work to bridge gaps that create balance and be the change that will bring Ward 8 together." A native Washingtonian, Cole works as the human resources manager for A. Wash & Associates and possesses certification as a paralegal. A returning citizen, Cole has been an advocate for the Fair Criminal Screening Amendment Act of 2014, or the "Ban the Box" legislation, that would prohibit employers from screening an applicant's criminal background.
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Cole founded the Young Male Achiever Program in partnership with the FH Faunteroy Community Enrichment Center and volunteered with the Executive Office of the Mayor's Community Affairs Department under the administration of Anthony Williams. He also has worked with the D.C. Department of Employment Services with its Project Empowerment Program that focuses on helping adults living in neighborhoods with high unemployment rates to obtain and keep jobs. Running as an independent, Cole would be on the Nov. 3, 2020, general election ballot challenging the Democratic — and possibly Republican — nominee for the Ward 8 seat. Council member Trayon White (D-Ward 8) hasn't announced his re-election bid but many political observers expect him to run again. Cole said he supports more vocational education programs in Ward 8 schools. "Not everybody wants to go to college," he said. "That's where vocational education and teaching trades come in. For example, electricians can make from $17 to $41 an hour. You can make a good living and raise a family well as an electrician or any other trade." Cole said the District government should actively try to get unemployed residents working, saying the
5 Christopher Cole is running as an independent for the Ward 8 seat on the D.C. Council. (Courtesy of Christopher Cole)
5 Darrell Gaston is a candidate for the Ward 8 seat on the D.C. State Board of Education. (Courtesy of Darrell Gaston)
Department of Employment Services should expand its programs to "help people find jobs and support companies that hire them." WI
NOVEMBER 28 - DECEMBER 4, 2019 11
PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY Education Plan Heads to State Lawmakers By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill ANNAPOLIS — With the exception of the Maryland state budget, a major $4 billion Maryland public school proposal approved last week could be the most talked-about topic once the General Assembly convenes Jan. 8. The Commission on Innovation and Excellence in Education's work that began in 2016
ended Thursday, Nov. 21 with dozens of recommendations to expand pre-kindergarten to include low-income 3-year-old children, pay raises and incorporate college and career readiness standards. Although 19 of the 22 commission members present voted in favor of the proposal, supporters said the vote represents only one chapter completed. "This is a groundbreaking plan and a once in a generational opportunity to radically improve
our schools in the state," said House Majority Leader Eric Luedtke (D-Montgomery County), a former teacher who served on the commission and voted for the plan. "It's something we can't let pass us by." A funding formula would increase state spending with the state contributing $2.8 billion and counties and Baltimore City about $1.2 billion for a total for $4 billion. The formal plan called The Blueprint to Maryland's Future seeks to push for full implementation by fiscal year 2030. The plan remains divided into five policy areas: early childhood education; high-quality and diverse teachers and leaders; college and career readiness pathways; resources to ensure all students are successful; and governance and accountability. But three commissioners — state David Brinkley, budget secretary for Gov. Larry Hogan, state Sen. Mary Beth Carozza (R-Somerset, Worcester and Wicomico counties) and Queen Anne's County Commissioner Jack Wilson — voted against the proposal due to concerns about how some counties would find money to support the new initiatives.
Prince George's County Braces for Effects of Kirwan Funding Proposal By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill Now that the Commission on Innovation and Excellence in Education has approved recommendations to revamp Maryland's public school system, it's in the
hands of state lawmakers over the next several months to decide what to incorporate as formal legislation. The school systems and governments in the state's 23 counties and Baltimore City must wait on how the $4 billion proposal could affect them.
5 Del. Alonzo Washington of Prince George's County explains the need for more resources to ensure more high school and college students of color enter the teaching profession. (Brigette Squire/The Washington Informer)
12 NOVEMBER 28 -DECEMBER 4, 2019
Prince George's County are slated to contribute almost $361 million by 2030, the highest amount proposed in the state. The main reason rests with the majority-Black jurisdiction receiving some of the most state aid toward education. Del. Alonzo Washington (D-District 22) of Greenbelt, one of eight state lawmakers who served on the commission and who voted in favor of the plan, said there's going to be "plenty" of discussions with county and school officials. "There's still a lot more work to do," he said. "For so many years, our school systems have been underfunded. This is going to help that. [But] I want to make sure our residents aren't hardest hit with the financial responsibility of this commission's report." The formal plan, known as "The Blueprint to Maryland's Future," seeks to incorporate dozens of recommendations by fiscal year 2030. A funding for-
KIRWAN Page 40
5 Members and staff of the Commission on Innovation and Excellence in Education pose for a picture on steps inside the House of Delegates in Annapolis on Nov. 21. (William J. Ford/The Washington Informer)
"If we're going to put more revenues into these schools and facilities, that it not be just for pay raises. That we'll actually prepare students," Brinkley said. Carozza, who voted in favor of the overall Blueprint legislation during this year's session, summarized a fight this month at a local high school in Salisbury where three staff members received injuries after breaking up the altercation. "When we talk about policy recommendations, we also have to talk about classroom management and school environment," she said. "It is directly tied to student performance." The proposal does offer an annual budget of $1.75 million starting at next fiscal year to create an oversight board and staff. The responsibilities would include track and report progress of 10th grade students on college and career readiness; assess student achievement on career and technical education; and monitor teacher preparation programs and student outcomes. Other educational items slated for funding: • Counselors and mental health providers in schools with a high concentration of poverty. • Increase state aid for special education starting in fiscal year 2022 by 45 percent. • Administer a racially and culturally unbiased assessment to all kindergarten students to detect any learning deficiencies. A report presented in August highlights one reason why the majority of commissioners say
public education must change in Maryland. Danielle Farrie, research director with the Education Law Center in Newark, New Jersey, highlighted how states such as New Jersey, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Delaware all received an "A" for funding levels. Maryland and New Hampshire garnered a "B" on the report. However, Maryland scored a "D" along with Virginia for distribution of money. Farrie, used the latest economic data from 2016 to show Maryland's poorer school districts received $800 fewer than wealthier districts. Although commission members said they weren't responsible on how to identify funding sources, some Democratic lawmakers and supporters said the programs could be funded with growth in state revenues and new money from internet sales tax, sports gambling and recreational marijuana. "The economy will grow in the next 10 years," William E. "Brit" Kirwan, the former University of Maryland System chancellor who chaired the commission also named after him, said after the vote. "[Education plan] sounds like a huge number … we educate people a lot better. We won't have to spend as much on public safety. Our prison populations are going to go down." Hogan, who derisively nicknamed the group the "Kirwan Tax Hike Commission," said in
EDUCATION Page 40
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Residents View Proposed Prince George's Zoning Maps By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill After going through a four-year process to approve a new zoning and subdivision ordinance last year in Prince George's County, officials are going through the second phase to showcase a countywide map to implement the new zones. More than 100 residents listened to presentations from zoning officials and viewed colorful maps Saturday, Nov. 23 at the Southern Regional Technology and Recreation Complex in Fort Washington. The main purpose is eliminate the county's more than 50-yearold zoning ordinance that offi-
cials said not only limited development, but make some the antiquated language that occasionally confused seasoned planners easier to understand. However, a map amendment to formerly incorporate the new zones must be approved by the council in order for them to become implemented. "One of the best things through this whole process is that everybody in the community knows more about what zoning is and how it works and that's a good thing," said Derick Berlage, the county's deputy planning director. "That means as development projects happen in the future, people will have a
5 Prince George's County residents attend a public session to review proposed zoning maps at the Southern Regional Technology and Recreation Complex in Fort Washington on Nov. 23. (William J. Ford/The Washington Informer)
ZONING Page 40
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NOVEMBER 28 - DECEMBER 4, 2019 13
BUSINESS BLACK FRIDAY from Page 1 Friday sales are anything special, including 54 percent of women; 49 percent of men; 64 percent of those 59 years-old and older; and 37 percent of individuals between 18 and 29. The study noted that 1 in five Americans will owe holiday credit card debt into at least February. While 58 percent will pay for holiday purchases made by credit card in full by the due date, 23 percent said they would have a holiday balance after January. Just 19 percent said they would pay off their holiday purchases in full by New Year's Day. As a side note, Americans also noted what they would pay extra this holiday season to make something go away. Seventy-five million Americans said they would pay extra for no tweets this holiday season from President Donald Trump; 49 percent said they'd pay extra just for peace and quiet; and 32 percent said they'd pay additional for faster delivery of products and services. While debt is the primary focus of the study, experts noted that credit cards can be confusing, perhaps even dangerous if used irresponsibly. WalletHub experts said credit cards could also be the ticket to hundreds, maybe even thousands, of dollars in savings, thanks to their credit-building capabilities, rewards and zero percent financing deals. The study noted several questions for consumers to consider, including: Should everyone have at least one credit card? Are cred-
it cards safer now than before the Great Recession? Are consumers good at picking credit cards? What are the biggest pitfalls? "Yes, everyone should have at least one credit card simply because it is the easiest method of establishing and maintaining credit," said WalletHub expert James Estes, a professor of finance at California State University, San Bernardino. "In addition, I believe that a second credit card, with the lowest fees, should be kept as an emergency fund substitute. Often when an emergency occurs, it is not the best time to liquidate assets — and at current interest rates, one would lose money in light of inflation. "A credit card for emergencies would allow a 30-day window to pay off its use with invested funds, possibly mitigating the inopportune time to sell in need of immediate funds," Estes said. Harold Hartmann, a WalletHub expert and assistant professor of Accounting at the Eastern Connecticut State University, said credit cards are safer now than they were before the Great Recession. "But due to the amount of data that is transferred and the sophistication of hackers, no one is completely safe at all," Hartmann said. "The chip technology is a good addition to security for credit cards, and I also think the credit card is proactive in trying to head of fraudulent charges. "My wife had her card declined the other day; she tried it again and [it was] declined again," he said. "She called the card company, and they had flagged her card for a suspicious transaction. That transac-
tion turned out to be our weekly breakfast spot, and it was inconvenient, but the take is they are trying to get it right. So, safer now, yes. Safe, not so much." Family background, familial behavior pattern, personality, and financial education are all factors in knowing whether a consumer is good at picking the right credit cards, said Nan Li, a WalletHub expert and associate professor of business and economics at the California University of Pennsylvania. Li noted some of the pitfalls. "The biggest pitfall is deceiving yourself by thinking you can pay the credit card bill later when you can't pay it off now," LI said. "People should use a credit card the same way as they use their debit card, deeming it as their own money, never overspending." To view the full survey, go to wallethub.com. WI
The Best Places to Shop on Black Friday By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia With Black Friday sales starting earlier and many retailers offering even deeper price cuts this year, the personal finance website WalletHub has released its report on 2019's Best Stores for Black Friday. WalletHub surveyed nearly 8,000 deals from 29 of the biggest U.S. retailers' 2019 Black Friday ad scans to identify the stores offering the biggest discounts in various product categories such as appliances, jewelry and toys. The survey found that Stage has the highest overall discount rate at 69.83 percent, whereas Ace Hardware has the lowest at 11.77 percent. The overall average discount for Black Friday is 40 percent. The "Apparel & Accessories" category has the biggest share of discounted items — 22.80 percent of all offers — while the "Consum-
er Packaged Goods" category has the smallest at 3.04 percent. According to the survey, the top 10 places to shop on Black Friday are: • Stage • Belk • Bealls Florida • J.C. Penney • Kohl's • New York & Company • Dick's Sporting Goods • Kmart • Sears • Fred Meyer "Consumers should not purchase things they do not need. If they need the items, they should research them before purchasing them and know the ballpark basic price," said Larry A. Connatser, a WalletHub expert and family financial management specialist at the Virginia Cooperative Extension at Virginia State University. "If this happens, the customer will know
when a product has been overpriced and them marked down for Black Friday or any other 'sales' or 'marketing trap.' The customer must be aware of scams and ripoffs. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is." Consumers can also protect themselves from overspending on Black Friday by setting a budget on spending on Black Friday and other holidays, like Christmas, Connatser said. "Your budget should have a line item for "Holiday Saving" so that you can save for gifts and special spending on holidays," he said. "Please be aware of using credit cards for Black Friday sales. Remember, the interest, late fees, credit card fees, etc., may eat up any saving you think you are getting — plus the payment you will have to make after Black Friday will be dollars you will not have to spend for Christmas or New Year's celebrations." WI
THE WASHINGTON CONVENTION AND SPORTS AUTHORITY (T/A EVENTS DC) BID OPPORTUNITY The Washington Convention and Sports Authority (t/a Events DC) is soliciting proposals from qualified contractors to provide Digital Signage Network Services for the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Interested parties can view a copy of the Request for Proposal (RFP) by accessing the Event DC’s E-procurement website at www.wcsapex.com and opening APEX BID #20-S-016-19 Key Dates RFP Questions Due Date: 05:00 PM EST, December 12, 2019 Pre-Proposal Conference Date 11:00 AM EST, December 5, 2019 RFP Response Due Date: 12:00 PM NOON EST, December 18, 2019 (Photo courtesy of credit.com)
14 NOVEMBER 28 -DECEMBER 4, 2019
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Greentop Gifts Features Black Santa Claus By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia
decided after going through this exercise one too many holiday seasons that we would solve this problem and make our own." The business features an array of options — apparels, gifts and wrapping paper. And, by the way, her St. Nick is named "Clarence Claus," and Greentop Gifts even has a "Clarence Clearance" where shoppers can find holiday products at a discount. "Christmas is coming early. We are excited to share Clarence Claus," Rodgers said. "Clarence represents what we were missing during the holiday season — wrapping paper and products that feature the 'jolly' old man from the North Pole that looked 2019 ESCAPE SE FWD 200A like us." $ MSRP BEFORE DISCOUNTS 27,720 Clarence Claus, who's fast -NATIONAL AVG. DEALER DISCOUNT $1,202 $ growing in popularity, is embla-BONUS CASH 4,425 zoned on socks, mugs, T-shirts, TOTAL and numerous other items found ESTIMATED = $ SAVINGS 2 on the Greentop Gifts website. Clarence Claus has even become a favorite of popular "CBS 2019 EXPEDITION XLT 202A $ Morning News" host Gayle MSRP BEFORE DISCOUNTS 62,140 $ -NATIONAL AVG. DEALER DISCOUNT 2,839 King, who shared an Instagram $ -BONUS CASH 9,780 photo of herself last year in a Clarence Claus sweatshirt. King TOTAL ESTIMATED = $ captioned the shot: "Aloha from SAVINGS 3 ON SELECT 2019 FORD MODELS Hawaii #ClarencePLUS Claus sweatshirts 2019 F-150 XLT SUPERCREW® 302A a hit! Swipe left $ MSRP BEFORE DISCOUNTS 54,710 brought enuf for -NATIONAL AVG. DEALER DISCOUNT $4,113 $ 7,500 -BONUS CASH 'eeeerebody'"..@ 1 greentopgifts." TOTAL King's message ESTIMATED = $ SAVINGS 4 THROUGH FORDPASS REWARDS ™ of support is similar to the feedback Rodgers said she's received. "People are really excited and they tell me that this is what they've been looking for," Rodgers said "I think the most rewarding part is hearing parents talk about how they also find it 1 important for their Modem must be activated within 60 days of purchase through the FordPass™ app on a smartphone and remain active for at least 6 months after activation. Eligible on select 2019 MY vehicles. Vehicle must have arrived at dealer at least 61 days children to have imprior to the sale date. 2Savings on 19 MY Escape includes $2,750 Customer Cash + $500 Select Inventory Customer Cash + ages that look like $1,175 Bonus Cash + $1,202 National Average Dealer Discount. 3Savings on 19 MY Expedition includes $2,000 Customer Cash + $750 Select Inventory Customer Cash + $7,030 Bonus Cash + $2,839 National Average Dealer Discount. 4Savings on 19 MY them. It's good to F-150 includes $3,250 Customer Cash + $750 Select Inventory Customer Cash + $3,500 Bonus Cash + $4,113 National Average know that I'm not Dealer Discount. Average dealer discount is based on a sales survey of average discounts offered by Ford Dealers nationally. the only one. And, Discount may vary; dealer determines price. Taxes, title and license fees extra. For all offers, take new retail delivery from an authorized Ford Dealer’s stock by 1/2/20. See participating dealer for complete details. it's important for all kids to understand the importance of Gifts. they see diversity and understand and abilities is important for all diversity." "I'm very intentional about the importance of it. As Green- children, not just African AmerRodgers noted that there's even the images that I show my kids," top Gifts grows, we hope to con- ican children." For more information, go to gremore to look for- Rodgers said. "I want them to see tinue to show more diverse imagFunding 2019 YEE Uniword Newspaper diverse images in all things. It's es for all children to see. Seeing entopgifts.com. File: FUND02852_LQAR0910000_YESE19_WASInf_HPg_R02.indd Rev: 2 ward to in the fu-Informer 1/2 page 4/c Washington extremely important to me that people of difference appearances WI ture from Greentop
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It was just about this time three years ago when Jackie Rodgers seemingly traversed the nation looking for wrapping paper that featured a Black Santa Claus for her then-2-year-old son Elijah's Christmas gifts. After her unsuccessful solo search, she turned to her friends and family members, but they also had no luck. So Rodgers and her husband, Shaun, took matters into their own hands and started Greentop Gifts, a company that creates diverse holiday products — including wrapping paper that features a Black Santa Claus. "As a mother, I wanted something that my son and our friends and their families could enjoy and look at for years to come," Rodgers said. "Because that didn't exist, each year we would color Santa's face with paint or markers. The clear problem that families like us face is a lack of diverse images on Christmas themed wrapping paper. So we
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5 Jackie Rodgers (Courtesy of Greentop Gifts)
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NATIONAL Tenn. Student Receives Ossie Davis Scholarship By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia Nora Davis Day and her sister, Dr. Hasna Muhammad, never seem to tire of talking about their famous parents, Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee. They, along with brother, Guy Davis, have worked to live up to their iconic parents' civil rights and philanthropic legacy. This month, after a rigorous selection process, the family of the late actors and activists and UNCF (United Negro College Fund) announced that Lane College senior Jade Allen is the recipient of the Ossie Davis Legacy Scholarship. "We are always motivated by
mom and dad's love of education and what a struggle it was for each of them to get higher education and the sacrifices that their parents made," Davis Day said. "So when we're reading all of these applications, I remember with Jade something just clicked, and we said yes, that [our] dad would want us to give her this $10,000." Muhammad concurred: "Both Nora and I are educators, and we've had the opportunity to deal with students in public and through to higher education. One of the things relative to choosing Jade for the scholarship is that we recognized the quality student in her, and we did so not only from the emotional component of trying to choose a candi-
5 Jade Allen, a 2018-19 Ossie Davis Legacy Scholarship recipient (Courtesy of uncf.org)
date but as educators as well." The sisters said their parents weren't much for naming anything after themselves, so it was not easy to put Ossie Davis' name on the scholarship. "But we know that they would want us to be part of making it possible for someone to get an education and to have money where they might not otherwise have been able to get it," Davis Day said. Allen, a communications major at Lane College, a historically Black institution in Jackson, Tennessee, is currently the highest-ranking senior in her graduating class and maintains a 3.9 GPA. In honor of what would have been Ossie Davis' 100th birthday, Allen is acknowledged as the scholarship's Centennial Scholar. "It is an honor to receive it, I'm thrilled," Allen said. "This does relieve any stress, and I can further my education in my chosen field without worrying about [money]." Known as much for their activism as their award-winning stage and film careers, Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee were both
GREECE & HER ISLANDS
named to the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame. They each were recipients of the Kennedy Center Honors and the National Medal of Arts. Davis was inducted into the American Theater Hall of Fame and starred in films such as "The Joe Louis Story," "Malcolm X" and "Dr. Doolittle." Dee was a Grammy, Emmy, Obie, and Drama Desk Award winner, who starred in such films as "The Jackie Robinson Story," "A Raisin' in the Sun" and "American Gangster," the latter garnering her an Oscar nomination. None of that history is lost on Allen, who has already completed her first film, "My Father's Grass." She said she plans to continue creating biopics that highlight a myriad of world cultures. "With the scholarship, I'm in a good position to go back to studying filmmaking and understanding the technical aspects of it, and hopefully I can get my name out there," Allen said. Established by the Dee-Davis children, along with close friends of Ossie Davis, the scholarship has awarded four students
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with scholarships totaling over $60,000 since 2007. "Each year we are amazed by the academic success displayed by the Ossie Davis Scholarship applicants, and we look forward to following Jade and prior recipients' achievements throughout their college careers and beyond," UNCF President and CEO Michael Lomax said in a news release. "Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee were torchbearers for truth, black culture, civil rights equality and the arts – among other causes. We are thankful the Davis family entrusts UNCF with awarding dynamic students year after year to fulfill their dreams of a college education." The merit-based scholarship is awarded to a deserving African American student currently enrolled at a select UNCF member institution. The student must be pursuing a degree in African American Studies, Communications, Education, Fine Arts, Humanities, Performing Arts, Political Science, Social Science, Theater Arts/Drama or Visual Arts. "Now more than ever, it is imperative that young people of color arm themselves with the necessary tools to confront and combat many of the same social injustices and biases faced by our parents," Muhammad said. "And we are humbled by the generous contributions to the Ossie Davis Endowment that makes this scholarship possible. "The heart of the Ossie Davis Legacy Award is to ease financial barriers for that African American student who is on his or her path to higher learning," she said. WI
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NATIONAL Suffragist Coralie Franklin Cook: First Descendant of Monticello By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia This is part of an ongoing Washington Informer series about the Women's Suffrage Movement and an initiative that includes Informer Publisher Denise Rolark Barnes that will use the lens of history, the fabric of art and culture and the venue of the public square to shine a light into dark places, equipping all with a compass to chart the way forward. The initiative lives in the institutional home of the Washington Informer Charities. Get to know Coralie Franklin Cook, who taught elocution and English at Howard University. Born into slavery in Lexington, Virginia, in 1829, Cook became the first descendant of a Thomas Jefferson Monticello slave known to have graduated from college. In 1880, she graduated from Storer College in West Virginia before becoming a teacher. In 1898, she married Howard University professor George Wil-
liam Cook and served for more than 12 years as a member of the District of Columbia Board of Education. She founded the National Association of Colored Women, but was mostly known as a committed suffragist. Historians said she admired Susan B. Anthony, but eventually was turned off by the women's suffrage movement because it ignored the plight of black women. "No woman and no class of women can be degraded and all womankind not suffer thereby … and so Miss Anthony," Cook said, addressing Anthony directly in a speech at the Unitarian Church in Rochester, New York, in 1902. "In behalf of the hundreds of colored women who wait and hope with you for the day when the ballot shall be in the hands of every intelligent woman; and also in behalf of the thousands who sit in darkness and whose condition we shall expect those ballots to better, whether they be in the hands of white women or Black, I offer you my warmest gratitude and
congratulations." The 19th Amendment granting the women the right to vote in 1918 was certainly a victory. However, as noted in a publication published by the League of Women Voters, for women who were not white, wealthy, or educated, it remained an incomplete one. "Black men had been granted the right to vote in 1870 with the 15th Amendment, yet actual attempts to exercise that right had been repeatedly met with mob violence and lynching," according to the article written by Kathryn S. Gardiner. "Black women now faced those same obstacles to their rights, and women like Cook who had carried the suffrage banner found themselves standing alone in facing them. Seemingly, as far as white women were concerned, the battle was over." In 1915, Cook continued her crusade for women's and equal rights. She published "Votes for Mothers" in the NAACP magazine The Crisis:
"I wonder if anybody in all this great world ever thought to consider man's rights as an individual, by his status as a father? yet you ask me to say something about 'Votes for Mothers,' as if mothers were a separate and peculiar people. After all, I think you are not so far wrong. Mothers are different, or ought to be different, from other folk. The woman who smilingly goes out, willing to meet the Death Angel, that a child may be born, comes back from that journey, not only the mother of her own adored babe, but a near-mother to all other children. As she serves that little one, there grows within her a passion to serve humanity; not race, not class, not sex, but God's creatures as he has sent them to earth. "It is not strange that enlightened womanhood has so far broken its chains as to be able to know that to perform such service, woman should help both to make and to administer the laws
SUFFRAGE Page 41
5 Coralie Franklin Cook (Courtesy of Monticello)
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Building an equal society requires dialogue, practical application of the Constitution and keeping in check those in office, Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng declared Saturday. Delivering the 17th annual Nelson Mandela Lecture at the University of Johannesburg's Soweto campus, Mogoeng said, "We need to look at how is it that, 25 years after we got our freedom, we still have people who don't have homes; we still have racial, ethnic and gender discrimination; and we still have tribalism." This year's lecture was on "constitutionalism as an instrument for transformation," the Johannesburg-based City Press reported. Speaking to a packed venue that included United Democratic Movement leader Bantu Holomisa, Mamphela Ramphele and professor Njabulo Ndebele, Mogoeng said the purpose of his lecture was to look at the ills of society. According to Mogoeng, something is amiss when, 25 years into democracy, it is rare to find women and Black people in the high echelons of the corporate sector. "Something is fundamentally wrong and we've got to confront it and come up with practical steps to give practical expression to constitutionalism in South Africa," he said. Mogoeng said very little was going to be accomplished for as long as "we allow our people to be ignorant of their rights in the Constitution." "You can't fight for what you don't know," he said. "It is almost as if we take advantage of the ignorance of our people by not doing anything. The greatest facilitator of sustained injustice is keeping people ignorant of what they are entitled to." Mogoeng said it is everyone's responsibility to build the country. "Let us not waste time polarizing society, wasting energy [looking on] as white and Black people [remain] enemies," he added. "We must confront and expose any institution and anybody who practices discrimination. It is a shame that 25 years down the line inequality has become sharper than during apartheid." The country cannot blame all the issues that people are facing on colonialism and apartheid, Mogoeng said. "But anybody who says 'stop blaming apartheid and colonialism' is being mischievous," he said. "Most of the problems we have to contend with are direct consequences of colonialism and apartheid." WI
caribbean now Jamaica, U.S. Sign Revised Air Marshal Pact The governments of Jamaica and the United States have revised the authorization process for the Air Marshal Agreement, which deals with foreign in-flight security officers on overnight flights or grounded emergencies. National Security Minister Horace Chang and U.S. Ambassador to Jamaica Donald Tapia signed the amended agreement during a ceremony at the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, St. James, on Friday. Chang said the amendments will strengthen the security and safety of persons onboard chartered and scheduled flights in both jurisdictions as well as facilitate U.S. federal air marshals on short notice missions to Jamaica. He said the agreement provides the added reassurance that “air marshals can and will respond quickly to ensure the safety of all persons on board an aircraft.” Tapia said that 4.3 million visitors traveled to Jamaica last year, making it imperative that the well-being of travelers is protected during flights. WI
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NOVEMBER 28 - DECEMBER 4, 2019 19
HEALTH GYMGUYZ: Mobile Trainers Help Keep Holiday Pounds Off By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia Thanksgiving is right around the corner and for many, it's a holiday that reminds folks to be thankful for and all the delicious things they love to eat. It's also synonymous with feasting, and for those counting, the average Turkey Day dinner will cost an average of 4,000 calories.
"We want people to enjoy Thanksgiving, so we explain to clients that exercising consistently during the holidays will help keep off those dreaded holiday pounds," said Aaron Behrens, owner and president of GYMGUYZ, a mobile personal training service that brings state-of-the-art fitness equipment and expert coaches to their customers' doors. GYMGUYZ is considered tops in personal home training. The
5
A GYMGUYZ van carries all the tools needed for a good workout. (Courtesy of GYMGUYZ)
company provides convenient, customized and creative workouts wherever an individual may live. Founded in 2008, the mobile brand utilizes a fleet of franchise vans that bring more than 365 pieces of equipment and expert coaches to their customers' doors to drive accountability and provide tailored workouts. Since it began franchising in 2014, the brand's growth reported-
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The certified personal trainers who work at GYMGUZ are thoroughly vetted and travel in trademarked GYMGUYZ vehicles loaded with workout equipment and gear. The trainers primarily focus on cardio and strength workouts, but not yoga. On their first visit, they will offer a free assessment, including a questionnaire to find out their client's goals. "The response so far is that our clients love that we deliver in-home personal trainers right to their door for customized one-on-one or group workouts in the privacy of their home, backyard, or anywhere they choose what's convenient for their schedule," Behrens said. The biggest challenges for many who work out are consistency, making time, and not knowing what to do to see tangible results, he said. Behrens said holidays, especially Thanksgiving, can be challenging for those counting calories. "We want people to enjoy Thanksgiving, so keep moving," he said. "As the saying goes, 'Use it or lose it.' You need to keep your body moving." For more information, go to www. gymguyz.com. WI
Thanksgiving is right around the
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ly has exploded 1,700 percent, with nearly 200 locations internationally, including the United States, United Kingdom and Canada. "The best way to maintain consistency is by having your GYMGUYZ personal trainer visit your home at a time that works for you to make sure you stay on track," Behrens said. The most important thing is to stay active, even if it's just a 20-minute walk, Behrens added. "Find some type of activity that you enjoy or that you can do with a friend or spouse. For example, group training is a great way to have fun and stay healthy with friends," he said. Behrens started with GYMGUYZ in 2016 because of the high demand for personal home training. "Being in the fitness industry for over 20 years, and a partner in a successful chain of health clubs in Philadelphia has allowed me to see how the industry has evolved. I love the concept of bringing trainers directly to clients," he said. Some of the advantages GYMGUYZ presents its clients is they don't have to wait in line like they may have to at conventional gyms. They also don't have to wipe someone else's sweat off the equipment.
corner and for many, it's a holiday that reminds folks to be thankful for and all the delicious things they love to eat.
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EDUCATION Vontae Davis Reflects on Post-NFL Life, Career Change By Sam P.K. Collins WI Contributing Writer @SamPKCollins Vontae Davis' abrupt halftime retirement last season sparked fury among some football fans and inspired conversation about the toll that the game takes on players. The former NFL cornerback has since continued along an entrepreneurial journey that manifested in the release of a children's book and launch of a wellness spa. As a calm but cheerful Davis told an intergenerational audience this month, those milestones culminated two years of networking and reinventing himself as a businessman, a process he wouldn't have taken on had he not been open to explore
possibilities outside of professional football. "If you saw the people I met, you wouldn't have thought I played football. I was able to build a network to put my business plan to start a spa [into action]," Davis told a group of College Bound, Inc. students and mentors on Nov. 14 during a weekly academic mentoring session at Walker Memorial Baptist Church in Northwest. VZONE, Davis' spa in Miami's Design District, utilizes the properties of oxygen to provide therapeutic treatments to athletes and those with various medical needs. Part of his project design, he said, included speaking to doctors in the U.S. and abroad. "I had to do my due diligence to
figure out how I could hire a doctor," Davis said. "This happens] by surrounding yourself with the right people, taking the right steps and not moving too fast." Similar life lessons appear in Davis' new book "The Middle School Rules of Vontae Davis, as told by Sean Jensen," a coming-of-age story chronicling Davis' experiences as one of seven siblings raised by grandparents in Northwest during the 1990s and 2000s. Davis, accompanied by Jensen, engaged College Bound students in conversation about mentorship, choices, knowledge of self, overcoming hardship, and diversifying skillset. A similar event took place at Davis' alma mater Paul Public Charter School earlier in the day. Davis, a first-round NFL draft pick and younger brother of star NFL tight end Vernon Davis, spent a decade in the league, playing for three teams and making two Pro Bowl appearances. He first showed his propensity for football as a student at Dunbar Senior High School in Northwest, where he lettered in football and track. Davis later attended the University of Illinois, entering the NFL draft after his junior year. At the time of his retirement, Davis played for the Buffalo Bills. During a Sept. 16, 2018, home game against the Los Angeles Chargers, Davis changed out of his uni-
form during halftime and left New Era Field to the chagrin of teammates and fans alike. That evening, people took to social media to taunt and berate Davis. In the weeks and months following his controversial decision, Davis emphasized that football no longer served his physical, mental and spiritual development. And during his address at the Walker Memorial Baptist Church, he reiterated that message as he recount-
ed the events that transpired. "It was a vulnerable situation and an out-of-body experience with all that noise," Davis said. "[Everything] shut down in front of me and I had to make a decision that was best for me. A lot of people criticized it but if you could live with it, then you made the right decision. I knew who I was and what I stand for. I sacrificed my health and that decision [put] my mental health way in front of the game of football." WI
5 Entrepreneur and former NFL cornerback Vontae Davis gives a copy of his new children's book to Derrick Lewis during College Bound Inc.'s weekly academic mentoring session at Walker Memorial Baptist Church in Northwest on the evening of November 14. (Photo courtesy/Kenneth Ward)
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TheUnsungI ssue November /December201 9.Vol ume5.I ssue1 1
THEPEOPLESCHOI CE:COMMUNI TYSERVI CEHEREOS UNSUNG HERO :A CONVERSATI ON W I TH DONALD CURTI S&JI MMI EJENKI NS MOEMONEYW I TH KELSYEADAMS ADAM LEVI NE&THE60YEARLEGACYOFCOMMUNI TYSERVI CE ATTHEW ASHI NGTON MUSI C CENTER
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Publisher : Lafayette Barnes IV Editor : Claudia Watts Photography Editor : Lafayette Barnes IV Layout Design : Lafayette Barnes IV Photography : Dee Dwyer, Ja’Mon Jackson, Forrest Givens Contributing Writers : Claudia Watts, Cherrelle Swain, Saskia Kercy, Lafayette Barnes IV
Letter from the Editor
The Unsung issue highlights those whose quiet grace has allowed their communities to prosper. These special people, driven by their passion for industry and others work daily to keep the fields of play a little more balanced. This month, you will read about two men who’ve devoted their lives to keeping our youth off the streets and in the classroom. You’ll learn about what goes on behind the scenes of politics from a woman who straddles the line between conservatism and community activism. And, you’ll get a crash course in the music industry from a man whose family has played a major role in developing D.C.’s live scene. In line with this theme, I must also apologize to those who were written out of Marvin’s history in last month’s issue. Especially Sheldon Scott, whose contributions to the Marvin brand went completely unacknowledged. When in fact, it was his community building and forward-thinking that helped propel Marvin to success. It’s only right that we open this issue of The Bridge by paying respect to a truly unsung hero.
- Claudia M. Watts
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The Peoples Choice On Instagram we asked who you thought we should honor for their work in the community. We appreciate your particpation and acknowledge your nominations. Let’s recognized these 12 individuals and organizations for their immeasurable impact on the well-being of the human race. Check them out on IG.
@sovereign1jahrootsel @salimadofo @anwanglover @lunchbagsocial @thedistantrelativesproject @hashtaglunchbagdc @sampkcollins @moeknowsdetox @mrtonylewisjr @wicharities
List Compiled by: Lafayette Barnes via @wibrdgedc | IG: @lafayette4dc
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Unsung Hero When you think of a superhero what comes to mind? Oftentimes, people envision someone with superhuman powers soaring through the sky doing heroic deeds. Within our own communities, there are every-day-people with superpowers, though at first glance, we may miss their heroism. Too often, the people on the ground doing good aren’t recognized for their heroic powers. What would happen if we supported the people at the grassroots instead of just the grasstops? The person who was never in it for themselves, but found their calling by way of being present for another, and through that commitment transformed into a hero. For Donald Curtis, founder and CEO of SOUL, the desire to help others started with his brother who said, “I’ll play basketball, if you coach me.” And, for Jimmie Jenkins, founder and CEO of ManPower and Co-Founder of The Garden School, that person was his best friend who was killed when he was a teenager. For the last two decades, Donald and Jimmie have been building communities of support for youth and families living in Wards 7 and 8 through athletics, mentorship, and being real life examples of hope for what is possible. You may not catch Curtis or Jenkins with a cape on, but look out for a man with a hoodie, jersey, or fly checkered tailor-made suit, and remember - they, too, have superpowers. The Bridge, coordinated a meet up between Jimmie and Donald at Spaces, Donald’s Northeast based co-working office. Joined by their children and Jimmie’s wife, Janae Hughes, Spaces was the perfect location for the kids to play while the two fathers had a rare moment to sit back as peers in the work to have a heart-to-heart to the tune of children's laughter and chatter in the background.
Words Cherrelle Swain | IG: @thecherrelleshow
Photography Forrest Givens | IG: @forrestgivens
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JIMMIE - How did you get into coaching? DONALD - I went away to school and my brother got into some trouble. So, my grandmother called me like, your brother is messing up. You need to come home. I came home. Donald’s 7-year old son interrupts- “I spilled hot chocolate.” While cleaning, he continues. DONALD - Sorry, so - my grandmother called me and asked me to come home. I was on my way to Houston for grad school. When I came home, I went to his basketball games - the final two of the season, and I told him this is gonna be it. You’ll be done. He was like, “I wanna go play college basketball, but I ain’t got no looks, I ain’t got no offers.” So I was like, let’s take a look at AAU. We go through this whole process and find a team. We in Virginia. He was like, “I’ll play, but I don’t like the coach. If you coach, I’ll play.” So, I came on as Assistant Coach and I just loved it, I was like I miss this. When he graduated, I just kept on coaching. It was one of those things that kept me. I found purpose in this connection right here (points at the word SOUL on the heart of his shirt.) I just wanted to do that one thing gr in that th moment. So, that’s how I got into coaching. JIMMIE - So, this might sound crazy - but one of my best friends was killed. Me and my best friend and my brother were about 15,16 years old. And the younger guys around my way were about 10 and 11. So, what we used to do is coach them. We used to like make jerseys and write on them with crayons. So, I always been kinda like coaching, I had that already in me. When I graduated from high school, I didn’t go right onto college.I had my first child. I felt like I lost my scholarship. So, the school reached out and put me on facilities and they wanted to me to coach the girls varsity team. I didn’t know, then, I would bring them to play offs for two years. I left went to college, and when I graduated I came back and I realized there was something missing. For three years in a row, I saw great talent not go to the next level. DONALD - Yeah JIMMIE - So, I said maybe I need to get involved. I was doing my summer camps and then I started coaching at my old high school, which was now a middle school, and I asked him, “Can I coach?” They was like, “We don't do sports.” I mean, I literally walked into the gym with the COO of the building and said, “Look at this, these are the same banners up from when I was playing, we were, ya know, a sports driven school, look, we need to get a sports program back here.” This was Perry Street and they trusted, they invested into it. DONALD - OK JIMMIE - Something I noticed in high school, was a lot of them didn’t have their dad in the household. And now a days, they don’t even have the uncles or big brothers like we used to have. It’s bigger than the X’s and O’s - it’s basically teaching them the “why” about life, and that’s why I am into coaching. DONALD - I think the transition for me, was like, when growing up in poverty or a certain way, you don’t know it, it’s just the way it is. And, then, like, you have a little bit more than the person next to you, and you’re like, “he’s poor, I’m aight.” JIMMIE - Yeah, yeah DONALD - And then years later, I got to college - I didn’t realize I was in poverty, I took a course in college. It was like poverty in America means making like $10,000 or less per year. I was like dang that’s tricky because we make less than that. I did the FAFSA , I filled out the information for my mom, but you don’t realize it. JIMMIE - Yup DONALD - You realize something is different in those environment when you get to school because they adjust a little better. They get this thing in class that I don’t get. They network a little differently than the way I network. Like with me, I went to school. After school, I would come back home and walk with my brother. When I started coaching, I didn’t want to necessarily coach basketball, I was there for academic support. I just wanted to make sure these guys get what they need. JIMMIE - Yeah, Yeah DONALD - And, then over time things progressed and this and that. It’s crazy, the evolution JIMMIE - It is man. And (sigh) ya know.. So, my thing - and I don’t really talk about it, but I had a kid I met his 10th grade year. You know you kinda understand a kid is going through something. The family was struggling at the time. He came to me to talk about it. And I said, God had positioned him to feel comfortable enough for him to tell me about his situation. His situation was a lot worse off than I thought it was. DONALD - Mhmm JIMMIE - Where I had to reach out to other folks to get resources to help the family. He got to senior year, and he was only able to play one game. What happened was - people don’t understand - as you work with kids and their trauma and what they going through. It’s just really making the trauma a little worse than it was. Because now he is a senior, he’s older, he’s got more pressure with college, but he is still going home to that... DONALD - Yeah JIMMIE - And now, he’s having those issues where he feel like don’t really want it to be known he’s struggling, so he starts acting out. DONALD - Mhmm JIMMIE - And the school didn’t understand, but I understood. So, I told him, I said look - they gonna take you off the team, right? And you gonna accept that, right? But the reality is this, as me saying I’m your coach and committed to you, I’m gonna get you in school so you can play college ball. At the time I wasn’t sure, but I knew that’s something I had to say. We went long days long nights. Now he’s on the college floor, he’s at Cheney. DONALD - Uh huh, yeah JIMMIE - It’s amazing how we are used to navigate folks through a different route that we wish we would have had. DONALD - Even with the whole trauma topic. I coach at HD Woodson. So we got these, ya know, young guys who go off to college. We can get them there, right? The challenge is when they get there. I think, That’s what people often miss, they think oftentimes what we do is one dimensional. JIMMIE - Yup... DONALD - What we tryin’ to do really is create this whole skill set that they can use when they are there, where they can survive without us being there. The challenge is that they start so far behind it’s serious, ya know, I can point to rosters in schools and tell how many are in school, jail, here or there. You have teams that have won championships and I can say 8-9 of those players are dealing with the criminal justice system, or this, or that. Everything we provide tries to develop their skill set but there's so many other things that are not addressed. JIMMIE - Yup, yup DONALD - Like yeah, the person went here, but when they got there, and dealt with racism, or felt disconnected from their peers in a way. Then when they came back home, and everything they feel connected to is there for them, the people that supported them when they had nothing, still are supporting them. Honestly, when they come back home it’s like, “Yeah you did that thing,” but in our mind it’s like you didn’t finish. And I know when I would come back, there were these uncles like, “You need to be doing this.” But now it’s so blurred. JIMMIE - I love that we doin’ this because a lot of the things you doin’, I’m doin. We be in the same city, the same area. But a lot of times, the labor is so intense, so we don’t have time to connect with the folks who doin’ the thing we’re doin’, because we’re doin’ so much. The time that we do have left over, we gotta pour that into our woman, our kids, and our families. So, we don’t get to breathe on each other and we uplift each other. This is a blessing, it’s bigger than this segment. It’s good to hear and share with another brother on all levels. DONALD - I’m all about collaboration, starting something from the ground up... When I think about SOUL, at the beginning - no one really understands what you’re doing, so you get a lot more criticism than support. Then when you get to year 3, 4, or 5 - people wanna start giving you words of wisdom. But, I think about the first early years and I ask, “what would have made this process easier?” If you had people who already had this going on and we had round tables. I noticed more affluent organizations have these conversations all the time, and they raise money. At the ground level there’s not a whole lot of that going on. People often think we are fighting for the same thing, And, we are not. We are fighting for the same thing. But, we need to be thinking how can we take our resources and put them together at the city and national level. We are just meeting each other and talking about what we both have in common and that is happening throughout different pockets in the country. How can we have that platform that says this is what we need, this is what we want to have done, this is how government can be more accountable to what we need to have accomplished in our communities? JIMMIE - This is where we miss out on the accountability piece, because leaders, stakeholders, folks all around who have say so in the dollar amounts going to people like us, they feel like they can put this little money here or a little money there, just because we don’t have nothing comprehensive. We don’t have, the vast majority of us at the table together, talking about something comprehensive. If they feel like we can get 20 folks over here to argue about this three hundred thousand and 20 folks over there doing the same thing. Everybody’s distracted so now everybody is beefin’ with each other about this three hundred thousand, when we could all be having 80 people at the table, talking about three hundred million. That’s what we are missing, that roundtable conversation. Then, some people gettin’ tired of the conversation, and are asking, “what can we do right now?” This conversation itself motivates me to know we got somebody else doing this work. DONALD - Yes, same - I definitely wanna follow up.
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Phot ogr aphy DeeDwyer|@deedwyer j ont s
Moe M o ney wi th Kelsye A d a m s
Thef aceofpol i t i csi sget t i ngamakeover ,andi tl ookss omet hi ngl i keKel s yeAdams .The28year ol dfinancedi r ect orandcommuni t yact i vi s t j oi nst hes l ew ofmi l l enni al swhoar es haki ngt hedemogr aphi csofpol i t i cs .I n201 8,mi l l enni al sonl ycompos ed6% ofs t at el egi s l at ur esacr os s t hecount r y.Thatnumberi ss ett ot akeas har pi ncr eas ei nt hecomi ngyear sasmor eandmor eyoungpeopl ear eopt i ngt or unf orofficeon l ocal ,s t at e,and f eder all evel s .Localpi oneer sl i ke Janees e Lewi sGeor ge and Mar kusBat chel orar e hopi ng t o become di s r upt er si na movementofl eader st hatBat chel ordes cr i besaswant i ngt o“ bemor er adi cal l yhones taboutwher ewe’ r eati ns oci et y. ” Bat chel or ,D. C.St at eBoar d ofEducat i on member ,announced hi scandi dacyf ort hei ndependentat l ar ges eatf or2020 i n Sept embert o i mpl ement“ bi g,bol ds oci et alchange. .f orpeopl ewhohadbeenf ai l edbyt hes ys t em overandover . ”Bat chel or ’ ss pi r i tofact i vi s m andci vi c engagementbegani nhi ghs choolandf ol l owedhi mt hr oughouthi scar eeracr os st hemayor ’ sofficeandi nt ohi scur r entcampai gn. Bot hLewi s Geor geand Bat chel orar egear i ng up f orcampai gnsr oot ed i n unapol oget i chones t yand ur gency,and al l ow us ,asBat chel orr eflect s ,t o “ wi t nes s ,fir s t hand,youngpeopl echangi ngt hef aceofl eader s hi pi nt hi scount r y. ” Leader s hi p,however ,t akesmany f or ms ;i ti sof t en t he peopl e behi nd t he s cenest hatmove t he pi ecest hatpr opelchange.Behi nd t he campai gn,t her ei sat eam ofl eader st hats uppor tt hemi s s i onoft hecandi dat es . Kel s yeAdamss er vesmanyr ol es ,mos tnot abl yasDi r ect orof Fi nance f orRal ph Nor t ham and Execut i ve Di r ect orofLong Li ve Gogo,an or gani zat i on ai med atpr ot ect i ng D. C.cul t ur e and cr eat i ng nat i onal l yr ecogni zedmovement sl i keMoechel l at heMi l l i onMoeMar ch. Asas el f pr ocl ai med “ pr of es s i onalf undr ai s er , ”Adamshaswor ked herwayup t hepol i t i call adder ,wor ki ng behi nd t hes cenest o gener at e campai gn f undi ng t hr ough gr as s r oot sor gani zi ng.Whi l es t i l la s t udentatVi r gi ni a Commonweal t h Uni ver s i t y,Adamst ook on a finance i nt er ns hi pwi t ht heDemocr at i cPar t yofVi r gi ni abef or ebecomi ngafiel dor gani zerf oraguber nat or i alr acet hef ol l owi ngyear . I nherfir s ts t r i de asafiel d or gani zer ,Adamsand hercol l eaguesnotonl yas s i s t ed t he,t hen,l i eut enantgover nori nas ucces s f ulcampai gn,t heyal s ofli pped s ever als eat si nCongr es s .Bef or es heknew i t ,s hewascanvas s i ngar oundt heVi r gi ni asi nhopest ofli pt heHous eandSenat echamber s .
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Despite the dissent the governor received, Adams utilized the power of his mistakes to uplift her community and use the tools she gained in her political positions to support people of color who are running for public office. She serves as a financial and strategic consultant to a number of delegates, including several African Americans running for local office. As a millennial, Adams sees the value of putting new people in power to add fresh perspectives to policy and politics. If millennials are to prosper in the political arena, they must use the influence of both media and money. As Jeanne Wardford of W.K. Kellogg Foundation stated, “The revolution not only needs to be televised, but it also has to be financed.” The stark reality, Adams sites, is that “you don’t have that much money, and your community doesn’t have that much money,” but we only fail each other by not supporting one another’s campaigns. This new brand of politics also looks like movements like Long Live Gogo, where young people are charging their cities to retain culture and keep the spirit of the community alive. Young people have the power to influence both public opinion and public policy when we decide to collectively support something. Within one week of Popeye’s release of its long-awaited chicken sandwich, the fast-food company incurred nearly $25 million in free marketing, largely fueled by Black Twitter. On the other hand, between January and July, young people ages 18 to 34 contributed a little over $5 million to Democratic presidential candidates, only 10 percent of total contributions among all age groups. It’s no surprise that young people have the power to move markets and trends. Research suggests that young people’s untapped potential as campaign donors is largely due to a lack of capacity, rather than a lack of interest. Civic participation in this new age of politics looks like #DontMuteDC, Long Live Gogo, and Million Moe March, movements that Kelsye Adams has played key roles in. Millennial leadership has become increasingly grassroots and is moving away from conservative, traditional ways. Kn Knowing the power of money has allowed Adams to navigate behind the scenes to help campaigns raise the money they need to compete with incumbents and money-backed competitors. The Professional Fundraiser recommends that millennials “put up the money for the other millennials that they see running,” even if it’s only $2. “People fail to realize that a little bit goes a long way, and I want millennials to really realize that they can put their money where their mouth is.” Furthermore, she adds that “The whole atmosphere of fundraising is just unseen in millennials. People don’t even know about it, especially in the African American community.” So whether it is rallying in the streets of Moechella or donating to the campaigns of our peers, young people are charged with the responsibility to increase civic engagement and finance the political revolution that we so often tweet about. Changing the face is politics may not be as simple as changing a lewk, but it does require similar tools: a good foundation, a strong team, and perhaps, most importantly, money.
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"I Love it... so I do it"
Words Marcus K. Dowling | IG: @marcuskdowling
Photography Ja’Mon Jackson | @JGYSZN
Adam Levine & The 60-Year Legacy of Community Service at The Washington Music Center 10
“I don’t have a title here. Actually, nobody in my family has a title here. If you’re a Levin, your name is on the door, and you do what needs to be done to get things done. That’s it.” If you’ve attended anything from an underground house music extravaganza to a multi-block music festival in the Nation’s Capital, there is a very likely chance that you’ve heard, but not seen the work of Adam Levin, representing the third generation of Levins to be the proprietor of Wheaton, MD-based Chuck Levin’s Washington Music Center. The phrase “the man behind your favorite musician’s success” is an often tossed about term. In Adam’s case -- given the number of times he’s provided an amp or guitar, set up a soundboard, or ensured that a live musician’s monitor or backline is operational and able to provide the highest quality event experience possible -- it’s absolutely true. Open since 1958, the store -- which initially prided itself on acknowledging the emotional bond musicians create with their instruments, and ensuring that “novices who play for fun to professional musicians [can play] with the very best instruments at the very best prices” -- spent its first decade of operation located at 12th and H Streets, NE. After the riots following the 1968 murder of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the store and its inventory were destroyed. Thus, the company relocated to the suburbs of Wheaton, MD. What Wh has allowed Chuck Levin’s to exist and excel as a company beloved by the likes of legends like Stevie Wonder, noted industry professionals like Beyond Studios producer Zack Dawson and soulful harmonica player Frédéric Yonnet, plus EDM upstarts like 3LAU is a customer-first mindset that also includes a city-as-community aesthetic that governs their professional retail, sales, and/or service delivery. Adam Levin (Chuck’s grandson -- Chuck, the namesake, died in 2002, Adam’s father Robert passed away in 2013) studied electrical engineering and business in college at Washington University of St. Louis, graduating in 2010. “I was a math nerd who didn’t want to take writing classes, so I could focus more on math, history, and business. Thankfully, because I set my educational path that way, I had the opportunity to learn and understand physics, to bring a math and science background to music.” Coming back home and joining the family business was not necessarily in the cards, but here he is, nine years later, overseeing what are now local, national, and global operations. “A music store logistically touches every part of global economics,” Levin continues. “It’s fascinating. We deal with the tariffs from China, CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) restrictions on shipping rosewood to other countries, shipping guitars, delivering a sound system to a church, the elephant in the room that is e-commerce, retail, it’s crazy, but fun, because at the end of the day, it’s music, and I love music.” Regarding his love for music and moreover his love of live event delivery, Levin has simple advice regarding how he ensures that most events occur relatively stress-free on a technical level. “There’s what is the right way to do it, and what is the easiest way to get it done. I’m trained as an engineer, so I’m all about solutions.” Levin adds, “Either I have three hours to make this happen and get this gig up and running, or I have all the time in the world, it will likely go off seamlessly, and we can design some innovative sound installations, in and put my personal stamp on it. Either way, it’s all about just making it happen and ensuring people have a great time.” Though Chuck Levin’s is a retail space and is known for its musical chops on all levels, the company also designs, markets, installs, and services high-end audio-visual systems for corporate and governmental clients, plus provides podcasting solutions for those interested in engaging in broadcasting in the modern era. However, if you were to ask Adam Levin where he finds his deepest passion as a professional working in the Metropolitan area, it’s music, and the experiences attached to hearing it in ideal aural circumstances. “DC cares about music and hearing it in a quality manner. ci Not just in DC, but humans everywhere, we went into our phones for a few years. Now we’re putting away our phones for a bit, and are looking for these amazing live experiences. People can do anything now, but they prefer to have these richly interesting, connective, and intensely human events.” In full, Adam Levin’s ties to his work, the city, and its residents are profound, significant, and inform those who are customers and clients with a shared sense of Adam, and his family’s, six decades of pride. “I feel an emotional connection to every event that happens in this city,” Levin opines. “Supporting the musical prowess of DC is a job that’s partially mine to uphold. These events happen because awesome people have awesome ideas. Be that at Funk Parade, Jazzfest, the Wammies -- any event that brings this community together -- I’m in, I love it. I’m fortunate enough to be in a position to help someone, so I do it.”
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EDITORIAL
OPINIONS/EDITORIALS
Cameras Catch Criminals but to Reduce Violence, Anger Management Skills May Be the Real Cure Homicides in the District are down from one year ago – that’s the good news. But violent crimes continue to escalate – including the recent fatal stabbing at a Popeye’s in Prince George’s County that reportedly occurred after the victim cut line to the shooting of a “violence interrupter,” Clarence Venable, 40, murdered in the Southeast community where he lived and had hoped to make a difference in reducing the troubling escalation in violence. Venable’s death marks the 152nd killing in D.C. this year – a number slightly higher over the same time last year and on pace to reach the highest total in the last 10 years. At the same time, robberies without a gun have risen from a year ago, now totaling 1,343 – an increase of 243 – highlighted by the arrest of a 12-year-old Southeast youth arrested last weekend and charged with committing four recent robberies in Northwest. Certainly, initiatives led by D.C. Attorney General Karl Racine and this week’s announcement by Mayor Bowser to increase the number of crime cameras, a decision supported by the District’s police brass, should prove beneficial in identifying and prosecuting criminals and violent offenders and thus make our streets and communities safer. But we suggest that these and other crime prevention programs may fail to address one of the primary causes for the recent spike in violence – the inability to diffuse and manage anger which uncontrolled can lead one, regardless of age, to act out in ways that they might reconsider once in a better and more rational state of mind. So, while the Mayor has promised more cameras in Wards 1, 5 7 and 8 where the greatest increase in violence has occurred, we suggest the inclusion of comprehensive mental health programs that help youth and adults alike learn about and master proven and effective methods of anger management. If we can provide substantive instruction in conflict resolution for those unfamiliar with its use and the win-win outcome to which it more often leads, maybe we can turn the tide. Anger, some psychologists suggest, is like an iceberg that only allows us to see the “tip” of the cause of one’s emotional struggles. It’s time we helped our community get to the root cause or causes of the anger which lies underneath and has held them prisoner for most of their lives. WI
TO THE EDITOR
CURE is no Quick Fix to Gun Violence
Gridiron Giants
Clarence Venable is dead. The 40-year old was shot and killed on the street last weekend following a training session that would lead to his work of helping end gun violence in the streets of D.C. It was, reportedly, a job he looked forward to – one he believed would allow him to make a difference in communities in D.C. where violent crime is on the rise. Venable, reportedly, was once a contributor to the negative elements that make so many D.C. neighborhoods unsafe. Yet, he was the kind of person D.C. Attorney General Karl Racine envisioned would make an effective candidate to participate in the less than two-year old CURE Violence program aimed at interrupting or preventing shootings and killings between 20 to 60 percent in targeted D.C. neighborhoods. The use of violence interrupters and the advent of the CURE the Streets program in other cities has experienced a modicum of progress. Even in D.C., the OAG reported to the D.C. Council last year that significant contacts were made in target neighborhoods, high risk individuals have been identified and put into case management, more than seven shooting responses have been made in Wards 5 and 7, and that violence interrupters have facilitated 10 mediations (six in Ward 8 and four in Ward 5) to defuse potentially violent situations. That’s the good news. The bad news is that while these men and women who are putting themselves on the frontlines to address the violence problem, the repercussions of their work is taking a toll. They have seen the life of a colleague taken by gun violence, a family member, too, and others were forced to respond to a near fatal incident of a young person with whom they were attempting to counsel. All the while seeking to fulfill a strategy that involves interrupting violence, identifying and treating those at highest risk for committing violent crime, and changing community norms around the normalization of violence. Venable was one of among several trained violence interrupters working to end violence but who also find themselves sometimes standing in between law enforcement and potential victims falsely accused of committing a violent crime. The work they do is risky, to say the least. We concur with the OAG who told the council nearly a year ago that violence is not inevitable and that the District can succeed in decreasing violent crime with dedicated, sustained investment. But money, we know, is not all that is needed. We appreciate the risks these men and women are taking to ensure a safer place for us all. But their lives are important, too. The OAG must do more to train and protect violence interrupters from violent perpetrators who remain ever present. Clearly, there is no quick fix. But we remain hopeful that Mr. Venable’s death will save as an example for how much more needs to be done. WI
Salute to my alma mater Bowie State for winning its second consecutive CIAA football championship! Go Bulldogs! Go Bulldogs! Montrell Chisolm Laurel, Md.
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Teacher Deserves a Fair Shake I'm not sure I agree with you all putting that Maryland teacher's mugshot in your paper. I understand that she's been charged with assault against a student, but I believe there is more to this story and this lady should receive some deference. I mean, she's not a common criminal. She was at her breaking point and deserves to fight this quietly. Tia Phillips Washington, D.C.
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OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist
By Julianne Malveaux
What 2019 Elections Mean for 2020
If the 2019 elections are any indication, Republicans need to worry about their viability come 2020. In Virginia, Democrats have majorities in both its upper and lower houses. With a Democratic governor, Virginia has an unprecedented opportunity to shape public policy, especially around gun control, a key concern for many. In West Virginia, the candidate backed by 45 lost. Many will say it is because of the Republican governor, Matt Bev-
in, was extremely unpopular. If so why was 45 propping him up? He must have thought he had a prayer. 45 notwithstanding, Bevin's Democratic opponent, Attorney General Andy Beshear, scored a very narrow victory, getting 49.2 percent of the vote, compared to Bevin's 48.8. Just 5,000 votes separate the two men, but a narrow win is still a victory and 45 has egg on his face. Usually, when 45 shows up and takes it over the line, the base is supposed to get fired up. Not this time. While Democrats scored some gains, the Mississippi governor's mansion is still in Republican
hands. Mississippi has the largest concentration of Black people — 39 percent — of any state, but African Americans remain underrepresented among elected officials in Mississippi. Is it voter turnout? An inability to forge a progressive coalition? Or, are race matters so hardwired in Mississippi that Republicans will always prevail? Speaking of other race matters, the affirmative action ballot measure that appeared on the Washington state ballot failed, which is disappointing news for those who think that we have not yet met diversity goals. Washington state was one of the first to
Guest Columnist
ban affirmative action in 1998 (California's anti-affirmative action Proposition 209 also passed that year). After California and Washington, other states followed, including Florida, Michigan, Nebraska, Arizona, New Hampshire and Oklahoma. Although the affirmative action measure — Referendum 88 — lost very narrowly, it still failed. That means that state agencies can't openly recruit diverse candidates and contracting agencies can't make special efforts to reach out to those who are underrepresented. And since the anti-affirmative action measure passed in 1998, the numbers
of minority and women-owned businesses have dropped in the state. That's a step backward! One of the reasons Referendum 88 failed was because a group of Chinese immigrants was among those who campaigned to defeat the affirmative action measure. Former governor Gary Locke, an Asian American man who describes himself as a product of affirmative action, fought for the referendum. But the majority of voters rejected the measure. So much for the "people of color" coalition. Still, it is interesting that a re-
MALVEAUX Page 41
By Bill Fletcher Jr.
Becoming Numb to Mass Shootings
Each time we experience a mass shooting, we repeat the pattern — a point I have made in previous columns. Shock, grief, prayer, throwing up our hands, and proponents of unlimited gun ownership arguing that this is not the time to discuss sensible gun control; instead we should restrict ourselves to prayer. And then nothing ever happens. Except for one thing. We become increasingly numb to the impact of
gun violence which, I have come to conclude, right-wing gun fanatics wish to encourage. When we no longer see mass or just random killings as outrageous and uncivilized, the demand for sensible gun regulations diminishes in importance. Gun fanatics would like us to accept that this violence will happen and that the best that we can do is to further arm U.S. society, e.g., arm teachers in schools. There is no easy way to avoid becoming numb to mass shootings and random violence. When you read about it or hear about it or witness it nearly every day and you conclude
that it will not change, your mind searches for safety. That "safety" plays itself out in our becoming less shocked and — to be blunt — more accepting of the reality that our children may get killed at school or that our family or friends may get shot at a parking lot or by an outraged former employee at any number of facilities. The mind says to us that we cannot exist on a permanent level of tension and anxiety. Except we do harbor that tension and anxiety. It is just that we may not display it. Rather, it eats away at us in our insides. Is there any way around this, in
Guest Columnist
addition to legislation? Yes. First and foremost, it necessitates community organizing and community organization. As simplistic as it may sound, our youth need to be forced to confront the finality of death. Death is not an action video game. Nor should it be the immediate recourse when someone feels emotionally injured. Thus, the victims — including families — of gun violence need to be at the center of discussions about the ramifications of gun violence. A second route is the establishment of legitimate gun clubs. This may sound strange but hear me out, and this is especially important in Af-
rican American communities. Guns are not going away so there needs to be training and discipline associated with the use of firearms. Just as with the martial arts, the younger members of our communities must understand when, where and how to utilize firearms, and when not to. Platitudes and prayer are nearly meaningless when one is up against a combination of a multimillion-dollar gun industry linked directly with a fanatical, right-wing movement opposed to sensible gun ownership. At the end of the day, the barbarians must be out-organized. WI
ue to put forth expensive policy ideas like the Green New Deal that promote false hope and unrealistic outcomes for those who already grapple each month to make ends meet. A few weeks ago, I had an opportunity to speak with several residents of Richmond, Virginia, who face these challenges. And it breaks my heart to see a single mother who must decide on whether to feed her children or pay the electric bill. That's a choice no American citizens should have to make. Today we use more energy than
ever before, and to keep up with the growing demand, we need an approach that makes better use of what we have, especially if it can lower costs, create jobs and increase funding to critical services we rely on like roads, emergency management, and education. A recent Shale Crescent USA study shows end users have saved $ increased its crude oil imports from foreign countries from 5 percent in 1992 to 57 percent in 2018. This is a glaring example of hypoc-
By Derrick Hollie
America's Energy Hypocrisy In America, we have a vast amount of affordable and reliable energy. But some of us take having access to energy for granted. We expect to plug in and charge our mobile devices, flip a light switch and click on the television. And without fail, it all works. It's not until our power and way of life is interrupted that most of us think about energy and where it comes from. California just endured its fourth round of blackouts and revealing that having reliable electricity is an economic privilege, and interviews
from across the state suggest those less affluent continue to have more losses and were disproportionately forced off the grid. And the state's plan to remedy this disparity failed many disadvantaged residents and organizations when it was needed the most. As of today, Californians already pay among the highest rates in the U.S. for their power, and, unfortunately, these costs are projected to rise even more. These increases often have a higher burden on low-income households that already struggle to keep up with
24 NOVEMBER 28 -DECEMBER 4, 2019
rising cost, leading many down the path to energy poverty. The issue, however, plagues not only California residents but many across the country including in Pennsylvania, where utility rates for customers are much higher than neighboring states. In Georgia, a study finds energy consumption among the highest in America, and in The irony is, each state listed has an abundance of natural resources that can be accessed. But lawmakers, caving to environmentalists and special interest groups that don't speak for the poor, contin-
HOLLIE Page 41
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OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist
By Charlene Crowell
Federal Proposals Would Strip Away Payday Loan Rate Caps
For most people who either work, receive retirement or other fixed benefits, it seems that your money always goes a lot quicker than it comes. While some economists marvel at Wall Street's brisk trading and declare that the economy is better than ever, not everyone has been included. On Main Street America, millions of people know that the cost of
living is rising faster and higher than their incomes. When triple-digit predatory lending is added to already financially challenged consumers, paydays become ‘exchange days', swapping those hard-earned monies for the bills waiting to be paid. Too many times the terms of credit, including high-cost interest and fees wind up costing far more than the monies originally borrowed. Even worse, every loan payment deepens the debt, and drives consumers fur-
Guest Columnist
ther from financial freedom. So why did two federal financial regulators take recent actions that promote predatory lending? On Nov. 18, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), proposed allowing banks to serve as a pass-through to predatory lenders. This change will facilitate schemes that consumer advocates term "rent-a-bank." Participating chartered banks use its name and privileges on loans. A key privilege of the scheme is that unlike payday lenders, banks
are exempt from state rate cap laws. The bank charter enables the payday lender to charge interest rates without regard to what safeguards were enacted by the states. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) followed OCC's lead the following day, Nov. 19 with its own version of facilitating rent-a-bank schemes and received approval at its sameday board meeting. Allowing online predatory lenders to evade state interest rate
caps will put people in debt and go against what the public wants. For example, California recently signed into law a rate cap of approximately 36% on loans of $2,500 to $10,000. Supporting rent-a-bank schemes would undercut this new law and could allow for abusive loans that could annual percentage rates or APRs well above 100%. Beyond essentially rolling back interest rate caps in 16 states and
CROWELL Page 42
By Roger Caldwell
Roger Stone the Fifth Criminal in Trump's Corruption Ring
It is time for America to be honest with itself and admit that President Donald Trump is breaking the law. When Trump talks about draining the swamp, he is really talking about his leadership ring. "Five of Trump's lieutenants, Michael Flynn, George Papadopoulos, Michael Cohen, Paul Manafort and now Roger Stone, have all pleaded guilty or have been convicted of a crime," says Terrie Rizzo, chair of the Florida
Democratic Party. "The stench of corruption is all around Donald Trump, and this week's ruling reminds us just how important and need of Congress' impeachment inquiry is." Truth and integrity are rare commodities in President Trump's inner circle, his administration and the Republican Party. When someone in Trump's inner circle is convicted of breaking a law, Republicans refuse to say anything and act like it did not happen. Instead of someone in the Republican Party acknowledging that there is corruption in the White House, they blame the
Askia-At-Large
judges and court system for doing their job. Thirty minutes after the jury delivered its verdict on Roger Stone, the president was upset and tweeted his displeasure that his longtime friend was caught breaking the law on seven counts. It is crazy to think that the president is mad with Roger Stone being found guilty of five counts of lying to Congress, one of witness tampering, and one of obstructing a congressional committee proceeding. It appears that the Trump administration is the mafia, and our president is the godfather. The members of the Republican
Party seem to have no comment, on Trump's campaign team breaking the law. All around the world, the different countries are watching America's corruption starting with the head — who is President Donald Trump and his associates. America has reached the point of insanity, and everyone is comfortable with lying, and what will the Republicans do. The American people have a right to know the truth, and the impeachment is exposing the corruption and the lawlessness with our president and his administration. "Robert Mueller is coming for me," Stone wrote before asserting
that his name was next on what he called Mueller's "hit list" of targets. Stone denied any wrongdoing and said he faced legal peril simply because he had advised Trump for several decades. It is amazing that Roger Stone in 2016 thought he had not broken any laws, even though he lied to the Congress. He claimed that Mueller's investigation was a witch hunt and that he "may frame Stone on some bogus charge." During the campaign, Stone had confirmed that he exchanged
CALDWELL Page 42
By Askia Muhammad
Trump Removal Alone Won't Save USA
When Donald J. Trump is eventually removed from office, the folks responsible — in the legislature, the courts and the voting booths — will likely be so, very, very weary (especially if it's in 2020) because they will have literally rescued the nation from fascism. That's big, but what most aren't ready to hear is that "Trumpism" is just the tip of the iceberg of American crimes against humanity. Before Trump ever en-
tered the picture, the U.S. was doomed and headed toward destruction for its "Original Sins," its crimes against humanity — the enslavement of kidnapped Africans and the genocide against the Native inhabitants of this land. After his election, Trump just hitched the nation to a rocket in its descent into hellfire. Removing Trump may slow the fall of America, but will not entirely stop it. That's probably an unwelcome thought to most folks who have already endured much just to bring this most unworthy
despot down from the perch of power. I'm thinking about the brave people who came forward to testify in the public impeachment inquiry. Those folks weren't sent to infiltrate the U.S. government by some enemies of this country. No. They are all dedicated, career military personnel and civilian employees, who were shocked at the very improper behavior by Trump in that brazen July telephone call when he bribed the newly elected president of Ukraine, using promised military assistance, to do him "a favor" by digging up
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dirt on his personal political rival. But Trump and his minions in Congress are so "outdone" (as my mother used to say) that they don't know what to say. "Expose the whistleblower!" some shout, wanting the head of the "spy" who revealed Trump's mischief, not to the Chinese, or to al Qaeda, or to the news media; but to an official inside the U.S. government, who deemed the content of the complaint credible enough to investigate. The Trumpistas insist that despite the fact that every
charge made by the anonymous whistleblower has been corroborated in public testimony by high-ranking officials who were around Trump, they want the whistleblower exposed so that whatever harm might come to that person will discourage all other honest government workers from exposing wrong doing by those in positions above them. Republicans are grasping for straws. Before Trump and his encourage-the-worst-in-ourtroops campaign of pardoning
ASKIA Page 42
NOVEMBER 28 - DECEMBER 4, 2019 25
LIFESTYLE For More Photos visit our website.
A WASHINGTON INFORMER EXCLUSIVE
D. Floyd, King of the Go-Go Beat, Bids Fans ‘Adieu’ D.C. Legend Caps 40-Year Career with Star-Studded Concert By D. Kevin McNeir WI Editor @dkevinmcneir After a career encompassing nearly four decades during which he would become a fixture and legend within the District’s homegrown Go-Go musical industry, D.C.’s own D. Floyd recently made his final appearance on stage for a standing-room-only concert at The Anthem in Southwest. World-renowned both for his prowess on the saxophone and as the front-man for the genre’s celebrated band, Team Familiar, Floyd, affectionately known as “King of the GoGo Beat,” marked the end of a stellar career filled with dozens of songwriting credits, amazingly-forged friendships with iconic mentors including Stevie Wonder, George Clinton and Chuck Brown and a bevy of performances where he shared the stage with the upper echelon of go-go artists in venues too numerous to count. On Sunday, Nov. 24, D.C.’s incomparable grown-and-sexy band and its leader would be joined by
entertainers eager to salute their colleagues and serenade Floyd and Team Familiar’s faithful fans, including: 12-time Grammy-nominated vocal powerhouse Ledisi, native Washingtonian and neo-soul sensation Raheem DeVaughn, hip-hop pioneer Doug E. Fresh, Tao (formerly of Dru Hill) and independent artist Kenny Sway who also hails from the District. One day following the concert, D. [Donnell] Floyd, who began his journey as a saxophonist for Rare Essence during his matriculation at Duke Ellington School of the Arts in January 1983, spoke with The Washington Informer about his remarkable past and present – even sharing some of his plans for the future. And for the record and much to his fans’ delight, that future, he says, will continue to include the music that has been instrumental in shaping his life – even significantly contributing to an assortment of principles and beliefs which continue to undergird his very existence, directing his steps and informing
26 NOVEMBER 28 -DECEMBER 4, 2019
his decisions personally, emotionally and professionally. Washington Informer: How do you explain the fundamentals of GoGo music particularly to those unfamiliar with the genre? D. Floyd: Like a DJ, the music never stops as we go from one song to the next. Every song has the element of a particular drum beat, “Mister Magic” – the identical beat and tempo you hear in the same-titled song composed by the legendary jazz saxophonist Grover Washington, Jr. and on which Go-Go was founded by Chuck Brown. He put that beat under every song he heard and played, even if was an R&B tune. The percussion is heavy unlike most music except salsa or hiphop. Call and response is another essential element and it goes on the entire night between the band and the crowd. And there’s a portion in the music, in the band, that’s easiest described as being like a DJ or MC. A person talks over the music like a DJ would – something you rarely find in bands playing other kinds of music except maybe George Clinton with Parliament/Funkadelic. It’s an incredible form of music and because we generally play on weekends, some of the people who come out are from the underbelly of the city – blue and white collar. GoGo gets a bad rap sometimes not because of the music or the fans but because bands usually perform in clubs where there’s alcohol and like anywhere else, people sometimes drink too much and you have the expected incidents. But to blame a particular style of music for the problems is absolutely preposterous. WI: What kind of feelings did you experience Sunday evening, knowing it was your last time on stage
5 Longtime Go-go veteran Donnell Floyd (D. Floyd) who performed with Rare Essence for 18 years held a grand retirement party at the Anthem in Southwest on November 26, featuring Stevie Wonder, Ledisi, Raheem Devaughn, and Doug E. Fresh Fresh. (Robert R. Roberts/ The Washington Informer)
with your longtime band members and friends? D. Floyd: It was extremely humbling and a lot of people came to my room later like Stevie and Doug E. Fresh and of course some of the Go-Go people too with well wishes and good old-fashioned conversation – some of us have known each other since the 80s. We traded stories from back then and it was an unbelievable feeling – getting your roses now – that kind of thing. Truthfully, it was more than I had expected because I’ve never looked at myself as a central figure or savior for the music. I’m just someone who did his part to entertain the people. WI: What do you remember most about your relationship with Chuck Brown? D. Floyd: I played with him for three years and sat with him every minute possible. He came to shows early, even before practice, and I would too. He’d talk to me about running a band and more important how to run my career as an artist. He had a million rules and suggestions on how to do everything. He had a rule for every situation: don’t play in clubs that are storefronts; don’t play in brand new clubs; don’t play with promoters who don’t give deposits. I learned so much – it was on-the-job training. WI: Has Go-Go gotten its just deserves? D. Floyd: No, it’s still in the making. Look, it’s an incredible genre and it easily represents the greatest syncopated beat in any music, salsa and reggae included. The beat is intoxicating. When you hear salsa or reggae music and the beat, you feel a certain kind of way, instantly. Go-
Go is like that as well. I’d say it’s had its day of recognition but not its time to shine in the sun like other musical genres. WI: What needs to happen for Go-Go to truly make its mark in the world? D. Floyd: We need to see youth in the District grow up wanting to be Go-Go artists like when I was growing up – most only have dreams of being rap or R&B artists. They’re not starting Go-Go bands like we did. We’re an endangered species. I’m not sure if it’s because music has been taken out of the public school system or not but something’s gotta change. WI: How did you get your nickname, “King of the Go-Go Beat?” D. Floyd: I wrote a song and the lyrics included the title – one I gave myself. It’s always been a fun title and I understand the Go-Go beat as well as anyone. Doug E. Fresh and I were just talking about getting together as producers because we want to collaborate and keep the groove going. I guess people have been referring to me as the King of the Go-Go Beat since the early 90s. One thing, I’ve always kept great percussionists around me and I’ll admit, I have a particular way that I approach GoGo beats. WI: So, is this really your last hurrah? What’s next for you D. Floyd? D. Floyd: I want to change my view, explore other situations and shift into a different lane. I’ve always been, first and foremost, a saxophone player. I think I’d like to begin playing with a few R&B bands – lend my talents and enjoy playing a different kind of music with a slightly different kind of beat. But it’s still all about the music. WI: One more question. So many of our children seem to be lost these days, dying early, getting involved in gangs or crime, losing hope. What would you say to our youth as a means of advice or encouragement? D. Floyd: It’s important that young folks learn to respect life and the creator of life. I’ve had the advantage of significant loss and it gives you a different respect for life. I say "advantage" because it changes your perspective on how you’re going to live your life and how you’re going to respect the lives of others. You see firsthand how a significant loss can impact you and your family. More important, you begin to realize that all these things we believe we need to argue about, fight over and steal to get in our hands aren’t important at all. What’s important is living and living a productive life. D. Floyd will soon have his website up and ready for viewing. Check him out soon at www.donnellfloyd.com. You’ll be able to read more about him and purchase music. WI
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Multitalented Damien Sneed to Bring ‘Joy’ to District’s Holiday Revelers
LIFESTYLE
Washington Performing Arts Presents Artist and Choir for Dec. 7th Concert By D. Kevin McNeir WI Editor @dkevinmcneir Washington Performing Arts [WPA] will present the multitalented artist Damien Sneed in a holiday show, “Joy to the World: A Christmas Musical Journey,” on Dec. 7 at Sixth & I for an evening replete with Sneed’s original arrangements of gospel, jazz and classical favorites. Joining Sneed will be a cast of 10 singers and musicians performing well-known holiday classics such as Silent Night, This Christmas, O Come Emmanuel, Little Drummer Boy, The Christmas Song, Joy to the World, excerpts from The Messiah and many others. The concert takes place at Sixth & I and serves as WPA’s first opportunity to showcase the pianist/composer/arranger/vocalist who has entertained District audiences in the past, including the acclaimed Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, where Sneed conducted his choir Chorale le Chateau for Wynton Marsalis’s Abyssinian Mass in 2013. “Damien Sneed is an ambassador for classical and gospel music who brings positivity, optimism and thoroughness to every occasion,” Marsalis said in comments about Sneed. “His talent stretches across traditional divisions. In the realest sense, he uses his artistry to make our world a better place.”
5 Damien Sneed (Courtesy photo)
Washington Performing Arts also commissioned Sneed to arrange Sam Cooke’s “A Change is Gonna Come” for the Children of the Gospel Choir during his performance at WPA’s 2018 Gala which honored Dr. Lonnie Bunch. Sneed brings an impressive resume including a 2014 recipient of the prestigious Sphinx Medal of Excellence honor, presented annually to emerging Black and
5 Damien Sneed sings praises with a few friends. (Courtesy photo)
Latino leaders in classical music. He has captured the nation’s attention in a variety of other musical genres, including jazz, gospel, pop, R&B, opera and musical theatre. He has worked with legends from Aretha Franklin, Jessye Norman and Stevie Wonder to gospel greats including The Clark Sisters, Richard Smallwood, Donnie McClurkin and Hezekiah Walker and served as musical director for season four of Sunday Best, BET’s award-winning gospel singing competition show. WPA remains one of the most honored performing arts institutions in the U.S., achieving over 50 years during its historic past while engaging with artists, audiences, students and civic life. In addition, WPA has been honored with a National Medal of Arts and with Mayor’s Arts Awards from the District. As they embark upon their second half-century, WPA continues to be inspired by the motto of its founder, Patrick Hayes: “Everybody in, nobody out.” Visit WashingtonPerformingArts.org for more information. WI
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NOVEMBER 28 - DECEMBER 4, 2019 27
LIFESTYLE
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By Timothy Cox Special to The Informer HANOVER, Md. — On Friday, Nov. 15, a full house of Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds' fans packed the new concert stage at Live Casino. Though the star was scheduled to come onstage at 8 p.m. in suburban Baltimore, about 45 minutes later, his seven-piece band clad in casual white attire, preceded their bandleader. Moments later, to thunderous screams and applause, the Indianapolis native arrived onstage wearing a silver, satin-like sports coat with white slacks, shoes and shirt, matching his bandmates. The band had already set the mood with short snippets of "Where Will You Go" and "My Kinda Girl." A talented alto saxophonist, along with two male backup singers, helped ignite their leader with his first tune, "For the Cool in You." His setlist also included his self-penned hits such as "Two Occasions," "Soon As I Get Home," "Never Keepin' Secrets" and "Whip Appeal." On this night, his female-heavy audience evoked memories when 'Face staged special concerts targeted For Women Only in the early 1990s. Is Kenny Edmonds a sex symbol? Well, based on reactions on this night, it's without question the 60-year-gentleman definitely still has the ladies under a spell. Remarkably, he hasn't aged very much in the past 30 years. Let's assume he dyes his hair, but unlike many guys in his age group, he's not balding. Also, he's managed to control his weight unlike most men of his age. 'Face looks great, but obviously he appreciates getting older, and that came across vey clear throughout his conversation with his audience. With a career spanning nearly 40 years, the guy gave the people their money's worth and more. Though he's always had a reputa-
5 Babyface and his live band offered a dynamic entertainment package at Center Stage at Live Casino in Hanover, Md. (Photo by Timothy Cox)
tion as a non-dancer, he acquitted himself well during the show. Along with his youthful band, he strutted around the stage and hopped around in synch with the rest of the group. After about a 10-minute sprint of steady dance moves, he took a break, tightly holding the microphone and quipping after several deep breaths, "My name's Babyface, not Baby Body" — one of several humorous comments the singer made throughout the night. For this writer, the show evoked memories of watching The Deele, Midnight Star, Lakeside, Luther Vandross and Carrie Lucas perform at Cleveland's Burke Lakefront Airport during an outdoor jam in sum-
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mer 1984. I also attended the press conference in Atlanta when Clive Davis introduced Babyface and production partner L.A. Reid and their new venture, a Atlanta-based record company called LaFace Records. That was summer 1989 — exactly 30 years ago. And the rest, as they say, is history. One of the highlights of the Live Casion this recent performance is when Babyface entered the audience and hugged one of his lady fans, to the crowd's screams of surprise. At one point, he jumped on a chair and took photos among his fans. Those moments showed his comfort zone with his people, considering it was minimal security in his presence. When the show ended after nearly two hours, the hyped-up crowd urged the star performer to retake the stage for an encore. Within 10 minutes, the band members were back, and so was 'Face, this time with an acoustic guitar. He then delved into a smooth, emotional version of his big hit "When Will I See You Again." And with that, the show was a wrap, and everyone started grabbing their hats and coats to face the chilly winds and cold weather outside of the Casino's protective walls. WI
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NOVEMBER 28 - DECEMBER 4, 2019 29
LIFESTYLE
wi book review "Melania & Michelle: First Ladies in a New Era"
By Tammy R. Vigil c.2019, Red Lightning Books\ $26 199 pagess
By Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer The chair you now sit in was once occupied by someone else. You are the second or fifth or 44th to hold the job but get ready: in this position, everything you do is critiqued and measured against your predecessors and there is no playbook. Also know that, like in the new book "Melania & Michelle" by Tammy R. Vigil, you have some pretty big pumps to fill. As in the aftermath of nearly every presidential election in American history, in January 2017, comparisons were made between the outgoing first lady and the incoming one. Fair or unfair, such study happens with every new administration and while everyone knew that Mrs. Obama and Mrs. Trump were different, there were many similarities — more so, says Vigil, "than their public personas seemed to indicate." Both, for example, "were raised in less comfortable environments than their forerunners," politically and economically. Both women had aspirations beyond politics: Obama, like predecessors Hillary Clinton and Laura Bush, received a college degree; like Nancy Reagan and Betty Ford, Trump worked in "image-oriented industries" and eschewed college. Despite that Obama and Trump had each enjoyed some amount of fame prior to their husbands' runs for office, both had to learn to manage their new and very unfamiliar positions. Of course, both were harshly critiqued for their time as first ladies, by the public and by the media. Their marriages were scrutinized and their roles as mothers were closely watched. Gaffes were magnified; platforms were ridiculed. Even their choice of fashion was cause for negativity and yet, both were seen as role models for young women and girls both in dress and in the poise they've displayed. As for the next FLOTUS — if there is one — she will likely have the same struggles, scrutiny and expectations to meet, as has each first lady for more than 200 years. This, for a position for which she'll be required to forge her "own unique path" in a job she didn't necessarily ask for, and doesn't get paid for. Apples or oranges? When it comes to first ladies, it almost seems wrong to compare them since they're all so very unique. Even so, author Tammy R. Vigil does it in "Melania & Michelle," and the sideby-side is pleasantly surprising. Indeed, Vigil's book is one of the more balanced on this topic, examining the work of both Obama and Trump with a non-sensational, nonpartisan voice that remains honest and doesn't hide anything, and a willingness to retrieve lessons from past administrations as examples. In detail, Vigil also shows why a thick skin is necessary for the spouse in the White House; and then she flips the script, showing how, if a FLOTUS ever decides to opt out and stay home, she'd have history behind her. No doubt, "Melania & Michelle" is perfect for anyone interested in politics but it will also appeal to the reader who wants a behind-thescenes look at a job that only a select few will ever hold. Check it out. It'll keep you in your chair. WI
30 NOVEMBER 28 -DECEMBER 4, 2019
horoscopes
NOV 28 - DEC 4, 2019
ARIES You'll be aching to connect with your significant other or someone special in a sensual, transformative way while action-oriented Mars is in your eighth house of sexual intimacy. Your desires are amplified, and you're hyper-aware of your most animalistic needs right now, so make sure to own that and explore exciting new ways for ensuring that you're fulfilled. Lucky Numbers: 2, 16, 45 TAURUS You'll find it's easier to get on the same page as your significant other, business partner, or dearest friend since Nov. 20, when communicator Mercury ends its retrograde and moves forward in your seventh house of partnership until Dec. 9. Take advantage of this transit by putting your heads together on the game plan for a shared goal. Lucky Numbers: 8, 10, 11 GEMINI You can look forward to extra harmonious vibes with your significant other, a dear friend, a business partner or all of the above until Dec. 21 while the confident sun moves through your seventh house of partnership. Your ability and interest in fostering one-on-one bonds are elevated now, as is your craving to be in sync with your nearest and dearest VIPs. Lucky Numbers: 13, 19, 23 CANCER Making plans with your sweetheart or your closest friends should get much easier than it has been recently now that communicator Mercury ended its retrograde and has moved forward in your fifth house of romance until Dec. 9. Although you might feel frustrated by any professional and relationship-related roadblocks that have popped up recently, but you can take heart in the fact that smoother waters are ahead. Lucky Numbers: 8, 14, 27 LEO It's the perfect time to enjoying a special date night you've been daydreaming about or scheduling a self-pampering beauty or self-care treatment. It's almost as if anything other than following your heart feels unnatural at this moment, so allow yourself to key into that, then go for it. Sky's the limit! Lucky Numbers: 2, 15, 28 VIRGO Sticking to the same old, tried-and-true routine is bound to feel stale and stagnating. Instead, you'll want to get out of your comfort zone and try a new workout class, travel for work, or meet up with people outside of your usual social circle. You'll be drawn to any opportunities to broaden your horizons, especially if they pop up out of the blue! Lucky Numbers: 29, 49, 50 LIBRA Now that communicator Mercury has moved forward in your second house of income until Dec. 9, confusion and technical difficulties related to your moneymaking endeavors should straighten out. You'll get the green light to research and go after work you care about that could also increase your cash flow. Lucky Numbers: 6, 17, 44 SCORPIO You'll breathe a sigh of relief if it starts to feel like you can get back into a rhythm with any action plans for hitting big picture personal goals. Reflect on the past three weeks and consider ways you managed to improve how you see yourself and project yourself to others. These lessons can be particularly useful as you forge ahead in pursuit of your aspirations. Lucky Numbers: 10, 58, 59 SAGITTARIUS You might have more vivid, intense dreams (during the night and daytime) while go-getter Mars is in your twelfth house of spirituality until Jan. 3. Try to tap into what your imagination is telling you, as it could shed light on deeply rooted, unconscious patterns that are influencing how you're taking action in your life. In general, this transit marks a fruitful time for active self-reflection. Lucky Numbers: 2, 11, 25 CAPRICORN You'll do well to spend time reflecting on lessons you've learned about platonic relationships over the past few weeks. It may be that you've had friendships challenged or reconnected with a community that feels like a comforting support network. Either way, your renewed sense of who's in your corner will be helpful as you try to gauge which group activities you want to devote your energies to in the weeks ahead. Lucky Numbers: 4, 16, 48 AQUARIUS Any longing to make an impression on higher-ups and take your professional dreams to the next level is sure to be magnified while action-oriented Mars is in your 10th house of career until Jan. 3. You also have a burst of energy to put your nose to the grindstone and tackle tasks that could lead to career advancement. Putting in the work and believing in yourself should translate to rewards. Lucky Numbers: 19, 33, 40 PISCES You could have an opportunity to step into the spotlight on the job, encouraged by higher-ups to pitch your most brilliant proposal or take the reins on a high stakes project. Zeroing in on what drives and motivates you, then sharing that in a public way, can set you up for meaningful accolades. Lucky Numbers: 12, 15, 53
THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM
CAPTURE the moment
5 The Department of Parks and Recreation Roving Leaders provided turkey baskets and meals to residents of Ward 7 at the Deanwood Recreation Center in Northeast on November 22. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer) 3 Prince George’s County Councilman Sidney Harrison (right) (D-District 9) of Upper Marlboro and his Chief of Staff Eric B. Bowman with Gloria Hairston (center), director of public affairs with the DC Veterans Affairs Medical Center is presented a proclamation during a Thanksgiving Appreciation Luncheon for Veterans on November 25 in Clinton. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)
The Successful Sinner, Change Your Choices to Change Your Life Andrew C. Walker is an entrepreneur, author and speaker. In his new book “The Successful Sinner, Change Your Choices to Change Your Life” he shares real life challenges. Sharing his journey and story, he hopes to inspire other people to meet their challenges head on. The thought that a situation is hopeless does not constitute hopelessness. Contact Andrew: andrewhart101@verizon.net Get his book: amazon.com/author/andrewwalker
2019/20 SEASON DAMIEN SNEED
4 Volunteers at Union Temple Baptist Church greet Ward 8 residents in line to receive Thanksgiving baskets during Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White’s 11thannual Turkey Giveaway in Southeast on November 25. (Shevry Lassiter/The Washington Informer)
Joy To The World: A Christmas Musical Journey SAT, DEC 7, 8pm SIXTH & I Vastly talented pianist/ organist/vocalist and Howard University alumnus Damien Sneed rings in the season with gospel, jazz, and classical holiday favorites. Special thanks: Galena-Yorktown Foundation
TICKETS: (202) 785-9727 • WashingtonPerformingArts.org
5 Wanda Durant (center), mother of professional basketball player Kevin Durant, with members and friends of the girls basketball team of McNamara Catholic High School during a photo-op at her turkey giveaway in Seat Pleasant on November 25. (Shevry Lassiter/The Washington Informer)
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Stay Informed! www.washingtoninformer.com
NOVEMBER 28 - DECEMBER 4, 2019 31
SPORTS For more photos, visit www.washingtoninformer.com
UDC Torches Bloomfield College 5 University of the District of Columbia Firebirds guard Latavia Jackson corrals a loose ball during the Firebirds' 64-40 win over the Bloomfield Bears at UDC Sports Complex in Northwest on Saturday, Nov. 23. (John E. De Freitas/The Washington Informer) 3 Bloomfield Bears guard Caitlin Townes calls a play while guarded by University of the District of Columbia Firebirds guard Latavia Jackson during the Firebirds' 64-40 win at UDC Sports Complex in Northwest on Saturday, Nov. 23. (John E. De Freitas/The Washington Informer)
5 University of the District of Columbia Firebirds guard Latavia Jackson drives against Bloomfield Bears center Nyasia Bryant during the Firebirds' 64-40 win at UDC Sports Complex in Northwest on Saturday, Nov. 23. (John E. De Freitas/The Washington Informer)
32 NOVEMBER 28 -DECEMBER 4, 2019
5 University of the District of Columbia Firebirds forward Hunter Rowson shoots over Bloomfield Bears forward DaShanique Ruffin during the Firebirds' 64-40 win at UDC Sports Complex in Northwest on Saturday, Nov. 23. (John E. De Freitas/The Washington Informer)
THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM
SPORTS
Redskins Hang On Against Lions 3 Washington Redskins linebacker Cole Holcomb chases down Detroit Lions quarterback Jeff Driskel during the Redskins' 19-16 win at FedEx Field in Landover, Md., on Sunday, Nov. 24. (John E. De Freitas/The Washington Informer) 6 Washington Redskins linebacker Cole Holcomb and cornerback Quinton Dunbar take down Detroit Lions quarterback Jeff Driskel during the Redskins' 19-16 win at FedEx Field in Landover, Md., on Sunday, Nov. 24. (John E. De Freitas/The Washington Informer) 3 Washington Redskins quarterback Dwayne Haskins attempts a pass during the Redskins' 19-16 win over the Detroit Lions at FedEx Field in Landover, Md., on Sunday, Nov. 24. (John E. De Freitas/The Washington Informer)
4 Detroit Lions wide receiver Danny Amendola attempts to juke Washington Redskins cornerback Jimmy Moreland during the Redskins' 19-16 win at FedEx Field in Landover, Md., on Sunday, Nov. 24. (John E. De Freitas/ The Washington Informer)
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NOVEMBER 28 - DECEMBER 4, 2019 33
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5 Workers at the Congress Heights campus of Brighter Day Ministries, temporarily shuttered by an Oct. 29 fire, have operated from the parsonage, giving food and clothes to long lines of needy residents. (Dorothy Rowley/The Washington Informer)
doing for this community with all the people we serve. I was thinking he would have been glad to help us." Lay Minister Nate Howard echoed the Semples' sentiments, saying the church has always been outwardly focused. "We have lots of outreach programs and we've had many positive experiences from our community," said Howard, who alluded to a community dinner held Nov. 25 at the AP Shaw cam-
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those in need." The fire ignited in the steeple just weeks ahead of the holiday season, and according to Semple, it could have very well been the Lord's way of ensuring unyielding help at one of the greatest times of need. His wife, who staunchly believes in taking care of God's people, concurred. "The fire took its toll, but we still chose to come over and reach out to the people," said Mable Semple. "I believe we're doing God's will, although our church has had a setback of its own. Sometimes we don't stop just because unfortunate things happen. I'm sorry about the fire, but it also could be a test where God wants to see where we go from here, to see if we're still going to take care of His people. "We don't let incidents stop us from serving God's people," she said, adding that as many as 119 families were served in just one day a week ago. "And we anticipate the number growing as we get closer to Thanksgiving Day." Mable said that while the campus didn't receive turkeys this year, they were just as fortunate to get an abundant supply of hams that were quickly given away. "We tried to get [Ward 8] Council member Trayon White to help get us some turkeys, but he never returned my call," she said. "I keep inviting him to come out here to see all the good we're
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34 NOVEMBER 28 -DECEMBER 4, 2019
In Loving Memory
McKinley Clark March 31, 1934 - December 1, 2018 Even after a year, our loss remains overwhelming, and is comforted only by God, Himself, who promised to be a Comforter of grieving hearts, close to the brokenhearted and a Savior to those who are crushed in spirit. Our love grows alongside our remembrances of a dynamic husband, father, grandfather, and most importantly, man of God. We thank all of you for your words and acts of kindness.
Lee Clark & Family
pus at 2525 12th Place SE. Howard said that while insurance will cover Congress Heights' water damage, church officials are having asbestos and mold checks done to ensure the building's safety. Meanwhile, Howard said BDM congregants feel blessed to have two sites, meaning that Congress Heights' services will not be interrupted, as its members can convene for worship Sundays at 11 a.m. at the AP Shaw Campus until they get the nod to resume activities at their own location. Both the food bank and clothes closet, which are open from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday and Thursdays, operate from the Congress Heights parsonage, which sits adjacent to the church at 421 Alabama Ave. SE. "The only requirement for receiving food and clothing is that those in need have to show some form of identification," said George Semple, adding that after this week, both services will be shuttered through Dec. 3. A man who only identified himself only as "Anthony" said he's been coming to the food pantry and clothes closet for the past three years. "It's been great. Good people work here," he said. "I think it's great that the church has suffered its own loss but is still reaching out to help the community." George and Mable Semple both nodded in agreement. "In spite of the fire, we've still been a backup serving the needy," Mable said. "As long as God gives us the breath, we will continue to serve the community." WI
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RELIGION the religion corner WITH LYNDIA GRANT
Thanksgiving in America: A Time for Family more than an American holiday. It is a condition of the heart. It is a sacrifice of the soul. It is a lifestyle choice. If you need a little encouragement for Thanksgiving, here are some choice Bible verses: O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good: for his mercy endureth forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so. — Psalms 107:1-2 (KJV)
Here in the United States, nearly 50 million people will travel to be with family and friends on Thanksgiving, a holiday when we all sit down to eat a scrumptious meal, usually with all of our favorite foods. However, it is my intent to remind each of us to be thankful for the quality of life the Lord has given us. Do we have good health? Are our families financially solvent? Do we have a roof over our heads? Finally, are we giving to someone who may be less fortunate than us? If we are giving thanks this week for being able to walk, talk, bathe and feed ourselves, then we are not taking these things for granted. Thanksgiving is probably my favorite. The food is incredible, the family gatherings are always fun, and the football games are plentiful. I can't think of a better way to spend a long weekend. But Thanksgiving is much 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”
This is one of my favorite verses about Thanksgiving because it goes beyond telling us to be thankful. We are instructed to say so, which is something, I think, we often forget to do. I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds. — Psalms 9:1 (NIV) So when we say so, what are we supposed to say? We are supposed to tell of all of God's wonderful
Do we have good health? Are our
families financially
solvent? Do we have a roof over our heads?
Finally, are we giving to someone who may be
less fortunate than us?
deeds and all He has done for us. We are to never be shy about sharing the goodness of our Lord. As we share of his goodness and mercy, we draw others unto Him. They begin to wonder if maybe they should come back to church so they can get some of that joy you are showing everywhere you go! They want to be blessed, and going down their current road, they know that they are not connected to any religion at all. They are beginning to feel sorrowful for the lifestyle they are living, and they want to do better. Does this sound like you? If yes, you can definitely change your life right this very minute. How do you do this? You bow your head and ask the Lord to forgive you of all of your sins. Ask Him to order your steps, to lead, guide and direct you. His Word is definitely true, what he has done for others, He will surely do for you, just have faith and believe! It all begins when you begin to feel thankful for everything in your life, even those things that don’t feel so good. Romans 8:28 says, "And I know that all things work together for good to them who love the Lord, and are called according to His purpose." When you read this Scripture, it will help you to know that even those things that happen in your life that feels horrible, are for your good. It is when God is molding you into the person He needs you to become. WI
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Mount Olivet Lutheran Church
John F. Johnson Reverend Dr. 1306 Vermont Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20005 Service and Times Divine Worship, Sunday 10:00 a.m. Communion 1st and 3rd Sunday “Friendliest Church in the City” Website: mountolivetdc.org Email: mtolivedc@gmail.com
www.mtzbcdc.org
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NOVEMBER 28 - DECEMBER 4, 2019 35
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 of Life Church
Pilgrim Baptist Church Rev. Louis B. Jones II Pastor 700 I Street, N.E. Washington, D.C. 20002 (202) 547-8849 Service and Times Worship Sundays: 7:30 & 11:00 AM 5th Sundays: 9:30 AM 3rd Sundays: Baptism & Holy Communion Prayer & Praise: Wednesdays @ Noon & 6:30 PM www.pilgrimbaptistdc.org
Covenant Baptist United Church of Christ
Church of Living Waters
Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church
Rev. Paul Carrette Senior Pastor
Rev. Dr. Michael E. Bell, Sr., Pastor
Rev. Dr. Alton W. Jordan Pastor
Reverend Dr. Calvin L. Matthews Senior Pastor
Harold Andrew Assistant Pastor
2498 Alabama Ave., SE - Washington D.C. 20020 Office: (202) 889-7296 Fax: (202) 889-2198 - www.acamec.org
800 I Street, NE - Washington, DC 20002 202-548-0707 - Fax No. 202-548-0703
4915 Wheeler Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 301-894-6464
Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 8:00am and 11:00 AM Sunday Church School - 9:15am & Sunday Adult Forum Bible Study 10:30 AM 2nd & 4th Monday Women’s Bible Study: 6:30 PM Tuesday Jr./Sr. Bible Study: 10:00 AM Tuesday Topical Bible Study: 6:30 PM Tuesday New Beginnings Bible Study: 6:30 PM Wednesday Pastoral Bible Study: 6:30 PM Wednesday Children’s Bible Study: 6:30 PM Thursday Men’s Bible Study: 6:30 PM Friday before 1st Sunday Praise & Worship Service: 6:30 PM Saturday Adult Bible Study: 10:00 AM “The Amazing, Awesome, Audacious Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church”
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
1200 Isle of Patmos Plaza, Northeast Washington, DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-6767 - Fax: (202) 526-1661
Service and Times Sunday Service: 8:30am& 11:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM Communion Service: First Sunday www.livingwatersmd.org
St. Stephen Baptist Church
Third Street Church of God
Dr. Dekontee L. & Dr. Ayele A. Johnson Pastors
Rev. Dr. Alice Greene Interim Pastor
Bishop Lanier C. Twyman, Sr. Senior Pastor
Rev. Cheryl J. Sanders, Th.D. Senior Pastor
4001 14th Street, NW Washington, DC 20011 (202) 265-6147 Office 1-800 576-1047 Voicemail/Fax
3845 South Capitol Street Washington, DC 20032 (202) 562-5576 (Office) (202) 562-4219 (Fax)
1204 Third Street, NW Washington, DC 20001 202-347-5889 office 202-638-1803 fax
Service and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 11:00 AM Communion Service: First Sunday Prayer Service/Bible Study: Tuesday, 6:30 PM
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
5757 Temple Hill Road, Temple Hills, MD 20748 Office 301-899-8885 – fax 301-899-2555 Services and Times Sunday Early Morning Worship: 7:45 AM Church School: 9:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship: 10:45 AM Tuesday: 7:00pm/Kingdom Building Bible Institute Wednesday , 12:30 PM Mid-Day Bible Study Wednesday: Prayer/Praise/Bible Study-7:30 PM Baptism & Communion Service: 4th Sunday – 10:30 AM
www.blessedwordoflifechurch.org E-mail: church@blessedwordoflifechurch.org
Campbell AME Church Rev. Dr. Henry Y. White 2562 MLK Jr. Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Adm. Office 202-678-2263 Email: Campbell@mycame.org Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 AM Sunday Church School: 8:45 AM Bible Study Wednesday: 12:00 Noon Wednesday: 7:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 PM “Reaching Up To Reach Out” Mailing Address Campbell AME Church 2502 Stanton Road SE - Washington, DC 20020
Turning Hearts Church Virgil K. Thomas, Sr. Senior Pastor/ Teacher 421 Alabama Ave. SE Washington, DC 20032 Phone: 202-746-0113 Fax: 301-843-2445 Service and Times Sunday School: 10:15 AM Sunday Worship Service: 11;15 AM Children’s Church: 11:15 AM Tuesday Bible Study: 6:30 PM Motto : “A Great Commitment to the Great Commandment” Website: www.turningheartschurchdc.org Email: gr8luv4u2@gmail.com
“An inclusive ministry where all are welcomed and affirmed.” www.covenantdc.org
“We are one in the Spirit” www.ssbc5757.org E-mail: ssbc5757@verizon.net
Services and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM Sunday Community Worship Service: 8:30 AM “Ambassadors for Christ to the Nation’s Capital” www.thirdstreet.org Live Stream Sunday Worship Service begins @ 12:00 noon www.thirdstreet.org
Crusader Baptist Church
E-mail: Crusadersbaptistchurch@verizon.net www.CrusadersBaptistChurch.org “God is Love”
Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church Bishop Alfred A. Owens, Jr.; Senior Bishop & Evangelist Susie C. Owens – Co-Pastor 610 Rhode Island Avenue, NE Washington, DC 20002 (202) 529-4547 office • (202) 529-4495 fax
Sunday Worship Service: 8:00 AM and 10:45 AM Sunday Youth Worship Services: 1st & 4th 10:45 AM; 804 R.I. Ave., NE 5th 8 AM & 10:45 AM; Main Church Prayer Services Tuesday – Noon, Wednesday 6:00 AM & 6:30 PM Calvary Bible Institute: Year-Round Contact Church Communion Every 3rd Sunday The Church in The Hood that will do you Good! www.gmchc.org emailus@gmchc.org
Isle of Patmos Baptist Church
Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM Holy Communion: 2nd Sunday at 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM Sunday Church School: 9:20 AM Seniors Bible Study: Tuesdays at 10:30 AM Noon Day Prayer Service: Tuesdays at Noon Bible Study: Tuesdays at 7 PM Motto: “A Ministry of Reconciliation Where Everybody is Somebody!” Website: http://isleofpatmosbc.org Church Email: ipbcsecretary@verizon.net
St Marks Baptist Come Worship with us... Dr. Raymond T. Matthews Pastor and First Lady Marcia Matthews St. Mark's Baptist Church 624 Underwood Street, NW Washington, dc 20011 Services and Times Sunday School: 9:00 AM Worship Service: 10:00 AM Wed. Noon Day prayer service Thur. Prayer service: 6:45 PM Thur. Bible Study: 7:15 PM
Twelfth Street Christian Church Reverend Dr. Paul H. Saddler Senior Pastor (Disciples of Christ) 1812 12th Street, NW - Washington, DC 20009 Phone: 202-265-4494 Fax: 202 265 4340 Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 AM Communion every Sunday: 11:00 AM Sunday School: 10:00 AM Bible Study Tuesday: 12 Noon Pastor’s Bible Study Tuesday: 6:30 PM Motto: “Discover Something Wonderful” Website: 12thscc.org Email: Twelfthstcc@aol.com
Mount Carmel Baptist Church
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
36 NOVEMBER 28 -DECEMBER 4, 2019
THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM
RELIGION Shabbath Commandment Church
All Nations Baptist Church
King Emmanuel Baptist Church
Bishop Adrian A. Taylor, Sr. Pastor
Rev. Dr. James Coleman Pastor
Rev. Daryl F. Bell Pastor
7801 Livingston Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 301-534-5471
2001 North Capitol St, N.E. - Washington, DC 20002 Phone (202) 832-9591
2324 Ontario Road, NW Washington, DC 20009 (202) 232-1730
Service and Times Sabbath School 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 AM Service 11:00 AM Praise & Worship Preaching 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM Motto: “A Church Keeping It Real for Real.” Website: Shabbathcommandmentchruch.org Email: Praisebetoyhwh@gmail.com
Zion Baptist Church Rev. Keith W. Byrd, Sr. Pastor 4850 Blagdon Ave, NW - Washington D.C 20011 Phone (202) 722-4940 - Fax (202) 291-3773 Service and Times 9:00 a.m. – Sunday School 10:15 a.m. – Worship Service Wed. Noon: Dea. Robert Owens Bible Study 7 PM Pastor’s Bible Study Ordinance of Baptism 2nd Sunday, Holy Communion 4th Sunday Mission: Zion shall: Enlist Sinners, Educate Students, Empower the Suffering, Encourage the Saints, And Exalt our Savior. (Acts 2: 41-47) www.zionbaptistchurchdc.org
St. Luke Baptist Church Rev. Aubrey C. Lewis Pastor 1415 Gallatin Street, NW Washington, DC 20011-3851 P: (202) 726-5940 Service and Times Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM Sunday School: 9:15 AM Holy Communion: 11:00 a.m., 3rd Sun. Bible Institute: Wednesday - 1:30 PM Prayer Meeting: Wednesday - 12:00 Noon
Service and Times Sunday Church School – 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service – 11:00 AM Holy Communion – 1st Sunday at 11:00 AM Prayer – Wednesdays, 6:00 PM Bible Study – Wednesdays, 7:00 PM Christian Education School of Biblical Knowledge Saturdays, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM, Call for Registration Website: www.allnationsbaptistchurch.com All Nations Baptist Church – A Church of Standards
Israel Baptist Church
Reverend Peter R. Blue Sr. Pastor St. Matthews Baptist Church 2001 Brooks Drive District Heights MD. 20744 240.838.7074 Service and Times Sunday Worship Experience: 10:15am Sunday School: 9:00am Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday Morning Noontime Bible Study: Tuesday @ 12:00pm Prayer Meeting/Bible Study: Tuesday @7:00pm Theme: "Building On A Firm Foundation" Email: revprbstmbc@gmail.com Website: www.stmatthewsbaptist.org
Dr. Earl D. Trent Senior Pastor
Rev. Dr. George C. Gilbert 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
4504 Gault Place, N.E. Washington, D.C 20019 202-397-7775 – 7184
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
“Where Jesus is the King”
Sermon On The Mount Temple Of Joy Apostolic Faith
Lincoln Park United Methodist Church Rev. Richard B. Black Pastor
Elder Herman L. Simms Pastor
1251 Saratoga Ave., NE Washington, DC 20018 (202) 269-0288
1301 North Carolina Ave. N E Washington, D C 20002 202 543 1318 - lincolnpark@lpumcdc.org www.lpumcdc.org
5606 Marlboro Pike District Heights, MD 20747 301-735-6005
Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:45 AM Sunday School: 9:15 AM Holy Communion1st Sunday: 10:45 AM Prayer Service: Wednesday at 6:30 PM Bible Study: Wednesday at 7:00 PM Bible Study: Tuesday at 10:30 AM
Mount Moriah Baptist Church
Service and Times Sunday Worship: 10:00 AM Holy Communion: First Sunday 10:00 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday @ 12 noon and 6:30 PM Motto: "Faith On The Hill"
Service and Times Sunday Apostolic Worship Services 11:00 A.M and 5:00 PM Communion and Feet Wash 4th Sunday at 5:00 PM Prayer/Seeking: Wednesday at 8:00 PM Apostolic in Doctrine, Pentecostal in Experience, Holiness in Living, Uncompromised and Unchanged. The Apostolic Faith is still alive –Acts 2:42
New Commandment Baptist Church
Eastern Community Baptist Church
Dr. Lucius M. Dalton Senior Pastor
Damion M. Briggs Pastor
1636 East Capitol Street, NE Washington, DC 20003 Telephone: 202-544-5588 - Fax: 202-544-2964
8213 Manson Street Landover, MD 20785 Tel: (301) 322-9787 Fax: (301) 322-9240
13701 Old Jericho Park Road Bowie, MD. 20720 (301) 262-0560
Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 7:45 AM and 10:45 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sundays at 7:45 AM & 10:45 AM Sunday School: 9:30 AM Prayer & Praise Service: Tuesdays at 12 noon & 6:30 PM Bible Study: Tuesdays at 1 pm and 7 PM Youth Bible Study: Fridays at 7 PM
Service and Times Early Morning Message: 7:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 10:00 AM Sunday Church School: 9:00 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday 7:30 AM & 10:00 AM Prayer, Praise and Testimony: Wednesday 7:00 PM Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM
Service and Times Sunday Worship: 11 AM Sunday School: 10 AM Wednesday Mid-Week Worship, Prayer & Bible Study: Wed. 7 PM
Rehoboth Baptist Church Rev. Curtis l. Staley Pastor 621 Alabama Ave., S.E.- Washington, D.C. 20032 P: (202) 561-1111 - F: (202) 561-1112 Service and Times Sunday Service: 10:00 AM Sunday School for all ages: 8:30 AM 1st Sunday Baptism: 10:00 AM 2nd Sunday Holy Communion:10:00 AM Tuesday: Bible Study: 6:30 PM Prayer Meeting: 7:45 PM Motto: “Where God is First and Where Friendly People Worship”
“Real Worship for Real People” Website: www.easterncommunity.org Email: ecc@easterncommunity.org
Rev. Stephen E. Tucker Senior Pastor
“A Church Where Love Is Essential and Praise is Intentional”
Foggy Bottom - Founded in 1867 728 23rd Street, NW - Washington, DC 20037 Church office: 202-333-3985 - Fax : 202-338-4958
Shiloh Baptist Church
Matthews Memorial Baptist Church Dr. Joseph D. Turner Senior Pastor 2616 MLK Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Office 202-889-3709 - Fax 202-678-3304 Service and Times Early Worship Service: 8:00 AM Worship Service: 11:00 AM New Member’s Class: 9:45 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday, 11:00 AM Church School: 9:45 AM Wednesday 12:00pm Bible Study Prayer, Praise and Bible Study: 7:00 PM Saturday Bible Study: 11:00 AM Baptism 4th Sunday: 11:00 AM
Christ Embassy DC
Kelechi Ajieren Coordinator 6839 Eastern Avenue, R1 Takoma Park, MD 20912 (202) 556-7065 Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 AM Wednesday Bible Study: 7:00 PM Friday Evening Service: 7:00 PM ; Last Friday “…Giving Your Life a Meaning” www.Christembassydc.org Christ.embassy.dc@hotmail.com
“Empowered to love and Challenged to Lead a Multitude of Souls to Christ”
Peace Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Michael T. Bell 712 18th Street, NE Washington, DC 20002 Phone 202-399-3450/ Fax 202-398-8836 Service and Times Sunday Early Morning Prayer & Bible Study Class: 8:00 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 10:00 AM Wednesday Service: 12:00 PM
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
“The Loving Church of the living lord “
First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church
Mt. Horeb Baptist Church
Rev. Dr. Wallace Charles Smith Pastor
Rev. Oran W. Young Pastor
Rev. Dr. H. B. Sampson, III Pastor
9th & P Street, N.W. - W. D.C. 20001 (202) 232-4288
602 N Street NW - Washington, D.C. 20001 Office:(202) 289-4480 Fax: (202) 289-4595
2914 Bladensburg Road, NE Wash., DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-3180 - Fax: (202) 529-7738 Service and Times Worship Service: 7:30 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Worship Service: 10:30 AM Holy Communion: 4th Sunday 7:30AM & 10:30 AM Prayer Services:Tuesday 7:30 PM. Wednesday 12 Noon
www.stmarysfoggybottom.org Email: stmarysoffice@stmarysfoggybottom.org
Service and Times First Sunday Worship Service (one service): 10:00 AM Second, Third, Fourth, and Fifth Sunday Worship service: 7:45 AM and 10:55 AM Sunday Church School/Bible Study: 9:30 AM Thursday Prayer Service: 6:30 PM
All are welcome to St. Mary’s to Learn, Worship, and Grow.
Email: sbc@shilohbaptist.org Website: shilohbaptist.org
Service and Times Sundays: 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist with Music and Hymns Wednesdays: 12:10 p.m. - Holy Eucharist
Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 10:00 AM Sunday Church School: 8:45 – 9:45 AM Holy Communion: Every First Sunday Intercessory Prayer: Monday – 7:00-8:00 PM Pastor’s Bible Study: Wednesday –7:45 PM Midweek Prayer: Wednesday – 7:00 PM Noonday Prayer Every Thursday
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
Email Address: admin@pbc712.org
Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church The Rev. E. Bernard Anderson Priest
Holy Trinity United Baptist Church
Florida Avenue Baptist Church
Reverend Christopher L. Nichols Pastor
Rev. Reginald M. Green Interim Pastor
Web: www.mountmoriahchurch.org Email: mtmoriah@mountmoriahchurch.org
St. Matthews Baptist Church
Service and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 AM Baptismal Service: 1st Sunday – 9:30 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday – 11:00 AM Prayer Meeting & Bible Study: Wednesday -7:30 PM
Emmanuel Baptist Church
WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
Service and Times Sunday School for All Ages: 8:00 AM Sunday Worship Services: 9:30 AM Midday Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 11:30AM Evening Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 7:00 PM Laymen's League: Thursday 7:00 PM Email: Froffice@firstrising.org Website: www.firstrising.org “Changing Lives On Purpose “
Email:mthoreb@mthoreb.org Website:www.mthoreb.org For further information, please contact me at (202) 529-3180.
NOVEMBER 28 - DECEMBER 4, 2019 37
LEGAL NOTICES Legal Notice William W. Crocker Decedent
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICES
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2019 ADM 001106
2019 ADM 001146
2019 ADM 001075
2019 ADM 001083 Walter K. Angevine aka Walter Angevine aka Walter King Angevine Decedent
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Rosemary Tate, whose address is 761 Quebec Place, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20010, is the personal representative of the estate of William W. Crocker who died April 15, 2002 without a will and will serve without court supervision. All unknown heirs and whose whereabouts are unknown. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned on or before 12/19/2019 or forever be barred. Persons believed to be heirs to the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.
Melvin T. L. Wilson Decedent
Sheila E. Jackson Decedent
Tafaraji Allen Decedent
Deborah D. Boddie, Esq. Probate Law DC 1308 Ninth Street, NW Suite 300 Washington, DC 20001 Attorney
Howard Haley, Esq. The Haley Firm, PC 7600 Georgia Ave., NW #405 Washington, DC 20012 Attorney
Brian Gormley 10605 Concord Street Suite 420 Kensington, MD 20895 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Date of first publication: 10/3/2019
Melvin Craig Wilson, whose address is 711 57th Place, NE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Melvin T. L. Wilson who died on August 13, 2019 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/7/2020. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/7/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.
Sheila E. Jenkins, whose address is 2213 Gaylord Drive, Suitland, MD 20746, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Sheila E. Jackson who died on May 9, 2008 without a Will, and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/7/2020. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/7/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.
Date of first publication: 11/7/2019
Date of first publication: 11/7/2019
Melvin Craig Wilson Personal Representative
Sheila E. Jenkins Personal Representative
Rosemary Tate Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Register of Wills
TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills Washington Informer
Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2019 ADM 001152
2019 ADM 001076
2019 ADM 480
Betty B. Robinson Decedent
Essie M. Sims aka Essie Mae Sims Decedent
Herman C. Oglesby aka Herman Cecil Oglesby Decedent
Bobby G. Henry, Jr. 9701 Apollo Drive, Suite 100 Largo, Maryland 20774 Attorney
Caren M. Webb, Esq. 1308 Ninth Street, NW Suite 250 Washington, DC 20001 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Jan Turso Robinson, whose address is 1245 DuBois Avenue, Richmond, VA 23220, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Betty B. Robinson who died on March 8, 2019 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/14/2020. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/14/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.
Agnes Batts, whose address is 130 Adler Lane, Goldsboro, NC 27530, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Essie M. Sims aka Essie Mae Sims who died on February 16, 2019 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/14/2020. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/14/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.
Nina Smallwood-Johnson, whose address is 7806 Cryden Way, Forestville, MD 20747, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Herman C. Oglesby aka Herman Cecil Oglesby who died on January 29, 2019 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/14/2020. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/14/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.
Date of first publication: 11/14/2019 Jan Turso Robinson Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills Washington Informer
Agnes Batts Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills Washington Informer
Taylor Allen, whose address is 2128 Turley Green Place, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Tafaraji Allen who died on September 14, 2019 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/7/2020. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/7/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/7/2019 Taylor Allen Personal Representative
Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills Washington Informer
Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
Date of first publication: 11/14/2019
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
TRUE TEST COPY TRUE TEST COPY
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
Johnny M. Howard 1001 Connecticut Avenue, NW Suite 402 Washington, DC 20036 Attorney
LEGAL NOTICES
Date of first publication: 11/14/2019 Nina Smallwood-Johnson Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2019 ADM 001161 Melvin Frank Graves, Jr. Decedent Aimee D. Griffin 5335 Wisconsin Avenue, NW Suite 440 Washington, DC 20015 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Marni Graves, whose address is 1015 Jansen Avenue, Capitol Heights, MD 20743, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Melvin Frank Graves, Jr. who died on September 19, 2019 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/14/2020. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/14/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/14/2019
Jeffrey K. Gordon, Esq. 5335 Wisconsin Avenue, NW #700 Washington, DC 20015 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS James Angevine, whose address is 5109 41st Street, NW, Washington, DC 20016, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Walter K. Angevine aka Walter Angevine aka Walter King Angevine who died on August 31, 2019 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/7/2020. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/7/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/7/2019 James Angevine Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills Washington Informer SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2019 ADM 001149 William C. Catoe, Jr. Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Charles Thornton, whose address is 1400 Carrollsburg Place, SW, Washington, DC 20024, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of William C. Catoe, Jr. who died on October 26th, 2018 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/14/2020. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/14/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/14/2019 Charles Thornton Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills Washington Informer
Marni Graves Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills Washington Informer
38 NOVEMBER 28 -DECEMBER 4, 2019
THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICES
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2019 ADM 1089
2019 ADM 001092
Jeannine S. Ballard Decedent
Allen Johnson aka Allen D. Johnson aka Allen Demont Johnson aka Allen Demar Johnson Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Michelle R. Ballard, whose address is 6018 Black Bear Ct., Waldorf, MD 20603, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jeannine S. Ballard, who died on July 1, 2016 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/21/2020. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/21/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/21/2019
Janet W. Blassingame, Esq. 1413 K Street, NW, Suite 1500 Washington, DC 20005 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Adelaida Johnson, whose address is 652 Franklin St., NE, Washington, DC 20017, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Allen Johnson aka Allen D. Johnson aka Allen Demont Johnson aka Allen Demar Johnson who died on July 20, 2019 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/21/2020. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/21/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/21/2019
Michelle R. Ballard Personal Representative
Adelaida Johnson Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills
Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills
Washington Informer
Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2019 ADM 001179 Jean Elizabeth Lightfoot Decedent Paula Mattson-Sarli, Esq. 8957A Edmonston Road Greenbelt, Maryland 20770 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Lori A. Duke, whose address is 5223 South Dakota Avenue, NE, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jean Elizabeth Lightfoot who died on October 14, 2019 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/21/2020. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/21/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/21/2019 Lori A. Duke Personal Representative
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KIRWAN from Page 12 mula for the state would provide $2.8 billion by 2030 and the counties and Baltimore City about $1.2 billion for a total for $4 billion. The goal would be to expand early childhood education, incorporate college and career readiness standards and provide additional tutoring and support for students in kindergarten through third grade. Several Prince George's teachers and officials have ideas on what to spend the money on. Michele Clark, a pre-kindergarten special education teacher at Kenmoor Early Childhood Center in Landover, said school renovation and expansion would provide more space for children. It would especially benefit her classroom because it's an inclusion classroom with general education students. State data shows Prince George's houses the third-oldest school buildings in the state, with more than half at least 50 years old. "Most of our schools are overcrowded, so it's a big deal for everyone," she said. "We talk about reducing class sizes. Well, where are going to put those extra classes? We don't have the space … that will benefit all children." School board member Belinda Queen rattled off several schools in her fourth district the state money could benefit, including Central High School and Capitol Heights, William Paca
and Doswell Brooks elementary EDUCATION from Page 12 ZONING om Page 13 schools. Queen plans to coordinate a statement the proposal didn't better understand of how the law other community leaders and offer how to pay for the recom- works. It even helps experienced possibly organize high school mendations and would cost more planners to read and interpret it students to travel to Annapolis than $30 billion. much easier." when the General Assembly sesWhen the county council "Local leaders agree with me sion begins Jan. 8. — they will not support the bil- officially approved the zoning "We need to organize talking lions in crippling state and local ordinance in October 2018, it points and have some of us go to tax increases that would be re- decreased the zoning districts the sessions," she said. "We need quired," Hogan said in a state- from 73 to 43. In addition, it to keep an eye on [state lawmak- ment. "Some good ideas have consolidated the uses from 1,200 ers] to let them know we want been discussed, but the commis- to 250. more money sent back to our sion mostly focused on simply For example, in the county's schools." increasing spending, rather than District 6 area overseen by CounLast week, the school board real accountability measures and cilman Derrick Leon Davis, the approved its legislative priorities better results for our children." zones are expected to decrease that includes support for the State Sen. Bill Ferguson from 47 to 25. commission's plan. Although all 15 Metro stations (D-Baltimore City), who fellow Board member K. Alexander Democrats in his chamber nom- in the county would become a Wallace asked to add lawmak- inated to become the next Senate transit-oriented zoning districts, ers backing for the state's four president in January, had a mes- the Largo Town Center station historically Black colleges and sage for Hogan. would be one of three labeled as universities, especially since the "I want to invite Gov. Hogan a downtown regional area with county houses one in Bowie and his administration to meet high intensity. State. The partial definition described with us, the General Assembly, HBCU alumni and supporters to ensure that they don't miss the area as "vibrant, mixed-use held a rally this month in Annap- out on this once-in-a-generation centers intended to capture the olis to tell Gov. Larry Hogan to opportunity," Ferguson said. "I majority of the county's future end a 13-year lawsuit and pro- have every confidence in the gov- residential and employment vide more than the $200 million ernor to join us at the table to do growth and development." settlement offer he provided for something that is lasting, that's Besides apartments and condothe HBCUs. miniums near the Largo station bipartisan, that is sustainable." "A lot of our educators and that officials say fit the "downWI principals and administrators come from [HBCUs]," said Become a Published Author with Dorrance. Wallace, who graduated from We want to read your book! predominately white institutions, Towson University and Our staff is made up of Complete Book the University of Baltimore, both writers, just like you. We are in Maryland. "We need to have Publishing Services a letter of support for whatever dedicated to making publishing FIVE EASY STEPS legislation comes forward in sup- dreams come true. Trusted by TO PUBLICATION: authors for nearly 100 years, port of those HBCUs." Dorrance has made countless 1. Consultation 4. Distribution WI authors’ dreams come true. 2. Book Production 5. Merchandising 3. Promotion
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town" image, construction of the $543 million University of Maryland Capital Region Medical Center plans to be completed by 2021. The county also integrated modern technology for residents to view their properties online to determine what has been zoned. There's also a brochure that highlights the countywide map amendment along with examples of current and proposed zones to provide mixed-use development. Residents also view businesses such as Rivertowne Commons in Oxon Hill plans to become zoned a "neighborhood activity center," which would allow for an integrated use of commercial and residential development. Carmen Mack of Oxon Hill said looking at the maps didn't help her comprehend the new zoning areas. However, when she went on the website and began reviewing some of the colorful documents and photos, it became easier to read. "I want smart economic growth in my community," said Mack, who's lived in the Oxon Hill area for about 45 years. "I want nice, sit-down restaurants. I want healthy food choices. I am concerned about how development is going to change my community." Council chair Todd Turner (D-District 4) of Bowie attended Saturday's session and said it's possible the council could approve the countywide map with the new zones by next year. "The new zoning ordinance allows for more flexibility, where it's appropriate." he said. "The future is kind of this mixed-use development. We are trying to bring our code up to the 21st century." WI
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the power to do, just in proportion as I use the capacities with which Nature, the All-Mother, has endowed me. "I transmit to the child who is bone of my bone, flesh of my flesh and thought of my thought; somewhat of my own power or weakness. Is not the voice which
is crying out for 'Votes for Mothers' the Spirit of the Age crying out for the Rights of Children?" Information from 'The Crisis Magazine,' Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, and the League of Women Voters of Delaware County (Indiana), was used in this story. WI
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under which she lives, should feel responsible for the conduct of educational systems, charitable and correctional institutions, public sanitation and municipal ordinances in general. "Who should be more competent to control the presence of bar rooms and 'red-light districts' than mothers whose sons they are meant to lure to degradation and death? "Who knows better than the girl's mother at what age the girl may legally barter her own body? Surely not the men who have put upon our statute books, 16, 14, 12, aye be it to their eternal shame, even 10 and 8 years, as 'the age of consent!' "If men could choose their own mothers, would they choose free women or bondwomen? Disfranchisement because of sex is curiously like disfranchisement because of color. It cripples the individual, it handicaps progress, it sets a limitation upon mental and spiritual development. "I grow in breadth, in vision, in
And the truth is, nature doesn't give us what we need to survive — we must create it through energy development.
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cook and have relied on flashlights and oil-burning lamps for lighting. And with classes canceled again many parents had to rearrange their livers for child care. We live in the 21st century in the richest country in the world, and nobody here should be without electricity. And the truth is, nature doesn't give us what we need to survive — we must create it through energy development. Oil and natural gas have allowed us to create a life that Americans have grown to appreciate, thanks to innovations from pharmaceuticals to agriculture to mobile devices. We are better off now than ever before and politicians shouldn't deny our comfort and prosperity to the least fortunate among us. WI
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risy that's inane, and here's why. Booming shale production helped the U.S. overtake Saudi Arabia and Russia to become the world's top oil exporter for the first time ever this year. And it begs the question: how can our natural resources be worthy enough to supply other countries, but not good enough for us here at home? We need market-oriented energy policy that will allow America to keep exploring innovative technology like seismic surveys to develop our resources safely and follow the example of environmental stewardship set by areas like Port Fourchon, Louisiana. The port serves as a major oil and gas
hub on the Gulf Coast with some of the largest boat and marine companies in the world operating from there. It's also a commercial and fishing Mecca that continues to amaze scientists and researchers from around the world. During the California blackout, many residents are not able to
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sistence of racism. It is as if they ignore the headlines about the police shootings of Black men. It is as if the wealth gap means nothing to them. So, what do we learn from the last elections? Democrats have a chance to defeat some Republicans and may yet prevail in the 2020 elections. But race remains a divisive factor in our country. And unfortunately, we have a president who will use race divisiveness to his advantage. Count on the 2020 election to be as contentious as the 2016 election was, but hopefully with different results. WI
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cent Gallup poll showed that a majority of white people in this country narrowly favor affirmative action, with 65 percent advocating affirmative action for women and 61 percent supporting affirmative action for minorities. These levels of support are the highest since Gallup began polling on this issue. Perhaps the recent focus on the wealth gap has sensitized some people to inequality. In any case, as positive as the poll was, it didn't translate to the vote. The affirmative action loss is bad news because it may signal
other states to avoid pro-affirmative action referenda. Further, the loss confirms that many are satisfied with the lack of diversity that is commonplace in politics, the workplace and elsewhere. And, given the composition of this Supreme Court, challenges to affirmative action that come before them are likely to weaken efforts to encourage diversity in employment, contracting and education. Several of the justices have already openly opined that race should matter less. Their overturning of Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act is evidence of their race myopia. It is as if these judges are oblivious to the per-
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the District of Columbia, the regulatory reach of these two agencies is significant. OCC supervises an estimated 1,400 national banks, federal savings associations and federal branches and agencies of foreign banks that operate in the United States. Approximately 4,000 banks chartered by the states or by the federal government fall under FDIC's supervision. It is also the back-up supervisor for uninsured banks and thrifts. Each regulator is governed by a five-member Board of Directors, appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. And now, both agency actions appear to run counter to their stated missions. According to OCC's web, the agency "ensures that national banks and federal savings associations operate in a safe and sound manner, provide fair access to financial services, treat customers fairly, and apply with applicable laws and regulations." Similarly, FDIC "preserves
CALDWELL from Page 25
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messages with "Guccifer 2.0" which was a front for Russian intelligence operatives. These Russian intelligence operatives stole and leaked emails from senior Democrats, throwing the party and election into turmoil at the height of the 2016 campaign. Stone also claimed to have communicated with Julian Assange, owner of WikiLeaks, who published the Democratic emails. With this new information and conviction, it is obvious that prosecutors are still working on Trump's Russian corruption with
ASKIA from Page 25 real war criminals who were guilty of despicable acts in uniform, and before his "I know more than the generals" boasts, the U.S. military was already the single largest polluter on earth. That's the U.S. "normal" which 45 upset with his topsy-turvy, Twitter-based leadership. Getting rid of Trump will save the republic from fascism, all right, but that would just take us back to that loathsome "normal" condition. Folks — especially the white folks who had to go against their tribal consensus that at last White Jesus blessed America with Trump, a white man who will stand up for what matters to
For consumer advocates, there is nothing safe or sound about predatory lending.
Enterprise Corporation serves Southern consumers residing in Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee. "It is even more troubling that the OCC and FDIC proposals come as the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is separately considering a proposal to repeal protections for payday loans, car title loans, and other high-cost loans," Standaert said. Lauren Saunders, associate director of the National Consumer Law Center, noted that in 2010 in the Dodd-Frank Act, "Congress limited the bank regulators' authority to preempt state consumer protection laws, yet the OCC and FDIC are ignoring those limits." Rebecca Borné, senior policy counsel at the Center for Responsible Lending, agreed. "Voters of both parties overwhelmingly support limiting interest rates to 36% or lower, and we encourage all to speak up loudly against the proposal to let banks help predatory lenders charge rates that voters have said should be illegal," Borné said. WI
the 2016 election. Rick Gates' testimony in Stone's trial proved that Trump had welcomed the release of hacked documents in the 2016 election. "Gates testified he had witnessed Trump take an evening phone call from Stone as they rode to New York's LaGuardia Airport from Trump Tower in late July 2016. Stone and Trump apparently discussed WikiLeaks' planned release of hacked Democratic emails," says CNN Politics reporter Katelyn Polantz. They thought these stolen emails was a gift. In written answers to questions
to Mueller, Trump does not remember taking a call from Roger Stone and talking about hacked information from WikiLeaks. Stone sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 6. Back in 2016, Stone stated that he had not broken any laws, and Mueller's investigation was a witch hunt. But in November 2019, Roger Stone has been convicted, and the investigation was more than a witch hunt. He may turn state or federal evidence to receive a shorter sentence, based on what he knows. Why is Trump's corruption ring still supporting their boss? WI
white people — will be so weary after battling the enormous forces propping up this regime, that they may not be ready to continue the fight for climate justice and economic equality, an end to endless military interventions and much, much more. If some folks realized how hard it will be to get that man out of office, they might abandon the cause. But if they knew that just getting rid of The Donald alone, and saving the nation from an imminent fascist takeover — as difficult and back-breaking as that will be — if they knew that would not be enough to save this wicked nation from its eventual destruction, then they might not fight to get this grifter out of office
before he gets everybody killed. That would be unfortunate. Trump and Trumpism must be opposed and defeated. But those are just slogans masking the true disease: racism, sexism, materialism, xenophobia and all other manners of exploitation. But the comfort, the sense of entitlement and privilege that go with Americanism, however may be too intoxicating for the privileged — even those poor and non-whites at the very end of the line and at the bottom of the heap — to willingly surrender, not even to save their own lives. Trump certainly needs to go, but the True Reformers must not stop there, not if they want a real future for this society. WI
and promotes public confidence in the U.S. financial system by insuring deposits in banks and thrift institutions for at least $250,000; by identifying, monitoring and addressing risks to the deposit insurance funds; and by limiting the effect on the economy and the financial system when a bank or thrift institution fails." For consumer advocates, there is nothing safe or sound about predatory lending. "Rather than facilitating highcost loans, OCC and FDIC should be doing more to ensure banks better serve our people and communities," said Diane Standaert, director of the Hope Policy Institute, that along with its parent organization, Hope
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Coupon doesn’t apply. Doorbusters available while supplies last. †Non-certified rubies are lead-glass filled. ‡All carat weights (ct. t.w.) are approximate; variance may be .05 carat. Photos may be enlarged or enhanced to show detail. Fine jewelry at select stores; visit macys.com for locations. Small appliances, cookware & pillows shown carry the manufacturer’s warranty; for details see a Store Colleague. Advertised merchandise may not be carried at your local Macy’s & selection may vary by store.
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