DC mayor to announce members of Marion Barry commission

WASHINGTON (AP) -- On the day that Marion Barry would have turned 79, District of Columbia leaders will begin deciding how best to honor him.

On Friday, Mayor Muriel Bowser will announce members of a commission that will work on ideas and proposals to recognize Barry.

The former mayor died in November. Known as "Mayor for Life," he was the most prominent politician in the 40-year history of District of Columbia home rule, and he's credited with expanding opportunities for the black middle class and beginning the revitalization of downtown Washington. He also came back from the infamy of an arrest for smoking crack cocaine to win a fourth term as mayor.

Friday's announcement will also include the unveiling of a mural of Barry, painted by local artist Jay Coleman.

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