2016 BACK TO SCHOOL SUPPLEMENT
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District Mourns Death of Christopher Barry - Hot Topics, Page 4
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GOP New Hires Ready to Court Black Vote
By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer
Despite – or perhaps because of – unprecedented poor polling numbers in the African-American community, Republicans have ramped up their effort to court Black voters. The party has hired four new Black staff members in a move
which they hope will not only help GOP Presidential nominee Donald Trump in the General Election, but they’re also viewing the moves as a long-term effort to gain support among African Americans, a voting community who for decades have mostly cast their ballots for Democrats.
NEW HIRES Page 8
Vincent Orange Officially Resigns from D.C. Council
Will Head City's Chamber of Commerce By Sarafina Wright WI Staff Writer
5Dozens of Prince George's County Public School students received free immunizations this summer at the Kaiser Permanente Camp Springs Medical Center before first day of school on Aug. 23. / Photo by William J. Ford
Free Immunizations Offered as School Deadline Nears
By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill
Ronette Collins of Upper Marlboro said she couldn't get her 13-year-old son's immunizations done during the school year because he didn't turn in his form. Terrance Gibson of Camp Springs said he didn't receive any information about it for his 12-yearold twins until being told last week the immunizations are required before the first day of school on Tuesday in Prince George's County. Fortunately, Collins and Gibson took their children to receive free immunizations at Kaiser Per-
manente's Camp Springs Medical Center on Friday, Aug. 12, the last day the clinic offered them without a fee. Their names will be scratched off the list of 6,000 kindergartners, seventh-graders and repeating ninth-grade students still on file as being unvaccinated. "Called Drew Freeman Middle School [last week] regarding another issue and found out about the free clinic," Gibson said minutes before his daughter, Jael, got her vaccination shot. "We didn't have this type of free service growing up. Glad it's here now." Adrian Talley, executive director of student services for the county school system, said the 6,000 figure
from Friday should decrease when school nurses return this week to input immunization data. Talley said Prince George's tends to have a higher number of students than most counties in the state in getting immunizations done before a new school year begins. School and health department officials said some parents forget, or decide to wait until the summer to get their children vaccinated. "No one has smallpox anymore. Why? Because of immunization," Talley said. "By prevention disease, we ensure that children are in school, healthy, ready to learn. This
SCHOOLS Page 11
Vincent Orange officially bid farewell to the D.C. Council Monday, ceding to calls for him to resign from his at-large seat after causing an uproar with his plan to simultaneously head the city's Chamber of Commerce.
Orange addressed his critics during a news conference at the John A. Wilson Building, laying out his track record on business efforts and assuming his position as the chamber's president and chief executive officer. "I am a strong advocate for businesses," Orange said
ORANGE Page 23
5Vincent Orange exits the John A. Wilson Building in northwest D.C. after resigning from the city council on Aug. 15. Orange will now head the D.C. Chamber of Commerce. / Photo by Patricia Little
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W I HBreak O T the T OCycle P I C of S Women Domestic Violence COMPILED BY D. KEVIN MCNEIR / WI EDITOR
Christopher Barry Dies from Drug Overdose law enforcement. She said they threat,” she said.
By Tia Carol Jones WI Staff Writer
come to bring a Among the programs Marlow The D.C. community continues tohad mourn thetogether death of Marion Chrissense of uniformity in the way wants to see implemented are topher son of the23-yearlate D.C. Ward 8 council member and former WhenBarry, L.Y. Marlow's domestic violence victims and stricter restraining order policies, mayor Marion Barry. Cora Masters Barry, confirmed his more rights for victim's families old daughter told her His the stepmother, father survivors are treated. death on Sunday citing a drug overdose as the cause. of her daughter threatened her “She's using her own personal to intervene on behalf of a vic36, life madeofantheir unsuccessful in 2015 for the councilpain seat,tova- tim, a domestic violence assesslife, Barry, and the child, run story, her own personal cated aftersomething his father’shad deathtoinbeNovember 2014. Words of condolences she knew push forward,” Davis-Nickens ment unit coupled with further continue pourher in from across thesaid Greater Washington done. Outto of frustration about Marlow. Area. At press training for law enforcement with time,law weenforcement's were unable tohandling confirm when Davis-Nickens funeral services will be held. said anyone agencies, a Child's Life Protecof the she decided to Barry whosaid, reads book In asituation, written statement, Masters “hisMarlow's sudden death haswill been tion Act and mandatory counselstart the Saving Promise it.” I She said she The “puts theof ing for batterers. devastating news to me. Mycamheart is “get broken. am in shock. news paign. case in such a way, averagefor “If we are ever going to eradihis death is beyond comprehension. I would like to thankthe everyone “It seems to and be asupport.” vicious cycle person can get it.” She said at the cate domestic violence, we must their concern thatAttorney won't General turn my family theoffering day, the book will look at both sides of the coin. Karl A. Racine,end whileofalso his condolences, loose,” Marlow said. Marlow help people begin to have a dia- We need to address both the vicsaid the tragedy highlights the pressing need to get drugs off our streets, shared her story with the audi- logue about domestic violence. including “dangerous which Barry allegedly consumed tim and the batterer,” Marlow ence at the Districtsynthetic Heightsdrugs,”Also present at the event was said. prior to hisViolence death, adding “synthetic drugs can induce immediate, and deadlywould reactions.” Domestic Symposium Mildred Muhammad, the psychotic exMarlow also like to see on May 7 at the District Heights wife of John Allen Muhammad, programs designed to raise Municipal Center. The sympo- who was sentenced to six consec- awareness among children in sium was sponsored by the utive life terms without parole public and private schools. She Family and Youth Services by a Maryland his role need on to be A gunman shotjury andforkilled an in imamfeels andchildren his assistant theeducatstreet near Center of the city of District their themosque Beltwayin Sniper attacks in ed about domestic violence. Queens last Saturday afternoon, the police said. Heights and the National Hook- 2002. Mildred Muhammad is “We to stop being pas- 64, The imam, Maulama Akon-jee, 55 and thehave assistant, Thara Uddin, Up of Black Women. the founder of After the Trauma, sive-aggressive with poor chilwere shot shortly before 2 p.m. near the mosque, Al-Furqan Jame Masjid, Marlow has written a book, an organization that helps the dren about domestic violence,” in the Ozone Park neighborhood. “Color Me Butterfly,” which is a survivors of domestic violence Marlow said. The their crime, which occurred during an ongoing of to anti-Muslim story about four generations of and children. Marlow has wave worked break across the U.S., has unsettled many in the community – an area domestic violence. The book is hostility “I lived in fear for six years. Six the cycle of abuse in her family, a growing of Muslim families from Bangladesh that inspired by her own experiences, described years in asfear is a longhub time. It is and is confident the policies shestradbetween and those of her grandmother, dles nottheanborder easy thing to Brooklyn come out andisQueens. pushing for will start that her mother and her daughter. of,” The she twosaid. men had just left a prayerprocess. session at the mosque. Police say it She said every time she reads appeared Mildred Muhammad said but “I the two had been targeted have released motive for plannot to take thesea policies to the excerpts from her book, she still shooting. people But whomany wantbelieve to help a were Congress and implore themrace to and the two targeted because of their can not believe the words came religion. domestic violence victim must change our laws,” Marlow said. from her. “Color Me Butterfly” be careful of how they go into “I will not stop until these poliwon the 2007 National “Best the victim's life, and understand cies are passed.” Books” Award. that she may be in “survival Tia Carol Jones can be reached “I was just 16-years-old when mode”. at tiacaroljones@sbcglobal.net Conner, 33, a and pastor and lawyer, is the new director of Maryland’s my Chuck eye first blackened my “Before you get to 'I'm going Democratic Party. said. In many respects to a political novice, Conner lips bled,” Marlow kill you,' it started as abrings verbalsever- WI alElaine attributes that the Party said they wanted in their new executive director: Davis-Nickens, presia common and Hook-Up experience with community outreach. dent of the touch National of BlackConner Women,previously said thereserved is no as the state party’s outreach director. The consistency in the way domestic fourth-generation pastor and attorney was “an easy choice” according to violence issues areBruce dealt Poole. with by Party Chairman “We had plaudits from people who were never connected with the party before,” he said. “We sent him out to a lot of African-American churches and tried to reach out to Black and Hispanic communities. People came back and said ‘We like this guy.’” Conner said he hopes to rebuild the party through outreach to people. “As a young Black man, I feel invested in making sure the Maryland Democratic Party is one that is inclusive and brings out the best in anyone that wants to serve,” he said.
Muslim Leaders Murdered Near Mosque in Queens
Wilhelmina J. Rolark In Memoriam Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, Sr. Wilhelmina J. Rolark THE WASHINGTON INFORMER PUBLISHER NEWSPAPER (ISSN#0741-9414) is NEWSPAPER (ISSN#0741-9414) is published THE WASHINGTON INFORMER Denise Rolark Barnes published on each Thursday.postage paid at Washington, D.C. and additional weeklyweekly on Thursday. Periodicals Periodicals Washingmailing postage offices. paid Newsat and advertising deadline is Monday prior to publication. STAFF ton,Announcements D.C. and additional mailing of- two weeks prior to event. Copyright 2000 by The must be received D. Kevin fices.Washington News andInformer. advertising All deadline rights reserved. POST McNeir, MASTER:Editor Send change of addressBurke, Marketing Director is Monday to publication. Anes to Theprior Washington Informer, 3117 Ron Martin LutherAdvertising/ King, Jr. Ave., S.E. Washington, Shevry Lassiter, Photo Editorwritten permisD.C. 20032. Nobe partreceived of this publication may be reproduced without nouncements must two Lafayette Barnes, AssistantthePhoto Editor sionprior fromto the publisher. The2016 Informer Newspaper cannotIV, guarantee return of weeks event. Copyright E. De Editor Subscription rates All are $30John per year, twoFreitas, years $45.Sports PapersPhoto will be received by photographs. The Washington Informer. notreserved. more than a week after publication. Make checks payableOnline to: Editor Dorothy Rowley, rights POSTMASTER: Send change of addresses to The WashZebraDesigns.net, Design & Layout THE WASHINGTON INFORMER ington Informer, 3117 Martin Luther Mable Neville, Bookkeeper 3117 Luther King, Ave., S.E.Thompson, • Washington, D.C.Sightings 20032 columnist King, Jr. Ave., S.E.Martin Washington, D.C. Jr. Mickey Social Phone: 202 • Fax: 202 574-3785 20032. No part of this publication may561-4100 Stacey Palmer, Social Media Specialist E-mail: news@washingtoninformer.com be reproduced without written permisAngie Johnson, Circulation www.washingtoninformer.com sion from the publisher. The Informer Newspaper cannot guarantee the return REPORTERS of photographs. Subscription rates are PUBLISHER Stacy Brown (Senior Writer), Sam P.K. Collins, $45 per year, two years $60. Papers will Denise Rolark Barnes Eve Ferguson, Will Ford (Prince George’s be received not more than a week after County Writer), STAFF REPORTERSD. Kevin McNeir, Dorothy publication. Make checks payable to: Brooke N. Garner Managing Editor Tia C. Jones, Ed Laiscell, Rowley, Rachel Sudduth, Sarafina Wright Carla Peay Assistant Managing Editor Odell B. Ruffin, Larry Saxton, (General Assignment Writer) THE WASHINGTON INFORMER Ron Burke Advertising and Marketing Mary Wells, Joseph Young 3117Mable Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E Bookkeeper Whittaker Washington, D.C. 20032 LaNita Wrenn Administration PHOTOGRAPHERS PHOTOGRAPHERS Phone: 202De561-4100 John E. Freitas Sports Editor Lafayette Barnes, IV, Lassiter, John E. DeFreitas, Shevry Fax:Victor 202 Holt 574-3785 Photo Editor John E. De Freitas, Maurice Fitzgerald, Roy Lewis,Joanne Patricia Little, news@washingtoninformer.com Zebra Designs, Inc. Layout & Graphic Design Jackson, RoyCorey Lewis, Parrish, Robert Ken Harris /www.scsworks.com Webmaster www.washingtoninformer.com Ridley, Victor Holt Travis Riddick
Chuck Conner Chosen to Lead MD Democratic Party
“
We have to stop being passive-aggressive with poor children about domestic violence. I plan to take these to Congress and MPD Chief Cathy Lanierpolicies Announces Retirement In aimplore surprise announcement, MPD to Chief change Cathy Lanier has our said she will them retire at the end of this month and has accepted a position as the NFL’s Vice President forlaws. Security. Lanier leaves afternot a 26-year career, the last 10 years I will stop until serving as the Department’s chief. She shared her feelings about the Department, the city and the future these policies are passed. in a press conference earlier this week.
“
In Memoriam The Washington Informer Dr. CalvinNewspaper W. Rolark, Sr.
“When I started in 1990, I had a high school education and a GED. I L.Y. Marlow was able to take commercial exams, get promoted and was able to earn two masters degrees. I owe my life to the city and to the Department,” she said. Victoria Jones During her tenure, crime in the District dropped by more than 25 Rushawn Walters percent. Mayor Muriel Bowser, who also attended the press conference, said she will begin looking for a replacement “both within and without.” 4 / May 15 - 21, 2008 The Washington Informer / www.washingtoninformer.com Several citizens, interviewed by Channel 7 reporters, said they believe Lanier did a great job for the city. However, one police union representative, less affirming in his views, said he was “ecstatic” to hear that she was moving on. Lanier officially leaves on September 17. CIRCULATION SUMMERPaul INTERNS Trantham
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AROUND THE REGION
Anita Bonds Endorses Grosso, White for At-Large Council Seats By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer At-large D.C. Council member and D.C. Democratic Party Chair Anita Bonds formally endorsed the candidacies of fellow Council member David Grosso and Robert White, Democratic nominees for two other at-large seats on the council. The announcement came during a breakfast meeting on Friday, Aug. 5, in which the three broke bread and shared their vision for the future of the District. Grosso, an at-large council member running for re-election, is a District native who graduated from Georgetown Law and served as legal counsel to both Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.) and former Ward 6 Council member Sharon Ambrose. Bonds said in a statement that Grosso has earned a reputation for his advocacy to making the District better for all residents by providing them with greater educational opportunities, increased health care services, and advocating for an open and transparent government. As chairman of the council's Committee on Education, Grosso's leadership, dedication, and efforts towards bringing "predictability to school modernization projects, support for breaking the cycle of truancy, and advocacy for greater student learning outcomes focused on the preparation of D.C youth for higher education or obtainable jobs in our modern society stands out," Bonds said. "Moreover, while he and I have not agreed on every council proposal, I have found him to be a strong and caring advocate for the District of Columbia and its people," she said. "As a member of the Committee on Education, a colleague, and an elected official that often subscribes to many of the progressive principles as he, I support his candidacy for re-election." The councilwoman, who has
spent many years as a grassroots organizer, activist and political ally for campaigns across the spectrum of civil rights, social justice and women's equality movements, has served as an at-large member of the council since 2012. Of White, Bonds touted his history of service to his hometown before and after he completed studies at St. Mary's College, Oxford University and the American University College of Law. White, who was tapped last year by D.C. Attorney General Karl Racine as his office's director of community outreach, defeated incumbent Vincent Orange for the at-large council seat in the city's Democratic primary in June. Bonds noted that White served as president of the Brightwood Park Citizens Association, a law clerk in the District Court for Montgomery County, Maryland, legislative counsel for Norton and "Robert White is an outstanding public servant and advocate for progressive causes," said Bonds, who also serves as chair of the council's committee on Housing and Community Development. "His career choices stand out — civic leader, social justice activist, and community focused legal advisor who developed and monitored programs to support our most vulnerable residents." Both candidates will appear on the general election ballot on Nov. 8, and District voters will select two at-large representatives to serve on the council. According to the D.C. Board of Elections website, there are currently 10 candidates vying for the two positions, one of which must not be affiliated with the majority party, which is currently Democrat. As chair of the D.C. Democratic Party, Bonds said she thinks the law requiring two of the five at-large council seats to be of the minority party is undemocratic and should be changed. WI
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5D.C. Council member Anita Bonds with fellow councilman David Grosso and council hopeful Robert White / Courtesy photo
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WEEK OF AUG. 18 - 24, 2016 AUG. 18
1934 – Baseball great Roberto Clemente is born in Carolina, Puerto Rico. 1963 – Civil rights activist James Meredith, the first African-American admitted to the University of Mississippi, graduates. 1977 – Stephen Biko, anti-apartheid activist and leader of the Black Consciousness Movement in South Africa, is arrested. He is severely beaten while in police custody and dies of his injuries weeks later.
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1954 – Ralph J. Bunche, the first Black winner of Nobel Peace Prize, named undersecretary of the United Nations.
1917 – Famed blues singer and guitarist John Lee Hooker, known as the "King of the Boogie," is born in Mississippi. 1950 – Althea Gibson becomes the first African-American on the U.S. tennis tour. 1978 – Jomo Kenyatta, Kenya's first prime minister, dies at 86. 1989 – Huey P. Newton, co-founder of the Black Panther Party, is shot and killed by a reputed drug dealer in Oakland, California.
AUG. 20
AUG. 23
1942 – Soul music legend Isaac Hayes, best known for his Oscar-winning "Theme from Shaft," is born in Memphis, Tennessee.
1900 – The National Negro Business League, which was founded by Booker T. Washington, holds its first meeting in Boston.
AUG. 21
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AUG. 19
BUILD YOUR IMAGE, ONE SIGN AT A TIME
1936 – Basketball great Wilt Chamberlain, the only player in NBA history to score 100 points in a single game, is born in Philadelphia.
1831 – Nat Turner leads a rebellion of slaves and free blacks in Southampton County, Virginia, that resulted in the deaths more than 50 white people. 1904 – Count Basie, famed jazz pianist and bandleader, is born in Red Bank, New Jersey. 1932 – Melvin Van Peebles, actor, director and composer, is born in Chicago.
1950 – Edith Sampson, a lawyer and judge, becomes the first black U.S. delegate appointed to the United Nations. 1987 – Civil rights leader Bayard Rustin, chief organizer of the 1963 March on Washington, dies in Manhattan.
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VIEW P INT By Sarafina Wright
Can politicians’ incendiary language be responsible for inciting acts of violence? JARETT WALKER / NEW YORK
When you think about hate, it stems from a very dark place within your soul. Machiavelli has a quote that says if you cannot rule by love, rule by fear. When you think about some of the comments in the presidential election, it lights a certain fire under a certain group of people. A hateful message can do a lot of damage for a country as diverse as ours.
SHARAE GRIFFIN / WASHINGTON, D.C.
I will say yes, because the things that [Donald] Trump says is how a lot of America thinks, but he is the person at the forefront and putting it out there. He is open with it, so all of his fanbase and supporters will feel they can say and — maybe taking it one step further — actually do the things that he says. When you look at his rallies and see people getting kicked out, it is happening because he is OK with it.
JAHLIEL THURMOND / RICHMOND, VIRGINIA
Not really. I feel like at the end of the day, you are a woman or a man with your own morals and beliefs. I don't necessarily think people will do anything violent or attack anyone. I think it will bring communities together and not have a negative impact, but more of a “Kumbaya” effect.
AROUND THE REGION
FINAL PITCH
The Reality PITCH Competition By Inez Kelley CEO; Kelley Media Marketing, Inc www.thefinalpitchtv.com
THE CURVE BALL Life. I just want to stop there. It’s been a difficult week. Struggling to build coming through the fire…drying off from the rain wash up wrung out, it’s the curve ball that gets you. The other comes straight, another you see from a mile but the curve ball; they get you every time. When you least expect while standing poised over the mound, just enough powder to secure the grip, eyes focused and the mind is locked and loaded… Actually, Thursday was a good day; well better yet it was a great day! The last of 4 courses as part of the Sustainable Start-up Classes for FINAL PITCH ended on a high note. Leaving, contemplating the next phase, and reaching home rested preparing for the day ahead, check IM before retiring for the night. A message from an acquaintance, but that couldn’t right, could it..? I’ll wait until the morning; clarity always comes in the morning. Dialing and completely focused the phone answers on the other end the ball released from the pitchers glove; with the exchange of greetings heads straight and is on target; then the spin from the wind with the breath of his words ‘Yes, he died on Wednesday’ delivered the curve. It’s been a difficult week and I just want to stop here.
TREVON FACEY /
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA
I definitely think it could snowball into something. I do feel people will feel either more empowered or defeated. Whether it’s a Democrat or Republican, I do feel like there will be major issues. Whoever gets elected will feel like “we won and what we want takes priority.”
AALIYAH LAMBERT / WASHINGTON, D.C.
The presidential election could have two folds to it. A sense of anger for people who feel the need to do harmful things, but I also feel that it has brought a lot of insight to how much further our country has to progress in terms of race relations. The election can be used as a way to make sure people are educated about the issues and not just voting for people because of their popularity. WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM
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AROUND THE REGION NEW HIRES from Page 1
The new staff members are Ashley Bell, who has been a part of the Republicans strategy to boost its appeal in the African-American community since 2013; Shannon Reeves, a professor of Political Science at Alabama A & M University and former national director of state and local development for the RNC; Elroy Sailor, the founder and CEO of the J.C. Watts Companies; and Georgia State University senior Leah LeVell, whose father Bruce LeVell is the chairman of the National Diversity Coalition for Trump. Two of the new hires, Bell and Sailor, spoke at length with NNPA Newswire, expressing optimism that they can help turnaround the record low polling numbers that show Trump currently receiving just one percent of the Black vote. They also spelled out their mission to court students at historically black college and universities – HBCUs – and their ideas for criminal justice reform. “HBCUs are a very big focus of ours and part of our job is to make sure we engage HBCUs,” said Bell, who helped to launch the 20/20 Leaders of America, a bipartisan group of African-American elected officials and community activists. “We don’t have a lot of time, but HBCUs can help get the economy to where it needs to be and we recognize that,” he said. Denise Rolark Barnes Criminal justice reform should Independent Beauty Consultant be an issue of priority, Bell said. www.marykay/drolark-barnes.com “We have to make sure that 202-236-8831 America can turn the page from the current mass incarceration system. If we talk about communities being devastated by a failed criminal justice system where brothers and sisters are being disenfranchised and not being able to find a job we talk about fixing the criminal justice system,” Bell said. The solution is creating more entrepreneurs in the Black community. “I think the economic ideas and (301) 864-6070 education opportunities [put forth by the GOP] are very specific to the Black community. It’s been eight years since a Republican was in ofMCCOLLUM & ASSOCIATES, LLC fice and I think people have to say ADA, Age Discrimination, Benefits, Civil Rights, what are Republican ideas and what COBRA, Contracts, Deaf Law, Defamation, Disability Law, are Democrat ideas and we have to make sure that the Black vote is Discipline, Discrimination, FMLA, FLSA, FOIA, competitively fought for,” Bell said. Family Responsibility, Harassment, HIPPA, OSHA, Sailor, who in 2003 ignited efNational Origin Discrimination, Non-Compete, forts to build Watts Partners the naRace Discrimination, Rehabilitation Act, Retaliation, tion’s largest Black-owned lobbying n upper and lowercase, flush left as indicated on artwork at these pointHarassment, sizes: Consultant name in 11-point Helveticashop, Neue Bold; Severance Agreements, Sexual Torts, said Independent it’s important to rememn 9-point Helvetica Neue Light; Web site or e-mail address in 9-point Helvetica Neue Light; phone number in 9-point Helvetica Neue Light. ® Personal Web Site program ber that no party can claim 100 permay be utilized. t Beauty Consultant: Only Company-approved Web sites obtained through the Mary Kay Whistleblowing, Wage-and-Hour, Wrongful Discharge cent of the best models for America. SERVING MARYLAND, DC, & NORTH CAROLINA “I’ve been a Republican for over www.jmlaw.net (301) 864-6070 jmccollum@jmlaw.net 25 years and I have seen the end re-
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5Ashley Bell is one of four new hires by the GOP to help court the Black vote. / Courtesy Photo sults of some very good policies and new models that have proven successful in terms of creating opportunities and solving old problems in our community,” he said. “For example, former Congressman J.C. Watts authored the American Community Renewal and New Markets Act, which was signed into law by President Clinton,” Sailor said. “This legislation helped to empower faith-based organizations and spur development in our communities.” Among the new team’s assignments, Bell will serve as Senior Strategist and National Director of African American Political Engagement and focus on winning elections for 2016. Reeves will serve as Senior Advisor to the RNC’s Political Department and will focus on the X’s and O’s of politics – the data, and voter identification. Sailor has the job of Senior Advisor to the Chairman and focus on infrastructure, institutional growth and sustainability. “America has the greatest two party political system in the world, but I believe the best outcome for our community is to ultimately be in a position where both parties feel compelled to compete for our vote,” Sailor said, before quoting Congressman William L. Clay of Missouri who said “We should not have permanent friends, nor permanent enemies we should have permanent interest.” “My task is to focus on developing a long-term vehicle where issues, opportunities and challenges facing our community can be discussed consistently through a solution oriented manner not just during a political get out the vote season,” Sailor said. “Every ethnic group in America has built up the political infrastruc-
ture required to engage both parties. However, our community has, in my opinion, only done an outstanding job of building infrastructure for ourselves in the Democrat Party, so we need to focus on building that Black Republican infrastructure as well.,” he said. Many African-Americans have never had the opportunity to vote for Republicans and they routinely vote for Democrats at every level, Bell said. The result, he argued, are that Black communities still have too few jobs and too many failing schools. “The status quo isn’t good enough,” Bell said. With the addition of Bell, Sailor and the others, the GOP shows it’s “the party that promotes new models to solve old problems,” RNC Chairman Reince Priebus said in a statement. While Democratic Presidential nominee Hillary Clinton has pledged to engage the Black community in part by placing ads in African-American-owned newspapers, the GOP hasn’t made the same promise. Bell and Sailor both deflected the question and Sean Spicer, the chief strategist and communications director for the RNC, didn’t respond to an email request to comment on the issue. Asked why Blacks should vote Republican this fall, both Sailor and Bell had quick responses. “We are conservative and we want to make sure African Americans understand what the conservative issues are that we face,” Bell said. “I believe African-American voters are sophisticated enough to make a political decision that best fits our interest,” Sailor added. WI
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AROUND THE REGION
By D. Kevin McNeir / WI Editor
The World According to Dominic
"Beware the Power of the Tongue”
There are plenty of popular sayings which suggest that what we do has far more weight than the words we use. Two examples are “actions speak louder than words” and the phrase I remember from my childhood “sticks and stones may break your bones but words will never hurt you.” And while adages like these may bring comfort to us during our idyllic, innocent years, I have learned that in most cases they really aren’t true. Words not only have great power but they can hurt. For those who read and believe the Bible, when God decided to create the universe, He simply said, “Let there be light” and light appeared. Words were used to form a new reality. Thus in the case of the kinds of language recently employed by GOP presidential candidate Donald Trump, from his musings over Muslims, women, the handicapped and gays to what Second Amendment diehards might want to do about Hillary Clinton, we see examples of how words and the attitudes behind them can bring new realities into being. Weapons more commonly associated with destruction like guns, knives and bombs may have more immediate impact when unleashed on others, but words can also cause devastation – it just takes a little longer. As one who has made a living by forming words into phrases, then paragraphs and finally into stories, I know how powerful words can be.
Believe it or not, sometimes I spend hours just considering the words I use, searching for better options, better symbols and more specificity. Have you ever told someone that you love them? What effect does such a phrase have on that moment when you first speak them into existence and on the relationship? Alternatively, consider how the mood shifts when you use a derogatory term to describe another, the N-word or “faggot” being just two of many possibilities? And how is the present changed and the future shaped after saying “I hate you” or “I hate them?” I remember my parents emphasizing the importance of word choice in both my conversation and writing. However, despite their lessons and examples, I sometimes chose the lesser road – using my tongue to hurt and demean others – flipping words and phrases like a whip or a sword to inflict pain, anger and even fear. Later I realized the damage I had caused and learned with regret that words once spoken can never be taken back. We have far greater power resting on the tip of our tongue than we realize. And we have the ability to use that power for good or for bad. Beware the power of the tongue. WI
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BEAT THE HEAT
Some folks in the D.C. region find refuge from the heat at the National Gallery of Art water fountain as temperatures soared into triple-digits over several days in August. / Photo by Patricia Little
Who’s Reading the Informer? Cornell Jones likes to read The Washington Informer before customers arrive at his shoeshine stand at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel in northwest D.C. / Photo by Patricia Little
WORDS TO LIVE BY Charles B. Rangel View
Sports Photos by John De Freitas
at:
10 AUGUST 18- 24, 2016
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“We see a different kind of slavery today. Guest-workers, lured from third world countries with false promises, are forced to work in hazardous work conditions with very little wages in countries where oftentimes they do not even speak the language. These modern-day slaves have no recourse but to follow the directives of their employers to exploit their helplessness.” [Speech, U.S. House of Representatives, July 19, 2006]
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AROUND THE REGION SCHOOLS from Page 1 is why it's so important. If not, [parents] risk their children being noncompliant." The Maryland Department of Health requires all children to receive vaccinations, but religious or medical exceptions are permitted with documentation showing the child is "in satisfactory health and free from any communicable disease." Kaiser Permanente provided vaccines for meningitis, chickenpox, Tdap and polio for 50 children this summer and a total of 300 since it began working with the Prince George's school system in the fall. "We believe that vaccinations keep our children healthy," said Sherrie Wilson, director of paternal child services for Kaiser in the D.C. area. "We want to make sure we are supporting the school system in that regard." Children still have time to get free immunizations at various locations before Tuesday. Parents can register with the Maryland Partnership for Prevention, a nonprofit health advocacy group of Owings Mills, at http://immunizemaryland. org/general-events/ for free vaccinations offered from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 20 at three locations: * Beltway Plaza in Greenbelt; * The Mall at Prince Georges in Hyattsville; and * The Shops at Iverson (formerly Iverson Mall) in Temple Hills. The county's Health Department will also provide free walk-in services from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 18 at Oxon Hill Elementary in Oxon Hill; 4-7 p.m. at Oxon Hill High School Wellness Center; and Friday, Aug. 19 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Buck Lodge Middle School in Hyattsville. Diane Young, director of the Family Health Services Division of the county health department, said immunizations can also be done at from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 23 and 24 at these school-based wellness centers: Bladensburg, Fairmount Heights, Northwestern and Oxon Hill high schools. Appointments and walk-ins through the health department are also accepted until Aug. 26 at two locations, Cheverly Health Center in Cheverly and Dyer Health Center in Clinton. "Vaccines [are] one of the primary health issues," Young said. "It protects that child and the community around it."
SPECIAL MEETING GOVERNMENT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA 7D ADVISORY NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSION DOROTHY DOUGLAS (COMMISSIONER SINGLE MEMBER DISTRICT 7D03)
August 20, 2016 Special Meeting for Kenilworth Courts, to engage The Kenilwoth Courts Residents into the discussion of the redevelopment and planning of the Kenilworth Courts Project to address the community concerns.
Date: August 20, 2016 Where: 4500 Quarles Street NE (BASEMENT LEVEL) Time: 1:00 PM GUEST SPEAKERS MS. DENISE STANLEY (KENILWORTH RESIDENTIAL COUNCIL) DOROTHY DOUGLAS (COMMISSIONER SINGLE MEMBER DISTRICT 7D03)
5Students must have vaccinations before attending school. William J. Ford ease Control and Prevention, those who don't receive vaccinations can become seriously ill. In 2014, the CDC reported nearly 670 cases of measles during an outbreak in 27 states, the most since the elimination of the illness was declared in 2000. The agency attributes the numbers from those unvaccinated in the Amish community in Ohio and a massive outbreak of the disease in the Philippines. Last year, measles cases decreased by about 70 percent to 189 reported in 24 states and the District. Preliminary data for this year shows 48 measles cases reported as of July 22. The CDC, which observes August as National Immunization Awareness Month, said majority of the reported cases were of unvaccinated people.
/ Photo by
Young said vaccinations helped eliminate diseases such as smallpox, with the last known case in 1949 in America and 1977 in Africa. To break through the language barrier, Young said literature has been distributed since February in English and Spanish. She also said nurses at various clinics speak Spanish and some African dialects including Swahili. "Outside of making it through a legislative process, we constantly put out a message to showing schedules to parents," she said. "We just want children to be healthy." For more information, visit www.pgcps.org. Parents or guardians can call the school system at 301-952-6001 or the county health department at 301-5833300. WI
ANDRE GOULD AND REPRESENTATIVES (DEVELOPMENT PROJECT MANAGER DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY)
COMMISSIONERS 1. Coombr, Bob (SMD7D01) 7D01@anc.dc.gov 2. Hasan, Siraaj M. (SMD 7D02)7D02@anc.dc.gov 3. Dorothy Douglas 7D03@anc.dc.gov 4. McKay, Claude B. (SMD7D04) 7D04@anc.dc.gov 5. Hazel, Janis (SMD7D05) 7D05@anc.dc.gov 6. Muhammad, Sherice (SMD7D06) 7D06@anc.dc.gov 7. Lini, Justin A. (SMD7D07) 7D07@anc.dc.gov
Dorothy Y.Douglas _____________________________________ Commissioner Dorothy Douglas Represents Single Member District 7D03
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PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY Some Still Have Faith in Metro, Some Don't By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill Shirley Beachum occasionally takes Metrorail to visit friends and places in D.C. to avoid increased prices at the parking meters. But time is of the essence for Sheldon Spencer, who used to travel by Metro's bus and train but now either drives or rides his bike from his Greenbelt home to his job in Laurel. "It saves money to take the Metro, but I prefer to drive because I know there will be no delays," Spencer said Sunday, Aug. 14 while eating breakfast at the Roosevelt Center in Greenbelt. "The convenience of getting to work and wherever else I need to go makes it easier for me."
Beachum and Spencer are two of the thousands of people Metro officials are trying to convince that the transit agency's nearly yearlong SafeTrack maintenance project will improve the system and transform its image. But on an almost-daily basis, Metrorail riders receive text and email alerts about delays, track issues and other problems, such as this one at 7:20 a.m. Friday, Aug. 12: "Blue Line: Expect residual delays to Franconia-Springfield due to an earlier train malfunction at Crystal City." Thirteen minutes later at 7:33 a.m., "Blue Line: Normal service has resumed at Crystal City." The transit agency is often a target of scorn and derision on social media sites, with Twitter user
5Metro General Manager Paul J. Wiedefeld (right) and board Chairman Jack Evans hold a press briefing Aug. 10 at
the transit agency's headquarters in northwest D.C. to provide updates on Metro's SafeTrack maintenance project and other safety measures. / Photo by William J. Ford
handles that include "Unsuck DC Metro" and "Fire Metro Employees." Meanwhile, officials held a press briefing Aug. 10 to announce that upcoming SafeTrack maintenance projects may include closing stations on the weekends to complete more work. Metro General Manager Paul J. Wiedefeld attributed the possible closings to the July 29 train derailment between Ballston-MU in Arlington and West Falls Church in Falls Church. Metro's preliminary findings showed no evidence of train operator error, but the cause could've been from the rails being too wide as a result of deteriorated rail ties, or weather. About 60 peo-
ple were aboard the train, but no injuries were reported. Last weekend, the agency shut down a portion of the Red Line between the Grosvenor-Strathmore and Shady Grove stations in Montgomery County to repair tracks near the Twinbrook station. The SafeTrack project's seventh phase, or surge, ends Thursday, Aug. 18 with continuous single-tracking on that line between Shady Grove and Twinbrook. The eighth surge begins Saturday, Aug. 20 with single-tracking on the Blue and Yellow lines between the Franconia-Springfield and Van Dorn Street in Northern Virginia. "Safety trumps service at Metro at all times," Wiedefeld said during
Prince George's Co. EDC: Veterans Wanted By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill
5Laurie Sayles Artis, owner of Civility
Management Solutions, talks about her consulting business on Aug. 10. /Photo by William J. Ford
12 AUGUST 18- 24, 2016
The Prince George's County Economic Development Corporation wants businesses to hire unemployed veterans — about 500 of them. The quasi-governmental agency's "Operation 500" initiative began this month and will hold job fairs once month, except November, until all the veterans are hired by Jan. 31. "We've got 2,700 veterans unemployed in Prince George's County, about 2,100 of them living in poverty," said Jim Coleman, the agency's CEO and president. "We've got to find a way to put every veteran that wants a good job to work here in Prince George's County." CLP Resources, a staffing
agency that seeks employees for construction work, recruited 10 veterans at a recent job fair at EDC's headquarters in Largo. Myron Garrett, an onsite project manager in CLP's Laurel office, said its contractors offer hourly wages for occupations such as carpenters ranging between $18 to $20, and $20 to $25 for electricians. Each hire would be based on a person's qualifications, or skill set. Some of the company's clients have been Fort Meade in Maryland and Fort Belvoir in Virginia. "We hire veterans because of their service to our country," he said. "We want to pay homage to our heroes. We always are in the need for manpower." According to a Bureau of Labor Statistics report released Aug. 5, the unemployment rate
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nationally remained the same in June and July at 4.9 percent. However, that number for jobless veterans rose to 4.7 percent in July, up from 4.2 percent a month prior. The bureau doesn't list a breakdown of veteran unemployment rates per state, but does highlight Maryland at 4.3 percent in June. The District had one of the highest in the country at 6 percent and Virginia with one of the lowest at 3.7 percent. Unemployment rates for each state in July are scheduled to be released Friday, Aug. 19. To boost the veteran workforce, President Barack Obama signed a law in 2011 that would provide tax credits for employers who hire veterans. Civility Management Solutions of Hyattsville consults
VETERANS Page 48
a press briefing at the agency's headquarters in northwest D.C. "I know with SafeTrack for most people it's been about the impact it has on their daily commute." Wiedefeld outlined some additional measures the agency is readying, some of which the Federal Transportation Administration addressed in a safety directive earlier this month. Metro plans to overhaul and rewrite its track-inspection program, with group of experts from the University of Tennessee's Center of Transportation Research coming to D.C. next month to conduct a two-week training session for Metro track inspectors to better identify and categorize defects. D.C. Council member and Metro board Chairman Jack Evans (D-Ward 2) said if it's determined some employees are at fault, they should be held accountable. "If we find that people did not do their jobs ‌ they [should] get fired," he said. "People are on notice that they have to step up their game. If people are unwilling to do the job they are hired to, then they have to find something else to do." Although Prince George's County Councilwoman Deni Taveras (D-District 2) of Adelphi has more faith with the new leadership at Metro, she said it should demand more money from the federal government and invest in the county's stations such as West Hyattsville and Prince George's Plaza in Hyattsville. "[Metro is] not seeing the longterm investments we would like to see in and around the Metro stations," Taveras said. "At the heart of this is the federal government has failed to federally fund the needs of [Metro] to address the safety concerns. That would improvement Metro a whole lot more." WI
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PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY BBQ Sauces, Desserts Showcased in Prince George's Food Festival By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill Homemade barbecue sauce, very vanilla cupcakes and crab cakes took their places among other delectable cuisines at
the fourth annual Taste Prince George's Food and Wine Festival in Upper Marlboro. About two dozen vendors showcased their cooking talents Saturday, Aug. 13 alongside the Wave Pool at Six Flags America amid 96-degree
heat with the real-feel at 109. "The heat is killing me right now, but this barbecue sauce is just as hot," said Darren McIntyre, who along with his younger brother, Jerome Hunter, have ran Mama's Boiz catering since 2013. They're
currently seeking a storefront to manage their business in the Capitol Heights area. The majority of the local entrepreneurs attend similar festivals to promote their products cooking and preparing their food at their homes. They sell their items via websites, social media, cellphones and old-fashioned word of mouth. Aleatra Jones, 34, owner of
Cake Wich Craft, works at Wesley Theological Seminary in Northwest and has a contract to prepare her ice cream cupcakes at the school's kitchen. "Cake and ice cream are the best of both worlds," she said. "It's a walking treat that keeps you cool." Jones of Fort Washington,
FOOD FESTIVAL Page 48
Creating and Sustaining Wealth
5Ahmad Moore, 11, of Waldorf, Md., Chase Plater, 9, of Bowie, Jacob Allen, 9, of Bowie and Ximena Acevedo-Silva,
12, of Baltimore compete in a cooking competition at Six Flags in Bowie during the Prince George’s County Food and Wine Festival on Aug. 13. / Photo by Shevry Lassiter
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Recently I uncovered a sobering statistic: In 1960, 40% of the African American population owned businesses and 85% of African American families had two-headed households. Today, only 7% of the population own businesses and 25% are two-headed households. In 56 years, there has been a 33% drop in African American owned businesses and a 60% drop in African American families with two-headed households. I doubted the severity and accuracy of these figures, until I returned to a book I read: “Our Black Year: One Family’s Quest to Buy Black in America’s Racially Divided Economy.” The author, Maggie Anderson confirms this data by noting: “the Kellogg team [2002 Economic Report] found 9,016 Black-owned food and beverage retail businesses- a number they noted was misleading because it includes liquor retail and specialty food stores in addition to grocery stores. But that number-as unlikely as it is- still amounts to only 6% of all the 148,901 food and beverage stores in the United States.” So-called wealth in communities of color is over dependent on two factors: home ownership and a good job (especially in the public sector). In these communities, housing values-even if there is some rebound- are far below neighboring exclusive communities. Unfortunately, many homes in communities of color are underwater (homes where the mortgage is higher than the equity) or in slow equity. Dollars, then thought to be used for college education or other investments are strangled because of anemic growth. This is a wakeup call to create pathways and investments for small & minority businesses. Owning and sustaining a business is the essential pathway for generational wealth, which in turn, is an ingredient for providing youth with educational opportunities. The Prince George’s Chamber of Commerce is working with elected officials and other stakeholders to unravel public & private procurement to expand business opportunities. We hope and contend that accelerating business opportunities as well as increasing businesses will help turn the tide of wealth collapse. Instead of wealth collapse, the Chamber will drive wealth creation. David C. Harrington President & CEO Prince George’s Chamber of Commerce www.pgcoc.org
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AUGUST 18 - 24, 2016 13
BUSINESS Donors, Sponsors Pony Up in Support of D.C.'s African-American Museum By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer Sponsorships and donations have been pouring into the new Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture, which is set to open Sept. 24 on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Most recently, the popular 1990s R&B group En Vogue donated performance-worn dresses to the museum. "Our dresses from the 'Never Gonna Get It (My Lovin')' video and the 'Giving Him Something He Can Feel' video will be debuting in the Smithsonian African American History museum on Sept. 24," group member Terry Ellis said. "So we're really super excited about that." NBA icon Michael Jordan also announced this month that he is providing a $5 million gift to the museum along with a game-worn 1996 NBA Finals jersey. The museum will reportedly place the famous jersey in a wing called Michael Jordan Hall, that will feature stories of 17 historic athletes. In a statement, Jordan noted athletes like Jesse Owens whose "talent, commitment and perseverance broke racial barriers and laid the groundwork for the successful careers of so many African-Americans in athletics and beyond." Museum director Lonnie G. Bunch III said Jordan's contribution will enable visitors "to explore how sports were used to break barriers as a way to gain full participation in American society." The museum will be the only national museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African-American life, history, and culture. It was established by an Act of Congress in 2003, fol-
14 AUGUST 18- 24, 2016
lowing decades of efforts to promote and highlight the contributions of African-Americans, according to the museum's website. To date, the museum has collected more than 36,000 artifacts. Nearly 100,000 individuals have become charter members of the museum and when it opens, it will be the 19th and newest museum of the Smithsonian Institution. Museum officials said it provides an opportunity for those who are interested in African-American culture to explore and revel in the history through interactive exhibitions, as well as help all Americans see how their stories, histories and cultures are shaped and informed by global influences. Earlier this year, The Hartford, a popular financial services company, announced its founding sponsorship of the museum. The company made a $1 million contribution over five years to support the design and construction of the building. "The Hartford has been a part of American history for more than 200 years, growing, thriving and changing along with our nation," said Susan Johnson, head of diversity and inclusion at The Hartford. "We are proud to be a founding sponsor of the National Museum of African American History and Culture and celebrate the important contributions of African-Americans to the American dream." On Feb. 22, 2012, the Smithsonian broke ground for the museum on a five-acre site at Constitution Avenue NW between 14th and 15th Streets. The 400,000-square-foot building has five levels above ground and four below. It will have exhibition galleries, an education center, a theater, café and store, as well as staff offices. Pinnacle donors — those who have contributed $20 million or
5NBA legend Michael Jordan has given $5 million to the new African American History and Culture Museum. (Courtesy photo)
Leaving a Legacy to Charity By Aimee D. Griffin, Esq. Many people decide to leave a legacy by contributing to their community through charitable giving. For example, many folks tithe 10% of their income to church or are annual members of theatre companies like the Kennedy Center or Arena Stage. Others commit funds to their former school or support historically black colleges through the United Negro College Fund. Still others choose to leave a legacy by supporting economic empowerment through the US Black Chamber’s Economic Development Fund. But while these aims to ‘give back’ are commendable, care should be taken to ensure they are sustained. When the person who has made consistent contributions to causes they hold dear, suddenly passes away or becomes ill, these contributions are jeopardized. To avoid this, I recommend that charitable givers pass on their visions as part of their estate plan. In this way, our charities will not lose significant sources of revenue and the mission that has been important to the donor can continue. There are numerous options for setting up a charitable contribution in your estate plan. The easiest is a simple bequest through your will that is a direct distribution upon passing through the probate process. I have outlined three options below. 1. Charitable Remainder Trusts (CRTs) are irrevocable, tax-exempt trusts in which you place assets to provide income for yourself during a specific period after which, the remaining assets will be turned over to your chosen charity. The trust can be funded with assets such as bonds, mutual funds, stocks, and real estate. It offers flexibility, a lifetime income stream for you, and significant tax benefits to you and your heirs. Ultimately, it may be even more beneficial for you than a simple bequest. For instance, if you have an appreciated asset like real estate, and you sell the property yourself, you will likely pay high capital gains taxes. But if you transfer the property to a charity through a CRT, the trustee may be able to sell the property with no gift, estate, or capital gains taxes for the donor. The trustee can then set up an investment that will provide an income stream for you, which will be subject to ordinary (i.e. lower) income taxes and capital gains. At the death of the last beneficiary or the end of the trust period, the remaining amount is distributed to the named charity. 2. A Charitable Lead Trust is different from a CRT because it allows you to place in trust assets that will be left to your heirs; however, you specify a set number of years during which a guaranteed amount in the trust will be paid to a charity. You pay a discounted gift tax when transferring assets to the trust and the trust's beneficiaries are free of estate taxes. 3. Setting up a Foundation is a way to provide systematic gifts of special importance to you, the founder. Foundations can fund college scholarships, research grants, and the maintenance of collections or real estate, among others. We must be strategic and thoughtful in developing our estate plans; it should include our values and strengthen our legacy, ideally while saving tax payments. Know your options when planning. But nothing will happen to forward your goals and your legacy if you do not plan. Aimee D. Griffin, Esq., The Griffin Firm, PLLC 5335 Wisconsin Ave NW, Suite 440, Washington DC 20015 www.thegriffinfirm-PLLC.com • 202-379-4738
MUSEUM Page 48 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
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Business Exchange
A Grand Place for Black Pride
by William Reed Are you attending the opening of the historic Smithsonian National Museum of African-American History and Culture on Sept. 24? Black pride is what matters and the museum is the modern-day embodiment of that pride and consciousness of our African heritage. The museum is an exemplary illustration of who we are. The museum is rooted in black cul-
ture and exaltation. Top museum officials responsibly met the $250 million cost of constructing this historical monument to survivors of the Middle Passage on the National Mall. The museum's exhibition space makes an ideal venue for Black groups and their organizations' ceremonies and performances. The museum is the sole national museum devoted exclusively to documentation of African-American life, art, history and culture. In 1988 — the year after he was sworn into Congress — civil rights icon John Lewis introduced a bill to create a national African-American museum in Washington. Assemblies of Congress resisted for decades but on Feb. 22, 2012, President Barack Obama and museum director Lonnie G. Bunch III broke ground on the Mall for the museum. Black-owned businesses played major roles toward the construction and building of
the museum in its mission of "collecting and preserving materials on African-Americans' history and cultural heritage." After much talk of blacks building Washington for free, the roles blacks played in building and financing the museum is admirable. Clark Construction Group, Smoot Construction and H.J. Russell & Company won the contract to build the museum, while McKissack & McKissack, the country's first African-American-owned architectural firm, provided project management. The Bethesda, Maryland-based Clark Construction Group has annual revenue in excess of $4 billion. Smoot Construction is one of the largest minority-owned construction firms in the country and trace their roots back to 1946 and the commercial masonry contracting business. The H.J. Russell Company became the fourth-largest minority-owned
business in the nation under the late Herman Russell. The museum site productively expands D.C.'s $7 billion tourism industry. Bunch says it "manifests the dreams of many generations." The concept for the museum goes back to the 1980s when African-American businessman Tom Mack, then chairman of Tourmobile Bus Company, pushed plans to advance tourism, economic development, education and the arts among 3.65˝blacks. x 8˝ Black & White The museum represents Black
Life in America. The museum owns a Jim Crow–era segregated railcar for visitors to experience segregation first-hand. The museum owns shards of stained glass from the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing and a Hymn book carried by Harriet Tubman that dates back to 1876. The museum acquired "The Mothership," the flying object that George Clinton and Parliament/Funkadelic used as a stage prop for their concerts. And the museum has the
REED Page 48
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NATIONAL Myths About Black Businesses Examined at Millennial Expo Panel Challenges Reputation of Inaccessibility, Poor Service By Sarafina Wright WI Staff Writer The role of African-Americans in the business world was the focus of a recent gathering of college-educated millennials. Influencers, professors and business owners participated Friday in a panel hosted by the Black Alumni Networking Expo at the National Press Club in northwest D.C., which dealt with the complexity of blackowned enterprises. "I've always supported black businesses since I was a kid," said Jasmine Crowe, founder and CEO of Black Celebrity
Giving. "It hasn't always been the cool thing to do, but growing up my mom made sure my teachers were black, doctors and so on. "We need a lot more education on seeking them out, but I will say that it starts at home," she said. Some panelists agreed with prevailing theories that black businesses aren't as reputable, but Tonya Rapley, CEO of My Fab Finance disputed the myth that African-Americans don't have a desire to support their own. "What it comes down to is opportunity and awareness,"
5 Candice Nicole, Kenneth Ward, Rob Hill Sr., Antwain Tate Goode, Jasmine Crowe and Tonya Rapley sit on a panel at the Black Alumni Networking Expo at the National Press Club in northwest D.C. on Aug. 12. / Photo by Roy Lewis
Rapley said. "A lot of us do value black business, but it's not the most convenient thing to do. Services, yes, but products, no. "We support them all the time when we get our hair done, get our cars fixed and when we eat out, but when we need detergent after work, black-owned detergent isn't on the shelves," she said. "Oftentimes with black products, they can't compete in the store, so we have to get them offline." Business consultant Antwain Tate Goode said that although products created by African-Americans are harder to access, black people must find a way to support. "Sometimes it won't always
be easy, but the onus is on us to stretch ourselves to help our community," he said. "Times have changed and we have a lot of quality to offer. We need to join our Black Chamber of Commerce and be comfortable with being valuable." Candice Nicole, CEO of Candice Nicole PR, said that dealing with black-owned establishments' customer service departments wasn't always the greatest experience — an assessment many agreed with — but Kenneth Ward, executive director of College Bound, said that one experience shouldn't demonize a whole group of people. "For a certain segment of peo-
Federal Court Strikes Down Texas Voter ID Law Similar Restrictions in Other States Also Rolled Back By Sarafina Wright WI Staff Writer
5 Many state laws still make voting difficult. / Courtresy photo
16 AUGUST 18- 24, 2016
As many as 600,000 registered voters in the state of Texas will now be able to cast their vote in November without any barriers. A federal district court struck down a 2011 voter ID law passed by a Republican majority in the state that would have overwhelmingly disenfranchised minorities. The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals' ruling comes after a string of recent court decisions rolling back voting restrictions in Kansas, North Carolina, North Dakota and Wisconsin. "The terms of the interim remedy order will help address the discrim-
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inatory effect of Texas's law — the most stringent voter-identification law in the country — as voters go to the polls this November," said Ezra Rosenberg, co-director of the Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law's Voting Rights Project. "Texas must now do everything possible to educate voters and to train election officers to ensure full access to the polls during the general election cycle." Across the board, courts nationwide have ruled that states passed restrictive laws precisely to exclude certain voters, including minorities, students and the elderly. "No American should ever lose the right to vote because they don’t have a photo ID," said Myrna Pérez, deputy director of the Brennan Center’s Democracy Program. "This agreement in Texas and other
ple, white is better, their grass is greener and their water is wetter," Ward said. "If you have a bad experience, move on to the next. If you had a bad experience at a white-owned establishment, it was just a bad experience, but on the other side, it was a bad experience because it was blackowned." Ward said the most liberating thing he did was travel to Africa, where every business was blackowned. "What we lost in the '60s was black businesses," he said. "Those businesses are gone, and because of black flight we've lost a lot of community. … As educated black folks, it's on us to educate and do better." WI decisions nationwide mark a meaningful turning point. “As we approach this November's elections, courts are stepping in to block discriminatory laws that prevent certain people from participating," Pérez said. "Today is a tremendous victory for our democracy and our country, with real benefits that will be felt by Texas voters this fall." Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton called the ruling "unfortunate." "It is imperative that the State government safeguards our elections and ensures the integrity of our democratic process," Paxton said. "Preventing voter fraud is essential to accurately reflecting the will of Texas voters during elections." The original Texas law required voters to show one of a few government-issued photo IDs to vote,
TEXAS VOTE Page 40
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5 A poster of President Barack Obama from the 2012 election. / Courtesy photo
By Eric Easter Urban News Service “If I’m 100 percent honest, I’ve tried hard to make a Hillary poster, but I can’t figure out where to start,” said Los Angeles-based graphic artist Charles White. “There’s no strong word or theme that sparks my imagination.” White is one of many creators who say that the 2016 race between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump lacks the inspiration of the artistically rich 2008 campaign. Astronaut. Warrior. Superman. Savior. If the posters and buttons made for Barack Obama’s historic first run could speak, he was all of those things – and more. This art, most notably designer Shepard Fairey’s iconic “HOPE” poster, sparked a groundswell of grassroots support among the creative community. This “lightning in a bottle” movement, some say, lifted the excitement factor around the election of America’s first Black president. But this time, observers – including many artists who fueled 2008’s effort – detect a lack of visual energy around both the Clinton and Trump campaigns. Some ask if this perceived creative listlessness mirrors opinion polls that reflect muted enthusiasm among young women for Hillary Clinton, partly based on the assumption among many of them that glass ceilings no longer impede female achievement. But Aaron Perry-Zucker, director of the Creative Action Network, the art/activism group that sprang from 2008’s endeavor, thinks this is more about changing times than anything else. “There are so many different forces at play this time. Most of all, expectations,” Perry-Zucker said. “People are always asking, ‘What will the
next HOPE poster be?’ But there already was one. Nothing is ever going to be the same as that. “Also, we are really not interested in doing what we did before,” said Perry-Zucker. “The novelty wore off. It’s not the same kind of campaign, not the same atmosphere.” Perry-Zucker, a designer in his own right, thinks the source of designs makes all the difference. “2008 was a bottom-up effort that demonstrated the effectiveness of community and fan-led design, rather than top-down execution of a campaign brand identity,” he said. Campaigns are embracing design with more intent in 2016, according to Zucker. “The unprecedented excitement of 2008 made campaigns realize that getting the design community excited is a smart thing to do,” he said. Still, the official logos of both the Trump and Clinton campaigns were panned by professional designers for being “boring” and out of date with current design trends. In response, Team Clinton recently launched the “45 Pin Project,” an apparent attempt to recapture the spirit of 2008 by enlisting 45 designers to develop buttons for the Democrat’s campaign. Perry-Zucker appreciates the intent of this initiative. “It’s a top-down approach that attempts to be as bottom-up as possible. Some of the pins are pretty cool,” he said. Many of the designers who created popular Obama posters simply have moved on to new assignments. “It took a while to unpack the success of 2008. How do you do that again without the element of a once-in-a-lifetime campaign? Many people have taken that idea and are creating work for other issues and opportunities for activism,” Perry-Zucker said. However, White – whose interpretations of classic book and album covers sell by the thousands on the Etsy craft website – disputes Perry-Zucker’s assessment. “I think it has more to do with the personality of the candidates,” White said. “When Obama was running, he was the first serious Black candidate. You can’t really be status quo in that role, and creative people fed off that energy,” White said. Both Perry-Zucker and White noted that, from an artistic perspective, the better art has been focused against both candidates.
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creative explosion stemmed from Obama being a charismatic person who was, in many ways, a blank slate. “I don’t think people remember how little we knew about Obama,” White said. “From a design point
of view, that meant you could graft any image onto him, and it could fly. With both Trump and Clinton, we’ve known them for too long, their brands are cemented. I’m not so sure that design would be effective as a rebranding tactic for either side.” WI
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----------------------
Artists Seek Inspiration for 2016 Campaigns
“The real energy seems to be in the negative space,” White said. “The candidates don’t inspire, so you focus more on the opponent. As a creative person, that’s more entertaining anyhow.” Both designers say that 2008’s
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AUGUST 18 - 24, 2016 17
H E A LT H Back to School Health Fair Draws Thousands Trusted Health Plan, UMC Team up For D.C. Youth WI Staff Report Washington, D.C., August 11, 2016 – Thousands of students attending D.C. Public Schools benefited from free physicals and were screened for lead and other conditions
at one of the District’s largest Back to School Health Fairs. Trusted Health Plan and United Medical Center [UMC] teamed up to sponsor the event on Saturday, August 13 on UMC’s campus. “The 2016 -2017 school
5 Students receive backpacks at the United Medical Center's Back to School health fair in southeast D.C. on Aug. 13. / Photo by Roy Lewis
year is around the corner and we want to ensure that D.C. Public School students receive their physicals and are ready
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for classes,” said Tommy Duncan, CEO of Trusted Health Plan. “We are committed to helping improve the health of District residents and having the opportunity to support our children is where it all begins,” he said. In addition to physicals, lead screenings, and dental services for school children, adults were screened for high blood pressure, HIV, diabetes and have physical exams. Mammograms were also provided. “This is the second year that United Medical Center has partnered with Trusted Health Plan to provide a “Back to School Health Fair” for the city’s students,” said Charletta Washington, Chief Operating Officer at UMC. “It is a testament to what two organizations committed to raising the bar in healthcare in the community can do by working together,” she said. There was no shortage of entertainment at the “Back to School Health Fair” with a bevy of local Go-Go bands on stage with their own unique sounds including Backyard Band; the highly acclaimed all female Go-Go Band, Be’la Dona; Grammy-nominated Experience Unlimited, better known as EU, and world renown songstress Angie Stone. A DJ also joined the entertainers at the Health Fair to maintain a festive atmosphere. “We wanted children and adults to come to the Health Fair to not only be screened and tested for a variety of
health conditions, but enjoy themselves in the process,” Duncan said. “We provided music all day, along with food, games and a lot of materials for families to take home so they could read about health issues. The most important factor was that everything was absolutely free.” Trusted Health Plan, Inc. is a minority-owned HMO and Managed Care Organization (MCO) that presently services Medicaid and Washington, D.C. Alliance eligible residents, and provides its enrollees with unprecedented access to health care services that will materially improve their health and decrease disparities found within the community. United Medical Center, an acute care hospital, offers community-based professional healthcare services to the residents of Ward 7, Ward 8 and bordering Prince George’s County communities. In the past 12 months, the hospital has hired 24 new physicians including cardiologists and other specialists. The hospital also continues to enhance the technologies that are used to help diagnose and treat illnesses. United Medical Center was the first hospital in the mid-Atlantic region to offer Microdose, a diagnostic device that provides the lowest dose of radiation for mammograms. For more information about United Medical Center, visit www.united-medicalcenter. com. WI
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HEALTH
Boxers Have Dr. Banks in their Corner D.C. Doc Has Worked Ringside for Past Decade By Curtis Bunn Urban News Service Greg Banks, M.D. always has been passionate about boxing and mixed martial arts. But being a doctor is what forced him into a corner … literally. An intimate knowledge of the dangers of ring competition, as both participant and spectator, inspired the family and urgent-care physician to moonlight as a guardian of these combatants. Banks has been a Washington, D.C.-area ringside doctor at boxing and MMA events for a decade. He is driven by his love of these sports and his commitment to help people. “I would see these guys ringside in a corner and wonder: ‘Who’s that with a stethoscope?’ he asked. That curiosity ultimately led Banks to secure his license through the Association of Ringside Physicians. He soon became that guy ringside, with the stethoscope. “It’s a very significant job because of the physical nature of the sports,” said Dr. Gregory Pleasants, who has served for 15 years as a Richmond, Virginia-based ringside doctor. “I have worked some fights with Greg and he has a real passion for the sports to go with his passion for service.” “For me,” said Banks, 52, “as someone who loves the sports and studied taekwondo, too, it’s a great opportunity to have a great seat to see the matches. Most important, though, it’s very dangerous to compete in these sports, and the ringside doctors are there to help minimize injury — especially brain injury.” The native Washingtonian and Howard University College of Medicine graduate said his job is both entertaining and gratifying. “The doctor is mostly in the shadows — until something happens,” he said. “It’s scary sometimes. But, most of the time, the injuries are cuts or maybe a broken bone, sprains. When I’m not worried about the fighter, I’m actually having a great time because I have the best seat in the house.” But Banks said there are many factors in boxers or MMA fighters who suffer serious brain damage — and it’s not just because of
hard punches. Participants often undergo dramatic weight loss just before fights to meet weight requirements. Banks explained that quickly losing and regaining weight can spell trouble. “Dehydration comes with weight-cutting,” Banks said. “Their whole goal is to come into the fight as big and strong as possible, to inflict as much pain as possible. But with weight-cutting, you lose weight all over. “In the brain, there is something called CSF [cerebrospinal fluid] that helps cushion the brain. But when you’re dehydrated, there is less of that cushion, that fluid. Quick weight gain won’t allow you to function at your premium and you won’t be as protected. So, your brain can get hit with the first blow and then bounce off the other side of the skull. So that’s a double concussion that can cause tearing of the blood vessels in the brain, causing bleeding, which is never good,” “It’s a big science. [Doctors are] looking at it each year: ‘What can we do to prevent [traumatic brain injuries] from happening?’ One thing we’re looking at is dates, so boxers have a deadline to make the weight that’s not so close to the fight, giving the body enough time to replace that fluid.” Banks said that doctors continue to seek ways to detect performance-enhancing drugs. They contribute to severe injuries because they “allow guys to train longer, get more muscle mass on their bodies and withstand more injuries. And they are able to inflict more injuries on their opponents because their strength is off the scales.” Banks started his medical journey as a teenager. He hoped to become a marine scientist. But when that discipline bored him, Banks’ physician father asked him several questions and then said: “You want to help people? Then maybe you should be a doctor.” “Then he walked away,” Banks said. “No pressure.” But the idea took root. At age 18, he began the trek that led him to his family-medicine practice in Front Royal, Virginia. His service as a ringside doctor has been just as rewarding.
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“Back in the day, getting your residency was like going through war,” he said. “And with that, you got something engrained in your character: Everyone’s a patient. When you see someone who looks like they are about to get into trouble, that stuff from my training kicks in. … And trouble is where the ringside physician steps in. No. 1, above all, is to protect the fighter. That’s more of a thrill than watching the fights.” WI
5 Greg Banks, MD / Courtesy Urban News Service
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AUGUST 18 - 24, 2016 19
HEALTH
Study: Racial Differences Zika Spreads from Florida to Texas in Breastfeeding A new academic study titled, “Racial and Ethnic Differences in Breastfeeding,” which offers updated information on racial and ethnic differences in breastfeeding, also offers an explanation on why the racial gaps persist. However, while past research has found that breastfeeding guidelines are not adhered to by many new mothers, researchers have determined their new findings to be particularly true among African-American households. “We found that higher rates of poverty and lower levels of education helped explain breastfeeding gaps between Black and white women, especially in determining whether mothers started breastfeeding in the first place,” said Sharon Ramey, professor at the Carilion Research Institute at Virginia Tech, and one of the authors of the study. The authors also surprisingly found that Black mothers were nine times as likely as white mothers to be given formula for their babies when they were still in the hospital. “In-hospital provision of free infant formula is related to Black
mothers’ poorer breastfeeding outcomes,” said Bernice Hausman, the Edward S. Diggs Professor in the Humanities at Virginia Tech, and an expert on the cultural aspects of breastfeeding. “Our results suggest that hospitals and policy makers should limit in-hospital formula introduction as one method to reduce racial and ethnic breastfeeding disparities,” she said. Meanwhile, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children should be exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life, with continued breastfeeding and complementary foods until at least the child’s first birthday. WI
WI Staff Report
The Zika virus has now spread from one state to another in the U.S. Health officials in Texas announced Monday that a Texan contracted the virus in Florida and brought it home, illustrating the ease with which the virus can spread once enough people in an area are infected. “This is the first Texas case to be linked to travel within the continental U.S. The case will be classified as 'travel-associated' and is being investigated for more details,” said a Texas health department official. “Health officials linked this case to Miami travel after closely evaluating travel dates, symptom onset date and known local transmission of Zika virus in Miami,” the official said. Miami has a small local cluster of Zika cases, which rose to 30 Monday with two more reported patients. One of the cases is not in the area officials identify as the city’s only local Zika hotspot. However, there remains no evi-
Enhancing Black Owned Print and Digital Press in the Age of Social Media By Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. President & CEO National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) salutes the career development success of the Discover the Unexpected (DTU) NNPA Journalism Fellowship program that has just completed its first term of providing undergraduate students at the Howard University School of Communication the unique apprentice opportunity to work at NNPA member newspapers in Chicago, Atlanta, Washington, DC, and Detroit. Black owned newspapers are not opposed to the digitalization of our content or to the digital distribution of the “trusted,” vibrant, prophetic voice of the Black Press of America. In fact as Black owned businesses, it makes good business sense for Black owned newspapers to em-
20 AUGUST 18- 24, 2016
brace digital and social media platforms to enhance and increase the value and profitability of our publications. One mutual benefit that emerged during the labor and service rendered by the DTU NNPA fellows was their daily increase in utilizing social media as an integral component of their career journey while working for Black owned newspapers. Both the fellows and our newspapers benefited from having these gifted and talented millennials in our workplaces during the past six weeks. It was a summer of news reporting. It was a journalistic “Freedom Summer.” It was a print, digital and social media summer. Brandi Montgomery and Brelaun Douglas were at The Atlanta Voice; Briahnna Brown and Mckenzie Marshall at the Chicago Defender; Victoria Jones and Rushawn Walters at The Washington Informer;
and, Tatyana Hopkins and Sidnee King were at the Michigan Chronicle. In addition to writing front page news stories pertinent to improving the quality of life of Black America, all of the NNPA fellows were actively engaged on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Google, LinkedIn, Snapchat, and Youtube. Most of the 209 Black owned newspapers that are affiliated with the NNPA now have active websites with various degrees of interactivity and digital capabilities. But the challenge of linking social media with the world of the Black print press, while formidable, will be a growing opportunity to enhance the future economic sustainability of Black owned newspapers. One goal that the NNPA is now actively planning and researching is how to effectively and efficiently establish the NNPA Digital Network (DigitalNet-
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dence that the virus is spreading in Florida like it has across Latin America. Still, with limited money and people for testing, it's difficult to know for sure. Federal and state officials have had to shift money from other work to take on Zika, in part because Congress took its break without allocating any funds. Florida has allocated $18 million to flight Zika. Florida health officials say they’re concerned. “There are two new non-travel related cases today in Miami-Dade County,” the Florida health department said in a statement. “One of the individuals was exposed in the less than one-square mile in Miami-Dade County. The second new non-travel related infection is located outside of the one-square mile area in Miami-Dade County.” To spread, Zika needs infected people. The virus circulates in blood, semen and can also be
found in saliva and urine. The yellow fever mosquito – Aedes aegypti – is the main culprit, but the virus can also be spread sexually. “There have been no reported cases of Zika virus disease transmitted by mosquitoes in Texas, but Texas is on alert for the possibility of local transmission,” the Texas health department said. “State efforts have been underway since January to delay and minimize the impact of Zika on Texas.” Texas also has Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Most people aren't at big risk, but infection can cause severe birth defects if a pregnant woman gets infected. Overall, Florida has more than 450 known Zika cases, 440 of them in travelers. But because Zika causes no symptoms in most people, experts agree there are likely far more. Florida says 59 residents who have Zika are pregnant. WI
work@nnpa.org). The truth is that by having the DTU fellows working at some of our members’ newspapers has helped to crystallize the need and the opportunity for the timely development of the NNPA Digital Network. Again the digital network is not to replace or to supplant the NNPA’s print network of 209 Black owned newspapers. The digital network will help to increase the market value of the trusted content of NNPA member newspapers. We are living at a time when candidates to be President of the United States routinely communicate to their constituents and supporters via Twitter, Facebook, Google and Instagram. The national and global news cycles are now ten seconds in length. Yet, there is still market demand from millions of people across the United States and throughout the world for more in-depth and detailed news accounts of what is happening in a rapidly changing and challenging world. Black owned newspapers in print and their online editions provide in-depth news coverage and uplifts the cultural genius
of Black America as part of the long unique and respected tradition of the Black Press of America. From our perspective, we are encouraged by the emergence of committed student journalists like our DTU fellows. The future maybe challenging but the opportunities to soar with success and progress are much greater. Social media has increased the instantaneous awareness and involvement of millions of people. It is driven by content. Black owned newspapers are content rich. As various social media platforms become additional distribution vehicles for Black owned newspapers, the overall value of Black owned print and digital media will increase correspondingly. Learn more about the Discover the Unexpected (DTU) program at http://www.nnpa. org/dtu/ and use the hashtag #DiscoverTheUnexpected on Twitter. Follow us on Twitter @BlackPressUSA, @NNPA_ BlackPress and @NNPADTU, like our Facebook pages at NNPA Black Press and Black Press Matters.
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AS ONE JOURNEY ENDS, ANOTHER BEGINS. CONGRATULATIONS!
Eight Howard University students were selected to take the journey and DISCOVER THE UNEXPECTED—a first-ever fellowship program sponsored by the all-new 2016 Chevrolet Malibu in partnership with the National Newspaper Publishers Association. Congratulations to our brilliant fellows! Thank you for taking us on this wonderful journey. May you continue to discover new roads that help you shatter perceptions and inspire us all. #discovertheunexpected
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DISCOVER MORE OF THEIR STORY AT NNPA.ORG/DTU
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AUGUST 18 - 24, 2016 21
NOT
A NATIVE SPECIES
clean waterways begin with you.
GOVERNMENT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
22 AUGUST 18- 24, 2016
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ORANGE from Page 1
to 2007 and was a member of the D.C. Democratic National Committee from 2008 to 2014. "Working together we have jump started economic development, sparked recreation facility renovation and development, school modernization through reopening
McKinley Tech as McKinley Technology High School, which won the President Barack Obama Blue Ribbon Excellence Award." Some of Orange's notable accomplishments during his decade-plus in public office include establishing April
16 as District of Columbia Emancipation Day, authoring an increase to minimum wage legislation, increasing unemployment compensation, securing $635 million to be spent in the Certified Business Enterprise community and a mandate that
$317 million be spent with Small Business Enterprises. The D.C. Democratic State Committee will name a placeholder to fill the vacancy left by Orange until his successor — mostly likely White — takes office in January. WI
5 Vincent Orange plays his cellphone ringtone, Pharrell Williams' "Happy," after an Aug. 15 press conference at the John A. Wilson Building in northwest D.C. to announce his resignation from the city council. / Photo by Patricia Little
during his farewell address, which he titled "Service Above Self." "I have provided initiatives that have been very prosperous for businesses in D.C." Orange, an at-large member since 2011, lost his re-election bid in the June Democratic primary to Robert White, but intended to head the Chamber while remaining in office until the end of his term in January. Though not illegal, many believed the move was unethical and called for him to resign, claiming Orange's private-sector job with the city's top business lobbying group was a conflict of interest. No other council members were present Monday during Orange's address. Several of them, including Brianne Nadeau (D-Ward 1) and Elissa Silverman (I-At Large), had pushed for Orange's resignation, with Mary M. Cheh (D-Ward 3) telling The Washington Post that Orange's attempt at a dual role was "almost stunningly incomprehensible." But Orange, who vehemently defended his decision before announcing his resignation earlier this month, is already looking forward to the future, saying the chamber "needed new leadership, and I happened to be at the right place at the right time." "They need someone who is going to increase revenue and I also have a strong legislative background," said Orange, who served as a Ward 5 Council member from 1999
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AUGUST 18 - 24, 2016 23
EDUCATION DCPS Sets Goal for New School Year
“An outstanding teacher for every classroom, and an outstanding principal for every school.” Compiled by Dorothy Rowley WI Staff Writer
EXTENDED-YEAR STUDENTS BACK IN CLASS
Classes began Aug. 8 for 11 elementary and middle schools that offer the extended year curriculum for the 2016-17 term. The schools – which are in session a month longer than traditional schools – were selected based on interest from the community, strong leadership in each school, and schools poised to make significant academic gains. Students enrolled in the extended year program will gain an extra year of learning by the time they reach the 8th grade.
PARTICIPATING EXTENDED-YEAR SCHOOLS INCLUDE:
Garfield Elementary School (Ward 8) H.D. Cooke Elementary School (Ward 1) Hart Middle School (Ward 8) Hendley Elementary School (Ward 8) Johnson Middle School (Ward 8) Kelly Miller Middle School (Ward 7) King Elementary School (Ward 8) Randle Highlands Elementary School (Ward 7) Raymond Education Campus (Ward 4) Thomas Elementary School (Ward 7) Turner Elementary School (Ward 8)
FIRST DAY OF CLASSES FOR TRADITIONAL-YEAR SCHOOLS
The first day of school for K-12 students is Monday, Aug. 22. The first day of school for Pre-K3 and Pre-K4 students is Thursday, Aug. 25.
24 AUGUST 18- 24, 2016
NEW TEACHERS
New Teacher Orientation took place on Aug. 11 at Columbia Heights Education Campus in Northwest where outgoing Chancellor Kaya Henderson addressed attendees with overviews of DCPS initiatives and the five-year Capital Commitment plan. During the new school year, DCPS will be providing high-quality tools for teachers, while continuing to provide sufficient flexibility that will enable teachers to elegantly adapt resources to meet the interests and needs of their students.
5 Teachers make the difference in children's lives. / Courtesy photo
DCPS ADMINISTRATION
With Chancellor Kaya Henderson’s late June announcement that she will leave the system effective Sept. 30, Schools Chief John Davis will serve as interim chancellor beginning Oct. 1, while DCPS engages in the search for Henderson’s replacement. Meanwhile, Mayor Muriel Bowser has announced the composition of a 17-member DCPS Rising Leadership Committee that will provide her with recommendations to select a new Chancellor. “We are moving full steam ahead in our search for the next DCPS Chancellor,” said Bowser. “The DCPS Rising Leadership Committee is composed of principals, teachers, students, parents, and community members and is truly representative of our diverse city. I look forward to working with them and thank them for their dedication to our students. To assist the committee, a series of community forums have been scheduled: 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 30
Roosevelt High School – 4301 13th St, NW
6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 7 Eastern High School – 1700 East Capitol St NE 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 14 Savoy Elementary School – 2400 Shannon PL SE
WHO’S WHO IN DCPS’S TOP TIER LEADERSHIP: John Davis, Interim Chancellor Pete Weber, Chief of Staff Nathaniel Beers, Chief Operating Officer Emily Durso, Chief College and Career Jason Kamras, Chief Instructional Practice Brian Pick, Chief, Teaching and Learning Crystal Jefferson, Chief Talent and Culture Josephine Robinson, Chief Family and Public Engagement Scott Barash, General Counsel
OTHER KEY ADMINISTRATORS INCLUDE: Gene Pinkard, Deputy Chief School Turnaround program Harry Hughes, Instructional Superintendent, Elementary Angela Chapman, Instructional Superintendent, Elementary LaKimbre Brown, Instructional Superintendent, Elementary Aileen Murphy, Instructional Superintendent, Elementary Janice Harris, Instructional Superintendent, Elementary Shawn Stover, Instructional Superintendent, education campus Natalie Gordon, Instructional Superintendent, Middle School Drewana Bey, Instructional Superintendent Secondary David Pinder, Instructional Superintendent, Secondary
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NEW PRINCIPALS FOR 2016-17
DCPS has created a culture where school leaders have a clear understanding of what defines excellence in their work. As part of their leadership training, not only are DCPS principals provided with constructive and data-based feedback regarding their performance, they also receive support to increase their effectiveness.
NEW PRINCIPALS FOR THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR INCLUDE: Michael Alexander.........Washington Metropolitan High School Sah Brown......................Eastern High School Stephanie Byrd...............Payne Elementary School Tia Corniel......................Burroughs Elementary School Greg Dohmann.............. Jefferson Middle School Academy Vanessa Drumm.............Langley Elementary School Kristie Edwards..............Randle Highlands Elementary School Eric Fraser.......................Anacostia High School Terri Fuller......................Plummer Elementary School Aqueelha James..............Roosevelt High School and MacFarland Middle School Johann Lee......................Kimball Elementary School Andrea Mial....................Miner Elementary School Justin Ralston.................LaSalle-Backus Education Campus Andrew Smith................Ludlow-Taylor Elementary School TaMikka Sykes...............Amidon-Bowen Elementary School Clinton Turner...............Walker-Jones Education Campus Isamar Vargas..................Eliot-Hine Middle School Courtney Wilkerson......Sousa Middle School Benjamin Williams........Ron Brown College Preparatory High School Kiana Williams...............Smothers Elementary School WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM
EDUCATION
D.C. Residents Rally Against Wal-Mart, Privatization of Charter Schools By Lauren Poteat WI Contributing Writer The Washington Teachers' Union recently held a press conference in protest of Wal-Mart
and the founding Walton family for their financial support of the privatization of D.C. charter schools and their monetary neglect of the city's public schools. The Friday conference at
Moten Elementary School in southeast D.C. — held jointly with Making a Change at Walmart, an organization serving
as a watchdog against the retail giant — discussed the Walton Family Foundation's "2020 K-12 Education Strategic Plan,"
which is set to administer over $1 billion over the next five years in funding for new charter
EDUCATION Page 40
NEW TEACHERS FOR 2016-17
DCPS added approximately 125 new teaching positions in school year 2016-17, bringing the total number of teachers to just over 4,600. Of these teachers, nearly 500 are new to the DCPS system, many of whom have previous teaching experience in nearby school districts.
SOME DCPS TEACHERS AND PRINCIPALS WHO ARE CHANGING STUDENTS’ LIVES: Kathy Hollowell-Makle, pre-k teacher School Without Walls at Francis Stevens Elementary School It’s no surprise that Kathy Hollowell-Makle was selected as the 2013 DCPS “Teacher of the Year.” Not only does she consistently help her students—many of whom begin kindergarten al-ready behind—to enter first grade at or above proficiency, but she cares deeply about helping them develop socially and emotionally. Frank Medley, Spanish teacher, Whittier Education Campus Not only is Frank Medley an extraordinary teacher—for which he received a Rubenstein Award, one of the district’s highest honors—but the veteran educator who has served 18 years in the classroom, also mentors new educators, opens his classroom for peer observations, and helps hire new teachers for DCPS.
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Shira Fishman, calculus and geometry teacher, McKinley Technology High School A former mechanical engineer, Shira Fishman always excelled at math and science. But it wasn’t until a summer coaching job that she found her true passion: teaching and mentoring young people. Fortunately for the students of DCPS, she decided to switch careers. She now teaches calculus and geometry at McKinley Technology High School, helping her students consistently achieve over 90 percent proficiency on the district’s state assessment. Maria Tukeva, principal, Columbia Heights Education Campus Thirty-five years ago, Maria Tukeva founded the school now known as them Columbia Heights Education Campus to address the unique educational needs of D.C.’s growing immigrant population from Central America. Her vision and passion are the reason the school has grown from a 40-student “start-up” to a thriving campus, serving over 1,300 students in grades six through twelve. Tukeva is known across the city as having the highest of expectations, and she does everything possible to help her students meet them.
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Natalie Gordon, principal, Jefferson Academy Middle School In just four years, Natalie Gordon has turned Jefferson Academy into one of the premier middle schools in DCPS. Under her leadership, Jefferson has added a broad array of advanced and enrichment classes, with the goal of becoming the highest-achieving middle school in D.C. Eric Bethel, principal, Turner Elementary School Eric Bethel’s mother was a special education teacher and his father was a principal. After spending eight years as an elementary math teacher in DCPS, he went on to serve as a master educator and an assistant principal, and then earned one of the first spots in the Mary Jane Patterson Fellowship, the school system’s in-house principal training program. Upon completing the Fellowship in 2014, Bethel was selected as principal at Turner. WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM
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2016 BACK TO SCHOOL SUPPLEMENT
CLOSING THE ACHIEVEMENT GAP
SPONSORED BY
The Gap: Ingenuity Needed to Help Struggling Students Succeed
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 $45 per year, two years $60. 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 D. Kevin McNeir, Editor Ron Burke, Advertising/ Marketing Director Shevry Lassiter, Photo Editor Lafayette Barnes, IV, Assistant Photo Editor John E. De Freitas, Sports Photo Editor Dorothy Rowley, Online Editor ZebraDesigns.net, Design & Layout Mable Neville, Bookkeeper Mickey Thompson, Social Sightings columnist Stacey Palmer, Social Media Specialist Angie Johnson, Circulation REPORTERS Stacy Brown (Senior Writer), Sam P.K. Collins, Eve Ferguson, Will Ford (Prince George’s County Writer), Elton Hayes, D. Kevin McNeir, Dorothy Rowley, Kia Croom, Joya Patel, Rachel Sudduth, Sarafina Wright (General Assignment Writer) PHOTOGRAPHERS John E. DeFreitas, Shevry Lassiter, Roy Lewis, Patricia Little, Corey Parrish, Travis Riddick, Nancy Shia
In the field of education, particularly as it relates to best practices that impact the growth of children, one of the most-discussed and often controversial topics has long been “methods to reduce the achievement gap.” We have focused on this as our theme for this Back to School Supplement because we firmly believe that it is this “gap” and where children fall along its continuum that often determine their academic success or failure and future career options. One of the first educators I remember addressing the achievement gap would become one of my many “heroes” – Dr. Jawanza Kunjufu – whose focus tended to be on young, Black males. He spoke about conspiracy theories, alternative teaching styles and the importance of recognizing cultural traditions and identities when transmitting information to BY D. KEVIN MCNEIR young minds. Editor Washington Informer His words and theories resonated with me – both 25 years ago and today. The mere fact that we are still talking about the achievement gap means that we have yet to reduce the chasm between young learners. As one strategy to address and reduce the gap comes and goes, the gap itself continues to widen, generally between whites and Blacks with the widest differences in academic achievement being between Black and white boys. And while the data I’ve seen says that the gap between Black and white girls is not as large, it’s still significant and similarly troubling. The dilemma remains for children of color in an endless, vicious cycle that often short circuits their dreams to become doctors, lawyers, astronauts or Wall Street financiers even before they’ve gone to their senior prom. Without the proper scores or grades, it’s hard to advance – and almost impossible to soar. The articles and information that follow are intended to help draw you into this decades-old conversation with the hopes that you can provide your own suggestions and critiques. One thing to consider. Every student does not know what it takes to become proficient in STEM curriculums. Some students are better with their hands – which might mean voThe fall has returned cational education. and with it ample Others, like me, are more creative, opportunities to mold suggesting their niche should be in the arts. In other words, we need to the minds of eager consider expanding our children’s boys and girls. May learning options so that they’re not all we all do our best to forced to be a square peg trying to fit move them closer to into a round whole. The fall has returned and with it their goals. ample opportunities to mold the minds of eager boys and girls. May we all do our best to move them closer to their goals. BS www.washingtoninformer.com / 2016 BACK TO SCHOOL SUPPLEMENT
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Closing the Achievement Gap in D.C. By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer
The D.C. Public School System’s national standardized test scores have reportedly been among the fastest-improving in the nation. But, as school’s chancellor Kaya Henderson prepares to exit in October, there remain obvious achievement gaps between white and African-American and wealthy and poor students – facts that haven’t gone unnoticed by Henderson who will leave behind a program designed to give low-income children the same advantages as others. The extended-year calendar program allows for more reading and mathematics studies during summer months, providing a leg up for the fall. “We know that students from low-income families often lose more than two months of reading achievement during the summer, despite the fact that their middle-class peers are making gains,” Henderson told reporters earlier this month. “Providing students in struggling schools with more instructional opportunities across all subjects from math and English language arts to world language and music leads to better outcomes in the long term,” she said. The year-round program, which includes Southeast Washington Elementary School, Anita J. Turner Elementary School and nine others, seeks to prevent children from falling behind. “The extra classroom time is critical,” Henderson said. In 2015, the District invested $20 million to support programs for men of color, including the announcement of an all-boys college preparatory high school slated to open in 2017. African-American and
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Latino males make up 43 percent of the students enrolled in D.C.’s public schools and the graduation rates, reading and math scores, and attendance of that segment lags. “D.C. has made tremendous progress over the past 10 years in improving student achievement. For example, on the National Assessment of Educational Progress, the percent of D.C. 4th graders who are at grade level in math has tripled since 2005,” said Scott Sargrad, the managing director of the K-12 Education Policy team at the Center for American Progress in Northwest. “And, D.C is the only state in the country that made progress on NAEP in both 2013 and 2015 [for the purposes of NAEP, D.C is treated as a state]. However, there’s still a lot of work that needs to be done,” Sargrad said. The District still has the largest achievement gap of any state in the country between white and Black students, and even though students in D.C have made significant progress, overall achievement is still very low, he said. On the other hand, D.C. has continued to make significant investments in attracting and retaining strong teachers, providing universal preschool and focusing on better curriculum – efforts that will continue to pay off and help close the achievement gap, Sargrad said. The greatest progress made in closing the achievement gap in the District is through the D.C. Opportunity Scholarship Program where students who participated in the program were low-income and almost entirely minority, said Mary Clare Reim of the Heritage Foundation, an education think tank in Northeast.
“Students who received a voucher through this program saw a 21 percentage point increase in graduation rates. Unfortunately, the administration has repeatedly tried to zero out funding for the program and access to the program is very limited,” Reim said. “The best thing we can do to help close the achievement gap in Washington, D.C. is to expand opportunities for parents to send their children to schools of choice and escape their underperforming local public schools,” she said. D.C. Charter Schools have fared well in closing the achievement gap. The Education Equality Index, which is developed by Education Cities and Great Schools, became the first national comparative measure of the achievement
gap featuring school, city and state-level data that covered the nation’s 100 biggest cities in 35 states. The index proportionally compares low-income students who scored proficiently on a state assessment to all students across the state who took the same assessment. Accord to the index, most U.S. cities have a big or even massive achievement gap. However, for District charter schools, the achievement gap proved much smaller than about 90 percent of the nation’s biggest cities. “This is an important tool to show how students from Washington, D.C are doing compared to their counterparts in other major cities.” D.C Public Charter School Board Chair Darren Woodruff said in a statement.
“While we are pleased with the progress we have made, we know that there is much work to be done which is why we have strengthened our oversight and are holding public charter schools accountable for providing a quality education,” he said. Still, the D.C. Public Schools remain on the right track, Sargrad said. “D.C. has made modernizing and elevating the teaching profession a key strategy, and completely redesigned its compensation system to pay teachers like professionals, so the best teachers can earn over $125,000 after less than 10 years in the classroom,” he said. “Hopefully, [Henderson’s] successor will carry through on these efforts and continue her vision.” BS
DOES YOUR SCHOOL HAVE THE NEXT D.C. WINNER?
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2016 BACK TO SCHOOL SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com
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A Message from the Washington Teachers’ Union
New Chancellor Will Shape How Our Schools are Run and Our Children Are Educated In the upcoming weeks and months, teachers, parents, students and other education stakeholders here in D.C. will have an opportunity to participate in a process that will result in the selection of a new Chancellor for the District of Columbia Public Schools. The decision as to who will lead our school system, and shape how our schools are run and our children are educated, is an extremely important one. The new chancellor will be tasked with ensuring that our city has the schools it needs to educate ALL of our children, which means tackling a myriad issues, ranging from the curriculum and support for teachers and other employees to funding for at-risk students and facilities management. Earlier this month, Mayor Bowser announced the formation of the DCPS Rising Leadership Committee, which is charged with making recommendations to the Mayor regarding the new Chancellor. The District of Columbia Public Education Reform Amendment Act of 2007, which governs the Chancellor Selection Process, says that the Mayor “shall give great weight to any recommendation of the Washington Teachers’ Union.” WTU President Elizabeth Davis is a member of the committee. The WTU joins with those individuals and organizations that are calling for a thorough, national search for a new Chancellor with no artificial (or overly ambitious) deadlines for identifying and hiring that person. This process must not be rushed. The union is ensuring that classroom teachers have a voice in the selection of a new Chancellor. It recently surveyed its members on the skills, background and qualities that they believe the new chancellor should possess. And it’s clear from the results of that
survey that DCPS teachers want someone with a strong instructional background, proficiency as a school-level leader, experience with closing an achievement gap, and a commitment to developing collaborative relationships with educators, parents, students and the community.
They also want a Chancellor who has an established record of fair and positive relations with unions in collective bargaining and contract enforcement. It is also essential that the new Chancellor understand the need to overhaul our teacher evaluation system. The WTU recently formed
an internal Chancellor Selection Task Force, which it will use throughout the selection process to solicit the input and involvement of its members. We are also urging parents, students and others to make their views known by participating in the Community Forums (see schedule below).
All education stakeholders MUST be given an opportunity to fully participate in the selection of our new Chancellor. The WTU invites parents and the community to take its Chancellor Selection Survey. You’ll find the survey on our website at www.wtulocal6.org BS
A New Direction for School Reform in the District of Columbia
Elizabeth Davis President Washington Teachers’ Union
needs receive the support they require to succeed. This has been a desperate need for D.C. schools for years. The most successful systems also forge a genuine partnership between the schools and the communities they serve. Unfortunately, DC’s yearround school project was hatched and imposed without teacher input, or community input or input from other key stakeholders. Like other “reforms” implemented in the Rhee/Henderson era, this is just
another top-down mandate, another hasty attempt to show “progress” to cheerleaders for random change. And now Chancellor Henderson has called it quits, leaving behind tattered school buildings with lead-contaminated water, a shocking achievement gap, and an arrogant, bloated bureaucracy with a disdain for collaborative dialogue and partnerships. It’s time to hit the reset button on education reform in the District of Columbia. The Washington Teachers’ Union believes
The 2016 academic year has already begun for hundreds of teachers and their students in the 11 DC schools designated for year-round instruction. Who can argue with the need to improve the educational outcomes for the children in the most need? The school chanForum #1 cellor’s approach to extended Tuesday, August 30 learning is well-intentioned 6:30 pm - 8 pm but short-sighted. Just doing Roosevelt High School – 4301 13th St., NW (nearest metro station: Georgia Ave-Petworth) more of the same is not going to work. It’s like baking a bigger Forum #2 but not better cake. Wednesday, September 7 First, the research on extend6:30 pm - 8 pm ed learning is pretty thin and Eastern High School – 1700 East Capitol St., NE (nearest metro station: Stadium Armory) very mixed. Studies that support extended learning show it Forum #3 as a part of an entire restructurWednesday, September 14 ing effort. Studies that are less 6:30 pm - 8 pm supportive show that the costs Savoy Elementary School – 2400 Shannon Pl., SE (nearest metro station: Anacostia) clearly outweigh the benefit. Moreover, successful extendTHIS INFORMATION IS PROVIDED BY ed learning programs partner THE WASHINGTON TEACHERS’ UNION with community services to assure students with the most
DC residents are ready for a new direction. We can’t settle for “my way or the highway” reforms that fail our kids and feed the school-to-prison pipeline. Together, we can do much better. The Washington Teachers’ Union welcomes parent and community partnerships in its campaign to reclaim the promise of public education reform in the District, not as it is, but as it should be. Contact us at dialogue@wtulocal6.net and visit our website at www.wtulocal6.org. BS
Community Forums on Chancellor Selection
www.washingtoninformer.com / 2016 BACK TO SCHOOL SUPPLEMENT
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DCPS Teachers Want a Contract
NOW! As thousands of DC Public School teachers return to their classrooms, there is a troubling cloud hovering over the new academic year: 1. The DCPS negotiating team led by Chancellor Kaya Henderson unilaterally walked away from the bargaining table in April, with only two issues left to resolve with WTU negotiators. 2. In a May 12, 2016 letter to the Washington Teachers’ Union, Chancellor Henderson stated: “We can take a short cooling off period and resume negotiations in early summer. This will give both sides time to reflect on their priorities and approach. Hopefully, this will also get us past end-ofyear activities and the WTU election, both of which can serve as distractions to our work.” 3. In spite of repeated requests from WTU’s president to resume negotia- tions at the bargaining table with a mediator, the chancellor has chosen to ignore these requests and defy her duty to bargain in good faith with WTU until August 12, 2016 at 5:23 pm. 4. The chancellor has not offered a credible explanation for holding teachers hostage with her disappearing act. Why? 5. Meanwhile, District teachers, once again, will dig into their own pockets to pay for classroom necessities; even though they have not had a pay raise since 2012. The Washington Teachers’ Union will not allow this deliberate foot-dragging to linger. We will amplify our demand that DCPS return to the bargaining table and negotiate, in good faith, to resolve the last two issues and reach a complete, full and fair collective bargaining agreement for WTU members – NOW! Join the WTU Contract Action Team by contacting dialogue@wtulocal6.net.
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2016 BACK TO SCHOOL SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com
Simple Ideas to Inspire Your Tween Reader (BPT) - Reading is a gateway to other places, time periods, or even worlds. It’s also the springboard to success in school and beyond. Parents can inspire a lifelong love of reading by encouraging and guiding their children, especially as they get older. “The tween years are particularly important for developing a joy for reading,” says Jeff Kinney, author of “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” and creative lead at StoryArc Media. “Some children will naturally gravitate toward books and others tend to be reluctant readers. Parents are the key to providing ample opportunity and modeling the importance of reading. Experts agree that reading is a skill that will pay off throughout life.” When they are toddlers, it’s easy to sit down and read a pic-
ture book. When they are tweens, they are more independent, plus there are plenty of distractions. Kinney offers three ideas for inspiring your tween reader to pick up a book.
child’s interests, plus what’s hot with different age groups. And, don’t forget the power of online booksellers too - searching and reading reviews can be part of the adventure.
EXPLORE AN INTEREST
GRAPHIC NOVELS
Does she adore baseball? Is he all about the outdoors? Does she love animals? Reading for fun can be powerful when you consider your child’s interests. Whether fiction or non-fiction, the tween genre has countless books that touch on virtually every subject imaginable. Chat with your tween about what he or she thinks would be fun subjects to explore. Then visit your local library. Librarians are great resources for knowing what would appeal to your
Tween readers aren’t limited to traditional chapter books. Variety is key for tweens, who vacillate from comic books to magazines to traditional chapter books to anything on a screen. One segment that has exploded in popularity with the tween crowd is graphic novels. These books incorporate comic-style art along with conventional storytelling to draw the reader in. Here are three summer-time “must reads” that are guaranteed to excite your tween:
The New Washington Teachers’ Union Welcomes our Students and their Families to a New School Year
President Elizabeth Davis and the WTU Leadership Team
The Washington Teachers' Union, which represents more than 5,500 active and retired teachers in the District of Columbia, is dedicated to improving the quality of support, resources, compensation and working conditions for the dedicated teachers who educate our children. The WTU’s core mission is to raise the standards of the teaching profession by advocating for conditions essential to effectively serving all students; by strengthening school programs and services; and by ensuring that teachers and other school employees have a voice in school-level decision-making.
PROUD TO SERVE OUR CHILDREN AND OUR MEMBERS
Washington Teachers’ Union
Local 6, American Federation of Teachers, AFL-CIO Elizabeth A. Davis, President
“Galactic Hot Dogs: The Wiener Strikes Back” Since the initial launchw of Galactic Hot Dogs on Funbrain. com, millions of kids have delighted in the exploits of Cosmoe, Humphree, Princess Dagger and the rest of the gang featured in weekly webisodes. The first book in the series, “Cosmoe’s Wiener Getaway,” was published in May 2015 and now, Cosmoe and his space-adventuring partners return, ready to save the galaxy (and of course sell more hot dogs) in this zany adventure. Besides, what could possibly go wrong when you combine hot dogs and a flying space circus? “The Popularity Papers” Think graphic novels only appeal to boys? Think again. Most are gender-neutral and some are created with girls in mind. One example is the Popularity Papers book series, where best friends Lydia and Julie relentlessly pursue one goal: cracking the code of popularity. The books are fashioned as a notebook detailing their observations of cool kids, incorporating humor and messages on the importance of friendship. “Poptropica: Mystery of the Map” Poptropica.com began as a vir-
tual world in which kids explore a chain of story-based islands, travel back in time, battle monsters, solve mysteries and complete quests in a kidSAFE-certified environment. Now a New York Times best-seller, Mystery of the Map is the first book to tell the origins story of the Poptropica game - extending the fun from screen to page. The next book in the Mystery of the Map series is due out in August 2016.
SHARED READING
Shared reading can be a great way to bond with your tween or encourage a reluctant reader. You could read the book together each night, taking turns reading pages or chapters out loud. Alternatively, you could both read independently and then talk about the chapters together. Feeling especially motivated this summer? Start a kids’ book club with other parents. Select a book to read each month and then have kids meet for snacks and a discussion. Too busy to meet regularly? Start an online group or discuss the book via text. The more kids talk about reading, the more excited they’ll get about reading. After all, the more kids read for fun, the better they do in school and eventually, in life. BS
www.washingtoninformer.com / 2016 BACK TO SCHOOL SUPPLEMENT
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Helping Black, Latino Students in STEM Era
By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer
Eleven District schools are participating in an extended-year calendar program that allows students more reading and mathematics studies during summer months. Also, a $20 million initiative to help Black and Latino students succeed in the District’s public schools has been unveiled and it includes a plan for an all-male college preparatory high school. Each of the initiatives are part of the District’s attempt to prepare students – with an emphasis on Black and Latinos – for a solid and successful future. The programs are also an attempt to help close the education achievement gap and provide better opportunities for students of color to gain vital instructions in the crucial fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics – commonly known as STEM. It’s an undisputed fact that a significant disparity persists in the STEM participation rates among African Americans and it’s no secret that Black students continue to be marginalized in their preparation to compete with mainstream America for technical science and engineering jobs, according to the National Society of Black Engineers [NSBE]. While the U.S. continues its historic and unique role as a leader among nations, the low number of students pursuing STEM degrees and the relative absence of underrepresented students in the STEM pipeline is becoming ever more critical, and the continuation of this trend could threaten our preeminent status, NSBE officials said. As scientific and technological
requirements grow and as demographic trends indicate increasing national diversity, the U.S. needs to prepare students so that they can contribute their talents and expertise as they initiate and support cutting-edge research. A technology education program at the University of the District of Columbia seeks to fill that need. Its goal is to help 100 minority middle school boys learn 3-D modeling and app development and will expose them to future career opportunities in the tech sector. The Verizon Minority Male Makers STEM Program, a free, four-week summer boot camp, aims to give rising sixth- through eighth-graders in the District’s schools a chance to get a boost in areas in which they are widely underrepresented. And because technology jobs are increasingly abundant — and the skilled workforce in the United States isn’t keeping pace — it could encourage students into a field in which they have an increased chance to excel. The program is open to students in the D.C. Public Schools as well as charters and private schools and will mirror similar programs in other parts of the country, having launched in 2015 at four historically-Black colleges and universities throughout the nation. It has now expanded to 12 cities. “We know that our males of color face significant hurdles,” said outgoing D.C. School’s Chancellor Kaya Henderson, who told reporters that she’s alerted principals to recruit students, specifically targeting schools that focus on science and technology. “Our goal is to give children in D.C. opportunities that inspire greatness,” Henderson said. BS
“We know that our males of color face significant hurdles. Our goal is to give children in D.C. opportunities that inspire greatness.” Kaya Henderson outgoing D.C. School’s Chancellor
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Back-to-School Health: Finding Your Child a Medical Home By Dr. Megan Hollis This August, families are preparing for a new school year. For many parents, that means going to the doctor to get our kids their required check-ups. A yearly well-child visit is a great first step in keeping our children healthy, but is it enough? Children deserve the best healthcare they can get. This begins with having a “medical home,” a place where your doctor knows your whole health story. I have been a primary care doctor in DC since 2012, now working at Community of Hope’s Conway Health and Resource Center. Every day I see why every family should have a medical home. When you have a medical home, you have a relationship with a trusted doctor who knows you. They know your history and keep track of your conditions and medications. People of all ages can benefit
from having a medical home, especially children. In a medical home, your doctor can get to know the big picture of your family’s health. For example, if I am helping a mom manage her diabetes, I know to look for signs of it in her kids. If one child has asthma, I will watch the brothers and sisters for symptoms as well. Medical homes also help guide you through the complex healthcare system. Does your family have many doctors who provide dialysis, physical therapy or other specialty care? It can be a lot to manage. A medical home can help you keep track of it all. A medical home also encourages you to keep coming back to the same doctor over time. Here at Community of Hope, we have some adult patients who have been seeing us since they were children. Some are now bringing their kids to see us, too. In fact, we now have a baby whose mother and grandmother have been
our patients too. Those long-term relationships make it easier to give and receive great care. Sadly, less than half of DC children have a medical home, according to the Child and Adolescent Health Measurement Initiative. Of children whose family income is below the federal poverty line, only 38% are getting the complete care they deserve. What’s the alternative? For families who don’t have a regular doctor, parents may take their children to the emergency room when a problem comes up. In the case of asthma, a good doctor might have spotted symptoms and offered care before it became an emergency. So as you schedule those backto-school check-ups, maybe now is the time to find your kids a medical home. As a doctor, I urge you to find a provider who will take the time to get to know your family. Community health centers like
DR. MEGAN HOLLIS Community of Hope are a great place to start. We can get you scheduled within just a few days. While you’re here, check out our dentistry
and other services. We are accepting new patients of all ages, and hope you will come visit us. BS
HEADED BACK TO SCHOOL?
VISIT THE CONWAY HEALTH AND RESOURCE CENTER Don't forget to schedule your child's dental cleaning, required shots and annual physical!
✔ Open Saturdays ✔ Same-day Appointments ✔ Most Insurance and Medicaid Plans Accepted
202.540.9857 This program is funded in part by the District of Columbia Department of Health.
www.communityofhopedc.org
202.540.9862
MEDICAL DENTAL
Our Family Caring for Yours www.washingtoninformer.com / 2016 BACK TO SCHOOL SUPPLEMENT
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Young Adult Learning Center PROGRAM
DIRECTOR: DR. SEAN YISRAEL
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The Maya Angelou Young Adult Learning Center (YALC) provides academic and workforce development to older youth/young adults, ages 17-24, who do not have a high school credential, and particularly those transitioning from incarceration. The YALC offers: • Academic programs for students to make progress towards their GED. • OSHA 10 Certification and career internships that provide employment and skills training through Home Builders Institute. • Seeds For Success work-learn program through a partnership with the Department of Public Works and Department of Employment Services, offering paid internships with potential full-time employment • Cabling Communications course, offering a C-tech certification, one of the top credentials in the cabling field. • Counseling and youth development support services that
2016 BACK TO SCHOOL SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com
young people need to get back on the right track.
HISTORY
When the See Forever Foundation assumed management of the educational program at New Beginnings Youth Development Center (formerly Oak Hill Detention Center) in 2007, we also opened an extended day educational program, The Maya Angelou Young Adult Learning Center (formerly the Maya Angelou Transition Center), to support the young men from New Beginnings to transition back into the community – one of the most vital steps in juvenile rehabilitation and in reducing recidivism. Upon opening the Maya Angelou Young Adult Learning Center (YALC), we quickly realized that existing services and programs for juvenile ex-offenders, court-involved youth, and disconnected and/or disengaged youth throughout the city were fragmented, and in many cases, inadequate. This is of particular note with respect to
the needs of older, under-credited youth, most of whom face significant academic and socio-emotional deficiencies. While this problem directly affects the youth we work with, it is a systemic problem in Washington, D.C., and nationally for young people who have disconnected from school and work. Through our work at the YALC, we are directly tackling a cycle where poverty, poor education, and bad decision making leads to juvenile delinquency and incarceration as a youth, and then an adult life of intermittent work and incarceration. Our goal is that the Maya Angelou Young Adult Learning Center serves as a gateway to life success for disengaged, disconnected and disenfranchised students throughout the District of Columbia. 5600 East Capitol Street, NE, Washington DC 20019 (202) 289-8898 Fax: (202) 289-8897 http://www.seeforever.org/maya-angelou-public-charter-schools/ young-adult-learning-center/ BS
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Backpack Season: 7 Tips Toward A Comfortable Pack
Register for the
Growing Together
PGCPS FAMILY INSTITUTE INAUGURAL CONFERENCE
REGISTER ONLINE TODAY AT PGCPSFAMILY.ORG PGCPS FAMILY INSTITUTE INAUGURAL CONFERENCE SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2016 9 a.m. -1:30 p.m.
Growing Together
8 a.m.: Check-in • Registration • FREE Continental Breakfast FREE CHILDCARE: AGES 4-12
CHARLES H. FLOWERS HIGH SCHOOL 10001 Ardwick-Ardmore Road • Springdale, MD 20774 SPECIALIZED WORKSHOPS FOR PARENTS, PGCPS STAFF, AND COMMUNITY MEMBERS. TOPICS INCLUDE: Bullying, Navigating PGCPS, Healthy Living, How to be your child’s advocate, Preparing ALL students for College and Career, Social Media: What Parents Need to Know, and MORE! Featuring a FREE Exhibitor Hall showcasing community resources, products, and services!
(BPT) - Racks of colorful backpacks are hitting the shelves at retailers nationwide, reminding us it’s time for students of all ages to start picking out their school supply packs for the coming year. It’s tempting to simply let your child pick out the model emblazoned with his favorite superhero, but ergonomics experts say parents should think twice about how that selection is likely to affect his musculoskeletal health. The wrong choice could mean an aching back for your child over the course of the school year; in fact, some 14,000 children are treated for backpack-related injuries each year according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Fortunately, such issues can be easily prevented by strategizing backpack selection instead of just grabbing one from the store display. The following shopping tips are offered by the American Occupational Therapy Association and Karen Jacobs of Boston University’s Department of Occupational Therapy. 1. Instead of succumbing to an impulse buy, seek out a specialty vendor like eBags.com that offers a better selection of brands, styles, fabrics, features, colors and price points. Buying from such an expert allows you to conveniently compare features among hundreds of different models, and eBags is just as convenient as in-store shopping because of its 110-percent price match guarantee - and in many cases, even free shipping.
5. Once packed, a backpack should weigh no more than 10 percent of a student’s body weight. If the student needs to carry more weight, a wheeled bag should be strongly considered. 6. The choice of fabric can greatly impact a pack’s durability, strength and washability. Nylon and polyester fabrics usually offer all of the above without adding additional weight. 7. Finally, it’s important to find a backpack your child will be glad to bring to school. Fitting in can be crucial to children, and you’re doing him a favor if you can find a model that fits both your criteria and his - whether those standards involve a superhero or not. eBags.com offers a handy shopping filter tool to help you search for the best backpacks based on criteria you select, such as durability, organization, style, or most recommended. It also contains listings of top-rated models based on customer reviews, ranking and recommendations. These top customer picks can help you determine the backpack that’s right for your child. BS
2. Choose a correctly sized pack, adjusting for a child’s year-to-year growth. The height should extend from about two inches below the shoulder blades to waist level or slightly above. 3. For maximum protection, look for padded shoulder straps, a padded back, chest and hip straps and a reflector. 4. Backpacks offering a hip belt can improve balance and take strain off sensitive neck and shoulder muscles.
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PGCPS Makes Family Engagement Top Priority Family Institute to launch Sept. 10 with conference featuring Marian Wright Edelman and Hill Harper Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) is focusing on family in a big way this year. The new PGCPS Family Institute aims to enhance the role of parents and families in the educational process, starting with a free conference Sept. 10 featuring Children’s Defense Fund founder/president Marian Wright Edelman and actor/ best-selling author Hill Harper. The inaugural conference is one of many system-wide events and activities this year that will focus on the importance of families in strengthening school communities. With more than 200 schools and nearly 128,000 students, Prince George’s County Public Schools has many moving parts. Busy parents may not have time for traditional school volunteer activities or they may not know how to build on classroom lessons at home. Family Institute is designed to make that job easier with free workshops and sessions, monthly parent tips, translation and interpretation services among other programs. “This is our way of telling parents that we need and want them to support their child’s education and showing them how we can all work together,” said Dr. Kevin Maxwell, PGCPS Chief Executive Officer. “What we as educators and parents do today matters for a child’s future.” Research shows that school systems with successful parental engagement have higher student achievement levels, lower dropout rates and better behavior and social indicators. Students whose parents are involved in their education tend to have a more positive outlook on learning and their own abilities. “Our goal is to equip our parents and community with the tools needed to be children’s first teachers,” said Dr. Segun Eubanks, Prince George’s County Board of Education. “Family Institute is long overdue.” Past efforts to create structured supports for family and community engagement often fell short. Two years ago, in collaboration with the Prince George’s County Board of Education, Dr. Max-
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well created the Department of Family and Community Engagement (DFCE) to improve that work. DFCE is charged with developing and implementing innovative strategies to increase stakeholder capacity in children’s best interests. Similar to parent academies in other school districts, Family Institute will serve as a guide to resources for student learning under the theme “Growing Together,” anchored by an annual conference. Sessions will be categorized as follows:
n Family Empowerment – Supports participants’ personal and professional goals, focusing on child development, effective parenting practices, parent leadership and advocacy. n 21st Century Learning – Fosters in-depth understanding of curriculum, assessments, academic supports, policies and procedures. n Health and Wellness – Develops health habits that promote success, emphasizing physical, social and emotional well-being. n PGCPS Connects – Aims to equip PGCPS staff with best practices in family and community engagement. Upcoming plans include a community book read and “read aloud” mentoring program to support the school system’s focus on literacy. Space is filling up fast for the first conference, which is expected to draw several hundred people to Charles H. Flowers High School in Springdale. Conference topics will include parent advocacy, college and career preparation, social media, healthy living and finding the right school and specialty programs, support services and resources. Edelman and Harper will deliver remarks separately. PGCPS officials hope the conference sets the tone for the year. “We want to improve collaboration between families, schools and the larger community,” Maxwell said. “There’s a shared responsibility for student success and everyone plays a role.” For more information, visit pgcpsfamily.org or call 301-6187356 or family.institute@pgcps. org. BS
Oxon Hill High School counselor Twana Warrick Bell reviews materials with attendees at the 3rd annual College and Career Readiness Summit, hosted last year by Prince George’s County Public Schools and the Prince George’s County Board of Education.
Growing Together
About the FAMILY INSTITUTE: • Designed to enhance family and community engagement throughout Prince George’s County Public Schools. • Committed to increasing participation and collaboration between families, schools and the broader PGCPS community. • Supports parents, families and guardians in working Growingsuccess. Together towards student
Growing Together
www.pgcps.org
Growing Together
The FAMILY INSTITUTE approach and activities include: • Free workshops and sessions • Translation and interpretation services • Community Book Read • Annual Family Institute Conference/Summit • Monthly parent tips • PTA/PTO Meetings, Back to School Fair, PARCC Nights • Internal staff professional development
2016 BACK TO SCHOOL SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com
Growing Together
Growing Together
Strand I FAMILY EMPOWERMENT
Strand II 21ST CENTURY LEARNING
Strand III HEALTH & WELLNESS
Strand IV PGCPS CONNECTS
Focus on child development, effective parenting practices, parent leadership, and advocacy.
Foster in-depth understanding of curriculum, assessments, academic supports and policies.
Offer participants the opportunity to develop healthy habits that promote success.
Equip school and office staff with best practices in family and community engagement.
facebook.com/pgcps twitter.com/pgcps
pgcpsfamily.org I 301.618.7356
Families are Tapping More Scholarships and Grants to Pay for College
Do You Believe… …that every child deserves a quality education?
The PUTC is a teacher residency program for individuals who are committed to:
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(StatePoint) Families spent less out-of-pocket for college in academic year 201516 compared to last year, as they took advantage of more scholarships and grants to foot the bill, according to “How America Pays for College 2016,” the national study from Sallie Mae, the country’s largest private student lender, and Ipsos, a global independent market research company. Scholarships and grants covered 34 percent of college costs, according to the report, the largest percentage of any resource over the last five years. Approximately, half of families used a scholarship or grant to help pay for college. “Families wrote smaller checks for college this year as they looked less to their wallets and more toward free money to make college happen,” says Raymond Quinlan, chairman and chief executive officer, Sallie Mae, a company focused on helping families save, plan and pay for college. “Scholarships and grants have become an increasingly important part of the pay-for-college mix, and it’s encouraging to see organizations, schools, and the government stepping up to provide them.” Bachelor’s: the new norm: Families are firmly in agreement on the value of college: 98 percent believe it’s an investment in their student’s future and 90 percent expect their student to earn a bachelor’s degree. What’s more, 54 percent of families expect their student to earn a graduate degree. Families are putting their money where their mouth is -- the vast majority are willing to stretch financially to make college happen. n
n Making college more affordable: Nearly all families took at least one cost-saving measure, while most took five or more. These measures include cutting personal spending, working while in school, living at home, and taking accelerated coursework to graduate faster. Additionally, four in five
students attended college in their home state, and one in three started at community college. Eighty-five percent of families completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). n Borrowing not a forgone conclusion: Fewer than half of families borrowed last year. In fact, the proportions of funding from family savings and income and scholarships and grants were twice as high as the proportion of funds borrowed. Student borrowing paid 13 percent of all college costs, down from 16 percent last year. n Cost important, but not top factor: Sixty-seven percent of families narrow college choices based on cost, but when it comes to making the final decision, this takes a back seat. Primary reasons in choosing a college are split evenly between academic program and personal choice, which includes campus culture, extracurricular activities and student population. Cost ranked third at 27 percent. n Planning still pays off: Only 40 percent of families have a plan to pay for college — but in families with plans, students are more likely to pursue bachelor’s degrees, there is more willingness and ability to spend on college, and students borrow 40 percent less than those from families without plans.
For the complete report, visit SallieMae.com/ HowAmericaPaysForCollege. Join the conversation using #HowAmericaPays. To learn more about planning for college, visit Salliemae.com/ PlanforCollege. “The results of this important annual study shed light on critical financial decisions families are making for and with their college-bound students,” said Julia Clark, senior vice president at Ipsos Public Affairs. “The changing roles that college cost, borrowing, and savings play in this process are essential to understand as key factors in the broader higher education landscape.” BS
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PGCC.edu • 301-546-PGCC (7422) Start dates vary for Continuing Education classes.
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© 2016 Prince George’s Community College All rights reserved. | 17054
AUG 2016
CHANGING THE NARRATIVE THE #OURLIVESMATTER SUMMER JOURNAL
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CONTENTS
ADVISOR’S LETTER
PUBLISHER
#OurLivesMatter 3
From the Blessed Adult…
Denise Rolark Barnes
Each and every day, I get to “work” in a field I consider my calling. For the past 16 years, I have held this privilege near and dear my heart. However, the last four years that I have served at the FBR Branch Boys & Girls Club, have been a special type of extraordinary. More specifically the last two years. As the nation grapples with the realities of her choices over the centuries and the very present consequences of those choices, it has forced youth development professionals to dig deeper. Our work, now more than ever, is critical to the survival of our communities, particularly among Black and Brown youth. We NEED their voices and their energy to swell up and get in front in issues like police aggression and brutality, educational equality, economic empowerment and much more. While the #OurLivesMatter Teen Campaign initially responded to the murder of Michael Brown in Ferguson, MO, it has expanded to answer the questions our teens are raising. We are leading this conversation in our community, in the Boys & Girls Clubs Movement and around the country. Coupled with this awakening, is a desire for our teens to be seen and heard for who they are. These works represent our contribution to dismantling the ignorance and stereotypes about teens from east of the Anacostia River. These teens lead. They love. They support. They write. They excel. They matter! You should listen…
ADVISORS
Stereotypes 4 SMARTGirls 4 Education 5 Experiences In The Movement 6
CONTACT INFO Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington FBR Branch at THEARC 1901 Mississippi Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20020 (202) 610-9707 Myra Allen, Branch Director For more information on the #OurLivesMatter Teen Campaign, please contact: LeVar A. Jones, Teen Program Director LJones@bgcgw.org Stay connected with the FBR Teens on social media @FBRExTeens
In the Struggle for our Youth, LeVar A. Jones. Teen Program Director FBR Branch Boys & Girls Club at THEARC, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington Convener, #OurLivesMatter Teen Campaign
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LeVar Jones, teen program director, Boys & Girls Club of Greater Washington FBR Branch Sam P.K. Collins, editor-inchief, WI Bridge
EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT Jordan Jones, editor-in-chief Tarrence Cross, photographer Kelcey Abney, layout
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Brandon Brown Briana S. Davis Cameron Gray Erikah Moore Jazmine Jones
#OURLIVESMATTER Written by Brandon Brown
16, President, #OurLivesMatter Teen Campaign++ The #OurLivesMatter Teen Campaign started when a single group of teens came together and basically said “Enough is Enough” after the horrible death of Michael Brown. Devastated, upset, tired, and determined expressed the looks on these teen’s faces and out of a long engaging conversation birthed the #OurLivesMatter Teen Campaign. With support from FBR Boys & Girls Club teen Director LeVar Jones and club volunteer Porsha Cills, a Co-Founder of the non profit, Be Polished, Inc, the teens got to work on the campaign sharing it to everyone they knew, utilizing the power of social media and organized a date for the first event. On MLK Monday in 2015, more than 300 people (2/3 of them teens) gathered in THEARC Theater for a town hall featuring panels of teens and adult community leaders. The event, which unbelievably to the teens, was a huge success. The lingering question was, “What’s next?” With open eyes and hungry hearts, the next two events were planned and held at the FBR Boys & Girls Club. Event two provided breakouts focused on topics the teens determined were most urgent: educational advocacy, community based violence and the continued dialogue between community youth and police. The event attracted nearly the same size crowd from the initial event, with even more teens. The third event featured a large group teen discussion that was video taped and made available to community youth groups to begin similar discussions in their communities. The movement that began as a local club project was not taking on steam that none of the originators thought would come. Again, the question was, “What’s next?” The Campaign was such a success, teens from other Boys & Girls Clubs around the country began to respond. Boys & Girls Club of Hudson Country in Jersey City, NJ was first. New Jersey invited DC teens to their event in October 2015. In New Jersey, more than 125 teens learned how to approach situations differently, develop and utilize team building skills, and identified problems in their neighborhood and then came up with solutions for them. All the teens were active, engaged, and excited about the solutions that they came up with in order to better their community. As news
spread across the Boys & Girls Club Movement about the #OurLivesMatter campaign, the DC teens were invited to present a workshop on their work at the 2016 National Keystone Conference in Dallas, TX. The workshop, attended by over 80 teens from across the country and military bases around the world was received with enthusiasm. It resulted in a list of more than 40 Clubs that wanted to host similar events in their community, with the support of the DC teens. Back on the home front, teens were also engaging in media based narrative changing. They used the power of their voices and eyes to create their first Photo Exhibit. As a nod to their passion, the exhibit will be on display at the Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum later this Winter. They also created several short film projects with students from Georgetown University, discussing everything from purpose to student athletes to artistic expression. These projects are strengthened by utilizing resources in the Best Buy Teen Tech Center, an innovative space that merges teens and technology and closes the technology access gap, which is housed in the FBR Club. The idea behind these projects is to change the narrative about who they are and how they are viewed in their own community. During the 1 year anniversary of the Campaign, during the FBR Club’s MLK Teen Takeover Weekend, a service project designed to engage in the spirit of King, teens highlighted the successes and their desires for what was next. Having impacted over 1000 teens in the last year and a half and begun conversations in more than a dozen communities, again the question is, “What’s next?” This question is what guides the energy of this teen led, adult supported movement. What’s next? Baltimore, MD in August and Lawrence, NJ in September. More to come from these teens who are declaring to the world, “our lives matter!” ++with support from LeVar A. Jones, Teen Director, Convener, #OurLivesMatter Teen Campaign
/ Photos by Tarrence Cross and Darren Gibson
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STEREOTYPES Written by Briana Davis 18, Young Alum, FBR Boys & Girls Club
SMARTGIRLS Written by Jazmine Jones
16, Member, FBR Boys & Girls Club
/ Photo by Tarrence Cross
As I turned my head to see if the security guard was still following me I thought to myself, “I’m not a thief, why is he watching my every move?” Oh wait, I get it, because I’m a black teenager I must be up to no good right? Wrong! Stereotypes. To believe unfairly that all people or things with a particular characteristic are the same. In other words when someone categorizes an entire group of people with similar characteristics based on one or two experiences that they’ve had. Sometimes a person does not need to have had any personal experience to shape there perception of a person because they have the media to do it for them. The media is guilty of being biased and only showcasing people and events that fall into societal stereotypes. Stereotypes exist because society has already written the life story of every human being based on their race, gender, economic status, and family history. Another reason stereotyping exist is because there are people in this world that have made bad decisions that has reflected poorly on an entire group of people who share similar lives. The truth is that everyone is guilty of stereotyping someone at least once in there lifetime, and it’s not necessarily our own faults it’s just how society has groomed us all to be. If she is a blond with a rich father she must be spoiled and stupid. If he is from the Middle East he must be watched extremely well when he enters the air port to prevent the next 9/11. If she black and going to an Ivy League it must be because of Affirmative action. And if anyone dares to be different or think otherwise they shall be deemed weird or foolish. Some may say that there are benefits to stereotyping, because it enables us
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to respond rapidly to situations that we may have had a similar experience with before. This could be the case for some people, but this also serves as a horrible justification for discriminating against someone that you’ve never even met. By stereotyping someone you become close-minded and miss out on social interaction that could have turn out to be positive and pleasant. Often people don’t realize what they do can have serious negative affects on another person. If society is constantly putting someone down based on preconceived perceptions it will not encourage that person to succeed, and could result in someone slowly slipping into those stereotypes. In reality everywhere I turn I see broken people. All of us are broken in some way, but broken crayons still color, and we can either choose to accept what society force feeds us, or we can break the social norms and become what no one thinks we can be. We can all become someone that people question and fear because we are so different from what everyone expects. That is my goal. One of the many milestones that I will tackle in order to achieve my goal and defy stereotypes is attend college in the fall. So look out for Briana Davis because she will become an exceptional women.
/ Photos by Tarrence Cross
There are many different programs at the FBR Branch Boys & Girls Club, but the ones that are contributing most to the development of teens are SMART Girls and GoodMen. SMART Girls which is led by the Branch Director of FBR, Myra Allen is a focus group that concentrates on how young black females should act & conduct themselves. SMART Girls is also a place for girls to talk about any topic they feel needs to be addressed. If at any time they can’t be too specific as to what they want to talk about, they choose a topic at random from the “What’s Poppin” Jar. In the jar the topics vary from boys all the way to hygiene. The ladies having been together so long, have formed a sisterhood, and feel very comfortable with sharing personal things about their lives to each other. FBR just finished hosting its first annual “Queens Sources: Under Construction” Conference which was held at the Washington Nationals http://examples.yourdictionary. Youth Baseball Academy. All of the com/stereotype-examples. SMART Girls came out to support along with some very influential female http://www.simplypsychology.org/ authors, entrepreneurs, actresses, radio katz-braly.html personalities and artists. Some of the SMART Girl’s got to introduce the https://blogs.hope.edu/getting-raceGuest MCs & speakers we had at the right/our-context-where-we-are/ event. Queens Under Construction the-history-we-inhaled/what-arewas essentially based on the power of the-causes-of-stereotypes/ a Queen and how her power can move 2016 BACK TO SCHOOL SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com
mountains. In the end, the event was a huge success and there is absolutely another plan in the works for another Queens Under Construction Conference next year. Good Men on the other hand, which is facilitated by the teen director at FBR, LeVar Jones is more focused on how to change the narrative for black men. They also talk about the injustices amongst black men and how to handle themselves properly when in the presence of law enforcement due the jurassic increase in police brutality everywhere. The sole purpose of Good Men is to shape the boys into good role models & transform them into good samaritans for society. These groups have become so popular that the teens have decided to start Junior SMART Girls & Good Men with the younger kids in the summer camp. In Junior SMART Girls & Good Men, the goal and concept remain the same but the topics are less intense and are adjusted to the necessary age group. In Junior SMART Girls, they focus on how to carry themselves as young ladies and the female teens try and help the girls find themselves and figure out who they are. While in Good Men, the boys speak on what success means to them and what steps they need to take to achieve success.
EDUCATION Written by Cameron J. Gray
16, MBSYEP Summer Youth Worker, FBR Boys & Girls Club
At the conclusion of the 20142015 school year, approximately 21 percent of all District of Columbia public school students were disengaged educationally. Only 63.9% of African American seniors were awarded a diploma. We may ask ourselves how this is even possible; with all of the outreach programs and community investments, the graduation rate should be much higher. But what we lack to understand is that education is a journey. Living situations, the caliber of friends, and skin color all can be obstacles. It matters not that the auditoriums are sound proofed, or that awardwinning chefs plan the daily menu. Pure education is chosen; only the ones who chose to be shaped, will be affected. In order to understand the graduation rate in the black community, it is essential to understand what education means, if it is truly necessary, and what is expected to come of it. When asked about the value of education, continuing Paul Dunbar High School student, Steven Lewis, responded, “Education means going to school. It is insurance. If my career plans don’t work out, I will have this to fall back on.” For many, education is a way of knowing that there is a possibility of success in the future. When asked the same question, upcoming George Washington University student, Tiona Herring explained, “Education equates opportunity. In order to get a job, or even apply for one, it is required that you have a certain amount of education. It is symbolic of doors being opened. You should be shaping your education,
/ Photos by Tarrence Cross
not the other way around.” Both agree that education should be the path to success, but that individual education should be crafted. True success means different things to different people. For some it means being able to effectively function in Corporate America and for others it means creating their best selves, no matter the cost. But perhaps the most intriguing definition of success is acquiring the capability to give unto your posterity what you could never receive in your lifetime. The latter definition is most common definition of success in the American working class community. One does not simply achieve success. There are always obstacles, and always choices to make. Colby Gray, an upcoming freshman at McKinley Technology High School, said, “It is necessary for me to have a good future, and that means that I should
constantly be learning. The purpose of education is to be prepared for the real world and to gain new experiences. I want my experiences to shape me.” If education is truly learning, outside of the classroom is almost as important inside of the classroom. Our experiences with teachers, other students, and our parents mold who we are. If a student is discouraged, or encouraged, based solely on the color of their skin, it can rattle their entire world. We are products of our environments. What we learn, where we learn, and how we learn can inspire or dishearten is to continue in education. Herring stated, “Teachers feel that they need to pay special attention to minorities, enabling them, singling them out. If there is always a white teacher trying to correct a black male, that will change how they feel towards white people and learning. But
say that they had another black male teacher, they would be inspired to keep going.” External forces like blatant racism, the words in Rihanna’s new music video, and the new buddy cop film send messages that black people have the rigid role of the gangster or the low life. There should be no goals of formal education for black kids, because it is implausible, not “right for them.” As Gray looks to start her high school career, she plans to buckle down as a way of ensuring that she has the best opportunities college and careerwise. For her success is becoming the best civil engineer and maybe even a Supreme Court Justice. She along with Lewis and Herring, have great dreams for the future. It is important that the family is behind the student. The connection between home and school is essential for success in the classroom. How can a teacher appropriately prepare her class for the end of the year examination, when the parents do not encourage the children to work at home? What we truly need are honest, responsible people who are willing to step up and challenge our youth to be their best in every aspect of their lives. Whether a high school senior chooses to continue their education, or not, it is necessary that they continue a lifelong journey of learning. Education is what will strengthen them, but it will only refine what is already present.
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EXPERIENCES IN THE MOVEMENT Compiled by Erikah Moore
17, Member, FBR Boys & Girls Club
4
1 Ayanna Holmes, 18 Member/Recent Alum, FBR Boys & Girls Club
Porsha Cills, Co-Founder BePolished Co-Convener, #OurLivesMatter Teen Campaign
“ If there was one word to explain my experience with Our Lives Matter, it’s power. At the first Town Hall, I performed my poem “Brother”, that Illustrated the truth of the world in an African American boy’s mind. The #OurLivesMatter Teen Campaign movement has given me a new space to connect and grow. I appreciate how excited others are too become part of our growing family.”
It started out as a vision to create an open youth forum to educate, discuss, and release emotions on the tragic events affecting our communities around the country. However, OLM turned into a youth-led movement that created a space in our community for their voice to be heard. The youth have used poetry, photography, art, discussions, and service to USE their VOICE! A voice that KNOWS THEIR LIVES MATTER and a voice willing to be the CHANGE to ensure the world KNOWS THEIR LIVES MATTER. The impact to the community from this movement is not easily classified in a few short words. But, know this movement has birthed a generation of leaders that will surpass all expectations and defy all statistics until the world truly understands OUR LIVES MATTER.
2 Devonte Gooding, 19 Member/Recent Alum, FBR Boys & Girls Club “During every #OurLivesMatter event, I take so much away. The events are full of positive energy and many growing professionals. However, what I take away most is that evens such a as these, where the youth are connecting, learning, speaking, and reflecting, need to happen more every coming together as a blessing and I look forward to every Our Lives Matter event.”
3 Brandon Brown, 16 President, #OurLivesMatter Teen Campaign Member, FBR Boys & Girls Club
“Exhilarating, connected and dedicated are the words I would use to describe my experience at every #OurLivesMatter event and moment. Being able to witness this movement first hand was incredible. So many teens come out and are engaged in creating solutions to the problems in our communities. We are actually talking and it’s great! I was selected as President of our Campaign and I am going to work very hard to ton continue and expand the progress of our revolutionary group of teens. We are from different parts of our community, but we are joining together in order to better it and then the world!”
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5 Samantha P. Davis Founder & Director The Black Swan Academy Original Partner, #OurLivesMatter Youth Town Hall #1 The Black Swan Academy is dedicated to creating a pipeline of black youth civic leaders committed to improving themselves, as well as, the communities in which they live. The Boys & Girls Club, FBR- Branch has been a vital partner in this work. It has been an honor to provide opportunities for youth to engage with decision makers (such as the Ward 8 Youth Candidates Forum); to serve their community and to create platforms for youth to lead and create innovative solutions to social issues such as the Ourlivesmatter townhalls). Together, we are developing leaders who have the power to create the change they seek.
6 LeVar Jones Founder, Father, Teen Program Director Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington, FBR Branch at THEARC It has been an incredible experience awakening teens to their innate abilities to lead and change the world! It sounds like such a lofty goal, but it is one I honestly believe we can and are achieving through the #OurLivesMatter Teen Campaign. My young people are causing people to think differently about teens from OUR community. They are becoming change agents right before us and I’m honored to serve them!
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OPINIONS/EDITORIALS
EDITORIAL Will Milwaukee Become the New Baltimore?
On the heels of a disturbing federal probe of the Baltimore Police Department released last week, which said the Department has persistently violated the rights of poor, Black residents – one “rooted in structural failures,” “longstanding,” “systemic” and “widespread” – comes yet another shooting of a Black man by a police officer, this time in Milwaukee. Sylville K. Smith, 23, died at the scene last Saturday after being pulled over, attempting to flee the scene and then allegedly drawing a weapon on the police officer, another Black man. After the shooting and within just a few hours, violence erupted on Milwaukee’s north side, a predominantly Black area known for its history of violence and distrust between the community and the police. Squad cars were demolished, a vehicle was set on fire, four officers were hurt, one teenager was shot but expected to recover, shots were fired, allegedly not by the police, fires were started resulting in the destruction of several businesses and 17 people were arrested. City Alderman Khalif Rainey has connected the latest acts of violence to the ongoing tension between Black residents and the police, describing the area where the shooting occurred as “a powder keg.” “The Black people of Milwaukee are tired. They’re tired of living under this oppression. This is their existence. This is their life. This is the life of their children,” Rainey said. City officials have since invoked a curfew for teens while adding an additional 150 officers to the beleaguered area. And one has to wonder if the kinds of inequities and injustice heaped upon Blacks in Milwaukee mirror those which the Department of Justice has uncovered in Baltimore. During a recent radio interview, one speaker said in order to heal the deep rift between police departments around the U.S. and Black communities, it would be necessary to change the perceived role of law enforcement officials from “warriors” to “guardians.” Easier said than done. As James Baldwin noted decades ago in his legendary essay “A Report from Occupied Territory,” evidence has accumulated over the years that “the police are simply the hired enemy of this population.” Were Baldwin’s words prophetic? Will Milwaukee become the new Baltimore, a city torn apart by violence and fueled by years of anger and frustration among many Blacks that have now reached their boiling point? It’s time for police departments to be honest. Police management must confront the challenges facing an overworked, poorly trained force consisting of officers many of whom have persistently and unconstitutionally targeted and stopped Blacks for minor crimes, often conducting illegal strip searches and beating those who posed no imminent danger. We extend our sympathy to the family of Smith and remain eager to hear the full report of what happened. But shouldn’t Smith take some of the blame for the unfolding of events – after running from officers and then brandishing a gun? Complexities abound. We await the truth. WI
Orange Does the Right Thing for All Citizens
Council member Vincent B. Orange officially resigned on Monday and is readying himself to take over as the new head of the D.C. Chamber of Commerce. It was the right thing to do as his announcement ends weeks of bickering among his former council members and other city officials who said his holding both seats was tantamount to a conflict of interests. Similarly, we applaud his efforts to secure employment for his former staff members prior to his departure. The D.C. council needs to move forward in anticipation of the change in members which will become official when voters return to the polls in November. Meanwhile, the D.C. Chamber, sorely in need of new leadership, new blood and a total revamping, will certainly benefit from having Orange at the helm. Orange has already shown that he’s committed to helping small businesses succeed and has long been a leading and competent advocate for fledgling enterprises eager to grab their piece of the pie. We hear that Orange also has some innovative ideas including expanding the field to include international businesses on a global scale. Vincent Orange is the right man at the right time for the D.C. Chamber of Commerce. WI WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM
TO THE EDITOR Washington Informer Rocks
We Must Vote Our Conscience
The Washington Informer continues to outshine all of the other community newspapers. Your commitment to providing important, positive newsworthy articles each and every week is simply outstanding. The professionalism exhibited by the writers and photographers in the paper is something we, in the DMV, take pride in when mentioning to others that The Informer is our newspaper. In this era of digital news, your paper is a beacon of light that shines on every corner of the DMV. Keep up the fantastic work!
Would you say casting a vote for someone who doesn’t have your interest is better than not voting at all? If there is a difference, I wish someone would please explain it to me. Sarafina Wright’s article, “Dems Worry About Losing Disenchanted Young Voters,” in the August 11, 2016 Informer, gives some very interesting points on why we should give our votes to the Democratic Party, mainly because of Donald Trump. Donald Trump doesn’t scare me. I don’t want to cast a vote because I’m scared; I want to vote because someone is going to do something for me. Ms. Wright interviewed someone from North Carolina and he expressed how I feel when he said, “I get all of these taxes taken out of my check, but it goes to things that doesn’t benefit me. It goes to police, firefighters, schools, and my nieces’ schools are terrible.” I think that statement hits the nail right on the head for me!
Mable Boston Washington, DC
Bernard Carey Washington, DC
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OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist
By Marian Wright Edelman
Children's Books Don't Reflect True America Do your children love the books on their summer reading lists? Are your children reading about diverse cultures and books that reflect their experience or history? Children of color are now a majority of all public school students and will soon be a majority of all children in America, yet children's books and the publishing industry have failed to keep up with the rainbow of our chil-
dren's faces and cultures and needs. Every summer our Children's Defense Fund (CDF) Freedom Schools curriculum is focused on a superb collection of diverse books that reflect children's own images and a wide variety of cultures and experiences. For some children it's the first time they've seen books with characters who look like them. For others the storylines draw them in, teach them about moments in history they may not have studied
Guest Columnist
in school, and allow them to fall in love with reading in a way they've never experienced. Children of color need to be able to see themselves in the books they read. Just as importantly, all children need to be exposed to a wide range of books that reflect the true diversity of our nation and world as they really are. At a recent panel discussion before nearly 2,000 college students preparing to fan out across the country to teach in this summer's CDF Freedom Schools pro-
grams, a distinguished group of children's book authors and illustrators spoke about their work and what guides them in creating books children will love to read. Often it's because they are creating the books they would have loved to see themselves when they were younger. Doreen Rappaport writes fiction and nonfiction that celebrate diverse histories and biographies like her Caldecott Medal winner "Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin
Luther King Jr.," illustrated by Bryan Collier. Her curiosity about one kind of untold story left her wanting to know more and more: "I got into it because when I was a teenager there were no books about women. Maybe there was Eleanor Roosevelt and Jane Adams — those were the only two books. There wasn't much of a place for young girls with a curiosity, and maybe even an ambition, and actually we were
EDLEMAN Page 49
By Julianne Malveaux
Shirley Chisholm and Women's Fight for True Equality With a woman heading the ticket of the Democratic Party, it may be challenging for us to remember that women have had the right to vote for less than a century (and Black folks less that). But the 19th Amendment that gave women the right to vote was ratified on Aug. 18, 1920, just 96 years ago. At Congresswoman Bella Abzug's (D-N.Y.) insistence Congress designated Aug. 26 as Women's Equality Day in 1971. The first
part of the joint resolution of Congress reads, "Whereas the women of the United States have been treated as second class citizens and have not been entitled to the full rights and privileges, public or private, legal or intentional, which are available to male citizens." Reading the words reminds me how far women have come, how far we still have to go, and how little the status of women of color is included when we speak of the status of women. How far have we come? Few would have predicted that an Af-
Guest Columnist
rican-American would win a presidential election and effectively lead the United States for eight years, and few would have predicted that a woman would have more than a fighting chance of winning the presidency. And yet the very campaign that signals progress is also one that illustrates how much more work needs to be done before women's equality is attained. Too much of the rhetoric around Clinton's candidacy is downright sexist. She should be judged by her positions and there should be absolutely no talk about her looks,
hairstyle, attire or tone of voice. No man could stand the kind of scrutiny that she has had to endure. No man has ever been subject to such scrutiny. The continuing saga of sexual harassment at Fox News is another example of the distance we must travel to reach women's equality. The company's former CEO, Roger Ailes, is accused of multiple counts of sexual harassment, and this is a clear case of "where there's smoke, there's fire." One wonders how many other companies have similarly hostile work envi-
ronments and how often women, simply attempting to earn a living, are placed in the position of having to manage unflattering comments, downright harassment, coerced sex, and even rape. There are documented cases of women being raped in the military then being discharged because they can't work with their rapists. And let's not get started on some of what happens on some campuses. That a Palo Alto judge sentenced a Stanford student to a scant six
MALVEAUX Page 49
By Rev. Jesse Jackson Jr.
Poverty, Desperation Plague World-Class City of Chicago Chicago is one of America's greatest cities. Yet many of its residents live in terror in what is virtually a war zone. When a demented killer slew 49 in a gun rampage in Orlando, Fla., there was national attention. Presidential candidates called for escalating the fight against the Islamic State in the Middle East, even though the killer seems to be a homegrown terrorist.
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But in Chicago, 404 have died in gun violence this year. According to the Congressional Research Service, the murder rate averaged 16.0 per 100,000 a year from 2010-2014. That is nearly four times the national average of 4.6 per 100,000 and nearly three times the Illinois state average (5.8). These killings are not randomly distributed. African-Americans constitute about one-third of Chicago's residents, but they account for 80 percent of its murder victims.
The killings are concentrated in endangered communities, communities burdened with abject poverty and deplorable conditions. Desperation and murder are segregated in Chicago. In West Garfield Park, the average per capita income is $10,951. More than 40 percent of the residents live below the poverty line, with an unemployment rate greater than 25 percent. In Englewood, the average per capita household income is
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$11,993. Forty-two percent of households live below the poverty line, with an unemployment rate over 21 percent. In Fuller Park, per capita household income is $9,016, with a majority — 55.5 percent — of households living below the poverty line. The unemployment rate is 40 percent. Washington Park, North Lawndale, Austin, Greater Grand Crossing, East Garfield Park ... the list goes on. During the height of the Great Depression, the unemployment
rate hovered at roughly 20 percent. These neighborhoods are suffering levels twice that, now six years into the supposed recovery. These are disaster zones in a supposedly world-class city. They look like they are under siege, and to some extent they are. Drugs and guns, violence and despair mark lives condemned to live in these zones. The war in Iraq — one the Bush administration chose to
JACKSON Page 49
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OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist
By James Clingman
Rebuilding Black Wall Street "There are [Blacks] who are willing to worship the pyramids of 4,000 years ago, but will not build pyramids in the present so their children may see what they left behind as well. We have a leadership who rallies the people to look at past glories, but leave their children neglected, who will make great analytical and oratorical dissertations on the inadequacies of Eurocentric education and yet will not contribute one penny of their money or their time to the construction of their own schools." — Dr.
Amos Wilson, Afrikan Centered Consciousness versus the New World Order Montoya Smith, host of the Atlanta talk show, "Mental Dialogue," asked, "Can we rebuild 'Black Wall Street'?" "No, really," he added, recognizing the depth of his question and assuring folks he was not kidding or being rhetorical. So, what was Black Wall Street? Most of what I have learned about it was obtained from a book by John Sibley Butler titled, "Entrepreneur-
Guest Columnist
ship and Self-Help Among Black Americans: A Reconsideration of Race and Economics," which contains an exhaustive section on Tulsa, Oklahoma's history and a detailed account of what took place in its Greenwood District. Some of the information below comes from Butler's book. I also learned from face to face conversations with six of the survivors of the Tulsa Riot. Black Wall Street was burned to the ground in 1921 by a White mob. The Greenwood District, located in the northern section of Tulsa, was
once called "Negro Wall Street," and "Little Africa." It was home to hundreds of black-owned businesses and sat on valuable land desired by White oil speculators, who even tried to buy parcels of that land from blacks for ten cents on the dollar immediately following the Tulsa riot. Fortunately and wisely, blacks refused to sell. Despite hundreds of black lives lost in the riot and all of Greenwood's businesses destroyed, the story of that economic enclave during the ensuing 17 years was one of triumph over tragedy. By 1923, as a result of blacks
pooling their money to capitalize new enterprises, the black business district was even larger than before, and Greenwood was completely restored by black people by 1938. Ultimately, urban renewal and integration, which allowed blacks to shop at non-black stores, led to the demise of "Black Wall Street." To Amos Wilson's point, Greenwood was a pyramid built by blacks in the early 1900's. Instead of look-
CLINGMAN Page 50
By Aaron Haynie
My Eleven Hour Day, Eleven Months a Year Middle School Shaped Me To become something…and not fall off…I have to make it… These are thoughts I have carried with me since I can remember, and they are the thoughts that will carry me through the next four years when I am away from home at college. It has not been an easy road, but my middle school experience taught me what I can accomplish. I grew up and still live in the Trinidad neighborhood of Northeast DC. My family’s financial situation has always
been tough, but I’ve always had good people pointing me in the right direction. One of the most important moments came when I followed my brother Michael to Washington Jesuit Academy 8 years ago. He had gone to school there on the advice of Father Everett Pearson who was our priest at Holy Name Parish, who is now at Mt. Calvary. He foresaw tough times ahead for schools like Holy Name and suggested my mom get my brother into WJA. It wasn’t such an easy de-
Askia-At-Large
cision. Students are at WJA for eleven hours a day, eleven months of the year. Trusting people you don’t know to take care of your kids is hard. But my mom took a leap of faith and, after Mike’s first year, announced that she would send all the boys in our family there. So I always knew where I was going. Those long days weren’t so easy for me, either. It was tough leaving my house in the morning when it was dark and getting home after school - when it was dark. But
I got used to it and it got me more ready for high school. I also had trouble staying out of trouble at first. It shocked my mom a bit because I was one of the kids who didn’t really break the rules at my old school. But there were so many new, strict ones that it took some time to adjust. Over time, I realized that one of the reasons WJA succeeds is the strict environment and the discipline with a purpose. It wasn’t like they were punishing us because they could, but they were trying to get us
to be better. The most important thing I found at WJA was guidance. I had it in all areas of my life once I enrolled, from the classes I took to the food I put in my body. It was hard not to make the right decision. And when I did make mistakes, there were lots of people around to help me get over it and make sure I was better from it. Overall, I became more mature, confident, and ready to take accountabil-
HAYNIE Page 50
By Askia Muhammad
Poor Whites Need a Booker T., Not a Donald J. Let me say right out: a man like Booker T. Washington is the answer to the plight of angry white folks in Appalachia and other pockets of suffering, not Donald J. Trump. As more and more attention is being poured these days on angry white folks who claim they want their country back, I have nothing but scorn for them and their cause, because they practice the most vile forms of discrimination against black people especially, and have
no remorse for the sins they have committed. Sure, many very poor whites are now in distress. It's easy to see them in their trailer parks-turnedmeth dens and see the society has left them behind. But instead of coddling them as though they have a right to be angry, as their political leaders do, someone should go among them and tell them to pull themselves up by their own bootstraps rather than pull a gun off the wall in order to put those who are striving to better themselves "back in their place." Near my hometown in the Mis-
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sissippi Delta, J.W. Milam and Roy Bryant — a couple of saddle tramps who brutally murdered 14-year-old Emmett Till for committing "eyeball rape" — were acquitted in a two-hour kangaroo court trial, and then turned around and confessed to their dastardly crime in an interview with Look magazine, knowing they the Constitution's double-jeopardy protection meant they could not be tried again. They were revered as some kind of role models by self-identified "rednecks" everywhere. Even today, so many white folks consid-
er killing a black person to be no worse than killing a dog on the highway. White folks need to be taught how civilized people live together, not protected in their blind hate. These self-admitted hillbillies don't believe they will ever be held to account, as if there is no higher power, no God of Justice, or even a simple law of karma which might judge them and find them guilty. For more decades on top of decades, not only have their political leaders betrayed them in order to maintain political advantage, their religious leaders have failed to
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teach them the "good news," the gospel. The Rev. Charles Coughlin is a Catholic priest from Canada, who stirred the masses of white folks all across the nation in the 1930s, preaching xenophobic and racist screeds, sympathizing with Adolf Hitler. He opposed the New Deal, which was trying to lift people from their miserable lives after the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl, and poor whites followed and supported him, even though it was not in their own best interests.
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LIFESTYLE Roy Lewis: D.C.’s Genius of Photography Showcases 50 Years of Best Shots in traveling Exhibition By D. Kevin McNeir WI Editor If you’ve been out and about in the DMV, chances are you’ve seen Roy Lewis, or at least the images, faces, places and events that he’s captured with his camera. And the Washington Informer has had the good fortune to have this “genius of photography” as one of its most prolific, senior photographers since the early 90s. Now 79, the Natchez, Mississippi native recently took his career to a new level with a traveling exhibition, Everywhere with Roy Lewis,” that showcases his over 50 years in the business, illustrating why he remains in such high demand and that he hasn’t lost a step, despite his graying hair. “I always wanted to be a photog-
“I was very young and inexperienced and so I attached myself to people who knew how to use a camera – how to make a picture tell its own story." ROY LEWIS
5 Willie Mae Lewis Jefferson looks at a Lewis, Collins and Brown 1984 family reunion photograph at the EveryWhere Exhibition at the Natchez Museum of African American History & Culture with photographs by Roy Lewis.
rapher and began to learn my craft when I was in high school,” said Lewis, who moved to the District in 1973 and lives in Hyattsville, Maryland. He says his moving to Chicago during his late teens served as the impetus for his love of photography. “I was very young and inexperienced and so I attached myself to people who knew how to use a camera – how to make a picture tell its own story,” he said. “Johnson Publishing hired me and I began studying with people like Ted Williams and Lacy Crawford – two men who were at the top of their
game. I learned on my feet and used every opportunity to become a better photographer.” After cutting his teeth in Chicago, he moved to the District in the early 70s because of the city’s “international flair.” “I connected with Dr. Rolark and the Washington Informer and immediately got the chance to photograph history literally every day,” he said. “I was working with organizations and people that I’d heard about and learned to respect. And working for the Informer allowed me to help get out the story through my photos of people or groups that other papers didn’t always cover.” “Everyone comes to D.C. because
5 Photographer Roy Lewis (right) poses with a local family after their finishing their viewing of his exhibition at the Natchez Museum of African American History & Culture which opened July 1 and continues until the end of August. / All photos courtesy of Roy Lewis
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it’s an international city that attracts folks from all over. It opened up the world for me and I took full advantage of the opportunity,” he said. Lewis recalls taking his camera to Africa where he was ringside during the historic Ali-Foreman fight in Zaire in 1974. “That was one of my fondest memories,” he said. “I have photos of Ali running early in the morning in preparation for his fight that no one else has. I was there and I captured the moment.” Lewis recently returned home for the 300th anniversary of Natchez and to participate in his high school reunion. While there, he presented a traveling exhibition of his work. It’s a project that he hopes to one day capture in a book. “I really wanted my former classmates and the youth of Mississippi to see the exhibition,” he said. “I wanted them to see the movements, the people, the political campaigns, the heroes, the villains and popular folks that I’ve captured on film over the years. It’s over 50 years of my life and my work and I’m very proud of it,” said Lewis, a father of four and grandfather of two. What does he tell young photographers? “Learn your craft.” “It’s important to decide early on what interests you the most – what your focus is,” he said. “You need to study other photographers, read, and learn your camera and experiment with automatic and manual settings – even film.” And with that, Lewis said he needed to go – he had an event to cover and “his camera” was eager to get busy. Such is the life of the veteran photographer. WI
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LIFESTYLE
'Jelly's Last Jam' Rolls Out With a Bang
5The cst of 'Jelly's Last Jam' are taking DC by storm. / Courtesy photo
"Jelly's Last Jam," the famed play currently running through Sept. 11 at the Signature Theater in Arlington, Virginia, dazzles the audience with exhilarating music and high-energy choreography. The play tells the life story of jazz music pioneer Jelly Roll Morton, born Ferdinand Joseph Lamothe to an upper-middle-class, light-skinned French-Creole family in New Orleans. His classical training music transpires after his exposure to the jazz movement while working at a brothel as a pianist. His journey gets a rough start after his grandmother detests his lewd behavior and disowns him. From there, Morton's path to fame is plagued by lust, denial and pride. The momentum picks up in the latter part of Act I during the performance of "That's How You Jazz." Mark G. Meadows, former jazz instructor at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts in northwest D.C., plays the arrogant musician and playboy Jelly Roll Morton. As Jelly narrates his story without blemish, and is challenged with the truth by the Chimney
Man, played by Cleavant Derricks, whose ringmaster-style narrative, voodoo doctor persona and quick, one-liner responses generated laughs from the audience. During his journey, Jelly befriends Jack the Bear (Guy Lockhard), a dark-skinned street hustler who he adopts as his sidekick and later humiliates and rejects as a coon, and falls hard for nightclub singer Anita, played by Felicia Boswell. The three end up in a love triangle, which eventually destroys their friendship. Set designer Daniel Conway cleverly decorated the theater with antique chandeliers, brick walls, vintage table lamps, steel staircases, and hand-painted foliage, transporting the audience back in time to the back alleys of New Orleans, the dance halls of Chicago, and the stages of New York. The stage was divided into three parts that extended into the audience so that spectators became part of the club atmosphere. The orchestra pit was placed above the stage, and two pianos and a bed served as the main props, allowing patrons to get an up close view of Jelly and Anita during their PG-13 rated make out sessions. The cast works well together like a fine-tuned piano, but
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standouts include Felicia Boswell (Anita) and Iyona Blake (Gran Mimi). Their solos in "Play the Music for Me" and "The Banishment" captivated the audience as they belted out lyrics in crisp, rich, soulful tones, demonstrating their dynamic vocal range and training in classical music. The ensemble also shines throughout the production with tap and dancehall routines choreographed by Jared Grimes. Each number was skillfully executed with such pizzazz and flair, the audience cheers and applauds in amazement. Director Matthew Gardiner does a superb job depicting Jelly Roll Morton's life, in which the cast performs with finesse. Gardiner doesn't sugarcoat the musical prodigy's image; rather, he gives a dark and raw perspective of Jelly's appetite for sex, inability to honor the true source of jazz music and his disdain for his African-American heritage. The finale features a festive New Orleans-style funeral procession as the Chimney Man commands Jelly to transition to the other side. If you're looking for a play that pops with jazz, sizzles with sex and electrifies with dance, then "Jelly's Last Jam" is definitely worth seeing. WI
The dazzling, high-energy musical about one of jazz’s most notorious entertainers: Jelly Roll Morton
Photo of Mark G. Meadows and ensemble by Margot Schulman.
By Patricia Little WI Contributing Writer
Now through September 11 Save 20% off per ticket! Use code INFORMER
Starring Mark G. Meadows, Tony AwardÂŽ-winning Cleavant Derricks Broadway Star Felicia Boswell Octave Shattering Nova Y. Payton 16 Nearby Restaurants Free Parking
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AUGUST 18 - 24, 2016 31
LIFESTYLE
Black Press Columnist Wins Playwright Award
By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer
"My Big Phat Ghetto Fabule$$ Wedding," Ursula Battle's exciting play about what happens when a reversal of fortune causes a couple's expensive dream wedding to turn into a beer-budget nightmare, is among the journalist and writer's many works that helped her earn the 2016 Newsome Award for Playwright of the Year. Battle, a longtime columnist with NNPA member the Baltimore Times, was honored Sunday, Aug. 7 at the Chesapeake Arts Center in Brooklyn Park, Maryland. "I was humbled, surprised and I was thankful to God for the opportunity to be recognized for doing something that I love to do," Battle said of the honor. "It gives me another opportunity to give God glory because I believe my talent, my gift, is writing. I believe when I write I'm utilizing the gift god gave me and I don't ever do it for the spotlight or for recognition. "This is what I believe that I'm
32 AUGUST 18- 24, 2016
called to do and to be recognized for that is special," she said. "It also goes to show you that people do recognize and appreciate your work. When you work hard and put your best effort forward, you will be recognized and appreciated and this is a shining example of that." A magna cum laude graduate of Coppin State University, where she earned her bachelor's degree in English and a minor in journalism, Battle also earned her master's from the University of Baltimore where she majored in publications design. Also a graduate of the Broadcasting Institute of Maryland and Walbrook High School in Baltimore, Battle is the founder and CEO of Battle Stage Plays. She said the goals of her play productions are to uplift, inspire, educate and encourage through sidesplitting comedy, riveting drama, soul-stirring singing, and powerful ministry. "My favorite scripture says to walk by faith, not by sight and I thank God for the opportunity to be used as a vehicle," Battle said. "I'm just one part of a big pro-
duction of people. It's really not just about me, it takes the writer, director, performers, stage crews, the audience and all of us [to] come together for this." Among Battle's many stage play productions are "DisChord in The Choir," "The Crown of Glory & The Agony of Deceit," "Widows in The Hood," "Jacob, Rachel & Leah," "Noah's Ark," "Never Give Up," "Abraham & Sarah," "The Christmas Gift" and "Mary and Martha." Her productions have appeared at several greater Baltimore venues, including Coppin State University, Morgan State University, the University of Maryland, Eastern Shore, and the Downtown Cultural Arts Center. Battle's romantic comedy stage-play production "For Better or Wor$e" was chosen to be performed at ArtScape 2008. In 2004, her hit production "The Teachers' Lounge" was chosen for a time-modified presentation for the National Association for Professional Teaching Standards' Convention held that year at the Grand Hyatt in Washington, D.C. In 2013, an updated version of "The Teachers' Lounge" was performed at the Downtown Cultural Art Center in Baltimore. "The Teacher's Lounge," her first play, was conceived after attending a performance of Shelly
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5Ursula Battle, who writes for the Baltimore Times, has won Playwright of the Year. / Courtesy photo
Garrett's "Beauty Shop," Battle said. "Me, my mother and some others went to see 'Beauty Shop' and my mother said to me that I should write a play about teachers," Battle said, adding that it wasn't long before she wrote "The Teachers' Lounge," one of her most memorable plays. In September, Battle's "My Big Phat Ghetto Fabule$$ Wedding" returns by popular demand to Johns Hopkins' Turner Auditorium. The production drew sellout audiences when it debuted in December. "People asked us to bring it
back so we're bringing it back and we are also working on bringing back 'DisChord in the Choir,'" Battle said. "The plays give us an opportunity to highlight the talent we have in Baltimore. We have a lot of traveling plays that come to town but I believe we're putting plays up that are comparable if not better than those bigger plays. "We're able to offer our plays at affordable prices and it gives an opportunity for individuals to shine through their performances and we have so many wonderful singers and dancers and crew members," she said. WI
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Crowds Brave Heat for Richmond Jazz Festival
LIFESTYLE Singers and Musicians Needed Artistic Director - Jason Marrow
Do you love to sing, play an instrument and would like to share your gift with others in ministry? LIF - NATCHEZ - Page 30 - DSC_8308 A newly formed gospel group invite you to come and join lifting up the name of Jesus through songs. Last.” Still, as the day wore on, Arrested Development ended a 90-minute set on another stage that brought nearly the entire crowd to their feet with the group’s rhythmic, reggae-flavored “Everyday People.” Neither could the audiences have been more pleased with the laid-back sounds of Schur, Jarreau and others who evoked a more simmering atmosphere among the noticeably larger white and senior music lovers who flocked to this year’s jazz fest. However, while the crowd had come out to the park Aug. 13-14 in anticipation of the more accomplished performers, many were pleased with their introduction to Richmond singing sensation, Brittany Hicks, aka Bri Luv. During a performance that lasted well over an hour, the 30-ish Hicks beautifully attired in a twopiece afro-centric outfit, brought to mind the likes of Jill Scott and LaLa Hathaway. Her strong and well-appointed vocals were quite evident as she belted out -- among a slew of other tunes -- her self-titled 2015 debut single, “Tired,” along with “I Want You” and the recently-released, aimed-straight-for-the charts single, “Make Me Feel.” According to her bio, this rising star – a graduate of the University of Maryland who’s about to embark on her first overseas performances – has also shared the stage with Tyrese and Anthony Hamilton. Between sets, revelers strolled the grounds enjoying food and beverages while vendors hawked fine art and crafts. Free wine tasting and opportunities to join the performers for meet-and-greet and photo op sessions were also available. The four-day event, which kicked off with free admission on
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Aug. 11 at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, was presented by Altria in conjunction with partners Virginia is for Lovers, Wells Fargo, NBC 12, Johnson Marketing and others. According to officials, the festival was yet another successful event, with planning for 2017 already in the making. WI
All voices are needed (Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass) Audition:
Contact Jason Marrow @ 301-257-1544 or organ2167@gmail.com
“SPECTACULAR ... IT’S IMPOSSIBLE NOT TO ENJOY.” “FULL OF SIZZLE AND SPARKLE AND HOPE.” — BroadwayWorld
“
— DC Metro Theater Arts
— MD Theatre Guide
BY CHARLES RANDOLPH-WRIGHT AND BEBE WINANS FEATURING ORIGINAL MUSIC AND LYRICS BY BEBE WINANS DIRECTED BY CHARLES RANDOLPH-WRIGHT A CO-PRODUCTION WITH THE ALLIANCE THEATRE IN ASSOCIATION WITH MY DESTINY PRODUCTIONS LLC, DAN CHILEWICH AND TODD GERSHWIN
MUST CLOSE AUGUST 28 Photo of BeBe Winans by John Bayley.
By Dorothy Rowley WI Staff Writer Despite the blazing sun and blistering heat, thousands of summer music fest fans turned out last weekend at Maymont Park in Virginia for the 7th annual Richmond Jazz Festival, leaving not only with a song in their heart, but an added bounce in their stride. Fans from near and far converged on the grounds of the historic park in the city's West End with lawn chairs and beverage coolers in tow, poised for an eclectic mix of legendary singers and musicians that included Stephanie Mills, Vanessa Williams, Herbie Hancock, Al Jarreau, Wyclef Jean, Tamia, Plunky & Oneness, The Roots, Arrested Development, Grace Kelly, Esperanza Spalding, Ramsey Lewis, Diane Schur, Morris Day and the Time – and Richmond’s own “Bri Luv.” On Saturday, the crowd – many of whom eagerly moved from stage to stage to view the series of nonstop performances – was mesmerized by the flawless vocals and sultry moves of Mills and Williams. Dressed in a striking, form-fitting red dress, the diminutive Mills who began her foray into the music arena in 1975 as a child star in the original Broadway run of “The Wiz,” belted out a string of timeless crowd-pleasers like the mood-setting “I Feel Good All Over” and the up tempo “Never Felt Love Like this Before.” Meanwhile, the statuesque, 53-year-old singer/actress Williams performing on a stage several feet away, was all decked out in an emerald-green jumpsuit as she effortlessly embraced loyal fans with chart-toppers that included “Comfort Zone” and “Saved the Best for
“
5Stephanie Mills listed among an eclectic lineup of performers at the 2016 Richmond Jazz Festival.
Photo of the cast of Born for This: The BeBe Winans Story by Greg Mooney.
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AUGUST 18 - 24, 2016 33
LIFESTYLE
Mojito March Takes the Edge Off Stifling Heat By Eve M. Ferguson WI Contributing Writer The second annual D.C. Mojito March got underway midday under a blazing August sun and near-record temperatures on a latesummer day in D.C. And yet they waited — black, white, young and old stood for upwards of an hour to finally enter the air-conditioned comfort of one of the six venues after checking in at Buffalo Billiards/ Lucky Six on Dupont Circle in Northwest. Fortunately, one had a chance to cool off in the first check-in stop, where the front bar served a raspberry Mojito and the back bar served a Blackberry version. The Cuban libation is a mixture of white rum, simple syrup, lime and mint topped off with soda water, but it can be varied beyond the essential ingredients. And after spending five years living in Miami Beach while in graduate school at Florida International University, it's a drink this writer
INCLUDES: • TICKET • HOT DOG • BAG OF CHIPS • COCA-COLA OR DASANI BEVERAGE STARTING AT $15 THURSDAYS–SUNDAYS AVAILABLE ONLINE ONLY AT nationals.com/family
34 AUGUST 18- 24, 2016
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knows pretty well. I n vented in Havana, t h e Mojito is a favorite tropical cooler that can be traced back to the 17th-century drink "El Draque," named after Sir Francis Drake. The Mojito has routinely been touted as a favorite drink of Ernest Hemingway, and it has been said that the author, who had a penchant for Cuba and nearby Key West, was famously a regular at the Havana bar La Bodeguita del Medio, where he supposedly wrote "My mojito in La Bodeguita, My daiquiri in El Floridita" on a wall of the bar. Handwritten and signed with his name, doubts nevertheless persist from Hemingway biographers of his actual patronage and taste for mojitos. The march encompassed six venues around the M Street/Dupont Circle entertainment district, and marchers could go in whatever order they pleased. Most popped right next door to The Front Door for yet another raspberry Mojito, but this one was cool and refreshingly red with mint leaves swirling amongst ice cubes. Sisters Hannah and Lauren agreed. Better than the first two. Emerging into broiling sun and stifling heat, I asked three marchers, Jason, his wife Kim and friend Victor, where the next one was. We strolled rather quickly, but well-primed, about 3½ blocks to Parlay, where Margarita was mixing the pineapple mojitos. A well-muddled pale yellow libation, something was distinctly missing. It was the mint. But as Kyla and friend Tilandra noted, watching the Olympic diving competition in front of the big screen, despite the high indoor temperature, helped the drink slide down quickly. On to the next venue, The Mad
Hatter, with a line outside the door and at the bar. Ron was helpful and passed my punch ticket to the bar, then handed me his freshly shaken mojito. A quick three sips with mostly ice. Just a few doors away, Café Citron was the final stop, where exiting patrons recommended the food specials, which included plantains, Caribbean wings and quesadillas. Junie, a young man who barely seemed old enough to tend bar, was doing the two-handed shake and pouring out what looked like Mojito heaven. "This is the Cuban," he boasted. "The original, real mojito." After one sip of the slightly cloudy mixture — a muddling of the mint with sugar syrup and lime juice — it was apparent that the real deal was found at the end of the event. D.C. restaurant and bar owners and companies routinely find fun ways to show off their wares. The Mojito March on a steamy August day was just one. A portion of all proceeds will be donated to nonprofits and charitable organizations. WI
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LIFESTYLE
4Morris Day and
bass player Ricky Freeze Smith perform at the “Keepin’ the Funk Alive” show at Jiffy Lube Live on Saturday, Aug. 13 in Bristol, Virginia. / Photo by Shevry Lassiter
PRESENTS
LABOR DAY WEEKEND
Music Festival
6Bootsy Collins dons
a Robert Griffin III jersey during his performance at the “Keepin’ the Funk Alive” show at Jiffy Lube Live on Saturday, Aug. 13 in Bristol, Virginia. /Photo by Shevry Lassiter
HISTORIC LINCOLN THEATRE 1215 U Street NW, Washington DC
6Morris Day and sidekick perform at the “Keepin’ the
Funk Alive” show at Jiffy Lube Live on Saturday, Aug. 13 in Bristol, Virginia. /Photo by Shevry Lassiter
SEPTEMBER 2 – 4, 2016 THREE NIGHTS OF MUSIC
Free Tickets. Featuring jazz, blues, rock, funk, Go Go, Americana and more. For more information and performance listings, visit www.dcarts.dc.gov or call 202-724-5613
HIT DATE NIGHT
OUT OF THE PARK TICKETS STARTING AT $10 nationals.com/tickets 5Bootsy Colling brings in the funk during a performance at the “Keepin’ the Funk Alive” show at Jiffy Lube Live on Saturday, Aug. 13 in Bristol, Virginia. / Photo by Shevry Lassiter
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AUGUST 18 - 24, 2016 35
LIFESTYLE Horoscopes
AUG. 18 - 24, 2016
ARIES There's no doubt that you're busy right now and will be for the foreseeable future. However, you could be tempted to skip the hard work if you're invited on a fun outing or other diversion, especially on Tuesday. Wednesday seems more intense as you could be negotiating to improve your present situation. Don't seem too eager. Lucky Numbers: 1, 10, 33 TAURUS The idea of taking a break from responsibilities may appeal greatly. A
pressing relationship issue could show up in the form of a budding romance. Should you get more involved? It might be best to bide your time for now. Finally, the Full Moon could pave the way for new developments in your career. Lucky Numbers: 11, 18, 20
GEMINI A chance to unwind in good company would be very good for you. You may be looking to purchase a bigticket item for the home midweek, but try to be flexible. You could end up with something that isn't really suitable. Lucky Numbers: 24, 26, 34 CANCER If an unexpected opportunity should arise, you may be willing to see
where it leads even if you don't know much about it. There's a chance it could open the door to an unexpected perk. Midweek brings a powerful aspect that could encourage you to push hard for what you want. Be sure it's right for you first. Be very careful about any deals, especially those that involve a lot of money. Lucky Numbers: 12, 15, 29
LEO If someone offers you a chance to make an impromptu trip, you may take it
for the sheer enjoyment of doing something on the spur of the moment. Your daily agenda looks fairly busy, too, so avoid missing out on an opportunity that might work out well for you over the long term. Relationships could be prone to setbacks. Lucky Numbers: 16, 23, 47
VIRGO Tuesday could bring an inspiring idea your way, one that resolves a personal issue or adds a creative slant to a project or plan. At the same time, one matter could occupy your attention to the exclusion of everything else, especially midweek. Lucky Numbers: 7, 14, 40 LIBRA The meditative focus on a secluded sector of your chart continues, encouraging you to tackle any personal issues that have been draining you for some time. Midweek could be instrumental in encouraging you to make a choice between hanging onto old patterns or finally letting go. Lucky Numbers: 9, 31, 34 SCORPIO You seem to be very socially involved right now, which can be very satisfying. Even so, midweek could see you getting slightly obsessed with a certain person or with his or her character or interests. It might be better to hold back if possible. Full Moon could cause you to make a decision that you may regret. Lucky Numbers: 19, 23, 42 SAGITTARIUS Although you may be inspired to expand your horizons, a more practical focus could encourage you to attend to details and make sure you don't expect too much of yourself. Being realistic is key this week, particularly if you want to make positive progress in your career. Lucky Numbers: 1, 16, 27
CAPRICORN Expanding your horizons is the name of the game this week. With so many positive planets lining up in your adventure sector, this is certainly the best time to make a move. However, you might want to consider the cost of any new opportunities or even vacations you're considering. Avoid splurging. You might need to keep some cash on hand for unexpected bills. Lucky Numbers: 20, 31, 35 AQUARIUS It wouldn't be surprising if you felt unsettled at the start of this week, which may be due to Thursday's Full Moon in your sign. As a result, it might be best not to commit to new plans or ideas. It could coincide with an opportunity that takes you in a completely new direction, one you may not have considered before. Lucky Numbers: 9, 15, 45 PISCES wGo easy midweek, as someone may be a little too pushy for your liking. This person could be charming, but if something doesn't feel right, draw the line and speak up. Aside from this, there are plenty of options for parties, celebrations, and expanding your network in general. Lucky Numbers: 8, 30, 48
36 AUGUST 18- 24, 2016
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wi book reviewA "You're the One I Want"
c.2016, Strebor Books $16 ($22 Canada) 317 pages
Mine, mine, mine. By Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer When you were 2 years old, that was your favorite word. Everything you saw belonged to you somehow, one way or another. If you liked it, it was yours. If you didn't like it, it was yours, too. And as you'll see in the new novel "You're the One I Want" by Shane Allison, some people never outgrow that. Don't think Bree didn't notice that Deanthony was at Kashawn's birthday party. Some might think it natural that he would be — they were twins, after all, so Kashawn's birthday was Deanthony's birthday, too. But Bree didn't think Deanthony would dare show his face after what happened. She surely hoped he wouldn't tell anyone that they'd slept together, because Bree was married to Kashawn. Why did she do it? Bree didn't have an answer to that. She loved Kashawn, that was for sure. He was a doctor, respected in their community, and he was smoking-hot. He loved her, too, though he knew she had a shady past as a dancer at a local gentleman's club. He treated Bree like a queen, so there was no reason for her to sleep with Kashawn's brother — except that she couldn't resist the way Deanthony looked at her. Deanthony had always been a little jealous of Kashawn. Truth was, he was in love with Bree and he couldn't understand why she'd ever choose Kashawn over him. He was better for her in so many ways, and he knew she'd be happier with him — just as long as she never found out what he did after he left Florida to follow his dreams. Bree's BFF, Tangela, had a plan. That was nothing new; Tangela was always planning on Bree's behalf because it was all about Bree, wasn't it? She was always making Bree's life better, making Bree's marriage better, getting Bree what she thought she needed, helping Bree make Kashawn happy. All that, it was something Tangela hated, just as she hated Bree because Tangela really just wanted Kashawn for herself. And here's the thing: much like Bree, Tangela always got what she wanted, plus she really wasn't Bree's best friend. Tangela wasn't anybody's friend… Sounds complicated? Yes, it is, somewhat. Confusing conversation between characters doesn't help, either — but then again, scintillating dialogue isn't why you'd pick this book up. Filled with explicit sex, profanity, violence, lies and cheating, "You're the One I Want" is an over-the-top story that you might not decide to read in public because it's steamy. I mean, wipe-the-fog-from-your-glasses steamy. Everything else is secondary in this book — the characters don't matter, the locale doesn't matter, even author Shane Allison's supporting cast is inconsequential here. Sex is what runs this book, and that's all you need to know. I say that so you're clear that this novel is predictable and nasty, but readable. It's not horrid, but it is hot. And if you need that kind of escape, grab "You're the One I Want" and make it yours. WI WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM
YOU’RE ALWAYS A WINNER WHEN YOU PLAY RESPONSIBLY. Playing the Maryland Lottery is fun, but please play within your limits. For confidential help with gambling problems, please visit mdgamblinghelp.org or call 1-800-GAMBLER. You must be 18 to play.
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AUGUST 18 - 24, 2016 37
SPORTS Rendon, Nats Blast Braves 9-1
5 Washington Nationals third baseman Anthony Rendon is greeted by teammate Bryce Harper after hitting a three-run homer in the fifth inning of the Nationals' 9-1 victory over the Atlanta Braves on Sunday, Aug. 14, at Nationals Park in southeast D.C. / Photo by John E. De Freitas
5 Washington Nationals catcher Wilson Ramos tags out Atlanta Braves center fielder
Ender Inciarte at home plate in the first inning of the Nationals' 9-1 victory on Sunday, Aug. 14, at Nationals Park in southeast D.C. / Photo by John E. De Freitas
4 Atlanta Braves center fielder Ender Inciarte slides in ahead of Washington Nationals
second baseman Trea Turner's tag after doubling in the third inning of the Nationals' 9-1 victory on Sunday, Aug. 14, at Nationals Park in southeast D.C. / Photo by John E. De Freitas
4 Washington Nationals right fielder
Bryce Harper dives back to first base ahead of Atlanta Braves first baseman Freddie Freeman's tag during a pickoff attempt in the fifth inning of the Nationals' 9-1 victory on Sunday, Aug. 14, at Nationals Park in southeast D.C. / Photo by John E. De Freitas
38 AUGUST 18- 24, 2016
THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
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SPORTS
4D.C. United defender Taylor Kemp and Portland Timbers midfielder Darlington Nagbe battle for possession in the first half of the United's 2-0 win on Saturday, Aug. 13, at RFK Stadium in southeast D.C. / Photo by John E. De Freitas
United Blank Timbers at RFK
5 D.C. United midfielder
Patrick Mullins and Portland Timbers defender Alvas Powell fight for possession in the first half of the United's 2-0 win on Saturday, Aug. 13, at RFK Stadium in southeast D.C. / Photo by John E. De Freitas
Berlin Wasn’t Just Jesse Owens’s Olympics By Ronda Racha Penrice Urban News Service
Gymnast Simone Biles. Swimmer Simone Manuel. Shot putter Michelle Carter. All three won gold medals at the Rio 2016 Olympics in sports not typically associated with African-American athletes. Eighty years ago, a grand total of two Black women athletes, Tidye Pickett and Louise Stokes, both in track and field, traveled to the 1936 Olympics in Berlin, where Jesse Owens won four gold medals. Because his victories debunked Adolf Hitler’s pronouncements of Aryan supremacy, many believe Owens was the only African-American Olympian there. “He wasn’t alone,” says filmmaker Deborah Riley Draper. “There were 17 other people.” Her documentary, “Olympic Pride, American Prejudice,” tells the stories of Pickett, Stokes and the other Black Olympians with Owens. Nine of them also won medals in the Nazi capital. Some did so with Owens. Some competed against him. Some didn’t compete with him at all. Ralph Metcalfe shared the podi-
um for gold with Owens after the 4x100-meter relay. Then Metcalfe won silver to Owens’s gold in the 100-meter dash. Jackie Robinson’s brother, Mack, took silver to Owens’s gold in the 200-meter dash. In high jump, Cornelius “Corny” Johnson won gold, while Owens’s fellow Ohio State Buckeye, Dave Albritton, snagged silver. Archie Williams mined gold and James “Jimmy” LuValle bronze in the 400-meter run. John Woodruff won gold in the 800-meter run. Frederick “Fritz” Pollard scored bronze in the 100-meter hurdles, and Jackie Wilson earned silver in bantamweight boxing. Draper found their stories accidentally while researching the life of American trumpeter Valaida Snow, who shared her tale after being interned during Hitler’s rise. Snow’s positive comments about the African-American Olympians in Berlin sparked Draper’s curiosity. That puzzle is chock full of stunning archival footage, interviews with some of the Olympians’ children and even actual audio from Olympians Williams and LuValle. “It’s remarkable to have their voices and to have them kind of guide
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you through their experience through Berlin. It kind of feels like you’re having that conversation with Archie or Jimmy,” Draper said. Digging through the archives of the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, Draper found interview transcripts and then hunted down the corresponding audio. And Draper has remained committed to letting Black people speak, even if it is about the 1930s where their voices are harder to find. “I don’t like anyone to speak for me, so I don’t want to take someone else’s voice from them because I don’t like my voice taken from me,” Draper said. “I think that’s a respect thing.” This also speaks to the independent filmmaker’s work ethic. Louise Stokes Fraser’s son, Wolfie, recognized it immediately after seeing an early cut of “Olympic Pride.” “He looked for seven years to find footage of his mother and was unsuccessful, and he was a cameraman for NBC for 30 years,” said Draper, who found the footage in archives in both Los Angeles and Berlin. When he did see his mother,
5 Black athletes on the boat bound for Germany and the 1936 Olympics. / Courtesy photo Draper said, “He cried a lot. He saw his mom on the boat and he saw his mom getting off the bus. He saw his mom in the stadium, the Nazi stadium, sitting there next to Mack Robinson. His mother. And he said he was so proud. Just seeing her reminded him of just how amazing his mother was.” “Olympic Pride” premiered theatrically in New York and Santa Monica on August 5. It is also available on Comcast’s Xfinity Streampix and can be pre-ordered on Amazon. A 10-city expansion is in the works for September.
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If Draper and those like her hope to continue to buck the Hollywood mainstream, she says, the public will have to step up and massively support these movies. “We need a movement to elevate the film in the consciousness of people who want to see this type of film. We need folks on Facebook (1936OlympicsMovie) to tell us they like the film,” Draper said. “We have to convince distributors that there’s an appetite for African-American films. People have to be convinced that African Americans want to see something different.” WI
AUGUST 18 - 24, 2016 39
EDUCATION from Page 25
5 Dozens of Washington Teachers' Union officials, parents and teachers attend an Aug. 12 press conference in southeast D.C. protesting Wal-Mart's funding of charter schools. / Photo by Shevry Lassiter25
schools and enhancing their current programs. "Why is Wal-Mart so interested in education? Because the education fund is the next big war chest and even though they are already controlling 1 percent of the wealth, they can never be rich enough," said Elizabeth
Davis, president of the teachers union. "It is about money and real estate, it is not about children. "With this conference I hope to enlighten people to the underlying message of Wal-Mart's campaign and know Wal-Mart's reputation behind the scenes as
being the number 1, largest privatizer of education," Davis said. The Walton Foundation has already supported a quarter of the 6,700 charter schools created in the United States, investing $180 million in K-12 education in 2015 and over $1.3 billion in total funding since the foundation's inception in 1992. "The reason we are here today is because of one of our many issues which is the Walton’s dumping billions of dollars into charter schools," said Jessica Levin, communications director of Making Change at Walmart. “This year Wal-Mart is making a claim that they are against teachers spending their own money on school supplies when in fact, they are doing things that undermine this on a day to day basis." As the number of charter school systems drastically increase nationwide, the D.C. area faces the greatest impact, with nearly half of all students now attending public charter schools, according to The New York Times. "Walton has subsidized an
entire charter school system in the nation's capital, helping to fuel enrollment growth so that close to half of all public school students in the city now attend charters," The Times reported in 2014. Over the past year, DCPS schools have seen a 1.9 percent increase in enrollment, but not without also witnessing a 3.2 percent hike in charter school enrollment in the 2015-2016 school year, according to The Washington Post. Aundrea Blair, a volunteer at Savoy Elementary School in Southeast and member of the school's LSAT committee, said public school instructors often have to come out of pocket just to cover shortfalls. "We try to cut corners for extra funding, but usually teachers still end up having to personally put out anywhere between $500 and $600, just to help supplemental costs," said Blair, a grandmother of a DCPS student. "Last year my husband and I were buying copy paper, pencils, pens, dry-eraser markers, you name it. Many of the classrooms lack school aides for all of the disabled students and it is not fair that Wal-Mart is dumping all of this money into charter schools. They want to privatize the school system and that to me is totally wrong." With charter school systems stampeding into the states — accounting for almost half of D.C.'s educational system — residents may have to begin to analyze and prioritize a dual school system and the public charter schools. "Although charter schools are taking public dollars from the public education fund, their records and accounts are not accountable to the public," Davis said. "Any organization that takes public funding should be available to the public, open and transparent." WI
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40 AUGUST 18- 24, 2016
THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
TEXAS VOTE from Page 16 such as a state-issued driver's license, a passport or concealed carry license. Now with the circuit court ruling, any voter without these forms of photo ID can sign a declaration that they have a "reasonable impediment" to obtaining one, show an alternative form of identification and cast a regular ballot. Many additional forms of ID are acceptable under the alternative, including a voter registration certificate, driver's license or personal ID card from any state regardless of expiration date, utility bill, government check, paycheck or any other government document that displays the voter's name and address. Voters who have one of the acceptable photo IDs must still show them to cast a ballot. Although voting rights advocates have successes to celebrate, there are 15 states that will have new voting restrictions in place for the first time this year in a presidential election, according to the Brennan Center for Justice. Those states are Alabama, Arizona, Georgia, Indiana, Kansas, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Ohio, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and Wisconsin. The new laws range from strict photo ID requirements and early-voting cutbacks to registration restrictions. The conversation of the "attack" on voting rights began after the 2010 election when states nationwide introduced laws making it harder to vote. In 2013, the Supreme Court gutted a core provision of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 that further enabled those laws to stand. The key provision taken away was Section 5, which gave the federal government open-ended oversight of states and localities with a history of voter discrimination. Any changes in voting laws and procedures in the covered areas must be "pre-cleared" by federal authorities. "Fixing the law required changing it to such an extent as to render it ineffective," said Rep. Trey Martinez Fischer, chairman of the Mexican American Legislative Caucus. "Unfortunately, it took three years and millions of taxpayer dollars to spoil this cheap ploy to disenfranchise African-American and Latino voters. “We cannot rely on the courts to protect our voting rights or trust that the campaign to disenfranchise Texas minorities has ended — too much damage has already been done," Fischer said. "Instead, we must make ourselves heard at the ballot box and use our collective voice to call for a restoration of the Voting Rights Act." WI
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RELIGION THE RELIGION CORNER
The Griffin Firm, PLLC
Fitness is First Step on Path to Wellness "Nevertheless, I will bring health and healing to it; I will heal my people and will let them enjoy abundant peace and security." Jerimiah 33:6 This is an article to jog your memory us of just how imperative it is for each of us to take care of our bodies, beginning with our diets. Scripture reminds us, our bodies are a temple! With so many changes made over the past 50 years or more, we now have an enormous amount of diseases running rampant! Let's take a look at how bad diseases have gotten over these past decades. Here are statistics from the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which shows the cause of death for just over two million people. Heart disease (614,348) tops the chart, with cancer next at 591,699. Then there's these others: chronic lower respiratory diseases, 147,101; accidents and unintentional injuries, 136,053; stroke (cerebrovascular diseases), 133,103; Alzheimer's disease, 93,541; diabetes, 76,488; influenza and pneumonia, 55,227; and the list goes on! Late in the 19th century, a New York physician by the name of W.H. Thomas voiced a widely-held belief in the United States that of all the "races," Jews had the greatest likelihood of developing diabetes. At the same time, most members of the medical community considered the prevalence of diabetes among blacks to be unusually low. In the words of a Johns Hopkins physician in 1898, "Diabetes is a rare disease in the colored race." This statistic, ladies and gentlemen, has to do with diet and exercise! Though slavery in Turning Hearts Church
America was abolished in 1865, in the years immediately following that time, many of the former slave families continued to work on plantations, with no idea of what to do next. Subsequently, they stayed on with slave masters as sharecroppers. They did not stop their busy work — from sunup to sundown, they all worked, even those who worked inside the family home. Movement was the order of the day. Let us examine what our race is doing today. Most are not using our bodies very much, except to walk from home to the car, from the car to the closest park, and from the car to the grocery store or whatever the destination. Here is the point of this article: AmeriHealth Caritas DC has a free workshop or seminar, hosted by Ruth T. Perot, CEO of the Summit Health Institute for Research and Education (SHIRE). This program, which helps AmeriHealth members from the Ward 8 community, is a cyclical program which runs twice yearly and is held at Allen Chapel AME Church. AmeriHealth Caritas DC is the parent organization. In this health and wellness series, the program is especially designed to support all of the members of AmeriHealth Caritas DC. The Wellness Circle will feature presentations by ACDC representatives, including agency executives, outreach coordinators, care managers and other staff. Presenters will provide instruction on a wide range of topics, including: diabetes and hypertension and how they affect the body; the relationship between foods and chron-
Reverend James Manion Priest
4275 4th Street, S.E. Washington, DC 20034 Phone: 202-746-0113 Fax: 301-843-2445
Foggy Bottom - Founded in 1867 728 23rd Street, NW - Washington, DC 20037 Church office: 202-333-3985 - Fax : 202-338-4958
Motto : “A Great Commitment to the Great Commandment” Website: www.turningheartschurchdc.org Email: faithdefender@verizon.net
• • • • •
Estate planning and probate Medicaid planning Elder law Business and succession planning/ coaching Workshops and seminars on legacy creation for economic strength
Aimee D. Griffin, Esq., The Griffin Firm, PLLC 5335 Wisconsin Ave NW Suite 440 Washington DC 20015 www.thegriffinfirm-PLLC.com
with Lyndia Grant ic disease management; the importance of movement; the necessity of monitoring blood pressure and caring for one's feet; communicating effectively with one's health provider; and the role of medications and over-the-counter drugs in chronic disease management; Various levels of physical activity has been included in each session, and healthy meals are served during each meeting. Special thanks to AmeriHealth Caritas DC for duplicating this exciting health program run by Perot. They are now extending this Wellness Circle training to eligible members that live in Ward 5. This six weeks of training will be held at All Nations Baptist Church, beginning Sept. 8, 2016. If you or someone in your family are members of AmeriHealth, you are eligible to participate. Attendees from the Allen Chapel AME Wellness Circle have lost lots of weight, lowered their glucose levels and reduced their blood pressure. WI
202-379-4738
(301) 864-6070
CHURCH LAWYERS MCCOLLUM & ASSOCIATES, LLC
Organizational Formation, Governance Issues, First Ammendment, Church Employment, Ministerial Exception, Maintenance Issues, Risk Management, Safety and Security Issues, and Real Property Law SERVING MARYLAND, DC, & NORTH CAROLINA
www.jmlaw.net
(301) 864-6070
jmccollum@jmlaw.net
Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church
Virgil K. Thomas, Sr. Senior Pastor/ Teacher
Service and Times Sunday School 8 – 9 AM Worship Service 9 – 11 AM Tuesday Night Bible Study 6:30 – 8:00 PM Wednesday Daytime Bible Study 11 AM – 12:30 PM
Committed to providing services and supports to increase the capacity of individuals, businesses, and communities.
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 All are welcome to St. Mary’s to Learn, Worship, and Grow.
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AUGUST 18 - 24, 2016 41
RELIGION The Miracle Center of Faith Missionary Baptist Church
Pilgrim Baptist Church
Church of Living Waters
Rev. Louis B. Jones II Pastor
Bishop Michael C. Turner, Sr. Senior Pastor 9161 Hampton Overlook Capitol Heights, MD 20743 Phone: 301-350-2200 Fax: 301-499-8724
700 I Street, N.E. Washington, D.C. 20002 (202) 547-8849 Service and Times Worship Sundays: 7:30 & 11:00am 5th Sundays: 9:30am 3rd Sundays: Baptism & Holy Communion Prayer & Praise: Wednesdays @ Noon & 6:30pm
Service and Times Sunday Worship Times : 7:30 a.m. 7 10:00 a.m. Communion: 1st Sunday Sunday School: 9:00 a.m. Bible Study: Wednesday, 12 Noon Bible Study in homes: Tuesday 7:00 p.m. Website: www.themiraclecenterFMBC.com Email: Miraclecenterfmbs@gmail.com Motto: “We Walk by Faith, Not by Sight”
Crusader Baptist Church
Rev. Dr. Michael E. Bell, Sr., Pastor
Rev. Dr. Alton W. Jordan Pastor
Reverend Dr. Calvin L. Matthews Senior Pastor
Harold Andrew Assistant Pastor
2498 Alabama Ave., SE - Washington D.C. 20020 Office: (202) 889-7296 Fax: (202) 889-2198 - www.acamec.org
800 I Street, NE - Washington, DC 20002 202-548-0707 - Fax No. 202-548-0703
4915 Wheeler Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 301-894-6464
Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 8:00am and 11:00am Sunday Church School - 9:15am & Sunday Adult Forum Bible Study - 10:30am 2nd & 4th Monday Women’s Bible Study: 6:30pm Tuesday Jr./Sr. Bible Study: 10:00am Tuesday Topical Bible Study: 6:30pm Tuesday New Beginnings Bible Study: 6:30pm Wednesday Pastoral Bible Study: 6:30pm Wednesday Children’s Bible Study: 6:30pm Thursday Men’s Bible Study: 6:30pm Friday before 1st Sunday Praise & Worship Service: 6:30pm Saturday Adult Bible Study: 10:00am “The Amazing, Awesome, Audacious Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church”
Service and Times Sunday Morning Worship: 11:00am Holy Communion: 1st Sunday Sunday School: 9:45am Men’s Monday Bible Study: 7:00pm Wednesday Night Bible Study: 7:00pm Women’s Ministry Bible Study: 3rd Friday -7:00pm Computer Classes: Announced Family and Marital Counseling by appointment
1200 Isle of Patmos Plaza, Northeast Washington, DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-6767 - Fax: (202) 526-1661
www.livingwatersmd.org
E-mail: Crusadersbaptistchurch@verizon.net www.CrusadersBaptistChurch.org “God is Love”
Covenant Baptist United Church of Christ
St. Stephen Baptist Church
Third Street Church of God
Dr. Dekontee L. & Dr. Ayele A. Johnson Pastors
Drs. Dennis W. & Christine Y. Wiley Pastors
Bishop Lanier C. Twyman, Sr. Senior Pastor
Rev. Cheryl J. Sanders, Th.D. Senior Pastor
Bishop Alfred A. Owens, Jr.; Senior Bishop & Evangelist Susie C. Owens – Co-Pastor
4001 14th Street, NW Washington, DC 20011 (202) 265-6147 Office 1-800 576-1047 Voicemail/Fax
3845 South Capitol Street Washington, DC 20032 (202) 562-5576 (Office) (202) 562-4219 (Fax)
5757 Temple Hill Road, Temple Hills, MD 20748 Office 301-899-8885 – fax 301-899-2555
1204 Third Street, NW Washington, DC 20001 202-347-5889 office 202-638-1803 fax
610 Rhode Island Avenue, NE Washington, DC 20002 (202) 529-4547 office • (202) 529-4495 fax
Service and Times Sunday School: 9:30am Sunday Morning Worship Service: 11:00am Communion Service: First Sunday Prayer Service/Bible Study: Tuesday, 6:30pm
Services and Times Sundays: 10:00am Worship Services Bible Study: Wonderful Wednesdays in Worship and the Word Bible Study Wednesdays 12:00 Noon; 6:30pm (dinner @ 5:30pm) Sunday School: 9:00am – Hour of Power
Blessed Word of Life Church
www.blessedwordoflifechurch.org E-mail: church@blessedwordoflifechurch.org
“An inclusive ministry where all are welcomed and affirmed.” www.covenantbaptistdc.org
Campbell AME Church
Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 am Sunday Church School: 8:45 am Bible Study Wednesday: 12:00 Noon Wednesday: 7:00 pm Thursday: 7: pm “Reaching Up To Reach Out”
Services and Times Sunday Early Morning Worship: 7:45am Church School: 9:30am Sunday Morning Worship: 10:45am Tuesday: 7:00pm/Kingdom Building Bible Institute Wednesday: Prayer/Praise/Bible Study-7:30 pm Baptism & Communion Service: 4th Sunday – 10:30am
Services and Times Sunday School: 9:30am Sunday Worship: 11:00am Prayer Meeting and Bible Study: Wed. 7:30pm
“We are one in the Spirit” www.ssbc5757.org E-mail: ssbc5757@verizon.net
www.thirdstreet.org
“Ambassadors for Christ to the Nation’s Capital”
Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church
Sunday Worship Service: 8 AM and 10:45am Sunday Youth Worship Services: 1st & 4th 10:45am; 804 R.I. Ave., NE 5th 8 AM & 10:45am; Main Church Prayer Services Tuesday – Noon, Wednesday 6am & 6:30pm Calvary Bible Institute: Year-Round Contact Church Communion Every 3rd Sunday The Church in The Hood that will do you Good! www.gmchc.org
Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 7:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Holy Communion: 2nd Sunday at 7:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Sunday Church School: 9:20 a.m. Seniors Bible Study: Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. Noon Day Prayer Service: Tuesdays at Noon Bible Study: Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Motto: “A Ministry of Reconciliation Where Everybody is Somebody!” Website: http://isleofpatmosbc.org Church Email: ipbcsecretary@verizon.net
St Marks Baptist Come Worship with us... Dr. Raymond T. Matthews Pastor and First Lady Marcia Matthews St. Mark's Baptist Church 624 Underwood Street, NW Washington, dc 20011 Services and Times Sunday School: 9:00am Worship Service: 10:00am Wed. Noon Day prayer service Thur. Prayer service: 6:45pm Thur. Bible Study: 7:15pm
Twelfth Street Christian Church
Rev. Dr. Henry Y. White 2562 MLK Jr. Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Adm. Office 202-678-2263 Email: Campbell@mycame.org
Isle of Patmos Baptist Church
Rev. Paul Carrette Senior Pastor
Service and Times Sunday Service: 8:30am& 11:00am Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30pm Communion Service: First Sunday
www.pilgrimbaptistdc.org
Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church
Reverend Dr. Paul H. Saddler Senior Pastor (Disciples of Christ) 1812 12th Street, NW - Washington, DC 20009 Phone: 202-265-4494 Fax: 202 265 4340
Mailing Address Campbell AME Church 2502 Stanton Road SE - Washington, DC 20020
Mt. Zion Baptist Church
Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 am Communion every Sunday: 11:00 am Sunday School: 10:00 am Bible Study Tuesday: 12 Noon Pastor’s Bible Study Tuesday: 6:30 pm Motto: “Discover Something Wonderful” Website: 12thscc.org Email: Twelfthstcc@aol.com
Mount Carmel Baptist Church
Rev. John W. Davis Pastor
Joseph N. Evans, Ph.D Senior Pastor
5101 14th Street, N.W. Washington, DC 20011 202-726-2220/ 202-726-9089
901 Third Street N.W. Washington, DC. 20001 Phone (202) 842-3411 Fax (202) 682-9423
Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 8:00am and 11:00am Sunday School: 9:15am Holy Communion 4th Sunday 10:00am Prayer and Bible Study Wednesday 7:00pm TV Ministry –Channel 6 Wednesday 10:00pm
Service and Times Sunday Church School : 9:00am Sunday Morning Worship: 10:10am Bible Study Tuesday: 6: 00pm Prayer Service Tuesday: 7:00pm Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday 10:10am themcbc.org
gsccm.administration@verizon.net
42 AUGUST 18- 24, 2016
THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
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RELIGION Shabbath Commandment Church
All Nations Baptist Church
King Emmanuel Baptist Church
Bishop Adrian A. Taylor, Sr. Pastor
Rev. Dr. James Coleman Pastor
Rev. Daryl F. Bell Pastor
7801 Livingston Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 301-534-5471
2001 North Capitol St, N.E. - Washington, DC 20002 Phone (202) 832-9591
2324 Ontario Road, NW Washington, DC 20009 (202) 232-1730
Service and Times Sabbath School 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Service 11:00 a.m. Praise & Worship Preaching 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Motto: “A Church Keeping It Real for Real.” Website: Shabbathcommandmentchruch.org Email: Praisebetoyhwh@gmail.com
Zion Baptist Church Rev. Keith W. Byrd, Sr. Pastor 4850 Blagdon Ave, NW - Washington D.C 20011 Phone (202) 722-4940 - Fax (202) 291-3773 Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:15AM Sunday School: 9:00am Monday: Noon Bible School Wednesday: Noon & 7PM: Pastor’s Bible Study Ordinance of Baptism 2nd Holy Communion 4th Sunday Mission Zion Baptist Church Shall; Enlist Sinners, Educate Students, Empower the Suffering, Encourage the Saints, and Exalt Our Savior. (Acts 2:41-47) www.zionbaptistchurchdc.org
St. Luke Baptist Church Rev. Aubrey C. Lewis Pastor 1415 Gallatin Street, NW Washington, DC 20011-3851 P: (202) 726-5940 Service and Times Sunday Worship: 11:00 a.m. Sunday School: 9:15 a.m. Holy Communion: 11:00 a.m., 3rd Sun. Bible Institute: Wednesday - 1:30 pm Prayer Meeting: Wednesday - 12:00 Noon
Service and Times Sunday Church School – 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service – 11:00 AM Holy Communion – 1st Sunday at 11:00 AM Prayer – Wednesdays, 6:00 PM Bible Study – Wednesdays, 7:00 PM Christian Education School of Biblical Knowledge Saturdays, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM, Call for Registration Website: www.allnationsbaptistchurch.com All Nations Baptist Church – A Church of Standards
Israel Baptist Church
Dr. Earl D. Trent Senior Pastor
Rev. Dr. George C. Gilbert Senior Pastor
2409 Ainger Pl.,SE – WDC 20020 (202) 678-0884 – Office - (202) 678-0885 – Fax “Come Grow With Us and Establish a Blessed Family”
623 Florida Ave.. NW - WDC. 20001 Church (202) 667-3409 Study (202) 265-0836 Home Study (301) 464-8211 Fax (202) 483-4009
4504 Gault Place, N.E. Washington, D.C 20019 202-397-7775 – 7184
Service and Times Sunday Worship: 7:30am & 10:45am Baptism/Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday Family Bible Study Tuesdays – 6:30pm Prayer Service: Tuesdays – 8:00pm www.emmanuelbaptistchurchdc.org
“Where Jesus is the King”
Lincoln Park United Methodist Church
Sermon On The Mount Temple Of Joy Apostolic Faith
Rev. Dr. Diane Dixon Proctor Pastor
Elder Herman L. Simms Pastor
1251 Saratoga Ave., NE Washington, DC 20018 (202) 269-0288
1301 North Carolina Ave. N E Washington, D C 20002 202 543 1318 - lpumconthegrow@gmail.com www.lpumcdc.org
5606 Marlboro Pike District Heights, MD 20747 301-735-6005
Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 A.M. Sunday School: 8:30 A.M. Holy Communion1st Sunday: 10:00 A.M. Prayer Service: Wednesday at 6:30 P.M. Bible Study: Wednesday at 7:00 P.M.
Service and Times Sunday Worship: 10: am Holy Communion: First Sunday 10: am Sunday School: 9: am Bible Study: Wednesday @ 12 noon and 6:30pm Motto: “A CHURCH ON THE GROW”.
Mount Moriah Baptist Church
Eastern Community Baptist Church
Service and Times Sunday Apostolic Worship Services 11:00 A.M and 5:00 P.M Communion and Feet Wash 4th Sunday at 5:00 P.M Prayer/Seeking: Wednesday at 8:00 P.M. Apostolic in Doctrine, Pentecostal in Experience, Holiness in Living, Uncompromised and Unchanged. The Apostolic Faith is still alive –Acts 2:42
New Commandment Baptist Church
Dr. Lucius M. Dalton Senior Pastor
Damion M. Briggs Pastor
Rev. Stephen E. Tucker Senior Pastor
1636 East Capitol Street, NE Washington, DC 20003 Telephone: 202-544-5588 - Fax: 202-544-2964
8213 Manson Street Landover, MD 20785 Tel: (301) 322-9787 Fax: (301) 322-9240
13701 Old Jericho Park Road Bowie, MD. 20720 (301) 262-0560
Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 7:45 am and 10:45 am Holy Communion: 1st Sundays at 7:45 am & 10:45 am Sunday School: 9:30 am Prayer & Praise Service: Tuesdays at 12 noon & 6:30 pm Bible Study: Tuesdays at 1 pm and 7 pm Youth Bible Study: Fridays at 7 pm
Service and Times Early Morning Message: 7:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 10:00 AM Sunday Church School: 9:00 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday 7:30 AM & 10:00 AM Prayer, Praise and Testimony: Wednesday 7:00 PM Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM
Service and Times Sunday Worship: 11 AM Sunday School: 10 AM Wednesday Mid-Week Worship, Prayer & Bible Study: Wed. 7 PM
Rehoboth Baptist Church
“Real Worship for Real People” Website: www.easterncommunity.org Email: ecc@easterncommunity.org
Salem Baptist Church
Holy Trinity United Baptist Church
Florida Avenue Baptist Church
Rev. Dr. Clinton W. Austin Pastor
Rev. Dr. Morris L Shearin, Sr. Pastor
Web: www.mountmoriahchurch.org Email: mtmoriah@mountmoriahchurch.org
St. Matthews Baptist Church
Service and Times Sunday School: 9:30 am Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 am Baptismal Service: 1st Sunday – 9:30 am Holy Communion: 1st Sunday – 11:00 am Prayer Meeting & Bible Study: Wednesday -7:30 pm
Emmanuel Baptist Church
“A Church Where Love Is Essential and Praise is Intentional”
Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 10:00 a.m. Sunday Church School: 8:45 – 9:45 a.m. Holy Communion: Every First Sunday Intercessory Prayer: Monday – 7:00-8:00 p.m. Pastor’s Bible Study: Wednesday –7:45 p.m. Midweek Prayer: Wednesday – 7:00 p.m. Noonday Prayer Every Thursday
Matthews Memorial Baptist Church
Service and Times 9:30AM. Sunday Church School 11:00 Am. Sunday Worship Service The Lord’s Supper 1st Sunday Wednesday 7:00pm Prayer & Praise Services 7:30pm. Bible Study Saturday before 4th Sunday Men, Women, Youth Discipleship Ministries 10:30am A Christ Centered Church htubc@comcast.net
Christ Embassy DC
Dr. C. Matthew Hudson, Jr, Pastor 2616 MLK Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Office 202-889-3709 - Fax 202-678-3304 Service and Times Early Worship Service: 7:30a.m Worship Service: 10:45a.m. New Members Class: 9:30a.m. Holy Communion : 1st Sunday -10:45a.m Church School: 9:30a.m. Prayer, Praise and Bible Study: Wednesday 7p.m Bible Study : Saturday: 11a.m. Baptism: 4th Sunday – 10:45a.m “Empowered to love and Challenged to Lead a Multitude of Souls to Christ”
Peace Baptist Church
Kelechi Ajieren Coordinator 6839 Eastern Avenue, R1 Takoma Park, MD 20912 (202) 556-7065 Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 A.M. Wednesday Bible Study: 7:00 P.M. Friday Evening Service: 7:00 P.M. ; Last Friday “…Giving Your Life a Meaning” www.Christembassydc.org Christ.embassy.dc@hotmail.com
Pennsylvania Ave. 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 Morning Worship Service: 7:15 am & 10:50 am Sunday School: 9:30am Wednesday Prayer & Testimonies Service: 7:30pm Wednesday School of the Bible: 8:00pm Wednesday - Midweek Prayer Service: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
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 A.M. Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 A.M. Monday Adult Bible Study: 7:00 P.M. Wednesday Youth & Adult Activities: 6:30 P.M. Prayer Service Bible Study
“The Loving Church of the living lord “ Email Address pbcexec@verizon.net
Shiloh Baptist Church
First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church
Mt. Horeb Baptist Church
Rev. Dr. Maxwell M. Washington Pastor
Rev. Curtis l. Staley Pastor
Rev. Alonzo Hart Pastor
Rev. Dr. Wallace Charles Smith Pastor
Rev. Reginald M. Green, Sr. Interim Pastor
Rev. Dr. H. B. Sampson, III Pastor
Worshiping Location Knights of Columbus - 1633 Tucker Road Fort Washington, MD 20744 (240) 838-7074
621 Alabama Ave., S.E.- Washington, D.C. 20032 P: (202) 561-1111 - F: (202) 561-1112
917 N St. NW - Washington, DC 20001 (202) 232-4294
9th & P Street, N.W. - W. D.C. 20001 (202) 232-4200
Service and Times Sunday Service: 10 am Sunday School for all ages: 8:30 am 1st Sunday Baptism: 10: am 2nd Sunday Holy Communion:10 am Tuesday: Bible Study: 6:30 pm Prayer Meeting: 7:45 pm
Service and Times Sunday Morning Prayer Service: 8:00 a.m. Sunday Church School: 9:15 a.m. Sunday Morning Worship: 10:40 a.m. Third Sunday Baptismal & Holy Communion:10:30 a.m. Tuesday Church At Study Prayer & Praise: 6:30 p.m.
Service and Times Sunrise Prayer Services - Sunday 7:00 a.m. Morning Worship: 8:00 a.m Church School : 9:30 a.m. Morning Worship: 10:55 a.m. Bible Study, Thursday: 6:30 p.m. Prayer Meeting,Thursday : 7:30 p.m.
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 a.m. Sunday School: 9:00 a.m. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Holy Communion: 4th Sunday 7:30 a.m. & 10:30a.m. Prayer Services:Tuesday 7:30 p.m. Wednesday 12 Noon
Motto: “Where God is First and Where Friendly People Worship”
The Church Where GOD Is Working.... And We Are Working With GOD
Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 10:00 am Sunday School: 9:00 am Holy Communion 3rd Sunday Morning Prayer / Bible Study: 6:15 pm - 7:20 pm (Tuesday) Theme: “The Kingdom Focused Church” Matthew 6:33 and Mathew 28:18-20, KJV Email: stmatthewsbaptist@msn.com Website: www.stmatthewsbaptist.org
WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM
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Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 7:45am & 11:00am Sunday School For All Ages: 9:30am Prayer Services: Wednesday 11:30am & 6:45pm Bible Institute: Wednesday at Noon & 7:45pm 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.
AUGUST 18 - 24, 2016 43
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICES
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
Administration No. 2016 ADM 606
Administration No. 2016 ADM 824
Administration No. 2016 ADM 819
Ruth E. Harris Decedent
Gregory Carl Smith Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICES
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
Administration No. 2016 ADM 827
Administration No. 2016 ADM 772
Allen Wilson Decedent
Wilburn L. Boddie aka Wilburn Dorothy Lowe Wright Boddie Decedent
Tessa Zajac-Fine Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Attorney Ethel Mitchell 8403 Colesville Road, Suite #1100 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Attorney
Cynthia Andrea Green, whose address is 2804 Brentwood Road, NE, Washington, DC 20018, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ruth E. Harris who died on January 21, 2016 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before February 4, 2017. 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 February 4, 2017, 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.
Valerie Smith, whose address is 1509 Benning Road, NE, Apt. K-33, Washington, DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Gregory Carl Smith who died on May 11, 2016 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before February 4, 2017. 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 February 4, 2017, 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.
Jumar Wilson, whose address is 669 Raven Spring Trail, Stone Mountain, GA 30087, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Allen Wilson who died on June 19, 2016 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before February 4, 2017. 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 February 4, 2017, 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: August 4, 2016
Date of first publication: August 4, 2016
Date of first publication: August 4, 2016
Cynthia Andrea Green Personal Representative
Valerie Smith Personal Representative
Jumar Wilson Personal Representative
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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Billie Boddie Wilson, whose address is 3600 Asher Street, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Wilburn L. Boddie aka Wilburn Dorothy Lowe Wright Boddie who died on June 15, 2016 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before February 4, 2017. 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 February 4, 2017, 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: August 4, 2016 Billie Boddie Wilson Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY Anne Meister Register of Wills
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Gretchyn G. Meinken 616 North Washington Street Alexandria, VA 22314 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Maciej R. Zajac, whose address is 7214 Regent Drive, Alexandria, VA 22307, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Tessa Zajac-Fine who died on May 11, 2016 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before February 4, 2017. 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 February 4, 2017, 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: August 4, 2016 Maciej R. Zajac Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY Anne Meister Register of Wills
Anne Meister Register of Wills
Anne Meister Register of Wills
Washington Informer
Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
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
Administration No. 2016 ADM 844
Administration No. 2016 ADM 864
Administration No. 2016 ADM 851
Administration No. 2016 ADM 870
Administration No. 2016 ADM 874
Al Morgan aka Alphonzo W. Morgan Decedent
Julius Staten Decedent
Dalton Howard, Esq. 4020 Lee St., NE Washington, DC 20019 Attorney
Sandra R. Burton Stalzer, Esq. 9801 Washington Blvd., Suite 750 Gaithersburg, MD 20878 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Barbara D. Morgan, whose address is 3245 O Street, SE, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Al Morgan aka Alphonzo W. Morgan who died on September 8, 2015 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 February 11, 2017. 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 February 11, 2017, 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.
Mary L. Staten, whose address is 1215 Orren Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Julius Staten who died on September 24, 2015 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 February 11, 2017. 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 February 11, 2017, 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: August 11, 2016
Date of first publication: August 11, 2016
Barbara D. Morgan Personal Representative
Mary L. Staten Personal Representative
Washington Informer
Barbara Williams aka Barbara Jean Williams Decedent
Versace Wilson Decedent
Donna Marie White Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Hattie Wilson, whose address is 1806 14th Street, SE, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Versace Wilson who died on May 14, 2016 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before February 11, 2017. 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 February 11, 2017, 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.
Richard N. White, whose address is 1953 19th Pl. SE, Apt. 102, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Donna Marie White who died on December 6, 2015 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 February 11, 2017. 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 February 11, 2017, 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: August 11, 2016 Hattie Wilson Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer
44 AUGUST 18- 24, 2016
Date of first publication: August 11, 2016
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Tekola Todd, whose address is 130 Yuma Street, SE, Washington, DC 20032, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Barbara Williams aka Barbara Jean Williams who died on June 5, 2016 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before February 11, 2017. 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 February 11, 2017, 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: August 11, 2016
Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer
Washington Informer
Richard N. White Personal Representative
Tekola Todd Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
TRUE TEST COPY
TRUE TEST COPY
TRUE TEST COPY
Anne Meister Register of Wills
Anne Meister Register of Wills
Anne Meister Register of Wills
Anne Meister Register of Wills
Washington Informer
Washington Informer
Washington Informer
Washington Informer
THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM
LEGAL NOTICES SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2016 ADM 863
LEGAL NOTICES SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2016 ADM 833 Jane T. Bussey Decedent
Vanroe Davis Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Lawan A. Snoddy, whose address is 815 46th Street, NE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Vanroe Davis who died on May 14, 2016 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before February 11, 2017. 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 February 11, 2107, 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.
Johnny M. Howard Houston & Howard 1001 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Suite 402 Washington, DC 20036 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
LEGAL NOTICES SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2016 ADM 886 William Martin Clark, Jr. Decedent Aimee D. Griffin, Esq. The Griffin Firm, PLLC 5335 Wisconsin St, NW Suite 440 Washington, DC 20015 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Gilbert I. Bussey, whose address is 3409 Texas Avenue, SE, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jane T. Bussey who died on November 29, 2013 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 February 11, 2017. 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 February 11, 2017, 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.
Fern Clark, whose address is 3318 Highwood Drive, SE, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of William Martin Clark, Jr. who died on May 30, 2016 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before February 18, 2017. 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 February 18, 2017, 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: August 11, 2016
Date of first publication: August 18, 2016
Gilbert I. Bussey Personal Representative
Fern Clark Personal Representative
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TRUE TEST COPY
Anne Meister Register of Wills
Anne Meister Register of Wills
Anne Meister Register of Wills
Washington Informer
Washington Informer
Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
Administration No. 2016 ADM 893
Administration No. 2016 ADM 912
James Henry Williams Decedent
Eunetha S. Yates Decedent
Date of first publication: August 11, 2016 Lawan A. Snoddy Personal Representative
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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Gregory H. Williams, whose address is 6831 E. Tanners Ck Dr., Norfolk, VA 23513, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James Henry Williams who died on October 31, 2005 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 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 February 18, 2017. 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 February 18, 2017, 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: August 18, 2016 Gregory H. Williams Personal Representative
Washington Informer
Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration Number 2016 ADM 859
NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE
Carlethia A. Dillard Personal Representative
Washington Informer WW
WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM
Administration No. 2016 ADM 897
Deceased
Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Myrna Alphonse Newman for standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representative. Unless 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
LEGAL NOTICES SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Probate Division
Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration Number 2016 ADM 411
Terrance Russell Decedent
Estate of
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Tavon Russell and Terrell Lomax-Russell, whose addresses are 7933 Johnson Ave., Apt. 911, Lanham, MD 20706 & 2704 Minnesota Ave., SE, Washington, DC 20019 were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Terrance Russell who died on June 29, 2016 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before February 18, 2017. 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 February 18, 2017, 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: August 18, 2016
Shirley J. Thompson Deceased
NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by James E. Logan, Jr. for
standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representative. Unless
a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is
filed in this Court within 30 days from the date
of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth.
Admit to probate the will date April 8, 2010 exhibited with the petition upon proof
satisfactory to the Court of due execution by
affidavit of witnesses appoint an unsupervised personal representative.
Date of first publication: August 18, 2016
James Larry Frazier Petitioner/Attorney
Tavon Russell Terrell Lomax-Russell Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY Anne Meister
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Register of Wills
Anne Meister Register of Wills
Washington Informer
Washington Informer
Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State Certificate of Assumed Name
Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 333
The filing of an assumed name does not provide a user with exclusive rights to that name. The filing is required for consumer protection in order to enable customers to be able to identify the true owner of a business.
ASSUMED NAME:
Estate of
Carlethia A. Dillard, whose address is 4300 Donna Street, Suitland, MD 20746 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Eunetha S. Yates who died on November 15, 2013 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 February 18, 2017. 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 February 18, 2017, 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: August 18, 2016
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
Probate Division
Marie Jean-Pois Alphonse
Anne Meister Register of Wills
Anne Meister Register of Wills
COLUMBIA
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
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SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF
LEGAL NOTICES
WILLIE LAMONT HICKS
PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS: 451 Hungerford Drive Suite 119-555 Rockville MD 20850 USA NAMEHOLDER(S):
Name:
Address:
Hicks Willie Lamont
c/o 451 Hungerford Drive Suite 119-555 Rockville MD 20850
If you submit an attachment, it will be incorporated into this document. If the attachment conflicts with the information specifically set forth in this document, this document supersedes the data referenced in the attachment.
By typing my name, I, the undersigned, certify that I am signing this document as the person whose signature is required, or as agent of the person(s) whose signature would be required who has authorized me to sign this document on his/her behalf, or in both capacities. I further certify that I have completed all required fields, and that the information in this document is true and correct and in compliance with the applicable chapter of Minnesota Statutes. I understand that by signing this document I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in Section 609.48 as if I had signed this document under oath.
SIGNED BY: Hicks Willie Lamont, CEO MAILING ADDRESS:
None Provided
EMAIL FOR OFFICIAL NOTICES:
mycase.solutions101@gmail.com
appoint a supervised personal representative.
Date of first publication: August 4, 2016 Myrna Alphonse Newman Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Work Item 896784800021 Original File Number 896784800021 STATE OF MINNESOTA OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF STATE FILED 07/29/2016 11:59 PM
Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer
THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
Steve Simon Secretary of State
AUGUST 18 - 24, 2016 45
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MUSEUM from Page 14 more — include the Lilly Endowment Inc., Robert Frederick Smith, and the Oprah Winfrey Charitable Foundation. Capstone donors — those who have contributed at least $10 million — include the Atlantic Philanthropies, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, The Rhimes Family Foundation and David M. Rubenstein. Cornerstone donors — those who have contributed at least $5 million — include 3M, American Express, The Boeing Company, Ford Foundation, GE, Robert L. Johnson, Kaiser Permanente, The Rockefeller Foundation, Target, United Health Group and WalMart. Keystone donors — those who have contributed at least $2 million — include 21st Century Fox
and News Corp, Bank of America, The Walt Disney Company, W.K. Kellogg Foundation, Kovler Foundation, Medtronic Foundation, The Moore Charitable Foundation/Louis Moore Bacon, Stavros Niarchos Foundation, Northrop Grumman, Prudential, Smithsonian Channel, Earl W. and Amanda Stafford, Patty Stonesifer and Michael Kinsley, Time Warner Foundation, Toyota, United Technologies Corporation, Walton Family Foundation, Anthony and Beatrice Welters and the Vincent Wilkinson Foundation. Verizon, Xerox, Wells Fargo, Google, Tyler Perry, New York Life, MetLife Foundation, Fed Ex, Ford Motor Company Fund, General Motors and a host of others have donated at least $1 million, making them "milestone donors." "After more than a decade of hard work and dedication on the part of so many, we will open the
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doors of the museum and let visitors see that it is a place for all people," Bunch said. "We have created exhibitions and programs designed to unite and capture the attention of millions of people worldwide. It will be a place for healing and reconciliation, a place where everyone can explore the story of America through the lens of the African-American experience." WI
REED from Page 15 1973 candy-apple-red convertible once owned by Chuck Berry. Black Americans stepped up to build the place: Founding donors are the Ford, Gates, Rockefeller and Mellon foundations, General Electric and Wal-Mart, along with Samuel L. Jackson, the NBA, the NFL and former Secretary of State Colin L. Powell. Oprah Winfrey, a member of the museum council and its largest donor, contributed $21 million. Robert L. Johnson, founder and chairman of the RLJ Companies, donated $6 million, as well as $2 million worth of works from his private art collection. The historic Alfred Street Baptist Church's African-American congregation in Alexandria pledged $1 million, while church members Earl W. Stafford, a Northern Virginia philanthropist and entrepreneur, and his wife, Amanda, donated $2 million. Television executive Shonda Rhimes of "Scandal" fame pledged $10 million. Sports legend Michael Jordan recently gave $5 million gift, pushing the museum's private donations to $278 million. Including federal aid, the museum has raised more than $548 million. WI
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with federal agencies and private businesses on how to employ, work with and retain veterans. The company is located in a Historically Underutilized Business Zone, or HUBzone. A brief description on the Small Business Administration website (http://bit.ly/2bqgnVV) permits the federal government to reward 3 percent of all prime contracts to merchants with that designation. Laurie Sayles Artis, a former Marine whose owned Civility Management for four years, said one of the company's main duties is breaking down misconceptions about veterans. One such misconception is that the majority of veterans suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, which Artis refuted, pointing out that some have eight-hour-a-day desk jobs. "Everybody is not out of there shooting and killing people," said Artis, who has 10 employees with three paid consultants and another 15 on-call working for her. "Saying you want to hire veterans and saying, 'Oh, we're veteran-friendly.' We don't need you to just be veteran-friendly. We need you to be friendly to veterans." The EDC's next veteran-based job fair will take place Sept. 12 at the EDC office, 1801 McCormick Drive, Suite 140. For more information, go to www.pgcedc.com/events or call 301-583-4650. WI
who graduated in 2006 from Johnson and Wales University based in Providence, Rhode Island, plans to sell her items on a mobile ice cream truck next year, then inside her own building. Besides adults drinking cold beer from the Calvert Brewing Co. of Upper Marlboro, everyone got to try samples of Chicken and Cake, a dish prepared by culinary students at Prince George's Community College. Besides pancakes and slices of chicken, one version added blackberries with a touch of mint, while the other was covered with a peach marinade and sweet and tangy hot sauce. "It's an acquired taste, but it's really good," said Massa Freeman of Mitchellville of the peach-flavored dish. Some of the students participated in a culinary competition against a group from The Art Institute of Washington based in Arlington, Virginia. The judges, including Gizelle Bryant, a reality TV star on Bravo's "Real Housewives of Potomac," chose The Art Institute as the winner. That didn't matter to Denise Middletown, one of the Prince George's students who prepared a two-bite appetizer that included a thin layer of filet mignon, arugula, sautéed shrimp and a peach mango compote. "The judges were lovely. The competition was classy, yet hype," said Middletown of Capitol Heights, who will graduate from the community college’s culinary school in May. "We really enjoyed putting out an excellent dish." Not every vendor sold tasty treats. Sherrie Jacobs, who's owned Amina Shani Gifts for four years, came to sell eight different items such as NFL-licensed beer glasses, fraternity and sorority wine boxes and a stiletto wine bottle holder. Her tent sat across from a Metro bus used as a cooling station. "I started off selling handbags and jewelry and I noticed a lot of ladies were [also] selling handbags and jewelry," she said minutes before walking to the air-conditioned bus. "So I wanted to do something that nobody else was doing. I've been doing very well with it." WI
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launch — will end up costing us more than $3 trillion. And of course, the wars go on — in Afghanistan, in Syria, in Iraq, in Yemen, and now the U.S. is beginning to bomb Libya. But the right now disaster zones in Chicago are ignored. The everyday violence is decried but nothing is done. The poverty is regretted but there is no plan to attack it. In fact, national policy does more to expand the divide between endangered communities and affluent ones, between those living in the disaster zone and those living uptown. A new report by the Institute for Policy Studies and the Center for Enterprise Development details the growing racial wealth gap in America. They find that
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have more economic responsibility. African-American women are far less likely than their White counterparts to be found in the "C" suite in corporate leadership, and far more likely to be further down the ladder in every aspect of life in our nation. While people say they saw the glass ceiling shatter with Hillary Clinton's nomination, others saw the millions standing at the sticky floor with few opportunities to climb up to that glass ceiling. Those standing on the sticky floor are disproportionately women of color, especially those who earn low wages and have fewer opportunities than others. Maybe Hillary Clinton will bridge the gap when she pursues a progressive economic agenda that includes fair and equal pay, afford-
able childcare, and other benefits for working women. There has been significant progress for women since the 19th Amendment was passed, significant progress since Congress designated Aug. 26 as Women's Equality Day. Yet women still don't have even a third, let alone half, of the seats in the House of Representatives or the Senate, nor in any state legislature in the nation. Women aren't even 10 percent of our nation's corporate leaders. Women still face hostile work environments. While commemorating the progress that has been made in nearly a century, we must also ask whether it will take another century to reach real equality for all women. WI
without a drastic change in policy, by 2043, when people of color are projected to account for more than half of the U.S. population, the racial wealth divide between white households and African-American and Latino households will have doubled from about $500,000 in 2013 to more than $1 million. The gap reflects the impact of historic inequities — from federally sanctioned housing discrimination to private redlining — but its expansion is fueled in part by tax policies that aid the highest earners while providing the lowest income families with virtually nothing. Over the past 20 years alone, the report finds, the federal government spent more than $8 trillion through tax programs to
assist families in building longterm wealth, including saving for retirement, purchasing a home, starting a business or paying for college. But the impact of these expenditures has been "upside down." With typical millionaires pocketing about $145,000 in public tax benefits each year to increase their wealth while working families receive a total of $174 on average. More of the same won't help. Adding benefits to the wealthy few — like Donald Trump's call to end the estate tax — will add to the inequity and contribute to the despair. If nothing changes, the desperate zones will get worse. Surely this crisis is worthy of debate in the presidential campaign, and action from the White House and Congress. WI
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months in a rape witnessed by another student is amazing. That his father actually decried the sentence as too high a price to pay for a few minutes of "action" speaks to how much work we have to do to reach women's equality. And ain't I a woman. What about Black women's equality? I'm chagrined that Shirley Chisholm's historic run for president has been all but ignored in much of the media frenzy about candidate Hillary Clinton. However, it does not surprise me given the many ways African-American women's contributions are sidelined, marginalized or simply ignored. African-American women earn less their White counterparts do, but head more households and
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lineage. What this is, is your springboard into the world of letters. … Show them them first. Then you can give them Shakespeare, you can give them Harper Lee, we can run the gamut of things we can give them — but let's give them them, and then we can move out." We should seek out diverse books for all children — for summer reading, in school curricula, at library storytimes, bedtime, and all the time. Let's make sure all children have access to engaging books that help them see themselves and, to paraphrase Rappaport, fill in all pieces of the real story of our nation and world. WI
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told not to be ambitious." Author and illustrator Don Brown started out on the very same hunt as Rappaport: "I had two little girls, and I wanted to read to them stories about real women who were brave and heroic. I couldn't find books like that." He too decided to write his own, and has since written more than two dozen books on famous and less well known historical figures and events. His latest graphic nonfiction book, "Drowned City," is about Hurricane Katrina. About his technique, he said: "I only say this half-jokingly: I've never written a kids' book in my life. … I write a book that I know is going to be accessible to kids, but I never sit down and write a children's book, and I think that for me
personally that makes a big difference — because I think for me, I would end up pandering, and I don't. I write a book that I like that I think anybody would read." Jason Reynolds, the author of "When I Was the Greatest," "The Boy in the Black Suit," and "All American Boys," shared similar feelings. When he was in school no one ever showed him books that featured his voice or story, and so he didn't like to read at all. He now very deliberately writes books for other young people. "Right now what we see in our communities, we see that the young people of color are hyper-visible, yet terribly invisible at the same time, and that puts them in a really complicated spot, and I think all I really want to do is say, 'I see you,'" he said. "This doesn't have to be your entire literary
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CLINGMAN from Page 29 ing back and merely reveling in the successes of Mound Bayou, Mississippi, and other enclaves that came before them, black people in Greenwood built upon those legacies. Thus, my answer to the Smith question is an emphatic and unequivocal "Yes!" My answer to that question is based on the fact that we have done it before under far worse circumstances than we are under today. But as I listened to the other guest on Montoya's show, Jay West, entrepreneur and president of the Lithonia Small Business and Merchants Association located on the outskirts of Atlanta, I became even more convinced. Immediately impressed by West and the work his group is doing in a city that is approximately 85 percent black, I sought him out to learn
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HAYNIE from Page 29 ity and accept consequences for my actions. And even after I graduated WJA, I knew I could always call Mr. Blue who stays in contact and mentors students like me after we go on to high school and college from WJA. That helps me keep on track. At the end of the summer, I plan to go to the [University of Rochester] and study pre-med thanks to the Posse Scholarship I won. I hope to become a cardiologist. It will be hard work, but I know how
ASKIA from Page 29
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50 AUGUST 18- 24, 2016
Alabama Gov. George Wallace was another demagogue who traded on poor white unease when black people in the South began to stand up and demand freedom, justice and equality. There were dozens, hundreds even, of prominent politicians during that era who did the same thing. No one ever taught those people to be better. They were just exploited to maintain the political and social status quo which favored the white elites at the expense of black folks — and poor, dumb white folks. For example, when the school desegregation fights were at their peak, Mississippi spent about $4 a year per child on educating blacks. The state spent about $9 a year per child educating whites. That was clearly unjust. What folks were unaware of is that at that same time, New York was spending about $36 a year per child. The southern rednecks accepted their grossly inferior status to other regions, simply because they saw
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more. West understands and promotes local business support. "I do 95 percent of my shopping right here in Lithonia," West said, "because I know that one dollar spent here has the multiplier effect of three dollars, as our businesses support one another." West is absolutely correct, and the Lithonia merchants association will benefit collectively and individually from circulating their dollars. They will grow their businesses and create more jobs. This nascent organization can be the model from which new Black Wall Streets can be built across this nation. It is on track to encourage more entrepreneurship and demonstrate the power of a cohesive, mutually supportive, self-directed, and economically empowered network of conscious business owners and consumers who are committed to growth and sustainability. True partnerships between ed-
ucated consumers and business professionals in black economic enclaves comprise the basis for real power in the marketplace, i.e., collective purchasing programs and affinity groups, revolving loan funds, business equity funds, and financial leverage to stimulate future growth. Lithonia is in that space right now, and there is plenty of room for more cities and segments within those cities to do the same. To draw the discussion closer to home in Atlanta: "Can Sweet Auburn be sweet again?" John Wesley Dobbs called Auburn Avenue the "richest Negro street in the world." Suffering its own riot in 1906 that left 25 black men dead, the Sweet Auburn neighborhood can also be restored, and with leaders such as Jay West and others in Atlanta, I am confident that we will build more pyramids in the black community. WI
to work hard for what I care about. And I have inspiration. I know I can get over any challenge I will face because I have grown up watching my mom work so hard for everything that we have, and I know that one day I will be able to do for her what she has done for me. My unique middle school experience gave me the structure and support I needed, two things that would benefit so many other kids from neighborhoods like mine. I will always remember sayings like the Magis (doing
more), A.M.D.G (For the greater glory of God), and the importance of being a man for others. For me, those are all about knowing I will make my mom proud, that I will help my family into a better place, and that one day I’ll be able to come back to Trinidad and help some kids do the same thing. If there’s anything I learned though my middle school experience, it’s that it’s not just for me that I will become something…that I will not fall off…that I will make it. WI
themselves as better off than the Negroes. As the civil rights movement in all its incarnations proceeded, blacks engaged in self-help programs at the same time they demanded equality. Poor white folks just wallowed along, as though their privileged status would last forever. The improvement in the lives of black people was trumpeted via an increasingly ubiquitous news and entertainment media. George Wallace even recanted his past sins and apologized for having been such a beast to black people. He should have told poor whiteys to get themselves together and try to better their own condition. Alas. Then the betrayal of white folks came from the greedy masters of the society who sold out manufacturing jobs to better educated cheaper job markets overseas. The environmental movement finally began to strangle the coal miners who had been polluting the air and rivers for decades, and stopped the deforestation, and those jobs went away, and those poor white
rednecks and hillbillies were left wallowing in the ditch, watching black people struggle to better their lives. Whites were angry, but no one knew how angry until Trump raised the nativist, racist, white supremacy flag. No one ever taught poor white people the truth, that Caucasian-ness is not a substitute for learning. In the 21st century, no one told the barefoot and poor rednecks and hillbillies living like trailer trash in places such as Owsley County, Kentucky — America's poorest county, which is 99.22 percent white and 95 percent Republican — that they should have emulated Booker T. Washington, who walked barefoot from the backwoods to Virginia's Hampton Normal School, where had to be taught to eat with a knife and a fork. No one ever told the rednecks and the hillbillies that their leaders, their role models, had "sold them down the river" like plantation bosses had once done to enslaved Africans. WI
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