WINNER OF THREE SOCIETY OF PROFESSIONAL JOURNALISTS D.C. AWARDS Don't Miss the WI Financial Literacy Supplement Center Section Vol. 56, No. 52 • October 14 - 20, 2021
Long Live the Spirit of the Million Man March It was Saturday, October 16, 1995, when an estimated 400,000 people, mostly Black men and boys, swarmed the National Mall in the District to illustrate the true character of African-American men. It was a day without incident, a day when Black men, as well as little Black boys and Black women, recommitted themselves to their families and their communities across the U.S. It was a day we should never forget. Meanwhile, the quest for civil rights and the human right of self-determination continues. We shall not be moved! (Courtesy photo)
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‘Blackburn Takeover’ Highlights Students’ Problems with HU Administration Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer On Wed Oct. 13, a student-led protest at Howard University [HU]’s Blackburn University Center entered its first full day as more than 50 young people continued to demand a meeting with HU President Wayne A.I. Frederick and the fulfillment of other requests. At the culmination of a student-led town hall the night before, several dozen students stayed in Blackburn well past closing hours as part of what’s been called “The Blackburn Takeover.” Administrators have since shut down the building. Though a university official reportedly attempted to quell the protest, students remained inside, sporting their pajamas, planting their sleeping bags on the floor and circulating calls for supplies on social media. By Wednesday morning, protesters circumvented security guards stationed outside of Blackburn to pass out donuts to their peers who couldn’t enter the building for breakfast.
TAKEOVER Page 18
Virtual Learning Expansion Sparks Both Hope and Skepticism
Vision Zero Not Working, Commissioner Says
Hit in a Crosswalk, Father, Daughters Need GoFundMe Aid
Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer Since the D.C. Council’s unanimous passage of emergency legislation increasing virtual learning slots in District public and public charter schools, parents whose children had been denied that option must now consider taking advantage of the highly-coveted opportunity. Even with a greater chance of approval, there’s some skepticism among parents, including Latrice Harris, about whether schools will approve their applications and allow their children to learn from within the safe confines of their home. “My child has done okay since school started [but] she’s had a lot of colds and coughs that I had to monitor,” said Harris, a COVID-19 survivor and mother of a second grade public
Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer
(Courtesy photo)
charter school student who suffers from asthma. The legislation, titled Protecting Our Children Emergency Declaration Resolution, applies to children like Harris’ daughter who live with people posing a high risk of illness from a COVID-19 infection.
VIRTUAL Page 44
As community members rally around a father and his two daughters severely injured after being hit in a crosswalk while on their way to school, the D.C. Department of Transportation [DDOT] continues to receive criticism for its inadequate response to concerns about traffic safety along the southeast corridor. ANC Commissioner Salim Adofo, whose single-member district includes the site of the incident, recounted sending DDOT a transportation safety assessment request nearly a month before a car recently struck Tyrone Belton and his two daughters at Wheeler Road and Mississippi Avenue in Southeast.
SAFETY Page 40
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Text INFORMER to 22828 Eugene Grant Out as Mayor of Seat Pleasant
In Memoriam Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, Sr. Wilhelmina J. Rolark THE WASHINGTON INFORMER NEWSPAPER (ISSN#0741-9414) is published weekly on each Thursday. Periodicals postage paid at Washington, D.C. and additional mailing offices. News and advertising deadline is Monday prior to publication. Announcements must be received two weeks prior to event. Copyright 2016 by The Washington Informer. All rights reserved. POSTMASTER: Send change of addresses to The Washington Informer, 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E. Washington, D.C. 20032. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. The Informer Newspaper cannot guarantee the return of photographs. Subscription rates are $45 per year, two years $60. Papers will be received not more than a week after publication. Make checks payable to: THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E Washington, D.C. 20032 Phone: 202 561-4100 Fax: 202 574-3785 news@washingtoninformer.com www.washingtoninformer.com
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The city of Seat Pleasant recently announced Mayor Eugene Grant will no longer serve as the city’s leader. The mayor was forced to forfeit his seat, according to a statement from the city council Thursday, Oct. 7, after he “[failed] to attend three consecutive regular meetings . . . without being excused by the council,” which stands as a current law in the city. The council president will presume the mayoral duties until a replacement is chosen. “We thank Mayor Grant for his many years of service to the residents of our great city and we wish him well in his future endeavors,” according to a statement from the city. Grant, who has served as mayor since 2004 and was reelected for another four-year term in September 2020, posted his own statement Thursday on Twitter, saying, “Well, my time as Mayor has ended. It was a great pleasure serving our people. Thank you to the residents and citizens of Seat Pleasant for allowing me to serve. God bless you all.” WI
REPORTERS Stacy Brown (Senior Writer), Sam P.K. Collins, Timothy Cox, Will Ford (Prince George’s County Writer), Hamil Harris, Curtis Knowles, Daniel Kucin, D. Kevin McNeir, Dorothy Rowley, Brenda Siler, Lindiwe Vilakazi, Sarafina Wright, James Wright PHOTOGRAPHERS Shevry Lassiter, Roy Lewis, Jr., Robert R. Roberts, Anthony Tilghman
5 Eugene Grant at the grand opening for Good Food Market in Seat Pleasant, Md., Oct. 2. (Anthony Tilghman/ The Washington Informer)
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COMPILED BY WI SENIOR EDITOR D. KEVIN MCNEIR AND WI STAFF WRITER WILLIAM J. FORD
Ebony Magazine Publishing, the publishing arm of the iconic Ebony Magazine, America’s most recognizable African-American brand, recently announced the launch of the Ebony Publishing Book Club [EPBC] and the club’s first book selection. The Book Club’s goal is to celebrate Black literature and provide readers with an opportunity to engage with some of the most relevant fiction and nonfiction authors. “Hell of a Book” by Jason Mott is the inaugural Book Club pick. Jason is a New York Times bestselling author, the 2009 Pushcart Prize award nominee and listed by Entertainment Weekly as one of their 10 “New Hollywood: Next Wave” people to watch. The EPBC will select four books annually. Notable guests will moderate author events throughout the year. To enhance the virtual experience of the book club, Ebony Magazine Publishing is partnering with the social reading app Fable to provide members with an interactive reading experience. The first virtual EPBC event with author Jason Mott will be on Nov 3, at 3 p.m. ET with special guest moderator Porsha Olayiwola, City of Boston Poet Laureate, and award-winning writer, performer, educator and curator who uses afro-futurism and surrealism to examine historical and current issues. To join and to find more information visit http:// www.ebonymagazinepublishing.com. WI
Agriculture Secretary Visits Prince George’s Riverdale Elementary On Tuesday, October 12, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack toured Riverdale Elementary School in Prince George’s County during lunch service to discuss the Biden Administration’s work to ensure access to healthy and nutritious food in all communities. During the visit, he talked with parents, school officials and nutrition professionals about the critical role strong, inschool nutrition programs play in ensuring children receive nutritious meals and how the federal government, states and schools can work together to navigate the ever-changing pandemic situation. The Secretary’s visit coincided with National School Lunch Week and the month-long celebration of Farm to School Month, which recognizes efforts to bring local foods into schools and onto students' trays. WI
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Urban Garden in Southeast Expands in Effort to Combat Food Insecurity
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D.C.-based Organizations Collaborate to Resolve Shortages of Nutritious Goods Natalie C. Hockaday WI Staff Writer In efforts to reduce food insecurity, a prevailing problem in several D.C. communities, Allen Chapel African Methodist Episcopal [AME] Church in Southeast recently held a ribbon cutting ceremony marking the expansion of its highly-touted urban farm initiative. The Garden of Eden, a fixture within the church’s McKinley Crudup Outreach Center, counts as one of seven urban farms created by Building Bridges Across the River, each venue included among the Bridge Park Plots -- a consortium of faith-based and nonprofit organizations located in Southeast. Cheikh Badiane, an engineering student at Howard University, serves as a member of the design team that used the opportunity to give back to his school’s neighboring community. He said it helps him understand the importance of engineers conferring with the people who will be impacted the most by their plans. “It’s about putting all of the engineering stuff away and first being human,” said Badiane, a native of Senegal who grew up in Kenya, adding that “this experience has opened his eyes to the injustices in D.C.” “It was interesting in the sense that I was able to see issues that I didn’t think existed here,” he said. “The thought of famine and food deserts is a massive thing where I’m from in Senegal as well as where I grew up in Kenya but I didn’t think it was a problem in D.C. But now I realize that food deserts and the possibility of famine can exist anywhere.” The inspiration for The Garden of Eden, with 15 raised beds and 14 fruit trees, points back to the same-named biblical story featuring Adam and Eve. Organizers say the purpose of this expansion remains to both help to solve the food insecurity crisis in the District and to assist senior residents better access more nutritious
food. The new garden beds at Allen Chapel AME were created in collaboration with Howard University engineering students working alongside Engineers Without Borders, National Society of Black Engineers, the Society of Hispanic Engineers and the American Society of Civil Engineers. The food grown in the garden contributes to the church’s food pantry which remains available to residents living in the area. And in the future, Engineers Without Borders hopes to develop an irrigation system to provide water and other nutrients to the garden beds. According to Scott Kratz, director of 11th Street Bridge Park, the Bridge Park Plots program serves nearly 500 families throughout the year who receive fresh produce
from “the food web we’ve created.” “Removing more barriers so seniors can come and get engaged with the soil and with the farm is really critical because it’s not only the food and the herbs they’re taking and making teas with or [using] for medicinal purposes, it’s feeding both their minds and bodies,” Kratz said. WI 4 Scott Kratz (l-r), vice president, Building Bridges Across the River Engineers Without Borders – USA; Cheikh Badiane, Howard University engineering student; Leslie Haywood; and The Rev. Velma Speight, director, Allen Chapel AME Church, McKinley Crudum Outreach Center, at a ribbon cutting ceremony on Sept. 30 for the Center’s newly-expanded urban farm. (Rob Roberts/ The Washington Informer)
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OCT. 14 - 20, 2021 SOURCE: BLACK AMERICA WEB
OCT. 14
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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. (right) is awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his nonviolent resistance to racial inequality in America.
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1883 – The Civil Rights Act of 1875 — which guaranteed African Americans equal treatment in public accommodations, public transportation and jury service — is ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court. 1968 – Track star Wyomia Tyus becomes the first person to win a gold medal in the 100-meter race in consecutive Olympic Games.
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1968 – African American athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos raise black-gloved fists during their medal ceremony at the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City. 1984 – Desmond Tutu is awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his ant-apartheid work in South Africa. 1995 – The Million Man March, called by Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan, is held on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
OCT. 17
1888 – Cap-
ital Savings Bank of Washington D.C. — one of the nation's first Black-owned banks — is opened. 1956 – Physician and astronaut Mae Jamison, the first African American woman to travel in space, is born in Decatur, Alabama. 1969 – Clifton R. Wharton is elected president of Michigan State University, becoming the first African American president of a major U.S. university.
OCT. 18
1926 – Pioneering guitarist and rock and roll icon Chuck Berry is born in St. Louis. 1948 – Poet and playwright Ntozake Shange (above), author of "For Colored Girls…," is born in Trenton, New Jersey. 1951 – "Waiting to Exhale" author Terry McMillan is born in Port Huron, Michigan. 1968 – Athlete Bob Beamon sets the world record for the long jump — 29'2½" — a mark that would stand for decades.
OCT. 19
1936 – Johnnetta B. Cole, director of the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art and the first African American female president of Spelman College, is born in Jacksonville, Florida. 1944 – The U.S. Navy begins accepting Black women for military service. 1944 – Reggae music legend Peter Tosh is born in Grange Hill, Jamaica.
OCT. 20
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1898 – North Carolina Mutual and Provident Insurance Company is founded by John Merrick and associates in Durham as the first African American-owned insurance company. 1904 – Civil rights activist Enolia McMillan, the first female president of the NAACP, is born in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania. WI
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Maryland Black Caucus Question ‘Black Agenda’ for Gubernatorial Candidates By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer
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When most of the Maryland gubernatorial candidates meet up for a reception Thursday, Oct. 14 in Anne Arundel County, they will be asked a central question: “What is your Black agenda?” Del. Darry Barnes, chair of the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland, said each candidate should present their platforms on how they will help the Black community in education, transportation, economics, health care and the environment. “Regardless of the color of your skin, I want to make sure that the substance and the rhetoric you’re speaking is substantive to the impact of our community,” he said. “This is the reason for the reception. To give an opportunity not just to look at a candidate based off of relationships or popularity, but they’re speaking truth to power in saying what are they going to do for the Black community.” More than 300 people have registered to see if these candidates will highlight their agendas at The Westin Baltimore Washington Airport Hotel. All nine Democratic candidates plan to be in attendance of the reception hosted by the Maryland Black Caucus Foundation and Verizon. Joining the Democrats are two Republicans, perennial candidate
5 Maryland Comptroller and gubernatorial candidate Peter Franchot (right) gives remarks Oct. 9 at grand opening of campaign headquarters in Bowie. (Robert R. Roberts/ The Washington Informer)
Robin Ficker and Del. Daniel L. Cox, who represents parts of Carroll and Frederick counties and a Donald Trump supporter. J. David Lashar of Annapolis, representing the Libertarian Party, confirmed his attendance to join the discussion. Maryland Commerce Secretary Kelly Schulz, who resides in Frederick County, became the first candidate in April to announce her intentions to seek the Republican nomination. Former lieutenant governor Michael Steele continues to contemplate seeking the Republican nomination. Republican Gov. Larry Hogan will complete his second, four-year term in January 2023. In the meantime, Democratic candidates continue to campaign and present their platforms across the state. Former Prince George’s County Executive Rushern L. Baker III became the first candidate Wednesday, Oct. 13. His choice: Montgomery County Council member Nancy Navarro, a native of Venezuela and council’s first Latina and immigrant member. State Comptroller and Democratic candidate Peter Franchot summarized his Black agenda labeled “A Level Playing Field” that includes supporting to expand
Metro’s Green Line from Branch Avenue into neighboring Charles County. During an interview Friday. Oct. 8 at a community fish fry in District Heights, Franchot provided one example. If elected governor, he would push to incorporate within labor agreements to require at least half of the residents who reside in a particular county or Baltimore City are hired to work on projects in their respective jurisdictions. “The state of Maryland, like other states, discriminated against African Americans, but generally poor people,” he said. “It touches Black businesses. Black homeownership has suffered. Redlining has denied the economic system and all the opportunity it has to African Americans.” Although Franchot’s campaign finance report filed in January showed had $2.2 million cash on hand, his opponents also have their supporters. Former Attorney General Doug Gansler also submitted a campaign report in January at $428,000. The campaign for John King Jr., former U.S. education secretary during the Obama administration, announced in June he raised more than $1 million in less than two
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Advocates Press for Information About Neglect Cases Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer As states continue to implement a federal child welfare reform law, local organizers have joined a national movement to compel local and state child welfare agencies to stop the removal of children from homes that could benefit from additional resources. Melody Webb, an attorney and advocate for low-income families, told The Informer most cases referred to the Child and Family Services Agency [CFSA] over the last couple of years have involved what a federal government report earlier this year defined as “neglect only.” While she has yet to receive information regarding the neglect cases, Webb said that her clients’ experiences hint at the strong possibility that what government agencies define as “neglect only” oftentimes stems from housing instability, food insecurity and other symptoms of poverty. “It astounds me that we live in the richest country in human history that takes people’s kids away because, in part, parents can’t afford stable housing,” said Webb, executive director of Mother’s Outreach Network and representative of indigent parents seeking reunification with their children. During the summer, while circulating information about the child tax credit to families, Webb contacted parents who appeared on the Child Protection Register, a confidential database of people known or highly suspected of abusing and
5 Melody Webb, executive director of Mother’s Outreach Network and representative of indigent parents seeking reunification with their children. (Courtesy Photo)
neglecting children in D.C. She took this step to gain insight into the circumstances that triggered a CFSA home visit. “It’s important that we dig deep into the reasons for these removals that are called ‘neglect only,’” Webb said. “I would imagine most people would take some pause if they understood neglect is related to poverty and poverty is driving these removals.”
FIGURING OUT HOW TO KEEP FAMILIES TOGETHER
In the six months leading up to the pandemic, CFSA completed investigations of more than 2,800 referrals of abuse and neglect. Out of those cases, investigators designated nearly 65 percent of those
referrals as not meeting the legal requirements to confirm abuse or neglect, while 21 percent had been deemed as abuse or neglect. In the first four months of the pandemic, calls to the CFSA hotline dropped nearly 55 percent, in what some child advocates speculated as a result of children staying at home and out of the sight of mandated reporters at schools and daycares. Nearly 40 percent of those calls had been accepted for investigation. At the end of 2020, CFSA experienced a steady increase in hotline calls. As of June, the agency received 10,765 calls this year, nearly 20 percent of which have been accepted for investigation. According to CFSA data, as of June there remain 624 foster children in the District, more than half of them removed from homes located east of the Anacostia River. Parents of the children placed in foster care declined to speak, either on the record or on background, to The Informer. In 2018, Congress passed the Family First Prevention Services Act [FFPSA] to pay for evidence-based programs to prevent or reduce maltreatment of children. Once enacted, the law resulted in the federal government’s disbursement of $500 million to help states bring these new models to fruition. As of May, the District and at least 15 states have either submitted or achieved federal approval of five-year prevention plans. Under its plan, the
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Who’s Reading the Informer? His Excellency Sidney Collie, Ambassador of The Bahamas to the U.S., said he enjoys reading The Washington Informer weekly and pays close attendtion to the local news. (AnthonyTilghman/The Washington Informer
We Remember The Million Man March, Oct. 16, 1995, Washington, D.C. “Let our choices be for life, for protecting our women, our children, keeping our brothers free of drugs, free of crime.” – Kurt Schmoke
then mayor of Baltimore, told the crowd of over 400,000 (a disputed number) mostly Black men and boys, assembled on the National Mall. It was reported that in response to the March, some 1.7 million African-American men registered to vote.
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AROUND THE REGION
Fletcher-Johnson Project in Southeast Now in its Formative Stages
James Wright WI Staff Writer
The shuttered Fletcher-Johnson Middle School and Recreation Center located in the Marshall Heights neighborhood of Southeast Washington remains in the early stages of its transformation to a mixed-used development, Mayor Bowser’s project manager said Oct. 9. Wendell Felder, Fletcher-Johnson’s project manager for the D.C. Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development, and Haariq Gragg, a partner with the Gragg Cardona Partners LLC, the lead developer, briefed the Fletcher-Johnson Task Force, an organization of community leaders and residents in Marshall Heights and throughout Ward 7. “It is critical that members of the community know what is going on,” said Keith Hasan-Towery, the interim chairman of the task force, who called the virtual briefing. “There are a number of people in this community who have lived
here for years and want to stay here and not be pushed out. We want to have a voice on what happens to Fletcher-Johnson.” The 15-acre site project on Benning Road, S.E., which will be known as Fletcher-Johnson at the Park, is to be the site of 817 units of rental and for-sale housing consisting of condominiums, multi-family rental apartments, and affordable senior-assisted living units. There are plans for green space for outside recreational and community activities, retail-commercial space for neighborhood retailers and an expansive location for community programming. The Fletcher-Johnson campus became available for development first in 2008 when the school closed due to low enrollment and city officials decided to shutter the site permanently in 2011. Since then, efforts to develop the property have been unsuccessful due to lack of serious interest by District developers. However, in January 2021, the Bowser administration awarded the
Fletcher-Johnson project to Gragg Cardona, along with the Carding Group, Foundation Housing, H2 Design Build and the Marshall Heights Community Development Organization. Felder, Gragg Talk About Fletcher-Johnson Felder said Gragg Cardona recently filed a request with city officials for permission to have “Right of Entry” to Fletcher-Johnson. Right of Entry [ROE] refers to one’s right to take or resume possession of land, or the right of a person to go onto another’s real property without committing trespass. “The developers will be able to go onto the site to measure its deficiencies and see what needs to be done in order for development to take place,” Felder said. Felder didn’t commit to a timeline on when the right of entry or any other activity will take place regarding the development of Fletcher-Johnson. “It is kind of early in the process,” he said.
+ To learn more, call 202-354-3600, email cares@dcwater.com or visit dcwater.com/cares. WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
5 The former Fletcher-Johnson Middle School and Recreation Center is set to become a mixed-used development in Northeast. (WI File Photo)
Gragg stressed Felder’s point on being in the early stages of the project. “We need to have the ROE so we can go onto the campus and look at the topography of the land, how sturdy the buildings are and other land uses,” he said. “When the ROE is approved, we will have the tools to create a conceptual site plan.” Gragg and Felder couldn’t say how much the project will cost.
“We haven’t reached that stage yet,” Gragg said. “The costs are undetermined at this point.” Felder agreed. “The District government hasn’t really started assessing what the costs would be,” he said. Project’s Neighbors Express Themselves Malissa Freese, a member of
FLETCHER Page 35
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PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY Prince George’s Organizes Emergency Housing Program William J. Ford WI Staff Writer After Sophia Davis relocated from Baltimore City and moved into a new Greenbelt apartment in July 2020, she noticed bedbugs, roaches and other problems with the unit. A representative with the rental company advised Davis to withhold rent and utility payments until workers cleaned and fixed her apartment, which she said wasn’t in that condition when she first saw the unit. The company later incorporated legal fees which led to “the landlord wanting me to move.” During this time as the coronavirus pandemic continued, she became downsized from a supervisory position at a Head Start facility in Baltimore and later laid off. She sought help and applied earlier this year for the Prince George’s County Emergency Rental Assistance Program [ERAP]. She received approval July 6 of this year for $11,000 toward rent and utilities. “I did go through a whole year of mess: heart palpitations, depression. I couldn’t eat because of not knowing if I would be put out the next day,” Davis, who currently works as a fourth-grade elementary school science teacher, said Saturday, Oct. 9. “This was the first time I ever went through a situation like this. I had to humble myself. The county did a lot to help me out and I’m very grateful but there are a lot of other people in need and need help now,” she said. The county’s ability to help Davis and at least 19,000 other households comes from the federal government, specifically the U.S. Treasury Department and $84 million.
12 OCTOBER 14 - 20, 2021
So far, more than 4,000 people have received approval for rent and utility payments, said Aspasia Xypolia, director of the county’s Department of Housing and Community Development. Through tracking data, she added the county leads the state of Maryland distributing emergency rental assistance funding. Some of the guidelines and eligibility requirements include: Past due rent from April 1, 2020, and up to 18 months in utility and home energy bills. Affected by the pandemic based on confirmed COVID-19 cases, or jobs
5 Prince George’s County residents line up outside Langley Park Community Center on Oct. 9 to apply for funding to pay for rent and possibly utilities. (Robert R. Roberts/ The Washington Informer)
associated with layoff risks. A member of the household with “qualified” unemployment benefits experienced a reduction in income or other financial hardship directly or indirectly due to COVID-19. Landlords can also receive financial assistance that meet certain criteria such as assisting Black and Latino residents and tenants at or below 50% area median income. To help spread the word, the county’s housing department and Office of Community Relations are partnering to host community eviction fairs where residents can apply for rental assistance.
The first, held last month in Suitland, attracted more than 400 people and a similar number Saturday at Langley Park Community Center. One of the goals will be to help residents who received eviction court documents where intake specialists can process applications through a fast-tracking program. A color-coded map at https://bit. ly/3mHkSfE shows priority areas based on U.S. Census data. Euniesha Davis, director of community relations, said a third fair will be scheduled in November. “Although anyone from the county
who needs assistance can come to the fair, we target those most vulnerable communities,” Davis said. “It’s purposeful.” LaWanda Richmond drove to Langley Park from Laurel to receive information on whether she qualifies for financial assistance toward rent and utilities. She hasn’t received unemployment benefits since June. The licensed cosmetologist and instructor with 30 years of experience, whose hair salon closed and to which she attributes to COVID-19, said the state unemployment office informed her many requests for benefits have been deemed fraudulent. Last month, a federal grand jury indicted three Prince George’s County men for filing $2.7 million in unemployment claims in more than a dozen states including Maryland, Michigan and Tennessee. “I’m not committing any fraud,” said Richmond, who also cares for her 16-year-old autistic daughter. “Unemployment is messing me [up] big time. It’s pushed me back for [paying] my car note. Pushed me back for my rent. I don’t have a job. I need some assistance.” Visit www.princegeorgescountymd. gov/3703/Emergency-Rental-Assistance-Program, or call the ERAP hotline at 301-883-6504 for more information. WI @jabariwill
COVID-19 Complicates Final High School, Early College Prep Steps William J. Ford WI Staff Writer Tania Charles said the beginning of her junior year of high school at Grace Brethren Christian School in Clinton has been good, even while taking all honors classes. Besides being the only girl in her pre-calculus class, the 16-year-old student also serves as team manager of the boys’ soccer team and later in the year with the boys’ varsity basketball team. “I always like to watch the games. I always call myself the team mom and always yell at them off the field,” Tania, who also works as a lifeguard, said Monday, Oct. 11. “I’ll tell them what they’re doing 3 Oluwasemilore Adekanmi, 15, introduces a speaker Oct. 11 during a youth summit at Glenarden Community Center. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)
wrong and what they need to fix. It’s fun.” Tania’s among thousands of high school students in Prince George’s County surviving amongst the coronavirus pandemic. With some students contracting COVID-19 and Prince George’s continuing to lead the state of Maryland with the most confirmed cases, the usual in-person activities such as homecoming dances have been cancelled. Homecoming football games and other sporting events, book fairs and some student government association activities remain scheduled. Starting the week of Monday, Oct. 18, unvaccinated student-athletes age 12 and older must undergo weekly testing. As COVID-19 continues to linger, life goes on and students must prepare for their future after high school, With schools closed Monday, Tania joined other students at a youth summit at Glenarden Community
Center hosted by Tonya Sweat, an attorney from Accokeek also running for Prince George’s County executive. Sweat organized presentations by United Negro College Fund headquartered in Northwest D.C., Independent Electrical Contractors Chesapeake of Laurel and the University of Maryland’s Educational Opportunity Center based in Riverdale. Earl Johnson, educational specialist at the opportunity center, offered several tips such as the difference between the standardized SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) and ACT (American College Test) tests. The SAT, which Johnson said Blacks “have not historically” done well on, focuses on national education standards. The ACT, he said, presents information tailored to a state’s curriculum. He also advises students to take both tests before their senior year of high school because “you are putting
COVID Page 13
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Lierman Pushes for MBEs, Equity as Maryland Comptroller
PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY
2021–2022
William J. Ford WI Staff Writer As a practicing civil rights attorney and progressive state lawmaker, Del. Brooke Lierman wants to use that experience to boost the Maryland comptroller office to fight income equality and assist minority and women-owned businesses. The 42-year-old lawmaker representing Baltimore City since 2015 has sponsored major pieces of legislation such as making Maryland the first state in the country to ban foam packaging of food and cups and the state Department of Transportation to incorporate more than $100 million in maintenance on mass transit. She also co-sponsored the first piece of legislation on the major Blueprint for Maryland’s Future education plan. If elected, Lierman seeks to be the first woman ever elected to the position that’s been held since 2007 by Comptroller Peter Franchot, who plans to run for governor. Gov. Larry Hogan’s second, four-year term expires in January 2023. “In state government, our power is how we appropriate money . . . that this huge comptroller’s office has the ability to make government work better to use our money that uplifts communities, uplifts small businesses and supports Black-owned businesses . . . throughout Maryland that have really been left behind,” Lierman said Tuesday, Oct. 12. “The comptroller’s office is really situated uniquely focused on those income-based issues and economic challenges . . . that families are dealing with today, especially since
COVID from Page 12 yourself at a disadvantage on college admissions.” Maya White, a 17-year-old senior at Frederick Douglass High School in Upper Marlboro, took the SAT this month and plans to take the ACT on Nov. 1. White wanted to attend a historical Black college and university, but in-person college tours weren’t available at some schools this summer. She rode with her grandfather to celebrate his birthday Aug. 30 and
5 Del. Brooke Lierman (D-Baltimore City) (Courtesy photo)
HARLEM 100
COVID.” Although one of the comptroller’s main duties rests as tax collector, the person sits on the powerful state Board of Public Works alongside the governor and state treasurer that approves millions of dollars on government contracts to spend on school, road construction and other projects. The comptroller’s race in the June 28 primary currently features one other Democratic, Bowie Mayor Tim Adams, owner of the multimillion-dollar company Systems Application & Technologies, Inc. (SA-TECH) of Upper Marlboro. Harford County Barry Glassman represents the only Republican in the race and the only person who officially filed paperwork in May with the state Board of Elections. If elected, he would be the first GOP member elected comptroller in 100 years.
FEATURING MWENSO & THE SHAKES
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COMPTROLLER Page 25 visited Georgia State University in Atlanta. After receiving information about the school’s pre-law program, she applied. In addition, she’s now connected on Tik Tok with one of the school’s law professors. “Even with COVID going on and having to wear masks all the time, that trip with him was well worth it,” she said. Although Prince George’s public school students aren’t required to be vaccinated, students must wear masks inside all buildings and buses.
JAN 26 + 27 | 8 PM
“Just having the masks on all day can wear you out,” Oluwasemilore Adekanmi, 15, a sophomore enrolled in the science and technology program at Oxon Hill High School. He
WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
received a COVID-19 vaccination within three weeks and it became available for his age group. “We will have spirit week the last week of October, so that will be fun. The social and
mental aspect of being in school…and face-to-face interaction has been great. I just hope it can remain that way for the rest of the year.” WI @jabariwill
OCTOBER 14 - 20, 2021 13
BUSINESS Wade Opens Funeral Business in D.C. James Wright WI Staff Writer Kendal Wade has become known in the Washington, D.C. area as a candidate for political office and law enforcement officer but recently became a funeral home owner in the District. Wade practices mortuary science at the Kendal Wade Funeral Home & Cremation Services LLC and says serving customers has become a ministry for him. Wade’s business launch comes at a bumpy time for African Americans in the funeral industry. According to a Sept. 14 Black Enter-
prise’s website postimg— “Black Morticians Dying at Record Numbers Because of COVID-19 Creating Voids in their Communities – about 130 morticians have died from the coronavirus. Additionally, Black-owned funeral establishments in the District such as Hall Brothers Funeral Homes, Latney’s Funeral Home and Austin Royster Funeral Home have shut down. He said Black funeral home directors face problems similar to those confronting many African American entrepreneurs including access to capital and being affiliated with an unpopular industry “that no
one wants to be seen with.” “People need funeral homes but that doesn’t mean that they want to see one on their block,” he said. “They consider it an eyesore.” Wade often encounters customers and competitors who cite his youth, 34, as a weakness in an industry where funeral home owners are often in their late 40s and older. “I have had some people say to me you are too young to own a funeral home,” he said. “I will work to prove them wrong.” Wade also has to compete against a national funeral home corporate entity, SCI Inc., that can offer their customers more. Wade said, when serving customers, he will focus on quality, not quantity. “We look at our customers as people and not as numbers on a balance sheet,” he said. Wade said despite the challenges, he will work hard to win the trust of his customers and “get more business the right way by being the best we can be.” “At Kendal Wade Funeral Home, we promise to provide you with the highest level of compassionate care and respect,” Wade said on the company’s website. “Our very capable staff of professional person-
DC’s Temporary Ban on Debt Collection Has Ended: What That Means for You DC’s COVID-related temporary law preventing new debt collection lawsuits has ended. If you owe money (for credit cards, stores or other lenders), you may start receiving calls and letters from debt collectors again. If you haven’t heard from debt collectors in a while, that does not mean that your debts have been forgiven. But you have rights, and legal help can make a big difference for you. For example, Tzedek DC can help you avoid a default judgment, negotiate a payment plan you can afford, and maybe even get the debt reduced. Tzedek DC is a nonprofit organization headquartered at the University of the District of Columbia that offers free legal assistance for people with lower incomes who are facing debt-related problems. If you live in DC, we can help you deal with debt collectors, lawsuits, credit report problems, identity theft, and scams at no cost to you. For more information, call us at (202) 274-7386 or find out more at www.tzedekdc.org.
14 OCTOBER 14 - 20, 2021
5 Staff of the Kendal Wade Funeral Home & Cremation Services LLC (from left to right on top) London Shepherd, Kendra Barnes, Lashawn Wade, Ann Taylor, Brenda Wade, Ocie Miller, Marques Dyer, Caleb Camara and seated left to right are Toria Walker and Kendal Wade. (Photo courtesy of Esinej Photography LLC)
nel and specialized scientists hold advanced degrees and experience in mortuary science, psychology, theology, cremation operations and public service, to ensure that every single step of this process is handled by a knowledgeable and compassionate expert.”
WADE’S JOURNEY AS A MORTICIAN
Wade said his family has been in the funeral industry for three generations. He said he has wanted to be in the mortuary business as a toddler and got the chance at the age of 17. “I graduated from Largo High School in 2006 and went to work for Austin Royster shortly after that,” Wade said. “One of my duties was to bring dead bodies to the Howard University medical and dental schools for the professors and the students to work on.” Wade said he attended the Commonwealth Institute of Funeral Services in Houston online and did his clinical work at B.K. Henry Funeral Chapel Inc. in the District. He received an associate’s degree in mortuary science from Commonwealth in 2020. During the 2010s, Wade took some time off from the funeral business to work as a Prince George’s County Sheriff’s deputy. In 2018, he challenged his boss, Sheriff Melvin High, for re-election but lost in the Democratic Party primary. After the campaign he left the sheriff’s department and resumed working in the funeral business in
the District with the Terry A. Austin Funeral Home and B.K. Henry.
PATRONIZING WADE FUNERAL HOME
Wade operates out of a small office in Northwest. When people come to see him, he makes sure he knows what they want. “I take the time to talk with the family or the person who is in charge of the burial,” Wade said. “I don’t do cookie-cutter funerals. Every funeral is individualized for the decedent and the family. Death is precious and the process should be conducted in decency and order.” Wade said his business offers various services such as cremation, burial and cemetery services to his customers. Additionally, customers can buy a horse drawn carriage for their services, as well as funeral programs, a white dove release and memorial blankets.. He said payment for funerals must be upfront or at least 72 hours before the funeral begins. “That’s how 99 percent of funeral homes operate,” Wade said. Wade said the pandemic hasn’t been good for business because “conducting funerals is a personal business.” “You have to reach out and touch people and you can’t do that at this time due to COVID restrictions,” he said. “We find ways to help people but we are in the people-helping business during one of the toughest times in their lives.” WI @JamesDCWrighter
THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM
D.C.-Supported Capital Funding Program Mystifies Black Business Leaders
James Wright WI Staff Writer
The District’s Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking program to procure more capital for Black enterprises is robust but Black business leaders say they know little about it. DISB Commissioner Karima M. Woods recently talked about the DC BizCAP Program to the Informer. While many entrepreneurs look to the D.C. Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD) to deal with issues regarding capital, Woods wants them to know DISB can help, too.
WOODS EXPLAINS DC BIZCAP
Woods said DC BizCAP received its funding through the U.S. Department of Treasury under the State Small Business Credit Initiative, founded as a part of the Small Business Jobs Acts of 2010. “Through this Act, DISB received $13 million in funding to create this program,” Woods said. “To administer the funds, DISB partners with private lenders to provide loan enhancements for small businesses that need additional support to obtain loans from private lending institutions.” Woods said in fiscal year 2021, DC BizCAP provided $1,355,000 in support of five small businesses. Woods knows minority businesses have problems accessing capital from traditional lenders such as banks. She said the Loan Participation Program (LPP) “is fully inclusive and provides subsidized interest rates to minority, Certified Business Enterprise and woman-owned businesses.” “With this subsidy, DISB is able to reduce the interest charged on the loan support by half the rate the lender is charging,” she said. A Jan. 22, 2018 article on Forbes Magazine’s website— “Why Minorities Have So Much Trouble Accessing Small Business Loans”—
5 Karima M. Woods is the commissioner of the D.C. Department of Insurance, Securities & Banking. (WI File Photo)
said minorities generally have lower net worth and/or lack of access. The article said banks are traditionally biased against applicants with less money to spare, partially because such applicants probably cannot offer collateral. Woods said DC BizCAP doesn’t have a collateral requirement. “Keep in mind, however, that the support offered through DC BizCAP is not a direct loan,” she said. “DISB partners with local lenders to provide loan enhancements. Consequently, while the department does not require collateral, in many cases, the lender may.” Woods said a business doesn’t need to be in operation a set number of years to qualify for the program. Essentially, Woods said, DC BizCAP has been designed to help entrepreneurs obtain new sources of capital in conjunction with traditional lenders such as banks. “Under the rules and regulations of the program small business borrowers can use DC BizCAP funding to provide the additional support needed to obtain approvals from commercial lenders,” she said. “We offer collateral, will participate in loan requests and in some cases can
BUSINESS October is Estate Planning Month/ Who Do You Love? Aimee D. Griffin, Esq. I often say that Estate Planning is not as much about you but about the people you love. I know that the conversation isn’t easy. I know that we don’t like to think about what happens if we are not here. I know thinking about our incapacity is truly scary. I know that selecting someone else to raise our minor children is painful. I also know that failing to plan really impacts the people we love. In most cases, it hurts the people we love more than it will hurt us. In the United States about 50% of all people have a Last Will and Testament. About 30% of Black people have a Last Will and Testament. The statistic means that most people are trusting the government to decide what should happen through guardianship or probate. Estate planning takes the action of making plans for your life and your legacy. We have many current examples of inadequate planning and the impact. We look at Prince, Aretha Franklin, Martin Luther King, Jr., and most recently the comedienne, AJ Johnson. The pain that the family endures is beyond measure. The litigation costs, the embarrassment and the degradation of the unpreparedness is unimaginable. Solely for lack of effective planning. If I don’t plan, I leave my family to accept the governmental structure of who should get my stuff. In some situations, that is not a problem. If I am not married and have one child the stuff will eventually all go in the right direction. However, the detour of the courthouse is often a costly detour. The route that navigates through the clerk, judge and Register of Wills office require approvals of how your stuff will be managed and by whom. Not to mention there are court costs, filing fees and in some jurisdictions a bond is required. There are financial and time costs to not planning. The humanity cost is when there is someone appointed to make decisions regarding your care and the distribution of your assets is delegated to a hired hand. The hand may be very professional. The hand may be very strategic. However, the hand may not know any of the people involved. Caring for the considerations of a person requires more than professionalism and strategy. I am currently serving a family where the hired person sold the family home. It was a professional act but it cost the family years of memories. It cost the family more than $30,000 in unnecessary fees. But it was in the purview of the responsibility of the professional hand that was appointed to serve. Estate planning is an opportunity to identify who will support you if you need help with your finances or your health decision making. Would you want someone who doesn’t know you to make those decisions for you? Estate planning is an opportunity to identify who will receive the treasures that you have worked hard for during your life or received as an inheritance during your life. Would you want someone who doesn’t know you to make that decision for you? Estate planning is an opportunity to be a blessing to the charitable organizations that have been a blessing to you, your family and your community. No court or hired hand can make the decision to support anyone besides your next of kin if you don’t make the plan. Make a commitment this month to review the estate plan you created. Does it still reflect the values, passions and love that you currently hold? Does it take advantage of the legal opportunities through tax savings and probate avoidance available? Do the people you appoint still have the capacity in your heart and life to serve? Are your heirs still able and willing to receive that which you have for them? Do you have a plan? If not, now is the time. There are amazing estate planning attorneys in your community. Reach out to a professional to show your loved ones that you care. Aimee D. Griffin, Esq., The Griffin Firm, PLLC http://yourestateplanningattorney.com (855) 574-8481 5335 Wisconsin Ave NW Suite 440 Washington DC 20015 4041 Powder Mill Drive Suite 215 Beltsville MD 20705 100 International Drive 23rd Floor Baltimore MD 21202 4601 N. Fairfax Dr., Suite 1200 Arlington, VA 22203
DISB Page 35
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OCTOBER 14 - 20, 2021 15
NATIONAL What May Happen to Blacks if America Defaults on its Debt? Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer The crucial vote on the nation’s debt ceiling yielded only a temporary solution. And without permanent steps being taken, many believe that African Americans in particular could feel the full brunt of the “meteor that’s headed toward our economy.” Byron Cunningham, a front desk worker at a D.C. hotel, used a century-old refrain to summarize the im-
pact on African Americans. “When America catches a cold, Black people get pneumonia,” Cunningham reiterated. He also called attention to the comments made by President Joe Biden, who earlier warned that the reluctance by lawmakers to extend the debt ceiling would result in catastrophe. “A meteor is headed for our economy,” President Biden declared. The Senate ultimately voted 5048 to temporarily delay that fireball and extend the country’s debt limit
5 The threat of not extending America’s debt ceiling could have monumental effects on African Americans. (Photo courtesy Benoit Prieur via Wikimedia commons)
through the beginning of December. However, before reaching the deal, Democrats and Republicans fiercely debated their positions with the GOP threatening to allow America to default on its bills. Such an occurrence would wreak havoc on the nation’s economy, severely compromising and even destroying free lunches for many children in schools, WIC and many other programs. It also would delay benefit payments to retirees and Medicare and
Medicaid providers. The government has never defaulted on its obligations but partisan politics now pose an imminent threat to ending that streak. It also poses a real challenge for minorities. “The U.S. government exceeding the debt ceiling is very concerning. But throughout history, change has really come more for white people than it has from people of color,” observed Peyton Leonard, a finance expert with the U.S. Insurance Agents. Leonard provided the example of
when the nation realized the effects of heroin on white individuals. He noted that television began to feature ads and public service and other announcements. Nothing similar occurred during the decades when most believed that only people of color struggled with drug addiction, Leonard remarked. “White Americans are very privileged in the way the government and organizations treat them. And with this new threat of surpassing the debt ceiling, I’m confident that most white Americans will be just fine while people of color and the poor suffer,” Leonard said. “Our nation will be devastated by the debt ceiling, but even more so, the poor and people of color will suffer unless the government takes action.” Whitney Tucker of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities recently noted that if the debt ceiling isn’t suspended or raised in time, the federal government would have to reduce or delay some payments it’s legally required to make. Funds that help states provide health care, education and other services would likely be among those reduced or delayed. WI @StacyBrownMedia
Vacuum Leaf Collection Program How to Prepare for Leaf Vacuum Collection: • Check the DPW website to confirm your area’s leaf collection dates; • Move vehicles from curb lanes to help ease the leaf vacuum collection process; • Rake leaves to the curbside or tree box at the front of the residence the Sunday before the scheduled leaf collection date; • Remove all cans, bottles, sticks, toys and debris from your piles of leaves—these items can damage equipment and prevent safe and proper collection
For more information, please visit dpw.dc.gov/service/leaf-collection.
16 OCTOBER 14 - 20, 2021
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Facebook, Instagram Shutdown Provides Three-Day Mental Health Break Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer The three days that shook Facebook may prove a turning point for the social media giant and its applications like Instagram and WhatsApp. Or they could prove just another glitch in the well-oiled and multi-billion-dollar machine that is Facebook. But, those three days, particularly Monday, Oct. 4, when people across the globe had their connections, lives and businesses interrupted for hours, at least gave the world a chance to catch their breath. Some said the outage provided a needed mental health break. “The testimony given by Frances Haugen regarding Facebook’s targeting of adolescents is deeply concerning, as are the results of the studies that have come to light from these Senate hearings showing associations between Facebook and Instagram use and suicidal thoughts in teen users,” observed Dr. James Greenblatt, the chief medical officer of Walden Behavioral Care. On Sunday, Oct. 3, Haugen, the so-called whistleblower, revealed on national television that Facebook knew of many harms that its services were causing, including that Instagram made teenage girls feel worse about themselves. At about 11:30 a.m. EST on Monday, Oct. 4, Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp crashed and remained down for hours. On Tuesday, Oct. 5, Haugen testified before a Senate committee about Facebook’s practices. Some opined that those three days provided some sort of reckoning for the company. “Coupled with a growing body of peer-reviewed scientific evidence that associations between social media use and suicidality are very legitimate, points to a need for serious discussions to take place about how information is presented to those demographics already most vulnerable to an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and actions,” Dr. Greenblatt stated. Concern for African Americans and other minorities also grew be-
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5 Some say Facebook’s recent outage served as a mental health break. (Photo courtesy William Iven via wikimediacommons)
cause the documents released by Haugen included studies that show Instagram negatively affects young users’ mental health, particularly girls. “As with too many other components of the modern health establishment, access to specialized mental healthcare is out of reach for too many minority communities,” Dr. Greenblatt said. “Issues of logistics, health insurance, financial resources and more all stand in the way far too often for many minority community members and this creates a cascade of limitation and failure that ultimately leaves too many in need adrift.” One of the studies revealed by Haugen showed that 13.5 percent of teen girls said Instagram worsens suicidal thoughts and 17 percent of teen girls said the platform contributes to their eating disorders. Rohit Bimbra, founder and CEO of Home Healthcare Shoppe, said much of the social media platform’s impact on mental health comes from the fact that it fosters a comparison culture with “influencers” setting trends, standards and ideals. “These standards often pertain to beauty, fashion and lifestyle – things that tend to be heavily influenced by socioeconomic status,” Bimbra noted. “Since minority communities remain disproportionately disadvantaged economically, it’s not surprising to see much of the frustration because young minority girls tend to suffer more from mental health
problems as they feel pressured to keep up with trends and looks and live like the influencers they see on Instagram,” he said. The staff of Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) recently established an Instagram account in which they registered as a 13-year-old girl. The senator reported that soon after his staff established the account, Instagram’s algorithm began recommending that the teen follow extreme dieting accounts like “I have to be thin,” “Eternally starved” and “I want to be perfect.” “The government should make sure that social media platforms are taking appropriate action when it comes to hate speech and other harmful content,” related Nina Joanna, a productivity expert and founder of Goals Calling, a website that encourages individuals to “believe in your dreams and work for your goals.” “The government can help by creating new, clearer laws to define hate speech so that it is easier to moderate. It’s important that schools support healthy body image and do their best to tackle racist views before children become adults,” Joanna said. Dr. Greenblatt interjected that the government could also support nationwide measures on suicide prevention. “Instead of focusing on developing systems that address already-existing suicidality, we might focus on preventing suicidality in the first place,” he said. WI @StacyBrownMedia
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DISB HELPS PROTECT YOUR FINANCIAL INTERESTS Take advantage of free programs and resources available through the District of Columbia Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking (DISB) that will help you evaluate and plan your financial future. w Are you interested in learning how to establish and maintain healthy financial habits? Visit welcome.financiallyfitdc.com and start your wealth journey today! w Having difficulty paying your mortgage? Facing foreclosure? Call our foreclosure prevention hotline at 202-265-2255. w Has COVID-19 hurt your finances? Get in touch with a Financial Navigator who will help you access free resources. Call 202-231-7908, email fn@upo.org or complete a form at finnav.org/interest-dc. w Have questions about your insurance policy, cryptocurrency, scams and other financial matters? Tune into DISB’s podcasts and videos and learn how to protect your financial interests at disb.dc.gov/service/podcasts and disb.dc.gov/page/disb-media-2. w Wondering how to get funding for college? Join the DISB Student Loan Ombudsman for a series of webinars designed to help high school seniors prepare for college. Register today at bit.ly/3yzTDZr.
18 OCTOBER 14 - 20, 2021
5 Howard University senior,
Aniyah Vines, holds up a sign at the university's Blackburn Center during a student sit-in on Oct. 13. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)
Aniyah Vines, a senior and leader of The Live Movement, an organization which has coordinated the protest in conjunction with HU’s Young Democratic Socialists of America [YDSA], said protesters won’t stop until Frederick agrees to meet with students before the end of the month and HU’s Board of Trustees reinstates its student, faculty and alumni positions. Protesters also demanded that Frederick and the Board of Trustees collaborate with students in the formation of a plan to combat what’s been described as a housing crisis. “It’s time for President Frederick to make time for us, and not photo ops with [U.S. Vice President] Kamala Harris,” said Vines, a 21-year-old senior. “Right now with the housing crisis, students are sleeping in their cars and going to Burr [gymnasium] to shower. Black mold [in the dorms] is making people throw up and [administrators] are literally telling students their experiences are false.” As of press time, HU didn’t respond to The Informer’s request for comment. At the start of the academic year, HU faced a housing shortage that sparked outrage on social media and
a protest on the corner of Georgia Avenue and Howard Place in Northwest. Around that time, the university also dealt with a slight increase in COVID-19 cases and a cyberattack that brought campus activity to a standstill for nearly a week. Students participating in “The Blackburn Takeover” said their peers have felt ignored by HU administrators long before the pandemic. No administrator reportedly attended Tuesday night’s town hall, hosted by the HU Student Association. For some people, problems with HU run a bit deeper. One student who requested anonymity said even with the money pouring into the university, she still struggles to find resources to help her tackle an outstanding balance that threatens her chances of graduating on time. “There’s a lot of BS. Students don’t have housing or tuition,” the student said. “I haven’t gotten responses to my emails in over a month [nor] are there any staff working in financial aid. I haven’t been able to register for the spring.” WI @SamPKCollins
CANDIDATES from Page 8 months when he announced his candidacy. The 2022 gubernatorial campaign reports aren’t due until January, which could show updated figures from the candidates. Each candidate plans to showcase its lists of supporters. Former Democratic National Committee chair Tom Perez announced Friday his updated slate of endorsements to 22 that includes former Montgomery County Executive Isiah “Ike” Leggett, state Sen. Cory McCray (D-Baltimore City) and 13 labor unions. The first Democrat candidate’s forum of the 2022 primary election held last month and hosted by the Montgomery County Renters Alliance focused on housing insecurity and protection for tenants. Six Democrats participated in the forum included Franchot, King, Perez, Gansler, former Obama official Ashwani Jain and author and former nonprofit CEO Wes Moore of Baltimore. Baker didn’t attend due to the death of his wife Sept. 18. Organizers mistakenly didn’t
5 Maryland Comptroller and gubernatorial candidate Peter Franchot (center) chats with voters Oct. 9 at grand opening of campaign headquarters in Bowie. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)
invite the other two Democratic candidates Jon Baron, a former nonprofit executive and official under former President Bill Clinton’s administration, and Baltimore Businessman Mike Rosenbaum. Another six of the nine Democrats participated in a candidate’s
forum Thursday, Oct. 7 hosted by the Anne Arundel County Democratic Central Committee. The topics focused on health care, education and police reform. Those who participated: Baker, Baron, Franchot, Jain, King and Rosenbaum. WI @jabariwill
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africa now
COMPILED BY OSWALD T. BROWN, WI CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Migrants in Libya Demand Deportation to Safe Place
Migrants in the Libyan capital, Tripoli, are demanding immediate deportation to a safe location due to living conditions in detention centers and ill-treatment by Libyan authorities. Dozens of migrants protested Saturday, Oct. 9, outside the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) headquarters in the Libyan capital Tripoli, where protesters held banners. Sudanese migrant Omar Idris claimed that they have been beaten, detained and imprisoned by the authorities. "Of course, we came here to immigrate; we registered with the commission (UNHCR).” Idris said. “We lived in Gargaresh (a town 12 kilometers west of Tripoli). We were beaten and taken to jail, and as you can see, now we are all here; some of us came out of jail yesterday.” He added, “We have women and children here, and also sick and injured, we are all suffering, and the reason we are here is that we demand immediate deportation to a safe place." The organization said that approximately 10,000 men, women and children are detained in poor conditions in official detention facilities in Tripoli. UNHCR officials said that tensions with migrants, demanding urgent aid and their deportation from Libya, resulted in the injury of two staff members and impeded the access of other asylum seekers to the center. According to Musa Khamis, a migrant from Darfur, Sudan, migrants are not treated equally. "I've been in Libya for two years, here in Tripoli, and now we've been here for ten days without water, food or anything. Why don't they want to let us (into the UNHCR office)? Only Syrians, Ethiopians and Eritreans enter, and they haven't let us in or give us any aid or anything; we have nothing." Earlier Saturday, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) condemned the killing of six people in one of the capital's migrant detention centers. The development comes a week after authorities rounded up more than 5,000 migrants in a massive crackdown and after U.N.-commissioned investigators said abuses and ill treatment of migrants in Libya amounted to crimes against humanity. WI
caribbean now Woman Named Speaker of The Bahamas House of Assembly When the opening session of parliament in The Bahamas convened on Wednesday, Oct. 6, under the new Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) government, a woman was sworn in as speaker of the House of Assembly for only the second time in that country’s history. Patricia Deveaux, member of parliament for the Bamboo Town constituency, expressed her gratitude to the Bahamian people for the opportunity to serve as speaker of house and pledged “to protect the privileges of this House and of members, so that they can enjoy almost untethered freedom to speak on behalf of Bahamians.” “It is my hope that, notwithstanding our partisan opinions, this parliament will create better relations with each other, while tabling the affairs of the people, in order to create progressive and transforming recommendations, which will ultimately enhance legislative change,” the new speaker declared, adding: “The business of this house will be conducted in an atmosphere of respect. I charge all members to be courteous and respectful to the chair. I charge members to also be courteous and respectful to each other in the conduct of your debates.” All seven of the PLP women candidates won seats in the House of Assembly in the Sept. 16 general election, and in addition to Ms. Deveaux being named speaker, five of the other winning women candidates hold cabinet-level positions in the new government headed by Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis. The first female speaker of The Bahamas House of Assembly was Italia Johnson who served in that position from April 9, 1997 to Sept. 2, 2002. WI
THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM
October 2021 Message from Department of Aging and Community Living GUEST COLUMNIST
By Dr. LaQuandra Nesbitt Director, DC Health
your home, call us at 1-855-3630333 and we will come to you! If you’re vaccinated, call someone who is not vaccinated and encourage them to do so. If it’s been a while since you’ve received your second dose of the vaccine and you want to be ready for your booster, start making your plan. Find your vaccine card, call your healthcare provider to discuss your options for a booster or visit vaccines.gov to find a location near you. If you need support, you can call 1-855-363-0333. Last, but not least, flu season is upon us and to ensure that you have protection against the flu this year, get your flu shot. The COVID vaccine does not protect you against flu and the flu vaccine does not protect you against
COVID. There were record low numbers of flu cases nationally and in the District in 2020... and we want to keep it that way. So, do all you can today so you can continue to have small family dinners, story time with the grandkids and fellowship with neighbors and friends. Whenever you leave home, remember to take your mask with you and wear it. Carry plenty of hand sanitizer and continue to wash or sanitize your hands often to avoid the spread of germs. I’ve missed spending time with DC residents at all of the special events, festivals, and celebrations that make us who we are as a city. So let’s do all we can, together, to end this pandemic and reconnect in new and meaningful ways.
It’s been 19 months since the pandemic started and I know that times have been tough. Not being able to spend time with family and friends, missing your favorite workout class or even having to limit the places that you’ve visited. When vaccines became available for District residents over the age of 65 in January, you led the way, setting an extraordinary example for others to follow. You showed everyone that getting vaccinated was the right thing to do for you, your loved ones, and your community. You were shining stars and today over 80% of you are fully vaccinated. We still have more work to do, and I know I can count on each of you to continue to be great role models and ambassadors of the COVID-19 vaccines and other practices that will keep us safe. If you haven’t received a vaccination, consider getting one today. The COVID-19 vaccines are safe and are the best way to prevent severe illness, hospitalizations, and death. There are over 150 locations in the city where you can receive the COVID-19 vaccine. You or your family can visit vaccines.gov to find the location nearest you and make a plan to get your vaccine at a time that is convenient. If you prefer to get your vaccine in WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
If you haven’t received a vaccination, consider getting one today. The COVID-19 vaccines are safe and are the best way to prevent severe illness, hospitalizations, and death. There are over 150 locations in the city where you can receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
OCTOBER 14 - 20, 2021 21
HEALTH Symptoms of Breast Cancer and the Importance of Prevention Natalie C. Hockaday WI Staff Writer As the nation observes Breast Cancer Awareness Month, now throughout the remainder of the month, Black women continue to die at higher rates compared to other racial and ethnic groups in the U.S. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Minority Health,
Black women were just as likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer but 40 times more likely to die from the disease compared to non-Hispanic white women. In the Cancer Facts & Figures for African Americans 2019-2021 by the American Cancer Society, it states that overall Non-Hispanic Black women have a seven percent lower risk of a cancer diagnosis but a 13 percent higher risk of death of cancer overall.
The fact sheet shows that Black women are less likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer in the localized stage which is a stage where the invasive cancer is confined in the organ in which it originates. Black women are more likely to be diagnosed in further stages such as regional and distant where the cancer spreads to surrounding organs, tissues, or nearby lymph nodes and even further to distant organs and lymph nodes during the distant stage. Incidence rates of breast cancer are higher for Black women under the age of 45 compared to white women according to the American Cancer Society. The median age for diagnosis among Black women is 59 compared to 63 for white women. Black women in the U.S. are also twice as likely to be diagnosed with triple negative breast cancers compared to other racial and ethnic women in the country. According to the American Cancer Society, women with this type of breast cancer have worse outcomes due to effective treatments not yet being developed. With breast cancer being the
5 Breast Cancer Awareness Month (Courtesy photo)
most common cancer among women, they’re encouraged to be screened by getting a mammogram. When getting a mammogram, an x-ray photo is taken of breasts to detect early signs of breast cancer. Besides getting mammograms, women are also encouraged to check their breasts and underarms for any new lumps.
More symptoms of breast cancer according to the CDC include thickening or swelling of part of the breast, irritation or dimpling of breast skin, redness or flay skin in the nipple area or breast, pulling in of the nipple, nipple discharge other than breast milk (including blood), any change in the size or shape of the breast or pain in the breast. WI
Mark your calendars for Whitman-Walker’s 35th annual Walk & 5K to End HIV on Saturday, October 23, 2021! Register online at WalktoEndHIV.org WALK & RUN TO END HIV.
WALK & RUN TO ENSURE EQUALITY.
22 OCTOBER 14 - 20, 2021
WALK & RUN TO FIGHT RACISM.
WALK & RUN TO LOVE OPENLY.
WALK & RUN TO SAVE LIVES.
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Study Finds High Rates of Orphanhood Connected to COVID-19 Natalie C. Hockaday WI Staff Writer
A clear correlation has been detected between child orphanhood and COVID-19 deaths. A recent American Academy of Pediatrics study found that from April 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021, there have been over 140,000 children who experienced the death of a parental or grandparent caregiver. Minority children made up 91,256 of the children who lost their primary caregiver and white children made up 51,381 children who lost their primary caregiver. Until the pandemic becomes fully controlled, Dr. Susan Hillis, Centers for Disease Control [CDC] researcher and lead author of the study, says rates will continue to rise and with the numbers increasing since the study began. In record time, the number has risen to nearly 175,000 children who face orphanhood due to the
COVID-19 pandemic. “Certainly we care about every child who is facing COVID-19-associated orphanhood. Every one of them is important,” Dr. Hillis said. “By the end of June there were more than 140,000 children that had been impacted. This is basically for every four COVID-19 deaths a child is left behind without a mother or a father or the grandparent who owned or paid the rent in the house and provided their needs.” The study states that children whose caregivers have died from COVID-19 have a possibility of experiencing “intensified trauma and may have an immediate need for kinship or foster care at a time when the pandemic restrictions may limit access to protective services.” Hillis suggested a fourth pillar called “Care for Children” to be added to the COVID-19 response. This pillar has a three-pronged approach to prevent, prepare and protect. The prevent pillar
serves to prevent the death of parents and caregivers by supporting vaccines eequity. The prepare pillar would create support for family-based alternative care which would help children who have lost their caregivers. The last part seeks to protect children with evidence-based interventions that strengthen positive parenting and protect children who have a surviving caregiver alongside having economic support and educational growth. Disparities continue within the ongoing issue of orphanhood among children with minority children being more likely to have a death of a caregiver due to COVID-19. The study found that even though whites account for 61% of the U.S. population, white children make up 35% of children who lost a caregiver due to COVID-19. This lower percentage stands in contrast with other ethnic racial groups who make up lower percentage rates of the total population but have higher orphanhood rates due to COVID-19. The study estimates that “ethnic minorities account for 65% of children losing primary caregivers, compared to 39% of the total population.” The pandemic has hit minority
HEALTH
(Courtesy photo)
communities in disproportionate ways holistically. The findings of the study address how children are impacted beyond contracting the illness itself. It’s estimated that one-of-753 white children have experienced death of a caregiver (parent or grandparent) and one-of-168 American Indian/Alaska Native children have experienced the death of a caregiver. There’s also a disproportionate loss
for racial and ethnic minority children when it comes to the loss of their caregiver with factors which contribute to this discrepancy. The study outlines how there remain “structural and social determinants of health, such as discrimination, neighborhood environment, barriers in access to healthcare, occupation, educational gaps, economic instability, living arrangements and unstable housing.” WI
At Unity, you can smoothly schedule a vaccine appointment online at unityhealthcare.org or call 202-469-4699. Be a hero. Get the shot to protect our people.
Let’s end the COVID-19 pandemic together. Get the shot. Schedule a vaccine appointment: unityhealthcare.org 202-469-4699
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OCTOBER 14 - 20, 2021 23
EDUCATION DCPS
BRIEFS Compiled by Dorothy Rowley WI Staff Writer
LITERACY SUBGRANTS
Nine recipients of subgrants totaling $12.9 million for the next four years have been announced by the Office of the State Superintendent of Education. The allocations, which will impact 8,000 students, will be disseminated through the Comprehensive Literacy State Development grant aimed at developing and implementing comprehensive, high-quality literacy programs within schools and child development facilities. “We are at a critical time in education as we work to support our school communities to recover from the pandemic. Our students, particularly those who are most vulnerable, have experienced significant learning loss, and it’s our thoughtful planning and strategic investments that will
24 OCTOBER 14 - 20, 2021
help close the achievement gap,” said Acting State Superintendent Christina Grant. “These grant awards and our Comprehensive Literacy Plan are foundational in strengthening our efforts to improve literacy across the city. It is essential that our students are provided with resources and quality instruction necessary to become lifelong, successful readers.” Schools and early childhood education programs that received subgrant funding include: Bright Beginnings $480,000 Martha’s Table
$872,988
Eagle Academy PCS $2,414,180 Meridian PCS
$2,323,181
D.C. Preparatory Academy
$2,304,089
Friendship PCS
$2,429,033
Meridian PCS
$1,690,082
Friendship PCS
$2,421,033
ATHLETIC VACCINE REQUIREMENTS
Beginning Nov. 1, students aged 12 and older must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to participate in school-based extracurricular athletics. Currently, students ages 12-17 are only eligible for the Pfizer vaccine. However, because the second dose is given three weeks after the first dose, student athletes should get their first dose as soon as possible. For a student whose 12th birthday
5 With most students in D.C. having resumed in-person learning, safe passage as they travel to and from school, is of utmost importance, according to a DC State Board of Education survey. /SBOE/Twitter Photo
falls between Sept. 20 and Nov. 1., the vaccination requirement deadline is Dec. 13. For student athletes who turn 12 years old after Nov. 1, the deadline for vaccination is two months after their birthday.
NORTON TO JOIN SBOE
D.C. Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, who for decades has been a strong advocate and supporter of quality and equitable public education in the District, will join the State Board to offer insight on the emergency funding plan and provide her insights on the federal education.
SURVEY FINDINGS
The 2019 DC Youth Risk Behavior Survey found that lesbian, gay, and bisexual students make up 15.9 percent of high school students in
D.C. compared to transgender students who comprise 1.9 percent of DC high school students. Meanwhile, consistent research suggests that students with LGBTQ+ inclusive curricula and multicultural education in their schools are more likely to report lower frequency of bullying, lower levels of depression, more accepting peers, and greater feelings of safety. With most students in D.C. having resumed in-person learning, safe passage, as they travel to and from school, is of the utmost importance, according to a DC State Board of Education survey. Last year, a Student Advocate poll revealed that more than one-third of students reported feeling uncomfortable or in danger; more specifically, respondents reported feeling either, concerned, or in danger while traveling to-and-from school. WI
5 D.C. Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton will join the State Board to offer insight on the emergency funding plan and provide her insights on the federal education. Photo/ Clerk. house.gov
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COMPTROLLER from Page 13 Lierman, who received more than 100 endorsements that include Maryland Reps. Jamie Raskin and Steny Hoyer, House Speaker Adrienne Jones (D-Baltimore County) and most recently Sierra Club Maryland, cannot fundraise during the General Assembly session scheduled to start next year on Jan. 12 and end April 11. During the remaining time, she hosts virtual and in-person meet and greets with part of her platform on improving the state’s Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) program and hiring an equity officer in the comptroller’s office. Here are some of Lierman’s thoughts in her own words.
IMPROVE MBES
“Making sure that we are tackling the racial wealth divide . . . so that we can ensure our policies and practices take the racial wealth gap into account and are intentionally focused on reducing that gap." – DEL. BROOKE LIERMAN
“I think making sure that we’re card holder at one of the state dedoing the small business and mi- partments like [the] Department of nority-owned mobilization fund Natural Resources, there’s a list of really creates access to capital. We approved vendors that is not on the know that Black-owned businesses website.” “It’s very difficult to figure out are turned down for loans at twice the rate of white-owned businesses. how to get on that list of approved It can be difficult for MBEs to some- vendors, so it’s the same people over times secure the loan and the capi- and over. We need to bring in new and we need to make sure tal they needQ4toAMTRAK perform contracts. PRINT 1_Washingtonpeople Informer (outlines).pdf 1 7/7/21 Also, just making sure our contract there are MBE requirements around processes are much more transpar- those approved vendor lists. That’s a ent. Whether that’s if you’re a credit really important entrée into having
small businesses and small MBEs start and they can grow as they do business with the state. The sky’s the limit.” “The comptroller’s office can be pushing policies on housing affordability, preparing for climate change by building climate resilience into our contracts. Modernizing the office to really use the comptroller’s office as the hub of all financial data in the state and using that data in a way that will help promote equity in the state.” “Making sure that we are tackling the racial wealth divide . . . so that we can ensure our policies and practices take the racial wealth gap into account and are intentionally focused on reducing that gap. Make sure that the banks that we do business with are loaning to Black-owned businesses and other minority business enterprises at the rate of our demographics in the state.”
EDUCATION
Making sure what we’re doing is equitable regardless of race, gender, ability, or background. [It’s] really to advise the comptroller on issues relating to all of the different bodies the comptroller sits on [such as] the state retirement and pension board and the Board of Public Works thinking through procurement and how dif-
ferent agencies’ policies are . . . unintentionally or intentionally leaving Black business owners behind. Just assuring that in all of these different areas, that we are taking an equitable approach and thinking through how people access government services using different lenses.” WI @jabariwill
EQUITY OFFICER
“That is a really important office to make sure we are considering all of the comptroller’s portfolio from procurement to tax collection to tax guidance and preparation services. 10:33 PM To look at how we are implementing the various practices of the comptroller’s office through an equity lens.
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WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
OCTOBER 14 - 20, 2021 25
Advance the 2021 Advance Payments Payments ofofthe 2021 Child ChildTax Tax Credit Credit THE THEBASICS BASICS WHAT? WHAT?
WHEN? WHEN?
For tax year 2021, families claiming the Child Tax
Advance payments of the 2021 Child Tax Credit will payments of the 2021 Child Tax Credit will beAdvance made monthly from July 15 through December 15be to made eligiblemonthly taxpayersfrom who July have 15 a main homeDecember in through the United States for more than half the year. 15 to eligible taxpayers who have a main home in
For tax yearwill 2021, families claiming the Child Tax Credit receive: Credit■ will Up receive: to $3,000 per qualifying child between the ■
of 6 per and 17 at the end of 2021 Up toages $3,000 qualifying child between the ■ Up toand $3,600 qualifying under age 6 at ages of 6 17 per at the end ofchild 2021
the United States for more than half the year.
the end of 2021
■
HOW?
Up to $3,600 per qualifying child under age 6 at The total of the advance payments will be up to 50 thepercent end ofof2021 the Child Tax Credit.
The total of the advance payments will be up to 50 percent of the Child Tax Credit.
WHO?
The maximum credit is available to taxpayers with a modified adjusted gross income of:
WHO?
$75,000 or less for single filers and married personscredit filing separate returns, maximum is available to taxpayers with ■
The ■ $112,500 or gross less forincome heads ofof: household, and modified adjusted ■
a
■ $150,000 or less for married couples filing a joint $75,000 or less for single filers and married return and qualifying widows and widowers. persons filing separate returns,
Eligible taxpayers don’t need to take any action
■ ■
$112,500 orthan lesstofor of household, now other fileheads their 2020 tax return if and they haven’t done so.for Taxpayers benefit filing from the $150,000 or less marriedcan couples a joint credit even if they don’t have earned income or return and qualifying widows and widowers. don’t owe any income taxes.
■
■
HOW?
Advance payments will be calculated and paid automatically. taxpayers who don’t to receive ■Eligible Advance payments will want be calculated
and paid
advance payment of the 2021 Child Tax Credit automatically. can unenroll from payments.
■
■Eligible Eligible taxpayers who don’t want receive taxpayers who don’t normally file to a tax
advance payment of monthly the 2021 Child Tax return can register for the advance payments using the Non-filer Sign-up Tool. can unenroll from payments.
■
Credit
Eligible taxpayers who don’t normally file a tax return can register for the monthly advance Visit IRS.gov/childtaxcredit2021 payments using the Non-filer Sign-up Tool. for more information and to access
the online tools.
Visit IRS.gov/childtaxcredit2021 for more information and to access the online tools.
Eligible taxpayers don’t need to take any action now other than to file their 2020 tax return if they haven’t done so. Taxpayers can benefit from the credit14 even they don’t have earned income or THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 26 OCTOBER - 20,if2021 don’t owe any income taxes.
/ WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM
Loans, Loans, Loans:
2021 FINANCIAL LITERACY SUPPLEMENT OCTOBER 14, 2021
A Quick Guide to Navigating Loan Procedures
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One of the building blocks of financial health is having a good understanding of credit – including how to use it responsibly. Wells Fargo is proudly sponsoring this month’s Financial Literacy supplement in the hope of exposing readers to financial tips and tactics that will help them not only manage their finances well but also make smart use of credit. Recently, we launched a video series called “Making it simple: A conversation about buying your first home.” The series was put together with the help of a variety of financial bloggers as well as Cy Richardson of the Urban League and Kristy Fercho, head of Wells Fargo Home Lending. Our hope was to help potential buyers – especially in the African American community – explore the homebuying process in a way that is engaging and informative. Readers can find the series by visiting our playlist on youtube (https://www.youtube.com/c/wellsfargo/playlists). In this supplement, we also explore two other very important topics that touch credit. The first is to help consumers better understand their credit scores. As we share in the article, a credit score is part of your financial power and it can be a valuable tool to help you achieve your future financial goals. The second topic is one that is important to many homeowners. We provide a step-by-step guide for homeowners who Wells Fargo is proudly sponsoring entered a forbearance payment plan during this month’s Financial Literacy the pandemic because of financial difficulties. Many of those plans will end this year, supplement in the hope of so it’s important for those homeowners to exposing readers to financial take action now and call the servicer for tips and tactics that will help their home loan so that they are exploring the best possible options to exit their plan. them not only manage their This is an important part of our commitfinances well but also make ment to sustainable homeownership, and we want to help as many homeowners smart use of credit. through this process as we can. As you can see, credit is a vital part of your overall financial health, and there are lots of topics to explore when it comes to getting credit, evaluating credit and keeping your credit healthy. Please take a look at the entire supplement and visit our resources online at www.wellsfargo.com/ myfirsthome or www.wellsfargo.com/ goals-credit/smarter-credit/ to learn more and continue your credit education!
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WORDS FROM THE EDITOR
To Be Worthy
Credit Worthiness Still Elusive for Many Dr. Shantella Y. Sherman Special Editions Editor One of the great misconceptions about financial literacy in America is that Black people are predisposed to poor money management. Unfortunately, a long history of discriminatory lending and banking practices that target non-Whites, is often overlooked by those who tout such theories. From 1933 to 1968, for instance, U.S. banks denied Black Americans access to financial services in a practice known as redlining. While this practice is illegal today, it had catastrophic, lasting results and forced Black families into relying on high-fee financial products such as payday loans and loan sharks to secure quick money. Without bank accounts and access to loans to purchase homes, African Americans faced the opening of what would be a wealth gap that has spanned generations. Additionally, credit scores – the three-digit number associated with credit worthiness – impacts almost every facet of our financial life and longevity but remain low for Black Americans. Credit scores were created in 1956 by Bill Fair and Earl Isaac — the name FICO is an amalgamation of their names (Fair, Isaac and Company).
But equally discriminatory, FICO scores do not factor in income, savings, utility bills, job status, or debit transactions. Instead, FICO uses data from individual bank accounts, mortgages, and savings – all of which Blacks have in fewer numbers through redlining -- to generate a score. When we consider that Black homeownership rates are 30 percent lower than white homeownership rates, it only adds to the wealth gap if apartment and utility bills have no value in the rubric. Credit scores are closely tied to someone’s ability to grow wealth and succeed financially in the U.S. since scores often determine eligibility for loans, apartment rentals, and even jobs. A low credit score may also result in lost job opportunities. Carmen Perez, founder of Make Real Cents, noted in a recent Business Week article that she had a job offer rescinded due to negative marks on her credit report. “At the time [the marks] included a defaulted student loan. The pay that I would have earned from this particular role would have helped me pay back my student loan debt faster, but that benefit was never realized.” So, how do we become credit worthy against seemingly stacked
odds? Invest in your financial future by taking courses and reading books about how credit, loans, and repayments work. Try products like Experian Boost, which launched in 2019 and helps you factor in lease payment histories with a goal of boosting your credit score. Find out if your area has legislation, like New York’s Stop Credit Discrimination in Employment Act, which prohibits most employers from checking an applicant’s credit history to make hiring decisions. If that legislation is not active, contact your local representatives to seek help. In this Quick Guide: Loans, Loans, Loans! we offer a few tips and information on how to navigate the loan system and ways of keeping your sanity while you do!
5 Dr. Shantella Sherman (Photo by India Kea)
Without bank accounts and access to loans to purchase homes, African Americans faced the opening of what would be a wealth gap that has spanned generations.
Read, Learn, Grow.
Homeownership more affordable. M&T has options to help you achieve homeownership. You may be eligible for solutions to help: • • • •
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5 Fair housing protest in Lake City, 1964 noted that without bank loans, few had the ability to establish a decent FICO score. (Photo courtesy of the Seattle Municipal Archives)
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My COVID Mortgage Forbearance Is Ending Soon…Now What?
Ewunike N Brady Wells Fargo Home Mortgage Diverse Segments
Your home is out there. A down payment as low as 3% on a fixed-rate loan could help you finance it. Each day, the sun rises on streets of houses. Neighbors wave to each other, people head off to work and school, new owners pull up to the home they’ve worked hard to buy. More than just buildings, homes are at the heart of a community. With Wells Fargo, you may be eligible for a range of home financing options, including low down payment loans, to help you reach your homeownership goals. Talk with a home mortgage consultant about loan amount, type of loan, property type, income, first-time homebuyer programs, and homebuyer education requirements to ensure eligibility. Having low down payment options does require mortgage insurance — an option that increases the cost of the loan and monthly payment. We’ll work together to find the loan that’s right for you. To learn more, call 1-877-937-9357 or visit www.wellsfargo.com/mortgage.
Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. © 2021 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801.
For many homeowners, the option to suspend their mortgage payments during the pandemic offered a great option for temporarily cutting their expenses until they could get to a firmer spot financially. As of mid-summer, more than 1.75 million homeowners across the country remained in a COVID-19 related forbearance plan, according to Black Knight’s July 2021 Mortgage Monitor. However, the report says many of those active forbearance plans are expected to come to an end before the end of the year, potentially impacting an estimated 1 million homeowners. This is especially significant for the Black community, which was hit hard financially as a result of COVID. A recent Pew Center Research report indicated that fourin-10 Black adults live in households that have lost jobs or wages since the start of the coronavirus outbreak. So – if you’re a homeowner whose forbearance plan is coming to an end – what now? While the answer may differ based on individual circumstances, one thing is clear: homeowners in this situation need to take immediate action to find out what options might be available in their unique situation. Here are some tips to consider as you look at the path ahead: STEP ONE: Understand who
services your loan so you can take action. As you may know, the company to whom you send your home loan payments is called your mortgage servicer. Your servicer is responsible for collecting and applying payments to your loan, handling escrow accounts (if applicable), communicating loan information to you, and assisting you when you are facing financial difficulty. If you don’t already know who services your home loan, you should be able to find the name and contact information for your servicer by simply looking at your bill. STEP TWO: Contact your servicer to discuss the timing around when you need to plan to start making payments again and what your options for resolving the missed payments. Because servicers are required to apply investor or insurer rules when servicing your home loan and determining the options available to resolve missed payments, it’s important to know who owns or backs your loan. It could be a government sponsored entity like Fannie Mae, or Freddie Mac, a government agency such, FHA, VA or USDA, or a bank or private company. STEP THREE: The specific steps you will go through with your servicer depend on who owns or backs your loan, whether you were current on your payments when you entered forbearance and if you can resume your previous payments. In some cases, it CONTINUED ON PAGE FS5
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Maintaining A Healthy Credit Score Can Help You Achieve Your Future Financial Goals Heather Philp Head of Cross Product and New Product Development Strategies Wells Fargo Cards and Merchant Services A credit score can be thought of like a grade that’s given to your credit report. It helps lenders understand your ability to repay your debt, which helps them understand whether you are a good candidate for a loan. Basically, if you have a history of repaying your loans in a timely fashion, that generally means your credit score will be higher. And, a strong credit score gives you access to more borrowing options for the things you want and need, such as buying your dream home or small business expenditures, at the best possible interest rate or terms. In other words, a credit score is part of your financial power and it can be a valuable tool to help you achieve your future financial goals. There are many benefits to having good credit. In fact, lenders aren’t the only ones who look at your credit score. Insurance companies, landlords, utility providers and cell phone providers may check your credit score or credit history before they determine your financial qualification and eligibility. Here are five tips to help you build and maintain a healthy credit profile:
4 KNOW YOUR CREDIT SCORE AND MONITOR YOUR CREDIT REPORTS REGULARLY
Monitor your credit score monthly and review your credit reports at least once a year. Doing this can ensure you have the opportunity to catch any errors or fraud and correct them before they impact your credit score negatively. There are many ways you can monitor your credit score for free, including if you have a loan with Wells Fargo. And, remember, you shouldn’t have to pay to see your credit report, either.
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4ALWAYS PAY YOUR BILLS ON TIME AND PAY NO LESS THAN THE MINIMUM PAYMENT
Your payment history makes up approximately 35% of your credit score, so making timely payments is one of the biggest factors in building a good credit score. Be sure to prioritize and schedule your monthly payments on time on all your accounts.
4KEEP YOUR CREDIT BALANCES LOW AND AVOID MAXING OUT YOUR CREDIT CARDS
How much credit you have available is another critical factor, which makes up roughly 30% of your credit score. Financial experts recommend staying below 30% of your credit utilization ratio while still actively using your credit. To help keep your balance low and manageable, make sure you maintain a realistic budget and only spend what you can afford to repay in full each month. Consider setting balance alerts to help you stay on top of your spending.
4ENSURE YOUR CREDIT CARD FITS YOUR LIFESTYLE
Using credit responsibly can be a great way to build and maintain a healthy credit score, but it’s important that the card fits your lifestyle and spending habits. This is particularly true today because many consumers’ spending and buying behaviors changed in response to the pandemic. Make sure your card is relevant to
your lifestyle and can help you make the most of everyday spending. For example, visit wellsfargo.com to see various credit card options that fit your lifestyle, from the new Active CashSM Card, which offers 2% cash rewards on purchases without revolving categories or rewards caps, to the recently launched ReflectSM Card that gives consumers an extended introductory APR when they make on-time payments.
4THINK BEFORE CLOSING ACCOUNTS AND DIVERSIFY YOUR CREDIT HISTORY CONTINUED FROM FS4 may be as simple as restarting the payments you were making prior to the forbearance and deferring your missed payments to the end of your loan term. However, depending on the investor or insurer for your loan and/or if you were already delinquent when you went on forbearance, your situation could be more complex. Options might include a loan modification program, which involves changing certain terms of the loan – such as the interest rate or time allowed for repayment – to make payments more affordable. At Wells Fargo, we are committed to working with homeowners to find options – with the goal
The length of your credit history accounts for 15% of your credit score and recent credit activities, such as opening or closing accounts, make up 10% of your score. Closing credit accounts may actually lower your available credit and hurt your credit score in the short term, so if you’re in the process of applying for a new card, consider keeping your existing accounts open to maintain the length of your credit history. The last 10% of your score is based on the types of credit you currently have. It can help your score to show that you have had experience handling several different kinds of credit accounts, such as installment loans
and revolving credit accounts. Building a healthy credit history is a financial journey that takes time and effort, but will most certainly payoff in the long-term.
of keeping homeowners in their homes. However, it is important for homeowners to contact us right away, so that we help you understand your situation and begin exploring options. It’s also important for homeowners to keep engaged as we work through the process. If you need help dealing with broader financial challenges, you can also reach out to a local HUD-approved, non-profit housing counseling agency for financial education, mortgage help services, and other free assistance. Information is available at HUD.gov or you can call 1-800-569-4287 (TDD 1-800-877-8339). We also advise homeowners avoid anyone who asks for a fee for
counseling or a loan modification, asks you to sign over the deed to your home, or asks you to make your mortgage payments to anyone other than Wells Fargo Home Mortgage. Fraudsters may be working to take advantage of you, so it’s important that you work directly with us or with a trusted adviser, such as a HUD-certified counseling agency. With so many homeowners coming out of forbearance plans right now, it’s really important that homeowners don’t delay in understanding their situation and working with their servicer about options. We want to start today in doing everything we can to help get back on track with your home loan.
THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 2021 FINANCIAL LITERACY SUPPLEMENT / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM
DYK (Did You Know…?) Payday Loans By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Staff Writer Payday loans have become a way for some people to secure cash when they need it fast, but it can come with a heavy cost and quickly recreate a “quicksand” effect where borrowers take out additional loans to cover overdue current loans. While demand for small-dollar loans fell 67 percent during the COVID-19 lockdown, the trade group Online Lenders Alliance believes recovery to pre-Covid levels may not come for some time. Here are a few facts about payday loans:
12 million Americans use payday loans each year As of 2017, there were 14,348 payday loan storefronts in the United States (there were only 14,027 McDonalds locations). The typical payday borrower is in debt five months out of the year and the average income of payday loan borrowers is $30,000 annually.
7 in 10 of those who take out payday loans use them for regular recurring expenses such as utility bills and rent payments and averages $375. Every year, $9 billion is paid in payday loan fees, with only 14 percent of borrowers able to afford repayment of their loans The average annual percentage interest rate (APR) for payday loans is 396 percent.
Payday loans are used by all genThere are 21.1 million outerations, but predominantly Millennials and Gen-Xers. Millenstanding personal loans in nials’ use of payday loans (Earnin, Dave, and Chime) has led the U.S. to a rise in online payday loans and cash advance apps.
Many payday loans have maturities of just a few weeks and carry an astonishing annual interest rate up to 300 percent.
MORTGAGE LOANS
Total outstanding personal loan debt in the United States is $143 billion.
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau report states that more than 80 percent of payday loans are converted into new loans before they are fully repaid.
Seventeen states and the District of Columbia have banned payday lending or set interest rate caps.
SSB-107 Mortgage Print_9.875x5.5_WashInformer.indd 1
Monthly borrowers are disproportionately likely to stay in debt for 11 months or longer.
The average interest rates for personal loans vary between 10 percent and 28 percent.
WE WERE THERE WHEN THE OLD HOUSE GOT TOO SMALL. WE’LL BE THERE WHEN THIS ONE GETS TOO BIG. Let’s talk about your options. Call us at 800.399.5919 or visit sandyspringbank.com/mortgage.
Member FDIC. Sandy Spring Bank NMLS # 406382. Sandy Spring Bank and the SSB logo are registered trademarks of Sandy Spring Bank. © 2021 Sandy Spring Bank. All rights reserved.
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10/5/2021 4:02:43 PM
Advance the 2021 Advance Payments Payments ofofthe 2021 Child ChildTax Tax Credit Credit THE THEBASICS BASICS WHAT? WHAT?
WHEN? WHEN?
For tax year 2021, families claiming the Child Tax
Advance payments of the 2021 Child Tax Credit will payments of the 2021 Child Tax Credit will beAdvance made monthly from July 15 through December 15be to made eligiblemonthly taxpayersfrom who July have 15 a main homeDecember in through the United States for more than half the year. 15 to eligible taxpayers who have a main home in
For tax yearwill 2021, families claiming the Child Tax Credit receive: Credit■ will Up receive: to $3,000 per qualifying child between the ■
of 6 per and 17 at the end of 2021 Up toages $3,000 qualifying child between the ■ Up toand $3,600 qualifying under age 6 at ages of 6 17 per at the end ofchild 2021
the United States for more than half the year.
the end of 2021
■
HOW?
Up to $3,600 per qualifying child under age 6 at The total of the advance payments will be up to 50 thepercent end ofof2021 the Child Tax Credit.
The total of the advance payments will be up to 50 percent of the Child Tax Credit.
WHO?
The maximum credit is available to taxpayers with a modified adjusted gross income of:
WHO?
$75,000 or less for single filers and married personscredit filing separate returns, maximum is available to taxpayers with ■
The ■ $112,500 or gross less forincome heads ofof: household, and modified adjusted ■
a
■ $150,000 or less for married couples filing a joint $75,000 or less for single filers and married return and qualifying widows and widowers. persons filing separate returns,
Eligible taxpayers don’t need to take any action
■ ■
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$112,500 orthan lesstofor of household, now other fileheads their 2020 tax return if and they haven’t done so.for Taxpayers benefit filing from the $150,000 or less marriedcan couples a joint credit even if they don’t have earned income or return and qualifying widows and widowers. don’t owe any income taxes.
■
■
HOW?
Advance payments will be calculated and paid automatically. taxpayers who don’t to receive ■Eligible Advance payments will want be calculated
and paid
advance payment of the 2021 Child Tax Credit automatically. can unenroll from payments.
■
■Eligible Eligible taxpayers who don’t want receive taxpayers who don’t normally file to a tax
advance payment of monthly the 2021 Child Tax return can register for the advance payments using the Non-filer Sign-up Tool. can unenroll from payments.
■
Credit
Eligible taxpayers who don’t normally file a tax return can register for the monthly advance Visit IRS.gov/childtaxcredit2021 payments using the Non-filer Sign-up Tool. for more information and to access
the online tools.
Visit IRS.gov/childtaxcredit2021 for more information and to access the online tools.
Eligible taxpayers don’t need to take any action now other than to file their 2020 tax return if they haven’t done so. Taxpayers can benefit from the credit even if they don’t have earned income or THE WASHINGTON INFORMERtaxes. 2021 FINANCIAL LITERACY SUPPLEMENT / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM don’t owe any income
Tips to Protect Yourself from Financial Fraud 4 Visit trusted websites such
By Sonsyrea Tate Washington Informer Contributor If you’ve ever mistakenly clicked on a link that might have provided personal information or answered a call and became a victim of fraud, you’re not alone. “The important thing to know is that fraud is real. If it hasn’t happened to you, it’s happened to someone you know,” said Jua Williams, Chase Skyland Branch Manager. According to The Better Business Bureau Scam Tracker online fraud rose during the Pandemic. In 2020, more than 46,000 scams were published on the BBB Scam Tracker, a 24.9% increase over the number reported in 2019. “We have to take the stigma out of fraud. People get so embarrassed that they allowed someone to gain their confidence and got them to part with their money. Don’t be embarrassed. Overcome that feeling. Report it. Speak up and speak out,” explained Williams, who has been in the banking industry for more than 20 years. “In times of crisis scammers tend to work double and triple-overtime.” But there are ways to protect yourself.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW TO AVOID SCAMS: 4 Financial institutions will
never ask for confidential information—such as your name, password, PIN or other account information—when they reach out to you. Nor will they ask you to send money via popular payment platforms, wire transfer or check. 4 Experts suggest triple-checking any social message, bank email or solicitation you receive, especially if it mentions COVID-19 and provides links. When in doubt do
as the Federal Trade Commission and the Better Business Bureau for information and tips on avoiding the latest scams.
THINGS YOU CAN PROACTIVELY DO: 4 Keep your online banking profile contact information up to date. This way your bank can quickly notify you of suspected fraud. 4 If you participate in digital banking, sign up for account alerts. By quickly verifying transactions, it can help you spot suspicious charges.
4 Sign up for Chase Credit to scams, experts say.
Journey, a free credit monitoring tool for all consumers that sends you email alerts about critical changes to your credit that can help identify fraud. 4 Contact the Social Security Administration to request notification anytime your social security number is used. 4Contact the major credit score agencies and put an alert on your name so that you are notified whenever an account is opened in your name. Times of crisis – personal and public - render us more vulnerable
“They’re preying on residents at their lowest point,” said Brian Atkins, Chase Skyland Branch Community Manager. “When you’ve gone from underemployment to unemployment like many in Ward 7 and 8 have, you feel more desperate and might respond to a job inquiry that looks too good to be true, or click on a link that you shouldn’t have.” Atkins says education is key to keeping yourself safe. Learn what scams are trending and stay aware. For more information visit: https:// www.chase.com/personal/security-tips
Brian Atkins (L) and Jua Williams ( R ) at the Chase Skyland Community Center Branch in Skyland Town Center.
not click the link, go straight to the source. 4 Avoid emails or texts that have an urgent call to action or suspicious links. For example, the IRS recently issued an alert about an increase in scams involving stimulus checks. The IRS reports that scammers will send a text or email claiming the individual qualifies for a stimulus check and that they must click on the link provided immediately. This is a scam. 4 The government or your financial institution will never call out of the blue to ask for money or your personal information (Social Security number, bank account, or credit card numbers). 4 Financial institutions or businesses will never ask you to purchase gift cards to prevent or stop fraud. Gift card scams against the elderly are very popular but are severely underreported because most senior citizens don’t speak up or are embarrassed. Know that you’re not the only one. 4 Act quickly! As soon as you suspect you have been victim to fraud, contact your local police and bank to report it.
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Take control of your financial future Building healthy financial habits is an important life skill that sets you up for success. Get ready for each step with tools and resources to help you along your financial journey. Learn how to create and manage your budget, save regularly, and build your credit score to help you along your path toward financial independence.
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DCHFA Provides D.C. Government Employees With Down Payment Assistance For many aspiring homeowners, saving up for a down payment is the biggest hurdle to purchasing a home. The District of Columbia Housing Finance Agency (DCHFA) works to provide affordable housing solutions and provide homeownership opportunities for residents of Washington, D.C. DCHFA created DC4ME to provide District government employees with the necessary mortgage and down payment assistance to become homeowners in the city where they work. DC4ME is offered to current full-time D.C. government employees, including employees of District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. public charter schools and organizations, provided the borrower’s employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the
District of Columbia. The inclusion of all District government employees sets DC4ME apart and will allow for more homeowners. Many people who work in, and in this case for, the District government, cannot afford to live in the city. They have often been priced out of their city and forced to move to the suburbs and surrounding cities in Maryland and Virginia. More than 36,000 people work for the D.C. government, and it is DCHFA’s goal to make sure that any of them who want to live in this city have the means to do so. “Homeownership is the foundation to wealth building. DCHFA is committed to making the dream of homeownership attainable to D.C.’s workforce, and that includes government employees,” said Christopher E. Donald, Executive Director/CEO, DCHFA. “Many of these workers fall into what we call the Missing Middle, and it is our job to make sure that they are not forgotten and continuously priced out of the city they give back to daily.”
The DC4ME program helped Folashade Oladipo, an employee of the Deputy Mayor’s Office for Planning and Economic Development, achieve her goal of homeownership sooner than she thought possible. “DC4ME made it possible for me to purchase my dream home on a budget!” said Oladipo. “Most my best memories happened in D.C., and I look forward to making more awesome memories while giving back to a city that has given me so much.” Eligible applicants receive 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 prevent deferred subordinate loan. An eligible applicant is someone
DC Open Doors Your Key to the City
who is a first-time homebuyer; a current full-time District government employee; has a maximum income less than 120 percent of the area median income; has a minimum 640 credit score; and has a debt-to-income ratio that does not exceed 50 percent. Borrowers can combine DC4ME with various other financial assistance programs to make sure they are getting the best deal possible. DCHFA has another down payment assistance program, DC Open Doors, that is open
to first-time and repeat homebuyers. DC4ME can be combined with DC Open Doors, as well as programs like the Home Purchase Assistance Program (HPAP) and the Employer Assisted Housing Program (EAHP). Aspiring homeowners can find more information on DC4ME at www.dchfa.org/homeownership.
DC Open Doors makes homeownership affordable in the District by offering qualified buyers home purchase loans, down payment and closing cost assistance. • • •
Open to first-time & repeat buyers Open to all neighborhoods & wards Open to both residents and non-residents of Washington, D.C.
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Are you a D.C. government employee interested in becoming a District homeowner?
www.dchfa.org/homeownership 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.
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Under the Hood: Car Loans Scrutinized as Discriminatory
By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Staff Writer
DISB HELPS PROTECT YOUR FINANCIAL INTERESTS Take advantage of free programs and resources available through the District of Columbia Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking (DISB) that will help you evaluate and plan your financial future. w Are you interested in learning how to establish and maintain healthy financial habits? Visit welcome.financiallyfitdc.com and start your wealth journey today! w Having difficulty paying your mortgage? Facing foreclosure? Call our foreclosure prevention hotline at 202-265-2255. w Has COVID-19 hurt your finances? Get in touch with a Financial Navigator who will help you access free resources. Call 202-231-7908, email fn@upo.org or complete a form at finnav.org/interest-dc. w Have questions about your insurance policy, cryptocurrency, scams and other financial matters? Tune into DISB’s podcasts and videos and learn how to protect your financial interests at disb.dc.gov/ service/podcasts and disb.dc.gov/page/disb-media-2. w Wondering how to get funding for college? Join the DISB Student Loan Ombudsman for a series of webinars designed to help high school seniors prepare for college. Register today at bit.ly/3yzTDZr.
When it comes to cars, whether it is a buyer’s or seller’s market, research shows African Americans often come out cheated in the rinse. Car dealers often work with third-party lenders, such as banks or credit unions, to provide financing options to consumers. Once that “indirect” lender offers the car dealer an interest rate on an auto loan, the dealer is allowed to markup that rate to the buyer for additional compensation. The auto industry, according to a 2013 report continues to bait minority borrowers and offer them the costliest car loans, a development that threatens to exacerbate the economic distress in some Black and Hispanic neighborhoods. The practice, called reverse-redlining, further abuses the most vulnerable Americans through predatory lending. On loans made through the dealership, the dealer can markup the interest rate above the consumer’s credit worthiness. This interest rate markup, also known as “dealer reserve” or “dealer participation,” is described by dealers as the way they are compensated for time spent putting a financing deal together. However, since consumers usually do not know what they can actually qualify for, the markup is often a hidden cost to the consumer. The report found that in more than 60 percent of the cases, the nonwhite individuals who were more qualified than their white counterparts were given more costly options. As a result, people of color who faced discrimination paid an average of $2,662 more over the length of their loans. In one instance, Ally Bank, charged more than 235,000 minority borrowers higher interest rates for auto loans between 2011 and 2013.
The bank was subsequently ordered to pay $80 million in damages to harmed African American, Latin, and Asian and Pacific Islander borrowers and $18 million in penalties. Legislation introduced in 2013 was later rescinded under the Trump administration, returning car buyers to either an unleveled playing field or one with hidden and costly pitfalls. Delvin Davis of the Center for Responsible Lending, a nonprofit research and advocacy group for consumers, conducted the auto lending research. The author of Non-Negotiable: Negotiation Doesn’t Help African Americans and Latinos on Dealer-Financed Car Loans, said Black and Latino purchasers often get hoodwinked into costly additions and overcharged. “People of color are more likely to have the dealer indicate they are getting the ‘best rate available,’ and be told that add-ons are mandatory purchases. In addition, people of color are more likely to be unaware of dealer interest rate markups,” Davis said. “These three factors are also associated with higher delinquency rates, and therefore a greater chance of losing the car through repossession.” Like the old adage of an educated consumer being the best customers, Davis advises Black and Latino consumers to use their banks or credit unions to obtain preapproved auto loans before visiting a car showroom. He also suggests avoiding unnecessary “add-ons” including extended warranties, which may be cheaper when purchased from a third party. “Once you have that approval, you’re basically taking that check to the dealership and it can become a good negotiation chip that you can use,” Davis said. “It’s incumbent on the consumer to make sure you realize everything that’s in your contract and don’t be afraid to ask questions.” FS
Stay Informed! www.washingtoninformer.com
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Discriminatory markups and lending have marred the car shopping experience for Black and Latino consumers for years. (Courtesy photo)
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Building Generational Wealth in the Midst of Gentrification 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
By Lisa Miller Scott REALTOR®, GRI, SRS, CPRES, CDPE Board of Directors, Literacy Institute for Financial Enrichment (LIFE) The nation’s capital is one of the most highly gentrified cities in the country according to a 2019 study by the National Community Reinvestment Coalition based on U.S. Census Bureau and economic data.1 This is particularly evident in Wards 7 and 8, where homeownership among Black residents has been declining at an alarming rate. This is owing largely to the proliferation of development projects targeting a younger, wealthier ‘Creative Class’ of millennials, ages 18-34. Certainly such initiatives have the effect of driving up housing values to a point where many would-be home buyers are priced out of the market, but what about homes that have been Black-owned for decades? Grandma’s house. Where is the generational wealth that could and should have been built from the time before gentrification took hold? Although generational wealth assets passed by one generation of a family to another - encompasses stocks, bonds, and other assets, as well as businesses; estimates suggest that as much as two-thirds of a typical American household’s wealth comes from homeownership.2 For various reasons, however, these properties,
which could form the cornerstone of a wealthy legacy, often do not remain in the family past the original purchaser. Inherited properties are routinely liquidated in favor of short term cash over long term land holdings. Joint heirs may disagree on whether to keep or sell the home. There may be no one in the family who is able to take responsibility for the upkeep and property taxes. Younger heirs often prefer larger, more contemporary homes. And when they change hands, estate properties are frequently purchased by investors who renovate and resell them for much higher prices than many young, Black buyers are comfortably able to afford. Here are some proven strategies that may help to build and retain wealth for yourself and for future generations, even in an age of changing neighborhood demographics. 1. Invest in the stock market
Invest in real estate Build a business to pass down Take advantage of life insurance Create multiple streams of income Pay yourself first
Passing the wealth baton to the next generation and allowing them to build on your efforts can take many forms: gifting the down payment for a primary home or investment property; enabling them to graduate from college debt-free, providing seed money for a business venture, proper estate planning to preserve assets that will become their inheritance; and mostly importantly teaching your children about personal finance and generational wealth so that they can carry the baton for the next leg of the race, no matter who’s in the house next door. 1
National Community Reinvestment Coalition. “SHIFTING NEIGHBORHOODS: Gentrification and cultural displacement in American cities” 2
Economic Policy Institute. “The racial wealth gap: How African-Americans have been shortchanged out of the materials to build wealth.” Ms. Lisa Miller Scott is a Broker/ Owner with Elevation Realty, LLC in Lanham, Maryland.
Estimates suggest that as much as two-thirds of a typical American household’s wealth comes from homeownership.
Youth Money Matters: Young, Black, and Broke By Deetra Whatley Board of Directors Literacy Institute for Financial Enrichment (LIFE)
“Making Healthy Choices to Spend Less and Save More to Create Wealth, while developing Wisdom” I can be healthy, wealthy, and rich --- oops, I mean Wise; oh, that’s dope! Hmmmm, where can I go to get all three? Well, to be healthier, I can eat out less and cook more. Wisdom may come with life experiences, but what about wealth? I don’t know what wealth means? Isn’t wealth for rich, white people? Wealth to me is spending my money on a beautiful crib, cute clothes, and nice restaurants. Well, what is my Net Worth? Do you mean what I Am Worth? The Michael Kors bag cost $300, my Gucci Slides $400, my hair $600, my mani and pedi $150, plus my Fashion Nova dress. I AM WORTH more than a $1,000, right? One thousand dollars of Material Wealth? Gurl Bye. Material Wealth is Not your Net Worth. Material Wealth are things such as cars, clothes, shoes, furniture, and technology devices--THINGS that we may see among our neighbors, friends, family, and ourselves. Once money is spent on material things, that money is gone and the item may be worthless or worth a lot less. These items typically do not increase in value over time.
Once money is spent on material things, that money is gone and the item may be worthless or worth a lot less. Net Worth is everything you own (assets) minus everything you owe (liabilities). Your assets include your house, checking and savings accounts, 401K, mutual funds, cash value of life insurance policies and cash. Your liabilities and expenses include your mortgage, rent, utilities, car loans, credit card balances, payday loans, medical and dental expenses, technology expenses, childcare, and student loan payments. To begin to create wealth we need to understand what we own and what we owe. We can start with a spending journal to record everything that we spend our money on. Now let’s take the time and answer the 3Ws and 1H. • HOW are we spending our money? • WHAT are we spending our money on? • WHERE are we spending our money? • WHY are we spending our money? Begin making wise changes to your spending, and over time you may be able to change Young, Black, and Broke to Young, Black, and Wealthy. Ms. Whatley has been a financial writer and educator for more than seven years, and has served as a DFree trainer and coordinator for several financial cohorts in the DMV.
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Achieving Financial Goals in Diverse Communities By John Hope Bryant CEO of Operation HOPE and Wil Lewis Chief, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer at Experian When it comes to achieving financial goals, there shouldn’t be any unknowns. However, the world of credit can be a tricky one to navigate if you don’t have a lot of experience with credit. At Experian, we are committed to helping individuals live their best financial lives and reach their fullest potential by providing tools, education and resources. Credit education is an essential component in driving financial inclusion and a key reason we release our annual State of Credit [hyperlink] report each year. We want people to understand the information included in their credit report and how it impacts credit scores. As we end the second summer since the arrival of COVID-19, our report is more important than ever to gain perspective on the financial health of the nation. And, despite a challenging year and a half, new data shows consumers are managing credit well with the average credit score climbing seven points to 695 – the highest it has been in more than 13 years. Though these figures are positive, as Chief, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer at Experian, I know there is not a single report that accurately reflects the reality of everyone’s unique financial situation. Financial literacy and health begins with resources. It is difficult to understand what your credit score means and how it will affect your future when you were never given the resources to learn about money management. This is especially prevalent in underserved, racially diverse communities where there has historically been a lack of financial education and resources. According to Consumer News and Business Channel, about 54 percent of African Americans and 41 percent of Hispanics report having no credit score or a poor to fair score. Our goal is to change these percentages by providing the tools necessary to
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achieve financial freedom and success. In an effort to focus our effort on communities impacted the most, we have partnered with Operation HOPE because we share a common goal: financial empowerment for African American and Hispanic consumers. Operation HOPE is the nation’s largest nonprofit dedicated to improving financial literacy. They are committed to educating our communities about how creating a strong credit history and responsible credit management can help protect and improve your financial health. As the CEO of Operation HOPE, I know there are many communities in critical need of more financial education and resources, and by helping people raise their credit scores, we can shift their mindset from one of survival to thriving. And this is why we are excited to launch the HOPE Financial Wellness Index to highlight the average credit score in every state. The index will be a key asset in identifying communities in most need of financial education as well as developing programming that will give people from those communities the tools they need to build the future they want. I’ve always thought that if you don’t understand money, you are chained to a system that does not care about you. That is why our focus has always been and always will be financial dignity and inclusion at Operation HOPE. We equip young people and adults with the financial tools and education to secure a better future—coaching them through their personal aspirations and life’s challenges, and facilitating their journey to financial independence. African American and Hispanic consumers make up such an important part of our national economy and tips like the four below can assist you with achieving your financial goals that may seem out of reach:
to build and manage credit from Experian online, their free mobile app, or through Operation HOPE’s free workshops and one-on-one counselling services.
2. CHECK YOUR CREDIT REPORTS AND SCORES OFTEN.
You can check your credit report with each of the three credit bureaus for free once by visiting AnnualCreditReport.com. You can also get a copy of your Experian credit report and FICO score for free on Experian’s website or mobile app.
3. KEEP YOUR UTILIZATION RATE LOW.
Nothing will damage your credit scores faster or more than missed payments and high balances. Your total credit card balances should not be more than 30 percent of your total credit card limits, and you don’t want any one card to have a balance of more than 30 percent of the limit on that one card. Keep in mind 30 percent is not a goal or a target. If possible, paying your balances off in full and on time each month is the best way to protect your credit scores.
4. USE FREE TOOLS LIKE EXPERIAN BOOST.
You can potentially increase your credit score instantly by getting credit for paying your telecom, utility and streaming service bills on time with Experian Boost. Follow this link to learn more about your credit score and how Experian can help. To learn more about Operation Hope please visit OperationHOPE.org.
4John Hope Bryant, Founder and CEO of Operation HOPE
Proud to Support The Washington Informer At Operation HOPE, we’ve been working to disrupt poverty and empower economic inclusion for underserved communities throughout the U.S. Visit us at operationhope.org to learn more.
1. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF FREE RESOURCES AND EDUCATION.
If you have limited or no experience with credit, it can be hard to know where to start. There are resources available to help. You can learn about ways
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New Refinance Options Helps Area Families: Expanded Guidelines for Those Earning Up to $80k per Year EagleBank, a community-minded and solution-oriented bank is excited to work with customers who also believe in their community and want to enhance and maintain their DC home. So, in conjunction with the Washington Informer’s OUR HOUSE initiative, EagleBank shares information on a new refinance option that may benefit some area homeowners.
By Maceo Clark EagleBank Mortgage Banker Mortgage rates in 2021 have not swung like Tarzan on a soda run and are holding steady just above historic
lows. For anyone whose income may have decreased, though, a refinance to a lower rate (which translates into a lower payment and less interest paid over time) could be tougher. A certain debtto-income ratio is needed to qualify, and a drop in earnings could topple the apple cart. That’s why EagleBank Residential Lending is jumping at a new opportunity to help more families gain access to today’s low rate environment. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac recently banded together to help homeowners earning up to $80,000 a year. Those who may have hesitated to seek a lower interest rate now have a new loan option through banks like EagleBank who offer these loans providing expanded guidelines for debt-to-income ratio requirements. Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae have adopted these new refinance options for loans to borrowers with incomes at or below 80% of area median income and you may be eligible to take advantage of this program. If your mortgage is owned or guaranteed by either Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae, you may be eligible to refinance your mortgage under this refinance option. You can determine whether your mortgage is owned by either Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae by checking the following websites: https://loanlookup.freddiemac.com https://www.knowyouroptions. com/loanlookup#form Here are some things to keep in mind: 4 The new loan must provide the following benefits to the borrower: • a reduction in interest rate of at least a half a point (for example, 4% to 3.5%) • a reduction in the monthly payment of at least $50.00 (that includes principal, interest, and
the mortgage insurance payment, if applicable). 4 The existing loan must be a conventional mortgage loan already owned by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac for at least 12 months from the original note date to new loan note date. 4 The debt-to-income ratio must be less than or equal to 65%. 4 Minimum credit score is 620 is required 4 Must have identical borrowers on the new loan as the existing loan (ask a loan officer about any possible exceptions). 4 Current loan cannot be subject to recourse of any sort (e.g. foreclosure) and cannot be an existing high loan-to-value refinance loan. 4 Conforming loan limits only (up to $548, 250 in the DC area) 4 For the loan being refinanced, no 30-day mortgage delinquencies in the most recent six-month period allowed, and no more than one 30-day delinquency in months 7 through 12. (If the borrower has missed payments due to a COVID-19 forbearance, and those payments have been resolved in accordance with the temporary eligibility requirements, then the missed payments are not considered delinquencies for purposes of meeting these payment history requirements). An EagleBank loan officer can help you determine whether Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac owns your current home loan, and can discuss eligibility for RefiNow or RefiPossible products, or any other mortgage product that may be beneficial to your family. A $500 appraisal credit is also given at settlement to defray the cost of any related property evaluation. Providing DC area residents
with tools that can potentially save them money is important in preserving an equitable housing force. EagleBank hopes to help all homeowners who have a stake in our area. Together, we hope to increase access to safe and stable housing for all, and put homeownership in reach for families across the income spectrum. To learn more about the new refinance loan options, please contact Maceo who can be reached at MClark@EagleBankCorp.com or 301-850-2655. Maceo Clark (NMLS# 807001) has extensive experience in the mortgage industry as a community lender and loan originator. He is also a long-time volunteer youth soccer coach, so EagleBank’s partnership with DC United truly hits close to home. His goal as a lender is to provide the best mortgage options and achieve the highest levels of satisfaction for his customers. As a community bank, EagleBank offers knowledge of Affordable Housing and First-Time Home Buyer resources, as well as refinance services. Contact us at HomeLoans@EagleBankCorp.com. This is not a commitment to lend. To be eligible, buyer must meet HUD minimum down payment, underwriting and program guidelines. All loan applications are subject to credit and property approval. Annual Percentage Rate (APR), and program, rates, fees, closing costs, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice and may vary depending upon credit history and transaction specifics. Property taxes, flood and/ or property hazard insurance may be required. 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.
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HOMEOWNERSHIP Begins With FINANCIAL LITERACY Austin R. Cooper, Jr. Managing Editor Our House D.C. Newsletter The mission of the National Financial Educators Council is rooted in providing people with the knowledge and guidance they need to foster greater financial well-being. To accomplish that mission, the organization mobilizes a diverse global force of financial wellness champions and empowers them with resources and training so they can effectively support others in their communities to work toward greater financial security. (https:// www.financialeducatorscouncil.org) Operation HOPE is a nonprofit organization committed to disrupt poverty and empower inclusion for low and moderate-income youth and adults. With a mission of expanding economic opportunity and making free enterprise work for everyone, Operation HOPE partners with financial institutions, corporations, municipal agencies, and community agencies to deliver the financial tools and education on financial literacy necessary to ensure a better future for all. (www. operationhope.org) The National Financial Educators Council and Operation HOPE are two of the many organizations across the United States that provide the resources and tools to Americans to not only improve their financial health, but to become homeowners, as well. Indeed, there are many who are wary, and even fearful, of the qualification process for homeownership. For far too many, the American Dream of one day owning a home is out of reach. A distant and unachievable dream. Thankfully, there are organizations like The National Financial Educators Council and Operation HOPE that can assist interested homeowners achieve their dreams. At Operation Hope, for example, the first step for prospective home-
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buyers is to attend a workshop for potential homeowners, conducted by certified coaches from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). These coaches guide clients through the loan process. The goal is to help clients overcome a variety of common barriers to homeownership, including bad credit, lack of down payment, existing debt, and money management issues.
er-income versus wealthier families.” (www.councilforeconed.org) In an October 2019 article for Kiplinger, Craig Hawley reports that in 2009, the brokerage firm FINRA, in its State of U.S. Financial Capability study found that “42% of respondents were able to answer four or more questions correctly in a five-question survey on fundamental concepts of economics and personal finance. By 2018, this dropped 8 percentage points to 34%.” (https://bit. ly/3mBSR9t) Financial literacy is the knowledge and understanding of areas related to financial decisions, including personal finance, money and investing. More work remains among the American population in general, especially with young people. There has always been a direct correlation in understanding and appreciating financial literacy
and achieving the American Dream of homeownership. And the fact remains that nothing will change that reality. As former United Nations Ambas-
IMPORTANCE OF FINANCIAL LITERACY FOR YOUTH
One way to impact financial literacy in adults seeking to become homeowners is to make the teaching of financial education mandatory in school curriculums at an early age. The Council for Economic Education every two years examines the financial and economic education in the United States in grades K-12. The February 2020 report concluded that: • 21 states now require high school students to take a course in personal finance, an increase in 4 states from 2018. One state dropped the requirement. • 25 states require high school students to take a course in economics, an increase of 3 states. • 5 states, including the District of Columbia, require no personal finance classes in their curriculums. • While more states are requiring economics and personal finance to graduate, 6 fewer require economics testing and 2 fewer require such in personal finance. The report further offers that with states requiring financial education in schools, students exhibit more mature and informed behavior with budgetary decisions while in college, particularly those from economically and socially challenged communities. “In states without requirements, there is a 15-point gap in access to financial education between kids from low-
THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 2021 FINANCIAL LITERACY SUPPLEMENT / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM
sador Andrew Young once said on the topic of financial literacy, “To live in a system of free enterprise, and to not understand the rules of free enterprise, must be the very definition of slavery.”
By Lee Ross WI Staff Writer
Recent & Recommended Books on Loans & Personal Finance
Destroy Your Student Loan Debt: The Step-by-Step Plan to Pay Off Your Student Loans Faster Anthony ONeal Debt sucks. Period. And that includes student loan debt. No matter what you believed—or were told— when you took out your loans, you need to get serious about getting rid of your debt fast, because it’s costing you more than you know. That’s why bestselling author Anthony ONeal wrote this motivating 64-page Quick Read—to show you why you need to dump your debt fast and how to do it. If you have student loan debt and have never heard of Ramsey Solutions or the 7 Baby Steps, this 64-page Quick Read is for you. Anthony will walk
you step-by-step through Baby Steps 1 and 2 to show you how to dump your debt forever.
I Wrote This Book to Pay My Student Loans Alexandria Bland Alexandria Bland has had enough of the student loan struggle and she’s ready to live a life of abundance. In this collection of essays, she shares her thoughts on topics like education, relationships, music and more in an attempt to raise funds to abolish her student loans. If you’re looking for a book about a bunch of random stuff that scatterbrained, student loan hating individuals can relate to, you’re in luck. I Wrote This Book to Pay My Student Loans is that and more.
The Money Challenge for Teens: Prepare for College, Run from Debt, and Live Generously Art Rainer Today’s teens are faced with more financial opportunities—and threats—than ever before, from summer jobs and scholarships to credit card applications and student loans. How are young people supposed to learn to avoid early pitfalls that could devastate their financial futures and instead take steps that can set them up for a future filled with security, contentment, and generosity? The Money Challenge for Teens can help. Author Art Rainer introduces readers to some fictional young friends who are navigating financial waters and learning how God would want them to face college choices and car loans and thoughts about retirement.
Personal Finance Vickie L. Bajtelsmit
Personal Finance, 2nd Edition offers essential skills and knowledge that will set students on the road to lifelong financial wellness. By focusing on real-world decision making, Bajtlesmit engages a diverse student population by helping them make personal connections that can immediately impact their current financial situations. Using a conversational writing style, relatable examples, and up-todate coverage on important topics like student debt, students gain the knowledge they need to avoid early financial mistakes. By the end of the course, students have identified their goals and developed the problem-solving skills they need to build on as they progress to the next stages of life.
Predatory Lending and the Destruction of the AfricanAmerican Dream Janis Sarra, Cheryl L. Wade Since the Great Recession of 2008, the racial wealth gap between black and white Americans has continued to widen. In this work, Janis Sarra and Cheryl Wade detail the reasons for this failure by analyzing the economic exploitation of African Americans, with a focus on predatory practices in loan processes. They also examine the failure of reform and litigation efforts ostensibly aimed at addressing this form of racial discrimination. This research, augmented by first-hand narratives, provides invaluable insight into the racial wealth gap by vividly illustrating the predation that targets African-American consumers and examining the intentionally obfuscating settlement terms of cases brought by the U.S. Department of Justice, states attorneys, and municipalities. FS
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Student Loan Debt: Implications on Financial and Emotional Wellness By Lee Ross WI Staff Writer A 2019 study from Prudential Financial on paying for college looks beyond the numbers to find out how student loan debt is actually affecting students and graduates in their daily lives. The findings are insightful, troubling, and encouraging. Troubling, because student loan debt for many graduates has become a profound source of both financial and emotional stress, compromising their ability to establish families and households, save adequately for retirement, and protect themselves against unexpected life events. It is insightful, in that conservative opinion suggests borrowers walk into loans intending to default, while the reality shows many simply are unable to establish adequate income to consistently make payments. Finally, the research proves encouraging because student borrowers are now more inclined to seek guidance before committing to loans. Beryl Plummer, a graduate student at American University, told the Informer that had she been privileged to a greater understanding of how student loans worked – who her lenders were and what was expected of her upon graduation, she would never have assumed as much debt as she did. “Financial planning should start in the crib and so whether it is a credit card, car financing, or student loan, we have to be better about how we will manage the repayments,” Plummer said. “I borrowed more than I needed to ensure I did not have to get a job while in school. I wanted the freedom of being a full-time student and finishing the program in three and half years. That extra loan money with its accrued finances, fees, and interest put me in a chokehold once I graduated that I have not been able to loosen.” Plummer said that though she stopped lamenting that loans “were the devil,” she has come to terms with the fact that she, like many others, refused the delayed gratification of working through school to negate the need for student loans – and that she didn’t really consider how the debt would impact her overall wellbeing.
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“I had collectors calling my home and my job because I could not make the payments in the amounts initially discussed. I developed headaches, acid reflux, insomnia, and an overwhelming fear that the education was not worth it,” said Plummer, whose entry-level position as a legal assistant did not pay enough to live comfortably. “I was drowning in debt and my credit score was being impaled by my lack of understanding.” Eventually, Plummer moved back home with her parents, traded her car in for a SmartTrip card, and spent three years paying the debt off. She said the reward was in regaining her mental and emotional health – as well as keeping her poor loan decisions from snowballing. “Loans are a legal obligation. When you sign on the dotted line, you have agreed to repay the money you’re given. In hindsight, I would have either borrowed less, or not borrowed at all. I learned a valuable lesson and I live stress and debt free now.”
Prudential assembled within its study a section of “lessons learned.” The series of action plans, outlined in its report, Student Loan Debt: Implications on Financial and Emotional Wellness, offer options for smarter choices about paying for college and minimizing the negative impact of any student loan debt they do assume. The advice, while fitted to student loans, applies to all loans and should be utilized to gauge financial readiness for repayment.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Students and graduates now question whether student loan debt is a good deal. Among the more than 1,100 surveyed college graduates who had taken out student loans to help pay for their post-secondary education, only about four in 10 now say borrowing that money proved to be worthwhile, and only one in four now calls college debt “good debt.” Repayment struggles leave many borrowers afraid they’ll never right themselves financially. Among
Many student borrowers face mental and emotional stress related to the obligations of education loans well into their fifties. / Courtesy photo
graduates who borrowed to attend college and are still paying on their loans, a stunning 53 percent fear they will never dig themselves out of debt. Loan default rates help to explain their shifting views. Nearly half of college graduates who are still paying on their student loans—44 percent—say their loans have been in deferral or forbearance at some point in
time, as do 16 percent of graduates who have paid off their student loan balances. At first blush, these figures don’t appear to square with data from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, which reports that 11.2 percent of aggregate student loan debt was 90 or more days delinquent or in default in the fourth quarter of 2016. FS
Risks & Responsibilities of Student Loans By Lee Ross WI Staff Writer If you decide to take out a loan, make sure you understand who is making the loan and the terms and conditions of the loan. Student loans can come from the federal government, from private sources such as a bank or financial institution, or from other organizations. Loans made by the federal government, called federal student loans, usually have more benefits than loans from banks or other private sources. Learn more about the differences between federal and private student loans. Before you take out a loan, it’s important to understand that a loan is a legal obligation that makes you responsible for repaying the amount you borrow with interest. Even though you don’t have to begin repaying your federal student loans right away, you shouldn’t wait to understand your responsibilities as a borrower. The U.S. Department of Education’s federal student loan program is
the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan (Direct Loan) Program. Under this program, the U.S. Department of Education is your lender.
Direct Consolidation Loans allow you to combine all of your eligible federal student loans into a single loan with a single loan servicer.
FOUR TYPES OF DIRECT LOANS
How to Avoid Debt: Be a Responsible Borrower Keep track of how much you’re borrowing. Think about how the amount of your loans will affect your future finances, and how much you can afford to repay. Your student loan payments should be only a small percentage of your salary after you graduate, so it’s important not to borrow more than you need for your school-related expenses. Research starting salaries in your field. Ask your school for starting salaries of recent graduates in your field of study to get an idea of how much you are likely to earn after you graduate. You can also use the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Outlook Handbook or career search tool to research careers and salaries. Understand the terms of your loan and keep copies of your loan documents. When you sign your promis-
Direct Subsidized Loans are loans made to eligible undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need to help cover the costs of higher education at a college or career school. Direct Unsubsidized Loans are loans made to eligible undergraduate, graduate, and professional students, but eligibility is not based on financial need. Direct PLUS Loans are loans made to graduate or professional students and parents of dependent undergraduate students to help pay for education expenses not covered by other financial aid. Eligibility is not based on financial need, but a credit check is required. Borrowers who have an adverse credit history must meet additional requirements to qualify.
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sory note, you are agreeing to repay the loan according to the terms of the note even if you don’t complete your education, can’t get a job after you complete the program, or you didn’t like the education you received. Make payments on time. You are required to make payments on time even if you don’t receive a bill, repayment notice, or a reminder. You must pay the full amount required by your repayment plan, as partial payments do not fulfill your obligation to repay your student loan on time. Keep in touch with your loan servicer. Notify your loan servicer when you graduate; withdraw from school; drop below half-time status; transfer to another school; or change your name, address, or Social Security number. You also should contact your servicer if you’re having trouble making your scheduled loan payments. Your servicer has several options available to help you keep your loan in good standing. FS
Thinking of buying a home? It’s an exciting and hopeful time, but you probably have questions too. Our My First Home® website is a great place to start. This site was designed with your home financing needs in mind: You can check your credit score, find out your debt level, review your savings, and more with just a few clicks. Knowing where you stand financially makes it easier to plan next steps. You can also tackle any areas that might need improvement. From start to finish, we’ll work with you. Because a home is more than just four walls. It’s where the celebration of the present meets the promise of the future. To learn more, go to https://myfirsthome.wf.com/.
Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. © 2021 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801.
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EDITORIAL
Teachers Must Be Protected as Much as Students
Reports from across the U.S. continue to pour in, pointing to the degree to which the teaching industry has so profoundly changed since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. As we approach the two-year mark, many teachers have either opted for early retirement or simply left the profession and looked for other career options. Some say they’re either unwilling or unable to navigate the tenuous terrain of teaching in the “new normal” environment of hybrid learning which incorporates both in-person and virtual instruction. But this latest change in pedagogy has led to burnout for a lot of teachers. Some say they feel like the day is never over particularly with the rise in Zoom-based meetings with other colleagues, supervisors and parents – and with students who need additional help. These teachers need our understanding and deserve to be protected. They do far more than just provide instruction in reading, writing and arithmetic. Some teachers help children learn essential social skills. Some teachers provide a shoulder to cry on or a listening ear. Some offer that needed smile or word of encouragement. Yes, they wear a plethora of hats – and most wear them willingly and efficiently. But now, with the growing controversy over “to vaccinate or not to vaccinate” and whether the vaccine for COVID-19 should be mandated, teachers face an even greater danger. In the old days, you could always count on your first or second grader eventually coming home with a runny nose, a cough and a fever. They had caught a cold from one or more of their classmates. Maybe, they came in contact with a germ-laden desk or a tainted doorknob or chair. But now, children and their teachers, when they come down with the sniffles, may not just have a cold. They may have COVID-19. Sure, we believe in people having their rights. But if we’re ever going to make school a social experience – the kind that all children desire and deserve – with lunchtime, homecomings, football game showdowns between archrivals and afterschool dances – we’ve got to make sure teachers and students are protected. Because they, too, have a right to LIVE. WI
TO THE EDITOR
Dr. Marilyn Tyler Brown: An Education Leader and Political Activist Dies Mourners stood patiently in the early evening hours outside of Takoma Park Baptist Church in Northwest last Thursday while waiting to pay their final respects to a beloved friend, colleague and D.C. educator, Dr. Marilyn Tyler Brown, who died in her home on Friday, October 1. The occasion marked the first of several homegoing services for the stalwart D.C. education advocate and political activist, remembered for her tireless efforts to ensure a quality education for students enrolled in the D.C. Public Schools. For many, it was the first time being in public since the COVID-19 pandemic forced them indoors but attending the wake was the least they could do to say thank you to the former associate superintendent of the D.C. Public Schools who contributed so much to their careers. Attendees included former school administrators, including former school board members Linda Cropp and Carol Schwartz, to name a few. Many others were teachers with long careers abruptly ending with forced retirements. They all symbolized an era where controversy spread widely outside of the classroom but during which teaching and learning were paramount for every student in the classroom. A native of Oxford, North Carolina, Dr. Brown spent 37 years working in the D.C. Public Schools where she held several positions before retiring as Associate Superintendent of Student Services. As Associate Superintendent of D.C. Public Schools, she was responsible for the administration of 13 branches and units that included the Department of Athletics, Attendance and Records, Community Services, Dropout Prevention Programs, Guidance and Counseling, International Exchange Programs, Out of Boundary Student Transfers, Summer School, Textbook Services, Travel, and Field Trips, Visiting Instruction Service Programs and Work Permits. Dr. Brown served on the board of several political, civic, arts, education and Women’s organizations, including Chairperson of The United Black Fund Scholarship Program, member of the Virginia Union University Board of Trustees, member of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Choral Arts Society and member of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration Committee. She also served as Chairperson of the Scholarship Committee for the Washington, D.C. Chapter of Links, Inc. and the Scholarship Committee for Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. A no-nonsense leader remembered for having a heart of gold, Dr. Brown was actively engaged in the city’s daily affairs. She offered strong support, financially and politically, to candidates she favored, including D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser. And, she represented an era of teachers who treated children like their own. She will be sorely missed just as much as all the teachers with whom she worked will also be cherished and missed. Funeral services will be conducted on Saturday, October 16 at 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church in Oxford, North Carolina. WI
Now What, D.C.?
Giving Back
I was shocked to read that the Supreme Court declined to hear the case for D.C. statehood. I really thought this time around, we had shot at finally getting representation. I’m truly dejected by the court’s decision. What should residents who are fighting for this cause do now?
Happy to see that Chase Bank is investing in Ward 7 and 8. From what I’ve seen, they are investing in a lot of economically deprived neighborhoods around the country. Kudos to them; however, I will be waiting to see the tangible benefits of their investments in our community.
Toni Garner Washington, D.C.
Carole Siphon Washington, D.C.
Readers' Mailbox
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The Washington Informer welcomes letters to the editor about articles we publish or issues affecting the community. Write to: lsaxton@washingtoninformer. com or send to: 3117 Martin Luther King Jr Ave., SE, Washington, D.C. 20032. Please note that we are unable to publish letters that do not include a full name, address and phone number. We look forward to hearing from you. OCTOBER 14 - 20, 2021 27
OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist
Charlene Crowell
New CFPB Director Pledges to Protect Americans from Financial Fraud
The U.S. Senate on Sept. 28 confirmed Rohit Chopra to a full five-year term as director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). Chopra returns to the agency where he earlier helped craft and implement key protections to create a level financial playing field for consumers and businesses alike. At a time when the still-unfolding COVID-19 pandemic has left much of Black America — its peo-
ple and small businesses — financially marginalized, an active and aggressive consumer "cop on the beat" is especially needed. Based on his previous tenure with the agency, and as a commissioner at the Federal Trade Commission, Chopra is expected to be an advocate for more aggressive enforcement and greater liability for bad actors, including corporate executives, whether the issue is the nation's trillion-dollar student loan debt, predatory payday lending, or ensuring accurate credit reporting to support equal access to affordable credit.
Guest Columnist
Chopra's comments before the U.S. Senate Banking Committee during his March confirmation hearing reflect his commitment to financial fairness. "[W]e must not forget that the financial lives of millions of Americans are in ruin. … Consumers continue to discover serious errors on their credit reports or feel forced to make payments to debt collectors on bills they already paid or never owed to begin with, including for medical treatment related to Covid-19," testified Chopra. "Congress has entrusted the
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau with carefully monitoring markets to spot risks, ensuring compliance with existing law, educating consumers, and promoting competition," he continued. "This not only helps to protect Americans from fraud and other unlawful conduct, it also ensures that law-abiding businesses, regardless of size, can compete… I pledge to be a good partner to each of you and approach the agency's mission with an open mind and attuned to market realities." An aggressive combination of enforcement and regulation would
go a long way towards remedying many of the financial problems that beset Black America. Analyzing complaints received by census tract data, a new CFPB report published in September found that communities with different racial or ethnic characteristics experience the credit marketplace differently. Moreover, census tracts with the highest share of Black or African American consumers submit the most complaints per resident. "Beginning in March 2020, the
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Marc H. Morial
Infrastructure Bill, Biden Agenda is the Remedy for Tea Party and Trumpist Neglect
"These bills are about competitiveness versus complacency. They're about opportunity versus decay. They're about leading the world or continuing to let the world pass us by, which is literally happening. To support these investments is to create a rising America, America that's moving. And to oppose these investments is to be complicit in America's decline. To support these bills
is to pursue a broader vision of our nation. And to oppose them is to accept a very cramped view of our future." — President Biden, Oct. 5, 2021, Howell, Michigan Filibuster. Cloture. Reconciliation. The chatter surrounding President Biden's landmark infrastructure investment and Build Back Better agenda seems endlessly focused on the legislative process, on political maneuvering, on faceless numbers taken out of context.
Guest Columnist
What we're not hearing enough about: parents desperately searching for child care only to encounter yearlong waiting lists and abrupt shutdowns due to understaffing. Schoolchildren forced to do their homework in parking lots because they have no internet access at home, and their school buildings are closed because they have no heat. Senior citizens who rely on Medicare skipping life-sustaining medications because they can't afford their prescriptions. The millions of homes and businesses
stranded without electricity because storms knocked out an inadequate and shoddily-maintained power grid. Decades of neglect and failure to investment in America's physical infrastructure and public institutions — a trend that accelerated when Tea Party members of Congress forced drastic cuts to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, and intensified during the Trump era — have left us with dilapidated schools and crumbling bridges. Childhood asthma linked to poor air quality causes
13.8 million missed days of school annually. A water main breaks every two minutes, losing enough treated water each day to fill over 9,000 swimming pools. We're the only developed country in the world that doesn't mandate paid family leave, and our failure to invest in child care costs us $57 billion a year. Black Americans have borne the brunt of this neglect. Income inequality grew at a faster rate during
MORIAL Page 49
David W. Marshall
What Happens to Atlanta If the Wealthy Leave and Create a New City?
In an attempt to increase the white population and maintain white political control, the city of Atlanta expanded its borders northward to include the once-rural area called Buckhead. This successful annexation was made in 1952 under Mayor William Hartfield's "Plan of Improvement." Today, Atlanta is a far different municipality. The Buckhead district has
28 OCTOBER 14 - 20, 2021
grown to become the wealthiest area in the city with its chic homes, luxurious shops, high-end restaurants and elaborate mansions. But residents in this predominately-white enclave are frustrated, angry and scared. Earlier this year, Georgia state lawmakers introduced legislation that would give residents the opportunity to vote on making Buckhead its own separate city. The idea to secede is not new. "Buckhead City" has become a topic
of discussion for years, but the city's recent increase in crime has caused efforts for cityhood to gain serious momentum. For decades, the affluent Buckhead district had been one of the safest areas in Atlanta. Since 2019, it has seen a sizable increase in the number of murders, shootings, robberies, carjackings and street racing. 2020 was the deadliest year in more than two decades for the city as a whole. When asked about secession, Buckhead residents will also point to the decrease in
the quality of services, the heavy tax burden, city hall corruption, struggling schools and zoning disputes. These are valid quality-of-life concerns, but what about the overall consequences? The city could possibly face a net fiscal loss estimated between $80 million and $116 million annually. As for the schools, the Atlanta Public Schools system is expected to lose approximately $232 million per year. And when we speak about consequences, do we forget the pre-
dominately Black neighborhoods on Atlanta's Southside? They, too, are frustrated, angry and scared. Some residents say the secession plans are not racial. Already, there are those nationally who, with racial overtones, believe "Atlanta needs Buckhead, Buckhead does not need Atlanta." Such statements show they still don't get it. You have to have a willingness to sincerely care and to invest in people.
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OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist
Marian Wright Edelman
Still Reconstructing
In a recent conversation with Ford Foundation president Darren Walker, Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Eric Foner spoke about his book "The Second Founding: How the Civil War and Reconstruction Remade the Constitution." As Foner discussed the historic ways the 13th, 14th and 15th Amendments shaped our nation, he noted how many of the pressing issues in America today are still fundamen-
tally Reconstruction issues. Who is a citizen? Who has the right to vote? How should our nation deal with domestic terrorism? What does being a free American mean? Many scholars saw the civil rights movement as a second Reconstruction era in the United States and a second try at making this country truly committed to liberty and justice for all. But just as the progress of the first Reconstruction was followed by decades of retrenchment and reversal, we face continued attempts to take us backwards: unjust racial profiling and killing of Black youths and adults by
law enforcement officers responsible for protecting them, mass incarceration of people of color, new attacks on voting rights in the name of "election integrity," and continuing willingness of some political leaders to ignore and condone white supremacy, antisemitism and domestic terrorism. Rev. William J. Barber II, I and many others believe we are in a third Reconstruction moment now, and the long-overdue racial reckoning last year was a leap forward along the way. As Frederick Douglass taught us, however, progress will always be met with new resistance: "Power concedes
Guest Columnist
nothing without a demand. It never did and it never will." We must keep demanding our leaders ensure all children the freedom they deserve and the future they need. This month, the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI), led by Bryan Stevenson, opened its newly expanded Legacy Museum: From Enslavement to Mass Incarceration in Montgomery, Alabama. This extraordinary new facility sits on the former site of a cotton warehouse where enslaved people once worked and complements EJI's National Memorial to Peace and Justice, a monument and sacred space
honoring victims of racial terror. The Legacy Museum uses interactive exhibits, video and digital pieces, and the work of dozens of contemporary artists to take visitors on a profoundly moving journey from the transatlantic slave trade to contemporary America. Visitors enter to the sensation of waves crashing over their heads and narrator Lupita Nyong'o describing the harrowing details of the transatlantic journey for the millions of African men, women, and children who were human cargo, two million of whom
tion has been written. It has passed the House of Representatives and it has the support of every Democratic senator. If it gets to the White House, President Biden will sign it. That bad news is that Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and his Republican colleagues are using Senate filibuster rules to keep voting rights from coming up for a vote. This is 2021, not 1921. President Biden and Senate Democrats cannot let McConnell have the final word on voting rights in this country. In the 1960s, President Lyndon
Johnson did not choose between civil rights and his anti-poverty agenda. He knew the country needed both and he used his mastery of the Senate to get both passed. That's what we need from President Biden, who has more experience in the Senate than any president since Johnson. The infrastructure bill is vitally important. So is the Build Back Better agenda. But we need the White House to devote the same level of urgency to the infrastructure of our democracy. President
EDELMAN Page 50
Ben Jealous
Why I Went to Jail on Oct. 5
Sometimes friends have to hold friends accountable. That's why I got arrested outside the White House on Oct. 5. I was there with other civil rights and religious leaders to call on President Joe Biden to do more to protect voting rights that are under attack. We know that President Biden supports voting rights. He has called anti-voting laws being passed by Republican state legislators the biggest
threat to our democracy since the Civil War. We need him to act like he truly believes those words. We need a federal voting rights law passed this year. More states are enacting voter suppression. They are abusing the redistricting process to rig future elections and give Republicans more power than they would win in a fair system. They want to shut Democrats out of power in 2022 and 2024. They want to stop progress that millions of Americans voted for when we put President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris in the
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White House—and mobilized to elect Georgia Sens. Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff. We have seen this before. When Black people and their allies won political power after the Civil War, white supremacists used violence and illegitimate power to reverse that progress. State-level voter suppression was a core tactic of Jim Crow. The solution then, and the solution today, is strong federal voting rights legislation that will override those state laws and prevent new ones from taking effect. The good news is that the legisla-
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Askia Muhammad
America's Last 'Free and Fair' Election Approaching
The late, great United States of America: I am not the last person who's going to tell you that this country is approaching its last free and fair election. You will certainly hear this lament again, as the doom of the United States as we know it approaches rapidly. The twice-impeached, one-term, 45th President intends to take pow-
er in 2024, and his supporters are preparing for violence and chaos, permitting the installation of a repressive, fascistic government. The appearance of the ruthless takeover will be softened if #45's Repugnikkkans wins control of the House of Representatives and/or the U.S. Senate in 2022. There will be endless audits and court challenges to election outcomes everywhere their cohorts don't win the most votes. They've already rigged the system in 19
states, with more than 100 new laws restricting voter access to the polls, with the intent of not letting the next election slip through their fingers. In their way of thinking, the election cannot possibly be free and fair, unless a white person, proclaiming "MAGA-A" — Make America Great Again-Again, i.e., a Trump 2024 acolyte — wins the vote, even for a position as lowly as a city dogcatcher. Then, just in case any hint of true majority rule takes place, there's
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Steve Bannon, a former White House strategist, says he will have 20,000 "shock troops" ready to act to make sure the coup d'état goes off without a hitch. He spoke in late September at the GOP-dominated Capitol Hill Club at the invitation of a new right-wing organization called the Association of Republican Presidential Appointees, according to NBC. "We control this country," Bannon ranted at the rally in which he implored the faithful to be prepared
to "deconstruct" the American republic the minute that The Donald wins the White House. If you ask me, Bannon, and the Qanon-posse have collectively lost their ever-loving minds, but the fact is they are dead serious. Think of it this way: the thousands who tried to overthrow the 2020 election on Jan. 6, 2021 in the U.S. Capitol insurrection, were simply conducting a dress rehearsal.
ASKIA Page 50 OCTOBER 14 - 20, 2021 29
LIFESTYLE 2021/22 SEASON TH
IS W
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MATTHEW WHITAKER with special guests Washington Performing Arts Children of the Gospel Choir Michele Fowlin, artistic director
FRI, OCT 15, 8pm • LINCOLN THEATRE “The fleetness of finger, the touch and taste, the grit and grime when he needs it.... Whitaker has it all.”—Downbeat A onetime child prodigy, profiled on 60 Minutes and The Today Show, 20-year-old jazz pianist-organist Matthew Whitaker has wowed audiences from L.A.’s Playboy Jazz Festival to the Apollo Theatre and a 2020 Washington Performing Arts performance. Now, he brings his irresistible virtuosity to the Lincoln Theatre, with a special guest appearance by D.C.’s own Children of the Gospel Choir.
Keyboard Phenom Matthew Whitaker Returns to D.C.
Musical Master Joins Washington Performing Arts Choir Oct. 15 Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer For Matthew Whitaker, proficient on the Hammond B3 organ, drums and other instruments, the world has witnessed his onstage wizardry since the age of 11. On Friday, Oct. 15, he’ll stop at the Lincoln Theatre in the District to showcase his musical skills as a composer, arranger and bandleader, appearing with the Washington Performing Arts Children of the Gospel Choir. "I'm very excited to work with them again and it will be amazing," said Whitaker about the choir with whom he worked in March 2020 -- one of the last concerts presented by Washington Performing Arts before the pandemic shutdown. Whitaker, blind and born prematurely at less than two pounds, had not been expected to survive. Doctors said, even if he did, he probably would not be able to crawl, walk or speak. Today, at age 21, he's a veteran musician who has collaborated with several fellow keyboardists, including Academy Award and Golden Globe winner Jon Batiste, Kennedy Center Artistic Advisor for Jazz Jason Moran, bandleader
Arturo O'Farrill, Rhoda Scott and Hammond B3 organist Dr. Lonnie Smith, who died on Sept. 28, 2021. Whitaker has also performed with bassist Christian McBride, violinist Regina Carter and vibraphonist Roy Ayers. The Hackensack, N.J. native’s career includes appearances on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show," "Showtime at the Apollo," "The Harry Connick, Jr. Show" and "60 Minutes."
WEATHERING THE PANDEMIC
Like many musicians during the pandemic, Whitaker performed streaming concerts and spent time composing. His latest CD, "Connections," features music composed before, during and in reaction to the pandemic. He recorded most of the CD in just two days. This summer, Whitaker went back on the road with live performances. "It's been great to be back in front of a live audience," he said. "You have a chance to feel their reactions. One thing I took away from the lockdown was don't be afraid to keep developing as a person and still be creative, even if
you're by yourself."
PERFORMING AT THE LINCOLN THEATRE
When Whitaker dons the Lincoln Theatre stage, Marcos Robinson will accompany him on guitar, along with Isaiah Johnson on drums and Karim Hutton on electric bass. "We're going to play everything: jazz, gospel and R&B," he said. Audiences also will hear selections from all three of Whitaker’s CDs. When Whitaker learned that he would be appearing in the space which once featured legends including Duke Ellington, Pearl Bailey, Louis Armstrong, Lionel Hampton, Ella Fitzgerald, Cab Calloway, Billie Holiday and Sarah Vaughan, he expressed his exuberance. "I'm honored and thankful to know that people I admire have played there," Whitaker said. To learn more about Whitaker visit his website https://www. matthewwhitaker.net and for tickets, see https://www.washingtonperformingarts.org/seasontickets/2021-22-season/matthew-whitaker-quartet. WI
Performances by the Children of the Gospel Choir are made possible in part through the generous support of Jacqueline Badger Mars and Mars, Incorporated.
MORE INFO: WashingtonPerformingArts.org • (202) 785-9727 TICKETS: TheLincolnDC.com
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5 Matthew Whitaker performs with the Washington Performing Arts Children of the Gospel Choir at Lincoln Theatre on Friday, Oct. 15. (Courtesy photo)
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When Marian Anderson Spent a Night With Albert Einstein
LIFESTYLE
Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum: Team-Up with Chef Carla Hall for a COVID-safe Adventure in a Box By Andrea Jones Associate Director of Education
Ford’s Theatre Play Explores Serendipitous Meeting
5 The cast of “My Lord, What a Night” includes (from left) Felicia Curry as Marian Anderson, Fanchelle Stewart Dorn as Mary Church Terrell, Michael Russotto as Abraham Flexner and Christopher Bloch as Albert Einstein. The play is at Ford’s Theatre until Oct. 24. (Photo courtesy Ford's Theatre)
Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer Following a 1937 performance in Princeton, N.J., world-famous contralto Marian Anderson could not secure lodging at a local hotel because of her race. Fortunately, the renowned physicist Albert Einstein, seated in the audience, invited her to stay at his home during which the two, formerly unknown to one another, discovered they shared a love for both music and human rights. Their encounter, which in many ways mirrors themes which remain prevalent today, takes center stage in “My Lord, What a Night.” The play, written by Deborah Brevoort and directed by Sheldon Epps, continues at Ford’s Theatre through Oct. 24. “I’ve always been interested in historical events or relationships we don’t know much about,” said Epps on why he chose this play. “When I was told about this play, like everybody else, I said ‘Oh my God, they were friends?’”
A STRUGGLE OVER WHAT TO DO
There’s a clear sense of “push-pull” to the friendship between Anderson
and Einstein portrayed with intense conviction by Felicia Curry as Anderson and Christopher Bloch as Einstein, both veterans with Ford’s Theatre. While Einstein wants to stand up against the treatment experienced by his new friend, Anderson wants to keep a low profile to ensure her career does not come to an abrupt end. The incident took place two years before Anderson would be banned from singing at the Daughters of the American Revolution Constitution Hall in the District which paved the way for her memorable performance on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. “Theatrically it was good and exciting,” said Epps about Anderson’s historically significant performance. “Socially and politically, it’s very sad that much in this play deserves to be discussed right now. We need to be reminded that these inequities and injustices still exist and still need to be fought.”
OUTSTANDING CASTING
Rounding out the four-person ensemble for “My Lord, What a Night,” audiences will see Michael Russotto as Abraham Flexner, head of the
Our museum’s year-long focus on food has its perks – like deep conversations with celebrity chef, Carla Hall. It all came about as we brainstormed creative ways to develop COVID-safe programs inspired by our current exhibition, “Food for the People: Eating & Activism in Greater Washington.” As a result, we set out to design a food adventure in a box that sends adults and families on a surprise-filled journey around the DC. Essentially, we’re turning the city into a museum! When we thought about adventure and food, Carla Hall’s name was one of the first to come to mind. Her personal motto is “Say yes, adventure follows, then growth!” Living true to her creed, Carla says “yes” to lots of adventures. She famously appeared in Season 5 and Season 8 of the reality TV series, Top Chef. She was also a co-host of The Chew – an Emmy-winning food talk show that ran for seven seasons. And close to our Smithsonian heart, she also helped design the menu at the Sweet Home Café in the National Museum of African American History and Culture. When she signed on to be the subject of our “Urban Adventure Kit,” my team was thrilled. We interviewed Carla for a total of three hours, asking her about the important places in DC that helped shape her philosophy of food. We discussed everything -- big turning points in her thinking, early career choices, and food memories. And we connected her stories to the DC places where they happened. So, participants will walk in Carla’s shoes as her culinary journey unfolds. Carla was just as fun and down-to-earth in person as she is on TV. She came to the museum with a big smile on her face wearing work-out gear- as if she were ready to sweat out her memories! The conversations we had made me realize how much a person’s worldview is informed by specific moments– these experiences that happen as a result of decisions we all make. I thought about my own life choices. And I think she was figuring things out about herself too. “Have you always been proud of being Black?” I asked. “Oh, Howard did that, 100%” she said. “It was more Black people than I had ever seen in my life!” We captured Carla’s food stories on audio. But participants will have to find the QR codes around town in order to access the audio. First, we’ll mail people a box. Inside the box Is an instruction booklet with a set of puzzles to solve. Carla loves puzzles so it seemed fitting to make this a bit of a challenge. After solving the puzzle to get each DC address, adventurers will pack certain items for the trip and head off to that location in search of a QR code- those little computer-generated squares that you scan with your phone. Along the way, there will be food to sample and challenges to try. We’ve even included a pair of signature “Carla glasses” so that participants can literally see the city through her eyes. This type of outside-the-museum adventure is a first for us but it won’t be the last. Chef and humanitarian José Andrés will be the subject of our next culinary journey! We’re on a roll and we hope our audiences agree. We are embracing a lesson learned during the pandemic—that meaningful and fun experiences designed by museums don’t have to take place in the museum. Here are the details: • Urban Adventure Kits will be available starting October 14th • Pay what you can, but the suggested donation is $50/box • The program ends December 31st, 2021 • For more information, visit anacostia.si.edu beginning October 14th
LORD Page 32
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OCTOBER 14 - 20, 2021 31
LIFESTYLE
LORD from Page 31 Princeton University Institute for Advancement Study and Fanchelle Stewart Dorn as Mary Church Terrell, a well-known civil rights activist and suffragist who lived in Washington, D.C. Flexner and Terrell contribute to the debate of whether to protest or to not protest. Flexner, who brought Einstein to Princeton, reminded the physicist that he’s on shaky ground at the university because he has not made any new discoveries. Terrell remains frustrated by Anderson’s unwillingness to leverage her notoriety to help her people. Epps has a perspective on what the play uncovers.
“It’s really about a woman, a very famous woman finding her voice.” she said. “She was reticent and reluctant about raising her voice on social and political matters.” “My Lord, What a Night,” originally scheduled to open at Ford’s Theatre last year, had to be postponed due to the pandemic. The play, based on a relatively unknown 1937 historical nugget, remains relevant today. Sheldon Epps recently addressed the paradoxical encounter. In-person performances of “My Lord, What a Night'' continue through Oct. 24. Go to Ford's Theatre - Washington, D.C. for details related to safety protocol and tickets. WI
HIGH-QUALITY Early Learning for children from 6 weeks to Age 5
FREE for Income-Qualified DC Residents Two Locations in Ward 7 5 In “My Lord, What a Night,” (from left) Felicia Curry as Marian Anderson and Christopher Bloch as Albert Einstein are brought together by their mutual love of music and desire for equal justice. The play continues at Ford’s Theatre through Oct. 24. (Photo courtesy Ford’s Theatre)
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LIFESTYLE TICKETS ON SALE NOW
Actress Kimberly Marable Embraces Her ‘Dream Role’ in ‘Hadestown’ Award-winning Musical Kicks Off Return of Broadway Shows at Kennedy Center
UPCOMING
FEATURING
D. Kevin McNeir WI Senior Editor
Mason Artist-in-Residence
Sphinx Virtuosi Tracing Visions
Sunday, Oct. 17 at 3 p.m. Stretch beyond the usual notions of the classical music canon Virginia Opera
La Bohème: Rodolfo Remembers Saturday, Nov. 13 at 8 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 14 at 2 p.m. A stunning condensed version of Puccini’s masterpiece
TICKETS cfa.gmu.edu or 703-993-2787 Located on the Fairfax campus of George Mason University. For information on health and safety protocols, visit cfa.gmu.edu/vaccination.
34 OCTOBER 14 - 20, 2021
Brooklyn’s own Kimberly Marable has conquered both stage and screen – even lending her voice on the Netflix anime series, “Cannon Busters.” But in talking about the opportunity to perform the leading role of Persephone in the Tony Award-winning Best New Musical (20182019) “Hadestown,” she said she’s not only thrilled but blessed to be playing her “dream role.” “Hadestown,” which opened Oct. 13 at the Kennedy Center Opera House in Northwest, continues through Oct. 31. And for those who have long been devout aficionados of the theater, there’s reason to celebrate as the production serves as the first Broadway musical back at the Kennedy Center since early 2020. “The lights have been off at theaters for close to 19 months – that’s a long time,” said Marable, who also starred in the musical, again in the role of Persephone, Our Lady of the Underground, as a member of the original Broadway company. “As a performer and theater goer, I’ve missed the community. As artists, when we share space with the audience and get a once in a lifetime experience for those two 2 ½ hours on stage, we’re allowed the opportunity to share the story. The large amount of time alone that we’ve recently experienced has reminded me of the importance of being together and having ways to tell stories, communicating with one another and living in the present. And I’m optimistic that the theater is back for the long haul.” Marable has a list of impressive credits under her belt including “The Lion King,” “Sister Act,” “Dreamgirls,” “Hairspray” and “The Book of Mormon.” But she pointed to several factors which make this show particularly “special.” “First, you have to start with the music because it’s so different from what you tend to think about in a Broadway musical,” she said. “The
5 Kimberly Marable shines in Hadestown. (Photo courtesy Kennedy Center)
band is only seven musicians but they break new ground with American folk music and blue grass blended with New Orleans-inspired jazz as part of their repertoire. The music is simply fantastic.” “Hadestown,” written by celebrated singer-songwriter and Tony Award® winner Anaïs Mitchell and developed with innovative director and Tony Award® winner Rachel Chavkin, marks the first time in over a decade that a woman has been the solo author of a musical: writing the music, lyrics and book – the fourth time in Broadway history a woman has accomplished this creative feat. Following two intertwining love stories – that of young dreamers Orpheus and Eurydice, and that of King Hades and his wife Persephone, “Hadestown” invites the audience to embark upon a hell-raising journey to the underworld and back. Beguiling melodies and poetic imagination pit industry against nature, doubt against faith and fear against love. Performed by a vibrant ensemble of actors, dancers and singers, “Hadestown” delivers a deeply resonant and defiantly hopeful theatrical experience.
“I never thought about what I would identify as my ‘dream role’ but I’ve come to realize that this is it,” Marable said. “I always wanted to be an actor; I suppose ever since being in my mother’s womb. I used to make up songs, sing and dance on the bus and embarrass her.” “But as Persephone, as I was recently telling our director, this serves as the dream role I never knew until I met ‘her.’ It’s not often, especially as a Black actress, that you get the chance to portray a Black queen and goddess. Even more important to me, she’s a character who’s complicated and has real morals. And with most of the play being sung, much like an opera, I have the chance to interpret some of most beautiful music I’ve ever heard.” “I’m having the time of my life.” “And then, it’s just wonderful to see theaters open again and know that they’re taking precautions to keep the cast, crew and audience safe so theaters can remain open – so we can live again – so we can live our fullest lives,” Marable said. Visit www.kennedy-center.org for tickets or more information. WI @mcneirdk
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NEGLECT from Page 9 District invested local dollars via Families First DC to launch 10 family success centers in Wards 7 and 8. CFSA acting Director Robert L. Matthews hinted at plans to build another center in Ward 5 in response to data showing an increase in child abuse and neglect some of what are considered social deterimants of health and crime increases there.
BREAKING DOWN THE NEGLECT REFERRAL PROCESS
CFSA follows the legal definition of child neglect, as found in D.C. Code § 16-2301, which describes it as abandonment and abuse of a child, deprivation of education, sustenance and parental care or failure to prevent a child or adult from inflicting harm on a child in the home. Other definitions center on parental drug abuse, incarceration and a lack of effort on parents’ part to maintain a relationship with the child. When CFSA receives calls outside of its purview, the agency refers families to community-based resources or the Mayor’s Services
FLETCHER from Page 11 the organization, said Fletcher-Johnson shouldn’t become a hub for luxury housing. “We would like for the project to have people who have more than average incomes,” Freese said. “One of the problems we have in getting grocery stores is due to the income levels in our neighborhoods. If we had more people who made $75,000 a year, as a household, I think we could get another full-service grocery store in the area. This project needs working people living in it.”
DISB from Page 15 co-invest to provide the access to capital to small businesses in need of funding support.”
BLACK BUSINESS LEADERS PUZZLED
While Woods praises her program, the details of DC BizCAP remain murky to many Blacks who are in business. The Informer reached out to Kimberly Corbin, chief administrative and financial officer of the Greater Washington Urban League. Corbin said she doesn’t have sufficient knowledge about the program to comment. Amanda Stephenson, who owns The Fresh Food Factory in Ward 8 and has a reputation as a pro-Black small business activist, said she had not heard of DC BizCAP either.
Liaison Office which works in partnership with D.C. Superior Court Family Court. Otherwise, investigators dispatched to homes conduct investigations and collect evidence to determine whether abuse or neglect exists. If that appears to be the case, then CFSA either opens an in-home case or places the child in foster care. Reuniting parents with children taken out of the home requires a parent’s cooperation with a social worker and the court system on an assessment of the parent’s ability to provide a stable home environment. Last month, as he spoke about the District’s FFPSA compliance at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s legislative conference, Matthews, CFSA’s acting director, said many Black parents in resource-starved households don’t trust child welfare agencies to keep their best interests in mind. That’s why he espoused a commitment to following a process that prevents child neglect and abuse while keeping families together. “There are scenarios like homelessess, childcare [needs] and access to food and clothing,” Matthews said. “We get those types of calls but they don’t result in a CFSA investigation. It’s not neglect. It’s just families who lack certain resources to provide basic needs for their kids.” WI Hasan-Towery also serves as the president of Marshall Heights Civic Association. He rejects luxury housing outright for Fletcher-Johnson. “We have taken surveys of people in the neighborhood on what they want for Fletcher-Johnson,” Hasan-Towery said. “Luxury housing is very low on the list. We have enough affordable housing in Ward 7. We want people to live in Fletcher-Johnson who have a good, standard income.” WI @JamesDCWrighter However, Alfred Swailes, the owner of A&A Premium Paint Distributor, LLC in Northeast Washington and a leader of the D.C. Black Business Task Force, said he knows the program. “I tried to get some funding through DC BizCAP working through the Latino Economic Development Center,” Swailes said. “I found the process to be cumbersome and it involves a lot of work and time. My application didn’t get processed fully.” Swailes said it doesn’t surprise him that few know about the program. “It hasn’t been well-publicized,” he said. “When Black business people want information on sources of capital that they can get with the help of the D.C. government, they go to DSLBD, not DISB.” WI @JamesDCWrighter
LIFESTYLE At Washington Gas, safely and reliably meeting the energy needs of our customers are our highest priorities. Please read the information below and share it with others. NATURAL GAS SAFETY What to Do If You Smell Natural Gas If you suspect a natural gas leak or other gas emergency, evacuate the area immediately and, from a safe location, call 911 and then the Washington Gas Emergency Leak Line at 844-WASHGAS (Select Option 1). Never attempt to locate the source of the odor. RECOGNIZE What does natural gas smell like? Natural gas is non-toxic, colorless, odorless and combustible. For safety and detection, Washington Gas adds an unpleasant odorant called mercaptan to the natural gas delivered through our distribution system. Call 202-624-6092 for a "Scratch & Sniff" brochure. Government agencies and officials, schools, businesses, property managers and others are invited to request multiple copies of the brochure for public educations and awareness purposes. Other Signs of Natural Gas Because gas traveling through a small portion of our transmission pipelines is not odorized, you should also familiarize yourself with visible and audible signs of a possible leak. Follow the same precautions described below if you are outside and smell gas; hear hissing or blowing noises; see dirt being thrown into the air; see fire coming from the ground or appearing to burn above ground; see water bubbling or being blown into the air at a pond, creek or river; or see a dry spot in a moist field or dead or dying vegetation on or near a pipeline right-of-way. REACT If you smell natural gas, do not attempt to locate the source of the odor. Evacuate the area immediately and, from a safe location, call 911 and then the Washington Gas Emergency Leak Line at 844-WASHGAS (Select Option 1). If the odor is very strong, or you hear a blowing or hissing noise, vacate the building or area immediately, leaving doors unlocked as you go. Warn others as you exit, if possible. Do nothing that could create an ignition source. Do not light a match or use any type of phone or battery-powered equipment. Do not turn electrical equipment or light switches on or off. Do not start a car or any type of motorized equipment. Call 911 and the Washington Gas emergency numbers listed above, only after you are a safe distance away from the building or area. Gas Migration Natural gas is distributed through a network of underground pipes and service lines. If a leak should occur, it is possible for gas to migrate into buildings, including those without natural gas service.
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RESPOND Washington Gas responds 24 hours a day, seven days a week to address natural gas leaks and other emergencies. If a leak poses an immediate threat, the company takes quick action to make the area safe. If a natural gas leak does not pose an immediate threat, corrective action may be scheduled for a later date.
PREVENT PIPELINE DAMAGE CALL MISS UTILITY AT 811 BEFORE YOU DIG Digging related damage is a major cause of pipeline accidents. 811 is the national Call Before You Dig/Miss Utility telephone number that initiates the process of marking the underground utility lines in your yard or on your job. Your call to 811 will be routed to your local One Call Center - in the District of Columbia, Maryland or Virginia. Local One Call Center personnel then notify member utilities, such as Washington Gas, to mark the approximate locations of underground utility lines with high-visibility safety paint and/or flags. The service is free. Everyone, including homeowners and construction companies, should always call Miss Utility at 811, at least two full business/working days excluding weekends and holidays before you are scheduled to begin any digging, regardless of size or depth. When using mechanized equipment, it is required by law to call 811 before you dig. Do not begin digging until the lines have been marked or confirmed as "no conflict." If you are unsure whether the underground utilities have been marked in your yard or on your job, check back with your One Call Center to make certain there are no underground utilities where you plan to dig. Most importantly, dialing 811 can help avoid serious injury and even fatalities, as well as property damage and significant expense that can occur when underground utilities are damaged. Always call 811 before you dig, each dig, every dig.
To learn more, visit washingtongas.com
OCTOBER 14 - 20, 2021 35
LIFESTYLE © 2021 by Vicki Whiting, Editor Jeff Schinkel, Graphics Vol. 37, No. 46
Pliers are important for electricians who work with and cut wire. Electrical pliers have rubbercoated handles to help protect the user from electric shock. It’s important that the handles be kept clean, dry and free of grease that could pass electricity from the pliers to the electrician’s hand.
What do you want to be when you grow up? Have you ever thought about being an electrician? ave you ever turned on a light? Turned up the heat when you are cold? Recharged a phone or watched TV? If so, you can thank an electrician! An electrician uses wiring and equipment to bring electricity to the devices and appliances in your house. Electrical outlets, plugs, wires and other
TOOL BOX TRIVIA: PLIERS
Choose a n place. Writ in this box
How many pliers do you see?
equipment carry electricity throughout your home. Warning! Electricity is a powerful friend, but it can also be very dangerous, even deadly. Be sure to read the Electrician’s Safety Tips.
Standards Link: Mathematics: Undertstand base 10 place value.
How many of these things can you find in your home? Go on a electrical search with a parent!
TELEVISION ELECTRIC OUTLETS FINGERS SAFETY PLIERS WIRING DEADLY LIGHT PLUGS POWER SHOCK HEAT CORD WET
1. Never put _________ or objects into outlets. 2. Never use electronics near __________ or when your hands are wet. 3. Never plug too many things into the same power strip or extension ________. 4. Never pull cords out of outlets by the cord – pull on the plug or ask an _________.
N O I S I V E L E T C E L E P L I E R S
I W P L U G S S C R
R S E D H T R T G E
T H A T R E R E N G
What do y heard, sme when repo
C O I F W O A L I N E C C O E I C T R I
L K P A N T S U I F
E D E A D L Y O W A Standards Link: Letter sequencing. Recognize identical words. Skim and scan reading. Recall spelling patterns.
5. Never __________ outdoor transformer boxes. 6. Never fly _________ or drones near power lines.
Why do yo senses (see touch) is im
Power Surge
7. Never climb _________ near power lines. 8. Always ask an adult for help when using new electronics.
Can you find the electrician van that’s different? How many light bulbs can you find on this page?
Being an electrican is a great job:
Electric Words
Look through the newspaper for 10 or more words that describe electricity and/or what electricity does, such as “power,” “run,” “on,” “off,” etc. Write a poem or paragraph about electricity with your words. Standards Link: Writing: Create poems or prose addressing a topic with supporting details.
36 OCTOBER 14 - 20, 2021
WHAT did reporting a
Look through the newspaper for things that need electricity. For each example, make a list of ways people could accomplish the same work without using electricity. Standards Link: Physical Science: Electrical energy can be converted to heat, light and motion.
Mission Possible Describe what you would like to be if you could be anything in the world.
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Standards L evidence from
Chil From their e brings delig expand the joy of read
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LIFESTYLE
wi book review "Things We Couldn't Say" By Jay Coles c.2021, Scholastic $18.99 320 pages
horoscopes
OCT. 14 - 20, 2021
ARIES You may want to set intentions around how you relate to others and express yourself. Envision your goal, map out your game plan, then, in your own time, make a move. Later on, the focus shifts to your home life, and you'll be craving more downtime close to home and solid bonding time with loved ones. Having heart-to-hearts with your nearest and dearest will feel especially restorative. Lucky Numbers: 1, 31, 32 TAURUS During the week ahead, your mind could be focused on your income. Whatever you learn could go far to informing a winning financial plan, ultimately boosting your portfolio. Later on, the energy shifts to your third house of communication, spurring your curiosity and creativity. You'll do well to parlay this energy toward animated conversations with friends, colleagues, and loved ones. Lucky Numbers: 7, 24, 58 GEMINI During the week ahead, you'll be feeling especially reflective about big picture personal and professional goals. Set your intention, then share it with someone near and dear. It'll soon be within reach. Later this week, the focus shifts towards your income, making it even easier to express your thoughts and desires related to money. Pitch that passion project you've been musing about. Lucky Numbers: 16, 25, 54
Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer You'd like an explanation, please. Why something is done or not, why permission is denied, you'd like to hear a simple reason. You've been asking "Why?" since you were 2 years old but now the older you get, the more urgent is the need to know – although, in the new book "Things We Couldn't Say" by Jay Coles, there could be a dozen becauses. Sometimes, mostly when he didn't need it to happen, Giovanni Zucker's birth mother took over his thoughts. It wasn't as though she was the only thing he had to think about. Gio was an important part of the basketball team at Ben Davis High School; in fact, when he thought about college, he hoped for a basketball scholarship. He had classes to study for, two best friends he wanted to hang out with, a little brother who was his reason to get up in the morning, and a father who was always pushing for help at the church he ran. As for his romantic life, there wasn't much to report: Gio dated girls and he'd dated guys and he was kinda feeling like he liked guys more. So no, he didn't want to think about his birth mother. The woman who walked out on the family when Gio was a little kid didn't deserve his consideration at all. There was just no time for the first woman who broke his heart. It was nice to have distractions from his thoughts. Gio's best friends had his back. He knew pretty much everybody in his Indianapolis neighborhood. And the guy who moved across the street, a fellow b-baller named David, was becoming a good friend. A very good friend. David was bisexual, too. But just as their relationship was beginning, the unthinkable happened: Gio's birth mother reached out, emailed him, wanted to meet with him, and he was torn. She said she had "reasons" for abandoning him all those years ago, and her truth was not what he'd imagined … There are a lot of pleasant surprises inside "Things We Couldn't Say." From the start, author Jay coles gives his main character a great support system, and that's a uniquely good thing. Gio enjoys the company of people who want the best for him, and it's refreshing that even the ones who are villains do heroic things. Everyone in this book, in fact, has heart, and that softens the drama that Coles adds — which leads to another nice surprise: there's no overload of screeching drama here. Overwrought teen conflict is all but absent; even potential angsts that Gio might notice in his urban neighborhood are mentioned but not belabored. This helps keep readers focused on a fine, relatable, and very realistic coming-of-age story line. This book is aimed at readers ages 12 and up, but beware that there are a few gently explicit, but responsibly written, pages that might not be appropriate for kids in the lower target range. For older kids and adults, though, "Things We Couldn't Say" offers plenty of reasons to love it. WI
CANCER During the week ahead, the cosmic energy amplifies your creativity. Later on, you will be asked to focus on your spirituality and shore up commitment to your mind and body wellness. In turn, your need for solo time and self-care could be heightened. Spending time meditating, going to yoga has you feeling more emotionally centered and vital overall. Lucky Numbers: 11, 19, 47 LEO Spending time processing your emotions through self-expression can feel especially therapeutic and restorative now. Later on, a focus on friendship could have you juggling a variety of events. You could feel energized by the nonstop pace, but if you feel the need to RSVP "no" to one of the many invites in the name of self-care, don't hesitate to set that boundary. Lucky Numbers: 4, 15, 20 VIRGO This week, the astrological focus is on friendships, encouraging you to nourish and deepen platonic connections. This could look like planning group dates, attending group fitness classes, and prioritizing FaceTime sessions with your BFFs who aren't local. These activities are not only stimulating, but they'll go far to strengthen your bonds. Then, you'll be inspired to work with others on a professional project. Allowing room for plenty of creative brainstorming and a wide variety of ideas can set everyone up for a collective win. Don't be surprised if you're recognized by higher-ups! Lucky Numbers: 2, 16, 31 LIBRA This week you'll crave for unusual and eye-opening experiences. As long as you're investing your time or energy into broadening your horizons, you'll feel like you're on track now and moving forward. Later on, the focus moves to your career sector so you can expect a flurry of meetings and presentations. In fact, you'll do well to take advantage of this phase by sitting down with higher-ups and sharing your visions and longterm goals. These kinds of dialogues can lead to professional growth. Lucky Numbers: 4, 18, 35 SCORPIO This week, the focus on sexual intimacy, fueling your desire to set a different tone with your partner or a potential lover. Later in the week, you may be inspired to attend an online conference or a seminar to hone your skillset. This current thirst for learning paired with an open mind about stepping up your professional game could lead to advancement in your career in the near future. Lucky Numbers: 29, 32, 45 SAGITTARIUS During the week ahead, the current focus is on your partnership zone. You could get a burst of energy to take on a bold, ambitious project with your mate, a close friend, or colleague. The next step: Mapping out your strategy and diving in. Since there will also be energy around your eighth house of sexual intimacy, you'll be more apt than usual to talk about your desires and fantasies. . Lucky Numbers: 23, 26, 37 CAPRICORN Switch up your current approach to healthy eating and fitness. You can start slowly by doing research and gathering information from trusted sources. Trust your intuition, and you'll know how to proceed. Later in the week, you could be inspired to express romantic feelings more than usual. Lucky Numbers: 11, 16, 31 AQUARIUS Take your healthy lifestyle plan to the next level. Finding new ways to squeeze in that extra yoga workout. Later in the week, the focus shifts to your house of romance to infuse your desire to connect with the object of your affection in a playful, spontaneous way. That said, when it comes to date nights do your best to go with the flow. Lucky Numbers: 10, 40, 52 PISCES You'll be feeling even more imaginative than usual. You'll also want to share your daydreams with someone special. Embracing a bit of escapism and spontaneity could make for an especially memorable time. Later on, the alignments move towards a more private area of your chart, when you could desire even more time with loved ones and spent on projects around your home. Doing whatever you need to do to amplify your sense of security and comfort is especially worthwhile and rejuvenating now. Lucky Numbers: 30, 33, 45
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OCTOBER 14 - 20, 2021 37
SPORTS Rivera 'Rebuild' Remains Work-in-Progress Heinicke Falters, Secondary Struggles Rob Warren WI Sportswriter Coming into the season the Washington Football Team had designs of repeating as NFC East Champions and becoming a major force in the league being led by their young talented core on their vaunted defensive line, including Chase Young and Montez Sweat. The thought was free agent acquisition Ryan Fitzpatrick, a grizzled veteran quarterback, could master the scheme fast enough to take the offense from anemic to at least league average at which point the defense would take up the slack. Well, in the first half of the season opener a tough pass rush knocked Fitzpatrick out for several weeks with a hip injury, and Washington’s star free agent receiver Curtis Samuel was sidelined from the offseason all the way through week three. Then the defense that finished 2020 ranked second found itself sliced and diced by San Diego’s Justin Herbert, New York’s Daniel Jones, Buffalo’s Josh Allen and Atlanta’s Matt Ryan. The defense played pretty decent ball on first and second down, but third down turned out to be the defense’s Achilles’ heel. Typically, every quarterback the WFT faced in the first third of the season found wide receivers, running backs and tight ends available to overcome third and long yardage dilemmas. In the first three weeks of the season, offenses scored touchdowns on their first possession. In week four there was a slight improvement as Matt Ryan and the Falcons were only
38 OCTOBER 14 - 20, 2021
able to muster a field goal. In the absence of Fitzpatrick, Washington fan favorite Taylor Heinicke has taken the reins and been a spark plug for what in 2020 was an anemic passing offense and mediocre offense overall. Heinicke’s statistics marked one of the best starts for a Washington quarterback in decades. His teammates believe a game is never over with Heinicke at the controls because of his-never-give-up attitude.
5 Taylor Heinicke directs offense in a loos to the New Orleans Saints 33-22 at Fedex Field on October 10. (Abdullah Konte/ The Washington Informer)
While the Washington offense has been able to move the ball and has been plucky and productive. The defense has not held up their end of the bargain. The defense has given up 30 points every week except for week one. Getting off the field on third down has been a struggle and so has getting to the opponents quarterbacks. Through five games, Chase Young only has one sack, and the secondary has struggled. The secondary has given up
wide open touchdowns in every game. Inexplicable breakdowns in coverage have been frustrating to Rivera and defense coordinator Jack Del Rio. The front four were able to get pressure on New Orleans quarterback Jameis Winston in their fifth game this past weekend, and caused a fumble, and picked off Winston. But Winston also passed for 4 touchdowns, including a half time hail mary touchdown. Piled on top of the disappointing start for Washington’s defense are injuries that are piling up week after week. In week five, Brandon Scherff(OG), Logan Thomas(TE), and wideouts Dyami Brown and Cam Sims were inactive because of injuries. Before the New Orleans ended rookie Offensive Tackle, Sam Cosmi and receiver Curtis Samuel were added to that list. After game 5 the frustration in Rivera’s voice was evident in the post-game press
conference. “I think we lack a little bit of confidence right now. We have too many good football players to be where we are. Our record reflects what we are,we are a 2-3 football team.” On Monday in his weekly interview with the Sports Junkies of 106.7 The FAN, Rivera voiced disappointment and said that this team was still in a rebuild, that the team still needed to learn and grow. On the positive side, the offense has been able to move the football, and the pass rush which had struggled for four weeks is starting to play together and make plays. The front four did get pressure on Jameis, and caused two turnovers. While Heinicke suffered an off day in game 5, he has generally sparked and stabilized the offense. All is not lost yet for this season, there’s still an opportunity to grab a playoff spot. If the defensive line can consistently get pressure and stop the run, and the secondary at least stop having busted coverages every week. There’s some growth reason for optimism. WI
5 Deandre Carter in pain after tackle in a loss to the New Orleans Saints 33-22 at Fedex Field on October 10. (Abdullah Konte/ The Washington Informer)
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Adofo said DDOT told him that the assessment would take 130 days to complete. Since the incident, Adofo has communicated with DDOT. Last Friday, representatives of the agency reportedly made a visit to the intersection. On Tues., Oct.12, when Adofo testified at a D.C. Council hearing about the District’s Safe Passage program, he advocated for crossing guards and mechanisms to prevent drivers from speeding. He revealed plans to appear, along with other community members, at the confirmation hearing of DDOT acting Director Everett Lott toward the end of the month. “What we can do as citizens is advocate for more resources,” said Adofo, commissioner of ANC 8C07, which includes Congress Heights. “I’m learning that Ward 8 doesn’t have enough people advocating for resources, so the places with more people on record get more attention,” he said. “You can say these things on social media but we need to be able to see it on record and show them the things that we want to see.” Lott recently joined D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) and Deputy Mayor for Operations and Infrastructure Lucinda M. Babers near the Deanwood Metro Station in Northeast to announce the acceleration of traffic safety improvement projects and processing requests for traffic safety assessments. Within the next six weeks, DDOT plans to complete 50 projects across the District to continue a process which began last summer. The agency has also consolidated its safety programs to address residents’ requests in a more expeditious manner. As of Oct. 12, 67 traffic safety projects have been completed while nearly a dozen remain in the final stages of completion. In total, District officials will focus on 109 corridors, 25 of which account for a significant number of accidents and fatalities. “We will do everything to make sure these roads are safer but people need personal responsibility,” Lott said. “We’re going to accelerate our roadway and intersection improvements to include installation of speed bumps, stop signs and hard-right turn measures. We also know that we must shorten the time it takes to implement these safety improvements.”
A DAY FOREVER ETCHED IN COMMUNITY MEMBERS’ MINDS
On Oct. 6, designated as International Walk-to-School Day, a Jeep Grand Cherokee struck Belton and his daughters, Faith and Heavyn White, shortly after entering the crosswalk at Wheeler Road and Mississippi Avenue. Police said Belton and his daughters had the right of way when the Jeep Grand Cherokee turned quickly onto Wheeler Road from Mississippi Avenue. The driver of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, who hasn’t been identified, received a bevy of charges, including driving without a license. Belton suffered a broken ankle. His eight-year-old daughter emerged with a broken leg while his six-yearold daughter’s facial injuries will require multiple surgeries. As of the afternoon of Oct. 12, a GoFundMe campaign Belton started has garnered more than $51,000 in contributions from more than 1,000 people. Belton didn’t respond to The Informer for comment but he has shared several messages with his donors. “It’s really hard for us right now. We’ve never been through anything like this but I really just wanted to thank you all for the love y’all have been showing us. The prayers and support. To be honest, I ‘ve never seen so many people show us this much love. It is very much appreciated,” Belton wrote on his GoFundMe page. D.C. Councilmember Trayon White (D-Ward 8) wrote a letter to D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) about the Oct. 6 incident and other issues he said DDOT still has not addressed. White mentioned that his office has long requested crossing guards and speed bumps in that area. White also attributed 15 accidents at Good Hope Road and Fendell Street to a median installed without community input. Other areas of concern include the intersection of Alabama Avenue and Stanton Road near Turner Elementary School and the 800/900 block of Southern Avenue.
ADDRESSING THE BIGGER ISSUE
In 2015, the District’s budget
40 OCTOBER 14 - 20, 2021
included initial funding for Vision Zero, the Bowser administration’s endeavor to eliminate traffic fatalities and pedestrian injuries by 2024 through the use of data, education, enforcement and engineering. DDOT counts among more than 20 agencies now participating in the Vision Zero initiative. Over the years, Vision Zero has received criticism for being described as a failure to reduce traffic and pedestrian fatalities. Between 2017 and 2020, the Metropolitan Police Department reported 160 traffic fatalities. As of Oct. 8, 30 traffic fatalities have occurred in the District this year, a three percent increase from data recorded around the same time last year. Last month, the Office of the D.C. auditor launched an investigation to determine why Vision Zero hasn’t produced the desired results. D.C. Auditor Kathleen Patterson reportedly requested documentation about traffic fatalities and DDOT responses, a list of traffic safety assessment requests and the use of federal funds. In the aftermath of another Oct. 6 accident on the corner of Farragut Street and Illinois Avenue in Northwest, Vision Zero representatives along with D.C. Councilmembers Christina Henderson (I-At large) and Janeese Lewis George (D-Ward 4) converged on the intersection to address longtime concerns about the absence of a four-way stop sign. While ANC Commissioner Zach Israel commended the response, he expressed disappointment that DDOT didn’t address his traffic safety assessment request about Farragut Street and Illinois Avenue much sooner. With Truesdell Elementary School a couple of blocks away from the accident scene, Israel implored DDOT to develop systems that challenge longstanding ideas about what cannot be done at certain intersections. ”Something’s not right and we need to find a solution,” said Israel, who represents ANC 4D04, which includes the Brightwood Park and Petworth neighborhoods. “The video of the accident moved them but it shouldn’t take that to prompt DDOT to take action more aggressively. I just truly hope there’s a cultural change happening but I didn’t necessarily get that from the visit,” he said. WI
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RELIGION the religion corner WITH LYNDIA GRANT
My Grandfather: Proud, Southern Landowner Since 1945
This is a true Black History story of a young boy by the name of Floyd Hill. He grew up in rural North Carolina, who had a dream that he would someday own a very large farm. Though he was born in 1907, he disregarded the extreme racism in the South, and he kept his dream alive. During his early 20s, Floyd did purchase his dream farm — 227.2 acres, repossessed from a white family during the Great Depression. In 1943, he had to go back and forth to court, fighting for what was rightfully his. Ku Klux Klan burned crosses on his lawn and his family was terrorized, but young Floyd kept fighting. In 1945, though, the Supreme Court ruled in his favor. DeBruhl vs. L. Harvey & Son Company Case #167 in the U.S. Library of Congress documents how then-Chief Justice William H. Bobbitt declared that no living DeBruhl or any unborn DeBruhl could ever again file suit for possession of the Hill Farm. Today, my grandparents Floyd and Pearl Hill are deceased. We are all so proud of their efforts. The Hill Farm and legacy continues. Although this happened 72 years ago, it is worthy of its own place in Black history. Here is a little about my grandfather, Floyd. As a young boy, Floyd lived on a farm in Beaver Creek, North Carolina, 60 miles from Morehead City Beach, a little town near Kinston. He was born March 26, 1907, just four decades after the abolishment of slavery in America. Pappy used what NASA calls 'Visual Motor Rehearsal,' with his
infinite wisdom, was assuming the role of the owner of his own farm, mentally. It was still the early years of so-called freedom, when education wasn't offered to little Black boys and girls on an equal basis. Pappy finished in a church that was a school by day and a church on Sundays. It only went as far as the sixth grade, but he graduated and was considered educated. Pappy was born 47 years before the historic Brown vs. Board of Education which was passed in 1954. One day, Pappy said to his mother, "Mama, look all around. You see all of that land, in every direction? Someday, I'm going to own every bit of it!" Finally old enough, he began to work as a farmhand, always observing everything his overseers do, his mental picture very clear. He made a choice to watch how successful people live, for he knew someday he could live that way as well. He knew he would be the
owner of his very own farm. For the next 30 years, Floyd worked on several farms, continuing to save, work and learn, until Oct. 17, 1945, when he got the opportunity to buy the farm he always wanted. Attorney Watt Lero took him to auction and purchased the farm for him. Without delay, he sold it to Floyd. Though he was able to purchase the farm, with the help of his attorney and real estate mortgage banker Walter D. LaRoque, Floyd had a big fight on his hands. Once the white family discovered a Black man purchased their farm, they became determined to get it back. However, his able-bodied, white attorney helped him during this period in history, all the way through the Supreme Court. It worked! This is a lesson in the way to have and use faith! It says so in 2nd Corinthians 5:7, "For we walk by faith, not by sight!" WI
This is a true Black History story of a young boy by the name of Floyd Hill.
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Adams Inspirational A.M.E. Church Dr. E. Gail Anderson Holness / Senior Pastor Rev. Ali Gail Holness-Roland / Assistant & Youth Pastor 12801 Old Fort Road • Ft. Washington, MD 20744 Office (301) 292.6323 • FAX (301) 292.2164 Service and Times Sunday Worship 10:15 am Sunday Church School 11:00 am Youth Sunday every 4th Sunday Prayer Call @ Noon every Tuesday & Thursday 978.990.5166 code: 6166047# Virtual Bible Study Wednesday Facebook & Zoom 7:00 pm “A Growing Church for a Coming Christ” www.adamsinspirationalamec.org
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OCTOBER 14 - 20, 2021 41
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 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
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 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
Reverend Dr. Paul H. Saddler Senior Pastor (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
Turning Hearts Church Virgil K. Thomas, Sr. Senior Pastor/ Teacher 421 Alabama Ave. SE Washington, DC 20032 Phone: 202-746-0113 Fax: 301-843-2445 Service and Times Sunday School: 10:15 AM Sunday Worship Service: 11;15 AM Children’s Church: 11:15 AM Tuesday Bible Study: 6:30 PM Motto : “A Great Commitment to the Great Commandment” Website: www.turningheartschurchdc.org Email: gr8luv4u2@gmail.com
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 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
Reverend Dr. Calvin L. Matthews Senior Pastor 1200 Isle of Patmos Plaza, Northeast Washington, DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-6767 - Fax: (202) 526-1661 Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM Holy Communion: 2nd Sunday at 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM Sunday Church School: 9:20 AM Seniors Bible Study: Tuesdays at 10:30 AM Noon Day Prayer Service: Tuesdays at Noon Bible Study: Tuesdays at 7 PM Motto: “A Ministry of Reconciliation Where Everybody is Somebody!” Website: http://isleofpatmosbc.org Church Email: ipbcsecretary@verizon.net
St Marks Baptist Come Worship with us... Dr. Raymond T. Matthews Pastor and First Lady Marcia Matthews St. Mark's Baptist Church 624 Underwood Street, NW Washington, dc 20011 Services and Times Sunday School: 9:00 AM Worship Service: 10:00 AM Wed. Noon Day prayer service Thur. Prayer service: 6:45 PM Thur. Bible Study: 7:15 PM
Reverend John W. Davis Pastor 5101 14th Street, NW / Washington, DC 20011 Phone: 202-726-2220 Fax: 202-726-9089 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. “A Church with a past to remember – and a future to mold” www.mtzbcdc.org
headline and photo for Mount Olivet LIF - MALCOLMXLutheran Church DAY John F. Johnson Reverend Dr.
901 Third Street N.W. Washington, DC. 20001 Phone (202) 842-3411 Fax (202) 682-9423
1306 Vermont Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20005
themcbc.org
“Ambassadors for Christ to the Nation’s Capital”
Rev. Dr. Alton W. Jordan Pastor
Isle of Patmos Baptist Church
Mt. Zion Baptist Church
Reverend Dr. Paris L Smith, Sr. Senior Pastor
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
42 OCTOBER 14 - 20, 2021
“We are one in the Spirit” www.ssbc5757.org / E-mail: ssbc5757@verizon.net
Services and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM Sunday Community Worship Service: 8:30 AM
Crusader Baptist Church
Service and Times 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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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 14 - 20, 2021 43
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In the aftermath of her monthslong bout with coronavirus, Harris said she couldn’t risk letting her daughter compromise her safety and that of other family members. That’s why Harris sought the virtual learning option for her child who, like other students her age, still does not have an available COVID-19 vaccine. Upon learning that the Office of the State Superintendent of Education [OSSE]’s medical consent and certification form included a request for access to her daughter’s medical information, Harris opted to fill out a form from Children’s National Hospital in Northwest which she viewed as less intrusive. However, Harris revealed the Children’s National Hospital’s form failed to satisfy officials at her child’s school. The Southeast resident also questioned what she described as a lack of clarity around the criteria deemed acceptable for virtual learning -- sentiments which haven’t changed. “I will reapply but I'm concerned that she won’t qualify,” Harris said. “I was told the first time that I was the only parent who came in with an application. A lot of children get out of the car [in the morning] without a mask. The children are not set apart in the classroom. There are 25 of them and no way to have them three to six feet apart.”
EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE MAYOR RESPONDS
The recently approved emergency legislation, which goes into effect 10 days from its passage, expanded the DC Public Schools [DCPS]’ virtual option by 350 slots. It also allowed three percent of the student body at each District public charter school to enroll in a virtual learning program. By Oct. 5, when the D.C. Council voted to expand the virtual learning option, 302 students in the District’s public schools had their medical consent and certification forms approved while 94 had been denied. OSSE didn’t provide The Informer with the total number of students in public and public charter systems currently enrolled in a virtual learning program. But a representative revealed that only DCPS officials and administrators at each charter school would know how many students have been denied the virtual learning option. Amid the Delta variant, education officials, federal and local, have es-
(Courtesy photo)
poused a commitment to providing the safest in-person learning experience for students. In late August, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) likened the first day of school to the Super Bowl, assuring parents and community members that schools would best mitigate the spread of COVID-19 upon students’ return to the classroom. Since then, DC Health has counted more than 840 COVID cases in the District’s public and public charter schools. As of Oct. 6, Ingenuity Prep Public Charter School, Hart Middle School, DC International School and KIPP DC Quest Academy Public Charter School count among the schools with the highest number of COVID-19 cases this academic year. In a response to the council vote, Deputy Mayor for Education Paul Kihn cited not only the executive’s fidelity to health and safety protocols but what he described as strong enrollment and good attendance. “We are deeply concerned [that] the council would enact any legislation that would do anything to disrupt the vital in-person learning that is taking place in our schools right now without following the science and advice from our public health leaders,” Kihn said. “While the legislation raises many unanswered questions, our priority will remain ensuring every family in our city has access to a safe, high-quality in-person learning experience,” he added.
PARENTS, LONGTIME ADVOCATES LOOK TO THE FUTURE
The council’s introduction of the Protecting Our Children Emer-
gency Declaration Resolution followed complaints from parents about the rejection of their medical consent and certification form and calls from truancy officials to families who kept their children home. A recent D.C. Council oversight hearing attracted dozens of parents, including Markita Bryant, who shared what she described as unclear criteria for a child’s enrollment in a virtual learning program. Bryant counted among the first parents to submit a medical consent and certification form. After DCPS central office rejected her petition, Bryant reached out to Bowser, DCPS Chancellor Lewis Ferebee and D.C. council members. She also joined several other parents in contacting the Children’s Law Center in Northwest. Bryant eventually worked out a plan that includes her son’s use of a special mask and her lunchtime visits to ensure that he’s in the safest conditions possible. Though she expressed gratitude for the expansion of the virtual learning option, she said it remains to be seen how DCPS would facilitate it. “Even though it’s 350 seats, it’s better than nothing,” said Bryant, a native Washingtonian. “The biggest thing I was asking for was grace until my son could get vaccinated [but] the chancellor and mayor kept using the same language that kids were best served in school. I was in tears [at the D.C. Council hearing] last month. I didn’t even want to talk,” she said. WI @SamPKCollins
THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM
LEGAL NOTICES In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality. Notice of White Flag Surrender. Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: " Orin Edwardo Bivens© ", in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: "BIVENS, ORIN EDWARDO© ", corp.sole Dba.: " ORIN EDWARDO BIVENS© ", having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a: Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, Societas Republicae Ea Al Maurikanuus Estados, The Constitution for the united States of America, Article III Section 2, The Lieber Code, Hague Conventions of 1899 & 1907, The Geneva Conventions, [ United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples ], and all natural laws governing moors, and hereby declare and proclaim my nationality in good faith as a: Moorish American. I am that I am: " Orin Edwardo Bivens© ", from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: "obadiah ben ashayah© ". Notice of White Flag Surrender: as "hors de combat", pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article III, as a minister of The Moorish Empire, and Internationally Protected Person. Notice of: LAWS AND CUSTOMS OF WAR ON LAND ( HAGUE, IV), ARTICLE: 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Claim pursuant to Public Law 87-846, TITLE II, SEC. 203. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title : This order is to preserve legal and equitable title , and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, Re: State Of Florida Bureau Of Vital Statistics : 109- 67-019858 , " ORIN EDWARDO BIVENS© ", is as a special deposit order conveyed to "Orin Bivens Sr Trust© ". All property of the same issue and amount, in like kind and specie, is to be returned fully intact , as a Special Deposit order of the Depositor / Beneficiary / Bailor / Donor / Principal / Creditor: " obadiah ben ashayah© ", nom deguerre: "Orin Edwardo Bivens© ", as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of : "Orin Bivens Sr Trust© ", an Inter Vivos Unincorporated Divine Grantor Trust. This deposit is not to be commingled with general assets of any bank, nor depositary / trustee / agent / bailee / donee / debtor. This deposit is not limited to, but including: discharge and set off, of any and all outstanding liabilities as accord and satisfaction. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente.
LEGAL NOTICES SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2021 ADM 1059 Russell Terry Smalley Decedent Howard Haley, Esq. The Haley Firm, PC 7600 Georgia Ave., NW #416 Washington, DC 20012 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Michael Smalley, whose address is 4327 Ravensworth Rd., #726, Annandale, VA 22003, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Russell Terry Smalley who died on 12/7/2020 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., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before March 30, 2022. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before March 30, 2022, 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: 9/30/2021
LEGAL NOTICES SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2021 ADM 001062 John Ali Kazemi Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS John Sauragal Kazemi, whose address is 1355 Irving St. NW, Washington, DC 20010, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of John Ali Kazemi who died on June 6th, 2021 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before March 30, 2022. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before March 30, 2022, 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: 9/30/2021 John Sauragal Kazemi Personal Representative
Michael Smalley Personal Representative
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
2021 ADM 001057
2021 ADM 1079
Edith Christine Lane aka Edith C. Lane Decedent Nakia V. Gray 800 Maine Ave. SW, Suite 200 Washington, DC 20020 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Roberta Thelma Cooper, whose address is 4814 Reilly Dr., Clinton MD 20735, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Edith Christine Lane aka Edith C. Lane who died on December 26, 2011 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 3/30/2022. 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 3/30/2022, 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: September 30, 2021 Roberta Thelma Cooper Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
TRUE TEST COPY
2021 ADM 001013
2021 ADM 000996
2021 ADM 001071
Mary E. Gregory aka Mary E. Hilliard Decedent
Charles Lomax aka Charles Preston Lomax Decedent
Lashann Ingrid Cooper Decedent
Earlene Henry Decedent
Tina Smith Nelson, Esq. Legal Counsel for the Elderly 601 E Street, NW Washington, DC 20049 Attorney
Tina Smith Nelson Legal Counsel for the Elderly 601 E Street, NW Washington, DC 20049 Attorney
Angelo Gregory, whose address is 4929 4th St., NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mary E. Gregory aka Mary E. Hilliard who died on June 6, 2016 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 3/30/2022. 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 3/30/2022, 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.
Frances Annette Cooper, whose address is 419 Farragut St., NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Lashann Ingrid Cooper who died on 12/25/2020 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., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 3/30/2022. 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 3/30/2022, 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: 9/30/2021
Date of first publication: 9/30/2021
Date of first publication: September 30, 2021
Angelo Gregory Personal Representative
Eula Marie Lomax Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
TRUE TEST COPY
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Washington Informer
Washington Informer
Washington Informer
Frances Annette Cooper Personal Representative
WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
Date of first publication: 9/30/2021 Marquita Moye, Esquire Personal Representative
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT FOR THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA CIVIL DIVISION
2021 ADM 001037
Eula Marie Lomax, whose address is 1221 Kennedy Street, NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Charles Lomax aka Charles Preston Lomax who died on 11/12/2019 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 3/30/2022. 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 3/30/2022, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Marquita Moye, Esq., whose address is 504 Brummel Court, NW, Washington, DC 20012, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Clarice Brown aka Clarice Veronica Brown who died on August 26, 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., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 3/30/2022. 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 3/30/2022, 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.
Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Marquita Moye, Esq. 504 Brummel Court, NW Washington, DC 20012 Attorney
Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Age: 90
TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Clarice Brown aka Clarice Veronica Brown Decedent
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
The Law Offices of Rosalind R. Ray 6856 Eastern Ave., NW Suite 208 Washington, DC 20012 Attorney
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICES
Ethel Mitchell 8403 Colesville Rd., Suite 1100 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Crystal Lewis, whose address is 3411 16th Street, NE, Washington, DC 20018, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Earlene Henry who died on 4/5/2021 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 3/30/2022. 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 3/30/2022, 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: 9/30/2021 Crystal Lewis Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
Mikeisha Blackman Plaintiff Case No. 2020 CA 000601 B v. Judge Jason Park Joan Ruffin Defendant. ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this proceeding is the enforcement or establishment of a lawful right, claim, or demand to or against any real or personal property located at 3281 15th Street, SE, Unit 102, Washington, D.C. 20020 (Square 5889, Lot 2014). A copy of this action is available in the Civil Clerk’s Office of the Court, located at 500 Indiana Avenue, NW, Washington, D.C. On the motion of the plaintiff, it is this 21st day of September, 2021, ORDERED, by the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, that notice be given to defendant Joan Ruffin by the insertion of a copy of this order in the Daily Washington Law Reporter and the Washington Informer, hereby designated by the Court and having a general circulation in the District of Columbia, once a week for three (3) successive weeks; and it is further ORDERED, that defendant Joan Ruffin is hereby summoned and required to file an answer to the complaint in the Civil Clerk’s Office of the Court, located at 500 Indiana Avenue, NW, Washington, D.C. between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., and serve the same on the plaintiff and any other parties named in the complaint, on or before the date and time of the initial scheduling conference in this action; and it is further ORDERED, that the initial scheduling conference shall be held on the 19th day of November, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. in Courtroom 519; ORDERED, that if you fail to serve and file an answer within the time stated herein, or if, after you answer, you fail to appear at any time the Court notifies you to do so, including at the initial scheduling conference, a judgment by default may be entered against you for monetary damages or any other relief demanded in the complaint. If this occurs, your wages may be attached or withheld or personal property or real estate you own may be taken and sold to pay the judgment. If you intend to oppose this action, do not fail to answer within the required time; and it is further ORDERED, that the initial scheduling conference may be held remotely due to the Covid19 Pandemic, and the parties shall contact the chambers of Judge Jason Park to obtain remote hearing instructions prior to the date of the Initial Scheduling Conference. SO ORDERED.
OCTOBER 14 - 20, 2021 45
LEGAL NOTICES In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality. Notice of White Flag Surrender. Notice of Special Appearance I am that I am: " Lotoya Kadeshia Lewin©", in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: "LEWIN, LOTOYA KADESHIA© ", corp.sole Dba.: " LOTOYA KADESHIA LEWIN© ", having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a: Moor American Indian, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The League Of Indian Nations Of North America, The Moorish Empire, Societas Republicae Ea Al Maurikanuus Estados, The Constitution for the united States of America, Article III Section 2, The Lieber Code, Hague Conventions of 1899 & 1907, The Geneva Conventions, [ United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples], and all natural laws governing Indians/Moors, and hereby declare and proclaim my nationality in good faith as a: Moor American Indian. I am that I am: "Lotoya Kadeshia Lewin© ", from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: "aiyahna-yahmaye bey © ". Notice of White Flag Surrender: as "hors de combat", pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article III, as a minister of The Moorish Empire, and Internationally Protected Person. Notice of: LAWS AND CUSTOMS OF WAR ON LAND ( HAGUE, IV), ARTICLE: 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Claim pursuant to Public Law 87-846, TITLE II, SEC. 203. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title: This order isto preserve legal and equitable title, and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, Re: HOLTSVILLE, NEW YORK: Naturalization number 36838643, " LOTOYA KADESHIA LEWIN© ", is as a special deposit order conveyed to "Soul Unbound Trust© ". All property of the same issue and amount, in like kind and specie, is to be returned fully intact, as a Special Deposit order of the Depositor / Beneficiary / Bailor / Donor / Principal / Creditor: " aiyahna-yahmaye bey© ", nom deguerre: "Lotoya Kadeshia Lewin© ", as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of: "Soul Unbound Trust© ", an Inter Vivos Unincorporated Divine Grantor Trust. This deposit is not to be commingled with general assets of any bank, nor depositary / trustee / agent / bailee / donee /debtor. This deposit is not limited to, but including: discharge and set off, of any and all outstanding liabilities asaccord and satisfaction. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente. Notice of Reference: 0112358-13
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICES
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2021 ADM 000522
2021 ADM 001060
2019 ADM 000783
James Elwood Thurston Decedent
Jacqueline P. Nichols aka Jacqueline Nichols aka Jacqueline Patricia Nichols Blanger Decedent
Deborah G. Robinson Decedent James Larry Frazier, Esq. 918 Maryland Avenue, NE Washington, DC 20002 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Michelle Torres-Carmona, whose address is 136 W Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Deborah G. Robinson who died on February 5, 2019 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 4/7/2022. 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 4/7/2022, 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: 10/7/2021
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Carl Gregory Thurston, whose address is 801 Hidden Marsh Street, Gaithersburg, MD 20877, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James Elwood Thurston who died on 3/8/2021 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 4/7/2022. 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 4/7/2022, 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: 10/7/2021 Carl Gregory Thurston Personal Representative
Michelle Torres-Carmona Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
Leonard GP Muhammad 7306 Georgia Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20012 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Charmaine Connie, whose address is 12508 Kensington Lane, Bowie, MD 20715, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jacqueline P. Nichols aka Jacqueline Nichols aka Jacqueline Patricia Nichols Blanger who died on March 24, 2019 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 4/7/2022. 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 4/7/2022, 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: 10/7/2021
Washington Informer
2015 FEP 52
2021 ADM 1050
2021 ADM 001120
2021 FEP 000111
4/7/2012 Date of Death
Inez Shorter Decedent Edward G. Varrone, Esq. 1825 K Street, NW, Suite 1150 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney
12/31/2001 Date of Death
Cynthia Gertrude Kennedy Jackson aka Cynthia Gertrude Jackson aka Cynthia G. Jackson Name of Decedent
Lucy Mae Bell aka Lucy Mae Williams Decedent
Danalee Robb, whose address is 2912 George Howard Way, Davidsonville, MD 21035 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Cynthia Gertrude Kennedy Jackson aka Cynthia Gertrude Jackson aka Cynthia G. Jackson, by the Register of Wills for Anne Arundel County, Maryland, on July 30, 2013. Service of process may be made upon Stephanie Y. Bradley, 1417 Nicholson St., NW, Washington, DC 20011 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C. The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real estate. 915 Ingraham St., NW, Washington, DC 20011. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice. Date of first publication: 10/7/2021 Danalee Robb Personal Representative Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
46 OCTOBER 14 - 20, 2021
Christine J. Spruill, whose address is 17 Stonegate Drive, Silver Spring, MD 20905, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Inez Shorter who died on January 3, 1998 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before April 7, 2022. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before April 7, 2022, 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.
Nicola Bell Cunningham, whose address is 5703 9th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Lucy Mae Bell aka Lucy Mae Williams who died on March 13, 2021 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before April 7, 2022. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before April 7, 2022, 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: 10/7/2021
Date of first publication: October 7, 2021
Christine J. Spruill Personal Representative
Nicola Bell Cunningham Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Washington Informer
Washington Informer
Joseph Nathaniel Holt Name of Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS Harry I. Holt whose address is 40088 Holt Rd., Mechanicsville, MD 20659 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Joseph Nathaniel Holt, deceased, by the Probate Court for St. Mary’s County, State of Maryland, on 4/6/2021. Service of process may be made upon Joan M. Wilbon, Esq., 1120 Connecticut Ave., NW, Suite 1020, Washington, DC 20036 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C. The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real estate. 4408 1st Place, NE, No. 23, Washington. DC 20011. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice. Date of first publication: 10/7/2021
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
2/3/2021 Date of Death
TRUE TEST COPY
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
2021 FEP 000112
Harry I Holt Personal Representative
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
Charmaine Connie Personal Representative
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
Ethel Mitchel 8403 Colesville Road, Suite 1100 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Attorney
LEGAL NOTICES
Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2021 ADM 001082 Laura W. McDowell Decedent
Mary Pazon Name of Decedent
Peggy A. Miller, Esq. 5130 7th Street, NE Washington, DC 20011-2625 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Cynthia Speed whose address is 120-47 164th Street, Jamaica, New York 11434 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Mary Pazon, deceased, by the Surrogate’s Court for Bronx County, State of New York, on June 22, 2021. Service of process may be made upon Deborah D. Boddie 1308 Ninth Street, NW, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20018 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C. The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real estate. An interest in 3501 17th Street, NE, Washington, DC 20018. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice. Date of first publication: 10/7/2021 Cynthia Speed Personal Representative Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
Ivan K. McDowell, whose address is 5006 55th Avenue, Hyattsville, MD 20781, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Laura W. McDowell who died on June 24, 2021 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 4/7/2022. 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 4/7/2022, 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: 10/7/2022 Ivan K. McDowell Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM
LEGAL NOTICES SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICES
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2021 ADM 001016
2021 ADM 001096
2021 ADM 1151
Wilhelmina A. Smallwood Decedent
Jean Singletary Decedent
Samuel C. Hodges Decedent
Howard Haley, Esq. The Haley Firm, PC 7600 Georgia Ave., NW #416 Washington, DC 20012 Attorney
Gretchyn G. Meinken 616 N. Washington Street Alexandria, VA 22314 Attorney
Valerie J. Edwards 1725 DeSales Street, NW, Suite 600 Washington, DC 20036 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Daniel Lee Singletary, Jr., whose address is 3038 Stafford Street, Baltimore, MD 21223, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jean Singletary who died on July 6, 2019 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 4/7/2022. 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 4/7/2022, 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.
Bruce Hodges and Jerone Hodges, whose addresses are 1233 16th Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002 & 46569 Riverwood Ter., Sterling, VA. 20165, was appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Samuel C. Hodges who died on August 22, 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., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 4/7/2022. 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 4/7/2022, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.
LEGAL NOTICES In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality. Notice of White Flag Surrender.
TRUE TEST COPY
TRUE TEST COPY
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Washington Informer
Washington Informer
Washington Informer
Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: " JAHRUE TAFARI MULLINGS© ", in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: "MULLINGS, JAHRUE TAFARI© ", corp.sole Dba.: " JAHRUE TAFARI MULLINGS© ", having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a: Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, Societas Republicae Ea Al Maurikanuus Estados, The Constitution for the united States of America, Article III Section 2, The Lieber Code, Hague Conventions of 1899 & 1907, The Geneva Conventions, [ United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples ], and all natural laws governing moors, and hereby declare and proclaim my nationality in good faith as a: Moorish American. I am that I am: " JAHRUE TAFARI MULLINGS© ", from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: "jahrue tafari mullings© ". Notice of White Flag Surrender: as "hors de combat", pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article III, as a minister of The Moorish Empire, and Internationally Protected Person. Notice of: LAWS AND CUSTOMS OF WAR ON LAND ( HAGUE, IV), ARTICLE: 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Claim pursuant to Public Law 87-846, TITLE II, SEC. 203. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title : This order is to preserve legal and equitable title , and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, Re: NEW YORK CITY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND MENTAL HYGIENE : 15685217901 , " JAHRUE TAFARI MULLINGS© ", is as a special deposit order conveyed to "Jahrue Tafari Mullings Trust© ". All property of the same issue and amount, in like kind and specie, is to be returned fully intact , as a Special Deposit order of the Depositor / Beneficiary / Bailor / Donor / Principal / Creditor: " jahrue tafari mullings© ", nom deguerre: "JAHRUE TAFARI MULLINGS© ", as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of : "Jahrue Tafari Mullings Trust© ", an Inter Vivos Unincorporated Divine Grantor Trust. This deposit is not to be commingled with general assets of any bank, nor depositary / trustee / agent / bailee / donee /debtor. This deposit is not limited to, but including: discharge and set off, of any and all outstanding liabilities as accord and satisfaction. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente.
In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality. Notice of White Flag Surrender.
In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality. Notice of White Flag Surrender.
In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality. Notice of White Flag Surrender.
Notice of Special Appearance : I a m that I am: " Andre Duval King-Holland© ", in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: "KING-HOLLAND, ANDRE DUVAL© ", corp.sole Dba.: " ANDRE DUVAL KING-HOLLAND© ", having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a: Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, Societas Republicae Ea Al Maurikanuus Estados, The Constitution for the united States of America, Article III Section 2, The Lieber Code, Hague Conventions of 1899 & 1907, The Geneva Conventions, [ United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples ], and all natural laws governing moors, and hereby declare and proclaim my nationality in good faith as a: Moorish American. I am that I am: " Andre Duval King-Holland© ", from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: "andre duval king-holland© ". Notice of White Flag Surrender: as "hors de combat", pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article III, as a minister of The Moorish Empire, and Internationally Protected Person. Notice of: LAWS AND CUSTOMS OF WAR ON LAND (HAGUE, IV), ARTICLE: 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Claim pursuant to Public Law 87-846, TITLE II, SEC. 203. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title : This order isto preserve legal and equitable title , and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, Re: Commonwealth Of Pennsylvania Department Of Health : 0338780-85 , " ANDRE DUVAL KING-HOLLAND© ", is as a special deposit order conveyed to "Kings Trust© ". All property of the same issue and amount, in like kind and specie, is to be returned fully intact , as a Special Deposit order of the Depositor / Beneficiary / Bailor / Donor / Principal / Creditor: " andre duval king-holland© ", nom deguerre: "Andre Duval King-Holland© ", as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of : "Kings Trust© ", an Inter Vivos Unincorporated Divine Grantor Trust. This deposit is not to be commingled with general assets of any bank, nor depositary / trustee / agent / bailee / donee /debtor. This deposit is not limited to, but including: discharge and set off, of any and all outstanding liabilities asaccord and satisfaction. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente.
Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: " Lafrances Marier Dudley O'neal© ", in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: "DUDLEY O'NEAL, LAFRANCES MARIER© ", corp. sole Dba.: " LAFRANCES MARIER DUDLEY O'NEAL© ", having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a: Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, Societas Republicae Ea Al Maurikanuus Estados, The Constitution for the united States of America, Article III Section 2, The Lieber Code, Hague Conventions of 1899 & 1907, The Geneva Conventions, [ United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples ], and all natural laws governing moors, and hereby declare and proclaim my nationality in good faith as a: Moorish American. I am that I am: " Lafrances Marier Dudley O'neal© ", from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: "lafrances marier dudley o'neal© ". Notice of White Flag Surrender: as "hors de combat", pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article III, as a minister of The Moorish Empire, and Internationally Protected Person. Notice of: LAWS AND CUSTOMS OF WAR ON LAND ( HAGUE, IV), ARTICLE: 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Claim pursuant to Public Law 87-846, TITLE II, SEC. 203. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title : This order is to preserve legal and equitable title , and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, Re: Alabama Department Of Health : 101-64-007585 , " LAFRANCES MARIER DUDLEY O'NEAL© ", is as a special deposit order conveyed to "Chahta Minko Imohoyo Trust© ". All property of the same issue and amount, in like kind and specie, is to be returned fully intact , as a Special Deposit order of the Depositor / Beneficiary / Bailor / Donor / Principal / Creditor: " lafrances marier dudley o'neal© ", nom deguerre: "Lafrances Marier Dudley O'neal© ", as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of : "Chahta Minko Imohoyo Trust© ", an Inter Vivos Unincorporated Divine Grantor Trust. This deposit is not to be commingled with general assets of any bank, nor depositary / trustee / agent / bailee / donee / debtor. This deposit is not limited to, but including: discharge and set off, of any and all outstanding liabilities as accord and satisfaction. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente.
Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: " Conrad Romano Dasent© ", in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: "DASENT, CONRAD ROMANO© ", corp.sole Dba.: " CONRAD ROMANO DASENT© ", having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a: Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, Societas Republicae Ea Al Maurikanuus Estados, The Constitution for the united States of America, Article III Section 2, The Lieber Code, Hague Conventions of 1899 & 1907, The Geneva Conventions, [ United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples ], and all natural laws governing moors, and hereby declare and proclaim my nationality in good faith as a: Moorish American. I am that I am: " Conrad Romano Dasent© ", from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: "conrad-romano:dasent© ". Notice of White Flag Surrender: as "hors de combat", pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article III, as a minister of The Moorish Empire, and Internationally Protected Person. Notice of: LAWS AND CUSTOMS OF WAR ON LAND ( HAGUE, IV), ARTICLE: 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Claim pursuant to Public Law 87-846, TITLE II, SEC. 203. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title : This order isto preserve legal and equitable title , and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, Re: St. Kittts Registrar General's Office : Birth Certificate No, 2877 Naturalization Certificate No. 36079223 / Registra-tion Number A079717343 , " CONRAD ROMANO DASENT© ", is as a special deposit order conveyed to "Nasi Haor Trust© ". All property of the same issue and amount, in like kind and specie, is to be returned fully intact , as a Special Deposit order of the Depositor / Beneficiary / Bailor / Donor / Principal / Creditor: " conrad-romano:dasent© ", nom deguerre: "Conrad Romano Dasent© ", as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of : "Nasi Haor Trust© ", an Inter Vivos Unincorporated Divine Grantor Trust. This deposit is not to be commingled with general assets of any bank, nor depositary / trustee / agent / bailee / donee /debtor. This deposit is not limited to, but including: discharge and set off, of any and all outstanding liabilities as accord and satisfaction. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente.
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
2021 ADM 001121
2021 ADM 1161
Diamond J. Lynch Decedent
Mary V. Powell Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Colline Silvera Robinson Kirlew & Associates PC 7731 Belle Point Dr. Greenbelt, MD 20770 Attorney
2021 ADM 001111 Carolyn Anita Howard Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Barbara Higginbotham, whose address is 11105 Birch Way, Clinton, MD 20735, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Carolyn Anita Howard who died on January 17, 2021 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before April 7, 2022. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before April 7, 2022, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: October 7, 2021
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Njeri Clark, whose address is 15204 Lincolnshire Place, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Wilhelmina A. Smallwood who died on 11/24/2013 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 4/7/2022. 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 4/7/2022, 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: 10/7/2021
Barbara Higginbotham Personal Representative
Njeri Clark Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
Date of first publication: 10/7/2021 Daniel Lee Singletary, Jr Personal Representative
WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
Date of first publication: 10/7/2021 Bruce Hodges Jerone Hodges Personal Representative
Paula Taylor-Lynch, whose address is 3410 Callaway Avenue, Baltimore MD 21215, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Diamond J. Lynch who died on April 6, 2021 without a Will, and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 4/14/2022. 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 4/14/2022, 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: 10/14/2021 Paula Taylor-Lynch Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Florethia Powell Matthews, whose address is 616 Kenyon St., NW, Washington, DC 20010, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mary V. Powell who died on 4/26/2021 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 4/14/2022. 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 4/14/2022, 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: 10/14/2021 Florethia Powell Matthews Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
OCTOBER 14 - 20, 2021 47
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICES
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2021 ADM 1140
2021 ADM 001165
2021 ADM 1172
Dorothy Sharon Matts Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Andrew C. Humbles, whose address is 123 Environs Rd, Sterling VA 20165, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Dorothy Sharon Matts who died on May 19, 2021 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 4/14/2022. 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 4/14/2022, 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: 10/14/2021 Andrew C. Humbles Personal Representative
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James Odell Woodson, Jr. Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Sandra Yvonne Woodson, whose address is 5057 Ayers Place, SE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James Odell Woodson, Jr. who died on December 23, 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., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 4/14/2022. 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 4/14/2022, 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: 10/14/2021 Sandra Yvonne Woodson Personal Representative
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Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Washington Informer
Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality. Notice of White Flag Surrender. Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: " Kisa Moria George© ", in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: "GEORGE, KISA MORIA© ", corp.sole Dba.: " KISA MORIA GEORGE© ", having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as a: Moorish American, but not a citizen of the United States. I declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, Societas Republicae Ea Al Maurikanuus Estados, The Constitution for the united States of America, Article III Section 2, The Lieber Code, Hague Conventions of 1899 & 1907, The Geneva Conventions, [ United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples ], and all natural laws governing moors, and hereby declare and proclaim my nationality in good faith as a: Moorish American. I am that I am: " Kisa Moria George© ", from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: "kisa-moria: george© ". Notice of White Flag Surrender: as "hors de combat", pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article III, as a minister of The Moorish Empire, and Internationally Protected Person. Notice of: LAWS AND CUSTOMS OF WAR ON LAND ( HAGUE, IV), ARTICLE: 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Claim pursuant to Public Law 87-846, TITLE II, SEC. 203. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title : This order is to preserve legal and equitable title , and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, Re: Virgin Islands Of The United States Department Of Health : 153-74001099 , " KISA MORIA GEORGE© ", is as a special deposit order conveyed to "Empress Keturah Trust© ". All property of the same issue and amount, in like kind and specie, is to be returned fully intact , as a Special Deposit order of the Depositor / Beneficiary / Bailor / Donor / Principal / Creditor: " kisa-moria: george© ", nom deguerre: "Kisa Moria George© ", as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of : "Empress Keturah Trust© ", an Inter Vivos Unincorporated Divine Grantor Trust. This deposit is not to be commingled with general assets of any bank, nor depositary / trustee / agent / bailee / donee /debtor. This deposit is not limited to, but including: discharge and set off, of any and all outstanding liabilities as accord and satisfaction. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente.
Probate Division
Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2021 ADM 001275 Fannie A. Bing Estate of
NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by John D. Bing, Jr. for standard probate, including
the appointment of one or more personal representatives.
Unless a responsive pleading in the form of a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division
Rule 407 is filed in this Court within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth.
Admit to probate the will dated June 16, 2016 exhibited
with the petition upon proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution by affidavit of the witnesses or otherwise
Date of first publication: 10/14/2021
James Larry Frazier, Esq.
918 Maryland Avenue, NE Washington, DC 20002 Petitioner/Attorney:
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Register of Wills Washington Informer
48 OCTOBER 14 - 20, 2021
Eva L. Watties Decedent Cheryl Chapman Henderson 4920 Niagara Rd., #200 College Park, MD 20740 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS David Williams, whose address is 13518 Hollow Log Drive, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Eva L. Watties who died on 10/1/2020 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., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 4/14/2022. 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 4/14/2022, 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: 10/14/2021 David Williams Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
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CROWELL from Page 30 number of consumers with credit reporting complaints increased rapidly from levels that were already elevated in 2019…A large share of complaints from high Black or African American census tracts concern credit reporting," states the report. Inaccurate or outdated credit reports can negatively impact access to employment, access to credit as well as the cost of credit for individuals and businesses. For several years, a growing number of employers use credit reports as part of screening job applicants. Applicants found to have spotty or risky credit profiles can be elimi-
MORIAL from Page 30 the Trump era than during any of the past five administrations. The typical Black family holds about $12.50 in wealth for every $100 held by the typical white family. The Black unemployment rate remains nearly twice the rate for whites, and Black women are the least recovered from pandemic job losses. The infrastructure investment and Build Back Better agenda — which largely incorporate the National Urban League's Main Street Marshal Plan — represent a historic opportunity to transform our economy while enhancing racial equity. There are five million fewer Americans working than in February 2020, and 2.7 million people have been out of work for six months or more, even
MARSHALL from Page 30 Ironically, it was a native Atlantan who went through great pains to explain it. In 1963, Martin Luther King Jr. wrote a letter from a Birmingham jail cell. He was responding to white clergymen who questioned why he left Atlanta to cause "good trouble" in Birmingham. The answer he gave them is the same response that should be given to people everywhere who have little sense of unity when it comes to joining together diverse communities who share the same common interests. In this case, crime. Dr. King wrote, "Moreover, I am cognizant of the interrelatedness of all communities and states. I cannot sit idly by in Atlanta and not be concerned about what happens in Birmingham." He continued by saying, "We are caught in an inescapable
nated from consideration. Further, when a small business or consumer applies for credit, its costs can be increased due to negative credit reports. Even worse, those who try to correct credit report errors often experience lengthy delays or denials, according to the CFPB report. "Given the scale and persistence of the racial wealth divide, these differences are hardly surprising — but they do highlight the active role that consumers in Black or African American communities take in trying to address credit issues. … Past barriers limiting access to mainstream credit for racial minorities, the long-term impact of the 2008 mortgage crisis, and continued inequality in access continue to determine the types of
opportunities consumers have — and these contexts shape consumer interactions with the CFPB," concludes the report. Similarly, multiple independent research reports attest to the severe financial impacts of student loan debt. "[B]lack students are leaving college with the highest average debt per borrower and per graduate across all racial groups," according to "Legislation, Policy, and the Black Student Debt Crisis," published in 2020 by the NAACP. "This is true of both bachelor's and associate's degree holders – who were both more likely to borrow and borrowed more to finance their education – as well as for Black students across
all public and private sectors of higher education." According to the Brookings Institution, four years after college graduation the average Black graduate owes $52,726 in student debt, while the average hite graduate owes $28,006. "Extensive research has established that Black borrowers and other borrowers of color tend to have more difficulty in student loan repayment than their white peers because of past and ongoing racial discrimination," Julia Barnard, a senior researcher at the Center for Responsible Lending, wrote in a policy brief published this summer. "They are also among the communities hit hardest by the current pandemic and its effects." WI
as employers struggle to fill a record number of job openings. Taken together the infrastructure and budget reconciliation packages, could create 2 million jobs by mid-decade, according to Moody's Analytics. Over the course of the 10-year budgeting window, the combined legislation would provide fiscal support for more than 4 million jobs per year, according to the Economic Policy Institute. In fact, Moody's found that the educational provisions of the legislation — universal pre-K, two years of free community college, expanded Pell Grants and other education benefits — would boost the economy beyond the 10-year budget window "given greater educational attainment and higher labor force participation." The two initiatives would invest about $4.1 trillion in America's phys-
ical and human infrastructure over the past 10 years — almost exactly what the Main Street Marshall Plan called for. To put this number into perspective, the cost of the War on Terror since Sept. 11, 2001, is about $8 trillion. The reckless 2017 Trump tax code revisions — which every Republican Senator and all but a dozen Republican House members eagerly supported — carried a $2.3 trillion price tag. What's more, while the tax code revisions were enacted without a plan to pay for them, the infrastructure and Build Back Better plan would be funded by tax hikes on the wealthy, tougher tax enforcement and other revenue raisers. A modest tax hike on the wealthiest 0.05% of Americans alone would bring in at least $3 trillion in revenue over 10 years.
The post-World War II Marshall Plan spurred the fastest period of growth in European history. Industrial and agricultural production skyrocketed. The poverty and starvation of the immediate postwar years disappeared, and Western Europe embarked upon an unprecedented two decades of growth that saw standards of living increase dramatically. We have not only the opportunity but the moral obligation to replicate that success in 21st Century United States. So when you hear politicians and talking heads opining about Senate and House procedures and legislative vehicles, know what's really at stake: the future of you, your family, our community and the nation. It's time to Build Back Better. WI
network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly." In others words, the wealthy in general cannot sit idly by and not be concerned with those who are stuck in poverty. Regardless of race, economic class or zip code, diverse communities are interconnected to one another. The issues impacting those living in the poorest areas of Atlanta will eventually affect those living in wealthy Buckhead. He makes it very clear that it is an inescapable network. Buckhead cannot run from it. It is inevitable. The success of one is tied to the success of the other. The misery of one is tied to the misery of the other. To say that Buckhead does not need Atlanta is not true. "Buckhead City" would be a self-inflicted disaster because the root causes of their problem will still remain. In his letter, Dr. King
spoke about how to address the problem. He stated, "I am sure that none of you would want to rest content with the superficial kind of social analysis that deals merely with effects and does not grapple with underlying causes." It is the grappling with underlying causes that brings a person out of their comfort zone when choosing community interests over self-interests. Since crime is the problem, what are the underlying causes of crime? Poverty, a sense of hopelessness, self-hate and a sea of despair. More police is nice, but Buckhead truly needs Southside Atlanta to overcome its poverty. This means the wealthy using their business and political influence to support polices that will close the income gap between the rich and poor. It means the wealthy (of all races) fighting in the trenches to achieve livable wages, affordable housing, eliminating food
deserts, fighting the social impact of mental illness and drug addiction. It means the wealthy working hand in hand with nonprofits who effectively uplift and inspire our youth who are traumatized by living in war zones. A network of support should include churches (of all races) working in the trenches together to fulfill the spiritual development and character building for the most vulnerable and marginalized children and adults. It is a network of support, but the network is often undermined by elected and governmental officials (of all races) who place self over community. People are watching Atlanta's next move. If secession happens, others nationwide will have no shame in using the "Buckhead City" blueprint for division elsewhere. WI
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EDELMAN from Page 29 died during the crossing. In one exhibit visitors take a historical poll test intended to keep Black citizens from registering to vote with questions about the numbers of jellybeans in a jar and seeds in a watermelon. In others visitors hear first person narratives from enslaved people and the last words of lynching victims. In the Reflection Space visitors use touch screens to learn about 400 Black leaders pictured around the room. An entire museum wing is devoted to mass incarceration. The Legacy Museum seeks to serve as "an engine of education about the legacy of racial inequality and for the truth and reconciliation that leads to real solutions
JEALOUS from Page 29 Biden must lead Senate Democrats in passing voting rights this year—and getting rid of the filibuster if it stands in the way. We need strong, effective moral leadership both inside and outside the White House at this moment. The civil rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s was a moral movement. It called on Americans to live up to their own ideals as well as to the promises in our founding documents. It brought the public pressure that compelled LBJ to use the powers of his office to pass civil rights and voting rights legislation. I was proud to stand outside the
ASKIA from Page 29 Even so, had one man — thenVice President Mike Pence — gone along with the lawless scheme to steal the presidency, that philandering, frequently bankrupt, grifter would still be in power today, with luckless protesters, legislators — whomever — powerless to loosen his grip on power. "We need to get ready now," Bannon said recently on his "War Room" podcast. "We control the country. We've got to start acting like it. And one way we're going to act like it, we're not going to have 4,000 [shock troops] ready to go, we're going to have 20,000 ready to go." In an interview with NBC, Bannon said: "If you're going to take over the administrative state and deconstruct it, then you have to have shock troops prepared to take it over immediately." And so, the die is cast. You see, "shock troops"
to contemporary problems." This is the kind of push our nation still needs to move forward. Bryan Stevenson said in an interview about the new museum's opening: "I do think we're at a moment where we're debating whether we're going to be honest about our history, about our past, and learn from it, reckon with it, and move forward — or we're going to double down on silence and these false narratives. What I'm encouraged by is that we've had hundreds of thousands of people come to the site since we opened in 2018. And most of them say, 'I didn't know this.' But not only have they come, they've left with a new understanding about what we have to do to make progress in this country. I don't
want to talk about slavery and lynching and segregation because I want to punish America. I want us to get to a better place. I want there to be real liberation." He added: "I believe there's something better waiting for us. There's something that feels more like freedom in this country. There's something that feels more like equality, feels more like justice. But we can't get there if we continue believing these false ideas about our greatness, about our failures — that we never made any mistakes, we never did anything wrong. And I actually hope that this moment illustrates the importance of this conversation that we're trying to have about a time for truth telling." Amen! WI
White House with so many religious leaders: a Catholic nun representing thousands of her sisters; a Jewish rabbi in whose organization's office the original Voting Rights Act was drafted; Black Baptist and AME clergy taking their place in the Black church's long legacy of working for justice. We were joined by representatives of secular social justice and voting rights organizations. Rev. Timothy McDonald, who pastored in Martin Luther King's church and who serves as the co-chair of People For the American Way, the organization I lead, led us in singing and prayer and brought powerful words of truth.
I choked up a bit with gratitude for their leadership, and with gratitude for all the members of the movement, including members of my own family, who risked their lives over the years to secure the right to vote for all Americans. Before I was arrested and spent the night in jail, I delivered a message to President Biden: When the president of the League of Women Voters is willing to risk arrest, when pastors in Dr. King's lineage are willing to risk arrest, when Catholic nuns are willing to risk arrest to call you to fulfill your promise to make voting rights a top priority, it is time to examine your moral conscience. WI
is a military term for an advance team of trained soldiers who carry out lightning-fast assaults. In their Jan. 6 "dry run," some of the attackers carried tactical equipment, sophisticated communications equipment, maps of the Capitol complex, wearing masks, and carrying zip-ties, in order to detain House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, or any other legislator who opposed the unlawful takeover. Anyone who insisted that the Electoral College vote declaring Joe Biden the new president was an enemy, and was to be dealt with accordingly. They even brought their own gallows which they erected on the Capitol grounds. I simply cannot fathom the support for Donald J. Trump. He is a poster illustration of what it means to be an ugly slug, a vile, disgusting-looking worm, disguised as the son of a Ku Kluxer with absolutely no socially redeeming qualities — none! His only apparently quality
is his unwavering dedication to the most loathsome tenets of white supremacy. He's a natural bigot. He does not have to work at it. Hate spews from him like perspiration. In my mind's eye, The Donald is sickening to behold, and Bannon is right on his heels. Federal investigators believe Bannon urged Trump to focus his efforts to remain in the White House on the Jan. 6 seditious uprising. Bannon also admitted on his podcast that he told Trump before the insurrection: "You need to kill this [Biden] administration in its crib." Uh? That language is so patently seditious, that if a Black person had made such a threat to a president-elect, said Black person would already be permanently "under the jail," with no reprieve in sight. These enemies of freedom-loving people have said openly what they intend to do. Folks who want to see a free and fair outcome better pay attention, before it's too late. WI
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