The Washington Informer - October 8, 2020

2020

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Vol. 55, No. 51 • October 8 - 14, 2020

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Concerns Escalate over D.C. Inmates’ Insufficient Access to the Ballot

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

5 D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson and Mayor Muriel Bowser, along with other library officials, cut the ribbon to the newly renovated Martin Luther King, Jr. Central Library in Northwest on September 24. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

President Trump Claims Possible ‘Immunity’ from COVID-19

COVID-19 UPDATE

DC PRISON Page 11

D.C. Residents Uneasy About Likely Budget Reductions

COVID-19 Forces City Leaders to Ponder Cuts, Tax Hikes

Leaves Hospital, Returns to White House Despite Medical Experts’ Skepticism

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia

President Donald Trump returned to the White House after exiting Walter Reed Medical Center in Bethesda just after 6:30 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 5.

After receiving a cocktail of treatment since his hospitalization three days earlier, the president’s doctors said they expected he would receive another dose of the coronavirus drug remdesivir on Oct. 6.

The upcoming election counts among one of the most consequential in recent history for many reasons but perhaps none more important than it being the first time that District residents currently incarcerated in the Federal Bureau of Prisons [FBOP] have the opportunity to cast a ballot for the candidates of their choice.

But with less than a month until November 3, the question remains whether thousands of D.C. inmates scattered in correctional institutions across the country will receive both the information and documentation necessary to register and exercise

their right to vote within the allotted time frame.

For some, like Delonte Wilkins who communicates regularly with incarcerated friends and family members, many factors appear to be at play.

“I don’t think inmates know how to move forward, or have gotten any type of notification outside of whatever [they’ve seen in] the media,” said Wilkins, a local organizer and returning citizen whose focus includes the unjust sentencing of District residents.

Through Link Up It’s Official, an organization he recently launched, Wilkins, a District native currently living in Suit-

Clearly agitated by his hospital stay, Trump raised the eyebrows and ire of some of the nation’s leaders within the medical community when on Oct. 4, he briefly left Walter Reed for a joyride along Rockville Pike during which he saluted followers. He would face pointed criticism for the ill-advised action – a photo-op which placed Secret Service agents who accompanied him in danger of contracting the virus.

Within hours of the news on Oct. 2 that both the president and first lady Melania Trump had

COVID Page 21

By James Wright WI Staff Writer @JamesDCWrighter District residents are expressing concerns over how the D.C. Council and D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser will deal with a budget deficit of hundreds of millions of dollars as a result of the coronavirus pandemic and whether deep cuts in spending for social and human services as well as tax hikes will be needed to balance the city’s finances.

“I really hope as our city leaders look at the budget they will try to make sure people have housing, food and jobs,” Kelvin McQueen, who lives near Gallaudet University in

BUDGET Page 15

5 Kenyan McDuffie represents Ward 5 on the D.C. Council.

(WI File Photo)

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Tia C. Jones, Ed Laiscell, Odell B. Ruffin, Larry Saxton, Mary Wells, Joseph Young PHOTOGRAPHERS Lafayette Barnes, IV, John E. De Freitas, Maurice Fitzgerald, Joanne Jackson, Roy Lewis, Robert Ridley, Victor Holt CIRCULATION Paul Trantham

Women the Cycle of wi hotBreak topics Domestic Violence Coming Out Day Event Landmark Television

Series Available Online law enforcement. She saidCelebrates they threat,” she and said. Supports had come together to bring a Among the programs Males Marlow African-American “Black Journal” aired on Na-

By Tia Carol Jones WI Staff Writer

sense of uniformity in the way wants to see implemented are tional Educational When L.Y. Marlow'sTelevision 23-year- domestic violence victims The and 32nd stricter restraining order policies, anniversary (preceded 1968 to survivors are treated. old daughterPBS) told from her the father more rights for victim's families of Coming of1982. her daughter threatened teleher The award-winning “She's using her own personal to intervene on behalf of a vicOut to Day life, and series the lifeis ofnow theiravailable child, story, her own personal pain vision tim, a domestic violence assessis Oct. 11, she knew through something had to be push forward,” Davis-Nickens digitally a collaboration ment unit coupled with further 2020. On done.

OuttheofLibrary her of frustration between Congress said about Marlow. training for law enforcement this day, the with handling Davis-Nickens said anyone agencies, a Child's Life Protecandlaw theenforcement's American Academy of L Gwill B T tion Q Act and mandatory counselofPublic the situation, she decided to who reads Marlow's book Broadcasting (AAPB). start Saving Promise community the ing for batterers.

Thisthepublic affairs seriescamwas “get it.” She said she “puts paign. and support- “If we are ever going to eradia platform for discussions on case in such a way, the average “It seems be akey vicious cycle person can get it.” She saiders celebrate at the cate domestic violence, we must Black issuestowith personalithat won't turn my family end of the day, the book will pride and look at both sides of the coin. ties of the day including Angela loose,” Marlow said.

Marlow help people begin to have a diaWe equality of need to address both the vicDavis, minister and Nation of shared her story with the audilogue about domestic violence. tim and the batterer,” Marlow who you are.

Islam leader Louis Farrakhan, ence at the District Heights Also present at the event said.

Thiswas year, and basketball player and author Domestic Violence Symposium ex- and Marlow would also like to see AARP Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

Episodes Mildred Muhammad, the on May 7 at the District Heights wife of John Allen Muhammad, programs designed to raise Native Son covered Black communities Municipal Center. The sympo- 5who was sentenced to six consecawareness among to children in Pulitzer (From top): Rev. Jesse Now will use the observance honor two nationwide, the role of Black sium was sponsored by the Jackson utive life terms without parole public and private schools.

She interviewed by Tony Prize winning artists.

Honorees are Michael R. Jackartists and of edFamily andthe importance Youth Services by a(middle) Maryland jury for hisson, role in feels children need to be educatBrown’ Julian playwright of the musical “A Strange Loop” an ucation.ofFor during Center theseveral city years of District the (bottom) Beltway Sniper attacks in ed about domestic violence.

Bond; Diahann off-Broadway production, and Jericho Brown, poet, the show’s airing, it wasHookTony Heights and the National 2002.

Mildred Muhammad is and director “We have to stop being pas- Program Carroll interviewed

by Tony scholar, of the Creative Writing Brown’s Journal.

Up of Black Women. the founder of After the Trauma, sive-aggressive with poor chilBrown. at Emory University. The event will be streamed on the “‘Black has Journal’ Marlow writtenrepresented a book, an organization that helps the dren about domestic violence,” Native Son Now Facebook page and Native Son Now a sea change in how American “Color Me Butterfly,” which is a survivors of domestic violence Marlow said.

YouTube channel on Oct. 11, 2020, from 6:00 pm to public television saw the importance responding to story about four generations of andoftheir children.

8:00 pm ET Marlow has worked to break demandsviolence. for BlackThe representation thelived media,” domestic book is in “I in fearsaid for six years. Six the cycle of abuse in her family, “It’s so affirming as a Black gay man to see two creAlan Gevinson, AAPB project director at the Library inspired by her own experiences, years in fear is a of long time. It is and is confident the policies she ative talents win for their cutting-edge work especially Congress. and those of her grandmother, not an easy thing to come out is pushing for will start that at this time,” said Emil Wilbekin, journalist and foundAccess episodes at http://bit.ly/LoCBlackJournal her mother and her daughter. of,” she said. process.

Native Son a Black Gaythese Leadership She said every time she reads Mildred Muhammader of said “I plan to take policiesForum. to excerpts from her book, she still people who want to help a Congress and implore them to can not believe the words came domestic violence victim must change our laws,” Marlow said. from her. “Color Me Butterfly” be careful of how they go into “I will not stop until these poliwon the 2007 National “Best the victim's life, and understand cies are passed.”

Books”For Award. the first time on the second that Monday she may be in “survival Tia Carol Jones can be reached “Iofwasthis justmonth, 16-years-old Oct. when 12, Prince George’s mode”. at tiacaroljones@sbcglobal.net my eye first will blackened and my American “BeforeDay, you get to 'I'm going County celebrate Native lips bled,” Marlow said. Columbus toDay kill you,' WI previously named whichit started as a verbal Elaine Davis-Nickens, has been observed as apresifederal holiday since dent1934. of theThe National ItalianHook-Up explorer, Columbus, has of Black said there no longWomen, been credited for isdiscovering the New consistency wayhe domestic World. in In the truth, helped Europeans colviolence dealt inhabited with by by millions of onizeissues land are already people. According to the census 2019 data, about 1,100 people identified themselves as Native Americans in Prince George’s. At least two other Maryland counties celebrate the original natives of the Americas. Howard County Executive Calvin Ball announced last month his jurisdiction will commemorate Oct. 12 as Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Montgomery County will also observe the holiday with the same name. State and local government officials in places such as Alaska, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia made a change to the name. South Dakota, home to about nine tribal reservations and 10 percent of the state’s population, has observed Native American Day since 1990.

Prince George’s to Celebrate Native American Day Oct. 12

“

We have to stop being passive-aggressive with poor children about domestic violence. I plan to take these policies to Congress and implore them to change our laws. I will not stop until these policies are passed.

“

SOMETHING NEW EVERYDAY

COMPILED BY WILLIAM J. FORD, WI STAFF WRITER AND BRENDA C. SILER WI CONTRIBUTING WRITER

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L.Y. Marlow

A Look at the Ward 7 State Board Race

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Contributing Writer @SamPKCollins This is the third installment of a four-part series about the D.C. State Board of Education (SBOE) races, the winners of which will advocate for policies on behalf of students, parents and teachers in Wards 2, 7 and 8 and throughout the entire District. This article features the candidates of the Ward 7 state board race, an electoral contest particularly focused on the future direction of education advocacy in Ward 7.

DONTRELL SMITH: THE ACCOUNTABILITY PARTNER

This DC Public Schools (DCPS) alumnus and father of two said he wants to bring more accountability and transparency to the Ward 7 SBOE seat. If elected, he plans to directly engage and organize Ward 7’s parents, teachers and school leaders around connecting the elementary, middle and high schools and scrutinizing the degree to which academic programming at each school prepares students for the next step along their academic journey.

Doing so, Smith said, ensures a more equitable educational environment. In regards to enrollment-based funding shortages, he said he would propose a policy that obligates District charter schools to relinquish funding when students leave the charter system in the middle of the academic year and enroll in their neighborhood school.

“I care about the education space. I want to make sure students have a strong passionate voice that can advocate for them and their interests,” said Smith, whose experience includes serving as a substitute teacher. “We didn’t get that from the leadership. People argue about funding. We don’t need nine educators on the State Board. I’m an accountant. I can look at the budget to make sure we’re getting the right funding.”

CHARLES BOSTON: THE TRADESMAN

For the last few years, Charles

Boston has attempted to coordinate a Saturday school at the Howard University School of Divinity and connect young people with storm water management and compositor certification programs at the University of the District of Columbia that lead to District licensure and certification.

If elected, he intends to advocate for policy that expands students’ opportunities for physical education, trades and work-based learning, not just in Ward 7 but across the District. Part of fulfilling that vision, Boston said, involves convincing religious institutions, businesses and nonprofits to form consortiums to tackle societal conditions inhibiting children’s ability to learn. Boston’s partners of interest in this endeavor to prepare students for a 21st-century economy include the DC Department of Energy & Environment and the U.S. National Arboretum.

Boston, an operating engineer who attended Anne Beers Elementary School and studied at Georgetown University and the University of Maryland, lambasted the STAR Framework as a tool that narrowly examines student progress. He called it part of the system that misleads parents and pushes four-year college as the only route for young people in D.C.’s public and public charter school systems, much to their detriment.

“The vocational trades should have never been separated from academics or removed from graduation requirements,” Boston said.

“People talk about high enrollment in college but they don’t talk about low graduation from college. The curriculum [in DCPS and charter schools] is not motivating or relevant. Students are not getting educated for life after graduation.

They never leave, or [they] come back home [after a year] to work at Target. That’s not changing the narrative. It’s not giving young people options.”

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munity leaders to secure funding and advance policies of great benefit to Ward 7 schools. She said that, as the Ward 7 SBOE representative, she can better effect change and ensure that children in her ward get a quality education, regardless of the school they attend.

If elected, Thompson, an alumna of the University of Pennsylvania who was born, raised and educated in Ward 7, plans to work with her SBOE colleagues to advocate for the dissemination of resources to communities most in need, greater budget transparency and increasing the quality of programming in the District’s schools. During a recent parent panel with D.C. Councilmember Robert White (D-At-large), Thompson and others expressed their desire for increased access to laptops and Wi-Fi for families facilitating the distance learning experience at home.

For Thompson, the coronavirus

RACES Page 36

5 Dontrell Smith (Courtesy photo)

5 Charles Boston (Courtesy photo)

5 Eboni-Rose Thompson (Courtesy photo)

5 Ward 7 State Board of Education Representative Karen Williams (Courtesy photo)

EBONI-ROSE THOMPSON: T THE ORGANIZER

While at the helm of the Ward 7 Education Council, Eboni-Rose Thompson has wielded the influence of parents, teachers and com-

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OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020 5

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black facts

SOURCE: BLACK AMERICA WEB

OCT 8 - 14, 2020

OCT. 8

1941 – The Rev. Jesse Jackson, famed civil rights leader, is born in Greenville, South Carolina.

1992 – Sir Derek Walcott, Saint Lucian poet and playwright, wins the Nobel Prize in literature.

2004 – Wangari Maathai, a Kenyan environmental and political activist, becomes the first African woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize.

OCT. 9

1806 – Benjamin Banneker, famed African-American astronomer, scientist, almanac author and surveyor, dies in Baltimore County, Maryland, at age 74.

OCT. 10

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1901 – Frederick Douglass Patterson, founder of the United Negro College Fund, is born in Washington, D.C. 1917 – Groundbreaking jazz pianist and composer Thelonious Monk is born in Rocky Mount, North Carolina.

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1932 – Social activist and comedian Dick Gregory (top) is born in St. Louis.

1999 – Basketball legend Wilt Chamberlain dies in his Bel Air, California, home of a heart attack at age 63.

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1887 – Black inventor Alexander Miles receives patent for automatic opening and closing elevator door.

1991 – Iconic comedian Redd Foxx (right), best known for his starring role in the ‘70s sitcom “Sanford and Son,” dies in Los Angeles at 68 of a heart attack.

OCT. 12

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OCT. 13

1898 – Lawyer and judge Edith S. Sampson, the first Black U.S. delegate appointed to the United Nations, is born in Pittsburgh.

1926 – Jesse L. Brown, the first African-American aviator in the U.S. Navy, is born in Hattiesburg, Mississippi.

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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ANGELA DAVIS 6 - OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020

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. WI

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He’s hardheaded. He wouldn’t listen to medical personnel explaining how important it is to wear a mask. So now he wants sympathy a month before the election. He won’t get it from me!

CANDICE HARDING / WASHINGTON, D.C.

He may survive it, then succumb to comorbidity. Many survive then die of stroke, heart attack or lung failure later. What a time to be getting rid of preexisting condition coverage in the Affordable Care Act.

CYNTHIA CAMPBELL /

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A ploy for sympathy votes! I don’t believe it. I wonder do his nurses have to wear the same mask until its dirty due to supply constraints?

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So check out the game — Trump tested positive for the coronavirus all of a sudden. You see he doesn’t want to get back on stage with Joe Biden, so he is going to use that as an excuse from debating. Watch him pull that card.

SHIRL DIX / WHITESVILLE, VIRGINIA

I’m just waiting for the okey-doke. I may be wrong, but I honestly believe this is a well-orchestrated ruse. He’s totally desperate at this point. His poll numbers suck, the tax leak got him in panic, he doesn’t want to go up against Biden again. The handwriting is on the wall. So what better time and distraction than this?

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OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020 7

The World According to Dominic

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For as long as I can remember, I’ve always been fascinated with historical narratives – not revisionist or redactions but commentaries that reveal the truth – the whole truth and nothing but the truth.

Ironically, the more I have studied and with each academic degree I have secured, what I’ve discovered is how often American history is told with calculated and numerous inaccuracies, invalid assumptions and outright lies.

Still, given the hard work I’ve put in during my sojourn along academia’s hallowed pathways and through its almost impenetrable portals, I have come to realize that there’s one important narrative to which I should have paid far greater attention but failed to do so. That story is the collective history of African Americans and Latinos whose people, despite being citizens, have suffered similar, if not identical, forms of injustice, bigotry and hatred on the shores of America – simply because of the color of their skin or the languages and traditions that have long defined them as ethnic groups.

The great abolitionist Frederick Douglass, while speaking to a group of so-called liberal-minded men and women in Boston in 1862, stepped up to the podium before his audience of Northerners who probably expected him to berate the Confederate states.

After all, according to the story we’ve always been told, it was the refusal of those in the South to relinquish their addiction to slavery and its inhumane methodology that had been one of the key reasons for the Civil War. Instead, Douglass demanded that Northerners admit the role they had played in the catastrophe that nearly destroyed America.

He showed his listeners that while they sought to maintain their innocence, that they had been willing participants in a country whose history was defined by decades of settler colonialism, corruption, the promotion of slavery and the support of imperialism.

It was Douglass’s determination to show Americans who they really were and his incisive attacks on the republic’s most sacred “myths” that often resulted in instances of physical violence from the hands of outraged spectators who did not want to or could not admit the truth.

In this 21st century, while white America would rather “revise” the history of their progenitors, the real stories behind the challenges and hardships encountered by African Americans and Latinos reflect far more commonalities than differences.

We have similarly been ridiculed because of our religious beliefs, our skin colors, our languages, our ways of rearing our children, our perceptions of nature and how we envision our relationship to the world and to one another. We have been refused service in America’s public spaces and public institutions. We have

been denied the right to vote, the right to equal education, fair housing and equal access to business opportunities. We have been attacked, raped, beaten, lynched, murdered and falsely imprisoned.

We have been forced to accept the crumbs from America’s table while presenting ourselves in such a manner that would indicate our gratitude for the few morsels and table scraps that white America has thrown our way.

But because I have been so overwhelmed with proving that I, as a Black man, am just as competent and qualified as any white man, I have paid scant attention to the problems that my Latino brothers and sisters have also endured – often overcoming.

I believe that was the intention of the Founding Fathers and those who have come after them and benefited most in our country for one reason and one reason alone: the color of their skin. Thus, if we can be distracted and if we fail to recognize how combining forces would be mutually and eternally beneficial to Blacks and Latinos, then we will never commit ourselves to a new mindset based on solidarity.

Maya Angelou often said in her poem “Human Family” that we are more alike than unalike.

Her words, since I first had the privilege to read them and embrace the truth they reveal, have remained forged in my spirit and emblazoned upon my soul.

We are indeed “more alike than unalike.”

Perhaps if we can embrace this truth and begin to reform our stories into one narrative unfettered but falsehoods and without the filters that blind us from the truth, then maybe we, all of us, shall truly overcome and gain our rightful and hard-earned place in America’s history.

WI

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Braveboy Leads Voter Initiative in Prince George’s

By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill

Prince George’s County State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy wants to ensure voter intimidation doesn’t take place in the majority Black jurisdiction during the general election.

Her office launched “Operation Protect the Vote for All” which focuses on making sure vulnerable populations such as senior citizens, immigrants and those in the LGBTQ community aren’t intimidated and can vote.

The push comes as President Donald Trump continues to claim voting by mail would be “a disaster” and encouraging his supporters to man polling places during in-person voting in states with early voting and Election Day on Nov. 3.

“We want every single Prince Georgian to know we care about them,” Braveboy said during a press conference Sept. 30. “Voter intimidation is actually a crime. We work along with the [Maryland] Office of Attorney General to prosecute those who violate our election laws in Maryland.”

According to state law, a person found guilty of voter intimidation through “the use of force, threat [or] menace” can be fined up to $2,500 and serve up to five years in prison.

The Voting Rights Alliance, comprised of legislators, activists and nonprofit organizations, highlights more than six dozen forms voter suppression. Some of them include persons impersonating a law enforcement or immigration official; voter challenges at polls; and disparate racial treatment at the polls.

In Prince George’s, residents voting by mail can drive to a polling site and place a ballot inside a drop-off box.

Security personnel such as a county sheriff will be stationed nearby to make sure they aren’t compromised.

Another part of Braveboy’s voter plan is to help make sure vulnerable populations, such as immigrants, aren’t intimidated and can vote.

Maryland residents must register to vote by Tuesday, Oct. 13 and request mail-in ballots by Oct. 20.

“It’s important for our country to get out and vote like your life depends on it,” said Austin Martinez,

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OF SELECT FRAMES WITH MENTION OF THIS AD 5 Prince George’s County State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy speaks at a press conference Sept. 30 outside the Circuit Courthouse on a voting initiative. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

an activist from Hyattsville.

Another part of Braveboy’s plan will determine which of the estimated 500 people currently housed in the county jail are eligible to vote.

The plan to help those incarcerated comes after several criminal justice and voting advocates began work this summer on a similar voting initiative.

At least three organizations – Out For Justice, Common Cause Maryland and the ACLU of Maryland – compiled a list of those incarcerated from the majority of correctional facilities in the state’s 24 counites.

Then each list got sent to the state board of elections, which mailed off voter information packets to each jail that included a cover letter explaining voter eligibility, a mail-in ballot application and a pre-addressed stamped envelope.

According to state law, people ineligible to vote are those convicted of a felony and currently serving a court-ordered sentence; anyone convicted of buying or selling votes; and “under guardianship for mental disability and the appropriate court has found by clear and convincing evidence that you cannot communicate, with or without accommodations, a desire to participate in the voting process.”

Except for buying or selling votes, a person on probation can vote, according to the law.

Incarcerated individuals charged with misdemeanor offenses and those held on pretrial status are eligible to vote.

Aside from not fully explaining the election law for those incarcerated, Nicole Hanson-Mundell, executive

director for Out for Justice of Baltimore, said “an execution plan” wasn’t presented by state election officials to ensure those incarcerated in the county will vote.

“When our elected officials decide to engage in performance politics, let’s make sure the people we are actually here to serve…are going to get accurate information,” she said.

“What is frustrating for us is how long it took for individuals to speak out about this issue.”

Out For Justice, an advocacy group comprised of formerly incarcerated individuals which led the statewide voting effort plan, joined other organizations in a Sept. 10 letter that notes recommendations for state election officials to follow so that everyone eligible votes.

One suggestion calls for the state to provide secure boxes of voter forms and ballots.

One will be provided at the county jail, said Monica Roebuck, a member of the county’s board of elections.

In addition to serving on a voter protection committee with the Maryland Democratic Party, she assisted state Sen. Cory McCray (D-Baltimore City) with his voting efforts for city jails in Baltimore that are managed by the state. McCray is first vice chair of the party.

“Even for those people who have not been in jail and served time, this is an important job to make sure that everyone in our society has the right to vote,” Roebuck said. “Voting empowers you. You feel like, ‘Wow, I have some power over my own destiny.’ You are exercising your constitutional right.” WI

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AROUND THE REGION CAPTURE THE MOMENT M.S. BARRY BUILDING

Mayor Muriel Bowser signed and designated 441 4th Street NW – commonly called One Judiciary Square – as the Marion S. Barry Building.

(Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

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AROUND THE REGION Norton Meets with D.C. Latino Leaders

By James Wright WI Staff Writer @JamesDCWrighter Some of the leaders of the District’s Latino-oriented organizations met with D.C. Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton on Oct. 1 to articulate their concerns about housing, education and employment for D.C. residents.

Norton said hearing the anxieties of District Latinos will give her a better sense of what their needs are.

“We’re now in Hispanic Heritage Month, which makes it an especially appropriate time to hear from Latino leaders in D.C.,” she said. “I started the Latino Council in 2009 to draw a more coherent and extensive agenda to serve my Hispanic constituents, who come from many backgrounds and diverse needs. I’m very grateful to the distinguished members of our Latino Council to serve.”

Census data shows 11.3 percent of the District’s population consists of Latinos, people of Central and South American descent. Latinos live throughout the District but have a strong presence in neighborhoods such as Adams Morgan, Columbia Heights, Petworth and Mid-16th Street. Housing has become a concern for Allison R. Kokkoros, the CEO of Carlos Rosario International Public Charter School.

“There are concerns about evictions once the mayor lifts the public emergency,” Kokkoros said. “Because some people have lost their jobs, they cannot pay rent and they are making it so far because of the eviction moratorium but we know things will get bad when the moratorium is lifted and the back rent is due. Parents are really struggling

DC PRISON from Page 1 land, has distributed a newsletter to a growing number of D.C. inmates serving time at nearly two dozen federal institutions across the U.S. Additionally, he continues to focus on the restoration of voting rights for D.C. inmates.

“When I first heard about [inmates getting their voting rights restored], I thought how powerful it would be for the community,” Wilkins said while sharing his apprehension about FBOP’s cooperation throughout the process.

“There’s potential for corruption

to make ends meet and living in the District is so expensive, but they are really trying to do what they can.”

Kokkoros said despite the economic challenges confronting her parents and students by the coronavirus pandemic, education remains a priority.

“We are a school for adults and they want an education,” she said. “We work largely with the immigrant community and we have 2,000 students.

Our students are determined to learn and about 75 of them are looking at higher education.”

Abel Nunez, executive director of the Central American Resource Center, agreed with Kokkoros on housing, saying the situation with many families has become dire.

“Some landlords are already going to court,” Nunez said. “After the public emergency, we know the landlords are going to find ways to get tenants to pay up the rent that they owe quickly or they will work to get their tenants evicted. We are trying to get the word out in the community that as tenants, they do have rights and through our housing services program, which includes tenant education, assistance and advocacy, we can help them stay in their homes.”

Jackie Reyes-Yanes serves as the executive director of the Mayor’s Office on Latino Affairs. Reyes-Yanes said the Bowser administration understands the struggles many Latinos are going through and has been proactive in solving problems.

“We operate seven days a week,” she said. “We work with a number of food banks in the city, have actively encouraged Latinos to participate in the census and we have a summer youth program. We want to make sure Latinos

get what they need as far as housing, food and employment.”

Reyes-Yanes thanked Norton and her staff for the effort to ensure an accurate count in the Latino community. Norton responded by stressing the importance of census efforts, saying the District has become the second most undercounted jurisdiction in the country.

Rebecca Read Medrano, co-founder and executive director of the Gala Hispanic Theatre, told Norton her organization has suffered economic loss and that “half of our season is lost” due to the pandemic.

“We are a small, nimble organization and we have had to take risks,” Medrano said. “We have had to shift to virtual programming. We used to have a vibrant program serving 20,000 youths

that were 65 percent Latino and 15 percent African American but because of COVID-19, our programming stopped with the schools closing.”

Medrano said the Gala Theatre’s Zoom program have had a lot of success but worries about Latinos in the creative fields.

“We employ Latino artists for our productions but with the pandemic, they don’t have anywhere to work,” she said. “These are youths who are giving the money they earn to their mothers.

We need those jobs to come back.”

Medrano said despite the challenges, the Gala Hispanic Theater “is here to stay” and “we want people to know we are here.” Norton, after the hour-long session, said she was both pleased and concerned about what she heard.

“It is great to have this council,” the delegate said. “They keep me informed on what is going on.” WI

5 Eleanor Holmes Norton represents D.C. in the U.S. Congress. (WI File

like with anything else. I don’t know how [the FBOP] would safeguard it.

You’ve got hundreds D.C. inmates on any compound which means a lot for those candidates in at-large and mayoral races at the least.”

A second emergency police reform bill approved by the D.C. Council in July included legislation that restored voting rights for District residents imprisoned in the FBOP for a felony offense. This milestone placed the District alongside Maine and Vermont as the only U.S. states or jurisdictions allowing incarcerated people to vote.

DC PRISON Page 38

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OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020 11

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY BSU, UMD Create Social Justice Alliance

By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill Two Maryland universities will work to combat racism, economic division and other social ills on its campuses that could spread throughout Prince George’s County.

Bowie State University and University of Maryland will form a Social Justice Alliance, named after Army Lt. Richard Collins III. Collins, 23, was stabbed to death in May 2017 on the University of Maryland campus while visiting friends by

a white student. Collins, posthumously promoted to first lieutenant by the Army, was to graduate the following week from Bowie State.

“I don’t believe there is enough information out there that raises awareness and what’s happening out there in our communities,” said Bowie State President Aminta H. Breaux. “These are issues that citizens across this country are facing each and every day.”

Announcement of the initiative Thursday, Oct. 1 coincided with the effective date of a Maryland hate crime statute named after Collins. A judge dismissed a hate crime charge against

Sean Urbanski a day before he was convicted Dec. 18. 2019 by a state circuit court jury of first-degree murder.

Prince George’s State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy led the statewide effort to strengthen the statute.

The previous law forced prosecutors to prove a hate crime occurred as the sole motivating factor.

“My office has an interest in the students ensuring we are training new lawyers. Hopefully new prosecutors,” she said. “One day, maybe someone from this alliance will want to take over my position. I won’t be here forever.”

As part of the social justice program, both schools will host seminars each semester, infuse social justice in the education curriculum and organize an annual symposium.

Bowie State will house a Social Justice Alliance “safe space” for faculty, staff and students to house conversations on social justice topics.

Although students are geared to lead discussions and certain projects at their respective schools, they will receive assistance from alliance coordinators Kimetta Hairston, associate professor of education at Bowie State, and Georgina Dodge, vice president for diversity and inclusion at Maryland.

5 Bowie State University President Aminta H. Breaux and University of Maryland President Darryl J. Pines announce an initiative to promote social justice on both campuses in honor of Lt. Richard Collins III. (Screen grab: Bowie State University)

The 2nd Lt. Richard Collins III Foundation will also be a part of the social justice program with its mission to promote civic engagement.

The foundation plans to award scholarships for ROTC students who attend the state’s four historically Black college and universities. A Bowie State ROTC cohort received the foundation’s first scholarship awards in December.

Both campuses located in northern Prince George’s hold some history in Maryland.

Bowie State remains the state’s oldest HBCU established in 1865. One of its recent achievements is a Cen-

Report Highlights Health Disparities in Prince George’s

By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill

A $543 million regional hospital anticipated to open next year in Largo seeks to help decrease health ailments such hypertension, obesity and high blood pressure, challenges that affected Prince George’s County before the coronavirus arrived in Maryland’s majority Black jurisdiction.

A report compiled by the Rand Corp. of Arlington, Va., highlights some of those health challenges such as the rate of emergency room visits for Black and Latino children with asthma more than quadruples that of white children.

Although the uninsured rate for county residents decreased from 15 percent in 2009 to 11 percent in 2018, Prince George’s continues to have the highest rate in the state.

One of the most startling statistics: the county spent $39 per person in health and human services in fiscal year 2018. According to the report, the agency’s “current reach”

12 - OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020

of programs and policies spreads to three of the county’s nine districts.

In comparison, Baltimore County spent $45; Anne Arundel County $91; Howard County $109; and Montgomery County $224.

“That speaks volumes to the high need in this county,” Prince George’s council member Deni Taveras (D-District 2) of Adelphi, said Friday, Oct. 2. “We need to figure out a way to invest much better.”

Taveras’ predominately Latino district not only has 26 percent of residents uninsured, but also a teen birth rate more than double the county rate.

Besides Prince George’s continuing to record the highest number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state exceeding 30,000, the 20783 zip code in Taveras’ district has the most cases among zip codes in Maryland.

The designation includes parts of Adelphi, Beltsville and Langley Park.

She suggested the county invest in a similar program called “sex positive” at www.sexualbeing.org in neighboring D.C. The initiative managed by the city’s Department of Health encourages residents to take HIV tests,

5 Drivers line up in their vehicles to await free coronavirus testing at the Hyattsville vehicle emission station that opened May 22. (FILE: Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

fill out an online form to receive free condoms and other resources.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2018, the District recorded the highest rate of HIV diagnoses in the country at 39 per 100,000 people. Maryland ranked sixth at 16.5.

“Because there is such a strong religious presence in Prince George’s, that detracts from having the hard conversations that need to be had regarding protective care around sex,” Taveras said. “People can try and push abstinence all they want, but that’s not the reality of what’s happening.”

The Rand Corp., a nonprofit organization which conducts nationwide and international public policy, summarized how overcrowded housing, limited primary care physicians and lack of mental health and behavioral services also contribute to Prince George’s health challenges.

The report offers some recommendations such as: • Create a health and human services plan; • Invest in data tracking for “whole health,” or assess the spend-

HEALTH Page 13

ter for Cyber Security and Emerging Technologies, which provides research in computer and cyber defense.

The University of Maryland serves as the state’s flagship institution with about 41,000 students (30,000 undergraduate students). Besides housing one of the top athletic programs in the Big Ten Conference, the school received a $31 million gift from alumnus Brendan Iribe for scholarships and a new computer science building.

However, the predominately white institution experienced some racial history when students and faculty found white supremacist fliers the same year of Collins’ death. Also in 2017, a noose was found inside a fraternity house.

University of Maryland president Darryl J. Pines, who became president in July, said students filled out a climate campus survey to gauge the feelings of students on campus. He also said the school updated its student code of conduct to address hate crimes and banned symbols of hate on campus buildings.

“It’s always a continuing endeavor to improve campus culture and climate,” Pines said. “We are now working very closely with Black student leaders on campus to address additional concerns. I think you will see a number of improvements in the next year…for every [person] on the campus.”

Pines said the school continues a plan to build a memorial on the campus in honor of Collins.

Rick and Dawn Collins, parents of the dead man, acknowledged both school presidents, Braveboy and students who helped the family.

“I just want to thank all of the wonderful people that walked with us along this journey,” Collins’ father said. “This has been an incredibly emotional and painful, but yet purposeful work. We’re hopeful and we’re eager to get this started and move this process forward.” WI

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HEALTH from Page 12 ing in each county agency and department; • Require each agency to analyze budgets that advance health and well-being; and • Agencies establish a checklist on whether all residents have access to healthy food, promote health equity, access to safe and affordable housing and job training programs to sustain a livable wage.

It also noted the reallocation of funds within a department based on equity can improve health disparities.

Based on a recommendation from County Executive Angela Alsobrooks, the County Council approved to move $20 million from the police department capital budget to build a mental health and substance structure. However, voters must give the final approval as part of a public safety bond question on the Nov. 3 general election ballot.

Anita Chandra, a senior policy researcher for Rand, said Friday that Prince George’s and other officials nationwide must assess how to manage funding in a different manner.

Chandra, who co-authored the report, said critical care remains an integral part of health care.

However, she said about 80 percent of a person’s health is determined by the environment.

“We have made progress here and there, but it is absolutely not enough,” she said. “You could double down in making sure you’ve got the best pandemic preparedness plan for the future, or you can actually take a look at what COVID revealed. Look at those social inequities and say, ‘not again.’”

When the County Council sits as the District Council to review landuse and zoning matters, council member Jolene Ivey (D-District 5) of Cheverly said, that the body can help control large development.

“We need to use that power to improve communities for the people who live there,” she said. “At the moment, we are having very serious financial challenges. We just have to get through this and have a focus on a vision for the future. We’re going to get out of this. It won’t last forever.”

WI

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY Our Civic Recovery Everyone knows that politics is a blood sport full of acrimony and intrigue. Unfortunately, in this blood sport, personal attacks are the norm casting opponents in unflattering terms. This, of course, pushes aside what is most important, the issues; and what most matters to voters-improving our quality of life. Voters, in fact, are spectators in an arena where they do not matter with the intent of keeping them ill-informed instead of being engaged.

With a month away of making choices that will impact a generation, we are left with name calling and rudeness. Name calling that is disrespectful and rudeness violating every creed that we teach our children. The question that must be asked is: “how did we get here?”

Suggest we got here because of our indifference.

For what has been and is at stake, we remain in a posture of indifference and ignorance. Reports cite that 60% read only the newspaper headlines with only 24% going into any depth. Meaning, that

politicians and other pundits know that you only care about surface news crafting their message to whet your appetite. This gives the allusion of being informed, when, in fact, you barely understand the depth of any issue.

We must demand more! Demand that we must be informed over being entertained. Demand that we get unbiased reporting over needless commentary.

Further demand civility over combative discourse!

Demanding a different climate and dialogue will, hopefully, motivate us to vote and make informed choices. This may be aspirational, but for the sake of our democracy- we must demand better!

To all those running for office, for our civic recovery- engage in an informed debate that advances our democracy not embarrass it.

Not a member? Please visit our website, www. pgcoc.org to get started! Membership is good for a full calendar year, so it’s always a good time to join* David C. Harrington President & CEO

2020 Presidential General Election Tuesday, November 3, 2020

ARE YOU REGISTERED? To be eligible to vote, you must register or update your voter registration information

by Tuesday, October 13.

STAY SAFE. VOTE-BY-MAIL. Step 1:

REQUEST A BALLOT MUST BE RECEIVED

BY OCTOBER 20 To vote-by-mail in the 2020 Presidential General Election you must request a ballot. Your ballot request must be received by October 20.

Step 2:

LOOK OUT FOR YOUR BALLOT

Step 3:

COMPLETE YOUR BALLOT & SIGN THE ENVELOPE Follow the instructions.

Step 4:

RETURN YOUR BALLOT

BY NOVEMBER 3 Return your completed ballot to an official election drop box by 8pm on November 3 or postmark by November 3.

You can track your ballot application status online. Ballots will begin arriving in early October.

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or vote in-person EARLY VOTING

October 26–November 2 7am–8pm

ELECTION DAY November 3 7am–8pm

Learn more about registering, requesting a ballot, or in-person voting options at

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OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020 13

BUSINESS The Multi-Billion Dollar Reason for Police Reform

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia

The lack of police reform remains problematic when it comes to health and finances.

One report noted that U.S. cities collectively spend $100 billion a year on policing, eating at budgets for education, health care and housing – particularly in poor communities and those of color.

The American Friends Service

Committee [AFSC], a Quaker organization that promotes lasting peace with justice, said New York City spends more on policing than on the Department of Health, Homeless Services, Housing Preservation and Development and Youth and Community Development combined.

AFSC researchers noted that, since 1990, the federal government has transferred $6 billion of excess military equipment to local law enforcement agencies under a special program.

(Courtesy of Communities United for Police Reform)

For years, police have also undergone “warrior training” that teaches them to see every encounter as potentially life-threatening, especially when they involve people of color, according to researchers at AFSC. “The police are not a neutral body and the institution is inherently biased,” Mary Zerkel, coordinator of AFSC’s Communities Against Islamophobia Project, wrote in a blog post for the organization.

“In the U.S., slave patrols and night watches were the beginning of a racially-directed system of law enforcement designed to secure capital

for white settlers,” she wrote. “Over the past 40 years, the expansion of racially-targeted policing and policies such as stop-and-frisk and the ‘war on drugs’ have helped fuel mass incarceration in the U.S., with African Americans incarcerated at more than five times the rate of white people.”

“Black and brown people are disproportionately targeted from a young age, with hundreds of thousands of children ages six to 14 arrested, often by police officers stationed in schools as ‘school resource officers,’” Zerkel wrote.

In September, the city of Louis-

ville announced a $12 million settlement with the family of Breonna Taylor who was slain by police after officers entered her home to serve a warrant.

As part of the deal, Louisville officials agreed to enact police reforms, including using social workers to provide support on specific police runs and requiring commanders to review and approve search warrants before seeking judicial approval.

The populated Kentucky city isn’t the first to promise reforms – and, if

REFORM Page 44

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14 - OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020

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BUDGET from Page 1 Ward 5, said. “I think if keeping people out of poverty means raising taxes on the rich, then so be it. People are hurting out here. Nothing should be cut.”

On Sept. 30, Jeffrey S. DeWitt, the District’s chief financial officer, wrote in a letter to Bowser and D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson about his financial forecast for the city. DeWitt said the District ended fiscal year 2020 with $222 million higher than his April estimate. However, even though the District closed the fiscal year with more revenue than estimated, the city will operate from a $334.4 million deficit compared to fiscal year 2019 and the fiscal year 2021 estimated deficit has been lowered to $212 million.

DeWitt blames the coronavirus pandemic, which has been in the District since mid-March and has forced the city to shut down schools ahead of schedule, to trigger the closing of businesses, including retail stores, hotels and restaurants and to strictly curtailed travel and social gatherings in D.C. “This is a COVID recession,” DeWitt said at a news conference on Sept. 30. “We ended fiscal year 2020 not as bad as we expected. We are fortunate that 2019 was such a good year economically for the city and that has helped offset some of the financial damage. But we do have to balance the budget as required by law. Things may get better in 2021 if a vaccine emerges and people will feel comfortable coming back into the city to work.”

DeWitt noted 75 percent of the District’s economy functions well but ailing hospitality and tourism industries due to the pandemic fuels the recession.

He said three factors—the District’s small business loan program, the onetime federal $1,200 relief checks to citizens and the expanded unemployment compensation of $600 per week to former workers in the public and private sectors—has kept the city from being in a worse financial situation.

Mendelson, at the news conference, said while the budget situation looks troubling, he said “the city is in a better position to weather what is happening.”

“We are doing okay compared to other jurisdictions,” the chairman said.

“Other jurisdictions’ situations are more dire. In the next few weeks, we will work with the mayor for a supplemental budget that will be balanced.”

Bowser said her staff will work with members of Congress to make sure the District gets equitable funding from COVID relief bills at the level of a state, not as a territory, as she noted occurred

BUSINESS in the March CARES Act legislation.

Neither Bowser nor Mendelson would comment at the news conference on raising taxes to balance the budget.

D.C. Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie (D-Ward 5) said DeWitt’s “updates revenue projections indicate that we remain in a recession and the path to recovery will be much longer than anticipated.”

“COVID-19 has had a devastating economic impact,” the councilmember said. “With unemployment insurance claims in the District still rising it is critical that we prioritize replenishing our depleted unemployment insurance fund. As we look to maintain the District’s financial strength, we must balance increasing revenues to care for our most vulnerable and austerity measures to make our budget and operations effective and efficient.”

D.C. Councilmember Anita Bonds (D-At Large) agreed with Mendelson the District’s financial status is much better than other jurisdictions but said the unmet needs of residents must be resolved by the Council.

Former D.C. Councilmember Vincent Orange, a candidate for the independent at-large seat in the Nov. 3 general election, said DeWitt’s estimates of the District’s financial health may be slightly off.

“His assumptions are based on things that might not come true,” Orange said. “He is banking on non-residents generating sales taxes in the city. I think it is questionable whether people will come back to work in the city once a vaccine is found. Things could actually be worse than they seem.”

Orange said closing the fiscal year 2020 deficit could be done “in a reasonable manner” by reducing agency budgets and delaying the implementation and operation of programs. He said what could really hurt the District would be a second wave of the coronavirus, saying businesses shutting down again would be devastating.

In the meantime, he said, District lawmakers and the mayor should focus on restoring both the rainy-day fund designed to help the city in financial emergencies and the unemployment insurance program.

“If we don’t replenish the rainy-day fund and meet our other obligations under law, that will bring back the control board,” Orange said.

Orange rejected raising taxes to balance the budget and said if Congress allocates money to the District at the level of a state “it would make the city’s situation more manage-

Planning -Leadership in Action Aimee D. Griffin, Esq

We are living in a time of great discernment; our society is deeply divided in understanding the definition of good leadership and expectations of those who hold leadership positions. Typically, we critique leaders based on the values we hold most dear. If people are following you, you are leading, consciously or not. As a leader, the question that you should be considering is, am I directing those who follow me impactfully and where I wish for them to go. Unfortunately, there are too many of us who are not looking forward to the next chapter and the path loved ones are being led.

As an estate planning attorney, I encourage people to incentivize their values. I have seen significant amounts of money left with no instructions attached. In one such tragic story, a young woman was left more than $250,000. Within six months, she was homeless and in rehab. There was no plan or support for this young woman. Sadly, this is not an unusual story. We know that, statistically, lottery winners are more apt to file for bankruptcy than the typical person.

Yet, 55% of Americans do not have an estate plan and 70% of African Americans do not have an estate plan. While there are many reasons why people justify not having a plan, the truth is, it is often just not a priority. As leaders of a family, a community or a business, we have a responsibility to set a path that will position our followers in a better space because we came before them. We should not leave them in an even worse position because of ill or no planning.

I am supportive of people embracing their values and building opportunities to promote advancement of the community, utilizing those values. If secondary education is important to you, then encourage your loved ones or your community to go to college by reducing the barriers to entry, such as creating scholarships. If home ownership is a value to you, then help mitigate the barriers by providing support for a down payment.

We encourage raising contributing members of society with a helping hand, but not diminishing the responsibility to building on their own. Economic support to go to college still requires admission based on the productivity of the applicant. I also recommend setting an expectation of standards in moving forward for the student. The gift of support towards down payment of a house does not remove the responsibility of the purchaser to qualify to get a mortgage. The responsibility of the leader is to prepare those who follow to rise up and pass the baton to enable the follower to become the next leader.

Leadership requires a vision and a purpose. We live our best lives when we walk in vision and purpose. We encourage each person to leave a legacy that supports the next generation; to fuel a values-based vision and purpose, ignited by the path laid before them. The greatest gift we can give is the support for others to live their purpose to be a values-based contributor.

The Griffin Firm, PLLC www.yourestateplanningattorney.com (202)379-4738 5335 Wisconsin Ave NW, Suite 440 Washington DC 20015 1401 Mercantile Lane, Suite 383 Upper Marlboro MD 20774 100 International Drive, 23rd Floo Baltimore MD 21202 1100 Peachtree ST NE, Suite 200 Atlanta GA 30309 2530 Meridian Parkway, Suite 300 Durham NC 27713 able.” However, he said the elimination of one District program could wipe out the deficit.

“All we have to do is to erase the Universal Paid Leave program,” Orange said. “That program benefits non-residents primarily and we should

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

take care of D.C. residents first.”

Cathy Young, a Ward 5 resident, said she agrees with Orange that District residents come first. She said Bowser and the D.C. Council should have working-class people in mind when they formulate the

supplemental budget.

“People need to eat,” she said.

“People need money to pay rent and to pay their bills. If you don’t have a job, how can you survive? The mayor and the city council should think about that.” WI

OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020 15

NATIONAL Just Who are the Proud Boys and What is Antifa?

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia

It might be quite some time before anyone forgets that President Donald Trump refused to denounce white supremacists and any other perceived hate groups, particularly during the first 2020 presidential debate broadcast globally on Sept. 29 at Case Western Reserve University in Ohio.

In fact, if Trump loses the presidency, he and his supporters could well point to the ghastly but revealing exchange during the debate against Democratic Presidential nominee Joe Biden and moderated by Chris Wallace of Fox News.

Wallace: “Are you willing tonight to condemn white supremacists and militia groups and to say that they need to stand down and not add to the violence or the number of these cities as we saw in Kenosha, and as we’ve seen in Portland?”

16 - OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020

Trump: “I would say almost everything I see is from the left-wing, not from the right. I’m willing to do anything. I want to see peace.”

Wallace: “Then do it, sir.”

Biden: “Do it, do it. Say it.”

Trump: “You want to call them.

What do you want to call them? Give me a name?”

Biden: “Proud Boys.”

Trump: “Proud Boys, stand back and stand by.”

That the president never condemned them and urged them to “stand by” continues to be celebrated by the Proud Boys.

The Southern Poverty Law Center reported the Proud Boys as a hate group whose leaders regularly spout white nationalist memes and maintain affiliations with known extremists. Founded in 2016 by Gavin McInnes, the Proud Boys are led by Enrique Tarrio, who’s described as Afro-Cuban.

Last month, a group spokesman

told USA Today that the group has longstanding regulations prohibiting racist, white supremacist or violent activity.

“We do not care what color you are or what your background is ... if you love America ... we consider you a brother,” Tarrio said in a written statement provided by the spokesman to the Gannett news organization.

The group remains dominated by white men while being “more to the right than most constitutional militias” and “more prone to physical violence,” noted Amy Cooter, a Vanderbilt University senior lecturer who studies nationalism, race and ethnicity.

“The Proud Boys have had a year’s long reputation for not only violence but very clear ties to white supremacy,” Cooter told USA TODAY. With approximately 5,000-members nationwide, the Proud Boys began in Milwaukee, advocating abolishing prisons and giving each American a gun.

They seek the legalization of drugs, an end to welfare, closing borders to illegal immigrants, outlawing censorship, venerating the housewife, glorifying the entrepreneur, shutting down the government and declaring that “the West is the best,” according to Wisconsin Watch, an online newsletter documenting hate groups.

The Anti-Defamation League [ADL] contends that the Proud Boys ideology is primarily “alt-lite,” misogynistic, Islamophobic,

5 Proud Boys Founder Enrique Tarrio. (Photo courtesy Miami New Times)

transphobic and anti-immigration.

“Some members espouse white supremacist and anti-Semitic ideologies and, or engage with white supremacist groups,” according to the ADL. Meanwhile, Trump has quickly condemned the Antifa movement, described as a broad spectrum of groups and individuals of far left or anarchist tendencies.

The term itself merely means anti-fascist.

Mark Bray, a historian and the author of “Antifa: The Antifascist Handbook,” told the Guardian News that Antifa is a loose movement of “decentralized revolutionary self-defense” opposed to the far right.

Antifa conspiracy theories remain common rhetoric among right-wing politicians, media and activists.

“The right describes Antifa as a unitary organization with leaders and even secret funding though that is simply not true,” Bray told the news organization.

It’s believed the Antifa movement began in Europe in the early 1930s as resistance to dictators like Adolph Hitler.

“Although the president and his allies wish to conflate large protests in every city with radical anti-fascist groups, they drastically overstate the numbers and influence of committed Antifa activists,” Bray said.

Antifa members campaign against actions they view as authoritarian, homophobic, racist or xenophobic.

The New York Times noted although, that Antifa is not affiliated with other movements on the left.

The newspaper claimed that Antifa is sometimes viewed as a distraction by other organizers; its members sometimes work with other local activist networks that are rallying around the same issues, such as the Occupy movement or Black Lives Matter.

“Misinformation about the group often spreads through personal networks online,” The Times declared. “In many cases, false or misleading claims appear first in a tweet, Facebook post or YouTube video before they are shared through community texting networks, Facebook groups or the neighborhood social networking app Nextdoor.”

While many opined that the Proud Boys are a threat to African Americans and others in America, Antifa seeks peace for all.

They said the president’s refusal to condemn white supremacist groups and his insistence on designating Antifa as a terror organization is wholly misguided.

“Trump’s continual coddling of white supremacists and white militias is the biggest threat to our democracy,” said Dr. Omekongo Dibinga, a diversity expert and professor of cross-cultural communication at American University.

“This is yet another example of Trump’s embrace of white supremacist and militia groups. During the debate, he told the racist Proud Boys to stand by, and he instructed the Department of Homeland Security to play down the actions of Kyle Rittenhouse, who murdered Black Lives Matter protesters,” Dibinga said. WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

NATIONAL Joe Biden Gains Bump in Polls After Chaotic Debate

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia

Michelle Obama is usually the adult in the room when it comes to American politics. During the 2016 presidential campaign that featured regular nasty attacks made against Democrat Hillary Clinton from then-Republican nominee Donald Trump, Obama coined the famous phrase, “When they go low, we go high.”

Following the debacle that masqueraded as the first presidential debate of 2020 on Sept. 29 between Trump and Democratic nominee Joe Biden, the former first lady demonstrated to her 43 million Instagram followers why she’s so adored.

“If you were turned off by the president’s behavior last night, I feel you.

Believe me, I do,” Obama wrote in a post accompanied by a photo of Biden and former President Barack Obama.

“But we can’t let him win by tuning out altogether. That’s what he wants. So, turn those feelings into action – turn them into votes for my friend, Joe Biden. It’s the only way we can get out of this chaos and re-

store some stability to this country.”

She continued: “You can start by reaching out to everyone you know. Make sure they’re registered. Make sure they know how and when they’re going to vote. And then follow up with them, every day, to make sure they cast their ballot. Because in this election, we’ve got to vote for Joe in numbers that cannot be denied.”

It appeared Obama’s message resonated.

While only two percent of respondents in a new poll said that the debate changed how they will vote, Biden still opened a commanding 13-point lead over Trump in the wake of the debate, according to a CNBC/Change Research survey released on Oct. 1.

Biden holds a 54 percent to 41 percent lead, with 53 percent of likely voters surveyed saying that the former vice president outperformed Trump during the debate.

Approximately 29 percent of those polled said Trump did better than Biden.

The debate proved an American nightmare, with Trump repeatedly interrupting Biden and the Democrat

5 Michelle Obama (New Tri-State Defender/BlackPressUSA)

responding by calling the president a clown. Notably, Trump refused to condemn white supremacists, and he disparaged Biden’s son, Hunter, for previous drug addiction.

The CNBC/Change Research poll revealed that just 11 percent of respondents believed Biden underperformed while 45 percent said Trump didn’t meet pre-debate expectations.

Tellingly, 77 percent of respondents said the debate didn’t make them feel proud to be an American.

Responding to the chaos, the Commission on Presidential Debates opened an investigation to determine if adjustments to the rules and format are needed ahead of the final two debates scheduled for Oct. 15 and Oct. 22.

“I think one and done,” House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) told Bloomberg TV after the debate.

She previously declared that Biden shouldn’t participate at all.

“I myself did not think that Joe Biden should dignify debate with the president who has no commitment to fact, evidence, data, demeans the office he holds,” Pelosi maintained.

During a news conference, Pelosi clarified that her reason had nothing to do with whether Biden would fare well.

“I never thought he shouldn’t do it because I didn’t think he would do well. I thought he shouldn’t do it because I thought something like this could happen,” Pelosi continued.

Pelosi also was troubled with Trump’s refusal to condemn racism.

“To see a president of the United States, in a debate with a potential president of the United States, refuse to condemn white supremacists, refuse to commit to a peaceful transfer of government,” Pelosi stated.

“To ignore the climate crisis as our country is burning and our coasts are hit by fierce storms. To be there to crush the Affordable Care

Act instead of crushing the virus.”

Attorney and political consultant Kris Parker told the Washington Informer that another debate should happen if the format is adjusted to contain meaningful consequences for speaking out of turn, going over time and not following the rules.

“The incessant interruptions and disrespect to the moderator led and will continue to lead to chaos, name-calling and embarrassment to our national election process on a world stage,” Parker objected.

“As an attorney and litigator, I can tell you that if an attorney behaved in such a way in the courtroom, that attorney would be held in contempt and thrown in jail by the presiding judge. If this type of behavior is not tolerated in an American courtroom, why would it be tolerated during a presidential debate?”

Famed media psychiatrist Dr. Carole Lieberman believes the remaining debates between Trump and Biden should proceed.

“However, there should be time-limits on all answers – not a free for all.

After giving each candidate their equal time, their mike should be cut off, and the other candidate should be given their time,” Lieberman decided. WI

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On October 24th, join us to walk or run proudly to end HIV, ensure equality, fight racism, love openly and save lives.

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OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020 17

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Sudan, Rebel Alliance Sign Peace Deal Sudan’s transitional authorities and a rebel alliance signed a peace deal Saturday, Oct. 3 agreed to in August that is to put an end to the country’s decades-long civil wars.

“The next biggest challenge is to work with all local and international partners to preach the agreement and its benefits,’’ Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok tweeted on Friday upon his arrival in Juba, the capital of South Sudan. The pact was signed during a televised ceremony in Juba.

Reaching a negotiated settlement with rebels in Sudan’s far-flung provinces has been a crucial goal for the transitional government, which assumed power after a popular uprising led the military to overthrow President Omar al-Bashir in April 2019.

Sudanese civilian leaders hope the deal will allow them to revive the country’s battered economy by slashing military spending, which takes up much of the national budget.

Saturday’s official signing in Juba sealed the peace deal reached in late August between the Sudanese government and the Sudan Revolutionary Front, a coalition of several armed groups.

The summit was attended by South Sudan President Salva Kiir, whose country gained independence from Sudan in 2011 following decades of civil war. The head of Sudan’s sovereign council, Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan, and his deputy, Gen. Mohammed Hamadan Dagalo, also attended the ceremony. Dagalo, commander of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, signed the agreement along with rebel leaders.

The deal would grant self-rule for the southern provinces of Blue Nile, South Kordofan and West Kordofan, according to a draft obtained by The Associated Press. Rebel forces would be integrated into Sudan’s armed forces.

The Sudan Revolutionary Front, centered in the western Darfur region that includes South Kordofan and Blue Nile, is part of the pro-democracy movement that led to the uprising against al-Bashir, but the rebels didn’t fully support the military-civilian power-sharing deal. That deal includes a six-month deadline for achieving peace, which ran out in February.

Sudan’s largest single rebel group, the Sudan Liberation Movement-North led by Abdel-Aziz al-Hilu, was involved in the talks but has yet to reach a deal with the government.

Al-Hilu has called for a secular state with no role for religion in lawmaking, the disbanding of al-Bashir’s militias and the revamping of the country’s military. The group has said if its demands are not met, it would call for self-determination in areas it controls in the Blue Nile and South Kordofan provinces.

Al-Hilu attended Saturday’s ceremony and met with Hamdok and Kiir to discuss the ongoing talks between his movement and the government, according to Hamdok’s office.

Another major rebel group, the Sudan Liberation Movement-Army, which is led by Abdel-Wahid Nour, rejects the transitional government and has not taken part in the talks.

Nour’s movement criticized the deal, saying in a statement it was ``not different from’’ other previous deals that did not end the wars.

caribbean now UK Contributes to Saint Lucia’s Covid-19 Battle

Saint Lucia has been handling the COVID-19 pandemic well with just 27 cases recorded and no reported deaths. With strict protocols in place and a phased reopening of the economy, the government has kept the virus at bay and public health intact, the Saint Lucia Times reported Oct. 4, 2020.

The UK Government is doing its part to help Saint Lucia maintain its prudent management of the crisis. On Thursday, Oct. 1, alongside Canada and PAHO/WHO, the UK donated a large complement of personal protective equipment (PPE) for front line staff, including well over 200,000 medical masks and N95 respirators.

The UK has contributed approximately 55 million East Caribbean dollars to the PAHO regional response fund in the fight against the pandemic and its multiple effects. This includes support for testing, treatment, surveillance and public risk communication efforts. This handover is only one of several deliveries of critical management supplies.

Commissioner McCready commended the Saint Lucian government for its exemplary response to the Coronavirus crisis and said that its commitment to citizens and visitors was evident from the start.

He praised the hard work of the health officials and personnel who have been on the frontline of protecting public health for many months.

He reiterated the value of cooperation in times of crisis and so was pleased to be working alongside Canada and others to deliver assistance such as this particular PPE donation to Saint Lucia.

The UK has pledged over £1 billion of aid to counter the health, humanitarian, and economic risks, and to support the global effort to find a vaccine. COVID-19 is a compound and protracted crisis that will play out over an extended period of time. WI

18 - OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

October Greetings from DC Department of Aging and Community Living Laura Newland Director Department of Aging and Community Living In February of this year, DACL did a video series entitled “I am Black History” as part of D.C.’s celebration of Black History Month. (You can check it out on our YouTube channel, @DCAgingNews!) We were planning on continuing the video series before the Public Health Emergency (PHE), but the PHE changed all of our plans.

I’ve been thinking about the concept of I am Black History because D.C. is so rich with history and you — your generation — has an incredible wealth of knowledge and experience that we need to remember.

These days, you, and the lives you’ve led and continue to lead, have been on my mind: the lifetime of experiences and the changes you’ve seen over the course of your lives. Many of you participated in the 1963 March on Washington, and many of you participated again in the 2020 March on Washington.

In a span of 57 years, this city, and this country, has transformed itself. Now, we have a Deputy Mayor of Health and Human Services, Wayne Turnage, who is the son of sharecroppers. Virginia Ali, the owner of Ben’s Chili Bowl, served and was a part of the Civil Rights Movement, including the original March on Washington.

Our own Mayor is a fifth-generation Washingtonian. We’ve had a two-term Black president.

When I say that seniors made D.C. the incredible city that it is today, this is what I mean — the deep connection to social justice, the incubation of Black arts and music, the constant reshaping of D.C. to reflect what the Mayor calls D.C. values. Of course, this

is the city where a road was named Black Lives Matter Plaza and written in unavoidable letters on the street.

And yet, 2020 has shown us how fragile and illusory progress towards equality really is (if anyone needed to be reminded). There has been so much to grieve. And because of COVID-19, it can feel like we’re alone. But we’re not.

I know this because Washington, D.C. is Black History, and this city continues to add to that history. I haven’t been able to talk to as many of you lately as I’d like, but the conversations I’ve had have been heartening.

I’ve been able to meet centenarians in the past few weeks, and this year, it occurred to me that we’re not just celebrating longevity, even though longevity is certainly worth celebrating!

We’re celebrating the lives of ordinary people who have become extraordinary in their own ways. Some are quiet. Some are flamboyant. All of them have done the best they could to live their best lives and continue to do so.

Part of the powerful history of D.C. is how Washingtonians have shaped the city by showing up to vote. At every virtual event we’ve held over the past several months, at least one person has asked about voting — how to do it safely, how to encourage others to vote, how to make sure each vote is counted.

Living in D.C. has taught me that voting isn’t just about expressing an individual preference. Voting is really about creating and supporting the community we want. If you aren’t registered to vote, get registered.

The deadline to register online or by mail is October 13. Please visit dcboe. org/Voters/Register-To-Vote/Register-to-Vote to get registered. Or, you can register and vote at the same time in person.

If you’re already registered to vote in Washington, D.C., your absentee ballot will be mailed automatically to you (you don’t have to request it) if it hasn’t been already. You can fill it out and mail it back or drop it off at one of

several Board of Elections boxes throughout the city. If you want to vote in person, early voting is from October 27 to November 2, from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. On Election Day, November 3, vote centers will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

I’m going to ask one more thing of you. Many of you have friends and family who live in other states. Please encourage them to register and vote. Our election on November 3rd is urgent. For Washingtonians, this election could be the one that decides whether we finally receive the American promise of representation in Congress. For all Americans, this election is a referendum on whether or not we believe in democratic ideals.

Each of you has played a critical role in making Washington, D.C. the city it is today. Continue making history. Continue fighting for Washington, D.C. Continue believing that America can be better than the founding fathers could ever have imagined. See you at the polls (in spirit)!

Please visit DC Department of Aging and Community Living at dacl.dc.gov

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020 19

HEALTH

who is the Senior Community Development Manager at the American Cancer Society.

“Although we can’t be together in person, we still need to continue the fight to raise awareness and life-saving funds for those breast cancer patients who still need support during this crisis. Funds raised help continue our research, 24/7 helpline and patient service. Although, we can’t be together in person, we can still celebrate, remember and fight back.”

Serena Holtz is a one year Breast Cancer survivor who annually supports cancer research by raising funds doing walks and events in the DMV. “The money that I raise from my long virtual event that will kick-off annual Galas for Breast Cancer Reon Saturday, Oct. 24 at 10 am and search, I give time Relay for Life,” will run through Saturday, Oct. 31. replies Hultz who also recently unThe event will include special guest derwent a double mastectomy in her speakers, live performers, survivor second battle at 61. “I always believe celebrations, participant and team that I have made the right choice to give the money to them. In the recognition, competitions, prizes. ”COVID-19 has affected this future we will give to individuals year’s Making Strides Against Breast who need mammograms, money Cancer event. The event is going to for household bills, and or groceries look different from previous years. who are fighting breast cancer.”

According to the Centers for DisThe safety of our patients, survivors, volunteers, and staff always comes ease Control and Prevention, deaths first,” informs Corinne Bombowsky from breast cancer are going down

Virtual Walks Encourage Breast Cancer Survivors to Press On and Live

By Brigette Squire WI Contributing Writer @SquireBrigette

The joy and pride that is felt from participating in a walk for a cause is indescribable. This year, due to COVID-19, the American Cancer Society has veered towards virtual celebrations for Breast Cancer Awareness Month with “Making Strides” of Washington, D.C. To commemorate, the committee is planning for an exciting week-

among both Black and white women, especially among younger black women. But breast cancer death rates are 40 percent higher among Black women than white women.

Black women are more likely than white women to get triple-negative breast cancer, a kind of breast cancer that often is aggressive and comes back after treatment.

“It’s never over because there is no cure,” states Kimberly Johnson-Redder of Silver Spring, Md. who gets emotional when describing what it feels like to be a seven-year survivor.

“Recently I had a scare after doing a self-exam. It was only scar tissue thankfully, but my husband and sons were nervous. I had to do intense research to get resources when going through treatment because there is not much for Black women.”

Serena created a CaringBridge Site that is a social network to help people stay connected with family and friends during a health crisis.

“I am a ‘But, God!’,” says Johnson-Redder. “Serena is a ‘But, God!’ We are thrilled to walk. Shortly after my treatments in 2013, I walked 26 out of the 39 miles just to prove to myself that I still can.”

You can sign up for the virtual walk here: www.makingstrideswalk.

You’re Invited! Open House Event

5Serena Hultz, 61, is a doublenegative breast cancer survivor from Maryland. (Courtesy photo)

org/washingtonDC and follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/ makingstridesdc) and Instagram (@ makingstrideswashingtondc) for the most up to date event info. To stay connected to emotional support visit https://caringbridge.org/visit/ serenaholtz2.

“Together we will fight and together we will save more lives!,” exclaimed Corinne Bombowsky. WI

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HEALTH

COVID from Page 1 tested positive for the coronavirus, well wishes poured in from around the globe including messages from British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Indian President Ram Nath Kovind.

Here in the U.S., Trump’s presidential opponent Joe Biden and former Housing Secretary Julian Castro counted among those who sent notes of encouragement to the president and his wife.

In an early morning tweet on Oct. 2, Trump declared he had contracted the virus. But some remained skeptical, believing the president might be seeking to sway voters after a disappointing debate performance which now has him trailing Biden by as much as 13 percentage points with about one month to go before Election Day. “I see some of you don’t believe the Trumps have COVID,” BlackPressUSA’s Entertainment and Culture Reporter Dr. Nsenga Burton tweeted.

“They have it. A reporter broke the story,” Burton assured her followers.

“They didn’t come forward and disclose their status. They knew and carried on, as usual, exposing a ton of people, including Biden, in the process. Debates should be canceled.

Vote Nov. 3,” she said.

Reminded by Trump’s earlier efforts to downplay the deadly virus as a hoax – even suggesting that people inject themselves with disinfectant to combat COVID-19, Castro expressed hope that the president has since realized the serious nature of the disease.

In a cautiously worded statement that contained seeds of doubt as to whether Trump has the virus, Castro wrote: “Mr. President – if these reports are confirmed, I wish you and the First Lady well. I hope this is a wakeup call that this virus is not a hoax or something cured by injecting bleach. We need a plan, not the same divisive, dangerous rhetoric.”

The virus has infected more than 34 million worldwide, with over 1 million dying from COVID-19.

Nearly 7.5 million in the U.S. have received a positive diagnosis with more than 212,000 fatalities.

In more than a dozen recorded telephone calls between journalist Bob Woodard and Trump and shared in the reporter’s recently published book, the president admitted that he

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5 Well-wishers line the street at Walter Reed Army Medical Hospital after President Trump is hospitalized to receive treatment for his COVID-19 diagnosis on October 2. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

Reminded by Trump’s earlier efforts to downplay the deadly virus as a hoax – even suggesting that people inject themselves with disinfectant to combat COVID-19, Castro expressed hope that the president has since realized the serious nature of the disease. knew as early as January about the deadly virus but did nothing to protect the American public.

The president famously held large rallies where masks were not required with Trump openly speaking against the need to use facial coverings.

Trump supporter and African-American businessman Herman Cain, who died in August from COVID-19, attended a crowded Trump rally in Tulsa in June before shortly thereafter learning that he had been infected by the virus.

Trump’s positive test result comes on the heels of a similar diagnosis of his close aide Hope Hicks and just days after his participation in the presidential debate. His opponent, Biden, was expected to be tested on Oct. 2.

As social media erupted in banter about the president’s positive test results, even his more vocal critics remained unsure on just how to react.

“Not gonna lie,” Dr. Leigh-Ann Webb, a National Newspaper Publishers Association Coronavirus Task

Force member, wrote. “As a healthcare provider, there’s something sad about an entire timeline filled with people celebrating Trump’s COVID-19 diagnosis.”

“Being angry doesn’t mean you wish ill on the president,” journalist Jemele Hill tweeted. “But the hope is that this will be a big wakeup call for the people who carelessly followed his lead.”

Mocking Trump for his never-ending bravado in which the president portends that everything he does is more remarkable than anyone or anything, journalist Matt Danzico deadpanned: “He tested positive better than anyone in history – probably. I don’t know the guy. But I hear, I hear he tested positive better than anyone in history.”

One Twitter user predicted two weeks earlier that Trump would pretend to have the virus because his poll numbers were so dismal.

In a screen-capture from a Sept. 18 tweet, John Cammo wrote, “Trump’s October surprise would be the announcement of ‘his infection.’ Fake, but quite dramatic.”

Cammo further predicted that for two weeks, Trump would dominate the news cycle because of the virus and then emerge “100 percent cured by hydroxychloroquine.”

With Trump returning to the White House, unanswered questions remained at press time, including whether the two remaining scheduled debates with Biden would proceed; if or when the president could resume campaigning with just weeks before the Nov. 3 election; and whether he would have the stamina to continue his plan to pressure the U.S. Senate into conforming his nominee for the U.S. Supreme Court. WI

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SPECIAL $59 OFFER – CALL FOR DETAILS OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020 21

EDUCATION Super Mom Anticipates Retiring Cape Due to Virtual Learning

By Brigette Squire WI Staff Writer @SquireBrigette

Frustrated, working-class mother of four, Tyree Stewart, struggles to balance working from home and en-

gaging youngest son with autism in distance learning.

“Children with special needs must be in a classroom setting with their teacher and one-on-one help,” expressed Stewart.

Stewart’s son Christian is seven

years old and is nonverbal. Her remaining children range from 22 years old to 15.

“Christian is not focused at all.

He has had several meltdowns since school has started. When I’m at work, his sister has to help him log in while trying to do her own studies,” says Stewart.

Stewart, who resides in Wicomico County, is not alone. After taking her frustrations to her personal Facebook page, she found many other parents were upset about not having the resources necessary to educate their children from home.

“Christians school ran out of laptops so we had to use my phone for him to do his schoolwork. I feel like the teacher, principal and all of the above. The whole situation has brought me to tears,” Stewart said.

On Sept. 7 Stewart shared a post on Facebook that stated “The strength y’all expect black women

MedStar Washington Hospital Center

We want your input.

MedStar Washington Hospital Center needs your input. We want to partner with community members to improve the overall well-being of the population we serve. Every three years we survey our community to help us plan and carry out community-based programming to address the health needs of underserved populations.

It’s confidential, only takes a few minutes and can greatly help others in our community.

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5 Tyree Stewart and son Christian enjoy the extra time spent together while virtual learning although his autism presents difficulties. (Courtesy photo/Tyree Stewart)

to have is unfair….”

According to the Economic Policy Institute, since the era of slavery, the dominant view of black women has been that they should be workers, a view that contributed to their devaluation as mothers with caregiving needs at home.

Mothers who are at home desperately search for resources to aid their children in developing and surviving the school year during COVID-19 restrictions.

“It has been a learning curve for all of us. We are doing our best to teach virtually but children will need more help to keep up,” replies teacher assistant Patsy Squire in Montgomery County. “I commend my students for using devices and taking breaks to work through their issues.”

Families that can afford additional online instruction for their children will certainly have the advantage this year.

Deborah Ingram, MBA, is the founder of Martha’s Solutions (MSTS), an Online-Based Tutoring Service that gives children an intimate setting to ensure focused, productive learning.

“We believe that all children can learn through differentiated instruction,” declares Ingram. “We strive to build productive and positive relationships with our students in order to make a positive impact.”

Parents need stipend money to afford programs such as Circle of Hope Therapeutic Riding which is an organization dedicated to encouraging the physical and mental development of children and adults with developmental, psychological or physical disabilities.

According to Circle of Hope, horses can soothe the emotionally distressed, help with development of motor skills and, in the case of people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), reduce stereotyped behavior, lessen sensory

sensitivity and increase the desire and ability to connect socially with others.

A variety of animals, including horses, dogs and guinea pigs, can provide therapy for children. Children who, due to the pandemic haven’t freely played on a playground with friends in months, long for motivation.

Nine-year-old Spencer leaves a testimony on the Circle of Hope website: “Spencer’s coordination and motor skills have greatly improved. He is more compliant and calm after a Circle of Hope session. We use “riding Papa” as a motivator, and he is able to make the connection between behavior and a reward. ” Therapeutic riding is offered to children and adults with disabilities that include, but are not limited to autism, emotional disturbance, learning disabilities, attention deficit disorder and developmental delays.

“Once you target a child’s learning style, you can teach them anything they need to learn, claims Ingram. “‘For children with autism, their learning style is more kinesthetic. They generally like hands on, art, sculptures, Play-Doh, Legos and playing outside.”

Fees range from $90 to $810 to participate in therapeutic riding and tutoring costs $30 for 30 minutes may be out of budget for Mothers like Stewart. Purchasing a small pet for the home might be a more cost-effective option.

“You have to understand that children with autism are very observant and are calmed by touch, states Ingram.” It may seem like one more thing to do but I think they will have a better advantage of being successful in academics with an animal in their home.”

If you are interested in therapeutic riding visit www.chtr.org. To get online tutoring you can reach Martha’s solutions tutoring at https://marthassolutions.wixsite.com/tutoring.

WI

9/24/20 2:16 PM THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

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OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020 23

Getting more masks to where they’re needed most Across the country, Bank of America continues to work with local organizations to provide critical resources to the vulnerable and underserved populations hardest hit by the coronavirus.

To support the safety and health of those most at risk in our community, we are partnering with local leaders and organizations to distribute PPE masks here in Greater Washington, D.C. This is in addition to the four million masks we donated earlier this year in cities across the country — and part of our ongoing commitment to provide millions of masks to help slow the spread of the coronavirus.

Together, let’s work to help Greater Washington, D.C. recover.

Lawrence Di Rita Greater Washington, D.C. Market President

150,000 masks distributed to our neighbors here in Greater Washington, D.C. We’re partnering with: Capital Area Food Bank Catholic Community Services Cornerstones

To learn more, please visit bankofamerica.com/community Bank of America, N.A. Member FDIC. Equal Credit Opportunity Lender. © 2020 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.

24 - OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020

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2020 FINANCIAL LITERACY SUPPLEMENT

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PUBLISHER Denise Rolark Barnes STAFF D. Kevin McNeir, Editor Ron Burke, Advertising/ Marketing Director Shevry Lassiter, Photo Editor Lafayette Barnes, IV, Assistant Photo Editor John E. De Freitas, Sports Photo Editor Dorothy Rowley, Online Editor ZebraDesigns.net, Design & Layout Mable Neville, Bookkeeper Dr. Charles Vincent, Social Sightings columnist Tatiana Moten, Social Media Specialist Angie Johnson, Circulation REPORTERS Stacy Brown (Senior Writer), Sam P.K. Collins, Timothy Cox, Will Ford (Prince George’s County Writer), Jacqueline Fuller, Hamil Harris, D. Kevin McNeir, Kui Mwai, Lee Ross, Dorothy Rowley, Brenda Siler, Lindiwe Vilakazi, Sarafina Wright, James Wright, PHOTOGRAPHERS Ja’Mon Jackson, Shevry Lassiter, Roy Lewis, Jr., Robert R. Roberts, Anthony Tilghman

Wells Fargo is extremely proud to sponsor the Washington Informer’s Financial Literacy supplement, particularly this year when so many people are taking a different look at their finances and financial goals because of the current economic climate.

Many people continue to deal with economic stresses because of COVID-19 and money issues are front and center.

Taking care of your financial health can help you build a foundation to get you through tough times and prepare for the future. Some of us may be looking at how we save differently or even considering how to prioritize significant financial goals like buying a home or opening a business.

We are fortunate that publications like the Washington Informer create supplements like this one to inform its readers on a number of topics related to financial health.

It’s important to understand that your financial health is a journey and unique to each individual. Small changes can easily turn into habits that have a big impact on your financial health and support is available.

Many people continue to deal with No matter your situation, there are many places to look for financial information and economic stresses because of COVID-19 guidance even during these uncertain times.

It’s a great time to take advantage of websites and money issues are front and center. and online tools that can help educate you on a number of financial topics. At www.

Taking care of your financial health can wellsfargo.com/financial-education/ you can explore information on topics like saving, help you build a foundation to get you budgeting and even big goals like purchasing a home. There also are financial health rethrough tough times and prepare sources by phone. It’s easy to call a Wells Fargo financial health phone banker to discuss for the future. your financial goals.

Your financial wellness is important for planning to reach your financial goals. In addition, no matter how you have been impacted by this pandemic, it’s never too late for education and guidance to help you navigate the way forward and prepare to handle other financial issues you may have to experience.

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WORDS FROM THE EDITOR

5 Dr. Shantella Sherman (Photo by India Kea)

By Dr. Shantella Sherman WI Special Sections Editor We are all creatures of habit and this includes the myriad of ways in which we manage our finances.

So, as new and innovative technologies claim to make financial transactions faster, easier, more efficient, or even safer, resistance proves the natural inclination.

Trees be damned, I love most things paper made – hardbacks over E-readers, notepads over laptops, and checkbooks or cash over electronic payments. However, like most global consumers, my love of paper has hit a technological wall, and in an increasingly electronic world the prevalence of Cash App, Quick Response (QR) codes, mobile banking, and digital payments has forced me to integrate the new with traditional financial matters.

According to Consumer Reports, eight in every 10 Americans

prefer banking digitally to visiting a physical branch, which explains the improving mobile and online banking adoption statistics in the country. Mobile and online banking by age statistics reveal that consumers aged 50 and above will make up nearly a third of mobile banking logins two years from now.

But with the adoption of more digital platforms, many fear the loss of jobs for human bankers, associates, and customer service representatives. This belief, fueled by headlines like: Robots to Cut 200,000 U.S. Bank Jobs in Next Decade (Bloomberg, 2019), Europe’s Banks Slash 60,000 Jobs as Outlook Turns Negative (Financial Times, 2019), and U.S. Bank to Cut Thousands of Branch Workers in Digital Push (American Banker, 2019), continue to feed the fears of traditional bankers.

But as Forbes reported earlier this year in the article, “Journey

New Age Commerce: Resistance Proves Futile to Digital: Banking in 2025,” the industry will never do without human workers.

“As advanced as conversational interfaces and emerging technologies have become, the likes of Robo-advisors currently act to facilitate and streamline customer engagement rather than replace humans altogether. They are, therefore, a fantastic example of machines augmenting employee roles within the workplace. Currently, these technologies are not and will possibly never be at the stage at which they can replace humans entirely.”

A great case and point: My annual European vacation runs seamlessly from one country to another using a single money card that allows me to load U.S. dollars, British pounds and European Union euro. The card allows the

transfer of one currency to another, access to ATMs, and contactless point of sale purchases, without a hitch. Until there was a hitch in 2018 – and I needed to speak with a customer service representative.

Thousands of miles away from home, I did not want to press a bunch of buttons or listen to automated instructions. Only a person would do.

Consumers agree. In an informal Washington Informer poll of 200 area bank visitors, 85 percent said that the major drawback to digital banking is losing interaction with human customer service agents. In fact, comments aligned sharply with stories conducted in this edition by Lindi Vilakazi, who charted the shift from traditional banking platforms by D.C. residents to new age ones.

“It feels like overkill for a lot

of people – irrespective of their ages – who enjoy the ease of paying for items through PayPal or transferring money through Cash App, but who also want the specialized courtesies and interaction with bank tellers, store clerks, and friends,” Vilakazi said. “I think some people have disconnected from the ‘ritual’ of shopping or some banking transactions, which can make it feel less pleasurable for consumers. That amounts to ‘bad business.’”

Like it or lump it, new age banking and commerce is here to stay.

This Washington Informer Financial Literacy supplement offers a guide to understanding some of the latest technologies and hopes to warm our readers to many of the benefits to ‘going digital’ – a bit at a time.

Read, Learn, Grow.

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5 Traditional bank books (like the one pictured) from Peoples Savings Bank circa 1970 are true relics of the past. (Courtesy photo)

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Certain restrictions apply. Subject to credit and property approval. ©2020 M&T Bank. Member FDIC. NMLS# 381076. 43771-A 200519 VF Washington Informer: 5.85” x 5.5”

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Consider This Guidance if you are Ready to Jump into the Homebuying Market Donna Greene Market Development ConsultantWells Fargo Home Mortgage

When you’re ready, so are we Your home is more than just four walls, it’s where you create the moments that make up daily life.

When you’re ready to buy or refinance a home, we’ll provide personalized guidance to help you compare loan options, including features, interest rates, monthly payments, and more.

To learn more, call 1-866-875-7068.

Or visit wellsfargo.com/mortgage.

Information is accurate as of date of printing and is subject to change without notice. Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. © 2020 Wells Fargo Bank,N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801.

AP5158583 6/25/20 REV 6/20

This year’s homebuying season has been like no other.

It got off to an early start followed quickly by an abrupt stop as states locked down during the early days of the pandemic. Then, it roared back with historically low interest rates and many lockdown-weary buyers looking for space to better fit their needs to work and entertain at home.

As we settle into the fall and a time of year when some buyers usually retreat, you may be wondering what’s happening in the marketplace now. Is it still a good time to buy?

True to what we’ve been seeing all year, buyers have been bucking the usual trends and continue to actively buy as summer winds down and we head into cooler weather months.

Across the industry, demand for mortgages to buy a home has been running higher than a year ago, according to mortgage application data from the Mortgage Bankers Association for the first part of September.

In addition, preliminary data shows contract signings for the four weeks ending Sept. 20 were up 23 percent compared to a year ago1, according to the National Association of REALTORS®.

Buyers are still in the market, though the number of properties for sale has been low. Even so, fall and winter months may provide a good time to look and traditionally provide buyers a chance to shop in an environment that may offer a little less intense competition.

If you are ready to buy and want to begin house hunting, here are a few important considerations to keep in mind.

Don’t get carried away when bidding on a house in this competitive environment. You need to know your buying budget and stick to it. It’s really easy to get emotional about a home and want to buy at all cost, but keep

Don’t get carried away when bidding on a house in this competitive environment. You need to know your buying budget and stick to it.

the focus on the smart financial decisions you’ve made about budget and manageable payments.

Remember that there are more ways than one to take advantage of the current rate environment. Talk with your home mortgage consultant about your goals and what financial options work best for you. For example, are you looking for the lowest possible payment or is you biggest concern the lowest possible closing cost? These are all part of a good discussion as you set out to buy.

Finally, think about buying a home as a series of financial trade-offs you will need to make. Most people don’t get their dream home right out of the gate. It’s usually a discussion of what’s the best possible home I can buy based on the budget I have. As you get close to finding that home, you’ll find yourself trading your dream kitchen for a bigger garage or discover you’re OK with just a onecar garage because the house comes with a swimming pool. It’s all part of the process.

The fall and winter months really can be a great time to buy a home, if you’re ready. As a buyer, take your time, do your financial homework and dive into the opportunity.

1. Copyright ©2020 “Weekly Housing Market Monitor.” NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. All rights reserved.

Reprinted with permission. https:// cdn.nar.realtor/sites/default/files/documents/2020-09-21-weekly-housing-market-monitor-09-24-2020.pdf FS

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5 Dr. Sophia Sparks

Home is where the heart is.

It’s also the heartbeat of a community.

A home is so much more than brick and mortar. It can feel like the heartbeat of your community. It says, “I belong here.” We understand that successful homeownership helps make individuals, families, and communities stronger.

That’s why we’re working hard to support homebuyers by preparing them to become homeowners. Let’s keep our communities growing strong together.

To learn more, call 1-866-875-7068. Or visit wellsfargo.com/mortgage

Information is accurate as of date of printing and is subject to change without notice.

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. © 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801. AS5144182 Expires 01/2021

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THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 2020 FINANCIAL LITERACY SUPPLEMENT / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

How to Raise Kids with Money Smarts They’re not really being taught how to be financially responsible once they leave the house and become independent. What steps can parents take to teach both sensitivity and responsibility about money?

Step 1: Find teachable moments.

It can be difficult to find time to sit down and talk specifically about wealth, but natural opportunities to teach pop up every day.

For example, you can incorporate financial responsibility into

By John Marshall Financial Advisor Wells Fargo Advisors Parents have a responsibility to teach their children about finances—and that’s true for wealthy families and less affluent families alike.

Kids are smart enough to pick up on signals that their family may have more than others. But if the conversation stops at the benefits that money can bring, you’re missing out on important life lessons.

Donating approximately $400M to help small business owners recover, especially minority-owned businesses.

an impromptu math lesson about money: If you find something that originally cost $100 and it’s on sale for 30% off, you can ask kids how much the new price is—and, now that they are only spending $70, what they might do with the $30 that’s left.

Step 2: Take a lifelong view toward financial literacy.

Every child, and especially those who will one day inherit substantial wealth, should have a tool kit of basic financial literacy skills by age 18, including concepts such as how to spend, how to save, how to give, and the value of a dollar.

This can start very early with an exercise as simple as a three piggy banks analogy. You encourage the child to divide any money he or she receives into three piggy banks: spending, saving, and community/ charity. This shows the concept of different types or purposes of money as opposed to all being for spending. Repeating this exercise can help ingrain the habit of saving regularly.

By late childhood or adolescence, parents can add concepts such as what it means to invest, what companies one might invest in, and how you assess risk with an investment.

You can encourage children in high school to think about college expenses logically by examining the costs and coming up with a credible college budget. Ask them to consider basic questions: What will you need in order to make this happen? What will the family need to supply, and what is the student expected to supply, in terms of tuition, books, room and board, transportation, and normal spending money?

And parents and grandparents can continue to encourage responsible, long-term financial responsibility by giving young adults an incentive to begin saving for re-

tirement early. If you’re able, and they have earned income, offer to match what they save into a Roth IRA. It’s also wise to coax contributions to a 401(k) at work.

Step 3: Show your kids how it’s done.

Your child’s healthy relationship with money begins with an open and honest relationship within a family that models good money behavior. These discussions can be challenging, but the fruit is well worth the labor.

Stress education and expect them to do well in school. The parents who do really well in teaching financial literacy typically lead by example—they tend to be savers, and they’re more careful with spending money. Remember to be that example.

This article was written by Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of John Marshall, Financial Advisor, in Washington, DC at 202861-4458.

Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. © 2019 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved.

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You can encourage children in high school to think about college expenses logically by examining the costs and coming up with a credible college budget.

Wells Fargo is donating all gross processing fees from the Paycheck Protection Program to nonprofits helping small businesses recover from the impacts of COVID-19.

The Open for Business Fund will help small business owners keep their doors open, retain employees, and rebuild.

The first wave of grants is aimed at empowering Black and African American-owned small businesses.

Learn more about the Open for Business Fund: stories.wf.com/helping-entrepreneurs-stay-open-for-business

© 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved

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New Age and Traditional Banking Converge for Washingtonians

By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Staff Writer Traditional brick and mortar banking systems are gradually falling to the wayside amid an uncertain COVID-19 landscape. Particularly among millennials, the greater use of mobile banking activity opposed to traditional banking platforms separates them from their Generation Z and Baby boomer counterparts.

According to 2018 LeadsCon research, millennials were ten times more likely to coordinate borrowing transactions via peer-to-peer banking, compared to consumers 50 years and older. Simultaneously, 27 percent of these millennials have never visited a physical banking branch before.

LeadsCon, the annual conference of marketing and business development firms, analyzes consumer behaviors – including banking to help insiders create best practices for those industries.

“I feel like online banking is more versatile for online businesses actually, and I use it myself. I sell a lot of products online, and it’s just easier to collect money from different people using apps like Cash App, Venmo, and PayPal especially, and when you’re able to link them into your social media as well,” said 26-year-old D.C. music producer Tyrone Johnson.

While millennials like Johnson have seemingly acquiesced to the modern luxuries and advancements of mobile banking opportunities, many baby boomers still find greater comfort in utilizing traditional banking institutions to manage finances.

Some baby boomers who spoke with the Washington Informer said they associated visiting physical bank branches with a type of ‘ritual’ that kept them personally connected with the financial institutions, lenders, and associates with whom they entrusted their hard-earned money.

“I’m old school; I still go to my branch for my banking needs like transfers, money orders, deposits, and other things,” said Tasha Braxton, a native Washingtonian baby boomer.

“A few of my peers do use new age banking methods, but I have a lot more friends who still have those old, core values like myself.”

Still, most Americans search for a happy median between shifting and new financial innovations and tradi-

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5 Lindiwe Vilakazi (Courtesy photo)

tional methods of doing business.

Jermaine Wright, father of four and native Washingtonian, has learned to merge both traditional and new-aged banking habits into his financial habits, however, he still prefers original brick and mortar services.

“It makes things a lot easier in terms of things like Cash App, and Zelle, but I also think it’s very risky too. I have only had Cash App for about 8 or 9 months, and I wouldn’t get one initially because I was sure of its security,” Wright said. “But now everyone uses these apps, so it kind of forces you to have some form of digital platform from which to manage financial transactions.”

Digitized transactions have spilled over into in-store product accessibility, as the District has already seen the emergence of cash-less businesses – that only accept payment for goods and services through apps, credit and debit cards, or gift cards.

“I actually think it’s ridiculous. If you want me to come into your store and purchase something, but you don’t have an option for me to pay cash, it impedes business and denies access. It makes no sense whatsoever,” Wright said.

Millicent McDermott, 77, an Alexandria grandmother said the new technology has been a blessing as her mobility has lessened and the pandemic forced the temporary closure of several bank locations in her immediate area. Like Braxton, McDermott told the Informer she was hesitant about new financial innovations but found that her resistance was futile.

“You could see the people in the grocery stores ready to beat me every time I pulled out my checkbook.

They would hiss and suck their teeth

at me, and I didn’t really care because I felt in control of that checkbook,” McDermott said. “I didn’t want to push buttons and swipe a card. In hindsight, I was just being stubborn.

Eventually the store stopped taking checks and they opened self-checkout lines to speed the process up, so I had no choice.”

McDermott said fortunately a neighborhood store with senior hours afforded her time to try out her debit card when few people were in the store to make her feel anxious.

After a few times, she became a pro at self-checkout and now cannot

imagine life with a checkbook.

“I still write everything down in my checkbook to keep the balance sheet accurate, but innovation is our friend.

I can now check my balances online,” she said laughing. “I even deposited a check using my cellphone. I feel like one of these young folks now.” FS

DYK: Did You Know…?

By Lee Ross WI Contributing Writer

According to Business Insider, U.S. mobile banking stats reveal that 89 percent of American bank account holders use mobile banking for account management. For 70 percent of them, mobile banking is the primary way of managing accounts.

Based on U.S. banking online data, Bank of America made history in 2001 as it became the first U.S. financial institution to gain more than 3 million online banking users. At the time, online banking customers accounted for 20 percent of its total client base.

A recent U.S. internet banking survey

by Consumer Affairs, revealed that only 20 percent of consumers would rather pay a visit to a physical bank location than do their business via digital channels. It also found that younger users turn to mobile banking features more than their older peers. Approximately 30 percent of consumers under the age of 54 use mobile payment services like Venmo and Apple Pay at least once a week, while only 12 percent of those older than 54 do the same.

Juniper Research noted that digital banking stats predict that the total number of online and mobile banking users will exceed 3.6 billion by 2024.

Mobile and online banking growth are expected to experience a 54 percent increase compared to 2020.

Deloitte, the British multinational professional services network found that global online banking statistics reveal that 73 percent of customers use online banking channels at least once a month, compared to 59 percent who use mobile banking apps equally often. They also determined through their consumer banking data, that most account holders use either mobile (56 percent) or desktop (29 percent) banking platforms for balance inquiries.

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 2020 FINANCIAL LITERACY SUPPLEMENT / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

DCHFA Relaunches Mortgage Assistance Program to Provide COVID-19 Relief Submitted by DCHFA The District of Columbia Housing Finance Agency’s DC Mortgage Assistance Program (DC MAP) is now providing mortgage relief to homeowners affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Helping Washingtonians maintain their status as homeowners is as important to the agency as creating new homeowners. As businesses in the Washington, D.C. region have had to close and/or reduce staff due to the effects of COVID-19, DCHFA recognized an opportunity to help D.C. residents remain in their homes.

“DCHFA is committed to helping D.C. homeowners sustain during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Christopher E. Donald, Interim Executive Director, DCHFA. “With more than 100 calls in the first couple weeks of re-launching the program, we saw just how great

the need for assistance is right now.

Our goal at the agency is to help as many homeowners as possible.”

Through DC MAP COVID-19, qualified borrowers can earn up to $5,000 in assistance per month for up to six months to put toward their mortgage. The assistance will be made to qualified homeowners in the form of a zero-interest recourse loan, secured by a deed of trust. Qualified borrowers must be applying for assistance on his or her primary residence and the residence must be located in the District of Columbia; must be current as of the March 1, 2020 payment; must be able to document income affected by COVID-19; must be the borrower on the home loan, not just a member of the household; and, must show proof that the borrower is not eligible for forbearance or other types of relief offered through the loan servicer.

Mayor Muriel Bowser an-

nounced the relaunch of DC MAP in a press release in early August.

“We know that for many DC families, keeping up with their monthly mortgage payments has been a tremendous struggle during these unprecedented times,” said Mayor Bowser in the release. “By repurposing this existing assistance program, we can provide homeowners with some peace of mind and help relieve some of the financial burden during this public health emergency.”

DCHFA originally launched DC MAP in 2019 to provide assistance to furloughed federal government employees during the partial government shutdown. DC MAP was a pilot program designed to provide mortgage support during an unanticipated financial hardship. Through setting up this pilot, DCHFA created a defensive program structure that guided the development of the additional as-

sistance component encompassing COVID-19 and homeownership in the District.

District homeowners seeking assistance through DC MAP COVID-19 should call 1-833429-0537 to begin the applica-

tion process. Questions regarding DC MAP COVID-19 relief can be emailed to DCMAP@dchfa. org. For more information about borrower requirements and loan terms, visit www.dchfa.org.

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Are you a D.C. government employee interested in buying a home in the District?

DC4ME provides D.C. government employees a first trust mortgage at a reduced interest rate. The rate comes with or without the option of three percent down payment assistance with a zero percent deferred subordinate loan.

Learn more at www.dchfa.org/homeownership

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The Reverse Mortgage Insurance and Tax Payment Program (ReMIT) by the District of Columbia Housing Finance Agency allows qualified homeowners to receive up to $25,000 in financial assistance for delinquent property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, condominium fees/homeowners association fees and certain property related expenses paid by your Servicer that have put the homeowner at risk of foreclosure.

To apply, contact Housing Counseling Services:

(202) 265-2255

For additional information or questions about the program email,

remit@dchfa.org.

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THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 2020 FINANCIAL LITERACY SUPPLEMENT / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

Office Equipment Bills Giving You The Blues?

Money-Saving Tips To Get You Back In The Green

By James Page During the COVID-19 pandemic, many have transitioned from the office to the home and adjusted to a new normal. This has left many businesses with underutilized office equipment.

This effect is compounded when applied to churches, schools, and government-assisted programs where people would gather frequently in large numbers. This has caused some to wonder why they have to pay for equipment or services that they are not fully utilizing. Below are tips that can be applied to a business or organization of any size to save money.

• Copier Machines - Refinance copier machine and downgrade to a smaller, less expensive machine with a lower interest

5 Page Global Founder and CEO James Page

rate.

- Negotiate early buyout of the machine. This can be done by

Page Global™ has been in business for over 25 years and we are a leader in state-of-the-art office equipment in the Washington, Maryland, and Virginia area. We have a strong track record of high-performing machines and excellent customer service. All of our local technicians are certified and experienced with the latest equipment. Given our local presence, we are committed to being faster, simpler, and easier to do business with. We offer competitive pricing, price matching, and a 100% money-back guarantee if you are unsatisfied. Simply, Page Global™ helps organizations improve performance through a more efficient document management system.

calling your local authorized office equipment dealer.

- Take advantage of the “early closeout” clause which can be negotiated by your equipment representative. Get reimbursed for the intrinsic value of the machine (25% - 50% full market value).

programs, architectural drawings, and more).

- Be sure you are getting the lowest price. Some larger companies do not offer the best price per copy ($0.15 - $0.30) when compared to their local counterparts ($0.05 - $0.07).

• Maintenance and Supplies - Renegotiate current maintenance agreements.

- Cancel all annual maintenance/service agreements and go on a “cost per copy” agreement.

Sometimes called “pay as you go” plans.

- Gather all supplies and offer them back to your supplier through a buyback program

Page Global is an AwardWinning industry provider of office solutions, strategic communications and information technology with capabilities to support businesses Nationwide.

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This effect is compounded when applied to churches, schools, and government-assisted programs where people would gather frequently in large numbers. This has caused some to wonder why they have to pay for equipment or services that they are not fully utilizing.

• Printing - Outsource larger print/copy jobs (e.g., books, flyers, church

Page Global™ Certifications: • Minority-owned business (CBE) • Disabled veteran-owned business (DVOB) • GSA supply schedule (8a Certified)

65 Copier and Printer (split the caption)– Whether it is for home or office, today’s networked world demands document solutions with greater speed, power, and productivity

Call today for your free individualized assessment of your current equipment costs and ways to start saving money now.

202-296-7247 - www.PageGlobal.com

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Identifying and Avoiding Online Student Loan Scams

By A. Elisabeth Currie WI Staff Writer Under the COVID-19 pandemic, with increased unemployment in most every major US city, the stress of barely making or an inability to make student loan repayments is acutely felt nationwide. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates, the national unemployment rate for December 2019 was 3.5 percent, in the District of Columbia it was 5 percent. As of August 2020, the national unemployment rate soared to 8.4 percent, and 8.5 percent in the District of Columbia.

In the midst of the pandemic and rising joblessness, relentlessly aggressive and unscrupulous businesses prey on the fear and anxiety of student loan borrowers.

“Hey this is Jack with the Student Loan Defense Center.

It looks like we have on record that your federal student loans may be eligible to have the payment reduced, or possibly, even eliminated. So, give us a call back when you get a chance. We would be happy to see if you qualify.”

After receiving four identical messages to the one above, curiosity got the best of me and I returned the call using the one phone number that was consistently left in each message. After all, everyone wants to eliminate their student loans.

About 30 seconds and several automated messages into the call, I was transferred to Mason. Initially he was very polite but went straight in on asking for my full name and student loan details.

In response I gave him only my first name and tried to get a sense of whether the Defense Center was affiliated with a government agency, did the Defense Center charge fees, and how they could possibly eliminate my debt. Unsurprisingly, Mason could not or would not answer any of my questions and after several tense minutes he wished me a “good day” and hung up.

The Defense Center’s website offers an ebook of student loan repayment information on “Pay as You Earn”; “Income Based”;

5 A. Elizabeth Currie (Courtesy photo)

“Income Contingent”; and “Life Coaching,” services for $49.99.

The Defense Center explicitly declares on its front web page, “We do not solicit anyone by phone.”

According to the Better Business Bureau, the Student Loan Defense Center, advertises under an address in Cheyenne, Wyoming. However, they have been unable to confirm the existence of the Defense Center at this location. In addition, several complaints of phone harassment and incorrectly informing potential customers that the Defense Center is associated with the US government have been filed within the past months.

Federal Student Aid, an office of the US Department of Education offers insight on how to recognize a potential scam and gives information on who you may contact to assist, free of charge, to consolidate and manage your student loans.

First the most common practice, and how scammers make their money, is to ask for an upfront payment or for you to arrange to pay these business monthly fees. FSA advises, valid US Dep of Ed servicers never charge a fee.

Scammers may request personal information such as your social security number, which may be used for further identity theft, or your FSA ID password.

FSA instructs, the US Dep of Ed nor a valid loan service provider will not ask you for your FSA ID. Your FSA ID has legal binding, equal to your written signature. Do not give this password

to anyone or allow anyone to create this password for you.

Another claim is to promise immediate loan forgiveness.

FSA advises, “no one can promise immediate and total student loan forgiveness or cancellation.

Most government forgiveness programs require many years of qualifying payments and/or qualifying employment in certain fields before loans can be forgiven.”

USA Today reports that $1.6 trillion in student loan debt is owed, spread out among approximately 45 million American borrowers.

In response on March 20, 2020 the White House declared a suspension on student loan repayments for loans held by the Department of Education and set the accruing interest rate to 0 percent. In August the Student Loan Payment Relief, the suspension of student loan repayments, was extended until December 31, 2020.

For the remaining months of this year borrowers may breathe a small sigh of relief. But beginning January 1, 2021 be careful who you contact to manage your student loans.

Federal Student Aid lists the following valid loan servicers for US Department of Education loans: CornerStone; FedLoan Servicing (PHEAA); Granite State

(GSMR); Great Lakes Educational Loan Services; HESC /Edfinancial; MOHELA; Navient; Nelnet; OSLA Servicing; ECSI; and the Default Resolution Group (also known as Maximus Federal Services).

Contact your school’s financial aid office regarding the status of

your loans and for information regarding loans you may have that are not held by the US Department of Education.

For assistance please call the Federal Student Aid Information Center on 1-800-433-3243 or visit their website https://studentaid.gov/ FS

In the midst of the

pandemic and rising

joblessness, relentlessly aggressive and

unscrupulous businesses prey on the fear and anxiety of student loan borrowers.

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 2020 FINANCIAL LITERACY SUPPLEMENT

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Everything I Need to Know about Credit, I Learned from My Motorcycle

By Maceo Clark You can learn a lot from being on two wheels. I’m not talking about “born-to-be-wild.” This is the mechanics of staying upright.

Maneuvering to good credit, like riding a bike of any sort, comes with habits you can learn in order to own the road.

Look where you want to go, not where you’re going. Any biker can tell you not to look at the handlebars. Look ahead and the body will guide the bike naturally. Likewise, don’t lose sight of where you want to be with credit wellness. Make goals --be it higher credit score, lower monthly payments, or saving for the future. Access a free credit report from www.annualcreditreport.com which will map out the road ahead. While this secure website doesn’t give a credit score, many financial institutions offer to provide the score as a courtesy, and apps exist that will do the same.

A good credit score is generally 680-700 and above. A lower score doesn’t mean the end of the road; it can paint the starting line even if it means a delay in achieving goals.

Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty.

Credit scores determine the rate lenders offer and whether a loan is extended at all.

Scores make a big impact on car payments and auto insurance rates, with companies charging more for lower scores. Credit scores can even play a role in getting a job now that some companies use them as part of the hiring process.

It doesn’t take a mechanic to fix credit. If you see a creditor has reported incorrect information, send a dispute letter to the credit bureau and to the company who initially made the error. Request the error

be removed and include supporting documentation. If the dispute results in a change to your score, the credit bureau must give you a free copy to review.

There is no quick fix to improving credit. It takes time and effort. As always, keep an eye out for financial scams and never share your Social Security number with anyone other than a legitimate lender or financial institution.

Be aware of others in traffic. The three big credit bureaus are certainly aware of you. Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian are collecting data on each payment made or missed, where you live, and whether you’ve filed for bankruptcy or been sued. They keep tabs on every credit inquiry. The more times you apply for new credit, the lower the score can go.

Keeping balances under 50% of credit limit should be a given. To improve scores more quickly, pay down balances and maintain them at under 30% of the limit. Making the minimum payment each month is important but will not improve a credit score.

Credit card offers can be too good to be true. Research a card before applying, as maybe the annual fee outweighs the potential rewards.

Don’t slow down on the curves.

Gravity demands that you maintain speed so the bike doesn’t come out from under you. Borrowing rates are at historic lows right now, resulting in lower monthly payments. Don’t be afraid to look into the many first-time home buyer programs the area offers. It’s also a good time to consider refinancing a home or vehicle. Lower monthly payments can shorten the trip to financial well-being.

If slower speeds are needed fi-

nancially, what matters most are good payment history and lower outstanding debt. Start by paying off the smallest debt first, as a paid-in-full account will raise scores. Settle collections unless they are old and may soon cycle off the report. Don’t close old accounts– they show a history of credit worthiness even with a zero balance.

Safety above all else. Remember that any loan you co-sign is just like you took the loan out yourself.

Any and all missed payments will go on your credit report and will be included in any debt-to-income calculation for a loan application.

Finally, enjoy the ride. The road can get bumpy but with a good

grip, you can embrace the challenge with an understanding of credit fundamentals. For credit and payment calculators, go to EagleBankCorp.com/mortgages. And for more detailed credit information, go to https://myhome.freddiemac.com/resources/ creditsmart.html.

Maceo Clark NMLS# is a Senior Mortgage Banker at EagleBank NMLS# 440513, one of the largest community banks in the DC area.

As a community lender, Maceo offers

expert knowledge of Affordable Housing and First-Time Home Buyer resources, as well as refinance services.

Contact him at MClark@EagleBankCorp.com or 301-850-2655.

EagleBank Residential Lending is not a credit counseling or financial advisement firm. This information is for educational purposes only and is not to be taken as guidelines or guarantees to improve your credit or financial situation or eligibility to secure a home loan. EagleBank is an Equal Housing Lender. FS

Let’s work together.

Mortgage bankers build community.

EagleBank’s Residential Lending team offers competitive loan products and services, and options that answer the needs of Washington, DC’s home owners and buyers.

Contact us to learn more.

Maceo Clark

Senior Mortgage Banker NMLS# 807001

301.850.2655

EagleBankCorp.com 202.292.1568 All loan applications are subject to credit and property approval. NMLS# 440513

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THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 2020 FINANCIAL LITERACY SUPPLEMENT / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

Recent & Recommended Books about New Age Banking

By Lee Ross WI Staff Writer

Technology and traditional banking have forged a rather complimentary relationship since the 1990s when banking was defined by physical brick and mortar branch structures. In addition to the slow demise of tradition and regulation, wherein cash and checks were the central transaction currencies, a new generation of consumers have never seen a bank ledger and use digital methods for everything from money transfers and purchases, to depositing payroll checks. Here are a few texts that will help Informer readers navigate the new age of banking technology with ease.

The Digital Banking Revolution, by Luigi Wewege Over the past decade financial service innovations have contributed to a completely new way in which customers can bank, threatening the status quo of traditional retail banks, and redefining a banking model which has been in place for generations. These new technological advancements have facilitated the rapid emergence of digital banking firms and FinTech companies, leading to established banks being forced to swiftly increase their pace of digital adoption to stay relevant and

stop mass client attrition to these agile financial start-ups. These threats come at an inopportune time for banks due to mature markets currently experiencing stagnant growth. This coupled with decreasing profit margins due to the competitive pricing of new entrants, and financial customer loyalty becoming ever increasingly more tenuous.

Bankruption: How Community Banking Can Survive Fintech,

by John Waupsh The discussion separates futurist thinking from today’s realities,

and dispels common myths surrounding the U.S. community banking model in order to shed light on the real challenges facing community banking institutions. It follows with clear solutions, proven strategies, and insight from experts across banking and fintech. All arguments are backed by massive amounts of data, and the companion website provides presentation-ready visualizations to help you kickstart change within your team. In the U.S. and around the globe, fintech companies and non-banks alike are creating streams of banking services that are interesting, elegant, and refreshing—and they’re winning the hearts and minds of early adopters. Not a onesize-fits-all approach, this book offers many different tactics for community banks and credit unions to compete and flourish in the new world.

Bank 4.0: Banking Everywhere, Never at a Bank by Brett King The future of banking is already here — are you ready? Bank 4.0 explores the radical transformation already taking place in banking and

follows it to its logical conclusion. What will banking look like in 30 years? 50 years?

The world’s best banks have been forced to adapt to changing consumer behaviors; regulators are rethinking friction, licensing and regulation; Fintech start-ups and tech giants are redefining how banking fits in the daily life of consumers. To survive, banks are having to develop new capabilities, new jobs and new skills. The future of banking is not just about new thinking around value stores, payment and credit utility — it’s embedded in voice-based smart assistants like Alexa and Siri and soon smart glasses which will guide you on daily spending and money decisions. The coming Bank 4.0 era is one where either your bank is embedded in your world via tech, or it no longer exists.

Doing Digital: Lessons from Leaders

by Chris Skinner There has been lots of discussion of digital and open banking, banking-

as-a-service, banking platforms, FinTech and TechFin and more over the past decade. This all indicates that we are in a decade of rapid cycle change that presents huge challenges and huge opportunities. Billion-dollar unicorns appear rapidly, whilst internet giants achieve global domination.

How are banks dealing with these changes and are any banks showing leadership? Well yes, a few are. With all the gloom merchants saying that traditional banking is doomed, a few banks have made radical moves to adapt and survive. Chris Skinner, world-leading commentator on banking and technology, has selected five of those banks—JPMorgan Chase (USA), BBVA and ING (Europe), and DBS and CMB (Asia)—to share their experiences. In detailed interviews, and with wide-ranging commentary, he has discovered the secrets of how not just adapt and survive, but how to thrive in this sea change of finance and technology. FS

Service. Convenience. Personal Touch.

From the convenience of making a deposit from your mobile device to the personal touch of a one-on-one discussion, we’re proud to offer a wide array of quality banking products and services to help you reach your goals. We take pride in knowing the communities and people we serve, and tailoring our services to meet their needs.

Personal Banking Checking I Savings I Credit Cards I Lending

For more information, visit your local United Bank or reach us at 800.327.9862.

BankWithUnited.com

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By the Numbers: Crypto-Mania!

By Lee Ross WI Staff Writer A cryptocurrency is a digital or virtual currency that is secured by cryptography, which makes it nearly impossible to counterfeit or double-spend. Many cryptocurrencies are decentralized networks based on blockchain technology—a distributed ledger enforced by a disparate network of computers. A defining feature of cryptocurrencies is that they are generally not issued by any central authority, rendering them theoretically immune to government interference or manipulation. The

highest cryptocurrency global market cap was estimated at $800 billion, in January 2018. This value is a market cap for all cryptocurrencies, according to the 2018 Finance Magnates global market report. Cryptocurrencies are volatile and change at incredible rates.

For instance, the global cryptocurrency market cap nearly halved and was $417 billion in February 2018.

A cryptocurrency is a new form of digital asset based on a network that is distributed across a large number of computers. Despite its volatility, cryptocurrency may be here to stay. Here are a few things you should know, by the numbers.

This decentralized structure of cryptocurrency allows them to exist outside the control of governments and central authorities.

Bitcoin remains the king of cryptocurrency, despite falling to 40.07% of the cryptocurrency market share in 2018. Bitcoin is synonymous with cryptocurrency, and it has always been the most lucrative of them all.

The word “cryptocurrency” is derived from the encryption techniques which are used to secure the network.

According to E-Crypto News, the market cap for all cryptocurrencies in June 2020 was higher than $271.

58 billion. Still, it was impossible to guess how much their value would explode over time.

Cryptocurrency market growth is guaranteed, and at a CAGR of 11.2 percent for the forecast period, it should reach the estimated numbers.

The popularity of crypto is booming, and with the integration of blockchain technology, the growth is imminent due to faster and safer transactions.

Blockchain statistics show that while the industry is still young and in development. The market grew approximately by a billion dollars every year (around one, two, and three billion, in total, in 2018, 2019, and 2020, respectively).

WE’LL ALWAYS STRIVE TO BE YOUR ADVOCATE. DAY IN, DAY OUT. Every day can bring changes, challenges and opportunities. Some are big, others small, but all of them can also alter your personal or business financial goals and priorities. What can make it all easier is a true financial partner. Someone who really listens, understands and then creates solutions with you, from managing your personal finances to running your business. That’s real banking for real life. And real business.

Call 833.987.REAL or visit sandyspringbank.com/real.

Looking to get more savvy with your money? Visit sandyspringbank.com/station.

P E R S O N A L

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I N S U R A N C E

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Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. Sandy Spring Bank NMLS # 406382. Wealth and Insurance products are not FDIC insured, not guaranteed, and may lose value. Sandy Spring Bank and the SSB logo are registered trademarks of Sandy Spring Bank. Real banking for real life.SM © 2020 Sandy Spring Bank. All rights reserved.

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9/30/2020 11:25:53 AM

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You’ve come this far. We can help you go further.

Learn how at:

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OPINIONS/EDITORIALS

EDITORIAL

Is the West Wing COVID-19 Central?

A few days ago, Donald Trump left Walter Reed National Medical Center in Bethesda after being treated for COVID-19, apparently to prove to his supporters that not even coronavirus could get the best of him.

Unfortunately, while his “drive-by in a sleek, black sedan” may have made for fantastic optics, it clearly sent the wrong message to Americans. The president put on his Sunday best before posing for photographs while signing blank pieces of paper. He recorded videos declaring himself recovering. He alluded to the fact that he might even be immune to the deadly virus that continues to wreak havoc not only throughout the U.S. but around the world.

Then, as stated early, the infected 74-year-old man took a brief ride through the District as American flags were hoisted in tribute to a president who still cannot disavow the heinous deeds of white supremacists.

With millions of Americans having already died from coronavirus and millions more infected – some still fighting for their lives – we find Trump’s messages, including “Don’t be afraid of COVID,” “Don’t let it dominate your life,” and “Feeling really good!” to fully represent what the president says he detests the most – fake news. Moreover, they present a situation that no one in their right mind should believe to be true.

Meanwhile, Trump has refused to answer the pertinent questions about his prognosis while his doctors have officially declined comment, save for the terse statement that they are remaining “on guard.”

At the same time, it’s been confirmed that the infection rate at the White House continues to rise with each passing hour to the extent that it more resembles an abandoned town of the Old West than Ground Zero for the Trump Administration.

Donald Trump has toyed with the American public in a cavalier manner since taking over the hallowed halls on 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. But now, by cavorting with smoke, mirrors, shells and innuendoes, he is daring untold millions of citizens to throw caution to the wind with their very lives potentially hanging in the balance with the suggestion that we are more powerful than COVID-19.

Shame on you Mr. President!

WI

Remembering the Million Man March – 25 Years Later On Monday, Oct. 16, it will be 25 years since the Million Man March was held on the National Mall in the Nation’s Capital in 1995, but it feels like yesterday for many of the million-plus Black men who gathered there as they reflect on that day which stood still to them. How far we have come from witnessing what march organizer, Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr., described as a gathering of “Black brotherhood, camaraderie, solidarity and commitment to improve the quality of life of the Black family and the Black diaspora.” Even the naysayers who distrusted Minister Louis Farrakhan’s call for the march couldn’t help but feel a burning sense of pride after hearing the commitment made by those Black men present and others who were there in spirit.

On what was called the “Holy Day of Atonement, Reconciliation and Responsibility,” the peaceful crowd of Black men from across the country stood for hours listening to speakers, both men and women, until finally, it was their time to speak out loud, voicing their commitment in the form of a pledge. Each one of them raised their right hand and, in unison, pledged to improve their lives and the lives of their wives, children and families.

They vowed to love each other and themselves, to build their communities and to avoid violence and abuse against their wives and children. They swore off the “B” word, as well as drugs, and promised to support Black businesses and institutions, including the Black press and Black artists that “show respect for themselves and for their people.”

When the march concluded and the thousands returned home in cars, buses and planes, the condition upon which they left the National Mall was stark. It was spotless.

And while some praised the event, others asserted that barely any good resulted from the historic event. Organizers claimed that over 1.5 million Black men registered to vote for the first time and that the number of Black children adopted by Black families rose

TO THE EDITOR Lack of Leadership is Costly What a beautiful picture of the Washington Monument by Anthony Tilghman.

Unfortunately, no matter how beautiful the skies, seeing all those flags representing COVID-19 deaths is heartbreaking. I so feel for the families who out of nowhere had their loved ones taken from them due to a failure of leadership on all levels.

Beacon of Faith I really enjoyed The Religion Corner (“Finding Peace Within a Storm”) last week. This has been the most trying year for me personally and every day seems to be a new challenge. I wasn’t expecting it to, but Lyndia Grant’s words certainly lifted my spirits. Thank you.

Yeverta Grimes Washington, D.C.

Carolyn Scott Washington, D.C.

significantly.

The increasing number of violent deaths and extreme incarceration of Black men were factors that led Minister Farrakhan to call Black men together in masse. George Floyd, whose violent death came at the hands of police earlier this year, was 25 at the time. Many others who’ve also been killed following en-

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

counters with law enforcement weren’t even born. Minister Farrakhan knew that a call for unity, not violence, was a productive way to address America’s attack on Black men. Remembering that day is a step towards bringing them together again in brotherhood and solidarity.

WI

OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020 25

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist

By Charlene Crowell

Wealth Gap Costs Blacks $2.7T in Income Over Past Two Decades

America’s persistent racial income and wealth gaps are the result of four intertwined factors: housing, education, business ownership and access to credit. Closing these gaps would facilitate inter-generational wealth creation for Black America and also expand the nation’s economy by $5 trillion over the next five years.

These findings come from an extensive report newly released

by a major bank.

According to “Closing the Racial Inequality Gaps: the Economic Costs of Black Inequality in the U.S.,” published by Citi Global Perspective and Solutions, centuries of bias and institutionalized segregation have generated grave societal and economic losses that reverberate throughout America.

Had these gaps been addressed 20 years ago, the report found, the nation could have: - generated an additional $13 trillion in business revenue.

- created 6.1 million jobs each year

Guest Columnist

if Black entrepreneurs had access to fair and equitable lending.

- enabled Black America to earn $2.7 trillion more in income.

- resulted in 770,000 more Black homeowners and boosted the economy by $218 billion.

Its foreword, written by Raymond J. McGuire, Citi’s vice chairman and chair of its global banking and capital markets, addresses recent deaths from the coronavirus pandemic and from police violence against communities of color.

“My two brothers and I were

raised in Dayton, Ohio, by our single mom and her parents, who had migrated from Georgia to escape the injustice and terror of Jim Crow,” McGuire wrote. “They worked tirelessly as janitors, social workers, and leaders at our local church to give us every opportunity.

“Yet even today, with all those credentials and as one of the leading executives on Wall Street, I am still seen first as a six-foot-four, two-hundred-pound Black man wherever I go — even in my own neighborhood,” he wrote. “I could have been George

Floyd. And my wife and I are constantly aware that our children could have their innocence snatched away from them at any given moment, simply for the perceived threat of their skin color.”

McGuire’s foreword weaves his personal journey with startling findings of the untold and unmet quest for financial justice that suppresses all of Black America — including how the current public health and economic crisis make this quest much

CROWELL Page 45

By Marc H. Morial

Campaign’s ‘Deterrence’ Strategy Should Motivate Every Black American To Vote In Defiance

“Yet the harsh fact is that in many places in this country men and women are kept from voting simply because they are Negroes. Every device of which human ingenuity is capable has been used to deny this right. The Negro citizen may go to register only to be told that the day is wrong, or the hour is late, or the official in charge is absent. And if he persists, and if he manages to pres-

ent himself to the registrar, he may be disqualified because he did not spell out his middle name or because he abbreviated a word on the application. And if he manages to fill out an application, he is given a test. The registrar is the sole judge of whether he passes this test. He may be asked to recite the entire Constitution, or explain the most complex provisions of State law. And even a college degree cannot be used to prove that he can read and write. For the fact is that the only way to pass these barriers is to show a white skin.” — President

Guest Columnist

Lyndon Baines Johnson, 1965 Deterrence: the action of discouraging an action or event through instilling doubt or fear of the consequences.

In 2016, the Trump campaign sorted millions of voters in 16 key battleground states into categories, also described as “audiences,” so they could then be targeted with tailored ads on Facebook and other platforms.

Black voters were sorted into a category titled “Deterrence.”

These were the people the campaign wanted to keep from voting, according

to Britain’s Channel 4 News. Facebook was flooded with negative ads, targeted specifically at Black audiences, designed to keep them at home on Election Day. Efforts to keep Black Americans from voting are nothing new, of course.

For most of the century and a half since the 15th Amendment declared the right to vote “shall not be denied on account of race,” the right to vote consistently has been denied on account of race.

Nor is it breaking news that social media was a key tool used to suppress

the Black vote in 2016. The largest part of Russia’s disinformation campaign was aimed at demoralizing and discouraging African Americans from voting, as the National Urban League’s State of Black America detailed last year.

But the Channel 4 investigation revealed that overt contempt for Black voters was not just an undercurrent in the 2016 presidential race, but a key component of a one campaign’s official strategy.

MORIAL Page 45

By Ben Jealous

Health Care and Civil Rights at Stake with Trump SCOTUS Pick

Republicans’ rush to fill the vacant U.S. Supreme Court seat before the election is a terrible threat to Black people’s civil rights and the health of our communities.

In her 27 years on the Supreme Court, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg was a champion of civil rights. During those same years, though, Republican presidents and senators moved the court

26 - OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020

further and further away from its duty to protect racial equity and the rights of working people.

During the civil rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s, we counted on the U.S. Supreme Court to uphold the constitutional principle of equality under law.

We have counted on federal courts to enforce the Civil Rights Act and Voting Rights Act, federal laws that finally put the force of law behind the idea that Black people are part of the Constitution’s “We, the people.”

But the Supreme Court we have today is a long way from the court that did away with legal segregation, a long way from the court that upheld civil rights laws that were won with the blood of Black people and our allies in the struggle for equality.

Ginsburg was often a key vote in 5-4 decisions that protected civil rights. And as the right-wing took power, she was often a powerful prophetic voice dissenting from abominations like the gutting of the Voting Rights Act in 2013.

As part of a political deal to help him win the White House, Trump turned over selection of judges to a hard-right legal movement that wants to reverse many of the social justice gains of the past century.

Any Trump nominee would have been a threat to the causes for which Ginsburg devoted her life.

Judge Amy Coney Barrett believes Obamacare is unconstitutional — and there’s a case coming before the Supreme Court just a week after the election that will give her and other right-wing jus-

tices a chance to destroy access to health care and legal protections for people, right in the middle of a pandemic.

In a case that raises alarms about her commitment to racial equity, she voted to deny a hearing to a Black man who worked for a company that assigned staff to different stores based on their race.

If she is confirmed, our ability to count on federal courts to protect our rights will be diminished

JEALOUS Page 45

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OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist

By Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.

Myths and Lies About Poverty

“The poor will always be with us,” say the cynics.

No doubt, some will always be wealthier than others. We wouldn’t want to live in a society that forced all to be equal. But poverty isn’t inevitable. The 30 million people in America who lived in poverty even before the pandemic when unemployment was at record lows

needn’t exist in that state.

Too many myths and lies cloud our understanding of the poor. Most poor people are not Black. More are White than black, female than male, young than old. More have a high school education. Some graduate.

Poverty in America used to be far worse; about a third of Americans lived in poverty in the 1950s. Poverty was reduced, dramatically, by Lyndon Johnson’s War on Poverty. The war on poverty was defeated not by poverty, but by the war in Vietnam, which

Guest Columnist

When the pandemic forced the economy to shut down, millions lost their jobs — and their health care at work, if they had any. Over 30 million still draw unemployment, with over a million new applicants each week as companies continue to lay off workers. Many more children are hungry. Public policy — the “stimulus checks,” the enhanced unemployment insurance, the expansion of food stamps (SNAP), the partial moratorium on evictions and foreclosures, the aid to businesses if they kept

their employees on payroll — saved millions from poverty.

Now those benefits have expired, but the unemployment remains high. Many companies are declaring bankruptcy. Many are slashing payrolls with permanent, not temporary layoffs. Again, public policy could help. The House passed another rescue package — the HEROES ACT — that would provide another round of stimulus checks, sustain enhanced

recommendation, many disagree, even as we are surrounded by unprecedented and unquestionable illness and death.

As of Oct. 4, the District has confirmed 15,547 cases, and 631 residents have died. Recent trends suggest about two District residents develop COVID-19 every hour of the day.

The notion of being required to wear masks to buy groceries, with cashiers behind plexiglass barriers, leery of potential pathogens on cash money, would have been relegated to science fiction eight months ago. Thousands of career-oriented professionals with decades of uninterrupted work history

lamenting the loss of a $600 per week government benefit was unthinkable before. Our lives have been altered in ways we never imagined. So why do large segments of the population refuse to wear masks? Because it’s their constitutional right not to?

In April, University of California legal scholar Erwin Chemerinsky addressed this question in the Los Angeles Times, noting that “the Supreme Court explicitly rejected” the claim that “liberty” under the Constitution includes the right of individuals to make decisions

They see themselves as enforcing the laws that the elected government has not enforced.

And third, the far better armed and trained U.S. military has itself been dealt humiliating defeats in Iraq (this country is closing its Baghdad embassy, the largest in the world) and in Afghanistan (where the yanquis are suing for peace with the dreaded Taliban).

So, if the mighty Marines can’t defeat those “towel-heads” overseas, how can these American Isis militias—who call themselves Proud Boys and Boogaloo

Boys—hope to prevail in their new civil war, with no governing structure and a bunch of weapons they purchased at Wal-Mart?

And finally, those weapons and those rowdy militias have been absolutely ineffective in the real battles that have already brought the entire nation to its knees—namely the raging forest fires in the West; the hurricanes and floods in the South; not to mention the threat of snow and blizzards in the North; and

sapped resources, attention and will.

Most poor people work when they can. They take the early bus. They do the hardest jobs for the least amount of money.

They bear the most amount of stress. They care for the children of others. They tend to the sick. They serve food in restaurants. They sweep the streets. They clean bedpans beneath hospital beds that they cannot lie in when they get sick. Many are essential workers who are at greater risk in the pandemic.

JACKSON Page 46

By Guy Weston

What Will It Take?

To mask or not to mask, that is the proverbial question. But should it be? More than seven million cases of COVID-19 have been reported nationwide. The president and first lady have tested positive, as well as some White House staffers, members of the White House press corps and members of Congress. Former presidential candidate Herman Cain died of COVID-19 in July, having tested positive after attending an indoor Trump rally in Tulsa,

Okla. weeks earlier. Yet, as recently as this week’s presidential debate, members of the president’s entourage refused to wear masks, in accordance with the venue’s requirement, rebuffing a Cleveland Clinic physician who sought to provide masks and remind them of the previously announced policy.

Meanwhile, the president again ridiculed Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden’s extensive mask use. On Oct. 2, hours after the president’s diagnosis was reported, Chief of Staff Mark Meadows briefed reporters unmasked outside the White House, even though he had recent close contact with the

Askia-At-Large

president. The following day, dozens of Trump supporters gathered outside Walter Reed National Military Medical Center to express their support, with many not wearing masks.

What will it take for these Americans to feel vulnerable to COVID-19?

Dr. Anthony Fauci, the renowned immunologist whose five-decade career has included advising every president since Ronald Reagan, recommends mask-wearing to prevent COVID-19 transmission. My personal physician concurs. Does any Washingtonian have a personal physician who recommends otherwise? Notwithstanding this expert

WESTON Page 46

By Askia Muhammad

Proud Boy’s Guns Can’t Save Them

Donald J. Trump’s Proud Boys and their Boogaloo Boys brethren— who the prez ordered to “stand back and stand by” in his tumultuous debate with Joe Biden Sept. 29 are headed for a train wreck if they think their little pop-guns and bazookas and army surplus-store, tactical gear will guarantee them any success in the United States they are

trying to hold off from emerging.

The demographic bomb is exploding. White supremacy—Proud Boyism—is doomed.

They have armed themselves for what they anticipate to be the resumption of the U.S. Civil War, this time reversing the outcome so that the slave-holding states, the red states, will prevail.

They are deluded.

First these rag-tag militias will not dare attack any U.S. military installations, as the Confederate States did

when they assaulted Ft. Sumter in South Carolina in 1861. That was the start of the real Civil War. Second, for theirs to be a legitimate civil war, it would require some sort of governing structure, which they don’t have to challenge the U.S. What they’re really after is some sort of bedlam, national race riots like after WWI, in which they will be able to freely attack and murder Black folks and pinko-liberal, radical leftists and beat them into submission until they stop chanting “Black Lives Matter!”

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ASKIA Page 46 OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020 27

LIFESTYLE Art Auré: District’s Latest Soul Sensation Brings Classical Roots in Tow

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia

District native Art Auré merges breathtakingly beautiful and passionate vocals with a brilliant fusion of pop, funk and soul, taking her audience on an inspirational, emotional journey.

Her music focuses on positivity

28 - OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020

and empowerment and industry experts call it intensely personal – yet her sound carries a universal message: it is timely and timeless.

Trained classically in six languages, the vocalist, songwriter and graduate of the Duke Ellington School of the Arts in Northwest, received one of her most significant breaks last year as a participant in Mayor Muriel Bowser’s 202Creates arts residency.

As a featured performer who blew the crowd away, Auré noted the responses she received.

“People were like, are you signed to a label?” the smooth sounding crooner recalled. “But, I’m currently an independent artist who just has a passion for music.”

In 2019, Auré debuted the single, “California Sunset,” which she featured while opening in concert for chart-topping hit makers like Kanye West, Miguel and Faith Evans.

“I really enjoyed those experiences and I think I learned so much, especially from Faith Evans, who really was kind and talked to me about music,” Auré gushed.

Last month, Auré released the single, “Keep On,” which earned selection from Black Women for Biden as the theme song for its GenZ/ Millennials events leading up to the November presidential election.

The record, which Auré co-produced, features a global roster of musicians and includes horns, a 25-piece string orchestra, bass, guitars, drums, piano, a choir and a rich production.

“It’s a song we can all relate to,”

5 Art Auré. (Photo courtesy Art Auré)

Auré stated. “There’s so much in this world, bringing us down, and my responsibility as an artist is to bring us up and make us happy. There’s so much negativity going on and I have to uplift.”

Auré noted that her parents originated from Gary, Ind., the home of the late King of Pop Michael Jackson and his family.

“My dad played in a band with Jackson’s cousins,” Auré noted.

She and her four siblings used to dance and make up original songs and Auré recalled her goal was to win talent shows.

“That’s because the talent shows were offering money and I wanted to buy new stuff,” she said with a laugh.

As a District-native, Auré recognizes the city’s rich Go-Go history and she has incorporated the sound

into her latest single, “Good Times.”

“I’ve definitely done Go-Go before but not as much,” she said. “But I have sung in six different languages and ‘Good Times’ is something I’m excited about. You get a hint of GoGo and it’s the biggest thing I’ve ever done.”

Auré’s much-anticipated debut album is slated for a fall or winter debut and the proud District entertainer says she’s ready for the world.

“The artist’s duty is to reflect the times,” Auré said. “So, let’s ‘Keep on.’”

To learn more about Art Auré or purchase her new single, visit https:// www.hellogoodtimes.art/. Follow her on Instagram@artisworldwide; Facebook/Artisworldwide; or Twitter @Artisworldwide.

WI

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LIFESTYLE

Is Trump So Unhinged He’s Making Up Coronavirus Story to Detract from COVID Effects on Blacks?

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia

President Donald Trump’s unprecedented behavior and statements have earned him the reputation as being among America’s most unhinged presidents. Thus, it should come as no surprise that social media has recently erupted with increased skepticism following his early morning tweet on Oct. 2 that announced that both he and first lady Melania Trump had tested positive for the coronavirus.

Stinging questions of doubt included whether the announcement was meant to divert attention away from his lackluster performance in his recent debate against Democratic Presidential

nominee Joe Biden or if he sought to garner sympathy to overcome an estimated 13-point deficit in national polls.

Many also warned that the news shouldn’t detract from the disproportionate ways in which the African-American population continues to suffer from the virus and other medical maladies.

“And, if he doesn’t do something quickly, by the end of the year, 1-in-500 [African Americans] will have been killed,” Democratic Presidential Nominee Joe Biden railed at President Donald Trump during a Sept. 29 debate at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland.

In the wake of the president and First Lady Melanie Trump’s positive coronavirus test results, many Americans point to health dispar-

ities faced at heightened levels by Blacks in comparison to other ethnic groups.

“In 10 or 15 years from now, researchers and the general public can learn from scholarly and non-scholarly pieces as to what it was like to be a Black person in the time of COVID-19,” Tracie Jones, director of diversity and inclusion, Harvard Graduate School of Education, told the Harvard Gazette.

“It’s an important record. The racial disparities of COVID-19 are something we need to talk about as a larger community,” Jones stated.

Along with Harvard College librarian Sarah DeMott, Jones has created “Black America and COVID-19” –a library guide that aims to serve as an historical record, shedding light on the pan-

5 Former U.S. HUD Secretary Julian Castro. (Courtesy Julian for the Future)

demic’s impact on African Americans who remain twice as likely to die from the disease as whites.

“I’m just going to say it. Trump refused to wear a mask and has downplayed COVID-19 from

the beginning,” said social media maven and Washington Informer photographer Anthony Tilghman. “If the president would’ve taken COVID-19 seriously, many lives could’ve been saved.”

The Harvard research guide’s goal remains to capture the personal stories of triumph, failure or death which continue to unfold within the Black community.

“We didn’t want the ephemerality of the situation to escape,” DeMott told the Harvard Gazette.

“We wanted to make sure that all those accounts didn’t disappear.

We were trying to capture the feeling on the ground at the moment.”

“Unhinged” serves as a continuing series developed by The Washington Informer which seeks to chronicle the unpredictable and sometimes questionable behavior of Donald Trump, including potential instances of race-baiting, while providing closer scrutiny of multiple examples of the president’s statements or positions, proven to be false or unfounded, that have marked his presidency.

WI

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OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020 29

LIFESTYLE

The Latin American Youth Center: Serving All Youths

By James Wright WI Staff Writer @JamesDCWrighter

The Latin American Youth Center offers programs and services to young people throughout the Washington, D.C. area—with the District as its base—and its services are available to anyone regardless of ethnicity.

Lupi Quinteros-Grady serves as the CEO of the LAYC. Quinteros-Gray said the center got its start in 1968 when Latinos activists and those who supported them expressed concerns about few resources in the District’s public and private sectors for immigrants fleeing from their countries. Since that time, Quinteros-Grady said the LAYC has worked on aiding immigrant and Latino families and others, with its focus on young people, on having a better way of life.

“We are designed to empower youth,” she said. “We seek to create opportunities and access for the youth

we serve. We want to help young people achieve their goals and to be their best. Also, we want to make sure they have access to the resources they need.”

Since its founding in 1968, the LAYC has achieved several milestones.

The center opened offering educational and vocational services as well as after school and summer programs.

In 1995, the LAYC expanded by receiving its first U.S. Housing and Urban Development grant to participate in YouthBuild, a program designed to help low-income youth learn the construction trade so they can build affordable housing, community centers and schools. The following year, AmeriCorps, a voluntary civil service program with the mission of engaging adults in public service, became a part of the LAYC and in 1998, the center moved to its present site at Columbia Road., N.W. and established its first charter institution, Next Steps Public Charter School.

Another charter, Latin American

Montessori Bilingual Public Charter School, started in 2001 and that year launched a partnership with Ben & Jerry’s, the ice cream giant. The Maryland expansion commenced in 2005, starting in Prince George’s County and eventually included Montgomery County. The YouthBuild Public Charter School got its start in 2005, too. In 2009, the LAYC’s Hope House opened with residential facilities for teen parents and children under distress. Hope House serves as the only bilingual facility for teen parents in the District. In 2012, the LAYC started its career academy giving its students the chance to take courses in the health care and technology fields in addition to offering Advanced Placement and college-oriented classes. In 2014, the Washington Informer honored then LAYC President Lori Kaplan for her work in the District.

Quinteros-Grady said the LAYC’s housing initiatives and wraparound services in hunger, education and em-

ployment are open to anyone in need.

She said while Latino youth serve as its focus, African Americans have a long history of participation.

“We have had a change in our demographics,” Quinteros-Grady said.

“Two years ago, 60 percent of the people we serve were Latinos while 40 percent were African American. Now, 46 percent are Latino and 42 percent are African American. It would seem African Americans participate more in our housing programs. African Americans also participate in our drop-in center program where people can get a meal, take a shower and wash clothes. In recent years, we have noticed a number of LGBTQ youth have utilized our services. Nevertheless, we serve anyone who needs help and we are working to meet young people where they are.”

Quinteros-Grady said LAYC has programs in the District’s predominantly Black Wards 7 and 8 located east of the Anacostia River, even though the census indicates those jurisdictions are only three percent Latino.

“We are working with young people in Kramer Middle School and Anacostia and Ballou High Schools,” she said. “We have mental health specialists available to students at those schools. We hold counseling sessions

5 The Latin American Youth Center’s headquarters on Columbia Road., N.W. (Courtesy photo)

for students and have staff on site at those schools.”

Quinteros-Grady said she and her team are thankful to political, community and philanthropic leaders for their support of the LAYC and looks forward to continuing the work.

“We are proud to be an anchor in the community,” she said. “We have been around 52 years and we have been able to evolve and respond to the needs of the community in real time.”

WI

MARY MCLEOD BETHUNE DAY ACADEMY PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOL REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS- MULTIPLE SERVICES

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Preproduction model shown with optional features. Near Field Communication (NFC) digital smartphone key requires a compatible Android smartphone and an appropriately equipped 2021 Elantra. Not all Android devices are compatible. The Elantra must be equipped with smart key with push button start, wireless device charging, and Audio Video Navigation System 5.0 (or newer) or Display Audio 2.0. Lock/unlock functionality works on driver’s door only. See your Owner’s Manual for details and limitations. Dynamic Voice Recognition varies by unit. Speak in a normal voice and minimize background noise for best results. See Owner’s Manual for details and limitations. Hyundai is a registered trademark of Hyundai Motor Company. All rights reserved. ©2020 Hyundai Motor America.

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OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020 31

LIFESTYLE

Capital Bikeshare Reaches Milestone Amid Changing Landscape and More Nagging Unanswered Questions

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Contributing Writer @SamPKCollins This year marked a decade since the Capital Bikeshare program first offered its services as a convenient and affordable means of transportation for biking enthusiasts, urban professionals and others eager to avoid expensive parking tickets and bumperto-bumper traffic on their daily commutes into the District.

While the program’s expansion throughout the D.C. metropolitan region has suggested a greater embrace for biking among those of more diverse races and socioeconomic backgrounds, some hardcore bikers, like Laurie Williams, point to infrastructural inequities that prevent her and her neighbors in Anacostia from fully enjoying such opportunities.

“I’m advocating for protected bike lanes, more bike racks, public air pumps and tools in communities east of the Anacostia River.” said Williams, a lifelong biker who played a role five years ago in convincing Capital Bikeshare to install bike docking stations, not only at the Anacostia Metro Station, but in other underserved communities.

“It’s not very safe to ride a bike in Southeast [because] you can get hit by a car or bus. It’s not like when you go to Capitol Hill or Northwest because they don’t just have bike lanes, they have protected bike lanes that keep them away from the cars,” Williams said.

While coronavirus restrictions have forced the cancellation of large biking

events, Williams, a licensed and certified cycling instructor, said she has managed to accumulate more than 1,300 miles while out and about on errands and during socially distanced bike rides with one or two people at a time. Still, her experiences haven’t been obvious barriers to hassle-free rides from Anacostia to the western parts of the District, including the closure of a key trail in Anacostia in the early evening.

“It’s so hard for Black people to demand things,” Williams said. “The park closes at night but the trail over there is supposed to be [a form of] alternative transportation. Then your neighborhood doesn’t have protected bike lanes to make you feel safe. I would like to see more advocacy but I see why our people don’t do it.”

A CHANGING OF THE TIDE

The Washington Area Bicyclist Association and other pro-biking groups celebrated a legislative victory last month when the D.C. Council approved a Vizion Zero Omnibus bill that allocated more than $171 million toward a slew of infrastructural changes intended to curb and eventually eliminate traffic-related deaths in the District.

Key provisions of the bill, introduced last May amid a bevy of high-profile incidents, include a mandate that accelerates the completion of plans for bike and bus lanes.

Owners of large residential buildings would also be responsible for providing drop-off points that prevent cars from blocking bus and bike lanes.

Under the bill, contractors would be penalized for not repairing bike lanes and crosswalks after the completion of a project.

On September 20, just days before the bill’s passage, Capital Bikeshare commemorated its 10-year anniversary with one free classic bike ride for all users. This deal came on the heels of the company’s support of essential workers, via a free 30-day membership, and its launch of the Capital Bikeshare for All program through which recipients of federal and state assistance could also enjoy membership at a low price.

Since Capital Bikeshare’s inception, riders have taken more than 27 million trips and membership has grown to more than 28,000, all with the support of the DC Department of Transportation [DDOT] and other partners in the area. The installation of 80 new biking stations in the District, Arlington and Alexandria, scheduled for next year, will bring the total number of stations to more than 600 that hold more than 5,000 bicycles and dockless e-bikes.

For Tommy Wells, a former Ward 6 D.C. Council member and biking enthusiast, Capital Bikeshare’s growth over the last decade represents the fulfillment of a prophecy, unfolding not only in the District but in most major American cities dealing with congestion and other traffic-related issues.

Wells recalled facing skepticism and pushback from D.C. Council colleagues and older constituents, Black and white, concerned about encroachment on their way of life when he supported Capital Bikeshare’s expansion

and the subsequent installation of bike lanes in Capitol Hill and along Pennsylvania Avenue in Northwest.

Chief among people’s concerns, he said, was the perceived inconvenience to drivers and residents. Though he acknowledged that, years later, the D.C. government and local retailers have a way to go in supporting equitable access to biking, Wells said that Capital Bikeshare has played a vital role in spurring interest in biking as a mode of transportation and method of environmental sustainability.

“Biking can sometimes be associated with one culture or another but the truth is I see people of all income levels and races using Capital Bikeshare and I think that younger people especially recognize that it’s a cheap way to get from Point A to Point B,” Wells, director of the DC Department of Energy & Environment, said.

“It’s a nice, healthy way to get around but I can understand there was a time when it was still viewed as

a symbol of gentrification,” he added.

“It wasn’t just African Americans opposing it. I think the bike lanes made Black and white and older residents uncomfortable.”

A COMMUNITY PUSHES BACK

In early March, just days before the coronavirus pandemic ushered in a period of increased traffic-related fatalities, D.C. Councilmember Brianne Nadeau (D- Ward 1) pulled emergency legislation adding protected bike lanes along a stretch of 9th Street in Northwest between Florida Avenue and Pennsylvania Avenue.

Discussion about the project started nearly five years ago with DDOT’s launch of a study about creating a safe bicycle route along the eastern part of downtown D.C. Shortly after, the plans stalled with no clear answers

BIKESHARE Page 44

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When a loved one passes away, you may feel hopeless. When the person you loved was HIV positive, grieving can be even more difficult. We can help.

Your family may qualify for assistance if you have lost a loved one who: • received a diagnosis of HIV, and • legally resided in D.C.; and • had less than $800 in liquid assets at the time of death

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Samaritan Ministry’s Burial Assistance Coordinator:

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LIFESTYLE

One Hundred Years after Suffrage Victories, Black Women Still Carrying the Torch

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia

While many obstacles which stood in the way 100 years ago have been eliminated through legislative victories, Black women continue to carry the torch first held by their suffrage ancestors in today’s battle Alan Amrhine, Communications Director against voter suppression efforts throughout the country.

Lutheran Mission Society “Black woman was not an equal, thus she could not be considered a "MDDC has connected donors with the LMS Vehicle suffragette or even a citizen,” AlliDonation Program for over six years! Great exposure, son Matulli, a Howard University cost effective, and Wanda is so helpful!"

Alan Amrhine, Com School of Law graduate and dean of Lutheran M Legal Literacy for The Little Lawyers in Miami, wrote in an email to the Washington Informer.

Call Wanda Smith, 410-212-2616 wsmith@mddcpress.com “Our right to vote is no mere movement because it has no end.

We have it on paper as the ink has dried on that law. But we need to make sure, just as the original suffragettes pushed against towering Get dental insurance from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company to help cover the services you’re most likely to use – boulders beyond their own vision, that we, too, must emancipate a Dentures Cleanings X-rays Fillings Crowns relentless willingness to keep pushing,” Matulli wrote.

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in which she said, ‘I suppose I am about the only colored woman who goes about to speak for the colored women’s rights. I want to keep the thing stirring, now that the ice is cracked. Let’s keep cracking that ice together.’ You are no longer alone.

Now, you see us America.”

As a human rights activist in the Black community and a doctoral candidate in Politics and International Relations focusing on African Studies, Veronique Ehamo said she has long recognized Black women’s power.

“When given the opportunity, Black women not only thrive but excel immeasurably – take college education statistics as an example,” she said. “Historically, through an awareness of intersectionality, Black women could not devote sole efforts for African Americans or women’s suffrage. It is important to acknowledge the crucial role Black women played in getting the Fifteenth and Nineteenth Amendments passed.”

“Now, decades after suffrage movements and with firm allegiance, Black women continue to vocally support agendas that cater to the betterment of the lives of people of color. Not only do we show up, but we influence others to take part in the voting process, canvas for politicians and campaign on the front

lines for mutual objectives,” she said.

Alexandra Allred, an adjunct professor at Tarleton State University, paralleled the suffrage movement to modern time.

“Today, we see how the archaic belief system of a few bad people can and are reversing things, bringing about a division we’ve not seen since Martin Luther King’s push for social justice,” Allred declared.

“Just as suffragists and abolitionists faced fear-mongering, campaign-smearing tactics by those afraid of losing their ‘standing’ in society, it is happening again. As for my own work, focused on sport, we see how countries that empower their citizens have greater education, economic, political and social power that then lend to greater equality, thus athletes. I see early suffragists and abolitionists as athletes. Despite tremendous adversity, they had the determination, the stamina and the grit of the most hardened athlete,” Allred said.

This feature is part of an ongoing Washington Informer series about the Women’s Suffrage Movement initiated by Washington Informer Publisher Denise Rolark Barnes. It lives in the institutional home of The Washington Informer Charities.

WI

5L

HEY WARD 7!

WE ARE COMING BACK! Let your voice be heard and help us select the new route TODAY. Three ways to participate: •Take the System Expansion Survey at dccirculatortdp.com (Deadline Oct. 23).

•Call 202-991-4645 to request a hard copy of the survey to be mailed to you.

•Participate in our virtual public meeting on October 14 at 6:30 PM. Learn more or register online at DCCirculator.com/TDP2020

34 - OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020

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LIFESTYLE

wi book review “Rise Up: Confronting a Country at the Crossroads”

By Reverend Al Sharpton c.2020, Hanover Square Press288 pages $27.99 / $34.99 Canada

By Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer You’re beat down.

Tired, ready to rest, just plain done. So much racism, so many politicians doing so many things. You’re wiped, laid low with no more go, and you’re not sure you have the energy for more of this. But there’s hope for the hopeless, a lift for the fallen, and in “Rise Up” by Reverend Al Sharpton, there’s reason to keep on.

We are being tested.

It’s happening now, Sharpton says, in a way that we’ve never seen. We’re poked by haters every day, prodded by evildoers. The nation is at a “crossroads” and work is being done to “make America great” but not for everybody. This has to change.

Democracy, says Sharpton, is not perfect but it really is the best of all political practices. To make it work now, we need and “deserve” strong leadership that isn’t racist or homophobic, misogynistic, or against immigration or voter’s rights. It’s what we must have to preserve democracy – and yet, he says, in the last four years, we’ve gone from a transformational leader who embraced diversity to one that’s transactional and does not. The former allowed a cultural shift that many in the Black community enjoyed. With the latter, we seem to have backtracked.

That came as no surprise to Sharpton: he’s known Donald Trump for decades, has met with him numerous times on various projects. He knows him as just a guy from Queens, a dealmaker, just another politician Sharpton’s acquainted with. He’s known a lot of politicians: King, Obama, Mandela, Clinton. Shirley Chisolm, whom he sweetly calls “Mrs. C.” He’s known celebrities, too: James Brown was like a father to Sharpton. Aretha Franklin was a friend.

Moving forward, he says, we must ask white allies to step aside and make room for Black leaders in issues where Black lives are most affected. Black activists shouldn’t ignore the fight for LGBTQ rights because they, too, are human rights – as are issues of climate change. And as for staying “woke,” remember that waking up means getting up, too...

Let’s start here: Reverend Al Sharpton doesn’t have very much good to say about Donald Trump. If you’re familiar with Sharpton, you already knew this was coming – but “Rise Up” offers some background that happened between the two, and they’re great stories.

That’s a lot of what you’ll get inside this book, in fact: stories, and they mix in with Sharpton’s observations and thoughts so well that it’s easy to be lulled into the telling. No worries: like any good preacher does, he happily yanks your attention back to the pulpit, to racism, voter’s rights, and politics. True to what you’d expect, Sharpton isn’t shy, and he’ll make readers who are Black, white, and brown think, hard, about today’s issues.

Don’t be surprised to see a somewhat gentler version of Reverend Sharpton in this book – gentler, but no less fierce. Don’t be surprised if this book sparks conversation and action. Now go: you’ve got time, read it before the election, and “Rise Up” won’t let you down.

WI

horoscopes

OCT 8 - 14, 2020

ARIES There’s a challenge today, but an exhilarating one. You may have to rush to be ready for a meeting, but you log in on time. The printer may not work, but you figure out how to produce the documents another way. Like skiing down a mountain with the wind in your face expertly avoiding the trees, there is an energy today of getting things done just in the nick of time. Lucky Numbers: 1, 5, 34 TAURUS Today when it comes to love, you may be carried away by desire and passion. If you’re seeing someone new, you may have a date that lasts all day and perhaps all night. For Taurus natives already in a love relationship, you may suddenly notice how wonderful your partner is and how the intimate time spent with them brings you real joy. Lucky Numbers: 7, 16, 52 GEMINI Pluto has been slowly revealing opportunities for you to take control of passive income sources. But sometimes these topics—such as investing in the stock market, commodities trading, or 401(k) options—can feel overwhelming. But Pluto allows you to chip off a small piece to nibble on until that concept is understood and becomes part of you. Lucky Numbers: 1, 7, 35 CANCER Today, Cancer natives may feel an impulsive desire to be with people. Yet, circumstances in your life may not be conducive to meeting new people very easily. Today is a good day to reach out to those you know, friends, relatives, and even acquaintances. Connect with people and send them good wishes. This will open up possibilities for meeting new people. Lucky Numbers: 21, 23, 28 LEO The week comes to an end with expressive Venus giving Uranus in Taurus a gentle caress. You’re quite noticeable today and your charisma is strong. You are able to connect with people through your smile and a few well-chosen words. This is a good day to express your deep feelings by telling someone how you feel and having them melt into your arms. Lucky Numbers: 5, 19, 33 VIRGO An agreement you’ve been waiting for may come through today. This could be for employment, a large purchase, or for business services. Now take the time to read over the terms carefully and make sure that everything you’re looking for is there. This is not a good day to rush into signing.

There is still a little time to do some further negotiations if you wish. Lucky Numbers: 17, 20, 36 LIBRA Today’s a good day to do a little money magic. Every once in a while, you want to put your vibration in harmony with the prosperity stream of the universe. You might say a prayer or do a visualization. Get together a bowl of nuts, still in the shell, and display this on your entryway table as a symbol of the seeds your planting for future wealth. Lucky Numbers: 6, 12, 31 SCORPIO For a long while, Pluto has been transiting your house of communications, helping you transform how you think about yourself and how you express yourself to others. As it moves forward now, contracts or agreements you’ve been looking for start coming in. Lucky Numbers: 9, 10, 18 SAGITTARIUS Today, you may find a new revenue stream. This may be a business idea or a way to expand your existing business. You’re in the flow and more opportunities are coming. You may receive a message from a supervisor on the good job you’re doing with perhaps an offer of new duties or projects ahead. For those Sagittarius natives not happy with your current job, this is a lucky day to apply for a new position or to post your resume on professional websites. Lucky Numbers: 1, 19, 30 CAPRICORN Today, there’s a focus on possessions and material goods. This could include your copy of Tolstoy’s “War and Peace,” your KitchenAid mixer with the bread dough attachment, or your entire craft room/workshop. Having these things is wonderful if you use them. But today’s a good day to ask yourself honestly if you need these things because Pluto is more than willing to help you remove the excess stuff. Lucky Numbers: 7, 18, 34 AQUARIUS Today’s a good day to look at problems and then turn yourself upside down. This can be literal where you are doing a yoga pose standing on your head. Or by the questions you ask yourself to unleash your creative thinking. Questions like, “If money wasn’t a factor what would I do for a living?” Or, “If Richard Branson had this issue what would he do about it?” Lucky Numbers: 14, 26, 33 PISCES Today, you could expand your circle of friends at least by one person. It’s likely this is someone you already know, but today you may discover something about them that increases your admiration and your interest in getting to know them better. For those Pisces natives in love, this is a good day to get engaged. Lucky Numbers: 9, 19, 30

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020 35

SPORTS Major League Baseball Great Bob Gibson Dies at 84

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia Over 17 electrifying big league seasons, Bob Gibson won 251 games, compiled a career 2.91 earned run average and 3,117 strikeouts – not counting the World Series record 17 K’s against the Detroit Tigers in the 1968 fall classic.

Gibson, who played his entire career with the St. Louis Cardinals and arguably the greatest African American hurler in baseball history, died on Oct. 2 at 84.

He announced in July 2019 that he had pancreatic cancer.

“Bob Gibson quite literally changed the game of baseball. He was a fierce competitor and beloved

by Cardinal Nation,” the Cardinals wrote in a message posted on the or-

RACES from Page 5 pandemic has shed light on systemic inequity that has long forced parents to send their children across town, early in their lives, for a quality education. Despite what some perceive as the limitations of the SBOE, Thompson said she can help fulfill what the school choice movement, to an extent, has not.

“We have education challenges that aren’t in SBOE’s purview but I understand that power isn’t about an individual but working together and advancing a collective agenda,” Thompson said. “There’s nothing in the law that says people have to engage and listen to the Ward 7 Education Council [but] we fought and won hard-earned dollars for modernization.”

“We’ve been able to put money in the budget. We got the ANCs to sign on a collective resolution that

36 - OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020

ganization’s official Twitter feed. “We will miss him dearly.”

Elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1981, Gibson earned a truckload of awards, including two Cy Youngs, two World Series Most Valuable Player trophies, nine Gold Gloves, and a league Most Valuable Player award.

His best year came in 1968 when the hard-throwing right-hander turned in one of the greatest seasons ever produced by a starting pitcher. Gibson went 22-9 with an almost unreal 1.12 earned run average. He recorded 28 complete games and 13 shutouts.

Gibson’s performance was the catalyst for Major League Baseball lowering the pitcher’s mound from 15 to 10 inches.

Ironically, Gibson’s death came 52 years to the day he dominated the Detroit Tigers in Game 1 of the 1968 led to an extra $15 million that the D.C. Council signed on. We hosted events so families could explore educational opportunities like the Ward 7 school fair. We used our influence, which has been earned,” he said.

KAREN WILLIAMS: THE INCUMBENT

Earlier this year, Ward 7 SBOE Representative Karen Williams and her colleague Ashley MacLeay (Atlarge) clashed when Williams called for MacLeay’s resignation following her racially insensitive remarks at a meeting about policing in schools.

MacLeay later posted a screenshot of a text that Williams sent empathizing MacLeay’s views and framing her public opposition as a matter of protecting her reelection efforts. Williams would later tell The Washington City Paper that, given Ward 7 residents’ safety concerns, the choice to reduce campus

5 Bob Gibson (Courtesy photo)

World Series, striking out a record 17 batters – all but four on swing and misses.

On Aug. 14, 1971, Gibson recorded his only career no-hitter against the Pittsburgh Pirates. He fanned 10 Bucs in leading the Cardinals to an 11-0 victory.

“This was the greatest game I’ve pitched anywhere,” Gibson declared at the time. “I didn’t think I’d ever throw a no-hitter.”

Born Nov.r 9, 1935, in Omaha, Neb., Gibson played baseball and basketball in high school. At Creighton University, he starred on the hardwood and later signed with the

For more information about the D.C. State Board of Education races and other electoral contests, visit dk+2mvisit dcboe.org.

police should be left up to each school.

She didn’t answer The Informer’s two requests for an interview about her campaign.

According to her bio on the SBOE website, Williams has dedicated her career to bridging inequities that plague District students, particularly those at risk. Through-

Harlem Globetrotters before the St. Louis Cardinals offered him a contract in 1957.

Two years later, Gibson emerged as a raw, but immensely talented rookie who would not be denied stardom.

He counted among the most fierce and intimidating pitchers to take the mound, pounding the inside part of the plate and, at times, staring down sluggers who believed he had intentionally brushed them back.

“Don’t dig in against Bob Gibson; he’ll knock you down,” Home Run King Hank Aaron reportedly once warned Los Angeles Dodgers star Dusty Baker. out her nearly eight years on the school board, Williams has served as president and vice president. In those roles, she developed an agency hiring matrix that ushered in the installment of three staff members and officers.

She also worked with the Office of the State Superintendent for Education on “No Child Left Behind” waivers and played a part in the development of a state diploma for students entering the GED or the National External Diploma programs.

Williams, a board member of the Ward 7 Education Council and member of H.D. Woodson High School’s STEM Advisory Committee, currently chairs the board’s Every Student Succeeds Act Task Force.

For more information about the D.C. State Board of Education races and other electoral contests, visit dk+2mvisit dcboe.org. WI

“He’d knock down his own grandmother if she dared to challenge him.

Don’t stare at him, don’t smile at him, don’t talk to him. He doesn’t like it. If you happen to hit a home run, don’t run too slow, don’t run too fast. If you happen to want to celebrate, get in the tunnel first. And if he hits you, don’t charge the mound, because he’s a Gold Glove boxer.”

Before Gibson won his first Cy Young Award in 1968, only Dodgers ace Don Newcombe stood as the only Black player to earn such honors.

Vida Blue of the Oakland A’s, Ferguson Jenkins of the Chicago Cubs, Dwight Gooden of the New York Mets, CC Sabathia of the Cleveland Indians, and David Price of the Tampa Bay Rays would later join Newcombe and Gibson as African Americans who’ve won the award.

Gibson also stood among athletes like Muhammad Ali, Jackie Robinson and others who voiced strong support for the civil rights movement.

He credited the Cardinals for the team’s diversity and praised them for not forcing Black players to live in segregated housing during the baseball season.

Gibson’s death came weeks after the death of his former teammate and fellow Hall of Fame member Lou Brock, and one month after another baseball legend and former Gibson rival, Tom Seaver of the New York Mets.

“Bob Gibson is the luckiest pitcher I ever saw,” retired Cardinal catcher Tim McCarver once said. “He always pitches when the other team doesn’t score any runs.”

Gibson is survived by three children, two with his first wife, Charline, and one with his widow, Wendy. WI

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DC PRISON from Page 11 Even with a provision mandating that the D.C. Board of Elections [DCBOE] provides inmates in federal facilities with a voter registration form, a voter guide, educational material and an absentee ballot, the degree to which FBOP would assist in these efforts had yet to be determined.

By September, the DCBOE had sent over 2,000 ballots to more than 100 federal institutions across the country and DCBOE Director Alice Miller said the board was working with FBOP to ensure that all D.C. inmates serving felonies could mail their absentee ballots well before November 3.

However, many local returning citizens advocates have expressed concerns that leadership at every correctional facility hasn’t done its due diligence in connecting D.C. inmates with the information and resources needed to cast their ballots.

In some circles, conversations have focused on the treatment of D.C. inmates in the federal prisons and how to penalize those acting slowly to disseminate registration forms and ballots. Meanwhile, statehood advocates have argued that the disconnect between the D.C. government

and federally controlled institutions highlights the lack of autonomy that the District can currently exercise.

Tony Lewis, Jr., an activist and returning citizens advocate, said inmates with whom he’s spoken, including his father, appear excited to actively engage in the political process. Though they’ve received registration forms, Lewis told The Informer that, given the U.S. Postal Service’s backlog of mail, other inmates across the country might not be as fortunate during the rollout of the initiative.

“It would be much easier if all the D.C. inmates were in one facility but with people being spread out, I just don’t know if that’s going to happen,” Lewis said.

Registered D.C. voters, incarcerated or not, can make their choice for president, vice president and down-ballot candidates running for a bevy of local offices via an absentee ballot, early voting or at the polls on election day, though officials have discouraged against waiting at the last minute. Voters can also weigh in on Initiative 81 which would make policing and prosecution for psychedelic mushrooms a low priority if passed.

During this election season, getout-the-vote efforts have been highly concentrated in Black communities and battleground states. Organizers like Sinclair Skinner have taken a unique approach by leveraging the District’s increasing population of transplants, many of whom have friends and families in states that decided the 2016 presidential race.

Through his ILoveBlackPeopleGOTV campaign, Skinner has encouraged District residents fitting this profile to call people in their hometowns, particularly those apathetic toward the electoral process, and compel them to participate.

“If we have friends who are D.C. inmates in Pennsylvania, for example, we have to understand this is interconnected,” Skinner said. “We’re facing the same hell and we need a strategy to take that into account.

We need to make sure that no matter where we live, we’re concerned about issues directly affecting us.”

“The prison industrial complex was a direct response to integration.

This is something that’s been done to attack our generation and we need to act like we understand that interconnectedness as a people,” he added.

WI

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RELIGION the religion corner WITH LYNDIA GRANT

Don’t Miss Your Moment!

Have you had your Esther moment, that special day in your life when you had that required extraordinary bravery? The story of Esther shares the extraordinary bravery she had to undergo to save her people.

Hopefully, her story will help you understand my question to you about your Esther moment.

Assigned to save the Jewish people by pretending that she was non-Jewish, a role in which Esther would likely be killed if someone found out, except her special beauty allowed her to carry out this mission precisely.

Let’s take a look at this short version of the bible story of Esther.

Esther’s beauty won her Hegai’s favor and she was given special attention. Esther was careful however to not tell anyone her nationality, as Mordecai had warned her not to.

When it was Esther’s turn to go before the king, he immediately found her the most attractive and beautiful of all women and placed the royal crown on her head. King Ahasuerus held a great banquet for his new queen, Esther. Esther continued to hide her Jewish background as Mordecai had instructed her to do because he knew it would be dangerous for her if anyone found out she was a Jew. While sitting by the king’s gate

one night, Mordecai overheard two guards named Bigthana and Teresh conspiring to assassinate King Xerxes. Mordecai told Queen Esther of the plan and Esther told the king, giving credit to Mordecai for overhearing the plan. The two guards were hanged.

Mordecai then refused to bow down to Haman, the highest of all nobles. When Haman found out about this and that Mordecai was a Jew, Haman became so angry that he wanted to kill not only just Mordecai but all of the Jewish nation. Haman convinced King Xerxes to kill all Jews since they don’t want to follow his rules. King Ahasuerus agreed and set a date for all Jews to be killed.

Mordecai told Esther about the king’s edict to kill all the Jewish people. Esther was afraid for her life, and she tried to avoid this to do something, though Mordecai continued to ask her for help. Esther responded by instructing all Jews to join her in fasting for three days and three nights, then she would approach the king with her request.

She went to King Xerxes after three days of fasting and the king asked her what her request was. Queen Ester asked that the king and Haman join her at a banquet the next day. The king said yes and asked Esther to let her request be known at the banquet.

Haman was still so enraged with Mordecai that he went to set up a pole to impale Mordecai the morning before the banquet.

Mt. Zion Baptist Church

One night things changed when the king couldn’t sleep, and like most of us, he began to read the book that contained all that had happened during his reign. He read and was reminded of how Mordecai exposed the plot to assassinate the king. The king wanted to reward Mordecai for his good deed and he called Haman in to ask what should be done for a man who the king really admired and believed in. Haman thought the king was talking about himself and responding saying extravagant gifts and honor. Haman was even more enraged when the king told him it was for Mordecai!

The next day was the banquet Queen Esther had called for. The king again asked Esther what her request was so he could grant her what she wanted. Esther boldly asked that she and her people be spared and that Haman had plotted to kill all Jews for money. The king was filled with anger against Haman and had him hanged on the very pole that Haman had set up for Mordecai.

Queen Esther and Mordecai were given Haman’s estate. They were honored with royal garments and a decree was written to protect all Jews.

It was Esther’s mission in life to save her people. She did so, and they were all set free and earned a certain amount of wealth and independence.

This story shows us how we can walk by faith and not by sight to achieve deeds assigned to our hands by God. Did you miss your moment? WI

John F. Johnson Reverend Dr.

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

1306 Vermont Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20005

“A Church with a past to remember – and a future to mold” www.mtzbcdc.org

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Mount Olivet Lutheran Church

Reverend John W. Davis Pastor

Service and Times Sunday Worship Service - 8:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.

Children’s Church - 11:00 a.m. (1st & 3rd Sundays) Communion - 10 a.m. 4th Sunday Sunday School - 9:15 a.m. (4th Sunday 8:15 a.m.)

Prayer Meeting & Bible Study - Wednesday 7:00 p.m.

(301) 864-6070

Service and Times Divine Worship, Sunday 10:00 a.m.

Communion 1st and 3rd Sunday “Friendliest Church in the City” Website: mountolivetdc.org Email: mtolivedc@gmail.com

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OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020 39

RELIGION The Miracle Center of Faith Missionary Baptist Church

Pilgrim Baptist Church

Bishop Michael C. Turner, Sr. Senior Pastor

Rev. Louis B. Jones II Pastor

9161 Hampton Overlook Capitol Heights, MD 20743 Phone: 301-350-2200 / Fax: 301-499-8724

700 I Street, N.E. Washington, D.C. 20002 (202) 547-8849

Service and Times Sunday Worship Times : 7:30 AM 7 10:00 AM Communion: 1st Sunday Sunday School: 9:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday, 12 Noon Bible Study in homes: Tuesday 7:00 PM

Service and Times Worship Sundays: 7:30 & 11:00 AM 5th Sundays: 9:30 AM 3rd Sundays: Baptism & Holy Communion Prayer & Praise: Wednesdays @ Noon & 6:30 PM

Website: www.themiraclecenterFMBC.com Email: Miraclecenterfmbs@gmail.com Motto: “We Walk by Faith, Not by Sight”

www.pilgrimbaptistdc.org

Covenant Baptist United Church of Christ

Blessed Word of Life Church

Church of Living Waters

Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church

Rev. Paul Carrette Senior Pastor Harold Andrew Assistant Pastor 4915 Wheeler Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 301-894-6464 Service and Times Sunday Service: 8:30am& 11:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM Communion Service: First Sunday www.livingwatersmd.org

St. Stephen Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Michael E. Bell, Sr., / Pastor 2498 Alabama Ave., SE - Washington D.C. 20020 Office: (202) 889-7296 / Fax: (202) 889-2198 - www.acamec.org Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 8:00am and 11:00 AM Sunday Church School - 9:15am & Sunday Adult Forum Bible Study - 10:30 AM 2nd & 4th Monday Women’s Bible Study: 6:30 PM Tuesday Jr./Sr. Bible Study: 10:00 AM Tuesday Topical Bible Study: 6:30 PM Tuesday New Beginnings Bible Study: 6:30 PM Wednesday Pastoral Bible Study: 6:30 PM Wednesday Children’s Bible Study: 6:30 PM Thursday Men’s Bible Study: 6:30 PM Friday before 1st Sunday Praise & Worship Service: 6:30 PM Saturday Adult Bible Study: 10:00 AM “The Amazing, Awesome, Audacious Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church”

Third Street Church of God

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

Reverend William Young IV Interim Pastor

Bishop Lanier C. Twyman, Sr. Senior Pastor

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

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

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

5757 Temple Hill Road, Temple Hills, MD 20748 Office 301-899-8885 – fax 301-899-2555 Services and Times Sunday Early Morning Worship: 7:45 AM Church School: 9:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship: 10:45 AM Tuesday: 7:00pm/Kingdom Building Bible Institute Wednesday , 12:30 PM Mid-Day Bible Study Wednesday: Prayer/Praise/Bible Study-7:30 PM Baptism & Communion Service: 4th Sunday – 10:30 AM

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

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

Services and Times Sundays: 10:00am Worship Services Bible Study: Wonderful Wednesdays in Worship and the Word Bible Study Wednesdays 12:00 Noon; 6:30 PM (dinner @ 5:30 PM) Sunday School: 9:00 AM – Hour of Power “An inclusive ministry where all are welcomed and affirmed.” www.covenantdc.org

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

Campbell AME Church

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

Service and Times Sunday Morning Worship: 11:00 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday Sunday School: 9:45 AM Men’s Monday Bible Study: 7:00 PM Wednesday Night Bible Study: 7:00 PM Women’s Ministry Bible Study: 3rd Friday -7:00 PM Computer Classes: Announced Family and Marital Counseling by appointment E-mail: Crusadersbaptistchurch@verizon.net www.CrusadersBaptistChurch.org / “God is Love”

Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church Bishop Alfred A. Owens, Jr.; Senior Bishop & Evangelist Susie C. Owens – Co-Pastor 610 Rhode Island Avenue, NE Washington, DC 20002 (202) 529-4547 office • (202) 529-4495 fax

Sunday Worship Service: 8:00 AM and 10:45 AM Sunday Youth Worship Services: 1st & 4th 10:45 AM; 804 R.I. Ave., NE 5th 8 AM & 10:45 AM; Main Church Prayer Services Tuesday – Noon, Wednesday 6:00 AM & 6:30 PM Calvary Bible Institute: Year-Round Contact Church / Communion Every 3rd Sunday The Church in The Hood that will do you Good! www.gmchc.org / emailus@gmchc.org

St Marks Baptist Come Worship with us...

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

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

Mount Carmel Baptist Church Reverend Dr. Paris L Smith, Sr. Senior Pastor

Virgil K. Thomas, Sr. Senior Pastor/ Teacher

Service and Times Sunday School: 10:15 AM Sunday Worship Service: 11;15 AM Children’s Church: 11:15 AM Tuesday Bible Study: 6:30 PM Motto : “A Great Commitment to the Great Commandment” Website: www.turningheartschurchdc.org Email: gr8luv4u2@gmail.com

www.thirdstreet.org Live Stream Sunday Worship Service begins @ 12:00 noon www.thirdstreet.org

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

Reverend Dr. Calvin L. Matthews Senior Pastor 1200 Isle of Patmos Plaza, Northeast Washington, DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-6767 - Fax: (202) 526-1661 Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM Holy Communion: 2nd Sunday at 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM Sunday Church School: 9:20 AM Seniors Bible Study: Tuesdays at 10:30 AM Noon Day Prayer Service: Tuesdays at Noon Bible Study: Tuesdays at 7 PM Motto: “A Ministry of Reconciliation Where Everybody is Somebody!”

Website: http://isleofpatmosbc.org Church Email: ipbcsecretary@verizon.net

Reverend Dr. Paul H. Saddler Senior Pastor

Turning Hearts Church

421 Alabama Ave. SE Washington, DC 20032 Phone: 202-746-0113 Fax: 301-843-2445

“Ambassadors for Christ to the Nation’s Capital”

Rev. Dr. Alton W. Jordan Pastor

Isle of Patmos Baptist Church

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

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

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

Crusader Baptist Church

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

40 - OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020

themcbc.org

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

RELIGION Shabbath Commandment Church Bishop Adrian A. Taylor, Sr. Pastor 7801 Livingston Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 301-534-5471 Service and Times Sabbath School 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 AM Service 11:00 AM Praise & Worship Preaching 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM Motto: “A Church Keeping It Real for Real.”

Website: Shabbathcommandmentchruch.org Email: Praisebetoyhwh@gmail.com

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

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

All Nations Baptist Church Rev. Dr. James Coleman Pastor 2001 North Capitol St, N.E. - Washington, DC 20002 Phone (202) 832-9591 Service and Times Sunday Church School – 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service – 11:00 AM Holy Communion – 1st Sunday at 11:00 AM Prayer – Wednesdays, 6:00 PM Bible Study – Wednesdays, 7:00 PM Christian Education / School of Biblical Knowledge Saturdays, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM, Call for Registration Website: www.allnationsbaptistchurch.com All Nations Baptist Church – A Church of Standards

Israel Baptist Church

Rev. Daryl F. Bell Pastor 2324 Ontario Road, NW Washington, DC 20009 (202) 232-1730 Service and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 AM Baptismal Service: 1st Sunday – 9:30 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday – 11:00 AM Prayer Meeting & Bible Study: Wednesday -7:30 PM “Where Jesus is the King”

Dr. Earl D. Trent Senior Pastor

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

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

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

Sermon On The Mount Temple Of Joy Apostolic Faith

Lincoln Park United Methodist Church Rev. Richard B. Black Pastor

Elder Herman L. Simms Pastor

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

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

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

Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:45 AM Sunday School: 9:15 AM Holy Communion1st Sunday: 10:45 AM Prayer Service: Wednesday at 6:30 PM Bible Study: Wednesday at 7:00 PM Bible Study: Tuesday at 10:30 AM

Mount Moriah Baptist Church Dr. Lucius M. Dalton Senior Pastor

Service and Times Sunday Worship: 10:00 AM Holy Communion: First Sunday 10:00 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday @ 12 noon and 6:30 PM Motto: "Faith On The Hill"

Service and Times Sunday Apostolic Worship Services 11:00 A.M and 5:00 PM Communion and Feet Wash 4th Sunday at 5:00 PM Prayer/Seeking: Wednesday at 8:00 PM Apostolic in Doctrine, Pentecostal in Experience, Holiness in Living, Uncompromised and Unchanged.

The Apostolic Faith is still alive –Acts 2:42

New Commandment Baptist Church

Eastern Community Baptist Church Damion M. Briggs Pastor

Rev. Stephen E. Tucker Senior Pastor

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rehoboth Baptist Church

Reverend Peter R. Blue Sr. Pastor

Rev. Curtis l. Staley Pastor

2001 Brooks Drive District Heights MD. 20744 240.838.7074

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

Service and Times Sunday Worship Experience: 10:15am Sunday School: 9:00am Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday Morning Noontime Bible Study: Tuesday @ 12:00pm Prayer Meeting/Bible Study: Tuesday @7:00pm Theme: "Building On A Firm Foundation"

Service and Times Sunday Service: 10:00 AM Sunday School for all ages: 8:30 AM 1st Sunday Baptism: 10:00 AM 2nd Sunday Holy Communion:10:00 AM Tuesday: Bible Study: 6:30 PM Prayer Meeting: 7:45 PM

Email: revprbstmbc@gmail.com Website: www.stmatthewsbaptist.org

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

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

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

Foggy Bottom - Founded in 1867 728 23rd Street, NW - Washington, DC 20037 Church office: 202-333-3985 - Fax : 202-338-4958

Shiloh Baptist Church

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

Matthews Memorial Baptist Church

4504 Gault Place, N.E. / Washington, D.C 20019 202-397-7775 – 7184 Service and Times Sunday Church School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service : 11:00 AM The Lord’s Supper 1st Sunday Prayer & Praise Services: Wednesday 7:00 PM Bible Study: 7:30 PM Saturday before 4th Sunday Men, Women, Youth Discipleship Ministries: 10:30 AM A Christ Centered Church htubc@comcast.net

Christ Embassy DC

Dr. Joseph D. Turner / Senior Pastor 2616 MLK Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Office 202-889-3709 - Fax 202-678-3304 Service and Times Early Worship Service: 8:00 AM Worship Service: 11:00 AM New Member’s Class: 9:45 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday, 11:00 AM Church School: 9:45 AM Wednesday 12:00pm Bible Study Prayer, Praise and Bible Study: 7:00 PM Saturday Bible Study: 11:00 AM Baptism 4th Sunday: 11:00 AM “Empowered to love and Challenged to Lead a Multitude of Souls to Christ”

Peace Baptist Church

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

Pennsylvania Ave. Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Michael T. Bell 712 18th Street, NE Washington, DC 20002 Phone 202-399-3450/ Fax 202-398-8836 Service and Times Sunday Early Morning Prayer & Bible Study Class: 8:00 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 10:00 AM Wednesday Service: 12:00 PM “The Loving Church of the living lord “

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

First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Mt. Horeb Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Wallace Charles Smith Pastor

Rev. Oran W. Young Pastor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Service and Times Sundays: 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist with Music and Hymns Wednesdays: 12:10 p.m. - Holy Eucharist

Rev. Dr. George C. Gilbert Senior Pastor

Email Address: admin@pbc712.org

Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church The Rev. E. Bernard Anderson Priest

Holy Trinity United Baptist Church

Florida Avenue Baptist Church

Reverend Christopher L. Nichols Pastor

Rev. Dr. Jerryl V. Moody Pastor-Elect

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

St. Matthews Baptist Church

Emmanuel Baptist Church

King Emmanuel Baptist Church

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

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

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

OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020 41

LEGAL NOTICES Notice of Unregistered Claim Notice of an unregistered claim by a private living woman, sovereign by the grace of God, name written in the Book of the Tree of Life, beneficiary in the original jurisdiction, now coming as Grantor/Settler with NOTICE OF UNREGISTERED Claim, or priority equitable right, title, and interest in the JOHN QUE PUBLIC estate, NORTH CAROLINA, state file number 1962000073498 529132, including all assets, attributes, derivatives, and transmissions there of. For more on the nature

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2020 ADM 000442 Donna Marie Check Beuttell Decedent Valerie Edwards 1725 DeSales St., NW Suite 600 Washington, DC 20036 Attorney

http.//notice.legal-regristry.org/PublicNotice.pdf NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION 2020 NRT 000015 Grace L. Callis

Name of Deceased Settlor NOTICE OF EXISTENCE OF REVOCABLE TRUST Grace L. Callis, whose address was 530 Oneida Place, NW,

Washington, DC, 20011 created a revocable trust on November

8, 2013, which remained in existence on the date of her death on

September 21, 2019, and Donna Stewart-Moore, whose address is

5201 Janesdale Court, Glenn Dale, MD 20769, is the currently acting

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

Robert Check, whose address is 802 Foxboro Drive, Norwalk, CT 06851, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Donna Marie Check who died on May 6, 2020 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 3/24/2021. 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 3/24/2021, 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.

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2020 ADM 000495 Estate of

Jean M. Harris aka Gene M. Harris NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this

Court by Delores D. Harris Floyd and Steven M. Weinberg for

standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representatives. Unless a responsive pleading in

the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth.

In the absence of a will or proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution, enter an order determining that the decedent died intestate appoint an unsupervised personal representative Date of first publication: 9/24/2020

1825 K Street, NW Ste. 1150

Robert Check Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens

of administration of the settlor’s estate, the expense of the deceased

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

a surviving spouse and children to the extent the deceased settlor’s

Washington Informer

expenses, and allowances.

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

settlor’s funeral and disposal of remains, and statutory allowances to

2020 ADM 000500

Carlton J. Alston Decedent

Martha A. Stevenson aka Martha Ann Stevenson Decedent

Howard Haley, Esq. The Haley Firm, PC 7600 Georgia Ave., NW #405 Washington, DC 20012 Attorney

Bryan Patrick MacAvoy, SmolenPlevy PC 8045 Leesburg Pike, Suite 540 Vienna, VA 22182 Attorney

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

Date of first publication: 9/24/2020

within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice,

Edward G. Varrone, Esq. at 1825 K St., NW, Suite 1150, Washington,

The Trust is subject to claims of the deceased settlor’s creditors, costs

2020 ADM 000421

Washington, DC 20006

Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is filed in this Court

trustee, hereinafter the Trustee. Communications to the Trust should

DC 20006.

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

Edward G. Varrone, Esq. #257147

the form of a complaint or an objection in accordance with

Petitioner/Attorney:

Register of Wills Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES

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

Janet Alston, whose address is 813 30th Street, SE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Carlton J. Alston who died on February 21, 2014 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., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 3/24/2021. 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 3/24/2021, 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: 9/24/2021

be mailed or directed to the following:

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Bryan P. MacAvoy and Alia P. Weaver, whose addresses are 8045 Leesburg Pike, Ste. 540, Vienna, VA 22182: 8708 First Ave., Apt. 905, Silver Spring, MD 20910, was appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Martha A. Stevenson aka Martha Ann Stevenson who died on January 6, 2020 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 4/1/2021. 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 4/1/2021, 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: 10/1/2020

Janet Alston Personal Representative

Bryan P. MacAvoy Alia P. Weaver Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

Washington Informer

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

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

2020 ADM 386

2020 ADM 000494

residuary probate estate is inadequate to satisfy those claims, costs,

Claims of the deceased settlor’s creditors are barred as against the

Trustee and the trust property unless presented to the Trustee at the address provided herein on or before 3/24/2021 (6 month after

2020 ADM 000462

the date of the first publication of this notice.) An action to contest

Steven Anthony Brannum Decedent

September 21, 2020, (One year from date of death of deceased

Valerie Edwards, Esq. 1725 DeSales St., NW Suite 600 Washington, DC 20036 Attorney

the validity of this trust must be commenced by the earliest of (1)

settlor) (2) 3/24/2021, (6 months from the date of first publication

of this notice) or (3) Ninety days after the Trustee sends the person a

copy of the trust instrument and a notice informing the person of the trust’s existence, of the Trustee’s name and address, and of the time allowed for commencing a proceeding.

The Trustee may proceed to distribute the trust property in

accordance with the terms of the trust before the expiration of the

time within which an action must be commenced unless the Trustee

knows of a pending judicial proceeding contesting the validity of the trust or the Trustee has received notice from a potential contestant

who thereafter commences a judicial proceeding within sixty days after notification.

This Notice must be mailed postmarked within 15 days of its first

publication to each heir and qualified beneficiary of the trust and any other person who would be an interested person within the meaning of D.C. Code 20-101(d).

Date of First Publication: 9/24/2020

Donna Stewart-Moore Signature of Trustee

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Jennifer Brannum, whose address is 140 Ivanhoe Street, SW, Apt. 101, Washington, DC 20032, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Steven Anthony Brannum who died on September 2, 2019 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 3/24/2021. 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 3/24/2021, 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: 9/24/2020 Jennifer Brannum Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Register of Wills Washington Informer

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2020 ADM 000427

Leah F. Otuonye Decedent

Blake Thomas Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Angela M. Thomas, whose address is 1218 Randolph Street, NE, Washington, DC 20017, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Blake Thomas who died on April 23, 2020 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision.

All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 3/24/2021. 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 3/24/2021, 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: 9/24/2020 Angela M. Thomas Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

42 - OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020

Attorney Ethel Mitchell 8403 Colesville Road Suite 1100 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Rosson C. Smith, whose address is 9609 Underwood Street, Lanham MD 20706, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Leah F. Otuonye who died on November 19, 2019 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision.

All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 4/1/2021. 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 4/1/2021, 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: 10/1/2020 Rosson C. Smith Personal Representative

William Lorn Harvey aka W. Lorn Harvey Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Kerri M. Castellini, Esquire, whose address is 409 Seventh Street, NW, Suite 200, Washington, DC 20004, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of William Lorn Harvey aka W. Lorn Harvey who died on February 6, 2020 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 4/1/2021. 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 4/1/2021, 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: 10/1/2020 Kerri M. Castellini, Esquire Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

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

2020 ADM 000522

2020 ADM 000497

Helen William Moore aka Helen William Varfis aka Helen Varfis Moore Decedent

Nancy Button Schenewerk Decedent

Jeffrey K. Gordon, Esq. 5335 Wisconsin Ave., NW, #700 Washington, DC 20015 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Juliana Luz, whose address is 54 Regatta Bay Court, Apt. 318, Annapolis, MD 21401, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Helen William Moore aka Helen William Varfis aka Helen Varfis Moore who died on February 9, 2020 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 4/8/2021. 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 4/8/2021, 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: 10/8/2020

Valerie Edwards 1725 DeSales Street, NW, Suite 600 Washington, DC 20036 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Caryn Schenewerk, whose address is 1209 Park Road, NW, Washington, DC 20010, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Nancy Button Schenewerk who died on December 5, 2019 with a Will, and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 4/8/2021. 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 4/8/2021, 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: 10/8/2020 Caryn Schenewerk Personal Representative

Juliana Luz Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

Washington Informer

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

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

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

2020 ADM 000516

2020 ADM 000544

2020 ADM 000473

Emma Lea Beshir Decedent

J. E. Walker aka James E. Walker Decedent

Rosie Mae Blanks aka Rosie M. Blanks Decedent

Mack Allen 3300 Wheeler Road, SE Washington, DC 20032 Attorney

Bradley A. Thomas, Esq. 1629 K Street, NW Suite 300 Washington, DC 20006-1631 Attorney

Ethel Mitchell 8403 Colesville Rd., Suite 1100 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Attorney

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

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

Joyce C. Williams and Eugene N. Baskerville Jr., whose addresses are 9133 Saffron Lane, Silver Spring, MD 20901, 5712 Wrenwood Court, Durham, NC 27703 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Emma Lea Beshir who died on April 12, 2020 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding.

Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 4/8/2021. 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 4/8/2021, 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.

Recardo Walker, whose address is 5100 Mineola Road, College Park, Maryland 20740, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of J. E. Walker aka James E. Walker who died on March 9, 2020 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding.

Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 4/8/2021. 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 4/8/2021, 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:10/8/2020 Joyce C. Williams Eugene N. Baskerville Jr. Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Date of first publication: 10/8/2020 Recardo Walker Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Kristin L. Baldwin, whose address is 7500 14th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20012, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Rosie Mae Blanks aka Rosie M. Blanks who died on May 1, 2020 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 4/8/2021. 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 4/8/2021, 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: 10/8/2020 Kristin L. Baldwin Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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officials don’t follow through, they won’t count as the first to renege.

Cities like New York and Minnesota have failed to deliver on previous promises of police reform. While New York officials said it would offer reform in the wake of the police chokehold killing of Eric Garner on Staten Island, Minnesota had promised changes long before the fatal shooting of George Floyd sparked global outrage.

In June, Congressional Democrats introduced the Justice in Policing Act of 2020 – a bold bill to end police brutality, hold police accountable, improve transparency in policing and create meaningful, structural change that safeguards every American’s right to safety and equal justice.

The Justice in Policing Act proposes crucial reforms to combat racial bias and excessive force by law enforcement including banning the use of chokeholds, no-knock warrants, racial profiling and more.

“Breonna Taylor’s life mattered.

She deserves justice. Her family deserves justice,” Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) demanded. “Unjust laws

BIKE SHARE from Page 32 from the Bowser administration about the cause. The emergency council vote, had it come to fruition, would have spurred the construction of the protected bike lanes.

produce unjust outcomes. This must end. The Senate must pass the Justice in Policing Act.” Breonna Taylor was killed in her sleep by the police, and that’s “not even close to justice,” Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) stated. “This is an ugly reminder that our justice system does not hold police officers accountable for their actions.”

Congressional Black Caucus leaders have said that the Justice in Policing Act serves as a step towards addressing years of failed efforts to root out injustice and racial bias in our law enforcement. The bill proposes changes that include prohibiting federal, state and local law enforcement from racial, religious and discriminatory profiling and mandating training on racial, religious and discriminatory profiling for all law enforcement.

It also bans chokeholds, carotid holds and no-knock warrants at the federal level and limits military-grade equipment transfer to state and local law enforcement.

The bill, which remains in the graveyard of Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), also mandates the use of dashboard and body cameras for federal offices. Further,

it would require state and local law enforcement to use existing federal funds to ensure the use of police body cameras.

The legislation would also create law enforcement development and training programs to develop best practices and require creating standard accreditation recommendations based on President Obama’s Task Force on 21st Century Policing.

And it aims to improve the use of pattern and practice investigations at the federal level by granting the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division subpoena power and creating a grant program for state attorneys general to develop authority to conduct independent investigations into problematic police departments.

“These changes have never been implemented at the federal level and moving forward on this legislation would require state and local governments to adopt these practices for police departments to receive federal funds,” Schumer noted in a statement. “Americans who took to the streets are demanding action. With this legislation, Democrats are heeding their call.”

WI

However, leaders of the Missionary Baptist Ministers Conference had different thoughts. They sent letters asking that council members reject what they described as a threat to parking spaces and overall livelihood, of the historically Black churches lining the

9th Street corridor. As expressed in their correspondence to the council, the group’s qualms centered on imposition of the government’s will over longtime members of the Shaw community.

The Informer was unable to establish contact with leadership at New Bethel Baptist Church and Shiloh Baptist Church, two religious institutions located along 9th Street.

Alexander Padro, an at-large D.C. Council candidate and ANC commissioner whose jurisdiction includes an affected portion of 9th Street, shared those clergy people’s sentiments, telling The Informer that while he supports bike safety, DDOT never engaged the most affected community stakeholders.

He also posited that 11th Street, a considerably less busy corridor with fewer challenges, had been overlooked as an alternative bike route.

“DDOT wants to force the protected bike lanes down the throats of stakeholders, including businesses, that would be negatively affected,” said Padro, commissioner of Single Member District 6E01.

“And the tractor trailer entrances for the Convention Center and other buildings on 9th Street make 9th Street not the safest place to put the cycle track which defeats the purpose.”

WI

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CROWELL from Page 26 harder to achieve.

Last year, 2019, data cited by the report shows Black families remained the most likely racial group to be denied a mortgage for home purchase or refinance. Denial rates for Black applicants seeking to refinance their mortgages to a lower interest rate were more than double that of Black applicants seeking to purchase a home. The rate of rejection on home purchase was slightly over 15% and rejections to refinance was 35%.

By comparison, denial rates for White mortgage applicants were respectively 5% and 15% for home purchase and refinance. The higher denial rate for Black families, according to the report, was due to higher debt-to-income ratios, poor credit histories, and incomplete applications.

This finding mirrors an analysis of 2019 Home Mortgage Disclosure Act data by the Center for Responsible Lending (CRL) that found the share of home purchase loans made to Black and Latino borrowers remained below their population share.

Although Blacks comprise 13.4% of the population, they represented 7% of loans. Similarly, Latinos are 18.3% of the total population but received 9.2% of loans.

Nationwide, 16 states have a greater-than-average percent of the

MORIAL from Page 26 The revelation should impel every Black American to vote with might and main.

“Deterrence” belongs on the same ash heap of history as the poll tax, literacy tests and the “Southern Strategy,” along with other shameful voter suppression tactics still in use such as restrictive voter ID laws, excessive purges of voter rolls, and the rampant shutdown of polling

JEALOUS from Page 26

even further. Yet, this is Republicans’ top priority, just a month before Election Day, with many Americans already voting to turn out the president who is trying to create a Supreme Court that will protect his agenda long after he is gone.

Here’s what Senate Republicans aren’t doing while they confirm every new judge, no matter how extreme or unqualified, President Trump sends their way: - They aren’t dealing with the

total population: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia.

“Traditional banks in predominately Black neighborhoods tend to require higher initial opening deposits and higher minimum balances,” according to the report. “This translates into Black accountholders needing to deposit a higher percentage of their paychecks into accounts to avoid fees or closure.”

Further, with many Blacks segmented into lower-paying jobs and professions, the ability to save for a home is also diminished. Citi found that Black workers are overrepresented in occupations frequently paying less than $25 per hour, and underrepresented in careers usually paying wages of at least $40 per hour.

Asserting that multiple initiatives will be required to reverse these and other long-standing trends, Citi’s report authors call on government at all levels to share a part in progressive change.

For example, Citi’s report calls for the Federal Reserve, the nation’s central bank, to include reducing racial inequity as part of its mission.

About the same time as the report’s release, the Fed published its own 2019 Survey of Consumer Finances, which showed that the gap between mean and median wealth for white

and Black families has grown even wider. Again, all of these metrics occurred before the onset of the current deadly and economically devastating pandemic.

Nikitra Bailey, a CRL executive vice president, notes that the Fed has a key role in updating the Community Reinvestment Act, commonly known as CRA. The CRA is a civil rights law designed to address financial opportunity and the legacy of discriminatory lending practices like redlining. This law requires banks to meet the credit needs of the same communities in which they are chartered.

“The Federal Reserve should ensure that updated regulations account for the harsh realities of discrimination that still plague today’s financial marketplace,” Bailey said. “CRA was designed to undo the injustices created by the horrific practice of redlining and to expand financial opportunity, equity, and help spur investments in underserved areas.

“Our nation’s most recent reckoning with racial injustice has elevated the recognition and urgency to enact significant reforms to address structural racial barriers and provide opportunity to low- and moderate-income (LMI) families and people of color,” Bailey continued. “CRA must be one of the major tools to provide these long-overdue reforms.”

WI

places in Black neighborhoods.

When President Trump urged his supporters during last week’s debate “go into the polls and watch very carefully,” he was alluding to the expiration of a consent decree that has protected voters from intimidation at the polls since 1982. The decree was enacted after Democrats sued the Republican National Committee for sending off-duty law enforcement officers as “ballot security” to New Jersey polling places in Black and Hispanic neighborhoods. A

Trump campaign official was recorded last year saying the expiration of the consent decree was a “huge, huge, huge, huge deal” for the campaign’s election day operations in Wisconsin.

If you see intimidating behavior at the polls, report it (866-OURVOTE). Then vote. If you see a negative Facebook ad, research the truth.

Then vote. Don’t allow any campaign to put you in a box marked “Deterrence.”

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COVID crisis that is killing Black and brown people at a far higher rate than white people — and they aren’t providing relief for all the working people driven into economic crisis by the pandemic.

- They aren’t taking up the John Lewis Voting Rights Act, which would bring back federal protections for voting rights that were once embraced by politicians from both parties.

- They aren’t acting on the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, which would bring greater

accountability to law enforcement and protect people of color from racist and discriminatory policing.

The push by Trump and Senate Republicans to pack the Supreme Court while ignoring the urgent needs of our community and our demands for justice is the ultimate evidence of how important this election is to America, especially to Black America.

Do not sit this one out. Get registered. Make a plan to vote. And vote like our lives depend on it.

WI

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46 - OCTOBER 8 - 14, 2020

unemployment benefits, continue the expanded food stamps, extend the payroll protection subsidies and provide aid to states and localities to avoid the layoffs of millions of public employees. The Republican Senate refused to act — and refused to compromise. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell put together a $1 trillion alternative but didn’t even try to get his members to support it.

Twenty Republican senators opposed doing anything.

The nonpartisan Urban Institute noted that a second round of stimulus checks alone would keep 8.3 million people out of poverty from August to December. The extension of enhanced unemployment benefits would keep 3.6 million out of poverty. The continuation of food stamp expansions would keep about 1.7 million out. If all three were enacted, 12.2 million people would be kept

WESTON from Page 27

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JACKSON from Page 27

about their own health in instances where those decisions could endanger others. That case set a precedent. By contrast, a ruling by a federal judge in Pennsylvania on Sept. 14 that did not address mask-wearing specifically, found that key components of the governor’s COVID-19 mitigation strategy are “unconstitutional.” While the result of the Pennsylvania governor’s appeal remains to be seen, one thing is clear.

COVID-19 will continue to spread if it remains unchecked.

In public health, we study health behaviors: “actions to maintain, attain, or regain good health and prevent illness.”

ASKIA from Page 27 the danger of earthquakes everywhere; and don’t forget the COVID-19 pandemic which has even brought the President of the U.S. and several of his Republican and Freedom Caucus, and Tea Party allies to their knees!

The Proud Boys are weak and puny in the face of those enemies! If those guys are so “bad,” why don’t they put out the forest fires? Why don’t they stop the oceans from rising? Their guns are useless against those foes.

The Proud Boys are counting on the intimidation factor; the George W. Bush “shock and awe” factor; the George Custer “long knives” factor; none of which were, or will be successful. The Boys are legends in their own minds, that’s all.

Me, I’ll stand on the side of the natural forces, not with the Proud Boys.

out of poverty for the rest of the year.

Mitch McConnell refused to act.

Donald Trump, the great “deal maker,” refused even to get involved. After the benefits expired, McConnell finally decided to pass a bill out of the Senate, but his Republican colleagues would support only about $300 billion in new money for a bill that did not include the stimulus checks, did not include the SNAP benefits and limited unemployment assistance to $300 a week, half of what it was in the first rescue package. They voted to put millions of Americans into poverty. Public policy matters. We could eliminate poverty in this country with sensible policy.

Raise the minimum wage to a living wage; empower workers to organize and negotiate a fair share of the profits they help to produce. Guarantee affordable health care for all. Provide affordable housing for all. Provide high-quality pre-K and quality education for all. Add a jobs guarantee, so that instead of forcing workers onto

unemployment when the economy slows or their company goes belly up, they can move to a public job doing work that is necessary — from retrofitting buildings for solar heating to caring for our public parks to providing care for the elderly and more.

Let’s not fool ourselves. America has millions of people in poverty because Americans choose not to demand the policies that would lift them out of poverty. Because corporate CEOs choose profits and bonuses over fair pay for their workers.

Because small-minded legislators are more responsive to those who pay for their party than those who are in need. This isn’t complicated. The recent decision to block action on a second rescue package is a decision to increase the number of Americans in poverty, the number of children who go hungry. The Bible teaches we will be judged by how we treat the “least of these.” We should shudder at that judgment. WI

We also learn that health behaviors are influenced by community norms.

For example, smoking has declined exponentially since the 1964 Surgeon General’s Reports on Smoking and Tobacco Use. While Americans still smoke, there is a consciousness in our society about the dangers of smoking that influences our choices. That’s a community norm.

There are similar examples in other health conditions. Community norms are influenced by community leaders. It’s no coincidence that states in which governors modeled COVID-19 prevention on mask-wearing and policy interventions have made significant progress in controlling COVID-19. A study pub-

lished in the journal Health Affairs on June 16 found that “mandating face mask use in public is associated with a decline in the daily COVID-19 growth rate.”

According to Fauci and other experts, a U.S. vaccine should become available in 2021. It’s difficult to fathom that a vaccine will be a fast-acting magic bullet, however. The logistics of distributing a vaccine to a U.S. population approaching 330 million people are enormous. How many people will refuse it? Then what? It seems to me that I’m going to need my masks at least a little while longer, and I’m going to need to find ways to entertain myself that don’t involve mass gatherings. Fortunately, I like to write. WI

Another thing these delusional racists have not taken into consideration is that since the COVID-19 pandemic set in, most of the increase in new gun purchases have been by Black people according to a recent report by Black Enterprise. Pay attention Proud Boys: there will be Black folks shooting back at you. This time around it’s not going to be like the massacres in Tulsa, Okla. or Rosewood, Fla. 100 years ago.

I’m not advocating any kind of violence, except in the case of self-defense.

I have not carried a weapon (I used to carry a pocket-knife) for more than 50 years. There’s no weapons in my home.

Almost 90 years ago, the Honorable Elijah Muhammad told his followers to not carry so much as a pen-knife, but to fight like hell in self-defense. Yes. And finally, there’s the Cress Theory of Color Confrontation, written by Dr. Frances Cress Welsing, the now

deceased psychiatrist who correctly analyzed White folks as being obsessed with the prospect of “genetic annihilation,” that is white genetic traits— blonde hair, blue eyes, pale skin—being recessive, and dark skin, dark hair and dark eyes being dominant.

All things being equal Dr. Welsing wrote, White folks—already predicted to be a numerical minority in this country by the middle of the 21st Century—will cease to be white if any race mixing takes place. What’s more, the white birth-rate is declining, while Blacks and Latinos are increasing. Angry White men, aim those howitzers and AR-15s at your own daughters who often take up with non-white partners, not at my neighbors.

Sorry, Proud Boys, Boogaloo Boys, Trumpistas, your guns won’t help you in the approaching contest.

WI

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