The Washington Informer - June 8, 2017 by The Washington Informer

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ADVANCING HOME OWNERSHIP – A HOME FOR ALL

VOL. 52, NO. 34 • JUNE 8 - 14, 2017

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Noose Discovered in Hillcrest Across from School

Ben Jealous Announces Bid for Md. Governor

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill

Gray, Bowser Join Others in Denouncing Hate

The shock, anger and outrage from the discovery of nooses hanging on trees at American University in Northwest and from the new Smithsonian National Museum of African-American History on the National Mall hadn't quite began to dissipate when the symbol of hate again was discovered in the District. This time, a noose was found hanging in Ward 7, the Hillcrest neighborhood of Southeast, again leaving city officials and residents outraged. Another noose was discovered in the Hillcrest neighborhood of Southeast that again leaves officials and residents outraged and a demand for answers. It's also left many wanting answers.

Kicking off the program’s second consecutive year, Discover The Unexpected fellows traveled to Detroit for an immersion trip. For two days, the eight scholars, representing Morehouse College, Spelman College, Clark Atlanta University and Howard University, became acquainted with the General Motors headquarters, the city of Detroit and their fellow interns. The trip commenced with an opening welcome ceremony at a repurposed firehouse that serves as the commercial studio of Ed Welburn, former Vice President of Design at General Motors. Upon arrival, the fellows approached the building with excitement as they were greeted by representatives from General Motors and the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA). In addition, they were greeted with the all-new 2018 Chevrolet Equinox parked at the entrance – the ve-

When former NAACP President Ben Jealous officially announced his candidacy for Maryland governor last week, some viewed the move as a change of political stature. Jealous, 44, could also become the leader of a progressive movement with personal family history decades ago when his black mother and white father couldn't legally marry. Jealous, a longtime civil rights activist who became the youngest person to serve as NAACP president at age 35, seeks his first foray into politics with a few agenda items: increase the minimum wage to $15 an hour, eliminate mass incarceration and ensure those from underserved communities receive affordable health care. He received an endorsement three weeks before his announcement from Democracy for America, a national progressive group with 26,000 Maryland members. The group also supports Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vermont), who Jealous worked for as a surrogate during last year's Democratic presidential primary. While standing outside his cousin's flower shop in the city, where his grandfather moved to 80 years ago, he took a few shots at Gov. Larry Hogan for not

JOURNALISM Page 38

JEALOUS Page 23

5 Social Justice Minister of Washington Heights Baptist Church, Damon Dozier ,during the prayer vigil on

NOOSE Page 11 June 5 in protest of a noose found near Amanda Beers Elementary School in Ward 7. /Photo by Mark Mahoney

Journalism Students Poised to ‘Discover the Unexpected’

NNPA, Chevrolet Fellowship Kicks off Second Year By Noni Marshall and Alexa Imani Spencer WI Interns

5 NNPA discover the unexpected interns 2017. /Photo Courtesy of Chevrolet

Celebrating 52 Years of Service / Serving More Than 50,000 African American Readers Throughout The Metropolitan Area

Now Published by Dr. Charles Vincent

Her Legacy Continues.

In memory of Mickey Thompson Vincent, Founder and Publisher.

Dr. Charles & “Mickey” Vincent

Happy Birthday Councilman Brandon Todd ( Ward 4)!!

Social Sightings - THE MAGAZINE Subscribe www.SocialSightings.com Kendra Handy/Editor Dr. Charles Vincent/Photographer Brian Young/Graphic Designer l

Social Sightings-The Column is published in the Hill Rag, DC Mid-City, East of the River Journals, The Washington Informer Newspaper and in the Fairfax, Alexandria, Arlingnton, Loudoun Woman Magazines 2003 © SOCIAL SIGHTINGS ALL RIGHTS RESERVED — DUPLICATION IN ANY FORM REQUIRES WRITTEN PERMISSION | E-mail SocialSightings@aol.com

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Around the Region...................5-11 PG County................................12-13 Business.................................... 14-15 National...........................................16 International..................................17 Health ........................................18-21 Education ...............................22-23 Homeownership Supplement......................CENTER OpEd........................................25-27 Lifestyle.................................. 28-35 Sports..............................................37 Religion...........................................39

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around the region

W I HBreak O T the T OCycle P I C of S Women Domestic Violence

SOMETHING NEW EVERYDAY

COMPILED BY D. KEVIN MCNEIR / WI EDITOR WILL FORD AND TATYANA HOPKINS, WI STAFF WRITERS

Prince George’s Confirms Barksdale as Fire Chief

By Tia Carol Jones

www.washingtoninformer.com

law enforcement. She said they threat,” she said. months with the word in the title, Benja-a had“acting” come together to bring Among the programs Marlow min Barksdale was sworn-in Tuesday, June to officially sense of 6, uniformity in become the way wants to see implemented are When Marlow's domestic violenceDepartment. victims and stricter restraining order policies, fire chiefL.Y. of the Prince23-yearGeorge’s County Fire/EMS old daughter52, toldwill heroversee the father survivors arefulltreated. more rights for victim's families Barksdale, more than 2,200 and part-time offirefighters, her daughter threatened herand volunteers “She's using her own personal to intervene on behalf of a viccivilian personnel in one of the busilife, and the life of their child, story, her own personal pain to tim, a domestic violence assessest departments in the nation. The County Council unanimousshe knew something had to be push forward,” Davis-Nickens ment unit coupled with further ly approved Barksdale’s confirmation. He has worked as deputy done. Out of her frustration said about Marlow. training for law enforcement chieflaw inenforcement's Prince George’s since June 2011 after being an assistant with handling Davis-Nickens said anyone agencies, a Child's Life ProtecArlington the most notable feats for the ofchief the in situation, sheCounty. decidedOne to ofwho reads Marlow's book will tion Act and mandatory counselWest Virginia native in his 37 years of it.” fire She service: served a start the Saving Promise cam- “get saidheshe “putsasthe ing for batterers. battalion chief during the 9-11 terrorist attacks at the Pentagon paign. case in such a way, the average “If we are ever going to eradiafter a plane crashed intocycle the building. Barksdale “It at feels “It seems to be a vicious person can get it.” said: She said the cate domestic violence, we must greatwon't to workturn in the applied forday, 24 years ago and that mydepartment family Iend of the the book will look at both sides of the coin. loose,” said. toMarlow had theMarlow opportunity become the firepeople chief begin wheretoI have help have lived a dia- We need to address both the vicshared story with the for theher past 27 years. I’maudideeply honored anddomestic humbledviolence. to serve 5 logue about timBenjamin and theBarksdale batterer,” Marlow ence at fire the chief.” District Heights Also present at the event was /Courtesy said. photo as your Domestic Violence Symposium Mildred Muhammad, the exMarlow would 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 for hisBrown role in (D-Maryland) feels childrenrecently need tointroduced be educat- legisRep. jury Anthony Center of the city of District the Beltway Sniper attacks in ed about domestic violence. lation to boost the manufacturing industry, especially in his 4th Heights and the National Hook- 2002. Mildred Muhammad is “We have to stop Congressional district that includes portions of being Prince pasGeorge’s Up of Black Women. the founder of After the Trauma, sive-aggressive with poor chiland Anne Arundel counties. With thousands of products Marlow has written a book, an organization that helps the dren about domestic violence,”being produced overseas, the bill labeled H.R. 2671 would provide “Color Me Butterfly,” which is a survivors of domestic violence Marlow said. businesses in the U.S. tax incentives story about four generations of and their children. who manufacture products Marlow has worked to break for research and development. Brown held a discussion domestic violence. The book is “I lived in fear for six years. Six the cycle of abuse in her family,about those last week the Thompson inspired by her own experiences, years inhow fear to is aincrease long time. It opportunities is and is confident theatpolicies she Window Company Upper “Manand those of her grandmother, not an Creek easy thing to come out warehouse is pushingin for willMarlboro. start that her mother and her daughter. of,” sheufacturing in the 4th Congressional said. process. district and probably MaryShe said every time she reads Mildred said land isMuhammad about 3 percent of the workforce, but these there’spolicies real potential. “I plan to take to excerpts from her book, she still people As who want we to have help a acompetitive Congressedge andinimplore them a country, technology andtoinnocan not believe the words came domestic violence must ofchange laws,”around Marlow vation. Therevictim is a shortage skilledour workers thesaid. country. from her. Anthony “Color Me Butterfly” be careful how they go intohelp“Ithe willindustry not stopnot until these poliThisof[legislation] would only in Maryland, 5 Rep. Brown (D-Maryland) won the 2007 National “Best the victim's life, and understand cies are passed.” but nationwide.” /Courtesy photo 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 my eye first blackened and my “Before you get to 'I'm going lips bled,” Marlow said. to kill you,' it started as a verbal WI Elaine Davis-Nickens, presito 1,000 people to participate in the agency’s dentMetro of theanticipates National up Hook-Up procurement to iscontract with small, minority- and womoffirst Black Women, saidfair there no en-owned businesses. As of Friday, June 1, more than 400 attendees consistency in the way domestic had registered fordealt the with “Back2Business” event scheduled for June 20 violence issues are by at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Northwest. The agency will have about 100 exhibitors from federal, state and local agencies. In addition, more than a dozen Metro departments are slated to discuss and assist attendees on procurement opportunities. Business owners can compete for contracts as prime and subcontractors with various agency departments such as real estate, information technology and Metrobus. For more information and to register, go to https:// www.wmata.com/about/business/procurement/procurment-fair.com.

AfterWriter three WI Staff

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Brown Proposes Tax Incentives for Manufacturers

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 weeklyweekly on Thursday. Periodicals paid at Washington, D.C. and additional Periodicals Washingmailing postage offices. paid Newsat and advertising deadline is Monday prior to publication. ton,Announcements D.C. and additional mailing of- twoSTAFF must be received weeks prior to event. Copyright 2000 by The fices.Washington News andInformer. advertising All deadline rights reserved. POST McNeir, MASTER:Editor Send change of addressD. Kevin is Monday to publication. Anes to Theprior Washington Informer, 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E. Washington, Ron Burke, Advertising/ Marketing D.C. 20032. Nobe partreceived of this publication may be reproduced without writtenDirector permisnouncements must two Shevry Lassiter, Photo Editor the return of sionprior fromto the publisher. The2016 Informer Newspaper cannot guarantee weeks event. Copyright Subscription rates All are $30Lafayette per year, two years $45. willPhoto be received by photographs. The Washington Informer. Barnes, IV, Papers Assistant Editor notreserved. more than a week after publication. Make checks payable to: rights POSTMASTER: Send John E. De Freitas, Sports Photo Editor change of addresses to The WashDorothyINFORMER Rowley, Online Editor THE WASHINGTON ington Informer, 3117 Martin Luther 3117 Luther King, Ave., S.E. • Washington, D.C.&20032 King, Jr. Ave., S.E.Martin Washington, D.C. Jr. ZebraDesigns.net, Design Layout Phone: 202 • Fax: 202 574-3785 20032. No part of this publication may561-4100 Mable Neville, Bookkeeper E-mail: news@washingtoninformer.com be reproduced without written permisDr. Charles Vincent, Social Sightings columnist www.washingtoninformer.com sion from the publisher. The Informer Tatiana Moten, Social Media Specialist Newspaper cannot guarantee the return of photographs. Subscription rates are Angie PUBLISHERJohnson, Circulation $45 per year, two years $60. Papers will Denise Rolark Barnes be received not more than a week after REPORTERS STAFF REPORTERS publication. Make checks payable to: Brooke N. Garner Managing Editor Tia C. Jones, Ed Laiscell,Will Ford Stacy Brown (Senior Writer), Carla Peay Assistant Managing Editor Odell B. Ruffin, Larry Saxton, THE WASHINGTON INFORMER (Prince George’s County Ron Burke Advertising and Marketing Mary Wells, JosephWriter), Young 3117Mable Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E Bookkeeper Whittaker Hamil Harris, Tatyana Hopkins, Jade JamesWashington, D.C. 20032 LaNita Wrenn Administration PHOTOGRAPHERS Gist, D. Kevin McNeir, Lauren Poteat, Phone: 202De561-4100 John E. Freitas Sports Editor Lafayette Barnes, IV, Dorothy Rowley, Sarafina Wright Fitzgerald, (General Fax:Victor 202 Holt 574-3785 Photo Editor John E. De Freitas, Maurice news@washingtoninformer.com Zebra Designs, Inc. Layout & Graphic Design Joanne Jackson, Roy Lewis, Robert Assignment Writer) Ken Harris /www.scsworks.com Webmaster www.washingtoninformer.com Ridley, Victor Holt

“

Hundreds Register for Metro Procurement Fair

We have to stop being passive-aggressive with poor children about domestic violence. I plan to take these policies to Congress and Nooses Found on the Nationalthem Mall to change our implore Nooses and rope have been found across the National Mall in recent weeks. will stop The most recentlaws. was a piece I of rope foundnot at a bench near theuntil Martin Luther King Memorial on Saturday. these policies are The section of rope was not hanging and U.S. Park Policepassed. have not mentioned

“

In Memoriam The Washington Informer Dr. CalvinNewspaper W. Rolark, Sr.

whether it was in the shape of a noose. The discovery comes just days after a noose was found at a L.Y. publicMarlow gallery at the PHOTOGRAPHERS CIRCULATION Paul Trantham National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) on John E. DeFreitas, Shevry Lassiter, May 31 within a week of the hanging of a noose in a tree outside of the SmithRoy Lewis, Demetrious Kinney, Mark sonian’s Hirshhorn Museum on May 26. Mahonny, Lateef Mangum, Travis Riddick NMAAHC Director Lonnie Bunch responded with a statement. “The noose has long represented a deplorable act of cowardice and depravity – 4 / May 15 - 21, 2008 The Washington Informer / www.washingtoninformer.com a symbol of extreme violence for African Americans. Today’s incident is a painful reminder of the challenges that African Americans continue to face,” Bunch said. U.S. Park Police have not released updates on the matters.

4 JUNE 8 - 14, 2017

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D.C. POLITICS

D.C. Council Set to OK Largest-Ever Fiscal Budget By Tatyana Hopkins WI Staff Writer The D.C. Council will vote again on the city's proposed fiscal 2018 budget on Tuesday, June 13, two weeks after the council gave preliminary approval to Mayor Muriel Bower's proposal with few changes. Just shy of $14 billion, the proposed budget is the largest in the city's history to date. The council preserved $100 million in tax cuts for businesses and wealthy homeowners, a controversial measure that passed in 2014. However, significant investments in housing found a place in the budget. "The approved local budget reflects a lot of work from the council's 11 committees and input from the council members," said Council Chairman Phil Mendelson in a statement. "It also reflects our priorities: public education, affordable housing and a diverse city. Throwing more [money] at problems does not necessarily solve them, and spending carefully and effectively does mean each dollar goes further." The tentatively approved funds continue the mayor's annual $100 million investment into the city's main funding source for development, the District's Housing Production Trust Fund. The council also approved a separate $10 million to preserve existing affordable housing units promised by

Bowser in her March 2017 State of the District Address. The budget also includes $500,000 for the Office of Tenant Advocate to develop a searchable online database of rent-controlled units in the District. Though the District saw a 10.5 percent decrease in overall homelessness, the Council provided an extra $12 million to homeless services to mayor's proposal. The city's Local Rent Supplement Program is set to receive $3.4 million to provide at least 200 extra units of affordable housing thorough the subsidies it administers to families who make less than 30 percent of the area median income. The $3 million Bowser earmarked for the Rapid Rehousing program will be used to increase funding for permanent supportive. A housing coordinator who specializes in domestic violence-related homelessness will also be added to the city staff. To fund the city's recently released plan to end youth homelessness by 2022, the budget included funds to increase the number of emergency shelter beds, transitional housing units and permanent supportive housing units. It also includes $500,000 to house youth transitioning out of foster care. The budget also includes funding for legal protections of renters.

5 DC City Council, a typical meeting. The city is set to hire four housing code and construction code inspectors and double fines for the highest-level housing code violations to address substandard housing conditions in D.C. Five new staffers are also to be hired by the city's Office of Hu-

/Courtesy photo

man Rights to combat housing discrimination. Roughly $4.5 million has been approved for a pilot program to provide low-income renters with legal representation in eviction cases. The council returned nearly $770.000

of funding to D.C.'s Emergency Rental Assistance Program that helps tenants pay overdue rent. The mayor's initial proposal cut the program's funding by $2.75 million. After a second vote, the complete budget will take effect Oct. 1. WI

D.C. Budget Proposal Allows Automatic Voter Registration By Tatyana Hopkins WI Staff Writer A driver's license in the District may soon come with an added perk: automatic voter registration. The spending plan advanced May 30 by the D.C. Council gave preliminary approval to a measure that will allow the names, addresses and party affiliation of adults who get their driver's licenses at the city's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to be forwarded to the D.C. Board of Elections to be entered on its voter rolls. Under the plan, District residents 18 and older will automatically be registered to vote when they get a driver's license in the city.

In a tweet following the council's first vote on the 2018 budget, Councilman Charles Allen (D-Ward 6) indicated that the city hoped to use the system soon, saying, "Automatic voter registration begins in the District of Columbia this fall thanks to the budget we passed this afternoon!" Allen introduced the bill in 2015. It was approved unanimously by the Council last year, though the measure has not been funded until now. According to estimates, the development and implementation of the system needed to collect and transfer voter information between the DMV and election board will cost $660,000 over a

REGISTRATION Page 44

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AROUND THE REGION

WEEK OF JUNE 8 - 14, 2017 JUNE 8

imprisonment and remained jailed until his release in 1864 – The Supreme Court rules that restaurants and 1990. bars in Washington, D.C., are required to serve AfriJUNE 12 can-American customers. 1930 – Barbara Clementine Harris, the first woman ordained a bishop in the Anglican Communion, is JUNE 9 1845 – Businessman and politician James Napier, born. who served as Register of the U.S. Treasury under 1963 – Medgar Evers, civil rights leader and NAACP field secretary, is assassinated by a white segregationist President William Taft, is born. in front of his Jackson, Mississippi, home. In the wake of the Brown v. Board of Education ruling, Evers had fought to help overturn segregation at the University of Mississippi and gain social justice and voting rights.

JUNE 13

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1967 – Thurgood Marshall is nominated to the U.S. Supreme Court by President Lyndon Johnson, becoming the first-ever Supreme Court justice upon Senate confirmation two months later.

1934 – Legendary soul singer Jackie Wilson is born JUNE 14 1864 – Congress rules that African-American soldiers in Detroit. must receive equal pay. Earlier that month, Pvt. Sylvester Ray of the 2nd U.S. Colored Cavalry was recomJUNE 10 1895 – Actress Hattie McDaniel, who in 1940 was mended for trial because he refused to accept pay inferior to that of white soldiers. WI the first African-American to win an Oscar for her role as Mammy in "Gone With the Wind," is born. 1946 – Famed boxer Jack Johnson, the first African-American world heavyweight champion, dies.

JUNE 11

1920 – Hazel Scott, Trinidadian-bom jazz and classical pianist/ singer who in 1950 became the first woman of color to have her own TV show, is born. 1963 – Vivian Malone and James Hood are the first two African-American students to enroll at the all-white University of Alabama, Law Office of Nigel M. Atwell over The the objections of segregationalist Special Education Lawyer Gov. George Wallace, who stood in a doorway in an attempt to block the two students •Does your child have a learning or other disability? from enrolling. •Is your child failing in school, especially in reading? 1964 – South African anti-apartheid activist •Has the school repeatedly suspended or sent your child home early? and human rights icon Nelson Mandela •Does it of feelconspiracy like your child’s IEP is not working? is convicted to overthrow the government. He was sentenced to life Is your child’s school ignoring your questions or concerns? Contact The Law Office of Nigel M. Atwell for a free consultation. We serve NELSON MANDELA children in traditional public schools and public charter schools. We specialize in serving low and moderate income families. Call us at 202.627.6926. See us at www.lawofficeofnigelmatwell.com.

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VIEW P INT By Sarafina Wright

President Trump has pulled the U.S. out of the Paris climate agreement. What are your thoughts? DEBBIE WILLIAMS / WASHINGTON, D.C.

According to Article 28 of the Paris agreement, each country that enters into it must remain for three years. Afterward, they may give a written notice to withdraw, but such a withdrawal still doesn't happen for another year. And while the agreement was discussed in 2015, it didn't actually go into effect until November 2016. That means that the United States can't officially say it's leaving until 2019, and the earliest it could withdraw is November 2020. Vote 2018/2020 to remove all Republicans.

RALPH SHAW /

CINCINNATI, OHIO

Oh well, that Trump is going to truly run this country into the ground but the bigots are quiet as hell about all of the controversy and not good things that he has done in only six months. I can't imagine what things are going to look like in the next 42!

SHARON DENISE /

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5 Taylo Governm

AROUND THE REGION District Bids Farewell to a Giant The Rev. Lewis Anthony Hailed for his Service

5 City gathers for memorial of the Reverend Lewis Anthony. Diminutive in size but a giant of a man in words, deeds and spirit is how the Rev. Lewis Anthony was remembered throughout his home going ceremony held on Saturday, June 3 at Union Wesley A.M.E. Zion Church in Northeast. Reverend Anthony died on Sunday, March 28, at his mother’s home in Ft. Washington, MD, following an extended illness. He was 65. Family, friends and clergy representing a cross-section of denominations filled the main sanctuary and auxiliary spaces of Union Wesley to bid the man whose eloquent speaking skills and profound messages captivated many Washingtonians for decades. A third-generation Washingtonian, Reverend Anthony graduated from Anacostia High School, Columbia University and Harvard University School of Law. Throughout his lifetime, he demonstrated his calling of service

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to others by speaking to large audiences at commencements at many DC public high schools, as well as to the homeless person on the street if he felt they needed encouragement. He was a favorite speaker at Howard University’s Rankin Memorial Chapel and a renowned speaker for a host of DC government agencies and community organizations throughout the city. Reverend Anthony’s public service began at an early age when he led a movement to build a new Shaw Junior High School in the District. He delivered a speech at the dedication of the Robert F. Kennedy Stadium in Northeast and was later appointed the District’s first Youth Representative and Youth Advisor to DC Mayor Walter E. Washington. He served as an advisor the DC Mayor Marion Barry and as the Director of the Congressional District Office of Congressman Walter E. Fauntroy.

A fourth-generation member of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion (AMEZ) denomination, he was a leader, teacher and pastor of several AMEZ congregations in the DC and Baltimore areas. Most recently he pastored at Full Gospel A.M.E. Zion Church in Temple Hills, MD. His mother, Marlene Anthony Carter, described her son as “very special.” She said she knew very early that he was destined for greatness, and by the size and response of those who came to bid him farewell, he didn’t disappoint her. He was loved and admired by many. He is also survived by his brother Orlando and sister-in-law Lynn Anthony and a host of relatives. Mayor Muriel Bowser proclaimed June 3 as Reverend Dr. Lewis M. Anthony Day in the District of Columbia. WI

The editor’s commentary will return next week.

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MCCOLLUM & ASSOCIATES, LLC Matthews Memorial Baptist Church Ma0hews Memorial Bap<st Church ADA, Age Discrimination, Benefits, Civil Rights, Washington, DC Washington, DC COBRA, Contracts, Deaf Law, Defamation, Disability Law, Matthews Memorial Baptist Church is a multi-generational congregation located in the Anacostia community Discipline, Discrimination, FMLA, FLSA, FOIA, We are seeking a full-time Senior Pastor called by God in accordance with Jeremiah 3:15, 1 Corinthians 15:58, Family Responsibility, Harassment, HIPPA, OSHA, Ma$hews Memorial Bap0st Church is a mul0-genera0onal congrega0on located in the Anacos0a community. and Colossians 1:25, who will a) be the spiritual leader of the congregation in accordance with Acts 20:28, b) We are seeking a full-0me Senior Pastor called by God in accordance with Jeremiah 3:15, 1 Corinthians 15:58, and National Origin Discrimination, Non-Compete, preach and teach the Holy Bible in accordance with 2 Timothy 2:2; 4:1-2, c) effectively evangelize the community Colossians 1:25, who will a) be the spiritual leader of the congrega0on in accordance with Acts 20:28, b) preach Race Discrimination, Rehabilitation Act, Retaliation, and teach the Holy Bible in accordance with 2 Timothy 2:2; 4:1-2, c) eﬀec0vely evangelize the community in in accordance with Matthew 28:18-20, and d) equip the congregants to become disciples of Jesus Christ in accordance with Ma$hew 28:18-20, and d) equip the congregants to become disciples of Jesus Christ in Severance Agreements, Sexual Harassment, Torts, accordance with 1 Peter 5:1-8. n upper and lowercase, flush left as indicated on artwork at these point sizes: Consultant name in 11-point Helvetica Neueaccordance with 1 Peter 5:1-8. Bold; Independent Whistleblowing, Wage-and-Hour, Wrongful Discharge n 9-point Helvetica Neue Light; Web site or e-mail address in 9-point Helvetica Neue Light; phone number in 9-point Helvetica Light. ToNeue learn more about how to apply for the pastoral vacancy at Matthews Memorial Baptist Church,

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visitvisit our website at www.mmbcdc.org/pastoral-search our website at www.mmbcdc.org/pastoral-search Application package must be postmarked by Friday, June 30, 2017 Applica0on package must be postmarked by Friday, June 30, 2017

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New Waterfront Park Opens in Southwest By Lauren Poteat WI Contributing Writer A new waterfront park has opened at the Wharf in Southwest in honor of D.C. Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton. Fully equipped with water streams, a lush canopy and vibrant flowers and vegetation, the 3.5-acre area officially opened to the public June 1 at M Place and Water Street with a groundbreaking ceremony. The project was the result of a partnership between real-estate developers Madison Marquette and PN Hoffman. "I am just amazed and grateful," said Norton, who attended the ceremony. "Hoffman-Madison has taken a wasteland, some of it the most valuable property on the East Coast, and is developing it into highest and best productive use for our residents and our economy." Monty Hoffman of PN Hoffman and Peter Cole of Madison Marquette anticipated that the new family-friendly park, which was more than three years in the making, would be the first of a host of public spaces in Southwest. "This is the first delivery of The Wharf," Hoffman said. "There were concerns we could leave it until last. But we spent three years planning this, including six months of community charettes. It was more complicated than it looks."

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The first phase of the $800 million waterfront park project will also have additional features such as apartments, restaurants and office buildings, including MakeOffices, the American Psychiatric Association, lobbying firm Van Scoyoc Associates, Shake Shack, Dolcezza Gelato and Blue Bottle Coffee, scheduled for completion Oct. 12. For the second phase of development, a team of high-profile architects are expected to design an additional 1.2 million square feet of mixed use, with a groundbreaking ceremony slated for mid-2018 and an official opening planned for 2021. Once the final project is complete, residents will also be able to enjoy rows of willow trees, winding paved paths, a children's play area, bocce courts, two more park areas with four public piers and views of East Potomac Park and the Washington Channel. Both phases are expected to be a crucial link between the new development and the established, adjacent Southwest neighborhood, Hoffman said. "We just started leasing apartments this week, and there has been an immediate response," Hoffman said. "Office is 70 percent pre-leased. Retail is 77 percent pre-leased, and the condos are 70 percent pre-sold. We are ahead of schedule." WI

5 A new waterfront park in Southwest is the first of several planned phases of improvement in the area. /Photo by Shevry Lassiter

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Mayor Muriel Bowser was joined by local leaders and supporters as she signed executive order 2017-142, reaffirming the District’s commitment to “adopt, honor, and uphold” the Paris Climate Accord. The order commits the District to proportionately “reduce greenhouse gas emissions between 26 and 28 percent by 2025” and to further reduce carbon emissions 80 percent by 2050. /Photo by E. Watson

Who’s Reading the Informer? Mollie Winston, 91, still enjoys reading the Washington Informer while relaxing at home in Southeast. /Photo by Demetrious Kinney

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AROUND THE REGION NOOSE from Page 1 "A noose is a symbol of hatred and call for violence," said Ward 7 Councilman Vincent Gray, who spent Sunday trying to rearrange his schedule to attend a candlelight vigil held by leaders of the East Washington Heights Baptist Church. "This is a despicable act, but we are not intimidated. "Every day, our community is working together to uplift one another," Gray said. "We are united and strong. When we are threatened, we stand together. We also stand with other communities who have had to endure hate acts." The vigil and an accompanying rally, which received the assistance of MPD Assistant Chief James Short, had been planned as a response to the noose being discovered in Ward 7 and as a means by which residents could express their frustration while also opening up discussions about such actions of hanging a noose — the symbol of lynching and murder during the middle and early parts of the 20th century and during the dark years of slavery. Workers found the noose hanging from a house under construction on a residential street at about 5 p.m. Thursday, D.C. police said. The location on 36th Place sits across the street from Beers Elementary School. "I have been assured by the MPD sixth district commander and the MPD chief that they will investigate this heinous act not as a prank, but as a serious crime," Gray said. "I have also asked Commander David Taylor to assign additional police to the area around Beers Elementary School. And, we must put more electronic surveillance around our schools to extend the reach of police." At a gathering at the Hillcrest Recreation Center over the weekend, Mayor Muriel Bowser expressed outrage over the terrifying find. She promised that the District would not be intimidated by such a cowardly act of racism. "Who would have thought in 2017 that I would be talking to you about a noose in an African-American history museum or a noose in Hillcrest?" the mayor said. "Unfortunately over the last year, we have seen a rise in both hateful speech, hateful rhetoric and real hate crimes." The FBI had already been assisting American University officials investigate a May incident where bananas were found hanging from nooses on campus on the same day an African-American woman

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5 The photo of the noose recently found in Southeast was captured by a local resident. /Photo courtesy of WTOP.com took office as the student government president for the first time in the school's history. Additionally, a noose was discovered earlier this month on an exhibit at the new African-American history museum on the National Mall and another on May 27 hanging on the grounds of the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden in Southwest. Loops of rope have long been used to intimidate African-Americans because they evoke lynchings. The nonprofit Equal Justice Initiative said there were 4,075 lynchings of blacks in the South to spread racial terror between 1877 and 1950. For blacks, the noose is "comparable in the emotions that it evokes to that of the swastika for Jews," the Anti-Defamation League said in a statement, according to the Chicago Tribune. "I've seen in the last couple of months more instances of nooses being used to intimidate people," said Denison University professor Jack Shuler, who authored "The Thirteenth Turn: A History of the Noose" and has studied lynching and noose imagery in the U.S. "I think we're in a situation right now where people who express hateful opinions are being allowed to speak freely and it's become OK again." Heidi Beirich, director of the Intelligence Project at the South-

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ern Poverty Law Center, said she blames the rhetoric from Donald Trump's presidential campaign, during which he pledged to build a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border and ban Muslim immigrants. Trump also claimed for a long time that President Barack Obama was not born in the United States. "Putting those sentiments in public from a presidential campaign has sanctioned a lot of people," Beirich told the Tribune. "Things they might have kept inside themselves, that they have kept quiet about, have burst out." Gray also said he believed the nooses could be tied to those emboldened by the policies of the Trump administration. "Unfortunately, I cannot prove it but when you look at what's coming out of the administration …," Gray said. The former mayor also noted the importance of vigils and rallies. "They keep the conversation going and I encourage parents to talk about this with their children," he said. "We can't assume the kids know that the noose is a symbol of racism, ignorance, hate and it takes us back to the time decades ago when so-called justice was being meted out against blacks. We also must assure parents, students, and educators that they safety of our schools is paramount." WI

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PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY Md. Students Call for Change in Wake of Fatal Stabbing By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill After the death of Bowie State University student Richard Collins III on the University of Maryland campus, student and community activists are demanding change when it comes to hate crimes.

Some of the recommendations include a zero-tolerance policy when hate incidents occur at the College Park institution and for school officials to assess every one that's reported by a victim. The school has dealt with various race-related issues before Collins' death that include a noose found on the campus April 27.

5 Bowie State University student Charnell Ferguson (right) and recent University of Maryland graduate Yanet Amanule (left) speak at a May 30 news conference in Upper Marlboro about recommendations to help eliminate hate crimes after the fatal stabbing of Bowie State student Richard Collins III on the Maryland campus. /Photo by William J. Ford

The Maryland State Conference of the NAACP, Youth and College Division, and the Prince George's County NAACP branch held a news conference Tuesday, May 30 in front of the county admin-

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istration building in Upper Marlboro to convey a simple message: Enough is enough. "We stand in remembrance of young man that was about to fulfill his dream of serving and defending our country, but his life was cut down by someone who didn't understand the value of life," said Gerald Stansbury, president of the Maryland State Conference of the NAACP. "The entire state of Maryland should mourn the death of 2nd Lt. Collins … and the state of Maryland should lower the Maryland state flag at half-mast … to let the citizens of Maryland and other states know there is no room for hate." In response to University of Maryland President Wallace D. Loh's announcement last week of the creation of a task force to review policies and procedures, recent graduate Yanet Amanule said the group should led by students. "There is no current student majority body with legislative power, so we would like students to hold most of the seats on the task force," she said. "We have never been idle and we will continue to advocate for ourselves. Despite the many tragedies that befall in our community, we remain resilient." Both the Maryland and Bowie State communities have been shaken by the fatal stabbing of Collins, 23, who visited the campus to visit friends. Collins, who was

black, was attacked May 20 by a white University of Maryland student, Sean Urbanski, 22, of neighboring Anne Arundel County, who police said may be part of a racist Facebook group. He remains in custody on murder and assault charges. Collins was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Army, several days before he was to graduate from Bowie State on May 23. The FBI office in Baltimore will assist the Prince George's state's attorney office and the police in the investigation. State's Attorney Angela Alsobrooks has asked for the community's patience during the ongoing investigation, emphasizing that it's too early to determine whether the case constitutes a hate crime. "Since the FBI is involved, it's obvious they believe it's a hate crime," Amanule, 23, said. "I don't think it would be quick to say it is. I really don't know what else they could frame it as at this point." Charnell Ferguson, 21, a senior at Bowie State, had a human resources class with Collins. "We are all stunned and hurt because Richard was such as good person," said Ferguson, president of the Maryland NAACP Youth and College Division. "To see somebody who was serving and to see somebody doing what they were supposed to do, it's just disheartening. We have to take a stand. We got to make change." WI

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Prince George's County Salutes its Graduates

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY

4 Graduates of Charles Herbert Flowers High School in Springdale, Maryland proudly sing the school song after crossing tassels after the graduation ceremonies held at the Xfinity Center on the campus of the University of Maryland's College Park Campus on June 3. /Photo by Shevry Lassiter 6 Prince George’s County Schools Chief Executive Officer Dr. Kevin Maxell congratulates Mia Jordan, a graduate of Frederick Douglass High School as she receives her diploma during the County’s first 2017 commencement exercise held at Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro on May 23. /Photo by Shevry Lassiter

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5 The 2017 Eleanor Roosevelt High School graduation ceremony at the Xfinity Center on the campus of the University of Maryland's College Park Campus on June 3. /Photo by Lateef Mangum

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BUSINESS Bank Black Movement Cools, But Still Beneficial By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer The bank black movement has slowed from the heightened level of a year ago, but African-American investors have continued to put their hard-earned dollars into blackowned banks. "The distinction that we find is the volume of the accounts being opened has dropped off substantially [since last year], but the benefit we see, even with the drop-off, is that we are still a focus of interest," said Joseph Haskins Jr., president and CEO of Harbor Bank in Baltimore. In July 2016, Haskins noted that thousands of checking and savings accounts had been opened at blackowned banks in a short period of time. Deposits varied from the hundreds to the thousands of dollars with several high-profile sports stars, entertainers and business owners coming into his bank asking what they could do to help the bank black movement, he said. From July through November, Harbor Bank realized close to $10

14 JUNE 8 - 14, 2017

million in new account openings. "The type of accounts we are seeing now are much more of a quality nature in that they are more sizable in terms of their deposits and tend to be broader based than just a depository relationship," Haskins said. Interest in black-owned banks began after several police-involved shootings of African-Americans, including Philando Castile in Minnesota and Alton Sterling in Louisiana, both shot and killed by law enforcement officers. Rap star Killer Mike then began a media campaign to urge African-Americans to move their money to black-owned banks. The movement quickly spread and the hashtag #BankBlack began. "While it isn't at the heightened level of six to seven months ago, [the movement] has continued," Haskins said. Currently, there are other programs that are being promoted throughout the community that

5 Harbor Bank CEO Joseph Haskins Jr. stands outside his bank with Annie Donovan of the federal Community Development Financial Institutions Fund. /Courtesy photo

talk about ways to enhance success with a concentration on the business side and with encouraging those to enhance their educational preparation to position themselves for employment, he said. "Those kinds of themes and subjects have kept us pretty much in the discussion realm," Haskins added. Media attention has helped, but that too has cooled particularly in Baltimore, where a record crime spree has dominated discussions. Statistics show the average Baltimore City household earns about $30,000 per year while the average white household earns $66,000, keeping the issue of the needs of the black community at the forefront, Haskins said. "While not directly focused on the bank but, as a result of the focus on the needs in the black urban communities, indirectly, the bank stays as a part of the discussion," he said. That the movement remains has been evidenced by individu-

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als such as Solange Knowles proclaiming she's putting her money in black-owned banks and, more recently, billionaire Democratic Illinois gubernatorial hopeful J.B. Pritzker made a $1 million deposit in Chicago's last remaining blackowned bank, Illinois Service Federal Savings. Historically, black-owned banks have been a pillar in communities of color, institutions that stimulated local communities and financed customers who were turned away by major banks. However, despite their significance, the number of black-owned banks has sharply declined in the past 15 years, while more than half in the U.S. closed shop between 2001 and 2016, according to a Black Enterprise Magazine report. Meanwhile, the black banks that managed to survive the Great Recession are challenged by social stigmas, a lack of support from communities of color, and competition from larger banking institutions.

In 2001, there were nearly 50 while reportedly today there are 23, most with fewer than $400 million in assets. "There are many reasons for the decline which includes the Great Recession, the disproportionate focus on the more challenged borrower and bank customers as well as being challenged by communities in general, where crime and cost of operation is significantly higher than normal," Haskins said. To some extent, there will be challenges that continue and there are several black-owned banks that are on the margin, he said. Haskins noted a need to move beyond talk about black-owned banks, which often leads other communities and ethnic groups to believe the only interest and focus is on those from the black community, and those from low-income black communities. "For black-owned banks, or any bank for that matter, to prosper it is important to have customers who have the capacity and ability to appropriately qualify for the different products and services resulting in earnings sufficient to support ongoing operations," Haskins said. "My recommendation is that we talk more about black-owned banks from a community bank perspective which allows us to be able to participate by more broadly diversifying our client base in such a way that we ensure long term survivability. "Changing the way we talk about this does not need to change the focus, but it does aid in the way the market will perceive the bank's role in the community," he said. WI

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BUSINESS Business Exchange

by William Reed

Confederate Monuments Battle Has a Bigger Picture The ax forgets, the tree remembers. — African proverb Is removing Confederate monuments like erasing history? Debates about the appropriateness of honoring Confederate legends with memorials, eponymous roads, streets and buildings are taking place nationwide. Reports identify some 1,500 memorials to the Civil War's losing cause, from schools to state holidays. But is removing the monuments in the best interests of blacks? The push to take down the monuments has momentum. Cities from St. Louis to Orlando are considering removing their Confederate memorials. New Orleans is the most prominent city to take down memorials for Confederates. In Charlottesville, Virginia, torch-wielding protesters have marched in support of keeping a statue of Gen. Robert E. Lee in a city park. Charlottesville Mayor Mike Signer pushed back, saying: "We reject this intimidation." In response to the removal of the Jefferson Davis monument in his New Orleans hometown, National Urban League (NUL) President and CEO Marc H. Morial said: "Symbols honoring leaders that defended slavery serve only to divide and demean our nation and our city." The NUL is tepid on the subject of "Black Reparations" and avoids the word as "highly charged." The group advocates government action to close gaps between whites and blacks. To counter monument supporters, Alabama lawmakers approved sweeping protections for Confed-

erate monuments, names and other historic commemoratives. The measure prohibits "the relocation, removal, alteration, renaming, or other disturbance of any architecturally significant building, memorial building, street, or monument" that has stood on public property for 40 or more years." Changes to names or memorials installed between 20 and 40 years ago would need permission from a state commission. Confederate flag defenders claim it represents "heritage, not hate." In their opposition to the bill, Alabama's African-American lawmakers said the flag "solidifies a shameful legacy of slavery." To Confederate scholars, adherents and "good ol' boys," the issue represents a "scorched-earth approach." Why don't we let them celebrate their lineage? It could start a national discussion on what should, and should not, be represented on the streets of New Orleans. What sites are there to represent slave markets? After decades standing sentinel, New Orleans' Confederate monuments are all gone, with a likeness of Gen. Lee the last to go amid debate over whether they represented Southern heritage or were symbols of slavery and oppression of blacks. So when advocates say that the monuments in question are history, it immediately begs the question: where are payments to blacks for their ancestors' free and forced labor? Don't blacks have bigger fish to fry than to force sons of the South to put treasured monuments in trash heaps? Supporters of the monuments believe that the statues and obelisks represent Southern heritage. What they represent is a whitewashing of history: the secession and Confederacy. Movies like "Birth of a Nation" and "Gone with the Wind," along with countless print volumes, have been dedicated to this revisionism of history. Consequently, it's became publicly acceptable to have monuments to traitors in city squares in New Orleans and Richmond, Virginia. The profit/loss equation of the events is that the only return blacks have gotten from the ideological tussle is satisfaction of the Confederates' "losses." Why not give them their "revisionist history" as long as descendants of slaves get paid their due? Men like Lee, Stonewall Jackson and Beauregard were traitors against the republic that took up arms after an illegal secession. They did so in the name of preserving slavery, the back-

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bone of the Southern economy built upon the subjugation of men and women who were considered subhuman. The hint of "white superiority"

drives many blacks to pointless protests. Why do blacks continue engaging in symbolism in place of practices of justice and substance? Far too many of us are part of a "stuck on stupid" collective that will gather to demand "they" tear down confederate monuments, but shy away from legislation to bring about an apolo-

gy for slavery and just recompense. Symbolism protests are distractions from collective procedures to bring about real equity. At every gathering to depose Confederate memorials, somebody should stand in our ancestors' steed gathering signatures for H.R. 40. WI

Elder Abuse Awareness By Aimee D. Griffin Esquire June 15th has been designated World Elder Abuse Awareness Day by the United Nations. I am dismayed by the number of financial elder abuse cases that I have handled. Most distressing are the cases when people who have live been in love or familial relationships yet are taking advantage for hundreds of thousands of dollars. We need to not only take notice but put precautions and safeguards in place. Mistreatment of the elderly is taking intentional actions that result in the harm or risk of harm to an elderly person by a trusted person or caregiver of an elderly person. Mistreatment can be acts of commission or acts of omission, which is the same thing as neglect. About 90 percent of perpetrators of elder abuse are family member, including spouses, adult children, partners and other relatives. The incidence of abuse is higher if the family member suffers from drug or alcohol abuse, have some type of mental illness, or feel burdened by the care of their loved ones. As elder abuse is a “silent condition”, as no one knows exactly how many of our nation’s elderly are being exploited, neglected or abused. Evidence suggests that there are thousands of elderly people being harmed in the U.S. every day, but no official statistics exist. Elder abuse is an intentional act or failure to act that causes or creates a risk of harm to an older adult. An older adult is someone age 60 or older. The abuse occurs at the hands of a caregiver or a person the elder trusts. Frequently recognized types of elder abuse include: Physical—This occurs when an elder experiences illness, pain, or injury as a result of the intentional use of physical force and includes acts such as hitting, kicking, pushing, slapping, and burning. Sexual—This involves forced or unwanted sexual interaction of any kind with an older adult. This may include unwanted sexual contact or penetration or non-contact acts such as sexual harassment. Emotional or Psychological— This refers to verbal or nonverbal behaviors that that inflict anguish, mental, pain, fear, or distress on an older adult. Examples include name calling, humiliating, destroying property, or not letting the older adult see friends and family. Neglect— This is the failure to meet an older adult’s basic needs. These needs include food, water, shelter, clothing, hygiene, and essential medical care. Financial—This is illegally or improperly using an elder’s money, benefits, belongings, property, or assets for the benefit of someone other than the older adult. Examples include taking money from an older adult’s account without proper authority, unauthorized credit card use, and changing a will without permission. The goal is to stop elder abuse before it starts. There are several important things we can do to prevent it: ï Listen to older adults and their caregivers to understand their challenges and provide support. Pay attention to the words and behaviors. Things that are not said are also important. ï Report abuse or suspected abuse to Adult Protective Services. Don’t wait until you are absolutely sure. Most often the abuser will not be transparent. Letting time pass will not be helpful. ï Educate yourself and others about how to recognize and report elder abuse. Learn how the signs of elder abuse differ from the normal aging process. ï Check in often on older adults who may have few friends and family members. The greatest deterrent is a strong support system. ï Provide over-burdened caregivers with emotional and instrumental supports such as help from friends, family, or local relief care groups; adult day care programs; counselling; or outlets intended to promote emotional well-being. ï Where prudent and possible involve more people than just family, formal caregivers, and guardians in health care or financial matters. We have had to litigate too many cases when caregivers or those appointed financial loved ones serving with a Power of Attorney have breached their duty. ï Encourage and assist persons (either caregivers or older adults) having problems with drug or alcohol abuse in getting help. As we age we become vulnerable. It is distressing that too often the people we love and trust to support us are the people who take advantage us when we cannot defend ourselves. Put safeguards in place for protection. There are professionals and support organizations that can help identify those safeguards. Aimee D. Griffin, Esq., The Griffin Firm, PLLC 5335 Wisconsin Ave NW - Suite 440 - Washington DC 20015 www.thegriffinfirm-PLLC.com - 202-379-4738

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NATIONAL Somali Immigrants at Risk of Deportation Under Trump By Lauren Poteat WI Contributing Writer More than 50 Somali nationals were recently forced from the United States over immigration issues and deported back to Aden Adde, the international airport of Somalia. Reportedly sent away under the premise of President Donald Trump's campaign to "crack down" on illegal immigrants, many deportees expressed extreme sadness and discomfort over being made to leave including Arab, a detainee held in Atlanta for three months and then moved to Arizona, in order to

board the plane that would take him and others back to the war torn Somalia via Dakar, Senegal, and Nairobi, Kenya. "In total, I spent $28,000 for my trip to the United States," said Arab, who arrived in 2016 after traveling from Somalia to Brazil, and then north to the U.S. border. "I don't have a plan, I don't even know where to start." Since October, more than 260 people who unsuccessfully sought asylum in the U.S. have been deported to Somalia, outpacing last year's record-setting numbers. Roughly 54 deportees also reported being handcuffed and their legs chained throughout

5 Immigrants seeking sanctuary in U.S. soil need not get comfy. /Photo by David Ryder

their exit trip from the U.S., according to Voice of America. It is the third group of Somali nationals to be deported from the U.S. since March after Trump vowed to kick out illegal immigrants and immigrants with criminal records "at their own cost." Though no official claims have been brought before the Soma-

li Embassy, one close friend of Arab, who spent over $30,000 to come to America and who was also deported during the same time, accused the institution of playing a role in the Somali deportations, which the embassy denies. "There were 50 people deported; 30 of them were removed due

Black, Latino Parents Wary of Education System New Poll Shows Lack of Confidence By Sarafina Wright WI Staff Writer Black and Latino parents have even more pronounced perceptions of racial disparities in the U.S. education system, according to a new poll. The Leadership Conference Education Fund and Anzalone Liszt Grove Research released the

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second annual New Education Majority poll on Tuesday, May 30, exploring how minority parents and families view the American education system's success, or lack thereof, in teaching their children. The organizations say the poll's findings come at a critically important time for public education, as states are currently devel-

oping education plans as part of their obligations under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). "Black and Latino parents know that their children aren't getting the best education we can provide them," said Wade Henderson, president and CEO of the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights. "These results should be a clarion call for policymakers who must come to terms with the fact that for any

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education policy to be successful, it must be responsive to the needs of the children who make up a majority of public school students in America." Some of the key findings: * The lack of funding for students of color is seen as the biggest cause of racial disparities in education. * Parents and family members of color whose child's teachers are mostly white are more likely to believe schools are "not really trying" to educate students of color than those with mostly Black or mostly Latino teachers. * New education majority parents and families continue to place a premium on high expectations and academic rigor for their children. The Leadership Conference said the poll results show that states are still not sufficiently responsive to the needs and desires of parents, families and communities of color. Their recommendations to combat the issue include remedying longstanding disparities in resources between schools and districts with more black and Latino children and those with

to criminal cases against them, 20 had their asylum applications rejected," said U.S. Somali Ambassador Ahmed Isse Awad. "The embassy cannot deport them, cannot order their removal. Likewise, we cannot issue legal status to them in this country. If we had this power, we would have given all Somalis legal permits. … All we do is issue travel documents to those approved by a judge to be removed." Though citizens are increasingly speaking out, no immediate mutual resolution has yet been established. The Minnesota Democratic– Farmer–Labor Party wrote to the Trump administration in May, questioning the removals of people to a country grappling with famine and threats by the terror group Al-Shabab. "These realities cause great concern for the decision to deport so many Somalis to a situation where they would face imminent risk and danger," the delegation wrote, according to The Star Tribune. Despite what many might deem as heroic cries, some disagree, including Center for Immigration Studies fellow Jessica Vaughan. "The U.S. must put its citizens' safety first," Vaughan said. WI more white children. The Leadership Conference also recommended removing barriers to participation and success in advanced courses for black and Latino children, opening decision-making processes to those families in ways that allow for meaningful participation, especially regarding priorities and funding. The organization suggests inventorying resource distribution in schools and districts, including strong teachers and rigorous courses, to ensure black and Latino children have their fair share and implementing ESSA in a way that breaks down systemic barriers and increases educational opportunity for underserved children. "This is a critically important year for public education in the United States," Henderson said. "In 2017, the federal government and every state will decide if they truly believe that all children can learn. "These plans are an opportunity for a state to make a clear declaration about its belief in the education of all children and a commitment to ensuring children get the education they deserve," he said. WI

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INTERNATIONAL Compiled by Lauren Poteat / WI Contributing Writer

S. African Politician Ripped for Pro-Colonialism Tweet Former Democratic Alliance leader Helen Zilleis has come under extreme fire for recent tweets seemingly glorifying African colonialism. Zilleis, the white former head of South Africa's main opposition party, tweeted in March that colonialism had some "positive results," which resulted in her suspension from the political party and disdain from the new DA leader. Her comments damaged the party and undermined reconciliation efforts in South Africa, said Mmusi Maimane, a black leader who succeeded Zilleis as party leader. "We live in a fragile democracy, which means our public representatives must, at all times, be sensitive to the legitimate anger that people still feel about our past and its legacy," Maimane said in a statement, The Associated Press reported. Zille, who is expected to be suspended until her disciplinary hearing, tweeted afterwards that she would not be bullied into resigning or 5 Former Democratic Alliance leader Helen Zille /Courtesy of enca.com incriminating herself.

First Encyclopedia of African Art Arriving Soon

5 Nana Oforiatta-Ayim looks to create Afri-

ca's first encyclopedia of African art. /Courtesy of Tony Gum

Often lost in the remnants of verbal cataloguing, writer and art historian Nana Oforiatta-Ayim sets a goal to create a definitive way to archive African art history with the continents first Encyclopedia of African Art. Receiving more than $40,000 in funding from the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Oforiatta-Ayim plans to create a digital, and soon to be physical, encyclopedia of historic and modern African art. According to The New York Times, Nana will start with Ghana, inviting Ghanaian experts in the arts including music, theater, filmmaking and literature for a 10-day workshop in St.-Louis, Senegal, French West Africa's oldest colonial settlement. "I would get completely sidetracked reading about things like the technology of kente cloth," she told the New York Times. "And at the same time I was also thinking that the narrative that is told about Africa is still the backward narrative: no innovation, it's ahistorical and stuck. Yet with everything I was reading, it was stories of innovation, of knowledge, of technology."

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Ghanaian Militants Train U.S. Troops in Jungle Warfare Being trained in jungle warfare for more than four decades, Ghanian militants recently shared their tactical skills with U.S. troops. In May, more than 55 U.S. soldiers were taught how to survive the harsh Ghanaian jungle during a 10-day Warfare School at Achiase military base course in Akim Oda, Ghana. Though the retreat was deemed as successful, many U.S. troops cited the extreme difficulty of the training. "We've always been prepared for Iraq and Afghanistan and desert environments, and even the mountainous environments, so this is like nothing we've dealt with before," said U.S. Army 2nd Lt. Hugh Smith, Delta Company's platoon leader. During the training, Ghanaian instructors equipped men with practical knowledge specific to the local terrain and environment. "In 1976, our forefathers and the military high command also thought it wise to also establish a school to train the personnel of the Ghana armed 5Ghanaian militants train U.S. forces in jungle warfare, so that in case the situation arises where we have to troops in jungle warfare. /Courtesy of apply ourselves in jungle warfare, we will be able to do," said Ghanaian Maj. defense.gov Jacob Codjoe, the school course commander. WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

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JUNE 8 - 14, 2017 17

HEALTH District Residents Face Bad Allergy Season By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

With reports that allergy season could get worse in the District, many sufferers have been left wondering what they can do to avoid the intolerable sneezing, coughing and other symptoms that usually dog them throughout the spring and summer. But runny noses, congestion and itchy throats are an unfortunate fact of life for more than 50 million Americans who suffer from nasal allergies that can be triggered by tree or

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18 JUNE 8 - 14, 2017

grass pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold and other causes. Some experience their worst moments in the spring. For others, the agony arrives in the fall. And some unfortunates deal with the problem year-round, a situation Max Wiseberg said he understands and identifies with. "I had hay fever all my life and I tried everything," said Wiseberg, creator of HayMax, a natural organic balm that traps allergens when applied to the nostrils. "I took pills. I underwent acupuncture. Either the

5 Nasal allergies affect more than 50 million Americans. /Courtesy photo

remedies didn't work, gave me headaches or made me drowsy." While his product might work, a new study said more children could wind up in hospital emergency rooms suffering from allergy-induced asthma if greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise and cause longer oak pollen seasons. The latest research finds that if greenhouse gas emissions continue to increase through the end of this century, the oak pollen season in

some areas could extend by up to eight days. Those with oak pollen allergies, particularly children, will have longer exposure to pollen that can induce allergic asthma which could increase the associated hospital emergency room visits for allergic asthma by 10 percent in the Midwest, Southeast, and Northeast combined, according to the study published in GeoHealth, a publication of the American Geophysical Union, a D.C.-based organization that promotes discovery in Earth and space science. Allergic asthma associated with oak pollen sends more than 20,000 people to emergency rooms every year, and the increase in pollen could result in a 10 percent increase in hospital ER visits by 2090, the study's authors said. These additional ER visits would add an estimated $10.4 million to the $346.2 million cost that would be expected under baseline conditions through 2090, they said. "We found that the severe climate change scenario had a substantial impact on public health," Susan Anenberg, an environmental scientist at Environmental Health Analytics, LLC, in D.C., and lead author of the new study, said in a news release. Previous research has already shown that increased carbon dioxide in the atmosphere has caused ragweed, another strong allergen, to produce higher concentrations of pollen, Anenberg said. The study could help doctors anticipate changes in allergic asthma as the climate changes, said Samantha Ahdoot, a pediatrician in Alexandria, Virginia, and assistant professor of pediatrics at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, who was not involved in the study. "I would hope that this research would help the public and policy-

makers to understand that changes that occur in the environment, whether it is plant life or climate, trickle down and ultimately affect the health of people," Ahdoot said. For the study, Anenberg and her colleagues calculated the number of emergency room visits for allergic asthma across the Southeast, Midwest, and Northeast today and in the future, using observed relationships between oak pollen and asthma ER visits in Atlanta, Cincinnati and New York City. They found that there were 21,200 oak pollen-related allergic asthma ER visits in 2010. Of those visits, 70 percent were children under the age of 18, indicating that children may be more vulnerable to climate change-related health impacts. The authors used climate models and known relationships between temperature, precipitation, and oak pollen to estimate the oak pollen season length under both a moderate climate change scenario and a severe climate change scenario. Combining the emergency room visit and climate model information, they found that the most severe climate change scenario would increase ER visits in the three regions by 5 percent in 2050 and by 10 percent in 2090. Under a moderate climate change scenario, the number of visits would only increase by 4 percent, avoiding more than half of the emergency incidents in the severe scenario, the study revealed. "The impact of oak pollen on human health in the United States is extensive and likely worsening over time with climate change," Anenberg said. "Our results could be underestimating a much bigger problem, since environmental changes could also affect other pollen types and other health outcomes." Earlier this spring, Dr. Rachel Schreiber, an allergist and immunologist in Rockville, told WTOP that tree pollen counts in D.C. are in the high range and will go into the very high range. What to really beware of are rainy days followed by a warm day, she said. "The rain will help the trees grow, of course, and as the trees grow, they bloom," Schreiber said. "So I think if we get a nice rainy couple of days here, and then you have a warm day after that, the pollens will just go crazy." When individuals encounter worsening symptoms, they should visit a doctor, Schreiber said. "Toughing it out on your own and self-medicating isn't a great idea because over-the-counter allergy medications can carry risks," she said. "Besides, allergies can make you feel sick for a long period of time, and they can contribute to asthma." WI

5/30/17 11:07 AM

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TANF Sees Reform in D.C. Budget Proposal By Tatyana Hopkins WI Staff Writer More than 15,000 District residents receive city assistance in paying rent and other bills, receiving job training and accessing child care, but a proposed eligibility "cliff" for those who received the assistance for more than five years put those benefits in jeopardy for more than nearly 5,700 families, including over 10,000 children. With its approval of the 2018 fiscal budget on May 30, the D.C. Council also approved reform of the city's Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. Based on recommendations of a working group composed of city agencies, service providers and TANF beneficiaries, the Council voted for reforms to the program, but decided to eliminate the cut-off set to take effect Oct. 1. Instead, the Council decided to split TANF benefits into separate portions comprised of 80 percent children and 20 percent parent portions. Mayor Muriel Bowser's initial budget proposal split the benefit 50-50. "For families receiving TANF, their children's expenses are simply nonnegotiable — they cannot be avoided or put off and they do not decrease or disappear just because a family's benefit has been reduced," Children's Law Center Senior Policy Attorney Damon King wrote in testimony to the Council at a budget oversight hearing in May. "Sanctions should never reach a level that cuts into the resources that children need

and harms children in the home." The 80-20 percent distribution between children and parents intends to incentive parents to comply with the program's work requirements without harming the children who rely on the benefits. "This two-generational approach helps improve parents' abilities to meet the basic needs of their children," Department of Human Services Director Laura Green Zeilinger testified to the council last month. "Simultaneously, this policy supports parents to achieve their workforce goals by incentivizing full participation in the TANF employment program." Ninety-six percent of those subjected to near-loss of TANF benefits were women, most single, with a median age of 33. Nearly three out of four families reside in Wards 6, 7 and 8. Four out of five customers who received benefits for more than 60 months are not engaged in employment or education, according to the working group's October report. Two out of five beneficiaries who were employed worked more than 30 hours a week, but half of them made less than $500 every two weeks. Many cited health issues and lack of work experience and education as barriers to employment. Only one-third of TANF recipients were pursuing a GED or high school diploma, while and another third were enrolled in college. The average payout for TANF is about $400 a month. After 60 months, the payout is scaled back by about $150 per month. The new plan repeals the scale-back. D.C. receives an annual TANF

award of $92 million in the form of a block grant. The council's preliminary approval of the budget also appropriated an additional $2.2 million to the TANF program to support the changes. Federal law puts a 60-month time limit on federally funded

TANF awards. Local governments may continue to use federal funds to award the benefits beyond the 60 months for up to 20 percent of its caseload. Any extension beyond that must be funded by the local government. In 2011, the council enacted

HEALTH a time limit to step down benefits for families who had been on TANF for more than 60 months, rather than a full elimination of benefits. In 2016 and 2017, the mayor and council moved to continue funding for families receiving TANF for beyond 60 months. But current law mandates a new 60-month limit go into effect by Oct 1. WI

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Working for a healthier community. THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

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HEALTH Did you know?

You may qualify for assistance in paying your home phone bill. Discounts for basic telephone service are available to eligible District of Columbia low-income residents. Verizon Washington, D.C. Lifeline Plans: Verizon Washington, D.C.’s Lifeline service, known as “Economy II,” offers reduced rates on Verizon’s monthly telephone bill and one-time discounts on the cost of installing phone service. Additionally, toll blocking is available to Economy II customers at no charge. Economy II Service*: $3.00 per month for unlimited local calling. Value-added services are not included (e.g., Call Waiting, Caller ID). No connection charges apply. Also, customers will not be charged for the federal subscriber line charge. Economy II customers who are 65 years of age or older can have this service at a further reduced rate of $1.00 per month. * Full terms and rates for these services, including terms of eligibility, are as set forth in federal and in Verizon’s tariffs on file with the Public Service Commission of the District of Columbia. All rates, terms and conditions included in this notice are subject to change and are current at the time of printing.

Eligibility:

District residents who have been certified by the Washington DC Lifeline Program as eligible may apply for the Economy II program. To apply, schedule an appointment with the Washington, DC Lifeline Program by calling 1-800-253-0846. Households in which one or more individuals are receiving benefits from one of the following public assistance programs or have an annual income that is 135% or below the Federal Poverty Guideline may be eligible. •Supplemental Nutrition Assistance (SNAP) •Medicaid •Supplemental Security Income (SSI) •Veteran’s Pension Benefit •Veteran’s Survivors Pension Benefit •Federal Public Housing Assistance (Section 8)

Restrictions:

•No other working telephone service at the same location •No additional phone lines •No Foreign Exchange or Foreign Zone service •No bundles or packages •No outstanding unpaid final bills •Bill name must match eligible participant •No separate Lifeline discount on cellular or wireless phone service •Business lines are not eligible •Phone number must match eligible participant •Must be a current Verizon customer or establish new service with Verizon

Contact Washington, DC Lifeline Program at 1-800-253-0846 to apply To find out more information, you may also call the Universal Service Administration Company (USAC), which administers Lifeline for the FCC, by calling (888) 641-8722 or by accessing its website at www.LifelineSupport.org. Economy II is a Lifeline supported service. Lifeline is a government assistance program. Only eligible consumers may enroll. You may qualify for Lifeline service if you can show proof that you participate in certain government assistance programs or your annual income (gross and from all sources) is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guideline. If you qualify based on income, you will be required to provide income verification. Proof of participation in a government assistance program requires your current or prior year’s statement of benefits from a qualifying state or federal program; a notice letter or other official document indicating your participation in such a program; and/or another program participation document (for example, benefit card). Proof of income requires your prior year’s state or federal tax return; current income statement from an employer or paycheck stub; a statement of Social Security, Veterans Administration, retirement, pension, or Unemployment or Workmen’s Compensation benefits; a federal notice letter of participation in General Assistance; a divorce decree; a child support award; and/or another official document containing income information. At least three months of data is necessary when showing proof of income. In addition, the Lifeline program is limited to one discount per household, consisting of either wireline or wireless service. You are required to certify and agree that no other member of the household is receiving Lifeline service from Verizon or another communications provider. Verizon also provides Lifeline Service to residents of federally recognized lands who meet Native American Lifeline criteria. Lifeline service is a non-transferable benefit. Lifeline customers may not subscribe to certain other services, including other local telephone service. Consumers who willfully make false statements in order to obtain the Lifeline benefit can be punished by fine or imprisonment, or can be barred from the program.

20 JUNE 8 - 14, 2017

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Writing Workshop Helps D.C. Teens Publish Original Books By Tatyana Hopkins WI Staff Writer At the height of the Black Live Matter movement in March 2015, 10 D.C. teen girls began writing a novel. The group of 11- to 14-yearolds began with one central question: What really happens in a community when a black youth is the victim of violence by police? In other words, the students explored the idea of what it would look like if the incendiary events in Ferguson took place in their own Northeast Edgewood neighborhood. Released in late May, the near 200-page book titled, "The Day Tajon Got Shot," explores the issue of race and justice in a community torn apart by violence. Shout Mouse Press, a publishing house that aims to assist authors from marginalized communities amplify their voices through writing, helped the teens write the book through its nonprofit Shout Mouse writing program at the Beacon House in Northeast. "The book tells other teenagers like us that you have a voice in things — you have a voice in what's going on in society right now," said one of the authors, Najae, during a panel at the American Writers and Writing Programs Conference. The book's other authors, all teen participants at the Beacon House, are T'Asia, J'Yona, Reiyanna, Jonae, Makiya, Rose, Serenity, Jeanet and Temil. Surrounded by real-world instances of police violence, including the deaths of black males Mike Brown, Tamir Rice, Eric Garner and Freddie Gray, the teens wanted to unravel the complex matter of police violence against African-American youth. In order to undertake the large task of writing about the highly divisive events, and moving beyond social media hashtags,

each of the authors took on the role of characters from all sides of the event. "This book was a really big undertaking," said Director of Beacon House Programs and Operations Danielle Schmultz. "It is really powerful [that] the girls could take on so many different perspectives." The writers stepped into the shoes of the black boy who is always assumed to be up to no good; the friends and family members of the dead boy who grieve and either become activists or slip into despair; the police officer who commits the violence out of fear or bias and must deal with the repercussions of his actions; the family member of the officer who may have complicated reactions to what happened and witnesses directly and indirectly affected by the event. "They spent a lot of time listening to the things that happen around them and used it to develop full and complex characters," Schmultz said. The teens worked with writing coaches on Friday afternoons to individually develop their parts of the book and then bring them together as a collective storyline. "This book can make a powerful statement in a unique and compelling way, and it gives both these writers and their readers a chance to explore hot-button issues of race and violence in a way that is sophisticated and necessarily complex," said a statement on the Shout Mouse Press website. "These stories go beyond the headlines to explore the perspectives of people on all sides of the discussion." The book follows the group's 2014 release of "Trinitoga," a portmanteau for the middleand high-schoolers' neighborhoods Trinidad and Saratoga. The smaller, 50-page fiction novel explores the relationships between family members. WI

CAN’T GET ENOUGH WI NEWS? VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR EVEN MORE INFO ON OUR COMMUNITY! WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

HEALTH

June Greetings From DC Office on Aging your community and each other by taking charge of your health and wellness, staying independent and advocating for the issues you believe in. You ENGAGE. You are connected to your community, your churches, neighbors and friends. And you are civically engaged and holding your government accountable. Because seniors in the District ENRICH, EMPOWER, and ENGAGE, these three words are at the core of what we do at the Office on Aging. We want to ensure that all seniors in the District are able to continue to do so—no matter your ward, no matter if

Laura Newland DC Office on Aging Executive Director At the Office on Aging, our summer is filling up with community events. Every year in June, the District celebrates Gay Pride with two weeks of Pride events, including the Capital Pride Festival and Parade. DCOA is proud to be a part of the celebrations and the opportunity to continue reaching out to LGBTQ older adults. We’ll be marching with the Mayor’s team at the Parade and we’ll have a booth at the festival the weekend of June 10th. We’d love to see you out there! And that’s just the beginning. On Tuesday, June 20th, we’ll hold the Mayor’s Sixth Annual Senior Symposium at Ballou High School—the first time we’ve held the event East of the River. Every year, we strive to deliver the best symposium ever! And my team has been working around the clock lining up dynamic speakers, practical workshops, and informative exhibitors. Last year’s Symposium was great, but this year’s will be even better. That same week, we have our Ms. Senior D.C. pageant on June 25th. Eight District seniors will compete for the title of Ms. Senior D.C., and the

winner will go on to represent the District at the national competition. And of course, DCOA will be joining the Department of Parks and Recreation for the annual Senior Fest Picnic on June 29th at Oxon Run Park. We are staying busy this summer, and it’s no wonder—you’re setting our pace! You’re setting an example, not just for District residents, but those across the country on how to age out loud, by living full, healthy lives, giving back to your communities, and speaking up for issues you believe in. You’re showing us that aging does not mean getting old—it means living your life to the fullest. And as Mayor Bowser likes to remind me, my job is to keep up and to ensure that District government is working for you. At the Office on Aging, we want to make sure that you are driving the conversation about where we want to go, as an agency, as a community, and as a city. You show us that aging is not just about what you have done in the past, it’s about what you are doing today. Aging is living. You ENRICH your communities, your families, and our younger generations. Mayor Bowser often talks about D.C. values and how our shared D.C. values are what makes D.C. great. You are the core of these values and you instilled them in us. You EMPOWER yourselves,

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you’ve been here five generations or five minutes. When you join us at the Senior Symposium this month, you will see that these 3Es will be consistent throughout the programming. But beyond that, you will see that these 3Es will be central to all that we do, day in and day out, and that everything we do at DCOA is with purpose—to Enrich, Empower, and Engage,

just as you do every day. Thanks for leading the way!

Tuesday, June 20, 2017 8:30 am - 9:30 am: Registration and Continental Breakfast 9:30 am - 3:00 pm: Symposium and Exhibit Hall LOCATION Ballou Senior High School 3401 4th St. SE, Washington, DC 20032 Join us for the Mayor's Sixth Annual Senior Symposium! This event will feature dynamic speakers, educational workshops and over 70 exhibitors. Workshop topics include: Healthcare, legislation, elder justice, fall prevention, arts in aging, nutrition, accessing government resources and more!

DATE TIME

This event is FREE and is open to District residents aged 60 and older, caregivers and professionals in the field of aging. Registration is required. Limited transportation will be provided from senior sites across the city. For more information visit the DCOA website. Sign up through your local senior site or click here to register.

ENRICH your knowledge and health EMPOWER advocacy and change ENGAGE with your community

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

JUNE 8 - 14, 2017 21

EDUCATION Sixth-Grader Outlasts Competition, Wins Scripps Spelling Bee By Dorothy Rowley WI Staff Writer When Ananya Vinay was declared the winner of the 90th Scripps National Spelling Bee Thursday night, the 12-year Fresno, California, resident appeared stunned — unimpressed, even. That is, until her father excitedly made his way to the stage at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in Oxon

Hill, Maryland, amid a colorful cascade of confetti to congratulate her. Then it began to sink in, and Ananya's face lit up. In 12 hours of spelling correctly, she'd beat out 40 finalists in 36 rounds of nonstop spelling to scoop up more than $40,000 in cash and an accompanying list of other perks and prizes. "It's like a dream come true," the previously calm and collected 6th-grader finally blurted out

while holding tight to her shiny new trophy. "I'm so happy right now." Ananya faced off against Rohan Rajeev, 14, of Edmond, Oklahoma, in the marathon final round, going back and forth for more than 20 words apiece. To his dismay, Rohan stumbled on the Scandinavian-derived word "marram," defined as a coarse beach grass. Ananya prevailed with "marocain," defined as a French derivation for a ribbed-cage dress fabric. Her late-night win marked the first time in four years that the event has proclaimed a sole champion. Ananya, who finished 172nd last year, is also the 13th consecutive Indian-American to win the bee. Rohan, who was in his final year of eligibility for the bee, spelled a slew of far-fetched words such as "brabancon," a Belgian breed of heavy powerful horses, and "psophometer," an instrument that provides a visual indication of audible effects. Rohan seemed both familiar with and perplexed by that one word that took him down. "I think I've seen [the word] somewhere," he said. "I just

5 Ananya Vinay of Fresno, California shows off her trophy after winning the 90th annual Scripps National Spelling Bee on June 1. /Courtesy of Scripps National Spelling Bee

couldn't — I couldn't recall it." This year's bee featured 291 champion spellers, including its youngest-ever national participant, 6-year-old Edith Fuller of Oklahoma, who won the Scripps Green Country Regional Spelling

Bee in Tulsa to advance to the national round. "[We'd] already told her that if she misspelled her first word and was out right away, we are still proud of her," said her father, Justin Fuller. WI

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EDUCATION JEALOUS from Page 1 speaking up against President Donald Trump and his policies. "We come here today as Americans in the midst of a precarious moment in our nation's history," he said. "Every branch controlled by far-right win extremists who control our government, extremists who threaten to take us all backwards. Increasingly alarmed, it seems like every week our governor becomes a little more like the lion in the Wizard of Oz — all strength and no political courage." Hogan's office did not respond to phone calls and emails for comment. As of Saturday, June 3, Jealous becomes the second Democrat to officially announce his candidacy for the June 2018 gubernatorial primary, following Alec Ross, a tech entrepreneur and an adviser to former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. Other Democrats mulling a run include Rep. John Delaney (D-Maryland), state Sen. Rich-

ard S. Madaleno Jr., Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz and Prince George's County Executive Rushern L. Baker III. The winner will have a tough challenge against Hogan, who seeks to become the first Republican governor in Maryland in more than five decades to win a second straight term. A Goucher College poll from February shows Hogan has a 63 percent job approval rating. Rep. Anthony Brown (D-Maryland) admitted it will be a challenge to unseat Hogan. Brown hasn't endorsed any particular Democrat in next year's primary, but said the race will be competitive. "The thing about the Democratic party, we have a lot of talent," he said after meeting with business leaders in Upper Marlboro on Thursday, June 1. "The voters will have rich options for which to choose."

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY

Jealous continues his work toward social change as a partner

for Kapor Capital, an investment firm based in Oakland that commit finances to tech companies pushing for diversity in the industry. He resides in Pasadena in Anne Arundel County, a jurisdiction that borders Prince George's and its population of 908,000 with more than half of them registered to vote that could influence the governor's race. He pointed amid dozens of supporters in the West Baltimore neighborhood of Ashburton how underserved neighborhoods in Baltimore and Prince George's still received no help from the state. "We've seen new industries created in our state … [but] entire populations have been excluded," he said after the May 31 announcement. "We've got to get back to inclusion. We've got to get back to building a Maryland … that has a great future and Prince George's County and Baltimore City have to be central parts of that future." Those in Prince George's who will support Jealous include Bob Ross, president of the county's

5 Former NAACP president Ben Jealous posed with a group of supporters following his announcement of candidacy for Maryland governor Wednesday, May 31. /Photo by Travis Riddick

NAACP branch; Virginia Kase, chief operating officer for CASA de Maryland; and Cheverly Town Councilman Julian Ivey, son of former Prince George's County State's Attorney Glenn Ivey. "I'm passionate about the same issues that he is passionate

about," said Julian Ivey, who stood near Jealous at the podium as he made his announcement. "This could be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the activist community to take the biggest seat in the state of Maryland. It's now or never. WI

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EDUCATIONAL BOAT TOURS These free, guided motorboat and canoe tours of the Anacostia River are funded by the District’s disposable bag fee. Public and private tours are available. Hear about the river’s history, wildlife, environmental threats, and the solutions that are helping it realize its full potential.

For more information visit: doee.dc.gov/service/anacostia-river-explorers or call: 202-535-2239.

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Homeownership Supplement 2017

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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

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Happy Homeownership Month! It’s indeed an honor for Wells Fargo to be the title sponsor of the Washington Infomer’s Homeownership Month supplement. We are proud to partner with this wonderful community newspaper on this effort to share information about owning a home. We are into another homebuying season and I’m excited that the outlook for homeownership is positive. Among Americans the desire to own a home remains strong and many are taking that journey to homeownership. In fact, a Wells Fargo Securities housing report notes that the Census Bureau’s Vacancy survey shows that 1.2 million households have been formed over the past year. And for the first time since 2006, the growth in the number of homeowner houseCerita Battles, SVP, Head of Retail Diverse holds has eclipsed the number of rental Segments, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage households. African American aspiring homeowners are important to the future of homeownership in this country. According to the 2010 Census Bureau, of the 14 million new households expected by 2024, 75 percent of those will be diverse and African Americans will be the third largest demographic at 17 percent. However, the current homeownership rate for African Americans is about 42 percent and the lowest among ethnic minorities. That needs to change. Wells Fargo is proud to be the top lender to African Americans and feels it’s important that we take a leadership role in increasing homeownership among this demographic. Our commitment, announced in February 2017, does just that. There are three components to this 10-year commitment: $60 billion in home purchase lending to African Americans, an increase in our African American sales force and $15 million toward initiatives focused on homebuyer education and counseling. We are excited about this initiative and hope other lenders will join us in the important work of raising the African American homeownership rate. Our commitment to increase African American homeownership is part of Wells Fargo’s overall Advancing HomeownershipSM effort, which brings together people, partners and resources to create new opportunities for long-term, successful homeownership. In addition to the African American lending commitment, this effort “It takes some work, includes programs like Neighborhood SM LIFT , which helps families achieve some strategizing homeownership with homebuyer educaand becoming better tion and downpayment assistance. Homeownership is a source of pride educated – but and is considered essential to building homeownership for wealth and a solid family foundation. Therefore, as the nation’s leading mortBlacks,and others, gage lender, Wells Fargo wants to be is not an impossible there to support and guide our customers through the process of reaching the dream,” goal of owning a home. HS

www.washingtoninformer.com / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT – JUNE 2017

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Homebuyers Prefer Technology with Personal Guidance

By Donna Greene, Regional Diverse Segments Manager, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage In the digital age, the way people find the home they want to buy is changing. Instead of driving around in search of “For Sale” signs in front yards, more and more consumers are picking up gadgets to start their search. According to research by Zillow, 87 percent of homebuyers use online resources to search for a home, with two-thirds of Millennials searching on mobile devices. The digital shift applies to

needed help figuring out how to obtain a mortgage. The most preferred method by far is to meet with someone in person (52 percent). “Finding information online” trails behind at only 19 percent. And when it’s time to dive into the mortgage process, most people want a combination of online convenience and human guidance. While more than three-quarters of survey respondents agree that completing the mortgage process online would be convenient, 81 percent say they prefer to have a personal connection with their lender, knowing that someone is there to answer questions and walk them through things. So while today’s homebuyers appreciate the convenience of digital tools, ultimately, they want guidance from a professional they can trust. They are asking lenders for the best of both worlds. Wells Fargo strives to answer that demand by combining online tools with personal support. For example, Wells Fargo’s yourLoanTrackerSM lets eligible customers to track the status of their home loan application and exchange information electronically, all while working closely with a home mortgage consultant.

ing yourLoanTracker work with a home mortgage consultant every step of the way. Wells Fargo has 8,000 home mortgage consultants, in local communities nationwide and available by phone,

providing the personal service and support consumers want. According to consumers’ feedback, technology shouldn’t replace human guidance – it should enhance it. By combin-

ing digital convenience with personal service, lenders are helping consumers take care of their home financing needs when, where and how they want to. HS

how buyers explore financing after they’ve found their dream home, too. More than half of homebuyers who seek preapproval for a mortgage do so online, according to findings from mortgage software provider Ellie Mae. With these trends, it may be surprising that when it comes to understanding and navigating the mortgage process, most people actually want to work with a real live person. Wells Fargo’s 2016 survey “How America Views Homeownership” asked consumers what they would do if they

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On a computer or mobile device, a customer can track completed tasks and see a “to do” list of their next steps; securely upload files or photos of financial documents; view disclosures and approve documents digitally; and get email or text-message alerts with progress updates. Today’s customers expect a more transparent, faster process – digital tools like yourLoanTracker make it possible. At the same time, survey results clearly show that consumers don’t want to be left on their own to navigate the process. That’s why Wells Fargo customers us-

4926 Wisconsin Ave. N.W. Washington, D.C. 20016 202-895-5150 www.wfhm.com/dc-washingtondcbranch-washington

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT – JUNE 2017 / www.washingtoninformer.com

Wells Fargo Commits $60B to Jumpstart Black Homeownership Ten-year Goal Targets Segment in Lowest Percentile of Owners

By D. Kevin McNeir WI Editor @dkevinmcneir It’s easy for today’s consumers to proclaim homeownership as something they’re determined to achieve among their long-term goals – but that’s often before potential homebuyers take into account the list of requirements and financial thresholds that they’ll need to eventually face and meet. However, before throwing up your hands because of the complexities associated with the home loan process or due to that unsettling fear that you may not qualify, you’d be wise to take a look at some of the new nitiatives generated by nationwide financial lending institutions developed in order to enable more first-time homebuyers and low- to moderate-income consumers to successfully participate in the American dream of homeownership. And just in case you need a hint on where to begin, we suggest you visit Wells Fargo & Company, long respected for its history of responsible lending and who, earlier this year, announced plans to commit $60 billion in lending over a 10-year period targeting African-American consumers – America’s lowest segment of homeowners. In addition, and as part of the same newly-announced initiative, Wells Fargo has set its sights on increasing

the diversity of its sales team with respect to African Americans, particularly because the mortgage industry has so few Blacks within its ranks. Cerita Battles, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage Senior Vice President and Head of Retail Diverse Segments, advises consumers to take advantage of homebuyer education opportunities like those offered by her company so that they can make more informed decisions. She says that while she’s excited about the new plan, she and other company executives realize that it’s going to take hard work, the willingness to forge partnerships with others and a well-devised and frequently reviewed game plan. “This commitment will impact about 250,000 African-American households if we are able to reach our goal in 10 years – it’s a precedent we’ve set that we hope other lenders will follow in their efforts to increase or advance African-American homeownership. And it really holds us accountable as a lender too,” Battles said. A veteran in the financial industry for over 27 years, 20 specifically

dedicated to mortgage, Battles says current statistics of homeownership serve as one of several reasons why Wells Fargo made such a noteworthy commitment. “The average rate of ownership in the U.S., 63.5 percent, is below the average rate for whites, 77 percent, but significantly higher than the rates

happen.” “Homeownership remains among those critical pillars that help us establish wealth in our communities and over generations. And we believe our plan, based on four key components, will help us achieve a real increase in the number of Black homeowners. “We are reaching out to various community stakeholders including leadIt’s easy for ers,churches, groups, today’s consumers advocacy real estate agents and non profit to proclaim organizations. homeownership as We’re going to the entire something they’re need village to become involved,” Battles determined to added. achieve among their Battles, always a realist, long-term goals... emphasizes that “no silver bullet” exists that would help the Black for Asians, Hispanics and Blacks, 53, community make up the differential 45 and 42 percent, respectively,” she in terms of homeownership rates for said. “We’re committed to increasing Blacks and whites. But she says Wells the rate for those segments like Blacks Fargo remains confident that their who have been at the bottom for far plan will yield significant results – too long. However, we know that we especially with the assistance of the must first instill greater confidence in entire community. the Black community in relationship “Our four-pillared strategy is to 1) to homeownership. They have to Mirror the communities we serve; 2) trust us. We’re going to make that Be present in the markets we serve;

3) Build and enhance relationships with key referral sources like real estate agents and; 4) Expand access to credit by providing products and programs, education and processes that enable sustainable homeownership,” Battles said. “We cannot allow any delays. It’s also critical for us to continue working toward changing some of the housing policies that make it more difficult to increase and expand credit.” “There are already down payment assistance programs out there that make it possible for someone with a credit score as low as 620 to get a loan rate as low as 3 percent – people simply need to know where to look.” “Just last year we launched yourFirst MortgageSM, a low down payment loan program to help more first-time homebuyers and low- to moderate-income families become homeowners, and the numbers tht have been impressive. As of the first quarter of 2017, we recorded an increase of 22,000 homebuyers. Sixty percent of those new homeowners participated in homebuyer education courses, realizing the importance of being prepared before one sets out to purchase a home.” “It takes some work, some strategizing and becoming better educated – but homeownership for Blacks, and others, is not an impossible dream,” Battles said. HS

www.washingtoninformer.com / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT – JUNE 2017

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Dedicated to advancing homeownership

Homeownership is an important step in creating financial stability for individuals and communities. We’re committed to enabling and advancing sustainable homeownership through financing more homes, supporting and providing financial education, and ensuring our team reflects the communities we serve.

Count on us to provide:

Contact us today. 4926 Wisconsin Ave. N.W. Washington, D.C. 20016 202-895-5150 www.wfhm.com/dc-washingtondcbranch-washington

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THE WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT – JUNE 2017 / www.washingtoninformer.com

Extensive home financing options to meet the needs of more homebuyers Homebuyer education resources both online or in-person Career opportunities to expand skills and advance careers

Information is accurate as of date of printing and is subject to change without notice. Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N. A. © 2017 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801. AS3485280 Expires 08/2017

African Americans Passionate About Homeownership Despite Some Barriers

By Rob Robertson, Regional Manager, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage More than any other demographic group, African-Americans perceive homeownership as an integral component of the American Dream, and a way to build security and wealth for their families, according to a recent survey. The Wells Fargo How America Views Homeownership poll, conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs, found

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that 90 percent of African-Americans said homeownership would be a dream come true and more than half were considering buying a home within the next two years. Like many Americans, African-Americans want to own homes, but are often challenged by barriers that are factual and perceived. Lack of inventory and affordability remain key reasons for keeping aspiring homeowners on the fence. And even though we have seen improvements in the economy, underemployment and unemployment are factors in the inability to own a home. Misconceptions about homeownership and lack of knowledge about the process lead to perceived barriers to owning a home. For example, in the Wells Fargo survey, nearly half of African-Americans that responded believed a 20 percent down payment is necessary to buy a home. However, many home loans do not require a

20 percent downpayment. Some are as low as 3 percent. Required employment for mortgage approval is another misconception. Mortgage approval is not contingent on full-time employment. Homebuyers need only be able to demonstrate their ability to repay their mortgage loan. However, 54 percent of African-Americans believed homebuyers must have full-time jobs in order to qualify for a mortgage. In some loan programs, income from others who will live in the home, such as family members or renters, can also be considered. The survey also highlighted the possibility that some credit education could help aspiring African-American homebuyers. Eighteen percent weren’t sure what constitutes a good credit score, 35 percent didn’t know what minimum score they would need to qualify for a mortgage, and 20 percent didn’t know their own

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yourFirst Mortgage

A better way to buy a home, with a 3% down payment and other unique features. If you’re looking to buy a home of your own, look into yourFirst Mortgage. Our low down payment, fixed‑rate mortgage could help you become a homeowner sooner than you think. Talk to us about loan amount, loan type, and type of property to ensure eligibility. Keep in mind — with a low down payment, mortgage insurance will be required which increases the cost of the loan and will increase your monthly payment. A home mortgage consultant will explain the options available, so you can choose what works for you.

Even if you’re not a first-time homebuyer, this program is available to you. So when you’re ready, let’s talk. 4926 Wisconsin Ave. N.W. Washington, DC 20016

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Make sure to ask your home mortgage consultant about an opportunity that comes with completing a homebuyer education course!

credit score range. While lenders do consider credit scores in making mortgage decisions, credit scores are only one factor, and minimum credit scores vary based on the type of mortgage and loan amount. Homebuyer education and credit counseling could provide key information about the elements of a good credit score or how to develop a good credit profile. According to the National Association of Realtors only 5 percent of homeowners are African-American. Wells Fargo believes that’s too low and we are committed to positively impacting the declining homeownership rate among African Americans in this country. In February of this year, Wells Fargo announced an African American homeownership commitment that includes a projected $60 billion in lending to qualified African-American consumers to create at least 250,000 homeowners by 2027. We also will stay focused on increasing the diversity of our sales team by hiring more African-American home mortgage consultants, and we will dedicate $15 million to support a variety of initiatives that promote financial education and counseling. We can’t do this important work alone. We are proud to be joined by the National Association of Real Estate Brokers, the NAACP and the National Urban League in our efforts to advance homeownership within the African American community. For those who are interested in becoming a homeowner, here are some tips to help you get prepared for the process of getting mortgage approval: • Monitor your credit — Your credit report and score can affect your ability to qualify for a mortgage, how much you can borrow, and the interest rate and terms you’ll be of-

fered. Review your credit report and score at least once a year. You can get an annual free credit report from all three national credit bureaus at www. annualcreditreport.com. • Control other debt — Debt-toincome (DTI) ratio compares your total monthly debt to your monthly income and is an important factor lenders consider in mortgage applications. A good tip is to keep your DTI below 36 percent by paying down debt that can include credit cards, auto loans and student debt. • Save for a downpayment — Even though you don’t always need 20 percent down in order to qualify for a mortgage, most loans require some type of downpayment. Some financing programs allow qualified homebuyers to secure a mortgage with as little as 3 percent. Or, you may qualify for programs that benefit veterans if you’ve served in the military. • Be able to prove income — All borrowers must be able to demonstrate their ability to repay their mortgage loan as part of the approval process. Although you don’t need a high income to qualify for a mortgage, you will need to be able to document your income with W2s, tax returns and other paperwork. • Build up an emergency fund — Unexpected expenses are a reality of homeownership. An emergency fund can help you cover costs such as repairing a leaky roof or replacing a broken-down appliance. Lenders are also likely to view you as more financially responsible if you have six months’ worth of expenses saved up. To learn more about homebuying and to find a mortgage professional near you, visit www.wellsfargo.com. HS

www.washingtoninformer.com / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT – JUNE 2017

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DCHFA: A Resource for Homeownership in the District By Todd A. Lee Most of the headlines about homeownership in Washington, D.C. focus on rising home prices, the competitive seller’s market with homes selling within days and the low inventory of homes for sale. After reading and hearing these stories many may feel that owning a home in the District is an unattainable dream. However, there is another part of the narrative in the homeownership story. Under Mayor Muriel Bowser’s administration resources are available to assist those dreaming of owning a home to actually become homeowners. The District of Columbia Housing Finance Agency (DCHFA) is helping to write this narrative and is a resource for people in the District that feel stranded on the path to homeownership. Since 1979, our Agency has been working to fulfil its mission of expanding homeownership opportunities in D.C. Homeownership Month is the precise time to introduce potential homebuyers to the Agency’s slate of homeownership resources and to invite you to visit DCHFA on June 17th for our annual House Crawl. During the House Crawl participants will receive an overview of the Agency’s homeownership programs, have the opportunity to meet with lenders and tour properties that are currently on the market in D.C. I invite you to visit www.DCHFA.org and register for this free homeownership month event. This month DCHFA began offering $1,500 Closing Cost Grants. Homebuyer qualifications include income at 80 percent or less of area median income, close between June 1st and September 1st, 2017 and use one of the DC Open Doors HFA Preferred loan programs. Visit the Participating Lenders page of our website, then contact one of the DC Open Doors lending partners to apply for a mortgage and a Closing Cost Grant. When you visit the Agency’s website you will also find information and guidelines for the DC Open Doors mort-

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gage loan assistance and the Mortgage Credit Certificate programs as well as the Home Purchase Assistance Program (HPAP). Since its launch in May 2013, DC Open Doors has helped to finance 788 home purchases across the District in every Ward, with $232.6 million in total mortgage loans. DC Open Doors is not limited to first-time homebuyers and may be combined with other homebuyer programs such as HPAP. On March 1st of this year DCHFA became the co-administrator of HPAP, the DC Department of Housing and Community Development’s first time home buyer program. HPAP provides interest free deferred loans for down payment and closing costs assistance up to $84,000 combined. DCHFA administers HPAP applications for households meeting very low to low income criteria. DCHFA’s Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) provides an additional incentive for first-time homebuyers to purchase a home. An MCC provides qualified borrowers the ability to claim a Federal Tax Credit of 20 percent of the mortgage interest paid during each calendar year. MCC’s maybe purchased with or without DC Open Doors mortgage products. Retaining homeownership is critical once you have purchased a home. DCHFA offers the HomeSaver Program, a foreclosure prevention resource for unemployed, underemployed or District homeowners who may have suffered a qualified financial hardship and are at risk of losing their homes due to foreclosure or delinquent real property taxes. If you do not have the opportunity to attend the House Crawl, DC Open Doors hosts Home Buyers’ Informational Sessions on the first and third Wednesday of each month at DCHFA (815 Florida Avenue, NW, Washington, D.C. 20011) 6:30-8:00 p.m. I invite you to join us for the next session on June 21st. Todd A. Lee is the Executive Director of the DC Housing Finance Agency and a D. C. resident. HS

Retaining homeownership is critical once you have purchased a home. 5 Todd A. Lee /Photo courtesy of DCHFA /Photographer: Christopher Spielmann

DC OPEN DOORS 2017 HOUSE CRAWL SATURDAY, JUNE 17 10:00AM-2:00PM -Come out to meet lenders and learn how you can become a homeowner using the DC Open Doors, HPAP and/or the Mortgage Credit Certificate Programs. -Tour Properties throughout the District that are for sale This is a FREE Homeownership Month Event at The District of Columbia Housing Finance Agency 815 Florida Ave, NW Washington, DC 20001

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT – JUNE 2017 / www.washingtoninformer.com

Two DHCD Properties Will Be Transformed Into 40 Affordable Townhomes in Wards 7 and 8

9th Annual DC Housing Expo & Home Show Saturday June 24, 2017 10 am - 3 pm

Walter E. Washington Convention Center 801 Mt. Vernon Place NW 



 

Find out about Home Purchase Assistance. Research Affordable Housing Options. Re-imagine Your Home on a Budget. Get Quick Design and Decorating Tips. This ONE STOP SHOP also offers resources for homeowners, homebuyers, small businesses, tenants and landlords.

Two DHCD Properties Will Be Transformed Into 40 Affordable Townhomes in Wards 7 and 8 The DC Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) announces it has awarded two District-owned properties to two local development companies for the construction of 40 new townhomes, capable of housing over 100 residents, located in Wards 7 and 8. “We are making good on our promise to aggressively put vacant and blighted properties into productive use,” said DHCD Director Polly Donaldson. “With these awards, the Ward 7 and Ward 8 properties will be transformed into affordable housing geared toward families.” In Ward 8, Flywheel Development LLC was selected for its proposal to construct 16 affordable townhomes at 3401 13th St. SE that will consume Zero Net Energy, and meet the Passive Housing and Living Building Challenge Petal standards. Fourteen units will be sold to households earning at or below 80 percent of the area median income (AMI) and two units will be sold at 50 percent AMI. All units will include three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a parking space and total approximately 1,400 square feet of living space. Each home will be zero net energy compliant, which means it will produce the same amount of energy it consumes. Each home also will be built to passive housing standards that will rely on energy and cost efficient architecture and construction. “Flywheel is thrilled to work with DHCD to bring 16 affordable net zero energy homes to Congress

DHCD Director Polly Donaldson

For more details call 202-442-7200 or visit dhcd.dc.gov/2017expo.

Register at dchousingexpo2017.eventbrite.com. Sponsored by DC Department of Housing and Community Development Greater Washington Urban League

#DCHousingExpo2017

Polly Donaldson has served as the Director of the DC Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) since January 2, 2015. As Director, she oversees 180+ employees, 14 program areas and manages an operating budget of over $250 million to preserve and produce rental and homeownership opportunities for District residents while leading the charge of revitalizing underserved neighborhoods.

Heights,” said John Miller, who along with co-principal Jessica Lawrence started the firm in 2013. “In addition to achieving affordable prices, these net zero energy homes have the potential to save homeowners thousands on their energy bills, build stronger households and help the District meet its sustainability goals,” Lawrence said. In Ward 7, Neighborhood Development Company (NDC) was selected to lead the development of a parcel of land located at Minnesota Avenue and 27th Street SE to produce 24 townhome units with a minimum of 1,300 square feet of living space. The townhomes will have at least two bedrooms and two bathrooms. Twelve of the properties will be sold to households earning at or below 50 percent AMI. Since January 2015, the Bowser Administration has produced and preserved over 3,100 units of affordable housing units in the District with more to come. More than 3,700 affordable housing units—capable of housing more than 9,250 District residents—are in the development pipeline. Additionally, in her March 30 State-of-the-District address, the mayor announced as part of her inclusive prosperity platform a new initiative of $10 million dedicated solely to a new public-private housing preservation fund. HS

DHCD Housing Resource Center - One-Stop-Shop for Housing Information The DHCD Housing Resource Center is open Monday – Friday from 8:30 am – 3:30 pm. In addition, residents can access DCHousingSearch.org, a FREE listing service that provides easy access to information about housing opportunities within the District of Columbia, from the DHCD Housing Resource Center. Residents can also visit the DHCD Housing Resource Center, located on the first floor at 1800 Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue, SE, Washington, DC 20020. The DHCD Housing Resource Center can be reached via phone by calling (202) 442-9505.

www.washingtoninformer.com / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT – JUNE 2017

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NINTH ANNUAL

DC HOUSING EXPO AND HOME SHOW Saturday, June 24, 2017 10am – 3pm

Walter E. Washington Convention Center 801 Mount Vernon Place NW

For more information call (202) 442-7200 or visit dchousingexpo2017.eventbrite.com for early registration.

Assistance to Buy Your First Home

Tools for Tenants and Landlords

Find Affordable Housing Options

Stay Safe and Mobile at Home

Develop Your Small Business

Re-imagine Your Home on a Budget

Quick Design and Decorating Tips

Financial Fitness for Kids & Teens

THIS FREE EVENT FEATURES: Over 150 Exhibitors • Prizes and Giveaways • Access to Affordable Rentals

Over 30 Workshops • Free Credit Reports • Credit and Foreclosure Counseling

For a reasonable accommodation or interpretation, please contact 202-442-7251 or pamela.hillsman@dc.gov 7 days before the event.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

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THE WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT – JUNE 2017 / www.washingtoninformer.com

GOVERNMENT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA MURIEL BOWSER, MAYOR

Make Sure that Your Home is Insured for at Least 100% of its Estimated Replacement Cost Source: State Farm Insurance www.statefarm.com To determine your amount of homeowners insurance coverage: 1. Get an estimate of the replacement cost of your home. 2. Select the home insurance coverage amount that best fits your needs. We recommend that you purchase an amount of coverage at least equal to the estimated replacement cost. But the choice is yours. Determining your home’s estimated replacement cost is important because this will ultimately determine which policy options are available to you. Since it is impossible to predict today what the exact cost will be to replace your home in the future, it’s important to have enough coverage to account for unforeseen circumstances.

MARKET VALUE VS. REPLACEMENT COST

Market value is the amount a buyer would pay for a home, including the land, regardless of how much it would cost to rebuild the home. Replacement cost for this purpose is the rebuilding cost necessary to replace the entire home. Replacement cost IS NOT: 1. The market value of the home. 2. The home’s purchase price or the cost of the land.

3. The outstanding amount of any mortgage loan.

BE SURE TO OBTAIN A REPLACEMENT COST ESTIMATE

Before you purchase a new home, make sure that you determine the appropriate amount of coverage needed. Here’s how: 1. Ask if a replacement cost estimate is available when you have the home appraised. 2. Or, consult with your local builder association or a reputable builder for an estimate. 3. You can also check with your State Farm™ agent to help you with this process.

BE AWARE OF ANY FACTORS THAT MAY AFFECT YOUR ESTIMATED REPLACEMENT COST, SUCH AS:

1. Upgraded bathrooms or kitchens (including cabinets). 2. Finished or partially finished basement. 3. Additional rooms or living space. 4. Custom molding or arched windows. 5. Other unique features

COST

Building contractors or professional replacement cost appraisers are a good source for obtaining an estimated replacement cost of your home. Estimates from these sources should reflect your home’s features, like those mentioned above. If you are unable to obtain a detailed estimate from these sources, your State Farm agent can discuss other options for estimating the replacement cost of your home.

REVIEW YOUR HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE COVERAGE ANNUALLY

A CONTRACTOR OR APPRAISER CAN Have you recently remodeled HELP ESTIMATE YOUR or improved your home? HOME’S REPLACEMENT

When you upgrade or improve your home, you may increase your home’s estimated replacement cost. Your State Farm agent will then help you adjust your policy to meet your coverage needs. As part of your policy’s provisions, you have 90 days to notify us of any remodeling or additions to your home that increases its value by $5,000 or more. Has the rate of inflation risen since your last appraisal? State Farm provides coverage that automatically adjusts each year in an effort to compensate for increases in construction costs in your area. However, certain conditions such as severe weather can increase the demand for labor and materials, and raise costs beyond normal inflation. It is important to update your coverage amount each year to keep up with the changing economy. What influences the building costs in your area? Market conditions in your area may impact the amount it will cost to rebuild your home if you experience a loss. Replacement cost estimates are influenced by supply of labor, demand for labor, and the cost of construction materials. Keeping up with the current market conditions in your area and changing your coverage amount accordingly, will help you maintain coverage at least equal to 100 percent of the estimated replacement cost coverage for your home. HS

Protecting your home and belongings. Whether you are a homeowner or a renter, having your own place is one of the biggest financial decisions you will make in a lifetime. The Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking (DISB) understands the importance of sorting through all of the factors before making that final choice. As the District’s Financial Services Regulator and Consumer Advocate, DISB offers programs, financial education resources, tips and other consumer services to help residents understand the products and services offered by financial service providers. Get answers to your home-related financial concerns – DISB can help connect you to the right resources for: • Homeownership • Late mortgage payments • Renters insurance • Reverse mortgages • Benefits in homeowners insurance policies • Tips for selecting a contractor for home improvements 810 First Street, NE | Washington, DC 20002 (202) 727-8000 | disb.dc.gov | @DCDISB

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What Is Homeowners Insurance? Source: INSURANCE INFORMATION INSTITUTE Homeowners insurance provides financial protection against disasters. A standard policy insures the home itself and the things you keep in it. Homeowners insurance is a package policy. This means that it covers both damage to your property and your liability or legal responsibility for any injuries and property damage you or members of your family cause to other people. This includes damage caused by household pets. Damage caused by most disasters is covered but there are exceptions. The most significant are damage caused by floods, earthquakes and poor maintenance. You must buy two separate policies for flood and earthquake coverage. Maintenance-related problems are the homeowners’ responsibility.

WHAT IS COVERED BY STANDARD HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE?

Save Money and Trouble by Knowing the Ins and Outs of Your Homeowners Policy Most standard homeowners insurance policies include four essential types of coverage: 1. Coverage for the structure of your home 2. Coverage for your personal belongings 3. Liability protection 4. Additional living expenses if you are temporarily unable to live in your home because of an insured disaster

THE STRUCTURE OF YOUR HOUSE

Your homeowners policy pays to repair or rebuild your home if it is damaged or destroyed by fire, hurricane, hail, lightning or other disasters listed in your policy. It will not pay for damage caused by a flood, earthquake or routine wear and tear. When purchasing coverage for the structure of your home, remember this simple guideline: Purchase enough coverage to rebuild your home. Most policies also cover detached structures such as a garage, tool shed or gazebo—generally for about 10 percent of the amount of insurance you have on the structure of your home.

YOUR PERSONAL BELONGINGS

Your furniture, clothes, sports equipment and other personal items are covered if they are stolen or destroyed by fire, hurricane or other

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insured disasters. The coverage is generally 50 to 70 percent of the insurance on the structure of your home. The best way to determine if this is enough coverage is to conduct a home inventory. The I.I.I. offers a free home inventory tool that lets you create, maintain a photo home inventory, and store it safely in the cloud. To learn more, visit www.knowyourstuff.org. Personal belongings coverage includes items stored off-premises— this means you are covered anywhere in the world. Some companies limit the amount to 10 percent of the amount of insurance you have for your possessions. You also have up to $500 of coverage for unauthorized use of your credit cards. Expensive items like jewelry, furs, art, collectibles and silverware are covered, but there are usually dollar limits if they are stolen. To insure these items to their full value, purchase a special personal property endorsement or floater and insure the item for its officially appraised value. Trees, plants and shrubs are also covered under standard homeowners insurance—generally for about $500 per item. Trees and plants are not covered for damage by wind or disease.

with your insurance professional. If you have significant assets and want more coverage than is available under your homeowners policy, consider purchasing an umbrella or excess liability policy, which provides broader coverage, including claims against you for libel and slander, as well as higher liability limits. Your policy also provides no-fault medical coverage, so if a friend or neighbor is injured in your home, he or she can simply submit medical bills to your insurance company.

This way, expenses are paid without a liability claim being filed against you. It does not, however, pay the medical bills for your own family or your pet.

ADDITIONAL LIVING EXPENSES (ALE)

ALE pays the additional costs of living away from home if you cannot live there due to damage from a an insured disaster. It covers hotel bills, restaurant meals and other costs, over and above your usual living expenses, incurred while your home is

being rebuilt. Keep in mind that the ALE coverage in your homeowners policy has limits—and some policies include a time limitation. However, you can generally increase the amount of ALE coverage for an additional premium. Your ALE coverage limit is separate from the amount available to rebuild or repair your home. Even if you use up your ALE your insurance company will still pay the full cost of rebuilding your home up to the policy limit. If you rent out part of your house, ALE also covers you for the rent that you would have collected from your tenant if your home had not been destroyed. INSURANCE INFORMATION INSTITUTE http://www.iii.org/ 110 William Street New York, NY 10038 212-346-5500 The mission of the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.) is to improve public understanding of insurance—what it does and how it works. HS

Homeownership is important.

LIABILITY PROTECTION

Liability covers you against lawsuits for bodily injury or property damage that you or family members cause to other people. It also pays for damage caused by your pets. So, if your son, daughter or dog accidentally ruins a neighbor’s expensive rug, you are covered. (However, if they destroy your rug, you’re out of luck.) The liability portion of your policy pays for both the cost of defending you in court and any court awards— up to the limit stated in your policy documents. Liability limits generally start at about $100,000, however, it’s a good idea to discuss whether you should purchase a higher level of protection

We’re here to help first-time homebuyers navigate the mortgage process and make buying a home affordable, even if you have: • Little money for a downpayment • Little or “less-than-perfect” credit history • A recent job change To get started, call 1-888-253-0993 or visit mtb.com/mortgage.

Equal Housing Lender. This is not a commitment to make a mortgage loan. Certain restrictions apply. Subject to credit and property approval. ©2017 M&T Bank. Member FDIC. NMLS# 381076 Washington Informer: 5.65” x 6.1” - 4/2017

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We Can’t Ignore Suburban Poverty

In their 2014 book “Confronting Suburban Poverty in America,” Elizabeth Kneebone and Alan Berube look at an issue that appears as incongruous as the title itself: a rising trend of rampant poverty in the suburbs around America’s cities. Most astonishing is that there are now more poor Americans living in the suburbs than in cities, a disturbing fact that flies in the face of our assumptions about picket-fence enclaves versus gritty inner-cities. It’s now the suburbs that are places with higher concentrations of low-income individuals and families, as well as struggling, working residents who are barely living from paycheck-to-paycheck. “For decades, the poor population in America’s suburbs has grown faster than anywhere else in the country,” say Kneebone and Berube at their website created by Brookings Institution for the book. “During the 2000s, the number of poor people living in the suburbs grew by 64 percent— more than twice the growth rate in cities (29 percent). Today, more poor people live in the suburbs than in America’s big cities or rural areas. Suburbia is home to almost 16.4 million poor people, compared to 13.4 million in big cities and 7.3 million in rural areas. Throughout the 2000s,

rates have been among the highest in the nation during the Great Recession. This also becomes a pressing Catch-22 for historically disadvantaged populations in the Washington, D.C. region. Living in the city could grant greater access to cultural and economic amenities, but it’s too expensive and economically unsustain-

able to maintain a home there. Yet, moving out to the suburbs now presents a grim set of realities, especially for low-income residents. In places like Prince George’s County, a low-income resident must have a car or they are economically out-of-luck. No car means extremely limited transportation options, particularly if you live outside the

That move to the suburbs, where housing is cheaper, is not so much by choice as it is by circumstance: with the median price of a house in the District of Columbia at more than $500,000 (that’s just the median)...

Beltway as opposed to within it. Lack of mobility or lack of access to reliable transportation options means fewer job opportunities are available. That dilemma is contributing to a rather untenable situation for suburban residents. That also presents challenges in terms of access to other resources, from schools to daycare to grocery stores. Policymakers in the suburban edges must think creatively about how they can make their jurisdictions much more accessible and accommodating to the needs of vulnerable residents. At the moment, area governments have been aggressive in implementing more effective foreclosure mitigation programs, an important tool to decrease poverty and to prevent a shrinking tax base. But, not everyone in the suburbs is living in a single family home. Area governments will need to collaborate on such issues as transportation, mobility and economic opportunity gaps in the suburbs. Every challenge is linked in some way. Recognizing the full scope of those challenges is the big first step towards reversing the quiet, but dangerous, trend of suburban poverty. HS

Nationally, suburbs are home to the largest and fastest growing poor population 18,000

Cities

16,000 Poor Population (Thousands)

By George H. Lambert, Jr. President & CEO | Greater Washington Urban League

the suburban poor population grew significantly in 85 of the nation’s 95 largest metropolitan areas. Rising poverty has touched all kinds of suburbs—even places that once seemed immune to these challenges.” We’re no stranger to this trend at the Greater Washington Urban League. In fact, we’ve been watching it with an increased sense of urgency for quite some time, particularly over the latter part of the nearly 80 years we’ve been in existence. Back in 2010, Kneebone even captured much of what’s been happening in a major suburb of Washington, D.C., Prince George’s County, MD, in a revealing study of steadily rising poverty in the majority-Black jurisdiction. At that point of the study, “Prince George’s County saw the poor population increase slightly over the decade, while the number living under 200% of poverty grew by almost 8,000,” Kneebone pointed out. “Of DC’s suburban counties for which there was data in 2009, Prince George’s County was home to the second largest poor population after Montgomery County.” Naturally, and tragically, it’s the rising cost of housing which keeps pushing residents deeper into the suburban rings of metropolitan centers. At one point, nearly 50 years ago, we witnessed “white flight” or the very fast exodus of residential whites from America’s cities in a bid to shorten commutes, reach greener lawns and disassociate themselves from the discomfort of social disruptions and growing Black populations in urban locations. Today, particularly in cities like Washington, D.C., there is the noticeable and systemic displacement of many low-income, working class and even middle class Black residents from those very neighborhoods that have become too expensive to live in. That move to the suburbs, where housing is cheaper, is not so much by choice as it is by circumstance: with the median price of a house in the District of Columbia at more than $500,000 (that’s just the median), families in vulnerable communities of color are finding it more difficult to live in cities. It’s also becoming difficult to live in suburbs, where foreclosure

Suburbs

14,000 12,000 10,000 8,000 6,000 4,000 2,000 0

1970

1980

1990

2000

2013

Source: Brookings analysis of U.S. Census Bureau data

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WE ARE STILL HERE. Standing since 1938.

APPROACHING TH OUR 80 YEAR OF SERVICE. CONTACT US TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR PROGRAMS AND SERVICES. 202-265-8200 | gwulinfo@gwul.org www.gwul.org

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As a community servant, we’ve impacted 2 million people of all ages. And service the community through a variety of programs: • Entrepreneurship Center Program • Health and Wellness Programs • Housing and Community Development Programs • Utility and Food Assistance Programs • Workforce Development Programs

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An Affordable Housing Gap in D.C. is not Something We Should be Proud Of

By George H. Lambert, Jr. President & CEO | Greater Washington Urban League We are faced with undeniable evidence that Washington, D.C. is rapidly becoming less of an affordable place for certain families along the socio-economic scale including long standing residents. Disconcerting is that there’s seemingly no end in sight to the trend. The reasons for this affordability gap are myriad. A big culprit -- the ongoing process of “gentrification” – lacks the needed acknowledgement and attention

to its human impact and cost. American University’s Derek Hyra looks into this phenomenon in his recent “Race, Class and Politics in the Cappucino City”. Hyra uses the beverage reference as a metaphor in capturing the dramatic reshaping of a city that was once overwhelmingly majority Black to one that is now just half-Black. As Hyra points out, the city is becoming much more diverse but such diversity is not necessarily benefiting existing residents. Instead of collective problem solving, what we’re seeing is micro-level segregation. The diversity along race, class, sexual orientation you see overall is not visible in the neighborhoods’ segregated community gathering places — churches, recreation centers, coffee shops. It’s not just micro-level segregation, but an unyielding displacement of vulnerable communities that’s made the District one of the most unaffordable places to live in the nation. That displacement is caused by increasingly expensive housing and a rising cost of living. Day by day it’s becoming that much harder to

reside in the nations’ Capital for an increasingly larger number of residents including our veterans, senior citizens and young professionals. Current rental prices tell us: affordable rental property, a quality-of-life necessity in any major city, is fast disintegrating for lower to middle income residents. This effect is compounded by costly housing prices. Recent Zillow reports reveal that D.C. home values have risen 9.1 percent since 2015. The real estate tracker is predicting a 3.0 percent rise this year alone. The median value of a home in the District: $550,200. At the same time, the District is one of the fastest growing and prosperous cities in the nation. Many struggling individuals and families find little comfort in that prosperity. In the culturally eclectic and gentrifying Adam’s Morgan neighborhood, a one bedroom apartment can run as high as $2100 per month. Nested.com’s recent 2017 index on affordability shows a family would need to earn over $100,000 in order to live in the city. That survey also placed the District as the

4th most expensive city for renters; the 7th most expensive in the world. As a consequence, the District’s homeless population is on the rise. A recent survey by the U.S. Conference of Mayors determined that the District has the largest concentration of homeless individuals for a city of its size. There are 124 homeless people for every 10,000 residents as compared to Witchita, Kansas, with 11 per 10,000. The compounding downside – chronic homelessness festers into an unsustainable economic model for the District and surround-

ing jurisdictions. That leads to a number of grave social and public safety consequences. There’s a real need and purpose for reversing this trajectory. D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has increased the number of shelters and in partnership members of City Council has been hard at work in taking action to increase the supply of affordable housing. Still, the ongoing crisis born from unaffordable living space, screams for everyone, from non-profit and private sector to policymakers and residents to collectively act to address the state of housing in the District. HS

Life Happens. Foreclosure Counseling for ALL. Aid is what we supply. Counseling is what we do. We provide FREE assistance to homeowners in Washington, DC, Prince George’s County and Montgomery County who need help navigating the foreclosure process. Contact us to learn more about our housing services: 202-265-8200 x268 | dthomas@gwul.org | www.gwul.org

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Build An Energy Efficiency Home From the Ground Up Make the Home of Your Dreams a Reality with Pepco’s ENERGY STAR® New Homes Program

A new home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make, so be sure it’s built to last. That’s the confidence you’ll get when you purchase an ENERGY STAR certified new home in Maryland from a participating builder in Pepco’s ENERGY STAR New Homes Program. An ENERGY STAR certified home meets stricter requirements that make it at least 15 percent more energy efficient than homes built to standard building codes. And saving energy saves you money – approximately 20 percent on annual utility bills. Over the years, you also can save thousands of dollars on maintenance costs. But savings are just the beginning. If you’re in the market for a new home in Maryland, Pepco can help you find a builder who is committed to constructing energy-efficient homes. Pepco’s ENERGY STAR New Homes program offers builders financial incentives to encourage them to build homes with energy-efficient features that help homeowners save energy and money. “At Pepco, we’re committed to advancing technologies that empower our customers, promote sustainable solutions, and drive a 21st century economy” said Karen Parham, program manager, Pepco. “Being a local sponsor of programs like the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s ENERGY STAR for New Homes is part of that commitment,” she added. As a result, Pepco was awarded the EPA 2017 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year Sustained Excellence Award and has won EPA’s Market Leader Awards for its contribution to energy-efficient construction. Pepco also recently recognized its top builders and raters that contributed to its ENERGY STAR New Homes Program in 2016, with several companies earning recognition for building homes that can save you money and that are built to last.

BETTER HOMES, GREATER VALUE

Compared to standard construction, ENERGY STAR certified new homes are simply

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built better. Comfort is ensured with consistent temperatures between and across rooms. Indoor air quality is enhanced by reducing dust, pollen, bugs, and excessive humidity. Durability is improved with comprehensive water protection and higher quality equipment throughout. Plus, a recent study indicated that 75 percent of consumers are interested in owning an energy-efficient home. So if you sell your home in the future, you can set it apart by highlighting that it has earned the trusted ENERGY STAR label, making your decision to build an ENERGY STAR home a good investment now and for tomorrow too. Each ENERGY STAR certified home includes energy-efficient features that deliver improved performance, greater comfort, and a healthier indoor environment. From the moment you walk in the door, you’ll see, feel, and hear the difference thanks to: More insulation Increased insulation means your home can stand up to winter’s chill and summer’s heat. Tighter shell Air leaks around pipes and air ducts can make a home uncomfortable and increase energy costs. In an ENERGY STAR certified home, better sealing makes your home at least 20 percent tighter than building code requirements. Better HVAC ducts Your new home will have heating, ventilation, and air conditioning duct systems that work about 33 percent more efficiently to deliver the right amount of air to every room in your home. High-efficiency windows A special invisible coating on windows helps keep your home cool in summer and warm in winter. Plus, the coating helps protect carpets, drapes, and furnishings from the fading effects of sunlight. If you’re ready to invest in lasting quality, find a participating homebuilder at pepco.com/ newhomes. For more information on Pepco’s other energy efficiency programs, visit pepco. com/saveenergy. HS

5 Inside the Pepco WaterShed Sustainability Center /Photo courtesy of pepco

FE HOME AT

The District of Columbia Office on Aging Safe at Home program provides home safety and security adaptations in and around the homes of qualifying seniors and adults with disabilities.

In-home Safety

Safe at Home provides in-home preventative adaptations to reduce the risk of falls. ¡

Handrails

Shower seat

Grab bars

Furniture risers

Bathtub cuts

Chair lift

Home Security

Enables eligible DC seniors and residents with disabilities, to receive a private security camera system without cost. Restrictions apply. Visit: https://dcoa.dc.gov/safe-home.

For More Information Call Home Care Partners at 202-638-0050 for more information on how you can apply for the Safe at Home Program. Applicants who do not qualify for the Safe at Home program may receive referrals to other programs better suited for their specific needs.* * Referrals to other programs are not a guarantee of eligibility.

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT – JUNE 2017 / www.washingtoninformer.com

Prince George’s Hosts Annual Housing Fair Market Rebounds ...Good Deals in the County

By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill Like other communities in the U.S., homeownership has become one of the most important subjects for residents in Prince George’s County. Housing experts and financial analysts say owning property not only contributes to the local economy, but also provides benefits such as tax credits to the owner. One major goal for this fiscal year in Prince George’s will be helping between 100 and 150 new homeowners purchase a home, said Eric Brown, director of the county’s Department of Housing and Community Development. Another goal will be to provide “workforce housing,” or residential property affordable to those with a job such as a police officer, firefighter, or teacher. He said the county has invested over $5 million in those two initiatives. Free and open to the public, the 6th annual free housing fair takes

place Saturday, June 10 at the Sports and Learning Complex in Landover. Brown anticipates at least 3,500 people to attend, the average attendance figure since its inception under the Rushern L. Baker III administration. “The fair stresses the importance of homeownership and the county’s commitment to homeownership,” Brown said. “It also provides a venue for resources that are related to homeownership and financial literacy.” Unlike in previous years, the county’s median household income of nearly $77,000 experienced its highest increase since 2010. The median household sales price at $265,000 remains the most affordable in the Washington Metropolitan area. And while the county has one of the highest foreclosure rate in the region, Brown said housing has improved. For instance, he said property values increased by 3 percent from last month. During this same timeframe last year, the median housing price had increased by 13 percent. “The best weapon we have against foreclosures is getting people educated about their financing and how to

EN E R F OPE

stay in their homes,” he said. “Then we direct them to reach out to capable housing counseling agencies. Those are the real resources that we’re putting into play.” About 60 banks, realtors and homeownership and financial counselors are scheduled to participate in the fair providing advice on how to maintain a home and well as guiding those who want to downsize and may require help with fiscal management. According to the housing fair information at http:// www.princegeorgescountymd. gov/1000/County-Housing-Fair, three lucky first-time homeowners will be chosen to receive up to $10,000 toward the down payment or closing cost of their new home. For seniors wanting to keep their homes, Brown said the county has offered low-interest loans to conduct property upgrades. Additional money could be provided in the near future. “That’s been a targeted opportunity for seniors to stay in the homes that they know and love,” Brown said. HS

BLI

ANDTHE PU TO

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Find Out More Information: ibmortgage@industrial-bank.com www.industrial-bank.com 202-722-2000

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Gentrification Often Leaves Blacks Forced out of Familiar Digs

By Tatyana Hopkins WI Staff Writer

The Shaw neighborhood in Northwest experienced its first wave of newcomers and “gentrifiers” nearly a decade before the District’s other now gentrified areas, yet residents still feel its effects. Gentrification, a process in which low-income urban areas see significant growth in things like home values and education attainment, has become a topic that elicits both celebration and controversy. Detractors see the renewal process as one that displaces low-income families from where they have sewn their roots by high-income newcomers while proponents see it as the rebirth of economically depressed neighborhoods. According to “Governing” magazine, 51.9 percent of D.C.’s census tracts have gentrified between 2000 and 2010. The magazine defines a gentrified area as one in which the median household income and median home value fall within the metro area’s 40th percentile, one that recorded increases in the top third percentile for inflation-adjusted median home value and in the percentage of adults with bachelor’s degree.

It marks identified the U Street corridor in Shaw as one of the earliest gentrified areas. In the early 20th century, the U Street Corridor, known then as “Black Broadway,” acted as a cultural and commercial hub for African Americans. Future Black luminaries including Duke Ellington, Langston Hughes and Thurgood Marshal walked the streets of the neighborhood adjacent to Howard University where hundreds of Black-owned businesses clustered and Black culture thrived within the walls of its many historic nightclubs and theaters But in 1968, the flourishing Black neighborhood became the epicenter of violence and rioting following the assassination Martin Luther King, Jr. In the decades that followed the neighborhood fell into decline; in the 1990s the area would quickly become gentrified. Poverty and crime rates in the area dropped as did the number of African-American residents – but the population began to soar. Compare one 40-year period and the decline of Black residents: in 1970, African Americans made up 90 percent of the neighborhood; Blacks made up less than 30 percent

by 2010. Along the way, property values began to rise to unprecedented levels. In the 90s, the median home price in Shaw was $147,000 compared to today’s asking price of $781,000 – something that some attribute to the rapid change in demographics. American University Professor 5 The high cost of many new properties in the District is forcing a growing number of longtime Derek S. Hyra, residents to seek housing outside of D.C. /Courtesy photo segregated,” Hyra said, pointing to a for decades, expressed feeling like authored of the recently-released “Race, Class and Pol- six-year study of the Shaw/U Street “outsiders” as their influence in civic organizations declines and their itics in the Cappuccino City,” says area that he recently conducted. “So, you’re not getting a mean- priorities took the backseat to the gentrification can cause real friction between new and long-standing ingful interaction across race, class, new majority who favor amenities residents – that is, white newcom- and difference. If we think that like bike lanes and dog parks over ers and African Americans whose mixed-income and mixed-race recreation centers. This trend has been replicated families have lived in the area for communities are the panacea for poverty, they’re not,” he added. around the District as home prices generations. One NPR report released last continue to skyrocket forcing offi“You see diversity along race, class and sexual orientation overall, but January also points to growing ten- cials, housing advocates and resiwhen you get into the civic institu- sion in the Shaw area between long- dents alike, to think critically about ways to redevelop an area without tions – the churches, the recreation term residents and newcomers. Long-term residents, some of displacing the residents who have centers, the restaurants, the clubs, the coffee shops – most of them are whom had called the area home long called it home. HS

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Housing Trust Fund Approved in Prince George’s By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill When Prince George’s County Council recently approved a $3.8 billion budget, affordable housing snagged a significant portion of the funds. Approximately $5.1 million will be made available in the county’s Housing Trust Fund when fiscal year 2018 begins July 1. The fund will be allocated to two programs – $2.6 million for workforce housing and $2.5 million for Pathway to Purchase – to compliment current federal and state plans to increase affordable housing. “This is something we are all excited about,” Councilman Todd Turner (D-District 4) of Bowie said after council unanimously approved the budget. He added it will be the first time since 2012 that the county has had a substantial amount of

money in the trust fund. The Pathway to Purchase plan allows qualified first-time homeowners to borrow up to $10,000 for a down payment and closing cost with a zero-percent interest loan. Because council approved the budget, an additional $5,000 will be available and offered to the first 150 eligible buyers. Unlike previous housing programs that designated borrowers in certain locations in the county, Pathway to Purchase allows applicants to seek a home anywhere. One of program’s requirements (see: http://www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/2598/ Pathway-to-Purchase )include a person must participate in a minimum eight-hour housing counseling course. All perspective homebuyers need to use one of the county’s approved counseling agencies that include United Communities Against Poverty of Capitol Heights,

Housing Initiative Partnerships of Hyattsville and Greater Washington Urban League in Northwest. Other requirements: Income must fall between 51 percent to 80 percent of the area median income; and loans will be forgiven after 10 years. Eric Brown, director of the county’s Department of Housing and Community Development, said the workforce housing program assists those making 50 percent to 80 percent of the median income. According to the department’s announcement on the program in March, developers will be informed to provide construction and rehabilitation to some homes. Brown said as the homeownership rate rises, the county’s tax base also increases. “What we’re doing is increasing the housing stock in Prince George’s County,” he said. HS

First Time Homebuyer

Assistance Program If you are a first-time home buyer, you could be eligible for up to $10,000 in down payment and closing cost toward the purchase of your first home.

Eligible Properties: Any residential property including: 

Resale



Foreclosure



Short Sale



New Construction

Pathway to Purchase is a 0% interest, deferred payment loan. The loan is forgiven after 10 Years!

L o a n Te r m s :

Purchaser must pay back the loan in full when the home is sold, transferred or ceases to be the primary residence of the buyer(s) within the 10-year affordability period. Purchase Price Limits: $307,000 for resale or new construction

For More Information Call: 301-883-5456 Or Visit the Website: www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/865

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www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/865

MANNA: Still Making Dreams Come True Advocacy Group Provides Tools for Hopeful Homebuyers

By D. Kevin McNeir WI Editor @dkevinmcneir Once upon a time, owning a home ranked at the top of the list of dreams for Americans – a goal for everyone from war veterans and newly-married couples to college graduates and blue-collar workers. And while reaching that “promised land” may be more challenging today than in year’s past, one District-based nonprofit advocacy group continues to help those truly serious about homeownership to cross the finish line. For over 30 years, the mission of MANNA, Inc. has remained the same: to help low- and moderate-income persons acquire quality housing, build assets for families through homeownership, revitalize distressed neighborhoods and preserve racial and ethnic diversity in the District. And based on their track record, they’ve become pretty good at what they do. “With the many kinds of programs available today, particularly for first-time buyers, it’s not only achievable but can be cheaper to buy a home instead of renting. Homeownership is still a good investment and it’s also a great way to actually save money,” said Jonathan Nisly, an outreach intern for MANNA’s Housing Advocacy Team. “For many first-time homebuyers, the fear of coming up with the down payment and the anxiety over whether their credit score will measure up can be overwhelming,” he said. “That’s why we want people to understand that we’re here to assist them in the process, to simplify the steps they need to take and to help them become more aware of the many resources that D.C. and District-based nonprofits have at their disposal and which can make the difference.” “And because of expansions to the District’s Housing Production Trust Fund and HPAP both for which we’ve advocated in recent years, we’re seeing more citizens get that home that they’ve desired for so long,” he said. Nisly points to events like MANNA’s first Homeownership Town Hall held last June in Ward 1 which attracted over 150 people as proof that helping citizens through the process can yield positive results. MANNA held its second town hall on Saturday, June 3, this time targeting potential homebuyers in Ward 8 and which provided resource tables and workshops on subject that included: credit build-

ing, home maintenance, D.C. property tax programs, down payment assistance, legal estate planning and more. The organization even has a citywide homebuyers club with some parts of the District hold their own meetings and workshops including Ward 8, led by D.C native T.C. Caviness. “We should have close to 40 firsttime homebuyers closing on homes within the next several weeks with the majority of them from Ward 8. We have also secured a grant that allows us to hold monthly workshops for the ward which allows us to provide financial literacy, credit education, budgeting and other tools that prepare them for homeownership,” Caviness said. “People are excited even though they’re at the starting block. We don’t care what part of the city you live in – if you want to know about homeownership, you start with us. We know what’s available whether it’s builders from for profit or nonprofit companies or from the regular market.” “But here’s the challenge, especially for millennials: there’s no real inventory in D.C. So, most livable properties start at a minimum of $300K. The dream is still within one’s reach – it’s just a little harder to achieve. That means you have to work at it,” Caviness added. For more about MANNA, go to www.mannadc.org. HS Eager participants gain valuable information about affordable homeownership during MANNA, Inc.’s 2016 Homeownership Town Hall. /Photos courtesy Jonathan Nisly

www.washingtoninformer.com / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT – JUNE 2017

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What Minorities Should Look for in Fair Housing

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

In the District of Columbia there are three key laws that protect residents and applicants from discrimination, including unfair actions based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability and against families that have children and pregnant women. The Fair Housing Act, applicable to just about all housing transactions – rentals, purchasing a home, getting a loan and homeowners insurance – applies to the treatment of individuals and families while they are tenants, said Sara Pratt, an attorney with the D.C. law firm of Relman, Dane & Colfax in Northwest. Pratt formerly served as deputy assistant secretary for enforcement and programs and senior advisor to the assistant secretary at the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity, then responsible for overseeing HUD’s enforcement of the Fair Housing Act, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and other laws. “The Fair Housing Act is en-

forced by the Department of Housing and Urban Development which conducts investigations, attempts settlements and issues findings all litigated by the U.S Department of Justice or by lawyers for HUD at no charge,” Pratt said. “A fair housing act case can also be brought directly in federal court by victims of discrimination. One local group, the Equal Rights Center, is funded to help individuals and landlords by providing education and advocacy for them and to help find lawyers and develop cases,” she said. The District has a local law that covers many additional types of illegal discrimination and it’s enforced by the DC office of Human Rights. If housing is funded by HUD, or any other federal agency, like Health and Human Services for shelters, there are other civil rights requirements that come with the funding including Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act which applies to race and national origin and Section 504 of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act which applies to disability. Residents should know that the FHA requires accessible routs to be safe and without hazard, said

Michael Schneider, a principal at Endelman & Associates, an FHA consultant and accessibility expert located in Washington state. “Public housing has more rigorous requirements for accessibility in quantity and features for both mobility and communication units per ADA,” Schneider said. David Reiss, who writes and teaches about housing policy at the Brooklyn Law School in New York, said homeownership rates peaked right before the financial crisis, but the long term prognosis for homeownership does not look good, especially for households of color. “Homeownership took a nosedive during the financial crisis, but homeownership among African-American and Hispanic households was hit particularly hard. The overall homeownership rate is about 64 percent currently, but it is about 43 percent for African Americans and about 47 percent for Hispanic households,” Reiss said, quoting a recent Census Bureau report. According to research by the Urban Institute, the homeownership rate will likely remain low for quite some time, particularly among African-American households.

“The most important things are to know the law and your rights,” Reiss said. “Federal and state laws offer protection against many forms of housing discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, familial status, among others. At the federal level, HUD can investigate alleged fair housing violations and states have agencies that are dedicated to fair housing,” he said. Pratt notes that in the District, because low income individuals are predominantly Black and Latino, the civil rights laws often apply to them, either because certain treatment of low-income persons – like only building affordable housing in Anacostia – can be discriminatory and segregates, or because housing occupied by low-income individuals is being torn down with people of color primarily being those who become displaced. Treatment of those of low-income can also amount to discrimination based on race or national origin. “If people think that they are being discriminated against I would encourage them to check in with the Equal Rights Center. They can help focus in whether it could be discrimination,” she said.

“Sometimes, of course, it’s not discrimination, it’s just unfair or unpleasant. The Equal Rights Center helps people figure it out.” It’s also important to note that individuals can still be pleasant and still discriminate, Pratt cautioned. And, there are times when someone might believe they are the victim of discrimination but in some cases it could simply be about personalities or qualifications, Pratt said. “Fair housing laws are often applied in surprising ways like turning someone down because they have a long-resolved conviction of a crime can be illegal racial discrimination or national origin discrimination because our justice system often treats Blacks and Latinos worse, so they’re more likely to have a conviction than a white person is for the same thing,” she said. “Discrimination against a woman trying to get a loan to buy a house because she’s pregnant can be illegal discrimination and discrimination by telling someone that they have too many children to live in an apartment can be illegal discrimination as long as the unit would not be overcrowded,” Pratt said. HS

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Are Millennials’ Attitudes Changing on Homeownership? Bank of America Report Suggests ‘Yes’

By Sarafina Wright WI Staff Writer A new study finds that millennials are changing their attitudes toward homeownership, now viewing it as a positive step for their financial future. For the second year Bank of America released its Homebuyer Insights Report which explores the trending attitudes, behaviors and preferences of the modern homebuyer, especially millennials. “If there’s one thing to take away from our report this year, it’s that forward-thinking millennials are buying homes – and they’re happy with their choice,” Consumer Lending Executive D. Steve Boland said. “This growing group of millennials is seeing the value of getting into a home. In fact, nearly 80 percent who bought homes report that homeownership has had a positive long-term impact on their financial picture,” Bo-

land said. “Clearly, the millennial generation is coming of age and realizing it might not make sense to wait anymore to purchase their first home,” he added. While millennial homeowners are seeing the value in buying early, many realize it may mean putting the purchase of their dream home on hold, at least for a while. The report concludes that 68 percent of the sample groups said their current home serves as a stepping stone to their dream house. “While ‘dreamers’ told us last year that they want to skip the starter home in favor of a house that suits their needs over the long term, the overwhelming majority of millennial homeowners say their current home is a ‘stepping stone’ to their forever home,” Boland said. “These millennial owners strongly believe owning a home is more affordable than renting,” he noted.

5 Today’s millennials hope that they too can participate in the American dream of owning their own home one day. /Photo courtesy of ThinkGlink

The report also indicates that millennial homeowners are more likely to recognize the financial benefits of purchasing a home than prospective first-time buyers from among other age groups. Boland asserts that some prospective first-time homebuyers believe their personal circumstances should line up perfectly

before buying a home, but with millennials it appears to be different. Out of the Baby Boomers and Generation X, millennials are 41 percent least-likely to seek a move-in ready home. Millennials are also the second least-likely to define homeownership as success and last in seeing it as permanent.

“The reality is that, with proper help, homebuyers can very often achieve homeownership in a way that is both sustainable and rewarding,” Boland said. “We’re encouraged to see homeowners continuing to find the deep benefits – both financial and emotional – of homeownership.” HS

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EDITORIAL

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS

District’s Poorest Areas Have Waited too Long for Fresh Produce It’s been reported in all of the local newspapers, including both The Washington Informer and the Washington Post. It’s been discussed at ANC meetings, bandied about during the DC City Council’s showdowns and preached from pulpits in Wards 7 and 8. And still nothing has been done to change the fact that D.C.’s four wealthiest wards have close to 70 percent of the city’s supermarkets. Meanwhile, the “food desert” that amply describes life East of the River persists. Have you ever been in these communities and gone in search of some fresh fruit or vegetables? Good luck! What about going out to get fish just brought in from the sea? And how far did you have to go just to do grocery shopping at a store with produce that had not reached its expiration date? These are the issues that have long challenged families in Wards 7 and 8 – communities that are majority Black and have the lowest incomes in D.C. Maybe these residents don’t’ really matter to those who lead our City. Maybe, those who can make a difference have been distracted. Maybe. Meanwhile, in areas like Ward 3 and 6, shoppers have their pick in terms of where they can shop for groceries. By the way, the four wards that have the majority of the District’s supermarkets are predominantly white. The situation has become even more grave after Whole Foods recently announced that it would not bring its farmers market back to Southeast this summer. We don’t presume to know the why’s and why not’s that helped them make their decision, but it seems like they could have found a suitable location this year in lieu of their venue for the past several years, St. Elizabeth’s East Gateway Pavilion. That said, we wonder when city officials will stop pretending that they don’t see that “grocery store access is a racial-equity issue,” as the director of D.C. Hunger Solutions said in a recent interview with our fellow publication, the Post. It’s time to stop touting D.C.’s push to secure affordable housing while turning a deaf ear to the cries from families in neighborhoods East of the River who must travel well beyond their own boundaries in order to find grocery stores with high quality meats and produce. Even the poor deserve wholesome, healthy food to eat. WI

Trump’s Wrong to Withdraw from Paris Climate Agreement Donald Trump says he’s “fighting every day for the great people of our country … I was elected to represent the citizens of Pittsburgh, not Paris.” Okay, we already knew that Mister President. Further, the writing is very clear on the wall – our 45th U.S. president seems determined no matter what to erase, delete, water down or simply destroy any evidence of the work completed by our 44th president, that “troublesome” Black man from Illinois, Barack Obama. Isn’t it time we stop seeing partisan politics play out on a daily basis that negatively impacts not only the citizens of America but the world? The truth remains, and not based on “alternative facts,” that the world has gotten warmer, that the rise of greenhouse gases has become indisputably evident, impacting the health of every man, woman and child around the planet. You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to understand the tenuous state of the world’s ecological system. Nor does it take much to realize that a commitment from all of the Earth’s leading nations is essential for reducing greenhouse gases, for ramping up recycling efforts, for going “green,” and the like. But for some reason, our president doesn’t seem to think these issues matter. Mr. President, we know that there will always be points on which some Americans will disagree given the decisions made by The White House. But on this one, the dissenting voices are so many that maybe you need to reconsider. After all, we have a planet to protect and future generations who deserve clean air and clean water. WI

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TO THE EDITOR Student's Death a Tragic Sign of Societal Racism

Astronaut's Tale Inspires Kids to New Heights

Thank you for featuring a story about the young man who was murdered recently on the campus of Maryland University ["Slain Bowie State Student Celebrated at Funeral Service," by William J. Ford, June 1-7, 2017 edition]. It is fitting that this young man should be front-page news. First of all, he was an African-American male who had led an exemplary, too-short life. He was doing positive things and reaching for worthwhile goals. He was on track to become a much-needed contributing member of society. He stood out as one who chose the right path to adulthood. Unfortunately, he will never achieve any more of the goals that he was preparing to pursue. He was deprived of his very life by a vicious racist who has no regard for life, particularly black life. The family of Richard Collins III has been plunged into the kind of grief that no family should ever have to endure. Racially based hatred is alive and thriving in the USA. By putting the story of this incident and the funeral service on your front page, you are keeping the fact in front of us: This is not a post-racial society, and probably never will be. However, we need to do something quick to stop the killings that are taking away our brightest stars.

Your article in the June 1, 2017, edition of the Informer's Lifestyle Section, "Retired Black Astronaut Pens Inspirational Memoir," by Lauren Poteat, is a great example of why I just love reading your paper. First, let me say this story is real news to me. If it were not for your newspaper writing about Mr. Leland Melvin, I would have not known anything about him. Secondly, it is one of the most inspirational stories I've read in some time. Just think of how many times you've heard a black school kid say they wanted to be a NBA or NFL star when they are asked what they wanted to be. Well, this story shows them that they cannot only be a NFL or NBA star, but be an astronaut also. If I had anything to do with it, Mr. Melvin's photograph would hang in every high school coaches' office along with a copy of his book on their desks, and every student athlete who enters their office would know about Mr. Melvin. Your article is just awesome and so is The Washington Informer. Johnny Simpson Washington, D.C.

Serita Gladden Prince George's County

Readers' Mailbox

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

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JUNE 8 - 14, 2017 25

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnists

By Rev. Al Sharpton and Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr.

Prohibitions and Bans: Serious, Unintended Consequences Rapidly shifting U.S. demographics are fueling the urgency of civil rights leaders, social scientists, policy makers, and public health professionals to focus their attention on policies designed to close the gap in racial and ethnic health disparities and ensure justice and equity in communities of color. In the interest of social justice, the good intent of policies developed and endorsed by dedicated public servants requires, however, a thorough and thoughtful

consideration of the impact of unintended consequences of those policies in communities of color across the nation. While many black Americans have made significant advances in professional and educational achievement, heightened political and social status, far too many are still burdened with poverty, few employment and educational opportunities and poor health. Compounding this situation is the tense relationship between police and

the black community because of use of excessive force, profiling, over-incarceration, and selective prosecution. It has also been well documented that black people are sicker, experience bias and discrimination in the healthcare system and die sooner than other groups in American society. It stands to reason why conscientious policymakers and public health professionals are zealous in their efforts to do whatever it takes to improve the safety, quality of life and health in black communities — even if it means making selected harmful products unavailable by imposing bans and prohibitions.

Guest Columnist

Prohibitions and bans are official public proclamations and legislative orders forbidding, limiting, restricting and making illegal a behavior or forbidding, limiting, restricting and making illegal the use, manufacture or selling of a product. In 1920, Congress ratified the 18th Amendment to the Constitution prohibiting the manufacture, transportation and sale of liquor. The good intentions of those who aggressively supported the prohibition on alcohol were to reduce access to alcohol as a way of reducing drunkenness, the crime and accidents caused by drunkenness and to reduce the

death, illness and disease associated with the use and abuse of alcohol. The national prohibition of alcohol (1920-1933) was extremely difficult to enforce. While the consumption of alcohol dropped at the beginning of Prohibition, it subsequently increased. Banning alcohol did not stop its use. Unregulated, illegally produced alcohol was more dangerous to drink, crime increased and became "organized," courts and prisons were stretched to the breaking point. When the production and sale of alcohol went un-

SHARPTON Page 45

By Raynard Jackson

Brooks' Firing Shows NAACP Doesn't Have a Clue

The Republican Party continues to miss the mark when it comes to engaging the black community. For those Republicans who fastidiously claim they don't believe in "identity politics," let me give you a piece of advice: Stop it! Politically speaking, identity politics is a campaign that is based on the particular needs of a specific group of people that will give them the rationale or incentive to vote for your candidate. For example, a Republican can-

didate would campaign in the black community on issues like entrepreneurship, civil rights, voting rights, etc., whereas the same candidate might campaign in the Hispanic community on issues like entrepreneurship, immigration and cultural assimilation. Far too many Republicans assert that "we are all Americans and all want the same things: jobs, education, safe neighborhoods, etc." This is all true, but a ridiculously bland message when it comes to outreach in the black community. While core messaging should be a constant for all candidates, the way you communicate that message has to

be crafted based on the audience you are addressing. In business, we call this market segmentation. This is most often done with the STP approach — segmentation, targeting and positioning. Once you segment the voters, blacks, Asians, Hispanics, etc., you then create a targeted campaign to speak directly to each individual group; finally, you position your messaging in a way that will resonate with that group. McDonald's is a classic example. Their objective is to sell their Big Macs to the American people, so their TV commercials are all trying to convince the country to buy their product, but they also are smart enough to use

Guest Columnist

identity politics or market segmentation to achieve their stated objective — selling more hamburgers. So, it makes all the sense in the world for McDonald's to use black actors when advertising on BET and Hispanic actors when advertising on Univision. This is the commercial application of identity politics. When have you ever seen men selling women undergarments in Victoria's Secret commercials? That's right, you haven't. Republicans have become so data-driven that they no longer have any vision. It's not enough for Republicans to reflexively spout out buzz words and

phrases like "We are the big tent party," "the party of Abraham Lincoln," "We believe in lower taxes, smaller government, more individual freedom," yada, yada, yada. Republicans must first and foremost persuade blacks that conservatism is not incompatible with civil rights, voting rights and equal opportunity, but rather these issues are a fundamental part of conservatism. Republicans must, by their actions, demonstrate that black businesses tend to flourish when Republicans control the levers of government compared to when Democrats are in

JACKSON Page 45

By James Clingman

The Truth About Food Deserts Why do we have food deserts? One reason is that we have deserted our own stores. Instead of taking care of ourselves, we complain about stores owned by someone else. We petition our politicians for a grocery store or seek private companies to open stores where we live, but seldom do we open stores ourselves. Even when blacks do open new supermarkets we do not support them, and they eventually are forced to close. Think I'm wrong? Keep reading.

26 JUNE 8 - 14, 2017

At the turn of the last century (1900) black people began to form food co-ops and other collective purchasing programs to feed themselves and to leverage lower prices for black consumers. Two of the first grocery co-ops were started in St. Louis and Chicago by B. G. Shaw and Robert Jackson, respectively, in 1919. The most notable co-op was the Colored Merchants' Association (CMA), founded by A.C. Brown in Montgomery, Alabama, in 1923. With assistance from the National Negro Business League, under the leadership of Albon Holsey, the CMA became a national organiza-

tion that encouraged black grocers to unite. In 1936, Holsey said the CMA "began to lose the confidence of the black consumer." Black economist Abram Harris said, "Members always found it difficult to sell CMA brands. The Negro, like the white consumer, is habituated to the popular brands carried by the chains." Desertion of black stores by black consumers led to market opportunities for outsiders to take full advantage of the Black food dollar. We became dependent upon others, and now we even request their presence in our neighborhoods. No better pic-

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

ture of that reality than Singletary's Supermarket in Columbus, Ohio in the mid-1980s. I wrote many articles about Singletary's and even spent time there doing a product sampling program. Singletary's was a brand new business at that time — clean, well-stocked, and more convenient to blacks in the Mt. Vernon neighborhood than other grocery stores. Joel Kotkin, author of "Tribes," wrote: "In Columbus, Ohio…Singletary Plaza Mart, the nation's largest Black-owned 'superstore,' went out of business … due to a lack of community patronage. Although Blacks in Columbus spend $2.5

million each week on food, they couldn't be convinced to spend less than a tenth of it, or $200,000, to keep Singletary afloat." In 1995, in Lakeland, Florida, an interdenominational group of black ministers took their church members shopping. A fledgling black-owned grocery store was not doing very well in the community, so the ministers got together to help. The ministers took 150 people to the store, called Fresh Supermarket Foods. After two hours, the shoppers had spent $4,000, according to the

CLINGMAN Page 45

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OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist

By Johnny C. Taylor Jr.

The Legacy of John Fitzgerald Kennedy As the president and CEO of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF), I'm spending a good amount of time working to build strategic, government alliances that extend beyond our traditional Democratic support. If you're wondering why, all you need to do is look at a map of where America's historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) are located.

The fact of the matter is that a majority of TMCF's 47 member-schools are clustered in Southern and Midwestern states completely controlled by Republicans. By that, I mean states where the governor, both U.S. senators, both chambers of the legislature and most of the U.S. House members are Republican. The next largest group of our member-schools occupies states that are under at least a majority of GOP control. Only a small number of our member-schools — three to be exact — are in

states and the District of Columbia that are completely controlled by Democrats. If those statistics don't jump out at you, maybe these facts will. Many of our institutions of higher learning are in desperate need of not just operating dollars, but serious capital infusions to the tune of hundreds of millions of dollars. Earlier this year, for instance, Grambling State University President Rick Gallot announced that his school will need to abandon the campus library—an unprecedented decision for a university

Guest Columnist

seeking to expand its national imprint in research and training for its students. Gallot's announcement came almost exactly one year after Louisiana's state auditor reported nearly $111 million in deferred maintenance at another Louisiana public HBCU campus, Southern University in Baton Rouge. The people who currently hold the purse strings — both nationally and on a state level — are, in most cases, Republicans. Yet, some will still suggest that we not even talk to those elected leaders,

because of their party affiliation. When the media released photos of our meeting at the White House with President Trump, some derided it as just a “photo op.” Tell that to the administrators who were wondering how they'd possibly fill the gap in funding should their already strained budgets face sudden, drastic cuts. We're simply not able to pick and choose whom we engage with. We saw firsthand a couple months ago how positive strate-

TAYLOR Page 46

By Julianne Malveaux

Civil Rights Under Siege

When he was running for president, 45 asked African-Americans what we had to lose by electing him. Embracing the most dystopian view of the African-American community, he attacked our schools, our streets, crime rates and unemployment rates, suggested that we were so far down that electing him could only improve things. Curiously, he never talked about racism when he talked about the status

of African-Americans. He never spoke of hate crimes, police killings, or racist symbols such as Confederate flags and statues. He never denounced some of his most racist supporters, including Klucker David Duke and altright leader Richard Spencer. He just asked what black folks had to lose by electing him! We've been learning what we have to lose in these nearly five months of 45's "leadership." He cynically used HBCU presidents in a photo op, while cutting education funds that help HBCUs. He has been silent or

Askia-At-Large

slow in denouncing racist incidents that have occurred on his watch, including the lynching of 2nd Lt. Richard Collins III, and the murder of heroes Ricky John Best and Taliesin Myrddin Namkai-Meche, who stood up to the rabid racist Jeremy Joseph Christian, who was harassing two young women on a train in Portland (it took him three days to respond tepidly to that incident). As of this writing, two days after a noose was hung in the Smithsonian Museum for African American History and Culture, he has not uttered a syllable of condem-

nation. These issues don't appear to be important to him. Are we surprised, then, that the budget he has submitted to Congress, would eviscerate civil rights protections in literally every area of our lives? Already, Attorney General Jeff Sessions has moved back toward draconian jail sentences for minor crimes, reviewed consent decrees with police departments, looking to loosen them, and suggested that the Civil Rights Division of the Justice Department can be smaller. The budget reflects that so clearly that Venita Gupta, who

led the Civil Rights Division under President Obama and now leads the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights, says she sees this budget as a "setback" for civil rights. The new budget calls for folding the Department of Labor Office of Federal Contract Compliance (OFCCP) with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, although the two agencies do distinctly different work. EEOC investigates civil rights complaints, while OFCCP au-

MALVEAUX Page 46

By Askia Muhammad

Too Late to Try to Intimidate Folks With Nooses At my age, I'm not so certain I can just vanquish a young skinhead, "Alt-Reich," "Alt-Right," Nazi, KKK mob singlehandedly. But I certainly believe that so long as I am not the aggressor in any confrontation, the Creator and the laws of nature will favor me to prevail. At least, I reckon, one of them will end up in as bad a condition as me. I've not written about personally engaging in physical violence, not in decades of bylines. But to-

day, with jokers hanging nooses at school yards and museums, and with U.S. military personnel in civilian attire being stabbed to death in separate incidents in Portland, Oregon and College Park, Maryland, I have become much more sensitive to my surroundings when I'm out in the public. In words and actions, an old white bully has reemerged. Emboldened by the rambunctiousness of the 45th president of the United States, who promised once to pay the legal defense for a 70-year-old white man who suck-

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er-punched a 20-something black man who was already in police custody for protesting during a Trump campaign rally. I see their ugly online rants. They love to use the vilest profanity. When they address Muslims, they fill their mouths full of swine jokes, especially referencing bacon. Some of the fast food providers seem to have fallen in line, adding that filthy meat to every imaginable menu item. To me, it appears political. "Wave the bacon flag. Then they'll know we're a real patriotic, Amerikkkan company here." … Oh, and don't

forget the ugly references to goats and sex when Muslims are the targets of their hate. It's like the tolerance in rural Greenwood, Mississippi — 30 miles from my hometown — in the summer of 1955, when two saddle-tramp brothers went with a posse of tough guys like themselves to the home of Emmett Till's uncle to get the 14-yearold Chicago kid, visiting for the summer, a lesson in "Mississippi Manners." It's called "eyeball rape," and all "niggers" (the commonly used term at the time) need to know that it comes with a

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death sentence. So, Emmett's own uncle, surrendered the child without protest, confessing later he thought they would only "beat" the boy … only "beat" the boy and so you surrender your own flesh and blood to a lynch mob? The hatred was so intense and even acceptable in the eyes of white folks, that after a two-hour show trial, the two "good ol' boys" were acquitted, then knowing they couldn't be tried again, they confessed their crime in an interview

ASKIA Page 46 JUNE 8 - 14, 2017 27

LIFESTYLE DanceAfrica Annual Festival Honors Late Founder By Eve M. Ferguson WI Contributing Writer The handoff of the baton to serve as griot (historian/storyteller) and director of DanceAfrica DC 2017 had been planned for this year, as the artistic director and founder of the national festival, Charles "Baba Chuck" Davis, was to pass on his duties to Mama Sylvia Soumah, co-director of the festival and founder of Coyaba Dance Theater. But instead, on May 14, beloved Baba Chuck, whose presence was a mandatory part of the annual event that celebrates African dance, music and culture, transitioned to the ancestors, turning this year's festival into a lively memorial for the man

who made it all happen. In the Saturday night concert, "Let Your Voice Be Heard!" the Dance Place family, Coyaba Dance Theater, the Dance Place Step Team and What's Going On The Marvin Gaye Project; and visiting troupe Ezibu Muntu out of Richmond, Virginia, paid homage in a series of poignant remembrances of Davis, whose opening lines — "Ago?" with the response "Ame" —were repeated time and time again throughout the night. The evening event was the culmination of the daylong outdoor festival that featured music, dance, the marketplace and children's activities. The closer began with the pouring of libation to the sound of

prayers in Ashanti and Yoruba by Mama Makini Nilwambieni, acknowledging the ancestors as Baba Chuck would have when opening the night of energetic drumming and gravity-defying dance. A film showing Davis teaching master dance classes, presiding over the performances and enjoining people to show "love, peace and respect for everybody" followed before the Dance Place Step Team graced the stage, dressed in white and bearing candles while a photo montage of Baba Chuck was projected in the background. "What's Going On The Mar vin Gaye Project" presented "Oshun" choreographed by Soumah, followed by another piece she arranged for Coyaba Dance Theater, "Mami Wata," both works honoring the West African deities that rule over rivers and the ocean. The African ritual of wearing white to a burial was reflected in the costumes of the first three troupes. Women clad in flowing white dresses performed Coyaba's "Prayer for Baba Chuck," choreographed by the troupe and retiring Dance Place co-director Deborah Riley. The solemn and reverent tribute to the legendary dancer and choreographer featured a montage of Davis in his usual stance, long arms raised above to embrace the universe in regal African garb. At one point, he seemed to grasp Soumah's hand while she performed solo under his

5 DanceAfrica salutes its founder. /Courtresy photo

gaze. Also in the tradition of African funeral rites, his life's work was recognized by Richmond-based dance troupe Ezibu Muntu with upbeat drumming and joyous celebration of Baba Chuck's love for traditional African culture. "We would travel to Durham, [North Carolina, where Davis resided] and celebrate Kwanzaa with him and also his birthday," which fell on New Year's Day, said Baba-

dunjo Olaguke', one of the co-directors of Ezibu Muntu. "He so loved the traditional African dances, and thought it was important to keep them alive." Their homage to the man, titled "UKUUNKI II: Embracing SANKOFA," opened with a ritual that saw a poster from Davis' historical African-American Dance Ensemble, placed on the stool that he

DANCE Page 44

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CeCe Winans: Attributes Blessings to ‘Keeping God First’ U.S. Tour Showcases Artist’s Standards, Selections from New CD

By D. Kevin McNeir WI Editor @dkevinmcneir When the then-teenaged CeCe Winans first came to the public’s attention, some wondered if she had “it” or had simply hooked her star onto the success of her brothers, gospel music’s legendary group “The Winans.” But from the beginning and still today as she embarks on her U.S. tour, and with the recent release of her first solo CD in almost 10 years, she has always maintained that only one constant has shaped her decisions and her life: “keeping God first.” “If I dared to believe what people say or write about me, I might be fooled to think that I’m a superwoman – but I know better. Truthfully, I have a superb team, an amazing husband who supports me 200 percent and I’m always careful to keep my priorities straight. Famous

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or not, we all have flaws and make mistakes. But as long as we work toward pleasing God, instead of others, the blessings will come,” said Winans who co-pastors a vibrant church in Nashville along with her other half, the Rev. Alvin Love II, which they formed in 2015. Winans, whose award-winning career has crossed several musical genres and influenced a generation of both gospel and secular vocalists, selling over five million albums in the U.S. alone, kicked off her recent tour in New Orleans May 31. She’ll appear in the District on Friday, June 16 at the Warner Theater in Northwest where she’ll continue doing that for which she’s long been known: inspiring and encouraging audiences. She emphasized that returning to the studio and going back on the road had a lot to do with her son [Alvin Love III) – a song writer and producer in his own right. “I had to wait until the right time

before going back to the studio. My son had this vision but it took me some time to get on board, especially being able to submit to him and letting him tell me what to do. But eventually I was sold,” she said, adding that her son wrote 7 of the 10 songs on her new CD, producing it as well. “It’s amazing to see God’s faithfulness continue from generation to generation,” she said. CeCe said with a chuckle, that she had to undergo some sweat and pain, working with her personal trainer so she could get in shape before she felt comfortable enough to return to the stage. “I wanted to be at my [physical] best,” she said. “Plus, this is the first time I’ve had to balance being an artist and serving as a pastor – that was a big adjustment. Still, being on tour again is exciting. Sometimes, people come up to me and share their testimonies, saying things like my music

ministry saved their lives. That’s what I love about serving God and connecting with the public.” She said she’s proud to have MedShare and the tour’s supporter – an organization dedicated to improving lives and contributing to the healthcare industry. Even more, she maintains the belief that as she sings songs of praise, that her message will make a difference to someone, particularly those who feel lost and alone. “All of our problems stem from not putting God first,” she said. “What I love about serving God is when you put Him first you can see things more clearly. Remember, God’s obligated and has promised to fix whatever’s broken in our lives.

5 CeCe Winans returns with new release. /Courtesy photo No matter how big the mountain appears – the challenges – we should never forget that He’s bigger than any mountain.” “As one of my songs says, ‘You are never alone’ – that’s a truth that we often don’t fully understand until we’re in the midst of the storm and put God first,” she said. WI

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LIFESTYLE Rhimes' 'Still Star-Crossed' Shuns European Stereotypes By Lauren Poteat WI Contributing Writer

Shonda Rhimes, the creative force behind mega-hit TV shows "Grey's Anatomy," "Scandal" and "How to Get Away with Murder," challenges European cultural and historical constructs with her new series "Still StarCrossed," featuring a majority black cast. The Emmy-nominated pro ducer's newest creation, which debuted May 29 on ABC, is centered around a pre-Renaissance Europe, picking up where Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet" left off — Prince of Verona, and the warring houses of the Capulets and Montagues boiling with

hatred for one another after the untimely suicide of the two starcrossed teenage lovers. The series stars newcomers Sterling Sulieman, Ebonee Noel, Wade Briggs, Torrance Coombs and British-Caribbean Lashana Lynch (best known for her role in the teen sports drama "Fast Girls") as female lead Rosaline Capulet. "Rosaline is bold, fierce, a feminist, ahead of her time," Lynch said in a statement. "She's fiery, she speaks her mind, she's a feminist she's forthright and at that time for a woman that's just unheard of. She does a lot to try and stay in line but she's also contested with her lover which means she'll have to go against the grain

to do what's right." Lynch's character, which is Juliet's cousin, is betrothed to marry a Montague in order to restore peace in their shared home of Verona. Though this may sound rather simple, a plot twist arises upon realization that Rosaline is actually in love with someone else. Prince Escalus (played by Sulieman of "Pretty Little Liars," "The Vampire Diaries" and "All My Children"), the hidden love interest of Rosaline, orders Rosaline to marry Benvolio to prevent the outbreak of war. However, not only does Rosaline loathe Benvolio (Briggs), but she is also in turmoil over leaving her younger sister Livia (Noel) in the Capulet household with the abrasive Lady Capulet. The scene is set in illustrious Italy (though actually filmed in Spain) with over-the-top stage sets, opulent hand-stitched garments, and secluded European locations. The show is one of the most expensive productions in the network's history. Pulling away from the tra ditional thoughts of European history, Rhimes' diverse cast

5 Lashana Lynch (Rosaline Capulet) and Sterling Sulieman (Prince Escalus of Verona) star in "Still Star-Crossed." /Courtesy of ABC

and drama-filled tale of love and power is sure to win a wide variety of viewers over, including Lynch. "I didn't expect the states to jump ahead and create a period drama for themselves, especially Shakespeare," Lynch said. "It was

previously unheard of, but now that this has happened or is happening, it is changing the way people think in terms of casting a classical piece of television or film. And once you get past that hurdle, then I think people will start to expect it more." WI

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Reign Initiative for DCPS Girls Kicks Off By Sarafina Wright WI Staff Writer Black and Latino girls of Generation Z received much-needed attention with a special day of events aimed at their empowerment, thanks to D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser keeping her promise. The "Reign: Empowering Young Women as Leaders" initiative held its inaugural conference Saturday, June 3, at Howard University in Northwest, where hundreds of girls from public and charter schools received information for college and attended workshops on confidence and leadership skills. "In DCPS we want to make sure that all of our students succeed and all of our students are prepared for success," said DCPS Chancellor Antwan Wilson. "It's particularly important for us to ensure that our young girls and women of color are celebrated and they are put in the best position to be successful. "The Reign initiative is an important part of that work for us," he said. "It's important for us that all of our students go to school in places that have high expectations for them and more importantly places that inspire confidence." The "We the Girls" Leadership Conference and Pep Rally kicked off with music from 16-year-old DJ Sierra Roundtree, also known as DJ Beauty and the Beatz, remarks from Deputy Mayor of Economic Opportunity Courtney Snowden and the keynote address from Voto Latino founder Maria Teresa Kumar. "The reason I started working with Voto Latino is because where I grew up in rural California, my community had very similar issues that I would say D.C. was facing at the time I was growing up," Kumar said. "In my community, we had the highest gang rate, one of the highest poverty rates, one of the highest HIV rates, teen pregnancy and dropouts. Does that sound familiar?" Kumar said through her

mother's insistence and witnessing inner family turmoil, she realized that, like many of the girls in attendance Saturday, she needed a mentor, roadmap and extra help to have a different life. "About three years ago after Trayvon Martin, Voto Latino said we have an issue with police violence in our home, too," she said. "You know why, there is a 13-year-old young kid, Andy Lopez, who in broad daylight was shot by police. They assumed he was carrying a weapon [when], in fact, he was carrying a toy gun." Kumar said her community responded with over 400 middle schoolers walking out of the classroom in protest. "There is not a story that you can tell me that I haven't heard, but it's through that strength, tenacity and experiences that make us stronger," she said. In March, Bowser launched the Reign initiative in light of the overwhelming news of the numerous missing black and Latino girls in the city. The initiative would serve as her answer to the special needs and issues that girls of color have in the classroom and at home. "As we continue making the investments necessary to give every student in DCPS a world-class education and the resources and support they need to reach their full potential, Reign will ensure that our young women of color are not left behind," Bowser said. The Reign aims to create spaces for young women of color to build community, confidence, and leadership skills inside and outside of school, started with the leadership conference and continuing with a series of workshops throughout the 2017-18 school year. "Next school year is just the beginning for Reign and, in fitting with the goals of the initiative, we will continue to expand the program based on the feedback we receive from the young women in our schools," Bowser said. WI

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5 Young ladies practice removing make-up at the Red Sprinkle Fashion Bootcamp self-care beauty workshop during the We the Girls Conference at Howard University on June 3 in Northwest. /Photo by Roy Lewis

13TH ANNIVERSARY & AWARDS CELEBRATION Thursday, July 27, 2017 - 6 oâ€™clock in the evening NEWTON WHITE MANSION 2708 Enterprise Road â€˘ Mitchellville, MD 20721

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Dr. Bonnie thornton Dill Dean of the College of Arts and Humanities University of Maryland College Park

Dr. Chelsey Green Recording Artist, Violinist & Violist

Host Tony Richards

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Spur of the Moment Band FAME Jazz Band with Artistic Director, Nat Adderley, Jr. 301-805-5358 l Fax 240-554-1555 l info@fameorg.org l www.fameorg.org Combined Federal Campaign # 31398 l United Way #9404 l DC One Fund #9404

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CONGRATULATIONS DISCOVER THE UNEXPECTED FELLOWS!

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Discover the Unexpected is back! This yearâ€™s DTU journalism fellowship presented by the all-new 2018 Chevrolet Equinox in partnership with the National Newspaper Publishers Association has expanded beyond Howard University to include students from Spelman College, Morehouse College and Clark Atlanta University. This summer, our 8 DTU Fellows will intern at the Washington informer in Washington D.C., the Atlanta Voice in Atlanta, the Carolinian in Raleigh and the Louisiana Weekly in New Orleans. These young journalists will explore these rich strongholds of African American history and culture, and share unexpected stories from our community. Join them as they embark on this exciting journey of inspiration, education and discovery.

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Jazz Lovers Prepare for Annual Musical Extravaganza D.C. Jazz Festival 2017 Kicks off – Bigger, Better than Ever By D. Kevin McNeir WI Editor @dkevinmcneir The DC JazzFest has returned to the District with its annual

homage to jazz greats with a lineup of musicians and singers representing the best in the musical genre that has given us geniuses like Coltrane, Mingus, Monk,

Parker and Abbey Lincoln. More than 20 neighborhood venues will showcase performances from June 9 through June 18 that will spotlight the District as a

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The DC Jazz Festival®, a 501(c)(3) non-profit service organization, and its programs are made possible, in part, with major grants from the Government of the District of Columbia, Muriel Bowser, Mayor; and, in part, by major grants from the Anne and Ronald Abramson Family Foundation, The Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation, Gillon Family Charitable Fund, The Mayo Charitable Foundation, CrossCurrents Foundation, Wells Fargo Foundation, The NEA Foundation, Venable Foundation, The Dallas Morse Coors Foundation for the Performing Arts, The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation, The Reva & David Logan Foundation, John Edward Fowler Memorial Foundation, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation; and with awards from the National Endowment for the Arts and the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, an agency supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts. ©2017 DC Jazz Festival. All rights reserved.

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5 Jazz greats Black Violin. /Photo courtesy of Lisa Leone

vibrant cultural capital including the always anticipated “Jazz in the ‘Hoods,” a week-long event sponsored by a host of partners including Events DC that introduces a mix of D.C. resident artists and District-based musicians in venues not otherwise served by live jazz performances. Artists include Gregory Porter, Pat Metheny, Kenny Garrett, Ron Carter and Lalah Hathaway and Black Violin. Here’s what a few of the festival’s directors had to say about this year’s lineup. “This remarkable lineup exemplifies the richness and soulfulness of the genre, boasting a plethora of brilliant vocalists and a bevy of strong strings as well,” said DC JazzFest Artistic Director Willard Jenkins. “We also continue our international collaborations and may have the largest number of women performing as band leaders and band members.” “This year, it’s all about discovering the unexpected,” added DC Jazz Festival Executive Director Sunny Sumter. “Expect jazz’s best vocalists, masterclass string instrumentalists and jazz musicians from all over the world taking over the District for 10 days of incredible jazz.” One group whose roots can be traced to very humble beginnings in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Black Violin, illustrate what can happen when Black youth receive exposure to the arts. Wilner Baptiste (Wil B.), one half of the dynamic duo of classically trained string instrumentalists known as Black Violin, along with Kevin Sylvester (Kev Marcus), will take to the stage on Sunday, June 11 playing a variety of music that mingles hip-hop, classical and jazz in a style that has garnered them a bevy of awards and a burgeoning fan base. Both grew up in South Florida, attended the same high school and began playing the violin and viola in a community where few Black males received exposure to classical music. Black Violin clinched the “Showtime at the Apollo” 2005 legend title which represented their big break. From

there their career took off at meteoric proportions. “We’ve been at this for 15 years and what matters is the connection with our audiences – something that’s close to a spiritual linkage and which is more than just playing music,” said Wil B. “What’s really special to me is seeing all kinds of people coming to hear us play – people who normally would not all be in the same room at the same time. It’s the music that brings them together.” He says that during their show, fans can expect a mixture of classical, hip-hop and the huge influence of jazz that has become their trademark. “Naturally, we have a segment in the show where we ‘free style,’ often referred to as improvisation in the jazz world, and we have a lot of fun. We realize that times have changed and many youths no longer get the exposure to jazz, classical music and other genres that we did when we were in school. So, we take it as our mission to introduce these art forms to children of color everywhere we go.” “Jazz music is like sitting down and reading a book. You have to listen to it and absorb it. When I was child growing up in the Caribbean, bands would routinely pass by our home and I fell in love with the sound. I think those in the jazz world can do so much more to educate young people. In fact, we must, if we want to revitalize the art form.” “Do they know that the roots of jazz come from the blues? Do they know the beauty of the blues? I’m convinced that once we educate youth and expose them to this tremendous art form, they will naturally gravitate to it. They won’t be able to deny it. People feel our authenticity when we’re on stage. They recognize that what we’re doing is creating something that’s organic. And it’s still true: music is the universal language,” Wil B. said. For more about Black Violin, go to www. blackviolin.net. For JazzFest tickets or additional information, visit dcjazzfest.org. WI

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Wake-Robin Golf Club Celebrates 80th Anniversary at Annual Golf Tournament By Martell Pegues WI Contributing Writer It’s no coincidence that the oldest African-American golf club for women in the United States originated at the course where African-Americans were first allowed to play golf. The Wake-Robin Golf Club, which began at D.C’s Langston Golf Club in 1937, and celebrated its 80th anniversary Monday while hosting its annual golf tournament at the Woodmore Country Club in Mitchellville, Md. Elizabeth Rice-McNeal, 99, is the oldest member of Wake-Robin and has enjoyed every moment of her 67 years of service. “We work together to pull each other up — if you have, I have,” she said. “Those are the values that we want to spread through Wake-Robin.” For 80 years throughout D.C metro area, the Wake-Robin Golf Club has made its presence felt through community service efforts and fellowship. The club aims to serve as an example that barriers can be broken within the sport, not just professionally but on a level of fellowship as well. Rice-McNeal drew a parallel between the evolution of golf in the African-American community and blacks’ economic plight. “Golf is an expensive sport to participate in, especially for the youth,” she said. “If we can assist them financially and keep them engaged in the sport, we have done our job to society.” The Royal Golf Club, a brother association of Wake-Robin, participated in Monday’s ceremony, represented by Lamont Baxter and Alfred Coates. Royal Golf assists

Wake-Robin in their scholarship foundations by donating money to their charity. “It’s like brothers and sisters, we get along, compete and go to events together,” Coates said. “Wake-Robin was inducted into the National Golf Hall of Fame in 2013, and the Royals in 2015, it’s truly a blessing. I want to see African-American women golfers turn pro, and set an example for young women that this is possible.” Kimberly Robinson, the newest president of Wake-Robin, works diligently to lead by example and make a difference of involvement in the African-American community amongst young women. “We go out to all the local high schools and talk to the young ladies who are interested in golf,” she said. “It’s a part of the criteria for our scholarship program.” Robinson also touched on the financial issues surrounding golf among the youth. ”We offer golfers on tour financial assistance, we are doing everything we can to lessen the burden and keep them involved,” she said. “By making their presence known through social media and staying in the local high schools. We let the young women know the resources available to them.” Debbie Tyner is a new member to Wake-Robin but has already felt their impact on young women as they’ve opened the door for them to golf. “It’s something to celebrate, 80 years is simply amazing,” Tyner said. “I had been used to playing with ladies my age or older, but the way that Wake-Robin connects with the surrounding effort made me want to be associated with them life.” WI

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Coca-Cola is the Official Soft Drink Sponsor of DC JazzFest The DC Jazz Festival®, a 501(c)(3) non-profit service organization, and its programs are made possible, in part, with major grants from the Government of the District of Columbia, Muriel Bowser, Mayor; and, in part, by major grants from the Anne and Ronald Abramson Family Foundation, The Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation, Gillon Family Charitable Fund, The Mayo Charitable Foundation, CrossCurrents Foundation, Wells Fargo Foundation, The NEA Foundation, Venable Foundation, The Dallas Morse Coors Foundation for the Performing Arts, The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation, The Reva & David Logan Foundation, John Edward Fowler Memorial Foundation, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation; and with awards from the National Endowment for the Arts and the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, an agency supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts. ©2017 DC Jazz Festival. All rights reserved.

CAN’T GET ENOUGH INFORMER NEWS? 5 The Wake Robin Golf Club held its 80th Anniversary Diamond & Pearl

Jubilee Golf Tournament at the Country Club at Woodmore in Mitchelleville, Maryland on Monday, June 5. /Photos by Travis Riddick WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

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Horoscopes

JUNE 8 - 14, 2017

ARIES New brooms sweep clean with Mars now powering through your home and family zone. This week could also see you ready to pamper yourself and indulge in a few luxuries. You're unlikely to miss a bargain either. With Mercury hiking into Gemini, you'll have all the latest info on prices at your fingertips and be ready to grab the best deal. A sense of adventure could encourage you to book a vacation. Lucky Numbers: 12, 20, 30

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TAURUS An influence can help you feel good about life and be able to enjoy everyday pleasures. There is also a lively influence that could see you eager to make new friends but in a way that highlights your caring, nurturing side. The focus on your home zone could also encourage you to do more entertaining or think about getting your place in shape. Lucky Numbers: 17, 21, 34

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GEMINI You could find your natural curiosity is piqued by new ideas and opportunities. You may also be eager to look further into your finances. But feelings can also amp up on Friday, as a Full Moon in your sector of relating encourages emotions to come to the surface. Lucky Numbers: 5, 12, 56 CANCER Your natural courage could surface. This might be a call to take a proactive

approach to a lingering situation. Also, the move of Venus into your social zone is going to spice up your social life and pave the way for some lovely romantic dates. Time for reflection may also be very fruitful, as it can help you to put key aspects of your life in perspective and ring in changes as a result. Lucky Numbers: 9, 21, 49

Once A Cop

LEO This week has a special sparkle and you are encouraged to seek groups of interest

By Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer You've changed your mind. That's allowed, you know. You can go in a different direction, pick something else, try another thing, have do-overs, or have two. Pencils come with erasers, few things are forever, and in "Once a Cop" by Cory Pegues, change may be good. The second-youngest of his siblings, with four "much older" sisters, Corey Pegues grew up in a middle-class, mostly black neighborhood in Queens, New York. Though his father was largely absent, Pegues basked in the affection of an extended family and he was secure, until his mother began moving her children from home to more-run-down home. At age 13, Pegues knew they were poor; he "was going around with holes in my shoes" when he was taken under the wing of an older boy who was well-regarded in the neighborhood and taught Pegues to peddle "loosies." "Selling weed was easy," Pegues says. The next step was even easier: he sold crack and joined a larger group of dealers, some "serious players" who made crazy money but thought little of killing someone for small reason. It didn't take long for Pegues to know that he "needed an exit plan, and I needed to move on it fast." For him, the Army was "perfect," so he contacted a recruiter. Three weeks after he left for basic training, his old dealing grounds were raided. The Army, however, was a means to an end: Pegues knew that what he really wanted was to work for the NYPD. He tested, was approved, left the military, and tested again. He was a father twice over by that time, and he was determined to be a police officer, though many departments then oozed with racism. Still, Pegues persevered. He took on the worst assignments so he could study for higher positions. He climbed the ranks, paying his dues and finding mentors to help him be the best policeman he could, to "protect and serve" the people in various precincts. He made history, until the day he spoke "against the wrong people." "Once a Cop" seems like two books that were accidentally glued together in the same cover. One good, one meh. In the beginning, you've got author Corey Pegues' story of life in poverty and crime, which is wild, violent and almost movie-like. That ultimately segues into Pegues-as-policeman, and is filled with names, numbers and an undercurrent of anger. It's perhaps because of the rage in the latter half that the book's first half is more readable and, though filled with harshness and profanity, more accessible. It feels engaged, while the story's final part seems to be, surprisingly or not, more like a police report. This may leave readers with a sense of disappointment; it's as if our racehorse is taken away and replaced by a bad-tempered Shetland pony. And yet, fans of this genre still might enjoy seeing both sides of the streets, as told by one man who's lived them. Try "Once a Cop" and see what you think. You can always change your mind. WI

36 JUNE 8 - 14, 2017

or connect with like-minded others. There is also much to be gained from nurturing contacts in the business world or associated with your professional life. From Friday, all the hard work you've put into a plan could bear fruit. Lucky Numbers: 8, 37, 54

VIRGO Opportunities for romance could appear when you're traveling. They might also show up if you're studying in a group or learning a new skill. Professional matters are also important this week, and you could feather your nest by making some vital connections. You'll also be eager to connect with friends. Lucky Numbers: 4, 28, 38 LIBRA Your love life could take a new and sensual turn. The coming weeks could provide an opportunity to draw closer to that special person and bond more deeply. Also, the travel bug may bite, stirring a desire to explore options for short trips or exotic vacations. Your professional life and responsibilities may also demand attention, so it will be vital to get your work/life balance right. Lucky Numbers: 2, 3, 13 SCORPIO If there have been any issues between you and another, the move of Venus into your sector of relating can bring a chance to smooth things over. This delightful influence can also have a persuasive and alluring side, so if you want to impress a special someone, it should be a lot easier now and in coming weeks. Lucky Numbers: 11, 16, 44 SAGITTARIUS If some friends have made a lifestyle change that is proving effective,

you might want to follow suit. Hanging out with them at the juice bar or exploring healthy ways to eat can help you feel fresh and revitalized. Also, Friday's Full Moon in your sign can be a great opportunity to throw a memorable get-together. However, a tactful approach in conversations would be wise. Lucky Numbers: 12, 13, 14

CAPRICORN Mars moves farther into your sector of relationships, where it could stir up feelings that may have lain dormant for a while. The coming weeks can provide an opportunity to clear the air. And if you both have different ideas or plans, there is a greater likelihood of compromise. Romance looks possible as lovely Venus dances into your romance zone on Tuesday. This is a chance to enjoy sensual delights with your loved one and make the most of any free time. Lucky Numbers: 3, 7, 35 AQUARIUS Food and cooking could be something you enjoy doing at home. In fact, this could provide an excuse to bring everyone together and enjoy playing host. Other pleasure options are also in the cards, and you may find cultural activities appealing, especially exhibits, concerts, or anything that speaks to your creativity. Aa friendship could mature into something very worthwhile. Lucky Numbers: 30, 39, 52 PISCES Romantic options could increase this week. You may become more proactive about dating or seeking that special person. There could be an element of competition involved, although this could make things a little stressful. Other factors indicate that just being your natural self is all you need to do to attract the right person. Finally, a conversation could set the stage for a fruitful opportunity. Lucky Numbers: 12, 13, 21

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SPORTS Nats Lose to San Diego in Patriotic Series Game

5 San Diego Padres first baseman Wil Myers tries to steal a base during the Padres' 5-3 win over the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park in Southeast on Sunday, May 28. /Photo by John E. De FreitasFreitas

5 San Diego Padres left fielder Allen Cordoba slides back to first base as Washington Nationals first baseman Ryan Zimmerman awaits the throw during the Padres' 5-3 win at Nationals Park in Southeast on Sunday, May 28. /Photo by John E. De Freitas

5 San Diego Padres shortstop Chase d'Arnaud slides into second base ahead of a tag by Washington Nationals second baseman Wilmer Difo during the Padres' 5-3 win at Nationals Park in Southeast on Sunday, May 28. /Photo by John E. De Freitas

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5 San Diego Padres first baseman Wil Myers returns to first base during a pickoff attempt while Washington Nationals first baseman Ryan Zimmerman waits for the throw during the Padres' 5-3 win at Nationals Park in Southeast on Sunday, May 28. /Photo by John E. De Freitas

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JOURNALISM from Page 1 hicle they will all drive in their respective assigned cities as they ‘discover the unexpected.’ After a welcome from the program’s team, the event officially began with opening speeches from Dr. Benjamin Chavis, NNPA President and CEO and Michelle Alexander, General Motors Diversity Marketing Manager. Serving as this year's Road Trip Navigator, Interactive One’s News and Men’s Programming Vice President Jamilah Lemieux expressed the importance of the Black media. “I am firm believer in the urgency of protecting the future of Black media, of making sure that we have ample opportunity to not just tell our stories but to amplify them,” Lemieux said. After Lemieux’s poignant remarks, the scholars were led outside of the firehouse where one bright red and three splashy orange Chevrolet Equinoxes awaited them. Fellows in teams of two, accompanied by Chevrolet and NNPA representatives, piled into the four cars ready to explore Detroit. Scavenger hunt clues rang clearly through the speakers of the Equinox and they were off to navigate the city. The clues led the teams to four stops: Dilla’s Delights, Detroit vs. Everybody (a trademark t-shirt business), N’Namdi Center for Contemporary Art and the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. At each stop, the students interviewed the shop owners, clerks, curators and museum guides, allowing them to document the stories that would be born out of the scavenger hunt. Forming a bond with the store clerks had the biggest impact on DTU fellow Taylor Burris. “My favorite part of the trip was speaking to Detroit vs. Everybody because it was obvious that Sade, the clerk, was very knowledgeable about what their brand means and how it is continuously uplifting the community and defying the odds” Burris said.

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! 38 JUNE 8 - 14, 2017

JAMILAH LIMIEUX / Interactive One The scavenger hunt marked the conclusion of day one’s activities for the fellows. The final day began with an address from Dr. Chavis at the General Motors headquarters. Focused closely on the speech, the fellows sat quietly around the conference room table as they were reminded of their role as young, Black journalists. “[DTU Fellows] represent this emerging generation of journalists,” Chavis said. “To me this is an opportunity not just to reaffirm the 190-year legacy of the NNPA but to represent that legacy in new and more profound ways that match the challenges and opportunities we face in our communities.” The scholars were given the opportunity to meet with their respective publishers and coordinators: Shalon Bell from The Atlanta Voice, Adria Jervay from The Carolinian, David Baker from The Louisiana Weekly and D. Kevin McNeir from The Washington Informer. In these breakout sessions, the publishers and editors shared their expectations with their new writers. Anxious to get started, fellows asked questions and marveled at the history of the papers they were soon to join. There was a fresh excitement in the air as the publishers and editors connected with the team of fellows, other mentors and Chevrolet representatives. Next on schedule was a trip to the Content Studio, an organization within GM whose goal is to develop the capability which enables Chev-

rolet to brand and build efficiently, strategically and consistently within the public social web. There, fellows were able to see how the marketing side of Chevrolet has expanded technologically by partnering with many different agencies in order to have a worldwide impact. As journalists, the fellow’s goals and Chevrolet’s goals align in this respect. According to Michelle Alexander, Diversity Marketing Manager at General Motors, the program exists as an extension of the partnerships that Chevy holds in high esteem. “As a brand [Discover The Unexpected] ties into our philosophy of finding new roads and ingenuity. We as a brand feel like this is something important that we are committed to,” Alexander said. As day two came to a close, the fellows shared final hugs and goodbyes. To many, the immersion trip was a life changing experience. Some had never been to Detroit and were unaware of its impressive history. But for all of them, one thing rang true: Discovering The Unexpected is far more than just a program. It’s a family. “I was impressed by the amount of immense love we received from the whole General Motors staff, NNPA and the fellows. I don’t take that for granted. It’s refreshing to see that and feel it,” DTU Fellow Jordan Fisher said. Fellows will be placed in North Carolina, Atlanta, Louisiana and Washington, D.C. for their summer experiences. WI

PASTORAL VACANCY

CALL 1 800 420 7783 NOW! ATTENTION MARYLANDERS WITH HOMES CONSTRUCTED BEWEEN 1989 -2009 THAT HAVE FLEXIBLE CORRUGATED STAINLESS STEEL GAS PIPE (CSST)

“I am firm believer in the urgency of protecting the future of Black media, of making sure that we have ample opportunity to not just tell our stories but to amplify them,”

Emmanuel Baptist Church DC Washington, Ma0hews Memorial Bap<st Church Emmanuel Baptist Church is seeking a full-time Pastor who conforms to the Biblical qualifications in Titus 1:6-9 and I Timothy 3:1-7. The Pastor should have a compassionate shepherd’s heart, ready to lead our Washington, DC church in reaching out to our community and the world as we proclaim the Good News of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The pastor should have strong and challenging biblically based preaching and teaching abilities, Ma$hews Memorial Bap0st Church is a mul0-genera0onal congrega0on located in the Anacos0a community. a passion for evangelism, discipleship, and families. The Pastor should also stand boldly to proclaim the We are seeking a full-0me Senior Pastor called by God in accordance with Jeremiah 3:15, 1 Corinthians 15:58, and Gospel of Jesus Christ. Colossians 1:25, who will a) be the spiritual leader of the congrega0on in accordance with Acts 20:28, b) preach and teach the Holy Bible in accordance with 2 Timothy 2:2; 4:1-2, c) eﬀec0vely evangelize the community in

Toaccordance with Ma$hew 28:18-20, and d) equip the congregants to become disciples of Jesus Christ in learn more about the Emmanuel Baptist Church and the application, please visit our website at www. accordance with 1 Peter 5:1-8. emmanuelbaptistdc.org. To learn more about how to apply for the pastoral vacancy at Ma$hews Memorial Bap0st Church, Opening Date: April 10, 2017 visit our website at www.mmbcdc.org/pastoral-search

Closing Date: June 30, 2017

Applica0on package must be postmarked by Friday, June 30, 2017

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RELIGION THE RELIGION CORNER

The Griffin Firm, PLLC

Dreams of My Father As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him. — Psalm 103:13 Though my father has gone home to be with the Lord, I thought this would be an excellent opportunity to share with you about how much he dreamed, and how his dreams influenced all of his children. Over the years, we saw him start hundreds of businesses, but he was compassionate, always seeking ways to help others. Today, let me share just three of them with you. One business he wanted was to set up a day care in Maryland. He had obtained a house and was in the process of being set up for child care (they were taking pictures for the licensing required by the state) but when our home in D.C. caught on fire during the middle of the day while everybody was at work or school, we ended up having to move into that Maryland house. It was as if it was a blessing that he had that house already in his possession. Next dream, my father was setting up a four-story home in Washington, DC, to care for senior citizens. He went to the D.C. Department of Health's training program, he studied to pass the test, and after all of that work and planning, the homeowner wouldn't give him a longterm lease, which was a requirement. My father built a little house on the top of his station wagon. Turning Hearts Church

He had decided that he would sell fresh vegetables grown in his garden to the public by driving his truck around. He thought this little car-top shed would be excellent advertisement. We were so embarrassed! We heard about so many businesses that we finally began to ignore his vision. We knew this was just another one of his dreams! Today, however, some 50 years later, we all realize the dreams of our father caused each of us to dream, too. We are determined to make our dreams become a reality. We saw in him a visionary, someone who didn't quite understand the principle of setting and reaching goals. He didn't understand that the first and most important step, after coming up with the idea, is to keep going — never, ever quit! Our father's parents died when he was young, and his older brothers refused to take him in. He lived in a little shack of a house, situated behind the big house of white landowners in North Carolina. He was only 12 or 13 years old, but he worked for his landowners in exchange for his room and board. They placed a plate on the back porch each night for his dinner. He came for his plate and was very thankful. His first vehicle was a broken-down car that a white family called junk. He worked on that car, and he kept putting on new parts until one day, that car would run. Throughout his life,

The Rev. E. Bernard Anderson 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

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202-379-4738 with Lyndia Grant he never considered a car junk; instead, he would talk about how one day he would get that car running again. Once he died, the family was finally able to get rid of all of the junk he treasured. Each of us family members have looked back on this history of our father for the good that it brings into our lives. Even for me to write this column each week, it was the wisdom of my father that often said to me, "Linda, you can find a scripture in the Bible for everything." It has been his influence over my thinking that has caused me to be able to stay focused, writing stories each week for The Religion Corner. This Father's Day, I write this article as a tribute to my father, Bishop Benjamin F. Grant Sr. Happy Father's Day to you, in Heaven! WI

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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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RELIGION The Miracle Center of Faith Missionary Baptist Church Bishop Michael C. Turner, Sr. Senior Pastor 9161 Hampton Overlook Capitol Heights, MD 20743 Phone: 301-350-2200 Fax: 301-499-8724

Service and Times Sunday Worship Times : 7:30 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”

Pilgrim Baptist Church Rev. Louis B. Jones II Pastor 700 I Street, N.E. Washington, D.C. 20002 (202) 547-8849 Service and Times Worship Sundays: 7:30 & 11:00am 5th Sundays: 9:30am 3rd Sundays: Baptism & Holy Communion Prayer & Praise: Wednesdays @ Noon & 6:30pm www.pilgrimbaptistdc.org

Church of Living Waters

Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church

Crusader Baptist Church

Rev. Paul Carrette Senior Pastor

Rev. Dr. Michael E. Bell, Sr., Pastor

Rev. Dr. Alton W. Jordan Pastor

Reverend Dr. Calvin L. Matthews Senior Pastor

Harold Andrew Assistant Pastor

2498 Alabama Ave., SE - Washington D.C. 20020 Office: (202) 889-7296 Fax: (202) 889-2198 - www.acamec.org

800 I Street, NE - Washington, DC 20002 202-548-0707 - Fax No. 202-548-0703

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

Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 8:00am and 11:00am 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

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

Campbell AME Church Rev. Dr. Henry Y. White 2562 MLK Jr. Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Adm. Office 202-678-2263 Email: Campbell@mycame.org Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 am Sunday Church School: 8:45 am Bible Study Wednesday: 12:00 Noon Wednesday: 7:00 pm Thursday: 7: pm “Reaching Up To Reach Out” Mailing Address Campbell AME Church 2502 Stanton Road SE - Washington, DC 20020

Mt. Zion Baptist Church

“An inclusive ministry where all are welcomed and affirmed.” www.covenantbaptistdc.org

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 Reverend Dr. Paul H. Saddler Senior Pastor (Disciples of Christ) 1812 12th Street, NW - Washington, DC 20009 Phone: 202-265-4494 Fax: 202 265 4340 Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 am Communion every Sunday: 11:00 am Sunday School: 10:00 am Bible Study Tuesday: 12 Noon Pastor’s Bible Study Tuesday: 6:30 pm Motto: “Discover Something Wonderful” Website: 12thscc.org Email: Twelfthstcc@aol.com

Mount Carmel Baptist Church

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

Isle of Patmos Baptist Church

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

40 JUNE 8 - 14, 2017

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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

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

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 Rev. Dr. Clinton W. Austin Pastor

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

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

www.emmanuelbaptistchurchdc.org

“Where Jesus is the King”

Lincoln Park United Methodist Church

Sermon On The Mount Temple Of " Joy Apostolic Faith

Matthews Memorial Baptist Church Matthews

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

Rev. Dr. Morris L Shearin, Sr. Pastor

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”.

Holy Trinity United Baptist Church

Florida Avenue Baptist Church

MemorialRev. Joan E. Buchanan

Executive Pastor

Baptist Church

2616 MLK Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Office 202-889-3709 - Fax 202-678-3304

Rev. Joan E. Buchanan Service and Times Executive Early PastorWorship Service:

7:30am Worship Service: 11:00am New Member’s Class: 9:45am 1st Sunday, 11:00am ServiceHoly andCommunion: Times Church School: 9:45am Early Worship Service: 7:30am Wednesday 12:00pm Bible Study Prayer,11:00am Praise and Bible Study: 7:00pm Worship Service: Saturday Bible Study: 11:00am Apostolic in Doctrine, Pentecostal in Experience, New Member’s Class: 9:45am Baptism 4th Sunday: 11:00am Holiness in Living, Uncompromised and Unchanged. st 1 Sunday, 11:00am The Apostolic Faith is still alive –Acts 2:42Holy Communion: “Empowered to love and Challenged to Lead a 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.

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

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

Church School: Multitude 9:45am of Souls to Christ”

Wednesday 12:00pm Bible Study

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

Mount Moriah 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

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

St. Matthews Baptist Church

Eastern Community Baptist Church

New Commandment Baptist Church

Rehoboth Baptist Church

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

Salem Baptist Church

Prayer, Praise and Bible Study: 7:00pm Saturday Bible Study: 11:00am

Peace Baptist Church

Baptism 4th Sunday: 11:00am

“Empowered to Love and Challenged

Rev. Dr. Michael T. Bell

to Lead a Multitude of Souls to Christ”

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

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

Pennsylvania Ave. Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Kendrick E. Curry Pastor 3000 Pennsylvania Ave.. S.E Washington, DC 20020 202 581-1500 Service and Times Sunday Church School: 9:30 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. Oran W. Young 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) 232-4288

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 First Sunday Worship Service (one service): 10:00 a.m. Second, Third, Fourth, and Fifth Sunday Worship service: 7:45 a.m. and 10:55 a.m. Sunday Church School/Bible Study: 9:30 a.m. Thursday Prayer Service: 6:30 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

Email: sbc@shilohbaptist.org Website: shilohbaptist.org

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

Service and Times Sunday School for All Ages: 8:00 a.m. Sunday Worship Services: 9:30 a.m. Midday Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 11:30 a.m. Evening Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 7:00 p.m. Laymen's League: Thursday 7:00 p.m. 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.

JUNE 8 - 14, 2017 41

LEGAL NOTICES SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2017 ADM 526 Indiana Stewart Evans Decedent Aimee D. Griffin 5335 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Suite 440 Washington, DC 20015 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Valarie Wheeler, Deborah Evans-Parker and Anthony Evans, whose addresses are 5244 Colorado Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20011, 6805 Palomino Ridge Ct., Summerfield, NC 27358 and 4803 Russell Ave., Hyatteville, MD 20782 were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Indiana Stewart Evans who died on November 30, 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 November 25, 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 November 25, 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: May 25, 2017 Valarie Wheeler Deborah Evans-Parker Anthony Evans Personal Representatives TRUE TEST COPY Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2017 ADM 521 Charles R. Mason Sr. Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Kenneth L. Mason Jr., whose address is 9808 Woodland Ave., Lanham, MD 20706 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Charles R. Mason Sr. who died on January 20, 2017 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 November 25, 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 November 25, 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: May 25, 2017

LEGAL NOTICES

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

Administration No. 2017 ADM 529

Administration No. 2017 ADM 419

Administration No. 2016 ADM 1315

Dorothy J. Starks Decedent

Barbara J. Ingram Decedent

Robert Alan Johnson Decedent

Johnny M. Howard Houston & Howard 1001 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Suite 402 Washington, DC 20036 Attorney

Carl E. Snead 1629 K Street, NW, Suite 300 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney

Edward G. Varrone, Esq. 910 17th Street, NW, Suite 800 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney

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

Brenda T. Ingram-Best, whose address is 1842 Central Place, NE, Washington, DC 20002 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Barbara J. Ingram who died on May 24, 2011 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 November 25, 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 November 25, 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 J. Caracelli, whose address is 2727 29th Street, NW, Apt. 512, Washington, DC 20008 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Robert Alan Johnson 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 November 25, 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 November 25, 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.

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Lisa Starks Levy, whose address is 8946 Continental Place, Landover, MD 20785 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Dorothy J. Starks who died on March 26, 2017 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 November 25, 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 November 25, 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.

Lisa Starks Levy Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Anne Meister Register of Wills

Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES

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

Date of first publication: May 25, 2017

Kenneth L. Mason Jr. Personal Representative

LEGAL NOTICES

Date of first publication: May 25, 2017 Brenda T. Ingram-Best Personal Representative

Date of first publication: May 25, 2017 Valerie J. Carracelli Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Anne Meister Register of Wills

TRUE TEST COPY

Washington Informer

Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer

Washington Informer

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

Administration No. 2015 ADM 001484

Administration No. 2017 ADM 538

Administration No. 2017 ADM 551

Administration No. 2017 ADM 572

Administration No. 2016 ADM 1289

Maurice T. Toler Decedent

Dwight M. Gill, Sr. aka Dwight Mitchell Gill, Sr. Decedent

Lucille Mattie Watkins Decedent

Samuel D. Stewart Decedent

Lillian L. Rutherford Decedent

Barbara J. Mann 903 Hamilton St., NE Washington, DC 20011 Attorney

Jacqueline Jones Moore, Esq. 7605 14th Street, NW Washington, DC 20012 Attorney

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

Lesa P. Horton, whose address is 5005 12th St., South Arlington, VA 22204 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Maurice T. Toler who died on November 3, 2015 with a Will, and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before December 8, 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 December 8, 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.

Dwight Mitchell Gill, Jr., whose address is 4016 Blaine Street, NE, Washington, DC 20019 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Dwight M. Gill, Sr. aka Dwight Mitchell Gill, Sr. who died on October 2, 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 November 25, 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 November 25, 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.

Denise Robinson whose address is 5404 Mystic Court, Oxon Hill, MD 20745 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Lucille Mattie Watkins who died on October 4, 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 December 1, 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 December 1, 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.

Nancy H. Stewart, whose address is 429 N Street, SW, Apt. 406 S, Washington, DC 20024 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Samuel D. Stewart who died on July 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 December 1, 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 December 1, 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.

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

Date of first publication: June 8, 2017

Date of first publication: May 25, 2017

Lesa P. Horton Personal Representative

Dwight Mitchell Gill, Jr. Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Anne Meister Register of Wills

Washington Informer

42 JUNE 8 - 14, 2017

Date of first publication: June 1, 2017 Denise Robinson Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

Date of first publication: June 1, 2017

Herbert M. Rutherford, III, whose address is 419 N Street, SW, Washington, DC 20024 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Lillian L. Rutherford who died on June 2, 2016 with a Will, and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before December 1, 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 December 1, 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.

Nancy H. Stewart Personal Representative

Date of first publication: June 1, 2017

TRUE TEST COPY Anne Meister Register of Wills

Herbert M. Rutherford, III Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Washington Informer

Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

LEGAL NOTICES

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

Administration No. 2017 ADM 550

Administration No. 2017 ADM 514

Administration No. 2017 ADM 231

Delores Ann Perkins Decedent

Courtney Dunham aka Courtney Anne Lee Dunham Decedent

Junious Durham Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Nolan Perkins, whose address is 729 Atlantic Street, SE, Washington, DC 20032 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Delores Ann Perkins who died on March 25, 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 December 1, 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 December 1, 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.

Shanelle C. Patterson, Esq. 1455 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Suite 400 Washington, DC 20004 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

TRUE TEST COPY

Mark Rosmann, whose address is 930 M Street, NW, Apt. 707, Washington, DC 20001 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Courtney Dunham aka Courtney Anne Lee Dunham who died on December 27, 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 December 1, 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 December 1, 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.

Anne Meister Register of Wills

Date of first publication: June 1, 2017

Washington Informer

Mark Rosmann Personal Representative

Date of first publication: June 1, 2017 Nolan Perkins Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer

Brett Cohen 7910 Woodmont Avenue, Suite 1430 Bethesda, MD 20814-7047 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Brett Cohen, whose address is 7910 Woodmont Avenue, Suite 1430, Bethesda, MD 20814-7047 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Junious Durham who died on January 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 (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 December 8, 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 December 8, 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: June 8, 2017 Brett Cohen Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

Administration Number 2017 ADM 637

Administration No. 2016 ADM 1136

Administration No. 2017 ADM 1280

Estate of Armetro S. Cole Deceased

Melvin P. Carter aka Helen Phillip Carter Decedent

Clementine Florence Brown aka Clementine F. Brown Decedent

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Deborah F. Cole 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 September 22, 1998 exhibited with the petition upon proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution by affidavit of witnesses or otherwise in the absence of a will or proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution, enter an order determining that the decedent died intestate. Date of first publication: June 1, 2017 Deborah F. Cole Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer

Brett Cohen 7910 Woodmont Avenue, Suite 1430 Bethesda, MD 20814-7047 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Brett Cohen, whose address is 7910 Woodmont Avenue, Suite 1430, Bethesda, MD 20814-7047 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Melvin P. Carter aka Melvin Phillip Carter who died on September 11, 2016 with a Will, and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before December 1, 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 December 1, 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: June 1, 2017 Brett Cohen Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Anne Meister Register of Wills

CL ASSIFIEDS

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS James N. Brown, III, whose address is 301 Major King Lane, Fort Washington, MD 20744 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Clementine Florence Brown aka Clementine F. Brown who died on June 27, 2014 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 December 8, 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 December 8, 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: June 8, 2017 James N. Brown, III Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer

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LEGAL NOTICES SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2017 ADM 561 Steven Goerner Allen Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Nancy J. Medlin, whose address is 4709 Regal Court, Chesapeake, VA 23321 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Steven Goerner Allen who died on April 24, 2017 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 December 1, 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 December 1, 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: June 1, 2017 Nancy J. Medlin Personal Representative

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DANCE from Page 28 would sit on while presiding over the festival. Another stool sat offstage draped in white West African fabric with a singular candle burning in his memory. Ezibu Muntu's performance quickly transitioned from a respectful memorial to a raucous, airborne display of seemingly impossible leaps, twirls and intricate footwork and earth-shaking drumming, with the drummers donning green T-shirts adorned with Davis' image. Davis founded the festival 40 years ago at Brookyn Academy of Music, bringing it to Washington's Dance Place a decade later. Every year, the weekend after Memorial Day, the festival begins with a se-

REGISTRATION from Page 5 period of four years. Under the budget plan, the board of elections would be able to hire two employees to run the system, and funding would be available to the DMV to complete an upgrade to transfer the data. The new law will also lengthen the voter registration period. Under the law, the deadline will move from the current 30 days preceding a regularly scheduled election to 21 days. Voters will also be allowed to file a change of address on Election Day, even if for changes of ward. Many Democrat politicians have touted automatic voter registration as a method to preserve voter access and to counter voter ID laws supported by some conservatives. In a visit to the District's Anacostia neighborhood in Southeast, civil rights activist Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. told residents that automatic voter registration was a necessary step for African-Americans residents to resist the many challenges of the gentrification the city is experiencing. "You get a birth certificate when you are born, a death certificate when you die, and at age 18 you should be automatically registered to vote," said Jackson, adding that automatic voter registration will help cities save money on the registration process and help protect people's right to vote. In the past year, lawmakers in 32 states have introduced bills for automatic voter registration of licensed drivers. If approved, D.C. would join eight other states with automatic voter registration including California, Oregon, Alaska, Georgia, West Virginia, Colorado, Vermont and Connecticut. The council will hold its final vote on the budget on June 13. WI ries of Master Classes, culminating in weekend outdoor performances, an African marketplace and indoor performances with guest dance troupes. At the end of the performances, Soumah chanted Davis' favorite saying, demonstrated his unique handclap and gestures and noted how he loved the "Lamba" from the Malinke people of West Africa. The dance is one of "spirit appreciation" and also one performed for the griot of the culture, who holds the history of the people. And even as the curtain fell and the house lights came on, the dancing and drumming continued for the man who taught so many to love Africa, its culture and its peoples. WI

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SHARPTON from Page 26

"The market has just been oversaturated with grocery stores," she said. "With the lack of sales, there's not an economic impact for us to be in business." Third, there's the much-ballyhooed Sterling Farms' grocery store in New Orleans, co-owned by actor Wendell Pierce, who wanted to bring healthy food to underserved communities. That store closed one year after opening. It drew national media attention when it opened, including a visit from Michelle Obama, who was touting her Fresh Food Initiative to bring healthy grocery options to so-called "food deserts." What will it take for us to feed ourselves? We have the money, we just lack the mindset. History will not treat us kindly if we fail to act appropriately. WI

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have suffered from being highlighted as an enterprise owned by an African-American. (He closed the store in August 2009.) "If you're under the radar, then maybe you won't get that belief from customers that the other guy's ice is colder than yours," he said, adding, "I'm not giving up." Beyah plans to open a new store this year. Second is the 2014 closing of the last Calhoun's Supermarket in Montgomery, Alabama, after losing money for "three or four years," according to owner Greg Calhoun, who made history as the first African-American in the South to own a supermarket. At one point, Calhoun had seven stores alone in Montgomery, a majority black city. ShaKenya Calhoun cried as she closed the doors one final time.

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owner, Frank Jackson. Paul Sanders, pastor of Greater St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church, said, "At stake is getting more blacks to support [one another]. We talk about power. But if we don't have some businesses or some money, we can talk about power all we want and it won't come. … If the store does not succeed, it will be because of a lack of community support." Three other recent examples include Fresh Market supermarket in nearly 100 percent black Southside Chicago. Owner, Karriem Beyah, whose store was included in Maggie and John Anderson's "Empowerment Experiment," agreed that the awareness and enthusiasm the Andersons created was important, but Beyah added that his business may

share of government contracts, which is mandated by law, a seat at the decision-making table and input in to policies that affect the economy. And what will the party get in return for doing business with the black community? The party will see blacks voting for Republicans in double digits. The party will see a growth in financial contributions from leading businessmen, who currently see absolutely no value in contributing to Republican campaigns or entities. The party will also get fresh perspectives and new ideas from the top thinkers in the black community, who are also the "real" leaders within our community. But most importantly, the party find that the black community is already in sync with its business agenda. The GOP simply needs to extend a sincere invitation. Come on, Republicans. What in the hell do you have to lose? WI

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Growth, "Black buying power is $1.2 trillion; which would make black America the 15th largest economy in the world in terms of gross domestic product (GDP)." That is equivalent to the size of Mexico. Two years ago, the Aspen Institute and The Atlantic released a poll that was stunning. According to their poll, blacks represent the largest group in the country that believes the American dream "is attainable with hard work." So, to those Republicans who think that blacks are just waiting for more government programs and more handouts, I say, you're wrong. The black community is open for business and willing to engage with the Republican Party, but when will the party address the issues we are interested in, not the issues that they think we're interested in? We need access to capital, our fair

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power. I wrote about this, in 2012, in a piece I did for Black Enterprise. Democrats and the Obama administration have done very little for blackowned businesses over the last eight years. Republicans have a huge opportunity to engage directly with the black community on the specific issue of entrepreneurship. Not only are these black businessmen fervent supporters of abolishing the capital gains tax, accelerated depreciation (writing off all capital purchases in year one) and lowering the corporate tax rate, but they also want to be relieved of all the onerous regulations imposed on them by Obama's reign of terror on small and minority-owned businesses. According to the University of Georgia's Selig Center for Economic

ministration (FDA) comprehensive authority to regulate the manufacturing, marketing, and sale of tobacco products. The good intent of the law is to reduce smoking that is the leading preventable cause of death in the United States. We are very concerned that while the FDA is considering a national menthol ban, state and local governmental agencies are implementing ordinances that will prohibit, restrict and ban menthol cigarettes, the preferred tobacco product of African-Americans. A ban on menthol cigarettes would give police another way to interact negatively in black communities on the retail level or with individual citizens for a low-level, nonviolent offense. A ban, prohibition or restriction on menthol cigarettes would mean punitive consequences, if the prohibition or ban is violated. History has proven that prohibitions and bans don't work. WI

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JACKSON from Page 26

they have less time to focus on solving violent crime and ensuring public safety. Tensions between police and the black community have focused national attention on the pervasive inequities in the U.S. criminal justice system. In 2014, the National Research Council issued a comprehensive report on America's overgrown criminal justice system. The rate of imprisonment in the United States has more than quadrupled during the last forty years. The U.S. prison population is largely drawn from men under age 40 and mostly men of color. The Council found that high incarceration rates came about not because of an increase in crime, but because of policy choices. A menthol ban could make a bad situation in the criminal justice system worse for blacks. On June 22, 2009, when President Barack Obama signed into law the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act, the new law gave the U.S. Food and Drug Ad-

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derground, black markets developed controlled by the Mafia and gangs in communities. By 1933, public sentiment had turned against prohibition and Congress repealed the prohibition by constitutional amendment. The unintended consequences of alcohol prohibition were real and far outweighed the good intent of the prohibition and led to the failure of this noble experiment. The lessons learned from the failed policy of alcohol prohibition are important for us today when a ban on menthol cigarettes has been proposed to reduce smoking among African-Americans. Since over 80 percent of African-Americans who choose to smoke, smoke menthol cigarettes, prohibitions, restrictions and bans would affect black communities more than other communities in America. When police have to spend time enforcing prohibitions and bans,

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gic engagement paid off when I worked with our member-school presidents and chancellors to ensure that their federal budget dollars would not be cut in President Trump's first budget proposal. Working with the White House, through open communication and lots of effort, HBCU leaders and I were able to deliver flat funding for HBCUs in the upcoming fiscal year budget. Flat funding is a big win, considering President Trump proposed a 13.9 percent overall funding decrease in federal education dollars this year.

MALVEAUX from Page 27 dits contracts to ensure that employees have equal opportunity in terms of both promotions and pay. The proposed budget cuts OFCCP by 16 percent and eliminates 130 full time employees. When the other 470 employees are absorbed into the EEOC, that agency will not get an increased budget despite its expanded mission. Both agencies have been important in ensuring that civil rights violations are rectified. In 2010, EEOC had more than 20 active cases that involved nooses. Even as nooses continue to be hung as symbols of intimidation and hate, such as the noose hung at the African American Museum (the second hung at a Smithsonian museum in a week), the agency charged with investigat-

ASKIA from Page 27 with a national news magazine. Such days of docile acceptance of wanton racial violence will not be accepted today. The Kluxers today think that behind The Donald and his war council, they will have a near

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But that's not the end of it. With so many capital needs, we must ensure Washington doesn't cut the vital capital financing program that provides about $20 million a year to support more than $280 million in capital financing for our schools. The need to work across the aisle extends beyond just elected officials. In January, TMCF announced a $25.6 million gift from the Charles Koch Foundation and Koch Industries. This generous gift was a direct result of proactive outreach I initiated with Mr. Koch, a man often associated with support of conservative and libertarian causes. What I found by

having a dialogue with him is that we share a deep concern about the impact of over-incarceration and lack of educational opportunities that disproportionately impact fragile communities. Together in January, we launched a new, HBCU-based research institution, known as the Center for Advancing Opportunity, that is studying barriers to opportunity in those communities. In reaching across the aisle, we should never forsake our historic alliances. But for the sake of the young people our HBCUs seek to educate, we must also realize the need to grow new and different alliances. WI

ing these complaints would have fewer resources to do so. Similarly, OFCCP has won money settlements for thousands of employees and changed employment requirements that have a discriminatory impact. Women employees at Home Depot were among those receiving monetary settlements because of OFCCP investigations. At the Department of Education (surprise, surprise), a woman who opposes affirmative action leads the Office of Civil Rights. That office will be cut significantly, limiting its ability to investigate discrimination complaints in school systems. At the Environmental Protection Agency, efforts to look at environmental justice have been eliminated. From the noose hung at the African American Museum to the defacing of LeBron James'

home with a racial slur, there is continuing evidence of the persistence of racism in our nation. This racism is emboldened by a national leadership that is silent despite its manifestations. We cannot be surprised. Our 45th president, after all, once said he did not trust African-Americans to work on his accounting. He probably would have failed any OFCCP audit, and certainly attracted several housing discrimination lawsuits decades ago. The president who has been accused of discrimination has the power to ensure that his capitalist cronies face fewer accusations by weakening civil rights enforcement. What did African-Americans lose when 45 was elected? Among other things, we — and others — lost civil rights protections. WI

gain and a short journey over all of their adversaries, because? Because they are Amerikkkans! USA! USA! Mission accomplished! Not! Their nooses, their murders will not stop the uprising among Black people in this country demanding Freedom, Justice, and Equality; let alone turn the clock back to a time before Emmett Till. The racist, xenophobic, misogynistic, Muslim haters with their daily displays of hate, are making the mistake Amilcar Cabral warned revolutionaries against a half century ago: "Tell no lies. Claim no easy victories." That's all they do. The 45th president appears to often prefer his own made up lies to the scientific truth. His supporters are overjoyed. To be sure, there is a cadre of Black youth who may appear to be hopelessly lost to vice and low achievements. But when Michael Brown was unjustly murdered by a cop in Ferguson, Missouri three years ago, I saw them on the news

reports: on their bicycles, popping wheelies, wearing so-called "wife beater" undershirts with their pants sagging, because that's the way they were dressed when they got "woke." That rage became "Black Lives Matter," became Colin Kaepernick taking a knee, became "Justice Or Else," became "10,000 Fearless" ready to take to the streets to say, in no uncertain terms, this tyranny cannot persist. Their hands, dripping in blood from Korea, to Vietnam, to the Dominican Republic, to Grenada, to Panama, to Iraq, to Yugoslavia, to Afghanistan, back to Iraq again, to Libya, Syria, are now draping nooses on U.S. school yards and libraries. How can the haters believe with their noose-language and murders that they can still defend the homeland, if they've disenfranchised a third of the people and turned them against their bigotry disguised as patriotism? What homeland? WI

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