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Celebrating 58 Years - Vol. 58, No. 52 • October 12 - 18, 2023

Amid Conversation about Crime Prevention, Activists Raise Up Victims of Police Violence By Sam P.K. Collins Staff Writer

5Andrew O. Clarke, Esq., lawyer for the Wilson and Martin families, and Dalaneo Martin’s mother, a member of the Coalition of Concerned Mothers, at a vigil for 17-year-old Dalaneo in March 2023 . (Robert R. Roberts/WI File Photo)

A day after seven D.C. council members introduced legislation centered on a whole-of-government approach to public safety, a judge sentenced two men to prison for their involvement in Makiyah Wilson's murder. As family members of the late Wilson received their justice on Friday, Oct. 6 in D.C. Superior Court, a group of activists gathered not far from there, outside of Metropolitan Police Department (MPD)'s central headquarters, in search of a similar

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

By James Wright WI Staff Writer

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Elderly Tenant Pursues Civil Suit against Property Manager

The Washington Informer Celebrates 59 Years The Washington Informer, the largest Blackowned newspaper based in the District, will celebrate its 59 th anniversary on Oct. 16. “The Washington Informer checks a lot of boxes,” said Ron Burke, the company’s director of advertising and marketing. “It is a Black woman media company. After 59 years it is still going strong. That is the reflection of the strength of the leadership and the staff. It shows that the community believes in us.” The Informer was founded in 1964 by Cal-

type of justice for those who had either been killed during encounters with police, or while in police custody. That afternoon, Tanya Wilson, mother of Lazarus Wilson, took to the microphone atop a yellow truck that had driven protesters from the Department of Justice (DOJ) to police headquarters on Indiana Avenue in Northwest. Hours earlier, Wilson joined members of Harriet’s Wildest Dreams and the relatives of other young men who had been killed by D.C. police officers in front of the DOJ. Families

In the latest stage of her crusade to improve her living conditions and that of her neighbors, D.C. resident Glenda Richmond has filed a civil suit alleging that her building manager didn’t accommodate tenants during building inspections and repairs that kept them out of their apartments for hours. Richmond filed the suit in August, weeks after WinnCompanies announced that it would be installing new laminate flooring in her apartment and that of 19 other elderly tenants at Paul Laurence Dunbar Apartments in Northwest. The suit alleges 5 The Washington Informer celebrates 59 years on Oct. 16. (WI File Photo)

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Celebrating 58 years. Your credible and trusted source for Black news and information.

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NNPA Condemns Attacks on Israel In a display of unity, the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), representing the Black Press of America, issued a resolute statement of support for Israel amidst the recent escalation of conflict in the Middle East. In a joint statement released on Saturday, Oct. 7, NNPA Chair Bobby Henry and NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr. unequivocally condemned the devastating acts of violence perpetrated against the Jewish people and the nation of Israel by Hamas. The militant group’s firing of a deadly barrage of rockets and infiltration of Israeli territory marked a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between the two sides. “The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), representing the Black Press of America, forthrightly condemns the brutal, fatal terrorist attacks today on the Jewish people and the nation of Israel by Hamas,” read the statement. “Terrorism against innocent civilians in Israel and in any other place in the world can never be justified, tolerated, or sanctioned. We stand firmly in solidarity with Israel.” The NNPA’s declaration highlights a common ground in both the Jewish and African American communities of condemning violence and terrorism against innocent civilians, regardless of where it occurs. WI

5 The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), led by CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr. (pictured) and Bobby Henry, issued a resolute statement of support for Israel amidst the recent escalation of conflict in the Middle East. (Courtesy File Photo/ Mark Mahoney/ NNPA)

President Biden Announces $127 Billion in Student Debt Relief for 3.6 million Americans

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 OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2023

President Joe Biden’s longtime push that college “should These borrowers made 20 years or more of payments but be a pathway to the middle class rather than a financial have yet to receive the relief they were entitled to. burden on families” took a significant step forward this $1.2 billion for nearly 22,000 borrowers with a total or week. The Biden Administration approved an additional permanent disability, identified and approved for discharge 125,000 Americans for $9 billion in debt relief. through a data match with the Social Security AdministraThese measures, achieved through enhancements to in- tion. come-driven repayment (IDR) and Public Service Loan According to a White House Fact Sheet, the Department Forgiveness, along with debt cancellations for those with of Education is also releasing state-by-state totals of debt permanent disabilities, bring the total approved debt relief relief approved under the Biden-Harris Administration during the Biden-Harris Administration to $127 billion through fixes to IDR and Public Service Loan Forgiveness. for nearly 3.6 million Americans. “For years, millions of eligible borrowers were unable to The approved relief includes: access the student debt relief they qualified for, but that’s all $5.2 billion in additional debt relief for 53,000 borrow- changed thanks to President Biden and this administration’s ers under Public Service Loan Forgiveness programs. relentless efforts to fix the broken student loan system,” SecNearly $2.8 billion in new debt relief for nearly 51,000 retary of Education Miguel Cardona said in a statement. WI borrowers through fixes to income-driven repayment. Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

Trump’s Fraud Trial Continues to Expose Ex-President as Conman After the first week of a major civil fraud trial in New York, where the twice-impeached and four-times indicted ex-President Donald Trump repeatedly scowled and stared at Attorney General Letitia James, a series of developments unfolded that could disqualify Trump from doing business in the Empire State. Perhaps the biggest bombshell as the trial continues was the admission under oath by Jeffrey McConney, former senior vice president of the Trump Organization, who revealed that former Trump Organization CFO Allen Weisselberg had sought his assistance in committing tax fraud. He further disclosed that he continued these illicit activities under Weisselberg’s directive, fearing termination if he refused. Perhaps the biggest bombshell as the trial continues was the admission under oath by Jeffrey McConney, former senior vice president of the Trump Organization, who revealed that former Trump Organization CFO

Allen Weisselberg had sought his assistance in committing tax fraud. He further disclosed that he continued these illicit activities under Weisselberg’s directive, fearing termination if he refused. Attorney general James seeks as much as $250 million in fines against Trump, the 2024 GOP presidential frontrunner, who was also found responsible for sexually assaulting a journalist. Judge Arthur Engoron dismissed an attempt by Trump’s legal team to halt the proceedings. Still, Trump’s attorney, Chris Kise, attempted to spin the decision. James said she welcomed the ruling as a victory for her office, emphasizing that Trump’s attempts to delay the trial had again been rebuffed. “Once again, Donald Trump’s attempts to delay this trial have been rejected,” James asserted. “Yet another court denied his efforts to evade justice for his years of fraud.” WI

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D.C. Celebrates Ghana Culture, Partnership during Capital City Africa Week and Ghana Week DC By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer During the week of Oct. 9, hundreds of people in D.C. are not only celebrating Ghanaian art, culture, business and tourism, but exploring the potential of economic engagement, and investment in Ghana’s health, agribusiness, digital and energy sectors. This is all part of the inaugural Capital City Africa Week Festival and Ghana Week DC. The Embassy of Ghana, the Ghana Tourism Authority, EventsDC, LIQUID SOUL DC, and other sponsors of Capital City Africa Week and Ghana Week DC have numerous events planned, all of which culminate in the Capital City Africa Cup, a friendly soccer match between DC United and Ghana Premier League champions, Medeama SC. These events come not too long after protests broke out in Ghana in response to an economic crisis that has left the West African nation further indebted to the International Monetary Fund. Opposition leaders recently demanded the removal of Ernest Addision, governor of the Bank of Ghana, due to what they describe as fiscal mismanagement and hyperinflation.

Other events of note on Oct. 9-14 include the Ghana Business Investment Forum at Howard University’s Blackburn Auditorium and the Travel and Tours Operator Forum at the Embassy of Ghana. The Ghana Tourism Authority has also planned a forum centered on unlocking the power of sports in economic and social development. In a statement, Ghana’s Ambassador to the U.S. Hajia Alima Mahama touted Capital City Africa Week and Ghana as part of a bigger effort to bring the U.S. and Ghana together. “This momentous occasion not only brings our vibrant Ghanaian culture to the forefront but also strengthens the bonds of friendship and partnership between our two nations,” Mahama said. “Ghana was the first country of choice in Africa for the international initiative, dubbed ‘Obviously DC’ by the office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning & Economic Development, to develop a special strategy to promote and establish businesses and now reached an understanding of Ghana’s business ecosystem which has led to business deals in the pharmaceutical area and more,” Mahama continued. “We’re grateful to the Mayor’s office in the District of Columbia.” WI @SamPKCollins

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5 From Oct. 9-14 the Embassy of Ghana, the Ghana Tourism Authority, EventsDC, LIQUID SOUL DC, and other sponsors hosted Capital City Africa Week and Ghana Week DC. (Courtesy Photo/ Embassy of Ghana)

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black facts

OCT 12 - 18, 2023 SOURCE: BLACK AMERICA WEB

son to win a gold medal in the 100-meter race in consecutive Olympic Games.

OCT. 16 1984 – Desmond Tutu is awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his ant-apartheid work in South Africa. 1995 – The Million Man March, called by Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan, is held on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

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1932 – Social activist and comedian Dick Gregory is born in St. Louis. 1999 – Basketball legend Wilt Chamberlain dies in his Bel Air, California, home of a heart attack at age 63.

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1902 – Harlem Renaissance-era writer and librarian Arna Bontemps is born in Alexandria, Louisiana. 1926 – Jesse L. Brown, the first African American aviator in the U.S. Navy, is born in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. 1970 – Famed political activist Angela Davis is arrested in New York City and charged with unlawful flight to avoid persecution for her alleged role in a California courthouse shootout.

1711 – Poet Jupiter Hammon, the first African American writer to be published in the present-day United States, is born in Long Island, New York. 1888 – Capital Savings Bank of Washington D.C. — one of the nation's first Black-owned banks — is opened. 1956 – Physician and astronaut Mae Jamison, the first African American woman to travel in space, is born in Decatur, Alabama. 1969 – Clifton R. Wharton is elected president of Michigan State University, becoming the first African American president of a major U.S. university.

OCT. 18

1926 – Pioneering guitarist and rock 'n' roll icon Chuck Berry is born in St. Louis. 1948 – Poet and playwright Ntozake Shange, author of "For Colored Girls…," is born in Trenton, New Jersey. 1951 – "Waiting to Exhale" author Terry McMillan is born in Port Huron, Michigan. 1968 – Athlete Bob Beamon sets the world record for the long jump — 29'2½" — a mark that would stand for decades. WI

OCT. 14

1919 – Famed Black activist Marcus Garvey is shot inside his Harlem office, wounded in his leg and scalp. He recovers, but his assailant, who claimed he was sent to shoot Garvey by the district attorney, died a day later after jumping 30 feet from a jailhouse window. 1964 – Martin Luther King Jr. is awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his nonviolent resistance to racial inequality in America.

OCT. 15

1883 – The Civil Rights Act of 1875 — which guaranteed African Americans equal treatment in public accommodations, public transportation and jury service — is ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court. 1968 – Track star Wyomia Tyus becomes the first per-

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Fate of Ward 8 Giant Pharmacy Generates Buzz By James Wright WI Staff Writer Ward 8 residents such as Mike Thomas, have been deeply considering the fate of the Giant located on Alabama Avenue SE– particularly of its pharmacy, which is one of the few in the southern end of the ward. “If they close the pharmacy at this Giant, that would be bad for the elderly people,” said Ward 8 resident Mike Thomas, who picked up his family at the store on Oct. 8. “They need their medicine. Where would they go to get their medicine?” The discussion about the pharmacy comes as Giant officials initiated stricter security measures for customers at the Alabama Avenue store due to the high rate of shoplifting and theft taking place. In August, D.C. Councilmember Trayon White (D-Ward 8) and community leaders called on the company officials to keep the store open because it is the only major grocer in the ward and some residents would have problems getting their groceries due to lack of transportation options. Company officials have said publicly they have no plans to close the store, but customers must have their receipts checked by security guards when leaving and some name brand products have been pulled from the shelves.

PHARMACIES IN D.C.

Open Data DC reveals there are 11 pharmacies in Ward 8 as of earlier this year, however this information does

5 The Giant Food Store on Alabama Avenue SE is one of the few Ward 8 outlets with a pharmacy. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

not reflect recent closures. Pharmacies in the District are heavily concentrated in its downtown and daytime centers. The DC Policy Center posted on its website, “Pharmacy Access Varies Greatly Across D.C.”, reports that even though the wards have similar populations, there are 36 licensed pharmacies in Ward 2 and 25 in Ward 6 and 21 in Ward 3. However, Ward 7, which neighbors Ward 8, has seven, the post said.

OWOLEWA, THE PHARMACIST, WEIGHS IN

District residents know Ward 8 resident Oye Owolewa as the city’s shadow representative to the U.S. House of Representatives. While he’s not donning his political hat, he serves residents as a registered pharmacist at the Safeway store located in Capitol Hill. Owolewa said losing the Giant and pharmacy in Ward 8 would be “devastating for the community.” “That store serves thousands of people each week,” Owolewa, 33, said. “The store and pharmacy closing would affect people who live in the Parkland neighborhood as well as the students in the area. The folks there need to get their prescriptions and medicines and should not have to go all over the city for that. Many of the residents who live near the Giant don’t have easy access to west of the river neighborhoods.” Owolewa pointed out that U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris received

their coronavirus booster shot at the Giant on Alabama Avenue. Owolewa said losing the pharmacy at Giant would have consequences other than just making it inconvenient for residents to get their prescriptions filled. “I would guess some of the people who work at the pharmacy live nearby,” he said. “That means some of our neighbors will be out of work.” Giant Responds to Possible Pharmacy Closure Jonathan Arons, a spokesperson for Giant, responded to an Informer email requesting an interview with the pharmacist at the store on Sept. 28. The request was declined; however, he did send a statement. “We do not have any current plans to close our Alabama Ave [location],” he wrote. “However, we need to be able to run our stores safely and profitably. The reality is that theft and violence at this store is significant, and getting worse, not better. Thomas said if the Giant closes, residents will have to go to smaller pharmacies. “People will have to get their medicine at the mom-and-pop stores,” he said. “Sometimes, they don’t give you the right medicine.” Myrtle Evans shopped for her groceries at the Giant and didn’t seem too concerned with the status of the pharmacy. “I will just go to Grubb’s on East Capitol Street,” she said. WI @JamesWrightJr10

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Eastern Stars March to Raise Money for Breast Cancer Research at Howard University By Hamil R. Harris WI Contributing Writer The rain couldn't dampen the spirits of members of the Georgiana Thomas Grand Chapter Order of the Eastern Stars as they walked in pink tutus to Howard Universi-

ty Cancer Center. The 5K walk stoked tearful memories because it was named after a former Eastern Star leader who dedicated much of her life to raising money for Breast Cancer research and died of lung cancerlast year.

“It was important for us to walk today in honor of Margaret Elizabeth Anderson,” said Grand Worthy Matron Sheila A. Smith. ”This was her charity when she was Grand Worthy Matron.” The Georgiana Thomas Grand Chapter Howard University Cancer Center 5K walk is important “because it shows [their] commitment to finding a cure for breast cancer,” Smith added. The organization donated proceeds to the Howard University Cancer Center and will announce the total in December. Dr. Carla Williams, interim director of the Howard University 3 People gather as members of the Georgiana Thomas Grand Chapter of the Eastern Stars walked, raised awareness on breast cancer and presented a donation to the Howard University Cancer Center. (Hamil Harris/ The Washington Informer)

5 In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month Members of the Georgiana Thomas Grand Chapter Order of the Eastern Stars participated in a 5K Walk and donated money to the Howard University Cancer Center. (Hamil Harris/ The Washington Informer)

Cancer Center, said the Georgiana Thomas Grand Chapter raising such awareness, and offering the financial reward is special. “This means that women have a place to come and that they are getting the best care from providers who know their experi-

ence.” Former Grand Worthy Matron Patricia Young noted that “Magaret Elizabeth Anderson was an employee of Howard University,” “There is no better way to honor her and her legacy than to name this event after her,” she said. WI

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The 2023 Class of the Washington Business Journal's Women Who Mean Business were celebrated on October 5. These dynamic women leaders are making a difference in Washington, DC. (Shevry Lassiter/ The Washington Informer)

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Libraries get support from the District Government, the foundation depends on donations. DCPL Foundation Development Chair Lilly Liu Minkove explained during the award presentation. “When I became involved in the DC Public Library Foundation I actually didn’t realize that libraries needed our funding,” said Minkove. “I thought that it was all covered by tax dollars. Where in fact the building, the staff, the physical infrastructure is covered by the tax dollars, all of the programming is supported by the foundation.” Neither District of Columbia Public Schools nor the DC Public library system bans books, a fact not lost upon DCPL associate and native Washingtonian Braxton Epps. “I'm really grateful to work and just exist in the DC Public Library system, because there's not a spirit of censorship,” said Epps. “Everyone really values the stories that people have to share, so forget banned books, we're going to do whatever we can to continue to share these stories, and ensure that they're retold moving forward.” WI

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5 Morgan O'Donnell of Pepco and Rob Hartman, executive director of the DC Public Library Foundation present Washington Informer Publisher Denise Rolark Barnes with the Spotlight Award during the Battle of the Banned held at the MLK Library in Northwest on Oct. 6. (Shevry Lassiter/The Washington Informer)

4 One of the pieces part of the “Best Banned Book Display,” featured in the DC Public Library Foundation’s “Battle of the Banned” and “Power the Dream Awards” on Oct. 6. (Shevry Lassiter/The Washington Informer)

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In the wake of school systems in the United States banning books, the DC Public Library Foundation held its annual “Battle of the Banned” programming and “Power the Dream Awards” on Oct. 6, part of the DC Public Library's (DCPL) activities for National Banned Books Week. With local librarians competing for the title of “Best Banned Book Display,” the event featured each library in the DCPL system making a display based on a book that a school or library system in the country has banned. Event attendees were able to vote on ballots supplied upon entrance and even “buy” additional ballots to support their favorite library in the contest with a donation to the DCPL Foundation. The evening also spotlighted the Power the Dream Awards, where the Washington AIDS Partnership, Monumental Sports, and Washington Informer Publisher Denise Rolark Barnes were honored for their contributions to the DCPL Foundation. “This is very serious business, you all, as one who just got back from Jacksonville, Florida with the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). We went there to go to the fight,” said Barnes. “We thought

we were doing something powerful and here we are in the nation’s capitol doing the same thing.” Banned Book Week, launched in 1982 to address a “sudden surge” in challenged books, is witnessing an amplified number of challenges, which many attribute to the country's political polarization. A recent report by PEN America noted that “Authors whose books are targeted are most frequently female, people of color, and/or LGBTQ+ individuals.” It also revealed that book bans or access restrictions surged 33% in the last school year compared to the 20212022 period. The foundation is also at the forefront of combating efforts to restrict book access nationally. “The DC Public Library Foundation is not neutral in the fight for the freedom to read and to defend intellectual freedom,” said Rob Hartman executive director of the DC Public Library Foundation. “We believe libraries are a place for all people to access the information that they want, that they need, that they require. And by limiting access to books and to information, we're creating a very dangerous precedent across our country.” The event also emphasized supporting local libraries, and particularly the foundation. Though DC Public

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PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY Senator Griffith Stepping Down, Will Lead MHA By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter State Senator Melony Griffith (D– District 25) announced that she will be stepping down at the end of October to lead the Maryland Hospital Association. Griffith has served in Annapolis for 16 years and her background is in public health. Griffith graduated from Howard University in 1987 with a so-

12 OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2023

cial work Master’s degree. “I remain committed to serving our community,” Griffith wrote in a letter to her constituents on Friday. “I will now focus my efforts on improving health outcomes for all of us, and I will continue to partner with you to address other important challenges in our community.” This announcement was met with praise and optimism from Health and

Government Operations Chair Joseline Peña-Melnyk (D, District 21) and MedChi CEO Gene M. Ransom III. Griffith’s resignation will lead to a vacancy in the State Senate. At the Prince George’s County Chamber of

Commerce’s Excellence in Business Awards gala on Oct. 6, Delegate Nick Charles (D- District 25) announced his intention to file for the appointment. Charles has served as the Chair of the Prince George’s County House Delegation for several years. There is some speculation that others such as Delegate Karen Toles (D-District 25) will file for the appointment but there has been no confirmation as of yet. Delegate Kent Roberson (D, District 25) indicated that he is not filing for the appointment via text. “I am not running for Senate,” said retired Delegate and former Black Caucus Chair Darryl Barnes in a phone interview with The Informer. “I’m in a good place with Evans, Barnes and Associates.” Barnes will pass the one-year cooldown for former legislators and be able to lobby the General Assembly in mid-April of this upcoming year. His water brand, Quora Alkaline Water, recently announced they’ll be in Shoppers grocery stores across Maryland.

5 Delegate Nick Charles, Senator Melony Griffith and Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks pose at the Prince George’s Chamber of Commerce gala on Oct. 6. Griffith announced that she will be resigning at the end of the month to lead the Maryland Hospital Association. Charles said in an interview during the gala that he intends to file for the upcoming Senate vacancy. (Anthony Tilghman/ The Washington Informer)

Former Councilmember Derrick Leon Davis also contemplated filing for the appointment, but is choosing to back Charles for the Senate seat following discussion with his loved ones. “I am inclined to support Delegate Charles in his attempt to replace our friend Senator Griffith,” Davis told the Informer via text. “Both have done well for the County in Annapolis.” Griffith is also the Chair of the Senate’s Finance Committee, the only woman currently serving as Chair of the four Senate committees. WI

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Prince George’s Chamber Honors Business Leaders, President Mickens Dukes

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

Gov. Wes Moore Serves as Keynote Speaker at Excellence in Business Awards By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter The Prince George’s Chamber of Commerce hosted their annual Excellence in Business Awards Gala at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center to present awards to six business leaders for their achievements and provide networking opportunities. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, the first Black man to serve in his position, provided the keynote address to the ballroom, packed with over 50 tables and an estimated 600 attendees. With a sharp blue tie and color coordinated pocket square, the Governor chatted with as many business leaders as he could during his 10 free minutes following the networking hour, even agreeing to pose for photos with attendees. “To the entire Chamber, this means the world to me. It’s wonderful to look out and see so many colleagues and so many partners who do the work everyday to make this Maryland’s decade. I’ve had the joy of meeting all these Governors, and I’ve been very clear with them that this is Maryland’s time,” said Gov. Moore to the crowd filled with local politicians, entrepreneurs, business leaders, educators and more. “We’re going to build better and faster, and we’re going to surpass them. We’re going to open up economic opportunities for all, not just some. We’re going to make it easier to create generational ideas. We plan to work until Work, Wages, and Wealth is not just a tagline but a reality in Maryland” WHUR host Sunny and the City served as Mistress of Ceremony. She told her story from immigrating to the United States from wartorn Bosnia when she was young, to learning English and traveling hours across Michigan to develop her abilities as a radio host.

Chamber of Commerce CEO and president Alexander K. Austin entered to the tune “Dirt Off Your Shoulder," by Jay Z playing after Sunny’s intro. “This moment is a thank you to staying committed to doing business in Prince George’s County, and putting people first,” he said. Austin, formerly the Director of Business Services with Employ Prince George’s, has led the Chamber since last December. Vennard Wright, the President and CEO of IT company Wake Welcome, was honored as “Innovator of the Year.” Topcurl Beauty Academy, a private beautician school in Bowie, received the Industry “Trailblazer of the Year,” award. Inspirational speaker Dr. Madeline Ann Lewis was acknowledged as the “Visonorary of the Year.” Inncuvate was honored as the “Strategic Partner of the Year.” United Way of the National Capital Area was given an award for “Corporate Social Responsibility," and Prince George’s Tech Council Chair Husein Sharaf was awarded “Career Educator of the Year.” The David C. Harrington Lifetime Achievement Award was given to Prince George’s Community College President Dr. Charlene Mickens Dukes in a special presentation. Mickens Dukes also asked Harrington sons to join her on stage. Harrington, a former State Senator and the first Black Mayor of Bladensburg who served as the Chamber of Commerce’s CEO from 2008-2022, died last September. He was credited during the event for improving the Chamber’s standing. “I am the youngest of nine children, and I grew up in a four-room house. My parents had one bedroom and the nine of us shared the other. My three sisters and I slept in a double bed, two at the top and two at the bottom,” said Mickens

5 Chamber of Commerce President Alexander Austin (centered) was presented a State proclamation for the Chamber’s achievements and role in empowering the local economy. (Anthony Tilghman/ The Washington Informer)

Dukes while accepting the award. “What I have been able to do in Prince George’s and in Maryland, has been because of the values my parents instilled. For doing the right thing, how to say please and

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thank you, to be appreciative for the work that others have done.” The Chamber of Commerce, one of the largest in the region, represents over 600 businesses and 30,000 employees in the DMV region.

“It gives us better representation of the makeup of the country. Without being at the table, you don’t have a voice,” Austin told the Informer. WI

OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2023 13

BUSINESS ir efs By James Wright / WI Staff Writer

ACTOR MORRIS CHESTNUT TO HEADLINE BLACK WEALTH SUMMIT

Noted actor Morris Chestnut, featured on the Oprah Winfrey Network’s Rebuilding Black Wall Street, has been named one of the featured speakers for the Black Wealth Summit that will take place Oct. 26-28 at the City of Praise Family Ministries Campus, located in Landover, Maryland. This year’s event theme is Creating a Culture of Accountability, touching on how banks, community and celebrities are promoting Black Wall Street, among other things. The event’s founder is Cedric Nash, an in-

vestor and author. “The overwhelming majority of wealth in America (84%) is in the hands of white households,” said Nash. “Black households own an estimated 4% of wealth in the country. Black Americans can build wealth in spite of the odds. You can create your own wealth journey, even if you’re starting from the bottom using a systematic and specific approach that is short on empty promises and long on techniques,” Nash continued. “By taking what you have, earn considerably more, building up your investment capital, and making what I call ‘Millionaire Money Moves’ to accumulate appreciating assets that generate income and wealth,

you will set the foundation for genuine generational wealth that you and your loved ones can continue building upon for years to come.” WI

SMALL BUSINESS EXPO IN D.C.

The D.C. Department of Small, Local Business Development will hold its annual small business expo for Certified Business Enterprises and local businesses to connect with contracting and capital opportunities on Oct. 24 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Martin Luther King Jr, Memorial Library, located at 901 G Street., NW. The event will consist of expert panel discussions, workshops, and an exhibit hall with the focus on contracting, financing, and personalized matchmaking consultations. District Connect gives small business owners the chance to meet with government officials and prime companies. Plus, businesses will get the opportunity to speak one-on-one and meet faceto-face with decision-makers to

The Washington Convention and Sports Authority t/a Events DC Bid Announcement The Washington Convention and Sports Authority t/a Events DC is soliciting proposals from qualified firms to provide facility cleaning and janitorial services for the Entertainment and Sports Arena and RFK Stadium Campus. Interested parties can view a copy of the RFP by accessing Event DC’s e-procurement website at www.wcsapex.com.

build relationships, get access to contracting opportunities and access to capital. For more information, call 202-727-3900. WI

FUTURE OF BLACK COMMUNITIES SUMMIT

The Future of Black Communities Summit will be held on Oct. 19 at Eaton DC, located at 1201 K Street., NW. The Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies in Northwest sponsors this summit. It is a day-long convening featuring conversations with some of the country’s most noted nonprofit, government, philanthropic, business, and academic thought leaders. The discus-

BUSINESS

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4 Morris Chestnut will participate in the Black Wealth Summit at City of Praise Family Ministries in Landover, Maryland Oct. 26-28. (Courtesy Photo)

This Request for Proposal (RFP) has a thirty-five percent (35%) set-aside for Small Certified Business Enterprise (SBE) as required under the provision of “The Small and Certified Business Enterprise Development and Assistance Amendment Act of 2014, effective June 10, 2014. Key Dates: RFP Release Date: Pre-Proposal Conference: Questions Due Date: Proposal Due Date: Primary Contact Name: Gerald Green Email: ggreen@eventsdc.com Phone: (202) 249-3028 14 OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2023

Thursday, October 12, 2023 11:00AM EST, Friday, October 20, 2023 5:00 PM EST, Monday, October 30, 2023 5:00 PM EST, Monday, November 13, 2023

Calling Western High School Alumni! The Association wants YOU!

Western High School (Washington DC, NW) opened in 1890 and closed in 1974. The Alumni Association preserves the memory and legacy of Western. The Association is holding its next quarterly meeting for alumni only on Saturday, November 4. Will YOU step-up to serve on the Board to keep the Western memory alive? Telephone call-in option will be available! For more information, contact: anneskated@gmail.com

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BUSINESS from Page 14 sion will center on current challenges facing Black communities and there will be a move to propose actionable solutions for the future. For more information, call 202-789-3500. WI

ACCESS TO CAPITAL

The D.C. Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking offers District entrepreneurs and small business owners’ access to capital through the DC BizCAP program. DC BizCAP partners with lenders to provide additional collateral, reduced interest rate subsidies and down payment support. The program has supported 43 District businesses with $19.5 million in funding. For more information on the program, contact Aaron Fenwick at aaron.fenwick@dc.gov or visit disb.dc.gov.

D.C. FISCAL POLICY INSTITUTE SEMINAR

The D.C. Fiscal Policy Institute will sponsor a presentation and panel discussion with a question-and-answer period on how the District can build a tax system that advances racial equity on Oct. 26 at the Greater Washington Community Foundation, 1325 G Street., NW. from 10-11:30 a.m. The Institute’s leaders report that the District’s wealth is concentrated in the hands of a few, disproportionately white households and businesses, but they argue better local tax policy could help build more broadly shared prosperity. New research from the Institute reveals how District leaders can dismantle the privileges unfairly afforded to the city’s wealthiest households in our tax code and raise much-needed revenue for public investments. Speakers for the event include Erica Williams, executive director of the Institute; Michael Mazerov, senior fellow with the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities’ State Fiscal Project; and Kamolika Das, Local Tax Policy Associate Director, Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy. For more information, contact Nikki Metzgar at NMetzgar@dcfpi. org. WI @JamesWrightJr10

BUSINESS October is Estate Planning Awareness Month By Aimee D. Griffin, Esq., Each year we raise awareness of estate planning. We spend time, energy, and money to come up with creative ways to compel people to think about how they want to care for their loved ones when they are not able to express their will or direction. We go into great details about the considerations for planning for the people who don’t have capacity to care for themselves because of wisdom, acumen, or savvy. We as professionals want to provide guidance about the hidden sand traps that we see in the form of taxes of confusion. But still, folks don’t want to talk about what can happen or what will happen. I have been presenting estate planning seminars for years. I am privileged to partner with Industrial Bank to present annual estate planning seminars for the last eight years. Industrial Bank is the perfect example of legacy building. It has been owned and operated for three generations by the Mitchell family. It is an institution that exemplifies successful succession planning to build a business where the heirs are not just beneficiaries reaping the benefits of the work of their ancestors, but heirs who are committed to growing the business. Industrial Bank continues to grow, most recently expanding into New York and New Jersey. The heirs are given the resources and instilled with the values to use the resources to live their best lives but to use the resources to impact their growing family, heirs, and community. I have had a few people speak to me after the Industrial Bank presentation and share that they have been attending the presentation for many years. Undeniably they are aware of estate planning. However, they have gathered information, asked many questions and returned for another session without moving forward to complete any plan. Awareness is just one step. The action is the next step. The awareness of what can happen is not the place to stop. I want us to begin with awareness. Application of knowledge is when transformation takes place. Hoarding information without action does not benefit anyone. Estate planning answers three questions: 1. What happens to my stuff when I die? Many times, this question debilitates people and creates the fear of inevitable paralysis. The second question that estate planning answers is “what happens if I am unable to care for myself ”. By establishing powers of attorney that manage authority to for an agent to make financial and health decisions for the principal, the appointment of that duty is not randomly assigned by and to a person that is not in relationship to the principal. The third question that estate planning answers is “what is the legacy I want to leave”. Legacy building is a personal and unique answer for each person and family. The resources and the heritage that each person creates underscore the values to be passed on. Strategic planning allows for wealth growth for more than the next generation. Our goal is to provide resources for our loved ones to have what is needed to accomplish great things not just to have great things. The Life & Legacy Counselors build visions that create action plans to build legacies through estate planning. Aimee D. Griffin, Esq., The Griffin Firm, PLLC http://yourestateplanningattorney.com (855) 574-8481 5335 Wisconsin Ave NW Suite 440 Washington DC 20015 4041 Powder Mill Drive Suite 215 Beltsville MD 20705 100 International Drive 23rd Floor Baltimore MD 21202 4601 N. Fairfax Dr., Suite 1200 Arlington, VA 22203

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OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2023 15

NATIONAL

House Republicans in Turmoil as Trump Weighs in On Speaker Election By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer Replacing Speaker Kevin McCarthy, dumped a week earlier after Florida Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz moved to oust him, has emerged as a complex and contentious task for House Republicans. McCarthy’s ousting has thrown Congress into disarray due to the actions of Gaetz and other extreme GOP factions. The turmoil began because of 3Republican turmoil has reached new lows in Congress. (Courtesy Photo/ Wikimedia Commons)

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within the far-right wing of the Republican Party have been pushing for the former president to consider a run for Speaker himself. However, the party’s existing conference rules present a significant hurdle, barring individuals from pursuing the role if they are facing felony indictments like Trump, who could get as many as 800 years in prison if convicted of all 91 charges lodged against him. Speaking outside a Manhattan courthouse where he faces a civil fraud case, Trump hinted at the possibility of a run for Speaker, stating, “Lot of people have been calling me about Speaker. All I can say is we’ll do whatever is best for the country and for the Republican Party.” Meanwhile, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton weighed in on the ongoing GOP turmoil during an interview with CNN’s Christiane Amanpour. Clinton called for a “systemic deprogramming” of Trump’s MAGA supporters, acknowledging that he will likely become the Republican party’s presidential nominee. Clinton critiqued Trump’s political style, characterizing it as “negative” and “nasty,” suggesting it resonates with supporters who may harbor discriminatory views. “It’s a classic tale of an authoritarian populist who really has a grip on the emotional and psychological needs and desires of a portion of the population," Clinton remarked. "And the base of the Republican party, for whatever combination of reasons — and it is emotional and psychological— sees in him someone who speaks for them.” WI

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pressure from far-right members of the party associated with the racist “MAGA” movement, who have been advocating for a change in leadership. Representatives Steve Scalise, currently serving as the majority leader, and Jim Jordan, the chairman of the Judiciary Committee, emerged as prominent contenders for the position. Shortly after McCarthy’s ouster, both candidates secured over a dozen endorsements as they rapidly approached a pivotal vote this week. A full election on the House floor could follow. However, the process may extend further if a consensus remains elusive or like how it played out when McCarthy took over the speakership. McCarthy faced 15 rounds of voting in January before ultimately securing the position amidst the deeply divided Republican caucus. Jordan has garnered the endorsement of the twice-impeached former President Donald Trump, who remains embroiled in a mountain of legal controversies. In a message posted on his Truth Social platform, Trump expressed his support: “Congressman Jim Jordan has been a STAR long before making his very successful journey to Washington, D.C. He will be a GREAT Speaker of the House, & has my Complete & Total Endorsement.” Trump currently faces 91 felony counts across four indictments in four jurisdictions. A civil jury determined that he’s responsible for sexually assaulting a journalist, and a New York judge found Trump guilty of business fraud. Despite Trump’s endorsement, some of his staunch supporters

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Medicaid Managed Care Organizations Face Scrutiny Over Prior Authorization Denials By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

A recent review of Medicaid Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) has revealed concerning trends in approving prior authorization requests for services. In 2019, MCOs denied one out of every eight requests for prior authorization of services, according to a report by the Office of the Inspector General (OIG). Among the 115 MCOs examined in the review, 12 exhibited denial rates for prior authorization requests that exceeded 25%—twice the overall rate. This discrepancy in approval rates highlights potential disparities in access to essential healthcare services for Medicaid enrollees. Despite the high number of denials, many state Medicaid agencies reported that they did not routinely review the appropriateness of MCO denials. Additionally, many still needed to

have mechanisms in place to collect and monitor data on these decisions. More robust oversight is required, potentially allowing inappropriate denials to go undetected within the Medicaid-managed care system. The OIG has recommended measures to improve enrollee protections and state oversight of prior authorization denials in Medicaid-managed care in response to these findings. These include: • States must regularly review the appropriateness of a sample of MCO prior authorization denials. • Mandating States to collect data on MCO prior authorization decisions.

• Issuing guidance to states on utilizing MCO prior authorization data for oversight.

NATIONAL

• States must implement automatic external medical reviews of upheld MCO prior authorization denials. In their official response, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) did not indicate concurrence with the first four recommendations. However, they agreed with the recommendation to collaborate with States to identify and address MCOs that may be issuing inappropriate prior authorization denials. Senator Robert Casey (D-Pa.), who chairs the Senate Special Committee on Aging and U.S. Representative Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-N.J.), Energy and Commerce Committee ranking member, has voiced concerns about the potential prioritization of MCOs’ financial interests over the needs of patients seeking care. “I’m

MEDICAID Page 18

5 Among the 115 MCOs examined in the review, 12 exhibited denial rates for prior authorization requests that exceeded 25 percent—twice the overall rate. (Courtesy Photo/ Wikimedia Commons)

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OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2023 17

NATIONAL MEDICAID from Page 17 deeply troubled by reports that Medicaid managed care plans denied an average of one out of every eight requests for treatment, more than double the rate of service denials in Medicare Advantage,” Pallone said in an earlier statement. “Medicaid is a lifeline for over 80 million people, including children, people with disabilities, seniors, and hardworking families,” he continued. “This report strongly suggests that some private insurance plans, which states have contracted with to provide health care coverage to their residents, may be improperly denying access to critical services to maximize their profits.” In a letter to the OIG, Casey emphasized the role of insurance companies in administering Medicaid benefits through MCOs, which receive fixed fees known as “capitated payments.” Casey noted that independent

watchdogs have consistently raised concerns about the MCO model, which may incentivize insurers to limit payments and deny coverage. He highlighted that MCOs have expanded significantly, becoming the “dominant delivery system” for Medicaid, providing coverage to over 67 million Americans, or 84% of Medicaid enrollees. The senator noted that the OIG’s national evaluation of Medicaid MCOs, published in July, examined 115 plans with a minimum of 10,000 enrollees operating across 37 states and managed by seven companies. For example, the report found that, on average, MCOs denied 12.5 percent of requests for prior authorization in 2019, with notable variations from state to state and among different companies and plans. Casey said one insurer in 13 states exhibited denial rates ranging from 5% to 29%. In California, denial rates for various MCOs ranged from 7% to 29%.

The OIG report also identified 2.7 million individuals enrolled in MCOs with 25% or higher denial rates. Notably, one Illinois plan had a denial rate of 41%, while two other plans in Georgia and Texas denied one-third of claims. Casey has called for a thorough examination of the MCO system to ensure that patients enrolled in Medicaid have unfettered access to the services they are entitled to. Additionally, he has urged the CMS to provide robust oversight to safeguard the interests of enrollees in receiving the care they need. “When patients are denied coverage of medically necessary services, they often face tight timelines to file actionable appeals,” Casey said. “Assuming such appeals are filed in a timely manner, the process can be complicated and time-consuming, creating barriers that can make it difficult for Medicaid enrollees to seek recourse.” WI @StacyBrownMedia

5Senator Robert Casey (D-Pa.)

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INFORMER from Page 1 vin W. Rolark. His daughter, Denise Rolark Barnes, serves as the publisher of the newspaper. The Informer has grown from a weekly newspaper to a website that offers daily updates on news, an active social media presence and a digital channel known as WINTV. The company also sponsors educational and historical activities such as the annual Spelling Bee in the District and Prince George’s County which

leads to the national competition, tours of Black historic sites in the Mid-Atlantic region and the yearly Martin Luther King Holiday Parade in January. Micha Green serves as the managing editor of the Informer. Green said, “with recent reports detailing that eight out of 10 Black-owned businesses will fail in the first 18 months, the Washington Informerturning 59 is not only something to celebrate, but also use as a source of inspiration and a lesson in hard work and dedication.” “While I’ve only served in my posi-

5Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, Sr. and daughter Denise Rolark Barnes.

tion for just shy of a year, I am honored to work at an organization with a long-standing reputation of being a valuable and reliable source of news for the Washington region,” Green continued. “I’ve learned that listening to the needs of residents and championing equity and justice has been part of the Informer’s keys to success and longevity. Through fearless storytelling, new content and programming, and a persistent pulse on the community’s needs and values, the Informer will continue the long legacy of delivering engaging, entertaining and educational news.” Barnes said she appreciates the support the Informer has received over the decades. “I am deeply appreciative of our readers’ unwavering support which has the been the cornerstone of our journey over the past 59 years,” she said. “It has enabled us to continue our mission of delivering impactful stories that matter to our community, and sustained us as we strive to aim higher, report deeper, and serve better. When folks say my father would be proud, I can only respond by saying, ‘I hope so.’ I am grateful and proud of the team for their dedication and commitment to keeping our community uplifted and informed.” Wi @JamesWrightJr10

NATIONAL Dear Washington Informer readers, As we mark our 59th anniversary, we pause to reflect on the nearly six decades of trust and loyalty you've bestowed upon us. Your unwavering support has been the cornerstone of our journey, enabling us to continue our mission of delivering impactful stories that matter to our community. Your belief in our purpose has not only sustained us but has inspired us to aim higher, report deeper, and serve better. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you. Here's to many more years of shared stories, community engagement, and collective growth. Warmest Regards, Denise Rolark Barnes & The Washington Informer Team

The Washington Convention and Sports Authority t/a Events DC Bid Announcement The Washington Convention and Sports Authority t/a Events DC is soliciting proposals from qualified firms to provide Photography and/or Videography Services in connection with events organized, hosted and/or sponsored by Events DC, as well as other designated Events DC projects and initiatives. This Request for Proposals (RFP) is designated for District of Columbia Department of Small, Local, and Business Development (DSLBD) small, certified business enterprises only. Interested parties can view a copy of the RFP by accessing Event DC’s e-procurement website at www. wcsapex.com. Key Dates RFP Release Date: Preproposal Conference Date: RFP Questions Due Date: Proposal Due Date:

5Washington Informer Managing Editor Micha Green in front of the office. (WI File Photo)

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africa now

COMPILED BY OSWALD T. BROWN, WI CONTRIBUTING WRITER

DR Congo Crisis: African Army Chiefs Back Peace Talks

A meeting of military leaders from four African regions on Friday, Oct. 6, supported a political resolution of the conflict between Democratic Republic of the Congo’s (DR Congo) armed forces (FARDC) and the M23 rebel group in the country’s east, The New Times, Rwanda’s largest daily newspaper, reported on Saturday, Oct. 7. The meeting took place less than a week after hostilities resumed in parts of North Kivu province, threatening regional efforts to end the conflict peacefully. The military leaders, who met at the African Union (AU) headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, discussed a coordination framework to harmonize peace initiatives for the DR Congo as well as planned and existing military interventions in the country’s troubled east to establish a clear division of labor in the country’s troubled east. Although the Congolese government has ruled out the possibility of peace talks with the rebels, the meeting emphasized “the need for continuation of the political track through dialogue, in line with regional efforts under the auspices of the EAC and ICGLR, as contained in the Nairobi and Luanda Processes,” the AU Peace and Security Council said in a statement on Friday. The meeting attended by AU and United Nations representatives expressed “deep concern over the prevailing insecurity and deterioration of the humanitarian situation in the country due to violence and human rights abuses committed by the M23 and other armed groups, including the FDLR and ADF,” according to the statement. The army chiefs meeting also demanded “immediate and unconditional withdrawal of all armed groups and negative forces,” and called for the establishment of humanitarian corridors to facilitate humanitarian assistance to the affected populations. Although the Congolese government has ruled out the possibility of peace talks with the rebels, the meeting “emphasized: “the need for continuation of the political track through dialogue, in line with regional efforts under the auspices of the EAC and ICGLR, as contained in the Nairobi and Luanda Processes,” the AU Peace and Security Council said in a statement on Friday. The meeting attended by AU and United Nations representatives expressed “deep concern over the prevailing insecurity and deterioration of the humanitarian situation in the country due to violence and human rights abuses committed by the M23 and other armed groups, including the FDLR and ADF,” the statement said. The army chiefs meeting also demanded “immediate and unconditional withdrawal of all armed groups and negative forces” and called for the establishment of humanitarian corridors to facilitate humanitarian assistance to the affected populations. In November 2022, the East African Community (EAC) deployed a regional force to DR Congo to observe a ceasefire between the Congolese armed forces and M23 rebels. The ceasefire has been fragile, with both parties accusing each other of breaking it. The conflict that began in November 2021 has also led to tensions between DR Congo and Rwanda, as the former accused its neighbor of supporting the rebels. WI

caribbean now Trudeau to Host Canada-CARICOM Summit in Ottawa

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will host the first Canada-CARICOM Summit in Ottawa from Oct. 17-19 providing an opportunity for leaders to continue to strengthen cooperation and chart a better future for people in both regions. “I look forward to welcoming leaders from the Caribbean Community to 5 Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau Ottawa this month,” Trudeau said in a press release. “Canada and the Caribwill host the first Canada-CARICOM Sumbean Community (CARICOM) have built an enduring partnership over the mit in Ottawa from Oct. 17-19. (Courtesy last 50 years, based on ties between our people and our shared commitment Photo) to democracy, the rule of law and human rights.” Themed “Strategic Partners for a Resilient Future,” the summit will allow Prime Minister Trudeau and CARICOM leaders to advance shared priorities, including building inclusive and sustainable economies, increasing trade and investment, and promoting multilateral collaboration. Focus will also be placed on collective efforts to fight climate change and address its impacts in the Caribbean, including by exploring ways to improve access to finance for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in the region. Trudeau will also seek to highlight the importance of reinforcing democratic values, promoting human rights and the rules-based international order, and strengthening coordination on regional security, including responding to the ongoing security, political and humanitarian crises in Haiti. As co-chair of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) Advocates group, Trudeau will also promote the SDGs as the pathway for the world to build a more sustainable and prosperous future for all. The chairmanship of CARICOM rotates every six months. The current chairman is Dominica Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit. WI

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October 2023 Message from Department of Aging and Community Living DIRECTOR CHARON P.W. HINES

Dear Seniors, Fall has arrived and is in full swing! We welcomed the season with Mayor Bowser's 37th Annual Centenarian Salute, where we had the privilege of honoring over 40 of the District's Centenarians. Describing this celebration as amazing would be an understatement – it was a remarkable showcase of our #DCValues in their finest expression. This year’s Centenarian Salute was our first in-person event since the COVID-19 pandemic and having the opportunity to safely host this anticipated luncheon in-person was truly a treat. We learned so much from our Centenarians, gaining invaluable wisdom, insight, and the key secrets to making it to age 100 and beyond. Being able to share stories with our oldest residents about their contributions to the District and all around the world was truly inspiring. Many of them spoke of how they have lived through historic events such as the Civil Rights movement, World War II, the Cold War, and even being able to work for the

CIA upon its inception in 1947. The moments shared all gave me such joy and insight that I will cherish forever. September is also Healthy Aging Month, which came right at the time of us celebrating National Centenarian Day, and I have to say, our Centenarians are aging quite well! I asked many of our honorees what their secret was to make it to 100. Many replied with “Have fun” or “Drink your water” but some Centenarians are still active daily. Centenarian Stanley Johnson (104 years old), shared with me that he still does push-ups every day. Stanley’s commitment to remaining active was exactly what I needed to hear to motivate and encourage all of us as we prepare for Active Aging Week, which is the first week of October. And while the International Council of Active Aging has been highlighting this weeklong campaign for more than 20 years, this is something DACL encourages all year long! Active Aging Week, which took place October 2 – 8,2023, is aimed at assisting the aging community to get involved in wellness, exercise, and activities that help encourage wellness as a goal for your lifetime. Seniors, I encourage you to join us at one of our seven wellness centers for a class or activity. I challenge you to not only join us during the first week of October for Active Aging Week but any time of the year! If you have any questions about how to get involved at one of our wellness centers, feel free to connect with us by calling 202-724-5626. I look forward to seeing you get active this fall! In Service, Charon P.W. Hines

5 Director Hines poses with the NEW Lead Agency, DACL, for Ward 1 in partnership with East River Family Strengthening Collaborative (ERFSC).

DACL Recognizes FY 24 Grant Recipients for the DACL Lead Agency Grant Program • Ward 1: DACL, in partnership with East River Family Strengthening Collaborative - The mission of East River Family Strengthening Collaborative, Inc. (ERFSC) is to empower families, youth, seniors, and communities to become more self-sufficient through integrated and collaborative community-based services utilizing evidence-based practices that are family-focused and person-centered. DACL will be the lead agency for Ward 1 senior residents and will work in partnership with ERFSC. To learn more, visit erfsc.org. • Ward 2 & 3: Iona Senior Services – Iona supports individuals navigating the challenges of aging by providing education, advocacy, and community-based services that promote well-being. For more information, visit iona.org. • Ward 4: Genevieve N. Johnson Senior Day Care Program – Also known as GNJ, this program offers adult care with a focus on creating joyful moments and enhancing seniors' lives. To learn more, visit gnjseniordaycare.com. • Ward 5 & 6: Seabury Resources for Aging – Seabury offers programs and comprehensive support for DC's older adults, addressing their essential needs and aiding families in making crucial decisions about their future. For more information, visit seaburyresources.org. • Ward 7 & 8: East River Family Strengthening Collaborative – ERFSC empowers families, youth, seniors, and communities to become self-sufficient through integrated, community-based services. Learn more at erfsc.org

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OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2023 21

HEALTH MAD Konnect Foundation Raises Awareness about Breast Cancer

Breast Cancer Survivors Champion Support For Sisters Striving Toward Recovery By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Health Reporter October is breast cancer awareness month. Local breast cancer survivors and health advocates are working to combat breast cancer mortality rates while supporting patients on their journey to healing

from the degenerative disease. Madeline Long, founder of MAD Konnect Foundation., an advocacy group for breast cancer recovery and patient advocacy support, still recalls the heaviness surrounding the death of a family friend who died from breast cancer. The silence and tip-toeing around their cause

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5 MAD Konnect Foundation, supports breast cancer survivors from diagnosis and beyond, offering care, resources, and encouragement. (Courtesy Photo)

of death spawned her curiosity to learn more about the disease plaguing Black women at higher rates than their counterparts. Long be-

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gan volunteering with the Susan G. Komen Foundation to learn more about breast cancer and contribute to support groups for women facing the aggressive disease. Her advocacy turned out to be preparation for a season that she would soon enter in 2011, when her mother, aunt, and herself were all diagnosed with breast cancer. In hindsight, she found her path in volunteering to be the blessing that provided her exposure in this space, witnessing women’s needs and trials while battling the disease. “I was fortunate to be in this space because I didn’t see breast cancer as a death sentence. So, I was able to help, especially my mother. My mother [told] me that she was waiting to die because she knew this is how it ends. And so for me, I was able to take the work that I was doing while working in advocacy and walking the halls of Congress for Susan G. Komen and others. I was able to bring that home,” Long told the Informer on an episode of WIN-TV’s “Let’s Talk.” “Because of the way my mother was handling her diagnosis, it inspired me to open my organization, and that's how we opened MAD Konnection Foundation,” Long emphasized. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc., 1 in 8 women across the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lifetime. Estimates for 2023, are that "297,790

women and roughly 2,800 men will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer." Black women have even more of a reason for heightened awareness. The American Cancer Society reports that Black women hold the “lowest five-year relative breast cancer survival rate compared to all other racial/ethnic groups for every stage of diagnosis and every breast cancer subtype.” Likewise, there stands a 6% to 8% gap in the fiveyear survival time window between Black and white women for every breast cancer subtype. Long told the Informer that since she opened her doors in 2015, her foundation has taken great pride in providing women with patient advocacy to bolster emotional and physical support to those on this emotional journey. She emphasized that a significant number of women who lose their battle to breast cancer, but especially women of color, reside in underserved areas. MAD Konnect Foundation provides patient advocacy support, from accompanying survivors to appointments, shopping for them, and texting them to keep connection, as some of the most difficult times for survivors are during the night as they lay alone with their thoughts while facing the disease. “You never forget that moment when they tell you, ‘I’m sorry to tell you that you have breast cancer.’ We are in the lives of survivors from diagnosis to the end of life,” Long said. “Because I was diagnosed two months after my mom, I didn’t have anyone to be with me, so patient navigation is very important to me,” Long continued. “There is nothing I won’t do for my sisters. We will not leave any sisters behind.” Over the years, research points to breast cancer diagnosis affecting the lives of younger women as well, as African Americans under the age of 35 die from breast cancer three times as often as white women of the same age. Long wants to push outreach to women of all ages, while encouraging younger women to correct their ideologies about the illness and when they may be most susceptible to diagnosis. “I plan to use [my] platform to reach out to younger women because younger women believe that breast cancer is an old women’s disease, and it’s not.” WI

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EARTH

OUR

chemicals directly into waterways and allowing them to seep into groundwater, Schwalb said. DOEE’s research has identified 11 hotspots for PCB contamination in the Anacostia River, Washington Channel and Kingman Lake. Almost all of these toxins remain in the sediment at the river’s bottom, not on the surface of the water, the agency found. The biggest threat to human health from PCBs in the Anacostia would come from eating fish from the river, rather than from contact with the water.

Pepco Pays for Pollution: District to Receive $57 Million Settlement for River Cleanup By Kayla Benjamin WI Climate & Environment Reporter After dumping harmful chemicals into District waterways for decades, Pepco will pay $57 million to the city for pollution cleanup, Attorney General Charles Schwalb announced Tuesday at a press conference held right on the Anacostia River at Kingman Island Park. The deal marks the biggest environmental protection settlement in D.C. history, according to the attorney general’s office. “It's a regrettably familiar story— corporate and commercial interests dumping dangerous, toxic chemicals

into the earth, water and air, putting the health and safety of an entire community at risk,” Schwalb said in remarks at the announcement. In a statement, Pepco emphasized that such practices had been discontinued over a decade ago and said that the settlement demonstrated the company’s commitment to fixing the problem. “The agreement will help advance cleanup of the Anacostia River and District communities, especially those who have been disproportionately impacted,” Pepco’s statement read. “We understand the importance of this work for the future of our communities.” In addition to the payment, the set-

MORE WORK LEFT TO HOLD POLLUTERS ACCOUNTABLE 5 D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb announced Tuesday that Pepco would pay the District $57 million in a settlement over contaminants the company dumped into the Anacostia River. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

tlement requires Pepco to investigate and clean up the land around its old power plants on Benning Road and Buzzard Point. Both of those contaminated sites lie adjacent to or within majority-Black communities. The Rev. André Greene, of Varick Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church, spoke at the announcement about decades of organizing by residents in his Ward 7 community, River Terrace, which sits right next to the old Benning Road power station. “This investment into the river and

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INVITATION FOR BID (IFB) SOLICITATION NO.: 0022-2023 MOTOR POOL REPLACEMENT OFFICE TRAILER The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) requires qualified Contractor to remove an existing trailer, complete site preparation, deliver and install a new office trailer at the DCHA Motorpool. SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available beginning Monday, October 9, 2023 on DCHA’s website at www.dchousing.org under “Business” and “Solicitations”. SEALED BID RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Thursday, November 9, 2023 at 11:00 AM. A BID OPENING IS TO BE CONDUCTED ON Thursday, November 9, 2023 at 11:30 AM via WebEx. Email Lolita Washington, Contract Specialist lwashing@dchousing.org with copy to business@dchousing. org for additional information.

24 OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2023

into the community is a long time coming,” Greene said. “We hope that it will not end here.” Of the settlement money, $47 million will go to the city’s efforts to clean up the river, and the other $10 million represent civil penalties. The District has already spent around $35 million on studying the toxics in D.C.’s rivers, Schwalb said. Remediation efforts, led by the Department of Energy and Environment, are slated to begin in 2025, according to DOEE general counsel Dave Dickman.

WHAT’S IN THE WATER?

The most prominent chemicals at issue in the settlement are polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCBs. Though PCBs were banned in 1979, the industrial products can still be found in the Anacostia’s river bed because they don’t readily break down in the environment. Researchers have linked them to a wide range of health problems, including cancer, neurological development disorders, immune system issues and birth defects. An investigation revealed that Pepco’s researchers knew about the threat posed by PCBs, and the company ignored its own policies by dumping the

Despite major progress in Anacostia cleanup in recent years, the river remains off-limits for swimming most of the time, and it remains dangerous to eat any fish caught there. The river received a failing grade on the Anacostia Watershed Society’s annual report released last month, though the organization says long-term trends over the last 30 years continue to show steady improvement. PCBs and other chemicals can stick around for many decades. Pepco was illegally dumping contaminated waste into storm sewers that empty into the Anacostia until 2013, when DOEE “caught Pepco in the act,” according to one of the two suits the attorney general filed Tuesday. Pepco was also far from the only corporation dumping industrial waste into the water. Schwalb said his office planned to hold other polluters liable as well, though he declined to name any names. “Pepco deserves credit for being the first in the door to step up and accept responsibility for its actions, and for making a substantial down payment on the cleanup work that needs to get done,” Schwalb said. The attorney general also mentioned that his office would oppose any requests from Pepco to raise rates in order to recover the settlement’s costs, which would violate the agreement. The company previously attempted to pass onto consumers the

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Prince George’s Upcoming Bag Fee Law Will Not Exempt SNAP Recipients By Kayla Benjamin WI Climate & Environment Reporter As Prince George’s County prepares to implement a plastic bag ban and a mandatory $0.10 fee for paper bags starting Jan. 1, a bill to create a fee exemption for SNAP and WIC users failed in committee last month. The 3-2 vote from the members of the Transportation, Infrastructure, Energy and Environment Committee on Sept. 28 followed advocates’ testimony that illustrated tensions remaining between environmentalists and economic justice activists despite a growing environmental justice movement. “I have heard people say, ‘Well, poor people care about the envi-

ronment too.’ There is no doubt that they do,” said Councilmember Krystal Oriadha, who introduced the bill, at the hearing. “It is insulting to insinuate that if you have an exemption, that means people don't care about the environment, or the only way that this group of people can learn is by having a $0.10 penalty associated with it.” The Better Bag Bill, which the Prince George’s County Council passed in June, prohibits most retailers from using disposable plastic bags and requires them to charge a fee of at least $0.10 for paper and reusable bags starting Jan. 1, 2024. The legislation aims to reduce plastic pollution in the county and incentivize shoppers to bring their own bags.

Prince George’s joins a growing number of DMV jurisdictions to adopt such a bag law, none of which include exemptions for food aid recipients. Because of the way the federal programs are structured, SNAP/ WIC recipients can’t use their benefits to pay for bags. Activists and councilmembers opposing the exemption amendment at the hearing said that anyone, regardless of income, can bring reusable bags. Many organizations offer bags for free. Proponents argued that everyone forgets sometimes, but not all shoppers have to make hard choices because of a 10-cent fee. Wilson said Maryland Hunger Solutions plans to keep pushing for Prince George’s County and other Mary-

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OUR EARTH

(Courtesy Photo/Ivan Radic via Flickr)

land jurisdictions to incorporate equity into their laws around carry out bags. “People are struggling in ways that are unbelievable, and we are nickel-and-diming poor people,”

he said. “Nickel-and-diming middle class people means nothing— because they're not the ones who are saving their nickels and dimes for food.” WI

OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2023 25

EDUCATION Dr. Henry Frazier: What the Doctor Ordered for Rebuilding College Football Programs By Ed Hill WI Contributing Dr. Henry Frazier III has the right title. No, he is not a medical doctor, and his PHD is in Educational Leadership. Interestingly, he specializes in reviving and building winning college football programs. The current head coach at Virginia State, Dr. Frazier has an impecca-

26 OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2023

ble win-loss record during his years of coaching. Whether as the head coach or an assistant, he is a difference maker. It all started for Dr. Frazier as a youngster growing up in the DMV area. “My mother had all three of us before the age of 18,” said Frazier. “Bessie Harris is my best friend.

She is the best woman that I have ever known,” he added, referring to his mother. “When My father passed when I was [2-years-old], she kept it all together when she faced the challenge of raising us in the projects of LeDetroit Park (in Northwest, D.C.).” Community support also helped Frazier along the way. “I was blessed because I had a support system from Number 13 Police and Girls Club and K.C. Lewis Elementary Rec. It continued when I went to Fairmont Heights High School. There were strong Black male figures who helped me navigate my way through some of the adversity that I faced growing up. The love and nurturing of my mother and that strong support system proved to be a Godsend for me. Coaching became easy because of that preparation and influence.” Playing football at Fairmont Heights High School later earned Frazier a scholarship to Bowie State. “When I was recruited to Bowie, the program had not had much success," he recalled. "I think that they saw something in me. We were able to do some things to rebuild the program and gain some success." Following a successful career at quarterback for the Bulldogs from 1986-89, he would return to serve as an assistant coach at Bowie State before receiving his first head coaching job at Central High School from 1994-98. He not only coached football there, he also served as a teacher on the faculty and coached wrestling and baseball. In 1999, he was hired as head coach at his alma mater. The program had not had success since his departure in 1989, but with him at the helm, Bowie won back-to-back CIAA East Division titles in 200203. His next step was to take his coaching acumen to the Division 1 level at Prairie View A&M, but despite his short success at Bowie, there were a lot who questioned his sanity. Prairie View A&M had lost 80 straight games during the 90’s, an NCAA record for Division 1. “There were a number of people who told me that it was coaching suicide,” said Dr. Frazier. “I looked at it differently. I saw it as an opportunity to build a program. I felt that there was no way to go but up. All those mentors and role models helped prepare me to take on challenges so I was confident that I would have success.”

5 The current head coach at Virginia State, Dr. Henry Frazier III has an impeccable win-loss record during his years of coaching. (Courtesy Photo)

From 2004-2010, Prairie View experienced one of the biggest turnarounds in college football history, posting an impressive record of 43-30 (31-26 SWAC) in his time there, while leading the team to the 2009 SWAC Championship. For his remarkable accomplishment, he received several national and local honors, including the prestigious Eddie Robinson Award for the best Football College Subdivision (FCS) coach in the country. When he resigned in 2010, he left as the second-winningest head coach in Prairie View’s history. With his stock rising, Frazier moved on to North Carolina Central University (NCCU). Following his departure from NCCU after two seasons, Frazier had a number of positions ranging from high school vice principal to high school athletics director at Dunbar Senior High School in Washington, D.C. In what was perhaps one of his biggest achievements, he was Director of Leadership and Character Development for the University of Maryland under Head Coach Mike Locksley. In a return to coaching Frazier served as an assistant to the head coach at Bowie State from 20172020 under one of his mentees, Damian Wilson, the current head coach at Morgan State. Antone Sewell has known Dr. Frazier all the way back from their playing days at Fairmont Heights to Bowie State and as his assistant at Prairie View. "He was very hard on me as a freshman and I just could not understand until I got into my junior

and senior season," recalled Sewell, current assistant coach at Morgan State. "He has not only been a mentor for many young people, he has also been instrumental in developing coaches. Sewell went on to explain why Frazier is still able to revive programs after all these years. "Coach Frazier has that unique ability to maintain some of the philosophy from the past but at the same time, adapt to today's athletes." In 2022, Frazier was named head coach of Virginia State University, where he went 6-4 (5-3 CIAA) in just his first season. The Trojans are currently off to one of the best starts in recent history at 6-0. Incidentally, the Virginia State program was 3-6 before his arrival. “I like to think that coaching and reviving and rebuilding football programs is my ministry,” he noted. “Just like my mentors balanced caring and loving but would not let me get away with making bad choices, I have adopted that same philosophy.” DFrazier has authored a five-part series, “City Boy C-Man. It is a guide for young people on making the right choices when faced with everyday challenges. "It is based on my childhood experiences and some of my encounters growing up in Washington, D.C.,” said Frazier. "It is for young people, grades 2 through 6. It is based on the 5 C's, Character, Community, Confidence, Courage and Caring as the formula for a successful life." WI

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EDUCATION Educate Children on Mental Health this World Mental Health Day and Beyond By Milaka Saddler WI Contributing Writer World Mental Health Day is on Oct.10, offering a time to reflect on the importance of acknowledging mental health and resources to help navigate its effects. Dropping on World Mental Health Day, media specialist, author and Washington Informer photographer Anthony Tilghman, released a new children’s book “Are You Okay,” in order to introduce youth to important conversations on mental health. The author said he decided to write the book to encourage children to “be kind and to be aware of the mental challenges that everyday people face throughout their lifetime.”

THE IMPORTANCE OF TEACHING CHILDREN ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH

“Are You Okay?” is about a child who is told stories about various mental health challenges and how simply posing the title question can be a great comfort during hard times. Tilghman shared that teaching kids to “offer a friendly ear,” to their friends and loved ones at an early age can better prepare them to be able to deal with such challenges later in life. As a father to a 1-year-old, who is a huge inspiration behind his book, Tilghman hopes that his daughter will one day be able to learn, not only from “Are You Okay,” but all the books he

writes. His works, including: “Bull the Bully,” “Black Male Black Hoodie, and “From Homelessness to Cool: The Anthony Tilghman Story” (all accessible on Amazon), discuss social issues and help children to begin understanding the effects each challenge has on society.

Day and the release of his book, Tilghman will be reading his book to second graders at Francis T. Evans Elementary School on Oct. 10. He explained that the opportunity gives him a chance to not only spread the word about his book, but also allows him to illuminate the importance

of having a better understanding of mental health. He also shared that he will be participating in the “Ferebee Hope: Family Literacy Festival,” taking place on Oct. 21. The festival allows registered families with young children to receive books, school supplies, haircuts, gro-

cery gift cards, and more. Serving the youth and ensuring their overall health is key to Tilghman. The author and father emphasized he “really want[s] to make sure that kids are receiving the mental health support they need, despite the background they come from.” WI

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS AND HELPFUL DAILY REGIMENS

Tilghman disclosed that he has struggled with mental health challenges, and through his journey, has realized that he is not the only one. CDC research has found that more than 1 in 5 U.S. adults lives with a mental illness. Further, Mental Health America found that 10.6%, the equivalent of 2.5 million, of youth cope with depression. Despite challenges, there are options that can be utilized to positively combat or cope with the effects of mental health challenges. Tilghman shared a few of the daily regimens that help him throughout his busy schedule. “My way of dealing with mental challenges is to take a walk and play some chess, which both really helps me clear my mind.” NIH reports that 30 minutes of walking every day helps boost your mood and overall health. In addition, NIH reports that adequate sleep, practicing gratitude, setting goals, and focusing on keeping a positive mindset help improve your mental health overall.

SUPPORTING MENTAL HEALTH EDUCATION IN OUR COMMUNITIES

In honor of World Mental Health

5 Anthony Tilghman releases the new book “Are You Okay,” on World Mental Health Day, Oct. 10. (Courtesy Photo)

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Owning a home is an exciting journey. One filled with a sense of pride and accomplishment. It’s a place for families to gather, celebrations to be had, hard times to be weathered, where memories abound. At Wells Fargo we are proud of the exciting work we are leading to create greater opportunities for a more equitable housing system. When our industry comes together, we have the power to create and deploy products and programs to create legacies and build wealth that will span generations. In my role as the Head of the African American Segment with Wells Fargo’s Home Lending Diverse Segments team, I am responsible for creating and implementing strategy in support of addressing the disparity in wealth and homeownership that we face as a nation, with a specific focus on advancing Black homeownership. We are deeply committed to working hard to close the gap and create a more inclusive housing system. That work requires partnerships across the industry, boots on the ground, housing advocacy, policy changes, product development, and so on. For me it also resonates on a personal level. With 20 years in the business, the power and beauty of homeownership took on new meaning when I became a mother. Did you know that Black Americans will possess $2 trillion dollars in spending power by the end of next year, with Black women accounting for 52% of the black population in America? Black, head of household women have incredible impacts across all industries, not just mortgage. It’s extremely important to me that my amazing seven-year-old daughter will encounter a housing system designed to envelop her with wealth-building opportunities. While I work to build equity now so that I can pass on generational wealth, I look forward to seeing her adorable #BlackGirlMagic aspire without pause as she grows, hones her passions, and becomes a homeowner and an investor in her community. Together, the work we do plants seeds – seeds of access, of education, accountability, stability, and more. In today’s market, doubt and concern are palpable. In the face of that, there is hope that you can still start to build equity today. Owning a home is possible. You can build a plan to make that vision a reality. Talk with our Home Mortgage Consultants and begin the incredible journey to homeownership. g

Did you know that Black Americans will possess $2 trillion dollars in spending power by the end of next year, with Black women accounting for 52% of the black population in America?

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How the 100 Black Men of America Empowers Youth by Investing in Their Future By Melissa Murray, Jennifer Block Martin, and Eric Best of Wells Fargo For 14 weeks, students across the country took part in the Wells Fargo Junior Investment program, a simulation game that teaches young people how to invest. Student teams are given a virtual $100,000 to invest in stocks, bonds, and mutual funds using the SIFMA Foundation’s Stock Market Game. They learn the value of capital markets as they work together to maximize the return of their portfolios with the help of mentors from their local 100 Black Men of America chapter. The competition recently culminated in Las Vegas where five finalist teams competed at the 100 Black Men of America’s annual conference.

Making Generational Change Now in its fourth year, the Wells

Fargo Junior Investment program is delivered to students by mentors like Moses Harris, a senior Black and African American Segment leader for Wells Fargo who’s been a member of the Los Angeles chapter of 100 Black Men for eight years. Harris covers stock market fundamentals and its risks with young people each Saturday morning as part of the program. “Early on, our students are a little timid on what they should do and how many shares they should buy,” Harris said. “We like to give our students the education, and with education comes confidence. When you’re confident, you’re able to perform and participate.” The 100 Black Men of America and programs like the Junior Investment program aim to not only help kids learn to create long-term wealth,

but also foster mentor relationships between generations. “We see the parents are very engaged and interested,” said Bonnie Wallace, head of Financial Health Philanthropy for Wells Fargo. “So, it’s really extending the learning not only with the youth, but with the older generation as well.” Participant Jada Rabun shares, “Just being in [the competition] after four years, and going on to my fifth year, I really see the benefits of it,” Jada said. “I would have never imagined in eighth grade for me to be at a national conference.” Jada is the third generation in her family to be involved with the 100 Black Men, which has mentored young Black people to prepare them to be future leaders since 1963. Her father, John Rabun, was brought to the group’s Los Angeles chapter by his own father as a high school student. “Generation to generation, it means a lot,” John said. “[The organization] has had a profound impact on me and my family, and so I wanted to introduce [it to] my daughters.”

Carrying Financial Lessons Through Life The 100 Black Men of America

and Wells Fargo have worked together for 34 years, from sponsorships to supporting programs like Pathways for Success, which provides workforce readiness to mentees across the nation. This collaboration is part of Wells Fargo’s broader commitment to increase pathways to economic opportunity for historically marginalized communities. “Generational wealth gives you the opportunity to have a better life. Not only for you, but for your kids,” said Lester Owens, Operating Committee Member for Wells Fargo. “The more

that we can give somebody the opportunity to be successful, the more they can carry that with them for generations for others to be successful as well.” Owens is also a member of the 100 Black Men of America.

Jada is beginning to see doors that the Junior Investment Competition and the 100 Black Men could open. She’s already looking at colleges, including some historically Black colleges and universi-

ties (HBCUs). “[The 100 Black Men] has really helped spark my interest in the business field,” she said. “I’m going to continue the program probably for life.” g

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THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 2023 FINANCIAL LITERACY SUPPLEMENT / OCTOBER 12, 2023 / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

Paying Down Debt Doesn’'t Have to Overwhelm You By WordInBlack.com staff in collaboration with Wells Fargo

Strength in Working Together As the leading large bank lender to African Americans Wells Fargo understands that our strength comes from working together across the country to achieve racial equity in homeownership. Our close collaboration with prominent African American civil rights organizations, real estate trade groups, and housing counseling agencies helps bring home buying information and resources to more communities. At Wells Fargo we also continue to optimize our teams to better serve you and help you create a home buying journey that is right for you and your family. Scan to learn more about our Home Lending Priorities

Information is accurate as of the date of printing and is subject to change without notice. Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. © 2023 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. NMLSR ID 399801 AS5759580 Expires 04/2024

Why is it so easy to get into debt and so hard to find your way out? And why does trying to manage debt often feel so overwhelming? A growing number of consumers are facing this challenge. American household debt increased by $34 billion last year, with 18.3 million borrowers falling behind on a credit card, according to the quarterly report on household debt and credit by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. Wells Fargo Bank is helping customers lessen stress and learn to manage their credit and debt effectively. “We have many options and connect with customers using a personalized approach that’s tailored to their needs,” said Darlene Smith-Daniels, Wells Fargo branch manager in New York City. “We are very hands-on, letting them know we’re here to help them establish credit or manage their debt.” Smith-Daniels, who joined Wells Fargo in 2003 as a teller and worked her way up to branch manager, relates to her customers and values the bank’s commitment to assisting customers in this area. “Growing up, I wasn’t taught a lot about credit,” Smith-Daniels reflects. “It gives me a good feeling to help them with our debt management tools.” Helping customers gain financial literacy is a high priority for Wells Fargo. That includes helping them see the big picture to understand the relationship between credit and debt. “Managing debt can become overwhelming,” Smith-Daniels said. “We work to find ways for them to tackle it, because that debt is not going to disappear. We help them to not pick up more credit and pay down debt, which gives them more options.” “We explain that we cannot provide a quick solution, and we counsel them on the need to have patience,” she said. “We show them two approaches: the snowball method — paying off the smallest debt first—and the avalanche method of paying off the highest interest account first. And we work together to find the best method for them.” Another tool is the Debt-to-Income (DTI) Ratio Calculator to show how debt impacts borrowing power. “It’s vital to understand this equation,”

Smith-Daniels said, “because many customers make the mistake of wanting to wipe out all their debt.” “Many customers don’t know until they’re speaking to us that this ratio affects them if they want to borrow again. It’s best to have a mix of credit and some debt, as long as it’s in line with a healthy debt-to-income ratio. It’s all about management. You must have some debt to show that you can repay it. If you have no repayment history, then lenders may have difficulty lending to you.” Along with the tools, Wells Fargo offers staff with the skill sets to guide customers through the maze of credit and debt management. She sometimes uses an analogy to help customers understand the need for regular financial check-ups and maintenance. “I remind them that they see their doctor regularly to make sure everything is working,” she said. “I encourage them to look at their finances that way, to make sure that they sit down with their banker for a review at least once a year and go over their finances. They say, ‘You’re right. I do need to have that financial check-up to make sure everything is all right, and I don’t get overwhelmed with my debt.’” The results have been encouraging. “We’ve had great outcomes,” Smith-Daniels said. “Some customers come back and say, ‘Now I want to apply for a loan or a mortgage because now I have everything under control, and I can manage my debt much more effectively and efficiently.’ It gives me a good feeling to know we’re helping customers.” The bank’s approach is designed for the long term. “If someone is starting off trying to establish credit, we give them the tools, ask if we can follow up with them in a month or two, see how it goes. Then once they get the credit, we work with them on how to maintain it without becoming overwhelmed. If they’re in trouble, we work with them by scheduling a follow-up meeting whenever it’s best for them. “While getting into debt will always be easier than getting out, Wells Fargo is deeply committed to helping customers reach their goals and gain financial stability. “It does take time — you have to be patient,” Smith-Daniels said, “but we can definitely help you get on the right track.” g

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Make homeownership your path to personal and intergenerational wealth When Black homeownership rates increase, more Black households gain access to a proven way to build personal and intergenerational wealth.

Our mortgage affordability calculator1 on wellsfargo.com helps you determine which mortgage options best align with your financial goals.

Markets change but that does not mean buying a home is out of reach. At Wells Fargo we can help you navigate the home buying journey during all types of economic cycles.

When you are ready to talk, our Home Mortgage Consultants are here to help you create a plan to optimize the benefits of homeownership now and over time.

The Black homeownership rate rose throughout 2022 even in the face of rising mortgage rates, hitting 45.2% in the third quarter - up from 42.7% in 2019. This is the largest point increase of any racial or ethnic group. 1. How Much House Can I Afford Calculator | Wells Fargo 2. Wells Fargo - Gaining Economic & Financial Ground in the Black Community Since COVID (bluematrix.com) Information is accurate as of the date of printing and is subject to change without notice. Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. © 2023 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. NMLSR ID 399801 AS5759580 Expires 04/2024

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THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 2023 FINANCIAL LITERACY SUPPLEMENT / OCTOBER 12, 2023 / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

Exploring How Special Purchase Credit Programs Help Advance Homeownership for Minority Customers Chuck Bishop Head of Diverse Segments for Home Lending Wells Fargo Safe, affordable housing is a key pillar of the American Dream. It’s a pathway to financial success for our customers, and a source of stability in our communities. Owning a home is also one of the most important pathways to wealth creation, providing families with a foundation for improving their financial position across generations. Wells Fargo continues to play a leading role in the crucial, industrywide effort to increase racial equity in homeownership through close partnership with stakeholders across the housing sector as well as special programs and targeted investments in communities of color. Below, Chuck Bishop, Head of Diverse Segments for Home Lending for Wells Fargo explains what a Special Purpose Credit Program (or SPCP) is, and how Wells Fargo’s program aims to advance homeownership for minority customers and align with their Home Lending strategy announced earlier this year.

What is a Special Purpose Credit Program? In 1976, the Equal Credit Op-

portunity Act (ECOA) authorized the creation of an SPCP to allow lenders to create a loan program that considers protected bases, such as race or ethnicity, to meet

special social needs or help economically disadvantaged populations. Although SPCPs have been around for decades they may not have been widely implemented, in part, because of a need for greater clarity in creating a compliant program. In February 2022, the Consumer Financial Protection Board (CFPB) acknowledged the need for further guidance on how to develop SPCPs to be consistent with the ECOA and joined seven other federal agencies in issuing a statement encouraging lenders to explore opportunities available to increase credit access through Special Purpose Credit Programs.

5Chuck Bishop, head of Diverse Segments for Home Lending

SPCPs can play an importIs it discriminatory needs. ant role in promoting equity and inclusion, building wealth, and to have a lending removing barriers that have conprogram that tributed to financial inequities, instability, and residential focuses on a specific housing segregation. racial or ethnic How Do Wells group? Under Federal law, lenders are permitted to design and imple- Fargo'’s Special ment Special Purpose Credit Pro- Purpose Credit grams to increase access to credit to better serve historically disad- Programs Work? Wells Fargo launched our first vantaged individuals and communities. An SPCP allows lenders to consider factors including race and ethnicity, national origin, and gender to meet special social

SPCP in 2022. Through the program, more than 4,100 existing

Black Wells Fargo customers who may not have taken advantage of low mortgage interest rates prior to when the market rate surged have been able to lower their rate and their monthly payments without extending their loan term. This year, we announced an expansion of our SPCP efforts to include purchase loans. The new Homebuyer AccessSM grant, developed under a Special Purpose Credit Program, provides downpayment assistance and is available to eligible homebuyers who are purchasing homes in or who currently live in select areas in eight Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) to start: •Minneapolis–St. Paul– Bloomington, MN-WI • Philadelphia–Camden– Wilmington, PA-NJ-MD-DE • Dallas–Ft. Worth– Arlington, TX • Washington–Arlington– Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV • Baltimore–Columbia– Towson, MD • Atlanta–Sandy Springs– Alpharetta, GA • Charlotte–Concord– Gastonia, NC-SC • New York–Newark– Jersey City, NY-NJ- PA This program can be combined with many other programs for

which they may qualify including the Dream. Plan. Home.SM closing cost credit, the Employee Mortgage Program, Corporate Relocation, and more.

What advice do you have for homebuyers? Potential homebuyers looking to

purchase a home in any of the eight metropolitan areas and those who currently live in those areas can find out more about the Special Purpose Credit Program by visiting wellsfargo.com/homegrant, calling 866327-6414, or contacting a Wells Fargo Home Lending office in their area. Other programs are available in addition to the SPCP. Everyone’s financial situation is unique to them and it’s important to speak with a mortgage professional or HUD-approved housing counseling agency to begin the homeownership journey. Ask questions like what types of loans are available; if there are programs to assist with downpayment or even closing costs; what the requirements are for loan approval. Aspiring homeowners should understand as much as they can about the homeownership journey before beginning. It could make a difference in the kind of experience you have. Also, don’t assume that myths about purchasing a home are true. You don’t necessarily need a high downpayment or perfect credit to make your homeownership dreams a reality. Many lenders have programs that are aimed at assisting low- and moderate-income buyers. Educate yourself and ask questions to explore your options. g

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CFPB awaits court approval for $2.7 billion settlement: Fake credit repair and debt relief scams date back to 2016 By Charlene Crowell As consumers complain about the real-life challenges of keeping pace with the rising costs of living, key financial reports reveal that the challenges are as high and widespread as this summer’s scorching heat. In early August, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York released its quarterly report on household debt and credit. At mid-year, the nation’s total household debt rose to $17.06 trillion – a $2.9 trillion increase since the start of the pandemic recession in late 2019. Little wonder then, that millions of consumers became susceptible to phone calls and advertising that promised financial relief. At the same time, businesses looking to make major profits from others’ financial woes have been busy. Chief among these financial predators are debt relief and credit repair firms that make promises, collect up-front fees and never deliver for consumers. On August 28, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) announced a $2.7 billion judgment against major members of this industry. An order now awaiting federal court approval would also ban these firms from telemarketing credit repair services for 10 years for illegal actions dating back as far as 2016. “Americans across the country looking to improve their credit scores have turned to companies like CreditRepair.com and Lexington Law. These credit repair giants used fake real estate and rent-to-own opportunities to illegally bait people and pad their pockets with billions in fees,” said CFPB Director Rohit Chopra. “This scam is another sign that we must do more to fix the credit reporting and scoring system in our country.” CFPB’s lawsuit charged its defendants with failure to perform legitimate credit monitoring services. Its legal challenges cited the Telemarketing Sales Rule (TSR) that requires fees for tele-marketed credit repair services be paid after – not before - the promised credit repair has been completed. The rule also requires that credit repair firms provide documentation that substantiates the promised results were achieved within six months. Additional counts in the complaint

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charged that the defendants used deceptive acts and practices in violation of the Consumer Financial Protection Act of 2010 (CFPA). Two of the lawsuits’ defendants, Lexington Law and CreditRepair. com, are the largest credit repair brands in the country. The credit repair services are marketed and offered through a web of lesser known but related entities operated nationwide and had more than 4 million customers who were subjected to telemarketing. In 2022 alone according to CFPB, the defendants had combined annual revenues of approximately $388 million. To generate credit repair sales for Lexington Law and CreditRepair. com, defendants used a network of marketing affiliates that advertised a variety of products and services, often related to consumer credit products. Typically, according to CFPB, telephone agents pitched so-called credit repair services to the consumer, and later transferred calls to agents employed by a separate firm who would attempt to close the credit repair sale. This second firm would be paid by defendants for each sale closed with the deceptive practices that led consumers to believe only a single entity was involved. Court approval of the settlement will:

lawsuit, the court’s summary judgment holding, the settlement, the consumer’s right to cancel their credit repair services, and the process for canceling the service.

I• mpose a $2.7 billion judgment for redress: The order would impose a $2.7 bil-

lion judgment against the companies for redress. Due to the companies’ financial insolvency, the CFPB will determine whether the CFPB’s victims’ relief fund can be used to make payments to those harmed by the perpetrators.

I• mpose more than $64 million in civil penalties: The order would impose a $45.8

million civil money penalty against Progrexion Marketing and a $18.4 million civil money penalty against the Heath law firm. “Credit repair companies that offer quick fixes are often scams that disappear with consumers’ hard-earned money,” noted Pamela Hernandez, a regional manager with the Better Business Bureau. Charlene Crowell is a senior fellow with the Center for Responsible Lend-

ing. She can be reached at Charlene. crowell@responsiblelending.org.

Ban the perpetrators from telemarketing for 10heyears: companies will be banned from

telemarketing credit repair services or selling credit repair services that others marketed through telemarketing for 10 years. The companies will also be banned from doing business with certain marketing affiliates. These bans will attach to the companies even after the bankruptcy proceedings are complete.

R• equire notices to consumers: The companies will be required to send a notice of the CFPB settlement to any remaining enrolled customers who were previously signed up through telemarketing. The notice will inform consumers of the CFPB’s

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 2023 FINANCIAL LITERACY SUPPLEMENT / OCTOBER 12, 2023 / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

Why You Should Consider Estate Planning By The Washington Informer The Financial Journey is a unique series focused on financial education and opportunities. These stories have been created through a strategic partnership between Wells Fargo and WordInBlack.com.

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Billions of people strive daily to create a stable life for themselves and their families. Unfortunately, we cannot predict when a life-altering change will occur. Because of this, preparation for the unexpected is essential. Nelrae Pasha Ali, a Senior Financial Advisor and Managing Director/ Investments with Wells Fargo Advisors with more than 20 years of expertise and a focus on customized planning, says that making estate plans can help people prepare for these changes if they become incapacitated or pass away unexpectedly. Despite what some may believe, estate planning is not solely for the wealthy; in fact, estate planning is how people can ensure that all of their assets go to the correct individuals and that their wishes are respected. “Not taking the time to make the right preparations can have severe effects on your loved ones. In fact, I consider estate planning as a love letter to the family,” Nelrae said. “If you want control after your passing, estate planning is the best place to start.” A will, durable power of attorney, a healthcare power of attorney, a living will, and a revocable living trust are the five key documents for estate planning. Other forms may be necessary depending on your unique circumstances. A will provides instructions for distributing assets to beneficiaries after death. In it, a personal representative (executor) is assigned to pay final expenses and taxes and distribute remaining assets. A durable power of attorney for financial matters allows a trusted individual management power over individuals’ assets either now or at a later date, if they become incapacitated. This document is effective only while still alive. A healthcare power of attorney allows someone to make medical decisions on behalf of another person if incapacitated and unable to make these decisions for himself/herself. A living will express intentions regarding the use of life-sustaining measures for those who are terminally ill. It ensures that no one else has the authority to decide what happens if these individuals become incapacitated. By transferring assets to a revocable living trust, individuals can provide continued management of their financial affairs during their lifetimes, after death, and even for generations to come. Everybody has a unique scenario when it comes to estate planning. “I start this discussion with clients by asking what is most important to them,” Nelrae said.”” It’s important to have this discussion while there isn’t a crisis in progress.” Additionally, the person who someone wants to have manage their finances may not be the same person they want to have make decisions regarding their health in a crisis situation, so it is critical to have a plan in place. Again, if someone is incapacitated and their wishes are not recorded, their spouse may have one idea of what their wishes were while their adult children and/or parents may have another idea. This confusion could lead to havoc and leave families in financial or legal turmoil. Making decisions during this time can be very difficult, but having a written record of wishes will help loved ones navigate the family’s new normal, Finding a qualified estate attorney is the first step in estate planning, according to Nelrae. The bottom line is that if you don’t make the decisions, someone else will. Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. is a member of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. g

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THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 2023 FINANCIAL LITERACY SUPPLEMENT / OCTOBER 12, 2023 / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

The A-B-C’'s of HELOCs By Maceo Clark, EagleBank Many homebuyers were able to buy and refinance homes with low rates between 2020 to 2022, which was great. Now, though, many seeking to tap into their equity find themselves stuck with a dilemma: Do I give up my low interest rate to get cash out of my home, or stay where I am? Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOCs) can play an important role in tapping into equity in one’s home. They do not require any changes to the first trust mortgage loan rate and are a secure source of accessing cash to fund emergencies,

3Maceo Clark, EagleBank

EagleBank SBA Loans

Some of our biggest tools are our small business loans. EagleBank offers a full range of Small Business Administration (SBA) lending solutions. Our SBA Relationship Managers guide you through the eligibility requirements* to determine whether an SBA loan is right for your business. Contact us to learn more. EagleBank is an SBA Preferred Lender

EagleBankCorp.com 301.986.1800 MD | DC | VA

*This is not a commitment to lend. A minimum borrower contribution, or down payment, is required; amounts vary by project but are usually 10 percent. Loan terms can vary according to the purpose of the loan.

projects, or personal needs as they arise. HELOCs are generally smaller loan amounts for specific needs, and generally are in “second” lien position behind a first trust mortgage loan. While borrowing on the value of one’s own home would seem to make good financial sense, here are some ABC’s to remember about HELOCs.

A Inis for ADJUSTABLE general, HELOC interest

rates are adjustable and are based on an index such as the Wall Street Journal Prime rate (“Prime Rate”). This means that as the Prime Rate goes up or down, the interest rate on a HELOC could go up or down and the payment amount on the HELOC could also go up or down. The current Prime Rate is 8.50% as of July 27, 2023, up from 8.25% in March of 2023. It is the 10th time that Prime Rate has increased since March 17, 2022.

B Most is forHELOC BORROW lenders will let

you borrow up to a certain percentage (“Loan-to-Value”) of the current appraised value of the home, less the balance of the first trust mortgage. And just like a Deed of Trust for an existing first trust mortgage loan, there is a Deed of Trust for a HELOC that must be recorded in the county records and must be paid off when the home is sold. Many banks may offer to pay some of the closing costs associated with a HELOC up to a certain amount; this amount paid by a bank will vary. Be aware that some

HELOCs when paid off within the first few years, may require the borrower to repay the closing costs paid by the bank.

C Like is for CREDIT a first trust mortgage loan,

credit and property requirements apply and may be different at each bank. Requirements may include: • A credit report ordered by the bank. • An appraisal ordered by the bank to establish the property’s current value. • Verification of income to review and evaluate the ability to repay. • A flood certificate ordered by the bank to ensure the property is not in a flood zone known as Special Flood Hazard Area. If it is then flood insurance may be required.

Convert After the initial draw period,

which is generally 10 years, the loan could convert to a repayment period for the final remaining term. During the repayment period, funds can no longer be borrowed from the HELOC and the principal and interest due must be repaid. If you have further questions, please contact us at ConsumerLoan@EagleBankCorp.com or call 301-9861800. This is not a commitment to lend. To be eligible, borrower must meet underwriting and program guidelines. All loan applications are subject to credit and property approval. EagleBankCorp.com NMLS #440513 Member FDIC g

EagleBank, a community-minded and solutionoriented bank, is excited to work with customers who also believe in their community and want to enhance and maintain their DC home. In conjunction with EagleBank’s sponsorship of the Washington Informer’s OUR HOUSE initiative, EagleBank shares information that may help area homeowners.

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Why Teaching Financial Literacy to Seminarians Makes Sense Theodore R. Daniels Founder and President Society for Financial Education and Professional Development, Inc. Financial literacy skills are a key to economic health, yet too few Americans have even a basic knowledge of how to manage their finances. This is especially true among African Americans, Hispanics, women, millennials, and individuals without a high-school education. According to a financial capability study by FINRA Investor Education Foundation, only 46% of Americans have emergency funds. A TIAA survey indicates that only 54% of African Americans have retirement savings needs. The survey also reflects that African Americans are likelier to use non-bank borrowing, such as payday lenders and pawn shops, than other ethnic groups. The study states that nearly half of all respondents with a high school education or less could not come up with $2,000 in 30 days in the event of an emergency. Americans want to live a comfortable life at each stage of their lives, regardless of race, gender, age, or education level. But whether we are young, middle-aged or seniors - we must learn financial knowledge and tools for economic success. A lack of financial understanding can be a serious roadblock to a healthy financial life and has a negative impact on our economy and our citizens, including those who are most vulnerable. Americans often wait until it is too late or when a financial crisis occurs before they seek help for financial problems. This is especially true in underserved populations, who have limited access to financial education, training, and resources. But there is good news. Higher education institutions committed to teaching financial literacy are making a tremendous difference by including such education at the undergraduate and post-graduate education levels. I have taught financial literacy classes and held seminars for divinity students, pastors and ministers at the Howard University School of Divinity

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in Washington, D.C. The classes and seminars were structured to increase the financial and stewardship knowledge of the participants by teaching them practical money management concepts and skills. The program was designed to train religious leaders who will be able not only to use their own financial resources wisely, but also to teach financial literacy in their communities and places of worship. They became better informed to make leadership decisions regarding the facilities and finances of their congregations. Enhancing the financial literacy of religious leaders and instructing them with the “Each One, Teach One” curriculum training model to implement in their own faith communities was a powerful tool to reach African Americans and others who would not otherwise have access to this knowledge. This education model also has the strong potential to impact thousands of individuals in African American communities and elsewhere. Imagine if financial literacy courses were a mandatory requirement at all divinity schools across the nation, and if churches and places of worship made a promise to host financial literacy training for their communities each year. In nearly 25 years of running an education nonprofit organization dedicated to financial education, I have discovered that people want to learn personal money management concepts and their applications. Financial knowledge and skills of these kind help individuals make smart decisions so that are able to maximize financial resources and achieve their personal and financial goals. The financial topics that I teach at Howard University, School of Divinity which focused on practical issues relevant to faith-based groups, include:

Pastors” course was tremendous and participants were eager to share what they have learned with their congregations. Innovative and comprehensive programs to teach divinity students financial literacy, so they can in turn instruct their church members about useful financial concepts that can be applied in everyday life, can be a real lifeline for African American communities and other groups. I urge other divinity and theology schools to expand their offerings to include financial literacy instructions in their curriculum and offer subject specific seminars and workshops to enable ministers and pastors to empower their congregations to become fiscally healthy. This can also play a key role in the financial sustainability of the churches they serve. We don’t have a moment to lose if our goal is growing healthy and robust communities and providing tools for all our citizens to have a chance to improve their financial well-being.

Theodore R. Daniels Founder and President Theodore “Ted” R. Daniels is the founder and president of SFEPD, an award-winning nonprofit teaching financial literacy to people of all ages and backgrounds, with an emphasis on communities of color. In 1998, Daniels founded SFEPD to teach individuals, especially first-generation college students, critical financial skills they might not otherwise receive or learn too late. He is a global financial educator, author, and lecturer. A leader in the financial literacy movement, Ted Daniels has 40 years of experience as a financial and investment advisor. g

'"" 'In nearly 25 years of running aneducation nonprofit organization dedicated to financial education, I have discovered that people wantto learn personal money management concepts and their applications.''

• Personal Financial Planning for Ministers and Pastors • Credit and Debt Management • Maximizing Financial Blessings through Investing The feedback from divinity students who have taken the “Personal Financial Planning for Ministers and

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 2023 FINANCIAL LITERACY SUPPLEMENT / OCTOBER 12, 2023 / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

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Chase Community Manager Shares Five Key Financial Literacy Tips how much money is coming in and going out each month. Use online tools to help you track your savings and spending, and then break spending down into wants versus needs. Once you have an idea of where your money is going, it’s easier to make adjustments to your spending habits.

Sponsored content by JPMorgan Chase & Co. Financial health is an important foundation that helps build strong and resilient households, communities and economies. Being financially healthy better prepares you for life’s unexpected expenses. The reality is, more than 50% of Americans across all income levels consider themselves financially unhealthy. That group includes many Black, Hispanic and Latino families in the U.S., who have less than 50 cents in assets for every dollar held by white families. Studies show that Black, Hispanic and Latino families also face the biggest gaps in access to banking and resources to help them manage their financial needs. To help close the racial wealth gap, improve financial health and boost financial inclusion, Chase has hired 150 Community Managers to foster engagement in diverse communities. Community Managers host financial

Know your credit score! Talk to your children! Your credit score is a number The gift of financial literacy is

that represents a snapshot of your priceless. Encouraging confidence Start saving! credit history, and lenders use it to and financial independence starts Even the smallest amount mat-

5Brian Atkins, D.C. Community Manager from Chase

health workshops and community events, while developing close relationships with customers to help them achieve their financial goals. Brian Atkins is a Community Manager in Washington, D.C. Atkins offered tips to develop healthy financial habits and take control of your financial future.

Build a budget! It’s important to understand

ters because there’s never too little to start saving! To help initiate a savings habit or stick with it, make it automatic. For example, Chase offers Autosave, which allows customers to create repeating transfers from their checking to their savings, set specific goals and even track progress. It’s a good idea to put aside several months’ worth of living expenses because no one is immune from facing unexpected expenses. Having some savings can help prevent you from facing a significant financial strain when those situations happen.

help determine how likely you are to repay a loan in the future. The higher your credit score, the more competitive you’ll also be for lower interest rates on major purchases like a home or vehicle, helping you save over the life of your loan. You can find your credit score for free at annualcreditreport.com, which is an official U.S. government website. You can also get your score through your financial institutions or at www.chase.com/ creditjourney.

PayIf youdown debt! have a low credit score,

pay down credit cards, loan balances and make bill payments on time to improve your score.

with having the conversation at home. By including your children in basic financial discussions, they’ll learn early about budgeting and saving. You can extend these lessons by opening a bank account like Chase First Banking, a great teaching tool for kids ages 6 and older that comes with their own debit card and parental control. As you think about your long-term financial goals – such as buying a new home or starting a business – you can see how financial literacy can help you achieve them. Visit one of our branches, including our Chase Skyland Community Center at 2728 Good Hope Rd SE, to learn about the tools available to help you. g

The Newsletter Sign up to receive the JPMorgan Chase & Co. Money Talk Newsletter and stay up to speed with the latest financial wellness information.

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Terri, Resident of Todd A. Lee Senior Residence Marquida, Senior Director of Community Management

Make Homes Happen Bringing affordable homes within reach for DC residents with Dantes Partners With the help of JPMorgan Chase, Dantes Partners is developing affordable homes closer to places of work. From Columbia Heights to Washington Highlands, JPMorgan Chase is helping Dantes Partners fight the housing crisis and strengthen communities. See how we help make it happen at jpmorganchase.com/impact Participants compensated. © 2023 JPMorgan Chase & Co. All rights reserved.

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THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 2023 FINANCIAL LITERACY SUPPLEMENT / OCTOBER 12, 2023 / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

NAREB’S Building Black Wealth Tour will Encourage Black families and Individuals to Make Financial Decisions that Gain Wealth The National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) launched a Building Black Wealth Tour to give Black families and individuals the information they need to purchase homes, make wise investments, and engage in other activities to increase their wealth. Working with the African American Mayors Association and the National Bar Association, the Building

5Dr. Courtney Johnson Rose, NAREB’s president

Black Wealth Tour will visit more than 60 cities over the next two years as the collaboration organizes classes, workshops, and one-on-one counseling to advise families on homebuying, investing, and careers in real estate. “We believe the time for action on Black Wealth is now,” said Dr. Courtney Johnson Rose, NAREB’s president. “NAREB is urging our Black communities to take the journey towards wealth. Come to our events in your city and learn what you need to purchase a home. We are helping Black families overcome the biased public policies and private practices that created the vast wealth gap in America today.” Asserting that the situation is “intolerable,” Dr. Rose said that, on average, Black families own about 24 cents for every $1 of White family wealth, according to the Federal Reserve. Homeownership, a critical component of Black wealth, has declined for Blacks nearly every quarter since the pandemic, leaving Blacks with the lowest homeownership percentage of any de-

mographic in America. Despite the contributions of the 1968 Fair Housing Act, 55 years later, the racial homeownership gap has widened. In 1960, 38% of Blacks owned homes, while White homeownership was 65%, a 27-point gap. In 2022, the rate of homeownership among Whites was 74.4% compared to 45% for Blacks, a spread of 29.4% and the most extensive gap since 1890! Homeownership is the driver of wealth, especially for Blacks. The equity from owning a home can be used to start a business, pay for a college education, and comfortably retire. It is the centerpiece of

family economic security. The first Building Black Wealth Tour event was in Houston on Saturday, October 7. It was a rousing success, with hundreds of participants. Each event includes festive youth activities and aims to empower Black communities with steps towards homeownership, property investment, starting a business, and other wealth-building opportunities. Further, a workshop addressed family-owned land jointly owned by descendants of a deceased person whose estate did not clear probate. The descendants, or heirs, have the right to use the property, but they do not have a clear or marketable title since the estate issues are unresolved. This has become a critical issue nationwide. Thus, the Black Wealth Tour educates Black consumers on properly passing along real estate and protecting themselves and the community from gentrification. The NAREB State of Housing in Black America (SHIBA) report found more than two million mortgage-ready Black Americans across the country. These families and individuals have the credit and income to qualify for a home mortgage. NAREB plans to find them. Over the next two years, NAREB will sponsor events nationwide, including Birmingham on 11/11/23, Charlotte on 3/2/24, Mt. Vernon on 4/13/24, Little Rock on 6/8/24, New Orleans on 8/3/24, Atlanta on 11/9/24, Miramar, Florida on 3/25, Beverly Hills, MO on 6/25 and Los Angeles on 8/25. “We will go into these communities, locate these families and individuals, educate them, and inspire them to build wealth,” said Dr. Rose.

“Systematic racism has plagued our communities and impeded our ability to gain wealth, but we can overcome these challenges. In addition to Black lawyers and mayors, we are working with Black fraternities and sororities to help locate people who can be put on a path toward intergenerational wealth.” The disparity in wealth emanates from centuries of racist public policies and private practices, including from the middle of the 20th century. After World War II, government policies led to the most significant expansion of the American middle class in history. The GI Bill provided veterans with free college education and inexpensive home loans. However, Black veterans were rarely able to take advantage of these policies because of the discriminatory way they were administered. The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) wouldn’t insure home purchases in Black neighborhoods, and Blacks faced hostility if they tried to move into a White suburb. The impact lingers today. Unlike many White families, Blacks didn’t usually have intergenerational wealth flowing from generation to generation. But Dr. Rose said: “Our goal is to end wealth disparities and help Black families and communities thrive.” g

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T H E N A R E B B U I L D I N G B L A C K W E A LT H T O U R

ACHIEVING INTERGENERATIONAL WEALTH:

HOMEOWNERSHIP, INVESTMENTS, EQUITY We are encouraging Black families and individuals in more than 60 cities to engage in wealth-building opportunities.

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THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 2023 FINANCIAL LITERACY SUPPLEMENT / OCTOBER 12, 2023 / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

Making Dollars and Sense of Credit off the installment loan, your account is closed.

Submitted by United Bank Your credit is a vital part of your financial health. Understanding why credit is so important, and what steps you can take to maintain good credit, helps you make better choices about your personal finances. Good credit also gives you more options for making the most of your money. And just like with your physical health, credit decisions you make now can have consequences you won’t feel until much later. Here’s a look at how credit impacts your life:

What is credit? Most simply, credit is an agree-

ment between a lender and a borrower. It is the trust that allows money to be provided without immediate reimbursement, and it can be packaged as either a credit card or a loan. Both credit cards and loans come with specific repayment terms, and perhaps the most important of these is the interest rate. The APR (Annual Percentage Rate) translates to the additional amount you’ll be charged depending on how long it takes you to pay back your balance. A lower APR is better, but always check the terms to make sure a low rate isn’t just a promotional offer that increases after a temporary period. Credit is typically issued on a revolving basis or in installments. A revolving credit line, like a credit card, comes with a credit limit for the maximum amount you can owe at any time. You are required to make the minimum payment by the due date each month. Credit installment loans, like a car loan, refer to one-time loans for a set amount. Your payments are for a specific amount each month, which includes interest, fees, and other charges. Once you’ve paid

What is credit history? Credit history is the record of

how you manage and repay debts. It includes your total debt load, the number of credit lines that have been opened, and timeliness of payments. Lenders look at credit history when deciding whether or not to offer a new line of credit, and to help set the terms of a loan. What is a credit score? Your credit score is a reflection of your credit history expressed as a number — one that indicates to lenders your creditworthiness. Essentially like a grade, your credit score is used to assess the likelihood that you will repay the money you borrow. Credit scores can range from 300 to 850. The higher the score, the “more trustworthy” a borrower is considered. Credit scoring generally falls into the following ranges, according to FICO®, the leading credit scoring company: • Exceptional: 800+ • Very Good: 740-799 • Good: 670-739 • Fair: 580-669 • Poor: lower than 580 As you build your credit history, your credit score increases or decreases based on your activity in applying for credit, using your credit, and making payments. Lenders use slightly different credit scores for different types of loans. You can find out your credit score from multiple sources, including from a credit card or other loan statements, from a non-profit credit counselor, or for a fee from a credit reporting agency. AnnualCreditReport.com is a government-authorized site for free credit reports where you can get started with your credit score research.

AnnualCreditReport.com is a government-authorized site for free credit reports where you can get started with your credit score research How is my credit measured? Among the considerations that determine your credit score are: • Your bill-paying history, including how many credit accounts you’ve consistently paid on time. (An easy way to make sure your bills are always paid on time is to set up automatic payments through your online banking service.) • How many loans or credit accounts you have. • How long your credit accounts have been open. • How much credit you are using vs. how much you have available.

• Whether any of the credit accounts you hold are currently 30 or more days behind on payment, and how many days past due you are. • Whether or not you have ever declared bankruptcy or been sent to collections. • Your outstanding debt.

What is a credit report? A credit report is a summary of

your credit history. Lenders, including banks and nonbanking financial institutions, provide information to credit bureaus. This information is then compiled into a single report that gives a detailed breakdown of how and when you pay your bills, how much debt you have, and how long you have been managing credit accounts.

Credit reports are used to verify your identity as well as to calculate your credit scores.

Why is credit important? Credit scores are the primary

consideration used by banks and lenders when issuing credit cards and loans. Having a higher score gives the lender confidence that you will pay off your debt, and also influences the interest rate or down payment required on some loans. If you have a high credit score and are deemed trustworthy, the interest rate or down payment is more likely to be more favorable for you. Other benefits follow, like increases in your credit limit or in your ne-

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CONTINUED from PAGE FS16 gotiating power for other lending situations.

How do I establish and maintain credit? There are several simple ways to start

building your credit history, including: • Opening a credit account with a local store (although first make sure that your payment history will actually be reported to a credit bureau). • Applying for a secured credit card, which typically requires you to provide funds for a balance first, before letting you borrow a percentage of that balance. • Asking someone with more established credit history to co-sign on an account with you, to give the lender assurance that your debt will be paid. Understand that this means your co-signer is ultimately responsible for making payments on the account if you cannot.

Once you have established a strong credit profile, you can stay in good standing by: • Making payments on time, every time. • Avoiding making charges too close to the credit limit of your revolving accounts. • Being mindful about formally closing accounts, which can impact your credit score depending on the specifics of your relationship with these credit accounts. • Avoiding frequent credit application. Know that every time you apply for credit, it is reported on your credit report as an inquiry, and that multiple inquiries over a short span of time can negatively affect your credit score.

How do I protect myself while using credit? While good credit is an import-

ant tool and resource, it’s important to stay aware of potential risks and fraud. Some tips for managing

credit carefully include: • Don’t lend out your credit cards. • Be careful when and where you identify your account numbers, whether it’s digital, in person, or written down. • Carry only the credit cards you need to prevent loss or identity theft. • Always report lost or stolen cards as quickly as possible. Remember that, as part of the United Bank community, you’re not alone in trying to understand and plan your best budgeting choices. We’re here to help you with making credit decisions that will create growing financial opportunities now and in the future. This article is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide specific financial, investment, tax, legal, accounting, other advice or to imply that a particular United Bank product or service is available or appropriate for you. For specific advice you should contact a professional advisor. A professional advisor will recommend action based on your personal circumstances and the most recent information available. Member FDIC. g

INDIVIDUAL ACCOUNTS. PERSONAL SERVICE. Personal checking and savings account options from United Bank are crafted to perform for you today and throughout your financial future. Our flexible options give you the features and benefits you need and expect, supported by outstanding customer service that meets you wherever you are. Personal Banking Checking | Savings | Credit Cards | Lending

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THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 2023 FINANCIAL LITERACY SUPPLEMENT / OCTOBER 12, 2023 / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

Have It When You Need It

Financial Literacy Will Lead the Way By: Theodore R. Daniels Founder and President Society for Financial Education and Professional Development, Inc. Many of us look forward to having the financial resources to live a comfortable life at each stage of our lives. We want to have resources to purchase the items and services needed and accumulate savings for unexpected expenses, retirement, and leisure. Whether you are young or old you need to have the financial knowledge to maximize your financial resources and understand the financial transactions that may arise throughout your life. Increasing one’s financial literacy can lead the way to sustained financial well-being at each stage of your life. The earlier you learn how: 1) credit works; 2) how to develop and use a budget to control your expenses; 3) establish financial short-term, intermediate, and long-term goals that you are committed to accom-

plishing; 4) make investments for retirement and child’s college education; and protect your risk through the purchase of the appropriate insurance products the better off you will be at each stage of your life. This will avoid living a life in a panic state, but life that is stress free. Here are some key actions you should take at each life stage:

Increase investments and retirement savings to from pay increases to continue building your financial base. Stay on track to achieve your goals. Maintain emergency funds. Review your spending and make adjustments, if necessary. Invest in college savings plans such as 529 College Savings Plans. Don’t make plans to sacrifice your retirement savings to pay for your child’s college education.

MillennialsAgeDetermine 18 to 34your financial values Baby-boomersand establish financial goals such as Age 51 to 69 a reduction debt. Learn how to use Identify your planned life style savings and investment vehicles to accumulate savings for purchase of a home and retirement. Limit the purchase of personal use assets and credit card use.

Generation XAge 35 to 50

upon retirement, including estimation of expected living expenses and income during retirement. Begin to reduce or limit outstanding debt, review accumulated retirement accounts (Employer contribution plans (401(k), Individual Retirement Accounts, and non-retirement accounts as well as estimated Social Security benefits.

The Silent Generation-70-87 Control reoccurring living

expenses and rate of retirement income withdrawals from your retirement accounts. Look for senior discounts and financial perks. Review your estate plan, including a review of your will and/or trust. Whatever your age the key to having what you need when you need it to increase your knowledge of how to use personal money management concepts as well as how they are interrelated to your financial well-being. Remember to use your money build contentment, wealth, and power.

Theodore R. Daniels Founder and President

You can earn interest at a guaranteed rate of 4.25% APY for the first six months, with competitive returns after that. Call 800.399.5919 or learn more at sandyspringbank.com/premier *Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is accurate as of 10/04/2023. During the first 6 months after you open an account, the account will earn no less than 4.25% APY. At the end of the 6-month period, the APY will be based upon your account balance. As of 10/04/2023, the APY for corresponding account balances is as follows: $250,000 and above: 3.50%; $100,000.00 -$249,999.99: 3.15%; $50,000.00 - $99,999.00: 2.55%; $25,000.00 - $49,999.99: 1.95%; $10,000.00 - $24,999.99: 1.35%; below $10,000.00: 0.00%. This is a variable-rate account, and the rate may change any time without notice, except as otherwise set forth herein. Minimum opening deposit is $10,000 in funds not already on deposit with Sandy Spring Bank. Maximum opening deposit is $10,000,000. Fees may reduce earnings. Premier Money Market Savings is available to clients who open or maintain a Premier or Private Banking Checking account. For other provisions applicable to the account, please see our Personal Deposit Account and Electronic Banking Agreement. 1 By law, banks are permitted to limit certain types of withdrawals and transfers from your savings and money market accounts and charge an excess activity fee when you exceed such limits. The limitations apply to withdrawals by check, draft, debit card purchase or similar order (if available on the account), or telephone, or automatic or pre-authorized transfers to another of your accounts with us or to a third party. The limitations also apply to transfers made by Telephone Banking, Online Banking, or Mobile Banking and transfers from your savings or money market account to cover overdrafts. Due to federal regulation changes, we are currently not applying these limits or charging an excess activity fee. Member FDIC. Sandy Spring Bank and the SSB logo are registered trademarks of Sandy Spring Bank. © 2023 Sandy Spring Bank. All rights reserved.

SSB-124 PMM_RateOnly_9.875x5.5.indd 1

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10/4/23 3:19 PM

As Student Loan Payments Resume, Timely Tips and Help for Borrowers 6 Key Steps from Federal Agencies By Charlene Crowell

2. Get info about your Days before student borrowers next payment. across the nation resume student After updating your contact loan payments after a more than two-year pause prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic, a diverse group of 20 cities and counties representing more than 1.2 million people with nearly $50 billion in student loan debt sent a letter on September 21 to President Biden. Although the letter began by applauding his leadership in pursuing debt relief, it also urged even more persistent and aggressive actions. “We must not accept a return to the failed pre-COVID status quo where nine million borrowers were in default – one borrower defaulting on their student loans every 26 seconds,” wrote the local officials that included Boston, Cleveland, Little Rock, Newark, Philadelphia, San Francisco and other locales. “Black and Latino/a borrowers have faced the greatest debt burdens and worst repayment outcomes, expanding and perpetuating racial inequality across American cities.” The nation’s 44 million and rising student loan borrowers collectively owe an unsustainable $1.7 trillion. And this October – regardless of what the White House may yet launch, payments will become due again. Fortunately, online resources developed by the federal government can assist borrowers to adjust to the return of payments. Moreover, many of these tools make clear borrower responsibilities, consequences for failure to make timely payments, and where needed information can be found. For example, Federal Student Aid’s website offers useful and easy to understand tips on how borrowers should begin repayments. Here’s a summary of its content:

info, your loan servicer alerts borrowers to three important items – payment due dates, upcoming interest, and payment amounts. Your payment will be due no sooner than 21 days after your servicer sends the billing statement. Borrowers may also call or email their loan servicers for this information. If loan servicer contact info is not known, borrowers are urged to find out that important information by phoning 1-800-4-FEDAID (1-800-433-3243).

3. Find out if you’re enrolled in the best repayment plan for you. Borrowers have options on se-

lecting the best repayment plan for their circumstances. Federal Aid’s online Loan Simulator tool helps borrowers to better understand their repayment options on federal loans. Browsers using this tool are advised that its availability does not guarantee full accuracy. But for borrowers who need clarification on determining their best strategy for loan repayment, whether to consolidate their loans, or are struggling with current loan repayments, it provides useful information and direction. The Loan Simulator also offers an option to learn more about student loan limits, how your choice of school affects borrowing levels, and more. Access the Federal Student’s Loan Simulator at: https://studentaid. gov/loan-simulator/

The nation’s 44 million and rising student loan borrowers collectively owe an unsustainable $1.7 trillion And this October – regardless of what the White House may yet launch, payments will become due again. ployment and income, family and marital status must also be documented in an updated application.

5. If you need immediate relief, contact your loan servicer ASAP. Your loan servicer is your point of contact for your loan, loan payments, and other needs.

4. Take action now if you need to lower your 6. Fully understand the difference between loan monthly payment. Borrowers previously enrolled in delinquency and loan an income-driven repayment plan 1.Update yourcontactinfo. or IDR, but have had a change of default. Review your Student Aid.gov If you miss a payment, your income since payments were susprofile as well as your loan servicer’s website. Failure to complete both can result failing to receive updates on your loan.

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pended, may be able to receive a new and lower monthly payment. Specific steps are required for borrowers in this category. For instance, beyond certifying your em-

loan is delinquent. If it remains delinquent for 270 days, it is defaulted and brings specific financial penalties: a. The default status will damage

your credit score. b. You can lose your access to more student aid. c. The government can seize your tax refund, up to 15 percent of Social Security benefits, and/or your paycheck towards paying off your defaulted loan. Beyond these resources, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) recently encouraged consumers to remember filing complaints on loan servicer issues remains an option. “As borrowers prepare for student loan payments to resume, CFPB is working to ensure that servicers follow the law and that consumers are protected,” states a September web advisory. “We will be looking closely at loan servicers’ practices, borrower outcomes, information from fellow regulators, and issues raised through consumer complaints…CFPB has a num-

ber of tools for holding student loan servicers accountable, but consumer complaints are particularly powerful because they allow us to help consumers, identify and address emerging issues, and hold companies accountable for following the law.” Anyone desiring to register a complaint with CFPB should visit: https://www.consumerfinance. gov/complaint/. Complaints may also be made by phone weekdays between the hours of 8am and 8pm Eastern Time. Callers should expect to spend an average of 30 minutes for completion. The tollfree phone line is 855-411-3732. Charlene Crowell is a senior fellow with the Center for Responsible Lending. She can be reached at Charlene.crowell@responsiblelending.org.

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AI's Role in Shaping Our Tomorrow Eric D. Bailey Bailey Wealth Advisors Recently, the buzzword artificial intelligence (AI) is on everyone’s minds, not just in the tech world but across multiple industries, including financial services. Given the growing interest and concerns surrounding AI, it would be beneficial to provide some insights into the topic and its impact on the financial services industry. AI traces back to ancient philosophers and mathematicians, but its modern interpretation emerged in the mid-20th century. Today, AI is a branch of computer science that focuses on giving machines or computer-controlled robots the ability to execute intelligent tasks. While some applications are getting headlines today, the concept and foundational technology have a rich development history. A brief chronology of AI highlights the progression from 1950s chess-playing computer programs to adopting machine learning for tasks such as filtering spam and enhancing search engine capabilities in the 2000s.1 By the 2010s, programmers had integrated AI into voice assistants, self-driving By the 2010s, programmers had integrated AI into voice assistants, self-driving cars, and healthcare diagnostics. More recently, AI applications have expanded to almost every industry, from weather modeling to improving remote working and learning.2 However, what does AI’s proliferation mean for our future, specifically for your interactions with me as your financial professional? One thing is clear—AI’s capacity to quickly analyze large data sets far exceeds our human capacities. It promises to revolutionize several industries, but the notion that AI-infused machines may surpass human abilities, thus “taking over the world,” remains largely a matter of science fiction. AI’s adoption in financial services has helped firms automate certain back-office functions, enhancing efficiency and providing more time for financial professionals to spend with clients like you. Your key financial decisions are seldom straightforward and often don’t have a simple right or wrong answer. They require a nuanced approach informed by your unique circumstances, including risk tolerance, time horizon, goals, and, of course, emotional factors. Financial professionals bridge the gap between cold data and human emotions. We know how to balance financial data with common sense and empathy. While AI can aid in data-driven technical aspects of financial services, it lacks the human touch, which remains paramount. Please remember that the most effective guidance requires trust, effective communication, realistic expectations, and a comprehensive understanding of each client’s financial situation. In our professional relationship, we prioritize your needs over technological advances. As we navigate the AI wave, we may see it as the next technology that will drastically change our lives, similar to personal computers, the internet, and cell phones. It certainly has the potential to be one of the 21st century’s most transformative technologies. However, its emergence only

Eric Bailey CFP®, CMFC® eric.bailey@lfg.com 301.585.4701 Bailey Wealth Advisors http://www.baileywealthadvisors.com/

highlights the importance of the human element in decision-making processes and the unique, personalized approach a financial professional like myself can provide. If you have questions about AI and its implications on your financial journey or other concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out. It’s my goal to stay ahead of these trends and provide you with the most up-to-date information about industry trends. g 1. G2.com, May 25, 2021. “A Complete History of Artificial Intelligence.” 2. MITTechologyReview.com, March 3, 2023 This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm.

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Homeowner Alert! Protect your Investment and Legacy Today for everyone? No. We recommend:

By Marcia Griffin A home is more than a roof over our heads. It’s where we make memories with our loved ones. Our place of refuge from the day-to-day. And our pride as we invest in its comfort, utility, and beauty. Homeownership is also a cornerstone of closing the racial wealth gap. At HomeFree-USA, we have been advancing economic equity since 1994 through financial education and homeownership. Here are top tips from our decades of experience to get the best and most out of your most valuable asset.

7 ways NOT to get ripped off by a contractor. 1. Get a quote that’s too good to be true? It probably is. Some contractors will under-bid to land the job or because they don’t have the skill to know better. Compare at least three quotes to get an accurate expected cost baseline. 2. Make sure they get any required permits. Some contractors try to claim that permits are unnecessary or your responsibility. Don’t be fooled! Most jurisdictions require permits for large construction projects, and the party doing the work must obtain them. 3. Don’t pay a big deposit up front. A scammer might ask for 30-50% of the job cost up front… then disappear. “Never prepay more than $1,000 or 10% of the job total, whichever is less,” Angie’s List recommends. 4. Don’t take their word for it. Verbal agreements don’t cut it. Require a written contract that includes who’s responsible for what, timeline, terms, and a detailed description of work, materials, warranties, and subcontractors. 5. “Unforeseen problems” spike your job cost? Get a second and even a third opinion before moving forward. Consult a building inspector, especially if your contractor is claiming structural issues.

Choose a home equity conversion mortgage (HECM) which is federally insured. Determine whether you can continue to pay real estate taxes, utilities, and maintenance throughout the mortgage term. Work with an impartial educator like Cambridge, who will fully inform and prepare you. (Most legit lenders require this counseling.) Although reverse mortgages are not risk-free, there are ways to ensure it’s safe—by being well-informed before making the decision. Need help paying your mortgage? Denise nearly lost her home when she found herself hospitalized, unable to work. “I had no income coming in,” she said. She fell behind on her mortgage. Denise asked her lender for help but didn’t get the support she wanted. She attended one of our foreclosure prevention webinars. After a few months of working with us, not only did Denise catch up on her mortgage, she could pay a month ahead. “If it wasn’t for my Homeownership Advisor at HomeFree-USA, I think I would have lost my house,” she said. If you find yourself falling behind on mortgage payments, whether because of a job loss, illness, or any other reason, the good news is that there are trusted ways to get mortgage help: Apply to governmental programs that prevent people from losing their homes. Access state grants and representatives that help homeowners pay down their mortgages. Negotiate better terms with your mortgage servicer. “There’s an answer out there and a company willing to help,” Denise advises. “Keep moving until you get the answer you need.” HomeFree-USA has helped people of color buy and keep homes for almost 30 years, with a remarkable 0% foreclosure rate among families served. Whether you are wrestling with any of the issues in this article or looking for sound, impartial advice you can trust on refinancing, home equity loans, or purchasing another home, we are here for you. Get quick answers to your questions at no cost or obligation to you. Schedule a free homeownership consultation at 855-493-4002 or HomeFreeUSA.org. About Marcia Griffin Marcia Griffin, Founder and CEO of HomeFree-USA, is a recognized homeownership expert and featured guest speaker, serving as a bridge between financial institutions and 4.5 million diverse families nationwide. g

6. Don’t hire an unsolicited contractor. If they “happen to be in the neighborhood” or can “give you a great deal on materials” from a nearby job… Be wary. Don’t hire anyone without doing your due diligence. 7. Do your homework before hiring a contractor. Check their reviews, industry associations, and references—and for their suppliers. Confirm licensing, insurance, and bonding, if applicable. Is a reverse mortgage safe? If you or someone you know are considering a reverse mortgage, you may be worried that they’re a scam, preying on elderly folks on a fixed income. There are a lot of misconceptions about reverse mortgages. It’s a loan that doesn’t require payments… which can be especially confusing. “When you get a reverse mortgage, you’re converting your home equity into cash,” explains Jen Cosentini, Housing Director at Cambridge Credit Counseling, a HomeFree-USA affiliate. Are reverse mortgages safe? Yes. Are they

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* Citi Mortgage Relationship Pricing — A Citibank deposit account is required to receive the interest rate discount or closing cost credit. Automated monthly transfers of the mortgage payment from a Citibank Deposit Account using automated drafting will be required. Actual interest rate discount or closing cost credit will depend on the level of the Citi Eligible Balances, which will be verified after final loan approval. Deposit Account Balances must be in the account five (5) Business Days following final loan approval and Investment Account balances must be in the account six (6) Business Days following final loan approval. Citi eligible accounts include a personal, consumer Citibank Deposit Account in which the borrower is a direct signer, Citibank IRAs, and Investments held in linked Citigroup Global Markets Inc. (“CGMI”) accounts. The borrower must be an account holder on investment accounts. IRA and annuity positions shown on linked CGMI Account statements Citi Eligible Balance Relationship Pricing Benefit are eligible (except tax qualified annuities under sections 401, 403, or 457 of the Internal Revenue Code). Balances from Citibank Business / Commercial accounts, ERISA accounts, Keogh accounts, Bank Collateral accounts, Foreign accounts, $1 – $49,999.99 $500 off closing cost Fiduciary accounts, and Trust accounts where the borrower is only listed as the Beneficiary are excluded. All Custodial type accounts are excluded with the exception of Custodial IRA accounts through Citibank or Pershing LLC where the $50,000 – $199,999.99 1/8% (0.125%) off interest rate borrower(s) is the beneficiary, which are eligible unless otherwise noted. Citibank IRAs that are not linked to a Citibank Deposit Account are excluded. $200,000 – $499,999.99 1/4% (0.250%) off interest rate The closing cost credit offer will be applied at closing and may not be used prior to closing. In Texas, the credit may not result in you receiving cash back. $500,000 – $999,999.99 3/8% (0.375%) off interest rate If you are interested in Citi’s banking account relationship offers, please contact your Home Lending Officer or Mortgage Representative. Speak to your loan officer about whether the relationship offer is best for you. $1,000,000 – $1,999,999.99 1/2% (0.500%) off interest rate Citibank Mortgage Relationship Pricing for Citibank account holders can only be applied prior to loan closing and is subject to account and balance validation. Citibank Mortgage Relationship Pricing is subject to change without notice. $2,000,000 or more 5/8% (0.625%) off interest rate Glossary of terms for this offer: Business Day means Monday through Friday and does not include federal holidays; Eligible Balances means total funds showing in the account at the time we verify the balances less any funds we determine you will need for a down payment or closing costs; Deposit Account means a Citibank personal checking and/or savings account as well as certificates of deposit and money market accounts; Investment Account means IRAs and investments held in Citigroup Global Markets Inc. accounts. Terms, conditions and fees for accounts, programs, offers, products and services are subject to change without notice at any time. Offer may be modified or withdrawn at any time without notice. Offer cannot be combined with other offers, except when applied with specific Community Lending Programs. Offers are not applicable on Home Equity Loans and Lines of Credit. This is not a commitment to lend. This offer contains information about U.S. domestic financial services provided by Citibank, N.A. and is intended for use domestically in the U.S. Investment products are offered through Citigroup Global Markets Inc. (“CGMI”), Member SIPC (http://sipc.org). Citibank and CGMI are affiliated companies under the common control of Citigroup Inc. © 2023 Citibank, N.A. NMLS# 412915. Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender. Citi, Citi and Arc Design and other marks used herein are service marks of Citigroup Inc. or its affiliates, used and registered throughout the world.

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Strength in Working Together The Black homeownership rate has seen the largest percentage point increase of any racial or ethnic group since the end of 2019, moving from 42.7% to 45.2% in the third quarter of 20221. As the leading large bank lender to African Americans Wells Fargo understands that our strength comes from working together across the country to achieve racial equity in homeownership.

Our close collaboration with prominent African American civil rights organizations, real estate trade groups, and housing counseling agencies helps bring home buying information and resources to more communities. At Wells Fargo we also continue to optimize our teams to better serve you and help you create a home buying journey that is right for you and your family.

Scan to learn more about our Home Lending Priorities

1 Wells Fargo Economics team Special Commentary: Gaining Economic & Financial Ground in the Black Community Since COVID Information is accurate as of the date of printing and is subject to change without notice. Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. © 2023 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. NMLSR ID 399801 AS5759580 Expires 04/2024

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OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2023 29

EDITORIAL

D.C. Teachers Should Receive Help with Student Loan Debt The Biden administration and states with progressive legislators and gubernatorial administrations have moved forward on helping Americans resolve the issue of crushing student debt. The District is no exception, with a program in place to help healthcare workers with a student loan repayment program. The move toward assisting city employees with their student loans should not stop with healthcare workers. Each working day and sometimes on the weekend, educators teach the District’s school children and supervise them in extra-curricular activities. To complement their lives, District educators live in one of the most expensive metropolitan areas in the country, statistics consistently show. The work of teachers should be rewarded by city leaders. Recognizing this, D.C. Council member Christina Henderson (I-At Large) introduced a bill—The Student Loan Repayment Assistance for Educators Act of 2023—on Oct. 3. The bill would create a loan repayment program for public school educators who meet certain residency, income, and employment requirements. The D.C. Council should pass this bill and Mayor Bowser should sign it. The average student loan debt in the District is $54,945, which is in the range of the average salary of a teacher, at $63,714 according to Salary.com as of Sept. 25. A March 8 post on the SmartAsset website reported that to live comfortably in the Washington, D.C. region, a person should earn $65,668. The combination of the student loan debt, salary and cost of living in the Washington region means that District educators teach under some economic stress. For people who work with the District’s young people, the nation’s capital’s future, which should not be the case. Henderson’s legislation would allow teachers to work with the Office of the State Superintendent for Education in consultation with the Student Loan Ombudsman to come up with repayment plans considering their salaries and other economic factors. The bill presently had nine introducers, more than enough for passage if it comes to a vote. District legislators should do the right thing and help our teachers and assist them in paying back their student loans. WI

It’s Okay to be Thankful for Opportunities While Also Demanding Your Worth Why Drake Should Give Rye Rye Credit and Compensation

While much of the Internet celebrated the new tunes delivered by Canadian rapper Drake from his new studio album “For the Dogs,” released Oct. 6, Baltimore rapper Rye Rye noted that for the second time, the chart-topping star didn’t give her track credit or compensation. “I wanna be flattered so bad,” Rye Rye posted on Instagram, “but now I feel like this n****a is trolling… This millionaire used my sample for the [second] time.” While Rye Rye’s 2006 hit club song “Shake it to the Ground,” is still getting appreciation to this day, rapper Drake used her actual voice on not one, but two of his tracks. In 2022, Drake sampled Rye Rye’s track for his song, “Currents,” on the album, “Honestly, Nevermind.” Less than a year-and-a-half later, Drake sampled the same Rye Rye song, for his song, “Calling for You,” featuring 21 Savage. As Rye Rye expressed her frustration, many people jumped to Drake’s defense. “Girl, shut the hell up and be grateful,” one social media user replied. While Rye Rye’s 2006 Others, including celebrities and recording stars, jumped to defend Rye Rye, who also appeared in the film hit club song “Shake “21 Jump Street,” (2012). it to the Ground,” is Singer and reality tv star Tammy Rivera wrote, “She’s right,” in response to Rye Rye’s concerns on Instagram still getting appreunder a post from The Shade Room. New Jersey club artist Cookie Kawaii commented on ciation to this day, the same post saying “Simply…pay her,” calling Rye Rye, rapper Drake used 32, a legend. Drake should give Rye Rye credit and compensation. her actual voice on When Rye Rye first went uncredited in “Currents,” not one, but two of and noted that her actual voice was clearly used, rapper Lil Jon and the members of Trillville received credit for his tracks. the recognizable bed squeaks also sampled from their song “Some Cut,” with Lil Scrappy. While the Black men got their due, Rye Rye, a Black

30 OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2023

5 Your belief in our purpose has not only sustained us, but has inspired us to aim higher, report deeper, and serve better. (The Washington Informer Team)

TO THE EDITOR I appreciate the serious reporting on issues impacting our community, including policing, violence, and local government. You all make me proud to be an avid supporter of the Black Press. William Reid Washington, D.C.

I always enjoy reading the paper’s Business Briefs. I always walk away with information about a new grant to apply for or an initiative that could help my business grow and assist with capital. This information is sorely needed. There are lots of opportunities out here that our people deserve to know about as well. Davante Morrison Washington, D.C.

woman, never was credited on the track. Why is that? Now, she’s facing the same “Shake it to the Ground,” sample uncredited in Drake’s song “Calling for You.” In May 2023, Hot New Hip Hop reported that Drake is estimated to be worth $250 million. This multi-millionaire can afford to pay Rye Rye for her contributions to his recent bangers. She needs more than just a nod, or opportunities to appear on Drake tracks, she needs cash. Further, she deserves credit, her name on the track credits to be exact. As Cookie Kawaii said, she’s a legend. And legend or not, gratitude doesn’t pay the bills. Black women shouldn’t have to beg to be paid what they are worth. Forbers reported in July 2023, that Black women are typically

paid only 67 cents for every dollar white men earn, and Black women with doctorate degrees earn 65 cents on the dollar compared to white men with the same education. According to the National Women’s Law Center, as referenced by Forbes, that equates to $53,334 a year, and more than $2.1 million over the course of a 40-year career. Drake shouldn’t be contributing to the problem, but rather championing paying Black women what they are worth. Still recording tracks to this day, such as “Hips for Me,” (2023), Rye Rye has worked hard on her music and brand and Drake just should give this artist, a Black woman at that, her just due. Further, we should all take a page from the book of Rye Rye and, while showing gratitude for opportunities, clearly state our worth and demand what we are owed. WI

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OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2023 31

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist

Talib M. Shareef

The Israeli–Palestinian Crisis: A Statement from the International Coalition for Peace that we obey Almighty G’d and His and Reconciliation “Would Prophet Muhammed (saws) Al-Islam inspires Muslims toward messenger, Muhammed the Prophet We are saddened by the most recent conflict between Israel and Hamas, a conflict that refocuses the world’s attention on long, unresolved flashpoints. The wanton gunning down and hostage taking of non-combatants by Hamas is not acceptable in Al-Islam. No matter who we are, no matter where we live on this earth, no matter what our religious affiliation,

no matter how much our hearts are paining because of suffering, or unresolved grievances, there is no justification for us to make innocent men, women, and children the targets of their terror and violence. Islam teaches us that Prophet Muhammed (saws) is the most excellent model of human behavior and decency. He is the leader of the Palestinian Muslims and all Muslims in the world. If only for a moment Hamas were to ask themselves,

slaughter innocent men, women, children, and the elderly just to get to the enemy or to bring attention to his cause? Would he do that? No, he wouldn’t?” As Muslims, the teachings of our religion do not permit us to engage in disgraceful warfare tactics, regardless of our pain. We are to conduct ourselves according to what Al-Islam dictates. We cannot abandon the excellence of our Islamic character, even as a warrior meeting the challenges of an unscrupulous enemy.

Guest Columnist

the most excellent human character and behavior. Almighty G’d does not allow us to come out of our character because of our hatred of another people. Even while facing the ravages of war, we are to adhere to the demands on us for genuine respect for human life, particularly the life of non- combatants. They should NEVER be the target of our violence – NEVER. Therefore, we condemn the strategy of targeting non-combatants, no matter who they are. We reject such strategies. What matters the most, is

(saws). Almighty G’d prefers that we be with the peacemakers, not with or seek to appease the warmongers.

We extend our regards and condolences to all the families affected by actions that are beyond the realms of healthy human sensitivity. We are praying for a lasting peace between Israel and Palestine. And we are praying that the retaliatory actions of the Israeli military be tempered with re-

SHAREEF Page 53

Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr.

Republican Chaos Fuels Threat of Government Shutdown

America owes much of its prominence and prosperity to the fact that it has led the world in popular education. Even without a public school system, we had the highest literacy in the world in the 19th century. We were among the first to provide public school to the young through the 12th grade. We were the first to open the doors of colleges and universities — signifi-

cantly through the GI Bill after World War II — to children from all levels of income. Today, however, public education in the United States is under siege. Public school teachers and librarians have become punching bags in the political wars. Teachers are underpaid and overstressed. College is priced out of reach for more and more children, with administrators and facilities consuming ever more of the resources, while professors and graduate assistants fall behind. Schools are now

Guest Columnist

battlefields in our partisan political wars. Job satisfaction for public school teachers is at a 50-year low. Thousands are leaving the profession and fewer and fewer college students are taking it up. Florida offers a good example. Its governor, Ron DeSantis, has made the “war on wokeism” a centerpiece of his presidential political campaign. He has signed into law multiple “educational gag orders” — criminalizing classroom discussions on race, gender, and history that might make white students “feel

guilt, anguish or any other form of psychological distress.” School libraries are purged of books, with librarians at risk if they don’t fall in line. Even the teaching of Shakespeare has been censored in some districts as too racy for children to hear (the same children who too often share far more shocking material on social media). Florida teacher salaries are ranked 48th in the country. Now teachers are not only unpaid but they are assailed, vilified and threatened — not only with the loss of a job but

with potential criminal charges. The result — not surprisingly — is that the brightest and best teachers are headed north. When DeSantis became governor in 2019, the Nation Magazine reports, Florida already had a teacher shortage in grades K through 12 of 2,217. When he began his second term four years later, that number had more than doubled. This August, the Florida Education Association reported the number of un-

lives will ultimately force us as a community to become trauma-informed, which is to acknowledge the universality of trauma worldwide and to seek to be responsive to it. Every major city struggles, to some degree, with teenagers as young as 14 and 15 years old committing violent crimes such as armed robbery, armed carjacking, and first-degree murder. It has become a circumstance of life that reminds us of the African proverb, “The child who is not embraced

by the village will burn it down to feel its warmth.” Therefore, every inner city, suburban, and rural high school must become trauma-informed. Ballou Senior High School in Washington, D.C., is a trauma-informed school where adults recognize and respond to those impacted by traumatic stress. This includes administrators, teachers, staff, parents, and school resource officers who are professionally trained and

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David W. Marshall

The Consequences of Child Trauma

While the first week of October represents Morgan State University’s week of homecoming events, many of those activities were either postponed or canceled, along with the cancellation of classes. Five people, aged 18 to 22, including four students, suffered non-life-threatening injuries after gunfire erupted on Morgan State’s

32 OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2023

campus. For Morgan State, this is the third consecutive year a shooting occurred during the annual homecoming celebration. Last year, a 20-year-old man was the victim of gun violence at a homecoming party on campus. An 18-year-old student was shot in 2021 after the end of the homecoming football game. “This is not just a Baltimore thing,” Mayor Brandon Scott told reporters. “Any mayor in any city will tell you that we have a national problem with guns in the hands

of people that should not have them, and we have to handle it in a national way.” While true, there is more to it than access to guns. Black Lives Matter is a decentralized political and social movement that seeks to highlight the racism, discrimination, and racial inequality experienced by Black people and promote anti-racism. Its primary concerns are police brutality and racially motivated violence against Black people. While this definition centers on opposing racism, the fight for all Black

MARSHALL Page 53

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OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist

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

When Should Leave Be Granted?

During the last month, Sister Nia 2X (president of the Metro DC National Action Network), Janna Parker (Prince George's Community Activist), Josephine Mourning (President of the Metro DC SCLC) and I campaigned for the passage of Resolution CR78. Resolution CR-78 was a rule change for the Prince George's County Council in Maryland that

would allow for council members who are on parental leave or providing caregiving to an ill loved one, or in circumstances beyond the council members' control to vote virtually. We attended and encouraged others to attend Prince George's County Council meeting on the resolution as well. If this resolution didn't pass, there would have been a missed opportunity for the passage of a resolution that is most important for women — but a resolution not just for women. The issue was so right and a reasonable accommodation that any

Guest Columnist

council member might need at some point. Since Councils and other organizations across the nation used virtual voting to continue doing business during COVID, the CR was easy to understand. And the community did understand! Prince George's County's first pregnant council member, Krystal Oriadha of District 7, who was already having a difficult pregnancy but wanted to be sure she could still represent her council district by voting virtually, had to fight for this right. Admittedly, this situation had never occurred

in the history of the council, but changing the rules would address the issue if it occurs again in the future. This resolution was about every council member and would have allowed for any council member having a personal or family emergency to be entitled to similar leave. Many people — men and women — supported what the pregnant member of the council was asking for in relation to her own situation and for her colleagues altogether. They realized that leave could, and likely would be requested for ur-

gent family reasons. We returned to the council for another meeting. To his credit, one male council member apologized for his previous vote and agreed to support the final passage. Another male council member called for council unity in changing his vote, however, there were still three holdouts. All of us who supported the issue showed up at the third meeting, prepared to speak once again, but there were so many requesting time to speak, so we did not

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Marc H. Morial

Laphonza Butler Makes History as First LGBTQ Black Woman in the U.S. Senate

"Extraordinarily proud of Laphonza Butler - a stalwart for women, workers, the disadvantaged, and those in search of a better life. She understands the contours of power and knows that when shared, it multiplies. She’s the right choice at the right time." — Stacey Abrams She led a push for fair wages

that has boosted the pay of at least 26 million workers, including 12 million workers of color and 18 million women. She helped elect nearly 500 defenders of abortion rights — 40% of whom are women of color — to local, state, gubernatorial and federal office last year. She is the first openly LGBTQ Black woman to serve in the U.S. Senate, and only the third Black woman to serve. Laphonza Butler’s appointment to replace the late Sen. Diane

Guest Columnist

Feinstein could not have happened at a more critical moment for the people and principles she has championed for her entire career. It’s a moment when extremists across the nation are engaged in an unprecedented crusade to suppress LGBTQ voices, erase Black history, criminalize reproductive health, and weaken workers’ rights. Butler spoke powerfully about her vision for the country on the National Urban League’s State of Black America Podcast last year while she was serving as President

of EMILY’s List. “An incredibly important indicator of how a leader is going to show up on behalf of their community when they are elected is whether or not they respect the right of women to make choices about their own health and their own bodies,” she said. “And when they do, when they are positive in that position, they are more likely to support issues like child care, issues like paid family leave, issues like making sure that health care is more accessible and avail-

able. There are lots of issues voters should be concerned about, but at its core is the fundamental freedoms of this country and what we want this country to be for generations to come.” It's not just her perspective as an openly LGBTQ Black woman that is sorely needed in the Senate, but also her working class background. “There were times in my life where I didn’t know, my mother didn’t know, where my next

MORIAL Page 54

Ben Jealous

Protecting Their Dream Homes from a Fracking Nightmare

Forever home. That’s how folks from Aurora I met last week describe the houses they bought outside Denver. Now those dream homes are caught in what may be America's most dire urban fracking nightmare. Over the last year, residents have discovered, and began a grassroots challenge against, a plan to erect 174

10-story-high oil wells that stretch horizontally underground for thousands of feet. The project is to be built next to a pristine, vital reservoir that hugs on the city’s edge and shares its name. Nearby communities without reservoirs buy their water from Aurora. The snowmelt-fed water is so clean you can drink it while you swim in it. That all could change fast. Civitas, an oil company whose biggest investor is the Canadian equivalent of the Social Security Administration, wants to frack — inject water, sand, and toxic chem-

icals underground to free oil — under the reservoir, neighborhoods, and close to a Superfund toxic waste site. The entire area in the proposal is more than 33,000 acres with one drilling pad within 3,000 feet of a neighborhood. What started as a Facebook page grew into a full-fledged campaign involving residents and allied environmental groups pushing city, county, and state officials to stop the fracking proposal from moving forward. Residents only learned of the plan when Civitas started trying to acquire the mineral rights under their houses and common

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areas controlled by homeowners’ associations. When they go to a hearing, "it’s the suits versus the t-shirts" says Marsha Goldsmith Kamin, referring to the blue shirts she and other opponents wear. Kamin and her husband learned about the fracking proposal after they moved in November to be closer to their three grandchildren. Opposing the wells amounts to a full-time job for the retiree now. In Colorado, like most Western, states access to water remains a contentious issue. As its name suggests,

the leading opposition group Save the Aurora Reservoir leads with the threat to drinking water for much of metro Denver. Beyond the direct threat of fracking under and around the reservoir, the proposed wells will demand billions of gallons of water that end up so polluted they’re lost to other uses. So Aurora, which has experienced recent droughts, would see precious water used to produce fossil fuels that are accelerating climate change that can make water even

JEALOUS Page 54 OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2023 33

LIFESTYLE

3 Winners in Marriott International’s “Masters of the Craft” were honored by company executives following a competition held at corporate headquarters in Bethesda, Maryland. Standing in the middle with their awards are (L-R) Mitchell Patmagrian from The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, “Masters of the Craft” Beverage Winner and Kandice Symister from Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikiki Beach, “Masters of the Craft” Culinary Winner. (Courtesy Photo/Marriott International)

Marriott Competition Spotlights the Best in Culinary and Beverage Professions By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer Bethesda, Maryland, was recently the place to be for the “Masters of the Craft,” competition. A global group of 1,400 contestants from 176 Marriott

International Bonvoy properties in the U.S. and Canada was whittled down to six finalists, three each in culinary and beverage categories. An exciting but tense event was held in the Food & Beverage Design Lab at Marriott International’s head-

quarters. The competing culinary and mixology competitors used their creative thinking to incorporate a secret ingredient in the dishes and drinks prepared for consideration. Two three-person judging panels had the tough assignment of tasting

delicious dishes or sipping drinks prepared by the finalists. The secret ingredient for the culinary competitors was an assortment of mushrooms. The beverage finalists had to infuse extra virgin olive oil in their drink concoctions.

MASTER OF THE CRAFT WINNERS

AMERICA’S FIRST MUSEUM OF MODERN ART African Modernism in America, 1947–67 OctOber 7, 2023–January 7, 2024 One-on-One: Ugo Rondinone / Louis Eilshemius nOvember 4, 2023–January 14, 2024

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Peter Clarke, That Evening Sun Goes Down, 1960, Fisk University Galleries, Nashville, Gift of the Harmon Foundation, 1991.313 © 2022 Peter Edward Clarke / DALRO, Johannesburg / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York; David C. Driskell, Yoruba Forms #5, 1969, Oil on canvas, 42 1/4 x 34 in., © Estate of David C. Driskell, Courtesy DC Moore Gallery, New York and American Federation of Arts

Top honor in the culinary category was awarded to Kandice Symister, second cook at Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa in Waikiki Beach, Hawaii. Symister’s winning dish was a hoisin-marinated rack of lamb with a mushroom broth, fried maitake mushrooms and infused orange king trumpet mushrooms. The winner in the beverage category was Mitchell Patmagrian, bartender at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes in Orlando, Florida. Mitchell’s winning cocktail, "Back to Front Flip,” was a rich, creamy take on a bitter rum flip that included lemon juice, olive oil and amaro. “Our Masters of the Craft culinary and beverage competition provides a platform for our chefs and bartenders to showcase their passion and talents,” said Matthew Von Ertfelda, senior vice president of Food + Beverage in Marriott’s Global, U.S. and Canada Operations. “In addition to giving our associates the ability to sharpen their skills and push their creative boundaries, ‘Masters of the Craft,’ also provides an amazing opportunity to highlight food and beverage career paths available at Marriott.”

JUDGING CULINARY AND BEVERAGE ENTRIES

The six judges included Marriott International President and Chief

Executive Officer Anthony Capuano, Marriott International’s Executive Vice President and Chief Customer Officer Peggy Roe, and Tanya Holland, executive chef, author, and owner of Brown Sugar Kitchen in Oakland, California. Other judges were David Kaplan, CEO of Gin & Luck, a New York-based hospitality company, Kapri Robinson, founder of Chocolate City’s Best, the world’s first bartender competition for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, people of color) bartenders based in Washington, D.C., and Melissa Kelly, executive chef and proprietor of Primo Restaurant at the JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes in Orlando, Florida. “Food and beverage are such an important part of the hospitality industry, and innovation is at its core,” said Holland. “I commend Marriott International for their continued efforts to foster creativity among their food and beverage staff and inspire future chefs and bartenders to enter the field.” In addition to bragging rights as the 2023 Masters of the Craft Championship, both winners were awarded attendance at all-expenses-paid educational events. Patmagrian will participate in “Tales of the Cocktail,” an annual drinks professional development event in New Orleans, Louisiana. Symister will attend “Grits, Gullah and the Three O’clock Dinner,” an immersive culinary experience in Charleston, South Carolina, emphasizing preparing southern cuisine. “Our Masters of the Craft culinary and beverage competition is a platform for our chefs and bartenders to showcase their passion and talents. It’s an event we look forward to hosting every year,” said Von Ertfelda. WI @bcscomm

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Kennedy Center Hosts an Expanded Edition of ‘Club Quarantine’ By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, “Club Quarantine,” a virtual gathering place to hear the best club music, became a global sensation. Created by DJ D-Nice, people could not wait to see who entered the digital party. When it was safe to hang out, D-Nice brought his club experience to the people. That happened recently when Club Quarantine (CQ) returned to the Kennedy Center Opera House with a three-night residency. Last year, the event was a onenight affair. Taking things up a notch, D-Nice spread CQ over three themed nights for comedy, hip-hop, R&B, and gospel. Friday was the CQ Comedy Showcase hosted by writer, actor and producer Royale Watkins. Comedian and producer Chris Spencer and Vin Rock of Grammy® award-winning hip-hop group Naughty by Nature, co-hosted Saturday’s CQ

Live featuring hip-hop and R&B performances, and Sunday afternoon was full of praise for a gospel concert. “CQ is for people over 50,” Spencer continued. “If you’re in your 20s, you won’t be able to TikTok for three hours.” Friday night’s host was actress Tisha Campbell. She introduced talk show host Sherri Shepherd, Michael Che, co-head writer for Saturday Night Live, and actor and producer Flex Alexander performed for comedy night. For Saturday’s CQ Live, the audience was thrilled to hear performances from 90s R&B sensations Shanice and Tracie Spencer. Also keeping the audience on its feet on Saturday were hip-hop legends MC Lyte and Jadakiss, who were all backed by Conductor Igmar Thomas and his Revive Big Band. Sunday’s stirring afternoon of gospel included Israel Houghton, Bishop Hezkiah Walker, Anthony Brown and Group therAPy, and the Virtue Girls. WI

LIFESTYLE STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENT AND CIRCULATION 1. PUBLICATION TITLE: The Washington Informer; 2. PUBLICATION NUMBER: 008882; 3. FILING DATE: 10/01/2023; 4. ISSUE FREQUENCY: Weekly; 5. NUMBER OF ISSUES ANNUALLY: 52; 6. ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION PRICE: $55.00; 7. COMPLETE MAILING ADDRESS: 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr., Ave., SE Washington, DC 20032, Denise Rolark Barnes; Telephone: (202) 561-4100. 8. COMPLETE MAILING ADDRESS OF HEADQUARTERS: 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr., Ave., SE Washington, DC 20032. 9. COMPLETE MAILING ADDRESS OF PUBLISHER, EDITOR AND MANGING EDITOR; Denise Rolark-Barnes, Publisher, 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr., Ave., SE Washington, DC 20032: Micha Green, Editor, 48 Underwood Place NW Washington DC 20012 10. The Washington Informer Newspaper Co., Inc., 3117 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. SE, Washington, DC 20032; OWNER: Denise Rolark Barnes, 3117 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., SE, Washington, DC, 20032 11. N/A 12. TAX STATUS: N/A; 13. PUBLICATION TITLE: The Washington Informer; 14. ISSUE DATE FOR CIRCULATION BELOW: October 01, 2023, 15. EXTENT AND NATURE OF CIRCULATION: (a). Total Number of Copies: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 17,100; No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 17,000. 17,100/17,000 (b). Paid and/or Requested Circulation (1) Paid/Requested Outside-County Mail Subscriptions Stated on Form 3541 (Include advertiser's proof and exchange copies): Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 63; No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 63. (2) Paid In-County Subscriptions Stated on Form 3541 (Include advertiser's proof and exchange copies); Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 134; No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 134. (3) Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Non-USPS Paid Distribution: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months 7032; No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 6998; (4) Other Classes Mailed Through the USPS: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 96; No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 96/96; c. Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation [Sum of 15b. (1), (2), (3), and (4)] Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 7325; No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 7291. d. Free Distribution by Mail (Samples, complimentary, and other free): (1) Outside-County as Stated on Form 3541: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 1; No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 50; 50/50 (2) In-County as Stated on Form 3541: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 2; No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 86. 86/86 (3) Other Classes Mailed Through the USPS: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 5837; No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 5803. 5837/5803 (4) Free or Nominal Rate Distribution Outside the Mail; 902/902 e. Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (Sum of 15D (1), (2), (3), and (4): 6875/6841 f. Total Distribution (Sum of 15d. And 15e.): Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 14,200; No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 14,132: 14,200/14,132 g. Copies not Distributed: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 2900; No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 2868. h. Total (Sum of 15g. And 15h.): Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 17100; No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 17,000. 17,100/17,000 I. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation: 51%/51% I certify that 50% of all my distributed copies (electronic and print) are legitimate requests or paid copies. 17. Publication of Statement of Ownership for a Requester Publication is required will be printed in the October 12, 2023 edition

5 Anthony Brown and Group TherAPy performed for Dejay D-Nice’s Club Quarantine gospel showcase at the Kennedy Center on Oct. 8. (Shevry Lassiter/The Washington Informer)

Denise Rolark-Barnes October 1, 2023

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LIFESTYLE

Lessons from Maynard Jackson’s Atlanta Mayoral Election 50 Years Ago By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer

The first Black mayor to lead a major southern city was elected 50 years ago, when Maynard Holbrook Jackson became mayor of Atlanta. Playwright Pearl Cleage captured the significance of that historic period in "Something Moving: A Meditation on Maynard." The play is at Ford’s Theatre until Oct. 15. Seema Sueko is the director. Cleage was a friend and colleague of Jackson. She lived through the euphoria of an election victory and saw the realities of acceptance, representation, and governance. “He was such an extraordinary person who did amazing things,” said Cleage in an exclusive interview with the Washington Informer. “He really transformed the city in many ways we can still see.”

NOT THE USUAL BIOPIC

The audience was presented with a unique setup for "Something Moving.” The production is written as a workshop, where the playwright, director and actors feel their way through the storyline to understand the feeling and direction of the play. Names are not used, but each character is called “Citizen,” followed by a number. The premise of the storyline is how Atlantans remembered Jackson’s election and how he governed Atlanta. The approach works because, through Cleage’s writing, her characters share feelings while sometimes questioning their perspective of what the city went through. The play takes place in 1973 and in the present. Being in the audience for “Something Moving,” I remembered my

Atlanta college days during Jackson’s historic administration. As a student radio reporter, I covered some of Jackson’s mayoral press briefings. Several times during Cleage’s play, the vision expressed by the cast was that Jackson was larger than life. He was that on many levels. The audience felt Jackson’s presence through Milagro Ponce de León’s set design for the production. He used black and white photos of Jackson, Atlanta, and its people that the ensemble reacts to in those moments. “I wanted to write about him, but I did not want to write a chronological biopic,” Cleage said. “I wanted to take a more personal view of what

that moment felt like. I felt nobody was better qualified to write about that than I was.”

COMMISSIONED SOCIAL JUSTICE PLAY

"Something Moving” is a world premiere from the Ford’s Theatre Legacy Commission. This play is one of several from Ford’s artistic incubator sharing stories about social justice and racial history. Commissioned works explore the experiences of underrepresented characters and lesser-known historical figures. Actress Constance Swain portrays “Citizen 2.” Swain, along with Cle-

age and Faedra Chatard Carpenter, Ph.D., the dramaturg or theater advisor for “Something Moving,” felt a sisterhood working on this play. They represent three eras of Spelman College alumnae who have seen the impact of Jackson’s legacy. “I was not born during Maynard’s time in office. Much of his legacy is discussed in this play,” said Swain. “The play is not just about politics. It’s about ordinary people who came together to do something extraordinary.” For tickets and more information on “Something Moving: A Meditation on Maynard,” visit www.fords.org WI

5 “Something Moving: A Meditation on Maynard” by Pearl Cleage is about the legacy of Maynard Jackson, the first Black mayor of a major southern city. The ensemble included (L-R) Susan Rome (Citizen 5), Billie Krishawn (The Witness), Tom Story (Citizen 6), and Constance Swain (Citizen 2). The Ford’s Theatre world premiere production directed by Seema Sueko is on stage until October 15. (Photo credit/Scott Suchman.)

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Synergy Business Center Creates Community Safe Gathering Space

LIFESTYLE “A D E E P LY M O V I N G , P R O V O C AT I V E play” —Entertainment Weekly

By Dr. Patrise Holden WI Contributing Writer For lifelong Montgomery County resident Carol Rivadeneira, 50, opening Synergy Business Center this summer was the culmination of a lifelong vision of creating a gathering space for business, community, and families. “Black women entrepreneurs like myself in Montgomery County often struggle to receive funding and resources. I am not aware of any other business center owned by a woman of color in the entire county. Seeing the lack of gathering spaces specifically for POC (people of color), I formed the center to create a safe space for meetings, education, business and community events,” said Rivadeneira. Synergy Business Center, located at 18630 Woodfield Road Gaithersburg, MD 20878, conveniently sits next door to the Montgomery County Airport. Measuring 5,200 square feet, the center houses two large conference rooms, eight private offices, and a kitchen and breakroom. Designed specifically with the needs of Montgomery County residents in mind, the center is perfect for workshops, conferences, parties, pop ups, weddings, and quinceañeras. Welcoming residents of all ages, the center may also be utilized for podcasts or photography. Open to the many needs of the local community, musicians are invited to rent the facility as a rehearsal or show performance space. For businesses needing a physical address or regularly scheduled office meeting space, Synergy offers monthly subscriptions for virtual addresses and office hours booked specifically for your business or organization. Born and raised in Montgomery County, Rivadeneira noted, “I know what we have in the county and what is critically needed.” Growth Strategist Dr. Traci Eisenberg-Rayburn explained that Synergy provides a welcoming workspace not just for people to

5 Carol Rivadeneira owns Synergy Business Center. (Courtesy Photo/Synergy Business Center)

have local events, but which allows people to meet with others and form a cohesive work environment. “The benefit to the community is that as the business grows, jobs will be created for the community that allows people, even those of low income, to work in capacities they may have never imagined.” “As a Black woman, my journey to business ownership has been anything but easy,” Rivadeneira said. “As a single parent raising three kids on my own, life was hard. It was an extremely lonely journey. Even with Section 8, food stamps, WIC and public housing, I still struggled. I worked several jobs at once. I didn’t have any support so I stayed in my local church.” “Looking at my children, I had to fight,” the entrepreneur continued. “I knew that at some point I would become independent if I kept my faith and stayed focused.” Rivadeneira credits meeting her current husband, Jose Ricardo Rivadeneira, in 2010 as a pivotal turning point in her personal and business journey. WI

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CRIME from Page 1

Where Beauty Lives A legendary home. Spectacular gardens. Immersive experiences. And you’re invited.

represented in what’s known as the Coalition of Concerned Mothers included that of Lazarus Wilson, Kevin Hargraves-Shird, Delaneo Martin, Jeffrey Price, Troy “TJ” Bullock, Jamaal Byrd, Gary Hopkins, Jr. Deon Kay, An’Twan Gilmore, and Korryn Gaines, who police killed in 2016 in Baltimore County, Maryland. In her public remarks in front of D.C. police headquarters, Wilson spoke directly to Lieutenant Jason Bagshaw, commander of MPD’s special operations unit. Earlier this year, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia declined to prosecute Bagshaw for shooting and killing Lazarus Wilson at the D.C. Wharf while off-duty in the summer of 2022. Critics pointed to the lack of a grand jury investigation and consideration of the circumstances surrounding Wilson’s use of a firearm. They also noted missing elements of the case that had initially appeared in an MPD press release and questioned why MPD officials didn’t record Bagshaw’s alcohol intake at the scene of the shooting. Bagshaw, who has garnered a reputation among District activists as an abusive officer, was reportedly sitting in a police vehicle near Harriet’s Wildest Dreams and the Coalition of Concerned Mothers. Both she and Nee Nee Taylor of Harriet’s Wildest Dreams pointed at Bagshwaw’s presence as an egregious sign of disrespect. Wilson didn’t mince words for those involved in the decision not to prosecute Bagshaw. “I’m a mother who had to see my child put into the ground. My son was a good father [who was] making things better," Wilson said. "My whole life has been turned around and it won’t be the same again. We have no joy, no peace, no

happiness. I hope the people in [the Marion S. Barry Building] will make things right. They didn’t interview anyone concerning my son. No one interviewed the witnesses -- just Bagshaw and his wife.”

IN NEW BILL, AT LARGE COUNCILMEMBER WHITE ASKS FOR COOPERATION

D.C. Councilmember Robert White (D-At large)’s Whole Government Response to Crime Act counts as the first of a series of public safety bills he plans to introduce. He told the Informer that future bills will address crime prevention and community recovery from violence. Elements of White’s current bill aim to boost the government’s response to crime by improving 911 operations and response via a taskforce that provides recommendations, expanding staffing at the D.C. Department of Forensic Sciences (DFS), tracking the flow of firearms coming into the District, and creating a full--time victim services coordinator to connect residents with legal aid, mental health support, and assistance with medical bills and funeral expenses. White’s bill also installs an emerging adults director who will develop a strategy to coordinate the efforts of the Office of the State Superintendent of Education’s Re-engagement Center, the Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement’s Pathways Program, and other programs geared toward young adults in the District. Through the bill, a hospitality working group would also develop solutions to violence gripping nightlife corridors while District agencies would be required to collect data on the effectiveness of violence prevention programs.

CRIME Page 52

Hours: Tues – Sun 10am – 5pm HillwoodMuseum.org 4155 Linnean Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. Free parking Photo: Erik Kvalsvik

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This animal was brought along on many Viking sea journeys. If the captain of the ship lost his way, he would let this animal go. It always headed toward land, showing the 18 19 Vikings which way to go. A Viking ship 17 1 often had a flag with this animal’s picture. What was it? Connect the dots and use 16 the runes to find out. 2

Practice wr each of the runes. The spelling wo

The most ferocious Viking warriors were called Berserkers. (That’s where the phrase “going berserk” comes from.) Standards Link: Language Arts: Vocabulary: Understand the origins and meaning of words in English.

Long ago, a people called Vikings lived in what is now Norway, Sweden and Denmark. Rocks and thin soil In 1016, a Viking became king of England. His name was King Cnut. He was a wise ruler who brought peace.

made it difficult for Vikings to grow crops or raise animals for food. The people were often hungry.

I put the king back in Viking!

Viking men built ships and sailed to England and France. There they attacked towns, robbed them of food and took prisoners. Sometimes they stayed and took over the towns. At one time, the Vikings ruled most of what is now England and the Normandy area of France.

Some Vikings even tried to live in America. In 1002 (more than 400 years before Columbus), a Viking called Leif (pronounced “leaf”) Ericson landed with a group of people and set up a village in North America. They stayed about two years. Difficult conditions forced them to leave. Standards Link: History: Explain the aims, obstacles and accomplishments of the explorers.

5 6 11

Standards Link: Reading Comprehension: Follow simple written directions.

BERSERKERS VIKING CNUT S U B M U L O C M E RUNES S R E K R E S R E B SECRET HORNS Y H E L M E T S S S FRANCE M L F E C E G T E N SYMBOL B O I R C N O N T R HELMETS O S E T I N U H E O STONE L T L K E R A T E H COLUMBUS B L I O S E V R U C CURVES LOST R V S E R L E I F K LEIF Standards Link: Letter sequencing. Recognize identical SOIL words. Skim and scan reading. Recall spelling patterns.

SCORE: Write 5-10 JUNIOR

How many silly things can you find in this bunch of Berserkers?

The letters in the Viking alphabet are called runes. The word rune means secret in their language. Use the runes to find out why the letters were called secret.

IJ K

D E

P Q

Give yours word you t

You have probably seen comic strips or movies that show Viking helmets with horns. But most Viking experts doubt that Viking helmets actually had horns. Can you find the two Vikings that are identical?

Newspaper Time Travel Select three pages from the newspaper. Be sure each page is from a different section. Recreate each page as if it was written in Viking times.

11-15 Wo WORD W

16 -25 Wo TOTALL

Standards Lin Answer questio

Standards Link: History: Detect different historical points of view.

UVW

Vikings didn’t have paper and ink. Messages were carved in wood or stone. That is why the runes are made of straight lines only; curves are hard to carve.

Search through the newspaper to find: • Something a Viking might have had. • Something ferocious. • Something that means the opposite of ferocious. Standards Link: Language Arts/Research: Use the newspaper to locate information.

Explorer Report

Pretend you are a news reporter on a trip with a group of explorers. Write a news report about what you are exploring. Be sure to tell who, what, when, where, why and how.

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wi book review "The New Brownies' Book" By Dr. Karida L. Brown and Charly Palmer c.2023, Chronicle Books $40 208 pages Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer The kids are back in school now and already, your family's going in six different directions. You're busy, between sports, extracurricular activities, work commitments, family gatherings and community activity. If there was a meaningful way to get everybody together at once, you'd be all over that so grab "The New Brownies' Book" by Dr. Karida L. Brown and Charly Palmer and take a hint from Grandma's time. Ten years after the launching of the "infamous The Crisis magazine," W.E.B. DuBois, Augustus Granville Dill and Jessie Redmon Fauset had another idea: they called it The Brownies' Book, though it was really a magazine that sold for less than two dollars for six issues, or 15 cents for a single issue. It was 1920, Jim Crow laws were in effect, and their intention was that the publication would "serve as a much-needed medium for Black and brown children," by showing them what people of color had contributed to the world. It was also something white families could use and learn from, too. "... it was," say Brown and Palmer, "a crown jewel of African American children's literature." This book, meant to "evoke the spirit of... [the] original Brownies' Book," pulls together dozens of original stories, poems, plays, essays, lessons, and artwork that mirrors what Du Bois had initially intended more than a century ago. Here, you'll find tales of ancestors and why it's important to know yours. You'll find games for the whole family to play, including even the littlest kids. You'll find photos and reproductions of Brownies' Book pages from the 1920s and new artwork from a variety of Black artists. There's humor in some of these stories, and one is a fun challenge for preteens. There are tales for older kids here, pages that help teach morality and empathy, stories to read aloud to a grade-schooler, stories that seem to end abruptly but that beg for meaningful discussion, and biographies of "sheroes" and other giants in Black history... Absolutely, "The New Brownies' Book" lives up to its subtitle: it is, indeed, "a love letter to Black families." It's also pretty sweet on art and poetry, too. Many of the essays and stories, though, may confound readers who are not prepared for their abrupt endings. It's as if the pages have run out and that's that — but look again. Those ends-too-quickly tales invite a child to imagine what happened next or to think of a better storyline. They are ready-made to teach a child to be a storyteller, and for families to discuss. Don't think that this book is only for small children, though. This is the kind of reading that you can leave around for a teenager to find and browse, to provoke thoughts and spark ideas. There are inspirations inside here, as well as subtle lessons. You can feel comfortable giving this to a family, new, old or blended. It would be a great gift for your favorite babysitter or a grandparent, too. For your household, "The New Brownies' Book" is a great direction. WI

horoscopes

LIFESTYLE 0CT. 12 - 18, 2023

ARIES You are in the early stage of renewal on Monday, and it is uncomfortable and slow going. As early as Tuesday, you'll feel a lot sprightlier. On Wednesday, bound out of bed early and be the first person getting to work. Thursday and Friday find you flexing your muscles, getting things done and polishing your reputation. What you do is almost as important as how you do it. Lucky Numbers: 9, 11, 29 TAURUS The intensity of what you're going through speaks volumes about how much this person means to you. You don't necessarily want to publicize how you feel, but people can see it written on your face. Talking about it may be a better strategy than pretending to ignore it. A philosophical conversation with an acquaintance on Wednesday will be more useful than you ever expected, and Thursday and Friday find you grounded, curious, and happy. Lucky Numbers: 5, 15, 31 GEMINI Life is laid out like a math problem for you on Monday, and you spend the day trying to determine which are the relevant variables. This calculating mindset cuts through everything else and will be helpful on Tuesday and Wednesday as well during a deep, intelligent dialogue with your most brilliant friend (as many insights as you have, preaching is not going to work). Lucky Numbers: 12, 27, 50 CANCER It's as if you're on a ship in a storm: One minute there's a chair sitting next to you; the next minute it's all the way across the room. With everything slipping and sliding, Monday isn't the time to get involved with anything long term and binding. Wait until things settle and you know exactly what you're working with. On Tuesday and Wednesday, do something rejuvenating (a trip to the spa? a swim?) and on Thursday and Friday, don't worry about doing very little. Lucky Numbers: 5, 15, 46 LEO A beautiful antique makes its way into your life on Monday, or maybe it's something else you've been collecting. In any case, Monday is like that: rewarding, slightly self-centered, not super energetic. Then on Tuesday, a comet of love crashes into Earth and the scorching fires of romantic bliss burn brightly through Wednesday night. Lucky Numbers: 2, 16, 41 VIRGO Everyone has different ways of getting through the day and different ways of seeing things. You are interested in someone else's perspective on Monday, but that doesn't necessarily mean you'll agree with them. On Tuesday and Wednesday, your vim and vigor is no match for the inactivity everywhere else, which drags you down a bit, at least until Thursday. Lucky Numbers: 4, 40, 58 LIBRA Being good with your money is not just about being selfish; it's also about being smart. Nevertheless, Monday's financial dealings get you thinking about values, not a bad thing to be thinking about. Tuesday and Wednesday are about feelings and expression. Your current projects are challenging you in ways you didn't expect. Lucky Numbers: 6, 29, 33 SCORPIO You are the sun and your friends are the planets. You are their center of gravity. You'd have it no other way. It's incredibly flattering to be depended upon by so many people who are fabulous in their own right. Tuesday and Wednesday are defined by philosophical questions and the likelihood of being led along by others. You might find yourself buying something you have little use for. Lucky Numbers: 8, 36, 39 SAGITTARIUS You're in deep processing mode on Monday, and you might feel like being alone. Your subconscious is in overdrive right now, trying to reconcile your internal picture with the big picture outside of you. Your friends may be of some help in sorting all this out on Tuesday and Wednesday. An exploration of some kind is perfect for the group's energy. Lucky Numbers: 7, 21, 53 CAPRICORN Getting organized is the first step. You are in the right mindset to make some long-term decisions on Monday, but you want to make sure all your ducks are in a row. (Your ducks may not be as orderly as they appear.) On Tuesday and Wednesday, discipline is key. You may have sudden pangs of worry that what you thought was possible isn't possible. Ridiculous! You can do anything. Lucky Numbers: 27, 36, 48 AQUARIUS The future of your career has never seemed less clear to you. Monday is a typical Monday, except that you have some major nagging questions in the back of your mind as well. Commiserate with friends on Tuesday to get some perspective. Then you'll start Wednesday with a sense of expansiveness, a sense that anything is possible. Let this feeling last. Lucky Numbers: 10, 18, 38 PISCES Legal and financial matters are fuzzy at the start of the week. If you have a transaction to take care of on Monday, make sure you do it in person. On Tuesday and Wednesday, you don't have to be as careful (everything goes your way naturally), but pay extra attention and take care to do the right thing and you'll make major headway on several plans you once thought impossible. Lucky Numbers: 8, 37, 43

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OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2023 41

SPORTS Organization to be Launched in Honor of the Late Malik Gant By Sam P.K. Collins Staff Writer This past summer, affiliates of H.D.Woodson High School, Marshall College, and the New England Patriots paid homage to Malik Gant, a well-regarded football player, scholar and community leader who suddenly passed away at the age of 25. In the months since his death, Sirraya Gant, Gant’s mother, has been building a nonprofit in her son’s memory. She told the Informer that the soon-to-be-launched institution will help athletes maintain a positive attitude as they navigate the various stages of their professional career, and encounter the disappointments they may face along the way. “Mental health is not discussed enough in these places because football is a man-led sport. Athletes are taught to cry in the dark and not show emotions. It’s lonely,” Gant said. “With my close-knit communi-

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ty, I can go to every level and talk to the athletes, and use the relationships with the coaches to build resources for athletes going through different phases,” Gant added. “They can talk to other athletes and explain how they maintain a positive mindset.” Malik Gant died on May 25 in Miami, just days before his 26th birthday. The cause of death has yet to be determined. Toward the end of his life, the late Gant had been exploring entrepreneurship and careers as a personal trainer or a trucker, Sirraya Gant said. Gant, a Ward 7 resident and community engagement specialist, described her son’s ascent to the New England Patriots as not only unconventional, but indicative of his refusal to give up on dreams that had been brewing in his psyche since he started playing football at the age of five. In 2015, upon his graduation from Woodson, the late Gant matriculated to Marshall College, located in Huntington, West Virginia, without

Sirraya Gant and her son, the late Malik Gant during Gant’s high school years. (Courtesy Photo)

a football scholarship. He however walked on Marshall’s football team as a safety during his sophomore year. In 2018, Gant, then a defensive back, was named to the Conference USA All Conference Team with a record that included 90 tackles, 10 passes defended, and two interceptions. In 2019, Gant played with the New England Patriots in a few preseason games. An injury later relegated him to the sideline before the team cut him. In 2021, the Patriots brought Gant on once again and he played three more preseason games before he and the organization severed ties. In 2022, Gant won a U.S. Football

League championship with the Birmingham Stallions. “Malik was able to get to every level in a place that wasn’t given to him. He worked hard to get there and showed his resilience and dedication. That’s his legacy” the mother said. “His character was way more important than his stamina on the field. He was a leader from high school, to collegiate level, and the pros. Malik was an active child but he was committed to football from the day he got on that field. That was his life.” Gant said she signed her son up for football to help him better channel his energy. Long before the late Gant joined Woodon’s junior varsity and varsity football teams, he amassed experience at Peppermill Community Center in Capitol Heights, Maryland, Watkins Hornets Youth Association in Southeast, and the Deanwood Youth Empowerment Association. By his junior year at Woodson, the late Gant had a growth spurt that Jamaal Jones said gave the aspiring NFL player an advantage on the field. Jones, a first-year varsity football coach at Woodson, met Gant while they both played on Woodson’s football team between 2011 and 2015. Though the duo developed a friendship on the field, Jones said their bond became stronger once they went to college. While Gant attended Marshall, Jones went on to Virginia Union University. Though miles apart, the two of them talked twice a week about

football and other aspects of their life. Jones said those conversations carried on for several years amid the numerous victories and disappointments each of them experienced. Jones, reflecting on the events of May 25, told the Informer that he felt a deep pain learning about Gant’s passing. Months after bidding farewell to his friend and former teammate, Jones endeavors to carry on Gant’s legacy by creating an atmosphere at their alma mater similar to what he felt while speaking with Gant about serious topics on and off the field. “We spoke about life, trying to figure out what we were doing and encouraging each other to do better,” Jones said. “Malik was straightforward with me. He knew how to bring me back up. He was a caring person, no matter who you were. He wasn’t too hard on himself, or the people around him, and it just helped with the game.” WI @SamPKCollins

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CAPTURE the moment

5 Face-painting during the Taste of Harvest at TheARC in Washington DC on Saturday, October 7, 2023. (Shedrick Pelt @sdotpdotmedia/The Washington Informer)

5 Taste of Harvest at TheARC in Washington DC on Saturday, October 7, 2023. (Shedrick Pelt @sdotpdotmedia/The Washington Informer) 3 Chef Rob of Hot Hands Catering cooks during Taste of Harvest at TheARC in Washington DC on Saturday, October 7, 2023. (Shedrick Pelt @sdotpdotmedia/The Washington Informer) 6 Youth perform during the Taste of Harvest at TheARC in Washington DC on Saturday, October 7, 2023. (Shedrick Pelt @sdotpdotmedia/The Washington Informer)

5 Washington Ballet perform during the Taste of Harvest at TheARC in Washington DC on Saturday, October 7, 2023. (Shedrick Pelt @sdotpdotmedia/The Washington Informer)

5 Taste of Harvest at TheARC in Washington DC on Saturday, October 7, 2023. (Shedrick Pelt @sdotpdotmedia/The Washington Informer)

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OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2023 43

RELIGION Faith Leaders from Baltimore to Washington Support students at Morgan State, Bowie State By Hamil R. Harris WI Contributing Writer The President of Morgan State University and a group of lawmakers, alumni, and pastors stood at the bridge to welcome students back to campus for the first classes since a shooting that injured multiple people and rocked the university’s community on Oct. 3. After five students were shot and injured on campus following a

homecoming program, university President David Wilson canceled classes and festivities for the remainder of the week. “Today, we unfortunately find ourselves navigating this tragic event during a time at which we should be celebrating,” said Wilson in a letter to the university community.” On Sunday Wilson, Morgan alumni, and pastors from across Baltimore had a unity walk on the

CLEAN UP from Page 24 cost of a $2 million pollution study at its Benning Road station, but the D.C. Court of Appeals ruled last year that it was illegal.

STILL, ANACOSTIA CLEANUP EFFORTS ARE PAYING OFF

More than a dozen environmental and community advocates, many of which have spent years fighting for environmental justice east of the Anacostia River, attended the press conference announcing the settlement. Junel Jeffrey, president of the Eastland Gardens Civic Association, said in an interview that she was excited about the settlement because her neighborhood abuts Kenilworth Park, right on the east bank of the river. She said she appreciated that the attorney general’s office reached out to her about the announcement because she feels that her community is often “a little bit forgotten” in the city’s engagement efforts. “Any type of opportunity to make the Anacostia River better, cleaner, safer makes our community, our res-

44 OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2023

idents, our neighbors, safer,” Jeffrey said. “A lot of times we're the ones who are out there cleaning up [Kenilworth] Park, we're the ones who call to let D.C. know when things need to get done in the park… We do that on our own time because we consider this park that important to us. So when you have initiatives like this, or when you have things that are coming up, it's important to us that we are part of that process—because we live here.”

5 Students, faith leaders and university staff gather in the chapel at Morgan State University post a mass shooting that injured five students on Oct. 3. (Hamil Harris/ The Washington Informer)

campus and throughout the week Baltimore Police Department chaplains have had prayer walks and special services on campus. “Faith is very important to provide the hope to navigate through times like this,” said Clarence A. Waymann, assistant director of Memorial Chapel Operations at

Clean water activist Dennis Chestnut, a lifetime Ward 7 resident, pointed out in remarks at the event that the river now looks far cleaner than it did when he first began fighting to get back the swimmable and fishable Anacostia River he grew up with. He spoke about the Anacostia Splash! swim event, which Anacostia Riverkeeper had planned for Sept. 23 but had to cancel because it stormed that day. Still, tests showed the river was clean enough for the event to get a permit for the day, making it legal for swimmers to jump in for the first time in 50 years. That change comes partly from the installation of massive stormwater tunnels under the city, which cut down on sewage overflows into the Anacostia by about 98%. The last segment of the tunnels serving the Anacostia river went online Sept. 15. “Just look out at the river: I can remember not too long ago, when you would have seen all kinds of things just floating, that visible pollution,” Chestnut said. “Now that we've taken another step in removing the toxic pollutants and holding the polluters accountable—this is a great day.” WI

Morgan State. “Jeremiah 29:11 [says] ‘I know the plans for you to prosper.’ The other plan is to be obedient, which is our love language to God.” On Saturday night two people were shot on the campus of Bowie State University, according to the Maryland State Police. Sunday morning Dr. Bernard Richardson, dean of Howard University’s Andrew Rankin Memorial Chapel had a moment of silence to remember those shot at both campuses. “Heal the soul of our nation,” prayed Richardson. “We are surrounded by so much tragedy, the war in Israel, the conflict in Gaza, the mass shooting at Morgan State University, and last night there was a shooting of two people at Bowie State,” Richardson continued. “These are trying times.” The Rev. Anika Wilson, pastor of Union Temple Baptist Church in Southeast, D.C., delivered the sermon during the Rankin Chapel Service, where she talked about the woman who touched the hem of Jesus’ garment to be healed. The Rev. Heber Brown III, a pastor and community organizer in Baltimore, said on Sunday Morgan alumni had a Prayer Walk with Dr. Wilson and others “to be a support to the students,” and there were many speakers. “Our overall message to students is that we will be there to support the students and we will be there throughout the day,” Brown said.

“Today, we unfortunately find ourselves navigating this tragic event during a time at which we should be celebrating,” said Wilson in a letter to the university community.” “Other churches will be coming to be a physical presence on campus.” “One of the characteristics of HBCUs is that we are resilient,” Brown said. “We want to let students know that while this was tragic they will heal and this can't be an interruption for what they came to Morgan State for and to pursue.” Zy Richardson, an alumnus and parent of a Morgan State Student, said that the event this week is just the beginning of a long-term effort to support the school. “Too often when something like this happens we will say well at least nobody died,” Richardson said. “But this is a traumatic event for students because they are still there.” “Dr. Wilson said the students needed time to get away because many, like my daughter, really need time to process what happened,” Richardson said. “Many ordered food because they were afraid to go to the cafeteria.” WI

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RELIGION the religion corner WITH LYNDIA GRANT

The Storm Is Passing Over!

Amid the celebration of the recent settlement of the first lawsuit lead by attorneys Ben Crump and the Seeger Weiss Law firm, seeking justice for the family of Henrietta Lacks against biotech company Thermo Fisher Scientific, there are more legal troubles brewing in the background for Ron L. Lacks, the grandson listed as the plaintiff, who heads the family's estate as its executor. Henrietta Lacks changed modern medicine when doctors took her cells without her consent in 1951. Her family had not been compensated for the estimated billions of dollars that companies made selling her cells — until now! According to public court documents and an obtained police incident report, Ron L. Lacks, age 64, was arrested on March 16, 2023, and later indicted by a grand jury for an incident that resulted in apparent broken bones and a head injury to his wife Hope Lacks. The incident occurred at their family home on February 17, 2023. Documents filed with the Circuit Court of Baltimore City – Criminal System, Case Number 123104009, April 13, 2023, shows Ron L. Lacks has been charged with 1st- and 2nd-degree assault. This case appears in public records of Baltimore City Circuit Court dated May 10, 2023, after Lacks was released from jail, and again on Sept. 7, when the trial was postponed due to the death of Lawrence Lacks Sr., the eldest and last remaining child of Henrietta Lacks, who passed away on Aug. 26. The trial date for this case is set for Dec. 20, 2023. According to a source close to the investigation, the two have been married

for eleven years and shared a 32-year relationship. The source, who did not wish to be identified, states that injuries and trauma to Mrs. Lacks, were so severe that she was hospitalized from Feb. 17 to March 27 at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore. Her injuries included her leg being broken in multiple places including a shattered femur bone. As recently as Oct. 4, Ron Lacks was still serving as the public spokesperson for the family at the Henrietta Lacks statue unveiling and dedication in Roanoke, Va., where he received praise for his work including from attorney Ben Crump who gave him a hug and an enthusiastic verbal expression: “I love you man!” It is unknown if attorney Crump is aware of the domestic violence case as we could not locate a public statement of him addressing the arrest and pending trial. Hope Lacks was not available for an interview. However, a view of a Facebook page listed under the name Hope Lacks revealed a post pinned to the profile on July 9 that shows a photo of an injured leg, confirmed by our source to be Mrs. Lacks, with trauma to the area of the femur bone. Another post to the page on Oct. 1 shows support for victims of domestic violence accompanied by the message “I'm a Survivor!” and statistical facts on the frequency of the crime of domestic violence. Readers who follow my radio show on Radio One WYCB-AM, may recall my reports that domestic violence was a part of my marriage for 17 years. Many of my domestic violence columns where picked-up and shared across the nation. Though I have not written about domestic violence for a few years

now, I feel passionate and a responsibility to bring attention to this violent act when it rears its ugly head. According to national statistics on domestic violence, on average, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. Over the course of one year, this equates to more than 10 million women and men. The data reports that: - 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner. This includes a range of behaviors (e.g., slapping, shoving, pushing) and in some cases might not be considered "domestic violence." - 1 in 7 women and 1 in 25 men have been injured by an intimate partner. Ron Lacks previously appeared as a guest on "The Lyndia Grant Radio Show" prior to this incident. If you or someone you know is being abused, help is available by contacting the National Domestic Violence Hotline 800799-7233. We will keep an eye on this developing story. In an article written by The Associated Press, it states: Just over a week after Henrietta Lacks' descendants settled the lawsuit against Thermo Fisher Scientific, the family's attorneys have filed another claim. The new lawsuit, kicks off the chain of suits; targets California-based biopharmaceutical company Ultragenyx, was filed in Baltimore federal court, the same venue as the recently settled case. Lawyers for the family have said they plan to bring a series of lawsuits against various entities that continue to reap rewards from the racist medical system that took advantage of Henrietta Lacks. 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 John F. Johnson Reverend Dr. 1306 Vermont Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20005

46 OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2023

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

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

St. Stephen Baptist Church

Third Street Church of God

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

Campbell AME Church

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

Mailing Address : Campbell AME Church 2502 Stanton Road SE - Washington, DC 20020

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

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

www.livingwatersmd.org

Website: mountolivetdc.org Email: mtolivedc@gmail.com

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

“Friendliest Church in the City”

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

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”

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

All Nations Baptist Church

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

Harold Andrew Assistant Pastor

Crusader Baptist Church

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

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

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

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

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

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

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RELIGION Zion Baptist Church

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

St. Luke Baptist Church

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

Rehoboth Baptist Church

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

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

Eastern Community Baptist Church Damion M. Briggs Pastor

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

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

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

New Commandment Baptist Church

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

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

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

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

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

Promised Land Baptist Church

Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Rev Kevin A. O'Bryant Pastor

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

Dr. Joseph D. Turner Senior Pastor

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

Rev. Stephen E. Tucker Senior Pastor

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

Matthews Memorial Baptist Church

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

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

The Rev. E. Bernard Anderson Priest

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

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

Dr. Lucius M. Dalton Senior Pastor

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

Rev. Richard B. Black Interim Pastor

Mount Moriah Baptist Church

Rev. Curtis l. Staley Pastor

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

Lincoln Park United Methodist Church

Israel Baptist Church

Website address: www.mmbcdc.org

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

Mt. Horeb Baptist Church

Rev. Oran W. Young Pastor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Denise Rolark Barnes - Publisher of The Washington Informer OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2023 47

LEGAL NOTICES

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

2023 ADM 001084

2023 ADM 001103

1999 ADM 001582

2022 ADM 000963

2023 ADM 1123

Salvador Reineriz Sanchez Blanco Decedent

Jason N. Walden aka Jason Walden Decedent

Jimmie L. Ward Decedent

Annie Louise Williams aka Annie L. Williams Decedent

Estate of Beatrice T. Coleman aka Beatrice Thelma Coleman

Glenda M. Wheeler Allen, Esq. Law Office Glenda M. Wheeler 808 E Street NE Washington DC 20002 Attorney

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE

Carlos Lopez Esq. 201 N Union St. Suite 110 Alexandria, VA 22314 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Santos Genaro Sanchez Blanco, whose address is 5200 4 St., NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Salvador Reineriz Sanchez Blanco who died on 11/15/2022 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 3/28/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 3/28/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 9/28/2023 Santos Genaro Sanchez Blanco Personal Representative

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Robert Alston, whose address is 31 Juliette Dr, Durham NC 27713, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jason N. Walden aka Jason Waldon who died on February 7, 2007 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 3/28/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 3/28/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

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

Date of first publication: 9/28/2023

Paul M. Toulouse, Esq. whose address is 1912 Sunderland Place, NW, Washington, DC 20036, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jimmie L. Ward who died on August 13, 1999 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 3/28/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 3/28/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Robert Alston Personal Representative

Date of first publication: 9/28/2023

TRUE TEST COPY TRUE TEST COPY

Edward G. Varrone, Esq. 1825 K Street, NW Suite 1150 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Washington Informer

Paul M. Toulouse, Esq. Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS David W. Gibson, III, whose address is 4306 38th St., Brentwood, MD 20722, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Annie Louise Williams aka Annie L. Williams who died on June 17, 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 3/28/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 3/28/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 9/28/2023 David W. Gibson, III Personal Representative

Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Lawrence D. Coleman and Mack ArnoldlColeman for standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representatives. Unless a responsive pleading in the form of a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is filed in this Court within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth. In the absence of a will or proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution, enter an order determining that the decedent died intestate (other) appoint unsupervised co-personal representatives Date of first publication: 9/28/2023 Joan M. Wilbon 1629 K. Street, NW Suite 300 Washington, DC 20001 Petitioner/Attorney: TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2023 ADM 000728

2023 ADM 001093

2022 ADM 001324

2023 ADM 855

2023 ADM 001112

Shirley J. Bell aka Shirley Jean Bell aka Shirley Bell Decedent

Anna Mae Stewart Decedent

Charles R. Scott Sr. Decedent

Nathaniel Ray Jones Decedent

Bobby G. Henry, Esq. 9701 Apollo Drive Suite 100 Largo, MD 20774 Attorney

Howard Haley Esq. The Haley Firm, PC 7600 Georgia Ave. NW, #416 Washington, DC 20012 Attorney

Muriel Branford aka Muriel Margarette Brandford aka Muriel Margarette Branford Decedent

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

Annette Eleanor Stewart, whose address is 4204 Brinkley Rd., Temple Hills, MD 20748, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Anna Mae Stewart who died on 8/3/2019 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 3/28/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 3/28/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Pamela L. Nichols, whose address is 4902 First Street, NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Charles R. Scott Sr. who died on January 20, 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 3/28/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 3/28/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Sharon Legall 1325 G Street, NW Suite 500 Washington, DC 20005 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Joseph O. Bell, Jr., whose address is 1305 Kearney Street, NE, Washington DC 20017, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Shirley J. Bell aka Shirley Jean Bell aka Shirley Bell who died on 1/11/2021 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 3/28/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 3/28/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 9/28/2023 Joseph O. Bell, Jr. Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Date of first publication: 9/28/2023 Annette Eleanor Stewart Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Date of first publication: 9/28/2023 Pamela L. Nichols Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Mary Branford, whose address is 4015 5th Street NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Muriel Branford aka Muriel Margarette Brandford aka Margarette Branford who died on August 8, 2002 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 3/28/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 3/28/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 9/28/2023 Mary Branford Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Colline Silvera Robinson Kirlew & Associates, PC 7731 Belle Point Dr. Greenbelt, MD 20770 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Beverly T. Jones, whose address is 935 South NC Hwy 50, Magnolia, NC 28453, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Nathaniel Ray Jones who died on March 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 3/28/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 3/28/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 9/28/2023 Beverly T. Jones Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Washington Informer

48 OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2023

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

LEGAL NOTICES

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

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

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

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 001118

2023 FEP 000086

2023 ADM 001088

2023 ADM 1104

2023 FEP 64

Celestine Williams Decedent

September 12, 2022 Date of Death

Nancy J. Turner aka Nancy Jane Turner Decedent

DiAnn Winford Decedent

February 6, 2021 Date of Death

Donald R. Marlais, Esq. 411 10th Street, NE Washington, DC 20002 Attorney

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

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Tamiki Jackson, whose address is 14103 S Springfield Rd., Brandywine MD 20613, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Celestine Williams who died on 8/22/2023 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 3/28/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 3/28/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Odessa Dean Weaver Name of Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Date of first publication: 9/28/2023

Gregory McKinley Weaver whose address is 24917 NC Highway 87 East Riegelwood, NC 28456 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Odessa Dean Weaver, deceased, by the General Court of Justice Court for Nash County, State of North Carolina, on October 24, 2022. Service of process may be made upon Deborah D. Boddie, Esq., 1308 Ninth Street, NW, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20011 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. 304 Seaton Pl., NE, Washington 20002. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Tamiki Jackson Personal Representative

Date of first publication: 9/28/2023 Gregory McKinley Weaver Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Dekisha Posey, whose address is 12104 Beach Hill Road, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Nancy J. Turner aka Nancy Jane Turner who died on July 30, 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 3/28/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 3/28/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 9/28/2023 Dekisha Posey Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Gwendolyn Daniel, whose address is 1551 Hemlock Street NW, Washington, DC 20012, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of DiAnn Winford who died on August 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 3/28/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 3/28/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 9/28/2023 Gwendolyn Daniels Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Harold Oscar Mims Jr. Name of Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS Meredith Fleming whose address is 150 Edgewater Trail, Fayetteville, GA 30215 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Harold Oscar Mims Jr., deceased, by the Probate Court for Greenville County, State of South Carolina, on February 26, 2021. Service of process may be made upon Carmen Jenkins Frazier 1748 40th Street, SE, Washington, DC 20020 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. Unit 2 1250 22nd Street Commercial Condominium Lot 85 in Square 50. 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: 10/5/2023 Meredith Fleming Personal Representative 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 1105

2022 ADM 000184

2022 ADM 001167

2023 ADM 001136

2023 ADM 1120

Annie Lou Hughes Decedent

Jean F. Joyner aka Jean Joyner Decedent

Dorothy Gertrude Taylor Decedent

Delores Smith Decedent

Carlos Francisco Aguiar Decedent

Torrey G. Wilkins, Esq. Furey, Doolan & Abell, LLP 7600 Wisconsin Ave., Suite 600 Bethesda, MD 20814 Attorney

Tilman L. Gerald, Esq. 6856 Eastern Ave., NW Suite 350 Washington, DC 20012 Attorney

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

Davalyn Palmer, whose address is 1416 Willow Ave., Unit 3A, Louisville, KY 40204, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Annie Lou Hughes who died on June 12, 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 4/5/2024. 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 4/5/2024, 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.

Sylvia Johnson, whose address is 5504 Lansing Drive, Temple Hills, MD 20748, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jean F. Joyner aka Jean Joyner who died on 9/5/2018 with a Will and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (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 4/5/2024. 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 4/5/2024, 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: 10/5/2023

Davalyn Palmer Personal Representative

Sylvia Johnson Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

Kevin Judd, Esq., whose address is 601 Pennsylvania Ave., Suite 900, South Building, Washington DC 20004, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Dorothy Gertrude Taylor who died on 6/16/2022 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 4/5/2024. 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 4/5/2024, 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.

Don F. Smith, whose address is 518 Randolph St. NW Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Delores Smith who died on April 6, 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 4/5/2024. 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 4/5/2024, 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: 10/5/2023 Kevin Judd, Esq. Personal Representative

Date of first publication: 10/5/2023 Don F. Smith Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Andre O. McDonald, Esq. 10500 Little Patuxent Parkway Suite 420 Columbia, MD 21044 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Mariana E. Aguiar, whose address is 1320 Fort Stevens Drive, NW, Unit 1, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Carlos Francisco Aguiar who died on May 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 4/5/2024. 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 4/5/2024, 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: 10/5/2023 Mariana E. Aguiar Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2023 49

LEGAL NOTICES SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2023 ADM 1143 Lawrence R. Cannaday aka Lawrence Roosevelt Cannaday Decedent

LEGAL NOTICES

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

2023 ADM 001170

2021 ADM 000398

2023 ADM 001171

2023 ADM 001149

John Ernest Wainwright Decedent

Christine Elfrieda Green Decedent

Dan White, Jr. Decedent

Samuel C. Hamilton, Esq. Hamilton & Associates 8601 Georgia Ave., #503 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Attorney

Suren G. Adams, Esq. Adams Law Office, LLC 4201 Northview Drive Suite 401 Bowie, MD 20716 Attorney

James Henry Stephens Decedent

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

Michael D. Cannaday, whose address is 1732 Portal Dr. NW, Washington, DC 20012, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Lawrence R. Cannaday aka Lawrence Roosevelt Cannaday who died on 5/27/2020 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 3/5/2024. 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 3/5/2024, 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.

Terri Pollard, whose address is 10501 Brightfield Ln., Upper Marboro, MD 20772, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James Henry Stephens who died on July 11, 2012 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 4/12/2024. 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 4/12/2024, 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.

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES

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

Samuel C. Hamilton, Esq. Hamilton & Associates 8601 Georgia Ave. #503 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Attorney

Michael D. Cannaday Personal Representative

LEGAL NOTICES

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

Joan M. Wibon 1629 K Street, NW Suite 300 Washington DC 20006 Attorney

Date of first publication: 10/5/2023

LEGAL NOTICES

Date of first publication: 10/12/2023 Terri Pollard Personal Representative

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Valerie Edwards 1725 DeSales Street, NW Suite 600 Washington, DC 20036 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Sneh Keerti Varmaa, whose address is 4000 Cathedral Ave., NW, #605B, Washington, DC 20016, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of John Ernest Wainwright who died on December 7, 2020 with a Will and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (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 4/12/2024. 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 4/12/2024, 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: October 12, 2023 Sneh Keerti Varmaa Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Dearon J. Parson, whose address is 1663 Varnum Pl. NE, Washington, DC 20017, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Christine Elfrieda Green who died on February 6, 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 April 12, 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 April 12, 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 Danielle White-Alston, whose address is 7706 Castle Rock Drive, Clinton, MD 20735, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Dan White Jr. who died on 7/23/2023 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 4/12/2024. 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 4/12/2024, 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: 10/12/2023

Dearon J. Parson Personal Representative

Danielle White-Alston 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

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 00146

2023 FEP 000093

Rosetta M. Lawson aka Rosetta Lawson Decedent

October 27, 2020 Date of Death

James Larry Frazier 918 Maryland Avenue NE Washington, DC 20002 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Linda Gray, whose address is 9412 Small Drive, Clinton, MD 20735, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Rosetta M. Lawson aka Rosetta Lawson who died on September 9, 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 4/12/2024. 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 4/12/2024, 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.

Jessalyn Pendarvis Name of Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS Marco D. Pendarvis, whose address is 1618 Young Pointe Blvd. Montgomery Alabama 36106 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Jessalyn Pendarvis, deceased, by the Probate Court for Montgomery County, State of Alabama, on December 21, 2022. Service of process may be made upon Ralea Roberts, 3139 Cherry Rd. NE Washington, DC 20018 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C. The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real estate. 609 6th Place SW, Washington, DC 20024. 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: 10/12/2023

Date of first publication: 10/12/2023

Marco D. Pendarvis Personal Representative

Linda Grey Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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50 OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2023

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OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2023 51

CIVIL SUIT from Page 1

CRIME from Page 1 Co-sponsors include D.C. Councilmembers Kenyan McDuffie (I-At large), Brianne Nadeau (D-Ward 1), Brooke Pinto (D-Ward 2), Matt Frumin (D-Ward 3), Janeese Lewis George (D-Ward 4), and Charles Allen (D-Ward 6). White noted that the majority support on the council solidifies the passage of the bill, which he touted as a means of ensuring that ongoing programs and entities are working together and at an optimal level. “Programs exist in siloes and not a lot of young people know about them,” White said. “The programs maximize effectiveness by working in concert. The folks they would have to work with are young folks themselves -- those who are taking the wrong road need different things. We need to create programs that work for them and we need a strategy to implement coordination.”

POLICE COMMIT VIOLENCE TOO, LAWYER SAYS

As of Oct. 10, MPD has recorded a 38% increase in homicides from the previous years and a doubling of motor vehicle theft. Since the start of her third term, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has been at odds with the D.C. Council about how to tackle public safety. She has been locked in step with Pinto, the council’s public safety and justice chair who shepherded the passage of emergency legislation this summer and recently introduced other legislation that has caught some residents’ ire. Days before At-large Councilmember White announced his legislation, Pinto hosted a committee hearing about the beleaguered D.C.

52 OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2023

Office of Unified Communications, which has been criticized for not answering calls, dispatching emergency personnel to the wrong locations, and inaccurately relaying information. DFS and MPD has faced an equal share of controversy, with an unaccredited lab and officers’ violations of Fourth Amendment rights causing the USAO to decline prosecuting 2 out of 3 arrestees in 2022. When it comes to DFS, White said the lack of accreditation has precluded the agency from competing with Maryland and Virginia for the top talent. For some people, like Andrew O. Clarke, police officers’ violation of rights also cannot be overlooked in conversations about how to improve public safety. Clarke, an attorney for the families of Lazarus Wilson and Dalaneo Martin, a teenager killed by U.S. Park Police earlier this year, has worked to secure prosecution for police officers who kill civilians. On Friday, he spoke about these efforts at length in front of D.C. police headquarters. In his statement atop the yellow truck, he explained what he described as a systemic failure to hold police officers accountable when they kill civilians, and how that reverberates throughout a community that’s already starved for resources. “The success and development of our community is prevented when the laws don’t protect us from state-sanctioned violence,” Clarke said. “The Coalition of Concerned Mothers has faced adversity that’s unique to having to bury someone you brought into this world. Knowing that the state-sanctioned killings are made to be legal exacerbates this. The killers are in our communities.” WI @SamPKCollins

that the floor replacement that started in July, and the apartment inspections and repairs that WinnCompanies scheduled for Aug. 30 through Sept. 7, violate tenants’ lease agreement because of the lack of advance notice given to tenants. It follows a letter Richmond sent the D.C. Office of the Attorney General in July. While Richmond has been successful in turning away contractors, she said other tenants hadn’t been allowed the option of refusing upgrades. She also alleged that WInnCompanies didn’t provide tenants, some of whom are unable to control their urination, with relocation, transportation, food and water, along with other resources while they awaited the completion of the floor replacement. Since a 2020 building fire, the floors in nearly half of the units at Paul Laurence Dunbar Apartments have been replaced. In recent weeks, Richmond has expressed concern about how, or whether, WinnCompanies would relocate tenants who’ve yet to have their floors replaced and other repairs done to their apartments. On Sept. 5, Richmond and Rob Donahue, the attorney representing WinnCompanies, stood before D.C. Superior Court Magistrate Judge Rahkel Bouchet. During that hearing, Richmond alleged that WinnCompanies haphazardly conducted the floor replacements and other repairs in preparation for Department of Housing and Urban Development National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real Estate (HUD NSPIRE) inspections that happened on Sept. 7 Richmond told the Informer that, despite conducting monthly inspections for nearly a year, WinnCompanies hasn’t effectively tackled rodent infestation and other problems at Paul Laurence Dunbar Apartments. “Winn Company is doing this work at the last minute to try to bring the building into compliance and that’s the problem,” Richmond said. “Had they taken care of those problems that we had before, there wouldn’t be a need for the mad rush that we’re faced with now. These inspections are making us uncomfortable.”

A REVIEW OF RICHMOND'S CASE IS UNDERWAY

A representative of the Department of Buildings (DOB) inspected Richmond’s apartment on Sept. 28. Bouchet arranged the DOB visit during the Sept. 5 hearing because, as she told Richmond, it wasn’t clear if the

courtroom serves as the proper forum for addressing Richmond’s qualms about conditions at Paul Laurence Dunbar Apartments. Bouchet also suggested that Richmond consult a court-appointed attorney; Richmond erroneously served papers on her own behalf to a WinnCompanies representative who was unqualified to receive the civil suit against the company. In response to an Informer inquiry, a WinnCompanies spokesperson said property management staff at Paul Laurence Dunbar Apartments conduct annual inspections of every unit, while the equity investor, the lender, D.C. Department of Housing and Community Development, D.C. Housing Finance Agency and HUD do the same every one to three years. They also cited an onsite maintenance team and pest control company that routinely provides inspections and maintenance. On Aug. 16, tenants received notifi-

Earlier this year, the tenant said that they were given a month's notice to pack up more than a decade's worth of belongings in preparation for the floor replacement scheduled for the latter part of July. cation of the annual property management inspection and HUD NSPIRE inspections, the spokesperson said. On Sept. 5, tenants received another reminder about the HUD NSPIRE inspections. The property management inspections, which preceded the Aug. 30- through Sept. 7 rodent abatement and apartment repairs, took place on Aug. 21- 25. In regard to the floor replacements, the WinnCompanies spokesperson noted that property management sent tenants letters in three languages on June 13 and June 26. They also said that no tenants were required to have flooring installed. In advance of the floor replacement, the tenants received boxes two weeks in advance so the flooring contractor and property management staff could move their belongings to complete the work. In total, 18 out of 20 tenants had their floors replaced without incident, the spokesperson said. During the nearly six hours of the floor replace-

ment, tenants were encouraged to utilize a $50 meal gift card, and wait in the common rooms on the first floor of the Paul Laurence Dunbar Apartments. HUD encourages tenants to contact the performance based contract administrator of Assisted Housing Services Corporation when complaints about living conditions haven’t been resolved by the building manager. In 2018, HUD gave Paul Laurence Dunbar Apartments a below average Management and Occupancy Review score. Deficiencies had since been resolved, resulting in satisfactory scores between 2019 and 2023, a HUD spokesperson told The Informer.

SOME RESIDENTS RECOUNT TENUOUS SITUATIONS WITH MANAGEMENT

As another tenant of the Paul Laurence Dunbar Apartments told the Informer, rodents still have a significant presence in the apartment complex, regardless of the techniques executed by exterminators and building managers. In years past, the tenant, who requested anonymity, had to throw away furniture and clothes that had been damaged by rodents. They told the Informer that the floor replacement could further expose them to this problem. Earlier this year, the tenant said that they were given a month's notice to pack up more than a decade's worth of belongings in preparation for the floor replacement scheduled for the latter part of July. As the tenant recounted, they had been berated by building management and threatened with eviction for noncompliance in the weeks leading up to the floor replacement. By the time contractors entered the tenant’s apartment on July 27, all of their belongings had been packed in boxes and labeled. After the contractor finished replacing the floors and the tenant returned to their apartment, they found the boxes rearranged in a manner that made it difficult to recover medicine and other important materials. All in all, the process has been confusing for the tenant who, out of frustration with building management, has had to rely on their daughter as a mediator. "Some things I didn't understand," the tenant said. "When they used [acronyms], I didn't know what they meant. I had no help, except for one daughter. The building manager yelled [for me to get ready]. I don't want to deal with that woman anymore. I'm not talking to her." WI @SamPKCollins

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SHAREEF from Page 32 spect for the lives and well-being of Palestinian non-combatants. We stand together with all the oppressed people in the world – Muslims, Jews, Christians – no matter

JACKSON from Page 32 filled positions at an unimaginable 7,000. The destructiveness of DeSantis’ war on wokeism is likely to be felt for a generation. As public institutions engaged with children, schools have always been centers of controversy. In the South, segregation enforced separate but unequal schools, dividing children by race. In the North, as Jonathan Kozol detailed, public schools reflected the “savage inequality” of neighborhood disparities in wealth and race. Busing is routine across America, but it became a lightning rod when courts ordered busing to try to integrate schools in metropolitan areas. In the countries that rank the highest in educational proficiency, teachers are treated with respect and paid well. In Finland, which ranks highest in international testing, gaining admission to a teacher’s college is fiercely competitive. Teachers are supplied with the resources, the teaching aides,

MARSHALLfrom Page 32 understand that the traumatic experiences of a child must be considered as part of the educational approach. The school’s culture is guided by the type of language that builds empathy to reduce the impact of trauma on the classroom. Ballou High School has moved in the direction of asking, “What happened to you?” instead of “What’s wrong with you?” Each day, when a child enters a school building, teachers and staff must have the trauma awareness of knowing that many of those students often bring their adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) to school with them. Since the schools have already identified those students considered to be at-risk, they will always be on the front line of defense because, in many cases, in the case of Ballou High School, at-risk students are students who are identified as homeless during the academic year, under the care of Child and Family Services Agency, qualify

the classroom sizes vital to doing their job well. In the U.S., teachers spend an average of about $700 out of their own pockets on school supplies, with those in the poorest neighborhoods spending the most. Passionate debates about what is taught, what books are read, what history is imparted are inevitable. We want children to learn about America’s triumphs, but we also can’t whitewash our history and present it as a fairy tale. Children need to learn about our victories and our failures, our horrors, our shameful chapters, as well. We can’t learn from our mistakes if we don’t admit them. In these partisan times, when social issues — abortion, race, women’s rights, LGBTQ rights, immigration — are at the center of our political turmoil, it is inevitable that schools will be engaged in those debates. Teachers inevitably will be at the center of such debates, not merely witnesses to them but active participants in them. Those with expe-

pray for the peace and the prosperity of Israelis and Palestinians and work to help bring about a just, honorable existence for the Palestinian people, and for all our brothers and sisters in the family of mankind. The International Coalition for Peace and Reconciliation (ICPR) is representative of a group of Imams rience in the and leaders in classroom association are with,likely and to have the best insights on of what is a product of, the leadership the works and what doesn’t.Mohammed late Imam W. Deen We WI surely don’t want partisan (raa). politicians using schools as a political football. We want teachers to be respected, free to express their views and share their expertise. We want parents to be involved, able to express their values, their hopes and their fears. Somehow these common sense ideas, which the vast majority would agree upon, too often get lost in the battles. Even in the midst of the ongoing argument, we should not forget to honor and respect those who choose to teach our children. We should not forget that one teacher who can unleash a child’s imagination or feed his or her curiosity can transform a life. Thomas Jefferson believed that public education is vital to a democracy, that a well-educated citizenry would be happier, and better able to build a vibrant community. Surely that’s a lesson we should all remember. WI

for Supplemental Nutrition Program (SNAP), qualify for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and those students who are at least one year older than the expected age for their grade. While the school’s enrollment of 636 students is 98 percent Black, 85 percent of those students are at-risk. When asked, “What happened to you?” the answer may involve some form of ACE extending from household dysfunction. ACE for school students can be the burden of a family’s economic hardship, incarcerated household member(s), the absence of adequate adult support, household substance abuse, and emotional, physical, and sexual abuse. Expanded ACEs can include high rates of witnessing community violence and extended exposure to racial discrimination. Because of the situation in the home, many kids are never given a fair shot of making it in life from the beginning. Ultimately, the community pays the price. Today’s kids may not be burning the village down,

but they are undoubtedly shooting it up. The shootings from the two previous Morgan State homecomings involved community members bringing the violence on campus. The same is likely to be true for this year’s shooting. Morgan State is the largest HBCU in the state of Maryland. Like all HBCUs, the annual homecoming celebration is a tradition special to students, alumni, and local businesses. While homecoming has become a money maker not only for the schools but also for the community, it has always been a means of exhibiting school pride and unity. Any financial loss that may occur doesn’t compare to the long-term trauma suffered by any number of the 9,100 Morgan State students. The Morgan State shooting illustrates the need for the village to develop trauma awareness concerning its youth. At-risk high school youth live in a different world that society can no longer afford to ignore because Black Lives Matter for different reasons. WI

who they are. We feel their pain. Their hurt is our hurt. Palestinians have suffered, and their scars run deeply. The very least that the nations of the world should do - along with all right-minded people, Christians, Jews, Muslims, and others is to

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receive permission. I must admit that one member of our group was allowed to speak and made such an overwhelming case for a final vote, but the three members of the council that abstained before abstained again. Fortunately, the resolution passed with 8 of the 11 council members voting in the affirmative. To our astonishment, two of the abstaining votes came from women! CR-78 did pass and is now in effect. It will be helpful to current and future members of the county council. It covers Parental leave and caregivers' right to leave — even for those who abstained or did not support this important issue. At least one council member, of District 2, made statements that

MORIAL from Page 33 meal was coming from,” Butler told Politico. “There were days she worked three jobs all in the same day to make sure she was able to keep a roof over our heads.” At Jackson State University, many of her professors were SNCC activists and CORE organizers who instilled in her a commitment to social justice and activism. “They took those experiences

JEALOUS from Page 33 more scarce. The fracking would worsen Denver’s poor air quality as well. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) raised its concern about ozone levels in the Rockies’ Front Range from serious to severe last year. The proposed wells would emit thousands of tons of "volatile organic compounds" and nitrogen oxide that make up ozone. The Superfund site, created by a now-closed Air Force base and city and county dumping, could be an unlikely

seem to support the lack of reasonable accommodations for her female colleagues of the Maryland General Assembly! One has to wonder what her abstention on her own council's resolution was really all about! Perhaps that is a question her district's constituents would like to know! It's a question they should ask before the next election. I am writing about this situation because we need to carefully read resolutions handled at meetings of those who vote on our laws/rules. After learning, we need to be in touch with those representing us to find out how they are planning to vote, and when we can't reach them, we must show up in person at the meeting from introduction to conclusion of bills or resolutions. When we don't show up, one day when we learn how the and poured them into us in the classroom,” she said. “What are you doing for freedom? That was always the question. What are you doing for freedom today?” When she became the first mother to lead Emily’s List in its four-decade history, she said her own daughter “inspires me every day to show up and do the work to make sure every young girl knows they belong anywhere they choose to be.” WI hero in the story. The EPA won’t allow fracking under the unlined landfill, and more recently has raised questions about the impact of fracking close by on the already leaking site’s structural integrity. Opponents hope that federal concern will help sway regulators in Colorado. Opponents have made progress. Civitas agreed to move five well sites. The county commission, which narrowly defeated a drilling halt, this week is considering closing loopholes to its oil and gas ordinances to ensure no development within a mile of the

E"We think it’s so obvious that the downside is so much greater than the upside. But it feels like so much of the structure — the laws and regulations and approval process — are really working against us," says Julie Huygen.

decision impacts us negatively, it's too late. We have to live with the decision unless we can later get it overturned. Had constituents of the council members' districts and their supporters not shown up from beginning to end of the county council's meeting, the vote on this important reason for leave might not have passed. Women who might become pregnant, and others who might need urgent family care leave would have been discouraged from running for office — and yes, this would more greatly impact women — but not just women. If your city, county, state, or other governing body does not have such a leave provision as the one in this article, be the one who brings it up and be prepared to see it through to the end. WI

“What are you doing for freedom? That was always the question. What are you doing for freedom today?”

reservoir. U.S. Representative Jason Crow wrote to commissioners reiterating residents’ concerns. But Save the Aurora Reservoirs activists are learning how far powerful interests can tilt the playing field. Civitas needs mineral rights from fewer than half of the property owners to force fracking on the rest. While the city has a one-mile setback preventing drilling near the reservoir, opponents must fight for the same from the county. "We think it’s so obvious that the downside is so much greater than the upside. But it feels like so much of the structure — the laws and regulations and approval process — are really working against us," says Julie Huygen, an Air Force veteran who moved to Aurora two years ago. Kamin said she’s fighting for the grandchildren she relocated for. She’s energized by her 8-year-old granddaughter’s desire to take part. "She asked me, if they do that to the ground, where are the prairie dogs going to go?" WI

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