View the Tax Sale Listings Here
Photo credit: Steph Quinn/Capital News Service
Ja’Ka McKnight looks up at a sign renaming a street for her son, King Douglas, at a celebration of his life in Capitol Heights, Md., on April 20, 2024.
Activist Mom Turns Son’s Life into Hopeful Legacy
By STEPH QUINN
Capital News Service
CAPITOL HEIGHTS, Md. (April 25, 2024)—Ja’Ka McKnight dances as she prepares to lead a procession to the street being named, on this April morning, after her late son, King Douglas. The crowd’s shouts rise in a gray morning that is slowly turning to spring sunshine.
“Long live King!” they sing out. “Long live King!”
It has been three years since her son’s murder and McKnight, 36, is trying to make those words true—to turn her child’s life into a hopeful legacy that will help others suffering the aftermath of gun violence in their Prince George’s County community.
The worst thing that can happen, she says, is for people to put it out of their minds, to try and live with the pain by suppressing it.
“People sweep it under the rug,” she says, “and so it affects them later on down the line. By that time, it’s too late.”
On this morning, she is turning the official street-naming ceremony into a celebration of King’s life. Every other day of the week, she is becoming a full-time community advocate, looking for every small way she can to help others confront the suffering.
She invites more than a dozen kids over for movie nights, home-cooked meals and sleepovers. She helps them search for jobs and figure out what they want to do in life. McKnight said she’s like the “cool mom slash big sister.” She’s there for them to confide in, or when they want help doing the right thing.
She’s also become a sister to other moms who have lost sons.
“It's just like a support group, where we’re supporting each other and just trying to just be there for one another,” she said. “It brings comfort to us to know that we’re not in it alone and that somebody just really understands us.”
This month marks the three-year anniversary of King’s death at 13, when he was fatally shot in a Prince George’s County parking lot near an arcade where McKnight had dropped him off to hang out with friends.
A 12-year-old boy confessed to shooting King during a fight with King’s friend over a girl. A judge ordered supervised probation for the boy, who said he didn’t mean to shoot King when his friend handed him a gun in that parking lot. But the sentence and the explanation provided no solace to McKnight.
In the years since King’s death, McKnight has had more encounters with the justice system than she’d ever imagined possible. She has talked with police, applied for victims’ compensation and
sat in court hearings—for the boy who shot King and for children in foster care, whom she represents as a court appointed special advocate.
She has testified about her experience in committee hearings of the Maryland General Assembly. When lawmakers voted this month to expand the list of crimes that automatically send kids as young as 10 to the court system, McKnight agreed.
But that change wouldn’t have made much difference in the court hearing of her son’s killer, since violent crimes were already included on that list. And it wouldn’t have made it any easier for McKnight or King’s friends to find resources to work through what happened.
“It will help the next child, though,” McKnight said.
The street naming turned into a party to celebrate King’s life. There was a DJ onstage behind a giant photo of King surrounded by balloons. Facing the stage was a semicircle of tables, offering resources on kids’ mental health, job openings with the local fire department and information from a local crime victim’s advocacy organization.
McKnight has created her own support program—or other parents and children whose lives have been rocked by gun violence, and for her own healing— that is driven by a conviction that tragedy need not beget more tragedy.
“I’m dealing with the emotional trauma that they go through,” McKnight said. “Mental health awareness—it needs to be discussed more, and it’s not.”
McKnight started her mentoring outreach with King’s best friend, who was present the night of King’s killing and lost his father that same year.
Not all the kids touched by King’s death got therapy, even though parents wanted to get them help, so McKnight stepped in—“just talking to them, mentoring them, letting them know situations of what I’ve been around and what I went through as a child.”
“To see your friend get shot and killed laying on the ground at the age of 13 is traumatizing for any child,” McKnight said. “So if you don’t get them the proper help, then they’re going to act out in whichever way they know how to act out, to be able to let loose of the anger that they’re holding inside.”
Some of the kids McKnight mentors have been involved in robberies or carjacking and want to get on a better path.
“They’re trying to do right with their lives, but they are in situations where the home life is not well, or they’re around the wrong type of friends,” McKnight said.
And McKnight has bonded with a group of women who understood what she was going through.
“We feel like the world doesn’t know actually how we feel, how we function and how we’re making it on a day-to-day basis after losing our child,” said Tiffani Evans, 36, of Capitol Heights, who lost her son in August 2021.
Crystal McNeal, 39, of Washington, D.C., met McKnight at an event where they both shared memories of their children.
“We just keep on trying to motivate each other and keep on pushing,” said McNeal, who lost her son to gun violence in July 2020.
Tyeisha Lucas, 36, of Washington, D.C., said that after the death of her son in October 2022, the group of moms has helped her to be strong for her four other kids.
“I’m only at one year and six months in. They’re like two or three years in. So they keep me strong,” Lucas said.
When Lucas’s son was shot dead on a family member’s porch, victim’s compensation from the
D.C. government covered the burial, but Lucas funded other needs, like plates for food, by calling around for donations. She wanted to move from the apartment where she was raising her son, but the assistance she received didn’t cover those expenses. And she waited seven months for her first therapy appointment to process her grief.
“I don’t wish this on nobody,” Lucas said.
The women are creating the support they and others need in the community.
“We don’t go looking for the support,” Evans said. “We just put the information out there so people know what we’re going through. Either they support it or they don’t. But at the end of the day, we know we’ve got the almighty power of God to get us through the tough times.”
Now that the Under King We Stand Foundation is registered as a nonprofit, McKnight plans to lease a mentoring center for kids, and where moms can do healing circles “and just release and find resources.” She wants to expand her work to help kids in Washington, D.C., too.
And she wants grieving families and kids—including those who have committed crimes—to have a place in lawmakers’ conversations about youth crime.
“In their eyes, from experiencing what I’ve experienced since King has passed, it (seems as if it) really doesn’t matter about my child or the next child that passes away because they no longer have life and a second chance,” McKnight said. “However, they can give a second chance to the person who committed these crimes.”
“We need resources,” she said. “We need help.”
TOP OF PAGE
County Launches Free Security Camera Program Named in Honor of Jayz Agnew
Program established under Council Bill championed by Council Member Krystal Oriadha
By PRESS OFFICER
Prince George’s County Council Media
Prince George’s County has launched the Private Security Camera Incentive Program, established under Council Bill CB-008-2023, also known as the “Jayz Agnew Law.” The bill, passed unanimously by Council in March of last year, was sponsored by Council Member Krystal Oriadha (District 7) in honor of 13-year-old Jayz Agnew. Jayz was fatally shot in front of his home while raking leaves, and to date, no arrests have been made, and there is no known surveillance footage of the shooter.
Applications are now open for the program to residents in the communities of Langley Park, Glassmanor, and Walker Mill. The program will provide eligible residents and businesses a camera, rebate or voucher to have cameras installed and operating at their properties. The maximum amount of a rebate or voucher under the program is $200 for cameras purchased and $100 for subscription costs. Cameras must be registered with the Prince George’s County Police Department. Residents can visit https://heyzine.com/
flip-book/4f0846d222.html for applications and eligibility requirements.
Council Member Krystal Oriadha says the Jayz Agnew Law is another tool to keep communities and families safe.
“Jayz’s mother asked me to do this for her to keep her son’s memory alive and bring positive change to our community in his honor,” said Council Member Oriadha. “We’ve been waiting for this program to launch, and I’m so glad to see it’s finally available to residents.”
“Justice can come in different forms,” said Juanita Agnew, Jayz’s mother. “So while there are still no arrests, and still no suspects in my son’s case, the fact that we have initiatives in his honor is justice in a way. It’s amazing, motivating, and inspiring to me that his memory will live.”
Council Member Oriadha also spearheaded a program for District 7 in partnership with Community on the Frontlines to provide free security cameras with an option to assist with installation and funds towards a one-year subscription fee. For more information, visit https://heyzine.com/flip-book/4f0846d222.html
A district-specific free camera program is available for District 6 residents as well. Contact District 6 Council Member Wala Blegay’s office at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdG7DwblGX-B9U6Uem-JMNB6GFyHHuFP1r5VLfQHUn2cs3qaA/viewform
TOP OF PAGE
New Exhibit Honors USDA Chief Scientist as STEM Trailblazer at the National Agricultural Library
By PRESS OFFICER
U.S. Department of Agriculture
WASHINGTON (April 23, 2024)—The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today celebrated the unveiling of a statue and new exhibit at the National Agricultural Library (NAL) in Beltsville, Maryland, in honor of Dr. Chavonda Jacobs-Young, USDA’s Chief Scientist and Under Secretary for Research, Education and Economics (REE).
“NAL’s collections tell the stories of USDA’s rich history of innovation in food and agriculture,” said Paul Wester, NAL Director. “Dr. Jacobs-Young is USDA’s leading ambassador for scientific research and 21st century innovation. We are honored to be the new home of this important exhibit documenting her achievements and contributions and know that her journey will inspire future generations of young girls and women.”
This new exhibit at the National Agricultural Library will showcase Dr. Jacobs-Young’s trailblazing career in STEM and exceptional leadership in public service. A three-time graduate of North Carolina State University, Dr. Jacobs-Young is the first African American in the country to receive a Ph.D. in Wood and Paper Science. She later became the first African American faculty member of the College of Forest Resources at the University of Washington.
She continued to shatter glass ceilings for women in science by being the first African American woman to be named USDA Chief Scientist, the first African American woman to be named REE Under Secretary, and the first woman and first person of color to hold the position of Administrator of USDA’s Agricultural Research Service.
“Dr. Jacobs-Young’s contributions to agriculture and STEM are remarkable,” said Dr. Simon Liu, Administrator of USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS). “Under her leadership, ARS and USDA’s science agencies have pushed the boundaries to solve some of the greatest agricultural challenges and make innovative breakthroughs for the nation and the world.”
“Statistics show that close to 83 percent of girls and women think it is important to see women in STEM roles, but only 37 percent of STEM character portrayals are female,” said Dr. Jacobs-Young. “The #IfThenSheCan exhibit initiates a culture shift in STEM. I personally know how inspiring it is when you are young to see a scientist, an engineer or an inventor that looks like you. It opens doors and shows you what’s possible in the STEM fields for you.”
In 2022, Dr. Jacobs-Young was selected as an If/Then® Ambassador and featured in the #IfThenSheCan – The Exhibit. The monumental #IfThenSheCan exhibit is comprised of more than 120 statues that celebrate contemporary women in STEM, and stands to improve diversity, gender equality and representation of women by increasing public visibility. This exhibit featured the most statues of women ever assembled in one location, at one time. As part of the exhibit, Dr. Jacobs-Young’s 3D-printed statue has been displayed at the Smithsonian in Washington, DC, and at locations in Massachusetts and Texas. Her life-sized statue now has a permanent home and exhibit at USDA’s National Agricultural Library.
Dr. Jacobs-Young is a native of Georgia. She is a graduate of American University's Key Executive Leadership in Public Policy Implementation Program, and a proud fellow of both the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the National Academy of Public Administration.
USDA touches the lives of all Americans each day in so many positive ways. In the Biden-Harris Administration, USDA is transforming America’s food system with a greater focus on more resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, ensuring access to safe, healthy and nutritious food in all communities, building new markets and streams of income for farmers and producers using climate smart food and forestry practices, making historic investments in infrastructure and clean energy capabilities in rural America, and committing to equity across the Department by removing systemic barriers and building a workforce more representative of America. To learn more, visit www.usda.gov
TOP OF PAGE
Cardin, Van Hollen, Ivey Celebrate Earth Day With $3.4 Million Federal Investment in Prince George’s County Water Infrastructure
Submitted By
Town of Cheverly
WASHINGTON (April 25, 2024)— U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Congressman Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) highlighted $3,423,000 in direct federal investments to improve the health of the Anacostia River, upgrade stormwater infrastructure and mitigate flooding across three communities in Prince George’s County.
“Water is our most valuable commodity and should be clean and safe for everyone. For too many areas in Prince George’s County old, aging infrastructure has caused unsafe drinking water and damaging floods that put communities at risk,” said Senator Cardin. “Prince George’s County municipalities are leading projects to protect our water and communities, and Team Maryland is supporting that effort. This investment will help build on the progress that we’ve made for cleaner, safer water and demonstrates the continued partnership with federal and local governments to support our communities.”
“Protecting water quality and improving flood resilience are critical to the health and safety of our communities. These direct investments will strengthen local stormwater infrastructure in our Port Towns and historic neighborhoods in Prince George’s County to mitigate flooding risks, upgrade local water systems, and safeguard wildlife habitats. We’re excited to see our local partners put these federal funds to work for the good of Marylanders,” said Senator Van Hollen.
“Climate change is real. It impacts communities from Cottage City to Cheverly to Ocean City Maryland and all across our state and world. These community funding projects address water quality and water safety mitigation. I thank Senators Cardin and Van Hollen for their leadership in helping residents in Prince George’s County to have a healthier Anacostia watershed and safer storm drainage controls for homeowners and businesses,” said Congressman Glenn Ivey, (Md-04).
The federal lawmakers secured $225,000 for the Anacostia Water Society’s ongoing work to improve water quality in the Anacostia River and boost the health of its fish and vegetation. Over 2 billion gallons of raw sewage and storm water are dumped directly into the river each year and runs through areas of Washington, D.C., Prince George’s and Montgomery Counties. The lawmakers also provided $670,000 for Cottage City, an Anacostia River port town, to support its efforts to address stormwater drainage issues that impact nearly half the town’s families.
“Today marks a momentous occasion for the Town of Bladensburg as we celebrate two significant awards for federally funded appropriations in the Port Towns. This achievement underscores the dedication and hard work of our esteemed United States Senators representing the great state of Maryland. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Senator Ben Cardin and Senator Chris Van Hollen for their tireless efforts in securing federal resources that bolster the vital work and services within our local communities. Their unwavering commitment ensures the Port Towns and our residents continue to thrive and prosper," said Bladensburg Mayor Takisha James.
The Town of Cheverly received $1,688,000 to upgrade its storm drain systems and develop a flood mitigation plan to prevent damage to homes and businesses in wake of the unprecedented flooding in September of 2020.
“’In the ripple of every drop managed, we sow the seeds of a sustainable tomorrow.’ We appreciate being united in purpose and have such gratitude for the collaborative efforts that strengthen our community,” said Cheverly Mayor Kayce Munyeneh. “A heartfelt thank you to Senator Ben Cardin, Senator Chris Van Hollen, Congressman Glenn Ivey and Team Maryland for their unwavering support. We are committed to building a greener, more resilient future for all. The event on April 22, 2024, Earth Day, fortifies Cheverly’s ability to address stormwater management in town, marking a pivotal step towards environmental stewardship and community resilience.”
The City of Bowie received $840,000 to replace the aging lift pump assembly that their current water supply relies on and ensure a safe and reliable water supply for residents.
“We are very grateful to Senators Cardin and Van Hollen for their many and persistent efforts to bring funding to the City of Bowie to make much needed improvements to our aging water plant. They are a great team and are always investing in the lives of their residents. Their hard work does not go unnoticed,” said Bowie Mayor Tim Adams.
TOP OF PAGE
