The Washington Informer - November 30, 2023 by The Washington Informer

Serving Our Community in the DMV

Recruitment Fair Attracts Returning Citizens, Youth, and Workforce Development Professionals By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer Alchristopher Allen counted among several job seekers who recently converged on the D.C. Armory in search of jobs, educational opportunities, and social services. For hours, during what was called the “2023 Citywide Jobs Not Guns Recruitment Fair,” Allen walked around the armory auditorium, spoke with recruiters and gathered information about possible avenues of employment. Allen said he attended the recruitment fair after learning about it from

staff members at Career Shop DC, a local workforce development program. His ultimate goal, he told The Informer, was being able to support himself and his eight-year-old daughter. Allen, a returning citizen who lives in Northeast, said he dreamt at one point of becoming a fitness instructor. However, he’s since tabled that goal, setting his sights on what he described as stable and lucrative employment. When The Informer caught up with Allen, he was waiting in line to speak with a job recruiter representing Metro.

RECRUITMENT Page 48

Vol 59 No 7..., November 30 – December 6, 2023

Center Section

5 Dietrich Trent of D.C. Central Kitchen provides assistance to an applicant during the 2023 Jobs Not Guns Citywide Recruitment Fair at the D.C. Armory. (Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

Five Public Servants Vie for Ward 7 D.C. Council Seat

In Memoriam: Baba Oduno A. Tarik

Ward 7 residents, civic leaders, and business owners currently have their sights on the Fletcher-Johnson project, RFK campus, streetcar expansion, economic development, health equity, and school modernization as hot-button issues. How they weather the storm in these areas of concern depends, in large part, on who represents Ward 7 on the D.C. Council over the next few years.

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

VEDA RASHEED GIVES IT ANOTHER GO

Rasheed, an attorney, mother and lifelong Ward 7 resident, is in her second run for the Ward 7 council seat. In 2020, she accumulated 22.8% of the votes in an unsuccessful bid for

WARD 7 Page 9 (Courtesy Photo)

HU Skate Club & D.C.’s Skate Scene

Don't Miss This Month's WI Bridge

November 2023. Volume 9. Issue 11.

RECIPIENT OF THE DC BLACK MBA ASSOCIATION 2023 LEGACY AWARD

D.C. Community Honors Towering Garveyite and Master Teacher

Black people of various political, religious and cultural backgrounds continue to celebrate the life and legacy of Baba Oduno A. Tarik, a prominent Garveyite, master teacher and horticulturist who died on Nov. 22 at the age of 76. For nearly 60 years, Tarik, affectionately known as Baba Oduno, maintained a significant presence in the D.C. metropolitan area, and other U.S. cities, among Nationalists, Pan-Africanists, Christians, Muslims, African spiritualists, Rastafari brethren and sistren, and all those in between.

TARIK Page 48

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

5 The late Baba Oduno A. Tarik, a prominent Garveyite, master teacher and horticulturist. (Courtesy Photo)

2 NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023

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wi hot topics

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

Sean “Diddy” Combs Temporarily Steps Aside as Chairman of Revolt Amidst Sexual Assault Allegations Sean “Diddy” Combs, the iconic hip-hop mogul and co-founder of Revolt, the music-oriented television network, has announced a temporary step back from his role as chairman. The decision comes in the aftermath of three lawsuits levying serious allegations of sexual assault against Combs. It also came a week after the first Revolt-related public condemnation of Combs came from Dawn Montgomery, a Black Press reporter, podcaster. In a bold announcement on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Montgomery announced her resignation from Revolt as a podcaster on the network. She expressed her inability to be part of an organization led by someone facing such serious accusations. Montgomery, a survivor of sexual assault, emphasized the importance of believing Black women. “I won’t be signing on to do the [third] season

of @revolttv’s ‘Monuments To Me’ podcast,” Montgomery wrote. “I am a SA survivor [and] I cannot be a part of a show that’s supposed to uplift Black women while [Diddy] leads the company,” she wrote, adding, “Believe Black women.” The first lawsuit against Combs, filed by singer and former partner Casandra “Cassie” Ventura, accused the Bad Boy founder of rape, sexual assault, physical assault, and sex trafficking. Combs, through his attorney, vehemently denied the allegations and emphasized that his settlement should not be construed as an admission of wrongdoing. Another lawsuit, filed under the New York Adult Survivors Act by Joi Dickerson-Neal, alleges that Combs drugged, sexually assaulted, and abused her, further claiming to be a victim of revenge porn. Read more on www.washingtoninformer.com. WI

Shortly before Thanksgiving, Washington Wizards players served up holiday cheer by distributing warm meals and grocery store gift cards on Nov. 18. The players, alongside leadership from the Wizards, Mystics, and Capital City GoGo– the local professional basketball teams– took to Eagle Academy Public Charter School to spread smiles and distribute “Thankful Meals,” presented by Monumental Basketball and the Kyle Kuzma Family Foundation. “I hope this can put smiles on peoples’ faces, giving them experiences – because I grew up in Flint, Michigan. It wasn’t much going on. This is probably a big deal. This is something that – get out of your house, get out of your environment, and forget about your real life a little bit,” said Kuzma about his involvement in the giveaway. “Hopefully this is something that people will remember, especially in this area.” Rookie Bilal Coulibaly, point guard Tyus Jones, center

Daniel Gafford and forward Anthony Gill were also present for the giveaway. Jones, Gafford and Gill were joined by their wives. Eagle Academy, founded in 2003 by Cassandra S. Pinkney, Dr. Joe Smith, and a diverse group of education, business, and medical leaders, was the first Washington, D.C., charter school focused on early childhood education and catering to children with special needs. Some of the other features that define the Eagle Academy include an on-site pool and swimming lessons for every student, a sensory room for students with special needs, and a “Dean of Positive Behavior.” Eagle Academy operates two campuses in Washington, D.C.-- one in Congress Heights and another in the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood. WI

Kyle Kuzma Foundation, Wizards Team Up for Food Giveaway At Eagle Academy

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

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

4 NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023

Judge Awards Aretha Franklin’s Property to Her Sons A Michigan judge has allocated properties owned by the late legendary soul singer Aretha Franklin to her sons based on a 2014 handwritten will discovered between couch cushions. The decision came after a jury in the Detroit area affirmed the document’s validity four months ago, despite its somewhat messy appearance. The ruling replaces a prior 2010 handwritten will that had surfaced earlier in the estate proceedings. The judge’s ruling outlines that Kecalf Franklin will inherit a property mentioned in the 2010 will, now valued at more than its initial $1.1 million assessment in 2018. Another of Franklin’s sons, Ted White II, who favored the 2010 will, was granted ownership of a Detroit house. However, the estate sold the property for $300,000 before the emergence of conflicting wills. A third son, Edward Franklin, was awarded a property under the disputed 2014 will. Still, the judge noted a need for more clarity in the 2014 will regarding the recipient of a property valued at over $1

million. Despite the developments, disputes persist over handling Franklin’s music assets, with the will suggesting income sharing among her sons. During an upcoming January status conference, the parties will try to address unresolved matters in the ongoing saga of Franklin’s estate. “This was a significant step forward. We’ve narrowed the remaining issues,” Charles McKelvie, an attorney for Kecalf Franklin, told the Associated Press. The Queen of Soul, who died in 2018 at 76, sold more than 75 million records worldwide and left an indelible mark on the music industry with her powerful and soul-stirring voice. Her iconic career spanned several decades, and she became synonymous with hits like “Respect,” “Natural Woman,” and “Chain of Fools.” Franklin’s remarkable contributions earned her numerous accolades, including 18 Grammy Awards, making her one of the most awarded female artists in Grammy history. WI

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Music Veteran Bo Sampson Celebrates 60 Years By WI Staff More than 400 guests gathered to celebrate local music veteran Bo Sampson’s 60th birthday and wish him well on his soon-to-be released biography, “What Does Bo Do?” at an event on Oct. 19. The star-filled gathering included: DJ Kool, Sugar Bear of EU, Bella Dona, James Funk of Rare Essence, DJ Flexx, Stinky Dink, Prince Dajour, Peggy Body, comedians Huggy Low-Down, Timmy Hall and Da Party Crasherz, and celebrity make-up artist Derrick Rutledge. Final Draft, a new singing group, performed. “I am honored and humbled by the outpouring of love I received from family, friends and col-

leagues as I celebrated my recent milestone,” Sampson, founder and CEO of Bodacious One, said in a statement. The celebration was held at Ward 4’s The VIP Room, which Sampson and his family have owned since 1979, and the diverse fare came from four local restaurants: Ben’s Chili Bowl, Carolina Kitchen, Peaches Restaurant and DTG Barbecue. Ward 4 Council member Janeese Lewis-George (D) offered a proclamation in honor of Sampson and his contributions to the District. “The whole evening was filled with laughter, love, fun, and good vibes. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.” WI

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2

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

5Da Party Crasherz, character impersonators, pose with local music veteran Bo Sampson on Oct. 19. (Courtesy Photo)

5Celebrities including Prince Dajour, James Funk, DJ Kool, Sugar Bear of EU, Greg Diggs and Arthur “Maniac” McCloud, pose with Bo Sampson (center) at his 60th birthday celebration on Oct. 19. (Courtesy Photo)

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black facts

NOV. 30 - DEC. 6, 2023 SOURCE: BLACK AMERICA WEB

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

1847 – Frederick Douglass starts The North Star, an anti-slavery newspaper.

DEC. 4

1906 – Alpha Phi Alpha, the first Black Greek Letter fraternity, is founded at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York. 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.

DEC. 5

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1875 – Alexander P. Ashbourne patents an improved biscuit cutter. 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.

1784 – Phyllis Wheatley, the first published African American female poet, dies in Boston at 31. 1932 – Music icon Little Richard is born in Macon, Georgia. 1935 – Mary McLeod Bethune founds National Council of Negro Women in New York City. 1957 – New York became the first city to legislate against racial or religious discrimination in the housing market with adoption of Fair Housing Practices Law.

DEC. 6

1932 – Richard B. Spikes patents the automatic gearshift. 1949 – Blues legend Huddie "Leadbelly" Ledbetter dies in New York City at 60. WI

DEC. 1

1933 – Grammy-winning singer Lou Rawls is born in Chicago. 1940 – Iconic comedian Richard Pryor is born in 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

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.

6 NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023

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Pilot Study Confirms Air Pollution Hot Spots But Indicates Some Positive Signs By Kayla Benjamin WI Climate & Environment Reporter Way back in June, a handful of specially-equipped air monitoring cars spent two weeks driving around Ward 6’s Buzzard Point, Ward 7’s Mayfair, and Ward 5’s Ivy City and Brentwood neighborhoods. Earlier this month, officials from the D.C. Department of Energy and the Environment (DOEE) shared the results from that pilot study at a public meeting. The monitoring cars provided more documentation of what environmental justice advocates and researchers have known for years: air quality can differ by a lot, even within a single neighborhood. That means some people face far more exposure than others based on where they live, work or play on a regular basis. “I wasn’t [surprised],” Sebrena Rhodes, advisory neighborhood commissioner for Ivy City, said. “We already know that Ivy City has a big pollution issue.” The air quality monitoring vehicles, designed and run by climate tech company Aclima, shows what’s in the air at a far more hyperlocal level than what DOEE can see with its five stationary air monitors, which collect data 24/7. The Aclima cars checked for several harmful pollutants, including nitrogen dioxide, black carbon, fine particulate matter and volatile organic chemicals. All three study areas showed some

5 Ivy City Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Sebrena Rhodes climbs into a car equipped with specialty air quality sensors for a ride-along following the official launch of a hyperlocal air quality monitoring pilot program in June. (Kayla Benjamin/The Washington Informer)

hotspots, most of which clustered around high-traffic roads.

POLLUTION PROGRESS

The study’s leaders emphasized that two weeks of monitoring does not provide enough data to accurately compare the results with the national standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency. However, the EPA’s thresholds, known as the National Ambient Air Quality Standards, can still provide a useful benchmark. The good news: for several of the pollutants measured, even the hotspots showed levels below the NAAQS. That includes nitrogen dioxide, a pollutant that comes from burning fossil fuels and can cause breathing issues. “I was really surprised with how low the NO2 levels were,” said Joseph Jakuta, branch chief of air quality planning at DOEE, in an interview. “The car is going to be following other cars, so it's going to be exposed to much higher levels of NO2 than a person would even a block away — and it's still seeing such low levels.” Jakuta was also pleased to see low levels of ozone, though he acknowledged that rainy weather during the two-week study period could have reduced levels somewhat. He said that ozone usually poses D.C.’s biggest challenge when it comes to staying in compliance with the national Clean Air Act.

THE LESS-GOOD NEWS

The pollutant for which Aclima’s

8 NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023

measurements showed levels higher than the EPA’s standards was fine particulate matter, or PM2.5. In Buzzard Point, certain segments showed levels two times higher than the NAAQS requirement. Mayfair also had sections with similarly high levels along the Anacostia Freeway. Like NO2 and ozone, PM2.5 can come from vehicle traffic. But it also has a lot of other potential sources, such as construction or wildfire smoke. The smallest of particles can work their way deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, according to the EPA; long-term PM2.5 exposure is associated with risks for cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease and lung cancer.

WHAT’S NEXT

DOEE plans to work with community members and leaders to decide where future Aclima projects might take place, Jakuta said. Jakuta said that DOEE could use the study data to push for more stationary monitors in pollution hotspots, a strategy that could allow the agency to improve its enforcement of problems like idling. “This data is extremely helpful for us — in some cases there are things that we expected to be problem areas, or that we knew to be, but having the data [can] really bolster some of our efforts,” said Hannah Ashenafi, associate director of DOEE’s Air Quality Division, during the meeting. “Monitoring is the first step, and from there, it's taking that data to be able to make data-driven actions.” WI

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WARD 7 from Page 1 Ward 7 D.C. Councilmember Vince Gray’s seat. Within two days of announcing her candidacy, Rasheed’s campaign reported 100 campaign contributions. She told The Informer that her message and experiences resonate with residents clamoring for a new beginning. “I’ve been in Ward 7 my whole life,” Rasheed said. “I’m collaborative and have worked with people on the D.C. Council. In the last race, we ran a strong campaign against a strong incumbent. The vote reflected that people wanted change. People are coming out to vote. Apathy can’t keep us from the ballot box.” Rasheed previously served as community engagement representative in the Office of the Attorney General under Karl Racine, and a clerk in D.C. Superior Court and the D.C. Commission on Human Rights. She also has experience as an advisory neighborhood commissioner, chair of the Ward 7 Young Democrats, Ward 7 parent leader for the My School DC Advisory Council, and Ward 7 representative in Parents Amplifying Voices in Education, also known as PAVE. Rasheed told The Informer her first priority upon entering the council seat would be addressing public safety. If elected, she pledges to take a “progressive and holistic” approach by pushing for federal judicial appointments, further supporting violence interrupters, and addressing root causes of crime. As it relates to budget season, Rasheed said she wants to direct more investments to Ward 7 schools, which she said would strengthen feeder patterns and encourage more parents to enroll their children in neighborhood schools. “We need resources and feeder schools,” Rasheed said. “When the budget comes, we want to make sure Ward 7 is funded. The issues are economic. We have to make sure we put money in our schools. We don’t want to be reactionary. While we’re seeing some progress, we can see more -- and we deserve more.” n

EBBON ALLEN: A PROPONENT OF WORKFORCE AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Allen, another lifelong Ward 7 resident, touts public safety, development of key education pathways, and eco-

nomic development as his legislative priorities. In 2021, Allen, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) and other public officials broke ground on Woody Ward Recreation Center, formerly known as Benning Park Recreation Center. As advisory neighborhood commissioner for ANC 7E03, Allen collected petitions and testified before the D.C. Council in support of the new recreation center, which currently hosts a youth boxing program. Allen also served as a task force member for what will eventually become Fletcher-Johnson at the Park, a 15-acre site that hosts 817 units of condominiums, multi-family apartments, and affordable senior assisted living units. This project will exist on the grounds of Allen’s alma mater, the former Fletcher-Johnson Education Center, and the accompanying recreation center in Marshall Heights. Though no longer in his capacity as advisory neighborhood commissioner, Allen has maintained a presence in Ward 7 through an annual toy drive with the East River Family Strengthening Collaborative. He also hosts Morehouse Day, during which he and the Greater Washington D.C. Morehouse College Alumni Association conduct workshops in District public and public charter schools about literacy, conflict resolution and entrepreneurship. Allen, a full-time teacher, has more than two decades in the classroom. In recent years, that’s where he’s gained intimate knowledge of Ward 7’s public safety woes Allen also said that he wants to strengthen Ward 7’s public schools. Additionally, the ideal middle school career pathways program, as Allen describes it, allows young people to explore barbering, cosmetology, and other vocations. He also spoke about pushing for a new public middle school with a STEAM (science, technology,

AROUND THE REGION

engineering, arts and math) focus. In the realm of economic development, Allen told The Informer that Ward 7 deserves grocery stores, sitdown restaurants and other amenities. “There’s not enough movement and advocacy around education, public safety and economic development,” he added. “There’s an increase in crime and a lot of residents don’t want to leave their homes. Parents don’t want to send their children to school. We have to come up with solutions. A lot of constituents feel that isn’t happening.” n

EBONI-ROSE THOMPSON LOOKS TO CONTINUE HER WORK FOR WARD 7

Thompson, the current Ward 7 representative and president of the D.C. State Board of Education (SBOE) announced her candidacy on Nov. 15 after much speculation about whether she would run. The fourth-generation Ward 7 resident called the council seat a natural progression in the work she’s done for more than a decade on behalf of residents on SBOE, Ward 7 Education Council, and as an advisory neighborhood commissioner. As Ward 7 SBOE representative, Thompson led her colleagues in crafting an Education Governance Report, chock full of recommendations that change SBOE’s relationship with District education agencies and better allow the state board to address students, parents, teachers and community members’ education-related concerns. Thompson also created a virtual attendance policy and eliminated what many considered an unfair 80/20 attendance rule that marked late students absent. She expanded community service opportunities through a policy that

WARD 7 Page 11

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Ebony Payne, an advisory neighborhood commissioner, local business owner and third-generation Washingtonian, announced her campaign for the Ward 7 D.C. council seat on Nov. 20. She said she jumped into the race adamant about addressing carjackings and violent crime. SInce stepping into her role as commissioner of ANC 7D05 this year, Payne has engaged violence interrupters about incidents that seriously injured young people in her single member district. She also facilitated dialogue about the future of RFK campus, all while informing residents about the impending closure of Rosedale Neighborhood Library and launching a Benning Road Taskforce with the assistance of D.C. Councilmember Zachary Parker (D-Ward 5) and ANC 5D. Payne said, in the course of her work, she’s not only established relationships with Parker, but D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson (D), and D.C. Councilmembers Robert White (D-At large) and Charles Allen (D-Ward 6). She cited those ties, as well as her experience as a two-term executive member of Friends of Kingman Park, as instrumental in serving as Ward 7 council member. While she dubbed public safety as her top priority, Payne told The Informer that attracting local grocers to Ward 7 and creating more enrichment activities for young people would, in fact, curb violent crime. As it relates to fresh food grocers, Payne said she’s been organizing SNAP users who frequent the farmers market on RFK campus so that they’re informed about what local control of the land means for the future of the market.

Brown, who has nearly 11 years of experience in the housing industry, also wants to see the institutionalization of receivership and conservatorship. Through this system, Brown said that the D.C. government can acquire and fix blighted housing for purchase by D.C. residents. Such strategies, he said, will increase the supply of housing in Ward 7 and make some headway in driving down costs. Part of his work as a council member, he said, would involve pushing for changes to that structure so that Ward 7 schools receive the funds necessary to boost programming, including language immersion and STEAM (science,technology, engineering, arts, and math). “I have a very thoughtful approach to developing legislation for Ward 7 residents and residents across the District,” Brown said. “I want to do what’s in the best interest of the people. I can have my thoughts and perspectives but I’m a servant of the people and want to include their voices in legislation. Residents can expect to see an overwhelming amount of dedication from me.” Read more on www.washingtoninformer.com. WI

EBONY PAYNE WANTS TO ENGAGE YOUNG PEOPLE AND BRING FRESH FOOD TO WARD 7

D.C. Council seat during Thanksgiving break. He identified public safety, housing, and economic development as his top three issue areas. Earlier this year, Brown, a senior housing executive, started his second term as advisory neighborhood commissioner after accumulating all the votes in his re-election campaign. Key first-term successes he outlined to constituents included increased community and D.C. Council engagement, installation of speed bumps and other traffic safety mechanisms, upgrades to playground equipment, and the removal of abandoned cars from neighborhoods. If elected as the Ward 7 council member, Brown, a Hillcrest resident and chair of ANC7B, intends on hosting a listening tour across the ward to engage residents and D.C. council members. When it comes to expanding D.C.’s housing stock, Brown said he wants to push for a 30 to 45-day moratorium on the purchase of properties lost due to unpaid property taxes. He also expressed a desire to implement a “no housing loss” program for seniors, veterans and other vulnerable populations.

allows service hours to be counted from opportunities with community-based organizations and advisory neighborhood commissions among their In years past, Thompson counted among those who, during budget season, vied for infrastructural upgrades to Anne Beers Elementary School and Burrville Elementary School, among several others in Ward 7. Other priorities include safe passage and investment in post-pandemic mental health support for students and teachers. If elected, Thompson hopes to leverage her relationships in the Wilson Building to increase the quality of life in Ward 7. Her areas of focus are education, health and human services, and economic development -- all of which she said directly affects public safety. Thompson told The Informer that the socioeconomic diversity of Ward 7 compels her to approach issues in a holistic and balanced fashion noting that white-collar professionals, police officers, and residents under court supervision coexist on several blocks throughout her ward. As such, she expressed a desire to build upon Councilmember Gray’s vision of a hospital and east-end health network with a focus on mental health. As it relates to economic development, Thompson told The Informer that she wants to ensure that Ward 7 entrepreneurs can establish storefronts along developing corridors. Thompson also said that she will continue to push for investments in Ward 7’s school feeder pattern so young people can be encouraged to complete their K-12 education close to home. When it comes to voter apathy, Thompson recognized it as a problem affecting Ward 7 residents, regardless of age. She told The Informer that she will continue to maintain an on-theground presence to boost people’s confidence that the Ward 7 D.C. Council office can respond to their needs. “I know how to represent Ward 7 well, as the state board representative, or when advocating for a budget increase,” Thompson said. “The Wilson Building is not a foreign place to me. The difference is that I would have an office and I would be the person who votes. It’s the job description: in order to get things done, you have to work with your colleagues and bring other people into that vision. I would already be able to do that.” n

Payne also expressed plans to reach out to the young skaters who asked D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) to preserve Maloof Skate Park in her revitalization plans for RFK campus. Other points that Payne brought up included a fully funded safe passage program and attracting high-performing teachers to Ward 7 schools. She also explained the importance of young people in Ward 7 learning civic engagement from a young age and having experiences that can inspire them to pursue college and career opportunities. Such additions, she said, could help address the chronic absenteeism plaguing the schools. While speaking about the public safety legislation currently making its way through the D.C. Council, Payne also emphasized the need for a balanced approach. “Ignoring long standing disparities and not being able to deliver is an issue. People east of the Anacostia River are often just forgotten about and we have to address the core root of the problem,” Payne told The Informer as she emphasized Kingman Park’s uniqueness as Ward 7’s only west-of-the-Anacostia River community for 20 years. “Otherwise, we’re addressing symptoms. If we can’t attract a big grocery chain, we have to look to the local community to find a solution,” Payne continued. “When you address crime, it makes it easier for small business owners to have more of a stake. Without any stake in the community, big retailers don’t really have an incentive to serve.” n

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KELVIN BROWN OUTLINES HIS PLAN FOR PUBLIC SAFETY, ECONOMICS AND HOUSING

Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Kelvin Brown (7B06) announced his candidacy for the Ward 7

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

NICK CHARLES APPOINTED TO DISTRICT 25 SENATE SEAT UNANIMOUSLY

Following a unanimous appointment by the Democratic Central Committee, the 25th District’s Senate seat, previously held by Sen. Melony Griffith (D), will now be filled by Del. Nick Charles (D- District 25). Governor Wes Moore (D) is expected to sign off on Charles’ appointment in coming weeks. “I’ve watched Delegate Charles work in a community and really demonstrate leadership in the way that an elected official should,” said Griffith. “He is a true community leader that works with our community and will be a phenomenal member of the Senate.” Charles is likely to serve on the Senate’s Judiciary Committee. Griffith, who chaired the Senate’s Finance Committee, resigned her Senate seat to lead the Maryland Hospital Association, officially ending duties on Oct. 31. Senator Pam Beidle (D– District 32) will now lead the Finance Committee. Charles was the only applicant and following his appointment, an appointment for the delegate seat will be held prior to the legislative session. Some of the potential candidates for the seat include former Delegate Angela Angel (D) and Prince George’s Central Committee members Nova Coston (D-District 25) and the Rev. John Richardson (D), who serves as assistant treasurer. Coston confirmed her interest in applying for

the post via text. Antoine Thompson, the executive director of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) and former New York State Senator, is also planning to file for the seat. Charles has also served as the Chair of the Prince George’s House Delegation since 2021, a position that will be filled before the pending legislative session. The delegation will be discussing their pre-filed bills in early December. Democratic Delegates Karen Toles and Kent Roberson were originally appointed to their seats upon the election of then-Delegate Dereck E. Davis (D) to state treasurer and the resignation of Darryl Barnes (D) former chair of the Black Caucus. WI

SARBANES RETIRING, LEAVING WIDE-OPEN 3RD CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT PRIMARY

With the retirement of longtime Congressman John Sarbanes, Maryland’s deep-blue Third Congressional District is poised to have a new representative for the first time since 2007. Sarbanes was first elected in the 2006 midterms and has held the seat without serious competition in the primary or general elections since. Delegates Vanessa Atterbeary (D– District 13) and Terri Hill (D– District 12) and Sen. Sarah Elfreth (D– District 30) have already announced their plans to run for the open seat. Delegate Mike Rogers (D– District 32) recently announced that he is planning to run for the 3rd Congressional seat. He is hopeful that PACs supporting veterans will assist his campaign.

12 NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023

5Del. Nick Charles was newly-appointed as District 25 State Senator, succeeding Melony Griffith, who will be leading the Maryland Hospital Association. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

The seat has never been held by an African-American, and the last woman to hold the seat was former Sen. Barbara Mikulski in the 1980s. WI

LARGE FIELD OF CONTENDERS IN 6TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT

Maryland’s Sixth Congressional District is the most competitive congressional seat in the general election, with two-time Republican nominee Neil Parrott reaching or eclipsing 39% in both of his previous runs. Some of the candidates in the Democratic primary include: Hagerstown Mayor Takesha Martinez, the first Black Mayor of her town; Del. Joe Vogel (D–District 17), one of the youngest members of the House of Delegates; April McLain Delaney, attorney and wife of former Sixth District Congressman John Delaney; Destiny Drake West, senior program specialist at the Department of Housing and Urban Development and senior legislative analyst at the Department of Health and Human Services; and former gubernatorial candidate and Obama Administration veteran Ashwani Jain. WI

ULMAN, MICKENS DUKES ELECTED AS NEW MARYLAND DEMOCRATIC PARTY LEADERS

During the Maryland Democratic Party convention held on Nov. 18, Margrave Strategies president and former Howard County Executive Ken Ulman was overwhelmingly elected to serve as the next chair of the Maryland Democratic Party. Traditionally, the convention to elect the Maryland Democratic Party’s leadership is held in the late fall following the gubernatorial election. Yvette Lewis, the former party chair, announced she was leaving the post on Oct. 6, following her second term. Governor Wes Moore (D) nominated Ulman and former Prince George’s Community College President Charlene Mickens-Dukes to serve as the chair and first vice chair respectively. “This is not a decision that came easy. This took months of deliberation and thought and about who not just meets the moment but jumps over the bar. Then weeks of convincing,” said Moore. “The opportunity costs of getting it wrong are too high. We’ve seen examples of what it looks like when this goes wrong.” WI

MARYLAND WOMEN’S CAUCUS HIRES ARIYANA WARD AS NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Women Legislators of Maryland announced on Nov. 16 that Ariyana Monee Ward will serve as

the newest executive director of the caucus. "We look forward to having Ariyana serve in this critical role,” said Delegate Patterson in a press release. “Her familiarity with both chambers of the Maryland General Assembly coupled with her multifarious leadership positions make her uniquely qualified for not only conducting the administration of this caucus, but also implementing our legislative and educational programs." Ward served as an intern for the Legislative Black Caucus during the previous General Assembly’s session and has built relationships with several members of the House and Senate by filling essential roles in their offices. Ward served as president of the NAACP #7800 Chapter, in Frostburg, Maryland from 20202023 and as president of Frostburg State University’s Student Government Association for two years. She is a graduate of Frostburg State University’s Honors Program, where she was a teaching assistant in the Department of Psychology. “I am deeply honored to be named the Executive Director of the Women Legislators of Maryland,” said. Ward. “These are some of the most tremendous women that the nation has to offer and I am excited for the opportunity to lend my passion for advocating for the rights of all women.” WI Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

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Prince George’s County General Updates By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

TUITION-FREE COMMUNITY COLLEGE NOW AVAILABLE IF WITHIN 6 MILES OF MGM

Beginning this upcoming spring semester, Prince George’s Community College (PGCC) students who live within six miles of National Harbor’s MGM will qualify for a scholarship granting them free tuition. At least 700 students currently enrolled at PGCC would qualify immediately for the scholarship, and some have already applied. Over 1,000 total students, including new students in the next semester, are expected to be eligible. “There are so many things that we spend in the county government that I don’t see a return on investment for the actual resident,” said Prince George’s County Councilmember Edward Burroughs III (D-District 8), who represents the area where students residing will benefit. “In this case, walking away with a certification, walking away with a credential, walking away with an associate’s degree and being able to go into a fouryear university with two years already paid for, for free, the ROI (return on investment) on the resident is so high when it comes to this program.” The program will be funded by $2 million in impact fees from MGM that were redirected from prior school maintenance funding, which will now be funded by the capital improvement budget. Another scholarship opportunity is the Promise Scholarship which has eligibility restrictions based on household income and high school GPA, and also requires full-time student enrollment if attending a community college. This scholarship offers up to $5,000 of student aid beyond what the Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) grants. WI

FEDERAL COURT STRIKES DOWN HANDGUN LAWS AS UNCONSTITUTIONAL

A three-judge panel on the Fourth

Court of Appeals struck down Maryland’s handgun laws on Nov. 21st, citing the potential 30-day waiting period as onerous and violating the constitutional rights of applicants. The state has until Dec. 5 to seek another hearing with the Fourth Circuit Court, and until Feb. 19 to seek a review with the U.S. Supreme Court. “This law is not about stripping away rights from responsible gun owners – it’s about every Marylander having the right to live free from fear,” said Governor Wes Moore (D) in a statement. “Common-sense gun laws are critical to protecting all Marylanders from the gun violence that has terrorized our communities. I am determined to do more than just give thoughts and prayers and attend funerals – and that’s why this law is vital to our administration’s commitment to keeping guns out of the wrong hands and saving lives.” The Office of the Attorney General declined comment and is considering further legal options. Maryland’s Handgun Qualification Law requires a person who wishes to buy a handgun to first apply for the license. Applicants must be state residents and at least 21-years-old to qualify. Additionally, applicants must submit fingerprints, undergo a background check, and successfully complete a four-hour course that includes firing at least one live round at a firing range. WI

COUNTY OFFERS GUARANTEED INCOME PROGRAM

Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks (D) announced a new guaranteed income program on Nov. 21 that will positively benefit nearly 200 Prince Georgians by offering them direct assistance. Councilmember Krystal Oriadha (D–District 7) introduced the legislation to bring the guaranteed income idea to the County. Thrive Prince George’s, the county’s first-ever guaranteed income program, will, for a 24-month period, give $800 every month to 50 youth (ages 18-24), who are aging out of foster care, and over 125

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY seniors. There are no employment requirements or other strings attached. The program is a $4 million, two-year pilot that is funded in part by both public and private sources. The Greater Washington Community Foundation will administer the pilot program and measure the economic status of participants over time. Stockton, California Mayor Michael Tubbs was a prominent supporter of a universal basic income (UBI) and implemented the SEED program in 2019 to provide 125 low-income residents of his town with an unconditional monthly stipend. Economic research showed that program recipients were more likely to get full-time jobs and their health generally improved. Stockton’s SEED program was cited as a model for the legislation. WI

5 A federal appeals court has struck down Maryland’s required handgun qualifications as unconstitutional, citing the 30-day waiting period as a violation of the rights of handgun owners.

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BUSINESS s f e ri By James Wright / WI Staff Writer

FEDERAL ADVERTISING FOR BLACK FIRMS: NORTON

D.C. Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton introduced a bill on Nov. 21 that requires federal agencies to include in their annual budget justifications: the amount they spent on advertising contracts with small, disadvantaged businesses and firms owned by women and minorities in the previous fiscal year, and projections of their spending for the upcoming fiscal year. In 2016, Norton led members of Congress in requesting a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report on their advertising contracts. The GAO report, released in July 2018, showed that in fiscal

year 2017, only 16% of the federal government’s advertising contract obligations went to women and minorities. “As the largest advertiser in the United States, the federal government has an obligation to ensure fair access for minority and women-owned media companies,” Norton said. “My bill would ensure that federal agencies are striving to reach minorities and women, who often get their news from outlets that serve more specific communities.” WI

OWOLEWA ON THE SAFER BANKING ACT

D.C. Shadow Rep. Oye Owolewa (D) recently commented on

5 Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, who represents the District in the U.S. Congress, introduced a bill that requires federal agencies to include information such as spending with small, minority and women-owned businesses. (WI File Photo)

the SAFER (Secure and Fair Enforcement Regulation) Banking Act, which would loosen restrictions on legal marijuana dispensary owners getting financial as-

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sistance from federally chartered banking institutions. “I am proud to support this joint legislation that aims to bridge this gap by allowing legal marijuana dispensaries to access federal banking services,” said Owolewa. “By allowing these businesses to access the same financial tools and services enjoyed by other legal enterprises, we not only promote economic growth but also enhance public safety. The lack of access to traditional banking services forces many marijuana dispensaries to operate on a cash-only basis, putting such businesses at a substantially higher risk of being targeted by criminals.” WI

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D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser announced on Nov. 16 that the District is approved to receive $62 million from the U.S. Department of Treasury to provide small businesses with capital that will help them start and expand their business as well as help with administrative costs. The funding falls under the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI), a product of the American Rescue Plan, and the city’s first portion, $19 million, is available to the District’s Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking (DISB). “Small businesses are so import-

ant for the vibrancy of our city,” the mayor said. “Not only do our small businesses represent the dreams and creativity of Washingtonians, but they also create jobs for D.C. residents and support thriving commercial corridors in neighborhoods across the city. Whether it is through these investments in small business or other investments in infrastructure or resiliency, President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda is building stronger communities and giving more people a fair shot.” DISB’s $19 million in SSBCI funding will be administered through its DC Business Capital Access Program. The program links District small businesses that are creditworthy but not securing loans from traditional lending sources with access to capital. Other uses for the $62 million include an effort to launch a DC Venture Capital Program through the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development and a $4 million Inclusive Innovation Equity Impact Fund. WI

BLACK WOMEN AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Northwest, D.C.-based thinktank Brookings Institution, through its Center for Technology Innovation (CTI), will hold a discussion with Black women experts in artificial intelligence (AI). The experts will share their work and insights as well as discuss how to design and deploy more balanced, ethical, and diversely built and monitored systems of its kind. The panel will also discuss the imperative of more inclusive AI design, the impact on vulnerable populations, and how a democratized version of the technology must include leaders who understand the lived experiences of affected consumers. Nicol Turner Lee, Brookings senior fellow and CTI director, will moderate the discussion and give a presentation on the Center’s new AI Equity Lab. The discussion can be viewed in person at the Brookings Institution’s address at 1775 Massachusetts Avenue., NW or online. For more information, visit brookings.edu. WI Read more on washingtoninformer.com. @JamesWrightJr10

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BUSINESS

Sycamore & Oak Holds Black Friday and Small Business Saturday Events

D.C. Mayor Encourages Buying Locally This Holiday Season By James Wright WI Staff Writer Entrepreneur Leslie Ann Tarleton is passionate about helping Black women of all ages heal mentally and selling her skincare products to customers through her business, Brown Girls Embrace. When the management at Ward 8’s The Retail Village at Sycamore & Oak announced that its vendors and pop-up businesses would be allowed to sell their wares for programming Black Friday and Small Business Saturday on Nov. 24 and 25, Tarleton jumped at the chance to participate. “It’s great to get to know other business owners,” Tarleton, 34, said at her booth alongside other pop-up vendors on Nov. 25. “We want people to support us. Small Business Saturday is the one day dedicated [to] us.” Sycamore & Oak, which opened on Juneteenth (June 19) of this year, is a marketplace next to the Entertainment & Sports Arena located in Southeast, D.C., on the campus of the St. Elizabeth’s East. It features 13 brick-andmortar businesses that are owned by African Americans who live in neighborhoods east of the Anacostia River. For Black Friday and Small Business Saturday, about 30 pop-up businesses, including Brown Girls Embrace, sold their products to customers.

SUPPORTING D.C. ENTREPRENEURS IN POST-THANKSGIVING SHOPPING

Sycamore & Oak’s post-Thanksgiving Day events reflected commercial activity throughout the city. D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser publicly promoted Small Business Saturday, noting the setting up of the Downtown DC Holiday Market on Nov. 17 and encouraging residents and visitors to buy from city businesses. The Anacostia Arts Center located on Marion Barry Avenue SE also had a Small Business Saturday event. “Local entrepreneurs and businesses power D.C.’s economy, and no matter what you’re looking for this holiday season, you can find it at a small business right here in D.C.,” Bowser, 51, said. Interim D.C. Department of Small

and Local Business Development Director Rosemary Suggs-Evans echoed Bowser’s sentiments on supporting local businesses. “Small businesses are crucial to the success of the District’s economy, and their growth is essential to our city’s continued prosperity,” said Suggs-Evans.

SELLING AT SYCAMORE & OAK

Ronell White is the owner of Alkebulan Expressions, a pop-up business who sells products such as bracelets and beads. White’s business was located on the outside of the main building along with several other pop-ups, and he displayed his products on a table covered with yellow cloth. Like Tarleton, when White, 59, learned of the chance to be a part of the post-Thanksgiving Day activities at Sycamore & Oak, he leapt toward the opportunity. “I grew up on Martin Luther King Jr., Avenue and I am excited to see the area change a lot,” said White, who is the uncle of D.C. Councilmember Trayon White (D-Ward 8). “I jumped at the opportunity to participate in this.” The Ward 8 council member’s sister, Marshell Barrett, owns a business, Lady Fingerz. Her items, beads and ornaments, were also featured on a table draped with yellow cloth, linked to her uncle’s in the form of an “L.” “I am happy to be here today,” Barrett, 33, said. “Things are going well.” Vene Lagon was standing in for her daughter, Yarne Glascoe, the owner of VAYA Beauty, one of the brick-andmortar establishments at Sycamore & Oak. Lagon said her daughter owns the only Black-owned beauty supply store in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. She said her daughter looked forward to Small Business Saturday. “We want to make sure people see what we have to offer,” Lagon said. “We offer a variety of products such as wigs, treatment for hair— such as shampoos and conditioners— and for beards, body washes and a kid’s line.” Next to VAYA Beauty is the LoveMore Brand store owned by Jovan Davis. Davis said selling during the holiday

season is critical for small businesses. He said being at Sycamore & Oak is a bonus. “I like networking with the different vendors,” Davis, 37, said. “It helps me to engage and build my network.” Keyonna Jones is the owner of Soufside Creative, located next to LoveMore. Jones, 35, sells a variety of products ranging from clothing to paintings. She said Sycamore & Oak has the potential to be a stimulant of business activity in Ward 8. “I think it was necessary that we set up and have something going on during Black Friday and Small Business Saturday,” she said. “We have the chance to be the small business epi-

center in the ward and possibly a new Black Wall Street. For many of us here, retail is a completely new beast.” WI @JamesWrightJr10

5 Leslie Ann Tarleton is the owner of Brown Girls Embrace, a skincare and mental health firm. (Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

HOWARD UNIVERSITY PUBLIC CHARTER MIDDLE REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS #1 In-house Janitorial Services Howard University Public Charter Middle School – Request for Proposal – for the opportunity to bid on the furnishing In-house janitorial Services. Additional specifications outlined in the Request for Proposals (RFP) may be obtained beginning on December 1, 2023 from Leslie Boler at info@hu-ms2.org Proposals will be accepted at 405 Howard Place, NW, Washington, DC 20059 no later than 2:00 PM Eastern time on Friday, December 8, 2023, All bids not addressing all areas as outlined in the RFP will not be considered.

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NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023 15

NATIONAL From Towels to Grand Pianos Survey Reveals Daring Hotel Heists and National Trends By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer As 2023 draws to a close, the hotel industry is in the middle of a busy holiday season thanks to increased business travel and a consistent preference among corporate and leisure travelers for hotel accommodations. However, the boom of visitors might be dampened when considering a recent survey which unveiled a surprising spectrum of thefts hotel guests commit. The results of a recent study that

Morning Consult and the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) commissioned show far more travelers are opting for hotel stays. Sixty-eight percent of U.S. respondents whose jobs require them to travel said they were likely to go on overnight work trips before the end of the year, a substantial increase from the 59% reported last year, highlighting a resurgence in business travel. Notably, hotels have emerged as the top choice for 81% of business travelers surveyed. Seventy-one per-

(Courtesy Photo)

cent of respondents indicated that their inclination to stay in hotels is comparable to pre-pandemic levels. Also, nearly 70% of business travelers reported that their employers maintained or increased business travel to normal levels before the pandemic. These optimistic indicators paint a rosy picture for the hotel industry, signaling a robust holiday season as

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travelers, both for business and leisure, demonstrate a renewed confidence in choosing hotel accommodation. But this optimism might be short-lived after research supports growing rates of theft at hotels. In a world where hotel mementos typically range from miniature shampoo bottles to branded pens, there’s a surprising spectrum of thefts guests commit. The study by the luxury spa and hotel guide Wellness Heaven, which encompasses insights from 1,376 hotel managers across Europe, delved into the peculiar world of hotel heists, with a striking emphasis on the divergence in theft behavior between guests staying in four- and five-star establishments. At first glance, the survey reveals a predictable penchant for the mundane—towels and bathrobes take the lead as the most commonly stolen items. Perhaps viewed as innocent souvenirs, hangers, pens, and cosmetics closely trail these staples of hotel living. In a hotel in England a guest had unceremoniously removed the numbers from his hotel room door, officials told the study authors. “We didn’t notice until the next guest could not find his room,” the hotel director declared. However, the study takes an unexpected turn as it recounts tales of guests exhibiting unparalleled creativity in their thieving escapades. From pilfering bathroom fixtures, room numbers, and stuffed hunting trophies, to absconding with entire grand pianos, the findings highlight the audacious lengths some guests will go to acquire unconventional souvenirs. The survey breaks down theft

behavior by nationality, revealing a fascinating tapestry of preferences. While Germans and Brits lean towards the predictable—focusing on towels, bathrobes, cosmetics, and toiletries—Austrians exhibit a penchant for pleasure, stealing dishes and coffee machines. Americans have an eye for comfort, with pillows and batteries topping their list. At the same time, Italians favor wine glasses, and the French opt for high-profile items like TV sets and remote controls. In 2022, a French bulldog was stolen from a room in the Embassy Suites by Hilton in the 1200 block of 22nd Street in Georgetown. Police later recovered the prized pet. The study also explored the correlation between the wealth of guests and the items they steal. It appears that “greed is good” rings particularly true for the affluent clientele of fivestar hotels. The likelihood of stealing high-value items such as tablet computers, artwork, TV sets, and even mattresses is significantly higher in five-star establishments compared to their four-star counterparts. Compared to a similar 2019 survey, the study notes a significant rise in the theft of more valuable items, including coffee makers, mattresses, and tablet computers. Mini fridges have emerged as a new target, with a higher probability of theft in fourstar hotels. A hotel owner from Germany reported on how the entire stereo system of the spa area disappeared. Thieves had apparently dismantled the entire sound equipment overnight and loaded it in their car before they left. According to the AHLA, theft costs hotel brands approximately $1 million dollars annually. “Once I walked through the lobby, I noticed that something was missing, and soon after I learned that three unknown men in overalls had taken away the grand piano, and it never reappeared, of course,” an unidentified hotelier from Italy relayed to the study authors. Earlier this year, Travel Noire noted that more and more hotels are taking action to defend themselves against traveling criminals in disguise as moms on vacations with their families. NBC reported, many major hotel chains have implemented digital “no-stay” lists banning select guests who have been identified as theft culprits. WI @StacyBrownMedia

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APPROVED

election cycle. Comparisons to Congressional Departures Rise, 2022 previous cycles underscore the magof the current political landReflecting Political Uncertainty nitude scape, as 27 members had made such announcements at this point in the

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

A recent examination of Ballotpedia sheds light on the tumultuous state of U.S. politics, particularly within the confines of Congress. Thirty-seven Congress members— seven U.S. Senators and 30 U.S. House members—declared they would not seek re-election in 2024, marking a notable increase from previous election cycles. Among the U.S. Senate members opting out of re-election bids, six—U.S. Sens. Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Mitt Romney (R-Utah), Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.), and Joe Manchin (D-WV)—have chosen

to retire from public office. In contrast, U.S. Sen. Mike Braun (R-Ind.) is set to run for governor of Indiana. Meanwhile, the 30 U.S. House members not seeking re-election in 2024 present diverse career shifts. Notably, 11— two Republicans and nine Democrats—are vying for U.S. Senate seats, while one Democrat is eyeing the gubernatorial position. Two, representing both major parties, have set their sights on state attorney general positions. Sixteen members—equally split between Democrats and Republicans—are retiring from public service altogether. This wave of departures from Congress is indicative of a broader trend, with 30 U.S. House members surpassing the 24 who had made similar

announcements at this point in the 2020 cycle and 31 at this stage in the 2018 cycle. The seven U.S. Senators foregoing re-election bids represent a numeric increase from the six who had announced their retirements at this juncture in the 2022 election cycle. Historical comparisons reveal that four did so in 2020 and two in 2018. Ballotpedia, a comprehensive resource on U.S. elections, features a list of incumbent members of the 118th U.S. Congress not seeking re-election in the upcoming 2024 congressional elections for the U.S. Senate and U.S. House. It also includes a section chronicling members who have left or announced their departure before the end of their terms. While many departing members

NATIONAL

5Sen. Laphonza Butler was sworn in earlier this year, but counts among those making an exit from Congress. (Courtesy Photo/Wikimedia Commons)

are from outside competitive seats, the razor-thin margins in both chambers underscore the significance of those providing pickup opportunities for either party. These departures could determine which party will control Congress in 2025. “I like the work, but the politics just no longer made it worth it,” remarked Rep. Earl Blumenauer, a Democrat from Oregon who an-

nounced his retirement last month after more than 25 years in the House. Republican Rep. Debbie Lesko of Arizona echoed Blumenauer’s sentiment during the recent speaker fight. “Right now, Washington, D.C., is broken,” Lesko said. “It is hard to get anything done.” WI @StacyBrownMedia

Get the family caregiving support you need, when you need it. We know navigating your way through caring for family can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. AARP is dedicated to help our members and families get the answers and resources they need for Family Caregiving. We know it can be a challenge, but we’ve done the hard work to help you connect with the other family caregivers and resources close to home. So you can take care of what matters most.

For more information, scan the QR Code or visit AARP.org/BlackCommunity To learn more, visit aarp.org/caregiving

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africa now

COMPILED BY OSWALD T. BROWN, WI CONTRIBUTING WRITER

DRC: Nobel Winner Denis Mukwege Launches Electoral Campaign in Hometown

Nobel Peace-winning gynecologist Denis Mukwege of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) staged a rally in his hometown on Saturday, Nov. 25, promising to tackle corruption and conflict if elected president next month. Addressing supporters in Bukavu, the renowned doctor and 5 Congolese doctor and presidential candidate De- Pentecostal pastor said he would use political power to put an nis Mukwege greets supporters outside Kavumu-Buka- end to war, put an end to famine, and more. vu airport eastern Democratic Republic of Congo on "Give me the power to run this country, and I'll put an end Nov. 25. (Courtesy Photo) to the war, that's the first thing to do. Secondly, we're going to eradicate famine. And thirdly, we're going to fight against the anti-values that plague our society," said Mukwege to the roaring crowd. Despite being one of the richest countries in natural resources of the world, with the second-largest rainforest, the DRC is still very dependent on imports in terms of sustenance. The doctor emphasized the country’s resources, encouraging the population to achieve food self-sufficiency, even if some find it hard to believe in the candidates' ambitious programs. "Why is all the food we eat imported when we can grow it ourselves? And there are no factories. So, we have an obligation to work to develop our country. I think the Congo is a gift that God has given us, and we Congolese have an obligation to take this country and bring it to the top," he said. Young Bukavu resident Elie Yengayenga had not decided who she’d be voting for in the DRC presidential election. "I don't have a candidate yet, because I find them all demagogues, from the first to the last. The only thing that matters to me is that I know it's my civic duty: I have to vote. So I still have two weeks to make a choice that will be rational for the nation and the whole community," explained Yengayenga. The conflict-torn central African nation, of about 100 million people, is scheduled to hold presidential and parliamentary elections on Dec. 20. Incumbent President Felix Tshisekedi is running for re-election alongside 24 other candidates. According to Africa News, the official campaigning season kicked off on Nov. 19. WI

caribbean now Bermuda Gets Green Light to Seek Full CARICOM Membership

The Bermuda government declared it is moving ahead with plans to join the regional integration movement CARICOM, after being given the green light from the United Kingdom to do so, The Jamaica Gleaner reported on Nov. 26. Deputy Premier Walter Roban, in a statement to Parliament, said discussions had been held between Premier David Burt and the Governor of the British Overseas Territory Rena Lalgie, on “Bermuda's intention to 5The CARICOM flag. The Bermuda government declared it is moving ahead make an application for full membership” in the 15-member CARICOM with plans to join the regional integration grouping. Roban said that Burt also met with Britain's Parliamentary under Secremovement CARICOM. (Courtesy Photo) tary of State for the Americas and Caribbean David Rutley while on a trip to London earlier this month. He said Rutley “expressed support for Bermuda making an application. “He encouraged Bermuda to begin the process,” Roban continued, “an offer which we will oblige.” The Deputy Premier acknowledged that Britain will have to be consulted before Bermuda can submit an application to CARICOM, which is observing its 50th anniversary this year. “We are now researching and exploring all that is required to make a full application. The official discussions have begun with the United Kingdom as to whether an entrustment is required or merely an amendment to the existing entrustment,” Roban said in his statement. Bermuda became an Associate Member of CARICOM in July 2003. WI

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Year-end Tax Resolutions to Make Your New Year Bright Sponsored content by JPMorgan Chase & Co. At the start of a new year, many resolve to make big changes during the next 365 days—whether it’s to save more, eat better, exercise, lose weight or even complete our taxes long before the filing deadline. The best tax-planning resolutions, however, might be the ones we complete before Jan. 1. Leading up to the new year, consider these timely money moves, which could help increase your tax refund or reduce the amount you’ll owe.

BOOST YOUR RETIREMENT SAVINGS.

If you have a 401(k) plan through an employer, consider increasing your contribution. Money placed in a 401(k) at any time reduces your taxable income, lowering your adjusted gross income, potentially lowering it enough to help you qualify for other tax credits. Individuals can contribute up to $22,500 to their 401(k) plans for 2023. If you’re putting money in an individual retirement account, or IRA, the limit on annual contributions is $6,500. If you’re 50 or over, you can put in an additional $1,000 in catch-up funds. You must contribute to your 401(k) by Dec. 31 for it to count for your 2023 return. But for a traditional or Roth IRA, you can contribute money through April 15, 2024, or the tax filing deadline, and have it apply for 2023.

USE UP YOUR FSA FUNDS.

If you have a flexible spending account (FSA) for health care or dependent care, you’re expected to use almost all or all of your funds by Dec. 31. Depending on your plan, you might have a grace period to spend a portion in early 2024, or you may be able to roll over some of your unspent funds into next year’s FSA. Check your plan guidelines to make sure, but either way, you don’t want to lose money already withdrawn from your paycheck. You might be surprised what’s eligible as a qualified expense under your FSA. Use this time to stock up on over-the-counter medications, sunscreens, eyeglasses, prenatal vitamins and more to spend down your FSA. If you’ve been putting off medical appointments or procedures, complete them before the end of the year. Other options include refilling eligible prescriptions by Dec. 31 and prepaying any childcare or summer camp expenses if you have a dependent care spending account.

avoid a large tax bill in 2024 – or help you avoid paying too much.

WILL YOU ITEMIZE?

If you think your qualified expenses will be more than the 2023 standard deduction ($13,850 for most singles, $20,800 for heads of households and $27,700 for most married couples filing jointly), you might get a larger return or pay less if you itemize your deductions. Estimate how much you can potentially deduct, and see if you can find additional expenses before Dec. 31 to add to that list. You may also want to consider making a donation to your favorite charity – a percentage of your cash and non-cash charitable giving is tax-deductible. Many nonprofits have the greatest needs during the holidays, so additional donations you make this season will go a long way toward helping others, and yourself.

START THE COUNTDOWN!

Take advantage of this crucial

window of opportunity to maximize your 2023 tax return next year. While there’s no bad time to take steps to cut your tax bill, November and December offer a final chance to make adjustments before closing out the tax year. Year-end tax planning is one of the best new year’s resolutions you can make – just remember to get it done before the clock strikes midnight.

JPMorgan Chase & Co., its affiliates and employees do not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. This story is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for tax, legal and accounting advice. You should consult your own tax, legal and accounting advisors before engaging in any financial transaction.

HOW’S YOUR WITHHOLDING?

If you got married, divorced or had a child in 2023 - among other life changes - you may need to adjust how much your employer withholds from your paycheck for federal taxes. Other big changes, such as buying a home or getting a raise, might also call for a withholding change. Contact your employer and fill out a new W-4 form to change your withholding. This will help ensure you’re paying enough from each check to

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NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023 19

HEALTH NATIONAL HEALTHY SKIN MONTH

Commercial Beauty Versus Holistic Skincare

By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Health Reporter

In an age where vanity drives the success of commercial beauty markets, many overlook the internal health and wellness factors that promote healthy, and glowing skin. During November which recognizes National Healthy Skin Month, both dermatologists and herbalists raise awareness of the various practices and products that impact the condition of our skin. According to the National Library of Medicine, skin is the largest organ of the human body, working as a protective barrier against “trauma, pathogens, microorganisms, and toxins,” while reducing the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and acting as a sensory organ to touch and temperature. While our skin serves such a critical responsibility to our overall health, of-

tentimes, outer presentation bears the greatest concern to people when considering the health of their skin. Trending skincare treatments like chemical peels, or microdermabrasion to name a few, have become go-to methods of reaching popular beauty standards. According to Statista, the global skincare market is projected to see a significant increase from $143.5 billion in 2022 to over $186 billion by 2028. But despite the growing rave of highend cosmetics and skin procedures, dermatologist and surgeon Dr. Yolanda Holmes told The Informer the primary importance of addressing hormonal and bodily imbalances. “You have to address internal issues first because you can spend a lot of money on these procedures and your skin will look great for some time, but they may not be long-lasting,” Holmes explained. “So if other things are going

Your local marketing experts with UNLIMITED REACH. Kevin Berrier 443-508-1936 KBerrier@MDDCPress.com 20 NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023

5As November is National Healthy Skin Month, dermatologist and surgeon Dr. Yolanda Holmes, emphasized the importance of African Americans taking care of their skin for overall health. (Courtesy Photo).

on with your body and your hormones, it's almost like you're chasing your tail, because you will be doing these procedures over [again], but not addressing some of the root causes.” The American Academy of Dermatology Association suggests key skincare tips to maintain healthy skin before turning to high-cost procedures for desired results. Basic skin care practices include; staying out of tanning beds, choosing skin care products that are formulated for your specific skin type (sensitive, normal, dry, or oily skin), keeping your hands off your face, checking your skin regularly for potential signs of skin cancer (spots, itchy moles, bleeding or color change), and even wearing sunscreen daily. Contrary to popular belief by many, it is just as important for African American people to protect their skin with sunscreen as it is for their non-Black counterparts, as sunscreen helps to protect from the sun’s harmful UV rays, and premature skin aging, presenting as age spots or wrinkles. “I recommend that all of my patients of color use sunscreen every day. We're

not so at risk for skin cancers, however, the sun does age our skin and put spots on the skin,” Holmes shared. “Wash morning and night, before you go to bed. Use some type of moisturizer, and use sunscreen daily. There are so many brands and types of different things, but if you stick to the basics, I think that will put you on the path to helping your skin,” said Holmes.

FROM CHEMICAL TO HERBAL - A HOLISTIC ROUTE TO HEALTHY SKIN CARE

While commercial-based skincare continues to dominate the mainstream market, the unprecedented coronavirus pandemic heightened public awareness of the use of herbal remedies to address health concerns. Aaron Johnson Sr., CEO of Pristine Care All Natural, an organic herbal and mineral-based product line of skin and hair care, spoke with The Informer about the benefits of using natural ingredients and knowledge of Earth-grown properties to manage health challenges.

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While developing the brand, Pristine Care extensively researched some of the most standard product formulations on the market, as many companies incorporate already prepared bases of shampoos, lotions, and other products to create their merchandise. “That’s how our journey started, [through] exposure to what the premade bases that big companies or one major company would [provide] for a lot of big names, and seeing the real manufacturing trends that the average consumer like us was not aware of.” Over time, their research began to reveal a concerning link between the growing consumption of commercial products in conjunction with increasing rates of cancer diagnoses. “We created our company to address the lack of transparency in the skincare industry, using Indigenous knowledge and natural ingredients to develop products that promote healthy skin and overall well-being. Our research showed a correlation between cancer rates and the use of synthetic skincare products, leading us to focus on using natural ingredients and herbs to create our products." Johnson said that the fragrances and numerous preservatives used in many mainstream brands are quite rampant in the cosmetology industry. The Pristine Care team’s findings allowed them to track directly to the source of illness, compelling the company to take the organic route in the manufacturing of their product line as they acknowledged the various health risks associated with certain chemical-based products. “It forced us to have to go organic. We had to get raw minerals, we had to go look at shea butter and raw elements, and what it took to build it up to a finished product,” Johnson told The Informer. Consumer results have proven true to natural mineral-based products resolving persistent skin conditions including atopic dermatitis, bodily pain and inflammation, and hair loss. Per customer testimonials, Johnson doubled down that natural resources and healthy dietary habits will always reign supreme in sustaining healthy skin. “In the West, we’re in a mineral desert. Once we started formulating cultural connections to plants and what royalty and high-ranking people inside those societies were using, we knew that that’s what our connections were missing,” Johnson explained. “We started realizing that our dependency on these companies is because we don’t have a foundation from knowing our Earth and what it provides for us.” WI @Lindi_Writes_

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Let’s Get Family Caregivers the Support They Need and Deserve By Louis Davis, Jr., AARP DC State Director More than 48 million Americans, including 74,000 here in the District, are family caregivers. It is one of the most important jobs we will ever do, and one of the most difficult. Family caregivers help their older parents, spouses and other loved ones live independently – managing medications, preparing meals, helping with bathing and dressing and so much more. These individuals hold up a broken long-term care system. Dedicated family caregivers in the District provide 69 million hours of care every year, adding up to $1.3 billion in unpaid labor per year, saving District taxpayers billions. The physical, financial and emotional toll on them is great. Many family caregivers work full or part-time at paying jobs, and many cut back their hours or quit their jobs entirely to make sure their loved one gets the care they need. Family Caregivers Month was celebrated during the month of November. Family caregivers deserve our recognition, but simply saying thank you is not enough. That’s why throughout the year, AARP is fighting for commonsense solutions to save caregivers time and money and provide more support. If you’re new to family caregiving, we encourage you to check out aarp.org/caregiving, where you can find 10 Tips for Family Caregivers, which provides advice and resources from experts and fellow caregivers. Among the most important: • Don’t Go It Alone:

5 Louis Davis, Jr., AARP DC State Director

Being a family caregiver can be exhausting and intense; look to fellow caregivers to show you the way. • Build a Support Network: Enlist family, friends and community members to assist with caregiving tasks; don’t be shy about asking for help and accepting assistance.

giver – a nationwide movement to support family caregivers and the loved ones they care for. We’re tapping into the power of family caregivers to force elected officials to pay attention to this important constituency. But we need your help. Raise your hand and join the fight at aarp.org/iamacaregiver. You’re handling tasks big and small, from shopping for groceries, to managing medication, to organizing financial matters and much more. And we know you need support. Join the 48 million caregivers, and people who support caregivers, across the country to raise your hands and show lawmakers that they can’t ignore the needs of so many Americans.

RAISE YOUR HAND AND JOIN THE FIGHT FOR FAMILY CAREGIVERS AT AARP.ORG/IAMACAREGIVER TODAY!

• Make a Budget: Family caregiving expenses can quickly deplete your savings if you’re not careful; create a financial plan and stick with it. • Get Paperwork Organized: Organizing medical information and legal documents provides peace of mind, and it’s a real time-saver when you need that info on a moment’s notice. • Know Your Limits: Although it isn’t easy, sometimes being a family caregiver means knowing when it is time to seek professional help to care for your loved one. For far too long, family caregivers have gone unnoticed by many lawmakers. That’s why AARP is launching I Am A Care-

Family Caregiving

Get the Family Caregiving Support You Need, When You Need it. At AARP Family Caregiving, we’re here to help you get answers, connect with other family caregivers and find local resources close to home. So you can take care of what matters most. To learn more, visit aarp.org/caregiving.  /aarpdc  @AARPDC

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NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023 21

OUR

EARTH

WHAT ON (OUR) EARTH IS GOING ON?

November Roundup: Mayor Bowser Goes Abroad, E-Buses Roll Out at Home By Kayla Benjamin WI Climate & Environment Writer Welcome back to the Our Earth monthly enviro-round-up! I hope you had a great Thanksgiving. If you found that food prices ahead of the holiday gobbled up your November budget, climate change is partially to blame. We’ve just lived through the world’s hottest 12-month span ever recorded, an analysis by Climate Central found. Heat waves, droughts and intense rainfall in many of the world’s food-growing regions disrupted production of staples like olive oil, milk, eggs, corn and rice, according to reporting from Vox. Preserving our own food supplies requires slashing our fossil fuel use globally. Read on to catch up quickly about some ways D.C. is working on that this month.

MAYOR BOWSER HEADS TO U.N. CLIMATE CONFERENCE

Mayor Muriel Bowser left Sunday, Nov. 26 for Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, for the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference, according to her office’s public calendar released Nov. 25. Before joining the international convening,

which is officially known as the 28th Conference of Parties or COP28, Bowser’s office said she would stop in Qatar to speak with leaders there and “promote Washington, DC as a destination for investment and tourism.” Once in Dubai, Bowser will participate in the first-ever Local Action Climate Summit, a gathering of “subnational leaders” co-hosted by the COP and Bloomberg Philanthropies. She’ll represent D.C. as a World Climate Action Summit Mayoral Delegate, a slate of eight city heads that also includes the leaders of Tokyo and Paris. The mayor’s trip has sparked disapproval on X (formerly known as Twitter), and in right-wing outlets like Fox News and BizPac Review, where critics framed the visit to Qatar and Dubai as a vacation taking attention away from problems in the District. At the same time, COP28 generally has faced skepticism worldwide because the host country, the UAE, is one of the world’s biggest oil producers. The man appointed to preside over the conference, Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, is the head of the nation’s state-owned oil company. Leaked documents published by the Centre for Climate Reporting on Nov. 27 showed that Al Jaber used that role to push oil deals with other governments’ leaders.

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

22 NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023

5 Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) ordered five 40-foot electric buses from Nova Bus and five from New Flyer as part of WMATA's plan to fully decarbonise its bus fleets by 2042. (Courtesy Photo/Elective.com)

BIG BATTERY BUSES HIT D.C.’S STREETS

Metro rolled out two 60-foot electric buses earlier this month, marking a first step toward an all-electric bus fleet, the agency said in a press release Nov. 13. The new buses will run on the W4 route between the Anacostia

The mayor’s trip has sparked disapproval on X (formerly known as Twitter), and in right-wing outlets like Fox News and BizPac Review, where critics framed the visit to Qatar and Dubai as a vacation taking attention away from problems in the District.

and Deanwood metro stations. Other than a green electrical plug painted on the side, these two buses look mostly the same as other “articulated buses” in the Metrobus fleet — the ones with an accordion-like connector in the middle. But e-buses run quieter and contribute less air pollution than buses that run on diesel or natural gas. Swapping electricity for fossil fuels also reduces the greenhouse gas emissions that trap heat in our atmosphere, especially as D.C. shoots for 100% renewable electricity by 2032. Metro originally planned to receive the buses in February, but they did not arrive until June, according to reporting from DCist’s Jacob Fenston. The manufacturer had to delay delivery because of a battery recall, which was triggered when a bus caught fire in a Connecticut bus depot last July. In general, climate advocates have argued that Metro’s bus electrification plan, which aims to have an all-electric fleet by 2042, have lagged behind other cities’ proposals, including Seattle, Chicago, Los Angeles and New York.

STEPPING UP SOLAR GOALS

The DMV’s regional planning organization set a goal Nov. 8 to more than triple the number of solar rooftops in the region over the next six years — aiming for 250,000 rooftop arrays by 2030, compared to 73,000 in place today. With the vote, the Metropolitan

Washington Council of Governments’ (COG) Board of Director — a three-person Board that includes one leader each from Maryland, D.C. and Virginia — pushes DMV jurisdictions to focus on renewable energy and emissions reductions. According to a press release from the organization, the COG plans to advance those efforts starting next year by bringing together local government officials working in procurement and facilities roles alongside leaders in the private sector. The aims adopted by the COG are fully voluntary. Along with the rooftop solar adoption goal, per the press release, the organization’s vote “urges” and “encourages” COG members to: • Work on installing solar on government buildings • “Explore procuring 100 percent of electricity for government operations with renewable energy.” • Support community-wide efforts to deploy solar through: - Programs for low-income residents - Effective industry engagement - Efficient zoning and permitting - Provision of incentives, rebates, and grants; - Support for bulk purchasing and solar co-ops and community choice aggregation - Workforce development WI

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In Your Community

Ready for your next mission in life? We Want to Hear Your Story

AARP DC brings together valuable online resources and community programs to help veterans and military families navigate their options in civilian life. We want to hear directly from you about how the programs and services offered by the District to assist Veterans have impacted your life. Sharing your experience will help us advocate for more effective services – and give valuable insights that can help others.

District Veterans, we want to hear from you! Scan the QR code with your phone

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NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023 23

EDUCATION District Students Gain College Credits and Career Training at Penn Center

Advanced Technical Center Continues to Prepare Students for Future Careers By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer Within a matter of months, Alexander Lee will graduate from Cardozo High School in Northwest with several college credits under his belt and professional experience that places him along his desired career path in cybersecurity. Alexander counts among nearly 200 students, from 13 District public and public charter schools, who are enrolled in the Advanced Technical Center (ATC).

For years, this program, now housed within the Lemuel Penn Center in Northeast, allowed District high school students to take career and technical education courses in preparation for college and high-skill careers -- free of charge. Course offerings, provided onsite by instructors from Trinity Washington University and University of District of Columbia, are cybersecurity and nursing. At one point, students even studied healthcare information technology. At the behest of his father, Alexander

5 Theresa Jimenez Marcos, a senior at Jackson-Reed Senior High School in Northwest, said she wants to enter the global health field as a dermatologist. She’s taken steps to pursue this career path while at the Advanced Technical Center. (Courtesy Photo/Fred Lewis, Office of the State Superintendent of Education)

enrolled in the ATC cybersecurity pathway last school year. Throughout the week, Alexander and his peers traveled to Trinity Washington University in Northeast where they learned coding and other elements of what’s a lucrative and relevant career field. Those lessons have since continued at the newly opened Penn Center

The Washington Convention and Sports Authority t/a Events DC Bid Opportunity CARPET, TILE AND FLOORING PURCHASE, STORAGE, TRANSPORTATION, REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION SERVICES REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) BID # 22-S-011-788 The Washington Convention and Sports Authority t/a Events DC is soliciting proposals from qualified firms to provide Carpet, Tile and Flooring Purchase, Storage, Transportation, Removal and Installation Services. This Request for Proposal (RFP) has a thirty-five percent (35%) set aside for a Certified Business Enterprise (CBE) as required under the provisions of “The Small and Certified Business Enterprise Development and Assistance Amendment Act of 2014” (the “Act”), effective June 10, 2014 Interested parties can view a copy of the RFP by accessing Events DC’s e-procurement website at www.wscapex.com. Key Dates RFP Release Date: Preproposal Conference Date: RFP Questions Due Date: RFP Response Due Date:

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24 NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023

site, where cybersecurity and nursing ATC students accumulate college credits and hands-on experience in on-site labs. For months, Alexander worked on computers similar to what government agencies use, learning how to code and create firewalls and malware in a controlled environment. Such lessons, he told The Informer, augment what he has learned in Cardozo’s engineering pathway and his internship at the Department of Labor Federal Credit Union. “The program made it easier to understand computers,” Alexander said. “It’s just language. You’re able to understand it in a few months, and you’re not overcomplicating things. People freak out about simple problems, but it’s [part of] a branch. When you slow down and understand what you’re doing, it’s a lot easier to fix the problems at hand.” In August, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D), State Superintendent Christina Grant and other D.C. government officials celebrated ATC’s launch at the Penn Center. Months earlier, during the 2022-2023 school year, ATC students earned a total of 740 college credits for free. Nearly 9 out of 10 students who took ATC courses that year returned for the 2023-2024 school year. The $10.3 million facility constructed by the Department of General Services includes a welcome center and science and technology labs. It counts among the District’s ongoing efforts to create and expand educational and enrichment activi-

ties for high school students. An ATC official, speaking on background, told The Informer that the program, currently on one floor of the Penn Center, serves students from all eight wards. They said there are conversations about expanding the center to other floors of the building, and even opening an ATC facility in a community east of the Anacostia River. For ATC nursing pathways student Theresa Jimenez Marcos, more young people can benefit from the program just as she has over the last couple years. Theresa, a senior at Jackson-Reed Senior High School in Northwest, said she wants to enter the global health field as a dermatologist. She’s taken steps to pursue this career path while at ATC, in the biomedical pathways at Jackson-Reed and as a member of a student club known as HOSA-Future Health Professionals. This past summer, Theresa interned at Georgetown School of Medicine, which she said further cemented her goal of studying preventative medicine. She’s currently interviewing for a school-year internship through D.C.’s Advanced Internship Program. Theresa, whose family hails from Mexico, gains inspiration from her grandmother and other family members who she, as a youngster, saw battle health problems. In her career, Theresa aspires to help first-generation American families overcome insurance hurdles and language barriers that complicate their access to healthcare. Read more on www.washingtoninformer.com. Wi @SamPKCollins

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Reliability rests on his shoulders. There’s a source of energy in South Carolina as reliable as any in the world: our employees. It’s their hard work – braving storms, servicing power lines, and building a smarter and more secure power grid – that brings you the dependable electricity you’ve come to expect. Our employees’ dedication to every community they serve is at the heart of everything we do.

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NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023 25

We hear you. And we’re here to help. All through 2023, we listened — to our clients, teammates and the many communities we serve. And truly hearing what they would like the power to do helped us strengthen our partnerships — and welcome new ones along the way. From couples just starting out to entrepreneurs looking to launch a business, together we accomplished a lot. We can’t wait to see what 2024 has in store. Lawrence Di Rita President, Bank of America Greater Washington D.C.

Learn more at bankofamerica.com/washingtondc

What would you like the power to do?®

26 NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023

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November 2023. Volume 9. Issue 11.

HU Skate Club & D.C.’s Skate Scene

@WIBRIDGEDC

info@wibridgedc.com Advertise with us. Email us.

editor-in-chief & creative director :

Lafayette Barnes IV Mahadi Lawal copy Editor : Lafayette Barnes IV Photography : Darius Osborne, Lydia Embry, James Saulksy, Maya Hatoum Layout Design : Lafayette Barnes IV Contributing Writers : Mahadi Lawal, Milaka Saddler, Zahreh Barry managing Editor :

letter from the editor In this special edition of The Bridge, we are thrilled to bring you an exclusive look into skateboarding in our community. Our feature focuses on the groundbreaking documentary that delves into the story of the Howard University Skate Club, showcasing the talent, passion, and unique narratives of its founders, Monyell and Kam. The documentary, skillfully directed by JusB, unfolds as a compelling narrative that goes beyond the ramps and wheels, exploring the cultural significance and impact of this femme-led skate club at Howard University. Through in-depth interviews with Monyell and Kam, readers will gain valuable insights into the club's origins, challenges faced, and triumphs achieved. JusB, the visionary behind the lens, shares the creative process and challenges encountered while making this documentary, offering readers a glimpse into the dedication required to capture the essence of this dynamic skate community. The interviews with local skaters further enrich our coverage, shedding light on the evolving skate scene in the D.C. area and the unique in intersection of culture, community, and athleticism. This edition invites you to join us in celebrating the diversity and resilience of the HU Skate Club. As we explore the individual stories and collective spirit that define this community, we hope you find inspiration in the passion and camaraderie that permeate every kickflip and ollie. Thank you for joining us on this journey into the heart of the local skate scene. We hope you enjoy the stories, perspectives, and cultural vibrancy that make our community unique. - Mahadi Lawal Keep up with Mahadi on Instagram via @mahadi.inc

D.C.’s Boundless & Thriving Skateboarding Community: Exploring Infrastructure & Industry 4

Let's dive into D.C.’s booming skate scene – a world beyond politics and art galleries. It's a realm where skateboarding, once on the fringes, is now a major player, especially for Black skaters making waves. In 2018, D.C.’s skateboarding spots were pretty limited, with only a few decent parks in Wards 2 and 6 and none across the Anacostia River. But as skate culture grew, so did the demand for more rad spaces. Fast-forward, and we've got new parks and old ones getting faceliis. Sh Shaw Skate Park is a prime example. Renovated in 2011, this 11,000-square-foot concrete haven in Ward 2 is stacked with ramps, stairs, and half-pipes. It's the go-to spot for crews like Shaw Boyz and WolfPack, not to mention all the local skaters hitting it up for some chill time or to learn new tricks. Over in Ward 6, Garﬁeld SkatePark is more of a chill-out spot for late-night hangs rather than hardcore skating. It has some incredible murals, but the park needs some TLC. There's talk of a revamp coming in 2024, so ﬁngers crossed. Freedom Plaza, or Pulaski Park to the skaters, is legendary. It's a favorite in the skate world, even making it into Thrasher magazine’s 2020 doc. Skater Darren Harper talks about the inspiration and brotherhood he found there, skating alongside legends like Carlos Kenner and Bobby Worrest. Then there's Maloof Skatepark. Opened in 2012, this 15,000-square-foot park has been a lifeline for young skaters. But, with its future uncertain, the local skate community is on edge, wondering what's next.

We can only talk about skate culture by mentioning fashion. It's all about expressing your style, and D.C. skaters know it. Crushed Skate Shop on U Street is the spot for fresh gear. Since Palace 5ive closed in 2018, Crushed has stepped up, scoring a Nike SB Dunk Low collab in 2022. But here's the deal: D.C.’s skate scene needs our support more than ever, especially with gentriﬁcation shaking things up. We must back initiatives like JT Skate School that keep the youth rolling and the culture thriving. Whether it's pushing for park renovations or supporting local skate shops, every bit counts.

Written by:

photography by:

Milaka Saddler

Courtesy

So, let's keep the wheels turning for D.C.'s skaters, ensuring this vibrant culture thrives in the heart of the capital.

Questions with Jordan

of JT Skate School 6

ZB: Do you remember when you ﬁrst heard of HU Skate Club or met Monyell?

ZB: What do you hope for HU Skate Club and Monyell and Kam?

JT: I remember meeting her at Banneker around the time Shaw (Skate Park) was being rebuilt. Yeah, I just met her at Banneker. She’s cool people, her and Kam. I met them around the same time. I don’t remember the ﬁrst time exactly, but I remember meeting them at Banneker, and they’re just real cool. They weren’t shy or scared to just come to the park. I know sometimes it can be. I mean, I can only imagine it can be intimidating for a woman to go to a skatepark. It’s kind of like a male-dominated sport. I know it’s changing now, but yeah, I met them. They were cool and [have] been cool ever since.

JT: I mean, the sky’s the limit. I hope that they continue and keep the cup going, and they put up people that will keep it going and, carry on the legacy and spread the love and the vibes of skateboarding and continue to get people of color on skateboards. I wish them the best, and I see they’re gonna do great things in life and with the skate club in the community, etc.

ZB: Do you see a change or impact of the HU Skate Club? Has their presence aﬀected the D.C. skate community, and how?

JT: Continue just doing what you love. If you love to skate, keep doing that, whatever else it is, just keep doing what makes you happy at the end of the day. No matter if you're able to make money out of it or not, just create a positive impact on people’s lives. I think that’s very important. Skateboarding has been life-changing to me, and I’m sure it’s been life-changing to Monyell and Kam and everybody else they put on to it.

JT: I think it’s changed the fact that it brings a lot more people of color on skateboards, and it also shows the community more to people outside the core skateboarders. Like people in school, showing them that it’s something that is beneficial it helps people get through their school days. It’s making people at other schools and colleges want to organize like all of the local universities now have skate clubs. Like GW just started a skate club too, a couple of weeks ago. I feel like that all trended off of what the HU skate club started. That was the first skate club I heard about at a college. I don’t know if there were ones before that, but like, it’s the first HBCU and the first college that I had heard about that did it, and I think it’s major. ZB: Oh, that’s wonderful. So they’re spreading the love of skateboarding and the sense of community around skateboarding at their institutions? JT: Yeah, definitely the sense of community because they did, like, this 6 Skate Clubs meet up at the park a couple of weeks ago. I mean, that just shows community right there. Those colleges are from Towson, Georgetown, and Howard so like all over the city and the area, they’re all coming together, and UMD, so definitely bringing that sense of community. ZB: Wonderful! How has HU Skate Club affected you as a skateboarder and skate teacher? JT: It’s affected me in a positive way. I mean, one, it’s an inspiration, it’s a motivation to see that skateboarding is continually going to grow and just seeing the benefit in the lives of people all over the region, in the world, and I just love to see it. It shows that skateboarding will be around for a long, long time and will be a growing industry.

ZB: Is there anything else you want to say or add? Any message you have for people already in the skate community or wanting to get involved?

Shout out Crushed Skate shop, shout out Shaw Boyz, shout out JT Skate School, shout out the whole DMV community, anybody that’s putting a positive light on skateboarding and spreading the love of it, and just trying to better the community and better the youth. ZB: What do you think the impact of having so many skate clubs at universities in the DMV area will be on the whole of the D.C. skate community? JT: Over time, this, and all the other positive things going on with the skate shops and skate clubs, I think skateboarding was pretty big in D.C. already. I think it’ll just spread skateboarding and make the government, make the city oﬃcials take a liking to it, and see how positive it is and how it’s giving kids something positive to do. I’m hoping they’ll take note of that and see we need more skateparks. We need mo more skateboard-related things whether it’s more events, parks, and ways to implement skateboarding in schools. That’s something I’m trying to do now. I’ve been teaching skateboarding at the school that I went to. I think everything is on the ups.

Written by:

photography by:

Zahreh Barry

James Saulsky & Lydia Embry

Howard University Skate Club the First Skateboarding Club on an HBCU Campus

Three years later, Monyell Sessoms and Kameren Haliday, founders of the Howard University Skate Club, have NOOCHIE become the bridge between communities with longstanding cultural barriers. From University to University and from Campuses to Community Parks, a resurgence of interest and activity in skateboarding is due partly to two young women craving a safe space for themselves and their peers and expanding the local community that welcomed them in. As a D.C. skater and documentarian, I was overwhelmed with joy and amazement at the first HU Skate Club meeting I attended. To see so many different, young, black college students coming together to share, teach, and enjoy skateboarding was intoxicating. When I was their age, we had a barely lit and questionable slice of 11th street where I saw maybe two or three other black women skaters semi-regularly, along with many unsettled youth and their stories that I grew to learn and love. Sure, the D.C. skate scene was a bit sordid at one time. Still, I learned the value of community, camaraderie, and the ultimate cross-cultural unifier that is skateboarding.

One year aaer my first HU skate club meetup experience, and many meet-ups later, I asked the founders to reflect on the impact of HU Skate Club on the D.C. skate community, and vice versa, over the years. As a non-native student to the DMV, how would you describe the D.C. Skate community and how you were embraced? Monyell: Personally, for me I didn't really have a skate community back home in North Carolina. So, coming to D.C., the first time I was at the park, they were extremely accepting and really welcoming. Even now, I know them way better than I did before, and they treat me like family. Everyone I have come across has been really, really nice. So yeah. Kameren: My story is very similar to Monyell’s. I did have a little community back home. I’m from Atlanta. So the skate park was always hot. I was in a women’s skate group, too, and they gave me a good foundation for skateboarding. So when I came to D.C. I was actually a little nervous. I saw it was mostly older guys. But Monyell told me they were chill, so I definitely had that same experience when I finally met them. I definitely call some of them my friends. We’ve hung out over the years, and it’s never been an issue. I like the D.C. skateboarding community; many of them are just genuine people, and I feel safe and welcome and I like the events. It’s a great community. The goal was simple from the beginning: finding other people to skate with in college. Now that it's been a few years, can you reflect on the impact of the HU Skate Club both on the local community and the university? Monyell: I think that it’s changed the culture at the university a bit. It’s way more open for people that skate and way more accepting. For the local community, I think it brought more young black kids in their teens to the skate scene, as well as just kids reaching out to us about teaching them how to skate and stuff. A little girl I saw at the park, her mom texted the Club’s chat later asking for lessons and stuff.

written by:

photography by:

Zahreh Barry

Darius Osborne

It’s the little things. A bigger young black presence in the skate scene as well as bridging the gap between institutions that are taking up space in the city and the communities they’re being held in. As well as between Universities, we’ve had collaborations with Georgetown, which is a university that is ooen out of the way, and they wouldn’t interact with anyone really, so to see a Georgetown kid out and about in the Shaw area is something [significant]. It’s been bridging things together and connecting people who would not have connected or talked, or been around each other, or skated together. So I think that’s the impact it’s been leaving. Kam: Once again, I agree with everything she’s saying. We started it together, and we’re pretty similar, so I feel like the Skate club has definitely lee a positive impact on Howard. It’s brought students out and visible, and it’s cool. We use this club to connect to each other. Same thing with the D.C. community, and exposing other young people to skateboarding. It’s really cool. What would you say the legacy is, and what do you hope the club will continue to do aaer you graduate? Monyell: I hope that the club continues to foster an environment that is welcoming. That’s the biggest thing for me. I want everyone to feel welcome there if you’re at a club meeting or just around someone that's in our club. I want you to feel welcomed and not judged. To feel like you can just try new things. A lot of times, a lot of people in the club haven’t skated before, so just feeling like you can try, and you have space to try, and you are safe to try. That’s what I want to be continued once we leave. Kam: I definitely want a welcoming culture, friendly environment, and, most importantly, a space for people to feel like themselves. I want us to stay connected with the community and hopefully help teach the younger kids that come and keep that mentality alive. One thing that makes our club really fun? There’s no pressure to learn how to really skate or be a skateboarder to be a part of the club. There’s a lo of people, even one of our e-board members, doesn’t skate lot as much, but she loves the skateboarding club and community that lies within it. So those things.

Documenting A Movement: Jusb & Clirror

JusB, the co-founder of Clirror, never set out to make a documentary on the Howard University Skate Club; it just happened. A chance encounter with Muhammad Mangum (Moe), owner of the Village Cafe, led to the two of them joining forces to shine a light on the movement. Clirror was founded in 2018 by Jus and Alex, two Clir multidisciplinary creatives, to “Elevate the creative conscious and allow people to express their creativity visually through documentaries, graphic design, photography… anything visual,” says Jus. AAe being introduced to the founder of the skate AAer club by Moe, Jus realized that this would be an excellent opportunity for them to work together on something extraordinary. “The project is really about self-expression, how that creates community, and how community creates a legacy that impacts the youth.” anyone. Whether or not you go to The club is open to a Howard or even skate, you can just hang out. There is no gatekeeping or pretentiousness. According to Jus, “It shows how when you’re truly expressing yourself, there is no limit to it. There’s a human connection via expression. It’s not just about skateboarding; it’s about our people expressing themselves at scale. The whole messa message is just to be yourself, and being able to present that at scale is going to create inspiration.” One thing that stood out to Jus while making this doc has been the resilience shown by these kids. They want to change and revolutionize things in their environments and the world. He hopes that younger viewers will see it and be inspired. “I want them to know that they can be themselves. If this causes even just a few kids to pick up a skateboard, I’m happy with that At the end of the day, it’s all about creative that.” expression and being your most authentic possible self.

Written by:

photography by:

Mahadi Lawal

Maya Hatoum

EDITORIAL

Biden’s Dance with the Black Press: A Forgotten Rhythm? Joe Biden, the 2020 presidential candidate, realized the pivotal role African Americans would play in deciding his destiny. Biden understood the importance of the Black community’s support and the impact of the Black Press on Black voters. In February 2020, awareness about this issue became clear during an important meeting in South Carolina with Black Press publishers and leaders. In the historic downtown of Charleston, the meeting at the Mills House Wyndham Grand Hotel came as Biden trailed in the polls with rumors about him possibly ending his campaign. Acknowledging the Black Press’s historical roots created by Samuel Cornish and John B. Russwurm about 200 years ago, Biden desired to establish a connection with the “Trusted Voice of Black America.” The Black Press played a crucial role in sharing messages from important figures such as the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to Mamie Till. Biden’s interview with Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., president and CEO of NNPA, gained global attention. It streamed on the social media platforms of 230 Black newspapers, potentially reaching over 30 million people, especially African Americans. A national feature article ensued. The Black community’s support, amplified by the Black Press, played a crucial role in Biden’s comefrom-behind 2020 victory. Notably, South Carolina Democratic Rep. James Clyburn’s formal endorsement further boosted Biden’s campaign. However, as the 2024 election approaches, Biden’s outreach to the Black Press appears to have waned. While policies have benefited African Americans, Biden’s communication still leaves much to be desired. His “History” ad campaign highlights the government’s dedication to rural Black communities, but concerns remain about the lack of advertising support for Black-owned media. The campaign budget for Black voter outreach includes an ad with TheGRIO, a Black-owned entity. Promises to advertise in the Black Press from people within the Biden camp have not been fulfilled, including from DNC Chair Jaime Harrison. With polls indicating a decline in Black support, the question arises: can Biden recreate the rhythm that initially garnered him the support of the Black Press in a potential rematch against Trump? The challenge lies in bridging the gap between promises made and tangible actions to secure continued support from the Black electorate. WI

Start Working Toward Your New Year’s Resolutions Before Wrapping 2023

With a little more than a month left in 2023, you might already be thinking about how you’d like to improve your life in 2024. Do you have health or weight management goals? Maybe you’re hoping to budget better in the new year? Or perhaps you’re working to learn a new skill. Whatever your 2024 goals may be, it’s best to begin working toward them as you wrap 2023, for a number of reasons. First, your 2024 resolutions might require items or events that you need to begin financially preparing for now. For instance, are you trying to become more physically fit, but don’t have access to exercise equipment? If so, you might need to budget for joining a gym, and remember a lot of fitness facilities have holiday and year-end deals, so begin that research now. If you’re not comfortable working out around others, invest in home exercise equipment such as weights, dumbbells, a yoga mat, or machines like a stationary bike or treadmill. Or, do you want to take that dream vacation next year? Start looking up prices for your trip now and determine how you’ll need to budget to take that vacation. In addition, starting a new routine in hopes that it becomes a habit takes time. According to James Clear, an expert on forming habits, on average it takes a bit more than two months– or about 66 days— before a new behavior becomes automatic. Further, depending on individuals and their goals, adjusting to a new habit can take shorter or longer than the projected two months. For that reason, it’s important to give yourself time before 2024 begins to start working on your new routine. Finally, starting your new year’s resolution a month in advance will allow you to truly evaluate your goals for 2024. You’ll be able to examine if your resolutions are realistic or if they need some fine tuning before the official start of the new year. Imagine being in full-swing, or close to it, by the time January 2024 rolls around. While everyone else is just starting their goals, you would have had a month of hard work, determination and planning under your belt. So, don’t wait until New Year’s Eve or Jan 1 to consider how you want to improve in 2024. Begin the road to your resolutions today. WI

TO THE EDITOR Salute to everyone responsible for the naming of Marion Barry Avenue in Southeast. What a beautiful celebration for someone who was more than deserving for all he did and gave to the community. May Mr. Barry’s legacy live on forever!

Shout out to the local organizations helping the homeless and the hungry this holiday season. These groups are sorely needed more than ever. Inflation, rent, and food prices are at an all-time high. I’m thankful for everyone making a difference.

Willis Brown Washington, D.C.

Tye Hubert Washington, D.C.

Readers' Mailbox The Washington Informer welcomes letters to

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

NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023 27

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist

Eleanor Kitzman

U.S. Disasters Disparately Affect Low-Income Homeowners and Renters

So far this year, the U.S. has been hit by 23 separate major disasters, the highest number since NOAA started keeping records in 1980. These disasters — which include hurricanes, wildfires, flooding, tornados and hail — collectively have killed more than 250 people, caused over $57 billion in property damage, and are both causing and exacerbating health issues in regions across the country. Their impact

is disproportionately felt by low-income homeowners and renters. As weary homeowners try to recover from these disasters and prepare for ever more extreme weather, they face a new crisis: disappearing insurance coverage which threatens to bankrupt families and communities and could have a domino effect on the mortgage and construction industries. Mounting losses from disaster-related claims have driven several major insurers to stop writing new policies in California, Colorado, Florida, and Louisiana. In many states, double-digit premi-

um increases, higher deductibles, and reduced coverage are becoming the norm. As private insurers retreat from the market, residual markets (nonprofit, state-chartered insurers of last resort) are forced to pick up the slack at a scale for which they were not designed. The rate of uninsured homeowners has risen from 5% to 12% in just the last three years due to increasing costs. We can only fix this insurance crisis by fixing our underlying risk crisis. The majority of homes in the U.S. were built to codes that did not anticipate the rapidly increasing extreme weath-

Guest Columnist

er we are experiencing today. Many of these homes can be made more climate resilient, but risk mitigation is peril-specific; there is no one-sizefits-all and, often, those most at risk lack financial resources for even small improvements. Investment in climate resilience will take creative thinking, innovative funding, and a collaborative effort, as we have seen in Alabama. Over a decade ago, Alabama launched the Strengthen Alabama Homes (SAH) program. SAH makes grants to homeowners of up to $10,000 to install a FORTIFIED

Roof™, a construction standard based on decades of research and testing by the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS). FORTIFIED has been proven to prevent or significantly reduce losses from hurricanes, high winds, hail, tornados, and other severe convective storms. Of the weather disasters since 1980, hurricanes have caused the most damage — $1.3 trillion — and are also responsible for the highest number of deaths (6,890). FORTIFIED is widely

KITZMAN Page 49

Charlene Crowell

Nearly 5.5M Borrowers Lower Student Loan Payments with SAVE Plan

Nearly 5.5 million borrowers have applied for the newest federal program for student loan debt relief since it was announced about three months ago. Nearly 3 million borrowers who enrolled in the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) Plan completely eliminated their monthly loan payments. "Under President Biden, the Department created the SAVE Plan

so that young people and working families can climb the economic ladder without unaffordable student loan debt weighing them down," said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. "I'm thrilled to see that in less than three months, nearly 5.5 million Americans in every community across the country are taking advantage of the SAVE Plan's many benefits, from lower monthly payments to protection from runaway student loan interest." The bulk of these loan savings

benefit students with the greatest financial need — those eligible for federal Pell grants — including Black, Latino, Native American and Alaskan Native borrowers. Most SAVE borrowers will see their lifetime loan repayments cut in half. As long as SAVE participants maintain their regular payments, their loan balances will go down due to the Education Department no longer charging interest. Further, the SAVE program creates lower payment rates for both undergraduate and graduate loans.

Guest Columnist

Required payments for undergraduate loans will be cut in half to 5% from the previous 10%. Borrowers who incurred both undergraduate and graduate loans, under SAFE, will now pay a weighted average of the original principal balances on their loans. The payment range for the combination borrowers is from 5-10% of income. The $0 payment remains available for borrowers who earn less than $32,800 per year or those in a family of four making less than $67,000. Borrowers earning more

than these annual amounts also benefit with an estimated savings of $102 a month ($1,224 a year), compared to earlier income-driven repayment programs. Geographically, every state and congressional district has SAVE participants. California and Texas each have more than 450,000 borrowers enrolled in SAVE, while congressional districts in Missouri, Ohio and Michigan have the highest identified enrollment.

to the Holocaust, and alleged ties to "companies that have been accused of fraud and scamming customers." The report's conclusions were circulated among campaign strategists for top House Republicans and was so condemning that several campaign aides urged Santos to drop out of the race. When he refused, his own aides resigned. Nassau County Republicans are upset and united in calling for Santos' resignation. The subject has become such a major embarrassment to constituents in New York and members of the nation's highest legislative body.

When former Rep. Tom Suozzi announced he would not seek reelection for New York's 3rd Congressional District, Santos defeated Richard Zimmer by 8 points, thus denying Democrats the opportunity to hold the House seat in a reliably Democratic district. It became a classic example of Democrats sleeping at the wheel by taking the Santos campaign — and voters for granted. While the Democrats assembled their own opposition research before

CROWELL Page 49

David W. Marshall

Stay Informed and Engaged

Red flags will always be there if you pay close enough attention. In the case of George Santos, the red flags were revealed long before his election but simply ignored by too many people. Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy told reporters, "I always had a few questions about Santos' résumé." Ultimately, McCarthy would need every vote he could get to become

House speaker, including the vote from the problematic New York freshman. The congressman, who represents parts of Queens and Long Island, now faces a 23-count federal indictment. After the recent release of the House Ethics Committee findings, evidence shows that Santos converted campaign donations for his personal use. "The evidence uncovered in the Ethics Committee's Investigative Subcommittee investigation is more than sufficient to warrant punishment and the most appropriate punishment is expulsion," said Rep. Michael Guest,

28 NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023

the Republican Committee chairman from Mississippi. MAGA Republicans do know corruption when they see it — they just don't always choose to act on it. Before the 2020 election, the Santos campaign hired an outside research firm to provide an internal vulnerability report detailing aspects of the candidate's past. Such reports are typically used in the early stages of a campaign when candidates are preparing for potential attacks from their opponents. The report on Santos included questions that surfaced about his marriage, his family's link

MARSHALL Page 49

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OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist

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

Don't Get the Two Confused

Recently I've heard more people than usual say, "I don't celebrate Thanksgiving." Let's not get things confused, so don't think you should stop there. Beware of how this country was brutally taken from Indigenous Peoples. It's OK to say, "I don't celebrate Thanksgiving," but don't be confused about our need to give thanks to God for something every day. We

can't forget the past any of us have witnessed, but we can be the ones willing to pray and ask God to help us make the changes we need for a better world for all of us today. Amid all the ungodly things going on around us today, let us remember that God has got the whole world in His hands. No matter which side you are on in the Israeli/Hamas War, don't be confused. Two wrongs don't make one right. All the hate-filled rhetoric is not helping to resolve the matter. Let us be on the right side

Guest Columnist

by remembering God can fix this. According to a song we are reminded, "He's got the whole world in his hands/He's got the whole wide world in his hands/He's got the whole world in his hands/ He's got the wind and the rain in his hands/He's got the wind and the rain in his hands/He's got the whole world in his hands/He's got the little bitty baby in his hands/ He's got the little bitty baby in his hands/He's got the whole world in his hands/He's got you and me sister (and brother) in his hands/ He's got you and me sister (and

brother) in his hands/He's got you and me sister (and brother) in his hands/He's got the whole world in his hands/He's got everybody in his hands/He's got everybody in his hands/He's got everybody in his hands/He's got the whole world in his hands." If you are an African American, it's likely your parents and grandparents sang this song many days and nights. They knew and they believed everything would be alright. It is an African American spiritual that brought our ancestors through some difficult days

and nights. When you get discouraged it's good to fall back to "the olden days" for the strength to carry on. While we've witnessed the horrors and the meanness of the "eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth" theory, but after all the devastation of man's inhumanity to man, we have begun to see what to many may be the end of the tunnel for some, as some of the hostages who spent 49 days in captivity and some of the young people who were imprisoned come out

WILLIAMS Page 50

Marc H. Morial

Federal Appeals Court Decision on Voting Rights Act 'Intellectually Bankrupt' would deal an immense and perhaps irrecoverable blow to voting-rights enforcement in this country." — Matt Ford "Why does it matter if the Voting Rights Act is enforceable by private plaintiffs? If the panel's conclusion is upheld by the Supreme Court, then Section 2 effectively becomes a light switch. A Republican president — say, Donald Trump — could simply instruct the Justice Department to stop bringing Section 2 lawsuits at all. With no private alternative, that

Minutes after the Supreme Court struck down Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act in 2013, with the majority insisting states didn't need to be prevented from passing discriminatory voting laws, then-Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott called for reinstatement of a discriminatory voting law. Hours after a federal appeals

Guest Columnist

court on Nov. 20 opened the door for states, counties, and municipalities to deny Americans the right to vote on account of race or color, North Dakota moved to weaken voting rights for Native American tribes. If the decision U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit is allowed to stand, no one but the federal government can stop North Dakota, or any party, from violating Americans' voting rights on account of race or color. The individual whose rights are being violated may

not seek justice under the law. Entire communities whose rights are being violated may not seek justice under the law. Civil rights and social justice groups may not seek justice under the law. A legal right that almost no one is permitted to claim is no right at all. And that is exactly the point. It's hard to overstate how intellectually bankrupt the decision is. Most challenges seeking to enforce Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act are brought by private plaintiffs, not the federal government. For near-

ly six decades, the nation's courts have recognized the right of private plaintiffs to sue under Section 2. Private plaintiffs have triumphed over discriminatory laws under liberal presidents, conservative presidents, presidents who have defended and advanced voting rights, and presidents who have sought to restrict voting rights. The Biden administration's positive record of defending voting rights should not delude anyone

MORIAL Page 50

Ben Jealous

For Too Many Kids, Getting Outside Is Easier Said Than Done

Last week, after a restful Thanksgiving, my family made a deliberate choice to #OptOutside on Friday. #OptOutside is a growing movement in which participating organizations and companies close their doors on Black Friday, give their employees a paid day off, and encourage all of us to embrace the serenity of nature in-

stead of succumbing to the frenzy of Black Friday shopping. I'm an outdoors enthusiast, from a long line of outdoors enthusiasts As a dad, I try to instill a strong love of nature in my kids and make sure they reap the vast benefits of spending time outside in and among nature. However, I'm aware that my family's ability to enjoy the outdoors is a blessing that's been denied to far too many other Black families. Like pollution and climate change, inadequate access to nature is not a

crisis shouldered equally. Sadly, it won't surprise you that it falls hardest on people of color and low-income communities. A study of park accessibility by the Trust for Public Land concluded that "systemic racism and redlining have led to chronic disinvestment in parks and recreational facilities in marginalized communities." The result is one that perpetuates a cycle of inequality: "too few parks as well as parks marred by cracked asphalt, barren fields, and broken play equipment." All

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people, and especially children, need easy access to safe, clean outside spaces for healthy bodies and minds. Yet one third of all Americans — among them, 28 million children — don't have any sort of park or natural space within a 10-minute walk of their home. According to analysis of 2017 demographic data by Conservation Science Partners, people of color were three times more likely than white people to live in an area that is considered nature deprived, with people who

identified as Black or African American being the group most likely to live in one of these areas. Sixty-eight percent of people who identified as Black or African American lived in a nature deprived area. Seventy percent of low-income people did. And a whopping 76% of low-income people of color lived in a nature deprived area. Lack of nature access is not only an issue of one's physical proximity to a park or

JEALOUS Page 50

NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023 29

LIFESTYLE

Family is the Thing in ‘Fat Ham’ By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer Death, family, and secrets, components of many Shakespearean tragedies, are brought to the stage in Studio Theatre’s “Fat Ham. The James Ijames’s Pulitzer Prize-winning twist on William Shakespeare’s “Hamlet,” offers a modern-day twist on the classic play, as the action takes place during a family barbeque. 5 (L-R) Marquis D. Gibson plays Juicy, and Thomas Walter Booker portrays Tio in the Studio Theatre production of “Fat Ham.” The play runs until January 14. (Courtesy Photo/Margot Schulman)

The characters' interactions are funny and not the usual approach to a Shakespearean tragedy. With such a unique plot, “Fat Ham,” was nominated for five Tony awards, and the Studio Theatre show, directed by Taylor Reynolds, has been extended (for the second time), now running until Jan. 14. The Tragedy Unfolds The main character, Juicy, is conflicted about his father’s murder. Pap, the father was not the best human toward his queer son, but still, how should Juicy mourn? A possible answer comes in the form of a visit to Juicy from his father’s ghost. Pap wants Juicy to avenge his death. This scene parallels “Hamlet.” The suspected murderer is the father’s brother. A technique also from “Hamlet” used in “Fat Ham” is when Juicy “breaks the fourth wall” by talking directly to the audience when delivering his soliloquies. Juicy is played by Marquis D. Gibson, who rides a roller coaster of emotions as family and friends don’t seem to get him, nor are they in mourning over Pap’s death. Greg Alverez Reid plays dual roles as Pap and his brother Rev, the suspected murderer. As Rev, you feel his verbal abusiveness toward Juicy is not far from what Juicy received from Pap, his father. Another level of complication is that Rev just married Juicy’s mother, Tedra. Pap’s widow did not wait for her dead husband’s body to get cold. The only other person who saw the

ghost was Juicy’s friend Tio, played by Thomas Walker Booker. Tio comes off with a lot of playfulness, but he is a visionary truth-teller. His loyalty to Juicy brings out more wisdom than anyone else at the barbeque has to offer. Other guests at the combined barbeque–wedding reception are family friends Rabby, played by Kelli Blackwell, and her children, Opal, played by Gaelyn D. Smith, and Larry, played by Matthew Elijah Webb, who shows up in full military dress. Things Get Real As conversations heat up and confrontations occur, characters peel back many layers. Juicy’s mother, Tedra, jumped into relationships that were not the best, but she did not see many options. Family friend Rabby comes off as holier than thou, but that’s not how she started. Daughter Opal is headstrong and pretty much knows what she isn’t and moves closer to who she is. Larry has suppressed many feelings that have torn him up. Larry struggles to talk honestly with Juicy with turmoil swirling at the BBQ. “Fat Ham” brings to the stage issues about homophobia, masculinity, and squashed dreams. How do the characters address this dynamic? What the audience saw was that every cast member in “Fat Ham” is a valuable player. “Fat Ham” runs 100 minutes without an intermission. Visit the website for Studio Theatre for ticket information, https://www.studiotheatre.org or call the box office at 202-332-3300. wi @bcscomm

Bid Opportunity The District of Columbia Housing Finance Agency, on behalf of the Public Relations Department the (“Agency”) is seeking a contractor to provide graphic design services for art direction, layouts, designs for digital printing and web distribution. This includes brochures, posters and other various designs upon request. Preferences are given to the District’s Certified Business Enterprise companies. The detailed RFP can be found at www.DCHFA.org/business-opportunities or send email to procurement@dchfa.org. Deadline for submission of proposals is December 8, 2023 at 2:00 p.m.

30 NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023

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LIFESTYLE Women Describe a Century of Community in Washington, DC Submitted by Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum

5 Lauren Irving stars as Aria, a musical show guide in Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey’s reimagined production, “The Greatest Show on Earth,” which hits Baltimore’s CFG Bank Arena Nov. 24-26. (Courtesy Photo)

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey's New Show: No Animals, No Ringmaster, Tons of Diversity

Lauren Irving Talks About Representation, Starring as a Show Guide By Micha Green WI Managing Editor Kicking off its Mid-Atlantic tour in Baltimore last weekend, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey is back with “The Greatest Show on Earth,” a reimagined production without live animals or a ringmaster, but three show guides, including Lauren Irving the show’s musical heartbeat. As the only African American in the 75-cast production, Irving not only entertains, but offers representation for audience members who are able to see themselves in her while watching her perform. “It means so much when I rise up and I see little girls and boys who look like me surprised to see somebody like them… I never get tired of that. I understand what that means and even for

Stay Informed!

the parents, who came [to the show] when they were little, just to see somebody like them means a lot. So I feel like with all of the honor that I'm carrying, it's not even a burden. It's just like a blessing,” Irving told the Informer on WIN-TV’s Let’s Talk While she’s breaking barriers as the show’s first musical show guide, Irving, who has starred on stages from Disney Parks to cruise ships, said she pays homage to Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey’s long history of the ringmaster. “Though there's not a ringmaster in this reimagined version, I do recognize that there is this significance to me being in this role,” Irving said. I know that for me to be a part of this sort of legacy of being in an elite role in history is just nothing less than an honor.” WI

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Dianne Dale grew up in Hillsdale in the 1940s, a time when the African American neighborhood was largely segregated from Anacostia, then exclusively White. She remembers many movie theaters, “but the Carver Theater was the only one we could go to...the Carver Theater was ours. We grew up with that movie theater. And we could go there on Saturdays for nine cents and stay all day and watch Lash LaRue [Westerns]”. That theater eventually became the first location of what is now the Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum, a place Dale describes as “our museum”, where “you just stopped in to say hello to somebody that you knew who worked there.” You can listen to Dale’s voice telling her story on the Anacostia Community Museum’s website. She is one of several women whose narratives offer a history of Washington, DC rooted in the city’s neighborhoods. The narratives draw on interviews the museum collected in the 1970s and 1990s, which were originally recorded on cassettes tapes. As the tapes started to deteriorate, the museum sought funding from the Smithsonian American Women’s History Initiative to digitize and catalogue them. As 5 Dianne Dale is a fourth-genera result, hundreds of interviews have descriptions in the museum’s online ation resident of Anacostia-Hillsdale, archives, and the museum’s website presents a selection of audio clips of and a graduate of Howard University. women speaking about their lives in the greater Washington, DC, region. She was recognized for her community The stories offer a range of perspectives on our city, as early as the leadership in a 1977 exhibition at the Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community 1920s. Virginia Hool, who lived in Anacostia, recalls that “the police Museum. A quilt she made is currentand firemen were appointed by Congressmen” until the force profession- ly on view in the museum’s exhibition alized around 1925. “The police at that time were named Waters and To Live and Breathe, through January Brooks and Brown, Mr. Stewart. They were Colored policemen... They all 7, 2024. Photo from the Dale-Patterworked on the foot beats because they didn't have cars and motorcycles son Family collection, ACM Archives, or anything.” In the 1940s, Lillie Vaden recalls that her suburban DC Smithsonian Institution, gift of neighborhood of North Brentwood, MD “had one or two policemen. Dianne Dale. But Brentwood was such a peaceful place that we really didn't have much need for anything like that.” Many women recount being very involved in their communities in the 1960s and 1970s. Della Lowery led a group of parents who advocated for public schools in and around Anacostia. “We worked like the dickens. And I think it took 'em ten or twelve years to build the schools that we said we wanted then...like Savoy and Green and McGogney...” In nearby Garfield Heights, Ophelia Settle Egypt organized to welcome residents in a public housing development: “We formed the committee... to visit all of the residents as they came into the new project and welcome them into the community and tell them about the [community co-op] store and get them interested in the civic…association.” Across the city in Columbia Heights, Casilda Luna worked with Latin American women to “assist them with counseling on the issue of the city, on bills payment, assist them with rental problems, assist them with educating them [on] how to go to school and learn English.” Collectively, the stories give voice to a broad set of experiences and opinions. What emerges is a picture of Washington, DC’s diverse and dynamic communities, where, for over a century, neighbors have socialized and supported one another, patronized local businesses, contributed to community-building efforts and engaged in vibrant cultural and artistic endeavors. In many cases, women led the way. They communicated, collaborated, saw opportunities and developed plans. They also rolled up their sleeves and got the job done. Together, they created a very special hometown. 5 Della Lowery moved to You can listen to their Washington, DC, from Framingham, Massachusetts in 1950. She stories at anacostia.si.edu/ advocated for more schools to be built DCwomenspeak. east of the Anacostia River after the population boomed as a result of “urban renewal” in Southwest DC. Photo courtesy of the Lowery family.

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NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023 31

LIFESTYLE

Thurst Lounge: D.C.’s Black-Owned LGBTQIA Bar to Open Early December By Milaka Saddler WI Contributing Writer Longtime DMV residents Brandon Burke and Shaun Mykals were attracted to the Black and queer history of D.C.’s U Street corridor, and realized the investment potential in adding to the booming artis3 Thurst Lounge CEOs Shaun Mykals and Brandon Burke provide a space for Black and LGBTQIA voices. (Courtesy Photo/Sam Gross Studios)

PRESENTS

GOSPEL HOLIDAY: WORSHIP LIVE!

Join a stellar lineup of chart-topping and GRAMMY award-winning artists for an evening of gospel favorites. The Worship Live Holiday Tour features headliner Fred Hammond with special guests Donnie McClurkin, Hezekiah Walker, Todd Dulaney, Anthony Brown, and more! Come celebrate the holiday season with this epic night of worship at the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall! This is an experience you won’t want to miss. *The Orchestra does not appear on this program.

DEC 14

JOSEPH MEYERHOFF SYMPHONY HALL

STARRING

FRED HAMMOND DONNIE MCCLURKIN

ANTHONY BROWN TODD DULANEY & VASHAWN MITCHELL JOSEPH MEYERHOFF SYMPHONY HALL | 410.783.8000 | BUY TICKETS AT BSOMUSIC.ORG

32 NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023

tic and nightlife landscape and legacy. That’s why Burke and Mykals created Thurst Lounge, the only Black-owned LGBTQIA+ lounge in D.C. Located at 2204 14th St NW, Thrust Lounge is scheduled to open on Dec. 2.

NIGHTLIFE EXPERIENCE AND COMMUNITY AWARENESS

Originally from Albany, New York, Mykals relocated to the D.C. area after graduating college. Even before coming to the District, Mykals was a frequent partygoer, and continued that trend once checking out D.C.’s nightlife. “I experienced it at a time where I could be a part of Black LGBTQIA+ audiences, there’s not a lot of spaces that exist like that now,” Mykals told The Informer. Burke, a Baltimore native, currently resides in the District and, like Mykals, spent a lot of time partying throughout the nation’s capital. “I’ve been a part of the D.C. nightlife since 2002 and it eventually led me to meet and become friends with Shaun, and then into creating [the event] ‘Thursday Bliss.’” For Burke and Mykals, Thursday Bliss, an open mic experience that lasted 12 years, was a propellant for their future endeavor: Thurst Lounge. They shared Thursday Bliss was an introductory lesson in event planning and audience development. Putting on their event didn’t come without difficulties, such as continuously finding spaces to host and that were welcoming to LGBTQIA crowds, the entrepreneurs explained. With having to regularly relocate the event-- from the lower level of the former Bohemian Cavern on U Street, to different clubs in the K Street area-- they decided that creating their own space might be a better idea.

BLACK INVESTMENT INTO LGBTQIA SPACES

Mykals explained that he and Burke realized that there

was an overall need for a Black LGBTQIA space. “Not just a place to party but also a place of pride,” he explained. “I’m a musician, so that knowledge paired with my experience with Bliss, helped me to understand the importance of live music, the stage, and paying homage to different iconic figures in the Black gay experience.” Keeping to tradition, the duo expressed plans to include open mic nights at their lounge, but also expressed incorporating partnerships with various community-based LGBTQIA+ organizations and speakers, such as Smyle and Gay Men's Sexual Health Alliance. Incorporating LGBTQIA pride and education in the lounge was a must. “Making the space into a home away from home for the people of our community,” was extremely important, Burke told The Informer.

DINING EXPERIENCE, COMMUNITY SUPPORT, AND SAFETY

Along with the inclusive and pride-filled atmosphere, guests should expect “small servings and appetizers like wings and seafood from Sakerum’s kitchen, with a focus on specialty cocktail drinks like Purple Hays,” said Mykals. The CEOs also shared their interest in utilizing their space for local talent to perform. The duo also emphasized their dedication to hiring queer-friendly staff, including security, to do their best to protect and support their clientele. As the LGBTQIA lounge is the first since the closing of Bachelor’s Mill in 2021, Burke and Mykals will have some pretty big shoes to fill. But with their long history in the community, the entrepreneurs look forward to nothing short of a bright and pride-filled future for the lounge. WI

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NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023 33

LIFESTYLE WASHINGTON INFORMER WEEKEND CHECKLIST WASHINGTON INFORMER'S

Things To Do, DMV! By Ra-Jah Kelly WI Contributing Writer Check out a handful of the many events happening in the DMV this weekend. To keep up with all the fun, don’t forget to check out the Washington Informer Calendar. Keep your outlook vibrant and

Shakespeare’s

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

THURSDAY, NOV. 30

Dave Chappelle Live Time: 7:30 p.m. | $89.50 to $329.50 Capital One Arena, 601 F Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20004 g

By the time you’re reading this, the show will likely be sold out, but we still have to give a nod as D.C.'s own Dave Chappelle returns to Washington for a homecoming performance. Known for both controversial remarks and his comedy, Chappelle continues to deliver consistent laughter. As always for Chappelle’s shows, the event will feature Yondr, a phone-locking system so no cell phones can be used during the performance. LIL TJAY - Beat The Odds Tour Time: 8 p.m. | $51.50 Echostage, 2135 Queens Chapel Rd NE, Washington, D.C., 20018 g

Directed by Tamilla Woodard

Lil Tjay, the 22-year-old Bronx native known for hits like “Calling My Phone” and 13 other platinum singles, returns to touring after a challenging year. Last year, he survived a robbery attempt, sustaining seven gunshot wounds. His full recovery and return to the stage prove he has “Beat The Odds.”

FRIDAY, DEC. 1

g Hailu Mergia Time: 7 p.m. | $25+ Union Stage, 740 Water Street SW, Washington, D.C., 20024 Hailu Mergia, a D.C.-based Ethiopian keyboard and accordion luminary, first gained international acclaim with The Walias Band, an Ethiopian jazz and funk band founded in Addis Ababa in the early 1970s. In 1981, The Walias Band became the first modern Ethiopian band to tour the United States. Amidst challenging political circumstances, four members, including Mergia, chose to stay in the U.S. While continuing performances with the group, Mergia also embarked on solo ventures, producing traditional Ethiopian music with analog synthesizers, electric piano, and accordion. The late 1990s saw a resurgence of The Walias Band's popularity in the West after France's Buda Records reissued some of their music, with 'Musicawi Silt' becoming a notable dance hit, covered by bands like Antibalas. With Mergia's deep roots in D.C., a significant following of over 200,000 monthly listeners on Spotify, and the city's large Ethiopian community, his upcoming show is anticipated to be a vibrant and lively event. g CMG - GANGSTA ART Tour Time: 7 p.m. | 49.99+ Capital One Arena, 601 F Street NW, Washington, DC, 20004 Yo Gotti and his Collective Music Group arrive in Washington, D.C., for the third stop of their four-city arena tour. The Gangsta Art Tour, a first for the label, showcases a lineup including Moneybagg Yo, GloRilla, EST Gee, Mozzy, Blac Youngsta, Big Boogie, and Lil Poppa. This tour follows the release of their second compilation album, 'Gangsta Art 2'.

A journey to second chances.

SATURDAY, DEC. 2

One Mo' Time Time: 2:00 p.m. | $35 Anacostia Playhouse, 2020 Shannon Pl SE, Washington, D.C., 20020 Experience the Anacostia Playhouse's revival of 'One Mo' Time,' a Broadway musical by Grammy-nominated playg

Ticket s start a t

NOW ON STAGE THRU DECEMBER 17 Buy tickets at IN OUR HISTORIC FOLGER THEATRE

34 NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023

$20

folger.edu/winter

wright, theater director, and entertainer Vernel Bagneris. This musical revue pays homage to African-American vaudeville performers of the past, who, despite being overworked and underpaid, thrived as entertainers. Set in the Lyric Theatre of New Orleans in 1926, the show offers a rich tribute. For additional preview weekend activities, visit The Anacostia Playhouse calendar. Rhode Island Row Holiday Tree Lighting & WPGC Coat Drive Time: 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. | Free Rhode Island Row, 2300 Washington Place NE, Washington, DC, 20018 With Thanksgiving in the rearview, it's time to celebrate the upcoming holidays. Join the festivities at the Rhode Island Row Holiday Tree Lighting. The event features a Holiday Photo Booth, s'mores and hot cocoa, balloon art, and live performances by the Salvation Army Band and Youth Choir. Also, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., coat donations will be accepted at the WPGC tent, located in front of Carolina Kitchen. WPGC has spearheaded one of the most successful coat drives in the Washington metropolitan area for over 25 years.

SUNDAY, DEC. 3

"Raise Your Voice"! Respond to the Nonpartisan Black Voter Guide Survey Time: Beginning at 12 a.m. | Free Virtual With less than a year until the next election, potential voters are encouraged to participate in the “Nonpartisan Black Voter Guide Community Survey,” presented by the non-profit Being Well While Black. Your input on key issues will shape the candidate questionnaires for the 2024 elections. Participants will receive a free digital copy of the Nonpartisan Black Voter Guide, featuring candidates' responses to priorities identified by Black voters. Engage in this opportunity to “vote smart” and ensure accountability from elected officials. g

Capital City Go-Go vs. Maine Celtics Time: 3 p.m | $15+ Entertainment & Sports Arena, 1100 Oak Drive, SE, Washington, DC, 20032 g

With the Washington Wizards, the senior team to the Go-Go, facing challenges on the court, it's the perfect time to catch a Go-Go game at the Entertainment & Sports Arena. Read more on www.washingtoninformer.com. WI

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AUGUST 13 - SEPTEMBER 8

BROADWAYATTHENATIONAL.COM

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NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023 35

The Nutcracker takes Clara on a fantastic journey, which ends at the Sugar Plum Fairy’s palace in the Land of Sweets.

Can you m ballet posi in these po

In a small village, guests are arriving for a Christmas Eve party at the home of Dr. and Mrs. Stahlbaum and their children, Clara and Fritz. It started as a story called “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King.” A little more than 100 years ago, this beloved tale was made into a ballet called “The Nutcracker.” It has become one of the most popular ballets.

Sec

Clara’s godfather, Herr Drosselmeyer, brings toys for all the children. Help Clara find these toys.

Ballet M

Third Position Can you find the sweets that match? Standards Link: Visual discrimination.

NUTCRACKER MOUSE BALLET O N E C E U A P O N TOYS A A E T I M R E I C SOLDIER P A R T Y N M A L L CLARA PLUM A M T A P S Y O T O SUGAR F O S O L D I E R C FAIRY A U N D U C L F A K CLOCK I S A R M L F A G I TREE PARTY R E K C A R C T U N KING Y R S B A R G K S G ARMY Standards Link: Letter sequencing. Recognize identical GRABS words. Skim and scan reading. Recall spelling patterns.

Herr Drosselmeyer brings a special gift for Clara—a nutcracker in the shape of a soldier. Her brother, Fritz, wants the nutcracker, grabs it and breaks it. Help Herr Drosselmeyer fix the nutcracker. Draw the nutcracker’s missing arm and leg, then color them.

Stories Standards Link: Reading Comprehension: Understand story elements: plot, conflict, resolution and structure.

Find at least 10 differences between the two pictures.

That night, an excited Clara cannot sleep. She sneaks downstairs to be with her new nutcracker doll. As the clock strikes midnight, strange things begin to happen … The Christmas tree grows to an enormous size and a great battle begins between the Mouse King and the Nutcracker, who comes to life to lead an army of toy soldiers. Clara uses her to kill the Mouse King and save the Nutcracker’s life.

Standards Link: Recognize similarities and differences; visual discrimination.

Standards Link: Reading Comprehension: Follow the sequence of events in a story.

Select pictures of two different people from the newspaper. Make up first and last names for each one. Create a way for the people to know each other. Describe their relationship. What are the best qualities of each character? Write a quotation for each one. Use this information to write a story. Standards Link: Writing Applications: Create brief narratives describing a fictional experience.

Look through the newspaper for: • 5 holiday pictures • 5 holiday words • 3 five-digit numbers • something sweet • 1 gift for a special person Standards Link: Classify objects according to common attributes.

Winter Words

Make a list of words that make you think of winter. Use these words to write a short poem or descriptive paragraph.

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36 NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023

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LIFESTYLE

wi book review

horoscopes

"The Black Angels: The Untold Story of the Nurses Who Helped Cure Tuberculosis" By Maria Smilios

TAURUS Your life blossoms like a flower this week. On Monday and Tuesday, you are happier and more engaged than you've been in a while. And your heart is thumping faster than ever. You and you-know-who make quite a team. Cash, companionship, and concerts are in the stars Tuesday. Wednesday, and Thursday return you to real life, but everything is brighter and better than usual. Some fairly deep emotions come to the surface on Friday. You clearly care about this person. And Saturday sparks a passionate interaction. Sunday finds you a bit more distant, almost philosophical. Lucky Numbers: 2, 14, 20

NOV. 30 - DEC. 6, 2023

ARIES The details are overwhelming on Monday and Tuesday. Something small, a proverbial straw on the camel's back, will be the end of you unless you do something healthy for your mind and body. Something to blow off steam. Sprinting is one way to go. Or group sports. Lucky Numbers: 9, 21, 37

c.2023, Putnam $30 / 428 pages

GEMINI Every time you add up the numbers on Monday, you come up with a different sum. Frustrating! Your head is clearly on other matters. Steel your focus on Tuesday and try to deal with the paperwork. On Wednesday and Thursday, you can turn off your brain and be purely on the lookout for a good time. Romance is also in the stars. Lucky Numbers: 9, 23, 42

Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer

CANCER You are attuned to the edges of things on Monday, the contrasts, the subtle distinctions. You are perspicacious to the last. Dive into a project that needs some cleaning up, that puts you in touch with people you admire, and that lets you enjoy yourself. On Wednesday and Thursday, enjoyment will be at a minimum. A bump in the road in your relationship with someone at home challenges you, and the workweek ends on a hazy note. You go into the weekend unsure of where you stand. Lucky Numbers: 4, 5, 46

No disrespect meant. You won't tolerate it anyway, so that's a good thing. As a human being, someone who walks and talks, forms ideas and creates concepts, you absolutely, righteously demand that others give you the respect you want. The respect you deserve. Even if, as in "The Black Angels" by Maria Smilios, getting it takes decades. Edna Sutton hated her job sorting papers in a downtown office. True, it didn't require housekeeping or service, as did most jobs for Black women then, and she appreciated that. She wasn't interested in being someone's maid; instead, science "set her mind alight," and Edna dreamed of becoming a nurse. She would only be allowed to work in a Black hospital, though; and there weren't many of those in Savannah, Georgia. But there were up north and in the summer of 1929, when she was told of a hospital in New York that was "recruiting" Black nurses, Edna applied for a position. She'd be caring for tuberculosis patients, and the job promised to further her education. In early 1930, she became a part of the Great Migration when she boarded a train to Harlem. For decades, Edna Sutton and her fellow Black nurses did the work that white nurses would not do, tending to the poorest of the poor who often came from overcrowded tenements to Sea View on Staten Island. Sanity was a wish for those nurses: hand-washing was stressed, but masking was not. Sometimes, masking was frowned upon. Some were reminded the hard way that tuberculosis was airborne and highly contagious. And yet, despite long hours and putting themselves in constant danger, raises and promotions were out of reach for the Black nurses, mostly due to Jim Crow laws. They striked, to no avail; the NAACP urged New York City's mayor to change the law, but he dragged his feet. To gain respect and recognition, the nurses would need "something huge … something like a war." With their help, a cure for tuberculosis would take even longer … Imagine a disease that you can catch from a cough or sneeze, one that steals your ability to breathe and puts you in the hospital, gasping for air and grasping at life. The story of that disease is a big part of a hidden history, and not just déjà vu. Knowing what we know about pandemics, in fact, makes "The Black Angels" feel closer to home, and it makes the personal and medical sacrifices of Edna Sutton, Missouria Meadows-Walker, and Virginia Allen feel larger. Read, and recent events bring a sense of dread to the tale. Read, and you'll know the frustration involved. Author Maria Smilios then casts a wider story net that takes readers to the periphery for further understanding, to two world wars, to Harlem, medical research, and the political atmosphere of New York, 1945. Beware: the extraneous coverage goes deep and it may distract from the larger story of Black heroism and history. Go with the dive, though, and you'll find that "The Black Angels" is a pretty respectable read. WI

LEO There is less money to go around at the outset of the week than you'd like. Such is life. But, strangely, you find being thrifty sort of fun. You can get into eating noodles. By the middle of the week, you're so distracted by the funny things falling out of friends' mouths that you're barely thinking about money (or lack thereof). A creative date on Thursday might not cost you a dime. Lucky Numbers: 1, 7, 12 VIRGO You are perfectly happy to spend Monday and Tuesday cleaning out your car, cleaning up your office, cleaning anything, really. You have headphones. You're in a good mood. And you love it when your life is tidy. New projects figure strongly the first half of the week, but don't put your money where your mouth is, at least not yet. Be careful about cash flow, especially on Wednesday and Thursday. Lucky Numbers: 6, 16, 25 LIBRA A nagging voice in your head is like your own private commentary on Monday and Tuesday. If only it had a sense of humor! Your meticulousness might be your downfall. There are just too many details to deal with. On Wednesday, the irrelevant periphery falls away and you find yourself staring into the eyes of someone you feel awfully strongly about. Ah, beauty! Ah, romance! Your infatuation with this person has you feeling possessive on Friday, but give them space. Lucky Numbers: 23, 28, 50 SCORPIO A secret finds its way into your awareness on Monday or Tuesday. You've become someone's confidant. You are flattered by their trust. Internally, this week is quite positive for you, although by midweek you may find you don't have much patience for small talk, decision-making, or social situations, what with all the thoughts swimming through your head. Lucky Numbers: 21, 25, 46 SAGITTARIUS No matter how much you deserve a bonus, the start of the week is not the time to be dropping hints. You're better off making sure you don't drop your coffee. You'll be doing a million things at once. The fast-forward blur of Monday and Tuesday slows down to a normal pace on Wednesday and Thursday. Lucky Numbers: 2, 5, 10 CAPRICORN A simple fact that's small, beautiful, and true means the world to you on Monday. It solves a puzzle you've been working on in your mind for weeks. It might put you in the mood to conduct still more research, place some calls, advance to the next step in a project. Or maybe you're ready for a new project. Wednesday is a great day to start something and you have energy to spare on Thursday. Your detachment from emotional matters on Friday puts you in the ideal frame of mind to make a big decision, and Saturday and Sunday find you racing with full speed toward accomplishing a major goal Lucky Numbers: 18, 29, 57 AQUARIUS Everything is peachy keen on the surface, but an interest in other people's motives has you looking deeply at your life on Monday and Tuesday. It's unclear what the future holds and, especially, what your financial outlook is, so be careful in business deals. Wednesday and Thursday are less about business and more about buddies (you might meet someone new, or connect with a pal in a way you never have before), but Friday once again finds you focused on career matters. On Saturday, avoid situations in which you might feel exposed. On Sunday, race out of the house and embrace the day. Lucky Numbers: 6, 9, 52 PISCES Your intuition won't let you down at the start of the week. Feel free to make a decision before you have all the facts you think you need. If necessary, you can always alter course as new information arrives. The new information that arrives on Wednesday and Thursday may strangely enough come in the form of dissension from someone you usually agree with. Lucky Numbers: 14, 23, 54

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NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023 37

SPORTS

nual Turkey Bowl championship. The Turkey Bowl, for Ballou and Dunbar fans, was an opportunity to meet for a rematch of a regular season game. In the first high-scoring affair, Dunbar made a couple of second half simple adjustments that secured a 62-34 win over Ballou. The Crimson Tide followed a formula that would carry over in another victory over the Ballou Knights, this time 28-7, at Eastern High School in Northeast, D.C. on Nov. 23. "We got away from playing the fundamentals of the game in the first game and got away from the running game, which is our bread and butter," said Dunbar Head Coach Anthony "Bink" Vaughn, following the game played back in October. "Once we got back to the basics of running the football, we were in our comfort zone." The Crimson Tide rode the

High School Sports Roundup

Dunbar Defeats Ballou 28-7, Good Counsel Beats DeMatha 7-0 DUNBAR DEFEATS BALLOU FOR TURKEY BOWL TITLE TO ADVANCE TO STATES

For those following this year’s District of Columbia Interscholastic Athletic Association (DCIAA) football season, it was not a surprise to see Dunbar and Ballou High Schools advance to the An-

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38 NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023

5 Dunbar defeated Ballou 28-7 during the Turkey Bowl on Nov. 23. (Abdullah Konte/The Washington Informer)

efforts of senior running back De'Aun Wood, who contributed 112 yards and two touchdowns to the victory. Backfield mate, senior Michael Clark (52 yards, one touchdown) and junior quarterback Brosan Dukes (nine carries, 45 yards) also contributed to the rushing attack, which amassed 217 yards. They threw only six passes. The Crimson Tide set the tone early when it marched 65 yards on their first possession. Freshman Terelle Rich capped off the drive with a 36-yard run. But the Knights (6-6), who had fought for respect all season, answered when senior quarterback Kevin Hewett connected with senior Lorenza Martin Green for 46 yards to even the game at 7-7 in the first quarter. Dunbar (8-2) responded with a 13-play, 71-yard drive with Wood scoring from a yard out. Then came what would prove to be the turning point of the game. Following a pass interception by senior safety Duron Price, Ballou had the ball deep in Crimson Tide territory, with a first-and-goal at the nine-yard line. The Knights tried, but could get only to the two-yard line. The Dunbar defense, led by senior defensive end Josiah Sanders and senior cornerback Saki Frost, stuffed an attempt on a fourth-and-goal from the one-yard. Instead of it being a tied game at halftime, Dunbar took the 14-7 lead to the locker room. "That was a huge sequence for our defense," noted Vaughn. "They stepped up big. It probably changed the game." The DCSAA championship

is also a rematch. Dunbar and Friendship Collegiate played each other on Aug. 25 and the latter prevailed 19-6. Both teams come into the game on win streaks, Dunbar with eight and Friendship with six. "This is not just a championship game between two teams," noted Vaughn. "You have two programs who have proved themselves but somehow we don't get the respect that others get. It is all going to be about respect."

GOOD COUNSEL DEFEATS DEMATHA FOR WCAC TITLE

Although the Washington Catholic Athletic Conference (WCAC) is regarded as one of the top conferences in the country when it comes to high school football, many suspected the championship would run through Good Counsel (10-1) and DeMatha (9-2). The two nationally ranked powers met earlier in the season and was one of the most talked about and highly anticipated games on the championships schedule. Fans got a preview when the two met at Good Counsel and the hometeam Falcons came away with a thrilling, 35-28 overtime win over their conference rival, the DeMatha Stags. Many expected another exciting contest between the two. But the heavy cold rain and wind gusts dictated how this game would be played at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis, Maryland on Nov. 21. Read more on www.washingtoninformer.com WI

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CAPTURE the moment

6 A great number of vendors throughout the East Coast, joined the 31st annual BZB Holiday Gift & Art Show at Shiloh Baptist Church for a shopping bazaar continuing from Nov. 24 through Dec. 23 in Northwest. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

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5A couple of vendors displaying their fashions. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

5Juanita “Busy Bee” Britton, greets customers. (Roy Lewis/ The Washington Informer)

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Stay Informed! www.washingtoninformer.com NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023 39

RELIGION Mid-Atlantic Gospel Meeting Marks Joyful Return

Local Church of Christ Congregations Reunite By Hamil R. Harris WI Contributing Writer With worshippers representing six Church of Christ congregations across Maryland gathered at Suitland Road Church of Christ, spirits were high and people were excited to be back together for the Mid-Atlantic Fall Gospel Meeting.

“We have been missing each other after three years of dealing with COVID-19.” said Jerome Jones, director of the Mid-Atlantic Chorus, in between leading a collection of a cappella songs during the event Ministers from various churches preached on topics related to the four-day event’s theme: “Back to

5 Minister Deon Booker preaches at Suitland Road Church of Christ during the 2023 Mid-Atlantic Gospel Meeting. (Hamil R. Harris/The Washington Informer)

the Basics Building on the Blueprint of the Bible.”

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40 NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023

5 Minister Donald Ballard III preaches at Suitland Road Church of Christ during the 2023 Mid-Atlantic Fall Gospel Meeting. (Hamil R. Harris/The Washington Informer)

“Anytime the gospel is preached, we want to be there to support the man of God,” said Bro. Deon Booker, senior minister at the host church, Suitland Road Church of Christ. After the COVID-19 pandemic, when many church buildings were closed and worship was relegated to online or in-person with a mask, the Fall Gospel Meeting was more than a welcomed event for Church of Christ congregations in the Mid-Atlantic area. On Saturday, Nov. 18, Suitland hosted “The Easternaires,” a chorus from the New York area, the Mid-Atlantic Chorus, and the ensemble Victory in concert. Bro. Douglas Goodman, minister at Capital Church of Christ in Annapolis, then preached from the topic, “Building On the Cornerstone of Righteousness.” On Sunday, Nov. 19 Bro. Garrick “Ricky” Cook from Laurel Church of Christ preached a message entitled “Building on the Foundation of God that Standeth Sure. After Bro. Kevin Bethea from East Baltimore Church of Christ delivered message entitled “Whose Doctrine is it Anyway.” Minister Wilie Rupert from the Central Church of Christ in Baltimore preached a sermon entitled “The Results of Building on the Blueprint of the Bible,” Monday night.

Bro. Donald Ballard III, minister of the University Park Church of Christ in Hyattsville, preached the final message entitled, “Vessels in a Great House.” “Beloved, we don’t go to Satan's playground and play by our rules,” Ballard preached. “If we dance with Satan in this little sin game you don’t lead, he leads.” The Tuesday night service was the final night of the revival, but it is the start of a season where congregations across the spectrum host events— from revivals and gospel meetings, to holiday concerts and stage productions. “Gospel meetings are intended for the lost and revivals are meant for the saved,” Ballard said in an interview. “The revival was an attempt to encourage people to be vessels of honor. This was also an effort for people to return to their first love because everything that they need is in Christ.” Willis and Denise Johnson, who attend the Glenarden Church of Christ, said that they were glad to attend the event Monday night. “I thought it was a very good experience,” said Denise Johnson. “It was a renewal for me and my family and hopefully souls will be saved. The main purpose of a Gospel meeting is for people to know the truth about the word of God.” WI

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RELIGION the religion corner WITH LYNDIA GRANT

The Christmas Tree Miracle

During the Thanksgiving break for Montgomery County Public Schools, I got a chance to get some house cleaning done and even got to watch a few Christmas movies. You know they start running the Christmas shows before Thanksgiving. I got a chance to watch this one movie called ''The Christmas Tree Miracle," which gave me an "ah-ha" moment: "You ought to write about how this family went from one extreme to another." It all started with life being good for David George and family. He had a very lucrative job, a beautiful home, he had regular parties with politicians, and his sweet little daughter was taking cello lessons. Then suddenly, David loses his "good-paying" job and he's too proud to take a lesser one. Everything went downhill, along with friends and influential acquaintances, and oh, the "super-tragedy" that is bound to happen when any teen's phone is turned off. They stayed in a motel, until they didn't even have money to pay for one more night. They were given 20 minutes to get out! They were suddenly homeless! One simple, innocent voice of logic remains — that of Nina, the sweet kindergartener and cello player. After losing their home and being rebuked by alienated family members, the family follows Nina's suggestion of sleeping at the church. There they meet the Christmas tree handler, Henry, who

by coincidence (or not), recognizes David as the person who bought him a coffee in a time of need. "A Christmas Tree Miracle" brings us random acts of kindness and because of David's earlier goodwill, Henry invites the family to stay at his place atop a 200-acre Christmas tree farm. We learn Henry lives to keep alive his late wife's dream of giving a free Christmas tree to whoever needs it. Earning their keep, the George family begins to see the fruits of their hard work on the farm, and gradually, the values of fellowship, industriousness and appreciation replace the shallow place from which they came. Henry has been this family's light in a time of need; indeed he's given a hundredfold back from that simple cup of coffee David offered Henry so long ago. The family is tested when Henry suddenly dies, leaving the farm to the Georges. Do they choose the farm and the dreams Henry was carrying on for his departed wife? Or do they sell it for the money to get back to the comfortable life they had before? This sweet film doesn't directly appeal to faith in God but depicts a family blessed by transformation through a positive change of values, and is entertaining and uplifting for everyone. This movie gives me an opportunity to remind us how life is

similar to the story of the rats in "Who Moved My Cheese?" Life is change — one moment you could be on top of the world, and suddenly, something awful happens, as with the George family. You may lose a job or like me, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, my company lost a lucrative contract. What were we to do? Me and the folks that I hired were all left penniless. The "free" checks helped. Unemployment helped tremendously too. But I was counting the days when there would be no more checks. How would I live? I believed in God and I believed in miracles, but I also knew that I had to seek, ask, knock, and the doors would be open. But I definitely could not just sit there like the one mouse did, while the other one got busy looking for a way to survive. Long story short, the David George family were blessed with a miracle, the man from the church that invited them to stay with him at the Christmas tree farm, visited his attorney the next day after their arrival. He signed over his will to them, so that when he dies, they'll inherit the home and the farm, plus all of his savings from his deceased wife and from him. He willed everything over to this needy family, though they were once high rollers. A movie worth thinking about. WI

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

Blessed Word

Pilgrim Baptist Church

Church of Living Waters

Rev. Louis B. Jones II Pastor

Rev. Paul Carrette Senior Pastor

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

Covenant Baptist United Church of Christ

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

Reverend William Young IV Pastor

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

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

Service and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 11:00 AM Communion Service: First Sunday Prayer Service/Bible Study: Tuesday, 6:30 PM www.blessedwordoflifechurch.org

Mount Carmel Baptist Church

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

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

Mount Olivet Lutheran Church

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

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

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

42 NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023

Service and Times Sunday Morning Worship: 11:00 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday Sunday School: 9:45 AM Men’s Monday Bible Study: 7:00 PM Wednesday Night Bible Study: 7:00 PM Women’s Ministry Bible Study: 3rd Friday -7:00 PM Computer Classes: Announced Family and Marital Counseling by appointment E-mail: Crusadersbaptistchurch@verizon.net www.CrusadersBaptistChurch.org / “God is Love”

St. Stephen Baptist Church

Third Street Church of God

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

Campbell AME Church

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

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

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

www.livingwatersmd.org

1306 Vermont Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20005

Rev. Dr. James Coleman Pastor

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

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

Rev. Terrance M. McKinley Senior Pastor

Adams Inspirational A.M.E. Church

Service and Times Sunday Church School – 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service – 11:00 AM Holy Communion – 1st Sunday at 11:00 AM Prayer – Wednesdays, 6:00 PM Bible Study – Wednesdays, 7:00 PM Christian Education / School of Biblical Knowledge Saturdays, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM, Call for Registration

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

John F. Johnson Reverend Dr.

All Nations Baptist Church

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

Harold Andrew Assistant Pastor

Crusader Baptist Church

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

Emmanuel Baptist Church

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

Mt. Zion Baptist Church

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

Florida Avenue Baptist Church

Reverend Christopher L. Nichols Pastor

Dr. Earl D. Trent Senior Pastor

2409 Ainger Pl.,SE – WDC 20020 (202) 678-0884 – Office / (202) 678-0885 – Fax “Moving Faith Forward” 0% Perfect . . . 100% Forgiven!

623 Florida Ave.. NW - WDC. 20001 Church (202) 667-3409 / Study (202) 265-0836 Home Study (301) 464-8211 / Fax (202) 483-4009

Service and Times Sunday Worship: 8:00 AM & 10:45 AM Baptism/Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday Family Bible Study Tuesdays – 6:30 PM Prayer Service: Tuesdays – 8:00 PM www.emmanuelbaptistchurchdc.org

Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 10:00 AM Sunday Church School: 8:45 – 9:45 AM Holy Communion: Every First Sunday Intercessory Prayer: Monday – 7:00-8:00 PM Pastor’s Bible Study: Wednesday –7:45 PM Midweek Prayer: Wednesday – 7:00 PM Noonday Prayer Every Thursday

Isle of Patmos Baptist Church Reverend Dr. Calvin L. Matthews Senior Pastor 1200 Isle of Patmos Plaza, Northeast Washington, DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-6767 - Fax: (202) 526-1661 Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM Holy Communion: 2nd Sunday at 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM Sunday Church School: 9:20 AM Seniors Bible Study: Tuesdays at 10:30 AM Noon Day Prayer Service: Tuesdays at Noon Bible Study: Tuesdays at 7 PM Motto: “A Ministry of Reconciliation Where Everybody is Somebody!” Website: http://isleofpatmosbc.org Church Email: ipbcsecretary@verizon.net

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

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

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

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

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

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

RELIGION Zion Baptist Church

Rev. Keith W. Byrd, Sr. Pastor 4850 Blagdon Ave, NW - Washington D.C 20011 Phone (202) 722-4940 - Fax (202) 291-3773 Service and Times 9:00 a.m. – Sunday School 10:15 a.m. – Worship Service Wed. Noon: Dea. Robert Owens Bible Study 7 PM Pastor’s Bible Study Ordinance of Baptism 2nd Sunday, Holy Communion 4th Sunday Mission: Zion shall: Enlist Sinners, Educate Students, Empower the Suffering, Encourage the Saints, And Exalt our Savior. (Acts 2: 41-47) www.zionbaptistchurchdc.org

St. Luke Baptist Church

Rev. Aubrey C. Lewis Pastor 1415 Gallatin Street, NW Washington, DC 20011-3851 P: (202) 726-5940 Service and Times Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM Sunday School: 9:15 AM Holy Communion: 11:00 a.m., 3rd Sun. Bible Institute: Wednesday - 1:30 PM Prayer Meeting: Wednesday - 12:00 Noon

Rehoboth Baptist Church

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

Service and Times Sunday Worship: 10:00 AM Holy Communion: First Sunday 10:00 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday @ 12 noon and 6:30 PM Motto: "Faith On The Hill"

Eastern Community Baptist Church Damion M. Briggs Pastor

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

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

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

New Commandment Baptist Church

8213 Manson Street Landover, MD 20785 Tel: (301) 322-9787 Fax: (301) 322-9240

13701 Old Jericho Park Road Bowie, MD. 20720 (301) 262-0560

Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 7:45 AM and 10:45 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sundays at 7:45 AM & 10:45 AM Sunday School: 9:30 AM Prayer & Praise Service: Tuesdays at 12 noon & 6:30 PM Bible Study: Tuesdays at 1 pm and 7 PM Youth Bible Study: Fridays at 7 PM Web: www.mountmoriahchurch.org Email: mtmoriah@mountmoriahchurch.org

Service and Times Early Morning Message: 7:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 10:00 AM Sunday Church School: 9:00 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday 7:30 AM & 10:00 AM Prayer, Praise and Testimony: Wednesday 7:00 PM Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM

Service and Times Sunday Worship: 11 AM Sunday School: 10 AM Wednesday Mid-Week Worship, Prayer & Bible Study: Wed. 7 PM

Promised Land Baptist Church

Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Rev Kevin A. O'Bryant Pastor

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

Dr. Joseph D. Turner Senior Pastor

Service and Times Sunday Apostolic Worship Services 11:00 A.M and 5:00 PM Communion and Feet Wash 4th Sunday at 5:00 PM Prayer/Seeking: Wednesday at 8:00 PM

Rev. Stephen E. Tucker Senior Pastor

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

Matthews Memorial Baptist Church

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

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

The Rev. E. Bernard Anderson Priest

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

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

Dr. Lucius M. Dalton Senior Pastor

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

Rev. Richard B. Black Interim Pastor

Mount Moriah Baptist Church

Rev. Curtis l. Staley Pastor

Service and Times Sunday Service: 10:00 AM Sunday School for all ages: 8:30 AM 1st Sunday Baptism: 10:00 AM 2nd Sunday Holy Communion:10:00 AM Tuesday: Bible Study: 6:30 PM Prayer Meeting: 7:45 PM

Lincoln Park United Methodist Church

Israel Baptist Church

Website address: www.mmbcdc.org

Peace Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Michael T. Bell 712 18th Street, NE Washington, DC 20002 Phone 202-399-3450/ Fax 202-398-8836 Service and Times Sunday Early Morning Prayer & Bible Study Class: 8:00 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 10:00 AM Wednesday Service: 12:00 PM “The Loving Church of the living lord “ Email Address: admin@pbc712.org

Mt. Horeb Baptist Church

Rev. Oran W. Young Pastor

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

602 N Street NW - Washington, D.C. 20001 Office:(202) 289-4480 Fax: (202) 289-4595

2914 Bladensburg Road, NE Wash., DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-3180 - Fax: (202) 529-7738 Service and Times Worship Service: 7:30 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Worship Service: 10:30 AM Holy Communion: 4th Sunday 7:30AM & 10:30 AM Prayer Services:Tuesday 7:30 PM. Wednesday 12 Noon

Service and Times Sunday School for All Ages: 8:00 AM Sunday Worship Services: 9:30 AM Midday Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 11:30AM Evening Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 7:00 PM Laymen's League: Thursday 7:00 PM Email: Froffice@firstrising.org Website: www.firstrising.org “Changing Lives On Purpose “

Email:mthoreb@mthoreb.org Website:www.mthoreb.org For further information, please contact me at (202) 529-3180

Pennsylvania Ave. Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Kendrick E. Curry Pastor 3000 Pennsylvania Ave.. S.E Washington, DC 20020 202 581-1500 Service and Times Sunday Church School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 AM Monday Adult Bible Study: 7:00 PM Wednesday Youth & Adult Activities: 6:30 PM Prayer Service Bible Study

Join us for our live broadcast every Friday at Noon!

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Denise Rolark Barnes - Publisher of The Washington Informer NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023 43

LEGAL NOTICES

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

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

LEGAL NOTICES

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

2023 ADM 001157

2023 ADM 001247

2023 ADM 000401

Teresa A. Driver aka Teresa Antoinette Driver Decedent

Mary Wigenton King Decedent

Bennie C. Jackson Decedent

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

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

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

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Washington Informer

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

2023 ADM 001262

2023 ADM 001252

2023 ADM 001332

2023 ADM 1270

2023 ADM 242

Bradley Delaine Hampton, Jr. Decedent

Mary Green Decedent

Estate of Eileen Crawford aka Eileen Elizabeth Crawford

Robert Micheal Smith aka R. Micheal Smith Decedent

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

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

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

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Antonio X. Maruder, whose address is 2425 Blueridge Ave., Apt 501, Silver Spring, MD 20902, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Bradley Delaine Hampton, Jr. who died on October 9, 2022 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/16/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/16/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/16/2023 Antonio X. Maruder Personal Representative

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

TRUE TEST COPY

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

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

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

TRUE TEST COPY

Washington Informer

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

Jennifer C. Concino 5335 Wisconsin Avenue NW Suite 400 Washington, DC 20015 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Sarah Beaulieu, whose address is 530 Antler Court, Saline, Michigan 48176, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Robert Micheal Smith aka R. Micheal Smith who died on December 30, 2022 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/16/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/16/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/16/2023 Sarah Beaulieu Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Washington Informer

44 NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

LEGAL NOTICES

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

2023 ADM 001244

2023 ADM 1264

2023 ADM 001281

2023 ADM 001208

Ernestine P. Knowles Decedent

Benjamin Jones aka Benjamin Franklin Jones Jr Decedent

Jose D. Flores Decedent

Olga Akinyi Ooro Decedent

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

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

Ward R. Knowles Personal Representative

James Robert Hrobowski III Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

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

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Washington Informer

NOTICE Inge Cooper, the Vincent Cooper has filed a complaint motion entitled: Complaint for Absolute Divorce in which he/she is seeking an absolute divorce in case number C-02FM-23-000438. Notice is hereby issued by the Circuit Court for Anne Arundel County, Maryland that the relief sought in the aforementioned Complaint for Absolute Divorce may be granted unless cause can be shown to the contrary. Vincent Cooper is to file a response to the Complaint for Absolute Divorce on or before: 01/23/2024 Failure to file the response within the time allowed may result in a judgement by default or the granting of the relief sought.

LEGAL NOTICES Notice of Union County, New Jersey, newspaper of general circulation, Union County LocalSource, publication dates: 11/9/23. 11/16/23, 11/23/22, 11/30/23, Account Number: 221475. In The Moorish Empire, Estados al-Marikanos, Societas Republicae Ea Al Maurikanuus Estados, D.b.a.: Union County, New Jersey, united States of America. Notice of White Flag Surrender: as "hors de combat", pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article III, as a ministers of The Moorish Empire, and Internationally Protected Persons, specially appearing as: “Gordon Henry Chrichlow Jr, co-Trustee of Gordon Chrichlow Trust; Shanta Chrichlow co-Trustee of Gordon Chrichlow Trust”, “Gordon Chrichlow Trust”, “ Gordon Henry Chrichlow Jr”, “Shanta Chrichlow”, Trustee, entitlement holder, for the Unincorporated Inter Vivos Trust, “ Gordon Chrichlow Trust ”, permanently domiciled at: 701 State Route 440 STE 16 PMB 1071, Jersey City, New Jersey [07304] u.S.A.. Notice of: LAWS AND CUSTOMS OF WAR ON LAND (HAGUE, IV), ARTICLE: 32, 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title. This Notice is to preserve legal and equitable title, and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, as Allodium Absolute Title Estate in Fee Simple, Tax Exempt, for religious, scientific, educational, and charitable purposes, of the following described Real Estate, being formerly known as: Borough of Roselle, County of Union, State of New Jersey, formal known as Lot 10, Block 2905 FORMERLY known as Lot 215 Block 183.H, BEING the same premises conveyed to GTA Developers and Builders, LLC by Deed from Bernice L. Thomas, Single, dated March 14, 2022, recorded on July 21, 2022, in the Union County Clerk/Register’s Office in Deed Book 5975, Page 169. Which has a refused address of: [ 207 Cavell Street, Roselle, New Jersey 07023], located at or near Latitude: 40.645010" N, Longitude: -74.256820" W. Being the same property described in [ Union County, New Jersey, among the said Land Records.] Notice of Private Property. The aforementioned private property is not available for trespass. Any and all trespassers shall incur a $1,000,000.00 [One Million Dollar], non-judicial penalty at each evidenced occurrence, that is immediately due upon presentment. Trespassers waive any and all defenses and agree to a Fieri Facias order commanding the County Sheriff, of wherever any property of the DEBTORS may be found, either getting the money by seizure, attachment, or levy, and sell sufficient personal property, real property, goods, chattels, and real estate, in full satisfaction of the debt. Notice of Special Deposit. Said Real Estate is as a special deposit order, conveyed to the for the Unincorporated Inter Vivos Trust, “Gordon Chrichlow Trust ”. Borough of Roselle, Union County, TAX ACCOUNT NUMBER 2714, is as a special deposit order, and as Accord and Satisfaction, conveyed to the Unincorporated Inter Vivos Trust, to “Gordon Chrichlow Trust”. All property of the same issue and amount, in like kind and specie, is to be returned fully intact, as a Special Deposit order of the Depositor / Beneficiary / Bailor / Donor / Principal / Creditor: “ gordon henry chrichlow jr©”, and, “shanta chrichlow”, as a special deposit order in lawful money, exclusively for the benefit of: “ Gordon Chrichlow Trust ”. This deposit is not to be commingled with general assets of any

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

2023 ADM 001265

2023 ADM 1341

2023 ADM 000711

2023 ADM 001312

Robert Lee Ratchford, Sr Decedent

Rema R. Jackson Decedent

Oliver A. Brown aka Oliver Andre Brown Decedent

Natasha Patricia Lewis Decedent

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

Sabrina R. Ratchford and Melissa A. Ratchford, whose addresses are 911 Carriage House Ln, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774 & 2926 Footloose Dr., Columbus, OH 43231, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Robert Lee Ratchford, Sr. who died on 10/17/2022 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Chrissy Stephenson, whose address is 5503 Jay Street NE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Rema R. Jackson who died on January 9, 2021 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Steve Larson-Jackson 1629 K Street, NW Suite 300 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney

Date of first publication: 11/30/2023 Sabrina R. Ratchford Melissa A. Ratchford Personal Representative

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Date of first publication: 11/30/2023 Chrissy Stephenson Personal Representative

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Washington Informer

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Marquise Allen Brown, whose address is 1001 Newton Street, NE, Washington, DC 20017, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Oliver A. Brown aka Oliver Andre Brown who died on 11/4/20 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/30/2023 Marquise Allen Brown Personal Representative

Herbert Lewis and Xois Blowe, whose addresses are 2607 Sherman Ave., NW Washington, DC 20001 and 5527 C St., SE, Washington, DC 20019, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Natasha Patricia Lewis who died on April 21, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/30/2023 Herbert Lewis Xois Blowe Personal Representative

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Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023 45

LEGAL NOTICES

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

2023 ADM 001254

2023 ADM 001223

2023 ADM 001296

2023 ADM 1337

2023 ADM 1294

Marjorie Kimball Clark Decedent

Lottie Mae Wright aka Lottie M. Wright Decedent

Geneva M. Thompson Decedent

Genessey Robyn Flint Decedent

Francis W. Bibby Decedent

Cecilia R. Jones, Esq. 5335 Wisconsin Ave., NW Suite #440 Washington, DC 20015 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Timothy Pilotte, whose address is 4343 Windom Pl., NW, Washington, DC 20016, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Marjorie Kimball Clark who died on June 2, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/30/2023 Timothy Pilotte Personal Representative

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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Alvin Wright, Jr., whose address is 1705 Kings Manor Dr., Bowie, Maryland 20721-2001, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Lottie Mae Wright aka Lottie M. Wright who died on December 28, 2022 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/9/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/9/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/30/2023 Alvin Wright, Jr. Personal Representative

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Donald Marlais, Esq. 411 10th Street NE Washington, DC 20002 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Felecia T. Peeples, whose address is 100 Detering Street, #3145, Houston, TX 77007, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Geneva M. Thompson who died on 9/1/2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/30/2024 Felecia T. Peeples Personal Representative

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Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Andrew Flint and Robyn Lance, whose addresses are 13344 Tannery Ct., Fairfax, VA 22033 and 4141 E Fountain St., Long Beach, CA 90804, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Genessey Robyn Flint who died on May 31, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/30/2023 Andrew Flint Robyn Lance Personal Representative

Johnny M. Howard Houston & Howard 1001 Connecticut Ave., NW Ste. 402 Washington DC 20036 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Michael Bibby, whose address is 2016 Leonard Drive, Falls Church, VA 22043, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Francis W. Bibby who died on August 31, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/30/2023 Michael Bibby Personal Representative

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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

2023 ADM 001279

2023 FEP 000117

2023 ADM 001304

2023 ADM 1357

2023 ADM 001285

Earnest Lee Samuel, Jr. Decedent

February 20, 2022 Date of Death

Catherine P. Campbell Decedent

Colin Campbell Reid Decedent

Ann P. Hall Decedent

Kumudini Vittal Name of Decedent

Iris McCollum Green, Esq. 1714 15th Street, NW, Ste. B Washington, DC 20009 Attorney

Ethel Mitchell 8403 Colesville Road, Suite 1100 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Bertha Clea-Samuel, whose address is 3298 Ft. Lincoln Dr., NE #303, Washington, DC 20018, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Earnest Lee Samuel Jr. who died on 6/15/23 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/30/2023 Bertha Clea-Samuel Personal Representative

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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS Jeevan Vittal Whose address is 207 Tree Hill Road, Berlin, CT 06307 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Kumudini Vittal, deceased, by the Register of Wills/Circuit Court sitting as Orphan’s Court for Montgomery County, State of Maryland. Service of process may be made upon Stephanie L. Royal, Esq, 5335 Wisconsin Avenue, NW, Suite 440, Washington, DC 20015 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C. The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real estate. 3315 Wisconsin Ave., NW, No. 507, Washington, DC 20016. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice. Date of first publication: 11/30/2023 Jeevan Vittal Personal Representative Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Washington Informer

46 NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Joanna Edwards, whose address is 1523 S Street, NW, Washington, DC 20009, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Catherine P. Campbell who died on April 7, 2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Carlos Christopher Reid, whose address is 1802 Metzerott Road, #303, Adelphi, MD 20783, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Colin Campbell Reid who died on 11/11/2022 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 11/30/2023

Joanna Edwards Personal Representative

Carlos Christopher Reid Personal Representative

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Gayle E. Carley and Keith A. Golden, whose addresses are 4031 S. Dakota Ave., NE Washington, DC 20018 & 4500 Jay St., NE, Washington, DC 20019, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Ann P. Hall who died on 8/28/2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/30/2023 Gayle E. Carley Keith A. Golden Personal Representative

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Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

LEGAL NOTICES

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

2023 ADM 001268

2023 ADM 001319

Alex S. Bangura Decedent

Adam T. Shaw aka Adam Thomas Shaw, III Decedent

Ethel Mitchell, Esq. 8403 Colesville Road, Suite 1100 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Evelyn K. Bangura, whose address is 7600 Maple Avenue, #310, Takoma Park, MD 20912, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Alex S. Bangura who died on April 14, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Brian L. Kass, Esq. 4301 Connecticut Ave NW, Suite 434 Washington DC 20008 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Date of first publication: November 30, 2023

Carletta L. Hart, whose address is 6260 Hampstead Ct., Port Tobacco, MD 20677, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Adam T. Shaw aka Adam Thomas Shaw, III who died on 12/5/2022 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Evelyn K. Bangura Personal Representative

Date of first publication: 11/30/2023 Carletta L. Hart Personal Representative

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Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2023 ADM 001372

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Danielle Carpenter, whose address is 704 Mentor Ave., Capitol Heights, MD 20743, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Arnold John Carpenter who died on 5/23/2020 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/30/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 5/30/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 11/30/2023 Danielle Carpenter Personal Representative

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NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023 47

RECRUITMENT from Page 1

TARIK from Page 1

“Finding a career would solidify some financial comfort,” said Allen, 41. “I know it takes time but I got my mom, my daughter and my family keeping me going. I'm definitely doing it for them. If not them, then I'm not doing nothing. The main focus is them.”

In the days and weeks following his transition, contemporaries and students alike are yelling, writing, and further solidifying a motto that Tarik popularized: “There is no culture without agriculture!” This past summer, Tarik cited his grandparents, George Washington Carver, the Nation of Islam’s Elijah Muhammad, and Psalm 41 as inspirations behind that saying during a segment on The Lion's Voice Network. “I got a little bit concerned about the consciousness of the Kushite … the Yoruba community and other communities,” Tarik told Lion’s Voice Network host Dejazmatch Kwasi Bonsu. “They put certain cultural contexts more predominantly ahead of going to the earth and feeding ourselves.” On the morning of Nov. 25, dozens upon dozens of people converged on Universal Mortuary Services in Northwest for Tarik’s Islamic funeral service. For more than an hour, family members, friends, community members, and comrades reflected on Tarik’s impact on their lives. Later, drummers set a festive mood on Kennedy Street as pallbearers loaded Tarik’s casket onto a hearse. Tarik’s final ride was to a burial ground in Fredericksburg, Virginia. A memorial service scheduled to take place in the coming weeks will provide community members ample opportunity to speak about Tarik’s legacy.

A MANDATE NEARLY THREE YEARS IN THE MAKING

On Tuesday, organizers anticipated nearly 200 D.C. residents attending the 2023 Citywide Jobs Not Guns Recruitment Fair, the sixth of its kind since 2021, when D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) launched the D.C. Office of Gun Violence Prevention, then under the leadership of the late Linda Harlee Harper. Those who attended the recruitment fair on Nov. 28 included returning citizens, job-seeking parents, students from Maya Angelou Public Charter School, and young adults from River Terrace Education Campus’ Workforce Development Center. The event opened up with remarks from Rosalind Styles, president of the National Association of Minority Contractors -- Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Area Chapter (NAMCWMAC), and Staff Sergeant Jermaine Denee Bowens of the D.C. National Guard. Other speakers included D.C. Councilmember Robert White (D-At-Large), Assistant Chief Andre Wright of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), Aaron Jenkins of the D.C. Office of the Attorney General, and Lindsey Appiah, deputy mayor for public safety and justice. Ahmad the Rapper later performed a heartfelt song about, as he told audience members, shooting for the stars, and not shooting at others. The Jobs Not Guns Coalition, which includes NAMC-WMAC, Inner Thoughts, Inc, and D.C. Concerned Black Business Owners, hosted this recruitment fair in partnership with the D.C. National Guard. Styles said this arrangement paved the way for MPD, D.C. Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department, and the U.S. Coast Guard, along with other entities, to park their cars inside the armory and conduct live demonstrations. Attendees ate lunch prepared on site by youths enrolled in the Potomac Job Corps. Other partner organizations included the United Planning Organization, the Carpenters Union, U.S.

5 Hundreds of DC residents showed up at the DC Armory on Nov. 28 in search of employment. (Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

Navy, and Howard University Hospital. In the coming months, the Jobs Not Guns Coalition will host a youth conference. Since its inception, the coalition has hosted two youth conferences along with two business conferences intended to encourage businesses to participate in recruitment fairs. Styles called this work a continuation of Harper’s vision and an intentional means of deterring violence. “People can get employment, training and support services,” Styles said, speaking about the recruitment fair. “We have onsite vendors who are bringing equipment and program services to demonstrate the opportunities [that are] available. We want to raise young people's consciousness to alternatives to gun violence.”

ATTENDEES AND VENDORS REFLECT ON THEIR EXPERIENCE

Other vendors at the 2023 Citywide Jobs Not Guns Recruitment Fair included WMATA and WMATA transit police, So Others Might Eat, Community College Preparatory Academy Public Charter School, D.C. Department of Employment Services, and the Far Southeast Family Strengthening Collaborative. A returning citizen who asked to be identified as “Live Free, Die Hard,” said he learned about the recruitment fair from his probation officer and staff members at the READY Center. While he has life goals he wants to fulfill after more than two decades of incarceration, this Gen Xer told The Informer that his first priority is making money legally. He expressed his concern that he wouldn’t be eligible for some of the jobs he came across. “I want to live and survive and do things where I don't have to worry

48 NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 6, 2023

about street activity,” Live Free, Die Hard said. “Everything is a plus, especially [because] I want to generate income. The streets are not an option for me anymore.” Vernikca Banks guided her students from River Terrace Education Campus’ Workforce Development Center through the D.C. Armory. They listened closely as government officials, in their brief remarks, expressed their love for them and encouraged them to pursue their dreams. As River Terrace Education Campus’ workforce development coordinator, Banks spends much of her time helping the young adults under her purview, many of them with disabilities, become more marketable to employers. She said the recruitment fair furthered her goals by placing her students in an environment chock full of employment opportunities. “This event gives District youth a chance to see what's out there,” Banks said. “This helps them see if they're interested in the military and various fields. It opens up a window and way for students, and District youth as a whole, to learn and become employable.” Charnice Griffin, an outreach specialist at the Functional Training Zone, Inc., a Prince George’s County’s American Job Center member organization, echoed Banks’ sentiments. On Tuesday, Griffin collected pamphlets from recruiters and explored the possibility of them visiting Functional Training Zone, Inc. to speak with her students. She said that those visits, along with a podcast she and her colleagues produce, will enlighten the young people seeking valuable employment that seems out of reach. Read more on www.washingtoninformer.com. WI @SamPKCollins

ODUNO A. TARIK: A RACE MAN, UNIA-ACL

In 1947, Tarik was born in Beaumont, Texas as Albert Lee Ferdinand Woods. Amid his community’s accumulation of resources and institutions in the Jim Crow south, he developed a historical and cultural consciousness based in Black self-reliance. During that period of his life, he learned about Booker T. Washington, Mary McLeod Bethune, Paul Laurence Dunbar, Marcus Mosiah Garvey and other Black historical figures while under the auspices of teachers, spiritual leaders and other community elders who practiced a “race first” philosophy. By his late teens, Tarik was attending college in Seattle. In 1968, he became a member of the Evergreen Division No. 50 of the Universal Negro Improvement Association -- African Communities League (UNIA-ACL), the entity that Garvey founded in the early 20th century. Years later, during the early 1970s, he served as a teacher in Muhammad

University of Islam in Denver. During his early years in the UNIAACL, Tarik learned about Garveyism from Sarah Lynch, a UNIA-ACL Black Cross nurse and Garvey confidante. In his subsequent travels across the U.S., Tarik came into contact with other Garveyites who kept the movement alive after Garvey’s conviction and deportation. Such encounters fueled Tarik’s aspirations to do the same in the nation’s capital. Upon moving to the District in the mid-1970s, Tarik studied at the University of the District of Columbia, founded the “Our Own History Club” and hosted the "History is a Weapon” radio program on WPFW 89.3FM. Years later, in 1980, Tarik joined the late William Jackson-Bey, the Rev. Willie Wilson and others in founding what, for several years, became known as the Woodson-Banneker Div. 330 of the UNIA-ACL. He served as the founding division president and had a hand in writing the division’s charter at Union Temple Baptist Church in Southeast, where he and his family were congregants for several years. In 2005, Tarik became a chartered member of and chaplain for UNIAACL Division No. 183, also based in D.C. In that role, he continued to travel throughout the D.C. metropolitan area, and across the U.S., dropping gems of knowledge about African-American history, agriculture, Universal African Nationalism, the Black Press, and the history of the Black church. Those who came across Tarik in the D.C. metropolitan area learned about Nannie Helen Burroughs, as well as Bishop Richard Allen, David Walker and Noble Drew Ali. Mwariama Kamau, vice president of UNIA-ACL Division No. 183, spent much of his years alongside Tarik, gleaning wisdom and learning the organization’s protocol from the towering elder. Part of that experience, he said, meant memorizing various UNIA-ACL rituals and songs, including the Universal Ethiopian Anthem, which members recite at every general body meeting and event. Upon joining Division 330 in the late 1990s, Kamau took on leadership roles that further immersed him in Garveyism and brought him into contact with Tarik. At various events, he acknowledged Tarik as an audience member and asked him to provide remarks. Read more on www.washingtoninformer.com WI @SamPKCollins

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KITZMAN from Page 28 recognized by the insurance industry. The impact of SAH goes beyond just the homeowners who have received grants. There are over 54,000 FORTIFIED roofs in the U.S. today, approximately 48,000 of them in Alabama, but only 6,500 funded by grants. Boosted by the success of SAH and the demonstrated effectiveness of FORTIFIED, general interest in the roofs has grown. Alabama now has a network of trained inspectors and roofing contractors who are educating homeowners

CROWELL from Page 28 Consumer advocates are emphasizing the program's targeted reach. For example, this October, the Urban Institute, a nonpartisan research and policy organization noted, "Payment reductions and larger loan forgiveness benefits under the SAVE plan will occur broadly across racial and ethnic groups but are skewed toward programs enrolling more Black and Hispanic students." Even earlier this year, the Center for Responsible Lending (CRL) stressed to the House Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Development how the escalating costs of higher educa-

MARSHALL from Page 28 the 2020 election, it missed the most damaging details in Santos' backstory and credentials. In the case of the 2024 election, we are beyond the red flag warnings regarding election deniers who led efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election result and refused to accept President Biden's victory. The danger they pose has consistently been made clear to the American public when election deniers were committed to decertifying election results, remaining steadfast in promoting baseless and debunked theories, falsely claiming that President Biden's election was stolen, and opposing the counting of Biden's electoral college votes. The question remains: will enough voters, particularly in deeply competitive races, still care about the events of Jan. 6 and its long-term consequences when considering important issues such as the economy, the Israel-Hamas war, and the southern border? Will Black and Latino voters forget that attempts to overturn election results were targeted toward their communities and can likely happen again?

about FORTIFIED, and entire subdivisions of new homes are being built with FORTIFIED roofs. Homeowner awareness increased significantly after Hurricane Sally in 2019 when FORTIFIED homeowners reported little to no roof damage, unlike their neighbors who did not have FORTIFIED roofs. This commitment to resilience has enabled Alabama to maintain a stable, competitive home insurance market. North Carolina and South Carolina also have FORTIFIED roof grant programs and last year, the Louisiana legislature created a grant program mod-

eled on SAH, which began awarding grants in October. Similar efforts are under consideration in a number of other states. In another example of innovation and collaboration, in Lockport, Louisiana, a new development of 35 homes built to FORTIFIED standards was 90 percent complete when Hurricane Ida made landfall in August 2021. The storm caused catastrophic property damage elsewhere along the coast but barely scratched the homes at Les Mai-

tion surpassed the financial capabilities of many Americans. "Education was sold to working-class families as the great equalizer, giving unlimited opportunity to those who would seize it," wrote CRL. "Yet, according to the Federal Reserve, every $1,000 increase in student loan debt lowers the national homeownership rate by about 1.8 percentage points for public 4-year college students." "Between 2009 and 2022, median household income grew from $63,011 to $70,784, or about 12%," CRL continued. "Comparatively, the average student loan debt grew nearly 32%, from $27,874 to $36,096, during that period." Student loan borrowers who

have financially struggled to keep up with monthly payments may still enroll online at https://studentaid.gov/announcements-events/ save-plan. "The SAVE Plan will significantly cut monthly bills for most borrowers, reduce loan default and ensure that students loans don't need to come before life necessities," said Under Secretary James Kvaal. "With nearly 5.5 million people enrolled after only two months, it's clear how much borrowers need a plan like SAVE. President Biden and our Administration remain committed to giving borrowers breathing room on their monthly payments and ensuring student loans aren't a barrier to opportunity." WI

As we are approximately 12 months away, the 2024 elections will determine the future control of the White House, U.S. House of Representatives, U.S. Senate, and various state houses nationally. Voters must stay informed and engaged without ignoring the critical facts and testimonies from the Jan. 6 House Select Committee. We cannot afford to be asleep at the wheel by not making Jan. 6 a crucial general election issue while remembering the images of rioters storming the U.S. Capitol. We are fully aware that Republican lawmakers, along with their voters, recognize a corrupt and scandal-plagued politician when they see one. Unfortunately, they often ignore the lies and deceit if it becomes politically advantageous and serves the interests of their culture wars. When they can get away with not holding corruption accountable, the nation pays a heavy price in rebuilding the trust in democracy and various institutions. Understandably, people are getting nervous and upset over the economy, but the stakes are extremely high when election deniers go unchecked. For all the warning signs facing Pres-

ident Biden, apathy and skepticism from young voters are major concerns. Young people are a valuable voting bloc for Democrats, and their votes and voices should never be taken for granted. They, too, must be mindful of the consequences and be determined to turn out without apathy. A spokesman for the Biden campaign called the election "deeply consequential for young people" and pledged to build on a strong turnout from younger voters in the 2022 midterm elections. This can be a challenge going into next year. Some of the Biden administration's biggest accomplishments, such as infrastructure funding and lowering prescription drug prices, don't necessarily resonate as much with younger voters. On the other hand, childcare, affordable housing, and student loans are bigger priorities for them. The attack on the U.S. Capitol has changed everything. In the foreseeable future, the primary issue on voting ballots is not "Bidenomics" or the southern border crisis but rather election deniers and their willingness to overturn any democratically held election they believe was "stolen." WI

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MORIAL from Page 29 into believing that the Fifteenth Amendment would be in safe hands under President Biden's potential successors. Indeed, suppression of Black votes was a key tactic in Donald Trump's 2020 reelection strategy, and it's unlikely that defending the Voting Rights Act would be a priority should he achieve a second term. "Radical theories that would previously have been laughed out of court have been taken increasingly seriously by an increasingly radical judiciary," the Brennan Center's

JEALOUS from Page 29

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green space. People of color, especially Black people, have an unfortunate history in this country of segregation and exclusion from public lands and natural places. We've been met with threats and violence while in nature. And for too long we were even excluded from the conservation movement fighting to protect natural lands. The consequences of this are still felt today. What does this nature gap and nature deficit mean for our kids? Years of studies have shown that children who spend less time outdoors are more likely to deal with physical health problems, ranging from childhood

KITZMAN from Page 49 sons de Bayou Lafourche. A climate resilience grant from the Louisiana Office of Community Development and Louisiana Homes Corporation helped support the project, where a majority of homes are set aside for people earning 50-60% of the area median income, with residency preferences for veterans, individuals with disabilities, and seniors — the people who are often most at risk from climate disasters. While established mitigation standards for other types of natural disasters are still emerging, programs like SAH and Les Maisons show us what’s pos-

people dead between Israel and Hamas, let us pray that both sides will see there are no winners in their war against humanity on either side. Neither the civilian Israelis nor the civilian Palestinians deserved what has happened to them. As God's people, we know that our criticism on both sides is justified. There are no clean hands

in this tragedy. We can't bring back those who paid the ultimate price, but we can resolve to treat each other better as we move forward. We can refuse to be a part of the hate we are hearing spewed throughout this crisis and try to be that calming voice and that blessed donor who shares what we have with those in need. WI

Democracy Program Director Wendy Weiser told the New York Times. The judges of the Eight Circuit Court of Appeals are fully aware of this. They have knowingly, deliberately and maliciously reduced a constitutionally guaranteed right to the level of a mere whim. While the lines may have grown more and more blurred since Donald Trump stunned the nation by declaring white supremacists, "very fine people," a majority of Americans recoil from overt racial discrimination. Even the Eight Circuit judges likely would hesitate to overturn the Voting Rights Act outright.

Yet they effectively have done so, in ruling that almost no one has the right to seek justice under its authority. The decision almost certainly will be appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court. Ruling on a case brought by private plaintiffs under Section 2 of the Voting Rights. At the court's conservative majority in June struck down Alabama's racially-gerrymandered congressional districts. We look forward to the court holding itself to the standard it set for in that case when it rules on this one. WI

obesity to vitamin D deficiency, as well as reduced motor skills development and higher rates of emotional illnesses like anxiety and depression. Meanwhile, we also know that when kids spend time in nature, besides the general benefits of exercise, it helps build confidence, reduce stress, and promote creativity. So, closing the nature gap, as a goal, should be a priority to all of us who have fought long and hard to close the opportunity gaps faced by our kids and our communities. That's why I'm glad that this week marks a broad, rejuvenated push for Congress to pass the bipartisan Outside For All Act, which would increase access to nature and opportunities for outdoor

recreation in urban and low-income communities. By codifying the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) program into federal law, the Outdoors For All Act would make the immense benefits of local parks more equitable and accessible to all. Those benefits, according to the office of U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla, one of the bill's sponsors, include job creation, shade and tree cover, and clean air, as well as "new trails, green spaces, playgrounds, cultural gathering spaces, and more." It all adds up to healthier bodies and minds for our children, and building more of a shared understanding, for all of us, of why spending time outdoors and protecting nature are so critical to our well-being. WI

sible in the face of increasing weather risks and unstable insurance markets. According to the National Institute of Building Sciences, mitigation saves up to $13 per $1 invested. Instead of spending billions of dollars on disaster recovery every year, we should be investing in resilience from the start. That means putting in place stronger building codes that incorporate proven, affordable climate-resilient standards like FORTIFIED. It also means dramatically scaling up funding and incentives to help retrofit existing homes to be more resilient. Changing the way we do business to prioritize resilience requires partner-

ship between the public and private sectors — including state insurance regulators, state legislatures, public and private insurance providers, home builders, contractors, and homeowners. Philanthropy can also play a role by supporting promising approaches to building and retrofitting homes that protect the health and wealth of homeowners, especially those who are most vulnerable to climate-related harm. Stabilizing insurance markets starts with strengthening homes, families, and communities. We know what needs to be done, and we need to do it now. WI

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