Issuu

VOL. 53, NO. 34 • JUNE 7 - 13, 2018

June is Black Music Month. We celebrate the sounds that shaped America.

See the WI Voter’s Guide 2018 Center Section

Spike in Violence Leads to Community Organizing, Government Response

Vets’ Advocates Push Homeless Agenda in D.C. By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill About 700 service providers converged last week on a Northwest hotel for a conference on how to combat homelessness among veterans, one of the nation’s most complex problems. The National Council of Homeless Veterans, a nonprofit, organized the May 30-June 1 conference at the Grand Hyatt Hotel, which focused on veteran-specific programs, policies and procedures. The federal Department of Housing and Urban Development estimates about 40,000 veterans experienced homelessness on a daily basis. “We want to put ourselves out of business, but these kinds of things just don’t disappear overnight,” said Ralph Cooper, an Air Force veteran and one of the founders who helped establish the council. The group established in 1990 discussed policy recommendations, job training ideas and other programs to help veterans. Nationally, the council assessed the demographic population of homeless veterans at 11 percent among all adults. Roughly 50 percent experience substance abuse, and 50 percent are age 51 and older. Cooper said at least 30 percent of homeless veterans are Black. Locally, the coalition’s data from last year marked 392 homeless veterans in the D.C. area

VETERANS Page 17

By Tatyana Hopkins WI Staff Writer

5 Boisterous Washington Capitals fans outside Capital One Arena in Northwest on June 2. The Capitals are up 3-1 against the Las Vegas Golden Knights and play Game 5 in Las Vegas on June 7. With one more victory, the Capitals will win the franchise’s first ever Stanley Cup Championship. /Photo by Roy Lewis

Hundreds of concerned D.C. residents gathered in the backyard of a Southeast retail store on Monday, May 30 to brainstorm ways to eliminate gun violence in the District, particularly in Southeast, after one of the most violent weekends in the city this year. During the Memorial Day weekend, four people died and even were more wounded in

VIOLENCE Page 5

Florida Jury Awards $4 to Black Family

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

The internet remains abuzz with mostly outrage and shock that a St. Lucie, Florida, jury awarded just $4 in damages for funeral expenses and pain and suffering in a case in which a county deputy fatally shot a Black father of three through his garage door. Deputy Christopher Newman killed Gregory Hill Jr. in 2014 while he was listening to music in his garage. A mother picking up her child at a school across the street called in a noise complaint. Court and police records show that Newman and another deputy

responded to Hill’s home. Hill, 30, partially opened the garage door, then closed it. Newman reportedly fired four times, hitting Hill three times, including once in the head. No charges were filed against Newman, who said he shot Hill because he brandished a handgun. Hill’s mother, Viola Bryant, filed a lawsuit against Newman and Sheriff Ken Mascara, alleging wrongful death, negligence, excessive force and violations of Hill’s 14th and 15th Amendment rights. Bryant also accused a SWAT team that responded to the scene of firing so much tear gas and

JURY Page 15

5 Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White stands with local residents at a prayer vigil on Friday, June 1 where several homicides have taken place near Ferebee Hope Elementary School in Southeast. /Photo by Shevry Lassiter

Celebrating 53 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.

Ambassador Michael Moussa-Adamo of Gabon

Happy Father’s Day

Dr. Charles & “Mickey” Vincent

Ernie Jarvis and his sons

Craig Muckle & his children Dr. Carl Anderson & his Family

Kevin & Patrick Akers William Jackson with his daughters Gwen, Lavern, Wanda & Diana

Ron Burke with his daughter Cheyenne & son Ronald

Below: Judge Kennedy & his daughter Head Nurse Lisa Hawkins with her father Edward Lee Ford

The Hubbard Crew headed by Atty. Edward Hubbard

DC Mayor Bowser & her Father Dr. Charles Vincent with his Dad and brother John Vincent

Kennedy Harris with her Father

Father & Daughter Doctors John & Linda Coleman

Reginald Brown with his daughters

Son Spencer with his Father Gene Adams

Atty. Bailey with his son

Thomas & David Williams

Dr. Syphax & his daughter

The Easters with their Dad

Atty. Joseph Hairston with his children

Atty. Angela Foster with her Dad

Want to publish.your event on the Social Sightings -The CoLumn page Contact SocialSightings@aol.com Social Sightings - THE MAGAZINE Subscribe www.SocialSightings.com Kendra Handy/Editor Dr. Charles Vincent/Photographer Brian Young/Graphic Designer l

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Social Sightings-The Column is published in the Hill Rag, DC Mid-City, East of the River Journals, The Washington Informer Newspaper and in the Fairfax, Alexandria, Arlingnton, Loudoun Woman Magazines

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Around the Region.................. 4-11 PG County................................12-13 Business.................................... 14-15

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National.....................................16-17 International..................................18 Health ......................................20-21 Education .............................. 23-24

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WI Voter’s Guide ..........Center OpEd........................................27-29 Lifestyle................................30-40 Sports......................................40-41 Religion.................................. 44-45

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around the region

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

SOMETHING NEW EVERYDAY

COMPILED BY WI EDITOR D. KEVIN MCNEIR AND WI STAFF WRITER WILLIAM FORD

By Tia Carol Jones

law enforcement. She said they threat,” she said. had come together to bring a Among the programs Marlow sense of uniformity in the way wants to see implemented are When L.Y. Marlow's 23-year- domestic violence victimsStruggle and stricter policies, Leaders of a Beautiful [LBS], restraining a grassrootsorder advocacy group old daughter told her the father survivors are treated. more rights for victim's families in Baltimore, produced a 2018 legislative report card that graded of her daughter threatened her “She'slawmakers using her in owntwo personal to intervene on behalf a vicstate main areas: juvenile justice andofeducation. life, and the life of their child, story, her own personal to tim,wrote a domestic violence assessFounded in 2010, the pain organization summaries for each memshe knew something had to be push forward,” Davis-Nickens ment unit further ber of the Baltimore City delegation. Thecoupled nearly with 40-page bookdone. Out of her frustration said about Marlow. training law counties enforcement let also shares its view on lawmakers fromforother who are with law enforcement's handling Davis-Nickens agencies, a Child's Protec-from “Champions for said Racialanyone Justice” that included seven Life delegates of the situation, she decided to who reads Marlow's book will tion Act and mandatory counselPrince George’s County: Joseline Peña-Melnyk; Alonzo Washington; start the Saving Promise cam- “get it.” She said she “puts the ing for batterers. Erek Barron; Jazz Lewis; Angela Angel; Diana Fennell; and Carlo paign. case in such a way, the average “If we are ever going to eradiSanchez. “It seems to be a vicious cycle person can get it.” She said at the cate domestic violence, we must Maryland General Assembly has a cloak of secrecy around that won't turn my family end “The of the day, the book will look at both sides of the coin. what people are to doing how they are advocating for the African loose,” Marlow said. Marlow help people begin haveand a diaWe need to address both the vicAmerican community,” Adam LBS said. “The obshared her story with the audi- logue about domestic violence. Jackson, tim andCEO the of batterer,” Marlow jective was to give the average voter in Baltimore a good idea of what ence at the District Heights Also present at the event was said. legislators are doing and basing it on an agenda of social justice. Domestic Violence Symposium Mildred Muhammad, the exMarlow would also like to see We want people to be informed to who is doing designed what to advocate for us on May 7 at the District Heights wife of John Allen Muhammad, programs to raise in Annapolis.” 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 jury for his role in feels children need to be educatCenter of the city of District the Beltway Sniper attacks in ed about domestic violence. Heights and the National Hook- 2002. Mildred Muhammad is “We have to stop being pasUp of Black Women. the founder of After the Trauma, sive-aggressive with poor chilMajor League Baseball honored Washington Nationals Max ScherMarlow has written a book, an organization that helps the dren about domestic violence,” zer for National League Pitcher the Month for May, the MLB an“Color Me Butterfly,” which is a of survivors of domestic violence Marlow said. nounced Saturday. story about four generations of and their children. Marlow has worked to break Scherzer leads the league 4-0for record and aSix 2.21 the cycle of abuse in her family, domestic violence. The bookwith is 63 strikeouts, “I lived inafear six years. earned run average. He only issued ten inwalks TheIt same inspired by her own experiences, years fear last is a month. long time. is and is confident the policies she day those MLB of announced the award, Scherzer, 33, came off the bench and her grandmother, not an easy thing to come out to is pushing for will start that hit amother pinch-hit the 14th inning her andsingle her in daughter. of,” sheagainst said. the Atlanta Braves. process. batter, Wilmer Difo, hit aMildred triple andMuhammad Scherzer scoredsaid from “I plan to take these policies to SheThe saidnext every time she reads first base to give the Nationals a 4-3 lead. The team eventually excerpts from her book, she still people who want to help won a Congress and implore them to 5-3not in Atlanta innings. can believe in the14words came domestic violence victim must change our laws,” Marlow said. Scherzer received honorsbeforcareful April and became from her. “Color Me league Butterfly” of how they the go second into “I will not stop until these polipitcher win back-to-back the month honors to start a cies are passed.” won the to2007 National “Bestplayer theofvictim's life, and understand season Award. since April 2015 when Houston pitcher Keuchel Tia Carol Jones can be reached Books” that Astros she may be Dallas in “survival “I was just 16-years-old accomplished the feat. 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, president of the National Hook-Up of Black Women, said there is no consistency in the way domestic violence issues are dealt with by Alex Mosby, the popular Ward 8 entrepreneur, husband and father of 3, who was shot and killed Memorial Day weekend will be funeralized on Saturday, June 9 at Temple of Praise, 700 Southern Avenue, SE. The wake will be held at 10AM and the service will begin at noon. Police are still searching for the killer and are offering a $25,000 award for information leading to an arrest.

Advocacy Group Produces Legislative Report Card

www.washingtoninformer.com

WI Staff Writer

Visit our updated Web site and give us your comments for a chance to win a gift from The Washington Informer Email comments to: rburke@ washingtoninformer.com

Scherzer Named NL Pitcher of the Month

The Washington Informer Newspaper THE WASHINGTON INFORMER InPUBLISHER Memoriam NEWSPAPER (ISSN#0741-9414) is Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, Denise RolarkSr. Barnes published weekly on each Thursday. Wilhelmina J. Rolark Periodicals postage paid at Washington, THE D.C.WASHINGTON and additional mailing ofSTAFF INFORMER NEWSPAPER (ISSN#0741-9414) is published fices.weekly News on andThursday. advertising deadline postage Periodicals paid atMcNeir, Washington, D.C. and additional D. Kevin Editor is Monday to News publication. Anmailing prior offices. and advertising Monday prior to publication. Rondeadline Burke,isAdvertising/ Marketing Director nouncements must be received two two weeks prior to event. Copyright 2000 by The Announcements must be received Shevry Lassiter, Photo Editor weeks prior to event. Copyright 2016 Washington Informer. All rights reserved. POST MASTER: Send change of addressBarnes, Assistant Photo Editor by es The Washington Informer. to The Washington Informer,All3117Lafayette Martin Luther King, IV, Jr. Ave., S.E. Washington, rightsD.C. reserved. John E.be De Freitas, Sports Editor 20032.POSTMASTER: No part of thisSend publication may reproduced withoutPhoto written permischange addresses to TheThe Washsionoffrom the publisher. Informer Newspaper cannot guarantee Dorothy Rowley, Online Editorthe return of ington Informer, 3117 Martin rates Luther photographs. Subscription are $30 per year, two years $45. Papers be received ZebraDesigns.net, Design & will Layout King,notJr.more Ave.,than S.E.a Washington, D.C. week after publication. Make checks payable to: Mable Neville, Bookkeeper 20032. No part of this publication may Dr. Charles Vincent, Social Sightings columnist be reproduced without written permisTHE WASHINGTON INFORMER sion from the3117 publisher. The Informer Social Media Martin Luther King, Jr.Tatiana Ave., S.E.Moten, • Washington, D.C. Specialist 20032 Newspaper cannot guarantee the return Phone: 202 561-4100 202 574-3785 Angie• Fax: Johnson, Circulation of photographs. Subscription rates are E-mail: news@washingtoninformer.com $45 per year, two years $60. Papers will www.washingtoninformer.com REPORTERS be received not more than a week after publication. Make checks payable to: Stacy Brown (Senior Writer), Sam P.K. Collins, PUBLISHER Cox, Will Ford (Prince George’s Timothy THE WASHINGTON INFORMER Denise Rolark Barnes County Writer), Eve M. Ferguson, Jonathan 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E STAFF REPORTERS Fuller, Hamil Harris, Franklin, Jacqueline Washington, D.C. 20032 Brooke N. Garner Managing Editor Tia C. Jones, Laiscell, Tatyana Hopkins, D. Ed Kevin McNeir, Dorothy Phone: 202 561-4100 Carla Peay Assistant Managing Editor Odell B. Ruffin, Larry Saxton, Fax: 202 574-3785 Rowley, Brenda Siler,Joseph Sarafina Wright (General Ron Burke Advertising and Marketing Mary Wells, Young news@washingtoninformer.com Assignment Writer) Mable Whittaker Bookkeeper www.washingtoninformer.com LaNita Wrenn Administration PHOTOGRAPHERS John E. De Freitas Sports Editor Lafayette Barnes, IV, PHOTOGRAPHERS Victor Holt Photo Editor John E. De Freitas, Maurice Fitzgerald, Zebra Designs, Inc. Layout & Graphic John DesignE. DeFreitas, Joanne Jackson, RoyLassiter, Lewis, Robert Shevry Ken Harris /www.scsworks.com Webmaster Ridley, Victor Holt

“

Funeral Services for Alex Mosby Announced

We have to stop being passive-aggressive with poor children about domestic violence. I plan to take Prince George’s County Host Annual Housing Fair these policies to Congress and Prince George’s County Department of Housing and Urban Development will host their annual housing fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 9 at the Sports and Learning Complex in Landover, implore them to change our Md. This year’s fair will feature Andy and Ashley Williams, two military veterans and stars of HGTV’s “Flip or Flop Forth Worth.” laws. I will not stop until The couple will offer interior and exterior home demonstrations. Attendees can register to receive one month’s rent or mortgage these policies are passed. payment paid up to $2,000. Also, any first-time homeowners, or

anyone who hasn’t owned a home in the last three years is eligible to receive up to $10,000 in down payment and closing costs on Paul Trantham a new home. More than 60 exhibitors will be available to provide information on credit, home buying tips, financial literacy and other housing tips. For more information, go to https://www.princegeorgescountymd. gov/1000/County-Housing-Fair. 4 / May 15 - 21, 2008 The Washington Informer / www.washingtoninformer.com Roy Lewis, Demetrious Kinney, Daniel Kucin, Jr., Mark Mahonny, CIRCULATION Lateef Mangum

4 JUNE 7 - 13, 2018

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In Memoriam Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, Sr. Wilhelmina J. Rolark

L.Y. Marlow

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VIOLENCE from Page 1 10 different shooting incidents throughout the city. Councilman Trayon White (D-Ward 8) called an emergency planning session to address a spike in crime in Ward 8, and fellow Council members Kenyan McDuffie (D-Ward 5), Robert White (D-At Large), Anita Bonds (D-At Large) and Chairman Phil Mendelson (D) joined other city leaders and hundreds of residents to discuss ways to alleviate the recent spike in crime. Now District leaders are responding. “I am happy to announce that our call to action has not fallen on deaf ears,” White said. “It’s our primary goal to empower and offer resources to the experts who have been working tirelessly for years to combat crime.” The day after the community meeting, the Council moved to make additional investments in the final vote on the upcoming year’s budget after delaying the vote more than an hour to identify the right places to increase support. Ultimately, the Council decided to add $340,000 to the budget for a new violence prevention project to be implemented this summer through the office of the D.C. attorney general. Most of the shootings that took place over the three-day holiday weekend happened in Wards 7 and 8. So far this year, Ward 8 has had nearly half of the city’s homicides with more than 30. Community activist and entrepreneur Alexander Mosby

AROUND THE REGION was fatally shot Saturday in the sixth shooting of the weekend. In another incident, a couple was killed after a dispute between families, leaving their five children without parents. Ward 8 Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Mike Austin began an online campaign for a resolution to reopen the enrollment period for the Marion Barry Summer Youth Employment program for 30 extra days. “I’m not sure if this idea will work, but I do know that, among other factors, there is some correlation between lack of employment and crime,” Austin wrote. “I know there are a lot of youth who didn’t previously enroll for whatever reason.” But police attribute the spike in violence to petty disputes and the presence of illegal firearms. Mayor Muriel Bowser ordered departments to respond across the city, including check-ins with juveniles in the youth rehabilitation programs and parolees. She and Metropolitan Police Department Chief Peter Newsham also deployed nearly 25 percent more officers in the 6th and 7th Police Districts, including for the evening and overnight shifts, Narcotics and Special Investigation Division as well as increased helicopter patrols. “While an enhanced police presence can help keep residents safe, we know that policing alone will not put a permanent stop to the violence in our communities,” Bowser said. “We ask residents to partner with us by reporting any criminal activity and send a clear message violence will not be tolerated.” WI

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5 The mother of Alexander Mosby, the young well-known entrepreneur who was slain over the Memorial Day weekend, delivers a passionate speech asking the large crowd gathered to pay tribute to her son to speak up on incidents of violence that affect the entire community. /Photo by Shevry Lassiter

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JUNE 7 - 13, 2018 5 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

AROUND THE REGION

WEEK OF JUNE 7 - 13, 2018

Source: Black America Web

JUNE 7

1943 – Nikki Giovanni, renowned poet, writer, commentator, activist and educator, is born in Knoxville, Tennessee. 1958 – Music legend Prince, who released 39 albums, won seven Grammy Awards, an Oscar and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, is born in Minneapolis.

JUNE 8

1953 – The Supreme Court rules that restaurants and bars in Washington, D.C., are required to serve African-American customers.

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1845 – Businessman and politician James Napier, who served as Register of the U.S. Treasury under President William Taft, is born. 1934 – Legendary soul singer Jackie Wilson is born in Detroit.

imprisonment and remained jailed until his release in 1990.

JUNE 12

1930 – Barbara Clementine Harris, the first woman ordained a bishop in the Anglican Communion, is born. 1963 – Medgar Evers, civil rights leader and NAACP field secretary, is assassinated by a white segregationist 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

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. WI

JUNE 10

1895 – Actress Hattie McDaniel, who in 1940 was 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.

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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, over the objections of segregationalist Gov. George Wallace, who stood in a doorway in an attempt to block the two students from enrolling. 1964 – South African anti-apartheid activist and human rights icon Nelson Mandela is convicted of conspiracy to overthrow the government. He was sentenced to life

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VIEW P INT By Sarafina Wright

Reality star and entrepreneur Kim Kardashian West met with President Trump to discuss clemency for Alice Marie Johnson, a first-time, nonviolent offender sentenced to life without parole 22 years ago. What are your thoughts? TENNILLE WILSON / WASHINGTON, D.C.

I don’t understand why so many people hate her. She’s helping this woman to be free. What is wrong with that? Nobody else is helping this woman. Everybody has so much to say about Kim

MELVITA JONES / WASHINGTON, D.C.

This is so messed up. No one else has even mentioned this lady before now. In case no one noticed, the lady she is trying to get released is Black! Quit following the crowd and be a leader. It is so much more going on out here than bashing Kim.

RHONDA YOUNG / FARMINGTON MILLS, MICHIGAN

The only prison that she knows about is the self-imposed one that her old tap-dancing, shucking and jiving husband resides in.

AROUND THE REGION

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AROUND THE REGION Early Voting The Early Voting period for the District of Columbia Primary Election is June 4 - 15, 2018, including Sundays. Early voting hours are 8:30 am-7:00 pm. Early Voting is only available at One Judiciary Square from June 4-15, 2018. All other locations are open from June 8-15, 2018. The locations are as follows:

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Community Organization Registers Teens to Vote By Tatyana Hopkins WI Staff Writer As the District’s June 19 primary quickly approaches, an Anacostia-based organization has been working swiftly to reach an important but largely unregistered group of eligible D.C. voters: high school students. The Future Foundation, which works within Ballou Senior High School in Southeast, held a series of candidate forums and voter registration drives leading up to the primary election during the school day. “We are always on the political trail,” said Elle Clack, the foundation’s community program manager. “It is our hope that we throw these events and the students will come.” On Wednesday, the organization held the last of its three mayoral candidate forums. In the two-hour session, candidates Ernest Johnson, Dustin Canton and James Butler spoke to a crowd of about 20 students, teachers and parents about several topics including criminal justice reform, neighborhood crime and school safety. Other issues included community/police relations, affordable housing, teenage employment and equitable growth in the city. The District allows 16-yearolds to pre-register to vote and also permits 17-year-olds to

Vote in the Tuesday, June 19, 2018 Primary Election

register and cast ballots in the primary if they will be 18 on or before the next scheduled general election. “I was pleased with the number of students who showed up — maybe all of them did not stay in the auditorium, but they came,” Clack said. The program has no formal sign-up procedure for the dropin program, and attendance can range from five to 25 students at any given time. But, the forums have captured the attention of about 50 students. Clack said the organization offers students incentives to attend the events such as food and opportunities to complete community service hours needed to graduate with the hopes that they will be engaged in the civic process. She said teens in the school often face barriers to register to vote. “Registering to vote is not a digital process,” Clark said. “Finding a mailbox to mail [a] registration in can be.” The Future Foundation has been able to register about 30 students because of the forums that included forums for candidates for the Council chairman, at-large council member and mayoral races. Founded in 2012, the Future Foundation serves “future adults” aged 13 to 21 and their

TEENS Page 38

Polls will be open from 7am to 8pm. During the Primary, only Democratic, Republican, DC Statehood Green, and Libertarian voters may vote on the candidates. However, every registered voter, including unaffiliated and minor party affiliated voters, may vote on the Initiative Measure that will appear on the ballot.

Contests on the Ballot: • Delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives • Mayor of the District of Columbia • Chairman of the Council • At-large Member of the Council • Ward Member of the Council for Wards 1, 3, 5 and 6

• Attorney General of the District of Columbia • United States Senator • United States Representative • National and Local Party Committee Members • Initiative Measure No. 77, the “District of Columbia Minimum Wage Amendment Act of 2017”*

* All voters, regardless of party affiliation status, will be asked to vote “YES” to approve or “NO” to reject the Initiative Measure in the Primary. For the complete text of the Initiative Measure, please visit our website at www.dcboe.org

Want to Vote Early?

Early Voting will start at One Judiciary Square on June 4, and at ward-based Early Voting Centers on June 8. Early Voting Centers are open daily (including weekends) through June 15, 2018 from 8:30am until 7pm.

Early Voting Centers Monday, June 4 — Friday, June 15 • Ward 2: One Judiciary Square, 441 4th Street NW (Paper & Touchscreen Ballots) Friday, June 8 — Friday, June 15 (Touchscreen Ballots only) • Ward 1: Columbia Heights Community Center, 1480 Girard Street NW • Ward 3: Chevy Chase Community Center, 5601 Connecticut Avenue NW • Ward 4: Takoma Community Center, 300 Van Buren Street NW • Ward 5: Turkey Thicket Recreation Center, 1100 Michigan Avenue NE • Ward 6: Sherwood Recreation Center, 640 10th Street NE • Ward 6: King Greenleaf Recreation Center, 201 N Street SW • Ward 7: Deanwood Recreation Center, 1350 49th Street NE • Ward 8: Malcolm X Opportunity Center, 1351 Alabama Avenue SE

Need More Information?

For more information on the upcoming election, on voter registration, to confirm your registration information, or to find your polling place, please visit www.dcboe.org or call (202) 727-2525.

CAN’T GET ENOUGH WI NEWS? 5 Aiyi’nah Ford, executive director of the Future Foundation poses questions to James Butler, Dustin Canter, and Ernest Johnson during a Mayoral candidate’s forum held at Ballou Sr. High School in Southeast on Wednesday, June 6. /Photo by Shevry Lassiter

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Candidates’ Forum Centers on Criminal Justice Reform By Tatyana Hopkins WI Staff Writer

The D.C. chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), along with nearly 20 other civil rights groups, pressed D.C. candidates on matters of criminal justice reform last week at a candidates’ forum. The ACLU and members of HIPS, No Justice No Pride, Stop Police Terror Project, Black Lives Matter, Trans Fund United and other groups gathered Wednesday, May 30 at First Congregational United Church of Christ to address what they said is a tipping point in the city’s “broken criminal justice system.” The #ReformDCJustice forum was inspired by recent events such as the police-related deaths of Jeffery Price and D’Quan Young and the use of force by Metro Transit Police on a young woman at the Fort Totten Metro station. The ACLU charged that discrimination, violence and racial disparities that created inequality existed within

AROUND THE REGION

the District’s criminal justice system and challenged the candidates to prioritize reform of the system. Participating candidates included Council Chairman Phil Mendelson and challenger Ed Lazere, and Marcus Goodwin and Jerimiah Lowery, two contenders for the at-large council seat currently held by Anita Bonds, who was not present. Candidates agreed on most issues, including decriminalizing fare evasion, decriminalizing sex work in the city, the need to address biased policing and preventing federal immigration agencies from having access to D.C. records that could indicate immigration status. No candidate was endorsed at the forum. WI

3Marcus Woodson (standing) and Jeremiah Lowery (seated),, candidates for the At-Large seat on the DC Council at a candidate’s forum hosted by the ACLU and moderated by Denise Rolark Barnes, publisher of the Washington Informer newspaper held at the First Church of Christ on May 30 in Northwest. /Photo by Roy Lewis

4Phil Mendelson (standing) and Jeremiah Lowery (seated), candidates for Chair on the DC Council at a candidate’s forum hosted by the ACLU and moderated by Denise Rolark Barnes, publisher of the Washington Informer newspaper held at the First Church of Christ on May 30 in Northwest. /Photo by Roy Lewis

dctag has money for college Parents, we make it easier to pay for college. If you’re a DC resident, have a son or daughter 26 or younger with a high school diploma or GED and meet a few other requirements, the DC Tuition Assistance Grant (DCTAG) can help by providing up to $10,000 a year to participating colleges and universities, nationwide. The deadline is June 30th and you can apply using any mobile device or computer. For more information, call (202) 727-2824, go to osse.dc.gov or visit 1050 First Street, NE, 5th floor, Washington, DC, Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

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PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY Prince George’s County Launches Capital Bikeshare By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill Prince George’s County officials launched its Capital Bikeshare operation Friday, June 1 at the Wayne K. Curry Administration Building in Largo. The $50,000 station with 15 bicycles will function as one of five in the county to serve as another mode of travel for residents. “We have a strategic plan that coordinates efforts to make our roads safer,” said Darrell Mobley, director of the county’s Department of Public Works and Transportation. “We are making real progress, but it’s only the beginning.” The estimated $1.6 million en-

deavor will put bicycles at four other locations — Largo Town Center Metro station; near Bus Boy and Poets in Hyattsville; Mt. Rainier Town Hall; and Baltimore Avenue and Van Buren Street in Riverdale Park. Mobley said more than 30 stations are slated to open later this year in the county along the Route 1 corridor in the northern part of the county and National Harbor along the Virginia border. The county plans to open additional stations next year at $1.5 million in the northern part of Prince George’s in places such as College Park and Greenbelt, he said. Riders can pay $2 to rent the distinctive red bicycle for 30 minutes and park it at other Capital Bikeshare stations in the District, Mont-

gomery County and the city of Alexandria and Arlington and Fairfax counties in northern Virginia. In April, the state Department of Transportation announced the state experienced a 7 percent increase with 557 people who died in vehicle crashes. About 532 died last year. To encourage fun and decrease the number of vehicles on the road, Capital Bikeshare offers annual memberships with discounts for Washington Nationals games, Smoothie King and other perks at https://www.capitalbikeshare.com/. “We’re glad this is coming to the county to enhance cycling in the community,” said Ray Ferguson, president of Beech Tree Pedalers, a local biking group in Upper Marlboro. “If you are a deliberate rider, then the motorists will know how ride with cyclists on the road.” Capital Bikeshare provides safety tips for riders such as: • Never ride against traffic. • Use hand signals to inform drivers, pedestrian and other cyclists of movement. • Ride in a straight line and at least three feet from parked cars. • Follow all traffic signs and lights. Prince George’s became the sixth jurisdiction to join Capital Bikeshare, which has more than 500 stations and 4,300 bicycles in the region. Officials in Falls Church, Virginia, are currently working on

5Prince George’s County Council Chairwoman Dannielle Glaros, left, takes a ride with county officials and a bicycle club on Friday, June 1 as part of Capital Bikershare launching in the county. /Photo by Demetrious Kinney

plans to become the seventh. Each jurisdiction uses local revenue to cover operating costs and receives grants to help with capital expenditures. The county’s Department of Public Works and Transportation provides a quick guide for riders to use a white headlight and red rear light on bikes. Cyclists are also ad-

vised to follow the ABCs — check “air” in the tires, “brakes” and “chain, crank and cassette.” “We have had this artificial boundary established with Capital Bikeshare,” said County Council Chairwoman Dannielle Glaros. “People haven’t been able to connect to us. Today, that changes. We are truly a connected region.” WI

Md. Gubernatorial Debate Marked by Spirited Exchanges By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill BALTIMORE — The Maryland gubernatorial race shifted into another gear Saturday, June

5 Democratic gubernatorial candidate Krish Vignarajah gives remarks June 2 during a debate at New Waverly United Methodist Church in Baltimore. /Photo by Brigette White

12 JUNE 7 - 13, 2018

2 during a candidates’ debate at New Waverly United Methodist Church, where several Democratic hopefuls candidates engaged in a lively discussion. The event, organized by Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle, an advocacy group based in the city, lasted more than 2½ hours as candidates addressed a myriad of topics ahead of the June 26 primary, including criminal justice, race, housing and education. Each candidate also received a direct question with chances for an opponent’s rebuttal. Prince George’s County Executive Rushern L. Baker III received the first one about support from Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller Jr., who some state and local lawmakers and progressive groups believe regulates votes and institutes racist policies in Annapolis. Baker said Miller didn’t support his first two bids for county executive, but did endorse him the third time. “It’s not about president of the Senate or speaker of the House — it’s about the governor,” Baker said.

“You have to convince people and actually know how to pass bills to get things done. If you don’t know how to do that, I don’t care what you say, it won’t happen.” Valerie Ervin, the former running mate of Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz who took up his gubernatorial bid after his sudden death last month, said Baker didn’t answer the question of Miller and a few other White men’s control of the General Assembly. “Until we break that apart, we’re going to continue to see the same thing over and over and over again,” Ervin said. When tech entrepreneur Alec Ross was asked how much money he invested in Black and brown communities, he replied that he’s “not rich” and doesn’t make many monetary investments, but he and his wife support organizations that improve Baltimore City, where he lives. However, he pointed out that several fellow candidates made six-figure investments into their own campaigns, including Baltimore attorney Jim Shea, state Sen.

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Richard Madaleno Jr. of Montgomery County and Krish Vignarajah, onetime policy director for former first lady Michelle Obama. “We are by no stretch of any imagination rich,” Vignarajah shot back, defending her work in public service and her husband, who runs the nonprofit National Wildlife Federation. When Vignarajah mentioned that a Silicon Valley executive wrote Ross a $6,000 check for his campaign, Ross immediately responded that two others did the same thing for Vignarajah. “You’re saying something that’s not true,” he said. Meanwhile, Ervin blasted former NAACP President Ben Jealous’ push to allow Walmart, known as an anti-union company, to become part of an effort to boost employment for returning citizens. Jealous said he helped met with Walmart and union officials to allow returning citizens to gain employment within the company. “We cannot organize people who cannot get jobs,” Jealous said, adding he lost support from Walmart

for several years because he supported the “Employee Free Choice Act” that allowed employees to form unions. Madaleno and other two candidates, James Hugh Jones II, a chaplain for the Baltimore City Police Department, and Ralph Jaffe of Baltimore County, didn’t attend. At least 100 people braved the warm temperatures inside the sanctuary at New Waverly, located in the northeast section of the city. “It absolutely has been a spirited debate — that’s why some of us in here are sweating,” Vignarajah said in closing remarks. “The diversity of this room is the diversity of our party.” Adam Jackson, CEO of Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle, said the organization will not endorse any candidates. “Forums are really an opportunity for candidates to get more voters, but you can always dig deeper,” he said. “I feel like it went great, especially for them to stick it out this long and come here to Baltimore.” WI

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PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY Maryland Dems Stress Need for Unity after Gubernatorial Primary

By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill

Unify. Rally. Beat Republican Gov. Larry Hogan. That’s the essential theme Maryland Democrats will display throughout the year, even while nine candidates fight for votes in this month’s primary election. To encourage unison among the more than 1,300 Democrats in primary contests statewide, party Chairwoman Kathleen Matthews said the gubernatorial campaigns agreed to immediately endorse the winner of the Jun3 26 primary and participate the next day in a unity press conference in Annapolis “at Larry Hogan’s doorstep.” “We’ve got hotly contested primaries, but we have to get unity afterwards,” Matthews said Thursday, May 31 during a Democratic Party State Central Committee meeting in Lanham. “We need you to rally around our winners.” That will happen, said Sharon

Blake, running of gubernatorial candidate Krish Vignarajah. “We believe that Democrats should govern this state,” Blake said after the nearly 90-minute meeting. “We know that any Democrat is better than who we have in office right now.” The Democratic Party organized four televised debates with Vignarajah and the other eight candidates — Prince George’s County Executive Rushern L. Baker III, former NAACP President Ben Jealous, former Montgomery County Councilwoman Valerie Ervin, state Sen. Richard Madaleno Jr. of Montgomery County, Baltimore attorney Jim Shea, tech entrepreneur Alec Ross, James Hugh Jones II, a chaplain for the Baltimore City Police Department, and Ralph Jaffe of Baltimore County. Two more televised debates are scheduled for June 13 in Baltimore and June 25 at WRC-TV (Channel 4) studios in Northwest.

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Baker has led in various polls, but at least 30 percent of Democratic voters remain undecided. Although Democrats outnumber Republicans in Maryland by a 2-to-1 margin, Hogan’s campaign has about $9 million and polls have shown high approval ratings in his bid for a second four-year term. His war chest more than doubles all nine Democratic candidates’ cash on hand combined, according to campaign finance reports. Hogan released his first campaign ad Monday that claims he provided $1.2 billion in tax, toll and fee relief and four straight years without no tax increases. The ad also shows Hogan shaking hands with Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller Jr., the state’s longest-tenured Democratic lawmaker. “From day one, working across the aisle. Setting Maryland in a new direction,” the narrator says. “Together, we’re stronger than ever. Maryland strong. Larry Ho-

5 Maryland Democratic Party Chairwoman Kathleen Matthews speaks with other Democratic leaders May 31 during a state central committee meeting at the IBEW Local 26 headquarters in Lanham. /Photo by William J. Ford

gan. Governor.” Meanwhile, the Democratic Party produced a colorful chart titled “Hogan Shortchanges Maryland, but Democrats Have Your Back,” which takes Hogan to task for policies and deficiencies they said are harmful to the state, including his silence on President Trump’s health care cuts, his cozying up to wealthy donors, and three straight years of declining

rankings for the state’s public schools. “He’s going to get beat this next election. We’re going to beat his a--,” Miller said of Hogan to the more than 100 faithful Democrats. “I have not seen this [much] enthusiasm in the Democratic Party for quite some time. It’s going to be a sweep for the Democrats. I can promise you that.” WI

JUNE 7 - 13, 2018 13 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

BUSINESS Local Entrepreneur Extends Nail Empire By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer Gia Winfield has taken entrepreneurship by the horns — or, in her case, by the nails. The owner of the Purple Peach Nail Bar in Baltimore — which Winfield believes is the region’s first Black-owned full-service nail salon — said her journey to become an entrepreneur began at the tender age of 14. “I took a liking to the nail industry at a young age because beauty always seemed to surround my family,” said Winfield,

a native of the Queens borough of New York City. “I started doing manicures on my girlfriends and eventually it became my profession.” From age 14 to 18, Winfield worked at a trendy New York nail salon. When that salon closed, it motivated her to start her own business. “I had such a big following at the time, so I launched my own salon,” she said. Admittedly, Winfield was a bit apprehensive, but she maintained a passion for the business and decided to dive in head first.

5 Gia Winfield has taken entrepreneurship by the horns -- or, in her case, by the nails. /Photo courtesy of Abri Photographer

“I didn’t know what I was getting myself into by starting my own business so there was a lot of trial and error, but I got past that,” Winfield said. She said seeing pop star Beyoncé’s lauded performance at the famed Coachella music festival in April further energized her and showed her that nothing

“can stand in the way of a woman and her hustle to the top.” The show was a signal for her to go full steam ahead with an innovation. Her new “Purple Peach Energy Drink” is the next-level energy supplement and is the first high-performance energy drink owned and operated by an African-American woman, Winfield said. “I’m always on the go and with me drinking coffee all of the time and putting so much time into coffee, I wanted to invest in my own drink,” she said. For Winfield, it’s all a part of being a self-made entrepreneur — a position that came with its share of pitfalls, she said. “My biggest fear was failing because here I was leaping out

into a whole different world where all of the responsibility would now be on me,” Winfield said. “There was that fear because everyone was now looking at me. I was the go-to person and I had to wear many different hats.” Winfield said she eventually came to realize that she couldn’t be everything to everyone. It was a lesson she had to learn and advises others to grasp. “It eventually made me stronger and I was able to build a strong foundation,” Winfield said. “You can’t take everybody with you and everybody isn’t worthy of your surroundings. I learned that lesson. There are certain people you must deal with and certain ones that you must leave alone.

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NATIONAL 5 Gregory Hill Jr and family/Photo courtesy Facebook

JURY from Page 1 causing so much damage to Hill’s one-story home that no one can live in it now. After 10 hours of deliberation last week, a jury found that Newman was not liable in Hill’s death and that Mascara was 1 percent liable. Hill was 99 percent responsible for his own death, the jury ruled, according to court documents. In deciding damages in the case, the jury awarded Bryant $1 for funeral expenses, and $1 for each child’s “loss of parental companionship, instruction, and guidance and ... mental pain and suffering,” verdict forms show. Hill’s children are 7, 10 and 13. Because the jury found that Mascara was only 1 percent responsible, the verdict was reduced to 4 cents, and then, because the jury found that Hill was drunk at the time, the final payout was nothing. The decision sparked outrage, first on social media. “So, if you’re an African American and live in St. Lucie County, Florida, now you know what your life is worth,” Deborah A. Baudoin, a White woman, wrote on Twitter. “This is why Colin Kaepernick kneels,” Twitter user Aaron Pankonin wrote, referring to the former San Francisco 49ers quarterback who has tried to bring attention to racial injustice by kneeling during the national anthem. “A jury offered $4 to Gregory Hill Jr.’s family after he was murdered by a St. Lucie County Sheriff Deputy …$1 towards the funeral

cost and $1 to each of his three children. SMH, that’s just low down and dirty. Such an insult,” wrote Destyni Danielle. When Monique Davis heard that $4 was the amount a jury believed her fiancée’s mother and three children deserved for his death in a police shooting, she didn’t bother to listen to the rest of the verdict. She walked out of the courtroom, shaken, according to NBC News. “My heart just dropped,” Davis recalled. “It was like, are y’all serious?” The family’s lawyer, John Phillips, also expressed outrage. “I’d have rather seen a zero than have to tell the children that their pain and suffering for losing their father is only a dollar,” said Phillips, who plans to appeal the verdicts. WI

“I’d have rather seen a zero than have to tell the children that their pain and suffering for losing their father is only a dollar.” – John Phillips

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CAP Releases ‘Blueprint’ for Better Jobs, Stronger Communities By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer The Center for American Progress, a northwest D.C.-based progressive public policy research and advocacy organization, has released what it calls the “Blueprint for the 21st Century: A Plan for Better Jobs and Stronger Communities.” The blueprint will create millions of jobs, with the goal of revitalizing economically distressed areas of the United States, CAP officials said in a news release. In the report, researchers said millions of American workers — particularly those without a four-year college degree — face powerful forces such as globalization, concentrated market power, technology, extreme weather and attacks on unions and worker rights. It’s a storm that has exerted downward pressure on employment and wage growth, job quality and opportunity, they said. That decline in opportunity has been further exacerbated by long-

standing inequities in the country which the CAP now proposes a series of major investments — including a job guarantee — to create 4 million jobs; move the country toward true full employment; tighten the labor market to raise wages; and address some of America’s most pressing challenges. “The United States’ low topline unemployment number disguises the reality that, for many people and in many communities, wages have been stagnant, particularly for those without a four-year college degree,” Neera Tanden, CAP president and CEO, said in a news release. “From Appalachia to Detroit, the benefits of economic growth are not reaching all Americans, and, in a world transformed by technology and globalization, we must do more for communities left out of recent growth,” Tanden said. “CAP’s Jobs Blueprint seeks to tackle these issues by making major investments that the market has not and will not make and standing up a job guarantee targeted to the communities left

behind.” As part of the blueprint, CAP proposes five major initiatives to create jobs and spur economic revitalization. Together, these nationwide investments will create more than 3 million new jobs. These are, by and large, investments in America’s physical capital and human capital for the 21st century that the market will not make by itself. They include: • Providing high quality, affordable child care. • Rebuilding America’s infrastructure. • Modernizing K-12 schools. • Preparing America’s communities and housing stock for the effects of climate change. • Providing critical support to senior citizens and persons with disabilities. “In the most economically distressed areas of the country, including both rural and urban areas, CAP proposes that all long-term residents who want to work be guaranteed a job — with these communities pro-

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vided federal support to create jobs that meet a variety of local community needs,” Tanden said, noting that the CAP estimates that 1.2 million eligible workers will participate in the program each year in these counties, of which, CAP estimates, approximately 300,000 will be able to find work through one of the nationwide investment initiatives. “This proposal builds upon the ongoing policy conversation around a job guarantee as a measure to achieve full employment, spurred by scholars and advocates who have brought the idea to the forefront of the conversation,” she said. In its entirety, the CAP’s plan includes the economy and ways to restore basic employee protections like overtime and expand apprenticeships. It includes supporting, training and paying teachers higher wages while transitioning to a 9-to-5 school day to better fit parents’ needs. The blueprint also includes expanding access to high-quality child care and preschool while investing in child care infrastructure; driving down health care costs through payment and delivery system reform; limiting special interests; and putting people to work while taking climate action including expanding electric transportation. Further, the plan includes supporting LGBTQ-inclusive nondiscrimination protections; creating an immigrant legal justice fund to guarantee legal representation to immigrants; responding to substance misuse as an epidemic, not a war and making the pretrial system fair and more effective. Finally, the blueprint includes implementing stronger laws and policies to help keep guns out of the wrong hands and to protect com-

5 CAP President and CEO Neera Tanden. /Photo courtesy of CAP

munities by preventing gun theft. “On issues where Washington fails to work for the betterment of our people and our communities, the states have become the best testing ground for innovative social and economic solutions, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy said in a statement issued through the CAP. “The Center for American Progress recognizes the need for states to step up and improve the lives of Americans, through the creation of bold, progressive ideas. From having state government agencies assist with automatic voter registration efforts and publicly releasing gun crime reports to expanding access to medical marijuana and standing up for Dreamers, New Jersey has shown true leadership” Murphy said. For the full report, go to https:// www.americanprogress.org/issues/ general/reports/2018/05/10/450580/ bold-ideas-state-action. WI

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NATIONAL Why I Support One Fair Wage for All In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda By: Heidi Williamson, Deputy Director of Strategic Partnerships

5 U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson, gave opening remarks on Wednesday, May 30 at the National Council for Homeless Veterans annual conference at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Northwest. /Photo by Brigette White

VETERANS from Page 1 compared to 468 in 2016, a 19 percent decrease. The count includes those who reside in the District; Prince George’s and Montgomery counties in Maryland; the city of Alexandria and Arlington, Fairfax and Prince William counties in Virginia. As for the conference, sessions discussed topics such as race, employment, serving LGBTQ veterans and partnering with federal agencies such as HUD. HUD Secretary Ben Carson, who gave opening remarks for the conference, said there’s been a 46 percent reduction in veteran homelessness since 2010, but emphasized veterans still need help. The 66-year-old retired neurosurgeon said more money and resources must go toward a “holistic approach” to fight opioid addiction, post-traumatic stress disorder and physical ailments from combat. To help veterans and disenfranchised residents on job training and health and wellness programs, he said the agency’s first Envision Center plans to open this week in his native Detroit. “What I really look forward to is us having a nation where people don’t play politics with everything,” Carson said. “We [need to] start thinking about what’s good for the people and not what’s good for the Democrats and Republicans.” Karen Pence, wife of Vice President Mike Pence, spoke about three hours after Carson during a lunch plenary to promote art therapy’s success among vets. She emphasized “it’s not arts

and crafts” based on an art therapist with at least a master’s degree to use art and psychology to help those who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, stress and other health ailments. “It is so powerful with our service members” said Pence, a teacher for 25 years with 12 of them as an art teacher. “Art therapy is changing lives. It is saving lives.”

VETS IN THE DISTRICT

Ely Ross, director of D.C. Mayor’s Office of Veterans Affairs, explained how the District assists 30,000 veterans, about 5.5 percent of the city’s adult population. Ross, who served in the Marines, the veteran homelessness declined by 25 percent since 2014 through a variety of housing and other initiatives. Last year, the city opened the 124-unit John and Jill Ker Conway Residence in Northeast. About 60 apartments are designated for formerly homeless veterans. On May 24, the city broke ground on a 77-unit furnished apartment building on the Walter Reed Medical Center campus in Northwest. Seventy-five will be offered for those who receive up to 30 percent of the area median income and the other two at 50 percent. This campus will provide longterm housing for homeless veterans and also offer onsite services. The office created a pilot transportation program last year called “Vets Rides,” which provided low-income and homeless vets free rides to doctor appointments, job training and other programs. WI

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Imagine going to work with your gas tank or Metro card nearly empty, knowing that you’re relying on tips just to get yourself home. Or perhaps, that you’re hoping to pick up groceries or birth control on the way home—but only if your tips are enough to cover them. For tipped workers in Washington, D.C., these kinds of difficult decisions are part of everyday life. Here in one of the most expensive cities in the country, fair wages can make the all the difference. Fair wages can make the difference between making rent or risking eviction. The difference between being able to pay the bills or coming up short. The difference between being able to afford health care or going without. I’m fighting for fair wages for tipped workers because I’m an advocate for reproductive justice. Reproductive justice includes the idea that each of us must be able to plan our parenting and to parent in environments free from economic and racial oppression. That means being able to prevent or end a pregnancy if we choose, and also to raise children who are healthy, have economic opportunity, and can live free from violence. For women who are struggling to make ends meet, being paid a fair wage can transform decisions about pregnancy, children, and family. When tipped workers can barely put away savings, an unexpected pregnancy can mean the difference between poverty and getting by. Think about it—whether she continues the pregnancy or decides to end it, a woman can face impossible barriers. This is particularly tough in D.C., where Medicaid insurance is banned by Congress from covering abortion care. Ultimately, restricting Medicaid coverage of abortion forces one in four poor women seeking an abortion to carry an unintended pregnancy to term. Women who are tipped workers are twice as likely to be poor as their male counterparts. They are more vulnerable to sexual harassment from managers and customers alike – when they are forced to rely on “good” schedules, table sections, and other factors controlled by their bosses to ensure they can make enough money, and on the generosity of customers whose behavior can range from disrespectful to dangerous. In addition to gender inequality, racism also comes into play. Black tipped workers generally receive fewer and smaller tips overall. The result? For tipped workers, especially for Black women who are tipped workers, tips just don’t cut it. In a few weeks, D.C. voters will have the opportunity to correct an injustice disproportionately affecting women and people of color across the city by raising the minimum wage for tipped workers to what it is for everyone else: $15/hour – one fair wage for all with tips on top. I believe that fair wages, decent working conditions, and access to reproductive health care all help ensure that each of us can be healthy and live with dignity. I’ll be voting yes on 77 on June 19th because I want every woman and family in D.C. to have a fair shot. One fair wage would be an important step in that direction and send the clear message that everyone’s work is valued and everyone’s worth is recognized. Join me.

JUNE 7 - 13, 2018 17 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

INTERNATIONAL

AFRICA/CARIBBEAN NOW Compiled by Oswald T. Brown / WI Contributing Writer AFRICA NOW

S.African President Condemns Political Killings

President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned political killings in KwaZulu-Natal‚ saying the country can’t allow political leaders to be slaughtered. “We are going to make moves to stop these killings,” Ramaphosa said to the media shortly after his closeddoor address at the South African Communist Party central executive committee meeting in Johannesburg, The Sowetan reported. “We are resolved to do it because we can’t allow leaders of various organizations ... to go on being slaughtered as though they were cattle.” Ramaphosa said the state was going to take serious and decisive action to stop the killings. He said at a government level, the state would speed up the investigations and arrest perpetrators of the killings. “We cannot continue to be living in a country where people just take potshots at other people who hold a different view and kill them‚“ he said. He said he had directed ministers in the criminal justice cluster to come up with reports on what was happening with investigations into the killings.

New Envoys Pledge to Strengthen Cooperation

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New ambassadors of Russia, United Arab Emirates and Tanzania who presented their letters of credence to President Kagame have pledged to strengthen the existing bilateral relations between Rwanda and the respective countries they present, The New Times, Rwanda’s leading daily, reported on June 3 in an article written by Eugène Kwibuka. The new envoys, who briefed the media in Kigali yesterday shortly after presenting their credentials, included Hazza Mohammed Farah Kharsan Alqahtane, Ambassador of United Arab Emirates (UAE); Karen Chalyan, Ambassador of Russia; and Ernest Jumbe Mangu, the High Commissioner of Tanzania, all who are resident in Kigali. UAE’s envoy said that his country is determined to enhance the relationship between his country and Rwanda in all aspects. “My main mission is to do whatever I can to develop relations with the government and the people of Rwanda,” he said. He lauded Rwanda for being a safe country with zero tolerance to corruption and hinted that this profile could attract tourists from his country to come and visit. Chalyan said that Rwanda and Russia want to further develop the existing cordial relations especially in areas of education, defense, and political affairs among others. “I have a very clear mandate to be as active as I can possibly be,” he said. Tanzania’s new High Commissioner to Rwanda said that he intends to promote more trade and movement of people. “We have to make sure that we strengthen the relationship between the two countries with the objective of increasing trade and movement of people between the two countries,” he said. Both Rwanda and Tanzania are members of the East African Community regional bloc whose governments have stepped up efforts to improve business environment and promote cross-border trade over the past few years among other cooperation efforts.

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Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley (left) announced Saturday a national cleanup campaign for the country. Mottley made the announcement at the Seventh Day Adventist Church, Mile and a Quarter, St Peter during a thanksgiving service attended by members of Cabinet and the Department of Emergency Management (DEM), Barbados Today reported. She disclosed that discussions were initiated with the Minister of Home Affairs, Edmund Hinkson; Minister of Maritime Affairs and the Blue Economy, Kirk Humphrey; Minister of Environment and National Beautification, Trevor Prescod; and Minister of Transport Works and Maintenance, Dr William Duguid. Although she did not give a specific date, the Prime Minister revealed it was in the works. She said the objective of the campaign is to prepare Barbadians for the hurricane season, especially its most devastating months September and October. “We are committed to embarking on a national clean up campaign because we recognize that while you do not have control over natural disasters, we have control over how prepared we are and how quickly we recover,” Mottley said. “We have to get through this season . . . we have now to hope and pray that we are not confronted with additional challenges that move beyond that which we have inherited.” In keeping with the Barbados Labour Party’s manifesto on hurricane preparedness, Minister Hinkson said his ministry was working with stakeholders to ensure the safety of vulnerable groups. WI

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JUNE 7 - 13, 2018 19 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

HEALTH Overdose Awareness Walk Stops in District

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

Two men — Brett Bramble and John Azerolo — and a dog named Domino, walked the steps of the U.S. Capitol, Lincoln Monument and other District attractions before they strolled along Route 40 in Baltimore last week for a cause that’s gripped the nation: overdose awareness. The two, who began their East Coast Overdose Awareness Walk in Key West, Florida, in January and plan to end it in Fort Kent, Maine, in August, stopped at the U.S. Capitol in Washington and in neighborhoods around Route 40 through Baltimore to Delaware, greeting passersby and others to present their message of hope and awareness.

“We had a great time in Washington, D.C., and in Baltimore despite all of the rain,” said Bramble, who lost his sister, Brittany, in 2014 to an overdose. Bramble lamented the “lack of communication” between his mission and government officials but praised residents whom he and Azerolo were able to speak with and share their message. “We had a chance to speak to a group of eighth graders in front of the Vietnam War Memorial and we were able to speak to folks in Baltimore along Route 40 and they were very supportive of the message,” Bramble said. For Azerolo, the walk is also personal. Two of his dearest friends lost daughters to drug overdose, one of whom left be-

5 Brett Bramble and John Azerolo at the Lincoln Monument. /Photo courtesy of Brett Bramble

hind a small child. “I want to dedicate my miles to the children who are left behind and being raised by grandparents or in foster care,” Azerolo said. The pair picked up Domino, their trusted 40-pound lab-mix female, in Atlanta from a rescue shelter. Most importantly, their mission is to bring awareness to the opioid overdose death toll that Bramble and Azerolo said is stealing a generation, and they are seeking to spread a message of hope and recovery and to raise donations and support for “Freedom to Grow Retreat,” a future recovery community. In addition to donations, along the way they’ve picked up sever-

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al sponsors including Georgia Overdose Prevention; the Bridge to Recovery Foundation; The Addict’s Mom; Darn Tough of Vermont; and CEP Sportswear. To date, they’ve walked more than 2,400 miles at an average of 20 miles per day. Bramble and Azerolo have also tracked the number of overdose deaths in the United States. According to their tally, in 2012 there were 41,502 overdose deaths in the country — an average of 114 per day — and the numbers have continued to rise each year. The men said there were 64,070 overdose deaths in the nation in 2016, or 175 per day. “These numbers do not lie —

our nation is in a crisis,” Bramble said. “More and more people are falling victim every day. In the 1990s, it was a very popular trend to have an excess of prescription medication in every household. No one knew the harm until children began sneaking into their parent’s medicine cabinet and misusing addictive drugs.” He and Azerolo said others became addicted after an injury and couldn’t get off the medicine, many times because they didn’t realize the harm since the doctor was the one giving them the medication. Over time, once money or prescriptions ran out, those who had become addicted to these medications would seek alternatives from street drug dealers, Bramble said. “The drug cartels capitalized on this opioid pain reliever trend in the U.S. and began flooding our streets with cheaper and stronger heroin,” he said. “The face of heroin changed as it found its way into mainstream America. Right under everyone’s nose, people began using heroin and overdose rates started rising every year. The problem has only gotten worse now as fentanyl has been introduced into the crisis. “Fentanyl is an even cheaper and stronger alternative to heroin and is being mixed in with many street drugs,” Bramble said. “The overdose death rate is becoming an alarming reality to many families from all walks of life.” To learn more about the walk or to donate, go to www.freedomtogrowretreat.org and www. brettbramblewalks.com. WI

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HEALTH First Baptist of Glenarden Holds 25th Annual Health Expo By Hamil R. Harris WI Contributing Writer From the pulpit of the First Baptist Church of Glenarden, fitness guru Donna Richardson had everybody in the main sanctuary moving to the “Cupid Shuffle” line dance. In the main hall of the Upper Marlboro, Maryland, church, vendors from state and county agencies were seated behind tables filled with pamphlets and brochures promoting health and wellness. And behind a number of closed doors were physicians and medical students examining people for types of cancer, including prostate. The Saturday, June 2 occasion was Glenarden’s 25th annual health expo, and no one was happier than John K. Jenkins Sr., the church’s pastor, who hosted the event that has been a church staple for more than two decades. “We are trying to help people live longer and better,” Jenkins said. “We have had people discover that they had cancer and because it was detected early enough, it prolonged their life, and we are grateful to God.”

Melissa Johnson, director of the church’s health ministry, wore a sparkling silver outfit in keeping with the theme of the health fair, “Bold Radiant Reflections of God.” “Our theme is based on Luke 11:36,” Johnson said. “God’s light reflects on us and we reflect that light back to earth. We want everyone to come and see the light so that we can show God’s light to the world.” The main level of the worship center was filled with an array of health-related events, while Richardson took to the pulpit of the main sanctuary to deliver a fireand-brimstone speech on the importance of health. “You have to make a commitment,” Richardson said. “How can you take care of business if you are sick in bed? Make a commitment to start. Isn’t gluttony a sin?” Seated in front were Johnny Parker, director of the church’s men’s ministry, and his wife, Lezlyn, who spoke of how having a solid relationship has been beneficial for their overall health. “I would have gone blind had it

not been for my wife,” he said. “I was diagnosed because she encouraged me to get checked out and now I take my [eyedrops] every day.” Mrs. Parker said of her husband, “He always encourages me. He gets me smoothies. He offers soft answers. It’s all about relationships.” A number of professional counselors were also on hand, distributing material to address various behavioral disorders. Meanwhile, Stanley Johnson, chief of the Prince George’s County division of the Maryland National Capital, took time out to be with his son, who operated a golf station to help young people understand the finer points of the game. Kimberly Covington, who works as a nurse in the Prince George’s County Schools system, said events such as the expo are good for young people. “It is so important to show them what they need to be and not just tell them,” Covington said. “Whether we are eating properly or living for Christ, it is about living your life holistically in the correct way.” Lorie Powell, who is part of the

church’s ministry to the poor, said that it is important to help people beyond the walls of the church. “It is important to help those who can’t help themselves,” Powell

said. “We meet every week and we make more than 240 lunches and then we distribute those lunches on the streets of southeast D.C.” WI

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JUNE 7 - 13, 2018 21 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

How to Stay Safe in the Summer Sun Submitted by AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia The summer is a great time to get outdoors and have some fun. It’s the time for summer vacations, trips to the beach, picnics, and barbecues. But as nice as the sunshine is, summer brings a few safety risks that can put a damper on your plans. Strong heat and sunlight may pose risks for both adults and children. Check out the tips below so you can stay safe while having fun in the sun.

SCREEN THE SUN

Clear skies and bright, sunny days are perfect vacation weather. While the sun can feel nice, harsh rays and high temperatures can be dangerous. Here’s how you can protect your family while still enjoying the sun. • Stay hydrated: Make sure to drink lots of fluids when it is hot outside. It is easy to become dehydrated in the summer, especially during outdoor activities. Water is the best thing to drink to stay hydrated. Avoid drinking things that can dry you out, such as alcohol. • Dress appropriately: Covering your skin is key to protecting it. Even if it’s hot, wearing a longsleeved T-shirt can protect your skin. Protect your face by wearing a

hat or visor. If you are at the beach or the pool, consider setting up a beach umbrella for added protection. Be sure to wear sunglasses, too. These can help protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. • Apply sunscreen regularly: Sunscreen is sometimes called sunblock or suntan lotion. It is an important part of your skin care, even if you don’t think you need it. It can help protect you from harmful UV rays from the sun, which can increase the risk of skin cancer. Look for sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 and one that provides both UVA (ultraviolet A) and UVB (ultraviolet B) protection. Reapply lotion every two hours.

SCHOOL’S OUT

No one loves summer more than kids. But just because the kids are on summer vacation doesn’t mean their parents are. Make sure your kids have a safe summer with the following tips. • Check their vision: Summer vacation is the perfect time to schedule children’s vision checks. If they have any vision problems, you can address them before the school year starts. Ask your kids if they have trouble seeing certain things in school or at home. • Buckle up: Whether you’re going on a road trip or just down the

block, kids should always be securely fastened while riding in the car. Children under age 8 should always ride in a car seat. Kids should continue to sit in the back seat until at least 12 years old. • Stay cool: Children under age 4 are at the greatest risk of damage from extreme heat and sunlight. Make sure they are dressed for the weather and using sunscreen at all times. Never leave children or infants in a parked car.

PLAYING IT SAFE

Warmer weather means swimming, biking, and sports. Summer is a great time to get some exercise, but if you aren’t careful, these activities could lead to injury. The good news is it’s easy to stay safe. Arm yourself with information to make sure you’re protected before hitting the field. • Swim safe: Swimming is a great activity for hot days and exercise, but it can be dangerous. Drowning is the leading cause of accidental death for children ages 1 – 4. Never leave children alone near water and teach them how to swim and to stay away from drains. Learning how to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can help you to save a life in an emergency. • Gear up: When children ride a bike, skateboard, or scooter, make sure they always wear the right protec-

tion. Helmets, knee and elbow pads, and wrist guards can make the difference between a bruise and a break. If your child plays a sport, make sure he or she always wears the right gear. • Safety first: Keep a first aid kit in your home. You can buy a first aid kit from a drug store or make one yourself. Make sure your kit has bandages, pain relievers like acetaminophen, antibiotic ointment, soap or hand sanitizer, and a firstaid manual with emergency phone

numbers. AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia wishes you a safe and happy summer. If you have questions about summer safety or other health issues, call Member Services today at 1-800-408-7511. Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; SaferCar.gov; PoolSafety.gov; MedlinePlus.gov All images are used under license for illustrative purposes only. Any individual depicted is a model

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AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. English: ATTENTION: If you speak English, language assistance services, at no cost, are available to you. Call 1-800-408-7511 (TTY/TDD: 202-216-9885 or 1-800-570-1190). Spanish: ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-800-408-7511 (TTY/TDD: 202-216-9885 o 1-800-570-1190). Amharic: ማሳሰቢያ፡ አማርኛ መናገር የሚችሉ ከሆነ፣ ከከፍያ ነጻ የሆነ የቋንቋ ድጋፍ አገልግሎት ይቀርብልዎታል፡፡ በስልክ ቁጥር 1-800-408-7511 (TTY/TDD: 202-216-9885 ወይም 1-800-570-1190) ይደውሉ. 1-800-408-7511 ‫ اﺗﺼﻞ ﺑﺮﻗﻢ‬.‫ﺎن‬‫ ﻓﺈن ﺧﺪﻣﺎت اﳌﺴﺎﻋﺪة اﻟﻠﻐﻮﻳﺔ ﺗﺘﻮاﻓﺮ ﻟﻚ ﺑﺎ‬،‫ إذا ﻛﻨﺖ ﺗﺘﺤﺪث اﻟﻠﻐﺔ اﻟﻌﺮﺑﻴﺔ‬:‫ ﻣﻠﺤﻮﻇﺔ‬: Arabic .(1-800-570-1190 ‫ أو‬TTY/TDD: 202-216-9885 ‫)رﻗﻢ ﻫﺎﺗﻒ اﻟﺼﻢ واﻟﺒﻜﻢ‬

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EDUCATION Texas 8th-Grader Karthik Nemmani Wins 2018 Scripps Bee By Dorothy Rowley WI Staff Writer Karthik Nemmani of McKinney, Texas, was been declared winner of the 2018 Scripps National Spelling Bee on Thursday, May 31. Although Karthik, 14, didn’t win his regional spelling bee nor his county bee, he withstood the pressure of 18 rounds of back-toback spelling in Thursday night’s finals at the National Harbor in Oxon Hill, where he correctly spelled “koinonia” (Christian fellowship or communion, with God or, more commonly, with fellow Christians).

“I knew how to spell it the moment I heard it,” Karthik exclaimed shortly after winning the competition. The soft-spoken Karthik, who entered the competition through a newly-instituted “wild card” program, snared the first-place $40,000 cash prize from Scripps, as well as other perks including a $2,500 prize from Merriam-Webster and a trip to New York City to appear on ABC’s “Live with Kelly and Ryan.” Second-place honors went to Naysa Modi,12, of Dallas, who learned that just one letter made the difference in her being awarded the grand prize. Instead,

she took home a $30,000 cash prize after misspelling “Bewusstseinslage” — a German-derived word meaning “a state of consciousness or a feeling devoid of sensory components” — for which she left out the second “s.” Karthik, an 8th-grader who admitted not knowing about nine words in the finals, was complimentary of his final-round foe, calling Naysa “a really, really good speller.” “She deserved the trophy as much as I did,” he said. “I got lucky.’’ He added that having friends like Naysa in the competition helped. “I guess [they] gave me a little more confidence,” Karthik said. The field for this year’s bee, with 516 spellers ages 8 to 15 from the United States and several countries, was the largest in its 91-year history. Washington Informer-sponsored spellers Noah Dooley, Robert Foster and Simon Kirschenbaum didn’t make it to the finals and neither were immediately available for comment. However, as a first-time

BEE Page 48

5Washington Informer-sponsored spellers Robert Foster, Noah Dooley, and Simon Kirschenbaum. /Photo by Shevry Lassiter 3Kayden Wilkins 10, a 5th grade student at Melwood Elementary School and winner of the 2018 Prince George’s County spelling bee was eliminated from the 2018 Scripps National Spelling Bee at the National Harbor in the first round. /Photo by Shevry Lassiter

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EDUCATION ‘innoMAYtion’ Celebrates D.C.’s Tech Success By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer

Rain did not dampen the “street party” atmosphere at the wrapup celebration for the fourth annual “innoMaytion” held at the Innovation Inclusive Incubator (In3) in Ward 2 inside the Howard-Shaw community. Brian T. Kenner, deputy mayor for planning and economic development, opened the festivities with praise for the District’s efforts to expand its innovation and technology development. “There were more than 30 events with thousands of participants during “innoMAYtion,” Kenner said. “We are ensuring the District’s competitive edge in innovation and technology is well-established.” Kenner also shared data from SmartAsset.com that rated the District as a Top Ten city for diversity in STEM for 2017. The incubator has been an ideal collaboration illustrating how

D.C.’s innovation and technology vision yielded a successful public-private partnership. In3, a co-working space that opened in April 2017 under the leadership of CEO Aaron Saunders, is supported by Mayor Muriel Bowser’s tech inclusion initiative and Howard University. The space at 2301 Georgia Avenue NW was intentionally established as an affordable, diverse co-working venture supporting entrepreneurs and businesses from underrepresented communities. During the past year, In3 drew women, people of color and older entrepreneurs to nearly 250 networking and mentoring events while interacting with a variety of successful businesses and professional organizations. Many people at the celebration tested their skills on a virtual reality (VR) cycling experience that turned out to be more challenging than expected. “Tech is something I am getting into as I work on my master’s

in information technology and cybersecurity,” said Alexandra Ngonga, a Germantown, Md., resident who gave the VR cycle a try. “A friend recommended I come to In3 to get hands-on experience and to network.” Saunders came to In3 with successful track record as an entrepreneur. He is founder of Creatively Innovative, the company that designed the mobile app for the Smithsonian Museum of African American History and Culture. Luma Lab, the educational arm of Creatively Innovative, manages In3. During the “innoMAYtion” wrap-up, Saunders enthusiastically talked about the Innovation Fund announced by Kenner. Once established, the fund will support diverse startup businesses that not only need financial help but can benefit from identifying potential partners to broaden an innovative business vision. Review of RFPs is underway to identify a group to manage the fund that will be

in place later in 2018. “Not everyone has family wealth to write a $50,000 check,” Saunders said. “The idea of the fund is to focus on filling that gap from not only the funding, but also from the growth and learning perspective.” In3 looks forward to pursuing more brand-name sponsors during its second year. Recently, Microsoft began a multiyear commitment with In3, beginning with an event called “DigiGirlz.” DigiGirlz included an orientation to STEM careers, along with computer and technology workshops aimed at middle-school-age girls. The Microsoft sponsorship with In3 will offer training for entrepreneurs and a donation of computers which has been on the incubator’s “wish list.” “With more sponsorships, it will give more validation to what we are doing and bring more people to the table,” Saunders said. For more information about In3, email info@In3DC.com. WI

5Aaron Saunders, CEO at INC3, speaks to innoMAYtion guests about the mission of INC3 and its progress to help underserved innovation and technology business owners in the Washington area on Thursday, May 31 in Northwest. /Photo by Roy Lewis

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DC Primary Election June 19, 2018 7 am until 8 pm Prince George’s Primary Election June 26, 2018 7 am until 8 pm

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D.C. candidates / 2018 Mayor Muriel Bowser

Office: Mayor / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 45 / Profession: Mayor / Ward of Residence: 4 Campaign Website: murielbowser.com

Why are you running for office? I am so proud of what we have accomplished together so far and there is so much more to do. Together we will continue to take on our toughest challenges – working together to build a better DC for us all. I have been so proud to serve as your mayor for the past four years and would be honored to have your vote to serve for another four. What would be one of the first pieces of legislation you would pursue if elected? As your mayor, I’ve set out an agenda that is defined by a broad approach. From creating affordable housing to making our streets safer, from ending homelessness to creating an inclusive environment that supports residents in all eight wards, I’ve learned a great deal about the tools available to the Executive to solve these tough problems. Legislation is just one of many. If given the opportunity to serve for another four years, I know we can accomplish even more through legislation, but most importantly, by working together. What are your plans to help the school system do a better job at preparing students for college? Submitted by Makeda, Ward 7 Youth Government Representative I am focused on ensuring our young people have the tools and knowledge they need not only in college, but in life. That means we must start in elementary and middle school by offering a wide range of course and opportunities that allow students to find and pursue their passions. And as they get older, it means we keep students engaged and focused on reaching their goals. I’ve made unprecedented investments in our students, our teachers, extended year schools and out of school time activities to ensure around the clock learning. Together we must be all in for our kids, and I know together we can do more to help prepare the next generation. How will you hold developers, subsidized by the city, accountable for creating affordable housing? Upon taking office, I immediately asked for all government-funded development projects to be reassessed and include maximum affordability. I take my role as a public servant very seriously and, if reelected, will continue to push to hold accountable all those who receive or are entrusted with city funds. How will you work to create more affordable housing units for the District’s lowest income residents and families? Under my leadership, we have undertaken a multi-pronged approach to housing production and preservation, homeownership, and vacant property development - the approach is winning national recognition. In four years, we have produced 5,000 units of affordable housing. And by using all of the tools we have set up over the past four years - including implementing our new preservation fund, making historic investments in the Housing Production Trust Fund and getting that financing out the door, and making unprecedented progress on new communities - we are on track to deliver 10,000

James Butler

over the next four years, if reelected. What legislation will you create or support to establish a greener, more sustainable D.C.? It is in the best interest of our country’s safety, economy, and future to take climate change seriously, and, if re-elected, I will not let federal inaction hinder our progress. I have launched Climate Ready DC; proposed the DC Green Bank which will help create jobs, expand solar power, lower energy costs, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions; finalized the largest municipal wind power purchase agreement deal of its kind in the US; and launched the largest onsite municipal solar generation. If re-elected, I look forward to continuing to take unprecedented steps towards a greener future for DC. How will you support or encourage the construction and renovation of housing, expanding funding and improving the application process for the Safe-at-Home program, expanding access to affordable senior rentals, and/or senior property tax relief? Submitted by AARP Throughout my career as a public servant, I’ve been laser focused on making DC the best city in the world to age and live well in. Through property tax relief, investments in transportation, in-home supports, and wellness programs, I have spent the past four years as mayor ensuring that seniors are able to stay and live in the communities they know and love. As I’ve showed in my recently proposed budget by including a proposal to ensure that more DC seniors can age in place by cutting in half how much their property taxes can go up each year - I would be honored, if reelected, to continue to find ways to invest in our oldest residents. What is your commitment to closing the education and employment gaps for Black and Latino residents in the District? While there is more work to do, I am proud of the substantial progress towards beginning to address those gaps - our hardest to employ residents remain my top priority. In 2014, DC had the worst workforce system in the nation. Today, there is a new narrative. Unemployment is now 5.8% and has reached the lowest recorded levels in wards 7 and 8 ever recorded. This could not have been accomplished without significantly improving our workforce system, creating targeted training programs, leveraging the DC Government as an employer, and partnering with business to ensure that training offerings and the needs of business were aligned. As the city continues to gentrify what will you do to make living in D.C. more equitable regardless of a resident’s ward or zip code? We have unprecedented population and economic growth in DC today. As a fifth generation Washingtonian, like you, I continue to assess how this growth is impacting our communities - both old and new. I am proud of our history, of where we’ve been, and, if given the opportunity to serve as mayor of my hometown for another four years, will continue to be hawkish about ensuring that our policies work to share that prosperity and ensure that DC remains the diverse and inclusive community I was raised in.

Office: Mayor / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 42 / Profession: ANC Commissioner and Former Attorney Ward of Residence: 5 / Campaign Website: www.butlerformayor.com

Why are you running for office? I am running because of the urgency that is required. I believe four more years of this current administration will exclude a lot of the underrepresented and underserved populations here in Washington, DC. We need a Peoples Mayor. A mayor who will put People First. What would be one of the first pieces of legislation you would pursue if elected? True Rent Control which consists of a cap on for profit developers.This will immediately impact those properties built after 1975, as the current form of rent control is not applicable to any dwelling place built after 1975. What are your plans to help the school system do a better job at preparing students for college? Submitted by Makeda, Ward 7 Youth Government Representative One of my first priorities as Mayor is to implement educational systems that will empower parents to guide their children on the path of higher education, vocational awareness and excellence. I will challenge the City’s colleges and universities to contribute to creating a system of educational supports that are enlightening and without cost to District residents. I will implement an optional after-work hours program that is for parents only. The class will focus on important things such as ACT and SAT test dates, testing resources, Scholarship opportunities, FAFSA form completion, and other important matters to ensure your child’s success. How will you hold developers, subsidized by the city, accountable for creating affordable housing? I know that the District is an attractive place for developers. I also realize that while most developers talk about affordable housing, and make such units available under the law, affordable housing has become a misnomer. As Mayor, I will strongly advocate that these rules be more inclusive so that living in the city can be a reality for millennials, seniors, and all. In exchange for any tax break to for profit developers, my administration will require a substantial percentage of “income-based” housing to be built.

families? I know that the District is an attractive place for developers. I also realize that while most developers talk about affordable housing, and make such units available under the law, affordable housing has become a misnomer. As Mayor, I will strongly advocate that these rules be more inclusive so that living in the city can be a reality for millennials, seniors, and all. In exchange for any tax break to for profit developers, my administration will require a substantial percentage of “income-based” housing to be built. What legislation will you create or support to establish a greener, more sustainable D.C.? I would craft new legislation that would improve both “Sustainable Purchasing” and “Environmentally Preferable Purchasing” capabilities here in the District of Columbia. However, when using these terms in a technical context, environmentally preferable purchasing is an activity that focuses primarily on environmental impacts, whereas sustainable purchasing encompasses how purchases impact the environment, economy, and people today and in future generations. All environmental issues fit within the rubric of sustainability. By implementing sustainability in our procurement process this will prevent a lot of waste down the road. How will you support or encourage the construction and renovation of housing, expanding funding and improving the application process for the Safe-at-Home program, expanding access to affordable senior rentals, and/or senior property tax relief? Submitted by AARP My administration will partner with organizations such as AARP and the DC Office of Aging to ensure current policies are being complied with. Additionally my administration will look at ways of expanding the funds (currently $10,000) and to decrease the installation time from 30 days to 21 days. What is your commitment to closing the education and employment gaps for Black and Latino residents in the District? Where are schools are deficient we will increase resources. Where these resources are applied we will provide rigorous regulatory oversight. As the city continues to gentrify what will you do to make living in D.C. more equitable regardless of a resident’s ward or zip code? Rent control and more “income-based” housing.

How will you work to create more affordable housing units for the District’s lowest income residents and

www.washingtoninformer.com / 2018 WASHINGTON INFORMER VOTER’S GUIDE

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Ernest E. Johnson

Office: Mayor / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 58 / Profession: Real Estate Consultant / Ward of Residence: 4 Campaign Website: ErnestJohnsonforMayor.com

Why are you running for office? I am running because of the urgency that is required. I believe four more years of this current administration will exclude a lot of the underrepresented and underserved populations here in Washington, DC. We need a Peoples Mayor. A mayor who will put People First. What would be one of the first pieces of legislation you would pursue if elected? True Rent Control which consists of a cap on for profit developers.This will immediately impact those properties built after 1975, as the current form of rent control is not applicable to any dwelling place built after 1975. What are your plans to help the school system do a better job at preparing students for college? Submitted by Makeda, Ward 7 Youth Government Representative One of my first priorities as Mayor is to implement educational systems that will empower parents to guide their children on the path of higher education, vocational awareness and excellence. I will challenge the City’s colleges and universities to contribute to creating a system of educational supports that are enlightening and without cost to District residents. I will implement an optional after-work hours program that is for parents only.The class will focus on important things such as ACT and SAT test dates, testing resources, Scholarship opportunities, FAFSA form completion, and other important matters to ensure your child’s success. How will you hold developers, subsidized by the city, accountable for creating affordable housing? I know that the District is an attractive place for developers. I also realize that while most developers talk about affordable housing, and make such units available under the law, affordable housing has become a misnomer. As Mayor, I will strongly advocate that these rules be more inclusive so that living in the city can be a reality for millennials, seniors, and all. In exchange for any tax break to for profit developers, my administration will require a substantial percentage of “income-based” housing to be built. How will you work to create more affordable housing units for the District’s lowest income residents and

Ann Wilcox

What would be one of the first pieces of legislation you would pursue if elected? Expand rent control to preserve affordable housing. Full implementation of the NEAR Act, which involves the community in public safety. What are your plans to help the school system do a better job at preparing students for college? Submitted by Makeda, Ward 7 Youth Government Representative Support students in readiness for school (health, safe passage to & from school, attendance); tutoring and academic support. How will you hold developers, subsidized by the city, accountable for creating affordable housing? No public subsidies for development projects; enforce inclusionary zoning agreements and preserve affordable housing before it is lost. How will you work to create more affordable housing units for the District’s lowest income residents and families? Broader coverage of rent control, cover more units and all new construction. Use public funds to reha-

bilitate affordable housing before it is lost, and communities are scattered. Use 30% of AMI to expand very low-income housing. What legislation will you create or support to establish a greener, more sustainable D.C.? Support a carbon tax; support public transportation options including Metro. Expand recycling and sustainable lifestyle policies. How will you support or encourage the construction and renovation of housing, expanding funding and improving the application process for the Safe-at-Home program, expanding access to affordable senior rentals, and/or senior property tax relief? Submitted by AARP Fully support Safe at Home, senior villages, senior wellness centers; make more housing vouchers available to seniors and rehabilitate senior residential buildings. Support senior property tax relief. Support non-profits such as Iona. What is your commitment to closing the education and employment gaps for Black and Latino residents in the District? Students at risk need greater support in their home lives; school readiness (health care, safe passage to & from school). Support literacy and tutoring programs. As the city continues to gentrify what will you do to make living in D.C. more equitable regardless of a resident’s ward or zip code? Affordable housing in all areas of the city; food options and healthy grocery options in Wards 7 and 8. Support retail and other amenities in East End.

Office: Mayor / Party Affiliation: Libertarian / Age: 52 / Profession: Consultant / Ward of Residence: 6 Campaign Website: https://twitter.com/LiberateDC2018

Why are you running for office? To #LiberateDC from the corrupt/dishonest practices of the corporatist puppet DC Democrats so that DC parents and families can be empowered by #schoolchoice so their children can succeed educationally, compete for productive gainful employment and afford housing; so former offenders can gain productive employment—after having all non-violent drug and prostitution related offenses expunged—and keep families together; to allow entrepreneurs to build strong companies—that employ more workers—without job killing regulations; to cut taxes for everyone; to #LiberateDC—through #DCStatehood—from destructive and deadly Federal government tyranny. What would be one of the first pieces of legislation you would pursue if elected? Empowering parents to send their children to any school which they believe will help their child succeed (and avoid the DC Democrats’ school to prison pipeline)—whether that be a government run public school, a privately managed public charter school, a private school, parochial school for those who will benefit from a religious (Jewish, Muslim, Sikh, Christian, Buddhist etc) education, military academy, year-round school, boarding school, and/or schools with extended (8am to 5pm) school day to better sync with some parents’ work schedules. This will bring an end to current myriad school scandals. What are your plans to help the school system do a better job at preparing students for college? Submitted by Makeda, Ward 7 Youth Government Representative See answer to previous question. Parents know better than any self-centered elected official or bureaucrat working from a cubicle how best to educate their children. To think otherwise is insulting to parents. Waiting lists for good schools and the mass exodus from many mismanaged, dishonest, corrupted govt run DC Public Schools are a sign that parents are demanding greater #schoolchoice and parents, who represent the true free market in education, should be given the options they deserve to ensure success for their children.

V-3

What legislation will you create or support to establish a greener, more sustainable D.C.? I would craft new legislation that would improve both “Sustainable Purchasing” and “Environmentally Preferable Purchasing” capabilities here in the District of Columbia. However, when using these terms in a technical context, environmentally preferable purchasing is an activity that focuses primarily on environmental impacts, whereas sustainable purchasing encompasses how purchases impact the environment, economy, and people today and in future generations. All environmental issues fit within the rubric of sustainability. By implementing sustainability in our procurement process this will prevent a lot of waste down the road.

Office: Mayor / Party Affiliation: DC Statehood Green / Age: 61 / Profession: Lawyer / Ward of Residence: 4 Campaign Website: AnnWilcoxforDC.wordpress.com

Why are you running for office? To present an alternative to policies which favor developers over affordable housing; to preserve affordable housing and communities. Progressive policies for children, youth, seniors. Public safety favoring the NEAR Act. Green, carbon-free policies.

Martin Moulton

How will you hold developers, subsidized by the city, accountable for creating affordable housing? As with the notorious Adams Morgan TheLine Hotel scandal and odious sport stadium deals (handouts for millionaire owners and players), toothless DC Democrats phony and cosmetic corporate welfare schemes that dupe voters and disadvantage DC workers are not the answer. Corporate welfare forced on the backs of District taxpayers will begin to quickly come to end the day I enter office. Sports team owners and players and their fans can pay for stadiums and their rent for using District owned land. Affordable housing will be created by developers that must cater to our current community and market. How will you work to create more affordable housing units for the District’s lowest income residents and families? Many District families have been destroyed and crippled by DC Democrats’ schemes that have resulted in thousands of illiterate unemployable students who can’t compete in our job market, find stable incomes, and afford housing. DC Democrats drug and prostitution laws destroy families. US Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn) admits that her father was a violent drug addict, had he been incarcerated, removed from his job, home and family, Sen Klobuchar might never have had the family support to become a leader in the US Senate; DC Democrats elitist/racist drug laws have destroyed thousands of families and their ability to succeed and afford housing. What legislation will you create or support to establish a greener, more sustainable D.C.? Resources saved from abolishing drug and prostitution laws, and putting violent criminals in these out of business, can be used to put more District residents to work planting and maintaining (watering, mulching) trees (including community-sustaining fruit and nut trees) and planting sustainable perennial shrubs (including berry vines), collecting and recycling compostable waste (from mulched tree leaves to nutrient-rich coffee grounds from thousands of District coffee shops). Creating a more healthy ecosystem for people and beneficial wild life is not only easy to accomplish but economical in the short and long term.

2018 WASHINGTON INFORMER VOTER’S GUIDE / www.washingtoninformer.com

MOULTON PAGE V-4

MOULTON FROM PAGE V-3 How will you support or encourage the construction and renovation of housing, expanding funding and improving the application process for the Safe-at-Home program, expanding access to affordable senior rentals, and/or senior property tax relief? Submitted by AARP When DC Democrats are exposed at the highest level for their corrupt corporate welfare to wealthy developers, and developers must depend on serving the local market, more affordable housing will be available for all—seniors, students, the disabled, and those in various communties—like the LGBTQX community—who may lack family support. DC Libertarians will quickly lower taxes, in part by reducing bogus and top-heavy govt agencies and services; this will be a benefit to seniors and other citizens. Govt takes 60% off the top of all purported programmes it offers—it’s a shell game that has duped tax payers and hurt deserving under-served folks. What is your commitment to closing the education and employment gaps for Black and Latino residents in the District? See answers to questions #2, #3. When all students are able to gain the skills and build the self-esteem

they need to succeed (and not be lured into the illusory drug trade or school to prison pipeline), they will naturally close achievement gaps. I tutored many DC public school students for years; when they were given the attention/support they needed, they made inspiring leaps in achievement. My father, his brother, and 3 of his sisters, who immigrated to the United States from Costa Rica, were all fluent in English and Spanish after finishing high school; there is no reason why DC students cannot be fluent in English and other languages. As the city continues to gentrify what will you do to make living in D.C. more equitable regardless of a resident’s ward or zip code? Safer communities will result from regulating all drugs—as deadly and more dangerous tobacco and alcohol have been regulated for more than a century— and taking prostitution off our streets and regulating it as we do with other businesses with regard to safety and sanitary conditions. This will cut gun crime and other drug-related violence and sex abuse by at least 40%. The “gentrification” crisis so many speak of obtusely was created by DC Democrats failure to provide proper #schoolchoice to parents, legislators’ immoral dehumanizing drug laws, and crony corporate welfare to millionaire/billionaires. I will end these destructive policies.

DC COUNCIL CHAIRMAN Ed Lazere

Office: DC Council Chair / Party Affiliation: Democratic / Age: 53 / Profession: Executive Director, DC Fiscal Policy Institute (on leave during campaign) / Ward of Residence: 4 Campaign Website: www.EdforDC.com

Why are you running for office? I’m running for DC Council Chair because our leaders simply aren’t doing enough to address the impacts of gentrification. In the midst of tremendous prosperity, life is getting harder for many residents, particularly Black and Latino families who have shaped DC’s economy, history, and culture. Too many residents have only a tent for a home, as DC has lost half of its lower-cost housing. School reform is 10 years old, yet the achievement gap has widened. DC can and must do better. I want to be a bold leader tackling DC’s biggest challenges, like ending homelessness and improving schools from Ballou to Wilson. What would be one of the first pieces of legislation you would pursue if elected? I’m eager to pursue legislation to improve DC schools, preserve affordable housing, and help residents earn enough to support their families. I will work to strengthen rent control by moving legislation currently stalled in the Council, to limit rent increases and close loopholes that allow landlords to get around rent control. I will move legislation to require restaurants and retail stores to give workers their schedules at least two weeks in advance and give part-time workers opportunities for more hours. I will move legislation to hold schools accountable by creating a new education and research oversight body in the DC Council. What are your plans to help the school system do a better job at preparing students for college? Submitted by Makeda, Ward 7 Youth Government Representative We need to address the challenges our children face, starting well before high school. I will invest in high-quality child care and make sure all students have access to afterschool and summer enrichment opportunities. I will fight for adequate funding for all schools and will work to protect “at-risk” funds intended for high-poverty schools, to support services to address the challenges many students face. I will work to make sure every DC school has a mental health professional whose only job is to support children. I will review the lottery process to support stable schools that are economically and racially diverse. How will you hold developers, subsidized by the city, accountable for creating affordable housing? Too often, the District adopts policies that look good on paper but end up doing little, because DC fails to enforce them. That includes the First Source hiring program requiring businesses with DC contracts to hire DC residents, and programs that subsidize developers to create affordable housing. I commit to strengthening the enforcement staffing at DC government agencies. I also will create a centralized DC Council research and oversight shop. While most state legislatures have such a body, the DC Council does not. This will strengthen the Council’s oversight functions and help ensure that DC laws are enforced. How will you work to create more affordable housing units for the District’s lowest income residents and families? The loss of affordable housing has contributed to displacement of Black and Brown residents and has put extreme stress on thousands of DC households. It is the single largest challenge to DC’s future and to addressing economic and racial inequities. As Council Chair, I will double the investment in DC’s housing programs to create and preserve afford-

Phil Mendelson

able housing and build affordable housing in every ward. I will move legislation to strengthen rent control that is currently stalled in the Council. I will support at least $25 million annually for repair and maintenance of public housing that has been neglected by the federal government. What legislation will you create or support to establish a greener, more sustainable D.C.? A good quality of life in DC depends on clean water and air, homes free of pesticides and lead poisoning, and neighborhoods that are green and livable. I will support efforts to move toward 50% clean energy by 2050, including implementing a carbon fee and rebate program and innovative ways to expand solar energy. I will work to make the District a zero-waste city by supporting strategies that reduce, reuse and recycle the materials we use to live our lives. I will work to make our rivers and creeks fishable and swimmable. And I will support a greener and more sustainable city by helping residents grow food in their neighborhoods. How will you support or encourage the construction and renovation of housing, expanding funding and improving the application process for the Safe-at-Home program, expanding access to affordable senior rentals, and/or senior property tax relief? Submitted by AARP Helping older residents live independently in affordable and safe housing is a top priority. I’m committed to strengthening rent control to limit rent increases residents face. I will double funding for DC’s major housing programs and devote a portion to senior housing. I will promote shared housing by connecting older adults with extra rooms in their homes with others needing affordable housing. I will expand and simplify the Safe-at-Home program to help older residents adapt their homes. I’m proud to have championed property tax relief that is helping older residents stay in their homes and will work to make the application process simpler. What is your commitment to closing the education and employment gaps for Black and Latino residents in the District? DC’s economic recovery has been uneven across racial groups. The black-white unemployment gap is widening, and Latino residents face unemployment twice as high as white residents. I will push for better accountability in DC’s job training programs to ensure they actually lead to a job. I will require developers of DC-funded or DC-subsidized development projects to train and hire DC residents with good wages and benefits. I will give residents preference for DC government jobs and work with businesses to hire and mentor DC residents. I will work to educate working people of their job rights and support strong enforcement of labor laws. As the city continues to gentrify what will you do to make living in D.C. more equitable regardless of a resident’s ward or zip code? My policy platform calls for a racial equity impact analysis of all major policy proposals, to shape the best policies to reduce DC’s wide racial and ethnic inequities. I will preserve affordable housing in developing neighborhoods before it turns into luxury housing. I will invest in neighborhood DC public schools so that access to a good education is not left to zip code or winning the school lottery. I will put economic development dollars where they are needed, like bringing grocery stores to Ward 7 and 8, rather than subsidizing gentrifying areas (like last year’s Council vote to give $80 million to Union Market developers).

Office: Chairman Council of the District of Columbia / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Profession: Chairman Council of the District of Columbia / Ward of Residence: 6 / Campaign Website: www.philmendelson.com

Why are you running for office? I am running for re-election to continue to serve the people of the District of Columbia and to make a better government. We have pressing challenges – affordable housing and quality public education are the greatest – and I want to resolve both in my next term because I believe we can make progress and that these challenges can be conquered. I am a quality legislator, and I have proven to be an effective leader of the legislative branch; I want to continue this work and hope voters agree. What would be one of the first pieces of legislation you would pursue if elected? As an At-Large Councilmember and now Chairman, I have already authored hundreds of pieces of legislation, many of which are now law. I will continue to do so to address important issues. Recently I introduced a bill to break up DCRA and establish a new Department of Buildings to improve focus on housing inspections and new construction. Past bills I authored include Universal Paid Leave, budget autonomy, elected Attorney General, a re-write of our gun laws following Heller, and establishment of the Department of Forensic Science (crime lab). I’m considering bills to facilitate union organizing and reduce carbon emissions. What are your plans to help the school system do a better job at preparing students for college? Submitted by Makeda, Ward 7 Youth Government Representative I have been an outspoken advocate for addressing

the issue of truancy in our schools. Increasing in-seat attendance is one of the best ways to keep students on track academically, ultimately opening up opportunities in higher education. I will push aggressive oversight regarding teacher and principal turnover. I have directly overseen resurgence of the University of the District of Columbia, and support partnership between our public schools and UDC. Post-secondary education – be it workforce training, community college, or a traditional four-year track – is one of the best ways to find good jobs and economic security. How will you hold developers, subsidized by the city, accountable for creating affordable housing? I believe Council oversight is the first tool to ensure accountability. When I oversaw the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development, I regularly commissioned independent appraisals of land dispositions to ensure that our government was getting the best deal for its residents. Kathy Patterson, whom I appointed, is the first DC Auditor to actually audit our affordable housing programs and bring sunshine. Her reports will enable better oversight by the Council. However, the Council needs to be willing to act when a proposed deal is bad. This means pushing back and requiring DMPED to negotiate better terms. How will you work to create more affordable housing units for the District’s lowest income residents and families? We need to pursue multiple strategies. Budget at least $100 million annually to the Housing Production Trust Fund, with about 40% of that used to leverage private sector development of extremely low-income units. Expand the voucher program to enable homeless families and singles to exit shelters (I’ve added about $15 million to next year’s budget).

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MENDELSON FROM PAGE V-4 Promote inclusionary zoning, which enables subsidized housing across the District. Protect rent control. Use the DC Auditor, coupled with Council oversight, to ensure better management and resource utilization in our housing programs. Promote TOPA for tenants in multi-family buildings. What legislation will you create or support to establish a greener, more sustainable D.C.? I have demonstrated my long-term commitment to establishing a greener, more sustainable DC by creating the District’s first Renewable Portfolio Standard and recently introducing a more aggressive RPS bill to get us to carbon-free by 2050 (if not sooner). I also introduced a bill to break up DCRA and create a Building Department that can better focus on construction – including implementing our Green Buildings Act. I’ve legislated more money for Metro because public transit is greener than cars. Over the past year, I have worked with advocacy groups on a proposal to enact a carbon fee to financially dis-incentivize carbon-based emissions. How will you support or encourage the construction and renovation of housing, expanding funding and improving the application process for the Safe-at-Home program, expanding access to affordable senior rentals, and/or senior property tax relief? Submitted by AARP See above regarding the production of housing. The Safe-at-Home program must be easily accessible to seniors; the Council’s housing committee must press this. I have supported senior property tax relief in many ways. I established the free deferral of tax for seniors who have been long-time

DC homeowners. Recently I introduced the “Housing Assistance Program for Unsubsidized Seniors” -- which I then funded in next year’s budget – to help fixed income seniors meet escalating rents. Finally, I have asked the CFO and Council staff to ascertain the true tax burden on seniors so that we can better target tax relief in the future. What is your commitment to closing the education and employment gaps for Black and Latino residents in the District? I am committed to closing these gaps, which are an embarrassment to the District. In the short term, the District must do better to connect residents with quality jobs.The long-term solution is through quality education.Education is the best job training.While public education has improved over the past decade,it’s far short of the promise.I am committed to pushing hard to ensure that all kids attend school and are grade-ready when promoted,and in this way we will soon have high schoolers who don’t drop out and truly earn their diplomas.That will reduce both the education and employment gaps for people of color. As the city continues to gentrify what will you do to make living in D.C. more equitable regardless of a resident’s ward or zip code? I celebrate the economic and racial diversity that enriches our community. I have worked for years to make the District an equitable place for all residents, regardless of income, location, or background. I pushed through an increase in the minimum wage in coordination with Montgomery and Prince Georges counties. I have supported increased funding for our schools and am fighting to increase attendance. I pushed through comprehensive tax reform that cut income taxes for a majority of residents, doubled the Earned Income Tax Credit for lower income workers, and reduced property taxes for low income homeowners and seniors.

Councilmember to DC COUNCIL AT-LARGE Marcus Goodwin

Office: DC Council At-Large / Party Affiliation: Democratic / Age: 28 / Profession: Real Estate Investor Campaign Website: www.GoodWinForDC.com

Why are you running for office? My top campaign priority is addressing the inequities that define different areas of Washington, DC. It’s unacceptable that a child born on Alabama Avenue Southeast inherently has a slimmer chance at getting a good education and fulfilling their full potential compared to a child born on Massachusetts Avenue Northwest. I was raised on Martin Luther King Jr. Ave Southeast, where my father still lives, and having persevered through the structural barriers I will support 1. The Cooperative/HOA Solar Expansion Act (B22-0229) 2. The Solar Ready Roofs Act (B22-0437) of DC I feel profoundly inspired by an obligation to correct what I see as social and political injustices. What would be one of the first pieces of legislation you would pursue if elected? I want to ensure that we protect housing for our senior citizens who are being What are your plans to help the school system do a better job at preparing students for college? Submitted by Makeda, Ward 7 Youth Government Representative If elected to Council I will be more hands-on with oversight of our educational system. We need competent, high integrity and effective leadership. My mother is a DCPS teacher so our often family discusses education in DC and the solutions to bridging the achievement gap. I want to push our school system to implement the results of our consistent studies. I’ve seen from my own experience how one generation of educational opportunity can help a family overcome structural and institutional disenfranchisement. I want to expand and create those opportunities for others. How will you hold developers, subsidized by the city, accountable for creating affordable housing? I will do this three ways. 1. Hold slumlords accountable by committing more resources to consistent inspections and audits. Failure will result in steep fines. 2. Fix first source and ensure compliance of our contract procurement laws. Failure to hire small and minority business will result in permits being held up and fines being assessed. How will you work to create more affordable housing units for the District’s lowest income residents and families? 1. I want to increase support to the Housing Production Trust Fund and ensure that we have better oversight and

Jerimiah Lowery

review of how we invest in financing housing. 2. We also need to inventory all city owned property so that we know where we can provide housing without reaching out to private operators. What legislation will you create or support to establish a greener, more sustainable D.C.? I will create 1. An act to require large scale commercial buildings to have some form of renewable energy powering their building and offsetting their carbon footprint 2. Distribute composting bins to residents I will support 1. The Cooperative/HOA Solar Expansion Act (B22-0229) 2. The Solar Ready Roofs Act (B22-0437) How will you support or encourage the construction and renovation of housing, expanding funding and improving the application process for the Safe-at-Home program, expanding access to affordable senior rentals, and/or senior property tax relief? Submitted by AARP I am profoundly committed to financially supporting seniors to age in place. 1. I support the Housing Assistance Program for Unsubsidized Seniors. This legislation would set up a fund for rental subsidy assistance for seniors living in market rate housing. 2. I support freezing property taxes for low-income seniors who live on a fixed income. 3. I support funding rebates for all in home adaptations that specifically address livability standards for seniors. What is your commitment to closing the education and employment gaps for Black and Latino residents in the District? I am supportive of a racial consideration in the development of our city. Any development project that is built in this city should have to have a racial equity consideration before it’s approved. Each project’s community benefits agreement should have to address racial equity in job training, job placement and educating the community. As the city continues to gentrify what will you do to make living in D.C. more equitable regardless of a resident’s ward or zip code? The DC Council’s move to cut the estate tax leaves funding gaps in homelessness, high poverty schools and child care programs. We have to tax something and excessive transfers of wealth are a good place to start and maintain a tax base for the benefit of supporting equality and high-quality services in our city. Access to affordable housing, public education, quality healthcare services, reliable public transportation, basic amenities and reasonable childcare options should take precedent over preserving generational wealth which excludes many people, benefits a select few and perpetuates inequality.

Office: DC Council At-Large / Party Affiliation: Democratic / Age: 32 / Profession: Community Advocate Ward of Residence: 4 / Campaign Website: jeremiah2018.com

Why are you running for office? I am running to transform D.C. from what it is to what it must be to guarantee that everyone has an opportunity to live and thrive here. This means providing accessible, high-quality child care; K-12 public education; and colleges and adult learning centers. It means generating opportunities for workers to build a city run on 100 percent clean energy, so D.C. can be an environmentally sustainable leader of the green economy. This means working with residents, tenants, community leaders, and advocates to use community-powered land trusts to develop and preserve affordable housing, expand green spaces, and promote small businesses. What would be one of the first pieces of legislation you would pursue if elected? I will introduce legislation to stabilize or lower property taxes for district residents, and as well as strengthen rent control for tenants. What are your plans to help the school system do a better job at preparing students for college? Submitted by Makeda, Ward 7 Youth Government Representative I will examine and reflect on the structure, culture, and instruction within their schools and how those elements expose students to rigorous, engaging, and relevant coursework that would prepare them for various college and career paths. Based on that I will: Conduct a transcript analysis to determine which students are completing a cohesive academic and career-oriented curriculum and identify the reasons why some students may not be. Assess graduation requirements to see how well they align with entry requirements at colleges. Systematically develop and support teachers to provide rigorous and engaging instruction. How will you hold developers, subsidized by the city, accountable for creating affordable housing?

I am currently the only candidate in this race who has not worked for a luxury housing developer with financial ties to the DC government. Developers are funding my two opponents; therefore I am the only candidate in this race who is able to truly hold them accountable. If a developer is receiving tax cuts or public money and they are not building 80 percent or more affordable housing units, I will vote No. How will you work to create more affordable housing units for the District’s lowest income residents and families? I will introduce a law that increases the percentage of affordable housing units, including family units in all new development. I will use the comprehensive plan amendment process to ensure that developments are only approved when they preserve or replace each and every existing subsidized home affordable to the low-income residents and families. I would work with advocates and the DC government to use community land trusts as a model to build and ensure long-term affordable housing for low-income residents and families in DC What legislation will you create or support to establish a greener, more sustainable D.C.? As a board member of the DC Sierra Club and endorsed candidate, I have worked on committees and with coalitions to make DC an environmentally sustainable city. I am currently the only candidate running who has worked on environmental policies before running for office. I plan to lower our energy bills by pushing DC towards a 100 percent clean energy city, use community land trusts to expand and preserve green spaces, fund programs that employ our youth and returning citizens in the green economy, and use legislation to move DC towards a zero-waste city. How will you support or encourage the construction and renovation of housing, expanding funding and improving the application process for the Safe-at-Home program, expanding access to affordable senior rentals, and/or senior property tax relief? Submitted by AARP As a former AARP employee, I have worked on senior

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LOWERY FROM PAGE V-5 housing and repair programs, and I plan to continue that work on the DC Council. I will make it a budget priority to double safe-at-home funding, and I will introduce a senior housing legislative packet that includes property tax relief for residents who are 55+ plus, it would also identify land for the purpose of creating community land trusts for the construction of thousands of below-market rates affordable housing for seniors in DC. What is your commitment to closing the education and employment gaps for Black and Latino residents in the District? According to the DC Auditor, DC mismanages a lot of money that is supposed to go to at-risk students & special needs students. I support an independent review board that will oversee how our money is spent & will report to the council on a yearly basis. I will be a watchdog who makes sure students who are most in need are able to get funding for

David Schwartzman

programs that benefit them. I will also expand our summer youth program to create year-round green jobs for youth, & I will create a green jobs program for returning citizens, as well as expand vocational programs. Lastly, I will introduce a bill to hold developers accountable to local hiring laws. As the city continues to gentrify what will you do to make living in D.C. more equitable regardless of a resident’s ward or zip code? I am the only candidate in this race that isn’t being funded by big developers in DC. I will go into office with an independent mind and free of any conflicts of interest. When elected I plan to: I would also introduce a “redevelopment in place” bill, that would direct the DC government to look into funding mechanism to ensure residents are able to stay in their building as the city develops. I plan on reforming and strengthening rent control. I will stop landlords and developers from exploiting provisions in DC’s rent control law. I also plan on stabilizing and lowering property taxes for current homeowners.

Office: DC Council At-Large / Party Affiliation: DC Statehood Green Party / Age: 74 / Profession: Professor Emeritus, Howard University / Campaign Website: https://dcsgp.nationbuilder.com/david_schwartzman

Why are you running for office? I am running to empower the struggle for an alternative to trickle -down economics and housing, to champion and implement once in office the critical steps for a better quality of life for all DC residents, but especially for our low-income, working class residents. Reducing income and wealthy inequality is a priority, noting DC has the highest income inequality in the nation compared to the 50 states. As a green socialist, I support redistributing income from the top to the bottom, more socialism, less capitalism! For the many, not the few! What would be one of the first pieces of legislation you would pursue if elected? Recover the big federal income tax cut for wealthy DC residents as revenue for DC by hiking the DC income tax rates for the same taxpayers, leaving them paying the same overall taxes (federal plus DC), thereby generating hundreds of millions of dollars annually for the coming years, to fund affordable housing for low-income residents, the homeless, repairing public housing (at least $50 million of funding), financing community land trusts, and boost rental assistance, income support for low-income residents (increase TANF income support to the federal poverty level and tax rebates). For more details go to https://www.dcctj.org/. What are your plans to help the school system do a better job at preparing students for college? Submitted by Makeda, Ward 7 Youth Government Representative I taught as a college faculty member for over 40 years. I know that motivating students to learn requires lessons that are relevant to their lives, with teaching critical thinking an essential component of their educational experience. No more teaching to the test! I stand behind the Washington Teacher’s Union under the outstanding leadership of Elizabeth Davis, in their efforts to improve the quality of education in our public-school system. Eliminating child poverty would have profound positive impacts school performance and the quality of life for both students and their families as demonstrated by leading educational scholars. How will you hold developers, subsidized by the city, accountable for creating affordable housing? I will legislate and organize for curbing public deals/subsidies from DC’s revenue going to gentrification and displacement of long-term residents. I will implement strong claw-back for existing projects, with fines going to truly affordable housing for the majority; shift the $ hundreds of millions for annual subsidies for high rent apartments and condos to low to middle income residents to meet the goal of no more than 30% income going to rent or mortgage expense; strengthen the Comprehensive Plan for residents, block the developers’ efforts to weaken it! No Amazon Deal! Bring slumlords to trial for their crimes against tenants! How will you work to create more affordable housing units for the District’s lowest income residents and families? I will work tirelessly for the repair and expansion of public housing, creating social housing and community land trusts, expand locally funded rent supplements to meet low-income needs, strongly implement Tenant Opportunity to

Purchase Act (TOPA) and District Opportunity to Purchase Act (DOPA), including using eminent domain to take over slumlord property. Funding will come from the shift of subsidies for luxury apartments and condos to truly affordable housing as well as hiking the DC income tax rate of wealthy residents, especially millionaires who now pay a lower overall DC tax rate than all but our poorest residents. What legislation will you create or support to establish a greener, more sustainable D.C.? I am an environmental scientist and participant in Sustainable DC working groups. Move to 100% renewable energy by 2035; sharply reduce air pollution with its harmful health impacts (e.g., childhood asthma and dementia); expand electric bus service serving all neighborhoods, especially east of the river with lower fares, progressive dedicated funding (see Support Save Our System Coalition (WMATA), https://www.savemetro.org/).We must take stronger action to protect our residents, especially our children from exposure to lead in drinking water! Save McMillan Park, void the Mayor’s VMP bad deal! Support carbon rebate for DC residents. How will you support or encourage the construction and renovation of housing, expanding funding and improving the application process for the Safe-at-Home program, expanding access to affordable senior rentals, and/or senior property tax relief? Submitted by AARP The displacement of long-term residents must be stopped. There are already several provisions in DC law designed to help seniors to stay in their homes, e.g., homestead deduction for seniors, the Elderly Tenant and Tenant with a Disability Protection Law, and Schedule H in the DC income tax schedule (should increase benefit). But outreach by the OTA must be increased to make possible the full implementation of these laws, along with adequate funding for sufficient staff. As far as Safe at Home, only systematic outreach will achieve this goal, likewise simplified application. Strengthen rent control, include all apartment buildings. What is your commitment to closing the education and employment gaps for Black and Latino residents in the District? Our elected government is mainly following the white supremacist trickle-down economics/housing agenda of the Federal City Council, the lobby of big developers and bankers who have been gentrifying and displacing long-term DC residents. Closing these gaps will require legislation and strong oversight to make sure implementation is favoring the many, not the few. I will work to greatly expand apprenticeship programs in high schools and the community with union jobs upon completion, eliminating discrimination against returning citizens and their families as well as promoting entrepreneurship with low-cost loans from a DC Public Bank. As the city continues to gentrify what will you do to make living in D.C. more equitable regardless of a resident’s ward or zip code? Rather than continuing along this path, using the resources of my office I will help organize for equitable development using mechanisms mainly outside the market, namely repairing and expanding public housing, building social housing, community land trusts, locally funded rent supplements, TOPA and DOPA. Establishing a DC Public Bank will facilitate this approach; I am on the Steering Committee of the DC Public Banking Center (https://www.dcpublicbanking.org/). This Public Bank will receive DC’s tax revenue instead of Wall Street, and partner with local banks to promote truly affordable housing, jobs and the goals of sustainable DC.

Ward 1 Councilmember Brianne K. Nadeau

Office: Councilmember, Ward 1 / Party Affiliation: Democratic / Age: 37 / Profession: Councilmember Campaign Website: briannefordc.com

Why are you running for office? I am running for re-election because over the past three and a half years, I’ve put more than 500 units of affordable housing in the pipeline in Ward 1, invested hundreds of millions of dollars in our neighborhood schools, supported small businesses and established one of the most effective constituent services operations in the city -- but there is still more work to do.

How will you work to create more affordable housing units for the District’s lowest income residents and families? Whether it was the emergency legislation I passed to preserve 64 units in Columbia Heights, my support for 90 units on U Street, 138 on Florida Ave, or the hundreds being built as part of Park Morton, I have been a leader on affordable housing production. I have ensured funding for the Housing Production Trust Fund, Local Rent Supplement Program, rehabilitation dollars for our public housing and have advanced opportunities for homeownership so our residents can build equity.

What would be one of the first pieces of legislation you would pursue if elected? My first piece of legislation in 2015 reformed our code of ethics.

What legislation will you create or support to establish a greener, more sustainable D.C.? I recently co-sponsored legislation to double-down on our air quality standards, and have supported initiatives to reduce solid waste, storm water runoff and e-waste initiatives since my time on the ANC.

What are your plans to help the school system do a better job at preparing students for college? Submitted by Makeda, Ward 7 Youth Government Representative It’s our responsibility, as leaders in government, to ensure we are preparing our children for the future.That is why I co-introduced the District of Columbia Education Research Advisory Board and Collaborative Establishment Amendment Act, which will create an independent Education Research Collaborative.The Collaborative will conduct research and assess the data collection of our education agencies.This will allow us to further distance education from politics and provide the Council with more tools for effective oversight of our education system. How will you hold developers, subsidized by the city, accountable for creating affordable housing? As Councilmember I introduced and passed the Land Disposition Transparency Amendment Act, which requires the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development to provide regular reports about the deals they are making with private developers. I have worked to ensure that all projects that involve government subsidy fulfill their promises of truly affordable housing, which has allowed me to put more than 500 units of affordable housing in the pipeline for the people of Ward 1.

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needs of our young people so that once they are in class they can focus on learning. Our lowest income students of color have not made the progress they need to.That’s why along with my colleague David Grosso I created the Office of Youth Outcomes, which is now funded at nearly $20m to provide out of school programming for our kids. Mentoring, tutoring and extra-curricular activities will now be widely available at all of our schools and especially for children in need. As the city continues to gentrify what will you do to make living in D.C. more equitable regardless of a resi-

dent’s ward or zip code? Ward 1 is the most diverse ward in the District.That’s why I’ve fought so hard to preserve affordable housing, to create pathways to homeownership so residents can build equity to pass on to the next generation. I’ve created jobs that lead to careers; I’ve supported our youth to stay on the right track. In changing neighborhoods I support longtime residents and business owners, so our neighborhoods do not become unrecognizable to them.We have a long way to go to right the wrongs of our past and even our present, where racism led to the inequities we face today. But I’m committed to that work, and I’m doing it as Councilmember.

Office: D.C. Council Ward 1 / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 54 / Profession: Former D.C. Superior Court Magistrate Judge Campaign Website: loriparkerward1.com

Lori Parker

Why are you running for office? I am running for the Ward 1 seat on the D.C. Council because I believe in my heart we can truly achieve “A Ward 1 for All,” where everyone can benefit and participate in the economic prosperity that exists in the Ward today. To achieveWard1’struepotentialrequiresexperiencedleadership. I’m the only candidate in this race with more than 25 years’ experience serving District residents in all branches of District government, most recently having served for 11 years as a Magistrate Judge on the D.C. Superior Court bench. I have a strong and extensive track record of addressing difficult issues and improving the lives of District residents. What would be one of the first pieces of legislation you would pursue if elected? If elected,one of the first bills I would introduce is a bill to establish a dedicated fund,and regular reporting requirements,for the maintenance and repair of our public housing/DCHAmanaged properties in Ward 1. Everyone in the Ward,regardless of income or ability,deserves to live in safe,decent, and affordable housing. What are your plans to help the school system do a better job at preparing students for college? Submitted by Makeda,Ward 7 Youth Government Representative #GoodTeachersMatter and #Children/YouthFirst! As such,I’m so appreciative for being endorsed by the WashingtonTeachers’ Union. As a former judge and Interim Deputy Mayor for Children, Youth,Families and Elders,I have dedicated the majority of my professional career in ensuring all of our students have the best opportunities for educational success. Through D.C.Council performance and budget oversight,I will hold all public-school system leaders (traditional and charter) accountable for allocating adequate resources that support teachers in preparing our students for successful transitions to post-secondary or career opportunities. How will you hold developers,subsidized by the city,accountable for creating affordable housing? Through D.C. Council oversight,I will ensure that developers receiving any form of public subsidy to build new housing maximize the number of units at 30%-50%AMI for families (40% at 30%AMI,40% at 50%AMI,and 20% at above 50%AMI is the stated policy for use of the Housing ProductionTrust Fund to subsidize new housing developments). This HPTF policy should serve as the affordable housing goals for each new housing development in Ward 1 being subsidized by the city. I would also hold District housing agencies account-

able for monitoring/reporting whether developers are compliant with inclusionary zoning and affordability requirements. How will you work to create more affordable housing units for the District’s lowest income residents and families? I would be a strong advocate for maximizing the number of affordable units at 30%AMI in new housing developments in Ward 1 through public-private partnerships (equitable public land dispositions with discounted land values),private developments receiving public financing (loans and/or grants),housing choice vouchers,low-income tax credits,and/or other tax incentives (abatements and/or tax increment financing). What legislation will you create or support to establish a greener,more sustainable D.C.? I would support a Climate and Community Reinvestment bill to reduce carbon emissions. How will you support or encourage the construction and renovation of housing,expanding funding and improving the application process for the Safe-at-Home program,expanding access to affordable senior rentals, and/or senior property tax relief? Submitted by AARP I will be a strong advocate for the preservation of existing and development of additional permanent supportive housing for seniors; increased funding for programs and services allowing our senior homeowners to age at home; increased property tax relief for senior homeowners; and maximization of the number of affordable senior rentals at 30-50%AMI in new housing developments subsidized by the city. What is your commitment to closing the education and employment gaps for Black and Latino residents in the District? Absolute. I will bring strong and experienced leadership to the D.C.Council,and through performance and budget oversight,hold District agencies accountable for collecting and reporting accurate data on the District’s performance/progress in improving the achievement and employment gaps for Black and Latino residents. As the city continues to gentrify what will you do to make living in D.C.more equitable regardless of a resident’s ward or zip code? As a former judge,interim Deputy Mayor for Children,Youth,Families and Elders,and Mayor’s Liaison to the Family Court of the D.C.Superior Court,I’ve seen firsthand the struggles and challenges that individuals and families go through in all facets of their lives. I’ve also seen how resilient individuals and families are when their needs are addressed in a timely and dignified manner. I’m the only candidate in the Ward 1D.C.Council race with a solid and demonstrable track record for improving the lives of some of our most vulnerable District residents for more than 25 years.

Ward 5 Councilmember Gayle Hall Carley

Office: Ward 5 City Council / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Profession: Mental Health / Ward of Residence: 5 Campaign Website: otegaylecarley.org

Why are you running for office? I am a public servant who’s running for Ward 5 City Council to change DC’s educational and housing system by addressing the disparity that keeps our young hopeless and huddled.

What legislation will you create or support to establish a greener, more sustainable D.C.? I plan to write and support legislation to reduce, reuse, recycle, zero waste, eliminate landfills and carbon emission to establish a greener, more sustainable DC. .

What would be one of the first pieces of legislation you would pursue if elected? The first piece of legislation I’d pursue if elected is reform education and regulate DC Water Authority (WASA).

What are your plans to help the school system do a better job at preparing students for college? Submitted by Makeda, Ward 7 Youth Government Representative To help the school system better prepare students for college, advocate distributing equity and quality among DCPS; access to high quality early learning, quality teachers in all classrooms, raise standards for all students, and ensure we meet students where they are, with tutoring. Legislation that returns oversight and hiring of a superintendent for DCPS to a duly elected school board. How will you hold developers, subsidized by the city, accountable for creating affordable housing? Developers, subsidized by the city, can be held accountable for creating affordable housing by restricting Tax Incentive Financing (TIF) to truly blighted areas and requiring projects to meet community needs for affordable housing. How will you work to create more affordable housing units for the District’s lowest income residents and families? I plan to chair the Housing & Revitalization Committee to ensure the 5.5 million dollars DC receives from HUD annually is not returned but used for its intended purpose; distribute housing vouchers and develop affordable housing. Redefine the term “Affordable Housing” to meet the needs of low-income residents and families.

Kenyan McDuffie

As the city continues to gentrify what will you do to make living in D.C. more equitable regardless of a resident’s ward or zip code? As the City continues to gentrify I plan to work hard to ensure there’s equitable prosperity for everyone in DC regardless of a resident’s ward or zip code. I plan to redefine the term “Affordable Housing” ensure that the most underserved DC residents; struggling with mental health and military veterans have stable housing and employment. I support development without displacing and job preference.

Office: Ward 5 Council / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 42 / Profession: Councilmember / Ward of Residence: 5 Campaign Website: www.kenyanmcduffie2018.com

Why are you running for office? I am proud of what the ward 5 community and I have been able to accomplish since being elected to council in 2012. As author of the NEAR act, we have helped make DC a safer city. I have delivered on the renovation of ward 5 schools and brought two new middle schools to ward 5 families. Revitalizing corridors within the ward like NY Ave, RI Ave, and Bladensberg Rd. and funding the Great and Main Street programs has provided millions in funding for local businesses and created jobs for residents. There is still more for us to do. I am

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What is your commitment to closing the education and employment gaps for Black and Latino residents in the District? My commitment to closing the education and employment gaps for Black and Latino residents in the District begins with the need for jobs and training. My commitment is to hold developers in Ward 5 accountable for employment and apprenticeship preference to unemployed Ward 5 residents. Offer incentives to those lacking a diploma to return to the classroom or gain vocational skills. Advocate for local businesses to offer internships and continue to advocate and award college-bound students scholarships.

running fight for racial equity in our schools and workplaces and to bring our community together. What would be one of the first pieces of legislation you would pursue if elected? If elected my top priority is to continue fighting to ensure the NEAR act is fully funded and implemented. I worked tirelessly authoring this legislation to reduce violence, make policing more transparent, protect children stuck in the juvenile justice system and make our communities safer. I believe fully funding and implementing the NEAR Act will go a long way towards improving life for all

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MCDUFFIE FROM PAGE V-7 residents of the District of Columbia. What are your plans to help the school system do a better job at preparing students for college? Submitted by Makeda, Ward 7 Youth Government Representative Helping the entire family unit understand what it takes to prepare for college is crucial to helping DC students graduate, apply, get accepted to and then attend college. Teaching families/guardians and students what to expect with regard to financial aid, the application process, and providing college counseling will be crucial in helping improve the opportunities available to DC students. How will you hold developers, subsidized by the city, accountable for creating affordable housing? The comprehensive plan places a low percentage for the amount of affordable units that must be created in new construction. I would be willing to work together with developers and communities to increase the percentages. I pride myself on holding parties accountable and I am always willing to look at data to ensure developers are adhering to laws and agreements made with local communities. How will you work to create more affordable housing units for the District’s lowest income residents and families? I pledge to work with communities and developers to increase the recommended affordable housing percentages required of new construction. Increasing the 8% requirement to 20% will go a long way towards improving affordable housing in the District of Columbia. I will also work to protect seniors from rapidly rising property taxes forcing them from their homes. I worked to pass legislation called Short-term Rental Regulation and Affordable Housing Protection Act of 2017. This act limits the owners to creating shortp-term rentals with only their primary residence, thus increasing the long-term housing units available to District residents What legislation will you create or support to establish a greener, more sustainable D.C.? I co-sponsored legislation which requires buildings with 4 or fewer dwelling units to include solar-ready zones, possess sufficient roof load capacity to hold a solar system. This bill also requires commercial properties with 5 or more dwelling units to include an

Joyce Robinson

What would be one of the first pieces of legislation you would pursue if elected? Legislature that advises Seniors that they can stop paying high assessed property values, however when they expire, the family owes accumulated tax assessments with 6% interest attached. Overturn laws that do not honor wills written by seniors, and attach liens for Medicaid paid for homeowner. Stop tax assessors from placing large fees on owner occupied housing causing stress and undue hardship

What are your plans to help the school system do a better job at preparing students for college? Submitted by Makeda, Ward 7 Youth Government Representative The school system has changed and no longer incorporates parents and the community as a vital partner in students’ education. It takes a village to raise a child and taking the parent and community out assures failure. Every child is not going to college, however, they should have a curriculum, that incorpo-

Bradley Thomas

How will you support or encourage the construction and renovation of housing, expanding funding and improving the application process for the Safe-at-Home program, expanding access to affordable senior rentals, and/or senior property tax relief? Submitted by AARP I am committed to improving access and providing additional services for seniors in the District of Columbia. I have worked to create legislation that protects seniors from scams. I believe we must build new housing for all income levels in the District of Columbia. Without new housing being built, it keeps the supply low and forces people out of their neighborhoods as property values rise. What is your commitment to closing the education and employment gaps for Black and Latino residents in the District? From my time as an asst. states attorney to working as a civil rights lawyer at DoJ and then as Ward 5 Councilmember, I have always fought for racial equity and worked to correct disparities particularly seen in minority populations. I pledge to fight for racial equity and to represent those who have been underserved and under-represented. Many of the issues the district faces are systemic. We need livable wages for parents, eradication of food desserts, pre-school and after-school programming for all, de-concentrations of poverty, and better workforce development. Only then can we bring Ward 5 (and our city) together. As the city continues to gentrify what will you do to make living in D.C. more equitable regardless of a resident’s ward or zip code? One of the biggest problems DC faces is the concentration of poverty and the geographical racial segregation. One of the ways this can be improved upon is by creating more inclusive communities and providing more affordable housing units in parts of the city that currently have little to none. I supported legislation that requires district government owned land to have 20% of units be affordable and in cases where they are close to a metro, 30%. I pledge to keep working to provide property tax caps to senior so they may age in their homes as opposed to being forced out by rising property values.

Office: Ward 5 Councilmember / Party Affiliation: Democrat

Why are you running for office? To ensure that Senior Citizens voice is at the table and overturn legislation that is causing Seniors to be gentrified and family homes lose.

on senior citizens.

on-site renewable energy system capable of generating at least 10% of the building’s energy needs. I will work together with community stakeholders and my fellow councilmembers to pass other legislation that helps the district grow it’s renewable energy systems.

rates college readiness, in case they want to go later in life. Vocational and Career Education should be a vital part of students’ education. How will you hold developers, subsidized by the city, accountable for creating affordable housing? Developers, subsidized by the city should be held accountable for creating affordable housing. If they receive funds and do not comply, all monies funded by taxpayers should be refunded or housing should have a lien placed on it until they return funding. How will you work to create more affordable housing units for the District’s lowest income residents and families? The city knows that unless you bring AMI down o 30 percent, very few will qualify. What legislation will you create or support to establish a greener, more sustainable D.C.? Working over 30 years with the Office of the Peoples Counsel gave me a rich knowledge of several factors that work for a greener, sustainable D.C. If the Department of Energy continues to talk and not implement their plan, it will never achieve a green city. There also has to be buy in from the elected officials. The lobbyists have taken over DC Wand the riches companies are the utility companies who take advantage of the consumer of their products.

Office: Ward 5 Councilmember / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Profession: Attorney Campaign Website: www.bradleythomas4dc.com

Why are you running for office? I am running to give Ward 5 responsive and comprehensive representation that takes into account the views and interests of people across the spectrum of the tapestry that makes up the ward in terms of age, race, national origin, gender, sexual orientation and identity, and economic status. What would be one of the first pieces of legislation you would pursue if elected? I would pursue legislation that would return authority over our public schools to an elected school board. What are your plans to help the school system do a better job at preparing students for college? Submitted by Makeda, Ward 7 Youth Government Representative I would ask the elected school board, once in authority, to hire a professional superintendent with a mandate to end the practices of teaching to the test and of rating teachers based on Impact scores. I would also ask and expect the new superintendent to develop a collaborative approach among teachers working with a curriculum that includes art, music, culture, financial literacy and 21st century vocational training. How will you hold developers, subsidized by the city, accountable for creating affordable housing? I would increase the affordable housing set aside, under our Inclusionary Zoning law, to double the current 8 to 10 % requirement and I would expand that set aside to include balanced shares of 80%, 60%, 50% and 30% of Median Family Income (MFI) qualified residents so that we have more economically diverse communities as opposed to enclaves of prosperity in some neighborhoods contrasted by pockets of poverty in others. How will you work to create more affordable housing units for the District’s lowest income residents and families? As indicated in the previous answer, I would expand Inclusionary Zoning to require 15% to 20% set asides for housing affordable to people at the 80%, 60%, 50% and 30% MFI levels. What legislation will you create or support to establish a greener, more sustainable D.C.? I would consider legislation that would require a certain percentage of green space for every so many square feet of develop-

ment. That percentage, as I envision it, would be smaller in the center city and greater as we pan out from the center. Of course, stakeholder engagement being very important, I would incorporate into the legislation a methodology for local neighborhoods, perhaps though the affected Advisory Neighborhood Commissions, to have input into the parameters of this mandate, giving residents a voice in requests to deviate from the formula on a case by case basis. How will you support or encourage the construction and renovation of housing, expanding funding and improving the application process for the Safe-at-Home program, expanding access to affordable senior rentals, and/or senior property tax relief? Submitted by AARP I would insist that all new construction be ADA compliant and I would simplify the Safe-At-Home application process by supporting legislation that would establish every public library and certain strategically located public school buildings as centers at which seniors can get assistance in applying for that program as well as property tax relief and rental housing assistance. At each such location, there would be computer terminals and trained staff to assist in the process and I would even consider pairing seniors with high school students who could earn graduation credits by assisting students with their applications. What is your commitment to closing the education and employment gaps for Black and Latino residents in the District? I am very committed to closing those gaps. We can start, as I stated in response to earlier questions, by returning autonomy over the school system to an elected school board and hiring a professional superintendent. We should also incentivize teachers to teach in Title 1 schools and, through tax incentives and housing vouchers, to actually live in financially challenged neighborhoods in close proximity to underserved schools. On employment, we can start with amending our criminal code to expand the process of sealing criminal records for those who have paid their debt to society, so they can escape the trap of permanent unemployability. As the city continues to gentrify what will you do to make living in D.C. more equitable regardless of a resident’s ward or zip code? I would push for the establishment of more economic opportunity zones in which business, particularly those which provide “green jobs”, are incentivized to locate in traditionally depressed neighborhoods and hire local residents. I would also see that school resources are distributed more equitably so that students and neighborhood residents will have access to those resources no matter what neighborhood they happen to reside in. And I would open, and fund not notch recreation centers in all wards of the city.

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Ward 6 Councilmember Charles Allen

Office: DC Council, Ward 6 / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 41 / Profession: Councilmember Campaign Website: www.charlesallen2018.com

Why are you running for office? I am running for re-election so that residents can always call Ward 6 neighborhoods home, focusing on affordable housing, education, and criminal justice reform. On affordable housing, we’ve added 1500 new homes since 2015 with 2100 more on the way, but it’s still not enough and we must do more. On education, I’ve added more than $200 million to modernize Ward 6 school facilities and fought to get much-needed resources into our classrooms. On criminal justice reform, I am working on the most significant reform of our youth laws in more than 30 years, and will continue implementing the NEAR Act, a public health approach to violence reduction. What would be one of the first pieces of legislation you would pursue if elected? When I was first elected in 2014, the first bill I introduced was to create the Books from Birth program in an effort to close the word gap for children who may have no other access to books before beginning school. In the two years DC Public Library has had the program up and running, we’ve delivered over 450,000 books to children from birth to age 5 across the District, with 83% of kids in target neighborhoods enrolled. As more and more Books from Birth “graduates” enter our schools, I expect this investment in early literacy will help close the “achievement gap” for students who might otherwise have not had access to books at home. What are your plans to help the school system do a better job at preparing students for college? Submitted by Makeda, Ward 7 Youth Government Representative In the wake of the reports highlighting attendance and graduation policy violations, it’s crucial that we work to restore trust in our schools and continue striving to ensure every senior is college or career ready. I believe that starts with transparency and engagement. Parents, educators, and communities should be true partners in the success of our schools and have a stronger voice in setting goals, evaluating leaders, and providing input. Every parent should have confidence that our graduates have earned their diplomas, and at Council we must keep asking the hard questions of our citywide school leaders about where we’re falling short. How will you hold developers, subsidized by the city, accountable for creating affordable housing? We need to find ways to move funds more quickly through the Housing Production Trust Fund, so that we’re not just banking millions of dollars that could be put to work more quickly housing families, while also ensuring that the District government is closely overseeing these investments and targeting them to extremely low-income households. Another approach is through the Comprehensive Plan update, where we must focus on affordable housing creation and preservation, affordability at a variety of unit sizes, and reducing displacement at every entry point. I am working with colleagues to review and prepare Comp Plan amendments to this effect. How will you work to create more affordable housing units for the District’s lowest income residents and families? In Ward 6, I have a track record of using my leadership to deliver new affordable housing. We’re leading the way with more than 1,500 new affordable homes created in the last 3 years and over 2,100 more on the way, more than any oth-

Lisa Hunter

What legislation will you create or support to establish a greener, more sustainable D.C.? I authored the Commission on Climate Change and Resiliency Establishment Act, led the effort to divest DC’s retirement and pension fund from carbon and fossil fuel investments, and introduced the Distributed Energy Resources Authority Act to shift energy consumption to renewables generated here. I authored the Tree Canopy Protection Act and led the effort to revitalize Kingman and Heritage Islands. I support the Put a Price on It campaign, placing a fee on carbon emissions, and am moving legislation to expand access to solar power. I led the effort declaring 2018 the Year of the Anacostia in honor of the Anacostia River’s revitalization. How will you support or encourage the construction and renovation of housing, expanding funding and improving the application process for the Safe-at-Home program, expanding access to affordable senior rentals, and/or senior property tax relief? Submitted by AARP Working to ensure seniors can always call Ward 6 home is a priority for me. I authored the Safe at Home Act to help low-income seniors and persons with disabilities age in place by providing grants to modify their homes to better accommodate them. I’ve led on ensuring DC is constructing senior-specific affordable housing. When I first started on the Council, I helped our Hill East neighbors stop a controversial construction project, requiring it go back to the drawing board to focus on creating units for seniors. By bringing together the community, we are now planning a project that will bring market-rate and affordable housing for seniors. What is your commitment to closing the education and employment gaps for Black and Latino residents in the District? I believe we should apply an equity lens to every decision we make as a government to address the District’s significant economic inequality. In education, that means a commitment to additional funding for the students who need it most, interrupting the school-to-prison pipeline, and programs like Books from Birth to ensure every child is ready for school. In employment, I led the fight for a $15 minimum wage for all DC workers, am working to ensure fair access to career opportunities by reforming our record sealing and expungement laws and sponsor a twice-yearly career fair that connects residents seeking jobs to actual employment. As the city continues to gentrify what will you do to make living in D.C. more equitable regardless of a resident’s ward or zip code? The current process underway to amend the city’s Comprehensive Plan is a powerful opportunity to help guide the District’s growth and prioritize equity. The lens I will bring to the review will focus on land use choices that create and preserve affordable housing, avoid displacement, invest in more equitable transportation choices, aggressively pursue sustainability and resiliency policies, and create more geographic equity and access in job creation. On affordable housing in particular, we must focus on creation and preservation, a variety of unit sizes, and reducing displacement.

Office: DC Council, Ward 6 / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 33 / Ward of Residence: 6 Campaign Website: www.lisaforward6.com

Why are you running for office? I am running because our current council member is leaving too many of our neighbors behind.We have some of the widest health, racial and economic disparities in the nation, right here in Ward 6, and they have continued to grow over the last four years.There are shiny new condos everywhere, yet our affordable housing crisis is the worst it has ever been. Our schools are underfunded, and too many of our public housing units are in disrepair. I have seen too many neighbors forced to leave their homes because the cost of living continues to rise. It is time for us to elect leaders who work for their neighbors, not wealthy developer donors. What would be one of the first pieces of legislation you would pursue if elected? I would immediately move to ban taxpayer subsidies for commercial development and require that all taxpayer money used to subsidize housing be used to build truly affordable housing - units that all of our neighbors can afford, including units that are large enough to accommodate families. Recent projects in Ward 6 such as The Wharf were given permission by the DC Council to skirt affordability requirements, so those projects served to displace residents, not help them remain in our community. It is immoral for the DC Council to be subsidizing the displacement of our neighbors from their longtime communities, and it stops with me What are your plans to help the school system do a better job at preparing students for college? Submitted by Makeda, Ward 7 Youth Government Representative Our DC Council has not conducted appropriate oversight of our schools, so we’ve learned about most issues because reporters have uncovered them. I would start by making sure the Council is regularly conducting oversight to identify problems before they become crises. I would also fund our schools based on what teachers are telling us they need. I am the only former teacher running in Ward 6, and I know how hard it is to be successful when you don’t have the resources to do your job. We are funding our schools at a lower level in real dollars now than we were 10 years ago, because the Council hasn’t made education a priority. That must change. How will you hold developers, subsidized by the city, accountable for creating affordable housing? I would require mandatory disclosure of all campaign contributions made by developers to the DC Council. My opponent, Charles Allen, has taken almost $25,000 from developer executives this year, because they know they can count on him. Over the last four years he allowed developers to gut the affordable housing requirements at The Wharf and has voted against tens of millions of dollars in funding for affordable housing. His developer donors got what they paid for.That ends with me. I will require that any taxpayer subsidies given to developers be used ONLY to fund truly affordable housing - housing that our neighbors can actually afford. How will you work to create more affordable housing units for the District’s lowest income residents and families? We can create more affordable housing units if we elect leaders who make it a priority. Last year my opponent,

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er Ward in our city. I also champion the creation of larger units, such as the effort I led to convert the new construction at 13th & H Streets, NE into 100% affordable homes, all with 2 or 3 bedrooms. And when affordable housing is being redeveloped, I am a leading voice to deliver for long-time residents, such as at Greenleaf Gardens in Southwest, where I’m leading a “Build First” effort to prevent displacement.

Charles Allen, voted to cut the corporate tax rate and the estate tax. Those two votes constitute hundreds of millions of dollars in giveaways to the ultra-wealthy over time. I would immediately reverse those tax cuts and redirect that revenue to addressing our affordable housing and homelessness crises. Budgets are moral documents, and the way we spend our tax dollars reflects our values. I believe we should be using our taxpayer dollars to help the most vulnerable among us, not to give tax breaks to ultra-rich campaign donors. What legislation will you create or support to establish a greener, more sustainable D.C.? I support establishing a carbon fee and rebate program to incentivize use of renewable energy sources. I differ from my opponent in that I would scale this program so it does not impose financial stress on low-income residents who live paycheck to paycheck and cannot afford an increase in their monthly expenses. I also support full mandatory funding for REDF and SETF programs to expand the use of clean energy in DC. How will you support or encourage the construction and renovation of housing, expanding funding and improving the application process for the Safe-at-Home program, expanding access to affordable senior rentals, and/or senior property tax relief? Submitted by AARP I am the only candidate running in Ward 6 who will not give taxpayer subsidies to commercial developers, and I would redirect those funds to incentivize construction of truly affordable housing, including for seniors. I would increase funding for Safe-at-Home so requests are filled more quickly, and provide the recommended $40 million needed for basic maintenance and repairs on our public housing stock, so residents are not displaced due to unsafe conditions. I would offer property tax relief to longtime residents who are struggling to age in place, and tax credits for seniors in historic districts so they can afford to maintain their homes. What is your commitment to closing the education and employment gaps for Black and Latino residents in the District? As a Latina raised in a mixed household,the daughter of parents who rose from poverty to achieve success,I was raised to understand how fortunate I am,and taught to fight so that others are able to achieve success.It’s why I dedicated my life to service,first in the Peace Corps,and later the Obama administration.DC has one of the widest opportunity gaps in the nation,and we can begin to address it by adequately funding our schools,including special needs and language access programs,but also investing in housing so students have safe,stable housing.We must also invest in job training and require that all developers hire local. As the city continues to gentrify what will you do to make living in D.C. more equitable regardless of a resident’s ward or zip code? Nobody should be forced to leave their community to find work, housing, or basic services. I fully commit to funding projects that provide all of our residents with access to healthy affordable foods, health care, reliable public transit, and local jobs. This means shifting the DC Council’s priorities from subsidizing new condos that nobody can afford to live in, to investing in our communities and our neighbors who are already here. We must use taxpayer subsidies only for projects that benefit our neighborhoods by providing affordable housing or public amenities such as grocery stores and require that those developers and stores hire local.

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Michael Bekesha

Office: Ward 5 Councilmember / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Profession: Attorney Campaign Website: www.bradleythomas4dc.com

Why are you running for office? Every single member of the 13-person DC council is a Democrat. That’s unacceptable. It lends to groupthink. It creates an echo chamber. And it results in a real lack of accountability. Corruption breeds more easily in a one-party system, So, I want to change that. DC is extremely diverse, both in socioeconomic status but also in ideas. Having a one-party Democratic council does not represent DC residents. It also doesn’t lead to new, innovative ideas. There is no member on the council willing to question or challenge the other members. This must change. So, I am running because it’s time for new ideas and a fresh perspective on the Council. What would be one of the first pieces of legislation you would pursue if elected? I would introduce legislation to change our elections from partisan to nonpartisan. I am running because the one-party system that DC currently is not working. There is less accountability and fewer ideas. We need fresh perspectives and new solutions. As long as we have a one-party system, DC will never reach its full potential. What are your plans to help the school system do a better job at preparing students for college? Submitted by Makeda, Ward 7 Youth Government Representative Every student learns in different ways and at different speeds. We need to stop teaching every student in the same way. We need to localize our schools. We need to ensure that individual schools, its administrators, and its teachers have the resources necessary to best prepare the students at their schools for college. We also need to make sure students are on the path early on. If a student us already behind in 6th grade or even 9th grade, it is very difficult to prepare him or her for college in that shorter period of time. So, we need to invest more in our elementary school educations. How will you hold developers, subsidized by the city, accountable for creating affordable housing? By sitting down and talking to them.To ensure everyone who wants to live in DC can, we need to work with all stakeholders.Talking to the developers and the landlords.The renters and the home buyers.The banks, the community groups, and our small

businesses.We need to hear from everyone.We need to understand where people want to live, how they want to live, and what they can reasonably pay to live there.We also need to hear what it takes to build, manage, and maintain housing in the District. We know there is shortage of housing, especially affordable housing.We need to all work together to find a solution. How will you work to create more affordable housing units for the District’s lowest income residents and families? We cannot continue to build large, isolated housing complexes. Housing is only truly affordable when it is easily accessible to jobs, schools, daycare, supermarkets, health facilities, commercial services, public transportation, and green space. If housing is placed away from such essentials, residents must spend considerable time and resources gaining access to them. We therefore need to ensure that housing is being developed in ways in which residents do not have to spend time and resources finding employment, education, and food. Our goal should be to create more housing on the approximately 849 acres of underutilized sites throughout DC. What is your commitment to closing the education and employment gaps for Black and Latino residents in the District? I believe nonprofits and volunteers can have as meaningful and successful impact on our neighbors’ lives as government programs. As DC continues to grow, we must find new, innovative ways to enable everyone who wants to live in DC, who dreams of working here, and who seeks to make it his or her home can. We must therefore do a better job supporting our nonprofit and volunteer communities. We should find additional ways to support the literally dozens, if not hundreds, of organizations in DC helping close the education and employment gaps in the District. As the city continues to gentrify what will you do to make living in D.C. more equitable regardless of a resident’s ward or zip code? The best way to make DC more equitable regardless of a resident’s ward or zip code is to ensure everyone gets the education they need and everyone has the necessary resources available to them. Unfortunately, our current elected officials focus on their own pet projects that benefit a select few. They listen to only those who think the way they do. They only legislate in the present and do not consider how the new laws may impact future growth. I don’t have all the answers. Nor do I claim to. But I have a different perspective. Another way to look at problems and propose more efficient and effective solutions.

Attorney General Office: Attorney General / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 55 / Profession: Lawyer Ward of Residence: 1 / Campaign Website: www.karlracine.com

Karl A. Racine

Why are you running for this office?As the District of Columbia’s first elected Attorney General, I fight for residents every day. Since my election in 2014, I have built an independent office, led the way on justice reform, cracked down on slumlords, stopped scammers, and stood up to President Trump. There’s still work to do—and that’s why I am running for re-election. Is there any state law that you would like to see be eliminated or changed? The Office of the Attorney General has the power to introduce legislation, and we have done so – and will continue to do so -- when we have seen that current law is inadequate to safeguard the interests of District residents. In our first four years we have introduced legislation to reform campaign finance laws, enhance protections for District consumers and crack down on dangerous synthetic drugs. If elected, what will be the priorities of the office? I will build on the work my office is already doing to reform the juvenile justice system and help young people get on the right path, preserve affordable housing and protect tenants, and protect District residents from scams, fraud, and abuse. My priorities will include: • Using a public health approach to reducing violence. • Expanding my work on affordable housing and wage theft, and bring cases in new areas such as environmental protection and civil rights. • Standing up against harmful Trump administration actions that would roll back reproductive rights, LGBTQ rights, protections for immigrants, and more.

How will you work around federal limitations on the office to enact your priorities? I will continue to work to make sure the District is able, in spite of federal interference, to enact policies that reflect our values. In my first term, I provided legal advice that helped the city set up an immigrant legal defense fund that could withstand Congressional attack, and helped make sure the city’s marijuana legalization initiative took effect. I have also moved forward with juvenile justice system reforms while leading other attorneys general from around the country in challenging harmful and unlawful Trump actions, such as the Muslim ban and rollbacks of protections for consumers, the environment and reproductive rights. Where do you stand on the issue of commercialization of marijuana in the District? In order for the District to be able to regulate, tax and commercialize marijuana, we need to be free from Congressional interference. This is why I am a strong supporter of statehood and self-determination for the District. We should be allowed to make decisions about important local issues at the local level. How will you combat violent crime in the city? As the District’s chief juvenile prosecutor, I have implemented data-driven programs that are smart on crime and put young people on the right path, instead of outdated strategies that fail to make communities safer and disproportionately affect the poor and people of color. In the future, we will build on the progress we’ve made by: • Increasing referrals to effective diversion programs; • Expanding our “restorative justice” program that resolves conflicts and aims to repair the harm caused by crime; • Expanding participation in “treatment court” programs, like ones we have helped to develop that address substance abuse and sex trafficking.

Statehood Delegation Michael D. Brown

Office: United States Senator / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 64 / Profession: United States Senator (DC) Ward of Residence: 3 / Campaign Website: www.michealdbrown2018.com

Why are you running for office? To complete the work I started 12 years ago. When I was elected, DC worked to get just one vote in the House of Representatives now we work for full equality through statehood. I’ve played an important role in this transition. I helped write a new constitution, get a statehood referendum on the ballot and get DC statehood put back in the national Democratic Platform. I helped get a record number of cosponsors for statehood in the US Senate and I get more than 400,000 hits a year on the internet. I am a co-founder of the DC Statehood Coalition and have opinion pieces on statehood in more than 20 national publications. It’s time to become #51. How will you expand on the District’s current efforts for statehood? Through national and international outreach. I started an internet radio show three years ago that now reaches more than 400,000 a

year. In addition, I have created a website for Social Studies teachers that uses examples from the struggle for DC statehood to teach students about civil rights. I just returned from an international conference where I addressed participants from more than 70 nations and last year I got 42 international organization to pass a resolution in support of DC statehood. I also have an effective social media program reaching thousands every week. 80% of people in the world don’t know our situation, I am changing that. In your opinion, what is the most pressing issue facing the District as it relates to statehood? How will you tackle it? On Capitol Hill DC Statehood has become a strictly partisan issue., Even though we have a record number of cosponsors on a statehood bill in both houses of Congress, all 181 of them are Democrats. For statehood to become a reality, we need more widespread support. Last month my office reached out to four Republican offices in the US Senate to begin a dialog about our pending legislation. So far we have met with three of these offices and are continuing to communicate with them in the hope of

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BROWN FROM PAGE V-10 forming relationships leading to bipartisan support with Senate Republicans for our statehood bill. This is essential to the success of DC Statehood. What can be added to the District’s current strategy that will move the issue of statehood along? There are two things that we need. More resources and more activism. I have been arrested, gone

Andria Thomas

Office: United States Senator / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 43 / Profession: Strategy Advisor Ward of Residence: 6 / Campaign Website: https://at4dc.com

Why are you running for office? I am fed up with how Congress interferes with our local laws, like gun regulations that keep guns out of our schools and help keep our kids safe. I am fed up with not having two Senators and a Representative to call when federal laws are being determined. Laws that impact health care. Or our taxes. Or whether our drinking water remains clean. I am running for Shadow Senator because it offers a platform for advocating strongly, on the Hill and across the country, to defend DC rights and to demand the statehood that we deserve. How will you expand on the District’s current efforts for statehood? I want to bring a modern and strategic approach to our fight for statehood. We need new national partners who both sign up in name and commit real resources, in money and people time, to helping build state-by-state efforts. We need dramatically more funding for a statehood effort, which we should be seeking from private and public sources. And we need more professional and sustained advocacy efforts, with strategic social media plans, to remind people and Congress that lack of statehood is fundamentally voter suppression. As Shadow Senator, I will work with statehood partners to achieve these goals.

Franklin Garcia

to trial and been removed from congressional hearings in protest of our lack of equal rights. We need more of this. It’s been seven years since 71 of us were arrested for statehood in one week. When we get 7,100 arrested in a week we will be on our way to finally getting statehood. In addition since promoting activism nationally and locally requires funding, we need to dedicate more resources to our effort. Surely a city with a 14 billion dollar budget can dedicate more than just a few hundred thousand dollars to securing our basic civil rights.

In your opinion, what is the most pressing issue facing the District as it relates to statehood? How will you tackle it? The most urgent issue I see is our lack of full voting representation - meaning two Senators and a Representative - in Congress. A single non-voting Representative is not enough. Without this voice and leverage in both the House and Senate, we will always be subject to Congressional interference, and we will lack the ability to self-govern, control our budget, and negotiate against federal control in other areas such as our criminal justice system. Tackling it means focusing our efforts on statehood, because two voting Senators for DC will be the hardest goal to achieve. But one worth fighting for. What can be added to the District’s current strategy that will move the issue of statehood along? 1) To activate a broader group of committed volunteers in DC: Tying the #HandsOffDC movement more explicitly to statehood. Far more people turn out to defend against Congressional interference because it feels more relevant to their lives, but we aren’t fully tapping that frustration. 2) To expand our allies to businesses and institutions: Analyzing the financial implications and creating the “business case” for statehood. Too many people still see statehood as financially unrealistic. We know this isn’t true, but need to show it. 3) To fund a national advocacy effort: Seeking substantial commitments of funding from outside donors.

Office: U.S. Representative / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 48 / Profession: Technology Professional Ward of Residence: 5 / Campaign Website: www.franklinfordc.com

Why are you running for office? To help bring full democracy to the residents of Washington DC by helping DC become the 51st state.

it relates to statehood? How will you tackle it? No OFFICIAL recognition of anyone from Washington DC in the US Senate.

How will you expand on the District’s current efforts for statehood? By continuing to engage people in the city, outside the city, the international community, and a heavy media campaign on the issue of DC Statehood.

What can be added to the District’s current strategy that will move the issue of statehood along? Invest more in the unified effort of all the local grassroots groups, which are doing a very good job. Have clear designated “missionaries” deliver the message of DC Statehood across the nation. Engage media experts to engage in national campaign.

In your opinion, what is the most pressing issue facing the District as

Delegate, US House of Representatives Kim R. Ford

Office: Delegate, U.S. House of Representatives / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 37 / Profession: Education and Workforce Development Executive / Ward of Residence: 5 / Campaign Website: https://kimford4congress.com/

Why are you running for office? My mother, Dietra L. Ford, was a lifelong public servant who taught me the importance of service. As a native Washingtonian, I’ve seen DC change and while economic growth has skyrocketed, too many DC residents get left behind. I am running for Congress because I see possibilities, not limitations. I learned in the Obama Administration the power of government and as Dean at UDC’s Community College, I saw how government can truly change lives. We can open pathways for residents and businesses, reverse federal control over local matters and solve regional issues - while being incredibly visible in the community. What will your legislative priorities be if you are elected? 1. Provide tangible outcomes on the road to statehood – we need someone with the ability to garner support on both sides of the aisle. 2. Utilize the federal government to the District’s advantage – view it as an asset. We can pilot student loan forgiveness and internship programs. 3. Ensure all federal funds are spent – so we can leverage additional federal resources. 4. Establish a permanent Capital Regional Caucus for DC, MD and VA – we need to work together instead of competing with one another. 5. Redefine federal constituent services – establish a visible, active, and a responsive Delegate’s office. What would be one of the first pieces of legislation you would pursue if elected? In addition to a Statehood Bill, I would work to amend the Revitalization Act and introduce a student loan forgiveness program. This trio of legislation reflects my values and record of increasing equality and leveling playing fields. The pains of not being a state have cascading consequences in DC. Men and women in the criminal justice system lack support systems and programming because they are in the federal system. Lastly, we have an entire generation of people who are “stuck” because they don’t have the credentials to move forward and can’t go back to school because they have outstanding debt. What are your plans to move the District’s statehood bills along in the House and Senate? Despite in recent history having Democratic control of the House, Senate, and Presidency, we have not secured statehood. Our single-party, “statehood or nothing” strategy has failed. As a past board member of DC Vote, I saw first-hand how critical it is to work with ALL Representatives in Congress. Statehood will require bi-partisan support, which the movement does not presently have, though there has been bi-partisan support in the past. As we prepare for a new wave of leaders in Congress, it’s important to have someone to foster and capitalize on new relationships and a willingness to work across the aisle. What can be added to the District’s current strategy that will move the issue of statehood along? In addition

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to lobbying Members we can educate them and their constituents about the extent of our inequality. Members understand DC based on the route from their apartments to Capitol parking lots. They don’t see our neighborhoods or our citizens. They don’t see the diversity of our Wards or the families that have built this city for generations. If all they know of DC is a caricature, they can’t understand the ways in which our status creates inequities. They live here, we can engage them in the real DC and ask, no, demand that they strengthen their conviction for statehood. As the city continues to gentrify what will you do to make living in D.C. more equitable regardless of a resident’s ward or zip code? My legislative priorities will focus on maximizing federal support in the key areas such as, education, workforce development, housing and justice matters. When DC residents do not have the skills or credentials to obtain a family sustaining wage in a growing global economy, then they are pushed out of the city. Without a family sustaining wage, residents who are forced to leave are shrouded in hopelessness and can begin a dangerous domino effect that leads to the justice system.This is preventable. I plan to solve this problem by legislating wins that support a system of lifelong learning.

INITIATIVE MEASURE NO. 77 District of Columbia Minimum Wage Amendment Act 2017 If enacted, this initiative will: • Gradually increase the minimum wage in the District of Columbia to $15.00 hourly by 2020; • Gradually increase the minimum wage for tipped employees so that they receive the same minimum wage directly from their employer as other employees by 2026; • Beginning in 2021, require the minimum wage to increase yearly in proportion to increases in the Consumer Price Index. The minimum wage increases under the initiate will not apply to DC. Government employees or employees of D.C. Government contractors.

n YES, to approve

2018 WASHINGTON INFORMER VOTER’S GUIDE / www.washingtoninformer.com

n NO, to reject

Eleanor Holmes Norton

Office: Delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 81 / Profession: Member of Commerce / Ward of Residence: 6 / Campaign Website: www.dcforeleanor.com

Why are you running for office? I will be in a position to use my seniority to do much more for DC as chair of a committee or subcommittee, if as expected, Democrats take the House. I have brought home many benefits for my D.C. constituents but almost always without the extraordinary power that a chairmanship and Democratic control of Congress would give me. DC has never had a Member of Congress with as much seniority and potential to advance the city. DC is now on the cusp of achieving real and substantial power in Congress if I am reelected to Congress in 2018. What will your legislative priorities be if you are elected? First, if Democrats take control the House, I will seek a vote on my DC statehood bill. I also will have a home rule package ready, as the most immediate strategy for getting more quickly at least the most important elements of statehood-budget

autonomy, and legislative autonomy. Second, I am in line to chair a committee or subcommittee with direct jurisdiction over Metro. I am preparing packages to reauthorize ten additional years of capital improvement funding for much needed repair and rehabilitation of Metro. In addition, for the first time, I also will ask for annual operating funds for Metro. What would be one of the first pieces of legislation you would pursue if elected? I have gotten most Democrats as co-sponsors (many as original co-sponsors, who co-sponsor the bill along with me when I first introduce my DC statehood bill). I will get the few Democrats who have not yet co-sponsored, and I’ll increase the number of original co-sponsors. I also will increase the number of Senate co-sponsors. This is part of a careful strategy that maximizes Democratic congressional strength while Republicans, who do not favor DC statehood, control Congress and the White House. What are your plans to move the District’s statehood bills along in the House and Senate? However, Republicans are not our only obstacles. My greatest frustration are polls showing most Americans think DC residents have the same rights they do. Increased use of social media will be necessary to educate the public sufficiently to move a statehood bill in the Congress. Although many residents, including me, a prolific user of social media, District residents have no coordinated DC statehood messaging on social media. What can be added to the District’s current strategy that will move the issue of statehood along? However, I have repeatedly encouraged residents to develop a regular, systematic social media DC statehood strategy, the only practical way to get beyond the District to the entire country, without funds. Short of violating House and Ethics Rules, I will ask residents with the requisite skills to meet with me and ask them to form a statehood social media group. As the city continues to gentrify what will you do to make living in D.C. more equitable regardless of a resident’s ward or zip code? To fight back against gentrification, I have made some hard-fought incremental progress for affordable housing. The District’s affordable housing crisis is compounded by the federal height limit that keeps DC from building above a few stories, about 130 feet to protect the historic vistas in the nation’s capital. Nevertheless, I have achieved some funding for affordable housing, including community development funding for new affordable apartments in ward 8; $ 7.8 million in addition, in the 2018 omnibus appropriation, I got a 3% increase in Section 8 housing for moderate income families.

Bruce Majors Office: Delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives / Party Affiliation: Libertarian / Age: 59 / Profession: Realtor Ward of Residence: 2 / Campaign Website: https://www.facebook.com/Bruce-Majors-Libertarian-for-Delegate-472478469821101/

Why are you running for office? D.C. has suffered for too long from corruption and pay to play politics benefitting only the politically connected, and from a lack of political choice or competition. What will your legislative priorities be if you are elected? Expanding school choice; protecting the independence of charter schools; ending the radically unequal funding of charter school, traditional public school, and voucher students; eliminating programs that kill jobs and businesses. What would be one of the first pieces of legislation you would pursue if elected? Getting rid of professional licensure, especially regulations that prevent residents who do not have college degrees from starting businesses and creating jobs. What are your plans to move the District’s statehood bills along in the House and Senate? I think we should highlight any gains in getting D.C.’s own house in order, to make it clear we deserve to be represented, and that such offices won’t just be new high paid sinecures for our local political class. What can be added to the District’s current strategy that will move the issue of statehood along? I can’t discern a strategy that D.C. has now. Other movements change people’s hearts and minds by pointing out that everyone has a family member impacted. D.C. should figure out how to copy that strategy. As the city continues to gentrify what will you do to make living in D.C. more equitable regardless of a resident’s ward or zip code? We need to end the practice of giving slots in schools, and in higher end “affordable” housing, to the politically connected. We need to allow growth and expansion of opportunities by getting rid of laws and regulations that prevent them.

www.washingtoninformer.com / 2018 WASHINGTON INFORMER VOTER’S GUIDE

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Maryland candidates / 2018 Governor of Maryland Rushern L. Baker III

Office: Governor of Maryland / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 59 / Profession: County Executive of Prince George’s County Residency: Cheverly, Maryland / Campaign Website: www.rushernbaker.com

What do you consider the largest statewide issue and what’s your proposal to either eliminate it, or improve it? Submitted by CAMP SPRINGS CIVIC ASSOCIATION As governor, my number one priority will be education. As a kid, I struggled with reading, got into fights often, and was kicked out of many schools. If it weren’t for my loving parents and dedicated teachers, I would not have had the opportunity to be the first in my family to graduate college. I know that fully funding schools is the first step to ensuring that every student in our state has the same opportunities I had. I will prioritize fully funding our schools in order to increase teacher salaries; create more dual-enrollment programs; expand universal pre-k and full-day kindergarten. The same as I did as County Executive. Do you agree with state lawmakers approving more than $6 billion in tax incentives for the Amazon HQ2 proposed project? Explain. When it comes to Amazon’s HQ2, I have been publicly supportive of Montgomery County’s bid for the White Flint area, and have publicaly supported the Governor’s incentive package. I firmly believe that if Amazon’s HQ2 locates anywhere in the DMV it will have a tremendously positive ripple effect throughout the area. Our interconnectivity as a region is a strength that has not been played often enough when approaching massive regional opportunities. According to realtytrac.com, the foreclosure rate in Maryland ranked fourth in the nation in March. What plans do you have to provide affordable housing and decrease foreclosures? The central focus of my Transforming Neighborhoods Initiative (TNI) was to bolster communities in the county that face economic, educational and public safety challenges. As part of this initiative, we made significant investment in affordable housing. As governor, I will expand TNI throughout the state. Another program I have proposed to address this issue is the path to homeownership program, a part of my ‘Uplift Baltimore” plan. This program. would rehabilitate and build state-of-the-art green housing and create opportunities for homeownership that don’t depend on credit history, savings, or other historic impediments to wealth building. What proposal do you have to boost affordable housing for seniors? Affordable, high-quality, housing options—

Ben Jealous

Prince George’s County educators.

Should recreational marijuana be allowed in Maryland and why? I support legalizing marijuana in a thoughtful way that provides equity in all communities. As Governor, I will put forward plans for entrepreneurship that reach communities devastated by the bias of our past drug policies. A significant portion of tax revenue from sales of marijuana for adult use should be directed for education, career development, child care, housing, and other restorative initiatives for the people locked up for simple possession or who paid fines, or lost jobs due to past laws. I will champion a plan for mass expungement that puts little to no burden on those prosecuted under our past marijuana possession laws. Do you support the measure approved recently by Maryland lawmakers to put an armed school resource officer in every public school? Explain. I do not support arming teachers. As County Executive, I worked hard with Maryland’s former Governor Martin O’Malley and the General Assembly to pass some of the nation’s strictest gun-licensing laws, including requiring fingerprinting for gun buyers, new limits on firearm purchases by the mentally ill, and bans on assault weapons and on magazines that hold more than 10 bullets. This past November, I called for a nationwide ban on assault weapons. We owe it to the victims and the families of gun violence to create responsible gun policies. Some criminal justice reform advocates believe additional funding given to police should be diverted for other mental health or social welfare uses. Briefly explain your opinion on whether police departments should receive millions of dollars solely for guns and other weapons to fight crime? Our criminal justice system is broken.We don’t need to prosecute crimes of poverty and addiction; we need to provide economic and educational opportunities for all communities,support re-entry programs that offer second chances to returning citizens and create better,more effective police-community relations.As governor,I will fully review the entire budget and allocate resources in order to create safer communities.

Office: Governor of Maryland / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 45 / Profession: Former National President & CEO of the NAACP and Partner at Kapor Capital / Residency: Anne Arundel County / Campaign Website: www.benjealous.com

What do you consider the largest statewide issue and what’s your proposal to either eliminate it, or improve it? Submitted by CAMP SPRINGS CIVIC ASSOCIATION Our schools have fallen from 1st to 6th, and fully funding education is the largest statewide issue. When we shortchange education today, we shortchange our economy tomorrow. I’m the only candidate to release a detailed plan for universal pre-k, raising teacher pay, and ensuring that more funding reaches our poorest schools and districts. I want to ensure every child graduates high school ready for a career. I’ve been endorsed by the Maryland State Education Association, including receiving the overwhelming support of

Do you agree with state lawmakers approving more than $6 billion in tax incentives for the Amazon HQ2 proposed project? Explain. As a businessman, I do not believe the best way to grow our economy is by passing on tax incentives to billion dollar corporations, especially one that has at times paid no federal taxes. We have to change our mindset to creating more opportunities to invest in our small businesses and entrepreneurs already in Maryland. It’s inexcusable we haven’t found the same courage to fully fund our schools and help build an educated workforce for the careers we currently need filled right here in Maryland. We don’t have a shortage of jobs, we have a shortage of young people we have trained for the jobs we have. According to realtytrac.com, the foreclosure rate in Maryland ranked fourth in the nation in March. What plans do you have to provide affordable housing and decrease foreclosures? The first step is making sure that everyone is paid a fair wage. I’m committed to ensuring a living wage for all Marylanders to ensure that they can afford Maryland’s standard of living. I’ve put out an economic development plan called Great Cities, which is on my website, benjealous.com that outlines how we can provide quality, affordable housing opportunities for all Marylanders. As governor, I will develop a set of programs that will help homeowners stay in their homes by paying for necessary repairs or adaptive modifications. I will also provide state funds for rent assistance and expand our affordable housing strategy. What proposal do you have to boost affordable housing for seniors? I’ve released a plan directed towards seniors which you can see on benjealous.com to make sure that seniors are afforded the ability to age with dignity. That means ending home losses due to unpaid property taxes and working to expand

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for a range of income levels, preferences, and phases of life—play a critical role in achieving this vision. In the County, we implemented a Comprehensive Housing Strategy.We will create a similar plan across the state that to help build sustainable, diverse, and inclusive communities connected to economic opportunity. With a growing population, new housing developments and expanding employment opportunities, it is imperative that we factor in the needs of both existing and future residents.

affordable housing opportunities for seniors. Should recreational marijuana be allowed in Maryland and why? Yes. I’m proud to be the only leading candidate for governor in favor of legalization for adult use. These laws are relics from a failed war on drugs and it’s time we pivot toward real criminal justice reform and ending this era of mass incarceration. I’m the only candidate with a comprehensive criminal justice reform plan that calls for marijuana legalization and would save taxpayers more than $600 million, that I would invest in making our colleges tuition free. My education plan also calls for using revenue from marijuana legalization to pay for universal pre-k. What will be your plan to spend money on school construction projects, especially for schools at least 30 years and older? My education plan calls for fully funding our schools and prioritizing spending toward our most impoverished school districts. Oftentimes these are the districts that also have the most dilapidated schools, which are also a factor in the achievement gap. As a part of my effort to fully fund schools, I would advocate that these reforms extend to ensuring our oldest and most in need facilities receive additional support. Do you support the measure approved recently by Maryland lawmakers to put an armed school resource officer in every public school? Explain.There’s nothing more important than ensuring our kids are safe. We need to institute stronger gun safety legislation that ensures that no student has to go to school in fear. However, much of what we need is expanding mental health counselors and the availability of mental health resources for our students. Additionally, each school should locally determine their security needs, it shouldn’t be mandated from the top-down. Some criminal justice reform advocates believe additional funding given to police should be diverted for other mental health or social welfare uses. Briefly explain your opinion on whether police departments should receive millions of dollars solely for guns and other weapons to fight crime? I’m proud to be the only candidate with a comprehensive plan for police reform, to help improve public safety and stop the killings of unarmed civilians. I believe to make our communities safer and reduce crime, we also need to invest much more in mental health and social welfare uses, as well as violence interruption programs because we cannot police our way out of a crime problem. When funding our police departments, I believe a more comprehensive approach is needed beyond enforcement.

2018 WASHINGTON INFORMER VOTER’S GUIDE / www.washingtoninformer.com

Richard S. Madaleno, Jr.

Office: Governor of Maryland / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 52 / Profession: Public Servant/Maryland State Legislator / Residency: Kensington, Maryland / Campaign Website: www.MadalenoForMaryland.com

What do you consider the largest statewide issue and what’s your proposal to either eliminate it, or improve it? Submitted by CAMP SPRINGS CIVIC ASSOCIATION Education is the largest statewide issue. I have long been an advocate for building a strong public system of education in Maryland and have been a leader in improving education. I am committed to making an excellent public education available to every child in Maryland. As a member of the Commission on Innovation & Excellence in Education (the Kirwan Commission) and the father of two children who attend and have attended Maryland public schools since kindergarten, my priority is to implement and fund its recommendations, including providing prekindergarten, supporting educators and building career and college pathways. Do you agree with state lawmakers approving more than $6 billion in tax incentives for the Amazon HQ2 proposed project? Explain. Yes. I voted for the bill to provide potential tax incentives to Amazon because I believe that the location of Amazon’s HQ2 will benefit Maryland and Marylanders by providing new good-paying jobs here. Maryland’s investments in education, infrastructure and transportation have made Montgomery County an attractive location for Amazon, and under this law tax credits will only be available if Amazon commits to carrying out, over a 17-year period, the hiring of 40,000 qualified positions (paying at least $60,000) and spending $4-5 billion in specified project expenditures; state tax credits are available upon hiring these employees. According to realtytrac.com, the foreclosure rate in Maryland ranked fourth in the nation in March. What plans do you have to provide affordable housing and decrease foreclosures? I believe that affordable housing must be available for all Marylanders. As Governor I will fund the Rental Housing Works program to support housing which has been cut under the Hogan administration. I will strengthen and support community development programs to create more affordable housing and will make sure that our state laws still provide appropriate incentives for creation and maintenance of affordable housing despite changes in federal tax law. I will seek to stabilize rents through the establishment of a Rental Housing Commission to keep rental increases in check in our state where about one third of all residents are renters. What proposal do you have to boost affordable housing for seniors? As Governor I will provide funding for construction of more affordable housing for seniors. I also will ensure that we provide more home and community-based services to enable people to live in their own communities, apartments or homes as long as possible. I will create a caregivers program in Maryland to provide financial support for qualified caregivers and home-based care. In the state legislature I have championed successful legislation

Alec Ross

for all our students.

to provide needed funding for the construction and renovation of adult day centers and housing for the elderly. Should recreational marijuana be allowed in Maryland and why? As Governor I will provide funding for construction of more affordable housing for seniors. I also will ensure that we provide more home and community-based services to enable people to live in their own communities, apartments or homes as long as possible. I will create a caregivers program in Maryland to provide financial support for qualified caregivers and home-based care. In the state legislature I have championed successful legislation to provide needed funding for the construction and renovation of adult day centers and housing for the elderly. What will be your plan to spend money on school construction projects, especially for schools at least 30 years and older? As governor I will champion an innovative and bold new state program where the state will provide school construction funding to help our Counties fund school construction and to support issuance of County bonds for such projects. I have long supported providing more funding to support our school facilities and infrastructure, including heating and water systems, and providing adequate funds for school construction, as the state currently does for Baltimore City schools. I fully support the 21st Century School Facilities Act enacted this year over the Governor’s veto to improve our school facility funding decision making process. Do you support the measure approved recently by Maryland lawmakers to put an armed school resource officer in every public school? Explain. I support the recent legislation to enhance school safety in Maryland. It requires secure and lockable doors for each classroom and permits schools to either have a trained school resource officer or adequate law enforcement personnel available. I also support the current policy in the Baltimore city schools of not permitting school police to carry weapons in school buildings. Like many educators and school administrators, I believe that the Baltimore school police are effective at maintaining safe schools using restorative and mediation practices and that the risks of weapons in schools outweighs the possible benefits. Some criminal justice reform advocates believe additional funding given to police should be diverted for other mental health or social welfare uses. Briefly explain your opinion on whether police departments should receive millions of dollars solely for guns and other weapons to fight crime? I am a strong supporter of reforming our criminal justice system and improving policing practices. I will champion the creation of more diversion and restorative justice programs and providing adequate funding for them. I voted for the Public Safety and Violence Prevention Act of 2018, which establishes the Maryland Violence Intervention and Prevention Program Fund to support violence reduction and fund grants to local governments and nonprofits to fund evidence-based health programs. This Act includes funds for the Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion Program.

Office: Governor of Maryland / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 46 / Profession: Author / Residency: Baltimore City Campaign Website: www.alecross.com

What do you consider the largest statewide issue and what’s your proposal to either eliminate it, or improve it? Submitted by CAMP SPRINGS CIVIC ASSOCIATION I began my career as a public school teacher in Baltimore City and believe that we still haven’t made access to quality education available statewide. Education is the starting point for addressing nearly every societal need, and we must prioritize equitable, innovative educational programs for our children. We have a once-in-15-years opportunity to reset how education is funded through the Kirwan Commission, and our next governor must make it their utmost priority to get this model right and increase equity in education

Do you agree with state lawmakers approving more than $6 billion in tax incentives for the Amazon HQ2 proposed project? Explain. I am not in agreement with the incentives offered to Amazon and believe that we should be prioritizing investment in our homegrown entrepreneurs and small business owners. The Amazon bidding process did show us what the state can accomplish when state and local governments work with local business leaders to come up with a creative plan that works for all. I believe that if we fail to be selected as the Amazon HQ2 site, we should take a long hard look at taking the incentives we proposed to Amazon and offering them to local entrepreneurs and businesses. According to realtytrac.com, the foreclosure rate in Maryland ranked fourth in the nation in March. What plans do you have to provide affordable housing and decrease foreclosures? We need to recommit ourselves to not just protect, but extend programs like the low-income housing tax credit, which builds and rehabilitates affordable rental housing in the U.S. In addition, we must significantly invest in the capacity of the community organizations, many of them nonprofits which have as their core mission, the revitalization, and rebuilding of our urban communities. Lastly, as development patterns go from creating affordable housing in large, dense developments to more spread out, single family affordable housing units, we have to make sure this housing is distributed over many communities, not just previously dense ones. What proposal do you have to boost affordable housing for seniors? We must invest equally across the board in affordable housing options, from single-family to seniors and everything in between. We must acknowledge that our population is living healthier, longer lives and provide them with options to live affordably and happily during their lifetimes in Maryland. I would commit to always integrating options for seniors in my affordable housing agenda as governor.

Should recreational marijuana be allowed in Maryland and why? It is high time for Maryland to adopt progressive marijuana policies. The social and economic benefits of taxing and regulating a legal market for marijuana are a clear win for the state and redress a legacy of failed drug policies. That is why I have already released comprehensive policy outlining how we would go about legalizing and regulating recreational marijuana. Legalization and the expungement of the records of those with past marijuana convictions are also the right thing to do, recognizing and reversing many years of discriminatory criminal justice policies that have disproportionately burdened minority communities. What will be your plan to spend money on school construction projects, especially for schools at least 30 years and older? We need to reform the current funding models for school construction in Maryland and make additional investments in construction to ensure that our students have access to the top school facilities in the country. Maryland’s current system of funding school construction is rooted in political favoritism and inequitable financing models between the various jurisdictions in the state. While some jurisdictions have the ability and means to build new schools, many do not. We must look for savings in our current funding models but also look for new streams of revenue into the capital budget. Do you support the measure approved recently by Maryland lawmakers to put an armed school resource officer in every public school? Explain. I am in agreement with this measure and believe that we must take safety in our schools seriously, while also prioritizing common sense gun measures that make it so we don’t have so much violence to deal with in our schools. This includes investments in school counselors and other mental health services, as well as looking at new technologies like smartgrips, that would make it so that guns can only be used by their legal, registered owners. Some criminal justice reform advocates believe additional funding given to police should be diverted for other mental health or social welfare uses. Briefly explain your opinion on whether police departments should receive millions of dollars solely for guns and other weapons to fight crime? I am in complete agreement that we must fund mental health and social welfare programs for our officers, not just provide them with firearms and bulletproof vests. Only providing weapons and the like to officers, but not giving them access to tools to deal with the stresses of their work, is a surefire way to both burn out officers and diminish their results with the communities they work with. We must prioritize budgets for law enforcement that give them both the tactile and cognitive tools they need to do their jobs.

www.washingtoninformer.com / 2018 WASHINGTON INFORMER VOTER’S GUIDE

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Jim Shea

Office: Governor of Maryland / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 65 / Profession: Chairman Emeritus of Venable LLP; former Chair of University System of MD Board of Regents,Central MarylandTransportationAlliance,and Baltimore Empowerment Zones / Residency: Baltimore County / Campaign Website: www.jimshea.com

What do you consider the largest statewide issue and what’s your proposal to either eliminate it, or improve it? Submitted by CAMP SPRINGS CIVIC ASSOCIATION As Governor, my highest priority will be to improve Maryland’s public education system. Education is the surest ladder of opportunity and should provide every child with the chance to succeed. In Maryland, however, we are failing our children as our system is slipping to the middle of the pack. Last year, I released my education plan, which addresses the changes we need to make outlines how we will do it. We must invest in early childhood education, expand opportunities for disadvantaged students, and put a curriculum that is indexed against international standards in the hands of professional and properly compensated educators. Do you agree with state lawmakers approving more than $6 billion in tax incentives for the Amazon HQ2 proposed project? Explain. I am always suspicious of financial incentive packages, particularly when the state plans to give billions of dollars to huge, profitable corporations. As a state, Maryland must do a much better job of instituting a system of accountability with regards to financial incentives, both before and after the incentive has been granted. Here, it seems to me that it will be very difficult for the benefits to exceed the costs. I am more concerned, however, that, as far as I can tell, the State has not properly conducted the cost benefit analysis. With a 10-figure price tag, too much is at stake. According to realtytrac.com, the foreclosure rate in Maryland ranked fourth in the nation in March. What plans do you have to provide affordable housing and decrease foreclosures? Home ownership is a useful way to gain economic independence, and as Governor I will work to make home ownership a better option for more Maryland families. I will bolster an Affordable Housing Trust Fund, which will be used to make housing more affordable. I will ensure that the State of Maryland collaborates with local jurisdictions to monitor data on specific neighborhoods in which home values are increasing and low- and middle-income Marylanders are experiencing a pinch. Then I will target the State’s affordable housing development resources to maintain access to affordable housing for low- and middle-income Marylanders. What proposal do you have to boost affordable housing for seniors? The state of Maryland can do more to ensure that housing remains affordable for seniors. I support, for example, recent efforts to prevent Marylanders from being kicked out of their house for being late on their water bills. I also will implement policies that allow seniors to age in place, including working with developers to ensure that new construction projects include units that are sustainable for senior living. Finally, I will work with my

Krish O’Mara Vignarajah

Should recreational marijuana be allowed in Maryland and why? Yes, as Governor, I will fully support legalizing, taxing, and regulating recreational marijuana. For too long, marijuana arrests have disproportionately affected minority communities. And, the marijuana trade has perpetuated the public safety crisis in our state. Not only will I work to legalize marijuana, but I will also work to expunge the records of those with nonviolent marijuana offenses. What will be your plan to spend money on school construction projects, especially for schools at least 30 years and older? I support the goal of increasing the floor for school construction in the capital budget. It is critically important for the state of Maryland to provide additional funds for school construction, and we must update the current plan to account for needs on the ground. My administration will prioritize proper funding of K-12 education and school construction in both the operating and capital budgets. I will phase in increases to school construction, accounting for borrowing ratios and budget realities, to ensure that we provide modern and functional facilities for our teachers and students. Do you support the measure approved recently by Maryland lawmakers to put an armed school resource officer in every public school? Explain. I do support the recent measure approved by the General Assembly that will put a school resource officer in every public school, as well as the additional funding for school safety and the red flag law. As we just saw recently with another school shooting in Texas, we must be taking proactive steps to ensure that our children can go to school in a safe environment. I do not support measures that Republicans across the country have pushed that will put guns in the hands of teachers. However, we will not fully address the epidemic of school shootings until we take steps federally to prevent gun violence, including a federal assault weapons ban. Some criminal justice reform advocates believe additional funding given to police should be diverted for other mental health or social welfare uses. Briefly explain your opinion on whether police departments should receive millions of dollars solely for guns and other weapons to fight crime? I believe that we must strike the proper balance. Our police departments should be given the resources they need to do their job. We also must focus more on access to mental health care and other social welfare priorities. My running mate, Baltimore Councilman Brandon Scott, recently submitted a bill to the city council that would require city agencies to conduct an equity assessment, and then to devise a plan to remedy any systems that perpetuate inequity. In the version he submitted, funding for the implementation is indexed to the city’s police department budget. This is a creative way to ensure that there is a proper balance.

Office: Governor of Maryland / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 38 / Profession: Policy Director for Michelle Obama Residency: Gaithersburg, Maryland / Campaign Website: www.KrishforMaryland.com

What do you consider the largest statewide issue and what’s your proposal to either eliminate it, or improve it? Submitted by CAMP SPRINGS CIVIC ASSOCIATION Improving our public education system is my top priority. We must close the $2.9 billion spending gap identified by the Kirwan Commission, provide tuition free community college, expand 21st century STEAM education opportunities to every school, invest in universal pre-K, and provide free healthy meals to food-insecure students. My parents were Baltimore City Public School teachers, and I’m the only candidate for Governor who is a K-12 product of Maryland public schools. Education helped my family go from living paycheck to paycheck to running Michelle Obama’s Let Girls Learn initiative in just a single generation. Do you agree with state lawmakers approving more than $6 billion in tax incentives for the Amazon HQ2 proposed project? Explain. Under Governor Hogan, Maryland lost its first Fortune 500 company, and his strategy to keep the state open for business has failed. I believe we must invest in our state’s education system, infrastructure, and mass transit to improve our competitiveness. We should make a strong bid for the Amazon HQ2 project, and the business of all other Fortune 500 firms, but we don’t need to promise away the benefits that these firms offer to working Marylanders before the first shovel breaks ground. I’m focused on building homegrown talent that ensures you don’t need incentives to want to do business here. According to realtytrac.com, the foreclosure rate in Maryland ranked fourth in the nation in March. What plans do you have to provide affordable housing and decrease foreclosures? I plan to create a state-level version of the federally funded Housing Choice Voucher Homeownership program, which helps working families pay their mortgage and build homeowner equity. This program will help support Marylanders in need of a home and directly attack wealth inequality. The state must also carefully guard against the unethical lending practices that place prospective homeowners in financially precarious situations. What proposal do you have to boost affordable housing for seniors? Seniors can more easily stay in their homes when builders comply with the Fair Housing Act’s design and construction requirements, but most single-family homes don’t meet these requirements. We need subsidies for seniors in single-family homes for construction, so that their homes remain livable and affordable. Long-term, I’ll offer incentives to builders to comply on the front-end with Fair Housing standards, as it is significantly cheaper to build an

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administration to issue grants to seniors to make the renovation and maintenance of their homes more affordable.

accessible home from the beginning than it is to add on the accessibility features down the road. I’ll also incentivize landlords to allow tenants to make similar modifications to their units. Should recreational marijuana be allowed in Maryland and why? I support the legalization, regulation, and taxation of marijuana for medical and recreational purposes. Legalizing medical marijuana has tangible public health benefits, like creating significant reductions in the number of opioid-related overdoses. Further, the taxation of marijuana could become an important source of revenue to fund education in Maryland, but the cultivation and sale of cannabis also needs careful regulation and fair competition for licenses to ensure that no one is shut out from the potential economic opportunities. Ultimately, I believe we need to treat drug use as a public health issue, not a criminal one. What will be your plan to spend money on school construction projects, especially for schools at least 30 years and older? I support the Kirwan Commission recommendations to invest heavily in new school infrastructure. There is currently 600 million dollar capital infrastructure gap in school spending in Maryland, and I believe funding should flow first according to need. As a result, I’d focus these the state’s initial new investments in school infrastructure on schools at least 30 year old or older. Do you support the measure approved recently by Maryland lawmakers to put an armed school resource officer in every public school? Explain. Gun violence must be treated as a holistic public health crisis. The NRA suggests we arm educators and “harden the perimeter” of schools to prevent shootings, instead of passing comprehensive gun violence prevention measures. I want to remove weapons of war from our schools and streets, not add them. Teachers don’t need shooting lessons; they need more guidance counselors and better training to identify and support at-risk youth. To make schools safer, we need to invest in mental health resources and care for students, improve lockdown protocols, fund the Maryland Center for School Safety, and raise the minimum age for gun purchases. Some criminal justice reform advocates believe additional funding given to police should be diverted for other mental health or social welfare uses. Briefly explain your opinion on whether police departments should receive millions of dollars solely for guns and other weapons to fight crime? I believe we should fully fund and support our police departments across the state of Maryland. I’ve released a comprehensive set of community policing policies, which will help ensure communities, and particularly communities of color, rebuild their trust in law-enforcement and improve these communities’ participation in the policing process. We must further enact comprehensive gun violence prevention laws, so neither police officers nor everyday citizens need weapons of war to do their jobs and live their everyday lives.

2018 WASHINGTON INFORMER VOTER’S GUIDE / www.washingtoninformer.com

Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks

Office: Prince George’s County Executive / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 47 / Profession: Lawyer Residency: Prince George’s County / Campaign Website: www.angelaalsobrooks.com

What do you consider the largest statewide issue and what’s your proposal to either eliminate it, or improve it? Submitted by CAMP SPRINGS CIVIC ASSOCIATION I believe the most fundamental responsibility of the county government is to provide a first rate public education system for county residents and that is the issue that I would focus on. In addition, we must make sure that every community is safe and that we continue to grow our local economy and create jobs for our residents. According to realtytrac.com, the foreclosure rate in Maryland ranked fourth in the nation in March. What plans do you have to provide affordable housing and decrease foreclosures? We need to not only work to keep families in their homes, we also most deal with the impacts that foreclosures continue to have on our neighborhoods, such as vacant and unattended to homes. We need to better enforce the standards on these homes so that they do not negatively impact the rest of the neighborhood as well as work to get families back into these homes. What proposal do you have to boost affordable housing for seniors? We need to examine creating a housing investment trust to increase the quantity and quality of affordable housing that is available to seniors.

Paul Monteiro

Although it didn’t pass this year in the state legislature, do you support legislation to restructure the school board? Yes, though we should not let ourselves believe that changing the governing structure of the school system is what is holding us back from reaching our full potential. I have laid out a comprehensive plan to focus more resources in the classroom, better prepare our children for school, provide more support for arst generation college students, increase the offerings for those seeking career and technical education, as well as several other improvements. How would you ensure money is being spent appropriately for roadwork and other projects? We need to have greater transparency in the budget, for roads, education and the entire county budget. What piece of legislation would you introduce that would strengthen the county? There isn’t one piece of legislation, but a great focus on being active in the community, directly listening to the needs of the community, holding people accountable for delivering results and providing the efficient, effective and responsive government that tax payers deserve.

Office: Prince George’s County Executive / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 37 / Profession: Chief of Staff to the President, Howard University / Residency: Maryland / Campaign Website: www.paulforprincegeorges.com

What do you consider the largest statewide issue and what’s your proposal to either eliminate it, or improve it? Submitted by CAMP SPRINGS CIVIC ASSOCIATION Education. 60% of our entire budget goes to public education and it is the most important issue. We must confront failing infrastructure in old buildings with poor water and/or air quality. We must dramatically expand career track academies that lead to well-paying jobs. We must invest in early childhood education and deal with rising hunger rates with programs that provide meals over long weekends or holidays. An Inspector General should be appointed to bring fisscal accountability to a $2 billion school system. Every other priority is impacted by whether we succeed in strengthening schools. According to realtytrac.com, the foreclosure rate in Maryland ranked fourth in the nation in March. What plans do you have to provide affordable housing and decrease foreclosures? Expand investments in our affordable housing trust fund and insist on inclusive development that sets aside significant percentages of new units for low-income residents. Our goal should be to create mixed income communities. Banks doing business in our county should not be allowed to freely market problematic mortgage products to our residents. With robust community input and approval, I support accessory dwelling units (ADUs) to expand our inventory and offer truly affordable options. We also have to confront the challenge of squatters illegally occupying vacant properties while banks turn a blind eye. What proposal do you have to boost affordable housing for seniors? We owe it to our seniors to allow them to age with dignity in communities they have made their home. Rent stabilization, financial supports and tax breaks should be offered to ensure our elders are able to maintain their residences and not be subject to exploitation by unscrupulous lenders.

Tommie Thompson

Do you support the measure approved recently by Maryland lawmakers to put an armed school resource officer in every public school? Explain. Yes. Keeping our children safe in school should be a priority.

Do you support the measure approved recently by Maryland lawmakers to put an armed school resource officer in every public school? Explain. No. Research demonstrates that armed school resource officers do not guarantee safer schools and could in fact create more risk and danger to students. There is already an overuse of the criminal justice system to deal with school discipline issues resulting in Prince George’s leading the state in number of students arrested on campus. Although it didn’t pass this year in the state legislature, do you support legislation to restructure the school board? Yes. The school board should be elected by the parents and taxpayers of this county and be accountable to them. It’s equally important that voters elect members that have the skill set and disposition to lead a complex, $2 billion dollar organization. It’s also critical that the Board have an Inspector General to insist on accountability in how public monies are spent. How would you ensure money is being spent appropriately for roadwork and other projects? Appoint a Chief Procurement Officer to provide desperately needed oversight and accountability to the Office of Central Services and other critical county components to ensure money is being spent wisely and fairly and that the competition for county business is done equitably and efficiently. We also need to further improve coordination with WSSC so that pipe repairs do not result in late or poor patching that further degrades road surfaces. What piece of legislation would you introduce that would strengthen the county? It’s important to engage the County Council around legislation to increase resources for the Inspector General to monitor county grants. Public money to deliver critical services around everything from health care to domestic violence lacks sufficient oversight. I would also partner with the Council to expand our ability to support victims of domestic violence (DV). It’s inexcusable that we only have one shelter even as we lead the state in the number of DV cases.

Office: Prince George’s County Executive / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 60 / Profession: PhD. Philosophy, CPA, President of BCA, Entrepreneur / Residency: Bowie, Maryland / Campaign Website: tommiethompsoncares4u@gmail.com

What do you consider the largest statewide issue and what’s your proposal to either eliminate it, or improve it? Submitted by CAMP SPRINGS CIVIC ASSOCIATION For me our biggest challenge is Establishing and Maintaining Excellence in Education. As County Executive, every decision I make will have a direct or indirect impact on improving education and creating an environment where our children will be able to compete in the world economy of tomorrow. We will meet this challenge with Strategic Planning, Leadership, and by creating a culture of the 5 R’s: Respect, Relationship, Responsibility, Results and Rewards. We will reduce class sizes, pay teachers, feed the children, and leverage technology through public private partnerships to make schools energy efficient & technology relevant. According to realtytrac.com, the foreclosure rate in Maryland ranked fourth in the nation in March. What plans do you have to provide affordable housing and decrease foreclosures? We will hire new leadership for all of the housing departments and empower them to develop and to implement a comprehensive housing program. The resources are there to create affordable housing, senior housing and special needs housing and we will build a strong and robust pipeline of projects using smart growth principles. With regards to the impending foreclosures, we will proactively reach out to the investors of the loans, HUD, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, VA, Banks and Servicers to work a deal designed to give people more time to ax their situations. We will also get foreclosed homes into the hands of nonprofits to be axed up and sold. What proposal do you have to boost affordable housing for seniors? As County Executive I’m going to Level the Playing Field. My Campaign is called EMPIRE. EMPIRE stands for:

• Establish and Maintain Excellence in Education • Master and Accelerate Economic Development • Provide and Deliver for Seniors • Inspire and Ignite Sustainable Community Development • Revitalize and Enrich Young People • Expedite and Stimulate Small, Women Owned, Minority Business Enterprise (SWMBE) Opportunities Increasing senior housing is an integral part of the I in EMPIRE. As Housing Dir. I did more senior housing than any other Housing Dir. We will relight that are. Do you support the measure approved recently by Maryland lawmakers to put an armed school resource officer in every public school? Explain. I support creating a safe environment in schools. I believe that an armed police officer makes sense. But these professionals must be properly trained and be well rested. I don’t want anyone other than law enforcement armed in schools. I also believe we need to clean the County. We will go to two trash pickups immediately, cut the medians and implement legislation restricting signage along the roads. Although it didn’t pass this year in the state legislature, do you support legislation to restructure the school board?] I support an elected school board. But please be clear. When I’m the County Executive, the “Buck” stops at my desk from day one on all County matters! It doesn’t matter to me whether the Board is Elected or Appointed or a hybrid. As County Executive, I am responsible for Establishing and Maintaining Excellence in Education from day one. Respectfully note, that we will make sure that the Board, gets trained. I will work in partnership with the Board and practice the 5 R’s:

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important so we will implement and publish a score card on the County Executive, the County Council, the State Delegation and the Prosecutor’s Office.

How would you ensure money is being spent appropriately for roadwork and other projects? This is an interesting question. Once the budget is approved, we will administer the budget in accordance with what was approved. If there is a need to reallocate the budget, we will follow the rules and be transparent about the need for reallocation. Transparency is

What piece of legislation would you introduce that would strengthen the county? We need to move to public funded elections. This will take the PAC money and developer money out of the game. I would prefer to have developers invest in our non-profits and to receive preferences for those types of investments.

Respect, Relationship, Responsibility, Results, Rewards.

Prince George’s County Council At-Large Juanita Culbreath-Miller

Office: County Council-at-Large / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Profession: Educator/Administrator Residency: Clinton, MD / Campaign Website: www.juanitamiller.org

What do you consider the largest county-wide issue and what’s your proposal to either eliminate it, or improve it? Submitted by CAMP SPRINGS CIVIC ASSOCIATION At this time the county has two large issues one being the leadership of our school system and its lack of accountability and transparency . I would request that my colleagues on the council develop and enforce an oversight policy which would require transparency that would make the system leadership accountable for various aspects of procurement, contracting and overall operations. The second issue is the foreclosure crisis. I would work closely with the Clerk of the Court to monitor and enforce the laws that govern and the practices used in the process. I publicize an update on current relief programs offered by the county. According to realtytrac.com, the foreclosure rate in Maryland ranked fourth in the nation in March. What plans do you have to provide affordable housing and decrease foreclosures? I would support and help enforce the existing legislation that governs affordable housing. I plan to support community programs that provide a more diverse housing stock and rental subsidies that assist families especially our senior citizens with the high cost of living. What proposal do you have to boost affordable housing for seniors? I would propose to adopt a similar policy that D.C. uses to help keep seniors in their current homes (with lower property taxes) and rent control for seniors 65+. Do you support the measure approved recently by Maryland lawmakers to put an armed school resource

Calvin Hawkins

Although it didn’t pass this year in the state legislature, do you support legislation to restructure the school board? I support returning to an elected school board with At-Large members appointed by the County executive. This could bring more balance, transparency and accountability in budget and overall operation of the system. How would you ensure money is being spent appropriately for roadwork and other projects? I would track road and other capital improvement projects through the planning, design and construction phases to understand a projects milestones, activities and deliverables. I will actively work with a developer to ensure compliance with engineering, public safety and health requirements and facilitate timely completion to meet or come under budget. What piece of legislation would you introduce that would strengthen the county? At this time, my position would be to enforce existing legislation. However, our county suffers from poor branding. It will be a priority to work with and engage county officials, community leaders and businesses to create a brand that promotes a positive image of Prince George’s that make it a great place to live, work and grow up.

Office: County Council-at-Large / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 56 / Profession: Educator/Administrator Residency: Prince George’s County / Campaign Website: www.calvinhawkins.com

What do you consider the largest county-wide issue and what’s your proposal to either eliminate it, or improve it? Submitted by CAMP SPRINGS CIVIC ASSOCIATION The largest county-wide issue is increasing the commercial tax base. For example, Montgomery County has over a 60% commercial tax base while Prince George’s County is around 40%. I will work with my fellow council members and the County Executive to increase economic development. I believe that implementing a smart growth approach to expanding the county commercial tax base is the key to improving schools, ensuring public safety and increasing the quality of life for every resident. If we increase our commercial tax base, we can begin addressing some of the systemic issues impacting Prince George’s County. According to realtytrac.com, the foreclosure rate in Maryland ranked fourth in the nation in March. What plans do you have to provide affordable housing and decrease foreclosures? I believe that the Council should set aside $200,000.00 to begin addressing the affordable housing challenges. Through collaborating with affordable housing organizations, the county can take positive references from Arlington and Montgomery Counties to implement a viable, practical and sustainable affordable housing plan. The initial plan would offer housing to seniors, individuals with disabilities and veterans. This program would be modeled after County Executive’s Baker’s Economic Development Incentive fund. We would use the County regulatory power and surplus county properties to build affordable housing around transit hubs. What proposal do you have to boost affordable housing for seniors? One of the first pieces of legislation that I will propose is boosting affordable housing for seniors. I plan to create additional incentives to businesses that offer seniors low rent for housing. I believe the County could partner with developers to build 10,000 units for seniors 65 years or older based on their income to live rent free for ten years. The seniors would pay for their utilities and rent insurance. I will propose

To Our Readers: The Washington Informer invited all of the candidates participating in the District of Columbia Primary and those vying for State offices and Prince George’s county-wide offices. Due to limited space, we were unable to include the candidates running for local party offices. We appreciate those who responded and offered their perspective on the issues of deep concern to our readers. We also want our readers to know that there are other qualified candidates that do not appear in this Voter’s Guide, but their names will appear on the ballot.

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officer in every public school? Explain. The current status of violence in schools around the country may tend to dictate the need for this level of protection for our students. It should be noted that what is happening around the country is happening in white, suburban areas. Police in schools can have adverse effects on students, teachers and administrators. Their appearance tends to contribute to reasons that non-violent issues escalate into removal from school and arrests. PGCPS has the highest percentage of student arrest in the state of MD. This appears indicative of the school to prison pipeline. Making schools safe is a priority. Police do not make schools safe.

legislation that give tax breaks and other incentives to current senior living communities to provide more financial breaks to seniors living in their properties. Do you support the measure approved recently by Maryland lawmakers to put an armed school resource officer in every public school? Explain. I support putting an armed school resource officer in every public school. The increase in school shootings require an armed school resource office to provide added protection for students. If merely to deter potential assailants, it is worth having armed resource officers. Public school students should feel safe and comfortable in their educational environment; we owe them that much and nothing less. Although it didn’t pass this year in the state legislature, do you support legislation to restructure the school board? I do. I believe in full democracy. However, I believe that the public school system has become too political. We all need to take a step back and consider if we are honestly working to make our public school system better with our actions or are we making it worse. There is no middle of the road answer: Either you are engaged in positive efforts to advance our public school system or you are a part of the problem. How would you ensure money is being spent appropriately for roadwork and other projects? As a 23-year county employee, I understand oversight. The key is regular updates and vigilant oversight. A council member must have a plan in place to ensure that funding directed to roadwork and other projects are properly used. There is no other way to get around serving as an advocate and voice for county residents. What piece of legislation would you introduce that would strengthen the county? I would submit legislation to increase funding for public transportation, specially to expand the county bus services throughout the county and support WMATA’s management team to correct the challenges facing WMATA. I believe implementation of the aforementioned legislation would strengthen Prince George’s County.

We hope this guide will help you to make an informed decision about each candidate before you cast your ballot in June. We wish all of the candidates the very best and commend them for upholding the democratic process. We also encourage every eligible voter to go the polls and vote in this very important Primary Election and to mark your calendar for the upcoming General Election on Tuesday, November 6, 2018.

VOTE!

2018 WASHINGTON INFORMER VOTER’S GUIDE / www.washingtoninformer.com

Melvin Bernard Johnson

Office: County Council-at-Large / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 65 / Profession: Entrepreneur Residency: Upper Marlboro, MD / Campaign Website: www.melvinbernardjohnson.com

What do you consider the largest county-wide issue and what’s your proposal to either eliminate it, or improve it? Submitted by CAMP SPRINGS CIVIC ASSOCIATION Public education. We need an all elected board with authority to hire/are the Superintendent and CEO. We need to partner with a local University to assist with the delivery. The students could earn credits for their internships. Public education. We need an all elected board with authority to hire/ are the Superintendent and CEO. We need to partner with a local University to assist with the delivery. The students could earn credits for their internships. According to realtytrac.com, the foreclosure rate in Maryland ranked fourth in the nation in March. What plans do you have to provide affordable housing and decrease foreclosures? Pre-purchase education should be mandated by the state and or county. Some of the foreclosures could be purchased by nonproats for group homes for the homeless. Returning citizens, victims of domestic violence, group homes for seniors or made available to arst time home buyers. What proposal do you have to boost affordable housing for seniors? New developments should be mandated

Gerron Levi

additional tax increases.

According to realtytrac.com, the foreclosure rate in Maryland ranked fourth in the nation in March. What plans do you have to provide affordable housing and decrease foreclosures? Among other steps, I will focus on the condominium communities in the county which are facing acute mortgage financing issues because of a high number of homeowners being delinquent on their condominium assessments. The problem means that condo owners have had the most difficulty recovering their property values and a larger number remain underwater on their mortgages. Condominiums are often the first step to affordable homeownership, and homeownership is the way most in the county have built wealth. I will also work on the Council to bring more affordable rental housing units to the county that working families and seniors can afford. What proposal do you have to boost affordable housing for seniors? Among other steps, I will work to increase the amount of affordable housing available in the county and to develop policies that will help seniors age in place/in their

Social and Family Services.

Do you support the measure approved recently by Maryland lawmakers to put an armed school resource officer in every public school? Explain. Yes, we do want to do everything feasible and reasonable to protect our children. However, I do not support arming other staff members. Although it didn’t pass this year in the state legislature, do you support legislation to restructure the school board? Yes. How would you ensure money is being spent appropriately for roadwork and other projects? There should be a separate deducted fund for each purpose or project. The funds could be grants from state and federal government or from bond sales. What piece of legislation would you introduce that would strengthen the county? I would introduce legislation to provide for an independent ethics/ Inspector General employed by the State.

Office: County Council-at-Large / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 65 / Profession: Lawyer/Federal Lobbyist Residency: Mitchellville / Campaign Website: www.votelevi.org or gerronlevi.com

What do you consider the largest county-wide issue and what’s your proposal to either eliminate it, or improve it? Submitted by CAMP SPRINGS CIVIC ASSOCIATION Improving education is a top concern but also issues around the homeowner tax burden and property values. On education, I will continue work started as a state delegate around bringing stakeholders together, seeking grant dollars and passing law designed to improve 3 key factors: reducing classroom disruption and chronic absenteeism and increasing out-of- school learning. On homeownership, I have pledged to oppose further increases in the county’s real property tax rate and focus on improving property values. A county commission has identified a number of budget issues on the horizon and has recommended

Julian Lopez

to set aside a certain percentage for seniors and low income. Churches and nonprofits should be assisted by the Federal, state and local governments in this effort.

homes. The state has recently designated several so-called “Opportunity Zones” in Prince George’s County which can draw new private investment dollars to affordable housing and others economic development projects in the county. Opportunity Zones combined with other incentives can help bring more affordable housing to the market. My pledge to hold the line on the county’s real property rate is also designed to ensure that seniors can afford their homes and age in place. Do you support the measure approved recently by Maryland lawmakers to put an armed school resource officer in every public school? Explain. I have various concerns about having armed officers on every school campus. I look forward to working with the county police department and other local law enforcement agencies, our municipalities and other local stakeholders to meet the requirement in the state law that schools have “adequate local law enforcement coverage”. Although it didn’t pass this year in the state legislature, do you support legislation to restructure the school board? Yes. I support a fully elected school board and I voted for it when I served as a state delegate. How would you ensure money is being spent appropriately for roadwork and other projects? I would like to undertake a review of how we are setting road and infrastructure priorities and to reevaluate the extent to which the county is waiving development impact fees which support roadwork and other infrastructure projects and foregoing significant future tax revenues as a part of our economic development deals. In addition, if the county better focuses its economic development so that it is smart and transit-oriented, then we could also better target the scarce infrastructure dollars that we have to meet more needs and particularly the needs in the county’s older and more established communities. What piece of legislation would you introduce that would strengthen the county? I expect my first pieces of legislation to be around housing and economic development. I also expect to undertake significant organizational steps around education early in my tenure on the County Council.

Office: County Council-at-Large / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 33 / Profession: Former Federal Agent / Residency: Prince George’s County, MD / Campaign Website: www.votejulianlopez.com

What do you consider the largest county-wide issue and what’s your proposal to either eliminate it, or improve it? Submitted by CAMP SPRINGS CIVIC ASSOCIATION Deficiencies in our public schools system is the single most consequential issue our county is facing in the short and long terms. We must consider doubling the funding on wrap- around services (Health, Social and Family Services) as was recommended by the Education Act, No Child Left Behind, The Kirwan Commission and the Thornton Plan. When we are only paying $37m on all 3 wrap-around service agencies for a population of 1 million. This tells me that our politicians are not serious in effecting change. We must work on switching the budget of the Dept of Corrections ($90m) with the combined budgets of Health,

According to realtytrac.com, the foreclosure rate in Maryland ranked fourth in the nation in March. What plans do you have to provide affordable housing and decrease foreclosures? Day one, we must hold the line on property tax increases and unfair increases in utility taxes. In the medium-term, we must rebrand our community as a retirement destination. This creates a surge of income in our economy. This means high paying jobs in the medical aeld. In the long-terms, we must refocus on providing tax incentives to technology-based industries as oppose to tax incentives for housing developers. What proposal do you have to boost affordable housing for seniors? As part of rebranding our county as a premier retirement destination, I will consider implementing an act to stabilize taxes or to eliminate real estate taxes for axed income seniors who have lived in our community for more than 20 years. I would like to see our seniors employed by the county and sustain their living. I will also reverse many homeless and senior programs our county council eliminated or substantially decreased such as the income disparity grant or homeless services.

officer in every public school? Explain. Yes, because a death of one child from gun violence is more than enough. Funding, however, must come from the State and Federal Governments. We must also consider a program of allowing honorably retired police oRcers to support security of our public schools. While safety is my concern, I will not allow our schools to become a prison for our kids. We must strike a balance. Although it didn’t pass this year in the state legislature, do you support legislation to restructure the school board? Yes, but the bigger issue to contend is our County Council’s complete acquiescence of authority to the State. We have surrendered our control of our local functions even to the appointment of an Inspector General for the public schools system. We must do better in exercising leadership and authority vested to our County Council. There’s no legal impediment or prohibition in a County Council exercising the power of the purse. What we have now in Upper Marlboro is simply a failure in leadership. How would you ensure money is being spent appropriately for roadwork and other projects? Our procurement and non-procurement offices are a corruptive haven. Our County Council has not acted in the best interest of us all. In the federal government, we have several safeguards from the Federal Acquisition Regulation and many provisions contained on 2 CFR. On ethical guidelines for use, there are several other regulations to safeguard tax dollars. We must model strong enforcement of models we already know. We must eliminate corruptive mechanisms through strengthening enforcement. What piece of legislation would you introduce that would strengthen the county? Besides my strong social justice values and my PGCEA endorsed education policies, I am running as an Anti-Corruption candidate. I will introduce legislation to eliminate corruptive mechanisms in all levels of our government. This means, strengthening safeguard mechanisms from proposals to post funding reviews. I will seek closer relationships with the State and Local investigative agencies to review enforcement processes. Day 1, we will begin a government accountable only the people of our county. And for those who beneated on corruption, I will hold them accountable.

Do you support the measure approved recently by Maryland lawmakers to put an armed school resource

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Reginald Tyer

Office: County Council-at-Large / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 35 / Profession: Prince George’s County Schools: School Success Coach / Residency: Upper Marlboro, MD / Campaign Website: ReginaldTyer2018.com, Reginald Tyer Face book

What do you consider the largest county-wide issue and what’s your proposal to either eliminate it, or improve it? Submitted by CAMP SPRINGS CIVIC ASSOCIATION Our school system is instrumental to county wide success.Youth and residents need to be able to have a innovation education system that works for them. Providing opportunities for our children as well as residents should all ways come first.Adding more accredited technology adult learning centers should be apart of the conversation as well.We have not had the oversight and accountability in county in order for us to flourish.This school system does a lot of wasteful spending. Restructuring the county schools are critical to economic development.We are asking investors to invest when we know families move based on their local schools. According to realtytrac.com, the foreclosure rate in Maryland ranked fourth in the nation in March. What plans do you have to provide affordable housing and decrease foreclosures? That’s sad when we have the fourth highest foreclosure rating and we pay some of the highest state taxes in the union. Offering more incentives and tax credits to homeowners teachers, police officers,firefighters and nurses.Working with more banks ensuring our residents has access to more loans. Explaining small businesses as well. Not driving out small businesses and being sure we all have a chance at opportunity at economic development. Some small business owners taxes are going up 800% in Seat Pleasant Md.We invite big business to grow our economic base. If not taxes will continue to be on the raise and on the backs of PG residents. What proposal do you have to boost affordable housing for seniors? This issue is very important to so many people, seniors and young middle age people.We must be sure we are holding the line when it comes to spreading our wealth through out the county and not creating pockets where we see impoverished communities. Commercial property owners must have

a percentage of units decaded to affordable living. Speaking to affordable builders that are interested in building affordable housing. Every home in our county shouldn’t start at $400,000. Being sure we all have access to opportunity that is not all ways the case.The candidates in this race haven’t been talk about the average person. Do you support the measure approved recently by Maryland lawmakers to put an armed school resource officer in every public school? Explain. Yes I do support that measure.The climate we are living in now cause for this resource. Training School security offers and offering resources for them is crucial. Learning from pass moments are teachable moments. This would be a great opportunity for our police department to build greater relationships with the communities. Although it didn’t pass this year in the state legislature,do you support legislation to restructure the school board? Yes I do support restructuring the school board.We live in a democracy and residents have the right to choose their representative.Residents of this county have been feeling like government hasn’t been on their side.We have been through two decades of corruption and wasteful spending.The residents haven’t seen the growth it should.Moving pass old elected leaders that doesn’t have the residents best interest at hart.We demand highly qualified teachers but we choose not to pay them.But CEO’s are allowed to give themselves 40% increases.Teachers of pgcps hasn’t had a living increase in 7 years.We are losing great qualified teachers. How would you ensure money is being spent appropriately for roadwork and other projects? Providing the oversight and accountability to our infrastructure is needed.We are at a point where the council wasn’t focused on the growth of residents and schools or the infrastructure that has fallen apart.Answering to the people letting them know where their tax dollars are going is vital to our success. What piece of legislation would you introduce that would strengthen the county? I would introduce school reform legislation.That allows the residents to have more say over there school system and affordable housing would be attached.

Prince George’s County Sheriff Melvin C. High

Office: Sheriff / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 73 Profession: Law Enforcement Executive / Residency: Prince George’s County, MD / Campaign Website: www.friendsofmelvinchigh.net

Why are you running for this office? Earning CALEAaccreditation attests to our effective focus on core mission.We’re making headway on the insidious issue of domestic violence.Creating the DomesticViolence Intervention Division resulted in tremendous progress but there’s more work to be done to achieve fewer incidents.I’ve always focused on school safety and our middle school program results show that we can achieve safety while promoting learning.I’d like to expand to all middle schools.I’m the experienced, large law enforcement agency CEO who’s implemented effective programs and with experience negotiating budgets to meet the workload demands so we can deliver expected services.

Some criminal justice reform advocates believe additional funding given to police should be diverted for other mental health or social welfare uses. Briefly explain your opinion on whether police departments should receive millions of dollars solely for guns and other weapons to fight crime? Social issues and crime have a historical connection.Mental health issues and the proliferation of guns have changed the demands and response of public safety. There’s a need for comprehensive planning and service delivery to address the underlying challenges and outcomes. Money is also needed for enhanced crisis intervention,implicit bias and de-escalation training,ballistic helmets,shields – preventive skills tools rather than weapons - to improve public safety and response to ever changing threats. I support funding for mental health and social services professionals and counselors to complete a comprehensive strategy that fosters education,prevention,and intervention for healthy communities.

Is there any state law that you would like to see be eliminated or changed? Explain. Maryland’s GeneralAssembly has been progressive on how we manage guns and on domestic violence. There’s more to do.Aviolent or threatening mentally distressed subject of an Emergency Petition should be required to surrender firearms until a court determines that it is appropriate to return them.At the intervention stage of DomesticViolence,there may be an opportunity – like drug court – to direct individuals to court-monitored programs.I support directing more resources to assisting batterers to understand non-violent conflict resolution responses,anger management techniques,and community/family-based interactive therapy to help them break the cycle of domestic violence.

What services do you think would assist county police in dealing with those with mental illnesses? I employed a strategy to safely engage individuals in mental distress.Emergency Petitions are court orders to deliver people to mental health facilities for professional evaluation; they’re initiated by family,medical professionals,or law enforcement based on direct observations. We developed a team of highly trained Deputies in crisis intervention,communication,and tactical deployment to ensure safety of the individual,the family,and Deputies serving the growing number of naturally high risk orders. The result has been more orders served more safely. Having mental crisis professionals respond with Deputies to guide and further de-escalate situations would be of great value.

Do you support the measure approved recently by Maryland lawmakers to put an armed school resource officer in every public school? Explain. I support the legislation because a safe,positive learning environment is critical to the future success of our children. Until further measures are enacted to eliminate the threat of violence in our schools,providing qualified, trained law enforcement professionals provides an immediate improvement to securing schools and protecting students and educators. Aschool resource officer who knows,understands,and interacts with students has far-reaching benefits,including cultivating a safety orientation,building relationships of trust,pro-active intelligence information,identifying and referring social service needs,and providing positive role models.

How will you combat domestic violence in the county? Deputies will continue response to 911 calls in Police District III, intervention by serving peace and protective orders,outreach through our SpecialVictimAssistants who help victims develop safety plans and access resources.Prevention starts when we discuss friendship and healthy relationships with young people.I’ve testified for stronger laws,added sworn staff,permanent s and bilingual advocate positions,and promoted education in schools and to offenders.I created Purple Light Nights©,to promote communitywide awareness and to improve services with tremendous results. I’ll continue to expand services,build and maintain our partnerships,and advocate for improved legislation to support victims.

Sylvester E. Jones Sr.

Office: Sheriff / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 58 Profession: Retired Assistant Director U.S. Marshals Service Residency: Prince George’s County, MD / Campaign Website: sylvesterjonesforsheriff.com

Why are you running for this office?Why are you running for this office? I am running for the Office of Sheriff to continue to serve our community and bring proven innovative leadership and enhanced law enforcement and security programs to Prince George’s County, MD Is there any state law that you would like to see be eliminated or changed? Explain. No Do you support the measure approved recently by Maryland lawmakers to put an armed school resource officer in every public school? Explain. Yes. School Safety and Child Security has been a major concern and focus for me and this has not changed since I ran for the Office of Sheriff in 2014. We need more armed and well trained school resource officers especially at the Middle and Elementary schools.

should receive millions of dollars solely for guns and other weapons to fight crime? I think there should be dedicated funding for social and mental health programs to aid law enforcement in dealing with people who have mental health challenges and other social challenges. What services do you think would assist county police in dealing with those with mental illnesses? Having mental health professionals assist the police by providing awareness training and serving as advisers will assist police officials in their decision making when coming into contact with someone who has PTSD or other mental heath challenges. De-escalation and Community focused Cultural Sensitivity training will also help. How will you combat domestic violence in the county? I will combat Domestic Violence (DV) by continuing to partner with non-profits that are committed to mitigating this epidemic by hosting Town Hall Informational Sessions in an effort to not only help victims and potential victims, but to try and educate everyone that DV must end. I will also work with the States Attorney, Police and other entities to also mitigate DV, and advocate for funding for more shelters.

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Kendall Wade

have lost parents to domestic violence.

Why are you running for this office? I am running for this office because it was a calling from God.As a county resident and a current Deputy Sheriff for nearly a decade I have worked in every division of the sheriff’s office and I am tired of seeing the corruption within the agency. Even the agency is ready for a change as evident by me receiving the endorsement from the Sheriff’s Labor Union by 74% to the current Sheriff’s 25%.The men and women who do the job have made it very clear who they would like their next leader to be. I only hope that the voters will answer their call to action.

may impact the overall safety in schools.

Is there any state law that you would like to see be eliminated or changed? Explain. I would like to see the current crime victim fee increased by an additional $20 specifically to go towards scholarship funding for children who

What services do you think would assist county police in dealing with those with mental illnesses? The sheriff’s office currently handles emergency psychiatric services, which are court ordered psychiatric evaluations that are deemed to be high risk. I would like to see a better collaboration with county police, the sheriff’s office and local hospitals to make that process safer and more efficient. I would also like to hire the first mental health professional to work for the sheriff’s office to not only provide services to deputies in need but also to help us better understand the mental health field as we service our county.

Do you support the measure approved recently by Maryland lawmakers to put an armed school resource officer in every public school? Explain. Yes, safer schools is one of my major platform issues. Not only would I like to see more officers and more metal detectors in the schools, but I would also like to work with more mental health professionals to collaborate on interventions designed to assist with bullying, harassment, and other social and psychological issues that

How will you combat domestic violence in the county? As a current Deputy Sheriff, I have done two tours in the domestic violence division. I believe we can combat the issue of domestic violence by creating a registry for repeat convicted offenders of domestic violence.

Prince George’s County State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy

Office: State’s Attorney / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 43 / Profession: Attorney/Manager Residency: Prince George’s County / Campaign Website: www.aishabraveboy.com

Why are you running for this office? The short answer is that I am running to keep my community safe and to protect the investment that residents and business owners have made in the County that I love. I will implement smart criminal justice reform measures that will reduce mass incarceration and address the underlying issues that cause crime in our communities. I will be tough, but fair. Is there any state law that you would like to see be eliminated or changed? Explain. As a long-time Delegate, I understand how laws are made an changed. I anticipate having a robust legislative agenda. This includes support in the elimination of mandatory minimum sentences, which unduly limit the ability to craft fair and reasonable sentences that address the specific factors that lead people to crime, as well as additional support for diversion, prevention and intervention to eliminate criminal behavior. Do you support the measure approved recently by Maryland lawmakers to put an armed school resource officer in every public school? Explain. School violence is a serious problem. School resource officers can be a useful tool if they are properly trained and guided, especially in regards to outside threats, but they are not the solution to the serious problems that occur in our schools and with school-age children. As one of my first acts, I intend to create a working group of prosecutors, educators, school resource officers, juvenile case workers, and others familiar with issues related to juvenile justice to explore best practices when it comes to stopping those problems that exist and preventing new ones from emerging. Some criminal justice reform advocates believe additional funding given to police should be diverted for

D. Michael Lyles

other mental health or social welfare uses. Briefly explain your opinion on whether police departments should receive millions of dollars solely for guns and other weapons to fight crime? There is no question that we need substantial addition resources for mental health, drug treatment, counseling and diversion and intervention initiatives, and I will work to secure that funding. And it is clear that guns and weapons alone don’t stop crime. I strongly believe we have to act smarter when it comes to fighting crime and put our money and resources into things that do, in fact, make us safer. But I also understand that effective law enforcement staffing and access to the latest in equipment and technologies is an important part of the effort to fight crime. What services do you think would assist county police in dealing with those with mental illnesses? Training is essential, like the trauma-informed trainings that I have developed through Children’s National Health System for School Resource Officers and judges. All officers need to know how to deescalate potentially violent or disruptive situations. They need to be able to distinguish actual threats from those that don’t present immediate danger to those involved or nearby. This needs to be an ongoing process that is reinforced on an ongoing basis. We need to provide emergency housing, clinics, therapists and ongoing support mechanisms that monitor the activities of those with problems. How will you combat domestic violence in the county? Addressing domestic violence is a high priority. It is the cause of a disproportionate share of the murders and injuries suffered by residents. In addition to ensuring that we have the staff and resources to handle these cases, I will work with other stakeholders and the community at large to increase awareness of the problem and to ensure that more and better options are available to those suffering from domestic violence. I will work with our business community to develop quality transitional housing for victims, where they can live with dignity.

Office: State’s Attorney / Party Affiliation: Democrat / Age: 55 / Profession: Attorney at Law Residency: Bowie, Maryland / Campaign Website: www.votemikelyles.com

Why are you running for this office? I am running for the Office of State’s Attorney for Prince George’s County in order to fulfill my passion for using the legal system to protect the community and our most vulnerable citizens, to continue the fight to provide justice with compassion and to broaden the safeguarding of the civil and human rights of victims of crime as well as those accused of crime. Is there any state law that you would like to see be eliminated or changed? Explain. I would support eliminating the Maryland sentencing guidelines to give judges and prosecutors more discretion in punishment for crimes and more choices in developing punishment alternatives to mere incarceration. I also would like to see an expansion of the list of offenses available for expungement and to make the process easier, so that more formerly convicted persons, if worthy, might get opportunities to access to jobs, housing, education and the full promise of the American dream after having served their punishment without incident. Do you support the measure approved recently by Maryland lawmakers to put an armed school resource officer in every public school? Explain. I do not support the measure approved recently to put an armed resource officer in every public school. Schools are not jails and although our children deserve protection, armed security can be outward facing outside of the school buildings if necessary. I believe that armed guards in schools defeats the purpose of schooling by presupposing that the school is a dangerous place full of harmful people. I believe a better approach would be to use the proposed “armed guard” funding to instead enhance delivery of education and educational opportunities to all students in the state at equal levels no matter the child’s zip code. Some criminal justice reform advocates believe additional funding given to police should be diverted for other mental health or social welfare uses. Briefly explain your opinion on whether police departments should receive millions of dollars solely for guns and other weapons to fight crime? I believe that funding should be made available for mental health training for police officers. I think that the money used for social welfare programs and mental health initiatives can best be used where police and social welfare agencies work together on how best to apply the funds they are given, in order to produce the best results in policing as related to managing a growing mental

health problem in our community and in our jails. The real impact for lowering crime rates though has more to do with improvements in educational outcomes for all children. What services do you think would assist county police in dealing with those with mental illnesses? The services I think would be most effective in assisting county police in dealing with those with mental illness would be for officers at every level to have appropriate training on how to assess and deal with situations involving those with mental health issues. I also see the need for mental health professionals to be part of the community policing approach of all our police departments, county and municipal. How will you combat domestic violence in the county? I will combat domestic violence by advocating for more resources from the Health Department to do prevention education for our citizens and to work with mental health professionals on ways to have those accused of crimes related to domestic violence provided the necessary mental health counseling so as to prevent accused abusers from becoming repeat abusers. The State’s Attorney’s Office under my leadership will aggressively prosecute violent abusers while at the same time utilizing the services of the Family Justice Center to keep victims safe from further abuse and to get them and any children affected stabilized.

“What I would advise, what I advised before the election, and what I will continue to advise after the election, is that elections matter; voting matters; organizing matters; being informed on the issues matter.” Barack Obama

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OPINIONS/EDITORIALS

EDITORIAL A Season of Killings Unite & Divide The senseless killings in Ward 8 and across the District have marked the first half of 2018 as one of the city’s deadliest in recent years. Residents are bracing themselves against the fear of a return of a tide of deadly violence much like they faced in the early 80s when D.C. received the grim moniker of the Murder Capital. Homicides in D.C. have reached a tipping point, with 64 to date, exceeding last year’s count of 43. And the wanton use of guns that are easily accessible is extremely disturbing, particularly in a city that still has some of the nation’s strongest gun laws. Mayor Muriel Bowser’s response following 11 shootings over the Memorial Day weekend and four homicides has proven inadequate to some that believe she should be taking a much more assertive stance against gun violence. Residents are now pouring over her budget, amended and approved by the Council, to see what was put in and what was taken out that could have a definitive impact on parts of the city greatly impacted by the shootings. In the meantime, MPD Chief Peter Newsome increased the number of officers in the 6th and 7th Police Districts covering Wards 7 and 8 by 25 percent. He also ordered the removal of 7th District Police Commander Regis Bryant, much to the dismay of residents who respected the role has played in improving police-community relations. Ward 8 has become a police state with cadres of officers in an array of uniforms and plain-dressed swarming into neighborhoods to address the appearance of a criminal act at moment’s notice. Their presence is described by some as unnecessary and overwhelming. DC Councilmember Trayon White went so far on Facebook as to describe the actions of several officers he observed detaining two young men while allowing them to use their cell phones as illegal. Despite residents’ concerns they are not sitting idly by waiting for someone else to do something. Meetings, social media posts, email and list-serve distributions of community services, and Safe Passage events are but a few ways residents are working together to address issues that contribute to crime in their neighborhoods. What seems to be missing in this unfortunate scenario is meaningful dialogue between the Mayor, MPD, civic and community leaders and residents. Despite the tacit agreement by all parties that no one person or group can solve these problems alone, the separate paths being taken only highlight the divisions that fragment, instead of uniting, communities. WI

Voter Education, Not Age, Will Make a Difference When D.C. Councilmember Charles Allen (D-Ward 6) joined the masses of mostly young people from the District at the March for Our Lives Rally last month, he marched with his young daughter perched on his shoulders. It was obvious he wanted her to see what was ahead, not just the hundreds of thousands who came to D.C. to rally against gun violence but to get a bird’s eye view of the issues children her age are already confronting. He must have also wanted her to hear how they want to effect change, and she even may have overheard her father making plans to enfranchise them locally at age 16. Moved by the articulate, visionary and passionate voices of those no older than 19, Allen wasted no time introducing legislation this week to lower the voting age in the District to 16. District youths at 16 are eligible to get a driver’s license, work, pay taxes and help care for family members, and, Allen noted the hours of testimony by District’s youth before the D.C. Council on legislative issues that impact them directly. “Some people will say young people aren’t mature or educated enough. But I beg to differ,” Allen wrote on his webpage. “Just a few weeks ago, young District residents organized a citywide school WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

TO THE EDITOR Supreme Court Decision Hurts Workers In the midst of major treats to the hardearned rights that working people won as part of the New Deal, civil rights movement, the War on Poverty and the Great Society, now comes the latest assault. With the endorsement of the Trump administration, the Supreme Court is imposing extreme individualism on working people. The 5-4 court decision [May 21] reached back to 1925 pre-Depression-era jurisprudence to justify its assault on the rights of working people. This is a classic case of the destruction of the “administrative state” that Trump and Stephen Bannon promised. Let us not be distracted by the antics of the Trump regime when 140 million Americans live on the margins, 74 million women and children live in poverty, 13 million of whom are children. We must mobilize, resist, vote and reverse this

walkout and spoke passionately at the Rally for DC Lives calling for an end to gun violence. In hearings on our schools, students testified with informed opinions. And yet, they can’t exercise their voice where it matters most – at the ballot box.” While we see a perilous path on which the Democratic pro-

assault on the fundamentals of our democracy. Alvin Thornton Former Prince George’s County School Board president

Teen-a-rama was a Light in Darkness Kudos for printing the article on Teen-a-rama in the May 24 issue. The program certainly aided us through the tumultuous times we went through. I recall standing on our porches while National Guard troops drove through the city with their guns ready to shoot. They told us through a bull horn not to leave our property. It was such an experience and I still see that picture in my mind today. Teen-a-rama was the light through the storm. Donna Waters WI website (comment edited)

cess is headed for any reasons, permitting 16-year-olds to vote could be a breath of fresh air if they in fact vote. However, since qualified D.C. electors with no age restriction can also hold elected office in positions other than Delegate, U.S. Senator and U.S. Representative, if the law passes, we

predict a few 16-year-olds will run for elected office, as well. If this is the intent of Allen’s bill, we take a pause in supporting it. If serious voter education is required for all 16-year-olds, then a better-informed electorate may bring about the change Allen wants. WI

JUNE 7 - 13, 2018 27 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist

By Julianne Malveaux

The Historic Attack on African-American Women The stupidly foul and racist comedienne Roseanne Barr is as insignificant as a single drop of rain in a thunderstorm and so, on one hand, she deserves to be upbraided, to have lost her television show, and to be written down in the halls of ignominy. At the same time, her description of former White House senior adviser Valerie Jarrett as the spawn of “Muslim Brotherhood & planet of the apes” is unfortunately consistent with our nation’s history of dehumanizing and de-fem-

inizing African-American women. When a people are systematically dehumanized, they can be treated as lesser, inferior beings. When people are compared to monkeys, apes, gorillas, they are being described as less evolved than other human beings, as people who deserve less. When this extends to women, we are both dehumanized and defeminized. In other words, Black women do not have to be treated with the same respect as other women. We can be violated, treated as people — or things — to be toyed with. This is why so many Black women could be violated by White men who, for sport, would “go

Guest Columnist

get a n---r gal,” pull her from the side of the road, and gang-rape her. That’s what happened to the young mother, Recy Taylor, in 1944. The men who violated her paid no price. That’s what happened to Betty Jean Owens, the FAMU undergraduate who was abducted from a car at gunpoint and repeatedly raped by four White men. Atypically, these men were convicted and sentenced to life in prison. One of the men was paroled and tracked down and killed a woman named Betty Jean Robinson Houston, mistaking her for Betty Jean Owens. How could White “men” so brutally violate a woman, authorize their

defense to argue that “she wanted it,” and expect to get away with it? They were granted permission by a history that made Black women seem something less than human. It’s the same history that allowed Clay County, West Virginia public official Pamela Taylor, to describe first lady Michelle Obama as “an ape in heels.” It was the same history that allowed the same Roseanne to compare Susan Rice, national security adviser and former ambassador to the UN to “a big man with swinging ape balls” in a 2013 tweet. It was the same history that empowered a New York Post cartoonist to depict President Obama

as a monkey; the same history that had a spate of elected officials refer to the president of the United States as a monkey. These folks include Mayor Patrick Rushing of Airway Heights, Washington, and Dan Johnson, a 2016 controversial state candidate in Louisville, Kentucky, and others. And when people in the United States feel free to demonize Black folks, then this dehumanizing goes global. During the Obama presidency, there were several instances of Putin allies referring to our president as a monkey, and a North Korean defense commis-

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By Marc H. Morial

The Legacy of Debra Lee, Black Entertainment Trailblazer

“If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.” — Shirley Chisholm Debra L. Lee is a dues-paid member of an exclusive club: African-American CEOs. While the Oscars struggle to be less White and dashes of color are increasingly becoming a mainstay on our movie and television screens, Black representation in leadership and executive

office suites remains abysmally few and far between at media companies — or otherwise. Despite the long odds and doubly fortified barriers to entry for African-American woman in corporate America, Lee sat at the helm of Black Entertainment Television for two decades, and for 17 of those years, BET Networks remained the #1 cable network among African-American viewers, broadening the media landscape for creatives of color and audiences in search of their experiences and stories on screen.

Guest Columnist

Lee’s story begins in the American South. She was born in 1954, the year of the Supreme Court’s Brown vs. Board of Education decision that outlawed public school segregation. In 1972, Lee graduated from North Carolina’s Greensboro-Dudley High School in a county school system still divided by racial segregation. As she recalls, what was lacking in resources was compensated for by “teachers who really cared.” From there she attended Brown University, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in political science with an emphasis in

Asian politics. Lee went on to attend Harvard University, receiving her law degree from Harvard and a master’s degree in public policy in 1980. After serving as both a law clerk and an attorney at a corporate law firm, in 1986, Lee joined BET as its first vice president and general counsel. Ten years later, Lee was elevated to network president and COO. By 2005, Lee had successfully worked her way up the ranks to become BET’s chairman and CEO. Her commitment to reinvigorating a brand once synonymous with the

excesses of 90s Hip-Hop came with a new direction for BET and a series of cable television network successes. Under Lee’s leadership, “The Game” debuted as the mostwatched series premiere in cable television history. In 2017, The New Edition Story mini-series became the highest-rated television biopic of all times. After doubling BET’s production budget, Lee introduced new talent and original programming to the channel, including fan favorites

MORIAL Page 49

By Jeffrey L. Boney

Black Women Changing the Tide of American Politics

Last month, the world witnessed something that had never been done before in the history of politics in the United States. Not only did Democratic voters in Georgia elect a 44-year-old African-American candidate as the first-ever Black gubernatorial nominee in the state, they also made history by electing the first Black woman to be a major party nominee for governor in the United States. That’s right — former Georgia House Minority Leader and attorney Stacey Abrams soundly

28 JUNE 7 - 13, 2018

defeated her opponent, former state Rep. Stacey Evans, with an overwhelming 53 percent landslide victory; Abrams won 76.5 percent of the vote compared to Evans’ 23.5 percent. Abrams will face off against the winner of the Republican primary runoff election that will be held in July between Georgia’s Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle and Secretary of State Brian Kemp. While much of the political conversation around the country has been focused on the success of women candidates as a whole, one of the primary reasons for Abrams’ dominant showing in the Democratic primary was the high turnout of Black voters,

particularly Black women voters. The convincing victory by Abrams, a rising star in the Democratic Party, has created a significant amount of chatter in political circles about the growing success Black women candidates are having across the country, particularly in a deep southern state like Georgia that hasn’t had a Democratic governor since 2003. “I am a proud daughter of the Deep South,” Abrams said during her victory speech after winning the Georgia Democratic gubernatorial nomination. “To claim our victory, to write that next chapter and live those best lives, we have a lot of work

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to do. We have to reach out to those who do not believe their voices matter. Who have been disappointed again and again by promises made and never kept… With your help, we will register every last person we know. “And we’re going to search out those we don’t know yet and prove they matter to us, too,” she said. “In the Book of Esther, there’s a verse that reminds us that we were born for such a time as this. And now is a time to defend our values and protect the vulnerable — to stand in the gap and to lead the way … that is what we will continue to do — all the way to victory in November.”

A victory by Abrams in November would truly be a game-changer relative to politics, as we know it, in the Deep South and across the country. Prior to 2003, no Republican had ever served as governor in Georgia since Reconstruction. Republican George “Sonny” Perdue III changed that after he was elected and then sworn in on January 13, 2003. Perdue served until 2011, and the governorship in Georgia has remained in Republican control ever since. Then, if you take a look at the rest of the Deep South, which consists of states like Texas, Ala-

BONEY Page 49

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OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnists

By Charlene Crowell

Blacks Still Get Short End of Stick in Fair Housing Laws

For as long as many people of color can remember, succeeding generations have called for justice. Despite these age-old pleas, justice is not only elusive, but frustrating since the enactment of a series of civil rights laws. Despite federal guarantees of equal treatment, much of Black America experiences something short of what was promised.

A recent settlement of a federal redlining lawsuit is yet another sign that justice is still being denied. Even worse, those entrusted in key federal agencies are willing to accept much less than what is fair or just. On Jan. 13, 2017 and as one of the last cases brought under the Obama Administration, the Department of Justice (DOJ) sued KleinBank, a lender in the Twin Cities’ metropolitan area with violations of both the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA). The

Guest Columnists

complaint said in part that from at least 2010 to 2015, “KleinBank’s discriminatory practices as described herein have been intentional and willful, and implemented with reckless disregard for the rights of individuals on the basis of their race and/or national origin.” The January 2017 lawsuit followed a near two-year DOJ investigation that uncovered illegal redlining in neighborhoods of color. Within the metro area, lending in 78 of 97 majority-minority census tracts was excluded by the bank.

Further, as KleinBank expanded to add at least seven full-service branches since 2007, not one is in a community of color. Beyond a failure to serve all consumers, mortgage applications and approvals among consumers of color were equally disturbing. Other metro lenders surpassed KleinBank by as large a ratio as five-to-one in serving consumers of color. For example, among the 5,837 single-family residential loan applications filed with KleinBank, only 1.06 percent – 62 – came from consumers of

color. Of the bank’s approved 4,392 residential mortgages, only 51 were secured in neighborhoods of color. With these and other findings, DOJ’s complaint requested both monetary damages to those consumers who fell victim to these illegalities, and a civil penalty to vindicate the public interest. Yet on May 8 of this year when a settlement was reached with the current DOJ, there was no civil penalty or judicial oversight – two

CROWELL Page 50

By E. Faye Williams

Sex Segregation Good or Bad for Girls?

We’ve gone through, and are still living with, racially segregated schools, rich vs. poor schools, religious schools that tend to segregate and schools that segregate by gender. Sex-segregated public education is increasing according to a report from the Feminist Majority Foundation (FMF) in a report titled “Tracking Deliberate Sex Segregation in K-12 Public Schools.” The

report was based on data from the Civil Rights Data Collection which found and named 794 public co-ed schools that reported having single-sex academic classes and all-girl and all-boy public schools. I know and work with many women in the FMF. They do great work on behalf of women and girls. I must admit I haven’t always been much involved in the question of whether boys and girls are better off when they attend separate schools. However, this report got my attention when I learned that sex-segregated schools are increasing.

Askia-At-Large

Having been a proponent of Title IX that was signed into law over 40 years ago, I was curious about whether girls are still discriminated against. The law prohibits sex discrimination and often sex segregation in education programs and activities that receive federal financial assistance. Instead of decreasing, there are now more deliberate sex-segregated public K-12 education programs and they are increasing. The FMF study found that public schools reported having single-sex classes with especially large

increases in Nevada and Tennessee. There are also additional single-sex schools. Most of these schools are found in low income Black and Latino communities. At the same time, it was found that 64 years after the Supreme Court decision in Brown v. Board of Education, our public schools are more racially segregated than ever. That raises the question whether schools have improved for Black and Latino students or do practices under Title IX or Brown v. Board help. If they’ve not helped, is it because the intent of these laws is ignored?

The FMF report documents how deliberate K-12 single-sex instruction is educationally unsound, economically wasteful and often unlawful. The report further tells us, “Under the Bush administration, the ED released 2006 regulations weakening Title IX prohibitions on single-sex education. In December 2014, the ED Office for Civil Rights provided clarifying Q&A guidance on justifications that schools need to show that their single-sex education is not

WILLIAMS Page 50

By Askia Muhammad

Racial Resentment and Welfare Cuts

A study conducted by two California universities and released late last month in the journal Social Forces finds that opposition to welfare programs has grown among White people since 2008. White Americans are more likely to favor welfare cuts when they believe their status is threatened and that nonWhites are the main beneficiaries of safety net social programs. Well, I could have told them that, without a fancy research study. In fact, White opposition to public education, public health care, housing

— anything that benefits the needy — is rooted in racial hatred, even as they realize it causes White people to suffer in larger numbers than Blacks. Whites have a visceral dislike for Obamacare, just on the face of it, even though they are less hostile toward the Affordable Care Act — the same legislation. And this is true, despite the fact that White folks make up 43 percent of the nation’s Medicaid recipients. Whites constitute 36 percent of food stamp recipients, and 28 percent of those receiving cash welfare. “Cut it,” White folks say, even though many more Whites will be affected than will any other group. Even middle-class Whites hate ge-

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neric Black folks, wealthy Black folks, working Black folks, educated Black folks, poor Black folks, no matter. In their minds, it’s as the old saying goes: “If you’re Black, get back.” So-called “conservative” Whites, “fiscal conservatives” and “budget hawks” watched all their principles fly out the window when the Republican House, Senate and White House, gleefully pushed through a huge, budget-busting tax cut that will benefit primarily only the wealthiest tax payers, and generating trillions and trillions of dollars in new debt. These Wypipo silently believe that by reducing the amount of money in the federal budget by income reductions and increased defense

spending, that there will then be less money available to fund the dreaded programs they hate which benefit the “darkies.” But I was in my barbershop recently, and one of the barbers (all are Black) was complaining about “working my tail off and barely making it, while these girls having babies and getting on welfare get better clothes, better food, and less expensive housing than I get.” That of course is an exaggeration. But some Black folks also have beefs with those who are down and out. I believe that in principle, Booker T. Washington was correct when he advised Black folks a century ago to “pick yourselves up by your own

bootstraps.” I also agree that that’s impossible for people who have no boots. But Washington is an example of someone who practiced what he preached. As a young man, Washington walked — literally barefoot — to then Hampton Normal School (now Hampton University) where he had to literally be taught to eat with a knife and fork. He practiced what he preached and became a world renowned leader and educator, the founder of Tuskegee Institute. He achieved much and was a good role model. Washington just appeared to be an apologist for

ASKIA Page 50

JUNE 7 - 13, 2018 29 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

LIFESTYLE Pam Grier to Host ‘Brown Sugar Week’ on Bounce TV By Sarafina Wright WI Contributing Writer

Legendary actress Pam Grier is coming this month to the Bounce network to host a week-

long series of classic blaxploitation films pulled directly from Brown Sugar, Bounce’s popular subscription video-on-demand service. “Brown Sugar Week on

Bounce” runs June 11-15, beginning at 9 p.m. EST.

SCHEDULE OF FEATURED FILMS: Monday, June 11

“Bucktown” — Grier co-stars with frequent collaborator Fred Williamson, who finds himself battling the racism and police corruption that ended his brother’s life.

Tuesday, June 12

“The Mack” — Max Julien stars as Goldie, the most notorious pimp in Oakland, in this cult classic, which also features Richard Pryor.

Wednesday, June 13

“Black Belt Jones” — Jim Kelly plays a martial artist who must

battle mobsters to protect a karate school.

Thursday, June 14

“Super Fly” — The Gordon Parks-directed film and stars Ron O’Neal as Youngblood Priest, a New York City drug kingpin attempting to get out of the game.

Friday, June 15

“Three the Hard Way” — Williamson, Kelly and Jim Brown band together to foil a racist plot. Viewers can find these movies and hundreds more on Brown Sugar, along with complete seasons of top-rated Bounce originals such as “Saints & Sinners,” “Family Time” and “In the Cut,” the network said. Grier, a trailblazing actress that rose to fame in the ‘70s, showed Hollywood that women could open and carry films as the lead character. Her notable films include “Foxy Brown,” “Coffy,” “Sheba, Baby” and “Friday Foster,” all

of which be streamed on Brown Sugar. Grier also played the titular character in Quentin Tarantino’s “Jackie Brown” (1997), an ode to ‘70s blaxloitation co-starring Samuel L. Jackson, Robert De Niro and Michael Keaton. Later in her career, she starred in the TV series “The L Word” and “Smallville,” with guest appearances on numerous other hit shows. Brown Sugar is available on Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Channels, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Kindle, Android and Apple smartphones, tablets and web browsers via BrownSugar.com. Brown Sugar also has Google Chromecast capabilities which allow video to play on televisions directly from mobile devices and tablets for consumers with Android and iOS devices. There is a free initial trial period for subscribers with a retail price of $3.99/month thereafter. Go to BrownSugar.com for more information. WI

5Actress Pam Grier /Courtesy of Bounce

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LIFESTYLE

Afro-Cuban Musician Brings Special Project to DC JazzFest

5Afro-Cuban musician, scholar and composer Yosvany Terry (Courtesy of yosvanyterry.com)

By Eve M. Ferguson WI Contributing Writer

ARMENIA | CATALONIA | SISTERFIRE JUNE 27-JULY 1 AND JULY 4-8 l WWW.FESTIVAL.SI.EDU On the National Mall between 12th and 14th Streets

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When Afro-Cuban musician, composer and academic Yosvany Terry takes a stroll down memory lane, it is not nostalgia for the old Cuba that once was America’s Caribbean playground. It is much more ancient and culturally significant. This is his way down the ancestral path, researching, reconfiguring and recording the history of African people in Cuba, and by extension, his maternal lineage from Haiti. As a standard-bearer of Afro-Cuban cultural traditions, Terry has had to branch out on several projects to 5 Ga the whole, including the embrace jazz culture of his adopted home in New York City. Born into a musical family, Terry’s father Eladio “Don Pancho” Terry was a bandleader, violinist and master shekere player in his hometown of Camaguey, which has also produced other Cuban musical luminaries such as Omar Sosa. Schooled at the prestigious National School of Arts (ENA) and Amadeo Roldan Conservatory in Havana, Yosvany aspired to play the violin like his father, but was instead guided to the saxophone and continues his father’s unique playing style on the shekere. Both Yosvany and his brother, Yunior, have continued the musical legacy established by their father. “Ancestral Memories,” the recording and live music project he collaborated on with French pianist Baptiste Trotignon, is a musical meditation on the traditions that emerged from the French colonies in the Americas; New Orleans, Haiti, Guadeloupe

and other French territories in the Americas. “This is a special opportunity to express my grandmother’s Haitian heritage with people who speak the same language,” Terry said. But this is no anthropological study. Instead, the multifaceted musician interprets the rhythms and melodies through his jazz sensibilities, honed by his immersion in a number of other projects such as: • The jazz ensemble Yosvany Terry Quintet, in which he collaborates with his brother Yunior on bass. • “Noches de Parrandas,” a musical suite where Terry melds symphonic orchestration with percussive instruments unique to the Cuban Parrandas, a festive community celebration of music in the town of Remedios during the Christmas season. • The Bohemian Trio, which incorporates an “original blend of classical lyricism, jazz harmony, Latin dance and Afro-Cuban beats.” • Afro-Cuban Roots: Ye-dégbé (a word which means ‘with the approval of the spirits’ in the Fon language), which culminated in the 2014 recording “New Throned King” nominated for a Grammy for Best Latin Jazz album the following year. Closely related to “Ances tral Memories,” “New Throned King” brings together the Arará percussive rhythms and chants, originally from the ancient African kingdom of Dahomey and practiced in the central part of Cuba, with jazz. Those musical traditions are closely related

JAZZFEST Page 33

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LIFESTYLE JAZZFEST from Page 32 to the Yoruba spiritual practices (Lucumi) more widespread in Cuba, and though both revere the same deities, they rarely come into contact with each other. “The Arará drums, rhythms and chants are closely related to the Yoruba, but one is in the east side of the island and the other on the west” he said, noting that his research to produce the recording took seven years and entailed his total immersion in the culture, including initiation into the Arará spiritual practice. But the hauntingly beautiful and rich melodies are informed by Terry’s deep jazz roots, resulting in something between an ethnomusicological study and a lush jazz aesthetic, flawlessly seamed together with hand claps, chants, percussion and poetics. Above all, Terry is less concerned with a deeper understanding of scholarship than he is with the audience’s capability to connect to the artistry and spiritual energy of “Ancestral Memories,” and “New Throned King.” So what comes next for this man who wears many hats, including his demanding academic work as director of jazz ensembles and senior lecturer on music

at the illustrious Harvard University? “I haven’t written a book yet. It is something that is possible, which will be another hat to wear,” he said with a laugh. “Different people have asked me about that. I have even had the Stanford University Center for Latin American Studies and Cuban Studies at Harvard encourage me to do it, and they could help. I just need to think about how to find the time. It is another talent that you need to master at the same time.” In the interim, the award-winning scholarly musician is working on an additional outlet to express the beauty and richness of African Diaspora music and its manifestations throughout the Americas and Caribbean, particularly those from Afro-Cuban culture. “Ancestral Memories” featuring Yosvany Terry and Baptiste Trotignon, will play the 2018 DC Jazz Festival on Sunday, June 17 at the newly refurbished Wharf in southwest D.C. The free concert runs from noon on the District and Transit Piers, with “Ancestral Memories” playing at 3:50 p.m. Go to https:// dcjazzfest.org for scheduling information. WI

JUNE 8 – 17, 2018 TICKETS ON SALE NOW

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PUBLIC MEETING PUBLIC MEETING H Street Bridge Project

(Washington, DC) The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) invites members of H Street Bridge Project the community and stakeholders to a public meeting on Thursday, June 21 , 2018 to st

obtain information to provide feedback potential reconstruction or (Washington, DC) Theand District Department of on Transportation (DDOT) invites members of replacement of the H St. Bridge. The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) is the community and stakeholders to a public meeting on Thursday, June 21st, 2018 to currently evaluating if the bridge can be repaired or if it must be replaced. obtain and to provide feedback on potential or The information purpose of this project is to improve the condition of the reconstruction H Street Bridge, NE (HopscotchofBridge) DistrictThe of Columbia. replacement the H inSt.the Bridge. District Department of Transportation (DDOT) is currently evaluating if the bridge can be repaired or if it must be replaced. H Street Bridge Public Meeting No. 1 The What: purpose of this project is to improve the condition of the H Street Bridge, NE When: Thursday, June 21st, 2018 Time: 6 pm to 8 pm with 6:30 presentation (Hopscotch Bridge) in theNeighborhood District of Columbia. Location: Northeast Library, 330 7th St NE,

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Take Metrobus and Metrorail to the...

R+R=Now (A Robert Glasper Supergroup)

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Washington, DC 20002 (Meeting Room) Refreshments be1served. H Street Bridge Public Meetingwill No. What: Can't Make a Meeting? When: Thursday, June 21st, 2018 Time: 6 pm to 8 pm with 6:30 presentation Materials from this meeting will be made available on the study website within 24 hours of meetingNortheast conclusion.Neighborhood Those who would like to leave a comment Location: Library, 330 7th St NE, about the study can do so by leaving a comment on the Get Involved! section of the webpage. Washington, DC 20002 (Meeting Room)

The Washington Post is the official media sponsor of DC JazzFest at The Wharf GOLD SPONSORS

SILVER SPONSORS

MEDIA SPONSOR

For more information email info@hstreetbridgeproject.com.

Refreshments will be served. DDOT ensures nondiscrimination in all programs and activities in accordance with Title Can't Make a Meeting? VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. If you Materials from this meeting will be made available on the study website within 24 hours need special accommodations, please contact Cesar Barreto at (202) 671 – 2829 or of meeting conclusion. Those who would like to leave a comment about the study can Ceasar.Barreto@dc.gov five days in advance of the meeting. If you need language do so by leaving a comment onorthe Get Involved! section of the webpage. assistance services (translation interpretation), please contact Karen.Randolph@dc.gov five days in advance of the meeting. These services will be provided free of charge.

For more information email info@hstreetbridgeproject.com.

Victor Silva| District Department of Transportation | 55 M Street, SE, Suite 400 Washington, DC 20003

DDOT ensures nondiscrimination in all programs and activities in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. If you need special accommodations, please contact Cesar Barreto at (202) 671 – 2829 or Ceasar.Barreto@dc.gov five days in advance of the meeting. If you need language assistance services (translation or interpretation), please contact Karen.Randolph@dc.gov five days in advance of the meeting. These services will be provided free of charge.

Victor of Transportation | 55|M55Street, SE, Suite 400 Washington, DC 20003 VictorSilva| Silva|District DistrictDepartment Department of Transportation M Street, SE, Suite 400 Washington, DC 20003

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PepsiCo is the official drink sponsor of DC JazzFest at The Wharf 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; with awards from the National Endowment for the Arts, the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, an agency supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts, the Office of Cable Television, Film, Music & Entertainment; and the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development; and, in part, by major funding from the Anne and Ronald Abramson Family Foundation, The Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation, Gillon Family Charitable Fund, 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 the Mid-Atlantic Arts Foundation. ©2018 DC Jazz Festival. All rights reserved.

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LIFESTYLE

D.C. Cable Channel Unveils Summer Program Schedule

5Hosts of OCTFME television shows are introduced at the UPFRONT presentation. First row-from left: Matt Granato and Cicely Fernandez, co-hosts of “We Are Washington”, Michel Wright and Ferman Patterson, co-hosts of “The 202”, (Second Row-from left): Pedro Biaggi, host of “Cambios de Vida”, Mahogany Lyles, host of “I Wish You Knew”, Britt Waters, host of “The Sound” and Dion Dove, host of “Display.” /Photo courtesy of OFCTME

By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer The D.C. Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment (OCTFME) late last month rolled out its programming schedule for the upcoming season, serving up a variety of shows that aim to appeal to the District’s diverse population. Hosted by Bruce Walker, associate director for the OCTFME’s television and entertainment division, and Karen Tolson, the office’s director of programming, the lineup was presented May 23 at the office studio in an upbeat party setting with previews of upcoming shows and introductions of program hosts. OCTFME shows are broadcasted over the District Council Channel (DCC), the District of Columbia Network (DCN) and the District Knowledge Network (DKN). The television shows also can be heard on DC Radio 96.3 HD4, the city government’s first radio station launched in collaboration with WHURFM. The DCC channel covers more than routine updates from the Office of the Mayor, the city’s executive branch, the City Council, the Office of the Attorney General, and the State Board of Education. The show “Off the Dais” allows D.C. residents to see what council members are doing outside of their offices, public hearings and community meetings.

34 JUNE 7 - 13, 2018

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DCN carries a daily schedule of programs that showcase the District as an international city with a lot going on in entertainment, cultural arts, dining and family fun. “The 202” is considered DCN’s lead program, hosted by Michel Wright and Ferman Patterson. The Emmy-nominated show, which covers the latest happenings in D.C. in a quick-paced, talkshow format, airs Tuesday at 7 p.m. “It’s our version of the ‘Today’ show,” Walker said in describing the format of “The 202.” “We Are Washington” is a magazine-style show in which co-hosts Cicely Fernandez and Matt Granato move around the District in search of news and special events. Their show airs Monday at 6:30 p.m. on DCN. A first for DCN is Latino programming with “Cambios de Vida” (Changes of Life), which will air Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. The show is hosted by Pedro Biaggi, a well-known D.C. media figure and advocate for Latino issues. “’Cambios de Vida’ will have personal stories of people who changed their lives and who are changing the lives of others in this city,” Biaggi said. DCN also will air a variety of programs focusing on the District’s entertainment scene including “The Sound,” which will spotlight breakout artists on music scene, “Movie Mon-

DC CABLE Page 48

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Your time is valuable. That’s why we’re working hard to improve customer service with two-hour appointment windows, including nights and weekends. And if we’re ever late, we’ll give you an automatic $20 credit to help make it right. Because we should fit into your life, not the other way around. xfinity.com/service ©2018 Comcast. All rights reserved.

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LIFESTYLE

TV One Centers on Wrongfully Convicted in New Series

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Contributing Writer @SamPKCollins

Innocence,” a four-part program chronicling the experiences of those who, after prosecution, lengthy prison stints, and convoluted appeals processes, cleared their names of criminal wrongdoing and reunited with their families.

The cast of Ain’t Too Proud—The Life and Times of The Temptations at Berkeley Repertory Theatre. Photo by Joel Dockendorf/Berkeley Repertory Theatre

Amid the Trump administration’s ongoing crusade against criminal justice reform efforts, a Black-owned media corporation,

with its release of an uplifting, socially conscious docuseries, aims to highlight the plight, and eventual triumph, of Black men and women wrongfully convicted for crimes they didn’t commit. This week, TV One aired the first installment of “Evidence of

On this show, the quartet of innocent people reflects on their experiences while making sense of their newfound freedom. “The one thing about this show that’s different from others is that, while justice is predicated as locking up people, we define justice as a search for truth,” Benjamin Crump, notable civil rights lawyer and host of the TV One program, told The Informer during a private screening of “Evidence of Innocence” Thursday, May 31 at the Internet & Television Association (NCTA) headquarters in Northwest. “This show will expose those who don’t give citizens due process and [respect] their constitutional rights under the law,” Crump added. “We’re going to expose this for America, so people can see that judges and police and deceiving and lying to get a notch on their belt and feed the prison industrial complex. That’s not the equal justice we want for all American citizens.” A study conducted last year by the National Review of Exonerations found that Black people convicted of murder and sexual assault are more likely to later be found innocent of their crimes, in comparison to their white counterparts. Researchers also determined that Black people in these situations often waited disproportionately longer before the system cleared their name. Since the turn of the century, lawmakers have tried shaping policy to lessen the impact of wrongful convictions, including a

moratorium on the death penalty, as implemented in Illinois by then-Gov. George Ryan (R). Efforts continued this year with the approval of a measure in California that would open the records of police officers found guilty of planting evidence, among other abuses of power. For the wrongfully convicted, Kansas recently passed a law securing health care, housing, and an annual amount of $65,000 for every year spent behind bars. Though he didn’t face the death penalty, Mark Schand, a Connecticut husband and father of three, struggled to remain faithful that his situation, a life sentence in a maximum security facility for a murder he didn’t commit, would change for the better. While speaking with Crump on the first episode of “Evidence of Innocence,” Schand, now a free man for nearly four years, recounted his nearly 30-year ordeal, which included a wrongful conviction, severe prosecutorial misconduct, a denied appeal, a nearly fatal brain aneurysm, and his wife Mia’s unwavering love for and dedication to him through it all. At the beginning of the nearly hourlong segment, Schand, bald and sporting thick black shades and a goatee, walked Crump through his initial arrest in 1986 and subsequent events, while the pair stood feet from where detectives crept up in a vehicle on Schand as he walked his dog, only to slam him against their car hood

TV ONE Page 37

: DISTRICT VOX

Thu, Jun 14, 5:30-8pm • John A. Wilson Building

Presented by Washington Performing Arts’ Mars Urban Arts Initiative and Councilmember David Grosso, the fourth annual Politics & Art event spotlights D.C.-based vocal and spoken word artists—from go-go and R&B to opera and folk—who use the power of their voices to inspire, entertain, and empower.

June 19–July 22 Eisenhower Theater Theater at the Kennedy Center is made possible by

36 JUNE 7 - 13, 2018

Major support for Musical Theater at the Kennedy Center is provided by

Free, but registration required.

Kennedy Center Theater Season Sponsor

Additional support is provided by Ambassador Elizabeth Frawley Bagley.

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Politics & Art is made possible in part by the generous support of Washington Gas. Washington Performing Arts’ Mars Urban Arts Initiative is generously supported by Jacqueline Badger Mars and Mars, Incorporated.

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LIFESTYLE

5Rushion McDonald, Linda Lipsen, Chantá Parker, Benjamin Crump, Tia Smith and Mike Fletcher grace the red carpet at the premier of ‘Evidence of Innocence’ on Thursday, May 31 at the NCTA – The Internet & Television Association in Northwest. /Photo by Brigette White

TV ONE from Page 36 and put him in handcuffs minutes later. Other scenes in the episode placed Schand and Crump on the steps of the court building where some of the litigation took place, and at Schand’s current home, where he and Crump sat at an outdoor table and conversed as his grandchildren frolicked around a spacious backyard. Peppered throughout this episode of “Evidence of Innocence” were detailed reenactments of the

Thursday’s private screening at NCTA. Throughout the evening, McDonald stressed that the docuseries shed light on an issue that untold numbers of Black people face. “We worked hard to find real stories,” he said. “When you watch them, you can’t help but be moved. Despite the entire system blaming [the people featured], their families never accepted it. You had this young woman who stayed with this man for 30 years and never wavered. That’s the definition of ride-or-die!”

While most agreed on “Evidence of Innocence”’s political and emotional significance, the next steps in tackling systems that wrongfully convict Black men and women inspired a spirited panel discussion immediately following the screening. TV One’s Roland Martin, a nationally syndicated award-winning journalist and columnist, guided a conversation that touched on the importance of down-ballot voting in choosing judges and answering the call for jury duty. That evening, panelists included Crump, McDonald, TV One

network executive Tia A. Smith, Chanta’ Parker of the Innocence Project, and Mike Fletcher, a senior writer with ESPN’s The Undefeated. On the subject of jury duty participation, a task that legal experts say ensures one’s peers are involved in the judicial process, Parker pushed back against assumptions that Black people avoid the process callously. “There are barriers; the system presumes us guilty at every turn,” Parker, special counsel for New

TV ONE Page 38

drug deal-turned-shooting that left an innocent female bystander dead, the Schands’ evolving relationship that culminated in prison nuptials, and efforts to secure Schand’s freedom by Centurion Ministries, a New Jersey-based organization that assists in the vindication of the wrongfully convicted. “It’s about the support system, the people who believe in you,” Rushion McDonald, executive producer of “Evidence of Innocence,” told The Informer during

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Applications for FY19 arts and humanities project-based grants for individuals and organizations are currently available online For more information on grant programs, including technical assistance workshops for applicants, contact us at www.dcarts.dc.gov | 202-724-5613 and learn more about how our grant programs can help support your great ideas

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JUNE 7 - 13, 2018 37 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

LIFESTYLE YOUTH from Page 12 families through social justice advocacy and providing resource development skills. But at the heart of their action is political education. “Ultimately, our work creates ‘future adults’ who do not embrace an apathetic attitude towards securing human rights, economic opportunities and community wellness,” the organization’s mission reads. “We use solutions to address social problems. We create a future worth fighting for!” Aiyi’nah Ford, executive director of the Future Foundation said many of the students apart of the program are in families that suffer from displacement, unemployment and various forms of trauma such as domestic violence, mental health issues and criminal activity. “They liked the idea that po-

litical-engagement education that allowed them to change things they thought never would change,” Ford said. “A meeting about school lunch turned into a whole campaign.” Dena’ya Henson, 18, moderated the organization’s three candidate panels and said they have helped her become more involved in the political process and now she hopes to encourage other teens to become involved as well. “[Politicians] are not building our communities; the issues we face have been going on for so long,” Dena’ya said. “We need more support.” “A lot of the candidates are running, but don’t know what issues matter to teens and this was a good opportunity to let candidates answer our questions and address our concerns,” she said. WI

“The great part about this show is that it becomes part of the larger conversation.”

TV ONE from Page 37 Initiatives at the Innocence Project said during the panel discussion. “If you work for an hourly wage, you can’t take off for a day, or even weeks. When people come in for jury duty, the prosecutor is aggressively trying to get them off,” Parker added in reference to the jury selection process, where the prosecution and defense attempt to shape the demographics of the jury in their favor. As a reminder about the prevalence of the issue of wrongful convictions, Kimaan Majid, a representative of a Newark, New Jersey-based internet magazine who attended the screening, shared his story of a three-year prison sentence in Virginia and lengthy parole process for a crime he said he didn’t commit. In the middle of the panel, Majid, who often commutes between New Jersey

– Jessica Lane TV One’s director of digital and social media

and D.C. for work, walked down the row of white leather seats and, on the main stage area, implored audience members to tackle the prison system at all angles. “We should get more involved in the cases that got nothing to do with us to ensure the innocent remain innocent and free. There’s no exception,” Majid told The Informer at the close of last week’s screening. “More of us have to do jury duty and become more aware of the business of the penitentiary. This show gives a voice to people you don’t hear from and that’s why I appreciate it.” The next three episodes of “Evidence of Innocence” involve a woman named as a prime suspect in her ex-girlfriend’s murder, a teenager sentenced to life in Tex-

as, and a day care facility owner convicted in the death of an infant under her care. Crump and others involved in the production and marketing of the docuseries expressed confidence that viewers would empathize with those who told their story and advocate for systemic changes. “The great part about this show is that it becomes part of the larger conversation,” Jessica Lane, TV One’s director of digital and social media, told The Informer. “We know about African-American struggles and conflicts. This is one more thread of the stories, and these end up being happy stories and stories of redemption. It’s also very critical of what goes on after you’re arrested, become a person of interest, and swept up in the system.” WI

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38 JUNE 7 - 13, 2018

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LIFESTYLE

wi A book review

Horoscopes

ARIES You may think you know what you want, but do you? This week’s blend of energies could see your head and heart in conflict, resulting in confusion. Add to this a desire for recognition or a need to make a bold impression, and you could find yourself pulled in several different directions at once. Lucky Numbers: 29, 35, 57

“How to Trick the Tooth Fairy”

by Erin Danielle Russell, illustrated by Jennifer Hansen Rolli c.2018, Aladdin/Simon & Schuster Kids $17.99 ($23.99 Canada) 40 pages

TAURUS Go easy with finances this week because something that seems like a great deal may not be. If a friend or colleague is encouraging you to purchase a membership to a gym or club, don’t immediately agree. It would help you to investigate the terms and conditions and find out the exact cost before you sign anything. Chances are good that there may be one or two hidden clauses that add up to quite a bit more than you thought when it comes to the final price. Lucky Numbers: 1, 17, 55

How to Trick the Tooth Fairy Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer The joke’s from you! That’s because you’re a pretty funny kid. You’re always being silly, pranking friends, goofing around, and joking to make people laugh – although sometimes, you have to admit that things get out of hand. In “How to Trick the Tooth Fairy” by Erin Danielle Russell, illustrated by Jennifer Hansen Rolli, they also get out of, um, mouth. Kaylee was the Princess of Pranking. “Mischief” was practically her middle name because there wasn’t one single day in a year when she didn’t play a prank. She was known to prank her sister awake. Kaylee even pranked on Christmas. All her friends knew the score and they were careful around her. No sense in being her next “unsuspecting victim.” But, believe it or not, Kaylee wasn’t the biggest prankster in the world. No, that would be The Tooth Fairy. Seriously, have you ever actually seen The Tooth Fairy? Yeah, what can you say about pixie dust and swift fairy wings? Not much, except: can you spot trouble here? Anyhow, one night, right after Kaylee lost a tooth, The Tooth Fairy came to visit. She was expecting to find a small, hard, white object beneath Kaylee’s pillow but we are talking about Kaylee here and instead, The Tooth Fairy got a frog. When you pillow-prank a professional with a rubber frog, you get dozens of real frogs in your bedroom in answer. From there, it was “game on!” Kaylee pranked The Tooth Fairy with a slice of chocolate pie and hot-sauce topping. Ugh. The Tooth Fairy retaliated with a roomful of sticky ice cream with whipped cream and cherries that landed absolutely everywhere. What a mess! Of course, Kaylee couldn’t leave things well enough alone so she retaliated and The Tooth Fairy retaliated again and before long, payback was no fun. Nobody meant to hurt anybody. What happens when two big pranksters have to call off their epic prankoff? Is it possible for them to keep a long-term truce? So you say you’ve got a mischief-maker in the house. The sillier, the better for her and the more laughs, the more fun. That’s why you need “How to Trick the Tooth Fairy” around: this book is a perfect giggle-generator. Part of the reason is that author Erin Danielle Russell’s Kaylee is pure playfulness, which makes her easy for fun-loving kids to understand and identify with. Kaylee’s pranking isn’t malicious misbehavior or worthy of scolding; it’s messy in a colossal way, but it’s really just kid stuff. The Tooth Fairy, on the other hand, lends a bit of magic pixie influence to the tale. Her pranks really go over the top, and with artwork by Jennifer Hansen Rolli, mayhem adds to the freewheeling free-for-all feel of the book. For 4- to 8-year-olds who know how to get a little wild, this book will become a favorite pretty quickly. It’s also for kids who love a good prank, and for children who haven’t met The Tooth Fairy yet. The fun they’ll find inside “How to Trick the Tooth Fairy” ain’t no joke. WI WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

JUNE 7 -13, 2018

GEMINI Someone in authority could confuse you with demands and requests, leaving you uncertain about what to do next. If you find yourself in this situation over the coming week, it would certainly help to get clarification. The sun in your sign links with inquisitive Mercury on Tuesday, so you’ll be firing on all cylinders and eager to make progress. But if you have no clear directives, it could leave you frustrated. Perhaps your best bet is to do what you can. If the response isn’t helpful, get on with whatever you can reasonably manage. Lucky Numbers: 17, 27, 40 CANCER The sun and chatty Mercury align in your spiritual sector, so you may find that you’re deeply attuned to your feelings and the desires of your heart. But you could experience a clash of beliefs over the days ahead when both planets forge a link to elusive Neptune. It might be that your idea of what you need conflicts with someone else’s thoughts. And it’s possible that the other person will try to make you feel guilty for not doing what they want. Lucky Numbers: 3, 19, 53 LEO A positive blend of energies in your social sector suggests that you certainly won’t be bored over the coming days. In fact, your appointment book could be filled to the brim with invitations or suggestions for events you want to attend. With the sun and expressive Mercury angling toward Neptune in a more sensitive zone of your chart, a part of you may feel like spending some time doing your own thing. But you might benefit from a bit of both. Lucky Numbers: 2, 23, 38 VIRGO You could be the star of the show as the sun aligns with lively Mercury in your career sector. This can be a time when you make a good impression or perhaps accomplish something that distinguishes you as being very talented. With elusive Neptune in your sector of relating, it’s possible that someone may seek to undermine you. This could be only a temporary situation, but unless you’re careful, you could take it personally. The trick here is to not take their words too seriously. Lucky Numbers: 6, 13, 30 LIBRA If you’re feeling overwhelmed and somewhat under-appreciated in your present work situation, the idea of taking a break to travel and relax could seem very appealing. An awkward blend of energies could leave you feeling guilty for not being able to do your best while being very eager to enjoy some time away. It would be helpful if you could delegate some of your tasks. Lucky Numbers: 4, 5, 47 SCORPIO A strong blend of energies involving convivial Venus and potent Pluto suggests that you could have difficulty getting through to someone. This could be because of their emotional state and their feelings about you. Trying to be reasonable with this person may not work because a confusing blend of energies could encourage misunderstandings and mixed messages. If you can steer clear of this person for a few days, it would give things a chance to settle down. Lucky Numbers: 6, 28, 40 SAGITTARIUS With the sun aligning with thoughtful Mercury in your sector of relating, you may be enjoying some very positive interactions with a loved one or at various social events. But misunderstandings may be widespread, especially midweek, so it would pay to be careful. Lucky Numbers: 1, 5, 13 CAPRICORN Mixed messages could be the reason it’s difficult to come to grips with a project or meet a deadline. You may be eager to do a good job, but if your instructions aren’t clear, it may not be possible. Before you start, check to make sure you understand what you need to do. This can apply to all kinds of instructions and written messages over the days ahead. With nebulous Neptune in the mix, there will be plenty of room for things to go wrong. In fact, it might be easier to move on to something that you can complete and leave this matter for another day. Lucky Numbers: 2, 25, 52 AQUARIUS With dynamic Mars in your sign, you could be charged with energy and eager to get on with those plans and projects that have been on the back burner. The presence of the red planet in your sector of self-expression could encourage you to be bold, courageous, and unafraid to showcase your unique qualities. Lucky Numbers: 27, 30, 48 PISCES With a lively focus on your domestic zone, the week ahead could see you eager to enjoy socializing with family members and attending to matters at home. If you’re going to be entertaining or someone is coming to stay, it might be a good idea to make a list of everything you need to do. Lucky Numbers: 3, 11, 24

JUNE 7 - 13, 2018 39 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

SPORTS Soul Defeats Valor in D.C.

5Philadelphia Soul wide receiver Darius Prince slips away from Washington Valor defensive back Svante Davenport during Philadelphia’s 51-46 win at Capital One Arena in Northwest on May 31. /Photo by John E. De Freitas

5Washington Valor wide receiver TT Toliver readies to haul in a touchdown pass ahead of Philadelphia Soul defensive back James Romain during Philadelphia’s 51-46 win at Capital One Arena in Northwest on May 31. /Photo by John E. De Freitas

5Washington Valor wide receiver Reggie Gray attempts to catch a pass amid a trio of Philadelphia Soul defenders during Philadelphia’s 51-46 win at Capital One Arena in Northwest on May 31. /Photo by John E. De Freitas 3Philadelphia Soul defensive back LaRico Stevenson intercepts a pass intended for Washington Valor wide receiver Josh Reese during Philadelphia’s 51-46 win at Capital One Arena in Northwest on May 31. /Photo by John E. De Freitas

40 JUNE 7 - 13, 2018

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Maryland Boxer Lends Helping Hand

SPORTS

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer Malik Titus has his desire set on becoming an Olympian. But the 20-year-old Maryland boxer has more to offer than just being a champion inside the ring. “I want to help out and give back to the community,” said Titus, who’s coached by famed Maryland boxing trainer Mack Allison. While Titus is currently seeking to win the 2018 National Golden Globes in Omaha, Nebraska, he said giving back to city children is why he choose to major in exercise science at the Community College of Baltimore County in Catonsville. It’s also why Titus serves as a youth ambassador at Bro Code, a grass-roots, community-based nonprofit dedicated to the social and emotional education of young people. “That’s what I want to do, give back,” Titus said. “Bro Code gives young people access to opportunities that will help them have a successful future. They assist them with their everyday challenges and they have prevention and intervention help through various programs.” Titus recalled a period in his development when other youths picked on him because of his weight. “I was overweight, obese, and people made fun of me,” he said. “My pants were tight and things like that and I really didn’t have any confidence and I was not coordinated.” Now a stealth and rather imposing 6 feet 5-inch, 235-pound heavyweight boxer, Titus still carries those former taunts into the ring. He said it helps to keep him motivated. “I always remember where I came from and sure I think about that and it helps me to continue,” Titus said.

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5Malik Titus. /Photo courtesy of Facebook

First introduced to boxing at the age of 3 by his father, Kenneth Titus and his grandfather, William Titus, the younger Titus began training with Allison when he was 11. He said the Allison family have had a major effect on his fledgling professional career, one that he hopes will lead him to the Olympics and culminate in a world championship. Already, Titus has tasted success. A six-time D.C. Golden Gloves state champion and a four-time Washington regional champion, Titus placed second at the National Golden Gloves Championships in 2012 and 2013. He also earned a bronze medal at the 2013 Junior Olympic Championships. But as optimistic as Titus is, he said he’s also realistic. “I know that boxing isn’t going to be forever, but I still want to be involved with the sport,” he said. “I want to get a degree in

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sports management and become a boxing promoter. I’d like to own a sports franchise.” And Titus also wants to continue being an integral part of his Baltimore community. “One of the things my coach has taught me, and my teammates is that it’s important to invest in Baltimore,” Titus said. “It’s not just about boxing. Boxing is an outlet for me and has been growing up. It’s helped me to travel to places like Las Vegas, Florida and Nebraska. “But no matter where my career takes me, my goal is to start my own nonprofit so that I can continue to help the children in my community and to ensure that inner-city kids get a broader view of the world,” he said. WI

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RELIGION

Lawyer, Activist Dovey Johnson Roundtree Remembered

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42 JUNE 7 - 13, 2018

Attorney Dovey Mae Johnson Roundtree was memorialized by those who knew and admired her at a ceremony held Tuesday, June 5 at Allen Chapel AME Church in Southeast. The beloved and respected minister, army veteran, civil rights activist and attorney died on May 21 in Charlotte, N.C. at the age of 104. The choir sang, and officials spoke to nearly 200 fellow lawyers, leaders of the AME Church, colleagues from the National Council of Negro Women, law students, church members and others who reflected on Roundtree’s life and legacy. A photo of her stood near the pulpit, and a white dove carved into eight stained glass windows around the church served as a reminder of her influence over the future of the law and religion. “During a time when it was neither popular nor fashionable to stand tall as an African American female attorney, Attorney Roundtree opened the door and forged her way into the arena of civil rights law. She was unapologetic in her quest to pursue justice for all people,” said Reverend Glenda F. Hodges, assistant secretary of the AME Church Judicial Board. Hodges reflected on Roundtree’s “significant firsts” including becoming the first female general counsel of the AME Church, the first of 40 women in the first class of the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps, the first African American member of D.C. Women’s Bar Association, and one of the first women ordained in AME church. “Because of her monumental work in the 1955 bus desegregation victory before the Interstate Transportation Commission in the case of Sarah Keys v. Carolina Coach Company, Roundtree helped abolish separate but equal in interstate transportation, which allowed U.S. Attorney General Robert Kennedy a tool to combat southern resistance to the Freedom Riders campaign,” Hodges said. In 1964, Roundtree successfully defended Ray Crump Jr., a Black man accused of murdering Mary Pinchot Meyer, the ex-wife of a CIA officer and the alleged mistress of President Kennedy. For the fee of one dollar, Roundtree presented a 30-minute case with only three witnesses —Crump was acquitted of all charges. Roundtree continued to advocate for children, families and the less fortunate up until her retirement from

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

5Dovey Johnson /Courtesy photo

the law in 1996. Hodges said, “She remained undaunted in the quest to save the generation which followed her from what she labeled the ‘demon of violence’.” Roundtree was a minister at Allen Chapel AME, and in March 2013, an affordable senior living facility in Southeast, D.C. was named “The Roundtree Residences” in her honor. Reverend John Thomas, also a minister at Allen, said it was Reverend Roundtree that gave the 11 o’clock sermon at Allen AME in October 1983, that “I came up and took her hand, and I joined this church.” Her favorite song, Thomas said, was Somehow I Made It. “And after I read her book, I understood. She faced adversity all of her life, and she truly lived a legacy of service to others.” Dr. Shirley Jackson, who represented the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), urged everyone to read Roundtree’s autobiography Justice Older than the Law, written with National Magazine Award winner Katie McCabe. The book won the 2009 Letitia Woods Brown Memorial Book Prize from the Association of Black Women Historians. Jackson praised Roundtree for her work with Dr. Mary McCleod Bethune, founder of NCNW general counsel, and for her legal acumen needed to support the purchase of the NCNW headquarters, under the leadership of Dr. Dorothy I. Height, at 6th & Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W. “She exhibited her skills in the ‘Art of the Deal,’” Jackson said. “She and her legal team negotiated a really good purchase deal and put together airtight legal documents that prevented others who did not want to see us in that property from being able to wiggle us out. She was a legal mastermind.”

Jackson also spoke of Roundtree’s lack of wealth coupled with her commitment to serving the less fortunate. To help cover the church’s expenses, Jackson said, Roundtree “would go out on speaking engagements after a challenging day in court and give what she was paid to the church to pay its bills. Allen had a primary place in her heart.” Born Dovey Mae Johnson in Charlotte, N.C. on April 17, 1914, Roundtree grew up with her parents and siblings in a household heavily influenced by the AME Church. At the age of five, her father James Eliot Johnson reportedly died from influenza changing the trajectory of her life. Through her grandmother Rachel Bryant Graham, a prominent figure in Charlotte’s Black community, Roundtree forged a relationship with Mary McLeod Bethune. In 1934, Roundtree began her post-secondary studies at Spelman College in Atlanta. Roundtree enrolled at Howard University School of Law in the fall of 1947. There civil rights played an enormous role in her matriculation with professors like James Nabrit Jr., George E.C. Hayes, and Thurgood Marshall. She also received her divinity degree from Howard. “For years we marked her birthday as the oldest living graduate,” said HU associate dean Lisa Crooms-Robinson. “She is a forbearer on whose shoulders we at Howard University School of Law stand. We owe her a tremendous debt of gratitude for being our role model, for paving the way for us, for showing us how to be a social engineer and how to make a way when it appears to be no way at all.” Sarafina Wright also contributed to this article. WI

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RELIGION THE RELIGION CORNER

Don’t Live in the Past — Be Present with Lyndia Grant Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland. Isaiah 43:18-19, NIV This week as we continue to discuss the topic of forgiveness, let us discuss Wayne Dyer’s 12th principle: “don’t live in the past — be present.” When we find it difficult to forgive, often it is because we are not living in the present, and instead, we assign more importance to the past. We assign a good portion of our energy and attention lamenting the good old days that are gone forever as the reason why we can’t be happy and fulfilled today. Just remind yourself that today and every day, things change, and though no one respects others like they used to, in your mind, it is because if we had lived one thousand years ago, we would hardly know what to do! That’s how much things change. It happens slowly and gradually until one day, you look around and realize so much around you has changed that you feel lost! It’s doubtful that other creatures waste the present moment in thoughts of past and future. A beaver only does beaver, and he does Mt. Zion Baptist Church Reverend John W. Davis Pastor 5101 14th Street, NW Washington, DC 20011 Phone: 202-726-2220 Fax: 202-726-9089 Service and Times Sunday Worship Service - 8:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Children’s Church - 11:00 a.m. (1st & 3rd Sundays) Communion - 10 a.m. 4th Sunday Sunday School - 9:15 a.m. (4th Sunday 8:15 a.m.) Prayer Meeting & Bible Study - Wednesday 7:00 p.m. “A Church with a past to remember – and a future to mold”

it right in the moment. He doesn’t spend his days ruminating over the fact that his beaver siblings received more attention, or his father beaver ran off with a younger beaver when he was growing up. He’s always in the now. We can learn much from God’s creatures about how to enjoy the present moment rather than being consumed with anger over the past or worrying about the future. Practice living in the moment by appreciating the beauty around you now. Sleeping time is when God does His perfect work. Allow Him to electrify our subconscious minds with His conceptions of those “good works” He created you to do. If only we listen! Stop going to sleep at night worrying about what somebody has done to you, thinking of things you can and must do to get back at them for the wrong they’ve done to you. God has given us a spirit of forgiveness; reread the scripture Ephesians 4:31-32. Hang it where you can see it before sleeping! Here are steps you can use for your forgiveness goals: First, write down who you need to forgive, write how you feel about what has happened, and say how you feel right now, being careful to be honest to yourself, and write your willingness to at least be open to the possibility of letting go of those bad feelings. Next, write how much better you’re going to feel, once you forgive these people. Keep writing it and saying it — I forgive you for leaving me, your wife, and for not paying child support. You surely will feel better when you have forgiven.

Finally, become committed to allowing yourself to forgive. And be real with yourself folks — it must come from your heart. If you still feel that negative energy rise up when you see this person the very next time, your forgiveness is incomplete! Keep working, and soon this negative energy will be erased from your subconscious mind. If you are a follower of my column, you probably have read what I said about trying to drive your car, while looking in your rearview mirror nonstop. Even a fool could understand that you will get very far! You must keep your eyes on the road. Driving instructors teach us to only take about a one-second glimpse in your rearview and side mirrors — 99.9% of the time, you should be looking forward as you drive. That is the same with your life! So stop living in the past, and be present! WI Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church The Rev. E. Bernard Anderson Priest Foggy Bottom - Founded in 1867 728 23rd Street, NW - Washington, DC 20037 Church office: 202-333-3985 - Fax : 202-338-4958 Service and Times Sundays: 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist with Music and Hymns Wednesdays: 12:10 p.m. - Holy Eucharist www.stmarysfoggybottom.org Email: stmarysoffice@stmarysfoggybottom.org All are welcome to St. Mary’s to Learn, Worship, and Grow.

(301) 864-6070

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Mount Olivet Lutheran Church

John F. Johnson Reverend Dr. 1306 Vermont Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20005 Service and Times Divine Worship, Sunday 10:00 a.m. Communion 1st and 3rd Sunday “Friendliest Church in the City” Website: mountolivetdc.org Email: mtolivedc@gmail.com

www.mtzbcdc.org

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JUNE 7 - 13, 2018 43 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

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

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

Crusader Baptist Church

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

Turning Hearts Church Virgil K. Thomas, Sr. Senior Pastor/ Teacher 4275 4th Street, S.E. Washington, DC 20034 Phone: 202-746-0113 Fax: 301-843-2445 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 Motto : “A Great Commitment to the Great Commandment” Website: www.turningheartschurchdc.org Email: faithdefender@verizon.net

44 JUNE 7 - 13, 2018

“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 “We are one in the Spirit” www.ssbc5757.org E-mail: ssbc5757@verizon.net

Services and Times Sunday School: 9:30am Sunday Worship: 11:00am Sunday Community Worship Service: 8:30 am “Ambassadors for Christ to the Nation’s Capital” www.thirdstreet.org Live Stream Sunday Worship Service begins @ 12:00 noon www.thirdstreet.org

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 emailus@gmchc.org

Isle of Patmos Baptist Church

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 Reverend Gerald H. Hesson Interim Pastor 901 Third Street N.W. Washington, DC. 20001 Phone (202) 842-3411 Fax (202) 682-9423 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

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RELIGION Shabbath Commandment Church

All Nations Baptist Church

King Emmanuel Baptist Church

Bishop Adrian A. Taylor, Sr. Pastor

Rev. Dr. James Coleman Pastor

Rev. Daryl F. Bell Pastor

7801 Livingston Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 301-534-5471

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

2324 Ontario Road, NW Washington, DC 20009 (202) 232-1730

Service and Times Sabbath School 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Service 11:00 a.m. Praise & Worship Preaching 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Motto: “A Church Keeping It Real for Real.” Website: Shabbathcommandmentchruch.org Email: Praisebetoyhwh@gmail.com

Zion Baptist Church Rev. Keith W. Byrd, Sr. Pastor 4850 Blagdon Ave, NW - Washington D.C 20011 Phone (202) 722-4940 - Fax (202) 291-3773 Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:15AM Sunday School: 9:00am Monday: Noon Bible School Wednesday: Noon & 7PM: Pastor’s Bible Study Ordinance of Baptism 2nd Holy Communion 4th Sunday Mission Zion Baptist Church Shall; Enlist Sinners, Educate Students, Empower the Suffering, Encourage the Saints, and Exalt Our Savior. (Acts 2:41-47) www.zionbaptistchurchdc.org

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

Service and Times Sunday Church School – 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service – 11:00 AM Holy Communion – 1st Sunday at 11:00 AM Prayer – Wednesdays, 6:00 PM Bible Study – Wednesdays, 7:00 PM Christian Education School of Biblical Knowledge Saturdays, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM, Call for Registration Website: www.allnationsbaptistchurch.com All Nations Baptist Church – A Church of Standards

Israel Baptist Church

Dr. Earl D. Trent Senior Pastor

Rev. Dr. George C. Gilbert Senior Pastor

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

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

4504 Gault Place, N.E. Washington, D.C 20019 202-397-7775 – 7184

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

“Where Jesus is the King”

Lincoln Park United Methodist Church

Sermon On The Mount Temple Of Joy Apostolic Faith

Rev. Richard B. Black Pastor

Elder Herman L. Simms Pastor

1251 Saratoga Ave., NE Washington, DC 20018 (202) 269-0288

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

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

Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 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: "Faith On The Hill"

Mount Moriah Baptist Church

Eastern Community Baptist Church

Service and Times Sunday Apostolic Worship Services 11:00 A.M and 5:00 P.M Communion and Feet Wash 4th Sunday at 5:00 P.M Prayer/Seeking: Wednesday at 8:00 P.M. Apostolic in Doctrine, Pentecostal in Experience, Holiness in Living, Uncompromised and Unchanged. The Apostolic Faith is still alive –Acts 2:42

New Commandment Baptist Church

Dr. Lucius M. Dalton Senior Pastor

Damion M. Briggs Pastor

Rev. Stephen E. Tucker Senior Pastor

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

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

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

Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 7:45 am and 10:45 am Holy Communion: 1st Sundays at 7:45 am & 10:45 am Sunday School: 9:30 am Prayer & Praise Service: Tuesdays at 12 noon & 6:30 pm Bible Study: Tuesdays at 1 pm and 7 pm Youth Bible Study: Fridays at 7 pm

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

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

Rehoboth Baptist Church

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

Salem Baptist Church

Holy Trinity United Baptist Church

Florida Avenue Baptist Church

Reverend Christopher L. Nichols Pastor

Rev. Dr. Morris L Shearin, Sr. Pastor

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

St. Matthews Baptist Church

Service and Times Sunday School: 9:30 am Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 am Baptismal Service: 1st Sunday – 9:30 am Holy Communion: 1st Sunday – 11:00 am Prayer Meeting & Bible Study: Wednesday -7:30 pm

Emmanuel Baptist Church

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

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

Matthews Memorial Baptist Church Rev. Joan E. Buchanan Executive Pastor 2616 MLK Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Office 202-889-3709 - Fax 202-678-3304 Service and Times Early Worship Service: 7:30am Worship Service: 11:00am New Member’s Class: 9:45am Holy Communion: 1st Sunday, 11:00am Church School: 9:45am Wednesday 12:00pm Bible Study Prayer, Praise and Bible Study: 7:00pm Saturday Bible Study: 11:00am Baptism 4th Sunday: 11:00am

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

“Empowered to love and Challenged to Lead a Multitude of Souls to Christ”

Peace Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Michael T. Bell 712 18th Street, NE Washington, DC 20002 Phone 202-399-3450/ Fax 202-398-8836 Service and Times Sunday Early Morning Prayer & Bible Study Class 8:00 am Sunday School 9:00 am Sunday Morning Worship Service 10:00 am Wednesday Service 12:00 pm

Pennsylvania Ave. Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Kendrick E. Curry Pastor 3000 Pennsylvania Ave.. S.E Washington, DC 20020 202 581-1500 Service and Times Sunday Church School: 9:30 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: admin@pbc712.org

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

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 7 - 13, 2018 45 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

LEGAL NOTICES

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

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

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

Administration No. 2018 ADM 000516

Administration No. 2018 ADM 000258

Foreign No. 2018 FEP 000013

Foreign No. 2018 FEP 000076

Administration No. 2018 ADM 000539

Josephine Patterson Samuels Decedent

Mary Lois Winford Decedent

1/4/2018 Date of Death

Nemat Hassanzadah Decedent

Angela D. Minor, Esq. 9801 Apollo Drive, #7181 Upper, Marlboro, MD 20792 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Deborah Patterson, whose address is 5548 Heather Hill Drive, Chesterfield, VA 23234, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Josephine Paterson Samuels who died on October 9, 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., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/24/2018. 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 11/24/2018, 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: 5/24/2018 Deborah Patterson Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY

February 23, 2017 Date of Death

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Diann Winford, whose address is 3126 Banneker Dr., NE, Washington, DC 20018, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mary Lois Winford who died on January 27, 2018 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/24/2018. 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 11/24/2018, 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: 5/24/2018

Micheline C. Courard aka Micheline Charpenet Courard Name of Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS Daniel D. Smith, whose address is 161 Fort Evans Road, NE, Suite 345, Leesburg, VA 20176 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Micheline C. Courard aka Micheline Charpenet Courard, deceased, by the Circuit Court for Fairfax County, State of Virginia. Service of process may be made upon Thierry J. Liverman, 3210 N Street, NW, Washington, DC 20005 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice. Date of first publication: 5/24/2018

Diann Winford Personal Representative

Daniel D. Smith Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Vincent LaPaul Singleton Name of Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS Catherine Louise Singleton, whose address is 5 Harmony Lane, Apt. 23, Lewiston, ME 04240 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Vincent LaPaul Singleton, deceased, by the Probate Court for Androscoggin County, State of Maine, on 2/13/2018. Service of process may be made upon Marilyn Singleton, 707 Crittenden Street, NE, Washington, DC 20017 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C. The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real estate: 5102 9th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20011, 1/7 interest Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Amir Hassanzadah, whose address is 6101 16th St. NW, Apt 908, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Nemat Hassanzadah who died on April 30, 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., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2018. 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 11/30/2018, 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: 5/31/18

Date of first publication: 5/31/2018

Amir Hassanzadah Personal Representative

Catherine Louise Singleton 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 No. 2018 ADM 000545

Administration No. 2018 ADM 000515

Administration No. 2018 ADM 000560

Administration No. 2018 ADM 000173

Administration No. 2018 ADM 000517

Mendora Mason Decedent

Mark Epstein aka Mark S. Epstein Decedent

Emory F. Acker, Jr. Decedent

David Vyorst Decedent

Beatrice Reeves Decedent

Deborah D. Boddie, Esq. 1308 Ninth Street, NW Suite 300 Washington, DC 20001 Attorney

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

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

James Larry Frazier, Esq. 918 Maryland Avenue, NE Washington, DC 20002 Attorney

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

Joseph D. Mason, whose address is 5321 4th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mendora Mason who died on March 25, 2018 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2018. 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 11/30/2018, 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.

Spencer Levy, whose address is 1600 South Eads Street, Apt. 929-S, Arlington, VA 22202, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mark Epstein aka Mark S. Epstein who died on April 8, 2018 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2018. 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 11/30/2018, 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.

Jonathan S. Vyorst, whose address is 75 West End Avenue, Apartment C22J, New York, NY 10023, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of David Vyorst who died on December 5, 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., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2018. 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 11/30/2018, 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.

Gloria Milhouse and Francenia Strong, whose addresses are 7205 Webster Turn, Ft. Washington, MD 20744 and 2602 Fairlawn St., Temple Hills MD 20748, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Beatrice Reeves who died on January 13, 2018 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2018. 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 11/30/2018, 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: 5/31/2018 Joseph D. Mason Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer

46 JUNE 7 - 13, 2018

Date of first publication: 5/31/2018 Spencer Levy Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Anne Meister Register of Wills

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Bernice Acker, whose address is 3728 Wells Avenue, Mt. Rainer, MD 20712, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Emory F. Acker, Jr. who died on October 12, 2015 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/30/2018. 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 11/30/2018, 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: 5/31/2018 Bernice Acker Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer

Date of first publication: 5/31/2018 Jonathan S. Vyorst Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY

Date of first publication: 5/31/2018 Gloria Milhouse Francenia Strong Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY

Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer

Washington Informer

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

LEGAL NOTICES

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

Foreign No. 2018 FEP 000070 April 27, 1999 Date of Death

Foreign No. 2018 FEP 000078 September 2, 2017 Date of Death Ajit D. Shah Name of Decedent

Gladys Edghill Name of Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS Theodore Edghill, whose address is 375 Madison St., Brooklyn, NY 11221, was appointed personal representative of the estate of Gladys Edghill, deceased, by the Surrogate Court for Kings County, State of New York, on 10/22/99. Service of process may be made upon Gail Edghill, 217 Oglethorpe St., NE, Washington, DC 20011 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C. The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real estate: 217 Oglethorpe St., NE, Washington, DC 20011 Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice. Date of first publication: 5/24/2018 Theodore Edghill Personal Representative

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS Sanjit Shah whose address is 10010 Clue Drive, Bethesda, MD 20817 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Ajit D. Shah, deceased, by the Orphans Court for Montgomery County, State of Maryland. Service of process may be made upon Lauren Biehl, 4949 Astor Place, SE, #301, Washington, DC 20019 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C. The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real estate: 631 D Street, NW #1038, Washington, DC 20004. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice. Date of first publication: 6/7/2018 Sanjit Shah Personal Representative Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer

Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2018 ADM 000561 Timothy Dansby, Jr. aka Timothy Cat Dansby Jr. Decedent Evelyn Parchment, Esq. 7826 Eastern Avenue NW Suite 410 Washington, DC 20012 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Juanita Walker, whose address is 6308 Suitland Rd, Suitland, MD 20746, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Timothy Dansby, Jr. aka Timothy Cat Dansby, Jr. who died on June 11, 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., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 12/7/2018. 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 12/7/2018, 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: 6/7/2018 Juanita Walker Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer

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Scripps participant, 11-year-old Jah’Quane Graham from St. Croix, U.S Virgin Islands, also missed out competing in Thursday and Friday’s rounds. Yet, he smiled good-naturedly, saying he still enjoyed the participation. “I was glad I got the chance to be in the national bee,” he said. “I practiced spelling a lot of words but didn’t get in the final rounds [Wednesday] which disqualified me from further participation. But I plan to keep entering until I can’t be in it anymore. Best of all, I got a free trip to Washington, D.C., and I can’t wait to see the White House.” WI

“My circle has become very small now as an entrepreneur because I had to understand that you can’t trust everybody, and everybody isn’t trustworthy,” she said. “In building a brand, not everyone is going to applaud you.” With that, Winfield said her advice to young woman who aspire to start their own business is to stay focused and surrounded by like-minded individuals. “The biggest thing is to keep your credit clean so that you are able to get loans for your business if you need it,” she said. “Sit down with a CPA and learn the things you need to do and not to do.” WI

days” taking a look at independent films, “Display” a video music block and “The Street Report” featuring interviews with entertainers visiting the city. District Knowledge Network’s “Sports on the District Knowledge Network” is where viewers will find coverage of District sports beyond the four major pro sports teams. Local players, coaches and teams from city schools will be followed with reports on current rankings. The DKN channel is also producing a show about millennials, “I Wish You Knew,” hosted by Mahogany Lyles and seen Thursdays at 7 p.m. DKN also is the home of several programs about pets, cooking and the environment. A handful of shows will also target young children, including “Kiddie Kitchen,” which will review recipes with cooking demonstrations for children. “Lil Bruce Gamer’s Games Review” allows children and their parents to learn about responsible gaming while taking a look at newly released games, and “Learning with GoGo” gives children a fresh approach to education against a go-go beat. OCTFEM is expanding its programming to produce documentaries. Currently in production is “D.C. Black Pride” an in-depth look at the history of the HIV/AIDS epidemic that has severely affected the city’s Black gay community. Also in the works is “Straight Crankin’,” which will cover the history of go-go music and how the D.C.-based genre was put on the global stage. “Both of these documentaries include important milestones that will give viewers a historical look at our city and the people who live here,” Tolson said. Programs on DCC, DCN and DKN can be seen through local cable providers Comcast, RCN and Verizon. WI

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the effective vanguard in statewide and local elections across the U.S. The win by Abrams in Georgia is also timely as the NNPA has called upon 5 million more Black Americans to register to vote before the November 2018 midterm elections.” Abrams has become a major catalyst behind this exciting new trend of Black women running for office nationally, and a lot of her momentum should trickle down to other seats on a local level. Many of these Black women who decide to run for office need the support of the Democratic Party, which historically has a pretty dismal track record of providing support for African-American candidates nationwide and at the local level. Maybe this time will be different. Time will tell. November to be exact. Stay tuned. WI

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bama, South Carolina, Mississippi, Arkansas and Louisiana, each of those states currently has a Republican governor at the helm, with the exception of Louisiana, where former Democratic state legislator John Bel Edwards was sworn in as governor in 2016. Abrams has a chance to change the overall landscape of politics as we know it, but it will take more than having her name on the ballot as the Democratic nominee in Georgia to make that a reality — it will require engaging existing Black voters and focusing on getting newly registered Black voters to the polls in November. Abrams has adopted a strategy focused on registering new Black voters and engaging more Blacks to come out to the polls and vote in November 2018 than came out in 2014, when only 40 per-

cent of African Americans went to the polls in Georgia, compared to roughly 48 percent of Whites. If recent history is any indication, the only way the tides will turn in the favorable direction Democrats hope for relative to the key gubernatorial seats that are up for grabs in battleground states this November, is if there is a heavy Black voter turnout — something the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) has been focused on in 2018. “The NNPA views the electoral victory of Stacey Abrams as the Democratic candidate for Governor of Georgia as one of the most important political advances for the interests of Black America, since President Barack H. Obama was elected,” said Dr. Benjamin Chavis Jr., president and CEO of the NNPA. “In particular, Black women are now

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to the recognition and celebration of Black excellence, the National Urban League presented Lee with an award for Lifetime Achievement at our annual Whitney M. Young Awards. In the beginning, Lee’s journey to BET may have appeared far from promising. In her early school career, she suffered from some of the very same inequities too many students of color continue to face today in our public schools. Despite the obstacles and the odds, Lee went on to successfully run a multibillion-dollar enterprise. This year, Lee steps down as the chairman and CEO of BET, but her story, her era and her legacy do not end here. Her lasting influence will be felt every time another man or woman of color advances through the unwieldy doors she pried opened, takes the helm of a corporation and increases the membership roll of the exclusive African-American CEO club. WI

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“Being Mary Jane” and “The Real Husbands of Hollywood.” The push for original, authentic programming brought with it high ratings, growing popularity, soaring profit and a determination to assert BET’s reach beyond the edges of our television screens. BET’s evolution also included the launch of its website, BET.com, and the launch of the network’s sister channel, BET Her, the first network designed to target African-American women. Lee acquired the television rights to the annual award show Black Girls Rock! and continued to elevate the prominence and prestige of the BET Awards. Lee recently launched Leading Women Defined, an annual gathering of thought leaders that convenes notable African-American woman, including former first lady Michelle Obama, Venus Williams and Issa Rae, to dis-

cuss issues that have a direct impact on the Black community. Her decadeslong commitment and dedication to the success of BET have not gone unnoticed either in or outside of the entertainment industry. Lee’s litany of honors include being named Hollywood Reporter’s 100 Most Powerful Women in Entertainment, she also earned a well-deserved spot on Forbes World’s 100 Most Powerful Women list and Black Enterprise’s 50 Most Powerful Women in Corporate America. She has also been honored with the Distinguished Leadership Vanguard Award by the National Cable & Telecommunications Association (a first for an African-American female executive) and she was inducted into the Broadcasting & Cable Hall of Fame. In 2017, the Grammy organization recognized her with the Salute to Industry Icons Award — making her the first and only woman to receive the honor. Being no stranger

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ideal. That’s why so many feel they can liken Black women to monkeys. Where are the women of #MeToo when these attacks come at Black women? Although ABC is to be commended for kicking Roseanne to the curb so swiftly after her offensive tweets were publicized, I am disappointed that the women of #MeToo couldn’t lift their voices to object to the defeminization of Black women. The disdain that made Roseanne feel free to attempt to dehumanize Valerie Jarrett, is the same disdain that allows Black women to be so easily violated in the workplace and the world space. If White women want Black women as allies, more of them must speak up when we are disgracefully, but historically, demeaned. This is really not about Roseanne. It’s about the ways history has shaped the way many view African-American women. WI

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sion described President Obama as a “monkey in a tropical habitat.” Of course, when these people are called on their nonsense, they claim they aren’t racist. Or they say they were joking. I want someone to explain what is even mildly chuckle-inducing about calling a Black woman an ape? Or explain why these monkey comparisons aren’t racist. Ambien does not count! So the decency-challenged Clay County official says she wasn’t talking about Michelle Obama’s race when she called her “an ape in heels”? She was just talking about her looks! What, pray tell, is the difference? The monkey comparisons are especially hurtful to Black women and to our girls, particularly because we are the antithesis of the so-called “feminine ideal” of svelte, blonde, and blue-

eyed. Serena Williams, the far more accomplished tennis player than the Russian Maria Sharapova, has never garnered the fawning tribute to her looks and indeed has sometimes been demeaned with animalistic comparisons. Sharapova has just five Grand Slam titles; Serena has a near-record 23. But at the time of Sharapova’s suspension from professional tennis in 2015, she had garnered more endorsement dollars than Serena. And I’ll never forget the cringeworthy Nike “I Feel Pretty” Sharapova campaign in 2010, when Sharapova look-alikes infested the U.S. Open, trumpeting their “blonde beauty.” Imagine the impact such a campaign might have had on the self-esteem of Black girls if “pretty and strong” were the mantra for Serena. Perhaps it flies in the face of American history to describe a Black woman as pretty, the feminine

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CROWELL from Page 29 key elements in earlier settlements with similar charges. Among other requirements, a limited, three-year agreement authorized a $300,000 loan subsidy fund to increase credit access in predominantly minority neighborhoods, as well as another $300,000 for credit repair initiatives, education, outreach and advertising that would include minority media. The settlement required the bank to redraw its Community Reinvestment Act assessment area. KleinBank also agreed to open a single branch in a neighborhood of color within the next year. According to the settlement, “The United States agrees to jointly stipulate with KleinBank to the dismissal of the Civil Action. The parties agree and acknowledge that this consideration is adequate and sufficient.” Pardon me, but I respectfully disagree – and so do others who believe in fair lending. A lack of civil penalty coupled with a brief term of compliance does not bode well for fair or just lending. “The absence of a civil penalty is noteworthy and inconsistent with past redlining cases,” noted Melissa Stegman, a senior policy counsel with the Center for Responsible Lending (CRL). “Furthermore, unlike prior cases, the parties entered into a settlement agreement — not a consent order. A consent order is a more powerful vehicle in that it is subject to the judge’s approval. Also, with a court order, the court main-

WILLIAMS from Page 29 discriminatory.” These 2014 Questions and Answers on Title IX and Single-Sex Elementary and Secondary Classes and Extracurricular Activities are meant to be used to adequately justify that any allowable single-sex public education does not increase sex stereotyping and sex discrimination. This guidance also reminds schools they should publish information on their single-sex activities as well as their evaluations and justifications on their websites and that any of this deliberate single-sex edu-

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White superiority over Black people. I believe that poor White people today need someone like Booker T. to rein in their privileged way of thinking about themselves and others, in order to realize the reality of world demographics: Americans are tiny fractions of the world’s population. Whites in the world population are a decided minority group. And within 50 years, they will be a minority group in Trump’s good ol’

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tains supervision of the agreement. Arguably, it’s a stronger way to hold the bank accountable for meeting the terms of the settlement.” According to the original DOJ complaint the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) never conducted a redlining examination of the bank, nor did it comment on or approve the bank’s CRA assessment area. It is also noteworthy that earlier this month HUD announced it planned to seek public comment to revisit whether its 2013 rule known as ‘disparate impact’ was consistent with the 2015 U.S. Supreme Court ruling. Until this rule was adopted in the previous administration, many entities argued in fair housing lawsuits that lenders never intended to discriminate in housing. Disparate impact theory focuses on the effects of practices that foster housing discrimination and was upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court in 2015. HUD’s interest in public comment in 2018 sets the stage for weakening or reversing the rule and is yet another rollback of Obamaera initiatives. Unfortunately, these kinds of fair lending concerns are experienced across the nation. In 2017, 28,843 housing-related complaints were reported, according to the National Fair Housing Alliance’s 2018 Fair Housing Trends Report. Of these complaints, more than 70 percent were handled by private, nonprofit fair housing organizations. But the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development

(HUD) is charged with ensuring effective enforcement of the Fair Housing Act. Even so, HUD processed less than five percent of last year’s complaints — about 1,311. Further, DOJ brought only 41 cases from the 6,896 complaints forwarded by Fair Housing Assistance Program agencies. The Home Mortgage Disclosure Act is the nation’s most comprehensive mortgage lending report for its inclusion of data on lending by race and ethnicity. It too will be under review by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and appears to be in jeopardy. Currently, this annual report informs the housing industry as well as consumers as to remaining disparities and challenges. Without its detailed data, fair housing measures would be watered down. When government offices charged and entrusted to enforce laws fail to fulfill their full duties, laws enacted to end discrimination become meaningless. If HUD turns away from fair housing enforcement, as recent actions taken by the agency indicate, or DOJ settles for far less than the law allows or what has even occurred as precedent, none of us should stay silent in the face of these failures. “It has been 50 years and the Fair Housing Act still has not been fully implemented,” noted Lisa Rice, president and CEO of the National Fair Housing Alliance. “We cannot build a thriving society as long as our nation is plagued by discrimination, segregation, and severe economic inequality.” WI

cation should be approved by Title IX Coordinators and other officials. Maybe some sex-segregated schools are necessary, but they shouldn’t exist if they’re discriminating. The discrimination is generally against the girls. In order to reduce the numbers of sex discriminatory sex-segregated programs in K-12 public schools, the FMF recommends that Title IX Coordinators and other gender equity advocates check the current status, policies, and for any plans of schools that indicate allowing single-sex classes. In many cases, these district- and school-based Title IX coordinators

need help from other gender equity activists including reminding them that intentional sex-segregated public education is rarely legally, educationally, or economically justifiable. For more information on this subject, contact Dr. Sue Klein, FMF Education Equity Director, sklein@feminist.org. She’s the expert, but you may also contact the National Congress of Black women at 202/678-6788. As parents and those interested in what is happening with girls in school, all of us need to be more vigilant. WI

“MAGA” America. But it appears that Whites do not intend to go quietly into the night. All over Europe, as well as in this country, Wypipo are organizing and rising up in angry political mobs as it were, as though they can have the world the way it was when colonialism and White supremacy were normal. Sorry. As the group Public Enemy warned us, they “Fear the Black Planet.” What the poor of all colors, and religions need, is more and better

education, even more than they need food stamps, in my view. We need to find a way to touch each and every soul, to seek to inspire each soul to aspire toward — and indeed fight for(!) — the best education, the best diet to promote health, and livable, crime-free communities. We don’t need a cop in every classroom to prevent mass school shootings. We need motivated Black children, attending class every day, eager to learn. Whites too can and should learn that lesson. WI

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JUNE 7 - 13, 2018 51 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

CHEVROLET AND NNPA JOIN TOGETHER TO OFFER HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY STUDENTS A $15K FELLOWSHIP! The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) is excited to partner with the all-new 2018 Chevrolet Equinox to present Discover the Unexpected (DTU) â€“ an amazing journalism fellowship. Selected DTU Fellows from Historically Black Colleges and Universities earn a $10,000 scholarship, $5,000 stipend and an exciting summer road trip in the all-new 2018 Chevrolet Equinox. Join our DTU Fellows on this multi-city journey as they discover unsung heroes and share stories from African-American communities that will surprise and inspire. DTU is back and better than ever! Are you ready to ride? #ChevyEquinox, #Chevy, #NNPA

#DTU2018

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