WI Health Supplement Center Section Vol. 55, No. 22 • March 12 - 18, 2020
Maryland Governor Creates Coronavirus Response Team
SECOND OF A TWO-PART SERIES
By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan announced Monday the state will create a seven-member coronavirus response team comprised of medical and emergency experts to advise the state on how to respond and handle a virus which now has nine confirmed cases statewide. During a press conference in Annapolis, Hogan also issued a mandatory order for state employees to not travel out-of-state and for state agencies to institute a period of telework for some employees “to limit the spread of the virus.” In addition, he received information after a 90-minute meeting with Vice President Mike Pence
VIRUS Page 38
Don’t Be Fooled by ‘Fake News’ – Black (and Brown) Votes Matter
5 Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan, at lectern, gives an update March 9 on the coronavirus cases in the state with nine people who have contracted the virus. Alongside Hogan: House Speaker Adrienne Jones (left) and Senate president Bill Ferguson. (William J. Ford/The Washington Informer)
Black U.S. Surgeon General: ‘Kits Available for Virus Testing’ Local Colleges Extend Spring Breaks, Modify Academic Calendars By Hamil R. Harris WI Contributing Writer
5 Vice Admiral Jerome M. Adams, MD, MPH, 20th Surgeon General of the United States (Courtesy photo/medium.com)
As the coronavirus continues to spread like wildfire across America, precipitously upon the heels of even higher cases of deaths and infections worldwide, the Trump-appointed United States Surgeon General has emerged as one of the dominant voices for the White House while U.S. officials in cities large and small struggle to contain the surging health crisis. In a Sunday morning interview on CNN, U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams, an African American from southern Maryland, said the number of coronavirus test kits available to the public will increase from 75,000 to 4 million by week’s end, seeking to downplay allegations that healthcare officials remained stymied due to an inadequate number of kits. “But the most important number to the American people is one,” he said. “People want to know that if they’re fearful about their status and
CORONA Page 20
Just Ask the Dems’ Remaining Presidential Candidates, Biden and Sanders By D. Kevin McNeir WI Editor @dkevinmcneir
And then there were two. That’s right – the number of candidates vying for the Democratic Party’s presidential nominee has finally been reduced from several dozen to just two: former Vice President Joe Biden and Senator Bernie Sanders. And both men have been actively courting the Black (and Brown) vote, realizing that victory could rest in the hands of the nation’s voters of color. Said more succinctly, they, along with President Donald Trump although he may not often admit it, recognize that while petulant progressives and hardnosed Democrats continue to waste millions of dollars chasing white swing voters, an explosive population growth of people of color in the U.S. over the past 50 years has laid the foundation for a New American Majority. During the 2016 General Election, this Majority, then 51 percent of all eligible voters, consisted of progressive people of color (23 percent) and progressive whites (28 percent). But that majority has continued to increase and will in short order have unprecedented impact on both U.S. politics and policy. “Many articles and analyses look to a distant date when the
VOTE Page 16
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Cite Legislation Aheadlawofenforcement. She said theySignificance threat,” she said. of Socialhad come together to bring a Among the programs Marlow Learning Ward 8 Public Safety Walk Emotional
By Tia Carol Jones WI Staff Writer
sense of uniformity in the way wants to see implemented are When L.Y. Marlow's 23-yearstricterAssembly restrainingand order policies, The Urban Reps. Bonnie WatOn Wednesday, D.C. Mayordomestic Muriel violence Bowser victims and old daughter told herlegislation the fatherto prohibit survivorsthe arepossestreated. son Coleman more for victim's (NJ)rights and Yvette Clarkefamilies (NY) will parsigned emergency ofsion, her assembly, daughter sale threatened her of any “She's using her own ticipate personal in atoCongressional intervene on behalf of on a vicBriefing March 27, and purchase type of ghost life, and the life of their child, story, her own personal paininaugural to tim,International a domestic violence the SEL Day.assessPanelists will gun in the District. Bowser introduced the Ghost she knew something had to be push forward,” Davis-Nickens ment unit coupled with further include experts, community leaders, policy makers Guns Prohibition Emergency Act of 2020 which done. Out of her frustration said about Marlow. law the enforcement and studentstraining who willfordiscuss significance of sowas unanimously passed by the Council on March with law enforcement's handling Davis-Nickens said anyone agencies, a Child's Lifeand Proteccial-emotional learning in schools communities. 3. Following the bill signing, the Mayor led a public of the situation, she decided to who reads Marlow's book will tion Act and mandatory counselThe Briefing takes place 11:30 am at the Rayburn safety walk in the Buena Vista Terrace neighborhood start the Saving Promise cam- “get it.” She said she “puts the ing for batterers. House Office Building in D.C. located in Ward 8. paign. case in such a way, the average “If we are ever going to eradiemotional learning plays such a vital role “It seems to be a vicious cycle person can get it.” She said “Social at the cate domestic violence, we must in building communities. SEL competencies develthat won't turn my family end of the day, the book will look at both sides of the coin. op throughout one’stolifespan and they shape how loose,” Marlow said. Marlow help people begin to have a dia- We need address both the vicwe show uptim at work, in school and in everyday life,” shared her story with the audi- logue about domestic violence. and the batterer,” Marlow Clarke said. ence at the District Heights Also present at the event was said. “We a world would where issues liketoonline Domestic Violence Symposium Mildred Muhammad, the ex-live in Marlow also like see bullying, hate and bigotry, and disregard for the on May 7 at the District Heights wife of John Allen Muhammad, programs designed to raisehumanity others in awareness our communities becomeincommonMunicipal Center. The sympo- who was sentenced to sixofconsecamonghave children and it’s holding us back,” Watson sium was sponsored by the utive life terms withoutplace, parole public and private schools. SheColeman said. provides toolsneed for to empathy, the skillset Family and Youth Services by a Maryland jury for his role“SEL in feels children be educatto direct the capacity to find ways to Center of the city of District the Beltway Sniper attacks in emotions, ed aboutand domestic violence. Heights and the National Hook- 2002. Mildred Muhammad collaborate givinghave us atochance to come is – “We stop being pas- back toUp of Black Women. rathersive-aggressive than be torn farther apart.chilIt’s critically the founder of After the gether Trauma, with poor Marlow has written a book, an organization that helps important schools, our businesses, the for drenourabout domestic violence,” and the “Color Me Butterfly,” which is a survivors of domestic fabric of ourMarlow American violence said.life.” story about four generations of and their children. Organized by the Urban Assembly and SEL4US, Marlow has worked to break domestic violence. The book is “I lived in fear for six years. Six theSEL cycleDay of abuse family, International seeks in to her bring awareness to inspired by her own experiences, years in fear is a long time. It is in which and is communities confident the can policies she stronger the ways become and those of her grandmother, not an easy thing to come out is pushing for will start that through social-emotional learning. her mother and her daughter. of,” she said. process. She said every time she reads Mildred Muhammad said “I plan to take these policies to excerpts from her book, she still people who want to help a Congress and implore them to can not believe the words came domestic violence victim must change our laws,” Marlow said. from her. “Color Me Butterfly” be careful of how they go into “I will not stop until these poliwon the 2007 National “Best the victim's life, and understand cies are passed.” Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes (D-DC), Books” Award. that Norton she may be ina senior “survival Tia Carol Jones can be reached the Committee Oversight and Reform, said “Imember was justof16-years-old when on mode”. at tiacaroljones@sbcglobal.net theblackened Committee’s Wednesday, mythat eye at first and hearing my “Before youshe’d get toprobe 'I'm adgoing officials cases of coronavirus the lipsministration bled,” Marlow said. on the three to kill you,' it started asina verbal WI DistrictDavis-Nickens, which could also dislocate Members of Congress who Elaine presidentspend of the National more time inHook-Up the District than in their home states. of Black there four is nodays after the first case of coronaTheWomen, hearing said occurred consistency the way domestic virus wasinconfirmed in the District. On March 6, the President violence are dealt with by signedissues the emergency coronavirus supplemental spending bill into law providing $8.3 billion to respond to the coronavirus. “[The hearing] allowed us to sort out the confusing and inconsistent information from the Trump administration on prevention, testing, containment and mitigation. The District is a tourist mecca – the second highest source of revenue for D.C. As we approach events like the annual Cherry Blossom festival, can we ensure safety for D.C. residents and visitors alike?” Congresswoman Norton is a cosponsor of the Paid Family and Medical Leave Act. Congress passed legislation, signed into law on December 20, 2019, that includes 12 weeks of paid parental leave for federal workers. She’s also a cosponsor of a bill, introduced by Representative Rosa Delauro, that would expand paid sick leave requirements to cover employers with one or more employees for 14 days of sick leave during public health emergencies.
Norton Primed for Congressional Hearing as Coronavirus Cases Hit the District
“
We have to stop being passive-aggressive with poor children about domestic violence. I plan to take these policies to Congress and implore them to change our laws. I will not stop until these policies are passed.
“
SOMETHING NEW EVERYDAY
Women the Cycle of wi hotBreak topics Domestic Violence International SEL Day to Bowser to Sign Ghost Gun
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L.Y. Marlow
CAAB Offers Pathway to Greater Financial Security for District Residents
AROUND THE REGION
DC EITC Campaign Equates to Thousands in Tax Returns for Eligible Workers By D. Kevin McNeir WI Editor @dkevinmcneir Since its founding in 1996 by several non-profit organizations each committed to creating opportunities for D.C.’s low- and moderate income households hoping for greater financial independence and future financial security, Capital Area Asset Builders [CAAB] has provided programs that both invest in people and strengthen communities from the Greater DC Region. Building on a legacy during which CAAB has successfully assisted individuals and families reach their goals by improving their money management skills, teaching the rubrics for building savings and offering instruction on more prudent investment yielding to greater wealth, the District-based organization continues to develop initiatives from which all Washingtonians can benefit. And while the deadline to file 2019 tax returns and pay any tax owed draws near (Wednesday, April 15), many workers may remain unaware of potential ways to increase their refunds – even if they have only worked parttime or feel their income is too meager to bother filing. But there’s good news, according to CAAB through greater awareness about its DC EITC [Earned Income Tax Credit] Campaign – an often-ignored policy which for the last four decades has served as one of the most effective means of alleviating poverty for taxpayers both at the federal and state levels. CAAB Executive Director Joseph Leitmann-Santa Cruz shares the highlights of the campaign which he says when properly utilized can result in a “significant amount of money returning to the pockets of thousands of low-income families in the District.” “Last tax season, over 49,000 low-income Washingtonians claimed EITC at both the federal and state levels – an impressive number of citizens – but we estimate that another 20,000 families were eligible but because they did not file a tax form left as estimated $40 million on the table and in the coffers of Uncle Sam,” he said. “And that’s money
which remains unclaimed each year.” “A family that made up to 25,000 in income, either through W2, 1099 work or other means of self-employment that files taxes and has children in the house, are potentially eligible at both levels. Ultimately, it depends on the total generated income and the number of children so this is significant for households in the District, many of whom don’t even know about it or whether they are eligible to claim this refundable tax credit.” “That’s why we’re reaching out to Washingtonians now through April 15 and supporting the community and faith-based organizations that are providing tax services. Still, it’s important to note that tax preparation is not regulated so you have beware of who you engage for service. The District has the nation’s highest cost for paid tax preparation and Black and Latino families are taken advantage for more than whites.” Leitmann-Santa Cruz says that while the national average for services stands at $273, some families paid between $400 and $1,200 even though they may have generated far less than white families during the year. “This is outrageous and we want people to know that they don’t need to waste their hard-earned money when there are free tax services like our or those we endorse that are trustworthy, including the United Planning Organization, Catholic Charities of the Archdioceses of Washington or Community Tax Aid.” He adds that even immigrants or returning citizens, those who typically only work a few months of the year, must file a tax return with the Internal Revenue Service and the D.C. government. First it’s the law, he says, but even more it’s the only way they, or others, can secure dollars available under the EITC policy. “EITC is one of the very few components within the U.S. tax code actually created for the benefit of hard-working, low-income families who live in D.C. or other parts of the country,” he said. “That’s why we’re so passionate about people knowing about it and ensuring that they receive their refunds. It can be a game-changer and get families on the road for retire-
ment, paying for college, launching a business or paying a deposit for their first home.” CAAB’s EITC awareness is made possible through the support from the DC Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking (DISB), Washington Gas and United Way of the National Capital Area, as well as other key private sector partners. WI
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5 An ad placed on a Metrobus promotes free tax filings in DC. (Courtesy photo/ WMATA)
MARCH 12 - 18, 2020 5
AROUND THE REGION
black facts
MAR 12 -18, 2020 SOURCE: BLACK AMERICA WEB
MARCH 12
17 91 – Benjamin Banneker is commissioned by President George Washington as part of a team to survey the District of Columbia. 1955 – Influential bebop saxophonist Charlie “Bird” Parker dies in New York City of complications from lobar pneumonia and other health issues at 34. 1964 – Malcolm X announced the establishment of Muslim Mosque, Inc., four days after his departure from the Nation of Islam. 1982 – Playwright Charles Fuller wins the Pulitzer Prize for Drama for “A Soldier’s Play,” a story of a black captain’s search for the murderer of a black sergeant on a Louisiana army base during World War II.
MARCH 13
1972 – Rapper and actor Common is born in Chicago. 1979 – Grenadian politician and revolutionary Maurice Bishop seizes power in a coup in 1979, serving as Prime Minister of the People’s Revolutionary Government of Grenada until 1983, when he is overthrown and executed.
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1794 – Eli Whitney receives a patent for the cotton gin. 1933 – Famous music producer and composer Quincy Jones is born in Chicago. 1977 – Fannie Lou Hamer, voting rights activist, civil rights leader and philanthropist, dies in Mound Bayou, Mississippi, of complications from hypertension and breast cancer at 59. 1999 – Chess player Maurice Ashley beat Adrian Negulescu to become the first black International Grandmaster.
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MARCH 15
1988 – Eugene Antonio Marino is named Archbishop of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Atlanta, becoming the first Black Catholic archbishop in the United States.
MARCH 16
1827 – Freedom’s Journal, the first African-American-owned and -operated newspaper published in the United States, is founded by Rev. Peter Williams Jr. and other free Black men in New York City. 1869 – Hiram R. Revels makes his first speech in the Senate, opposing the readmission of Georgia without adequate safeguards for Black citizens. This was the first official speech by a Black in Congress.
MARCH 17
1877 – President Hayes appoints Frederick Douglass marshal of District of Columbia. 1919 – Famed singer Nat King Cole (above right) is born in Montgomery, Alabama. 1946 – Jackie Robinson makes his professional debut as a member of the Montreal Royals, the Brooklyn Dodgers’ AAA minor league team, in the Daytona Beach ballpark that now bears his name.
MARCH 18
CHARLIE “BIRD” PARKER
6 - MARCH 12 - 18, 2020
1934 – Country music singer Charley Pride, one of just three African-Americans ever inducted as a member of the Grand Ole Opry, is born in Sledge, Mississippi. 1941 – Soul music legend Wilson Pickett is born in Prattville, Alabama. 1963 – Famed actress and singer Vanessa L. Williams is born in the Bronx borough of New York City. 1972 – The USS Jesse L. Brown, named for the first African-American naval aviator in the U.S. Navy, is launched. WI
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Alabama inmate Nathaniel Woods, 43, was executed by the state for his role in the fatal shootings of three Birmingham police officers in 2004, despite another defendant confessing to being the triggerman. This action has caused an outcry from the public and celebrities alike calling out Gov. Kay Ivey for allowing the execution. What are your thoughts?
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My God, how can your soul even think about resting? An obviously innocent man’s life is taken away. You have destroyed an entire family. I can see if there was even reasonable doubt, but you outright killed this man.
ANTHONY BYRD / PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA
If you all remember, the Navy SEAL Eddie Gallagher was pardoned by Trump even though his own unit turned him in for killing the unarmed prisoner. His friend admitted during the trial that he killed the guy and not Gallagher. Gallagher was let off. So, in that case, someone else admitted it at the last minute in a trial and yet Woods’ friend admitted it years ago. Interesting how the justice system works, depending on who you are and what you look like.
JAMES MOORE /
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA
Remember George Bush as governor of Texas? They see the execution of a Black man as a political benefit.
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Amounts to the same as lynching! Racists go from one form of murder to another. Whatever the law currently appears to allow.
ROBERT MANNING / NEW YORK, NEW YORK
Come on, did anyone of color truly believe they were going to spare the life of a black man on death row for killing a white Police Officer? In the state of Alabama? This is Alabama, people — wake up and grow up. That state has not changed its racist ways, and they are not even trying to! WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
MARCH 12 - 18, 2020 7
The World According to Dominic BY D. KEVIN MCNEIR / WI EDITOR / @DKEVINMCNEIR
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As the reports about the coronavirus and its devastating impact on the world continue to cause fear and trepidation here in the U.S. as well as in other nations large and small, I’ve been amazed at how little we understand the true connectedness that exists among the world’s population – as well as how often and how easily we attempt to deny and ignore that truth. I suppose when tragedy strikes someone else and we believe that we’re either immune to or above such things, we find it more expedient to simply turn our heads and look the other way. But when danger comes to our own backyards, into our own homes and begins to take hold with reckless abandon on what has been our normal routine, then, and only then, do humans consider including others into the equation. Suddenly, and with little notice, we face the potential of a new way of existence – one in which masks have become a required mode of dress, where quarantine stations are commonplace and where we’re unable to gather when, where or with as many others as we’ve long grown accustomed – partying like it’s 1999. Without answers, we find ourselves at a loss – grasping for straws, unable to do little more than stick our heads
in the sand while greedy business owners jack up the price of hand-sanitizing bottles – price-gauging for the sake of profit. Meanwhile, schools, colleges, churches and synagogues, businesses, transportation companies and many other institutions have begun to wonder how long they can safely keep their doors open. We, at the same time, find ourselves unable to contemplate how life will proceed without their services. Those who are most vulnerable, at least here in the U.S., also comprise the majority of people that have been cared the least about and the most easily “thrown away” – like the homeless who have no way to maintain life-saving practices of hygiene and standard cleanliness. But there are others, too, including the elderly, many of whom live in human-made petri dishes – nursing homes where the virus seems to have made itself comfortable. Then there are those with compromised immune systems, like the millions of men, women and children living with the HIV/AIDS or infants whose immune systems are just beginning to form and may be unable to ward off the effects of the coronavirus, even if their families have healthcare and the needed finances to keep them warm, well-fed and with medicine to keep them from experiencing unneeded pain. Finally, there are the poor and downtrodden who always bear the brunt of unfortunate circumstances. If you’re one like me who fondly remembers the old folk tales that your
parents used to read to you, you may recall the story about Henny Penny – more commonly known in the U.S. as Chicken Little. He believed that the world was coming to an end, thus the phrase, “the sky is falling,” figured prominently in the story. But for Chicken Little, his fears were merely reflective of a mistaken belief that disaster was imminent – a fear that he could not shake after an acorn fell on his head. And while the story allows us to poke fun at those who become overwhelmed with paranoia or succumb to mass hysteria, it also reveals just how easy it is for one person’s unfounded fears to become the fears of everyone around them. For Chicken Little and his many friends who follow him along the road of absurdity, they all meet their deaths when, after inviting a wily fox to join them, they return to his lair where the fox eats them all. So, maybe the sky isn’t falling – not yet anyway. Still, we have seen evidence of mass hysteria and panic taking hold in the U.S. and abroad and it’s building with each passing day. Isn’t there someone who understands that we can survive the assault of falling acorns when we put our heads together and work toward using our collective minds for the sake of the collective good? Or are we too busy looking out for Number One, like Chicken Little did – so busy that we cannot hear, see or think about anything else but our own selfish concerns? But what if the sky is truly falling? What do we do now? WI
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Ward 8 Residents Weigh in on Proposed Bus Route Changes By Sam P.K. Collins WI Contributing Writer @SamPKCollins Within a matter of months, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) will finalize its fiscal year 2021 budget proposal, a document that a contingent of Ward 8 residents said they hope takes into account their need for the bus routes connecting their communities — many of which are food deserts reeling with high concentration of poverty and crime — to nearby Metro stations and major areas of commerce throughout the District. March 9 culminated the collection of public responses to WMATA’s 2021 budget proposal that outlined proposed bus service changes in the District, Maryland and Virginia. Immediately upon the release of the proposal in January, commuters from across the D.C. metropolitan area — and Ward 8 in particular — bemoaned the adjustments they said would further inconvenience their lives. In a widely circulated document, transit authorities rationalized the reduction and elimination of the 30N, 30S, 34, 36, A4, W5, W1, W2 and W4 with predictions of cost-savings in the hundreds of thousands, more efficient trips across the District, and consolidation of bus routes with low ridership. That explanation didn’t suffice for those affected. For years, the 30 and W bus routes have connected portions of Southeast to downtown, Georgetown, and other neighborhoods west of Rock Creek Park, while the A4 and routes attempted to address urban sprawl by connecting Ward 8 residents to the Metro’s green line stations. With some help from Ward 8 Council member Trayon White’s office, residents converged on the transit authority’s Northwest headquarters toward the latter part of last month to demand that officials renege on plans to cut nearly a dozen bus lines running from Southeast to areas in the western part of the city where residents work and interface with government agencies, corporations, and other entities. The Feb. 26 meeting followed two others that took place at the Hilton Hotel in Arlington, Virginia, and
Metro Points Hotel in New Carrollton, Maryland. The several dozen Ward 8 commuters who attended and spoke that evening stressed that the reduction of those lines meant longer commutes, greater risks to their safety, and further marginalization into the annals of a resource-starved enclave. For those who ride the A4 — a bus line connecting Blue Plains residents to Anacostia Station — the threats to a longtime resource have become much more dire, especially for seniors and disabled community members mulling how to navigate the dark, hilly streets on foot. Not even the presentation of alternatives quelled concerns among people already frustrated with the inconsistent arrival of the A4 and subsequent hourlong commutes into other parts of the city. The following are quotes from Ward 8 commuters who weighed in on the proposed bus route changes and eliminations: “I take the bus every once in a while, but if I do take it to and from Gallery Place/ Chinatown, it takes 83 minutes. Getting across east of the Anacostia River is expensive and time-consuming. It’s hard to get to the grocery stores and recreation centers and walk up and down these hills. When you walk on foot, catch these buses, and talk to people, they don’t have any idea about a lot of things [changing in Ward 8]. We have websites and social media, but if I really want to talk to my people, I have to walk.” — ANC Commissioner Monique Diop (SMD 8D04) “Getting rid of the bus line would be crazy. I would be spending more money that I need just to get home. Who wants to
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walk up a hill for three blocks? Now it takes me about an hour or so to get to work when I take the bus and train. I work near Brookland Station so I’m taking it quite a ways. I work where the money is, but I live where I can afford. If I could move closer to my job, I would. Not having that bus line would be terribly inconvenient.” — Martez Jennings, 31, child care center director and A4 bus line patron of nearly four years “ M y mother and other community members ride the A4, one of the very few buses that stay on the main streets and doesn’t go through high-risk neighborhoods as it goes straight from Anacostia to Fort Drum. That makes a lot of community members feel safe. A lot of children who live in this neck of the woods get relief. There’s also a lot of government workers and individuals who use this bus to get downtown The detour to Southern Avenue metro station would be life-changing. People would have to rethink all they do.” — Markee Young, 30, a Ward 8 resident “I already have to take two trains to get to my doctor’s office at the George Washington Un i v e r s i ty Medical Faculty building. I have a straight shot to Anacostia on the A4. I’m really fighting for the older people because they take the bus on the regular. That bus line also serves a number of schools. The service cut would disrupt a lot of lives. If you mix in those different sections of Southeast that don’t get along, you will have serious problems. Someone didn’t think this out. They just decided they would do it.” — Frances Mellion, 69, a senior who’s taken the A4 for more than two decades WI
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AROUND THE REGION CAPTURE THE MOMENT The Creative and Performing Arts Center (CAPAC, Inc.) based in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area will present Annie Jr. at the Hylton Performing Arts Center in Manassas, Virginia in the month of April. CAPAC provides educational excellence, enrichment and quality entertainment through the arts while inspiring the community to participate in cultural diversity. (Courtesy photo/CAPAC, Inc.)
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“A large number of white people feel just as sad as we do but unfortunately for them, they dare not come out and express their opinions. They are ground down in a slavery worse than ours. They are slaves to a mistaken public opinion.”
– P.B.S. Pinchback,
On the Colfax, Louisiana, Massacre [1873] On March 8, 1876, the U.S. Senate refused to seat Pinchback, elected a Louisiana senator THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM
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From THEARC in Southeast to Kennedy Center, Black in Wax Returns SETLC Young Scholars Poised to Bring African-American Icons to Life
By D. Kevin McNeir WI Editor @dkevinmcneir If you happen to be visiting THEARC in Southeast or the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Northwest later this month and find yourself face-to-face with Rep. Elijah Cummings, Kobe Bryant, Sojourner Truth or Michelle Obama, just go with the flow and count your lucky stars. Back by popular demand, the Southeast Tennis and Learning Center [SETLC]’s Young Scholars return for the award-winning “14th Annual Blacks in Wax” showcase which includes performances honoring historic African Americans known locally and on the national scene. Close to 60 youth, all budding scholars who attend the celebrated SETLC – the life-changing sports and education center conceived and founded by Cora Masters Barry which marked its 25th anniversary last November – will be transformed into larger-than-life personalities for a series of performances. They will strike a pose, ready to spring into action when prompted by anxious onlookers. Then later, they will take to the stage for a cavalcade of vignettes that will inform, inspire and entertain the audience. Masters Barry said seeing the young people assume such iconic figures rec-
ognized for their stellar achievements and contributions to the world’s stage continues to be a sight to behold. “These children are absolutely amazing and they’re well-prepared,” she said. “We’re even looking to take them to Broadway in the future because they’re just that good.” The theme for this year, “VOTE Your Choice . . . Your Life,” serves as an apropos message for the Black community with the current election cycle now in full bloom and follows on the heels of last year’s performances and theme, “Young, Gifted and WOKE.” Additional characters included this year: Beyoncé, Marvin Gaye, Cathy Hughes, Aretha Franklin, Madame CJ Walker, Ida B. Wells, P. Diddy, the Rev. Jesse Jackson, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, Melanie Campbell, Tamika Mallory, Frederick Douglass, Barbara Jordan, Stacey Abrams, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Tom Joyner, the Supremes, Serena and Venus Williams, Rosa Parks, Ava DuVernay, Eartha Kitt, Go-Go Historians, Misty Copeland, Muhammad Ali and more. Once again, major sponsors include the Recreation Wish List Committee, led by Masters Barry and Board Chairman Michael Rogers, in partnership with the Department of Parks and Recreation and the Kennedy Center. Reggie Van Lee returns as the executive producer for Blacks in Wax.
Created in 2006, the innovative program features SETLC scholars in period costumes posing behind rope, stanchion and tap lights as “wax statues” of iconic African Americans of the past and present. At the touch of a light, each figure comes to life with a first-person monologue depicting their contributions and place in history. The annual program also chronicles African-American history with a new, original stage production. Masters Barry says, proudly, that
the real stars of the show remain “her kids.” “We teach our children hope and self-esteem because many of them don’t even know who they are,” she said, speaking earlier to this reporter during an unforgettable visit to the state-of-the-arts SETLC facility. “Programs we offer, like Blacks in Wax, open the door for a child who at one time could barely read to writing their monologue, then memorizing and performing it on stage before a
DC Chamber of Commerce DC Department of Small and Local Business Development & Bank of America Announce the
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crowd where they receive praise for their efforts,” she said. “I cannot say it enough – these children are phenomenal,” she added. Blacks in Wax can be seen on two dates: Friday, March 20 at THEARC, 1 p.m. – Scholars and Seniors (RSVP) required, 6 p.m. – Free Public Performance; and Sunday, March 29 at the Kennedy Center, 5:30 p.m. – Museum/Free Performance, 6 p.m. – Free Public Performance. WI
Tuesday, March 24, 2020 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM Walter E. Washington Convention Center 801 Mount Vernon Place, NW Washington, DC 20001
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with DC Government Officials and Sponsors’ greetings. Engage exhibitors, diversity suppliers, financial and alternative lenders, and participate in our silent auction.
8:00 AM to 11:00 AM
SIX CONCURRENT WORKSHOPS Session 1: 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM Session 2: 11:15 AM to 12:15 PM Free to the public but you must register at www.dcchamber.org and select a workshop to attend for both sessions.
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The following workshops will be presented in each session: Sports Betting in The Nation’s Capital A Continuum of Services to Start-Up, Sustain and Grow Your Business Why Branding, Marketing, and Digital Analytics Are Important for Your Business Marketing and Selling to the Federal Government Access to Capital and DC BizCap Key Economic Development Projects in DC Neighborhoods www.dcchamber.org
5 Guess who? It’s Angela Davis. (WI File Photo)
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MARCH 12 - 18, 2020 11
PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY Advocates Seek Maryland’s Help for MARC Expansion By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill ANNAPOLIS — Maryland leaders are pushing a plan to expand MARC train service into the District and northern Virginia, but whether it would be possibly this year remains uncertain. Del. Jared Solomon (D-Montgomery County) offers proposed legislation to not only improve service in Maryland, but also work on negotiations for commuter travel into L’Enfant Plaza in southwest D.C. and then across the Virginia border in Crystal City and Alexandria.
In addition, it would help expand Maryland’s economy, provide job access and personal travel throughout the D.C. and Baltimore regions. “It’s not like we’re pulling teeth with this,” Solomon said at a press conference Thursday, Feb. 5. “All the parties are willing and able. This is just sort of a final little push to express the will of the General Assembly to get this done.” The goal would be to transport the MARC train along the Long Bridge, a two-track railroad bridge owned by CSX Transportation that stretches above the Potomac River utilized by Amtrak and Virginia Railway Express.
The D.C. Department of Transportation and federal Railroad Administration continues working on a comprehensive study to determine whether to renovate or construct new bridges. According to Solomon’s legislation for Maryland’s involvement, the goal would be for the Maryland Transit Administration, which manages the MARC train system, to “engage in good faith negotiations” officials in D.C., Virginia and CSX to create a pilot program for Maryland Area Regional Commuter train service. Business leaders, labor representatives, rider advisory committees and regional planning boards would also be consulted on the plan, which is slated to be completed by June 2022, according to the legislation. According to the fiscal note, the state may spend $450,000 in fiscal 2021 and $400,000 the following year on contractual services “for legal, project management, correspondence and planning activities related to the discussions and negotiations.” MARC operates three lines — Brusnwick, Camden and Penn — for those who commute from Martinsburg, West Virginia, into parts of Prince George’s and Montgomery counties, the District and Baltimore area. Currently, MARC train users
5 A MARC train is shown here. (Courtesy of Maryland Transit Administration)
traveling beyond Union Station in Northwest must transfer either by Metro, bus, cab, or ride-sharing service. Besides commuters driving on the Beltway, Montgomery County Council member Hans Reimer said most travelers mostly think of Metro and Amtrak as the only forms of rail transportation. “It’s a very underutilized transportation asset,” he said of MARC.
Md. Senate Committees Review Comprehensive Education Plan By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill ANNAPOLIS — Two Maryland Senate committees reviewed portions of the nearly 200-page Blueprint for Maryland’s Future legislation their colleagues in the House of Delegates approved three days prior.
The Education, Health and Environmental and Budget and Taxation committees held a joint discussion Monday, March 9 in Annapolis on the $3.8 billion comprehensive education plan, which would expand early childhood education for 3- and 4-year-olds, incorporate college- and career-readiness standards and provide additional counselors in communities with high
5 Members of the Maryland Senate’s Education, Health and Environmental Affairs and Budget and Taxation committees review amendments to the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future legislation in Annapolis on March 9. The House of Delegates approved the bill three days earlier. (William J. Ford/The Washington Informer)
12 - MARCH 12 - 18, 2020
concentrations of poverty. The House of Delegates voted 9641 on Friday, March 6 on the measure based on recommendations from the 25-member Commission on Innovation and Excellence in Education, also known as the Kirwan Commission, after its chair, former University of Maryland System Chancellor William E. “Brit” Kirwan. The Senate committees reviewed the more than seven dozen amendments approved by the House. Staffers for the state’s Department of Legislative Services reviewed Monday some of the amendments, which include: • A teacher who receives National Board Certification doesn’t lose a $7,000 salary increase if a school loses a “low-performing school” designation. • Changing references of teachers from minority backgrounds to “groups historically underrepresented in the teaching profession.” • Expanding the definition of wraparound services with 13 meanings to offer vision and dental, enhance physical wellness, improve student perfor-
mance and other amenities. • The governor cannot reject the slate of people nominated to the six-member Accountability and Implementation Board that will oversee whether school systems are following the blueprint legislation. Sen. Paul Pinsky (D-District 22) of University Park stressed Monday’s session became designated for review only. Committee members can present their own amendments Wednesday, March 11 that could be possibly recommended for approval later in the week. “We are not here to debate,” said Pinsky, who chairs the education committee. “We want to understand what the bill says.” That didn’t sit well with Sen. Obie Patterson (D-District 26) of Fort Washington. “I hate to rush through things that are so critical,” he said. “Right now, I’m not feeling it.” Before Monday’s meeting in Annapolis, Patterson said Saturday he has
KIRWAN Page 30
“When you can ride into the Amazon H2Q [in Northern Virginia], that’s the game-changer for Maryland. This is a true statewide venture.” Several people testified in support of the legislation Thursday before the House Environment and Transportation Committee, with a few of them pointing out that neighboring Virginia invests more in transportation and the state’s employment opportunities such as Amazon H2Q and the Virginia Tech Innovation Campus. “This is immense connectivity that we need to not only grow our local economy in Prince George’s County, but in Maryland as a whole,” said Prince George’s County Council member Dannielle Glaros (D-District 3) of Riverdale Park. “This state is falling behind Virginia. If we don’t catch up soon, we are going to lose the economic competitiveness.” Herb Harris Jr., a representative of Brotherhood of Local Engineers and Trainmen union, said MARC expansion would allow Maryland to join Virginia in providing additional transportation options. Harris said about 70 percent of Virginia’s population can access inner-city passenger and commuter rail service. “The potential to offer Marylanders a one-seat ride to the employment centers in the District of Columbia and Northern Virginia will significantly expand job and other educational opportunities for Marylanders,” he said. “Unfortunately, Maryland is lagging behind the comparable investments that have been made in Virginia.” WI
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PGCPS BRIEFS
Compiled by Dorothy Rowley WI Staff Writer
CORONAVIRUS CANCELLATION/ PRECAUTIONS
Prince George’s County Schools CEO Monica Goldman issued the following statement regarding the coronavirus: We are in regular contact with the Prince George’s County Health Department and Maryland Department of Health regarding the Coronavirus. The school system adheres to guidance and direction from the county and state health departments in all health-related matters. As a precaution, all Prince George’s County Public Schools-sponsored international travel is canceled until further notice. For Spring Break travel, anyone who travels to a high-risk area should contact the county or state health department for instructions prior to departure and before returning to school or work. Please note that we are continuing to work proactively to keep school and office settings safe, prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, develop plans to continue instruction in the event of any school closures, and share information. - Keep school and office settings safe Our buildings and maintenance team are working hard to keep frequently used surfaces and areas as clean as possible. We are frequently cleaning school and office restrooms while stocking — and restocking, if needed — soap and paper towels in all facilities. Please contact your direct supervisor or Building Supervisor if you need additional supplies. - Prevent spread of respiratory viruses Practicing everyday preventive steps can help slow the spread of respiratory illnesses like colds, flu and Coronavirus: Stay home when sick, wash hands
often with soap and water, and cover your coughs and sneezes. School nurses have been briefed on Coronavirus symptoms and we will continue to share the latest health department guidance with families and community members. - Continue instruction Students who are sick should follow regular procedures for making up class assignments and homework. In the event of school closures, assignments will be posted on individual school websites daily, supplemented by online textbooks and resources if necessary. We are exploring free internet options to ensure access for affected families. - Stay informed Additional information and resources are available at www.pgcps. org/coronavirus. This webpage includes fact sheets in multiple languages, links to the state and county health departments, and frequently asked questions about the Coronavirus. Prince George’s County Public Schools is committed to providing safe teaching, learning and working environments for all students and staff.
PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY
TOWN HALL MEETINGS
Newly appointed Board of Education member Bryan Swann prides himself on being a servant leader who believes in transparency, engagement, and accountability to get results. Swann invites the PGCPS community to the following two District 4 town hall meetings on March 21: from 10 a.m. to noon at Bladensburg High School; and from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Kenmoore Middle School. WI
5 Newly-appointed Board of Education member Bryan Swann (PGC Board of Education photo)
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MARCH 12 - 18, 2020 13
BUSINESS Grosso Introduces Bill to Strengthen Protections for Student Loan Borrowers
By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia
The student loan burden in America sits at nearly $1.6 trillion and continues to rise, according to a January report from the credit rating agency Moody’s Investors Service. Much of that debt has resulted from the inability of borrowers to make any sort of headway in paying down their loans, according to the report. Student loan debt is no longer considered a problem, it’s a crisis. This month, D.C. Councilman David Grosso introduced legislation Traditional Help Buttons
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that seeks to protect borrowers from abusive practices by lenders and to improve the work of the District’s student loan ombudsperson. The Student Loan Borrower Bill of Rights Amendment Act of 2020 establishes a Student Loan Bill of Rights that provides borrowers with affirmative protections when submitting written inquiries to their servicers, when splitting single payments across multiple loans, and when their loans are sold or transferred to another servicer. It also prohibits unfair, deceptive, or abusive acts and practices by student loan lenders. “A college education is an import-
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5 Student loan debt is estimated at $1.6 trillion. (Courtesy of San Diego Voice and Viewpoint)
ant requirement for entry into many jobs and professions, and student loans make college accessible to students from all income levels – but at a cost,” Grosso said in a news release. “On average, repayment rates often negatively affect first-generation college students, along with Black and Latinx students who are more likely to fall behind on loan payments and are less likely to pay off their student loans over time. D.C. needs to act to ensure our residents who carry student loan debt are protected.” The average student loan balance in the District is approximately $56,000, while the national rate for the average student borrower nationally is about $37,000 of student debt. Due to the gradual increase in school tuition rates, the rise of student loan borrowers is also set to increase, leaving vulnerable populations susceptible to these lenders, Grosso noted. “Because the District of Columbia already prohibits debt collectors, auto lenders, and other loan-based companies from misleading or
causing harm to borrowers, this bill would hold student loans lenders accountable to the same standards,” he said. The councilman also noted that it’s his hope to improve the effectiveness of the District’s Student Loan Ombudsperson by moving it from the Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking to the Office of the Attorney General. “The Attorney General’s office has been providing many of the same functions of the student loan ombudsperson, including handling complaints, creating and distributing student loan repayment resources, and engaging in community outreach,” Grosso said. “Moving the student loan ombudsperson to the A.G.’s office would streamline the complaint referral process when enforcement action is needed while also capitalizing on the existing subject matter expertise of the staff.” In a statement, Attorney General Karl A. Racine said he agreed with Grosso. “Nearly a quarter of District residents are under the strain of student loan debt, with a median balance
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3rd Tuesday, @ 7:00 pm Seventh District Station Alabama Ave. and McGee St., S.E.
that is 44 percent higher than the national average,” Racine wrote in his statement. “Former students struggling to pay off their debt are acutely vulnerable to predatory student loan servicers that make it harder to access debt repayment options – and drive too many residents, especially those in communities East of the River, into delinquency. “The Office of the Attorney General strongly supports Council member Grosso’s proposal to strengthen protections for student borrowers, and we take this opportunity to remind debt collectors and servicers that our lawyers are ready to defend residents against unlawful practices,” he wrote. The Student Borrower Protection Center, the nonprofit organization, focused on alleviating the burden of student debt for millions of Americans, also endorsed the legislation. “The District of Columbia is ground zero in the student loan crisis,” Seth Frotman, the organization’s executive director and former Consumer Financial Protection Bureau student loan ombudsman, said in a release. “From breakdowns that deny teachers and public service workers their right to relief, to the enormous disparities devastating borrowers of color, predatory student loan companies are wreaking havoc on the financial lives of some of the most vulnerable residents.” “As the Trump administration chooses to stand with unscrupulous student loan companies, it is more important than ever that the District pass critical new protections for its residents,” Frotman said. WI
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Ethiopian Airlines All-Female Crew Lands at Dulles Airport
Officials Gather to Celebrate International Women’s Day DR Barnes WI Staff Writer Ethiopian Airlines celebrated International Women’s Day with an all-women crew that landed at Dulles International Airport in Virginia, after a 14-hour flight from Addis Ababa early in the morning on Sunday, March 7. Over a hundred people gathered to receive the crew of Flight ET500 as it landed, and cheered as the Boeing 777 cruised through a water curtain performed by fire engines on its way to the gate. This flight marked the sixth annual consecutive all-female flight celebrating gender equity and highlighting the progress of women around the globe, but especially on the continent of Africa. Ambassador Fitsum Arega, the Ethiopian Ambassador to the U.S., said the occasion “honors the remarkable accomplishments of women in the aviation industry and beyond. Even when we honor the achievements of our male leaders,” he said, “there is usually a woman behind that success… either a mother, a sister, or a wife.” Ambassador Arega spoke proudly
of the country’s new Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, elected in 2018, who has introduced significant reforms in the country, including support for the election of Ethiopia’s first female president Sahle-Work Zesde, who also took office in 2018. “Ethiopia has a 50 percent female cabinet,” noted Ambassador Fitsum. “We have the only female president in Africa at the moment,” he said, “and the cabinet also includes a female chief justice and other high-level appointments. Still, we have a long way to go ensure gender equity, but still, this is remarkable progress by any standard,” he said. Two female pilots and 15 flight attendants received applause, and each one received a bouquet handed to them by Nigusu Worku, director of Regional Sales and Services USA, Ethiopian Airlines, the fastest-growing airline in Africa. Ethiopian coffee poured, and other cultural pastries and a cake marked the symbolic occasion. The rest of the female crew included all of the ground operations professionals including flight dispatch, load control, ramp operation, onboard logistics, safety, and
ETHIOPIAN Page 29
BUSINESS
March We Celebrate Women
As a woman I am pleased that this is a month that we set aside to acknowledge the great contributions that women have made and continue to make in building this world. While women are more than 50% of the population there are so many struggles in achieving acknowledgement and equity. There is acknowledge disparity in pay and opportunities. Women are traditionally the principle care givers in the family. Women typically outlive male spouses. The women children typically take care of their parents when they are infirmed, often even when there are male children. Unfortunately, women don’t always take the steps to be taken care of. When thinking about what needs to be completed and who needs to be cared for too often women don’t remember that to put themselves on the care list. All people need to be thoughtful about what steps need to be taken if they are not able to take care of themselves. I have written about the need for a Power of Attorney. The Power of Attorney appoints someone who can manage your financial matters. I would you to select someone who not only cares about you personally but that has the integrity and fiscal acuity to manage your finances. I encourage you to have a Health Care Proxy and Advanced Directive that will appoint someone who can direct your health care preferences if you can’t speak for yourself. It is indeed important to provide the guidelines for care decisions if the situations were presented. Select someone who knows you and respects your decisions, even if the decisions are difficult to abide by. I also encourage single people to make sure that there is a support system that will monitor their wellbeing. As we are more global and virtual there could be significant amounts of time when we are not connected. The traditional model of going to work in an office provided safeguards that triggered concern when someone didn’t arrive. However, with more virtual work assignments there are not as many signals that would allow someone to be concerned. There are not the same touchpoints that allow an analysis of health. This concern is exacerbated with retirement. An unpredictable schedule does not create a pattern that would alert anyone if there was a need for concern. We should be thoughtful about creating systems of connectedness that provide checks and balances for health and wellbeing. In so doing we should create regular check ins that would alert someone if there is no response. We should have physical as well as emotional well being systems. There should be someone who has a key or access to your home to check on you when there is a need. This circle of support is best with more than two people. The checks and balance would best be triangulated to increase the probability that there is someone able to check on the other’s wellbeing. My daughter has installed “Share my location” on my cellphone so that at all times she can find me. I recommend this resource. It has proven to be helpful to calm her concerns about my wellbeing. My daughter lives hours away. At one point before I had this resource my daughter called the police when I had not been in communication for more time that she was comfortable. She had the police come by to do a wellness check. Having someone who knows how and when to sound the alarm when necessary to handle any emergency is a great idea. They also need the resources to follow it through. My sisters who are consistently thinking about others need to take the time to plan and protect themselves. Build the system of support to keep yourself safe. As the foundation of the world you deserve it. The Griffin Firm, PLLC www.yourestateplanningattorney.com (202)379-4738 5335 Wisconsin Ave NW Suite 440 Washington DC 20015 1401 Mercantile Lane Suite 383 Upper Marlboro MD 20774 100 International Drive 23rd Floor Baltimore MD 21202 1100 Peachtree ST NE Suite 200 Atlanta GA 30309 2530 Meridian Parkway Suite 300 Durham NC 27713
Stay Informed! 5 Ambassador Fitsum Arega (DR Barnes/The Washington Informer)
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MARCH 12 - 18, 2020 15
NATIONAL VOTE from Page 1 United States will become a majority minority nation [which] according to the most recent census projections, is expected to be 2044,” writes Steve Phillips, the co-founder of the country’s first SuperPAC to help elect the nation’s first Black president [Barack Obama] in 2008 and the author of the provocative ‘Brown is the New White.’” Phillips asserts that it’s both an “untrue and unfounded” presumption that all white people are and will continue to be at odds with all people of color and that those who focus on 2044 as the date when the equation shifts dramatically are making a serious error. “America has a progressive, multiracial majority right know that has the power to elect presidents and reshape American politics, policies and priorities for decades to come. Not in 2044. Not 10 years down the road. Today,” he writes in his book’s introduction. Historically, African Americans have tended to identify themselves as “conservative” to a far greater degree than either “progressive” or “moderate” – distinctions which Phillips fleshes out in greater detail throughout his book. Labels notwithstanding, one could argue that such rhetorical musings evoke little concern for Black voters today. What dominates chatter at kitchen tables, barbershops, beauty parlors and church pews remains which candidate best represents Black interests and can that person win.
BLACKS MUST REGISTER AND MUST VOTE
The first of many tasks may appear obvious – registering as many eligible Black voters as possible, then ensuring that they show up in force at voting booths or through absentee ballots, both during the remaining primary elections and again in the fall. But as the electricity connected to the current election cycle reveals, grass-
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roots activists, leaders from America’s more vocal and celebrated non-profit organizations and faith-based groups have kept the heat on candidates vying for Black votes. And the questions they’re raising and the concerns which they pose to the candidates indicate how important they view the upcoming General Election. Under the leadership of Dr. Benjamin Chavis, president/CEO, National Newspaper Publishers Association [NNPA], publishers, editors and others who support the efforts of the collective Black Press of America, promise that they’ll bring the issues of their over 200 communities whom they serve to the District for NNPA Black Press Week (March 18 – 20). Over the past several months, the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation’s [NCBCP] Black Women’s Roundtable [BWR] has made its presence known, most recently hosting the 9th Annual BWR Women of Power National Summit” in Arlington and the District, bringing over 500 Black women leaders, girls, allies from over 20 states to discuss and share its public policy agenda priorities and empowerment strategies focused on solutions for improving the lives of Black women, their families and communities. In mid-February, NCBCP released its Black Women’s Roundtable Non-Partisan Voter Guide with responses to its candidates’ questionnaire by 2020 Democratic and Republican presidential candidates. The questionnaire focused primarily on the issues and concerns of Black women, a critical voting bloc in the presidential race. Also during February, NCBCP, along with over 40 national and state-based organizations, launched the “Unity 2020 Black Vote and Be Counted” national campaign. Melanie L. Campbell, NCBCP president/CEO and national BWR convener said every Black vote matters – and that Blacks must know where the candidates stand. “We partnered with other organizations and first distributed our presidential questionnaire in 2007, then 2008, 2012, 2016 and now in 2020,” she said during a recent teleconference. “It’s comprehensive and provides a clear
5 Voters in Virginia line up to cast their vote in the Super Tuesday primary. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)
understanding on where the candidates stand on issues most relevant to Black women, Black men and Black youth. Of course, we want everyone to vote but we also want to make sure Blacks make an informed decision.” Campbell says the questionnaire, developed in partnership with Essence Magazine, looks to past research from BWR’s annual reports and exit polls from recent elections to determine the issues of greatest priority and include: racism, hate crimes, criminal justice reform, economic justice, police reform and education. “There’s no attempt to sugarcoat our concerns or our questions. Still, we are not in the business of criticizing or endorsing any of the candidates. We have direct questions and we want direct answers,” Campbell said, noting that while the remaining two candidates, Biden and Sanders both replied to the questionnaire, no one from the Republican Party, most notably President Trump, responded.
OMAROSA LEERY OF TRUMP’S PROMISES TO BLACKS
Omarosa (Manigault Newman), the former political aide to Trump and director of communications for the Office of Public Liaison from January 2017 until her resignation December 2017, recently spoke with an MSNBC reporter about her former boss. Some of her criticisms would become public knowledge with the publishing of “Unhinged” in August 2018 in which she detailed her tenure in the White House and leveled
harsh criticism of Trump and his administration. “On the surface, his outreach to Blacks has not worked, in part because many Blacks simply cannot get past Charlotte and his comments related to white supremacy,” she said. “But his strategy to sell the idea that Blacks had nothing to lose by voting for him instead of Hillary Clinton paid off. Since becoming president, despite what he has said, his record shows little evidence that Blacks are doing any better.” “Those Blacks who voted for him, as I recall, often said they’d grown tired of the Democratic Party taking them for granted. Some believed what they say at the ‘Make America Great’ political rallies he held across the country and joined in. But that wasn’t real – it was reality TV. We hired actors who stood on stage with him while others were paid like extras in a movie.” “Blacks were little more than window dressing and it was all one big show for Donald Trump.” “Now we’re seeing Blacks take a much closer look at the candidates and the greatest priority is identifying the candidate who can defeat Trump,” she said.
URBAN LEAGUE LEADER CALLS FOR CIVIC ENGAGEMENT
Marc Morial, president/CEO, National Urban League [NUL], the nation’s largest historic civil rights and urban advocacy organization, says constant civic engagement remains vital in a year as critical as this.
“We’re working to achieve 2012 voter turnout percentages which were identical, 65 percent, for both Blacks and whites and making sure we avoid the drop we saw in 2016 for Black voters – down seven points at 59 percent while white voter participation remained constant at 65 percent,” Morial said. “We don’t need a poster or expert to tell us that lower turnout in Milwaukee, Saginaw, Detroit, Flint, Pittsburgh, Charlotte and Hampton will determine how many electoral are ultimately secured for the competing candidates.” “We have the power to make a difference and the task for us, for this generation – we must refuse to allow a repeat of 2016 and its events that occurred including how easily the Black community became confused,” he said. Morial also warns us to take reports about ongoing efforts to interfere with the American voting process, from those both here in the U.S. and abroad, very seriously. In fact, a breaking report on NPR earlier this week, pointed to documented examples of Russian interference targeting white supremacists and Black extremist inciting race riots which could result dependent on the outcome of the General Election – that is, who wins the White House. “We now know with certainty that some states who purged or suppressed the vote of Blacks and others were aided and abetted by undercover campaigns run by social media teams and the Russian Confederation.” “They told our people, especially our youth, that voting would just be a waste of time. They told us we should protest instead; we should refuse to vote or participate in the political process at all. They posed on the Internet as our spokespersons. Sinister techniques are already out there and they’re effective.”
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VOTE Page 36
NATIONAL
Biden’s ‘Big Tuesday’ Wins Have Former Veep Closing in on Nomination By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia Super Tuesday revived Joe Biden’s 2020 presidential bid last week. One week later, on “Big Tuesday” – or Super Tuesday II – Biden solidified his status as the frontrunner and now stands ever close to laying claim as the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee. Biden earned huge victories in delegate-heavy Michigan as well as Missouri and Mississippi, according to unofficial projections late Tuesday, March 10. With more than 350 delegates at stake in a six-state primary election day, Michigan counted as the big prize on Big Tuesday. And Biden dominated Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders by earning more than 53 percent of the vote. Biden entered Tuesday’s contests
with 670 delegates to Sanders 574. After declaring victory in Michigan, Missouri and Mississippi, Biden’s delegate count stood at 766, while Sanders trailed with 631, according to NBC News. Washington (89), Idaho (20) and North Dakota (14) remained up for grabs late Tuesday. Candidates need 1,991 delegates to secure the nomination on the first ballot at the Democratic National Convention this summer. “I think we will be at the point where Joe Biden will be the presumptive nominee of the party and I think the DNC should step in, make an assessment and determine whether we should have any more debates,” South Carolina Democratic Rep. Jim Clyburn told NPR. Despite the surprising endorsement bestowed upon Sanders by the Rev. Jesse Jackson, a CNN poll ahead of Big Tuesday revealed that Biden had
opened a 52 percent to 36 percent lead. While Black voters largely supported Biden, the Delaware native led Sanders by a more than 4-to-1 margin with voters over the age of 45. Those under 45, preferred Sanders by nearly 2-to-1, according to the CNN Poll. With his dominating performance, NBC News reported that Biden has now earned the backing of two of the biggest super PACs in the Democratic Party – Priorities USA and American Bridge. “The math is now clear. Joe Biden is going to be the Democratic nominee for president,” Guy Cecil, the chairman of Priorities USA, which spent nearly $200 million in the 2016 presidential election, tweeted late Tuesday. “We will do everything that we can to help [Biden] defeat Donald Trump in November,” Cecil noted on Twitter. Bradley Beychok, the head of American Bridge, a super PAC that focuses
5 Joe Biden (WI File Photo/Shevry Lassiter)
on opposition outreach, also tweeted his organization’s support of Biden. “Our team at American Bridge has been ready to support the eventual Democratic nominee for the last two years,” Beychok stated. “Our team has outspent Trump on television in Michigan, Pennsylvania
and Wisconsin. That work expands tomorrow as we will be all in to elect Joe Biden as our next president.” Just last month, Biden’s campaign appeared headed for defeat and Sanders seemed poised to grab the reigns as the
TUESDAY Page 23
If it were up to me, we’d have all the healthcare we need. The 2020 Census informs funding for walk-in clinics, Medicare and all types of health services. Rest assured your answers are safe and secure.
Learn more at:
2020CENSUS.GOV Paid for by U.S. Census Bureau.
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Ghana Celebrates International Women’s Day
Ghana on Sunday joined the world in commemorating International Women’s Day, an annual event held on March 8 to celebrate the achievements of women in social, economic, political and cultural life towards making the world a better place for all. The event, which has been observed since 1911, is also used to rekindle the struggle for gender parity and women’s empowerment. Many events — including an inter-schools debate, awards programs, stakeholder meetings and conferences — were held to mark the occasion. At the launch of the celebration in Accra, Cynthia Mamle Morrison, minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, recounted Ghana’s efforts at promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment. These, she said, had been achieved through institutional, administrative, social protection and legal reforms , including the promotion of gender mainstreaming in all governing processes. Gender responsive budgeting in the Ministries Departments and Agencies (MDAs) and Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDs), as well as the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) programs, were all geared towards gender equality. “The generation of the equality campaign demands equal pay, equal sharing of unpaid care and domestic work, an end to sexual harassment and all forms of violence against women and girls, health care services that respond to the needs of women, and equal participation in political life and decision-making in all areas of life,” she said. Morrison said the United Nations Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action of 1995 had been the most visionary platform for the empowerment of women and girls. The Beijing Platform for Action was adopted by 189 governments committed to taking a strategic view of 12 critical areas of concern which were poverty, education and training, health, violence, among others. “Today, not a single country can claim to have achieved gender equality. Multiple obstacles remain unchanged in law and culture,” Morrison said. On the 25th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration, this year’s celebration is also being used to review the achievements and forge ahead. The minister said women remain undervalued, explaining, “They continue to work more, earn less, have fewer choices and experience multiple forms of violence at home and in public spaces.” She underlined the gains made towards achieving gender parity in the educational sector, which she said had resulted in an increase in women’s participation in the decision-making levels of public life. However, there was still a lot of work to be done to achieve the U.N.’s minimum threshold of 30 percent of women’s representation in decision-making organs in all spheres of public life. Strategies to actualise this, Morrison said, included the enactment of an Affirmative Action Bill, facilitate enactment of Domestic Violence Act and a Human Trafficking Act, she said. The Ministry had also been engaging with stakeholders, such as traditional and religious authorities, to eliminate diverse issues of harmful cultural practices that undermined the rights of women and girls.
caribbean now Jamaican Government to Launch Economic Diplomacy Program
An economic diplomacy program in Jamaica, jointly developed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade and Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) to better engage with the country’s international partners on trade and investment matters, will be officially launched this month. Sen. Kamina Johnson Smith, the portfolio minister, made the disclosure while addressing members of the diplomatic corps on Tuesday, March 3 at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston. She explained that the program aims to improve alignment between the work undertaken by the Foreign Service in the execution of foreign policy and the strategic priorities established by the government to drive development. Johnson Smith said that the emphasis on economic diplomacy “will require a more strategic, focused and collaborative approach, to ensure that Jamaica’s diplomatic assets and programs are better leveraged to facilitate access to foreign markets for national businesses and to promote foreign direct investment.” “It is important that we achieve more tangible results, particularly in these two areas that are critical to our economic growth and development agenda,” she pointed out. She noted that as part of the objective, the government is taking a fresh look at its honorary consular network worldwide, in an effort to strengthen and expand the Ministry’s representation, promote Brand Jamaica, and seek trade and investment opportunities from targeted locations around the globe. “We will continue, therefore, to review locations where there may be a need to strengthen existing capacity or to add new representation,” she said. “We now have a network of 90 honorary consuls across all continents.”
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March Greetings from DC Department of Aging and Community Living
Laura Newland Director Department of Aging and Community Living Our Performance Oversight Hearing was last month before the Committee on Housing and Neighborhood Revitalization. We always look forward to hearing directly from you about your experiences and
how we can do an even better job of meeting you where you are, so thanks to everyone who testified, attended, and watched! Our Budget Oversight Hearing is scheduled for April 3rd, and we look forward to continuing the conversation before the Committee. As I said in my testimony, the Department of Aging and Community Living is committed to making sure that the work we do within the agency is always reflective of the community we serve. That means that we’re always listening and interested in knowing how we can best serve you. We take this feedback back to the office—good, bad, and everything in between—and we ask ourselves, “how can we make this experience better for our residents?” I’d like to personally invite you to join us for one of our budget town halls taking place during the week of March 23. Check out our flyer below for specific dates and locations. This is an opportunity to learn about how Mayor Muriel Bowser’s proposed 2021 investments will go towards ensuring every District resident has a fair shot at opportunity here in the District, especially our seniors, adults with
disabilities, and caregivers. I look forward to seeing you there! This month is also National Social Work Month! With more than 700,000 social workers in the United States and 5,000 in the District alone, chances are that you have known or currently know people who have dedicated their lives to the field of social work. In District government, we’re fortunate to have social workers at many levels, whether they’re in the community working with our residents or influencing policy and creating programs that enable our residents to thrive. Social workers view all of us we
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want to be seen—by our potential and not our mistakes. They recognize every individuals inherent value and help people realize their own ability to overcome obstacles and reach their full potential. Social workers are advocates, teachers, guidance counselors, problem solvers, innovators, organizers, and activists.
At DACL, I’m fortunate to work with social workers who inspire me to lead with my heart, not just my head. Many thanks to all of the DACL social workers, the Senior Service Network social workers, and all social workers in DC for making this city a place where we can all live boldly!
MARCH 12 - 18, 2020 19
HEALTH CORONA from Page 1
desire to be tested, that there will be a kit available.” While President continues to paint unrealistic, positive predictions to counter an increasingly skeptical public, Adams remains part of a chorus of federal officials from the U.S. Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control [CDC] working around the clock to respond to a medical pandemic that grows worse with every passing hour. Adams, who says he’s been camped out in the White House situation room since the severity of the crisis became evident, told CNN’s Jake Tapper that upon asking the president during a recent conversation if he’d washed his hands, Trump replied that he had “a little earlier.” While the numbers change daily, as of March 10, the CDC confirmed more than 971 cases of the coronavirus in the U.S. and 30 deaths. Globally, the situation has
grown far more grave with the World Health Organization reporting more than 119.000 confirmed cases and 4,269 deaths, again as of March 10.
CHURCHES, HOSPITALS AND COLLEGES TAKING PRECAUTIONS
On Sunday, an Episcopal church in the District suspended all Sunday activities after one of its senior leaders became the first person in the nation’s capital to test positive for the coronavirus. The Rev. Timothy Cole, rector of Christ Church in Georgetown, remains in stable condition after being hospitalized Saturday night, according to a statement from the Rev. Crystal Hardin, the assistant rector. “Out of an abundance of caution, Christ Church has canceled all activities including church services until further notice. We recommend that concerned commu-
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nity members contact their health care providers,” the statement said. Health officials said Sunday said they had determined as part of their investigation that “an individual’s visitation to Christ Church Georgetown warrants precautionary measures” and they recommended a temporary halt to services. According to the Associated Press, a second person tested positive in the District – a man visiting from Nigeria – and has been hospitalized – D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser said during a press conference Monday. In the Greater Washington Area, hospitals, HMOs and nursing homes have now begun screening everyone at their front doors, from visitors and law enforcement to staff and employees for the coronavirus. Changes have also come to colleges and universities in the region, with officials leading schools which include the University of Maryland, Howard University, Towson State University and Morgan State University in Baltimore extending spring breaks, canceling scheduled travel plans for students, contemplating the cancellation of upcoming sports competitions, the NCAA men’s and women’s tournaments most significantly and revising current academic calendars
VOTE from Page 16 “Already some are saying, ‘if this one doesn’t get in, we won’t vote,’ and that does nothing but allow Pharaoh to win his game of divide and conquer. Blacks must understand that even if their candidate in the primary fails to prevail, they, we, all Blacks must vote in the General Election.”
BUNCH: ‘ASALH’S THEME, ‘AFRICAN AMERICANS AND THE VOTE,’ FITTING’
Dr. Lonnie Bunch III, former director and founder of the Smiths o n i a n’s National Museum of African American History and Culture (opened Sept. 2016), now the 14th Secretary of the Smithsonian,
5 The pastor at the Christ Church in Georgetown tested positive for coronavirus. (Courtesy photo/Christ Church)
with the possibility of classes being held remotely. At Morgan State, Kevin Banks, Vice President of Student Affairs, talked to a group of students in the School of Global Journalism and Communications where he pointed them to sources to which they
could refer if they wanted more information about the virus and how to protect themselves. “The best thing you can do for now is to wash your hands frequently and see your healthcare provider if you exhibit any symptoms,” he said. WI
delivered the keynote address for ASALH’s 94th Annual Black History Luncheon in February. He said the theme, “African Americans and the Vote,” fits appropriately for Blacks today, still locked in a centuries-old battle to secure the unfettered right to vote. “A nation that remembers can always be made better and in some ways that’s what ASALH has always done,” he said. “It has helped us to be better by challenging us, prodding us, purging us to remember. It’s essential to remember how difficult the journey was to achieve the vote and what was lost in protecting that vote. We need to vote and the embarrassment of the people who have a right to vote but who don’t is a stain on the legacy of those upon whose shoulders we stand.” “At this time with partisan conformity, it’s essential to remember that African Americans have always believed that protest is the highest form of patriotism. [We] always believe that so much
of the struggle is gaining the right to vote, to find fairness in America at large. So much energy was spent on limiting access to the vote by legal tactics, intimidation, violence and the criminal justice system. We have forgotten about the African-American struggle for suffrage – centuries of struggle.” “Blacks have gained the vote and lost the vote. Nothing is guaranteed without vigilance, struggle, leadership and a determination to make a country live up to its ideals. We often forget that without the vote, we don’t have the voice. So, there’s a silence and we know how people trample over those who are silent.” “ASALH helps put a mirror to America and remind us of the struggle and the sacrifice we have endured for the right to vote. It reminds us that we don’t need reminding,” Bunch said. Sam P.K. Collins contributed to this report. WI
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HEALTH Steps to Prevent Illness There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person. • Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet). • Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Older adults and people who have severe underlying chronic medical conditions like heart or lung disease or diabetes seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19 illness. Please consult with your health care provider about additional steps you may be able to take to protect yourself. Take steps to protect yourself
Clean your hands often
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. • If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry. • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Stay home if you’re sick
• Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care. Learn what to do if you are sick.
Cover coughs and sneezes
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow. • Throw used tissues in the trash. • Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, clean your hands with a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
Clean and disinfect
• Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks. • If surfaces are dirty, clean them: Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection. To disinfect: Most common EPA-registered household disinfectants will work. Use disinfectants appropriate for the surface. Options include: • Diluting your household bleach. • To make a bleach solution, mix: - 5 tablespoons (1/3rd cup) bleach per gallon of water OR - 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water • Follow manufacturer’s instructions for application and proper
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Avoid close contact
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick • Put distance between yourself and other people if COVID-19 is spreading in your community. This is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick. Take steps to protect others
Wear a facemask if you are sick
• If you are sick: You should wear a facemask when you are around other people (e.g., sharing a room or vehicle) and before you enter a healthcare provider’s office. If you are not able to wear a facemask (for example, because it causes trouble breathing), then you should do your best to cover your coughs and sneezes, and people who are caring for you should wear a facemask if they enter your room. Learn what to do if you are sick. • If you are NOT sick: You do not need to wear a facemask unless you are caring for someone who is sick (and they are not able to wear a facemask). Facemasks may be in short supply and they should be saved for caregivers. ventilation. Check to ensure the product is not past its expiration date. Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser. Unexpired household bleach will be effective against coronaviruses when properly diluted. • Alcohol solutions. Ensure solution has at least 70% alcohol. • Other common EPA-registered household disinfectants. Products with EPA-approved emerging viral pathogens Claims are expected to be effective against COVID-19 based on data for harder to kill viruses. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all cleaning and disinfection products (e.g., concentration, application method and contact time, etc.). Courtesy of the CDC
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EDUCATION WE DEFEND THE RIGHTS OF D.C. SENIORS. Call our Hotline at 202-434-2120 Legal Counsel for the Elderly provides
free legal services to eligible D.C. seniors, 60 and older. We can help with: • Foreclosure • Eviction • Obtaining Social Security, Disability, Food Stamps, Veterans Benefits and more. *Income Eligibility Applies.
Prince George’s Residents Come Together For Adult Running Team Club Prepares For Upcoming Marathon
By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Contributing Writer Local residents of Prince George’s County come together weekly to walk, run and train not just for a healthier future, but also for next month’s annual Springburst 10K race. The Prince George’s Running Club (PGRC), now in its 36th year, brings an uplifting energy to those newcomers to the organization. Part of the club’s mission is health and fitness, fueling its efforts to get as many people out and running with their supportive members. Yvonne Hill, vice president and a coach of the current 10K training team, shares the nature of the group and efforts put in place to encourage newcomers who may consider wanting to get active. “We’re definitely diverse — we take all cases, and you don’t have to be a professional runner,” Hill said of the group, which currently boasts roughly 23 participants. “We have the walking group, and everything in between,” The group has a Running Start 5K program, facilitated by professional coaches and structured to get people started before ramping up to lengthier marathons. The training programs run on Tuesdays for track-speed workouts at the University of Maryland’s Keyhoe Track, Thursdays at Herbert Wells Ice Rink for straight runs, and Saturdays for long-distance runs starting at the Bowie IHOP on Annapolis Road.
TUESDAY from Page 18
Legal Counsel for the Elderly is an affiliate of AARP.
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presumptive frontrunner. But a series of events helped turned the tide beginning with Biden’s live interview in Charleston with National Newspaper Publishers Association President/CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. The interview, live-streamed over social media and at BlackPressUSA.com, occurred just days before voters went to the polls in the Palmetto State. Biden then received an endorsement from Clyburn. “I got started in the African-American community. I got involved in the Civil Rights Movement when I was a kid. I helped de-segregate a movie theater, that kind of thing,” Biden told Chavis during the interview. “I was the only guy who worked in
5 The Prince George’s Runners Club gather for a photo-op before a Saturday morning run in preparation for a marathon on April 18, 2020. (Lindiwe Vilakazi/The Washington Informer)
Club President Ndegwa Kamau, affirms the positive energy and camaraderie he witnesses while working with new and longtime group members. “The good thing about the club that I love mostly is it’s always like a family,” said Kamau, now in his sixth year as president. “The first day I met them at the track, everyone was giving each other hugs and everyone’s happy.” The group also holds a summer funrun event at the Buddy Attick Lake Park in Greenbelt. The family-friendly event allows attendees to run or simply walk together for exercise and movement. “A lot of people here are either just starting out, trying to figure out how to run, how to get into it, or some people are trying to get back into it,” said Sharon Bollers, director for the upcoming Springburst 10K race. “Running is one of those things that you can do on your own at any point and time, but you
come be part of a run club because the community — it’s a lot of that, if you want to call it, positive peer pressure.” Several members of the group echo sentiments that they never imagined themselves being such active runners or participating in large marathons prior to joining the group. “People have seen health success being a part of the club,” Bollers said. “A lot of it is natural weight loss.” This year’s 10K race, scheduled for April 18, will be held at the Glenn Dale Splash Park trail. Those interested can contact the group via their website (www.PGRC.org). “People are kind of afraid to run,” Hill said. “We look at runners as being these ultra-marathoners, and that’s not true. I needed somebody to kind of get me to the next level. Never did I ever think that I would be running marathons, ever. Or training people to run them.” WI
the projects on the East Side who was white. That’s how I got started and the Black community is the community that, as we say, brung me to the dance. That’s how I got elected.” Biden told Chavis that the Black vote would likely determine the nation’s next president. “It’s going to be the determining factor in who the nominee is going to be and I hope that means who the next president is going to be,” Biden pronounced. He added that the Black Press serves a vital role in the political process. “The Black Press is the way I did my politics. You go where people are,” he stated. “You walk into a Black barbershop or beauty salon and your newspaper was there. It’s who we are. The neigh-
borhood we come from. It’s incredibly important; you’re incredibly important. “I never had the money but any ads that I’ve ever purchased have only been in Black newspapers because it’s the single best way for people to get access to what I say and what I really mean.” After that, Biden scored a massive victory in South Carolina, energizing him for Super Tuesday, where he received critical endorsements from several former candidates. Following his win in Michigan on Big Tuesday, Biden received the endorsement of another former candidate, Andrew Yang. Earlier, Biden picked up the support of Cory Booker, Kamala Harris, Pete Buttigieg, Mike Bloomberg and Amy Klobuchar. WI
THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM
DCPS
BRIEFS Compiled by Dorothy Rowley WI Staff Writer
NO CLASSES
Professional Development Day (No School for Students) Friday, March 20 (All day)
LOTTERY RESULTS
My School DC Lottery Results will be released on March 27.
EMPOWERED LEARNER’S INITIATIVE
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and
DCPS recently began delivering more than 16,400 technology devices to schools across all eight wards as a part of the Empowered Learner’s Initiative. The initiative is a comprehensive three-year commitment by Bowser to close the digital divide and empower DCPS students through access to state-of-the-art technology. Last year Bowser made an initial $4.6 million investment in technology to provide every student in grades 3, 6, and 9 with a device to use at school, and students in all other grades will have a 3:1 student-to-device ratio in the classroom. After ensuring schools had the necessary technology infrastructure and providing professional development to educators, classrooms are receiving the Microsoft Surface Go to enhance teaching and learning.
CORONAVIRUS QUESTIONS
Does your child have questions about the coronavirus? NPR, collaborating with experts in social work
and mental health, has developed a cartoon explaining what children might want to know. Coronavirus (COVID-19) doesn’t recognize race, nationality or ethnicity. Viruses don’t discriminate, and neither should we, officials say. For more information, go to npr. org or mayor.dc.gov
EDUCATION
READ ACROSS AMERICA
From Chancellor Lewis Ferebee: As DCPS progresses toward its Capital Commitment goal to have 100 percent of K-2 students reading on or above grade level by 2022, we are excited to celebrate our love of great books. I want to know which books you loved as a kid! Share your favorite stories using #DCPSReads.
SUMMER PROGRAM PROVIDERS
School program providers interested in hosting summer programs in DCPS schools must be registered by DCPS and receive permission
5 Students across the District are seeing new Microsoft Surface Go devices such as laptop tablet hybrids in their classrooms as part of the Empowered Learners Initiative (ELi) announced by D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser. (DCPS photo)
from the school principal. The deadline for submitting all paperwork for summer 2020 is April 2020. Organizations seeking to access the DC Free Summer Meals Program at their school site must request food services via the Summer
Food Service Request Form by May 4, 2020 in order to provide time for meal coordination. For more information, contact Shaun Sako at shaun.sako@k12. dc.gov. WI
“I received my Masters in Public Administration in 18 months and graduated debt free. UDC made my dreams possible.” Steven Tiller Director of Facility Operations and Services Walter E. Washington Convention Center
FIND YOUR POSSIBLE UDC.EDU/POSSIBLE
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In Memoriam Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, Sr. Wilhelmina J. Rolark THE WASHINGTON INFORMER NEWSPAPER (ISSN#0741-9414) is published weekly on each Thursday. Periodicals postage paid at Washington, D.C. and additional mailing offices. News and advertising deadline is Monday prior to publication. Announcements must be received two weeks prior to event. Copyright 2016 by The Washington Informer. All rights reserved. POSTMASTER: Send change of addresses to The Washington Informer, 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E. Washington, D.C. 20032. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. The Informer Newspaper cannot guarantee the return of photographs. Subscription rates are $45 per year, two years $60. Papers will be received not more than a week after publication. Make checks payable to: THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E Washington, D.C. 20032 Phone: 202 561-4100 Fax: 202 574-3785 news@washingtoninformer.com www.washingtoninformer.com
PUBLISHER Denise Rolark Barnes STAFF D. Kevin McNeir, Editor Ron Burke, Advertising/ Marketing Director Shevry Lassiter, Photo Editor Lafayette Barnes, IV, Assistant Photo Editor John E. De Freitas, Sports Photo Editor Dorothy Rowley, Online Editor ZebraDesigns.net, Design & Layout Mable Neville, Bookkeeper Dr. Charles Vincent, Social Sightings columnist Tatiana Moten, Social Media Specialist Angie Johnson, Circulation REPORTERS Stacy Brown (Senior Writer), Sam P.K. Collins, Timothy Cox, Will Ford (Prince George’s County Writer), Jacqueline Fuller, Hamil Harris, D. Kevin McNeir, Kui Mwai, Dorothy Rowley, Brenda Siler, Lindiwe Vilakazi, Sarafina Wright, James Wright, PHOTOGRAPHERS John E. DeFreitas, Ja’Mon Jackson, Shevry Lassiter, Roy Lewis, Jr., Robert R. Roberts, Anthony Tilghman
WORDS FROM THE EDITOR
Precious Breaths
Most of us take breathing for granted. Really, unless your ability to breathe becomes hampered by exertion, allergies, a cold or a condition, you pretty much take as a matter of function that your lungs are sound. Pastors speak of God breathing the breath of life into His creations, yoga instructors stress the importance of cleansing breaths, every laboring mother relies on her own breathing and those first screams of a newborn to signal healthy lungs and the beginning of life. Even comedians, like D.C.’s Andy Evans, (The Comedy Counselor), encourage laughter as a breathing technique to alleviate stress, depression, and grief. But what happens when breathing becomes impaired? Approximately 13 million U.S. residents have received a diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) – which includes conditions like chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and asthma and an estimated 13 million more are unaware of their COPD diagnosis. And what was once believed to be a condition largely impacting white males, shows a steady increase among Black women. Rachel Chisholm, co-author of the study “COPD in a Population-Based Sample of Never-Smokers: Interactions among Sex, Gender, and Race,” found Black women had, by far, the highest prevalence of COPD among older adults who had never smoked. “We cannot determine causality with this data set, but poverty is associated with increased exposure to toxins, such as second-hand smoke in workplaces and air pollution in inner-city environments,” Chisolm said. “Future research needs to investigate if these factors play a role in the greater vulnerability of African-American women.” Further complicating the need for research, is the research itself, according to a study published in February 2019 that concluded lumping all Black communities under the category “Black” or “African American” negated the varying habits, lifestyles, and mores of U.S.-born and immigrant Black populations. “This brings into question the validity of current knowledge, which largely refers to all “U.S. Blacks” as a homogenous “African American” populace in a majority of studies. This assumption ignores the variations in socioeconomic status, tobacco or biomass smoke exposures, behaviors, access to health care, health insurance coverage, and disease management among Black individuals in America,” Chinedu O. Ejike and Mark T. Dransfield noted in “Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in America’s Black Population.” Historically, these nuances must be noted in order to bring about concrete and measurable positive results. It immediately brought to mind the recent text, Breathing Race into the Machine: The Surprising Career of the Spirometer from Plantation to Genetics by Lundy Braun – that charts the role of innovation and misguided understanding of Black bodies in the use of the spirometer. Designed to measure lung volume and therefore vital capacity, race-adjusted spirometer data, instead, worked to naturalize racial and ethnic differences and misinform clinical diagnoses, preemployment physicals, and disability estimates. Breathe Easy: The Washington Informer Quick Guide to Preventing & Living with Respiratory Ailments encourages readers to take an active and proactive posture in preventing, diagnosing, and advocating for better breathing. Whether it’s a virus, like the looming COVID-19 or asthma, every breath is precious. Writers have found tips on household contaminants, food triggers, and preventative measures for keeping lungs healthy – and conditioning impaired lungs for optimum comfort. Read, Learn, Enjoy! Dr. Shantella Sherman Special Editions Editor
www.washingtoninformer.com / MARCH 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT
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Eat Right; Breathe Right By Lee Ross WI Staff Writer The diagnosis of emphysema came to Dora Ayo just days before her fortieth birthday. Until then, her occasional coughing and wheezing bouts were attributed to a return of childhood asthma – and formidable cigarette habit that spanned two decades. With the diagnosis and a managed care protocol that included input from a dietician, Ayo found that many of the foods she enjoyed contributed to breathlessness just as cigarettes once had. And like many of the roughly 65 million people around the world living with moderate or severe COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, -- a group of lung diseases that makes it harder to breathe, leaving behind her favorite foods proved daunting. “My physician made it clear that too much salt and processed foods would exacerbate my condition and cause flareups. It went in one ear and out the other because I believed I could eat things in moderation and be okay,” Ayo told the Informer. “I learned the hard way that moderation for me quickly became gorging and left me struggling for air.” Tobacco use is the primary cause of COPD in the United States, but air pollutants at home (such as secondhand smoke and some heating fuels) and at work (such as dusts, gases, and fumes), and genetic predisposition also can cause COPD. Additionally, women are increasingly diagnosed with COPD at later and more advanced stages making treatment less effective. Once diagnoses are made, adhering to quality of life regimens, as prescribed by a physician is important. Ayo says she now adheres to a strict diet to avoid flare ups. Here are some of the tips her
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physician provided of foods to avoid and help keep you breathing well.
SALT / SALT SUBSTITUTES
Eating too much salt could be a problem as it can cause the body to retain water, which can hinder breathing. Salt substitutes may be high in potassium, which could interact poorly with COPD medications.
COLD CUTS
Due to their nitrate content, cold cuts, ham, bacon, and hot dogs can worsen COPD symptoms. Similarly, chemicals like sulfites are often added to shrimp as preservatives to help retain their color. Sulfites can trigger a narrowing of bronchial passages in people with sensitive airways, causing major flareups.
5 Maintaining a healthy lifestyle – including proper nutrition and the elimination of certain foods is critical to living well with COPD. / Courtesy photo
Check out the Congress Heights Wellness Space
at the Alabama Avenue Giant for FREE nutrition and wellness classes open to the entire community!
DAIRY PRODUCTS
Milk can cause problems for some people with COPD because of the casomorphin, that naturally occurs in it and is believed to increase mucus production in the intestine. Many respiratory diseases, including COPD, are associated with increased mucus production from a similar type of gland in the lung during periods of inflammation.
FRIED FOODS, CARBONATED BEVERAGES, AND GAS-PRODUCING VEGETABLES
Both fried foods and vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage cause gas and bloating, which can make breathing difficult. Similarly, carbonated soft drinks produce gas and bloat and may cause breathing discomfort. HS
Jillian Griffith, MSPH, RDN, LDN
MARCH 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com
Whether you are concerned about diabetes, heart health, or just want to improve family meal times, nutritionist Jillian Griffith can answer your nutrition questions and help you make the best shopping choices for your family’s health and wellness. Schedule a personalized nutrition consultation or request a store tour! This spring, Jillian will launch a Sugar in Check program on diabetes prevention and What Can I Eat, a program for those navigating prediabetes and diabetes. Register today at giantfood.com/nutrition or email jillian.griffith@giantfood.com for more information!
How to Talk to Kids About Addiction Submitted by AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia One in four children in the United States has substance use disorder in their family, says the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). For children living with a family member with substance use disorder, home life can be chaotic, scary, lonely, and full of conflict and broken promises. Talking to kids about substance use can be hard, but it’s so important. Without information, kids may often conclude the conflict and problems are their fault. It’s never too early to explain the negative effects of substance use to a child. In fact, to support the large number of kids and their families dealing with substance use disorder, Sesame Street has even introduced a puppet whose mom is in recovery. Tailor your message to the age, maturity, and comfort level of the child. These guidelines can help: • Choose one person in the family, such as a parent or grandparent, to give the child information to avoid gossip and rumors. Help the child express and sort through his or her feelings. Let them know it’s OK to ask questions and bring concerns to that family member. Be careful not to place any blame on the person who has substance use disorder. • Explain addiction in a way the
child can understand. You might start with the child’s experience of a negative event, such as, “You know how Dad is loud when everyone else is quiet?” or “Remember when Grandma was being strange at dinner?” - Children under age 10: You might explain that addiction to alcohol or drugs is a brain disease. People who use alcohol and drugs might lose control over how they act, and do and say things they usually wouldn’t. Just like we don’t blame people for having a disease like diabetes or cancer, we do not blame people for having a brain disease like addiction. These people are not able to stop drinking or using drugs without special help from people trained to treat the disease. - Tweens and teens: Be open, honest, and direct, and give details if the tween or teen asks for them. Try not to lecture or speak down to teens, or they may tune you out. The National Association for Children of Addiction suggests teaching the “Seven Cs:” 1. I didn’t cause it. Hearing that a loved one’s substance use is not their fault is very powerful for a child. It lets the child be a kid again. 2. I can’t cure it 3. I can’t control it 4. I can help take care of myself by 5. Communicating my feelings,
Tailor your message to the age, maturity, and comfort level of the child.
6. Making healthy choices, and 7. Celebrating me Research shows substance use disorder is genetic, so children from families in which loved ones have struggled with substance use are at greater risk of using these substances themselves. Give kids healthy living skills as a helpful form of prevention. You can find more information about substance use disorder and how to talk about it on the National Association for Children of Addiction’s website, www.nacoa.org. Sources: National Association for Children of Addiction (NACOA), “The Seven Cs” and “Kit for Kids,” accessed Nov. 4, 2019, https://nacoa.org/resource/the7cs/l and https://nacoa.org/wp-content/ uploads/2019/03/Kit-for-kids-NACoA-2019.pdf. National Institute on Drug Abuse, “Genetics: The Blueprint of Health and Disease,” accessed Jan. 5, 2019, www. drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/ genetics-epigenetics-addiction. All images are used under license for illustrative purposes only. Any individual depicted is a model HS
#BestMe
Three Ways to Power Up Your Breakfast Breakfast bars and cold cereal are no match for the filling boost of protein these choices offer: • Top a whole grain waffle with nut butter and dried or fresh fruit • Try savory oatmeal: Layer cheese and green onions or sautéed veggies over cooked oatmeal, and top with a fried or poached egg • A few cubes of cheese with fresh fruit and a handful of nuts is a healthy morning meal that helps you power through until lunchtime This is to help you learn about your health condition. It is not to take the place of your primary care provider (PCP). If you have questions, talk with your PCP. If you think you need to see your PCP because of something you have read in this information, please contact your PCP. Never stop or wait to get medical attention because of something you have read in this information.
www.washingtoninformer.com / MARCH 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT
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Help is available now If you or a loved one has a substance use disorder, there are many services in the District to help. • The Department of Behavioral Health’s Assessment and Referral Center (ARC), 1-202-727-8473, provides same-day treatment for substance use problems •
Aunt Bertha is an online search service that can help you link to resources in the District and across the United States. Go to www.auntbertha.com. Then, enter your ZIP code to find help near you. There are over 100 programs for addiction and recovery in the District.
•
AmeriHealth Caritas DC offers our enrollees several substance use disorder treatment options. Call Enrollee Services at 1-800-408-7511 (TTY 1-800-570-1190) for more information.
Find us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/AmeriHealthDC / Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AmeriHealthCaritasDC Find us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/AmeriHealthCaritasDC
#BestMe
Rewards Program
I got a gift card for getting my annual physical. You can too. You can get a $25 gift card if you: • Are an AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia member • Are 12 – 21 years old • Get an annual physical exam
Visit www.amerihealthcaritasdc.com/giftcard to learn more. Note: A member cannot get more than $50 in incentives each year.
ACDC-19433327-2
www.amerihealthcaritasdc.com 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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MARCH 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com
All images are used under license for illustrative purposes only. Any individual depicted is a model.
How to Keep Your Community Healthy from the Flu, Common Cold and Coronavirus (COVID-19) By Whitman-Walker Health At Whitman-Walker, we want to help keep you and the community healthy. If you are experiencing symptoms of a cough, cold, fever or the flu, it is important that you stay home to help prevent the spread of germs. Please consider the following tips to help keep yourself, your loved and the community healthy – and to prevent new cases of the common cold, flu, and coronavirus. Thank you for your help in preventing the spread of germs!
WHITMAN-WALKER LOCATIONS
• Max Robinson Center (health center) – 2301 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave, SE • Max Robinson Center Pharmacy – 2303 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave, SE • Whitman-Walker Youth Services – 651 Pennsylvania Ave, SE • Whitman-Walker (health center) & Pharmacy at 1525 – 1525 14th Street, NW • The Corner at Whitman-Walker – 1701 14th Street, NW • Whitman-Walker at LIZ – 1. Call first. It is important that 1377 R Street, NW, Suite 200 you call Whitman-Walker at 202(2nd Floor) 745-7000 and share information about your symptoms before visitLearn facts about the coronaviing any of our locations. To limit rus at whitman-walker.org/coroyour exposure to additional illnessnavirus and get more information es, our team will evaluate and treat on general prevention for the coroyou over the phone. navirus from DC Health at coronavirus.dc.gov. 2. After your phone evaluation. If after your phone evaluation, you still need to come into a Whitman-Walker location, we will coordinate with you to be seen as quickly as possible when you arrive for your appointment.
PREVENT THE SPREAD OF GERMS
• Stay home if you are coughing and/or sneezing! • Use a tissue to cover your coughs and sneezes and throw your used tissue in the trash. If you do not have a tissue, turn away from people and cough into your shoulder or your sleeve. If you have a mask you can wear one, but this won’t fully protect the people around you. • Do not use your hands to cover your coughs and sneezes. • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth as these are the easiest areas for germs to spread through. • Wash your hands often to avoid getting sick. Wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds -- aka the equivalent of singing the “Happy Birthday” or “¡Feliz cumpleaños!” song twice. If soap and water is unavailable, use an alcohol based hand sanitizer. Wash your hands before you eat. • Clean and disinfect frequent-
ly touched objects, like your cell phone, door knobs, reusable beverage containers and work space using disinfectant wipes or sprays. • Consider buying a digital thermometer so that if you do get a cough or cold, you can more easily monitor yourself at home and share changes in your temperature with our Whitman-Walker care team. • Will wearing a mask protect me? Wearing a mask will not help to keep you healthy. We are not recommending that patients and community members purchase or obtain masks to prevent infection.
THE BEST THING YOU CAN DO TO KEEP YOURSELF HEALTHY
is to follow the hand washing and cleaning instructions above. You can also keep your immune system strong by taking your medications as directed, drinking water and being kind to your body by getting enough sleep and regular exercise. A simple walk every day goes a long way in minimizing stress and keeping you healthy.
These small steps combined make a big difference in preventing the spread of the common cold, flu and coronavirus. We appreciate your help in keeping the communities of greater Washington, DC, Maryland and Virginia healthy.
ADDITIONAL PREVENTION RESOURCES TO CONSIDER
• How to Manage Your Cough at Home: whitman-walker.org/ careforcoughs • About the Coronavirus: whitman-walker.org/coronavirus • Prevent the Spread of Germs: whitman-walker.org/preventgerms HS
3. Visiting a Whitman-Walker location? Please let us know that you have a cough immediately. We will give you a mask to wear and get you in a private room when you arrive. Before receiving a mask, cover any coughs and sneezes with a tissue to help prevent the spread of germs and throw all used tissues in the trash.
www.washingtoninformer.com / MARCH 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT
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COVER YOUR
COUGH
Coughing or Sneezing?
Please take and wear a mask. Be sure to cover both your nose and mouth when wearing the mask.
Take these steps to keep yourself and the community healthy. If you are sick, STAY HOME. Call us at 202.745.7000 and tell us about your symptoms. These small steps make a big difference in preventing the spread of the common cold, flu and coronavirus.
If you are sick, STAY HOME.
Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that are frequently touched.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick or who are presenting symptoms of frequent coughing or sneezing.
Cover your mouth & nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
Throw away any used tissue in the waste basket.
Cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth as these are the easiest areas for germs to spread through.
Pay close attention to your symptoms and seek medical care if your symptoms worsen.
If you have not gotten your flu shot yet, get vaccinated for the flu.
Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and dry your hands completely before touching additional surfaces.
If soap and water is unavailable, clean your hands with alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Call our team at 202.745.7000. We will evaluate and treat you over the phone – and help limit your exposure to additional illnesses. If after your phone evaluation, you still need to come into a Whitman-Walker location, we will coordinate with you to be seen as quickly as possible after you arrive for your appointment. We will also share instructions for wearing a mask.
Additional Resources How to Manage Your Cough At Home whitman-walker.org/careforcoughs About the Coronavirus whitman-walker.org/coronavirus Prevent the Spread of Germs whitman-walker.org/preventgerms
Copyright © 2020 Whitman-Walker Health.
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5 Foods to Fight The Flu By Elaine Moquette-Magee Safeway Wellness Services Corporate Dietitian So you want to avoid getting those winter colds and the flu this season but you may not know that your best defense is to visit your grocery store! Washing your hands frequently and getting your annual flu vaccine are the best ways to limit exposure to flu viruses (and your grocery store can help you do both). But eating foods that help fight the flu by strengthening your immune system is another great way grocery stores can help. Getting plenty of key nutrients and preventing deficiencies which can compromise the immune system is a major key to optimizing your immunity. Enhance your immunity further by including foods contributing key plant compounds with anti-viral and anti-histamine action. 1. Dark green leafy vegetables (such as spinach, kale and brocco-
li) contribute all three antioxidant vitamins thought to improve immune function (Vitamins A, C, and E) plus they contain Saponins, a plant compound with anti-viral activity. Enjoy a dose of dark green leafy vegetables daily. • Check out these recipes: Simple Sesame Broccoli, 15-Minute Beef, Bean & Spinach Enchiladas 2. Select citrus often! The anti-viral compounds in citrus tend to be in the pulp and white soft flesh around the segments. So eating rather than drinking citrus is ideal. If you are drinking OJ, make sure to buy the type with pulp because that’s where much of the helpful compounds are. Citrus is also bursting with vitamin C and other antioxidants! 3. Maximize mushrooms! They give the immune system a boost in part by enhancing natural immunity! Some mushroom com-
Fresh, fast, delivered
pounds are thought to have inhibitory effects at the first stage of virus replication. Some mushrooms may also have anti-viral, antibacterial and anti-parasitic effects through favorably changing the microbe population living in the intestine, according to recent animal studies. Look for light exposed mushrooms with 100% daily value for vitamin D—vitamin D may help activate the immune system. 4. Seek out surf and turf— Lean beef and select seafood are the top sources of zinc (oysters, crab, beef pot roast, sirloin steak, ground beef, and dark-meat turkey) and zinc is important for the proper functioning of the immune system. You can also find good amounts of zinc in turkey, chicken, lamb, pumpkin seeds, clams, soynuts, and nuts and seeds in general. T cell function declines with age and a recent study with nursing home patients showed that an increase in serum zinc levels was associat-
ed with an enhancement of T cell function and number of T cells. (AJCN March 2016 vol. 103 no. 3 942-951) 5. Enjoy your favorite red fruits! Apples, red grapes, tomatoes, berries and cherries give you a nice dose of the plant compound quercetin, which acts as a strong antioxidant and may reduce infection risk and have anti-viral/anti-histamine action in the body. Kale and broccoli, garlic, onions and tea also contribute a dose of quercetin. PROBIOTIC TIP: Include probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and kefir with “live active cultures” and vitamin D each day to help boost immunity and increase good bacteria in your intestines (70% of your immune system is located in your digestive tract.) Also consider a probiotic supplement with good-quality evidence behind it—look for the term “clinically proven” on the label and discuss their use with your
5 Sesame Brocolli
doctor, pharmacist, or dietitian. Keep in mind probiotic benefits are strain and dose specific. BEVERAGE TIP: Drinking hot green/white tea (and to a lesser extent black tea) helps lubricate your sinuses with steam as you drink and adds key compounds with antiviral, anti-histamine and anti-inflammatory action. HS
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Tips for Ridding Homes of Respiratory Triggers By Lee Ross WI Staff Writer Americans spend up to 90 percent of their time indoors. Indoor
allergens and irritants play a significant role in triggering breathing troubles, including asthma attacks, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Triggers are things that can cause symptoms, an episode or attack or make breathing worse and often are overlooked as sources of distress within our homes or in our neigh-
MARCH
WITH US
FOR HEALTHY MOMS AND STRONG BABIES Two babies die every hour in the U.S. And about every 12 hours a woman dies as a result of complications from pregnancy. It’s not fine. But together we can do something about it.
Use fragrance-free detergents Laundry detergents smell so nice, so we wouldn’t see them as a suspect. But we are all clearly wrong with this one. Fragranced products are made of chemicals, so they can contribute to the issue of indoor air pollution. To deal with this, replace the traditional ones with fragrance-free laundry detergents. Replace the filters - The filters on the air conditioning and heating system play a vital role in keeping your air clean. They trap the particles from the air, such as dust mites and pet dander. If you haven’t checked on the filters, hurry up and do it. You are recommended to do at least 4 checks per year to make sure that the filters are in good shape. If there is lots of accumulated debris, it means that the filters need to be replaced. This is a simple and affordable project that you can do by yourself. Click here to find out more about the best changing practices. Keep the air dry - A high percentage of humidity in the air contributes to the growth of mold. The mold can release spores in the air, which can trigger asthma and allergies. Make sure that the bathroom is well ventilated. Turn on the exhaust fan after showering or open the window. Another way to keep the humidity away is to check for any leaks in your home. To be on
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borhoods. For instance, stuffed animals – carried about by small children are rarely washed or disinfected. Here are few other tips to ridding your home of respiratory triggers to breathing ailments.
the safe side, check the roof and plumbing often. Keep the dust mites away - Dust mites are a common reason for allergies. They also thrive in a humid environment, so get a dehumidifier to keep the humidity levels low. Remove the carpets where they aren’t necessary, and make sure that you frequently clean every piece of upholstery in your home. Wash the bedding once a week in hot water to get rid of the dust mites. Ventilate Daily - Bringing in cleaner outdoor air by opening up windows is the easiest way to dilute the contaminated air in your home. However, you’ll want to keep the windows closed on highpollen-count days or when it’s very humid outside, which can raise the risk of mold. When cooking and bathing, make sure to ventilate the kitchen with an exhaust fan or nearby open window during cooking, and for at least 15 minutes after you are done preparing the meal. Vacuum Often and Slowly - Dust is a leading source of air pollution because it absorbs toxic gases, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and radon. It can also contain pollen, animal dander, mold spores and dust mites, which are known allergens. Vacuuming slowly and methodically captures the most dust, whereas vacuuming quickly just raises the dust, which defeats the purpose. Vacuum slowly at least twice a week, and step outside to empty the vacuum cleaner bag or canister and avoid inhaling any dust as you do so. HS
Regional partner
© 2019 March of Dimes
5 Guarding our homes against allergens that negative impact breathing is the first step to having a healthy breathing space. / Courtesy photo
www.washingtoninformer.com / MARCH 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT
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Promoting Balanced Lifestyles America’s leading beverage companies all want the same thing - a strong, healthy America. That’s why the beverage industry, including The Coca-Cola Company, Keurig Dr Pepper and PepsiCo, are putting aside competitive differences and working together to support consumers’ efforts to balance what they eat, drink and do. Our companies have introduced more options with zero sugar or less sugar than ever before. We are expanding our offering of smaller portion sizes and we voluntarily removed full-calorie sodas from schools. This unprecedented effort slashed beverage calories in schools by more than 90%. We’re placing clear calorie labels on the front of every bottle and can we sell and we’ve added calorie awareness messages on millions of vending machines and fountains. Today, half of all beverages purchased have zero sugar. So, next time you go to your local grocer, take a look at the beverage aisle. You’ll see more low- and no- calorie beverages, many more flavored waters, and smaller package sizes such as mini-cans. America’s beverage companies are committed to working together to achieve real change in people’s lives. Together, we will continue our work to educate consumers about our beverages so they can chose what’s best for themselves and their families. Learn more at BalanceUS.org HS
America’s beverage companies are working together to bring you more choices with less sugar and smaller portion sizes. And we’re adding new signs to encourage you to consider these choices. See what else we’re doing at BALANCEUS.ORG.
SUPPORTING YOUR EFFORTS TO FIND BALANCE
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Making Sense of the Coronavirus By Lee Ross WI Staff Writer The World Health Organization reported the Coronavirus outbreak has 105,586 confirmed cases (3656 new) – with China registering 80,859 confirmed cases and 3,100 (27 new) deaths. With the U.S. confirming 164 cases and 11 reported deaths, across 19 states (including California, Maryland, and D.C.), health bodies, including the Centers for Disease Control and National Institutes of Health, are wading in to determine how best to treat those infected and halt the spread to healthy populations. This, as many Americans continue to debate the strength of outbreak claims and the potential seriousness of the virus. “How is the Coronavirus any different than the flu itself? It this something that is being blown out of proportion because of outside factors, politics, or even xenophobia? I do not trust the media reports, but I am also concerned that not taking precautions – in the event this is actually serious – could be deadly,” University of the District of Columbia senior Jordan McAllister told the Informer. “I feel like I need more information.” McAllister’s sentiments echoed across the nation’s capital, with many residents saying the news of contaminations had yet to hit the District and so they felt relatively safe. To that end, the rituals of socializing publicly and traveling had not altered. Others, like grocery store shelver Royce Bullock, said that they were taking serious steps to ward off the virus – as they would germs in general during cold and flu season. “I work in the public, I handle boxes, cans, jugs and store items that folks are picking up and putting back all day long. For me it’s like working with children where you have to assume that no one has washed their hands, everything has some type of bacteria on it, and you have to work accordingly,” Bullock said. He noted that he works with gloves on that start out white and by mid-shift have dust, oils, and indiscernible stains all over them. “I do not touch my face and I wash my hands for at least two minutes – soap, scrub with a brush under the nails, and up to the elbow, like
the doctors,” he said laughing. “My apron is placed in a bag before I leave the store and tossed into the washing machine at home immediately because I don’t want those germs spread to my car or inside my home.” The added precautions are necessary as health organizations continue to investigate the outbreak and work to develop suitable treatment protocol. In a February 28 CDC Telebriefing to update media on the Coronavirus (COVID-19), Director of CDC’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Disease, Dr. Nancy Messonnier, described measures undertaken by CDC to identify and investigate those suspected of coming in contact with COVID-19. “At this point in our investigation, we are most focused on symptomatic people who are closely linked to confirmed cases or had travel history. But our criteria also allows for clinical discretion,” she said. “As public health professionals, we know that there is no substitute for the astute clinician on the frontlines of patient care.” Messonnier said during any infectious disease response there is a great need for test manufacturers to rapidly make testing available in clinics, in hospitals, and at the bedside for People Under Investigation (PUIs). “This is part of a huge effort within the U.S. government led by HHS,” Messonnier said. “CDC will continue to report case counts on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Our priority continues to be getting accurate diagnostic capacity—and doing so quickly—because we know public health surveillance is critical to our fight against this novel coronavirus. To date, our strategies have been largely successful. As a result, we have very few cases in the United States. And while we may be confronting the first instance of community spread, we are working very hard with our state and local public health partners to find out more.” Naturopathic Doctor Dr. LaJoyce Brookshire told the Informer that being proactive against the Coronavirus will help keep Americans healthy when it arrives. “The CDC announced that it is not a matter of if the Coronavirus is coming to America with an epidem-
ic, but when, so we need to stay on the side of prevention. I need you to keep your hands clean with things like wintergreen alcohol and witch hazel – I like to make a mixture with peroxide so I can spray my hands and spray down surfaces,” Brookshire said. “What’s dangerous about the Coronavirus is that it lives on surfaces and that makes it especially dangerous.” Brookshire also advises that Americans boost their immunity by adhering to the lifestyle wisdom of elders that included listening to our bodies and resting as needed. “Go to bed, drink your green juices, drink plenty of water, eat healthy soups and fresh meals that you make at home so that you are able to stay on the side of wellness instead of trying to repair the body afterwards,” Brookshire said. HS
5 Forewarned, is forearmed in the case of the Coronavirus, which American health officials believe will impact the nation’s respiratory systems in coming weeks. / Photo courtesy of CDC
Tips to Avoiding Coronavirus WI Staff Report Courtesy of The World Health Organization
WASH YOUR HANDS FREQUENTLY
Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water. Why? Washing your hands with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand rub kills viruses that may be on your hands.
MAINTAIN SOCIAL DISTANCING
Maintain at least a 3-foot distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing. Why? When someone coughs or sneezes, they spray small liquid droplets from their nose or mouth which may contain virus. If you are too close, you can breathe in the droplets, including the COVID-19 virus if the person coughing has the disease.
AVOID TOUCHING EYES, NOSE AND MOUTH
Why? Hands touch many surfaces and can pick up viruses. Once contaminated, hands can transfer the virus to your eyes, nose or mouth. From there, the virus can enter your body and can make you sick.
PRACTICE RESPIRATORY HYGIENE
Make sure you, and the people around you, follow good respiratory hygiene. This means covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately. Why? Droplets spread virus. By following good respiratory hygiene, you protect the people around you from viruses such as cold, flu and COVID-19.
IF YOU HAVE FEVER, COUGH AND DIFFICULTY BREATHING, SEEK MEDICAL CARE EARLY
Stay home if you feel unwell. If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention and call in advance. Follow the directions of your local health authority. Why? National and local authorities will have the most up to date information on the situation in your area. Calling in advance will allow your health care provider to quickly direct you to the right health facility. This will also protect you and help prevent spread of viruses and other infections.
www.washingtoninformer.com / MARCH 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT
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Your Kids and Asthma By Lee Ross WI Staff Writer Asthma, a chronic lung disease, is accompanied by symptoms like wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. During an asthma attack, the sides of the airways swell, and the airways shrink, making it harder to breathe. Children suffering with asthma often experience fear and anxiety, along with the physical symptoms – especially when not with parents. Once considered rare, asthma is now a common disease in childhood with roughly 6 million children impacted in the U.S. alone. Respiratory therapist Fuanmbai Turay told the Informer that small children may be more sensitive to environmental triggers of asthma and therefore, parents should ensure they have an action plan for the child whether at school or at home. “Children naturally want to run and play or may have a favorite blanket or toy that they latch onto that has not been cleaned in years that trigger breathing difficulties – or full attacks,” Turay said. “The goal is to ensure
that children entering school are able to communicate their discomfort to teachers and other staff.” The American Lung Association advises that children with asthma need a bronchodilator (or rescue inhaler) – like Albuterol -- to treat coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath that occur with symptoms or an asthma attack. Rescue inhalers should be with asthmatic chidlren at all times for use at the first sign of symptoms. Some children may require an anti-inflammatory as well, to manage swelling of the bronchial tubes and prevent flare-ups. Turay said that as many young children and teens travel to school daily without a parent, it is important that they understand what environmental agents can trigger attacks. “Triggers can be almost anything, because all children are different. One client experienced breathing difficulty on morning commutes on public transportation when she encountered lots of perfumes, hair sprays, and deodorizers while on closed-in subway cars; another encountered dangers doing research surrounded by moldy
books in the stacks of a library,” Turay said. “When you also factor in things like second-hand cigarette smoke, pollen, pet dander, and abrupt changes in the weather, a child must be prepared to fight for their breath at any moment.” Asthma remains one of the leading causes of missed time from school and work. Severe asthma attacks may require emergency room visits or hospitalizations and can be fatal. And while asthma impacts children of all ethnic groups, Black children are 4 times more likely to be admitted to the hospital for asthma, compared to non-Hispanic white children. A study presented at the 2017 American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) Annual Meeting called “Where Do Children with Asthma Die? A National Perspective from 2003 to 2014” addressed where and which demographics of children faced death related to asthma in the United States. The researchers used National Center for Health Statistics data to examine 2,571 pediatric asthma deaths between 2003 and 2014 and found that
No matter what pops up, getting care has never been easier
24
5 Knowing what triggers a child’s asthma attacks and ways of managing the condition are keys to better breathing in children. / Courtesy photo
the mortality rate among Black children was six times higher than among Hispanic or white children. “Deaths from asthma, especially among children, are sentinel events that can be avoided with timely interventions,” said Anna Chen Arroyo, MD, MPH, of Brigham and Women’s Hospital and lead author of the study. “Studying the location of asthma deaths provides important insight that can help target efforts to prevent future deaths.” Turay stressed the importance of
CALENDAR
teachers, school administrators, and childcare providers being made aware of a child’s asthma and ways to manage it in the absence of the parent. “I recommend parents have what is known as an Asthma Action Plan that lists known triggers, medications, and contact information for parents in case of an attack,” Turay said. “Some children are too young to recognize what is happening, while others may be under duress and unable to help themselves, so we all play a part in helping our children breathe better.” HS
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Recent & Recommended Books on Living with Breathing Ailments UNDERSTANDING ASTHMA
By Lee Ross WI Staff Writer Breathing troubles – whether attributed to environmental triggers, chronic conditions, or failing organs – impact millions of Americans daily. Always consult and follow the instructions of your physicians, and when in need of additional information, search it out. Here are a few recent and recommended books on living with breathing ailments that make a great start.
By Holly Duhig - Asthma is a very common condition among children and adults. In fact, a recent study found that 1 in 12 children had asthma. This informative book introduces readers to asthma symptoms, how it affects the body, and treatment in a clear, straightforward way. It simplifies complex medical concepts into age-appropriate text. Full-color photographs and fact boxes highlight important information. This accessible book is perfect for readers who are learning to care for their own asthma, or who have loved ones with asthma.
ASK THE GOOD DOCTOR: THE DETOX EDITION REMIXED FOR A HEALTHY NEW YOU
By LaJoyce Brookshire In this REMIX of the 2011 Edition, New York Times Bestselling-author Dr. LaJoyce Brookshire presents a stepby-step full-body detox in 7 easy steps with food and product suggestions, that will boost your immune system against viruses. Dr. Brookshire defines a detox as shortterm intervention designed to eliminate toxins from the body to promote health by creating the perfect conditions within to support the body do its job. So, if you constantly feel fatigued, experience frequent headaches, have lack of mental clarity, seasonal allergies, packing on excess pounds, and have sluggish eliminations ... then it is time to tune-up by initiating a detox.
BREATHING IN AMERICA: DISEASES, PROGRESS, AND HOPE
Let’s share the goal of making a Healthy Community our #1 Priority.
By Dean E. Schraufnagel Breathing in America: Diseases, Progress, and Hope explores the nature and causes of pulmonary, critical care, and sleep disorders, their prevalence and burden, the benefits research has brought, and the research challenges that remain. Written for educated laypersons, the book presents basic facts about twenty-three different respiratory conditions, features a case study for each condition, and highlights the most promising areas of research.
ASTHMA, COPD, AND OVERLAP: A CASE-BASED OVERVIEW OF SIMILARITIES AND DIFFERENCES
Spread your message in The Washington Informer’s 2020 Health, Wellness and Nutrition Special Sections
Celebrating Nurses On the Front Line of Health Care Publication Date: May 14 Deadline: April 29 (National Nurses Week Observances)
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Holiday Health & Nutrition Publication Date: December 12 Deadline: December 4
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By Jonathan A. Bernstein, Louis-Philippe Boulet, Michael E. Wechsler Using illustrative case examples, this book thoroughly reviews similarities and differences between asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and the overlap syndrome. It is important to highlight the distinctions because these commonly encountered conditions in respiratory and primary care share many similarities but have important differences often mistaken for each other. This practical guide shows how to distinguish between the diseases on a pathological and clinical basis so that appropriate management and treatment may be pursued.
AMERICA BREATHING EASIER
By The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U. S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Program CDC’s National Asthma Control Program plays a critical role in helping America breathe easier by learning more about asthma and how to control it. Four thousand people die each year from asthma-related causes, and asthmas is a contributing factor in another 7,000 deaths every year. In asthma, something – air pollution, allergens, exercise, stress, certain chemicals in the workplace – causes the airways of the lungs to narrow or become blocked, making it hard to breathe. HS
www.washingtoninformer.com / MARCH 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT
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SHIRE Wellness Circles Supporting Empowerment for Our Health and Well-Being One evening in March 2010, SHIRE representatives sat with 20 Ward 8 residents in a meeting room at Matthews Memorial Baptist Church. Everyone had diabetes, hypertension or another chronic illness. They wanted to know how to manage these conditions and how to prevent complications. They wanted to know about medications. They asked for information to equip them to take charge of their health. SHIRE listened and realized that they were talking about being as well as possible even with a chronic condition. They were transcending the concept of health, which traditionally has been the absence of disease. They were talking about wellness, which encompasses not only physical health but the totality of an individual – mind, body and spirit. It became crystal clear that our participants wanted to
learn how to be well even while living with a chronic condition and they needed tools and support to achieve that goal. SHIRE’s mission since 1997 has been to help eradicate health disparities, and aid African Americans and other people of color attain optimal health and well-being. Aware of the disproportionately high levels of diabetes (nearly 1 in 5 adults) and hypertension (nearly 2 in 5 adults) in Ward 8, we have implemented many programs involving youth and adults in southeast Washington. Our discussions in Ward 8 became a springboard. Wellness Circles became the vehicle to translate mission into action in a new way. With the nurturing of Canary Girardeau, SHIRE’s senior program associate, Wellness Circles took shape. First, we refined the message. We can be well while living
with diabetes, high blood pressure or any other condition if we do three things: First, we learn all we can about our condition so we can hold informed discussions with the health providers who serve us. Second, we make the lifestyle changes needed to manage, control and ideally improve or reverse the condition. Third, we empower ourselves to become our own best health advocates and coaches. Key to the achievement of these aims would be creating a “circle” of support from others experiencing similar challenges to encourage Wellness Circle participants to make changes that enhance wellness. Our next step was to develop Wellness Circles that supported participants in achieving these goals. We created a series of 6-8 sessions with these features: • Presentations by down-toearth experts on chronic con-
SUMMIT HEALTH INSTITUTE FOR RESEARCH AND EDUCATION, INC.
WELLNESS CIRCLES TO IMPROVE MANAGEMENT OF METABOLIC CONDITIONS
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ditions; healthy eating, wise shopping and food preparation; reducing stress; medications and their purpose. • Physical activity (e.g., chair exercises, yoga, Tai Chi) at each session. • Goal setting, participant interaction, testimonials • Healthful meals • Incentives, such as gift cards for each participant, door prizes, and prizes for setting healthy living goals and achieving them • Celebration and recognition ceremonies with awards for health improvement and attendance Key to the success of Wellness Circles are peer educators who recruit participants and stay in communication with their recruits to encourage sustained attendance. These SHIRE team members live in the neighborhoods where they recruit and are former Wellness
Circle participants. To date, with support from AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia and the Government of the District of Columbia SHIRE has engaged over 1,000 community residents. Documented results confirm the power and impact of Wellness Circles. In our last series for example, 81% reduced their blood pressure levels and similar results have been posted in previous series. Our vision is to see Wellness Circles for DC residents of all ages in every part of the city and we welcome partners who share our dream. For more information, please visit our website @ www.shireinc. org and contact SHIRE at rperot@ shirienc.org Authors: Ruth T. Perot, Canary Girardeau and Dawn Covin, Summit Health Institute for Research and Education, Inc. (SHIRE) HS
America’s beverage companies are working together to bring you more choices with less sugar and smaller portion sizes. And we’re adding new signs to encourage you to consider these choices. See what else we’re doing at BALANCEUS.ORG.
SUPPORTING YOUR EFFORTS TO FIND BALANCE
www.washingtoninformer.com / MARCH 2020 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT
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EDITORIAL
With Coronavirus Unchecked, Even Trump Won’t Be Able to Halt Economic Upheaval
On Monday, President Donald Trump proposed a series emergency measures including expanded sick leave and a temporary payroll tax cut as a means of preventing an economic freefall and to lessen the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. The move comes as the stock market continues to plummet to levels not seen in decades, as oil prices teeter toward frightening lows and as more people worldwide begin to anticipate an inevitable recession. Trump has proclaimed that the U.S. boasts a very strong economy but that the sudden appearance of the coronavirus and the speed with which it has spread around the globe and infected or caused the deaths of hundreds of thousands “blindsided the world.” The president certainly stated the truth by saying America was caught with its pants down. But he failed to include that he downplayed the potential catastrophe almost from the start or that he attempted to outthink his own advisors whose medical expertise should not have been ignored. Perhaps we could have prepared earlier. Perhaps the Centers for Disease Control could have initiated a more effective strategy when reports first came from China – had they not been already dealing with a budget that has been sliced and diced by President Trump since he first took office. Perhaps, despite what officials first stated, we may finally have an adequate number of testing kits for the ready as more and more Americans find themselves exhibiting symptoms related to those infected by coronavirus and are anxious to know if they’re sick and should be placed in quarantine. But what we should not readily believe is Trump’s assertion that he can reverse current or potential economic upheaval by playing with taxes or other slight-of-hand economic parlor games. As the saying goes, “you can’t fool Mother Nature.” In truth, the longer the coronavirus continues to impact America and other countries, particularly comparable economic giants like China, Japan, leading European nations including the now-paralyzed Italian province and others like oil-rich Saudi Arabia, the sooner the world’s economy inches toward a cataclysmic meltdown. In the past several decades, world leaders have admitted that despite their desires to promote their own self-interests, even if they’re detrimental to the health, welfare and survival of our neighbors on the planet, that we now live in a global society where we are inextricably bound. We can only hope and pray that in the current Administration’s insistence to “Keep America First” that the moves and decisions our nation makes, or does not make, in the coming days, weeks and months, won’t ignore or deny reality. WI
Black People are Affected by Coronavirus As global leaders and world health organizations seek to slow down or find a cure for the COVID-19, more commonly referred to as coronavirus disease, rumors are spreading that this highly contagious and potentially deadly virus does not affect Black people. It has become another “chickens coming home to roost” theory that has no basis in fact. There is a lot of literature available from reliable sources that explains what the novel coronavirus is, its origins, symptoms, how it spreads, and, most important, how to protect yourself. It’s the newest of the human coronaviruses, according to the Centers for Disease Control, that usually causes no more than a mild upper-respiratory tract illness. We witnessed the disease spread across China, and now it’s spreading around the globe, including Africa, and in cities across the U.S., including D.C. and nearby Maryland and Virginia. The fact that the disease is relatively non-existent in Africa – only 95 cases reported so far – is explained in an online publication called New Scientist, which also questioned why there are so few COVID-19 cases reported in Africa. The article states: “African countries are both vulnerable and potentially more resilient to the coronavirus. On the one hand, the population is much younger than in Europe and China. The median population age in the U.K. is 40.2 and in China, it is 37, but this figure is 17.9 in Nigeria,
TO THE EDITOR Biden over Bernie
Not surprised Joe Biden dominated on Super Tuesday. The media always hypes up people like Bernie [Sanders] but then when it’s time to vote, the noise goes away and the real viable candidates lead the way. Biden is who we need to take on Trump. Bernie’s a socialist and Americans love capitalism. Not gonna happen!
Long Live The Informer
Just writing to say I love and appreciate The Washington Informer. I’ve been a loyal reader for years because you all put out a great product. I pray for your longevity. Gerald Rose Alexandria, Va.
Joel Ruethe Washington, D.C.
Africa’s most populous country.” But the article also suggests that with only 95 cases reported on the continent as of March 10, it is clear that should an outbreak occur, most African countries only have about 200 testing kits per country. Plus, Africa is still reeling from the Ebola crisis and other diseases, including malaria and measles. In the U.S., as the coronavirus spreads, Black people will most assuredly be affected in their pocketbooks. As businesses close and events are canceled, Black and brown people who dominate the service industries will be the ones forced to stay home and survive without pay. Without pay, Black people will most likely
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be the ones unable to pay their utility bills, including heat and water needed to wash their hands properly. As schools close, Black children, who lack access to computers and broadband, will most likely fall increasingly behind. As store shelves empty, some will ask why certain stores were the first to be replenished. And, locally, we repeat, where is the hospital that will serve the needs of Wards 5, 7 and 8 residents? We must view this as a humanitarian crisis and not an “us” versus “them” crisis. Everyone is affected, regardless of race, one way or another. WI
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OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnists
By Jacqui Patterson and Mandy Lee
Why ‘Green Buildings’ Are a Civil Rights Issue Voting rights. Segregation. Criminal justice reform. For more than a century, the civil rights movement has taken on the inequities that divide and disfigure American society. Now the green building sector has joined the fronts of struggle for access and equity. Why? The green building sector is transforming the places in which we live, work and gather. Sustainable buildings,
defined by certification programs like LEED, promote the health and wellbeing of building occupants while minimizing climate change and pollution. For some people. This wave of better building practices has yet to fully reach the people suffering the most from buildings that are unsafe, unhealthy, unaffordable and unsustainable. African Americans and other people of color disproportion-
ately feel the burden of unsustainable buildings: energy insecurity in their homes, health problems like asthma from poor indoor air quality and damage from worsening disasters fueled by climate change. These are enduring legacies of discriminatory practices, disinvestment and barriers to building wealth over the generations. What’s worse, the sustainable building sector is an insider’s club with a serious diversity problem. Whether it’s as policy makers, advocates, architects, contractors, or even in the construction workforce, the most impacted commu-
Guest Columnist
nities are underrepresented in the design and construction of sustainable buildings. For example, according to the National Organization of Minority Architects, less than two percent of registered architects are African Americans and less than 0.4% are African American women. Green building is a huge growth industry, but communities of color are not yet positioned to fully benefit from it. When we decided to establish our new headquarters as a living building and began to explore what it takes to do so, we saw the problem firsthand at meetings of green building organi-
zations. We were struck by just how homogenous some of those spaces were in terms of race, with a significant dearth of people of color engaged in these discussions. We juxtaposed this against what we knew to be true: Communities of color and low-income communities are more likely to be in sick buildings, whether it’s mold, lead, asbestos or radon. We are more likely to be in the least energy-efficient buildings, and that is reflected in the fact that we pay the highest proportion of our
week with her once she was back. Another sister spent a week. Another sister spent two weeks with her to this point. A niece is on her way to spend a few days with her grandmother. Another sister is coming from Los Angeles to spend a month with her. We’ll then start the cycle all over again. Some might think the scheduling is a bit of a challenge since we are all many miles away, but my sisters and I thought about all the sacrifices our mother has made for us, and if she wants to live in her home, we’re going to make it possible.
While you have indulged me with a personal story, that is the history of so many Black women with their families. I salute all of the Black women who’ve done, and would do the same for their mothers. Every year women in this country get a Presidential proclamation honoring women. The women mentioned are generally women who’ve made the history books and have had public honors, but so often the women, like my moth-
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By E. Faye Williams
Honoring Our Own Mothers Just like Black History month, Women’s History Month started our as only a week. Along the way, we were ultimately honored with an International Women’s Day. Women around the world are celebrated that day. There’s an African proverb that tells us, “It is the women who hold the sky up.” I can vouch for that in the Black community. So many Black women grew up without the benefit of
fathers in our homes, but rarely do we to use that as an excuse for our not doing things that should be done to protect our families and communities. I’ve known some of the greatest female activists in the Black community who take on monumental roles. Every March, we do a special celebration of the women. Some celebrate women every day of our lives. On a personal note, my mother is just a few months away from being 98 years old. She’s fine in most ways, but just a bit hard of hearing and having a bit of a challenge re-
Guest Columnist
membering things. Though she has lost a bit of her ability to live in her home alone, she wants to live there, and as a family we are making that possible. When my brother passed away a few months ago, my sisters and I decided to take her to live with one of our sisters a distance of about three and a half hours from where Mother has lived alone all of her life since her nine children left home to strike out on our own. A few weeks ago, she informed us she wanted to return to her home. We reluctantly took her there. I spent a
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By Austin R. Cooper Jr.
Vote Like Your Life Depends on It — Because It Does
Throughout his life, my father, the late Father Austin R. Cooper Sr., was a proponent of the importance of voting. As a young Episcopal priest in the early 1960s, he participated in protests at segregated pools in Miami. While the rector of a parish in Dallas, he was fired by the bishop of the diocese for registering parishio-
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ners to vote and leading literacy classes. He became a founder of the Union of Black Episcopalians (UBE). The union was formed by African American priests in 1968 to combat rampant racism in the Episcopal Church. Later, while the rector of Saint Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Cleveland, Dad served as the president of the Cleveland branch of the NAACP. During his tenure, he led the organization through the controversial period of court-mandated bus-
ing to desegregate public schools. Death threats over the phone and in the mail were common and came with frequency. I vividly remember as a teenager answering the phone and hearing death threats against not only Dad’s life, but that of my family. I recall picking up the mail and learning to immediately recognize letters containing death threats. They were easy to identify the because the anonymous authors displayed their ignorance and il-
literacy with misspelled words on the envelope as well as in the often profanity-laced letters. On a summer evening in July 1978, shots were fired by the Ku Klux Klan into a living room window in our home. Luckily, my father, who was in the living room at the time, was not injured or killed. Thankfully, nor were my mom, sisters or I injured. The assassination attempt on Dad did not make him shrink from his commitment and dedication to civil rights.
Rather, it made him stronger and he fought discrimination and encouraged African Americans to vote in each and every election, at the federal, state and local levels of government, with every breath in his body for the remainder of his life. In life, he instilled in my mom, sisters and me the duty of voting. In his death, we continue to exercise our constitutional responsibility
COOPER Page 45
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OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist
By Marc H. Morial
Urgent Phase of Census Begins “The money that pays for hospitals, that pays for affordable housing … if our people are not counted, they literally do not receive the resources necessary. And as a consequence, we have weaker infrastructure, we have terrible hospitals, we have doctor shortages, we have overcrowded schools. All of those
things happen because of the census.” — Stacey Abrams, founder of Fair Count and former Georgia gubernatorial nominee Beginning on March 12, households across America will begin receiving official Census Bureau mail with detailed information on how to respond to the 2020 census online, by phone, or by mail. This marks the first phase in the most urgent imperative of the decade.
Guest Columnist
More than just a head count, the decennial census determines how legislative districts are drawn, how voting power is distributed among communities, and how $675 billion in federal dollars will be allocated and invested. If Black people are undercounted by 1.7 million, as many forecasts predict, it will cost states $3.4 billion a year. As soon as households receive this invitation in the mail, they can re-
spond online, by phone, or by mail. This is the first time in history Americans can respond to the census online. The information arriving in mailboxes next week will list a website listed and a census ID, which can be used starting March 12. All responses, whether given online, by mail or in person, are confidential under federal law. To prepare for the launch of Census 2020, National Urban League has
gathered key civil rights leaders and mayors from across the nation for National Tele-Town Hall on Tuesday, March 10, at 8 p.m. EST, to discuss how to make sure our communities are fairly counted. Martin Luther King III, co-chair of New York State’s Complete Count Committee, is the keynote speaker. We’ll be joined by the mayors of Dallas, New Orleans,
MORIAL Page 46
By Julianne Malveaux
Sisters in Stem — Challenges and Triumphs
Few in these United States had heard of Katherine Johnson, the gifted mathematician who finished high school and college at 18. How could we know when scientists are often stereotyped as old white men wearing white lab coats, with glasses sliding down their noses? You might not have known unless you’d picked up Margot Lee Shetterly’s book, “Hidden Figures: The Story of the African-American Women Who Helped Win
the Space Race,” or saw the movie “Hidden Figures,” which was loosely based on the book. Thanks to the film, more people know of Katherine Johnson’s outstanding work. Katherine Johnson made her transition at the end of February at the robust age of 101, on the cusp of Women’s History Month. Because of the film and the heightened awareness of the many Black women who were scientific pioneers, President Barack Obama awarded her the Medal of Freedom in 2015. A building is named after her at the Langley Air Force Base in Hampton, Virginia. Hopeful-
Askia-At-Large
ly, thousands of young Black girls who aspire to careers in science are inspired and motivated by her. Katherine Johnson was classified as a “sub-professional,” ranking only slightly higher than janitors and clerical workers. Yet she was the “computer” (which is what she was called) that astronaut John Glenn asked to check the math that a mainframe computer had done. Her work is still being used today! Johnson graduated from an HBCU at 18. She was mentored by William Schieffelin Claytor, reportedly only the third African American to earn a doctorate in mathematics. She and Claytor
may not have crossed paths had not segregation limited Claytor’s choices. Most Blacks who earned doctorates taught at HBCUs because others would not hire them, or if they were hired, they were treated differently, and often disrespectfully. If Black girls (and the rest of us) are excited by the legacy of the late Katherine Johnson, they will be further inspired by a new book by Tanya Bolden, “Changing the Equation: 50+ Black Women in STEM” (Abrams Books), that highlights Black women scientists in an array of fields, including medicine. It is being marketed as
a children’s book, but anyone can pick up this book and learn more about the women who forged a career path that few women and even fewer Black women have attempted. “Changing the Equation” was meticulously researched and includes a glossary of terms and career descriptions. Not only is it a perfect gift for aspiring scientists, but it is also a necessary resource for librarians and science teachers. Most of the women in this book are not widely known, which makes this book all the more valuable. Dr. Rebecca Lee (Davis)
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By Askia Muhammad
Support a Separate Black Nation now!
I firmly and unequivocally associate myself with “The Muslim Program: What The Muslims Want; What The Muslims Believe,” written by the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad in 1959. In particular, I say as Mr. Muhammad said: “4. We want our people in America whose parents or grandparents were descendants
from slaves to be allowed to establish a separate state or territory of our own — either on this continent or elsewhere. We believe that our former slave masters are obligated to provide such land and that the area must be fertile and minerally rich. We believe that our former slave masters are obligated to maintain and supply our needs in this separate territory for the next 20 to 25 years — until we are able to produce and supply our own needs.”
That says a lot. First, separation from these wicked people who have tormented Black folks night and day for more than 465 years, and then “reparations” in the form of the maintenance and supply of our needs for 20 to 25 years. But that does not say it all. Mr. Muhammad continues: “Since we cannot get along with them in peace and equality, after giving them 400 years of our sweat and blood and receiving in return some of the worst treatment human be-
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ings have ever experienced, we believe our contributions to this land and the suffering forced upon us by White America, justifies our demand for complete separation in a state or territory of our own.” It is incontrovertible that millions and millions of innocent Black people have suffered unspeakable horrors in America. What’s more, these white fiends seem to delight when they see Black people suffer, and are actively campaigning to see to it that
Black folks never rise … except a few Pied Pipers, that is. On every horizon, we see one or two young Black folks breaking through (and even old heroes and sheroes being recalled), reaching new heights — the Cory Bookers and the Kamala Harrises, the stage and movie stars rising, rising — and such illusions give the society something to wave before the Black masses, even though most
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LIFESTYLE Industry Newcomer Stars Alongside Ben Affleck in New Film ‘The Way Back’ By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia Charles Lott Jr. did not expect to follow the path of an actor, but he said that’s what the universe had in store for him. On Friday, March 6, Lott, who always dreamed of becoming a professional athlete, will hit the big screen in the sports drama “The Way Back.” The motion picture stars Academy Award winner Ben Affleck as Jack Cunningham, a former high school
basketball phenom who inexplicably walked away from the game and eventually became an alcoholic. Long after his high school playing days, Cunningham is offered an opportunity to return to glory as coach of his former team, where he eventually is forced to confront his demons. Lott portrays Chubbs Hendricks, one of the players on Cunningham’s team. “Being in this movie was so hot,” said Lott, who has also appeared on the hit television show “Modern Family,” and the 2020
movie “68 Whiskey.” “Ben Affleck is an outstanding actor, and I felt comfortable being able to work with him and to learn from the guys in the rest of the cast,” Lott said. As an industry newcomer, Lott said he had taken every opportunity to learn from other actors. In addition to forging a relationship with Affleck, who earned Oscars for “Good Will Hunting” and “Argo,” Lott has also formed bonds with his “The Way Back” co-stars. He said he still has much to accomplish. “There are so many things that I want to accomplish, but I just try to take it one step at a time,” Lott said. “I want to be able to show versatility in films, and I want to be able to do comedies, drama, romcoms, even animation. I want to be able just to do everything. I want to be a Swiss Army knife in terms of in the industry, being the jack-of-all-trades.” Lott added that he dedicates his free time to further his study of film and acting. “When I’m not acting, I spend a lot of time at the movie theaters, and I go to the movies a lot,” he said. “I’m a weirdo. Like, I’ll tell people I went to the movies and they’ll be, like, ‘Who
5 Charles Lott Jr. hits the big screen with Ben Affleck in “The Way Back.” (Courtesy of The Brand Partners)
did you go with?’ Like, ‘What? Me.’” Like many actors, Lott also has roles in mind that he’d love to try. “I always want to play a superhero,” Lott said. “I want to be able to do comedy, too, and animations and dra-
matic roles. I want to be able to show versatility.” As far as his Baltimore connections, Lott called the city great. He said his father is “obsessed with Baltimore. WI
Filmmaker Documents Grandparents’ Travel in RV During Civil Rights Era By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia Carla Brown nearing completion of a new film that documents her grandparents’ journey in a RV around the country — an excursion that took place in the 1960s and
during the heart of the civil rights movement when racism and discrimination made such travel nearly impossible for African Americans. Growing up, Brown said she was riveted by stories from her grandparents, Mary- land residents Benjamin and Frances Graham, about their travels. She knew it was unusual for them to traverse the nation because they were African American. When the Grahams started
their journey, President Johnson had just signed the Voting Rights Act, and the Watts riots had erupted in California. “My grandparents were unintentional civil rights pioneers when they traveled across the country by RV,” said Brown, who received her bachelor’s degree in 1998 and a master’s in fine arts in 2001 from the University of Maryland. “This was a year after the signing of the Civil Rights Act, which prohibited racial segregation in public accommodations, and the same week of the signing of the civil rights voting act and eruption of the Watts riots.” To put the complexities involved in the journey into perspective, Brown’s grandparents had no prior camping experience. They were accompanied by their three small children and embarked on their maiden voyage to the New York World’s Fair in their newly purchased 17-foot Stardust RV Trailer. In the end, they traveled for 35 years, in three trailers, while racking
5 On the road again. (Courtesy photo)
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up more than 94,000 miles, spending $32,600, and visiting every state but two. Brown captures the adventure in the new documentary, “Everyone But Two: The Life, Love & Travel of Benjamin and Frances Graham.” “My grandfather kept a travel log, and I decided that I wanted to retrace their steps,” Brown said, adding that she’ll complete the journey by going to the few places her grandparents didn’t. The film will examine how the RV lifestyle allowed her grandparents to break barriers and travel to predominantly white spaces of the outdoors in a racially divided America. “My grandparents met a lot of friends who were white, and they managed to stay in touch over the years,” said Brown, who has worked for nearly 20 years in Baltimore, examining themes of gender, race and family. “It was a counter-narrative to what you might think.” In retracing her grandparents’ journey, Brown noted that she wanted to see what it was about their travels that made the couple
inseparable, and also discover what inspired them to throw caution to the wind as though they were the only two people in the world. “Most important, I wanted to truly understand how the simple act of physically being in the predominantly white spaces of the outdoors broke barriers in a racially divided America,” she said. Today, the notion of African Americans traveling across the country in an RV remains unusual, Brown said. “I want people to take away from this film that there are people out there that look like me, people of color, and see themselves out there doing this,” she said. “There is so much out there in this country to see, and we’re paying tax dollars for it. There are some African Americans traveling by RV, but you really have to be in the right place at the right time to witness it. And in general, I don’t see that many people of color exploring the outdoors.” To view the trailer for Brown’s documentary, go to www.everyonebuttwo.com. WI
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LIFESTYLE MD Congressional Delegation Hosts State’s HCBU Presidents On Wednesday, March 4, members of Maryland’s congressional delegation hosted a meeting with leaders of all four Historically Black Colleges and Universities [HBCUs] in Maryland to discuss how the federal government can better support our nation’s HBCUs and their students. An underlying factor behind the meeting remains the significant impact HBCUs have on our communities and the nation. They offer a high-quality education for a lower price than other institutions of higher education, and, despite only making up three percent of the total number of American colleges and universities, HBCUs graduate 20 percent of all African-American graduates and 25 percent of African-American graduates in the STEM fields. Most recently, the FY2020 Omnibus increased funding for several programs important to HBCUs, including permanent funding authorization for Title III program, as well as increases for student support services, funding for STEM-related lab equipment, HBCU capital financing and increases in Pell Grants, Opportunity Grants and Federal Work Study. Earlier in December 2019, the Delegation worked to enact the FUTURE Act that permanently reauthorized $255 million mandatory funding for HBCUs and other Minority Serving Institutions. A temporary lapse in this authorization placed $4.2 million in federal funding for Maryland’s HBCUs at risk. Scheduled participants included: U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen; Reps. Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John P. Sarbanes, Anthony Brown and David Trone; and HBCU officials Morgan State University President Dr. David Wilson, Bowie State University President Dr. Aminta Breaux, University of Maryland, Eastern Shore President Dr. Heidi Anderson and Incoming Coppin State University President Dr. Anthony Jenkins. WI
ETHOIPIAN from Page 15 security, catering as well as air traffic control. “Every year, it’s as exciting as if we’re doing it for the first time,” said Rahel Assefa, vice president of marketing for Ethiopian Airlines. “We do this because we want to show our fellow African girls that there is nothing they cannot do. And we want to educate communities that are naïve to think that a women’s place is only in the home,” she said. Assefa said Ethiopia has the biggest aviation academy in Africa. For over six decades, the Ethiopian Airlines Aviation Academy is considered a worldclass training facility with the capacity to train over 4,000 students a year. “We train our own pilots and every aviation field,” Assefa said, “and women are very much encouraged to join.” Ethiopian Airlines flies one flight daily to Washington, as well as Chicago, NY, and Houston, the newest addition. Sybongile Cook brought greetings on behalf of D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, who led a delegation of D.C. businesses to Addis Ababa last November. In addition to reinstating the District’s sister city relationship with Addis Ababa, the group also met with the Minister of Transportation, who also happens to be a woman. “That speaks to
5 Members of MD Congressional Delegation with HBCU presidents. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)
the testament, and dedication, and the seriousness they have about inspiring young women and girls, particularly African women and girls to consider aviation as a career,” she said. A 20-year veteran flight attendant, who has flown longer than any of her colleagues, said she was proud to be recognized. “It lets young girls know nothing is impossible, and nothing can stop them from reaching their mission.” WI 6 Helen Mesfin, host of the Helen Show on the Ethiopian Broadcast System (EBS) interviews flight attendants at Dulles International Airport celebrating International Women’s Day. (DR Barnes/ The Washington Informer)
5 Rahel Assefa, Ethiopian Airlines Vice President of Marketing (DR Barnes/The Washington Informer)
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MARCH 12 - 18, 2020 29
LIFESTYLE Maryland Legislation Seeks to End Discrimination Against Hair By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill
Del. Alonzo Washington recalled when a few people invaded his personal space and pulled his dreadlocks. This has occurred while he worked in Annapolis. That’s why Washington (D-District 22) of Greenbelt supports legislation to outlaw workplace discrimination based on a person’s hair. He’s the only state lawmaker with dreadlocks. “I had to address them respectfully and say, ‘You cannot do that,’” he said Friday, March 6. “This bill isn’t going to solve someone’s ability to be raised the way and raised with respect. This is about discrimination in the workplace, but I’m hoping that this elevates the conversation.”
According to the legislation sponsored by Del. Stephanie Smith (D-Baltimore City), its purpose is to eliminate discrimination associated with race based on a person’s hair texture and hairstyle such as an “Afro, braids, twists and locks.” The legislation is labeled the CROWN Act, which stands for Create a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair. “If you are confused, people are losing access to their livelihood,” said Smith, who sports dreadlocks. “Hair seems to be one of the last stands of discrimination in our country. I think Maryland should be joining our states across the country.” However, various forms of hair discrimination have surfaced in various parts of the country. In December 2018, a white high
National Black Memorabilia, Fine Art & Crafts Show April 4 & 5, 2020 Saturday: 10 AM – 7 PM / Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM
Montgomery County Fairgrounds
501 Perry Parkway / Gaithersburg, Maryland 20877
• • •
“36th Year Celebrating African American History & Culture”
Purchase Black Memorabilia, Fine Art & Crafts from many vendors and artist. View Educational Exhibits including Slavery Artifacts, Buffalo Soldiers, Black Panther Party, Marcus Garvey, Malcolm X, Negro League Baseball, Nannie Helen Burroughs, George Washington Carver, Hip-Hop, Frederick Douglass & others. Celebrity Autograph Sessions with: General Charles E. McGee / Tuskegee Airman Darius McCrary / Eddie Winslow in TV series “Family Matters” Kellie Shanygne Williams / Laura Lee Winslow in TV series “Family Matters” Fred “The Hammer” Williamson / movie/TV actor, director & producer in movie “Black Caesar” and more Negro League Baseball Player
Admission: $7
Students are admitted FREE • All Indoors / Free Parking
(301) 649-1915 / www.johnsonshows.com www.facebook.com/Blackmemorabiliashow 30 - MARCH 12 - 18, 2020
5 Del. Stephanie Smith (center) leads a press conference March 6 in Annapolis on proposed legislation to restrict discrim-
ination in the workplace based on a person’s hair. (William J. Ford/The Washington Informer) school referee made a Black wrestler in New Jersey chose to either cut his dreadlocks before a match, or forfeit. USA Today reported the wrestler, Andrew Johnson, decided to have a coach cut his hair. He eventually won the match. Two months later in February 2019, the New York City Commission on Human Rights made the area the first jurisdiction in the nation to approve a ban against policies and guidelines on how Black employees style their natural hair, treated or untreated hairstyles. They include “locs, cornrows, twists, braids, Bantu knots, fades, Afros and/or the right to keep hair in an uncut or untrimmed state.” The commission prompted its ban after complaints from workers throughout the city. In addition, the commission extended the ban to places of public accommodations that include public
and private schools, nightclubs, libraries and fitness clubs. A few months later in July 2019, California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a law that made his state the first in the nation last year to outlaw employee discrimination based on a person’s natural hair and hairstyles related to race. Part of its bill states: “Despite the great strides American society and laws have made to reverse the racist ideology that Black traits are inferior, hair remains a rampant source of racial discrimination with serious economic and health consequences, especially for Black individuals.” Colorado became the fifth state Friday to approve the CROWN Act. Wendy Greene, a professor who teaches employment discrimination, critical race theory and constitutional law at Drexel University in Philadelphia, said federal precedent
constitutes race discrimination when a person adorns an Afro. However, it doesn’t when a person dons braids, twists or dreadlocks (usually spelled “locs”). She calls it a “hair-splitting distinction.” In December, New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker introduced the CROWN Act in the Senate and Rep. Cedric Richmond (D-Louisiana) in the House. Greene helped craft the legislation along with the NAACP Legal Defense Fund. “For many of us, [hair] is a fundamental part of our identity . . . and be comfortable in this world,” said Green, who attended the press conference and later testified before the House Health and Government Operations Committee. “Our hair texture has been a long-standing form of subordination and oppression. Unfortunately, it continues into today,” she said. WI
KIRWAN from Page 12
technical education programs. The $3.8 billion investment includes $2.9 billion from the state and $864 million from its 23 counties and Baltimore City through fiscal year 2030. In the version approved by the House, Prince George’s County receives the most in state aid at $724 million. Baltimore City would receive $613 million and Baltimore County would get nearly $323 million. Prince George’s also saw its previous contribution from a funding formula decrease from $361 million to $183.5 million, now the second-highest amount behind Montgomery County at $234 million. According to the new projections, 10 counties wouldn’t have to pay more
based on previous education funding from its local government or high rates of poverty: Allegany, Calvert, Carroll, Dorchester, Howard, St. Mary’s, Somerset, Washington and Worchester. Although three years of the $3.8 billion plan have already been approved through state legislation passed last year, funding sources for the final three or four years are still being determined. “We think it will get us through year six or seven,” said House Majority Leader Eric Luedtke (D-Montgomery County). “Future legislators, future governors will have to maintain the commitment we made to Maryland’s kids this year. We believe it is important to make that down payment.” WI
a few proposals to include in the bill, such as providing “skilled development programs” for young people incarcerated for low-level offenses and scheduled for release within a year. “These are individuals who deserve a second-chance,” he said. “They are coming out and we need to help them develop some skills.” Some of the other amendments he would like to incorporate in the legislation are providing an online mechanism for residents to follow whether certain programs receive money, establishing an endowment program for lead teachers and adequately funding career and
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LIFESTYLE
Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum: Celebrating Women’s History Month at Barry Farm/Hillsdale
By Alcione M. Amos, Curator, Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum
As a curator at the Anacostia Community Museum, I have written a history of the African American settlement once known as Barry Farm/ Hillsdale which was created by the Freedmen’s Bureau in 1867, east of the Anacostia River. This settlement was unique because it afforded newly freed African Americans the ownership of the land where they could build homes and raise their families. In celebration of Women’s History Month, here are the histories of a few of the women who distinguished themselves in the early decades of the settlement. Elizabeth Chase bought a corner lot facing both Elvans and Stanton Roads. By 1873, she established a restaurant on the neighborhood’s main avenue. Besides being an entrepreneur, Chase was also a very early suffragette. In 1877, she signed a petition to Congress requesting voting rights for women. The petition was part of a countrywide movement spearheaded by the National Woman’s Suffrage Association led by Susan B. Anthony. Frances Eliza Hall was a white missionary teacher who moved from New York state to Barry Farm/Hillsdale in 1869 to teach in the settlement’s first school. She built her house on Elvans Road and stayed for the next 42 years. Her impact in the community was such that she was still remembered well into the 20th century for her contributions. Emma V. Smith was one of the most admired female leaders of the settlement. Born into slavery around 1858 in Maryland, she was the daughter of Frederick and Harriet Smith who most likely fled from slavery and came to Washington as part of the mass migration of African American refugees who came during the Civil War. Her father was a carpenter and bought a lot on Howard Road, fronting the Anacostia River, where the family lived well into the 20th century. Emma attended the local Barry Farm/Hillsdale schools (Mt. Zion and Hillsdale). She then attended Howard University’s “Preparatory and Normal Course.” She started her teaching career in Prince Georges’ County, Mary-
land, but by 1876 she was teaching at Hillsdale School along with Frances Hall, her former teacher. She would remain a teacher in Barry Farm/Hillsdale until her retirement in 1928. She left such a positive impression that in the early 1970s, she was still remembered as “an exceptional woman … a very strong force in the community.” Georgiana Rose Simpson was born in Washington, DC, around 1865. After completing the 8th grade at Hillsdale School, where she also was a student of Frances Hall, Simpson transferred to the M Street High School. From there, she went to study at Miner Normal School, where Dr. Lucy E. Moten was her mentor. Simpson’s career in teaching began in the DC school system in 1885. First, she taught elementary school at Hillsdale School, her alma mater. Later, she went to teach at Dunbar High School, the prestigious school for African Americans. By 1911, she had received a bachelor’s degree, and in 1921, when the University of Chicago awarded her a Ph.D., she was the second African American woman to receive a doctorate. Later, Howard University hired her as a professor of German language and literature, and she had a distinguished academic career. An entrepreneur and suffragette, a dedicated white teacher, a leader of the community, and the second African American woman to receive a Ph.D. were all the products of the nurturing
environment created by the community of Barry Farm/Hillsdale. We honor their memory. Weekly on Twilight Tuesdays, the museum is open until 8 pm and feature 30-60 minutes of relaxed, no reservations-needed programming. 4 Museum image caption: Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum is located at 1901 Fort Place SE - Washington, DC 20020
5 1877 “Petition for Woman
Suffrage” signed by Elizabeth Chase, a Barry Farm/Hillsdale early settler (14th signature in “Colored” Women column) Source: National Archives and Records Administration, Washington, D.C.
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MARCH 12 - 18, 2020 31
LIFESTYLE
Daisy Elizabeth Adams Lampkin: A Suffragist Leader Everyone Should Know By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia This is part of an ongoing Washington Informer series about the Women’s Suffrage Movement and an initiative that includes Informer Publisher Denise Rolark Barnes that will use the lens of history, the fabric of art and culture and the venue of the public square to shine a light into dark places, equipping all with a compass to chart the way forward. The initiative lives in the institutional home of the Washington Informer Charities. The women’s suffrage movement had many heroines, all of whom bravely fought for the rights of women in the United States. The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture has highlighted five African American suffragists who may not have received the recognition they assuredly deserve. Museum officials believe every-
one should know each of them, including Daisy Elizabeth Adams Lampkin, who dedicated her life to supporting women’s and civil rights. “You cannot be neutral,” Lampkin once said. “You must either join with us who believe in the bright future or be destroyed by those who would return us to the dark past.” Historians at the museum noted that Lampkin began hosting local suffragette meetings at her home near Pittsburgh and organizing African American women to engage in consumer groups in 1912. Much of her efforts centered on the organization of women’s groups, and her leadership earned her the position of president of the Lucy Stone Woman Suffrage League in 1915. Later in life, she also served as a field secretary and fundraiser for the NAACP. Lampkin’s social and political activism began shortly after graduating from high school, according
to BlackPast.org. After migrating to Pittsburgh, she worked as a motivational speaker for homemakers and organized women into consumer protest groups. As an active member of the Lucy Stone Women’s Suffrage League and the National Suffrage League, Lampkin rallied for women’s right to vote. Understanding the challenges specific to African American women, she also became involved with the National Association for Colored Women (NACW). She was later named the national organizer and chair of the executive board. Due to Lampkin’s exceptional activism for African Americans, she was profiled in the Pittsburgh Courier in December 1912. “In response, Lampkin became a strong advocate of the Courier and even received a cash prize in 1913 for selling the most subscriptions,” editors at BlackPast. org wrote. “After several years of investing time and money to this
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5 Daisy Elizabeth Adams Lampkin (Courtesy photo)
newspaper, Lampkin was elected vice-president of the Courier Publishing Company in 1929.” “Nothing is done unless women do it,” Lampkin said. According to the Three Rivers Community Foundation in Pittsburgh, Lampkin survived a stroke in 1964 and died March 10, 1965.
Cathy Hughes Launches Women’s History Month at Howard University
Media Pioneer’s Advice to Students: ‘Create Your Own Seat at the Table’
Robert Burton ABC7 On Your Side
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She was laid to rest in Homewood Cemetery in Pennsylvania. Lampkin counted as the first Black woman in Pennsylvania to be honored with a historical marker when the Keystone State placed one in front of her Webster Avenue apartment building in 1983. WI
Media trailblazer Cathy Hughes returned to her alma mater, Howard University, sharing her wisdom and witticisms in a conversation that kicked off the school’s Women’s History Month events. Hughes reminded students to persevere, never give up and stay focused on their goals in life during a discussion moderated by Amber Tucker, a senior journalism student. Conversation focused on Hughes’s journey which led to her to owning one of the nation’s preeminent African-American owned media companies. From landing a job as a lectur-
er in Howard’s School of Communications early in her career, to breaking the glass ceiling after being named general manager of WHUR, Hughes has grown accustomed to being the first Black and the first woman. Still, she faced the challenges even when, as it in the case of her breakthrough at WHUR, several colleagues criticized the appointment. While building Urban One, she would be denied request from 32 different banks before finally securing her first $1 million loan. She says the odds kept her going. “Law of averages teaches you it is impossible for a ‘no’ to remain a ‘no’ indefinitely,” explained Hughes.
HUGHES Page 33
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LIFESTYLE
HUGHES from Page 32 Hughes said one of her greatest blessings (right after her son, Alfred), was knowing exactly what she wanted to do at a young age. “I knew I would be on the radio. At eight, I knew I was on an entrepreneurial venture,” she said. College students made up the majority of the audience, many admittedly unsure of what life looks like on the other side of a Bachelor’s degree. To that, Hughes said to push through life’s obstacles. “Success is not a constant straight trajectory up. You’re going to have hills and valleys,” she advised. “It’s not just patience you have to exercise, it’s also determination.” In the early days of Urban One, what Hughes lacked in resources she made up for in community. During that time, she used a $5,000 loan from her mother to build a kitchen and bathroom in the office, since that’s where she was living. Unable to provide benefits to her staff, she cooked for them and created a family atmosphere within the company. “Success, in my opinion, is based on how many people you’ve helped in your lifetime,” she said. On average, it takes a new business to three to five years to generate a profit. Urban One’s first profitable reports took seven and ½ years to materialize. realize. “Oftentimes, the payroll didn’t include myself,” said Hughes who marked her company’s 40th anniversary in January at the Urban One Honors. The second portion of the Hughes-featured discussion, moderated by another senior journalism student, Kaprielle Trenard, included: Karen Whitehart, Michelle Rice, Janine Brunson-Johnson and Editor of TV One Uy. “It’s really important for us to have a voice and be behind the scenes as well,” said Uy who pointed out three female students taping the panel’s remarks which examined their experiences when working in a majority-woman environment. “I always felt an obligation to replace myself, to clone myself – another woman of color,” Hughes said. “And while I say this facetiously despite it being true, women have made more progress in the basketball industry, in the WNBA,
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than we have in the media industry, especially in terms of women becoming owners. “There’s no replacement for hard work,” said Brunson-Johnson. “When you work really hard, sometimes people may have an initial perception of you but it changes [for the better] because they see that they absolutely need you.” “There was a time when women wanted to dress like men and act like men because they thought if they walked in the room looking like a woman they would be treated differently,” Rice noted. “But for me, it’s empowering being a woman and I am going to embrace my femininity and the power behind my femininity and I won’t let anybody take that away from me.” “There are no shortcuts,” Whitehart said. “If you try to take a shortcut, if you don’t do your work, you don’t do your research, you don’t prepare, if you don’t go out there every day trying to be the best that you can be, then you’re not going to get to where you want to get.” “What you need more than a degree is an opportunity – that’s what Howard provided me,” Hughes concluded. WI
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MARCH 12 - 18, 2020 33
LIFESTYLE Macedonia Baptist Church Celebrates 100 Years
Last Bastion of Black History on Bethesda’s River Road, By Sam P.K. Collins WI Contributing Writer @SamPKCollins This month marks a century since Macedonia Baptist Church first opened in Bethesda, Maryland, where it has since served as a hub for the spiritual uplifting of an untold number of African-American worshippers, many of whom once lived along River Road and in the surrounding areas. For lifelong congregant Harvey M.
34 - MARCH 12 - 18, 2020
Matthews Sr., the upcoming centennial provides an opportunity to reflect on his childhood — a time when the state of Maryland hadn’t yet integrated eating establishments and fast-food franchises didn’t dominate the major corridors of Montgomery County. “During the Sunday service, you got acquainted with the neighbors and people at the church — those who were already there and those just moving into the community,” said Matthews, 75. “The church fellow-
ship was a big thing, because we took it more seriously than the young people do now,” he added. At Macedonia’s inception, nearly 80 people — including members of Matthews’ family — regularly attended services and acquired leadership roles. Like him, many congregants lived along River Road and often travelled to church on foot. They took part in Sunday School classes and praise and worship services that culminated in the breaking of bread.
As a teenager coming into his own, Matthews immersed himself in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, sat at the feet of elders, and participated in various events. He said those customs anchored him in a tight-knit community dealing with racism. “In my development between the Bible study and prayer meetings, I learned what prayer was all about, what it meant, and what you used it for in your relationship with the Lord,” Matthews told The Informer. “Growth was a great thing and I didn’t have to come to church to hear about Jesus Christ. You had that at home through your parents and grandparents.” Last Saturday, Matthews spoke at The Ballroom in Bethesda during a gala that commemorated Macedonia’s 100th anniversary — which falls on March 15. Special guests confirmed for that evening included Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich (D) and Montgomery County Council members Will Jawando (D- At large) and Tom Hucker (D-District 5). Celebrants danced, ate dinner, and collected funds for Macedonia’s scholarship fund. They also looked back on 370 years of Black history in Bethesda that started with the arrival of enslaved Africans in the 17th century, primarily as a reminder of the work to be done in memorializing those brought Bethesda — and other African American communities that have since been gentrified — to prominence. Up until 1864, when Maryland abolished slavery, the space on which Macedonia currently stands housed enslaved Africans who often suffered atrocities at the hands of their captors. By 1920, when a generation of freed Africans turned the barren, red clay of River Road into a thriving community, the Rev. William Mason presided Macedonia Baptist Church, a place of worship that Black people on River Road would faithfully attend. In the decades since, the demographics of River Road — and Montgomery County at large — has significantly changed. The urban development of the 1950s and 1960s pushed several Black families out of River Road and into the District and other parts of Montgomery County, such as Rockville and Potomac. While some displaced members maintained their affiliation with Macedonia, the congregation
5 Harvey M. Matthews, Sr. (WI Photo)
increasingly became composed of migrants from North Carolina who settled along River Road, and immigrants from Africa and the Caribbean. By the early 1980s, the Rev. Roy W. Warren — then pastor of Macedonia — had dedicated the church that had become the last bastion of Black history along River Road. Subsequent efforts to preserve the community’s African history would manifest under the leadership of the Rev. Segun Adebayo, now in his fourth year as pastor of Macedonia. For the past three years, Adebayo and his wife, Dr. Marsha Coleman-Adebayo, head of Macedonia’s social justice ministry, have been on the frontlines of efforts to memorialize Moses African Cemetery, an unmarked burial ground, located less than a mile from the church, that’s believed to hold the remains of 500 Black people who once called River Road their home. The Adebayos’ advocacy often takes them, Macedonia members, and other affiliates of the Bethesda African Cemetery Coalition before the Montgomery County Housing Opportunity Commission in Kensington, Maryland, each month where they vie for ownership of the burial ground — an issue they tie to the continuous marginalization of Black people in Montgomery County. “We want to make sure that Macedonia is a community church that welcomes people to be a part of the tradition,” Adebayo said. “This is a church that delivers the Gospel of Christ and involves peace and fighting for social justice and those who can’t fight for themselves. We want to be part of the community, and get people involved in our programs. That’s our hope and passion.” WI
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LIFESTYLE
wi book review “State of Play: The Old School Guide to New School Baseball” By Bill Ripken c.2020, Diversion Books $24.99 240 pages
By Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer Grip the bat lightly. Elbows loose, feet comfortably apart, shoulders and hips perpendicular to the mound, hands by your shoulder, eyes on the pitcher. It’s a basic recipe for batting that every good player knows and knows how to change to fit a situation. And what else about baseball has changed? Find out in “State of Play” by Bill Ripken. There are two ways of looking at baseball: old school and “new school.” So says Ripken, and he thinks that while new school “things are different … they may not be as good as they once were.” We talk about baseball differently, for one, and we look at statistics that never used to exist. When Ripken’s father, Cal Sr., worked as a player-manager for the Orioles organization, he didn’t have a computer or stop-motion recall on a screen. He filled out nightly reports from memory, wrote his thoughts by hand, lived the game, played the game, even drove the bus when needed, and he knew that a win wasn’t a do-or-die goal, particularly when the season was young. He had four tenets that he called “The Ripken Way,” and the first one mandated simplicity. That, as Ripken suggests, doesn’t apply to baseball anymore. Take, for example, pitch framing: Ripken says those stats are not important. Improving a launch angle is something he doesn’t completely understand. He imagines tunneling in a way that makes it make sense (and he wishes he’d cashed in by naming it years ago). WAR (Wins Above Replacement) doesn’t, as he sees it, have one cohesive definition; and automated strike zones change, depending on the hitter, thus being not calibratable. Lineups, at least for the first five players, aren’t created like they used to be. RBIs are not even the same, and Ripken says there are other terms that he can’t quite clarify. And the big question is this: are the players even using these stats? So let’s say you’re the kind of baseball fan who casually likes to listen to the game while grilling, washing the car, gardening, cleaning house, as background noise. This is not really a book for you, just so you know. Instead, Ripken speaks to those rabid fans who think that more stats equals more science to the game of baseball even though, as he believes, these additional game bullet points don’t enhance the way the game’s always been played, and they might even leave a fan baffled. More bafflement: when Ripken seems to sometimes contradict himself, often in the same paragraph, leaving readers to wonder if they’ve actually caught what’s been pitched or if something’s out in left field. Readers who are dedicated fillers-out of statistic booklets won’t call that a strike, however, nor will those who’ve welcomed the changes that have been made to the game itself. If that’s you, this book by a “qualified, crusty baseball man” is perfect for argument-enders or debates. If you’re not so into all that, though, “State of Play” is likely a book you’ll just bat away. WI
horoscopes
MAR 12 - 18, 2020
ARIES The full moon in Virgo shines in your house of health and well-being. It’s good to look at the small decisions you make every day, which add up to a healthy lifestyle. Take steps this week to get better sleep, eat healthy foods and do physical activities promoting flexibility. Lucky Numbers: 23, 32, 40 TAURUS The energy of children and creativity is highlighted this week as the full moon lights up your fifth house. Children or younger relatives may be more emotional and pull you in many directions. The Virgo moon energy would like things to be done perfectly however this can’t always happen and you may waste a lot of time trying to get the last little bits all in line. Look at the difference between perfect and good enough. Lucky Numbers: 18, 22, 39 GEMINI The sun connecting with Pluto can also affect your love life. Pluto is traveling through your house of intimacy and sex. This is a positive aspect for facing issues around mutual affection with your partner. You benefit when you deal with things head-on today. Seize the opportunity to clear up a difficult personal situation through honest communication and investigating feelings on both sides. Lucky Numbers: 3, 5, 14 CANCER The new moon in Virgo in your house of communication begins the week lighting up your connections with others especially siblings, neighbors, and friends. It’s good to reach out to people you haven’t spoken to in a while. Additionally, there’s energy around your vehicle, so if maintenance or repairs are needed, now is a good time to schedule appointments. Lucky Numbers: 5, 30, 51 LEO The focus this week is on your finances, as the full moon in Virgo lights up your house of money and possessions. You may want to review your spending to make sure you’re on track with your goals. Consider setting up automatic transfers into savings accounts or investment accounts. Look at selling off excess stuff in your house. Lucky Numbers: 4, 24, 33 VIRGO This week it’s good to stand up for your beliefs. Live your life the way you want and ask others to accept you as you are. This week you are likely to see their hesitations and stubbornness begin to dissolve. The sun in Pisces will also connect with Pluto in Capricorn. This is a deep-thinking aspect where Virgo natives enjoy getting to the bottom of things. Use this energy to investigate issues within your relationship or regarding your children. It’s possible to see the deeper meaning or secrets others are keeping from you. Put on your Sherlock Holmes hat, you’re the detective now. Lucky Numbers: 5, 13, 19 LIBRA On the same day the sun in Pisces also connects with Pluto in Capricorn in your house of home. This aspect is excellent for making changes to your home office for giving you a boost in productivity. Or change around your kitchen so you can make healthier choices. This is a powerful aspect in which by altering your personal space, you can help transform your life. Pluto here asks that you remove distractions. Eliminate things from the house that are blocks to your success. This could be sugar in the cupboards, video games on your computer or piles of paper on your desk. Lucky Numbers: 20, 30, 55 SCORPIO One of the true blocks to success is negative thinking. Negative thinking does not keep you focused, instead, it drains you of energy. You might think positive thinking is Pollyanna and naïve, but you can be realistically optimistic. When you do, you will gather in opportunities from the Universe. This aspect allows you to wield creative power, negotiate for what you want and confront those who are in your way. This can be a personally transformative aspect. Lucky Numbers: 2, 13, 19 SAGITTARIUS There may be a great desire to reform your life especially in the area of home and finance. Pluto suggests you remove items rather than just finding new places to put them. It would also benefit you to review your budget. Take steps to make saving for your goals easier. This aspect is wonderful for deep thinking and introspection on these practical matters. Lucky Numbers: 11, 29, 52 CAPRICORN Pluto has been traveling through your own sign for some time. When it makes an aspect like today, you have an opportunity to use the energy. You can transform your life through small changes in habits and also in how you see yourself. Use this aspect to define yourself in a more positive way. You can rewrite your story and over time this will result in creating the life you want. Lucky Numbers: 6, 17, 28 AQUARIUS You may be feeling emotional this week as you look for and expect support from friends and family. Some come through for you while others choose to look the other way. On this full moon, connect with those who are helpful. Don’t dwell on those who walk away. Look at what you can control, especially in your environment and with your own habits. Lucky Numbers: 1, 8, 9 PISCES Over the next few days you can speak up and people will listen. StNot everyone will agree, but more will listen than usual. Responses from people you’ve been waiting for should come by the middle of the week. Lucky Numbers: 17, 20, 23
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MARCH 12 - 18, 2020 35
SPORTS For more photos, visit www.washingtoninformer.com
Hoyas Drop Heartbreaker to Villanova
3 Georgetown Hoyas guard Jahvon Blair attempts a layup in front of Villanova Wildcats forward Dhamir Cosby-Roundtree during Villanova’s 70-69 win at Capital One Arena in Northwest on Saturday, March 7. (John E. De Freitas/The Washington Informer)
4 Georgetown Hoyas center Timothy Ighoefe elevates over Villanova Wildcats guard Justin Moore for a short jumper during Villanova’s 70-69 win at Capital One Arena in Northwest on Saturday, March 7. (John E. De Freitas/The Washington Informer) 6 Georgetown Hoyas forward Qudus Wahab shoots a jump hook over Villanova Wildcats forward Jermaine Samuels during Villanova’s 70-69 win at Capital One Arena in Northwest on Saturday, March 7. (John E. De Freitas/The Washington Informer)
5 Georgetown Hoyas guard Jamorko Pickett drives against Villanova Wildcats forward Saddiq Bey during Villanova’s 70-69 win at Capital One Arena in Northwest on Saturday, March 7. (John E. De Freitas/The Washington Informer)
5 Georgetown Hoyas guard Jahvon Blair drives against Villanova Wildcats forward Jeremiah Samuels during Villanova’s 70-69 win at Capital One Arena in Northwest on Saturday, March 7. (John E. De Freitas/The Washington Informer)
36 - MARCH 12 - 18, 2020
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SPORTS
D.C. United Knocks Off Inter Miami CF, 2-1
5 D.C. United midfielder Edison Flores takes on Inter Miami defender Nicolas Figal during the United’s 2-1 win at Audi Field in Southwest on Saturday, March 7. (John E. De Freitas/The Washington Informer)
5 D.C. United midfielder Yamil Asad takes a penalty kick during the United’s 2-1 win over Inter Miami CF at Audi Field in Southwest on Saturday, March 7. (John E. De Freitas/The Washington Informer)
5 D.C. United forward Eric Sorga controls the ball in front of Inter Miami midfielder Wil Trapp during the United’s 2-1 win at Audi Field in Southwest on Saturday, March 7. (John E. De Freitas/ The Washington Informer) 3 Inter Miami midfielder Victor Ulloa drives past D.C. United midfielder Felipe Martins during the United’s 2-1 win at Audi Field in Southwest on Saturday, March 7. (John E. De Freitas/The Washington Informer)
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MARCH 12 - 18, 2020 37
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and “top-ranking” federal officials that adults 60 and older should avoid gatherings or events with large crowds. During a second conference call, also on Monday, with governors from across the nation, employees in the healthcare industry who assist individuals who reside at nursing homes and retirement communities received instruction to closely monitor patients and residents for fevers or respiratory-related symptoms. Hogan said state health officials planned to meet with representatives from the long-term care industry Tuesday on ways to better protect themselves from exposure and how to handle those who test positive for the virus. The governor stated that unlike the elderly, children and young adults are less like to contract the virus, formally labeled COVID-19. “This problem continues to escalate rapidly. Information is changing not only on a daily basis but on an hourly, almost minute-to-minute basis,” Hogan said. “We can expect the numbers to continue to rise.”
NEW CASES IN MARYLAND INCREASE PUBLIC CONCERNS
The two newest Maryland cases deal with a woman in her 80s from Harford County who contracted the virus while on travel to Turkey and currently remains hospitalized in a state facility. “This appears to be the first case of COVID-19 anywhere in the world to be associated with travel to Turkey,” Hogan said. The other person health officials confirmed as case-positive is a man in his 60s from Montgomery County who contracted the virus while on travel to Thailand and Egypt. He remained in the hospital for a short period of time and has since been quarantined. “In addition, the Maryland Department of Health has determined there is no connection between these two individuals and the three positive cases that were confirmed last week,” Hogan said. “All of our cases are related to foreign travel. So far, we have no cases of transmission here in the state of Maryland.” Meanwhile, Hogan said 12 Marylanders remain aboard the Grand Princess cruise ship that has been docked in San Francisco for close to five days. Twenty-one of the 3,500 people onboard became infected with COVID-19. Although the Maryland-
“This problem continues to escalate rapidly. Information is changing not only on a daily basis but on an hourly, almost minute-to-minute basis.” – GOVERNOR HOGAN ers have not exhibited any symptoms, Hogan says they’re being transferred to military bases in Texas and Georgia for examination and to be placed under quarantine. Six other Marylanders who traveled on the same Egyptian cruise ship between Feb. 19 and March 4 will all be tested for COVID-19 with two now exhibiting symptoms, Hogan added. The other three residents announced last week traveled on the same ship. As of Tuesday, more than 119,00 people in more than 100 countries have been infected with the virus which started in China while more than 4,269 people have died, according to the World Health Organization. In the U.S., the Centers for Disease Control confirm more than 971 positive cases and 30 deaths. Before Monday’s press conference, Hogan signed emergency legislation with House Speaker Adrienne Jones and Senate President Bill Ferguson to use up to $50 million in the state’s rainy day fund to combat the coronavirus. “It’s very easy to drop into a tribal mentality, a fear of the other,” Ferguson said. “This is the time like none other in Maryland…we are doing things that are reasonable to protect Maryland’s future.”
PRINCE GEORGE’S CONFIRMS THREE CASES OF VIRUS
Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks announced at a press conference Tuesday, March 10, the majority-Black jurisdiction has three confirmed cases of the COVID-19. The state-
wide total now rises to nine. Alsobrooks said a couple from the county who contracted the virus while on an overseas cruise remain self-quarantined at home and “are in good condition.” The first case announced by the state Health Department on Monday confirmed a county resident in her 50s who contracted the virus during a trip to Boston between Feb. 25-27. Alsobrooks says the woman remains in good condition and does not have children in the school system. Family members residing with her similarly remain quarantined and in good condition. Meanwhile, a person from New Jersey who tested positive for the coronavirus attended the Conservative Political Action Conference [CPAC] between Feb. 25-29 at the Gaylord Hotel at National Harbor. The State of New Jersey has taken the lead of the ongoing investigation with assistance from Maryland. About 353 county police officers detailed to the conference have not yet shown any symptoms, said Police Chief Hank Stawinski. Any county resident who attended or worked during the conference, as well as those who display any symptoms connected to the virus including a temperature at 100.4 degrees or higher, coughing and shortness of breath, should contact their health care provider, said Ernest Carter, the county’s chief health officer. To minimize risk, county agencies will assess which employees can telework from home. Hand sanitizer stations will be placed in county buildings, the county’s “The Bus” will be cleaned twice a day with coronavirus information distributed at nursing stations and retirement communities. Alsobrooks said she and county leaders planned to hold a conference call Tuesday afternoon with faith leaders in a county which houses an estimated 800 houses of worship. As a safety precaution, the county’s 35th annual Women’s History Month Luncheon, scheduled for March 26 that regularly attracts between 1,300 and 1,500 people, has been postponed. A Census block party slated for March 28 has also been postponed. “We’re doing this out of an abundance of caution,” said Alsobrooks, who added many seniors attend the popular Women’s History Month event.
UMMS ANNOUNCES CHANGES TO VISITORS POLICY
Meanwhile, the University of
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RELIGION McCoy Tyner, 81, Legendary Jazz Pianist, Dies WI Staff Report World-renowned jazz pianist McCoy Tyner, a longtime member of the John Coltrane Quartet, died Friday, March 6 at his northern New Jersey home. He was 81. “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of jazz legend, Alfred ‘McCoy’ Tyner,” his family said in a statement. “McCoy was an inspired musician who devoted his life to his art, his family and his spirituality. McCoy Tyner’s music and legacy will continue to inspire fans and future talent for generations to come.” Born Alfred McCoy Tyner in Philadelphia on Dec. 11, 1938, he began taking piano lessons at age 13 and grew up around other local legends including organist Jimmy Smith, trumpeter Lee Morgan and pianist Bud Powell. At age 16, he started playing professionally and eventually formed a friendship with Coltrane, joining his famed quartet in
CORNA VIRUS from Page 32 Maryland Medical System [UMMS] announced Tuesday it will start visitor policy changes to its 13 hospital and health care facilities in response to COVID-19. Starting Wednesday, March 11, all visitors much check in at the front desk. With the exception to visiting a parent, no one younger than 18 will be allowed to visit any hospital, clinic or urgent care facility; only one adult will be allowed per patient for all areas of a hospital; visitors may be screened for flu-like
1960 and playing on the 1961 album “My Favorite Things,” a major commercial success that highlighted the remarkable chemistry of the John Coltrane Quartet. The album was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998. Tyner, a five-time Grammy win-
ner who was widely imitated, was committed to acoustic instrumentation and was one of the most recognizable and influential pianists in jazz history. As a jazz master, Tyner was part of some of jazz’s most iconic works, including “A Love Supreme” and “Live at the Village Vanguard.” WI
symptoms and cannot visit a hospital if symptoms are present; and anyone who traveled overseas may not visit a location for 14 days after their arrival back to the U.S. “The coronavirus disease poses several challenges to an extended family presence at a patient’s bedside including potential spread of the virus to patients and staff by those with asymptomatic or mild infection,” David Marcozzi, a COVID-19 incident commander for UMMS, said in a statement. “Enacting these changes to visitation is consistent with recommenda-
tions from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention regarding response to the coronavirus,” he said.
Mt. Zion Baptist Church
For more information for those living in Prince George’s County, call 301-883-6627 or go to http://health. mypgc.us/coronavirus. Maryland residents with any health issues should call their health care provider or the Maryland Emergency Management Agency call center at 410-517-3720 or may also visit the following website: http://health.maryland.gov/coronavirus. WI
John F. Johnson Reverend Dr.
5101 14th Street, NW / Washington, DC 20011 Phone: 202-726-2220 Fax: 202-726-9089
1306 Vermont Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20005
“A Church with a past to remember – and a future to mold” www.mtzbcdc.org
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Mount Olivet Lutheran Church
Reverend John W. Davis Pastor
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.
(301) 864-6070
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
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MARCH 12 - 18, 2020 39
RELIGION The Miracle Center of Faith Missionary Baptist Church
Pilgrim Baptist Church
Bishop Michael C. Turner, Sr. Senior Pastor
Rev. Louis B. Jones II Pastor
9161 Hampton Overlook Capitol Heights, MD 20743 Phone: 301-350-2200 / Fax: 301-499-8724
700 I Street, N.E. Washington, D.C. 20002 (202) 547-8849
Service and Times Sunday Worship Times : 7:30 AM 7 10:00 AM Communion: 1st Sunday Sunday School: 9:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday, 12 Noon Bible Study in homes: Tuesday 7:00 PM
Service and Times Worship Sundays: 7:30 & 11:00 AM 5th Sundays: 9:30 AM 3rd Sundays: Baptism & Holy Communion Prayer & Praise: Wednesdays @ Noon & 6:30 PM
Website: www.themiraclecenterFMBC.com Email: Miraclecenterfmbs@gmail.com Motto: “We Walk by Faith, Not by Sight”
www.pilgrimbaptistdc.org
Covenant Baptist United Church of Christ
Blessed Word of Life Church
Church of Living Waters
Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church
Rev. Paul Carrette Senior Pastor Harold Andrew Assistant Pastor 4915 Wheeler Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 301-894-6464 Service and Times Sunday Service: 8:30am& 11:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM Communion Service: First Sunday www.livingwatersmd.org
St. Stephen Baptist Church
Rev. Dr. Michael E. Bell, Sr., / Pastor 2498 Alabama Ave., SE - Washington D.C. 20020 Office: (202) 889-7296 / Fax: (202) 889-2198 - www.acamec.org Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 8:00am and 11:00 AM Sunday Church School - 9:15am & Sunday Adult Forum Bible Study - 10:30 AM 2nd & 4th Monday Women’s Bible Study: 6:30 PM Tuesday Jr./Sr. Bible Study: 10:00 AM Tuesday Topical Bible Study: 6:30 PM Tuesday New Beginnings Bible Study: 6:30 PM Wednesday Pastoral Bible Study: 6:30 PM Wednesday Children’s Bible Study: 6:30 PM Thursday Men’s Bible Study: 6:30 PM Friday before 1st Sunday Praise & Worship Service: 6:30 PM Saturday Adult Bible Study: 10:00 AM “The Amazing, Awesome, Audacious Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church”
Third Street Church of God
Dr. Dekontee L. & Dr. Ayele A. Johnson Pastors
Rev. Dr. Alice Greene Interim Pastor
Bishop Lanier C. Twyman, Sr. Senior Pastor
Rev. Cheryl J. Sanders, Th.D. Senior 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 Services and Times Sunday Early Morning Worship: 7:45 AM Church School: 9:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship: 10:45 AM Tuesday: 7:00pm/Kingdom Building Bible Institute Wednesday , 12:30 PM Mid-Day Bible Study Wednesday: Prayer/Praise/Bible Study-7:30 PM Baptism & Communion Service: 4th Sunday – 10:30 AM
1204 Third Street, NW Washington, DC 20001 202-347-5889 office / 202-638-1803 fax
Service and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 11:00 AM Communion Service: First Sunday Prayer Service/Bible Study: Tuesday, 6:30 PM
Services and Times Sundays: 10:00am Worship Services Bible Study: Wonderful Wednesdays in Worship and the Word Bible Study Wednesdays 12:00 Noon; 6:30 PM (dinner @ 5:30 PM) Sunday School: 9:00 AM – Hour of Power “An inclusive ministry where all are welcomed and affirmed.” www.covenantdc.org
www.blessedwordoflifechurch.org E-mail: church@blessedwordoflifechurch.org
Campbell AME Church
“Ambassadors for Christ to the Nation’s Capital” www.thirdstreet.org Live Stream Sunday Worship Service begins @ 12:00 noon www.thirdstreet.org
Rev. Dr. Alton W. Jordan Pastor 800 I Street, NE - Washington, DC 20002 202-548-0707 - Fax No. 202-548-0703 Service and Times Sunday Morning Worship: 11:00 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday Sunday School: 9:45 AM Men’s Monday Bible Study: 7:00 PM Wednesday Night Bible Study: 7:00 PM Women’s Ministry Bible Study: 3rd Friday -7:00 PM Computer Classes: Announced Family and Marital Counseling by appointment E-mail: Crusadersbaptistchurch@verizon.net www.CrusadersBaptistChurch.org / “God is Love”
Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church Bishop Alfred A. Owens, Jr.; Senior Bishop & Evangelist Susie C. Owens – Co-Pastor 610 Rhode Island Avenue, NE Washington, DC 20002 (202) 529-4547 office • (202) 529-4495 fax
Sunday Worship Service: 8:00 AM and 10:45 AM Sunday Youth Worship Services: 1st & 4th 10:45 AM; 804 R.I. Ave., NE 5th 8 AM & 10:45 AM; Main Church Prayer Services Tuesday – Noon, Wednesday 6:00 AM & 6:30 PM Calvary Bible Institute: Year-Round Contact Church / Communion Every 3rd Sunday The Church in The Hood that will do you Good! www.gmchc.org / emailus@gmchc.org
Isle of Patmos Baptist Church Reverend Dr. Calvin L. Matthews Senior Pastor 1200 Isle of Patmos Plaza, Northeast Washington, DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-6767 - Fax: (202) 526-1661 Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM Holy Communion: 2nd Sunday at 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM Sunday Church School: 9:20 AM Seniors Bible Study: Tuesdays at 10:30 AM Noon Day Prayer Service: Tuesdays at Noon Bible Study: Tuesdays at 7 PM Motto: “A Ministry of Reconciliation Where Everybody is Somebody!” Website: http://isleofpatmosbc.org Church Email: ipbcsecretary@verizon.net
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: 9:00 AM Worship Service: 10:00 AM Wed. Noon Day prayer service Thur. Prayer service: 6:45 PM Thur. Bible Study: 7:15 PM
Twelfth Street Christian Church
Rev. Dr. Henry Y. White
Reverend Dr. Paul H. Saddler Senior Pastor
2562 MLK Jr. Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Adm. Office 202-678-2263 Email: Campbell@mycame.org
(Disciples of Christ) 1812 12th Street, NW - Washington, DC 20009 Phone: 202-265-4494 Fax: 202 265 4340
Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 AM Sunday Church School: 8:45 AM Bible Study Wednesday: 12:00 Noon Wednesday: 7:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 PM “Reaching Up To Reach Out” Mailing Address : Campbell AME Church 2502 Stanton Road SE - Washington, DC 20020
“We are one in the Spirit” www.ssbc5757.org / E-mail: ssbc5757@verizon.net
Services and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM Sunday Community Worship Service: 8:30 AM
Crusader Baptist Church
Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 AM Communion every Sunday: 11:00 AM Sunday School: 10:00 AM Bible Study Tuesday: 12 Noon Pastor’s Bible Study Tuesday: 6:30 PM Motto: “Discover Something Wonderful” Website: 12thscc.org / Email: Twelfthstcc@aol.com
Turning Hearts Church Virgil K. Thomas, Sr. Senior Pastor/ Teacher 421 Alabama Ave. SE Washington, DC 20032 Phone: 202-746-0113 Fax: 301-843-2445 Service and Times Sunday School: 10:15 AM Sunday Worship Service: 11;15 AM Children’s Church: 11:15 AM Tuesday Bible Study: 6:30 PM Motto : “A Great Commitment to the Great Commandment” Website: www.turningheartschurchdc.org Email: gr8luv4u2@gmail.com
40 - MARCH 12 - 18, 2020
Mount Carmel Baptist Church Reverend Dr. Paris L Smith, Sr. Senior Pastor 901 Third Street N.W. Washington, DC. 20001 Phone (202) 842-3411 Fax (202) 682-9423 Service and Times Sunday Church School : 9:00 AM Sunday Morning Worship: 10:10 AM Bible Study Tuesday: 6: 00 PM Prayer Service Tuesday: 7:00 PM Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday 10:10 AM themcbc.org
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RELIGION Shabbath Commandment Church Bishop Adrian A. Taylor, Sr. Pastor 7801 Livingston Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 301-534-5471 Service and Times Sabbath School 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 AM Service 11:00 AM Praise & Worship Preaching 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM 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 9:00 a.m. – Sunday School 10:15 a.m. – Worship Service Wed. Noon: Dea. Robert Owens Bible Study 7 PM Pastor’s Bible Study Ordinance of Baptism 2nd Sunday, Holy Communion 4th Sunday Mission: Zion shall: Enlist Sinners, Educate Students, Empower the Suffering, Encourage the Saints, And Exalt our Savior. (Acts 2: 41-47) www.zionbaptistchurchdc.org
St. Luke Baptist Church Rev. Aubrey C. Lewis Pastor 1415 Gallatin Street, NW Washington, DC 20011-3851 P: (202) 726-5940 Service and Times Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM Sunday School: 9:15 AM Holy Communion: 11:00 a.m., 3rd Sun. Bible Institute: Wednesday - 1:30 PM Prayer Meeting: Wednesday - 12:00 Noon
All Nations Baptist Church Rev. Dr. James Coleman Pastor 2001 North Capitol St, N.E. - Washington, DC 20002 Phone (202) 832-9591 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
Rev. Daryl F. Bell Pastor 2324 Ontario Road, NW Washington, DC 20009 (202) 232-1730 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 “Where Jesus is the King”
Dr. Earl D. Trent Senior Pastor
2409 Ainger Pl.,SE – WDC 20020 (202) 678-0884 – Office / (202) 678-0885 – Fax “Moving Faith Forward” 0% Perfect . . . 100% Forgiven!
623 Florida Ave.. NW - WDC. 20001 Church (202) 667-3409 / Study (202) 265-0836 Home Study (301) 464-8211 / Fax (202) 483-4009
Service and Times Sunday Worship: 8:00 AM & 10:45 AM Baptism/Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday Family Bible Study Tuesdays – 6:30 PM Prayer Service: Tuesdays – 8:00 PM www.emmanuelbaptistchurchdc.org
Sermon On The Mount Temple Of Joy Apostolic Faith
Lincoln Park United Methodist Church 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: 10:45 AM Sunday School: 9:15 AM Holy Communion1st Sunday: 10:45 AM Prayer Service: Wednesday at 6:30 PM Bible Study: Wednesday at 7:00 PM Bible Study: Tuesday at 10:30 AM
Mount Moriah Baptist Church Dr. Lucius M. Dalton Senior Pastor
Service and Times Sunday Worship: 10:00 AM Holy Communion: First Sunday 10:00 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday @ 12 noon and 6:30 PM Motto: "Faith On The Hill"
Service and Times Sunday Apostolic Worship Services 11:00 A.M and 5:00 PM Communion and Feet Wash 4th Sunday at 5:00 PM Prayer/Seeking: Wednesday at 8:00 PM 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
Eastern Community Baptist Church 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
Reverend Peter R. Blue Sr. Pastor
Rev. Curtis l. Staley Pastor
2001 Brooks Drive District Heights MD. 20744 240.838.7074
621 Alabama Ave., S.E.- Washington, D.C. 20032 P: (202) 561-1111 - F: (202) 561-1112
Service and Times Sunday Worship Experience: 10:15am Sunday School: 9:00am Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday Morning Noontime Bible Study: Tuesday @ 12:00pm Prayer Meeting/Bible Study: Tuesday @7:00pm Theme: "Building On A Firm Foundation"
Service and Times Sunday Service: 10:00 AM Sunday School for all ages: 8:30 AM 1st Sunday Baptism: 10:00 AM 2nd Sunday Holy Communion:10:00 AM Tuesday: Bible Study: 6:30 PM Prayer Meeting: 7:45 PM
Email: revprbstmbc@gmail.com Website: www.stmatthewsbaptist.org
Motto: “Where God is First and Where Friendly People Worship”
“Real Worship for Real People” Website: www.easterncommunity.org Email: ecc@easterncommunity.org
“A Church Where Love Is Essential and Praise is Intentional”
Foggy Bottom - Founded in 1867 728 23rd Street, NW - Washington, DC 20037 Church office: 202-333-3985 - Fax : 202-338-4958
Shiloh Baptist Church
Matthews Memorial Baptist Church Dr. Joseph D. Turner / Senior Pastor 2616 MLK Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Office 202-889-3709 - Fax 202-678-3304 Service and Times Early Worship Service: 8:00 AM Worship Service: 11:00 AM New Member’s Class: 9:45 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday, 11:00 AM Church School: 9:45 AM Wednesday 12:00pm Bible Study Prayer, Praise and Bible Study: 7:00 PM Saturday Bible Study: 11:00 AM Baptism 4th Sunday: 11:00 AM “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 “The Loving Church of the living lord “
4504 Gault Place, N.E. / Washington, D.C 20019 202-397-7775 – 7184 Service and Times Sunday Church School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service : 11:00 AM The Lord’s Supper 1st Sunday Prayer & Praise Services: Wednesday 7:00 PM Bible Study: 7:30 PM Saturday before 4th Sunday Men, Women, Youth Discipleship Ministries: 10:30 AM A Christ Centered Church htubc@comcast.net
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 AM Wednesday Bible Study: 7:00 PM Friday Evening Service: 7:00 PM ; Last Friday “…Giving Your Life a Meaning” www.Christembassydc.org Christ.embassy.dc@hotmail.com
Pennsylvania Ave. Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Kendrick E. Curry Pastor 3000 Pennsylvania Ave.. S.E Washington, DC 20020 202 581-1500 Service and Times Sunday Church School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 AM Monday Adult Bible Study: 7:00 PM Wednesday Youth & Adult Activities: 6:30 PM Prayer Service Bible Study
First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church
Mt. Horeb Baptist Church
Rev. Dr. Wallace Charles Smith Pastor
Rev. Oran W. Young Pastor
Rev. Dr. H. B. Sampson, III Pastor
9th & P Street, N.W. - W. D.C. 20001 (202) 232-4288
602 N Street NW - Washington, D.C. 20001 Office:(202) 289-4480 Fax: (202) 289-4595
2914 Bladensburg Road, NE Wash., DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-3180 - Fax: (202) 529-7738 Service and Times Worship Service: 7:30 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Worship Service: 10:30 AM Holy Communion: 4th Sunday 7:30AM & 10:30 AM Prayer Services:Tuesday 7:30 PM. Wednesday 12 Noon
www.stmarysfoggybottom.org Email: stmarysoffice@stmarysfoggybottom.org
Service and Times First Sunday Worship Service (one service): 10:00 AM Second, Third, Fourth, and Fifth Sunday Worship service: 7:45 AM and 10:55 AM Sunday Church School/Bible Study: 9:30 AM Thursday Prayer Service: 6:30 PM
All are welcome to St. Mary’s to Learn, Worship, and Grow.
Email: sbc@shilohbaptist.org Website: shilohbaptist.org
Service and Times Sundays: 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist with Music and Hymns Wednesdays: 12:10 p.m. - Holy Eucharist
Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 10:00 AM Sunday Church School: 8:45 – 9:45 AM Holy Communion: Every First Sunday Intercessory Prayer: Monday – 7:00-8:00 PM Pastor’s Bible Study: Wednesday –7:45 PM Midweek Prayer: Wednesday – 7:00 PM Noonday Prayer Every Thursday
Rev. Dr. George C. Gilbert Senior Pastor
Email Address: admin@pbc712.org
Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church The Rev. E. Bernard Anderson Priest
Holy Trinity United Baptist Church
Florida Avenue Baptist Church
Reverend Christopher L. Nichols Pastor
Rev. Reginald M. Green Interim Pastor
Web: www.mountmoriahchurch.org Email: mtmoriah@mountmoriahchurch.org
St. Matthews Baptist Church
Emmanuel Baptist Church
King Emmanuel Baptist Church
WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
Service and Times Sunday School for All Ages: 8:00 AM Sunday Worship Services: 9:30 AM Midday Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 11:30AM Evening Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 7:00 PM Laymen's League: Thursday 7:00 PM Email: Froffice@firstrising.org Website: www.firstrising.org “Changing Lives On Purpose “
Email:mthoreb@mthoreb.org Website:www.mthoreb.org For further information, please contact me at (202) 529-3180.
MARCH 12 - 18, 2020 41
LEGAL NOTICES SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2019 ADM 000917 Bennie Prophet Decedent Ronald Dixon Bynum & Jenkins 1010 Cameron Street Alexandria VA, 22314 Attorney
LEGAL NOTICES
Date of first publication: 2/27/2020 Ronald Dixon Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICES
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
x 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
2020 ADM 000160
2020 ADM 000036
2020 ADM 000011
2019 ADM 337
Mary Lane Warley Decedent
Roberta D. Gabel Decedent
Aimee D. Griffin, Esq. The Griffin Firm, PLLC 5335 Wisconsin Avenue NW Suite 440 Washington, DC 20015 Attorney
Jeffrey K. Gordon, Esq. 5335 Wisconsin, Avenue, NW #700 Washington, DC 20015 Attorney
Mary E. Moss aka Mary Ethel Moss aka Mary Ethel Moody Decedent
Robert Charles McDuffie, Sr. aka Robert C. McDuffie Decedent
Attorney Ethel Mitchell 8403 Colesville Road #1100 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Attorney
Valerie J. Edwards Antonoplos & Associates, Attorneys at Law 1725 DeSales St., NW Suite 600 Washington, DC 20036 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
William R. Moody, whose address is 4005 Vine Street, Capitol Heights, MD 20743, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mary E. Moss aka Mary Ethel Moss aka Mary Ethel Moody who died on October 13, 2019 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 8/27/2020. 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 8/27/2020, 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.
Gale McDuffie, whose address is 3245 Walnut Street, NE, Washington DC 20018, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Robert Charles McDuffie, Sr. aka Robert C. McDuffie who died on November 19, 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 8/27/2020. 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 8/27/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Ronald Dixon, whose address is Bynum & Jenkins, 1010 Cameron Street, Alexandria, VA 22314, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Bennie Prophet who died on March 18, 2019 at 5426 Clay Pl., NE, Washington, DC without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/27/2020. 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 8/27/2020, 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.
LEGAL NOTICES
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Meloney Early, whose address is 16 Ocean View Drive, Stamford, CT 06902, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mary Lane Warley who died on December 11, 2019 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/5/2020. 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 9/5/2020, 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: 3/5/2020 Meloney Early Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Carol J. Light, whose address is 3001 Veazey Terrace, NW, #1119, Washington, DC 20008, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Roberta D. Gabel who died on December 12, 2019 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 8/27/2020. 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 8/27/2020, 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: 2/27/2020 Carol J. Light Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
Date of first publication: 2/27/2020 William R. Moody Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills Washington Informer
Date of first publication: 2/27/2020 Gale McDuffie Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
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
2020 ADM 000113
2020 ADM 000135
2020 FEP 000013
2020 ADM 000142
2020 ADM 000118
Matthew Ginyard Decedent
Julia Matthews Decedent
November 21, 2011 Date of Death
Cora Thomas aka Cora B. Thomas Decedent
Julius P. Terrell, Esquire 1455 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Suite 400 Washington, DC 20004 Attorney
Caren M. Webb, Esq. 1308 Ninth Street, NW Suite 250 Washington, DC 20001 Attorney
Fostenia W. Baker Decedent
Helen E. Staten Name of Decedent
Cheryl Chapman Henderson, Esq. 4920 Niagara Road, Suite 200 College Park, MD 20740 Attorney
Julius P. Terrell 1455 Pennsylvania Ave., NW Suite 400 Washington, DC 20004 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Otis Ginyard, whose address is 3346 Blaine Street, NE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Matthew Ginyard who died on January 3, 2012 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/27/2020. 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 8/27/2020, 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: 2/27/2020 Otis Ginyard Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills Washington Informer
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Katie Bernice Matthews, whose address is 125 57th Street, SE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Julia Matthews who died on October 6, 2019 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/27/2020. 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 8/27/2020, 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: 2/27/2020 Katie Bernice Matthews Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS Nykysha N. Bethea whose address is 2930 M Street, SE Washington, DC 20019 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Helen E. Staten, deceased, by the General Court of Justice for Guilford County, State of North Carolina, on June 7, 2016. Service of process may be made upon Nykysha N. Bethea, 2930 M Street, SE, 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 property: 2930 M Street, SE, Washington, DC 20019. 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
Nykysha N Bethea Personal Representative
Julia B. Bowman, whose address is 1313 Robert Lewis Avenue, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Cora Thomas aka Cora B. Thomas who died on December 15, 2019 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 8/27/2020. 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 8/27/2020, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Date of first publication: 2/27/2020
Washington Informer
Julia B. Bowman Personal Representative
Date of first publication: 2/27/2020
Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills
TRUE TEST COPY
Washington Informer
Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills Washington Informer
42 - MARCH 12 - 18, 2020
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Tonya Chevelle Gadson, whose address is 3319 Somme Ave., Norfolk, VA 23509, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Fostenia W. Baker who died on January 23, 2020 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/27/2020. 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 8/27/2020, 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: 2/27/2020 Tonya Chevelle Gadson Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills Washington Informer
THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICES
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2020 ADM 000126
2020 ADM 000133
2020 ADM 000206
2020 ADM 000139
Debora Tinong Ebei aka Deborah E. Tinong Decedent
Vannie L. Taylor III Decedent
William Rudolph Matthews aka William Matthews Decedent
James Louis Alston, Sr. Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Martin Agwonjang Tinong, whose address is 2110 Maryland Ave., NE Apt. 303, Washington DC 20002 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Debora Tinong Ebei aka Deborah E. Tinong who died on June 8, 2019 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/27/2020. 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 8/27/2020, 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: 2/27/2020 Martin Agwonjang Tinong Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY
Dalton Howard, Esq. 4020 Lee Street, NE Washington, DC 20019 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Adriane E. L. Dorrington, whose address is 48 Madison Street, NW, Washington DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Vannie L. Taylor III who died on October 13, 2019 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/27/2020. 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 8/27/2020, 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: 2/27/2020 Adriane E. L. Dorrington Personal Representative
Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills
TRUE TEST COPY
Washington Informer
Nicole Stevens Acting Register of Wills Washington Informer
Tabitha R. Brown Law Offices of Tabitha R. Brown 1200 G Street SE, Suite A Washington, DC 20003 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Mary Matthews, whose address is 2002 Ridge Place, SE, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of William Rudolph Matthews aka William Matthews who died on January 9, 2016 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/12/2020. 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 9/12/2020, 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.
Howard Haley 7600 Georgia Ave., NW, #405 Washington, DC 20012 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Stanley Alston, whose address is 10115 Griff Drive, Ft. Washington, MD 20744, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James Louis Alston, Sr. who died on May 20, 1991 without a Will, and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before September 12, 2020. 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 September 12, 2020, 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: March 12, 2020
Date of first publication: March 12, 2020
Mary Matthews Personal Representative
Stanley Alston Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Washington Informer
Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2020 ADM 000195
2020 Adm 000182
2020 ADM 000105
2020 ADM 000171
Terry Joseph Johnson Decedent Johnny M. Howard 1001 Connecticut Ave., NW Suite 402 Washington, DC 20036 Attorney
Steve Larson-Jackson 1629 K Street, NW, Suite 300 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Shirley Lee, whose address is 1100 2nd Place, SE, Apt. 410, Washington, DC 20003, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Terry Joseph Johnson who died on December 7, 2019 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/12/2020. 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 9/12/2020, 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: 3/12/2020 Shirley Lee Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Larnell Joseph Mills, Jr., whose address is 647 E Street NE, Washington, DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Larnell J. Mills, Sr. who died on November 6, 2013 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/12/2020. 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 9/12/2020, 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: 3/12/2020 Larnell Joseph Mills, Jr. Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
James C. Watts Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Cecile Watts, whose address is 501 Constitution Ave., NE, Apt. #6, Washington, DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James C. Watts who died on December 3, 2019 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/12/2020. 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 9/12/2020, 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: 3/12/2020 Cecile Watts Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION 2020 NRT 000009 Viola Kelly
Name of Deceased Settlor NOTICE OF EXISTENCE OF REVOCABLE TRUST Viola Kelly whose address was 5437 C Street, SE, Washington, DC 20019 created a revocable trust on April 10, 2007, which
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
Larnell J. Mills, Sr. Decedent
LEGAL NOTICES
Betty Jean Booker Decedent Jason A. Deloach 11414 Livingston Road Fort Washington, MD 20744 Attorney
remained in existence on the date of her death on October 7,
2019, and, Carolyn Gray, Maggie Thompson, whose addresses are, 5437 C Street SE, Washington, DC 20019 is the currently
acting trustees, hereinafter the Trustee. Communications to the Trust should be mailed or directed to the following:
Ms. C Gray, Ms M. Thompson at 5437 C. Street SE, Washington, DC 20019.
The Trust is subject to claims of the deceased settlor’s creditors, costs of administration of the settlor’s estate, the expense of the deceased settlor’s funeral and disposal of remains, and
statutory allowances to a surviving spouse and children to the
extent the deceased settlor’s residuary probate estate is inadequate to satisfy those claims, costs, expenses, and allowances.
Claims of the deceased settlor’s creditors are barred as against the Trustee and the trust property unless presented to the
Trustee at the address provided herein on or before September 12, 2020 (6 month after the date of the first publication of
this notice.) An action to contest the validity of this trust must be commenced by the earliest of (1) October 7, 2020, (One
year from date of death of deceased settlor) (2) September 12,
2020, 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice) or (3) Ninety days after the Trustee sends the person a copy of the trust instrument and a notice informing the person of the
trust’s existence, of the Trustee’s name and address, and of the time allowed for commencing a proceeding.
The Trustee may proceed to distribute the trust property in
accordance with the terms of the trust before the expiration of the time within which an action must be commenced unless
the Trustee knows of a pending judicial proceeding contesting the validity of the trust or the Trustee has received notice from a potential contestant who thereafter commences a judicial proceeding within sixty days after notification.
This Notice must be mailed postmarked within 15 days of its first publication to each heir and qualified beneficiary of the
trust and any other person who would be an interested person within the meaning of D.C. Code 20-101(d). Date of First Publication:
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Jennie L. Booker, whose address is 4413 Ridgecrest Drive, Suitland, MD 20746, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Betty Jean Booker who died on October 29, 2019 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 9/12/2020. 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 9/12/2020, 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.
3/12/2020
Maggie Thompson Carolyn Gray
Signature of Trustee TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens
Register of Wills Washington Informer
Date of first publication: 3/12/2020 Jennie L. Booker Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
Washington Informer
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MARCH 12 - 18, 2020 43
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PATTERSON/LEE from Page 26
both sides” in Charlottesville, is committed to weakening —not strengthening — voting rights, believes he is above the law, appoints ultra-right-wing conservatives to the U.S. Supreme Court and judiciary, made 16,241 false or misleading claims, is embarrassed to claim proficiency as an accomplished epidemiologist or U.S. Surgeon General while simultaneously mismanaging the government’s response to the coronavirus, and has not proven knowledgeable, compassionate or humane for even one day of his presidency. In commemorating Bloody Sunday, Rep. John Lewis stated, “Fifty-five years ago today, we were beaten, tear gassed and trampled by horses. I thought I saw death. I thought I was going to die. I don’t know how I made it back, but I know we cannot rest. We cannot become weary.” Vote like your life depends on it, because it does! WI
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At the very core of a democracy is not only the right to vote, but also, and perhaps more important, exercising that right. Indeed, voting rights are under attack nationwide as states pass voter suppression laws. These laws led to significant burdens for eligible voters trying to exercise their most basic constitutional right. Since 2008, for example, states across the country have passed measures to make it harder for African Americans exercise their fundamental right to cast a ballot. These measures include cuts to early voting, voter ID laws and purges of voting rolls. Traditionally, it has always been Republicans suppressing votes. In December, Justin Clark, a reelection adviser to President Donald Trump, was caught on video in Wisconsin saying that the GOP has “traditionally” relied on voter suppression to compete
in battleground states. African Americans, particularly women, have always been the most loyal base of the Democratic Party. If you doubt our power, when united, consider the recent contests on Super Tuesday. African American voters across eight states captured in exit polls for former Vice President Joe Biden once again provided decisive wins for him. Indeed, he won double-digit victories in 10 of the 13 contested states. Without our vote, and the endorsement of House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn, Biden would not have had the victories he did and would no longer be in the race. During the 2016 presidential campaign, then-candidate Donald Trump posed the question to African Americans, “What do you have to lose?” What do we have to lose next November? A president who has been endorsed by the Ku Klux Klan, saw “good people on
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COOPER from Page 26
numerous to name, but for this Women’s History Month, let us vow to honor our own mothers who may not be in a history book, but whose greatness comes from what they’ve done for their families and their communities without fanfare and deserve to have their own children honor them. WI
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er, and their caretakers who are just ordinary women who’ve often done extraordinary things to nurture their families and the families of many in their areas, but they never get any special recognition. I know that we have Dr. Katherine Johnson of “Hidden Figures”
fame; Ida B. Wells-Barnett, our anti-lynching crusader; Sojourner Truth, who first sued a white man successfully to get her son back; Rosa Parks, who sat on a bus for our rights; Harriet Tubman, who brought a lot of our people from slavery to freedom; Fannie Lou Hamer, who took beatings to gain our right to vote; and others too
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WILLIAMS from Page 26
es. The campus’ sustainability and equity approaches were verified through LEED Gold certification and a tool called the SEED Evaluator. Another model is the Green Communities Criteria (GCC) program, a framework and certification developed by Enterprise Community Partners to bring the benefits of sustainable construction practices to low-income families and affordable housing. While this program is still in development, it has already produced 127,000 certified affordable homes through $3.9 billion in investment. Thanks to the leadership of standards like GCC, a total of 32 states have incentivized green building certification programs for affordable housing developments receiving support from the federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program. Fundamentally, sustainability without equity will merely sustain inequity. The civil rights movement has a critical role to play in creating a sustainable building sector that is both green and just – for the benefit of our families, our communities, the economy and the planet. WI
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income for electricity. And we are more likely to be in the least disaster-resilient buildings, with homes in floodplains or without reinforcement. That’s why the NAACP recently launched the Centering Equity in the Sustainable Building Sector (CESBS) Initiative, pushing forward civil rights in this critical (if unexpected) new sphere. The NAACP will define and articulate an agenda for an equitable green building sector, using its Baltimore headquarters as a living laboratory for this concept. Through this effort, the NAACP will develop a replicable model for centering equity in all aspects of sustainable, healthy, safe and regenerative buildings. So what would an equitable green building sector look like? It would advance community-wide transition, not just a few green buildings in isolation. Sustainability would be seen as a basic necessity – not a luxury item — in any building project. Low-income communities, communities of color and women would be at the heart of a better building industry, supported by
more inclusive education and professional development pathways. Sustainability investments would prioritize the most impacted communities. And underrepresented communities would be deeply engaged in planning and design, because “shaping the environment is best done by the people who live in it,” according to Professor Dale Glenwood Green of Morgan State University. Some communities and organizations are getting it right and helping us imagine what is possible. For example, the Mental Health Center of Denver, Colorado planned to build a new, green campus in the predominantly African American and low-income Northeast Park Hill community. The Center sought input from neighbors to shape the design and function of the four-acre property. As a result, the Dahlia Campus for Health and Well-Being now offers a comprehensive array of services in addition to mental health care: a preschool that is inclusive of students regardless of ability; a pediatric dental clinic; an urban farm, teaching kitchen and farmers’ market; and a variety of indoor and outdoor community spac-
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MORIAL from Page 27 Buffalo and other cities. I can’t overstate how important it is for Black Americans to participate in the Census. This will be the 24th census undertaken in the history of the nation, and for the first eight, most African Americans counted as only three-fifths of a person. Historically, African Americans have been undercounted. In 1970, my predecessor Whitney M. Young testified to Congress that there had been a 15 percent undercount of Black families, though official census statistics place the figure near 8 percent. “The extent to which the 1960 undercount has shortchanged inner-city
MALVEAUX from Page 27 Crumpler was the first Black woman to earn a medical degree. She attended the New England Female Medical College and graduated in 1864. She worked, for a time, at the Freedman’s Bureau, the organization charged with addressing the needs of people who were formerly enslaved. Also in the medical field, Dr. Myra Adele Logan was the first woman and only the ninth person to perform open-heart surgery in 1943. Today, just two percent of our nation’s physicians are Black women, and despite the need for more medical professionals, that low number has not improved. In 2016, Dr. Tamika Cross attempted to assist a patient in distress on a flight, while flight attendants asked her if she was ‘an actual physician.” Two years later, in a similar situa-
ASKIA from Page 27 will remain stuck in the muck created for them by a society which seeks only to belittle and deceive them. The fact of the matter is, that white folks can never be trusted to fairly enforce the rights of Black folks. Here we are 66 years after the Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court decision, desegregating public schools, and to this day, less than 10 percent of schools are integrated. If it could be said that the 66 years represents a trend (which it does not), then it would take another 600 years to desegregate all U.S. schools. It’s a trick. As long as Black folks are aspiring to white standards (intellectual standards, cultural standards, beauty standards, the
residents of the political representation and economic assistance to which they are entitled is incalculable,” Young testified. “Two million blacks missed in 1960 could symbolize the loss of five congressmen and scores of state legislators to the Black community.” In response to the failures of the census to accurately count African Americans, Young launched the first Make Black Count campaign with a coalition of other civil rights organizations. To prevent another historic undercount, we have revived this historic campaign. April 1 is Census Day. Every household in America will have received an invitation to participate by this date . Wherever you’re living on April 1, is
what you will report as your address. Whoever is living at that dwelling on that date — every single person, whether related or not — should be count as a member of that household. During April, census-takers will begin visiting places where large groups of people live, such as college campuses and senior-citizen centers. Throughout the summer, census-takers will visit homes who have not responded online or by mail. The Census Bureau will deliver the count to Congress in December. The next few months are critical if we want our communities fairly represented. Join the Tele-Town Hall to find out how you can help. WI
tion, Dr. Fatima Cody Stanford attempted to offer medical assistance on a flight and had several requests for ID. Many do not consider physicians when they look at folks in the STEM fields, but one might argue that they must master the same rigorous coursework that doctors undertake. Bolden chooses to include physicians in her book, and that is an enhancement, not a distraction, from the message that Black women “Change the Equation” when they choose to study math, science and medicine. Bolden showcases women who have made their mark in history, and others who will continue to make history. Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson was the first Black woman to earn a doctorate from MIT in 1973. She is the inventor of call waiting and caller ID. Today she serves as
president of the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. She served on the Nuclear Regulatory Commission in the Clinton administration and was awarded the National Medal of Science by President Obama. The women Tanya Bolden highlights include engineers, biologists, robotics specialists and others, amazing women who, while “hidden” from the public eye, make significant contributions in medicine and the other STEM fields. All too often, Women’s History Month tends to focus on women in the humanities or politics, sending the signal to our young women that the sciences do not deserve attention. “Changing the Equation” reminds us that there are trailblazing women in the sciences that can serve as inspiration and virtual role models for all of us. WI
gamut), within white institutions, Black folks will be judged unfairly, on Broadway, Hollywood, the news media, corporate America. The deck is stacked against Black folks in White America, and white folks aim to keep it just the way it is, thank you. Black people need to be separated from the jurisdiction of white people if they are ever to achieve their true potential in this world. But white people (and even Black ones like Ben Carson, the HUD secretary) sincerely believe that they did Black folks a favor by kidnapping them by the millions in Africa and dragging them to the Western Hemisphere to be made slaves as they produced this American society which the world now envies. They think we should thank them for taking Black folks
out of the jungles and exposing them to their Christian society. Wrong. The Nation of Islam separation debate is gaining traction. Over the last year or so, the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan’s deputies have been hosting town hall meetings on separation all over the country. Separation includes (requires) reparations. It’s gonna happen. Farrakhan now has followers in more than 130 U.S. cities. In addition, he has followers in the Caribbean, Latin America, thousands in the United Kingdom (where Farrakhan himself ironically remains banned), and even his F.O.I. (Fruit of Islam) are present in France, elsewhere in Europe and Africa. The Nation of Islam and its demand for a separate nation for Black people, is not to be denied. WI
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