The Washington Informer - October 12 2017 by The Washington Informer

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER FINANCIAL LITERACY SUPPLEMENT 2017

PROTECTING YOUR FINANCES

VOL. 52, NO. 52 • OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2017

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month! Taste of DC Showcases Black Women Entrepreneurs

Financial Literacy Center Section

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

By Sarafina Wright WI Staff Writer

TASTE OF DC Page 26

CONTRIBUTING PARTNERS

MPD Remains Vigilant in Wake of Las Vegas Massacre

Northwest Native Serving Craft Cocktails

Jazmyne Wade, owner and operator of a local mobile bartending company that serves up crafts cocktails, is showing the male-dominated mixologist industry a new face and style. In the VIP section at Taste of DC on Saturday, Oct. 7 at RFK Stadium in Southeast, Cocktails on Call boasted two signature drinks, an effort Wade said has been years in the making. "This is the peach-infused bourbon with all spice cloves and lime and this is vodka with pear puree and cranberries," she said, describing the cocktails. "Being able to showcase my business at the Taste of DC is five years in the making. It took time to start making strides and getting out to events like this and having the resources to deliver at such a high volume." Wade said her being a featured vendor at one of the city's most sought-after events represents the headway she's made as a small business owner. Five years ago, her dream started off as a mere idea, but after a few months of planning, she began to put the pieces together. "Cocktails on Call came from the fact that I'm a bartender and there is a need for private event

PRESENTED BY

5 (L-R) Michelle Rhee, Kaya Henderson, Mayor Muriel Bowser, and Antwan Wilson participate as panelists

at the DC Public Education Fund’s 2017 Philanthropy Forum, Thurs., Oct. 5, at Paul Laurence Dunbar High School in Northwest. The panel, titled “The Role of Philanthropy in Traditional School District Transformation,” discussed the methods and implications of philanthropic support of public education. /Photo by E Watson/EDI Photo See Education Fund story on Page 21.

Fairfax Dignified in Campaign for Virginia Lt. Governor

Former District Resident Fights Racism, Establishment

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer For Democrat Justin Fairfax, the race for lieutenant governor of Virginia has been a test of his toughness and his fortitude as he catapults into the national political spotlight. As his opponent, Jill Vogel, continues to witness the shrewdness of the longtime D.C. resident's campaign, she's resorted to name-calling and — according to many — racist attacks. "I clearly think [Fairfax] is not informed enough on those issues to talk intelligently about them. I just have to put that out there," Vogel, a Republican, chirped in the most

recent debate between the contestants. Her campaign doubled down on the remarks. "All that we have to say is that Sen. Vogel stands by her comments," said Chris West, Vogel's spokesman. Those at the debate expressed shock. "I was dumbfounded and astounded to hear those words come out of her mouth," Democratic Party Chairwoman Susan Swecker said on a conference call for reporters with state Sen. Jennifer McClellan (D-Richmond).

VIRGINIA Page 34

5 Justin Fairfax

/Courtesy of Fairfaxforgov

The mass shooting at a country music festival in Las Vegas that left at least 59 dead and more than 500 wounded could happen anywhere, but local law enforcement officials work diligently to ensure the safety of District residents and the millions who visit daily. Records have revealed that the shooter, Stephen Paddock, had previously rented a hotel room in Chicago with a clear view of the Lollapalooza festival where performers included the British band Muse and Liam Gallagher and those in attendance included Malia Obama, the 19-yearold daughter of former President Barack Obama. Metropolitan Police Department officials said they, like agencies around the nation, do have a plan in place for such terror attacks, even given that the District contains numerous federal buildings and property and is flooded with Secret Service and other law enforcement agencies. "If a mass shooting happened on D.C. property and not federal land such as U.S. Park Service, MPD would be the lead agency," said Rachel Schaerr Reid, an MPD spokeswoman. "However, we stand ready to assist our law enforcement partners should they need help." Schaerr Reid said MPD has a longstanding policy of not com-

VEGAS Page 22

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

Now Published by Dr. Charles Vincent

Her Legacy Continues.

In memory of Mickey Thompson Vincent, Founder and Publisher.

Dr. Charles & “Mickey” Vincent

P R O U D A N D P E R S I S T E N T: THE BLACK WOMEN’S AGENDA, INC. CELEBRATES 40TH ANNIVERSARY AT ANNUAL SYMPOSIUM WORKSHOP & AWARDS LUNCHEON

Sen. Harris receiving award from Gwainevere Catchings Hess (President, Black Women’s Agenda) and Gina Adams ( FedEx)

United States Senator Kamala Harris, Keynote Speaker

Dr. Valerie Maholmes ( R) and guest.

Debbi Jarvis, PEPCO Holdings.

Kimberly Jeffries Leonard, National Link VP, (3rd from the left), and guests.

Patricia Hobson Wilson (seated to far left) and guests.

Gina Adams, FedEx Corp.

Julia Pollard, Angela Moody, Lavern Chatman.

he Black Women’s Agenda, Inc. (BWA) celebrated its 40th anniversary on Friday, September 22nd, hosting its Annual Symposium Workshop & Awards Luncheon in the nation’s capital and encouraging the more than 1,200 elected officials, journalists, corporate and community leaders and members of its National Collaborating Organizations who attended the event to help chart a path for the future. The Award winners were: the Honorable Kamala Harris (US Senator), April Ryan (Bureau Chief, American Urban Radio), Cadet Simone Askew (Leader, Corps of Cadets at West Point), Patricia Maryland ( CEO, Ascension Health Care), Dr. Hazel Dukes ( Pres. NAACP, NY), and Brian’s Richardson (Spelman College, BWA Bright Future Award). For further Information: bwa@bwa-inc.org

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around the region

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

SOMETHING NEW EVERYDAY

COMPILED BY STAFF WRITER W. FORD

law enforcement. ShePoll said they she said. Baker Up in Mason-Dixon forthreat,” Governor had come together to bring a Among the programs Marlow

By Tia Carol Jones

www.washingtoninformer.com

WI Staff Writer

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

sense of uniformity in the voters way decided wants the to see implemented arerace, If Democratic Maryland governor’s When L.Y. Marlow's 23-year- domestic violence victims and stricter restraining order policies, Prince George’s County Executive Rushern L. Baker III old daughter told her the father survivors are treated. more rights for victim's families would be the top choice among the seven Democrats running of her daughter threatened her “She's using her own personal to intervene on behalf of a vicin thepersonal June primary. to a pollviolence from Mason-Dixlife, and the life of their child, story, her own pain to According tim, a domestic assesson Polling & Strategy of Northwest, Republican Gov. Larry she knew something had to be push forward,” Davis-Nickens ment unit coupled with further leadforover at 46 percent done. Out of her frustration said about Hogan Marlow.recorded a seven-point training lawBaker enforcement to 39 percent. “This is significant two reasons: Hogan is with law enforcement's handling Davis-Nickens said anyone agencies, aforChild's Life Protecof the situation, she decided to who reads well below the percent threshold that is generally considMarlow's book50will tion Act and mandatory counselstart the Saving Promise cam- “get it.” She shefor“puts the ing seeking eredsaid ‘safe’ an incumbent re-election; and Hogan's for batterers. paign. case in such a way, themargin averagepales to“Ifthewe35arepercent ever going eradiseven-point nametorecognition “It seems to be a vicious cycle person can advantage get it.” She he saidcurrently at the cate violence, mustsaid. holdsdomestic over Baker,” thewe group that won't turn my family end of theThe day,poll thereleased book will look at both that sidesabout of the625 coin. on Oct. 4 claimed Maryloose,” Marlow said. Marlow help peopleland begin to have a diaWe need to address both the vic- 27 voters were interviewed via telephone from Sept. shared her story with the audi- logue about domestic violence. and the batterer,” through Sept. 30, with tim a margin of error of noMarlow more than ence at the District Heights Also present at the event was said. four percentage points. To read the entire poll, go to https:// Domestic Violence Symposium Mildred Muhammad, the exMarlow would also like to see mason-dixon.com/. on May 7 at the District Heights wife of John Allen Muhammad, programs designed to raise Municipal Center. The sympo- who was sentenced to six consec- awareness among children in sium was sponsored by the utive life terms without parole public and private schools. She Family and Youth Services by a Maryland jury for his role in feels children need to be educatCenter of the city of District the Beltway Sniper attacks in ed about domestic violence. Heights and the National Mildred “We have to stop being pasFuneral services for HookAshanti 2002. Markaila Bil- Muhammad is Up of Black Women. the founder of After the Trauma, sive-aggressive with poor chillie will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 13 at Marlow has written a book, an organization that helps the dren about domestic violence,” Ebenezer AME Church in Fort Washington, “Color Me Butterfly,” which is a survivors of domestic violence Marlow said. Md. The burial will follow on Monday, 16 story about four generations of and theirOct. children. Marlow has worked to break at Cheltenham in Cheltendomestic violence.Veteran’s The bookCemetery is “I lived in fear for six years. Six the cycle of abuse in her family, ham, Md. Authorities found Billie’s inspired by her own experiences, yearsbody in fearSept. is a long time. It is and is confident the policies she 30 in Charlotte, North Carolina, after she iniand those of her grandmother, not an easy thing to come out is pushing for will start that tially went and missing Sept. 18 of,” in Norfolk, her mother her on daughter. she said. Va. process. A student at the Artshe Institute She said every time reads of Virginia MildredBeach Muhammad said “I plan to take these policies to excerpts from her book, still waspeople studying culinary arts,she Billie last seen drivwho want to help a Congress and implore them to can words came Va. domestic violence ingnot intobelieve a navalthebase in Norfolk, reporting to victim must change our laws,” Marlow said. from Me according Butterfly” to be careful of how they go into “I will not stop until these poliworkher. that“Color morning a video released won the 2007 National “Bestin 2016 the victim's by police. Billie graduated from life, Dr. and understand cies are passed.” Books” that she may be in “survival Tia Carol Jones can be reached HenryAward. Wise High School in Upper Marlboro, “I washer justmother, 16-years-old when at tiacaroljones@sbcglobal.net Md., Brandy Billie, mode”. posted a video my eye first blackened and my “Beforewill youbeget to 'I'm going message on Facebook that a scholarship lips bled,” Marlow said. to kill you,' it started as a verbal WI named her daughterpresifor future students who Elaine after Davis-Nickens, attend the institute. dent of the National Hook-Up of Black Women, said there is no consistency in the way domestic violence issues are dealt with by

Funeral Services Arranged for Prince George’s Native

Wilhelmina J. Rolark In Memoriam Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, Sr. Wilhelmina J. Rolark THE WASHINGTON INFORMER PUBLISHER NEWSPAPER (ISSN#0741-9414) is NEWSPAPER (ISSN#0741-9414) is published THE WASHINGTON INFORMER Denise Rolark Barnes published on each Thursday.postage paid at Washington, D.C. and additional weeklyweekly on Thursday. Periodicals Periodicals Washingmailing postage offices. paid Newsat and advertising deadline is Monday prior to publication. ton,Announcements D.C. and additional mailing of- twoSTAFF must be received weeks prior to event. Copyright 2000 by The fices.Washington News andInformer. advertising All deadline rights reserved. POST McNeir, MASTER:Editor Send change of addressD. Kevin is Monday to publication. Anes to Theprior Washington Informer, 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E. Washington, Ron Burke, Advertising/ Marketing Director D.C. 20032. Nobe partreceived of this publication may be reproduced without written permisnouncements must two Shevry Lassiter, Photo Editor the return of sionprior fromto the publisher. The2016 Informer Newspaper cannot guarantee weeks event. Copyright Barnes, IV, Papers Assistant Editor Subscription rates All are $30Lafayette per year, two years $45. willPhoto be received by photographs. The Washington Informer. notreserved. more than a week after publication. MakeE. checks payable to:Sports Photo Editor rights POSTMASTER: Send John De Freitas, change of addresses to The WashDorothy Rowley, Online Editor THE WASHINGTON INFORMER ington Informer, 3117 Martin Luther ZebraDesigns.net, Design & Layout 3117 Luther King, King, Jr. Ave., S.E.Martin Washington, D.C. Jr. Ave., S.E. • Washington, D.C. 20032 Mable Neville, Bookkeeper Phone: 202 • Fax: 202 574-3785 20032. No part of this publication may561-4100 E-mail: news@washingtoninformer.com Dr. Charles Vincent, Social Sightings columnist be reproduced without written permiswww.washingtoninformer.com sion from the publisher. The Informer Tatiana Moten, Social Media Specialist Newspaper cannot guarantee the return Angie Johnson, Circulation of photographs. Subscription rates are PUBLISHER $45 per year, two years $60. Papers will Denise Rolark Barnes REPORTERS be received not more than a week after STAFF REPORTERS publication. Make checks payable to: Stacy Brown (Senior Writer), Sam P.K. Collins, Brooke N. Garner Managing Editor Tia C. Jones, Ed Laiscell, Timothy Cox, FordLarry (Prince George’s Carla Peay Assistant Managing Editor Odell Will B. Ruffin, Saxton, THE WASHINGTON INFORMER Ron Burke Advertising and Marketing Mary Wells, Young County Writer), EveJoseph M. Ferguson, Hamil 3117Mable Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E Whittaker Bookkeeper Harris, Tatyana Hopkins, Jade James-Gist, Washington, D.C. 20032 LaNita Wrenn Administration PHOTOGRAPHERS Edwin Lake, D. Kevin Lauren Poteat, Phone: 202De561-4100 John E. Freitas Sports Editor Lafayette Barnes,McNeir, IV, Fax:Victor 202 Holt 574-3785 Photo Editor Martell Pegues, Brenda Siler, John E.Dorothy De Freitas,Rowley, Maurice Fitzgerald, news@washingtoninformer.com Zebra Designs, Inc. Layout & Graphic Design Joanne Jackson, RoyAssignment Lewis, RobertWriter) Sarafina Wright (General Ken Harris /www.scsworks.com Webmaster www.washingtoninformer.com Ridley, Victor Holt CIRCULATION PHOTOGRAPHERS Paul Trantham

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Cases of Tuberculosis Confirmed Prince We haveatto stop being George’s High School passive-aggressive with poor

Two cases of tuberculosis were confirmed at Dr. Henry Wise Jr. High School in Upper Marlboro, Md. according to Prince George’s County School officials. A letter dated Friday, Oct. 6 informed parents and guardians that there’s no additional risk of exposure to students and staff. All individuals in any class or after-school activities with the two affected will be notified in a week if testing will be recommended. Prince George’s health officials will conduct the tests next month, according to the letter. Parents also received information on tuberculosis from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which describes it as “a disease caused by germs that are spread from person to person through the air.” For more information, call the county Health Department at 301-583-3110 between 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. L.Y. Marlow

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.

CORRECTION

In the Oct. 5 edition of the Washington Informer, the story ‘Mogul Talk with Breakfast Club Host Angela Yee’ by Sarafina Wright contained an error in the photo and photo caption. The 4 / May 15 - 21, 2008 The Washington Informer / www.washingtoninformer.com person pictured was writer Demetria D’Oyley, not Angela Yee. Photo by E Watson/EDI Photo. Please see the correct version on the web at www.washingtoninformer.com. Roy Lewis, Demetrious Kinney, Mark

Mahonny, Lateef Mangum, Travis Riddick

4 OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2017

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

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Ta-Nehisi Coates Talks Obama at Book Launch By Lauren Poteat WI Contributing Writer Acclaimed author Ta-Nehisi Coates on Monday launched the tour for his latest book in D.C., delivering bite-size teasers of significant events in the journalist's life, including his not-so-cordial encounters with the Obama administration. Set at the historic Metropolitan AME Church in Northwest, where the famous Black activist Frederick Douglass once gave a sermon, the special event gave Coates a platform to discuss his new work, "We Were Eight Years in Power: An American Tragedy," and the events that make up the book. "In my book, one of the things I talk about is the first time I met then-President Barack Obama," Coates said. "I had been writing things about President Obama and some of those things were not kind to say the least. … But that was my job and I stand by it. However, one day I received a phone call from the White House. It was a weird number so I didn't answer it. So they left a message saying, 'This is not a prank, this is the White House, could you come down tomorrow and meet with the president?' "So I went down there and it was me and a bunch of other journalists with assigned seating," he said. "And I ended up sitting across from Obama. … So I kind of knew what this was, you know — kind of like, 'say it to my face.' "So he comes in and I ask some really weak, moist ques-

tions and when I'm finished he says, 'So I saw what you wrote the other day and I gotta say, it was terribly unfair," Coates said with a laugh. "He then proceeds to just go in on me, but I hated [Obama's] pull-yourself-up-by-the-bootstrap speeches, you know? … So I left and went home and it was kind of upsetting." During the rest of Coates' monologue, he outlined what transpired after the meeting — and the blunt and controversial words that landed him right back at the White House not long after his first visit, much to the surprise and enjoyment of the audience. "This book is definitely a must-read," said D.C. native Julia James. "Coates is so candid with his words and the book serves as not only a tool for prolific amusement, but also a weapon toward racism and the illumination on the belief that understanding and recognizing Black people is central to understanding any part of America." The event, sponsored by Sankofa Video and Books and moderated by renowned journalist Kojo Nnamdi, highlighted the overall importance of Black authors. "I grew up surrounded by Black books, reared by a father who spent much of his adult life either running a bookstore or a publishing company," Coates said. "I was made, as a writer and as a human, by Black books. Those bookstores that specialize in this literature are sacred. It is, thus, wholly appropriate that I begin my tour with Sankofa." WI

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AROUND THE REGION

5 Sankofa Video and Books sponsored the D.C. launch of Ta-Nehisi Coates’ new book tour for his new book, We

Were Eight Years in Power: An American Tragedy, Mon., Oct. 9 in Northwest. The launch was held at the District’s historic Metropolitan AME Church and featured a conversation between Coates and local radio personality Kojo Nnamdi of WAMU. /Photo by E Watson/EDI Photo

OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2017 5 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

AROUND THE REGION

WEEK OF OCT 12 - 18, 2017

Source: Black America Web

OCT. 12

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1968 – Track star Wyomia Tyus 1932 – Social activist and come- becomes the first person to win dian Dick Gregory is born in St. a gold medal in the 100-meter race in consecutive Olympic Louis. 1968 – West African nation Games. Equatorial Guinea gains its inOCT. 16 dependence from Spain. 1999 – Basketball legend Wilt 1859 – White abolitionist John Chamberlain dies in his Bel Air, California, home Brown leads a raid on a federal armory in Harpers Ferry, Virof a heart attack at age 63. ginia, in an attempt to start an armed slave revolt. He is later OCT. 13 1898 – Lawyer and judge Edith S. Sampson, the tried, convicted and executed by hanging for his first black U.S. delegate appointed to the United role. 1968 – African-American athletes Tommie Smith Nations, is born in Pittsburgh. 1902 – Harlem Renaissance-era writer and librarian and John Carlos raise black-gloved fists during Arna Bontemps is born in Alexandria, Louisiana. their medal ceremony at the 1968 Summer Olym1914 – Inventor Garrett A. Morgan receives pat- pics in Mexico City. 1984 – Desmond Tutu is awarded the Nobel Peace ent for the gas mask. 1926 – Jesse L. Brown, the first African-American Prize for his ant-apartheid work in South Africa. aviator in the U.S. Navy, is born in Hattiesburg, 1995 – The Million Man March, called by Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan, is held on the NaMississippi. tional Mall in Washington, D.C. 1970 – Famed political activist Angela Davis is arrested in New York City and charged with unlawful flight to avoid persecution for her alleged role in a California courthouse shootout.

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1834 – Maryland-born Henry Blair patents the corn planter, becoming the second-ever African-American inventor to receive a patent. 1919 – Famed black activist Marcus Garvey is shot inside his Harlem office, wounded in his leg and scalp. He recovers, but his assailant, who claimed he was sent to shoot Garvey by the district attorney, died a day later after jumping 30 feet from a jailhouse window. 1964 – Martin Luther King Jr. is awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his nonviolent resistance to racial inequality in America.

OCT. 15

1883 – The Civil Rights Act of 1875 – which guaranteed African-Americans equal treatment in public accommodations, public transportation and jury service – is ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court.

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

1711 – Poet Jupiter Hammon, the first African-American writer to be published in the present-day United States, is born in Long Island, New York. 1888 – Capital Savings Bank of Washington D.C. — one of the nation's first black-owned banks — is opened. 1956 – Physician and astronaut Mae Jamison, the first African-American woman to travel in space, is born in Decatur, Alabama. 1969 – Clifton R. Wharton is elected president of Michigan State University, becoming the first African-American president of a major U.S. university.

OCT. 18

1926 – Pioneering guitarist and rock and roll icon Chuck Berry is born in St. Louis. 1948 – Poet and playwright Ntozake Shange, author of "For Colored Girls…," is born in Trenton, New Jersey. 1951 – "Waiting to Exhale" author Terry McMillan is born in Port Huron, Michigan. 1968 – Athlete Bob Beamon sets the world record for the long jump — 29'2½" — a mark that would stand for decades. WI

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VIEW P INT By Sarafina Wright

The U.S. government has declared via a leaked document from the FBI's counterterrorism department that "black identity extremists" are a violent terrorist threat to America. What are your thoughts? STANLEY HAYES /

ORLANDO, FLORIDA

Extremists?! My, my — I guess the FBI has a case of selective amnesia. Because when very recently another good ol' boy went on this killing spree in Las Vegas and people lost their lives — was he an extremist?

GREGORY JOHNSON / ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA

Fake story, people. I did some research and found no such information. It's true in the '60s, under J. Edgar Hoover, he labeled the SNCC, Black Panthers and even the civil rights movements as such. Read before you get emotional. Research before you get mad.

BONNIE MATTHEWS / WASHINGTON, D.C.

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Black identity extremists, huh? That's all of us who embrace our heritage! So you're saying we're all terrorists, but the Vegas mass murderer is mentally ill?

TINA RENAY /

WASHINGTON, D.C.

They tell us and the world that we are worthless. When we try to instill the truth of our greatness into our seeds, they label us as terrorists. Our battle is not against flesh. If you don't see this now, I don't know if you ever will.

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AROUND THE REGION

By D. Kevin McNeir / WI Editor @dkevinmcneir

The World According to Dominic

Abu-Jamal’s ‘Have Black Lives Ever Mattered?’– A Primer for All African Americans I was burying my head in college books and preparing for graduation requirements at the University of Michigan in December 1981 when independent journalist Mumia Abu-Jamal was shot and then beaten into unconsciousness by Philadelphia police – accused of killing a cop. I hate to admit that it was not something that mattered to me at the time. But one day, it would resonate to my very core. Sentenced to death in a trial denounced by many, including Amnesty International, as failing to meet even the lowest acceptable standards of judicial fairness, Abu-Jamal has since spent decades defending his innocence while also railing against racism, injustice and violence in America. His latest collection of essays is entitled by the provocative question “Have Black Lives Ever Mattered?” – a book I devoured from cover to cover within a few short hours and which I’d recommend to anyone of color who can read. It serves as a no-holds-barred walk through American history and seeks to counter many of the narratives devised by those of European descent known for employing unprecedented examples of savagery and violence in their thirst to both seize and maintain control of the “New World” and its rich,

natural resources. The author reminds us of two axioms often expressed by journalists that, when stated collectively, add greater relevance to Abu-Jamal’s musings: 1) “Today’s newspapers are the first draft of history;” and 2) “History is written by the victors.” For those more often relegated to the “invisible” sectors of U.S. society – Blacks, Latinos, immigrants, women, the poor and the incarcerated – even if their stories make it to the news, the emerging form tends to be a rabid, distortion of the truth. Many history books refer to the people who Columbus encountered in the late 14th century as “savages.” Abu-Jamal reminds us that the Europeans were so determined to acquire free land and cheap labor that within 100 years, close to 80 million Native Americans had been killed. Who were the real savages? Brown lives didn’t matter. Meanwhile, to replace the indigenous communities the Europeans had destroyed due to abuse and disease, Black laborers, who first came to America as indentured servants, quickly found themselves labeled by a new status: “slaves.” For the over 100 million people kidnapped and transported in chains and filth, and subsequent generations, their lives were

used to engine a budding economy -- for whites only. As for Africans and their descendants, the Spanish, British and Americans, all by law, identified their enslaved workers as property, not even persons. More like beasts of burden than living, breathing men, women or children. Black lives didn’t matter. The author says Black lives didn’t even seem to matter during the eight years under a Black president, albeit in episodic incidents, rather than with more preferred systemic evidence to suggest otherwise. “How do you think things are going to go under Donald Trump,” he asks. “Have Black lives ever mattered?” Brother Mumia posits the question but not to generate heated, philosophical debate. Instead, he believes that the Black-female founded, majority-millennial supported organization has the power to turn things around and to reverse the escalating, racially-motivated violence that threatens to tear our divided nation apart. We need voices of reason to step forward – not those thirsting for even greater power and dominance. And color has nothing to do with value, worth, nor whose lives do or do not matter. WI

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The DC Housing Finance Agency (DCHFA) REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS – BOND UNDERWRITING & INVESTMENT BANKING SERVICES The DC Housing Finance Agency (DCHFA), located at 815 Florida Ave, NW, Wash., DC, is seeking qualified firms meeting the minimum qualifications interested in providing Bond Underwriting & Investment Banking Services for and on behalf of the DCHFA. Preference is given to CBE’s and companies located in the District of Columbia. For the detailed RFP visit our website at www.dchfa.org or contact Keami Estep at (202) 777-1600. Deadline for submission of responses is Monday, November 6, 2017 @4:00pm ET. Questions deadline is Monday, October 16, 2017 at Noon.

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AROUND THE REGION

Nats' Playoff Run Helps Airbnb Hosts

By Sarafina Wright WI Staff Writer

Thanks to the Washington Nationals' latest playoff appearance, online hospitality service Airbnb has seen a 24 percent jump in guest arrivals, adding to the local economy in the District. This uptick comes after a banner summer for Airbnb in the city. Between June and August, Airbnb's D.C. host community experienced 120,000 guest arrivals and earned over $22.5 million in additional income to help support their families, pay their bills and make ends meet according to the company. "This summer was the biggest travel season yet for Airbnb's global host community, and as the Nationals' playoff series kicks off, we're proud to continue spreading the economic benefits of the tourism industry to more District families, small businesses and neighborhoods," Will Burns, Public Policy Director for Airbnb in the District of Columbia said. During the Nationals' appearance in the National League Division Series, Airbnb estimated nearly 13,200 guest arrivals will occur in the D.C. metro area between Oct. 7 and 8 — an increase of more than 2,500 guest arrivals from the Nationals' first weekend of playoff games in 2016 against

the Los Angeles Dodgers. Last weekend's games was projected to bring $6.8 million in economic activity to the District, including $5.4 million in guest spending at D.C. restaurants, cafes and retail shops. Airbnb says its local host community expects to earn a total of $1.4 million during the popular sporting event, an increase of nearly 20 percent from the same time last year. "The price of a typical booked Airbnb private room listing will be $56 — a stark contrast to D.C. hotels which routinely price gouge consumers during special events," the organization said in a statement. Between January and August, the top destinations for Airbnb guests from the District included New York City (13,600), Havana, Cuba (5,600), Paris (5,200), Los Angeles (4,900) and Philadelphia (4,800). Katherine, an Airbnb host in D.C.'s Ward 4, said that as a "young family, Airbnb is really important to us financially and socially." "A middle school teacher from Georgia and her two kids stayed with us this summer to visit our local museums, and we hope the excitement they expressed also inspires our own children to be that excited about the city they call home," she said. WI

/Photo courtesy of Ballpark Savvy

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Call us at 703.407.4618 See us at www.lawoﬃceofnigelmatwell.com WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

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AROUND THE REGION CAPTURE THE MOMENT

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“Do you see law and order? There is nothing but disorder, and instead of law there is the illusion of security. It is an illusion because it is built on a long history of injustices: racism, criminality and the genocide of millions. Many people say it is insane to resist the system but actually it is insane not to.”

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AROUND THE REGION

Edwards Announces Run for Prince George's County Executive By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill While Donna Edwards sipped a cup of coffee and enjoyed the warm air outside a commons area at National Harbor, several people greeted the former congresswoman who represented parts of Prince George's and Anne Arundel counties for eight years. When Edwards shook their hands, she informed them she announced a few hours prior Thursday, Oct. 5 her intentions to run for Prince George's County executive in the June primary. "I have to look over everything," said Vann B. Jones of Upper Marlboro. "There are a lot of candidates, but [Edwards] does come highly considered for me." Edwards, who lost to Sen. Chris Van Hollen in last year's Democratic primary for Senate, posted a video message on YouTube to briefly explain her purpose to be the county's top leader. The more than 4-minute video talks of her family, including her father who served in the Air Force, her work with community leaders to secure National Harbor and her time in Congress from

5 Donna Edwards (right) chats with Vann and Diane Jones of Upper Marlboro at Maryland's National Harbor on Oct. 5 after announcing earlier in the day that she will run for county executive. /Photo by William J. Ford 2008 until January. She got elected as the first African-American elected to Congress from Maryland. Edwards also talked about health care, being an "independent decision-maker" and incorporate technology to improve the county's public schools. In less than 70 minutes after Edwards' released the video, she felt relaxed. "It's amazing once you make a decision about something you're

wrestling with, you feel liberated," she said in an interview. "I just feel really good about the decision not just about me, but what it could mean for the county." Because Prince George's has a nearly 10-to-1 ratio of Democrats over Republicans, the winner in the primary more than likely will succeed in the general election November 2018. Edwards, 59, enters a race against two other popular county lawmakers in the June

2018 primary. State Sen. C. Anthony Muse, 59, (D-District 26) of Accokeek has worked in the Maryland General Assembly more than 20 years and hasn't been shy to contest certain policies against his Democratic colleagues. State's Attorney Angela Alsobrooks of Upper Marlboro got elected in 2010 and became the youngest ever chosen to the position. For the last seven years, Alsobrooks, 46, leads an office of more than 200 people as one of a handful of Black prosecutors in the country. Paul Monteiro, 36, who worked for former President Barack Obama, will make his first foray into seeking a political office. According to county election records, Lewis S. Johnson also filed to run for the position. The current term for County Executive Rushern L. Baker III expires next year and he's running in the Democratic primary for governor. As for Edwards, education will be a major focus in her campaign. For instance, she said more funding should focus on re-

ducing class sizes by adding more teachers and classroom space. She said economic development helps improve education, especially working with high-tech employers such as the University of Maryland in College Park, Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt and National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration in Camp Springs. Â Similar to college fairs she organized as a congresswoman, she would connect students with professionals in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) field. Students can see and talk "to researchers and astronauts and technicians and engineers. That way they can actually see who they want to be and see the pathway that gets them there," she said. "If you don't have an education, your ability to move forward â&#x20AC;Ś is really jeopardized." Edwards, born in Yanceyville, North Carolina, received a bachelor's degree from Wake Forest University in 1980 and a juris doctor degree at the Franklin Pierce Law Center in Concord, New Hampshire in 1989. For the full version of this story, go to washingtoninformer.com. WI

Can we count you in? School success starts with attendance. Missing just one or two days a month can set students back academically. Visit attendance.dc.gov/countmein to sign the Every Day Counts! pledge and learn how YOU can play a role.

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OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2017 11 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY Local Nonprofit Sheds Light on Male Domestic Violence Victims

By Lauren Poteat WI Contributing Writer

A domestic-violence emergency shelter in Prince George's County recently held a series of seminars on male domestic abuse in an attempt to bring to light an oft-ignored segment of abuse victims. The Family Crisis Center of Prince George's County held

the event — titled "A Band of Brothers" — at Prince George's Community College in Largo on Saturday, Oct. 7 in conjunction with Domestic Violence Awareness Month. "Domestic abuse is not solely a female issue," said Sophie Ford, the center's executive director. "At this center, we have served both hetero and same-sex male relationships where the men have

5 Family Crisis Center hosts discussion Oct. 7 on domestic violence from a male perspective. /Photo by Demetrius Kinney been the victims, so we know this is an ongoing problem. "Here at the center the conversations have pretty much centered around the same thing in that we really need to address the victims and advocate toward prevention," Ford said. "That is why we put together 'A Band of

Brothers.'" The free forum was the center's first such event, with many attendees calling for it to be an annual conference. "I am a big advocate for this cause, so when I heard about [the center] bringing together a group of men to help bring about awareness and understanding, I knew I had to help out," said David Smith, community engagement, affairs and multicultural coordinator for the county's Office of Community Relations. "In P.G. County, statistics show that men are 100 percent the perpetrators in domestic violence, but those statistics are a little vague," Smith said. "A lot of men who are victims don't say anything because of the stereotypes society has put on them to be strong and self-sufficient. That is why it's important that we get together to talk about these issues and get the word out." During one panel segment, titled "HIStory Revealed," participants heard from a male domestic abuse survivor who vividly shared his personal story, insight and growth. Attendees were also shown a lengthy skit that stressed why di-

alogue, or lack thereof, is one of the major contributing factors to domestic violence. Other topics included how domestic violence affects Black people and why many abused victims often decide to remain quiet. The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence reports that one in seven men will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime, a likely conservative figure since many victims are too ashamed to report the abuse. "The more we talk about domestic violence, the more we make it harder to exist," Ford said. "We also want to push to address children, because that is the key prevention … teaching them that domestic violence is not the norm and should not be internalized. That is the prevention." Continuing its recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the center on Oct. 12 will host a "Purple Glow Night" at the Skate Palace in Temple Hills, aiming to educate adolescents about domestic violence via a fun, family-oriented event. For more information, go to www.fccpg.org. WI

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BUSINESS

Business Exchange Blacks in Trump Administration by William Reed

Counting the Cost Now or Later By Aimee D. Griffin, Esq As an estate planning attorney I spend a great deal of time giving workshops and seminars that educate people about the world of estate planning and administration. One of the questions I typically pose is how many attendants have an estate plan. I am not sure if the only people who attend the workshop are those who don’t have an estate plan but the statistics present aren’t encouraging. Maybe only those without a plan are compelled to show up. In any case statistics show that more than half of the population do not have an estate plan. One of the follow up questions I ask is why not. These are some of the answers I have received. 1. I don’t have enough to need an estate plan. My response has so many layers. I typically start off with the fact that anyone with a life has something to protect and thus an estate plan is necessary. The Last Will and testament identifies the person who will have the legal authority to uphold the rights of the person writing the Will. The rights may include representing the person who passed away if there is injustice in the distribution of assets or an injustice that needs to be championed after death. I advised a mother whose son passed away while in the custody of the police. She needed to be appointed in order to have authority to question the events. I have also had the displeasure of representing an estate in litigation that had very little assets - including a house with a reverse mortgage and a bank account with a negative balance. Too often there are few assets but huge expectations. The Will clarifies the expectations. 2. I haven’t gotten around to it. Procrastination is truly one of the most popular excuses that people offer for not having an estate plan. The greatest story is when a lady met with me to discuss follow up questions to the seminar presented. She stated that she was going to wait to create an estate plan. When asked her age she shared she was 90 years old. Her daughter created an urgency that she didn’t experience. Many people identify that procrastination was the reason when they knew that they needed to secure the plan for their family. The longer we wait the fewer the options in planning exist. 3. Indecision as to appointment and distribution. I have heard people say that they don’t have any siblings or family members that they trust enough to care for them. I assure folks that there are no restrictions that require you to appoint a family member in the trusted roles. There are rules that can be put into place that will restrict the capacity and create checks and balances for protection. There also have been those who do not know to whom they want to leave their precious belongings to. My response is that the law makes designations if you don’t. The law typically will not create a plan based upon the sentimental relationship that you share but the legal relationship. Based upon the atypical, blended relationships of our community we don’t want to rely on the blood relationships as the determination of distributions. As we saw with the legendary artist Prince who did not make designations people who had limited relationships received the same distribution of those who were actively involved in his life. I support people to make the decisions based upon the current circumstances and put safeguards in place. It is better to make a temporary decision now that makes sense with the personalities in your life than to make no decision that is based upon stranger’s appreciation of the standard family structure 4. Superstition. Amazingly people still say that the reason to not plan is that something will happen if they take any action. I typically guarantee people that something will happen even if you don’t plan. It’s usually just a matter of time. In only a few cases, where are there bountiful assets, would I suggest that something would happen as a result of planning. I tell folks that if someone was going to take action against you because you have an estate plan there is a great reason to make a plan so that the person who would act in such a manner doesn’t receive your treasures. 5. I don’t want to pay for it. So often people cite the cost of an estate plan as a reason not to do anything. Many of those people haven’t pursued finding out the cost. So often those who truly don’t have the means to pay an attorney could benefit from a pro bono or low cost clinic. However, the truth is that many people don’t prioritize the value of the creation of the estate plan. Truthfully, the more complicated the estate the more expensive the plan. To whom much is given much is required. Unfortunately, not creating an estate plan does not discount there will be a need to settle an estate. The lack of planning simply means that the cost will be at the other end in – the probate process. Aimee D. Griffin, Esq., The Griffin Firm, PLLC 5335 Wisconsin Ave NW, Suite 440 • Washington DC 20015 www.thegriffinfirm-PLLC.com • 202-379-4738

14 OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2017

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

The U.S. ranks among the second tier of countries when it comes to education. We spend significantly more on education than other first world countries. For America's Blacks, education and its institutions is rife with problems. More than 60 years after Brown vs. Board of Education, America's school systems are separate and unequal. A leading indication for Trump's attitude toward Blacks' education is the status of promises he made to historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). In his early days, Trump signed an executive order to strengthen HBCUs. Trump said, "With this executive order, we will make HBCUs a White House priority." The top jobs in the Trump administration are mostly vacant. There is a lack of senior-level African-Americans in Trump's administration. Trump needs to put more emphasis on filling more Cabinet-level jobs with Black Republicans. Political party operatives on either side the lectern admit that Blacks and Latinos are woefully underrepresented across the administration. Blacks outside Trump's political and social circles worry that the increasing complications, scandal and scrutiny surrounding the White House means even less diversity and effort in the administration's struggles to fill high-ranking government positions. Armstrong Williams could give Trump's Education Department help reaching Blacks as he did promoting President Bush's No Child Left Behind law. Proud and Black Republicans such as Williams could give this administration pointer on stepping forward to facilitate learning and/or acquisition of knowledge, skills values, beliefs, and habits for and among Blacks. Trump's Cabinet is the richest in history (Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos is heiress to the Amway fortune) and has records of positive economic impact on Blacks. DeVos has the standing to lead Trump to higher recognition and respect among Blacks. Trump has been roundly criticized for not filling hundreds of vital sub-Cabinet positions that set tone and direction across government and its agencies. While Democrats

have been slow with confirmations to stall Republicans' legislative agenda, Trump's administration has struggled with just putting forth nominees. Appointment of a couple hundred Blacks in senior-level would set the management tone, direction and insight across Trump's government. No matter what the party partisans are saying; so far Trump has done more for Black economic progress in six months than Obama did over eight years. The other issue that is critically important to Blacks' and Hispanics' economic progress is good schools. Through the influence of Betsy DeVos, "No president has done more to advance school choice so that every child can attend a quality school public or private." In cities like D.C. and Milwaukee, 90 percent of program children are Black. The Trump administration can help Blacks across the county grow and prosper through timely and effective appointments of Black to senior and sub-Cabinet positions. An example is Dr. Leonard Haynes, a distinguished Black Republican whose career has been increasing Blacks' access to high-quality education options. As the new Black senior adviser to the Under Secretary, Haynes has a remarkable resume — former acting president of Grambling State University, distinguished adjunct professor for the John Glenn College of Public Affairs at Ohio State University. He previously served at the Department of Education in multiple roles including director of the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities and senior. Haynes has had several jobs at the department in the past focusing on Blacks' education during stints at the George W. Bush and Barack Obama administrations. His roles included heading Initiatives on Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Trump's pick to lead the White House Initiative on HBCUS calls the schools "entrepreneurial institutions." Johnathan Holifield has been named executive director of Trump's HBCU Initiative. Holifeld has an established private sector track record and will well represent historically Black colleges in greater access to grants and economic inclusion. WI

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21st Annual March Of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction SET FOR November 14th More than 25 top local chefs join forces for healthier babies (Arlington, VA) — One of the area’s most popular charity food events, the March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction will return for its 21st year on Tuesday, November 14. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. at the Ritz-Carlton, Washington, D.C. Hotel Prominent area chefs will prepare their signature dishes created exclusively for the evening paired with fine wines and creative cocktails. Honorary Chef Chair Amy Brandwein of Centrolina will be joined by a stellar lineup of more than 25 chefs from some of the area’s most prominent restaurants. This year’s featured chefs include Chef Michael Friedman of The Red Hen and All Purpose, Chef Matteo Venini of Lupo Verde, Chef John Melfi of The Oval Room, Chef Hamilton Johnson of Honeysuckle, Chef Matt Adler of Schlow Restaurant Group, Chef Jay Caputo of The Riggsby, and Chef Tim Ma of Kyirisan. For the full list of participating chefs, visit www.signaturechefs. o rg / w a s h i n g t o n d c chefs. Following the tasting, there will be a spirited live auction featuring once-in-a-lifetime op-

portunities and our very special Fund the Mission. “The Signature Chefs Auction is a unique opportunity to experience the diverse culinary talent in D.C. while celebrating and supporting a great cause,” said Amy Brandwein, Honorary Chef Chair. “I am honored to join this exceptional group of chefs in support of the March of Dimes mission to help give every baby a fighting chance.” Funds raised by Signature Chefs Auction help support prenatal wellness programs, research grants, newborn intensive care unit (NICU) family support programs and advocacy efforts for moms and babies. Today, one in 10 babies in the United States is born premature. The March of Dimes is committed to funding research to find the answers to problems that continue to threaten the lives and the health of babies. Sponsors of note include United Healthcare, Fairfax Neonatal Associates, Venable, Infinitive, The Meltzer Group, Aetna, Innovation Health, Lockton, M&T Bank, Keller Benefit Services, Children’s National, Carefirst, Cigna, and One Digital. Tables of 10 for the event are $5000, and individual tickets for the event are $250 per per-

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

son. For more information, visit signaturechefs. org/washingtondcchefs or contact the March of Dimes office at (571) 257-2302. About the March of Dimes The March of Dimes

works to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant loss. The March of Dimes is the leading nonprofit organization for pregnancy and baby health. For more than 75 years, moms and babies have bene-

fited from the March of Dimes research, education, vaccines and breakthroughs. For the latest resources and information, visit marchofdimes.org or nacersano. org. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

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S ignat ureC h e fsA uc t io no fW as h ingt o n,D . C .

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T h eR it z C arlt o n,W as h ingt o n,D . C . No v e mbe r1 4 ,2 0 1 7-6 : 0 0p. m. Join us for our annual gathering of the area’s ﬁnest culinary talent in support of the March of Dimes. Upon arrival, you will enjoy the chance to sample our chefs’ creations before taking your seat for the Live Auction and Fund the Mission. Enjoy dessert while you bid on our unique packages, raising your paddle and giving generously to help babies. This high-proﬁle event attracts over 500 of Washington, D.C.’s elite philanthropists and corporations. Since 1996, the event has raised over $1 million to ensure the health of our nation’s babies.

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OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2017 15 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

BUSINESS Social Media Campaign Welcomes New Starbucks Exec women in particular, to order coffee Starbucks on that day. The specific instructions were: order coffee with the name Roz or Rosalind, take a selfie holding the Starbucks coffee cup with Roz or Rosalind written on it, and post on social media. The customer selfies were posted on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Rogers, also known as the "Trendy Socialite" (@trendysocialite), targeted her campaign to key connectors for the new Starbucks exec. Brewer is a Spelman College alumna and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc (AKA). Those were the two primary audi-

By Brenda Siler Special to The Informer It was a first day on the job like no other. On Oct. 2, Rosalind Brewer began her job as group vice president and chief operating officer at Starbucks — with some support from an unexpected place. A robust, grass-roots social media campaign had begun to champion Brewer as the first African-American and first woman to hold the position at the company. The unsolicited campaign — the brainchild of North Carolina-based marketer/social media expert Adeea Rogers — encouraged people,

ences for the campaign that came with the prerequisite hashtags offered by Rogers. Those hashtags were: #RosalindBrewer, #Starbucks, #blackwomanmagic, and #blackwomenrock. On Instagram, the campaign yielded over 1,700 posts. Rogers is not a Spelman College graduate nor an AKA member. So what was her motivation for this campaign? "Rosalind Brewer has worked for two of my favorite companies, Sam's Club and now Starbucks," Rogers said. "Black women in corporate leadership have always been a personal interest and passion. It is important for me and those coming behind Mrs. Brewer and myself to see women who look like them succeeding in roles and industries typically filled with people that don't look like us."

Rogers said that when she saw Brewer's start date, she knew there was enough time to mobilize and create something in which people could participate. Rogers has a track record in creating buzz for topics about which she is passionate. She is the creator of "International Natural Hair Meetup Day," an annual one-day event held more than 40 cities around the world. The event was built entirely through social media and word of mouth, including recruiting event hosts to securing sponsors and an Instagram campaign promoted using the handle @inhmd. Rogers is also the co-founder of Black Biz Scope (@blackbizscope on Instagram), a community-based initiative where Black-owned businesses are featured every Friday on the Periscope social media platform. For the Starbucks campaign, she

used her expertise in creating virtual communities to launch the initiative. "I know businesses look at dollars and cents," she said. "I wanted to show Starbucks how the African-American community, especially women, support business with our presence and our dollars. In order for people to participate, I wanted to make it simple and easy for people to get on board." Rogers has not heard from Brewer or Starbucks about her guerrilla campaign, but she is fine with that. "My only expectation was a desire and wish for Mrs. Brewer to see an entire community of women showing our pride and support for her," she said. "I grew up around women who celebrated each other. It is important to me to keep that kind of sense of community going." WI

UNITED PLANNING ORGANIZATION PRESENTS THE

Join us for one of these dates!

Homeowner Resource Fair

October 14 (10:00 am - 1:00 pm)

Bowie State University, Student Center 14000 Jericho Park Rd, Bowie, MD 20715

October 16 (5:00 pm - 8:00 pm)

Arundel High School, Cafeteria The Maryland Department of Transportation 1001 Annapolis Rd, Gambrills, MD 21054 (MDOT) invites citizens located in areas being October 18 (5:00 pm - 8:00 pm) considered for possible high-speed magnetic Catholic University of America, Pryzbyla Center levitation train routes to attend an upcoming 620 Michigan Ave NE, Washington, DC 20064 meeting, discuss the project with study team October 24 (5:00 pm - 8:00 pm) members and provide comments. If you cannot Laurel High School, Auditorium attend one of the meetings, you are encouraged 8000 Cherry Ln, Laurel, MD 20707 to submit comments at any time through the website, www.bwmaglev.info, which will be October 25 (5:00 pm - 8:00 pm) updated to include all of the meeting materials. Digital Harbor High School Auditorium and Cafeteria The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) 1100 Covington St, Baltimore, MD 20723 and MDOT are in the early stages of preparing If schools and government buildings are closed in the case of inclement an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to weather, the meetings will be rescheduled. Check the website for updates. study the feasibility and potential impacts of a new high-speed rail system. The high-speed, Locations are accessible for people with disabilities. Please superconducting magnetic levitation (SCMAGLEV) contact the department listed below to make arrangements for: special or additional accommodations; printed material in an alternate system is proposed by a private company, Baltimore assistance format or translated; hearing impaired persons; and persons requesting Washington Rapid Rail (BWRR). The SCMAGLEV an interpreter. All requests must be received one week in advance. system would operate between Washington, Los sitios tienen acceso para personas con discapacidades. Por favor comuníquese con el departamento listado a continuación para concertar DC, and Baltimore, Maryland, with a stop at BWI arreglos para: ayuda especial o adaptaciones adicionales; material impreso Marshall Airport. en un formato alternativo o traducido; personas sordas y personas que At the meetings, you can review and comment on the: • Preliminary alternatives screening analysis results • Overview of alternatives recommended for detailed study • Technology and engineering features • Preliminary station information A short presentation with a video will start approximately 30 minutes into the meeting. The video will play several times during the Open House hours. Additionally, the Project Team will be available to answer questions as you review maps and other project materials in an Open House format.

solicitan un(a) intérprete. Todas las solicitudes deben ser recibidas con una semana de antelación.

К площадкам обеспечен доступ для людей с ограниченными возможностями. Пожалуйста, обратитесь в отдел, упомянутый ниже, чтобы принять меры для: специальной помощи или дополнительных согласований; получения печатных материалов в особом формате или на других языках; помощи людям с ослабленным слухом; помощи переводчика. Все запросы должны быть представлены заранее, не менее чем за одну неделю. 이들 장소에는 장애인들도 접근할 수 있습니다. 아래에 기재된 부서에 연락하시어 장 애인 특별 지원 또는 부가 시설, 다른 양식이나 언어로 제공되는 인쇄물, 청각장애인, 및 통역사가 필요한 분을 위해 요청하시기 바랍니다. 상기 사항들은 일주일 전까지 미리 요청하여 주시기 바랍니다.

Join us at any time between the hours listed.

Need Assistance or Accommodations?

We welcome your input and encourage you to identify and discuss project-related issues throughout the planning process. You can submit written comments at the meetings, by mail, email or through the project website: www.bwmaglev.info.

MDOT MTA Office of Customer and Community Relations: 410-767-3999 • 866-743-3682 • TTY 410-539-3497

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SPACE IS LIMITED!!! FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND TO RESERVE YOUR SPACE CALL 202-231-7910 OR E-MAIL MCAMPBELL@UPO.ORG. UPO RALPH WALDO “PETEY” GREENE COMMUNITY SERVICE CENTER 2907 MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. AVENUE SE • WASHINGTON, DC 20032 United Planning Organization • 301 Rhode Island Avenue, NW • Washington, DC 20001 • 202-238-4600 • www.upo.org CFC# 90524 • DC One Fund Campaign #9881 • United Way NCA #9881 #StayCleanLivetheDream

16 OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2017

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

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INTERNATIONAL Compiled by Lauren Poteat / WI Contributing Writer

D.C. Targets Africa Via New Tourism Program D.C. is partnering with South African Airways to help attract more visitors to the nation's capital, particularly from West Africa. The partnership was forged by Destination DC — formerly known as the Washington, DC Convention & Tourism Corporation — which is the city's official destination marketing organization. As home of the world's largest population of Ghanaians outside of Ghana, the District aims to showcase the many attractions that Washington has 5 Washington is looking to invest more heavily in to offer to visitors. Ghana. /Courtesy of washington.org "The value added associated with making Washington, D.C., a part of your itinerary in coming to the United States, in our opinion, is incredible, especially if you're spending the whole day doing things that are free, then you're able to spend more on a great meal, shopping or going to concert or sporting event in D.C.," Elliot Fergusson II, president and CEO of Destination DC, said in a press release. In order to communicate the importance and impact of international visitation and the economic spin, Destination DC has been working closely with the US Travel Association, Fergusson said.

D.C. Administrator Named Director of Gullah Corridor

5 Heather Hodges is the new executive director of the

Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor. /Courtesy of gullahgeecheenation.com

One of the nation's oldest African communities is celebrating a new addition to its rich tradition. Heather Hodges, an administrator of a nonprofit law firm that provides free legal services in D.C. and a photographer who documents African, Afro-Latino and Hispanic cultures, was recently named executive director of the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor, located in South Carolina. "My vision for the Corridor is that it remains an enduring, robust and multi-faceted platform for the recognition of the cultural contributions of the Gullah Geechee people," Hodges said. "I look forward to supporting the Commission as it continues the important work of both implementing the Management Plan and finding new partners and supporters to help accomplish its important mission." Hodges, selected by a 13-member federal commission, is set to begin on Nov. 6.

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International Africa Summit Coming to D.C. Area

Service availability and access/coverage on the AT&T network is not available everywhere and at all times. Current GPS location may not always be available in every situation.

The annual US-Africa International Economic Development Summit is fast approaching, with many participants already registered. For this year's theme — "Strengthening Bilateral Investments Between U.S. and Africa" — panelists will focus on the areas of small- and medium-sized business relations and partnerships between Black American-, Caribbean- and Afro Latino-owned companies alongside Africa. As the U.S. undergoes another era of policy under the 5 The annual US-Africa International Economic DevelTrump administration, the seminar hopes to get African opment Summit will run from Oct. 17-20. /Courtesy of Union policy to favor African/African Diaspora joint aidforum.org ventures in government procurement and guarantee payment, as well as having the USAID to require 25 percent of its sub-contracting go to African SME/African Diaspora joint ventures. Summit officials also aim to establish government procurement policies and regulations. The conference will run from Oct. 17-20 at The Hotel in College Park, Maryland, culminating with an elaborate gala. WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

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Sports Photos by John De Freitas

at:

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OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2017 17 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

NATIONAL Church Leaders Meet in D.C. to Improve Communities, Employment for Blacks By Dorothy Rowley WI Staff Writer There used to be a time when Black churches, as vibrant cornerstones of social activism, served as places where congregants, civic leaders and others would gather to discuss issues and concerns of importance to their neighborhoods and communities. Led by a similar narrative under the banner of the nonprofit Black Methodist United, more than 50 bishops and other clergy from

the African Methodist Episcopal, Christian Methodist Episcopal and African Methodist Episcopal Zion churches convened Oct. 4 at the National Press Club in Northwest, where they discussed plans for reducing chronic unemployment numbers, revitalization of blighted housing and defunct businesses and the shuttering of churches in the Black community. "The issues that confront our people will not go unaddressed," said Bishop McKinley Young, presiding prelate of the 3rd Episcopal

District AME Church, and one of four panel members who led the group's hourlong discussion. "We chose to bring our meeting to the nation's capital because it's the seat of power, so that those [at the helm] will unmistakably recognize that we have resolved in ourselves to collectively project our voices in a way that lifts concerns of employment, education, housing and all of the issues that confront our people," Young said, alluding to the Trump administration. As the discussion proceeded, lead panelist Bishop Staccato Powell of the Western Episcopal District AMEZ Church focused on Black unemployment, citing the need for more successful youth employment initiatives in inner-city communities such as the Project One program that launched in 1985 in Louisville, Kentucky. Powell, who worked with the late Baptist minister and civil rights leader Leon Sullivan and Louisville's Opportunities Industrialization Center to bring the program to fruition, said it began by embracing the private sector and targeting idle youth. In urging BMU members to replicate similar programs in their respective communities, Powell said Project One remains relevant,

having placed more than 31,000 youth in meaningful summer jobs. Although he praised businesses such as Toyota, Kentuck Fried Chicken and other fast-food businesses that seek to improved impoverished communities, he said businesses should retain youth as young as 13 into job training programs. "I'm convinced that, like we have Sunday School, like we have the Christian Youth Fellowships, and other youth programs, we also need more jobs and educational strategies in place, because they can make a difference [regarding economic stability and viability] in our communities," Powell said. In addition to help from the successful Columbus, Ohio-based Black-owned and operated K.B.K. Enterprises, the religious leaders also aim to invigorate time-worn communities through development of affordable housing and retail shops that will provide jobs for residents of those areas. K.B.K. Vice President Mary Tucker said that as one of the largest minority development firms in the country, the organization has excelled in job training and the creation of blue-collar employment and reentry programs. "We believe in partnering with

5 Bishop Staccato Powell

announces The Black Methodist United “Jobs & Justice in Action” program, Wed., Oct 4, at the National Press Club in Northwest. / Photo by E Watson/EDI Photo church groups to create viable communities and jobs and to uplift education and homeownership," Tucker said. "We believe in changing lives and building sustainable communities by helping [reduce] unemployment and un-

MINISTERS Page 22

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Kaiser Anchors Billion-Dollar Development in New Carrollton By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill Prince George's County Executive Rushern L. Baker III lauded the recent start of a massive development project near the New Carrollton Metro station, stressing that the future of economic growth hinges on commercial and residential development near transit hubs. Kaiser Permanente Mid-Atlantic States will incorporate that vision with about 850 employees on a 49-acre complex near the Metro station. Kaiser, one of the nation's largest health care providers, will become part of a $1 billion transit-oriented development project in the city of New Carrollton scheduled for completion in the next 10 years. "This is going to be great for the surrounding communities," Baker said Oct. 4 after a groundbreaking ceremony near the Kaiser site scheduled to open late next year. "The properties values will go up and the quality of life will go up, so it's great for us." County officials hope Kaiser's presence would boost its proposal to entice online giant Amazon to construct a second headquarters in Prince George's. One of the three proposed sites rests in New Carrollton and would accommodate 10 million square feet on at least 300 acres near the Metro station. Other major businesses adjacent to the station that also call New Carrollton home include the state's Department of Housing and Urban Development. An education technology

company, 2U Inc., relocated from Landover this year to expand its operation in New Carrollton. The company plans to add 900 additional employees in the next three years to its more than 700 employees currently in the county. "To bring [companies] here to experience and expand and enjoy what we have to offer here in Prince George's County … means our residents win," said Jim Coleman, president and CEO of the county's Economic Development Corp. "Companies are going to say, 'If Kaiser Permanente is going out there and that's a Fortune 500 company, what's going on out there?' Other companies better get out here and find out what's happening." New Carrollton also houses the county's top transportation hub with access to Amtrak, MARC and Greyhound and other means of transit. The Metro station will connect to the Purple Line lightrail project, which officially began construction in August. The proximity to the New Carrollton Metro station stood out as one main reason why Kaiser chose the site, said Kim Horn, regional vice president for Kaiser. Horn said the "highly-skilled jobs" that will be available include programming, support systems and other administrative positions to exceed $20 an hour. She said the company serves about 150,000 people in the county with clinics and centers in Largo and Camp Springs. "We have a vision where many of our workforce can work, live and play," she said after the cere-

KAISER Page 22

HEALTH U M C R E C O G N I Z E S B R E A S T C A N C E R AWA R E N E S S M O N T H

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CAN’T GET ENOUGH WI NEWS? 5 Officials pose after groundbreaking ceremony Oct. 4 to open a Kaiser Perma-

WWW.WASHINGTON INFORMER.COM

nente building in New Carrollton. /Photo by Demetrius Kinney

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OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2017 19 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

Message from Muriel Bowser Mayor, District of Columbia As residents of the District of Columbia, we are blessed to live in a thriving multi-generational community. More than one in 10 of our neighbors are over 65 years old, and their ranks are growing every day. Our older residents are the cornerstone of our community and I am committed to making sure Washington, DC remains a place where people of every age can thrive. This is a DC value that drives my team, and we know that living in a safe, energetic, and age-inclusive community means looking out for one another every day. One way my Administration is looking out for older residents is by demanding strong protections against financial exploitation and abuse. Seniors in Washington, DC have often spent a lifetime working and deserve a peaceful and secure retirement, so recently, my Administration announced two pieces of legislation to hold those who target seniors with scams and identity theft accountable. The North American Securities Administrators Association estimates that older residents and vulnerable adults suffer annual losses of at least $3 billion because of financial exploitation and abuse. We need to stop this activity in its tracks – an effort that will require the entire community working together to identify and report instances of financial exploitation. The first piece of legislation, the Protection

20 OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2017

of Seniors and Vulnerable Adults from Financial Exploitation Act of 2017, would establish a mandatory reporting requirement in cases of suspected financial exploitation for insurance companies, securities firms, and banks. The Act also allows financial firms to temporarily delay payments related to suspicious transactions. This would halt bad actors before they can inflict permanent damage on seniors’ hard-earned savings and credit. The second piece of legislation, the Vulnerable Population and Employer Protection Amendment Act of 2017, would authorize the District’s health occupations board to take disciplinary action against health professionals who engage in the financial exploitation of patients, clients, or employers. The bill would also allow my Administration to move swiftly to suspend the license of health professionals that exploit patients for financial gain. This adds long overdue teeth to current law. In addition to this legislation, my Administration will continue the Safe at Program, which has already installed safety adaptions in the homes of nearly 700 DC seniors and residents with disabilities, and we will also continue to hold workshops on financial literacy for residents of every age. For example, the District’s Department of Insurance, Securities, and Banking collaborates with Adult Protective Services and other members of the DC Elder Abuse Prevention Committee to make

financial fraud prevention presentations and to distribute financial education materials to seniors and vulnerable adults throughout the city. Over the past year, we have reached 4,817 residents through 58 senior-specific outreach events. I encourage the Council to act promptly on my legislation, and I hope all of us will continue to work together, be good neighbors and, most importantly, look out for each other.

BACK TO WORK 50+ at DC DEPARTMENT OF EMPLOYMENT SERVICES

DC Department of Employment Services and AARP Foundation Working Collaboratively to Serve Mature Job Seekers The District of Columbia has a diverse population of talented job seekers, ages 50 to 64, who seek to reenter the workforce as valued and productive employees. BACK TO WORK 50+ was created by AARP Foundation in an effort to enhance opportunities for mature job seekers by broadening access to critical employment resources. In collaboration with AARP Foundation, the DC Department of Employment Services (DOES) has implemented the BACK TO WORK 50+ model to connect mature job seekers, from all wards of the city, with services supporting their timely reentry into the workforce. With today’s competitive job market and employers that value seasoned and dependable job candidates, BACK TO WORK 50+ at DCDOES engages a population that brings those skills to the table. If you are an older worker, ready to return to full-time employment, this program is for you!

BACK TO WORK 50+ at DCDOES Eligibility Requirements • • • • • •

District of Columbia residency Between the ages of 50 and 64 Having at least a high school diploma or GED Legally eligible to work Interested and ready for full-time employment (40 hours per week) Basic Computer Literacy

Services • • • • • • • • •

7 Smart Strategies for 50+ Job Seekers Workshops Assessment Group Job Coaching Sessions Technology Training Resume Development Career Counseling Supportive Services Referrals Individualized Case Management and Coaching Job Placement Assistance

BACK TO WORK 50+ at DCDOES is located at the American Job Center – Bertie Backus Campus, 5171 South Dakota Avenue NE, 2nd Floor, Washington, DC 20017. For further information on the program, contact the DOES Division of State Initiatives at (202) 698-5599. Interested job candidates should call AARP Foundation at (855) 850-2525 to register for an upcoming workshop.

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

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EDUCATION DC Education Fund Celebrates 10 Years

Empowering Males of Color Leads Discussion

By Sarafina Wright WI Staff Writer The DC Public Education Fund celebrated 10 years of philanthropy with the Empowering Males of Color initiative leading the conversation. Touting themselves as the only accountable private funding source for D.C. Public Schools (DCPS), the Ed Fund marked its anniversary by bringing together leading educators, elected officials and philanthropists on Thursday, Oct. 5 at Dunbar High School in Northwest. Jessica Rauch, executive director and president of the Ed Fund, said that since its founding in 2007, the organization has raised over $120 million to support DCPS' transformation from a historically underperforming urban school district to the fastest-improving in the nation. "We've been very proud of our decade-long partnership," she said. "And part of why we're convening so many folks is to reflect on the last 10 years with this unique partnership that we've been able to establish between D.C. Public Schools, DC Ed Fund and their philanthropic partners. Really thinking about what were those big investments that made the biggest difference and what should we be looking for [throughout] the next 10 years in terms of how we can grow and solidify our model." Rauch said DCPS had a different setup when the organization became established in 2007. "There were a lot of things that needed to be updated and fixed," she said. "The biggest initial strategy the DC Ed Fund had was partnering with DCPS to support the Human Capital Strategy for the District. So DCPS launched what was considered one of the most groundbreaking aggressive performance evaluation systems in the country.

"IMPACTplus is the performance pay structure that DC Ed Fund raised $64.5 million from the philanthropic community to support," she said. "So after the first few years of Impact evaluation systems and IMPACTplus, we were able to prove really great success and we started to see the outcome we were hoping to see." Rauch said the city started to attract more top educators to the District, and retaining the existing ones. She contended that after the first few years the Ed Fund made the case that this investment was so successful that DCPS wanted to sustain it long-term and absorb it into the local budget. "That experience really helped to define our model. To pick a few things at any given time that we want to do with DCPS, and then we work on those things for a few years we help seed them, pilot, initiative, and then the school district decides to sustain those successful programs that are good for longterm investment," Rauch said. The Ed Fund works in threeyear cycles and in the past few years has had a new set of priorities. "We announced our updated priorities and they fell into three buckets — first transforming instructional practice investments in curriculum like the cornerstone initiative; global travel — able to send over 800 students to fully funded study abroad programs for the last two summers," she said. "Also the lead fundraisers for the Empowering Males of Color (EMOC) initiative which was launched in January 2015 with Mayor Bowser and Chancellor Kaya Henderson at the time." Rauch said the EMOC grew out of the realization that the achievement gap between males of color and their counterparts were playing out across the country, including D.C. In every single measure — student achievement,

5 Mayor Muriel Bowser addresses attendees at the DC Public Education Fund’s 2017 Philanthropy Forum, Thurs., Oct. 5, at Paul Laurence Dunbar High School in Northwest. /Photo by E Watson/EDI Photo

students satisfaction, truancy and attendance — males of color were behind, she said. "We knew we had to do something different, so the Empowering Males of Color initiative is something that is really meant to be a call to action for the community to rally together and support our young men across the system," she said.

301511_6_x_6.5.indd 1

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Ron Brown College Preparatory is considered the anchor of the EMOC initiative. Rauch said the DC ED raised $1 million to help launch the allboys high school, supporting a lot of the initial cost that "really make the experience unique and special for the young kings who attend that school." "Things like summer bridge

programming, college tours, international travel and making sure the students have the uniforms that they need," she said. "The second cohort started this school year so we're continuing to support Ron Brown for the next six months or so and then the PTO at the school will begin to pick pup fundraising efforts moving forward." WI

10/4/17 4:56 PM

OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2017 21 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

VEGAS from Page 1 menting on operational strategies and tactics. "We are monitoring the horrific mass shooting incident in Las Vegas. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and Vegas community," she said. Meanwhile, investigators are trying to determine whether someone else was in the Las Vegas gunman's hotel room when he was registered there, senior law enforcement officials briefed on the investigation told NBC News. The investigators said they're puzzled by two discoveries:

First, a charger was found that does not match any of the cellphones that belonged to Paddock. And second, garage records show that during a period when Paddock's car left the hotel garage, one of his key cards was used to get into his room. There are several possible explanations for these anomalies, the investigators say, but they want to get to the bottom of it, NBC News reported. They are also examining his finances. Paddock's most recent IRS records show him as a successful gambler, earning at least $5 million in 2015. Some of that could be from other in-

vestments, but most of it was from gambling, officials told NBC News. Paddock unleashed a barrage of bullets from the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino on Sunday, Oct. 1, killing at least 58 people and injuring about 500 others who were attending a country music festival below. His motive remains unclear. Senior law enforcement officials said Paddock, 64, had researched possible attack locations in Boston and Chicago, including the Lollapalooza festival in Chicago in August. WI

5 Police respond to the deadly Las Vegas shootings. / Courtesy of NBC News

KAISER from Page19 mony. "We have a longstanding investment in Prince George's County. We looked at where health care is needed, kinds of jobs [the county] wanted to create. We built this 10-year plan to support the work here." Urban Atlantic of Bethesda will not only construct the building for Kaiser's employees, but also a nearly 300-unit apartment building with restaurant on the ground floor and a 10-story, 175-room hotel that would sit adjacent to the Metro station. Vicki Davis, president of

MINISTERS from Page18

Events DC Bid Opportunity The Washington Convention and Sports Authority (t/a Events DC) are soliciting bids from qualified vendors to perform Sales and Booking Strategy for Designated Events DC Venues. Interested parties can view a copy of the Request for Proposal (RFP) by accessing the Event DC’s E-procurement website at www.wcsapex.com and opening APEX BID #18-S-033-449. Key Dates Questions Due Date: 05:00 PM EST, Friday, October 18, 2017 Proposal Due Date: 03:00 PM EST, Friday, November 3, 2017 Please feel free to contact Contracts and Procurement Analyst Andrea Lennon (Alennon@eventsdc.com) with any questions. 22 OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2017

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

deremployment with job training, restoring blighted properties, providing economic development and creating viable communities." Tucker added that K.B.K.'s partnership with BMU will start next spring in the western episcopal district of the country before eventually rolling out across the nation. With financial resources aimed at the resurgence of communities expected to stem from tax credits, grants and other nonprofit coffers, Tucker said K.B.K. expects to deliver on close to $1 billion in development projects nationwide. To that end, BMU also lends focuses to the trend to them progression of gentrification projects in Black neighborhoods that have buttressed the sale of numerous historic churches. According to Denise Rolark Barnes, publisher of the southeast D.C.-based Washington Informer newspaper, at least 30 Black churches in the city and throughout the country have recently shuttered their doors and sold their properties. Barnes asked if the organization's initiative might signal other churches "to put the skids" on their plans

Urban Atlantic, said the hotel wouldn't be constructed for another four or five years. Officials couldn't stop smiling while staring at the lot, which ultimately will accommodate nearly 1,000 workers in a 176,000-square-foot building with access not only to Metro, but also to Route 50 and Interstate 95. "This is the best multi-modal location in the region," said Malcolm Augustine, a member of the Metro board of directors who represents Prince George's. "It's just a fantastic location. I'm really looking forward to this entire project coming to fruition." WI to sell and relocate to nearby suburbs. "Absolutely," said Powell, adding that BMU encourages Black congregations to hold to their properties. "They're tremendous assets. If your property is underperforming or in a declining state, we can help you in ways that you can't even imagine," he said, noting that churches in blighted communities most likely already have an abundance of resources around them. "We don't have to desert [our churches] and flee the inner city," Powell said. "As a matter of fact, those who want our properties, want us to leave the inner city. But it's to our advantage to hold on to what we have. Keep your churches and let us help develop them in ways that make them and your communities attractive. "We want to stay plugged in," he said. "We don't want to just come to Washington the seat of perceived power to have our discussions and then go back home and have nothing happen. We want to make sure we've generated a sufficient buzz to make things happen." WI

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In Memoriam Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, Sr. Wilhelmina J. Rolark THE WASHINGTON INFORMER NEWSPAPER (ISSN#0741-9414) is published weekly on each Thursday. Periodicals postage paid at Washington, D.C. and additional mailing offices. News and advertising deadline is Monday prior to publication. Announcements must be received two weeks prior to event. Copyright 2016 by The Washington Informer. All rights reserved. POSTMASTER: Send change of addresses to The Washington Informer, 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E. Washington, D.C. 20032. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. The Informer Newspaper cannot guarantee the return of photographs. Subscription rates are $45 per year, two years $60. Papers will be received not more than a week after publication. Make checks payable to: THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E Washington, D.C. 20032 Phone: 202 561-4100 Fax: 202 574-3785 news@washingtoninformer.com www.washingtoninformer.com

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Knowing Your Credit Profile is Important to Financial Literacy Cerita Battles SVP head of Retail Diverse Segments, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage

Financial literacy is critical to consumers’ ability to manage money and reach their financial goals. Wells Fargo is pleased to sponsor this special section provided by the Washington Informer on this important topic. Understanding your personal credit profile is an important component to financial literacy. Not only is your credit profile used by lenders to determine if you are eligible for financing like a mortgage loan, this information also is often accessed by potential employers, landlords, cell phone providers and insurance companies. Knowing your credit profile, including your credit score, can help inform you if you may be ready to be approved for a loan or how much you need to improve your score to be eligible for financing. And as it relates to this year’s financial literacy theme – protecting your finances – the information in your profile also will point out if there are any mistakes that need to be corrected. Making sure that your credit profile is accurate, ensures that lenders have correct information when determining loan approval. According to research by Wells Fargo, there is a gap between African Americans and the general population when it comes to knowledge about credit and credit profiles. For example, in Wells Fargo’s 2016 How America Views Homeownership survey, 18 percent of African Americans vs just 9 percent of the general population said they are “not sure” what credit score range is considered good. In the same survey, 35 percent According to research of African Americans vs 28 percent of the general population answered by Wells Fargo, there “not sure” when asked the minimum is a gap between credit score range needed to qualify for a mortgage. The gap is not big African Americans in terms of knowing credit score, and the general though. For example, 20 percent of African Americans answered “not population when it sure” when asked what their credit comes to knowledge score range is vs 16 percent of the about credit and general population. The good news is there are nucredit profiles. merous resources to assist with credit knowledge. To know where you stand in terms of your credit profile, consumers are entitled to a free copy of their credit report from each of the three credit bureaus once a year at www.annualcreditreport.com. To help improve your financial literacy as it relates to your credit profile, you can visit the Wells Fargo Smarter CreditTM center at www.wellsfargo.com/smarter_credit. The site has great information on establishing, improving and rebuilding credit. FL www.washingtoninformer.com / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER FINANCIAL LITERACY SUPPLEMENT – 2017

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Financially Strong: Tips to help the next generation succeed at money management independence. During those college years, some will 21547 learn money management skills for 5.65x10 the first time. Others may take 4C what they already know to the next level or conversely, experience financial hardship after making poor budgeting decisions. It also doesn’t help that rising college costs have made it more difficult for students to pay tuition, school supplies, rent, utilities, groceries and other expenses without the aid of student loans. There are four steps that today’s adults can take to help increase a child’s likelihood of becoming proficient in financial management:

By Sylvia Jones Wells Fargo Education Financial Services Market Relationship Manager It is only a matter of time until today’s children will transition into adolescence and adulthood. As this transition happens, parents, mentors and family members should take advantage of every opportunity to help the next generation of adults develop the important money management skills. Knowing how to manage money early-on can pave the way for future success by applying good spending habits, saving and investing for the future, and donating to charity. According to the American Psychological Association, 36 percent of Americans say they are uncomfortable talking about money, and 18 percent say money is a taboo subject within their family. Yet, the sooner parents and family members can have an open dialogue on how to establish good financial habits the better. Whether it’s a conversation about what to do with birthday money, how to invest a monthly allowance or best practices for managing a paycheck, good money skills may help reduce financial stress and the amount of future debt carried by adults. When an adolescent heads off to college, it may be their first time experiencing financial

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Helping them prepare for financial success

1. PROVIDE RESOURCES OR OPPORTUNITIES FOR CHILDREN TO EARN MONEY. An allowance for completing weekly chores or working parttime at a local small business can help a young person learn the value of money. 2. CREATE A BUDGET. Breaking down expenses not only shows where money is spent, but also how it’s wasted. 3. INTRODUCE THE 50/20/30 RULE OF THUMB. Apply half of all money earned into fixed costs (i.e. gym member, entertainment subscriptions, another type of monthly expense), 20 percent into financial goals (i.e. college, new car, self-reward), and 30 percent into flexible spending (i.e. food, shopping, entertainment, day-to-day expenses). 4. BUILD CREDIT. Learn how to build and maintain good credit and understand how credit can influence or limit future financial opportunities. For more tips and resources visit Wells Fargo’s Get College Ready website, an interactive online platform that features advice and guidance articles, calculators, and videos, which are designed to help students and parents financially prepare for college and beyond. We can all take part in the effort to help ensure that future generations learn the set skills to make informed financial decisions and become financially successful. FL

It’s never too soon to teach the importance of saving, and to show our commitment, Wells Fargo has developed a free, financial education program to make learning about saving easy. Hands on Banking® helps take learning to the next level. To find out more, stop by and talk with a banker today, or visit handsonbanking.org.

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Using Credit As A Tool To Achieve Your Financial Dreams

By Beverly Anderson Wells Fargo EVP – Head of Cards and Retail Services As a kid growing up in Paducah, Ky., my siblings and I would sometimes make the three-block walk down the street to the neighborhood store. Once there, we’d fan out to get the eggs, milk, cheese, bologna and whatever else my dad wanted us to pick up. Once we checked everything off the list, we’d take our groceries to the front counter, where the owner would tally everything up and write the total down in his ledger on the page

reserved for our family. On payday, mom and dad would settle up. It was an early lesson about credit that taught me credit basics that are still true today. First off, it taught me about the importance of credit. Credit, when used responsibly, can help you reach your life goals, whether it’s the short-term goal of paying for groceries or the long-term need to finance a college education. Watching my mom and dad and the way they were able to provide for our family through responsible use of credit made a huge impact on me. Second, it taught me about the importance of building good credit. My mom and dad were always careful to make payments on time and that allowed them to use credit for bigger and bigger purchases as I grew older. Their diligence in managing their money and paying their bills on time paved the way for achieving other financial dreams and goals. Finally, it taught me the importance of setting limits in using credit. Early on, my family needed credit from time to time to make it to payday, but mom and dad always settled up when payday came. They did not overextend themselves or use credit to

pay for things our family didn’t need. It’s important for credit to be part of an overall financial plan, not a tool that permits you to make impulse buys or unnecessary purchases. I believe credit can be a hugely valuable tool for many of us. Across America, we rely on credit to help us achieve financial dreams. Who could pay for a college education or buy that first house without access to credit? If you are thinking about using credit, I encourage you to learn more about using it responsibly. Visit our Smarter Credit Center https://www.wellsfargo.com/ goals-credit/smarter-credit/ to get some good tips about establishing credit, discover how to improve or rebuild your credit and ways to put your credit to work for you. Our family started with groceries, but we built from there. The family car. Our home. My college education. Our family’s responsible use of credit helped me get where I am today, and it made me passionate about the role I can help play in providing others with access to credit. It made me passionate about helping create a path that allows others to achieve their financial dreams. FL

Four Things Veterans and Service Members Need to Know When Buying a Home By Darnell Glover, Private Mortgage Banker (Military Certified), Wells Fargo Home Mortgage If you’re a veteran, reservist or active duty service member, you have earned the opportunity to become a homeowner. It’s important to know that there are special benefits you may be eligible for when buying a home. Here are the top four things you should know about buying a home as a service member or veteran. 1. There are special financial education resources designed for military personnel and veterans. Take advantage of these free online resources so you can be a savvier home shopper. For example, Wells Fargo’s Hands

on Banking for Military, which offers courses on topics like banking basics and smart spending, also contains a comprehensive guide on homebuying.

3. A large portion of qualified buyers aren’t taking advantage of the low-to-no-down-payment mortgage options available through VA loans. Indeed, more than 21 million veterans and service members live in the U.S., but over the past five years, a mere 6 percent of them bought a home using a VA home loan, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs. This may be due to the common myth that active duty service members, National Guard members and reservists are not eligible for VA loans (in fact, they may be eligible). Many also are unaware that unmarried, surviving spouses of veterans who died as a result of service or service-related causes are also eligible.

2. Before assuming you won’t qualify for a loan, talk to a lender. Be sure to tell the lender that you have served or are currently serving in the military. They can inform you about the options available to you, such as a VA (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs) loan. A VA loan is a home loan guaranteed by the federal government, designed to help those who have served in the military obtain homeownership. They can sometimes be obtained with zero down payment. Gifts or grants can be used to help cover down payment and closing costs, subject 4. Individual banks, not the to program requirements, and no Department of Veterans Affairs, mortgage insurance is required.

offer VA loans, allowing you to work with a lender who understands your needs and makes you feel comfortable. A specialized team member who understands unique military needs, such as a Wells Fargo Military Lending Specialist, can help you make the most of the home loan benefits you’ve earned. Developing a relationship with this lender is also a good idea, as you may later choose to refinance through the VA Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL) program. To learn more, visit wellsfargo. com/military. If homeownership seems daunting, remember that taking advantage of VA benefits can make it more financially and logistically viable. FL

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It’s our honor to serve you — every step of the way

You’ve served our country — and Wells Fargo is committed to serving you. Our goal is to enable long lasting, sustainable homeownership, provide financial education, and support veterans and service members with career transition. We’re here for you

You can count on us to understand your needs and answer any questions you may have about the programs and options available to you. 4926 Wisconsin Ave. N.W. Washington, D.C. 20016 202-895-5150 www.wfhm.com/dc-washingtondcbranch-washington

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Don’t Let A Student Loan Default Ruin Your Financial Life By Charlene Crowell While it is generally accepted that higher education is an essential credential in the 21st Century, it is equally true that it comes at a higher cost than ever before. Today, more than 43 million Americans together owe $1.4 trillion in student loan debt. Even worse, a record 8.5 million consumers have defaulted on federal student loans, the least costly student loan product that also offers the most flexible terms. According to the federal Department of Education (DOE), default rates at some institutions are so high that they are now atrisk of losing access to federal student aid. Of the 10 institutions identified, as at-risk for this aid, seven are for-profit schools. High default rates are usually one of two measurements: either 30 percent or more defaults over three consecutive years or a default rate of 40 percent over the last year. At these levels, DOE could impose sanctions. Howev-

er a series of 2017 Departmental actions suggest a more favorable view of for-profit institutions than in the previous administration. As a result, it would be prudent for all student loan borrowers to seize control of setting their financial houses in order. Defaulting on a major loan – like student ones – can bring rippling and deteriorating effects. From declining credit profiles to the ability to land a job, or the higher cost of new credit, it is in the best interest of consumers to find out as much as possible on their loan and its repayment. Just as with mortgages, student loan servicers can and do frequently change. And it is not always a certainty that as files and accounts were transferred that loan records were complete or up-to-date. But if borrowers take the time to make a list of their own personal records and payments, resolving loan issues with servicers could lead to a focused and fact-based discussion.

Federal student borrowers have a right to a repayment plan based on their income. No matter the circumstances, consumers can request their monthly loan payments be reviewed against their income. Affordable payment options are available even to student borrowers who have either missed payments or lost a job. Even if servicer discussions prove unproductive in resolving loan issues, consumers still have state and federal government offices that can assist. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has an online complaint form specifically for student loans. According to CFPB, 97 percent of consumers receive timely replies after filing a complaint. Copies of payments, correspondence and other related loan documents should be attached when filing a complaint. Consumers must also identify whether the complaint involves a federal or private student loan. CFPB’s toll-free number (855) 411-2372) is staffed Monday

through Friday from 8:00am to 8:00pm Eastern time. More information on student loans is

also available at: https://www.consumer finance.gov/consumer-tools/student-loans/. Consumers can also contact their state Attorney General (AG) for complaint assistance. As with CFPB, most state AGs have online access to file complaints. In the metro area, consumers may contact the respective AG offices for assistance: District of Columbia: https:// oag.dc.gov/service/submit-consumer-complaint Maryland: http://www.marylandattorneygeneral.gov/Pages/ CPD/default.aspx Virginia: https://www.oag. state.va.us/consumer-protection/ index.php/file-a-complaint “If you’re struggling to repay, lost your job, there are solutions -- call your servicer,” noted Whitney Barkley-Denney, a student loan expert and Policy Counsel with the Center for Responsible Lending. “There are solutions.” “At the same time, the Department of Education should do more to ensure that borrowers are well informed and paying under the best plan available to them,” concluded Barkley. FL Charlene Crowell is the communications deputy director at the Center for Responsible Lending. She can be reached at charlene. crowell@responsiblelending.org.

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Beware: Safeguard Your Credit Cards

By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer

The recent Equifax breach has made consumers more cautious about monitoring their personal information and their credit. Whether it is unauthorized access to personal information or the misuse of credit information, individuals should beware of several scams that can affect them and their credit cards. Here are a few and how they work: SCAM PHONE CALLS. A scam artist may call you to say you owe money to clear up an invoice. The scam caller may ask for a credit card to resolve the issue. Don’t do it. Hang up and call your credit card company to tell them what just happened to you. There are also phone scams where scammers offer to reduce your credit card debt. Be clever and ask the caller for a callback number. The caller will often either hang up. But if they give you a callback phone number, give that information to your credit card company.

SKIMMERS. Scam artists can walk next to you and use a device that grabs your credit card number through your wallet or purse. Scam artists also can place a skimmer device on ATM machines or other selfserve units like gas pumps and vending machines that grab your credit card number. With today’s technology, your “skimmed” credit card number can quickly be transmitted by Bluetooth to a scammer’s partner some distance away. Once you see unusual activity on your credit card, immediately contact your credit card provider. More than likely, your credit card company will contact you first, because your credit card number will be used immediately showing a lot of activity once it has been skimmed. You can avoid having your credit card information captured by someone walking by or bumping into you, by keeping your credit cards in a protective RFID card sleeve, wallet, or purse. CREDIT CARD FRAUD

DEPARTMENT SCAM. Individuals may receive an official sounding call from someone who claims to be from the fraud department of your credit card provider. The caller will tell you that your credit card has been breached. They will even offer you a callback phone number if you have questions. You will be asked to verify your credit card information including the credit card security code. Credit card companies will never call you and ask that you verify your credit card number or security code. Hang up immediately, then call your credit card provider to inform them that you may have been contacted by a scam artist.

Ensure the safety of online purchases by adding anti-spam and anti-malware software to your computer or laptop. If you feel you have been a victim of a scam with your credit cards or through other means, contact your local police. To stay on top of scams and cons, visit the Federal Trade Commission web-

site (www.ftc.gov) where you can: • Receive the most up-to-date information about the Equifax breach • File a fraud complaint • Sign up for fraud alerts in your area Sources: Moneycrashers.com, Bankrate.com, FTC.gov. FL

Whether it is unauthorized access to personal

information or the misuse of credit information,

HACKING OF ONLINE PURCHASES. Some online sites have a low security set up which makes a website more susceptible to vicious malware. Malware is a type of software that damages or infiltrates a computer or network. This type of software grabs your credit card information for use in making unauthorized purchases.

individuals should beware of several scams that can affect them and their credit cards.

Sal Khan Founder, Khan Academy

Learning better ways to manage your money doesn’t have to cost a thing

The more you understand how your money works, the more confident you’ll feel about your financial decisions. That’s why we created Better Money Habits® in partnership with Khan Academy—an independent, nonprofit organization with the mission of providing a free, world-class education for anyone anywhere. Better Money Habits is a one-of-a-kind online approach to financial education that’s customizable and answers tough financial questions in practical ways. Get the financial know-how you need at BetterMoneyHabits.com

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Worried about your future? Get the tools you need. In today’s economic climate, you know you can’t count on Social Security alone to have the retirement you want. After decades of hard work, you want financial independence and security to enjoy your future. AARP is working to help you plan with free, unbiased information so that you can make smart

facebook.com/AARPDC @AARPDC

financial decisions. For more information, visit aarp.org/retirement To request a speaker on Financial Freedom, email DCAARP@aarp.org

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Five Tips to Get Started on Your Retirement Savings But if it’s hard now to make ends meet and save, think of how hard it will be to live on just Social Security, which may replace 40 percent of your income when you retire. You’re going to need more than that — some experts say at least 80 percent — so it’s a good time to come up with ways to sock money away. Here are five tips to get you started.

By Joseph Williams, Sr. AARP DC State President We all have reasonable excuses for not saving for retirement. The big one is thinking we don’t have enough money to put aside.

1. GET A HANDLE ON CREDIT CARD DEBT. Are you carrying credit card debt? Call the companies and see if they’ll lower the interest rate you’re paying. That way, more of your payment will go toward what you actually spent and not toward interest. If you have debt on several cards, target the smallest balance first. You’ll feel great when it’s paid off, and it may give you the boost you need to go after the others. 2. LOOK FOR WAYS TO CUT SPENDING. If you’re spending more each

month than you’re taking in, you can turn it around. Pack your lunch to save money. Avoid buying things you want but don’t need (especially if it means using a credit card). Cut utility costs by turning off lights when leaving a room, installing a programmable thermostat, and weatherproofing doors and windows. If you stop for coffee or tea several times a week, try making it at home. You can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars with these simple changes. 3. PUT MONEY AWAY FOR AN EMERGENCY FUND. When something unexpected happens, it’s important to have savings to help you get through it. Work on building up savings that will cover three to six months of expenses. Remember all those credit card payments you no longer have? Start saving that money toward your emergency fund by opening an account with a local bank or credit union.

4. SIGN UP FOR A RETIREMENT SAVINGS PLAN. Does your employer offer a 401(k) plan? It may go by another name, like a 403(b) or Thrift Savings Plan. It’s the best way to save for retirement. You save a percentage of your income, and often the employer will match some of your contributions. If you get a raise, give your savings a raise, too. If your employer doesn’t offer a plan, consider opening an IRA at your local bank or credit union. It’s kind of like a 401(k) plan, but without the employer match (and you can’t save as much in it). You’ll need an upfront deposit, usually lower at credit unions, and you can set up automatic contributions. Once you have your emergency fund set up, start funding your IRA. A step along the way is coming up with a retirement savings goal. Visit AARP’s retirement calculator (www.aarp.org/retirementcalc) to help come up with your personal goal.

You’d make a great volunteer. Thousands of low- to moderate-income DC residents, especially those 60 and older, need help preparing their taxes. Volunteer for AARP Foundation Tax-Aide and make sure they get all the deductions and credits they deserve. To learn about this volunteer opportunity, visit www.aarpfoundation.org/taxaide or call 1-888-OUR-AARP (1-888-687-2277). AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is offered in conjunction with the IRS.

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5. HELP FAMILY WHEN YOU CAN, BUT DON’T RISK YOUR RETIREMENT SECURITY TO DO IT. These days, many kids leave the nest, only to find they can’t make ends meet and return home. If this happens in your family, and you can welcome your child back, that’s great. But make sure he or she contributes financially. A part-time job while looking for a full-time job can be the ticket to your adult child helping with higher grocery and utility bills. We may think we don’t have enough money to save for retirement. But chances are each of us can find some way to save. When retirement rolls around, you’ll be glad you did. AARP is working to help you plan with free, unbiased information so you can make smart financial decisions. For more information, visit www.aarp.org/ retirement. To request a speaker on financial security, email DCAARP@aarp.org. FL

DISB Protecting Your Financial Interests Financial decision making is part of everyday life. It can be as simple as buying a pack of gum to as complex as an investment program. Having the District’s Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking (DISB) as your local, financial services regulator and consumer advocate to protect what you hold dear is important. We make certain that you are being treated fairly from financial services providers operating in the District of Columbia. DISB offers programs, financial education resources, tips and other consumer services to help residents understand the products and services available from financial service providers to make more informed decisions. Get answers to your financial concerns – DISB can help connect you to the right resources for:

• Financial fitness • Spotting scams, reporting financial fraud and resolving consumer complaints • Accessing capital for small businesses • Preventing financial abuse of senior citizens and vulnerable adults • Building wealth, inheritance planning and debt management • Reverse mortgages • Homeowners and renters insurance 810 First Street, NE | Washington, DC 20002 (202) 727-8000 | disb.dc.gov | @DCDISB

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Make the Pledge to Protect Your Finances

Lucy Drafton-Lowery Public Affairs Specialist D.C. Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking

Did you know that older residents are the most common targets of financial scams? Dishonest advisers prey on the elderly as they believe older residents tend to have more assets in savings and pensions accounts as they prepare for retirement. But don’t let them fool you or your loved ones. Many make their moves through unsolicited phone calls and emails that are pushy and demand payment right away. While brokers, investment advisers, and their firms are required by District law to be licensed or registered, unlicensed advisers often pose as legitimate, licensed professionals. Oftentimes, by the time a scam is exposed, it’s usually too late and the victim’s assets are depleted. For example, the daughter of an elderly woman submitted a complaint to the Department that after her father’s death, her mother, who lives in Pennsylvania, invested $400,000 with a company based in the District of Columbia that was not licensed. The mother attended a financial seminar in Las Vegas when she met the unlicensed financial adviser and was offered high guaranteed returns and a fixed-term investment. When the elderly woman wanted to withdraw the balance in her account of $400,000, the unlicensed financial adviser said he would have to find other investors before she could be paid. After a month of requests for a full withdrawal, he only sent her $10,000. The mother was holding out hope that the adviser would eventually return the money. The daughter, on the other hand, believed it was a type of pyramid scheme — and it probably was. A pyramid scheme is an investment fraud where investors recruit more investors, with returns being given to early investors using money contributed by later ones. The daughter also is concerned that the unlicensed adviser is preying on other victims, since he had an active website and speaking engagements. (The website is no longer active.) Here are five red flags to look out for in a financial adviser. 1. Promises of High Returns with Little or No Risk. The promise of a high rate of return, with little or no risk, is a classic warning sign of investment fraud. Every investment carries some degree of

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risk, and the potential for greater returns generally comes with greater risk. Avoid putting money into “can’t miss” investment opportunities or those promising “guaranteed returns.” Remember – if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

2. Unregistered Persons. Always check whether the person offering to sell you an investment is registered and licensed, even if you know him or her personally. Unregistered/unlicensed persons who sell securities perpetrate many of the securities frauds that target older investors. Researching the background of the individuals and firms selling you investments, including their registration/license status and disciplinary history, is free: • Contact the DISB at 202727-8000 or via the website at disb.dc.gov. • Search the Security and Exchange Commission’s Investment Adviser Public Disclosure (IAPD) online database at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. • Search the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA)’s BrokerCheck online database at brokercheck.finra.org. 3. Red Flags in the Financial Professional’s Background. Even if an investment professional is in good standing with his or her regulators, you should be aware of potential red flags in the professional’s background. DISB, SEC, and FINRA records can be used to identify red flags for potential problems, including: (1) employment at firms that have been expelled from the securities industry; (2) personal bankruptcy; (3) termination; (4) being subject to internal review by an employer; (5) a high number of customer complaints; (6) failed industry qualification examinations; (7) federal tax liens; and (8) repeatedly moving firms. 4. Pressure to Buy Quickly. No reputable investment professional should push you to make an immediate decision about an investment, or tell you that you’ve got to “act now.” If someone pressures you to decide on an investment without giving you ample time to do your research, walk away.

before the seminar that you won’t purchase anything or open an account while at the seminar. Even if the free meal does not come with a high-pressured sales pitch, you should expect the “hard sell” in subsequent contacts from the person selling the investment. Before you invest or pay for any investment advice, make sure your brokers, investment advisers, and

investment adviser representatives have not had disciplinary problems or been in trouble with regulators or other investors. You also should check to see whether they are registered or licensed. The information is easy to get, and one phone call or web search may save you money. The District of Columbia’s Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking regulates the city’s

financial-services businesses. It has two missions: to effectively and fairly regulate financial services to protect the people of the District; and to attract and retain financial-services businesses. For more information, 202-727-8000 or visit disb.dc.gov. Source: U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission FL

District of Columbia Student Loan Borrower’s Bill of Rights Student loan borrowers in the District of Columbia deserve a loan repayment process built on fairness, professionalism and transparency. This Bill of Rights sets out the basic principles and protections that borrowers can rely on as they work to reduce their student debt. Beyond that, student loan servicers in the District are expected to uphold these key tenets with respect to all student loan borrowers and each student loan they service. Every District student loan borrower has the right to: • Transparent Pricing and Terms • Receive Non-Abusive Products • Fair and Responsible Underwriting • Fair Collection Processes • Quality Customer Service To view the Bill of Rights in its entirety, file a complaint with the Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking (DISB) or contact the District’s Student Loan Ombudsman, visit disb.dc.gov.

5. Free Meals. Be wary of “free lunch” seminars. The ultimate goal of free meal investment seminars is typically to lure new clients and to sell investment products, not to educate the public. If you decide to attend one, commit to yourself

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810 First Street, NE | Washington, DC 20002 (202) 727-8000 | disb.dc.gov | @DCDISB

Financial Circumstances Have People Over Fifty Working Longer

But Many Languish in the Harsh Reality of Age Discrimination By D. Kevin McNeir WI Editor Today’s life expectancy rate for U.S. citizens stands at 76.5 and 81.2 years for men and women, respectively, according to recent data provided by the world’s leader of medical research, Imperial College London. But before we celebrate, it’s important to note that these levels are among the lowest of the world’s richest countries – a list of “lows” that includes places like Croatia and Mexico. Why? Because, among other factors, America lacks universal health insurance and has the highest child, maternal, homicide and body-mass index rates of any high-income country. What’s more, many Americans 50 years of age or more have discovered that living longer often re-

quires them to work longer in order to keep up with their financial obligations and personal desires. That’s what one D.C. resident, Elizabeth White, a former COO for a midsize non-profit organization, once-celebrated entrepreneur and a graduate of Harvard Business School with an MBA, learned while struggling on the edge of a financial precipice for years despite outward appearances. White, now in her 60s, chronicles the pain she experienced as her flourishing career and upper-middle class lifestyle came to a grinding halt in her self-published book, “Fifty-Five, Unemployed and Faking Normal” and says that while she “pretended” that things were going great, in truth she feared the future – and soon discovered that she had a lot of company. “There’s a lot of pressure to act like you’re doing well, that’s why I

describe my personal reflections as an act of ‘faking normal,’” she said while speaking to this writer and others during a weeklong conference sponsored by the World Congress of Gerontology and Geriatrics in San Francisco last July. White admits that the townhouse she purchased years ago now has a rental rate that she couldn’t begin to afford today. Nor can she afford to pay the fee for private parking. Meanwhile, and in terms of how she reached her unexpected financial crisis, she says that after making her mark as one of only a handful of Black women employed by the World Bank, she took a huge piece of her retirement savings to fund her own business promoting African-inspired products – a venture that had tremendous potential but which eventually failed. “We were doing well but I could

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see that we were not going to be able to grow the business into a national chain as we were already struggling with volume,” she said. “One day I just closed my stores.” For a while, White survived due to consistent consulting work. Then, as the 2008 economic crash occurred, she went from close to $200,000 a year to zero. “The jobs of the past weren’t there anymore,” she said. “And I found it harder to get hired than I did years earlier – probably due to age discrimination. It didn’t matter how great I may have looked. I learned that early being in one’s 50s was no longer considered ‘young’ in the workplace. I realized I was in trouble.” Recent data from several social research organizations indicate that from the ages of 45 to 55, wages decline by 9 percent or more – declining by an additional 9 percent for those between 55 and 65. And believe it now, most experts say age discrimination starts at around 35 with women bearing the brunt much sooner and more intensely than men. “Maybe it was too many bottled waters and too many visits to Starbucks,” White says with a laugh. “I was embarrassed to admit to my friends what was going on in my life. But it was those same friends who helped me make it. I realized I had to come to terms with my new reality and deal with life on new terms.” In her book, she provides over 100 online resources and offers

ways to deal with the emotions she faced after landing in financial ruin. “We’re in the midst of a massive paradigm shift,” she writes in her book’s conclusion. “Much of what we know has been turned on its head. We’re going to make mistakes. Learn from them. Forgive yourself. Focus on what is working. Throw the rest away.” This article was written as part of the Journalists in Aging Fellows Program organized by The Gerontological Society of America and New America Media. FL

“The jobs of the past weren’t there anymore. And I found it harder to get hired than I did years earlier – probably due to age discrimination. It didn’t matter how great I may have looked. I learned that early being in one’s 50s was no longer considered ‘young’ in the workplace. I realized I was in trouble.” ELIZABETH WHITE, A FORMER COO

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Sometimes You Have to Go Through A Financial Surgery

Theresa Royal Brown Author, Entrepreneur, Event Producer Extraordinaire In life we can experience many life challenges. Loss of a loved one, loss of a job and loss of our health are things that can happen to any of us. When traumatic things happen, we sometimes have to go through a financial surgery to overhaul our finances and get us back on track. Sometimes that financial surgery includes bankruptcy. Bankruptcy is not a dirty word. I don’t immediately recommend it unless it is a last resort. However, sometimes it is necessary. Contrary to popular belief, not everyone who has ever filed for bankruptcy in their lives has mishandled their money or run their credit cards up to the limit. This is simply not true. Everyone’s situation is different and it can happen to anyone. There are lots of bankruptcy myths out there and I wanted to set the record straight that it isn’t the worst thing in the world to do. You won’t lose everything you own and you can bounce back. As a business owner who had to file years ago, I am here to tell you that filing was the best thing for me at that time. Even though it was something I didn’t want to do, it was the best thing for me and my business at the time. In life, we have to do what is best for us to propel us to the next level. In this month of October, make sure you assess your financial situation carefully and do what is necessary to get your financial life in order. FL Theresa wears many hats as the head of her own event planning organization, networking organization, speaker, author of several books including, Not Built To Break - Becoming Resilient Through Life Challenges” and “Top Level Connections - Tips To Become A Master Networker”. She is also married to her partner in life and business, and the man she adores, Charles L. Brown, Jr.

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Credit union or bank: What’s right for you? (BPT) - The banking and credit union worlds are as much the same as they are different. Both are eager to earn your business and to provide you with loans, mortgages, savings and checking accounts. With that said, there are some significant differences between the two financial institutions. In today’s world, with cutthroat competition for your money, it’s worth understanding the advantages of both, and perhaps making a switch to one or the other to put yourself in a better financial position. Credit union and banks: The differences The primary difference between a credit union and a bank is that a credit union is a notfor-profit cooperative, meaning it’s owned by its members or customers. Profits made by credit unions are returned back to members in the form of reduced fees, higher savings rates and lower loan rates. A bank, on the other hand, is for-profit, owned by shareholders and focused on its stock value. Joining a credit union is fairly simple, and membership is inexpensive - typically a one-time fee of between $5 and $25. Depending on where you live, many credit unions serve a geographic area, such as a state or metropolitan area, and are open to anyone who lives in that area. Some credit unions are employer-sponsored,

so that anyone (including family members) who works for that organization can join. There is no membership fee to “join” a bank. All you need to provide is some money to open a checking or savings account, a government-issued ID card, and some personal information (address, Social Security number, etc.). CREDIT UNION ADVANTAGES Credit unions, by and large, are able to provide better rates to their members. Unlike a for-profit bank, credit unions return their “profits” to members in the form of lower rates on loans, higher interest on deposits and more personalized services. Other advantages of a credit union are that they tend to have lower fees on checks, withdrawals and electronic transactions, and many offer checking accounts with no minimum balance and without a monthly service charge. Finally, because credit unions are smaller and have a focus on member service, they may be more flexible when it comes to working with someone with financial challenges. BANK ADVANTAGES Banks, because of their size and scale, tend to offer more financial products than credit unions. For example, a credit union may have two or three different types

of checking and savings accounts, whereas a bank may have dozens to choose from. Depending on where you live, banks will most likely have more locations for convenient access and more advanced online and mobile banking capabilities. Because of their geographic reach and wider range of offerings, a large bank could be a better fit for someone who wants specialized financial products (annuities, trusts) and needs access to nationwide locations. CREDIT UNIONS CATCHING UP Depending on where you live, you may have numerous options for selecting a credit union. Some credit unions may have only one location and offer basic financial services like auto loans, checking and savings accounts. Other credit unions may have a large footprint in a market or state and offer the breadth of services you’d find in a bank. Most offer free, nationwide ATM access, and since many credit unions belong to cooperatives, members can access accounts across the country through other credit union branches. Bellco, for example, offers a full range of financial products and services, including mortgages, auto loans and checking accounts. Today, Bellco has more than 300,000 members who benefit from the advantages of a credit union, including low-

er interest rates on loans, higher yields on savings and access to thousands of ATMs nationwide. CHOOSING A BANK OR CREDIT UNION Depending on where you live - urban vs. suburban vs. rural your banking and credit union options will vary considerably. If you are in an area that offers both, there are several features to weigh and consider: Services: Compare the basic banking services and access to specialized financial products, including advanced online services and mobile banking. Rates and incentives: Look at the current rates, fees, and incentives - as well as overall benefits to being a customer or a member

of the bank or credit union. Are there good reasons for joining one over the other? Location: Evaluate options to access your accounts, whether it’s branch locations or ATMs or mobile banking services, and decide whether a national footprint is a requirement for your banking. Finally, it’s important to note that both banks and credit unions insure your money up to $250,000 per person, across a group of accounts (checking, savings, and CDs would be considered one group). The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) insures banks, and credit unions are backed by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). FL

Are You Carrying the Right Credit Card for Your Financial Goals?

(StatePoint) If you’ve ever been confused by how to find the right credit card, you’re not alone. A recent national survey found that consumers are overwhelmed by the many credit card offers they receive, and find the process of selecting the right card difficult to navigate. The survey, conducted by Experian, also found that more than half (54 percent)

of surveyed respondents are not satisfied with their cards. “Consumers surveyed hold an average of three credit cards, which shows it’s been challenging to find a card that meets their needs,” says Ian Cohen, general manager at Experian Consumer Services. Unfortunately, there can be a bit of anxiety around getting a new card. With 40 percent of respondents admitting they’ve been denied a credit card in the past, many consumers sur-

veyed say they wish they would receive only solicitations with pre-qualified offers. There is also optimism. Sixty-four percent of consumers agree that there is a perfect credit card out there for them. If you are in the market for a new credit card, identify what card feature is most important to you, such as a low annual percentage rate (APR) or no annual fee. Also, check your credit score because that can help you understand what cards you may qualify for, since a credit score could be one of the factors lenders use to extend lines of credit. Luckily, free resources exist which can aid your search. For example, Experian offers an online tool that uses consumers’

own credit and financial data to match them with tailored credit card options. To see a selection of credit cards based on your preferences and credit data, visit experian.com. You should be careful though when applying for new credit cards – opening up several new cards in a short timespan may lower your credit score, hurting your chances for additional credit in the future when you may really need it for a big expense such as a car loan. If you have credit card debt and are struggling to pay it off, don’t despair. You can start tackling it today with a few steps: • Figure out how much you owe by making a list of all of your credit card balances and

loans, along with minimum monthly payments and APR for each. • Assess the best approach, whether it is paying off the card with the highest APR first or making payments on all cards with the goal of applying any extra money available to pay the lowest balance first. • Consider applying for a balance transfer card with no or low APR for a set period of time to transfer the debt. Whether your goals for having a credit card are building creditworthiness or having a cushion for emergencies, there is likely a card out there that’s right for you. Consider using new tools to help you find it. FL

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Guide to Raising Financially Responsible Children By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer Financial literary should begin in the home. And it should start when a child is in their infancy. However, that’s seldom been the case – particularly in minority homes where experts say teaching young ones the principles of budgeting early could go a long way in securing a strong financial future. “I think it is very important for students to learn the basics of personal finance at a young age. This can begin in preschool with the basics of counting pennies, nickels and quarters,” said Lamont Black, an assistant professor of Finance in the Driehaus College of Business at DePaul University in Chicago. “By second or third grade, children should be learning about jobs and income so that they can appreciate why their parents work. This is also a good time to learn about the importance of saving for something the child hopes to purchase,” said Black, who also serves as academic director for the Center for Financial Services and who formerly served as an economist at the Federal Reserve Board of Governors in Northwest, D.C. “Alongside these skills, teaching the values of frugality and generosity will help guide children’s money decisions for many years to come,” he said. In her 2013 book, “Do I Look Like an ATM?: Parents’ Guide to Raising Responsible African-American Children,” author Sabrina Lamb notes that while some school districts and corporations encourage the notion of financial education for young people, many do little beyond cre-

Sabrina Lamb’s book, “Do I Look Like an ATM?,” encourages Black parents to teach children about budgeting. Photo courtesy Amazon.com

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ating financial teaching materials. “Empowering our children through financial education begins at home with parents because beliefs about money are formed in the home,” Lamb said. “As generational wealth slips through our fingers, it is no longer advisable for either parents or children to remain ignorant of these issues, particularly when a parent is confronted with them daily,” she said. The Center for American Progress surveyed African Americans and Latinos and found that African-American respondents were most receptive to education and counseling provided to consumers. Fifty-six percent of African Americans described personal debt levels as a serious problem at the beginning of the survey. When asked again at the end of the poll, 70 percent of African-Americans described debt as a serious problem. Further, Black respondents were much less likely to see household debt as a middle-class-only issue. Only 54 percent said that debt is an issue that faces middle-class families as well as low-income households, compared to 79 percent of all respondents. Thirty-nine percent of African-American respondents thought the economy was most responsible for the debt problem, compared to only 24 percent of all respondents. “First, and foremost, parents should teach their children the value of money and how it will affect their present and future,” Lamb said. “Parents should consider giving allowances to their children, along with lessons on earning and managing their own bank accounts. Parents should also allow their children to have part-time jobs or receive payment for certain household chores so they can develop and maintain a working and entrepreneurial spirit,” she said. Further, Lamb suggests that parents should always have their children observe their online bank transactions and, from time to time, accompany them to the bank. While there, children should be shown how to make deposits and withdrawals and be taught about the functions of bank employees in ways they can understand. “These hands-on field trips will get children invested in how money flows beyond their parents’ wallets. This process will also familiarize children with finance

and mathematics so that later in life numbers and computation do not intimidate them,” said Lamb, an NAACP Image Award nominee who has authored other books including “A Kettle of Vultures” and “Celebrity Elect.” Parents should teach their chil-

dren to become financially literate and they can do so by enrolling them in programs like Youth Investment Club, Camp Millionaire, the WorldofMoney.org, Youth Financial Education Institute, or others across the country, Lamb says.

“Parents, acting as role models, need to show their children how they manage money in a positive way so that finances become part of the family culture and a natural and healthy part of children’s psyches,” Lamb said. FL

FIVE TIPS

to Assist with Getting a Small Business Bank Loan 1. Develop and maintain an ongoing business relationship with your banker. Relationships count in the banking world. To effectively serve you, bankers need to understand your goals, anticipated financial needs and current financial situation. 2. Understand the difference between loans and equity. Loans need to be repaid over a defined time period. Equity investments are permanent funds that serve as “shock absorbers” so businesses can weather good times and bad. Banks are in business to make loans. Equity funds should come from the business owners. 3. Be able to explain your company’s “value proposition.” Why should customers do business with you? How will you compete effectively in your chosen target market segments? 4. Have a business plan that covers best, most likely, and worst case scenarios. Developing alternative business plans shows your banker that you understand both the risks and opportunities of operating in your industry. Since your banker deals with many small businesses, he or she may have helpful ideas to help you survive and thrive in today’s challenging economy. 5. Develop at least two ways to repay the loan. Bankers look for both a primary and secondary source of loan repayment. United Bank offers a number of small business loan products to fit many borrowers’ needs. Give our small business lender a call to learn more about our loan offerings. John Gusciora Commercial Banker 703.584.3468 John.Gusciora@bankwithunited.com

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Don’t Become a Victim of Deceptive Advertising By D. Kevin McNeir WI Editor

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the bottom line on your bottom line.

Great businesses run on know-how and insight. PNC will work with you to customize solutions that fit the shape of your particular business, whether it’s streamlining processes, expanding services, managing payments and more. Once you can see precisely what’s coming in and what’s going out of your checking account, you can plan what’s ahead for your business. And truly run things.

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Whether we realize it or not, we have all been enticed to respond to advertisements that, while they appear to be legitimate, are nothing more than scams with deceptive, fraudulent information. But according to several attorneys with the Federal Trade Commission [FTC], Alvaro Puig, Carolyn Hann and Patricia Poss, as well as D.C. Attorney General Karl A. Racine, there are several recognizable signs that indicate potentially deceptive advertising. While not an inclusive list, many false ads focus on health and weight loss products, credit repair services, jobs and income and immigration. “Whenever ads promise quick fixes, guarantee cost savings or emphasize the need to act immediately, consumers should beware,” Hann said. “Any claim to remove negative information from your credit report should raise a red flag, if for no other reason than it’s both impossible to do and it’s illegal. Extended warranties, like for an automobile, are rarely worth the paper on which they’re printed. Consumers should read such documents and offers with great care before signing on the dotted line.” “And if you’re offered instant credit or guaranteed a loan, with words that say something like ‘no one is denied,’ you should beware of these ‘opportunities’ as well. Consumers will not only probably lose their money but will not get what they were promised,” Hann added. One longtime activist and reporter for The Carolinian (serving North Carolina’s Black community in the Triangle area) says she’s seen deceptive ads becoming more prevalent particularly for weight loss programs. “There’s no one size fits all nor can you eat whatever you want and still lose weight,” she said. “And most weight loss programs have an exercise component included. And when you have to pay a lot of money up front, you can bet it’s just a scam,” said Octavia Rainey, a Raleigh-based longtime activist and writer for The Carolinian who admits she’s faced weight challenges, making her a prime candidate for such scams. Senior citizens, the attorneys say, tend to be among those most at risk for falling victim to deceptive advertising, with ads promising dietary supplements that will counter the impact of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. But there are others, like bogus envelope stuffing scams that say you can work from home and get reimbursed for your services which they say are fraudulent schemes.

As for immigration services, promises for easily-accessible green cards or quick-fashion work status legalization are other means of deceiving consumers. Several signs that often indicate fraudulent advertisement include: a guarantee that you will make specific income; a no-risk promise on an investment; a promise that you can begin earning income immediately; and internet businesses, vending machines and display racks that guarantee tremendous financial opportunities but which more often do little more than rob consumers of their hard-earned savings. Hann says the FTC has been successful in recovering and returning money to consumers who have submitted complaints (www.ftc.gov or 877-FTC-HELP) at an average of $3 million/year. Information submitted to the FTC becomes part of a secure data base and is also submitted to law enforcement agencies across the country. Racine and his staff in D.C., remain hard at work on behalf of District residents with positive results including one joint lawsuit, filed along with 39 other states, that achieved success in a $102 million consumer protection settlement with Pittsburgh-based Education Management Corporation [EDMC] – a for-profit college operator. The settlement resolved allegations that EDMC made unlawful misrepresentations in advertising its educational offerings to prospective students. “People should be able to take a business at its word. But whenever we discover that a company has unlawfully deceived consumers, we will bring actions against them,” Racine said. Besides filing complaints, either with the FTC or the D.C. Office of the Attorney General, people can help reduce the effectiveness of fraudulent businesses by sharing their stories with others – keeping up their radar so that they’re more aware that deals which sound “too good to believe” tend to be just that – unbelievable. “We can all be victims of scams. That’s why we have short articles posted on our website with tips intended to help adults recognize scams. For senior citizens in particular who have a lot of life experience and are smart people, helping them to recognize fraudulent advertisements, like sweepstakes, prize and grandparent’s scams, can be very empowering,” Hann and her associates said. Participants in this article representing the FTC were part of a recent teleconference sponsored by New America Media. In addition, this article was written as part of the Journalists in Aging Fellows Program organized by The Gerontological Society of America and New America Media. WI

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Life Insurance: The Real Wealth Gap Closer

By Steven LaBroi Chief Strategist, The LaBroi Insurance Group, LLC

Life insurance is one of the most misunderstood tools often utilized as a wealth-building vehicle in our lives today. Due to the connotation of the term, most people think of life insurance as death insurance. Life insurance, as opposed to auto, homeowners and health insurance, is not mandated by the government. Yet, it is the only tool with an IRS tax code that continues to significantly impact wealth for all cultures in the U.S. The concept of insurance can be traced back to Roman society, but since insurance concepts were first established in the U.S. in the late 1800s, generations of Americans have been able to use life insurance as a risk management and wealth building tool in situations that include the sudden loss of a family member and the protection of assets in the case of income loss. The history of life insurance for African Americans started around 1898 with North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company – one of the first Black-owned insurance companies in the U.S. and currently the largest Black-managed insurance company in the U.S. By the first part of the 20th century, over 20 Black-owned insurance companies had been formed throughout the U.S., providing insurance products during segregated times. As valuable as these companies were to our communities ($1.65 trillion collectively in written policies), most were unable to remain solvent in the midst of evolving integration and the introduction of group life insurance through employers – an option which African-American companies were unable to provide during those early years. To understand life insurance is to define the different types along with strategies and applications that can positively affect our lives (living benefits) and our families such as providing coverage for funerals and generational wealth. Life insurance, just like any other product and service, undergoes regular changes and updates. It’s no longer like the policy your

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grandmother purchased. Permanent life insurance is where it all started and serves as the foundation of life insurance where you save money using a life insurance company and receive various benefits in return including: Compound interest, benefits based on financial markets, cash values, potential dividends, benefits to family, loans, withdrawals, tax-free growth, tax-free use if designed properly and other options based on a company’s products. The types of permanent life insurance policies are whole life, universal life, index universal life and variable life with each providing different benefits. Term life Insurance is just what the title implies – it is protection for a term designed to cover your assets and your family only in the case of loss of life. It is usually very affordable and with its singular strategy only benefits in one specific case unless it has optional riders (provisions) that may add additional benefits. Some benefits can be used prior to loss of life. In most cases, at the end of the term the policy increases in price and some may be converted into permanent insurance by provisions in the policy. Annuities are life insurance policies that carry benefits for saving your money with an insurance company that could provide benefits such as growth of funds, no loss of principal during downturns, family protection and even lifetime income similar to pensions. College planning is a great opportunity for parents or grandparents to save money with a policy where the cash values can be used for education or other related expenses. Currently, cash values are not calculated as assets on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid [FAFSA] application, which could minimize eligible assets in a portfolio. Retirement planning strategies can use permanent policies by using cash values to cover retirement expenses and if set up properly can be used tax-free. This gives individuals greater control and options beyond the use of government-based taxed-deferred accounts. Building a Human Equity Line of Credit™ [HuELOC] creates a source of funds for a lifetime, controlling interest and tax payments to other insti-

tutions as well how one spends their dollars. You are in control of whether you “buy” (borrow) money from institutions or not. The strategy shows you how to accumulate funds in a life policy and build a Human Equity Line of Credit™ that you and the next generation may use. It puts the “why” back into using life insurance as a tool. It is the wealth gap closer for today’s and future generations based on current life insurance and tax laws. Do your research and look at how life insurance can specifically work for you and your family. Kill the stereotypes and establish a legacy of change. The LaBroi Insurance Group, LLC, is an African-American-owned independent life insurance and retirement strategy firm. www.labroiinsurancegroup.com Millennial Banking Concept is a not-for-profit organization that teaches younger people money management strategies. www.millennialbankingconcept.org FL

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Steven LaBroi

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OPINIONS/EDITORIALS

EDITORIAL Americans Need a Lot More Than a Minimum Wage ‘Raise’ The Obama Administration proposed a raise in the federal minimum wage from $7.25 to $9.00 in 2013, continuing to call for an increase throughout his presidency. Then, in 2014, Seattle raised its minimum wage to $15, with San Francisco and Los Angeles quickly following suit. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo made $15 the minimum wage for his state in 2016. Meanwhile, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser successfully pushed through her “Fair Shot Minimum Wage Amendment Act,” now standing at $11.50/hour, which incrementally increases the minimum wage to $15/hour by 2020. We believe these increases not only are long overdue but essential for low-wage workers, particularly those with families, if they hope to meet even their most basic needs. But now, a report recently-released by the District’s Office of Revenue Analysis suggests that close to 2/3 of the pay increases will benefit citizens in D.C.’s bordering states of Virginia and Maryland, instead of District residents. Further, the findings warn that the increase will result in a decrease in District jobs at a minimum of 1,200 by 2020, recommending that what’s needed is the creation of more good-paying jobs for those needing them the most rather than an artificially-created minimum wage increase. Nonetheless, we still believe that the District’s political leaders have made the right decision. We find it difficult to lament over the loss of just over 1,000 jobs in the long run when compared to helping citizens find it a little easier to survive today. Even more, we’d like to see a consensus of economic experts brave enough, or insane crazy to go out on a limb and say $15/hour can suffice for a family of four – whether they live in Washington State, California, New York or the District of Columbia. They know that inflation eats up such minimal increases – at least in most of the country’s 50 states and the District. So, pardon us if we don’t say thanks to those who believe they’ve done Americans a great big favor, particularly with looming tax breaks of more benefit to business owners and the wealthy and an affordable healthcare program that remains under fire in danger of total annihilation. WI

Living in the Desert in DC Studies of the District’s neighborhoods consistently reveal the existence of deserts in our nation’s capital. They exist in neighborhoods where thousands of people live, or better yet, survive despite the life essentials they lack such as healthy food, healthcare choices and economic resources including banks or credit unions. This Saturday, concerned citizens and advocates are coming together to call on government and business leaders to bring much needed grocery stores to the deserts in Wards 7 and 8 where nearly 150,000 people live but are served by only three grocery stores – one Giant food store in Ward 8 and two Safeway stores in Ward 7. According to a study conducted last year by DC Hunger Solutions, the disparity is glaring in a city that had 49 full-service grocery stores, now 50 with the recent opening of Trader Joe’s at Eastern Market in Ward 6, which alone at 11, has the highest number of full-service grocery stores in the District with two more slated to open soon. It should be of no consequence that the residents of Wards 7 and 8 are predominately African American and lower income because many of them end up paying more due to increased transportation costs required to travel as far away as Maryland and Virginia to buy healthy food and often at a lower price. And while many of these residents use supplemental food programs like SNAP and WIC, their desire to feed their families well is just as important to them as it is to those who are flush with full-service grocery store choices in every other part of the city. WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

TO THE EDITOR Anthem Protests Show Racial Chasm in U.S.

Arts Can Be Students' Gateway to the World

All I can say is "Amen" to the article written by Stacy M. Brown, "Activist: American Cares About the Flag Only When Blacks Protest," in the Oct. 5, 2017 edition of The Informer. My question is, how does not standing for the anthem disrespect the flag? The anthem is a song and the flag is an object. Protesters are not burning the flag as some did, they are not urinating or defecating on the flag as some did — they're just not standing for the playing of a song. That's not disrespecting the flag, that's not standing for a song! White America tries to find any reason to show that Black Americans are not patriotic, when in fact Black Americans are more patriotic than any other race of Americans ever, having given more, sacrificed more, served more and gotten far less than any. The fact of the matter is when you are Black and you protest the injustices in America there are some people, mainly white people, who just don't want to acknowledge the fact that Black Americans are not treated the same as white Americans.

I was simply thrilled to read your article, "Kennedy Center Seeks to Bring Equity to DCPS," by Sarafina Wright. The arts are a wonderful way to help open up a whole new world of experiences for students. While I was in school the arts showed me how math, science, history and literature all tied together. Without the arts I would have never wanted to study any of the other subjects. For so long all you read about was how the system had to cut the arts out of the instructional day in order to prepare for tests. Now with the partnership with the Kennedy Center, hopefully students will discover what I did, and be able to have a fully rounded approach to their education. Without the arts, civilization is nothing, and it's time we started teaching that. Karen Brothers Washington, D.C.

Barry Long Washington, D.C. We agree with DC Hunger Solutions’ view that “The District’s grocery gap is a food security, anti-poverty, health, and racial equity issue that must be addressed. Closing the full-ser-

vice grocery store gap must continue to be the District government’s priority in its effort to provide all residents access to healthy and affordable food.” The solutions coming from

the marchers must be heard by politicians who have suggested that “when the people come, the businesses will follow.” The “people” are here now! WI

OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2017 23 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist

By Charlene Crowell

Black America's Dreams of Homeownership Still Deferred The late Langston Hughes created a masterful body of poetry in the 20th century that spoke about and to Black America's unique experiences. Also an author and playwright, his words in all media pricked our consciousness to wonder and ponder how we somehow remained so different from others after living more than 200 years in this land. One of my favorite Hughes poems asks the question, "What happens to a dream deferred?" Today, that question is as timeless as it is

timely. Why is it that, in 2017, Black homeownership is still deferred for so many? Every year, the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) report provides an update on mortgage lending over the past year. It is the only national report that examines lending by race and incomes. In 2016, an analysis of mortgage lending by the Center for Responsible Lending (CRL) underscores how once again dreams of homeownership are still being deferred nationwide: • Blacks had the highest denial rate in mortgage applications of any eth-

Guest Columnist

nic group, and was double the denial rate experienced by Whites; • Black consumers received just 3.1 percent or 65,451 of the 2,123,000 conventional mortgage purchase loans made in 2016; • When Black and Latino conventional mortgage purchase loans were combined, the percentage increased to only 9 percent for the year; and • FHA purchase mortgages performed a bit better for Black consumers at 10.6 percent — 142,329 out of 866,000. "It is troubling to see the continued trend of mortgage lenders abdicating their responsibility to serve the

full universe of credit-worthy borrowers," said Nikitra Bailey, a CRL executive vice president. "During the financial crisis, taxpayers of all colors together paid for the bailout of banks," Bailey said. "Now and years later to see that African-Americans and Latinos remain overly dependent upon FHA to access mortgages is a sign of unfair treatment. Whites continue to unfairly receive more favorable access to affordable loans, despite our nation's fair lending laws." For decades, Black consumers were given a litany of excuses as to why they did not qualify for the most affordable

mortgages: not enough income, not enough of an employment record, too many bills, and more. But it was just last year that Nielsen released a report that found "a decade of economic and educational prosperity" from 2004 to 2014. During these years, Nielsen found that Blacks had a collective $162 billion in buying power. By 2020, that purchasing power was projected to rise to $1.4 trillion, thanks in part, to the number of Blacks earning $100,000 or more. Over the decade reviewed, Black earnings in

CROWELL Page 41

By Dr. Elizabeth V. Primas

What Should Black Parents Do When the Feeder School System Fails?

I was recently approached by a father of a student from Anne Arundel County, Maryland, who was disappointed that his son was unable to attend his neighborhood magnet school. His son met all the requirements to become classified as a magnet student. Upon inquiry, administrators informed the father that the feeder school system did not permit his child to attend the desired school, even though the campus was less than two miles away from their family home. This

was especially upsetting to the father, because he purchased the home 10 years ago with that specific school in mind. The school prescribed by the feeder school system is 12 miles away from his home. Great Schools, the leading national nonprofit organization devoted to assisting parents in unlocking educational opportunities for their children, gives the prescribed feeder school a two out of five stars rating, compared to the four stars given to the school initially selected by the father. Realizing that the school's ratings may lead to a misguided conclusion, he and his wife toured the school

Guest Columnist

to get a firsthand look. They were equally disappointed with the school climate and physical condition of the building. His son is a recipient of the President's Award for Educational Excellence. The administrators were adamant that the prescribed school would meet his son's educational needs. Despite their insistence, the father was never convinced. After failing to make progress with school administrators in Ann Arundel County, he made the hard decision to enroll his child in a local non-magnet school, which has only one Advanced Placement (AP) course and limited opportu-

nities in advanced courses. My question to Education Secretary Betsy DeVos is this: Why is it that, despite your push for "school choice," parents are still being directed to lower performing schools with poor school climate, inadequately prepared teachers, and failing test scores? This is contradictory to the intention of the Every Student Succeeds Act. It is the opposite of the policies you and the Trump Administration say you support. The options offered to this parent were inadequate and did not allow him the opportunity to ensure his child will receive a quality education.

Furthermore, the feeder school system, in this instance, was completely ineffective. Instead of fixing education, it appears this administration has allowed states and local school districts to re-segregate, provide lower quality education to children of color and sentence our children to academic underachievement. This is not how ESSA was designed to operate. Thankfully, this parent did not accept less for his child. Other parents may not have the ability to stand for their children. ESSA was

PRIMAS Page 41

By Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr.

We Americans Must Face Our Addiction to Guns

Fifty-eight dead and counting; 500 sent to hospitals. The deadliest mass shooting in modern American history took place Oct. 1 in Las Vegas, as a lone gunman firing from a window on the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay Hotel savaged a crowd gathered to watch a country music show. It was, as one observer noted, like shooting fish in a barrel. The automatic rifle fire lasted for minutes. The shooter didn't really have to aim; he only had to pull the

24 OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2017

trigger. We watch scenes of the massacre on our TVs. The crowd panics and begins to run. The police run toward the shooter, even though their guns cannot reach him and their vests cannot protect them from his military ammunition. Their valor no doubt saves lives. This is an act of domestic terrorism. The killer apparently acted alone. He had been in the hotel for four days; authorities report he had about 10 guns with him. We will learn more about him, his idiosyncrasies and motivations, as authorities probe for what led him to com-

mit this heinous act. The shooter was a white male. His relatives express shock that he could do this. If he had been an African-American, there would be a rush to connect this to the demonstrations for equality. If he had been an immigrant, it would have stoked our fears of the stranger. If it were a foreign terrorist, it would be an act of war. (The Islamic State didn't hesitate to claim "credit" for the act, although authorities say there is no evidence at this point to support that claim.) Instead, the search will focus on what created the madness inherent in this act of mass murder and suicide.

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In the Bible, Jesus asks, "Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye but fail to notice the beam in your own eye?" (Matthew 7:3). Even as the authorities investigate the mental health of the killer, we need to question our own collective insanity. Why are military assault weapons not banned in the United States as they once were? Why do we accept such easy access to guns? Nevada has no gun control laws; it is an open-carry state. Rifles are part of the West's rural culture. Las Vegas, the sin city of casinos and alcohol, might want to put limits on guns, perhaps requiring them to be checked as they

once were in the towns of the old West. The state legislature, however, has prohibited any municipality from passing its own gun control laws. No foreign power is as much a threat to us as we are to one another. There is no sanctuary. No place is safe. A Bible study class in Charleston, S.C. A movie theater in Aurora, Colo. A nightclub in Orlando, Fla. College campuses across the country. Twenty children were shot dead at Sandy Hook Elementary in New-

JACKSON Page 41

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OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist

By Julianne Malveaux

This Flag is Drenched in Blood

I am not sure why the national anthem and the so-called American flag are part of our nation's sports pageantry. Before 2009, while the national anthem was played, sports gladiators were not required to suit up, stand up, and put their hands to their hearts — and why should they? The song that is sung is an insult to people of color. When I hear "the land of the free and the home of the brave," I think, "the

land of the thief and the home of the slave." The National Football League, paid by the Department of Defense (seriously?) has paid for a fake cultural hegemony, for the notion that we are all on the same page. How could we be on the same page? How could the men who have been hauled out of their cars, pushed down to their knees, forced to justify the reasons they are driving high-end cars be on the same page with the men who "own" them, who may or may not support them, may or may not kneel with them, have fealty with their

masters? Colin Kaepernick took to the knee, not because he disparaged the flag, but because he disparaged the many ways that African-American people were being diminished by police brutality. Call the names, call the names, the men and the women who have been unjustifiably killed, call the names, and call the names of the many ways Black Lives Must Matter. Call the names, call the names, of the structural racism that cuts like a knife, or kills like a bullet. Call the names. There are those who have a story to tell about so-called disrespect

Guest Columnists

to the "American flag." But the flag is drenched in blood. Black men went to fight in World War I, and came back to this country and were lynched because they refused to cede the sidewalk to white people. What flag did they serve under, and why should we celebrate it? And why do disingenuous fools, including Mr. 45, chide NFL owners with strangely coded language, suggesting a lack of loyalty? Where is the loyalty to the Black men and women who supported a country that would not support them? The paradox of loyalty is that African-American people love

a country that does not love us. We pledge the flag, drenched in blood, because we want something better. Colin Kaepernick took a stand, and many of his colleagues support him because they cannot embrace a flag that supports the unjustified killing of African-American men. Colin Kaepernick sacrificed his career to make a point, and he has been focused and fierce about his principles. Colin Kaepernick, by kneeling, encouraged all of us to stand up for our rights. Colin Kaepernick is a hero!

MALVEAUX Page 42

By Marian Wright Edelman

Black America's Dreams of Homeownership Still Deferred

Dr. Lanre Falusi knows firsthand the anxiety families face when the future of their child's health insurance is in jeopardy. A pediatrician at Children's National Medical Center in Washington, D.C., Dr. Falusi recently had a routine visit from a 7-year-old patient with asthma. For the last few months this little girl has been fairly stable thanks to her daily controller

and rescue medication covered through D.C.'s Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). But she often has tough winters and her mother was trying to plan ahead having heard CHIP's future funding was uncertain. "That was her question: 'If I don't know if she's going to have insurance, can I get a prescription for extra medication and save it just in case?'" the doctor said. "She was in crisis planning mode for her daughter's health and she wanted to stockpile the medication. It was

really disconcerting to me that that's what we're asking parents to start doing. States are dealing with an incredible amount of uncertainty about their funding — and maybe they are used to doing that — but the fact that we're asking families now to do that around their children's health is inappropriate and unconscionable to me." States and families across the country are in this crisis mode because Congress let the deadline to extend funding for CHIP pass at midnight on Sept. 30 leaving

Askia-At-Large

9 million children like Dr. Falusi's young patient uncertain about their health coverage. For months Congress has been busy debating whether or not to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and destroy Medicaid as we know it. While the death of the Graham-Cassidy health repeal bill in late September was a major win for 37 million children who rely on Medicaid for their health coverage, in the midst of that major fight, funding for CHIP was left by the wayside.

Earlier this week it appeared Congress was coming together and might move forward a strong, long-term extension of CHIP with bipartisan support. On Wednesday the Senate Finance Committee quickly passed its Keeping Kids' Insurance Dependable and Secure (KIDS) Act (S.1827) with the support of all but one member of the Committee, but the momentum for CHIP stalled in the House Energy and

EDELMAN Page 42

By Askia Muhammad

A 'Moron' to the Rescue According to one reliable administration source, President Donald J. Trump is a "moron." Furthermore, his dwelling, beneath the portico at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. has turned that once respectable living space into "an adult day care," according to another influential Washington Republican. "Somebody obviously missed their shift this morning," and the Moron in Chief took out all his toy soldiers and stood them all up around himself and said it was "the calm before the storm." He warned that soon, he would

make North Korea acquainted with something truly awful, because "they only understand one thing." Asked what that "one thing" might be, he winked like Santa Claus in a movie scene. His Nibs is prepared to decertify, and then tear up the Iran nuclear treaty, reached in 2015 with all five U.N. Security Council member nations, plus Germany. "Worst deal ever," tear it up, he says. Never mind the other five parties and the U.N. If this guy is to be believed, the U.S. can just pull out of any agreement, at any time it feels like it, with no adverse consequences. That's a great incentive for North Korea to roll over and make a "deal"

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to give up their nuclear ambitions with This Dude. America is good to its word … sometimes. So while he's saber rattling at North Korea and Iran, bedlam broke out involving elite U.S. Green Berets in Niger. Still-unidentified forces attacked a U.S. unit and accompanying Nigerian forces when they were out on a "training" mission. The Donald, the "moron" president, aims to set all the errant U.S. foreign policy aright, that has been going wrong for the past couple of generations. In what suffices for his brain, he reckons that the perceived size of the testicles of his recent predecessors is the reason all these

foreign powers have been taking advantage of this country. He can't declare war on North Korea. The two countries are still officially at war! A truce was signed ending hostilities in 1953, establishing a "de-militarized zone" separating the North from South Korea. If the United States had been capable, it would have prevailed in North Korea back then. If the U.S. had been capable, it would have prevailed in Vietnam, instead, this country slinked out of that quagmire with its tail between its legs, and its dignity shattered with 57,000 dead — at least 40,000 of whom were sent to their death after Presidents Kennedy, Johnson

and Nixon and their advisers McNamara and Kissinger all concluded that war could not be won! Real deaths. Not fake deaths. Now what does this "dotard" (an old mentally deficient man, a title hung on him by the North Koreans) know about foreign policy that those presidents before him didn't know? He thinks his unstable reputation and bullying persona can cause nations with superior advantages and resources over the U.S., to simply capitulate and let him have his way, the way he does with contestants backstage at beauty pageants!

ASKIA Page 42

OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2017 25 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

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to source our ingredients locally." Wade, a bartender at Embassy Row DC, a downtown boutique hotel, decided to go into business through the nudging of customers. "It came from a mix of experiences I had at different bars and working with clients even before I had a business," she said. "Guest at my bar would say hey can you come bartend for this party and it was a demand for it so I said I should create a service." Cocktails on Call offers mobile mixology, custom cocktails, menu creation, alcoholic treats and mixology classes. Despite being in an indus-

5 Jazmyne Wade, owner and operator of Cocktails on Call, serves her signature cocktails at the Taste of DC on Oct. 7

at RFK Stadium in Southeast. /Photo by Shevry Lassiter try largely dominated by white men, Wade said she doesn't feel invisible or ostracized just because she's a Black woman. "It is a male-dominated in-

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dustry, but I do feel like there is a lot of opportunity," she said. "I don't feel like for me personally I've faced any adversity because I'm a female. I feel a lot of encouragement and camaraderie from the males and the females within the industry." The Northwest native wants her community to know that

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LIFESTYLE

‘Death of a Salesman’ Still Reverberates in the American Psyche

Howard Grad Brings New Vibe to Timeless Masterpiece By D. Kevin McNeir WI Editor @dkevinmcneir

something happened that changed the trajectory of his life. “I always loved music and I still do,” he said. “But somehow I found myself in a play and completely fell in love with it. I never looked back. I’m not sure what I’d do if I were not an actor – maybe something in politics which has always fascinated me, perhaps at the local level. But this is what I do and who I am – an actor. And it requires a real team effort.” Wallace points to the contributions and skills of the entire cast of “Death of a Salesman” including the dramaturg, director and assistant director in making this production one of the best ever. But he also recognizes his responsibilities. “I had to become as familiar with my character as possible so when we all came to the table I had my own perspective but could also be open to what others have found important as we collectively built the characters,” he said. “I’m pleased and proud at what we’ve achieved.” Wallace, who has made a name for himself as an interpreter of some

change the way you become a particular character on stage. I’m blessed to have the chance to become Willy Loman for this production and I’m using every moment to put my stamp on this character and share the words and feelings that I believe Arthur Miller hoped for when he first penned this amazing play.” For more information go to www. fords.org. WI

5 Craig Wallace leads a stellar cast as Willy Loman in Arthur Miller’s “Death of a Salesman,” now playing at Ford’s Theatre in Northwest. /Photo courtesy Ford’s Theatre

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When Arthur Miller wrote his most lauded and successful play, “Death of a Salesman,” which opened 70 years ago, he said he wanted to write something that transcended time and place and was universal in its appeal. Clearly, he accomplished his goal and much more earning a Pulitzer Prize for his classic tale that forces us to examine what it means to succeed and the cost that comes when we chase the American Dream. Now, Ford’s Theatre Society in Northwest D.C. brings a new casting of the powerful play to the stage once more – this time with Howard University graduate and former standout with the District’s highly-celebrated Shakespeare Theatre Company, Craig Wallace assuming the lead as Willy Loman – a father, husband and traveling salesman who, for 24 hours, reflects on his life, the unfulfilled optimism of his youth and the many dreams he failed to achieve.

Directed by Stephen Rayne, the play runs through Oct. 22 and is a “tour-de-force” – the kind of production that viewers will remember and talk about for years to come. Wallace, cast in a role traditionally given to a seasoned white actor, said he approached the role the way he’s done throughout his career – making sure that the character becomes one unique to his own personality and idiosyncrasies. “The producers wanted to cultivate an audience that would appreciate diversity – a reflection of the audience itself,” Wallace said. “One way to do that is to invite them into the theatre and let them see people who look like them on stage. And while Willy Loman may be a wellknown character in contemporary theater, this Willie is ‘mine.” No one has done it like I’m doing it. That’s the way I approach every character I’ve ever portrayed – from Louis Armstrong to Othello.” Wallace remembers his earlier dreams of becoming a DJ – something he worked hard at both in high school and college. But then,

of Shakespeare’s most provocative and memorable characters, found it difficult to identify one role that he would list as his favorite. But he did have an interesting response to the question. “There are a few roles I’d like another chance at one day but I don’t have a favorite,” he said. “I think as you get older and gain more professional experience, you look at roles differently and see how you might

OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2017 27 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

LIFESTYLE

Denene Millner: Celebrated Author Recaptures Love for Youth Aims New Focus to Providing Books Inspiring Black Children By D. Kevin McNeir WI Editor @dkevinmcneir New York Times bestselling author Denene Millner remembers

the first time she received a check for writing – a 17-year-old youth then more focused on becoming an architect than a journalist. But after considering a much

earlier heart-to-heart talk with her father who asked her “what do you want to do with the rest of your life,” the Long Island native says she began to dream about and work toward becoming a television reporter. Lucky for us, a college scholarship and unique opportunities helped her find her real passion: writing – a skill she eventually parlayed into co-authoring highly-successful celebrity memoirs about people like Steve Harvey, Taraji P. Henson and Charlie Wilson, just to name a few. Millner shared these and other thoughts in Detroit on Sunday, Oct. 8 at the Main Library in Detroit during “Family Funday” where she read to children and their parents from two books that bear her unique signature: “Early Sunday Morning,” a heartwarming celebration of the special time a young girl and her family 3 New York Times bestselling author

and noted parenting authority Denene Millner prepares to read from a just-published book, "Crown." / Photo by D. Kevin McNeir

share together as she learns how to lift her voice in praise during worship, and “Crown,” a book published under Millner’s imprint and written by Derrick Barnes that captures the joy young Black boys experience when they get that “fresh” haircut. Millner says her recent focus on books for youth actually brings her full circle to her earliest days as a writer and the aspirations she once kept close to heart. “After the birth of my first child who I just sent off to college at 18, I recall that there was a dearth of characters in children’s books who looked like us,” she said. “You could find stories about basketball players, slaves who had escaped bondage and tales about entertainers but I wanted to find stories that reflected everyday Black children. Those books just didn’t exist. And it bothered me.” Now, with growing accolades and a surging fan base, not to mention having authored close to 30 books, she’s been able to finally make a difference in offering the kinds of books for children of color that simply were

not available during her early years of motherhood. And she says she couldn’t be happier. “I guess I always dreamed about being a writer whose work celebrated the humanity of Black children,” she said. “So, I took a leap of faith and began to develop my own children’s imprint. If others weren’t willing to produce and publish these stories, I decided that I’d fill that sorely needed niche.” Millner notes the challenges facing Black writers whose stories lift up Black boys and girls and make them feel like they’re “royalty.” “About 2,800 children’s books are printed each year,” she said. “Ninety may feature African-American characters but only 7 percent are written by Blacks, equating to less than 12 books a year. That’s tragic because when you see the impact of stories about everyday Black children written by Black authors who can write from firsthand experience, it’s easy to understand their significance. That’s what I’m all about now – I’m finally living my dream.” WI

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Local Chorale Headed to Carnegie Hall By Eve M. Ferguson WI Contributing Writer The Heritage Signature Chorale, which recently completed its 17th anniversary of showcasing the music of African-American composers, Negro spirituals and "elevating the African-American singer and composer in all music genres," is headed to perform in the penultimate venue for music: Carnegie Hall. The group, which recently launched its 18th season, rounds out its repertoire with their own arrangements of European and American classical music and other cultures around the world. Their rich, multi-tonal voices are as adept at singing "Elijah Rock" as they are handling "O Fortuna" from "Carmina Burana," evidenced at a recent concert at the Union Wesley AME Zion Church in northeast Washington, where they

performed the first concert of its 18th season. The HSC is yet another venture under the direction of Stanley J. Thurston, who also directs the Washington Performing Arts Men and Women of Gospel and whose drive and talent has resulted in the Heritage Signature Chorale making its Carnegie Hall debut next March. But before heading off to the big city, the chorale will participate in the 5th annual Colour of Music Festival this month in Charleston, S.C., and will debut Haydn's "Lord Nelson Mass." In 2016 they performed at the 4th annual concert by invitation, singing Beethoven's "Ninth Symphony" and Brahms's "German Requiem" with the festival's orchestra. During its 16th season, the chorale performed Gershwin's "Porgy and Bess" with the National Symphony Orchestra at the John F. Kennedy Center for

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the Performing Arts. Other highlights included a singing tour of Italy in 2016, where the Festivale Corale Internazionale of Rome awarded the group the prize for "Outstanding Performance." They also performed concerts that highlighted diversity and humanity such as the Anti-Defamation League's "Concert against Hate" and their own "Concert for Humanity" featuring the choir from Delaware State University, a premier HBCU. "We are very excited about our upcoming concert at Carnegie Hall in New York City in March of 2018," said Shebbie Robinson Rice, the chorale's business manager. "We are in the middle of a fundraising campaign to raise funds to take local high school and college voice students with us to participate in the Carnegie Hall concert. "What a wonderful experi-

LIFESTYLE

5 The Heritage Signature Chorale celebrates its 18th season with a Carnegie Hall performance. /Courtesy of HSC

ence that would be for them," she said. Donations to support the student experience can be made online on the Heritage Signature Chorale's website, www. heritagesignaturechorale.org. The Heritage Signature Chorale was founded by Thurston

in 2000. He has appeared as conductor of choruses and orchestras at Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, the Music Center at Strathmore, Carter Barron Amphitheatre, DAR Constitution Hall and the National Cathedral, among other important venues. WI

OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2017 29 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

LIFESTYLE

Harvey Weinstein Gets Backing Denied to Bill Cosby By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer D.L. Hughley said fellow comedian Bill Cosby once had a radio station pull an interview featuring the two because of sensitive sexual assault allegations were raised. However, Cosby may have been precipitous, seeing the storm to come and how even his tormentors are allowed to choose sides and even switch teams.

30 OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2017

One of those tormentors has seemingly done an about-face when it comes to her crusade against men whom she believes have unfairly treated women. Attorney Lisa Bloom — who along with her mother, famed women's rights lawyer Gloria Allred, have a list of clients suing Cosby for allegedly sexually assaulting them — is now protecting alleged serial abuser Harvey Weinstein. "Harvey Weinstein and I have had

many wide ranging conversations over the last year about rumors and allegations against him. He denies many of the accusations as patently false," Bloom said in a statement. "Nevertheless, I have explained to him that due to the power difference between a major studio head like him and most others in the industry, whatever his motives, some of his words and behaviors can be perceived as inappropriate, even intimidating," she said, claiming that,

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as a women's rights advocate, she's been blunt with Weinstein and he's listened. In an explosive report, the New York Times said the Miramax big wig who's friends with Jay-Z and many others, invited Ashley Judd to the Peninsula Beverly Hills Hotel for what the young actress expected to be a business breakfast meeting. Instead, he had her sent up to his room, where he appeared in a bathrobe and asked if he could give her a massage or she could watch him shower. "How do I get out of the room as fast as possible without alienating Harvey Weinstein?" the paper quotes Judd as she recalled the event. In 2014, Weinstein invited Emily Nestor, who had worked just one day as a temporary employee, to the same hotel and made another offer: If she accepted his sexual advances, he would boost her career, according to accounts the Times said she provided to colleagues, who sent them to Weinstein Company executives. Like the accusations that have derailed Cosby's career, Weinstein's alleged transgressions are many. "From the outside, it seemed golden — the Oscars, the success, the remarkable cultural impact," said Mark Gill, who was president of Miramax Los Angeles when the company was owned by Disney. "But behind the scenes, it was a mess, and this was the biggest mess of all," he said, referring to Weinstein's treatment of women. Weinstein, who denies much of the Times report, has helped define popular culture, collecting six best-picture Oscars and turned out a number of touchstones, from the films "Sex, Lies, and Videotape," "Pulp Fiction" and "Good Will Hunting" to TV's "Project Runway."

Like Cosby, who earned a multitude of honorary degrees from colleges and universities around the country, Weinstein has a host of artistic and humanitarian awards. Bloom, for some reason, doesn't appear to believe her and Allred's dogged pursuit of Cosby is hypocritical. Unlike Cosby, who will again stand trial in April for assault, Weinstein has seemingly been given a pass by the country's most recognizable women's rights attorneys. The duo of Bloom and Allred have all but assured that Cosby, 80, will probably never work in Hollywood again, while protecting someone like Weinstein, who admittedly used his power to harass women. "I came of age in the '60s and '70s, when all the rules about behavior and workplaces were different. That was the culture then," Weinstein said in a statement. "I have since learned it's not an excuse, in the office — or out of it. To anyone," he said. "I realized some time ago that I needed to be a better person and my interactions with the people I work with have changed. I appreciate the way I've behaved with colleagues in the past has caused a lot of pain, and I sincerely apologize for it. Though I'm trying to do better, I know I have a long way to go. That is my commitment." Repeated attempts to contact Bloom for comment were not returned. "Lisa Bloom and her mother, Gloria Allred, used the color issues on the front lines in America to destroy Bill Cosby, but their [Jewish] friend deserves to be forgiven because he's white," one star told The Informer, preferring to remain anonymous. "People like Lisa and Gloria can assassinate the character of our Black entertainers because they finally feel accepted by mainstream America." WI

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LIFESTYLE

wi book reviewA

Horoscopes

ARIES Getting someone to see things your way may not be easy at the start of the week unless you can put yourself in their shoes. While it's possible to compromise, this might seem like a stretch too far unless you can find a very good reason for doing it. It's beneficial for coaching and counseling, too. Lucky Numbers: 5, 7, 19

"Kid Authors"

by David Stabler, illustrated by Doogie Horner c.2017, Quirk Books $13.95 ($15.95 Canada) 199 pages

TAURUS You could be your own worst enemy at the start of the week, especially if you're holding back from an opportunity that would be good for you. However, talking about your feelings with another might help if it allows you to understand where you're going wrong. As it will be here for a year, this side of your life could soar. Lucky Numbers: 11, 33, 40 GEMINI You might be putting too much pressure on yourself, which could get in the way of accomplishing something that should be easy. Give yourself a few days' grace and you may find it isn't as complicated as you thought. Key news this week is that lucky Jupiter moves into Scorpio and your health and wellness sector and stays for approximately one year. During this time, your energy could be higher than usual. You may have more opportunities to progress at work, too. Lucky Numbers: 1, 24, 46 CANCER With expansive Jupiter entering your leisure sector on Tuesday, the coming year

could see you eager to get out and enjoy life. If you've been very busy, the cosmos urges you to make more time for yourself to unwind and get involved in those things you love to do most. Romance may come knocking at your door, too. Regarding other matters, don't try too hard midweek, because it won't help. Relax your grip by the end of the week and things should seem easier. Lucky Numbers: 25, 49, 51

Kid Authors By Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer "Write that down." Your teacher says that all the time in class. Your parents might say it, as a reminder because sometimes, writing things down can be important. And as you'll see in the new book, "Kid Authors" by David Stabler, illustrated by Doogie Horner, written words can also be magic. For as long as you can remember, you've loved books. They take you forward and backward in time, to places you've never been, with new people and new adventure. Books contain awesome stories — and so do the lives of the authors of those books. Take, for instance, Edgar Allan Poe. Poe was the middle child of three, born in early 1809 to parents who were performers. Because they were gone a lot, baby Edgar was mostly cared for by other people; at age 2, that became permanent when his father abandoned the family and his mother died. Says Stabler, Poe was a so-so student and he was bullied as a boy. Was that the reason he wrote such scary stories? And then there was Laura Ingalls Wilder, who grew up on the prairie, where family often slept out in the open — this was the 1800s, after all — and bugs, weather and fire were big concerns. So were the local Indians, who were not at all happy that the Ingalls had built on Osage land. As the tale goes, Zora Neale Hurston was a baby when a wild hog wandered into her mother's kitchen. That was the first story of her life; later ones included those she heard from the men who hung out at a general store near her Alabama home. She loved words. She loved them so much that she gained a reputation for being her class's best reader, which won her a hundred pennies and "a library full of books." J.K. Rowling wrote her "first adventure story" at age 7. Poet Langston Hughes endured a "massive earthquake" while living in Mexico as a boy, before meeting his grandmother, who told him family stories of abolitionists, racism and possibilities. Charles Schulz was a published cartoonist at age 15. And Beverly Cleary loved books but the creator of Henry Huggins was a "struggling reader." "Everybody loves a good story," says author David Stabler — and that includes your bookish child. So what better way to read about the story-behind-the-storytelling than with "Kid Authors"? Open these covers, and you'll see a good representation of literature throughout the centuries. That's good for you but your child will find something even better here: each of the 15 mini-biographies and most of the back-of-the-book "fun-facts" are about authors your child will recognize, and Stabler makes them relatable. Chapters are accompanied by illustrations by Doogie Horner but that's still not all: oh-so-subtly, there's encouragement in these tales. If Stan Lee or Maya Angelou can become a famous writer, your child can do it, too. Kids ages 8 to 12 will devour this book, especially if they're hungry readers. Parents can love it, too, because "Kid Authors" will teach your child to do the write thing. WI WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

OCT 12 - 18, 2017

LEO While disagreements are possible over this week, try not to let them spoil what could be

a productive time. Use such opportunities to engage in heart-to-heart discussions and find out what you have in common and how you might work together. Much can be achieved through negotiation. Fortunate This can bring a chance to make positive changes at home, perhaps to expand the family or move somewhere bigger. Lucky Numbers: 9, 12, 29

VIRGO You might find yourself trying to persuade a family member to go along with your way of thinking. However, he or she could prove very determined, especially around midweek. Let it go for now. They could reverse their stance by the weekend. As it will be here for a full twelve months, the world is your oyster. Lucky Numbers: 6, 21, 31 LIBRA Your negotiating skills may be needed this week, especially if you are pitted against the stubborn desires of another. Constructive conversation can do a lot more for you than overt persuasion. You may be pleased with the way things go, too. It remains here for one year, bringing opportunities to enhance your income in various ways. You could overindulge, though, so be aware of this tendency. Lucky Numbers: 23, 24, 30 SCORPIO Whatever tensions seem to be present in your life, the good news is that positive Jupiter enters your sign on Tuesday for a yearlong stay. This can enhance your confidence and bring lively opportunities to help you fulfill your dreams. Don't be tempted to do too much over the weekend. Time to yourself can be valuable. Lucky Numbers: 15, 18, 19 SAGITTARIUS With adventurous, lively Jupiter, your personal planet, changing signs this

week, you may notice a shift in your focus. It moves into your spiritual zone for a twelve-month stay to encourage you to release those limitations and live to your fullest potential. This can be a time when a coach or mentor has a profound effect on you, helping you soar to new heights. Lucky Numbers: 22, 43, 50

CAPRICORN You could clash with someone in authority early in the week. This is due to aspects that will last a few days, so it would be wise to handle this with care rather than come across as too intense. A diplomatic touch can help you find a positive solution. You may have many opportunities to connect with people who can bring positive associations and prospects your way. Lucky Numbers: 5, 25, 36 AQUARIUS Could the coming year be the one in which you make a big splash? With expansive Jupiter entering your sector of career and ambition on Tuesday, anything is possible. This week marks the start of a very positive phase when the sky's the limit. Over the coming days, however, you might have to deal with some stubborn people, and the way you handle it will either impress others or not. Lucky Numbers: 8, 17, 32 PISCES If a certain friend appears stubbornly stuck in their ways, it could cause a clash of views and values unless you can be willing to have a heart-to-heart chat. On another note, someone closer to you might disagree about a goal or ambition, and this may also need careful handling. It can work out well with the right approach. Lucky Numbers: 22, 27, 39

OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2017 31 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

SPORTS

Cubs Top Nats in Game 1 of NLDS

4 Chicago Cubs second baseman Javier Baez attempts to complete a double play as Washington Nationals second baseman Daniel Murphy slides into second base during the Cubs' 3-0 win in Game 1 of the National League Divisional Series at Nationals Park in Southeast on Friday, Oct. 6. /Photo by John E. De Freitas

6 Stephen Strasburg was the Washington Nationals' starting pitcher for Game 1 of the National League Divisional Series against the Chicago Cubs at Nationals Park in Southeast on Friday, Oct. 6. /Photo by John E. De Freitas

6 A moment of silence is held for the victims of the Las Vegas shooting massacre

before Game 1 of the National League Divisional Series between the Washington Nationals and the Chicago Cubs at Nationals Park in Southeast on Friday, Oct. 6. /Photo by John E. De Freitas

Wiz Defeat Cavs in Preseason Play

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER TOP FIVE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL By Martell Pegues, WI Contributing Writer

Each week and for the duration of the season, The Washington Informer will feature our choices for the top five high school football programs in the Greater Washington Area, specifically the DCSAA (District of Columbia State Athletic Association) and WCAC (Washington Catholic Athletic Conference), for their efforts based upon win/loss record, strength of schedule and winning streak.

1. GONZAGA (6-1) (WCAC)

Gonzaga nearly blew a 19-point lead against DeMatha but stemmed a late run in a 26-20 win. Gonzaga improves to 2-0 in their conference and is eyeing a WCAC title. Their next matchup will also be in conference against Archbishop Carroll, which is coming off a 20-14 overtime victory over Bishop McNamara.

2. DEMATHA (4-2) (WCAC)

DeMatha took a loss to a tough Gonzaga team, but didn't embarrass themselves. After struggling in the first half, they rallied late to make it close. Lucky for them, their strength of schedule keeps them at our No. 2 spot in this week's rankings. The Stags next square off against Good Counsel on Friday.

3. H.D. WOODSON (4-2) (DCSAA) 5 Washington Wizards guard

Bradley Beal is defended by Cleveland Cavaliers forward Cedi Osman during the Wizards' 10294 win at Capital One Arena in Northwest on Sunday, Oct. 8. / Photo by John E. De Freitas 3 Washington Wizards guard

Tomas Satoransky and Cleveland Cavaliers forward Jeff Green fight for a rebound during the Wizards' 102-94 win at Capital One Arena in Northwest on Sunday, Oct. 8. /Photo by John E. De Freitas

32 OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2017

Woodson also got off to a slow start Friday night against Wilson, but kicked things into gear in the second half for a 32-14 victory, pushing their record to 4-2 for the year. Next up for Woodson: the Eastern Rams.

4. ROOSEVELT (4-2) (DCSAA)

Roosevelt has quietly become one of the top programs in the District. With a drubbing of Phelps over the weekend, the Rough Riders have propelled themselves into our No. 4 spot as they take on Cardozo on Friday.

5. ST. JOHN'S (3-2) (WCAC)

St. John's finally got over the hump against a nationally ranked opponent, upsetting Good Counsel 31-9 behind the play of Michigan commit Kevin Doyle and junior running back Keilan Robinson. Next week the Cadets face Bishop McNamara.

HONORABLE MENTION:

Friendship Collegiate (3-3), Archbishop Carroll (2-4), Roosevelt (4-2) The Washington Informer Top 5 is strictly based upon the opinions of The Washington Informer sports division and will run throughout the duration of the DCSAA and WCAC football seasons, concluding in late November.

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"For those of you that were there, like Senator McClellan was, or for those of you who watched the video, you could audibly hear the gasp in the room," Swecker said. "Justin is a former prosecutor with degrees from Duke and Columbia and to question his ability to quote ‘talk intelligently' unquote is more like something from 1957 instead of 2017." State Del. Sam Rasoul (D-Roanoke), in a tweet, shared his take on Vogel's comments: "What condescending & racist crap is this?" he wrote. Del. Lamont Bagby (D-Henrico), who attended the debate, said the situation is unfortunate. "Like most in the room I cringed when I heard what sounded like dog whistling politics," he said in a statement. "It was my hope that Senator Vogel would retract her statements and provide clarity but instead she has decided to double down and that is unfortunate." For Fairfax, it's all a part of his steady climb toward the second-highest office in Old Dominion. "I grew up with my mom, grandparents and siblings just off North Capitol and Evarts in Northwest, D.C. Growing up in DC, we didn't have much money but we had a lot of people who poured into our lives, giving us spiritual wealth," Fairfax said. "I always imagined paying that back with a life of public service just as my grandparents did. My grandfather Charles Butler, Sr., was a World War II veteran and served in the Red Ball Express and my grandmother, Alcynthia, was a nurse at what was then called Freedmen's Hospital [now Howard University Hospital] for over 20 years. I think it's important to give people the life and opportunities to which I had access," Fairfax said. Fairfax and each of his three siblings went on to higher education, with Fairfax receiving scholarships to Duke University, where he graduated with a degree in Public Policy Studies, and Columbia Law School, where he was selected for the Columbia Law Review. Always determined to repay his spiritual debt, Fairfax decided to dedicate himself to public service — to help others gain access to the kind

5 Justin Fairfax, wife Cerina Fairfax, and the couple's two children /Courtesy

of Fairfaxforgov

of opportunities he had to pursue his American dream, no matter where they start in life, he said. He's worked in the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of government, developing a keen insight into solving the challenges he and his team said face Virginia families today. As an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia and the Deputy Coordinator of the Northern Virginia Human Trafficking Task Force, Fairfax said he witnessed the power that law enforcement and criminal justice reform can have to keep communities safe, while providing appropriate second chances, saving hard-earned taxpayer dollars, and changing communities and lives. He said his primary focus as Lt. Governor would be the economic security and opportunity for all residents. "It is imperative that we give people the chance to rise to make a better future for themselves and their families" Fairfax said. "I support raising the minimum wage to a living wage, offering a state refinancing system for student loans and increasing access to affordable capital for small businesses." Fairfax also said he understands how individuals can be cynical and disheartened with the current state of politics. However, he's refused to use that as an excuse and doesn't want his constituents — including those in the African-American community — to miss the mark.

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"I would encourage them to believe that we created our own destiny," Fairfax said. "Democracy is a participation sport, meaning that we have to petition our leaders. We have to keep pressing for answers at every level of government and make our voices heard by not just voting but running for office." Raising the minimum wage should help level the playing field, Fairfax said. "Focus on lowering college debt and making it easier for people to move from one level to the next economically," he said of some of the pressing challenges facing African-Americans in Virginia. As a father of two and a small-business owner with his wife, Dr. Cerina Fairfax, the Northern Virginia resident said he understands the importance of strengthening the state's economy. He said the challenges faced by Virginia families are unprecedented — when one bad life event can turn into a cascade of failures. Fairfax also said activism counts as important today as it ever, adding that even some conservatives have acknowledged the racial bias in America's justice system. "We see examples of why it resonates right now in Virginia's statewide races" Fairfax said. "The current Republican nominee for governor, Ed Gillespie, has run a spate of ads vilifying immigrants as dangerous and violent. As long as you have those who would brand immigrants to violence and crime, there will be a need for activists to speak out." So, as his Republican challenger wages a war of insults and, perhaps, race-baiting, Fairfax remains focused. "I think it's important to have a perspective on issues that incudes those who have actually had to struggle to get from point A to point B on the income ladder," he said. "I believe my work as a prosecutors, as an assistant U.S. attorney, positions me to understand some of the issues people face on both sides of the justice system." WI

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RELIGION

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Don't Let Family Secrets Hinder Breast Cancer Progress Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies. — 1 Corinthians 6:1920 (NIV) October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month in America. Breast cancer today is at an all-time high. This week, I'm sharing the story of my sister, Ernestine Grant. Unfortunately, she was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer last year. My family was taken by surprise when we heard that our sister had breast cancer. This, though, was a time when we all learned that breast cancer and other types of cancer run in our family. We discovered that one of our first cousins on my father's side has one breast removed back in the 1970s; and our aunt who lives in Florida had a breast removed. We thought, wow! Why didn't somebody tell us? According to the Susan B, Komen Center, breast cancer incidence (rate of new cases) is slightly lower among black women than among white women, though the breast cancer mortality is higher in Black/ African-American women. Today, it gives me great pleasure to share that my sister did have both of her breasts removed, and she's now considered safe. She is a veteran, so her doctors from the Veterans Administration Hospital in Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina, advised her to have a lumpectomy. I volunteered to come down to be with her for surgery, so I could drive Mt. Zion Baptist Church

her home and care for her as long as necessary. It was difficult to see her suffering from such severe pain, so I became Florence Nightingale, and began to prepare green drinks with mega-doses of vitamin C. Do your own research, but vitamin C eliminates mucous, and it is a pain killer. She was shocked and delighted that she felt so much better after drinking a green drink, which had 20,000 milligrams of vitamin C (I used 20 1,000-milligram tablets). In a couple hours, she got up and sat in the family room with us, sharing how delighted she was that the vitamin C had helped her pain much more than those prescription drugs. Long story short, after several other steps, such as visits to have stitches removed and other required medical visits, she met a gentleman (let's just call him her angel). They just struck up a conversation, and in no time, he was telling her about Dr. Alim Muhammad, a medical doctor extraordinaire! He has been the subject of innumerable newspapers, magazines, radio and TV features over the years. He is invited to give lectures and participate in forums and conferences all over the world which has contributed to his travel to more than 36 countries. Ernestine listened, took the advice, called and made an appointment. His office is in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, on Central Avenue. The appointment was outstanding, however, Dr. Muhammad informed my sister that the breast cancer was not all gone.

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Estate planning and probate Medicaid planning Elder law Business and succession planning/ coaching Workshops and seminars on legacy creation for economic strength

Aimee D. Griffin, Esq., The Griffin Firm, PLLC 5335 Wisconsin Ave NW Suite 440 Washington DC 20015 www.thegriffinfirm-PLLC.com

202-379-4738 with Lyndia Grant He suggested she have that breast removed — or better yet, get them both removed, telling her it would save her a lot of problems for the future. She did it, and surprisingly, God has healed my sister. Her recovery time was short, compared to many others. She continued to use the vitamin C. So many of our family and friends see her and wonder how she is continuing on so well! She's not sad, she laughs, talks, and she keeps living her life daily. We traveled to Gilbert, Arizona, together, and my daughter took her shopping, where she spent thousands of dollars on a new, upscale wardrobe. She bought a new car, got a haircut, and went to the salon for a pampering day! She got breast cancer, but breast cancer did not get her! WI

(301) 864-6070

CHURCH LAWYERS MCCOLLUM & ASSOCIATES, LLC

Organizational Formation, Governance Issues, First Ammendment, Church Employment, Ministerial Exception, Maintenance Issues, Risk Management, Safety and Security Issues, and Real Property Law SERVING MARYLAND, DC, & NORTH CAROLINA

www.jmlaw.net

(301) 864-6070

jmccollum@jmlaw.net

Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church

Reverend John W. Davis Pastor

The Rev. E. Bernard Anderson Priest

5101 14th Street, NW Washington, DC 20011 Phone: 202-726-2220 Fax: 202-726-9089

Foggy Bottom - Founded in 1867 728 23rd Street, NW - Washington, DC 20037 Church office: 202-333-3985 - Fax : 202-338-4958 Service and Times Sundays: 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist with Music and Hymns Wednesdays: 12:10 p.m. - Holy Eucharist

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.

www.stmarysfoggybottom.org Email: stmarysoffice@stmarysfoggybottom.org

“A Church with a past to remember – and a future to mold”

All are welcome to St. Mary’s to Learn, Worship, and Grow.

www.mtzbcdc.org

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OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2017 35 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

RELIGION The Miracle Center of Faith Missionary Baptist Church

Pilgrim Baptist Church Rev. Louis B. Jones II Pastor

Bishop Michael C. Turner, Sr. Senior Pastor 9161 Hampton Overlook Capitol Heights, MD 20743 Phone: 301-350-2200 Fax: 301-499-8724

Service and Times Sunday Worship Times : 7:30 a.m. 7 10:00 a.m. Communion: 1st Sunday Sunday School: 9:00 a.m. Bible Study: Wednesday, 12 Noon Bible Study in homes: Tuesday 7:00 p.m. Website: www.themiraclecenterFMBC.com Email: Miraclecenterfmbs@gmail.com Motto: “We Walk by Faith, Not by Sight”

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

Church of Living Waters

Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church

Crusader Baptist Church

Rev. Paul Carrette Senior Pastor

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

Rev. Dr. Alton W. Jordan Pastor

Reverend Dr. Calvin L. Matthews Senior Pastor

Harold Andrew Assistant Pastor

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

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

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

Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 8:00am and 11:00am Sunday Church School - 9:15am & Sunday Adult Forum Bible Study - 10:30am 2nd & 4th Monday Women’s Bible Study: 6:30pm Tuesday Jr./Sr. Bible Study: 10:00am Tuesday Topical Bible Study: 6:30pm Tuesday New Beginnings Bible Study: 6:30pm Wednesday Pastoral Bible Study: 6:30pm Wednesday Children’s Bible Study: 6:30pm Thursday Men’s Bible Study: 6:30pm Friday before 1st Sunday Praise & Worship Service: 6:30pm Saturday Adult Bible Study: 10:00am “The Amazing, Awesome, Audacious Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church”

Service and Times Sunday Morning Worship: 11:00am Holy Communion: 1st Sunday Sunday School: 9:45am Men’s Monday Bible Study: 7:00pm Wednesday Night Bible Study: 7:00pm Women’s Ministry Bible Study: 3rd Friday -7:00pm Computer Classes: Announced Family and Marital Counseling by appointment

1200 Isle of Patmos Plaza, Northeast Washington, DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-6767 - Fax: (202) 526-1661

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

E-mail: Crusadersbaptistchurch@verizon.net www.CrusadersBaptistChurch.org “God is Love”

Covenant Baptist United Church of Christ

St. Stephen Baptist Church

Third Street Church of God

Dr. Dekontee L. & Dr. Ayele A. Johnson Pastors

Drs. Dennis W. & Christine Y. Wiley Pastors

Bishop Lanier C. Twyman, Sr. Senior Pastor

Rev. Cheryl J. Sanders, Th.D. Senior Pastor

Bishop Alfred A. Owens, Jr.; Senior Bishop & Evangelist Susie C. Owens – Co-Pastor

4001 14th Street, NW Washington, DC 20011 (202) 265-6147 Office 1-800 576-1047 Voicemail/Fax

3845 South Capitol Street Washington, DC 20032 (202) 562-5576 (Office) (202) 562-4219 (Fax)

5757 Temple Hill Road, Temple Hills, MD 20748 Office 301-899-8885 – fax 301-899-2555

1204 Third Street, NW Washington, DC 20001 202-347-5889 office 202-638-1803 fax

610 Rhode Island Avenue, NE Washington, DC 20002 (202) 529-4547 office • (202) 529-4495 fax

Service and Times Sunday School: 9:30am Sunday Morning Worship Service: 11:00am Communion Service: First Sunday Prayer Service/Bible Study: Tuesday, 6:30pm

Services and Times Sundays: 10:00am Worship Services Bible Study: Wonderful Wednesdays in Worship and the Word Bible Study Wednesdays 12:00 Noon; 6:30pm (dinner @ 5:30pm) Sunday School: 9:00am – Hour of Power

Blessed Word of Life Church

www.blessedwordoflifechurch.org E-mail: church@blessedwordoflifechurch.org

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

Campbell AME Church

Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 am Sunday Church School: 8:45 am Bible Study Wednesday: 12:00 Noon Wednesday: 7:00 pm Thursday: 7: pm “Reaching Up To Reach Out” Mailing Address Campbell AME Church 2502 Stanton Road SE - Washington, DC 20020

Motto : “A Great Commitment to the Great Commandment” Website: www.turningheartschurchdc.org Email: faithdefender@verizon.net

“Ambassadors for Christ to the Nation’s Capital” www.thirdstreet.org Live Stream Sunday Worship Service begins @ 12:00 noon www.thirdstreet.org

Sunday Worship Service: 8 AM and 10:45am Sunday Youth Worship Services: 1st & 4th 10:45am; 804 R.I. Ave., NE 5th 8 AM & 10:45am; Main Church Prayer Services Tuesday – Noon, Wednesday 6am & 6:30pm Calvary Bible Institute: Year-Round Contact Church Communion Every 3rd Sunday The Church in The Hood that will do you Good! www.gmchc.org emailus@gmchc.org

Dr. Raymond T. Matthews Pastor and First Lady Marcia Matthews St. Mark's Baptist Church 624 Underwood Street, NW Washington, dc 20011 Services and Times Sunday School: 9:00am Worship Service: 10:00am Wed. Noon Day prayer service Thur. Prayer service: 6:45pm Thur. Bible Study: 7:15pm

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

Mount Carmel Baptist Church Joseph N. Evans, Ph.D Senior Pastor

Virgil K. Thomas, Sr. Senior Pastor/ Teacher

Service and Times Sunday School 8 – 9 AM Worship Service 9 – 11 AM Tuesday Night Bible Study 6:30 – 8:00 PM Wednesday Daytime Bible Study 11 AM – 12:30 PM

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

Services and Times Sunday School: 9:30am Sunday Worship: 11:00am Sunday Community Worship Service: 8:30 am

St Marks Baptist Come Worship with us...

Reverend Dr. Paul H. Saddler Senior Pastor

Turning Hearts Church

4275 4th Street, S.E. Washington, DC 20034 Phone: 202-746-0113 Fax: 301-843-2445

Services and Times Sunday Early Morning Worship: 7:45am Church School: 9:30am Sunday Morning Worship: 10:45am Tuesday: 7:00pm/Kingdom Building Bible Institute Wednesday: Prayer/Praise/Bible Study-7:30 pm Baptism & Communion Service: 4th Sunday – 10:30am

Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church

Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 7:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Holy Communion: 2nd Sunday at 7:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Sunday Church School: 9:20 a.m. Seniors Bible Study: Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. Noon Day Prayer Service: Tuesdays at Noon Bible Study: Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Motto: “A Ministry of Reconciliation Where Everybody is Somebody!” Website: http://isleofpatmosbc.org Church Email: ipbcsecretary@verizon.net

Twelfth Street Christian Church

Rev. Dr. Henry Y. White 2562 MLK Jr. Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Adm. Office 202-678-2263 Email: Campbell@mycame.org

Isle of Patmos Baptist Church

901 Third Street N.W. Washington, DC. 20001 Phone (202) 842-3411 Fax (202) 682-9423 Service and Times Sunday Church School : 9:00am Sunday Morning Worship: 10:10am Bible Study Tuesday: 6: 00pm Prayer Service Tuesday: 7:00pm Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday 10:10am

36 OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2017

themcbc.org

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

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RELIGION Shabbath Commandment Church

All Nations Baptist Church

King Emmanuel Baptist Church

Bishop Adrian A. Taylor, Sr. Pastor

Rev. Dr. James Coleman Pastor

Rev. Daryl F. Bell Pastor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Israel Baptist Church

Dr. Earl D. Trent Senior Pastor

Rev. Dr. George C. Gilbert Senior Pastor

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

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

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

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

“Where Jesus is the King”

Lincoln Park United Methodist Church

Sermon On The Mount Temple Of Joy Apostolic Faith

Rev. Richard B. Black Pastor

Elder Herman L. Simms Pastor

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

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

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

Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 A.M. Sunday School: 8:30 A.M. Holy Communion1st Sunday: 10:00 A.M. Prayer Service: Wednesday at 6:30 P.M. Bible Study: Wednesday at 7:00 P.M.

Service and Times Sunday Worship: 10: am Holy Communion: First Sunday 10: am Sunday School: 9: am Bible Study: Wednesday @ 12 noon and 6:30pm Motto: "Faith On The Hill"

Mount Moriah Baptist Church

Eastern Community Baptist Church

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

New Commandment Baptist Church

Dr. Lucius M. Dalton Senior Pastor

Damion M. Briggs Pastor

Rev. Stephen E. Tucker Senior Pastor

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rehoboth Baptist Church

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

Salem Baptist Church

Holy Trinity United Baptist Church

Florida Avenue Baptist Church

Reverend Christopher L. Nichols Interim Pastor

Rev. Dr. Morris L Shearin, Sr. Pastor

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

St. Matthews Baptist Church

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

Emmanuel Baptist Church

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

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

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

Service and Times 9:30AM. Sunday Church School 11:00 Am. Sunday Worship Service The Lord’s Supper 1st Sunday Wednesday 7:00pm Prayer & Praise Services 7:30pm. Bible Study Saturday before 4th Sunday Men, Women, Youth Discipleship Ministries 10:30am A Christ Centered Church htubc@comcast.net

Christ Embassy DC

Kelechi Ajieren Coordinator 6839 Eastern Avenue, R1 Takoma Park, MD 20912 (202) 556-7065 Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 A.M. Wednesday Bible Study: 7:00 P.M. Friday Evening Service: 7:00 P.M. ; Last Friday “…Giving Your Life a Meaning” www.Christembassydc.org Christ.embassy.dc@hotmail.com

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

Peace Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Michael T. Bell 712 18th Street, NE Washington, DC 20002 Phone 202-399-3450/ Fax 202-398-8836 Service and Times Sunday Morning Worship Service: 7:15 am & 10:50 am Sunday Early Morning Prayer & Bible Study Class: 8:00 am Sunday School: 9:00am Wednesday Prayer & Testimonies Service: 7:30pm Wednesday School of the Bible: 8:00pm Wednesday Service: 12:00 pm

Pennsylvania Ave. Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Kendrick E. Curry Pastor 3000 Pennsylvania Ave.. S.E Washington, DC 20020 202 581-1500 Service and Times Sunday Church School: 9:30 A.M. Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 A.M. Monday Adult Bible Study: 7:00 P.M. Wednesday Youth & Adult Activities: 6:30 P.M. Prayer Service Bible Study

“The Loving Church of the living lord “ Email Address: admin@pbc712.org

Shiloh Baptist Church

First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Mt. Horeb Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Maxwell M. Washington Pastor

Rev. Curtis l. Staley Pastor

Rev. Alonzo Hart Pastor

Rev. Dr. Wallace Charles Smith Pastor

Rev. Oran W. Young Pastor

Rev. Dr. H. B. Sampson, III Pastor

Worshiping Location Knights of Columbus - 1633 Tucker Road Fort Washington, MD 20744 (240) 838-7074

621 Alabama Ave., S.E.- Washington, D.C. 20032 P: (202) 561-1111 - F: (202) 561-1112

917 N St. NW - Washington, DC 20001 (202) 232-4294

9th & P Street, N.W. - W. D.C. 20001 (202) 232-4288

Service and Times Sunday Service: 10 am Sunday School for all ages: 8:30 am 1st Sunday Baptism: 10: am 2nd Sunday Holy Communion:10 am Tuesday: Bible Study: 6:30 pm Prayer Meeting: 7:45 pm

Service and Times Sunday Morning Prayer Service: 8:00 a.m. Sunday Church School: 9:15 a.m. Sunday Morning Worship: 10:40 a.m. Third Sunday Baptismal & Holy Communion:10:30 a.m. Tuesday Church At Study Prayer & Praise: 6:30 p.m.

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

602 N Street NW - Washington, D.C. 20001 Office:(202) 289-4480 Fax: (202) 289-4595

2914 Bladensburg Road, NE Wash., DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-3180 - Fax: (202) 529-7738 Service and Times Worship Service: 7:30 a.m. Sunday School: 9:00 a.m. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Holy Communion: 4th Sunday 7:30 a.m. & 10:30a.m. Prayer Services:Tuesday 7:30 p.m. Wednesday 12 Noon

Motto: “Where God is First and Where Friendly People Worship”

The Church Where GOD Is Working.... And We Are Working With GOD

Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 10:00 am Sunday School: 9:00 am Holy Communion 3rd Sunday Morning Prayer / Bible Study: 6:15 pm - 7:20 pm (Tuesday) Theme: “The Kingdom Focused Church” Matthew 6:33 and Mathew 28:18-20, KJV Email: stmatthewsbaptist@msn.com Website: www.stmatthewsbaptist.org

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

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

Service and Times Sunday School for All Ages: 8:00 a.m. Sunday Worship Services: 9:30 a.m. Midday Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 11:30 a.m. Evening Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 7:00 p.m. Laymen's League: Thursday 7:00 p.m. Email: Froffice@firstrising.org Website: www.firstrising.org “Changing Lives On Purpose “

Email:mthoreb@mthoreb.org Website:www.mthoreb.org For further information, please contact me at (202) 529-3180.

OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2017 37 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

LEGAL NOTICES

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

Administration No. 2017 ADM 001070

Administration No. 2017 ADM 000318

Administration No. 2017 ADM 001068

Administration No. 2017 ADM 001093

Administration No. 2017 FEP 000115

Philomena Ann Young Decedent

Stephen Pridgen Decedent

Rhea Moore Frazier Decedent

June 19, 2017 Date of Death

Attorney Ethel Mitchell, Wills and Trusts, LLC 8403 Colesville Road, Suite 1100 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Attorney

Deborah Cason Daniel, Esq. 503 D Street, NW, Suite 200 Washington, DC 20001

Lorraine A. Johnson aka Lorraine Agutha Johnson Decedent

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

James Francis Kauffmann Decedent

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

Melva Michele Bennett, whose address is 4624 Clay Street, NE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Philomena Ann Young who died on November 22, 2016 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before March 28, 2018. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before March 28, 2018, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Deborah Cason Daniel, Esq., whose address is 503 D Street, NW, Suite 200, Washington, DC 20001 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Stephen Pridgen who died on March 30, 2009 without a Will. 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, NW, 3rd Floor, Washington, DC 20001, on or before March 28, 2018. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy of the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before March 28, 2018, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.

Date of first publication: September 28, 2017

Melva Michele Bennett Personal Representative

Jane Norman Personal Representative

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

Anne Meister Register of Wills

Date of first publication: September 28, 2017 LaShawn M. Johnson Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

TRUE TEST COPPY TRUE TEST COPY

LaShawn M. Johnson, whose address is 1509 Vermont Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20005, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Lorraine A. Johnson aka Lorraine Agutha Johnson who died on May 20, 2017 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before March 28, 2018. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before March 28, 2018, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer

Paula Marcella Moore, Hazel Cameron & Mertine Moore Brown, whose addresses are 1834 North Capitol St., NW, Washington, DC 20002, 221 Kirkland Ave, Kirkland, WA 98033, #226, 5602 Windsor Court, Camp Springs, MD 20746, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Rhea Moore Frazier who died on May 30, 2017 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before April 5, 2018. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before April 5,2018, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS Richard Kauffmann whose address is 4381 north Elizabeth Lane, SE, Atlanta, GA 30339 was appointed personal representative of the estate of James Francis Kauffmann, deceased, by the Circuit Court for James City County, Commonwealth of Virginia, on July 17, 2017. Service of process may be made upon Jeffrey K. Gordon, Esq., 5335 Wisconsin Avenue, NW, #700, Washington, DC 20015 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: 1645 13th St., NW, Unit B, Washington, DC 20009. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the register of Wills for the District of Columbia, Building A, 515 5th Street, NW, 3rd Floor, Washington, DC 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice. Date of first publication: October 5, 2017

Date of first publication: October 5, 2017

Richard Kauffmann Personal Representative

Paula Marcella Moore Hazel Cameron Mertine Moore Brown Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPPY Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer

Anne Meister Register of Wills

TRUE TEST COPY

Washington Informer

Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer

Washington Informer

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

Administration No. 2017 ADM 001064

Administration No. 2017 ADM 1055

Administration No. 2017 ADM 001027

Administration No. 2017 ADM 001072

Administration No. 2017 ADM 001063

Estelle Chambliss Decedent

Inez J. Patterson aka Inez Juanita Patterson Decedent

Avon Mosley Decedent

Vida Brown Decedent

Telzora Grimes Decedent

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

Alice G. F. Hodges, whose address is 120 Crestview Road, Rocky Mount, NC 27801, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Estelle Chambliss who died on March 9, 2017 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, NW, 3rd Floor, Washington, DC 20001, on or before March 28, 2018. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy of the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before March 28, 2018, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.

Patricia Hall, whose address is 2600 Queens Chapel Rd., Apt.# 105, Hyattsville, MD 20782, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Inez J. Patterson aka Inez Juanita Patterson who died on July 19, 2017 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, NW, 3rd Floor, Washington, DC 20001, on or before March 28, 2018. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy of the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before March 28, 2018, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.

Loretta Mosley Taylor, whose address is 1232 Rhode Island Ave., NE, Washington, DC 20018, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Avon Mosley who died on December 28, 2015 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, NW, 3rd Floor, Washington, DC 20001, on or before March 28, 2018. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy of the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before March 28, 2018, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.

Shanelle C. Patterson 1455 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Suite 400 Washington, DC 20004 Attorney

Date of first publication: September 28, 2017

Erica Brown, whose address is 14702 Bowie Farm Ct., Bowie, MD 20721, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Vida Butler who died on July 11, 2017 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before April 5, 2018. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before April 5, 2018, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Patricia Hall Personal Representative

Loretta Mosley Taylor Personal Representative

Date of first publication: October 5, 2017

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Anne Meister Register of Wills

Erica Brown Personal Representative

Washington Informer

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Washington Informer

Date of first publication: September 28, 2017 Alice G. F. Hodges Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPPY Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

Alice G. Francis Hodges, whose address is 120 Crestview Road, Rocky Mount, NC 27801, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Telzora Grimes who died on July 2, 1999 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 shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before April 5, 2018. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before April 5, 2018, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: October 5, 2017 Alice G. Francis Hodges Personal Representative

Anne Meister Register of Wills

Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer

38 OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2017

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

LEGAL NOTICES SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2017 ADM 001078 Joseph Ellis Taylor Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Ethel Hinnant Taylor, whose address is 2130 Sudbury Place, NW, Washington, DC 20012, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Joseph Ellis Taylor who died on August 2, 2017 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before April 5, 2018. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before April 5, 2018, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: October 5, 2017 Ethel Hinnant Taylor Personal Representative

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SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2017 ADM 001096 Diane Woodard Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Jennifer Dupree, whose address is 3651 Camden Street, SE, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Diane Woodard who died on April 3, 2017 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before April 12, 2018. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before April 12, 2018, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: October 12, 2017

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

Administration No. 2017 ADM 1077

Administration No. 2017 AMD 001127

Administration No. 2017 ADM 001138

Theresa Linda Brooks Lucas Decedent

John F. Hudson Decedent

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

Charles L. Lucas, Jr., whose address is 1327 Maple View Place, SE. Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Theresa Linda Brooks Lucas who died on July 25, 2014 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before April 12, 2018. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before April 12, 2018, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Linda Hudson-Todd, whose address is 6912 Fulford St., Clinton, MD 20735, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of John F. Hudson who died on July 29, 2017 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before April 12, 2018. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before April 12, 2018, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: October 12, 2017

Charles L. Lucas, Jr. Personal Representative

Linda Hudson-Todd Personal Representative

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Anne Meister 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

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

Administration No. 2017 ADM 001134

Administration No. 2017 ADM 001104

Rosa North-Ford Decedent

Ida Mae Keels Decedent

Joyce Ann Williams 7981 Eastern Ave., #C-5 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Attorney

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

Helen C. H. Watson Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Charlene Harrison Batts, whose address is 2507 Berkley St., Temple Hills, MD 20748, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Helen C. H. Watson who died on June 14, 2017 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, NW, 3rd Floor, Washington, DC 20001, on or before April 12, 2018. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy of the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before April 12, 2018, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of first publication: October 12, 2017 Charlene Harrison Batts Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPPY Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Joseph C. Lomas, Jr., whose address is 404 Lourdes Dr., Ft. Washington, MD, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Rosa North-Ford who died on June 17, 1998 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before April 12, 2018. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before April 12, 2018, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Melver Regina Keels-McFadden, whose address is 506 Appaloosa Drive, Hopkins, SC 29061, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ida Mae Keels who died on June 27, 2015 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 shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before April 12, 2018. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before April 12, 2018, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: October 12, 2017

Joseph C. Lomas, Jr. Personal Representative

Melver Regina Keels-McFadden Personal Representative

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Anne Meister Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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LEGAL NOTICES

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

Date of first publication: October 12, 2107

Jennifer Dupree Personal Representative

LEGAL NOTICES

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

COLUMBIA

Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration Number 2017 ADM 160 Estate of

Robert B. Hazelock aka Robert Bruce Hazelock aka Robert Hazelock

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE Notice is hereby given that a petition has been

filed in this Court by Angela Hazelock Mack for

standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representative. Unless

a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is

filed in this Court within 30 days from the date

of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth.

Admit to probate the will dated October 5,

2016 exhibited with the petition upon proof

satisfactory to the Court of due execution by affidavit of witnesses

Date of first publication: October 12, 2017

Personal Representative: Angela Hazelock Mack

1342 Sheridan Street, NW Washington, DC 20011

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2017 ADM 406 Isabelle L. Harris Decedent Philip J. Kenny, the Collins Firm 1501 Farm Credit Drive #2000 McLean, VA 22102 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Valerie Harris-Gregory and Yvonne Harris, whose addresses are 1110 Beall Pl., Laurel, MD 20707 & 2009 Virginia Ave., Hyattsville, MD 20785, was appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Isabelle L. Harris who died on August 25, 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 (or to the probate of decedentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before April 12, 2018. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before April 12, 2018, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: October 12, 2017 Valerie Harris-Gregory Yvonne Harris Personal Representatives TRUE TEST COPY Anne Meister Register of Wills

Administration No. 2017 ADM 1136 Sheila Evans Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Kenya Evans, whose address is 2652 Martin Luther King Ave., SE #303, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Sheila Evans who died on August 17, 2017 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before April 12, 2018. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before April 12, 2018, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: October 12, 2017 Kenya Evans Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Anne Meister

TRUE TEST COPY Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer

OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2017 39 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

LEGAL NOTICES

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

Administration No. 2017 ADM 1132

Administration No. 2017 ADM 001097

Administration No. 2017 ADM 001109

Carrie S. Cunningham aka Carrie Sue Cunningham Decedent

Vivian D. Carson Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Keith M. Hughes, whose address is 15004 Dennington Drive, Bowie, MD 20721, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Carrie S. Cunningham aka Carrie Sue Cunningham who died on January 7, 2009 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before April 12, 2018. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before April 12, 2018, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: October 12, 2017 Keith M. Hughes Personal Representative

Reginald L. Bunting Decedent

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

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

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Gwendolyn M. Short, whose address is 223 Rhode Island Avenue, NE, Washington, DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Vivian D. Carson who died on April 16, 2017 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before April 12, 2018. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before April 12, 2018, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: October 12, 2017

TRUE TEST COPY

Anne Meister Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

Administration No. 2017 ADM 001118

Administration No. 2017 ADM 001086

Dolores Blanche Brown aka Dolores B. Brown Decedent

Melvin William Bell Decedent

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

Arita D. Brown-Johnson, whose address is 1108 3rd Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Dolores blanche Brown aka Dolores B. Brown who died on June 5, 2016 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before April 12, 2018. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before April 12, 2018, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Sandra Lee Bell, whose address is 1715 North Portal Drive, NW, Washington, DC 20012, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Melvin William Bell who died on May 6, 2017 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before April 12, 2018. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before April 12, 2018, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: October 12, 2017

Arita D. Brown-Johnson Personal Representative

Sandra Lee Bell Personal Representative

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Anne Meister Register of Wills

Washington Informer

40 OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2017

Date of first publication: October 12, 2017 Reginald L.L. Bunting Personal Representative

Gwendolyn M. Short Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Reginald L.L. Bunting, whose address is 4640 Hanna PL., SE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Reginald L. Bunting who died on September 24, 2017 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before April 12, 2018. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before April 12, 2018, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer

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PRIMAS from Page 24 supposed to provide a high-quality education to all children. Let's make sure no child is faced with choosing between potential social isolation for a higher quality

JACKSON from Page 24 town, Conn. Members of Congress have been shot. President Reagan and his aides were shot. His press secretary, James Brady, formed a group to push sensible gun control laws. But our addiction to guns continues. After Las Vegas, we should have a national day of prayer. We need a greater wisdom to break our addiction to guns. We make more guns, sell more guns and buy more guns than any other developed country. We also lose the most lives to gun violence. We have learned to adjust to this addiction. We accept it. When terrorists attacked the Twin Towers on 9/11, we did not adjust. We resented the attack and we resisted. Yet as the toll of domestic terror keeps rising, we simply pray for the victims, shrug our shoulders and

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Tomorrow, I'll be at the table When company comes. Nobody'll dare Say to me, 'Eat in the kitchen,' Then. In 2017, is it "then" yet for Black America? WI education or convenience at the expense of academic achievement. Get involved with education in your community and learn more about the Every Student Succeeds Act at www.nnpa.org/essa. WI

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this income range grew 95 percent, compared to the rest of the nation. Even solid middle class incomes of $50,000 to $75,000 grew at a rate of 18 percent. So if Black America is better educated and earnings are growing, what is the problem with gaining access to mortgage loans? And if America is a land of laws, why is financial justice so elusive for Black America? "As we move beyond the subprime crisis, we continue to see the housing and credit market systematically either deny or send less attractive products to the Black and Latino community," noted john. a. powell, an internationally acclaimed law professor who heads African American Studies and Ethnic Studies at the University of California, Berkeley. "This problem which is both historical, structural and interpersonal will not be addressed unless we face and make affirmative interventions," powell said. "As useful as the data is, it is not enough. The nature of structures is to reproduce the current condition. We can and most do better than that." "The fact that borrowers of color face higher interest rates and are less likely to be granted conventional loans is directly responsible for the wealth gap that continues to plague our nation, as well as the wide gap between the percentage of African-Americans who own their homes (42 percent) and the percentage of whites who do (73 percent)," said Dr. Julianne Malveaux, a noted

economist, author and president emerita of Bennett College for Women. "It is imperative that bankers cease these unfair and discriminatory lending practices, and that activists target this lending discrimination." For Lisa Rice, executive vice president of the National Fair Housing Alliance, the 2016 data doesn't reflect a changing America. "These stark racial and ethnic divisions in mortgage lending come at a time when our nation's demographics are in transformation," Rice said. "By 2025 will be even more diverse with households of color representing nearly half of all first-time homebuyers. "The private market has a duty to serve everyone fairly," she said. "The average family deserves the opportunity to pursue their own American dream." But as Hughes eloquently wrote so many years ago in another poem titled, "I, Too, Sing America": I, too, sing America. I am the darker brother. They send me to eat in the kitchen When company comes, But I laugh, And eat well, And grow strong.

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move on. The Republican candidate for the Senate in Alabama flashes a gun before a campaign rally and gets a big laugh and loud applause. If we chose to resist the addiction, we could change. We could teach nonviolence and conflict resolution in schools. We could ban military-style assault weapons. We could allow cities to pass far more restrictive gun control measures than rural areas. We could stop peddling a glorified culture of guns and violence in our movies and television. We could make certain that mental health services were accessible and affordable. We could change the cultural morays to help define and enforce acceptable behavior. Will this country remain addicted to guns? Will it remain impossible to end the easy access to guns? Nothing will change unless we collectively decide we are not going to adjust to this reality. It is time to resist. WI

OCTOBER 12 - 18, 2017 41 THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

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MALVEAUX from Page 25

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This protest is more, though, than Colin Kaepernick. This protest is about police brutality. This is a protest about the fake-Jake way some would bond us together, linking arms and elbows, trying to make a point. There is no point beyond the fact that young black

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Commerce Committee later that evening. While Energy and Commerce approved the HEALTHY KIDS Act (H.R. 3921), a bill with nearly identical CHIP provisions to those in the KIDS Act, it lost the support of all its Committee Democrats because of their serious concerns about bad proposals used to pay for CHIP and other pieces of the bill, especially given that many Republicans don't seem concerned about how to pay for tax cuts for wealthy individuals and corporations in their "Big Six" tax cut plan. So politics jeopardizes children's health again. Although the deadline has come and gone, most states still have some carryover funds to continue to operate their CHIP programs in the short term, leading many in Congress to erroneously believe the Sept. 30 deadline was arbitrary when in fact it has immediate implications for real children and families. Some states have taken steps to put families on notice and are even prepared to modify

ASKIA from Page 25 If he were a smart moron, 45 would realize that this country cannot win another war, so it would be good for him not to get involved in one. But he's an ordinary moron, not a smart one, and he just sent several thousand more U.S. forces back over to Afghanistan — to Af-

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men who play football, baseball and basketball see their brothers and cousins on their knees, legs and arms splayed, in the face of oppressive police forces. They freely kneel because others knelt when they were required to, because they were not free. We can fly this flag all we want to, we can sing melodious songs

about "the Star-Spangled Banner." But the flag we fly in the name of sports is a flag that is drenched in blood. Players weren't required to stand at attention until 2009 because the Department of Defense paid money to make it happen. I'd rather my tax dollar be spent in different ways. I'd rather someone wash the blood out of the flag! WI

or end their CHIP programs because of continuing uncertainty. Every day Congress delays action makes a difference. "We haven't fallen off a cliff yet, but the uncertainty that there is a cliff looming ahead makes it harder to help parents think proactively about their child's health," Dr. Falusi said. "For me as an individual provider, it can affect the positivity — the certainty of saying, 'See you back in six months for the two-year wellchild visit,' when I don't know if they'll still be insured and able to afford it, or if they'll be trying to decide between whether they can afford transportation to the pediatrician's office or transportation to work." Parents are getting the message and now that fear is showing up in places like Dr. Falusi's exam room. "The urgency is palpable from the family perspective … We know kids have colds, flu and asthma attacks that cluster in the winter. Right now is really the worst time for families to either

fear or know for sure their child is about to lose their insurance coverage," Dr. Falusi said. "Even if there's a shortfall of a couple of months, in a couple of months a child's asthma can go from controlled to the intensive care unit, which I've seen when kids go off of their medication. … In the life of a child, even a couple of months can have some long-term lasting effects." Congress must not leave children, families and their doctors in this dangerous political limbo a minute longer. CHIP has been beloved for 20 years and the CHIP extension has bipartisan support. Why are we letting it get caught up in political posturing and debates? Tell Congress to pass CHIP now and not hold it hostage to partisan disagreements over how to pay for it or any other policy issues. Both the House and Senate will be back at work the week of Oct. 23 and passage of the CHIP extension must be first on their agenda. Congress must stop playing politics with children's health. WI

ghanistan, for crying out loud! Alexander the Great couldn't conquer Afghanistan! The "smart" U.S. plan — which worked at first — was to get Russia bogged down in a war they could never win in Afghanistan. That's when this country was pals with Osama bin Laden, who was the U.S. proxy to fight the Rus-

sians. The U.S. fell into the trap it set for the Russians. Oh, well. If he was an alert dotard, 45 would stop his belligerent, war-mongering rhetoric, both on Twitter and out of his wretched mouth. But he's a dumb dotard. He's in denial (with a lot of his friends in power) about the fact that the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea will acquire a nuclear arsenal. Would he start World War III, and lead to the potential deaths of hundreds of thousands of people trying to prove he made up a clever nickname — Little Rocket Man — for another world leader? Maybe he would. But it won't be because that little country would ever target its eventual 50- to 100-missile arsenal at the United States. That is pure hype for the TV ratings game. Adversaries Japan and South Korea are just a stone's throw away from the DPRK. I'm not counting on any success whatsoever from this country's witless leader in the White House. Woe to those who support his reckless ways. Those who follow him, or let him lead them, do so at their own peril. WI

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