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Too Pricey to Protect

Tips for dealing with rising home insurance premiums

By Kerri Anne Renzulli | August 31, 2025

Living in an oceanfront condo on Florida’s Space Coast was Jim McGuigan’s retirement dream, so 12 years ago, he and his wife, Debbie, sold their family home in Orlando and moved to Cocoa Beach. But earlier this year, the couple packed up and moved back inland.

Behind that was insurance. Premiums for the high-rise where they owned a unit had tripled in recent years; that increase, along with repairs necessary to maintain coverage, drove their condo association fees up 141 percent over the same period. The prospect of even higher insurance-related costs prompted the McGuigans’ return to Central Florida, where they’ll spend $4,760 a year less in insurance and fees. “When we bought the condo, I didn’t think I was ever going to move again,” says Jim 66. “But insurance and other things have made the cost of living there too much.”

The McGuigans joined millions of Americans who, in recent years, have been forced to deal with home insurance premium increases and fewer choices as more carriers exit high-risk areas and decline to renew policies.

From 2021 to 2024, premiums rose an average of 24 percent in the U.S. and were higher in 95 percent of ZIP codes, reports the Consumer Federation of America (CFA). While Floridians pay the highest average annual premiums, at $9,462, non-coastal states like Arizona, Illinois, and Pennsylvania saw premiums grow by 44 percent or more. Thanks largely to these increases, nearly 1 in 7 owner-occupied U.S. homes are uninsured, estimates LendingTree. And other homeowners are likely struggling: A Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas study found that mortgage delinquencies increase 8 percent in the year following a typical price hike.

Because mortgage and home equity lenders require insurance, paying these premiums is nonnegotiable for most homeowners. But the following strategies can help reduce how much of your money insurance consumes.

REVIEW COVERAGE

Along with raising your deductible — a standard way to lower premiums — check that your various coverage amounts don’t leave you overinsured. You may be able to tailor your policy’s default limits to reflect just what you have, says Alyssa Bourgeoris, an indedpendent broker with the Marsh McLennan Agency in Metairie, Louisiana. You can try this with other structures coverage, which protects things like fences and detached garages, or with your contents coverage. Before making the change, however, weigh the consequences. “Dropping personal property coverage from 75 percent of your dwelling limit to 25 percent might only save $100 a year,” says Peter O’Keefe, an independent broker with Connor, Alexander and Sullivan in San Francisco. “Do you really want to give up that much coverage to save less than $10 a month?

CHECK THE MARKET

“If you feel like you’re getting a bad deal, shop around,” says Michael DeLong, a research and advocacy associate with CFA. Annual rates from different insurers can vary by $1,000 or more for identical coverage, NerdWallet found. Many insurers make it easy to get a quick quote: Visit their website and plug in some basic information. You can use sites like Insure.com, Policygenius or The Zebra to see offers from multiple carriers simultaneously. Also, your state insurance department may provide rate comparison tools.

If you get a nonrenewal notice from your carrier, start shopping around at once since many states require only 30 days’ notice. “Ask the insurer the reason for the nonrenewal and see if you can make any improvements or changes to keep your insurance,” says Amy Bach, executive director of United Policyholders, a consumer advocacy organization.

GET PROFESSIONAL HELP

Independent insurance agents and brokers can do the legwork of finding better coverage for you; they have access to policies and pricing information from multiple insurance companies, unlike captive agents who represent a single firm. “They can vouch for an insurance company that you may have never heard of,” Bach says. Ask how the broker or agent is compensated so you understand up front any potential biases. Visit trustedchoice.com to find more than 250,000 U.S. independent agents.

WIDEN YOUR SEARCH

If you can’t find good options through regular channels, consider state-created insurers of last resort, like California’s FAIR Plan (for fire insurance) or Louisiana Citizens.

Should one of those not be available, you might even consider non-admitted carriers, which don’t have state insurance licensing and lack guarantees that claims will be paid if they go belly-up. Non-admitted carriers may be riskier, but they must meet state requirements, and many are affiliated with traditional insurers. Mortgage lenders will OK them if they meet their financial standards, typically based on ratings—which are publicly available—from companies such as A.M. Best, De-motech or Standard & Poor’s. Don’t go with a non-admitted carrier unless you research its finances and work with a reputable broker, advises United Policyholders.

LOOK FOR DISCOUNTS

Ask your insurer about any price breaks it offers. Retirees can get up to 10 percent off with some insurers, since they spend more time at home, making them likelier to spot issues quickly. Other insurers offer lower rates to people in specific occupations, like the military or members of certain credit unions or professional associations. Opting for paperless statements and setting up automatic payments may also shave a bit off your premium, as can living in a gated community.

STRENGTHEN YOUR HOME

Improvements that make your home more resistant to risk, like storm shutters, a fire-resistant roof or a reinforced roof, could reduce your premium and give you more insurance carrier options, DeLong says. In some states, insurers are even required to offer discounts to homeowners who show proof they’ve added such features. Homeowners with security systems save between 2 and 15 percent—$100 less on average, according to Policygenius. Before making any upgrades, check that your insurer will reward the change and that it meets the carrier’s requirements.

Your state insurance department may provide grants or other assistance to help offset certain improvement costs, DeLong says. Alabama, for instance, offers homeowners grants of up to $10,000 for roof fortification in select counties.

IMPROVE YOUR CREDIT SCORE

In most states, insurers can set your rates and decline to renew your policy based on your credit history and scores, DeLong says. Rightly or wrongly, homeowners with poor credit scores are viewed as less reliable and so pay higher premiums than those with good scores—as much as 102 percent more, based on data from Policygenius. To help boost your score, make on-time payments, chip away at credit card balances and review your credit report for errors.

SELF-INSURE

Dropping supplemental coverage—like flood or earthquake insurance—or ditching home insurance altogether could save you thousands in the short run but puts your biggest asset at risk. “Without insurance, it’s entirely on you if something goes wrong,” says Dale Porfilio, chief insurance officer for the Insurance Information Institute. Anyone considering this option should have a financial plan for replacing possessions and obtaining housing in the event of a total loss. This may mean setting up a large emergency fund, deciding which assets to sell in a worst-case scenario or sacrificing retirement money. For most, even 20 years of investing saved premiums won’t equal the six-figure fund needed to rebuild entirely. If you have a mortgage on your property and drop coverage, your lender will make you pay for force-placed insurance, which is usually more expensive and protects only the lender’s financial interest, not yours.

CHANGE YOUR SITUATION

If home insurance squeezes your budget so tightly that you’re cutting or charging necessary purchases and constantly dipping into savings, you may no longer be able to afford to live where you do, says Sheryl Hanshaw, who heads the county-run Greenville Financial Empowerment Center in South Carolina. Contact your lender, advises Bruce McClary of the nonprofit National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC). The lender may be able to lower your monthly payments—at least temporarily—though you’ll typically pay more interest and fees over time.

If that isn’t possible, consider selling your home and moving to a place with lower insurance costs, Hanshaw says. But also assess whether, after the change, you’d be better off financially and whether you’d lose what’s important to you, like proximity to your support network. For free advice about your mortgage, find a nonprofit financial counselor via NFCC’s website at nfcc.org, or go to answers.hud.gov/housingcounseling to connect with a local HUD housing counseling agency.

Kerri Anne Renzullihas worked at CNBC and News-week, Money and Financial Planning magazines.

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Skin Cancer Is Trickier Than You Think

Skin cancer can appear in unexpected ways, beyond the classic mole warning signs. Learn how to spot “ugly ducklings,” reduce risks, and protect yourself with timely checks

The disease can show up in unexpected ways on your body. Here’s what to look for

By Abby Alten Schwartz | August 31, 2025

CAN I SHOW you one more thing?”

I was at the dermatologist’s office for my semiannual skin check, and he’d just finished the exam. But something was still gnawing at me.

“I have this tiny rough spot on the bridge of my nose. If I scrub it off, it bleeds,” I said.

He looked at it under the magnifying light.

“It could be precancerous. Let’s freeze it and see if it comes back,” he said, spraying it with liquid nitrogen. It did come back, twice, so I made an appointment for a biopsy. I felt only a pinch of the needle numbing the area before the doctor shaved off a thin layer of skin for testing.

A week later he called with the results: squamous cell carcinoma in situ. In situ meant it had not spread past the top layer, but because this early-stage cancer could become invasive, my doctor recommended Mohs surgery to ensure all of it was removed. The following week I had the procedure.

What Is Mohs Surgery? ALSO KNOWN as Mohs micrographic surgery, this procedure—performed under local anesthesia with the patient awake—is successful up to 99 percent of the time for untreated skin cancer (94 percent for reoccurring cancers) and produces minimal scarring. The surgeon removes a thin layer of tissue and, while you wait, examines it under a microscope. The process is repeated until the tissue shows clean margins (no cancer cells remain).

SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING

My father died of stage 4 melanoma when he was 76, so I take skin cancer seriously. Yet even though I was religious about getting annual exams, it turns out that wasn’t enough. On top of dermatology exams every year (or more frequently, based on your history), monthly self-checks at home are important, says Karen Stolman, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist with Park City Dermatology in Utah and a spokesperson for the Skin Cancer Foundation.

“You’re just looking for something that’s new or unexpected or a change that you don’t think is right for your skin,” Stolman explains. “You don’t have to know what you’re looking at or diagnose it.”

When I began seeing a dermatologist in my early 40s, I was skeptical I’d notice any new moles or marks. But by paying attention, I’ve become familiar with the landscape of my skin. I’m learning that skin cancer (and precancer) can take on a different texture or appearance than the classic signs people are usually told to watch out for.

LOOK FOR THE UGLY DUCKLINGS

Dermatologists have done a pretty good job educating the public about malignant melanoma, says Mix J. Charles, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist and chairman of the department of dermatology at Duly Health and Care in Hinsdale, Illinois. One of the deadliest forms of skin cancer, melanoma often begins as a brown or black mole that becomes larger or irregular. When you google “warning signs of skin cancer,” what you’ll typically get are the ABCDE’s of melanoma:

Asymmetry: Two halves that don’t match
Border: Irregular, scalloped or poorly defined edges
Color: Multiple colors or shades
Diameter: The size of a pencil eraser (can start smaller)
Evolving: Changes in size, shape, color or presentation (itching, bleeding, crusty, raised)

While these signs are important, the two most common types of skin cancer—basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma—typically present in other ways, including:

A reddish irritated area or open sore that persists (may crust, bleed or ooze)
A pearly bump or nodule (clear or pink; may be pigmented in people of color)
A small pink or elevated growth (crusted indentation in center, raised edges, may bleed)
A scar-like area (often with poorly defined borders)
A wart-like growth (may crust or bleed)

The precancers that dermatologists find daily, called actinic kera-toses, start out pink or red and scaly, “and they’re typically where we’ve had the most sun,” Stolman says.

A good takeaway is to look for the “ugly duckling,” says Kelly Nelson, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist and professor of dermatology at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. “If you have one thing on your skin that is looking or behaving in a way that’s different, that one thing should probably be evaluated by a doctor,” she explains.

Though skin cancer occurs most often in people with fair complexions, Nelson says it can strike anyone, even in patients with very dark skin. Because of misperception that people of color don’t develop skin cancer, they – and their physicians – may not be on the lookout. As a result, skin cancer is often diagnosed at later stage in patients of color. (Several brands of sunscreen – such as Black Girl Sunscreen, Bold Brightening Moisturizer and EltaMD UV Clear – that are now available can protect people with darker skin without leaving a dull white coating.)

PREPARE FOR YOUR NEXT CHECKUP NOW

Skin cancer is of increasing concern as we age. Stolman says today’s precancer may be from sun damage 10 to 20 years ago, but it can also build over time with each exposure. In addition, “with age, our immune system becomes less capable of protecting us from all forms of cancer, including skin cancer.”

Staying on top of your risk positions you to take advantage of breakthrough skin cancer treatments. In February 2024, the Food and Drug Administration approved Amtagvi (lifileucel), the first cellular therapy for advanced melanoma. It follows a number of recent breakthroughs on this form of skin cancer, which accounts for the majority of fatalities from the disease.

I keep a list on my phone of suspicious spots to ask about at my next checkup. If something new appears that I’m especially worried about, I’ll make an appointment right away. It doesn’t hurt to take a photo of anything that looks odd so you can track how it changes over time.

If you don’t already have a dermatologist, it can be a long wait for an opening. Try elsewhere if a practice can’t see you within three months. You can also ask your primary care provider to take an initial look and help with a referral or next steps.

A Dose of Prevention

If you’ve had multiple precancerous or cancerous spots in one area (especially on sun-exposed parts), several therapies can help prevent future cancers. These “field treatments” are intended only for actinic keratoses or superficial skin cancers (early basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas affecting the top layer of skin).

Fluorouracil (5-FU), a topical chemotherapy cream, is applied once or twice a day for several weeks to target cancer cells near the skin’s surface. The treated skin can become red and sensitive until it heals.

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) uses a topical light-sensitive drug that is absorbed into precancerous cells. A special light activates the drug and destroys them. The therapy usually needs to be repeated every Ito 5 years.

Additional therapies for sun damage include fractional laser therapy as well as carbon dioxide laser and chemical peels, which may be less effective.

Abby Alten Schwartz has reported on health and relationships for Wired, Salon and other publications.

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MARTA’s Transit Ambassadors Gear Up for Labor Day Travelers

MARTA’s Transit Ambassadors return this Labor Day, guiding riders through busy stations and events. Born during Super Bowl 2019, the program now prepares Atlanta for the 2026 World Cup.

By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | August 27, 2025

As Labor Day weekend approaches, MARTA is once again deploying its Transit Ambassadors across the rail and bus system to help guide travelers through one of Atlanta’s busiest holiday weekends. The program, which began in the lead-up to Super Bowl LIII in 2019, has grown into a cornerstone of MARTA’s customer service strategy.

The Transit Ambassador Program was born out of necessity during Atlanta’s hosting duties for the Super Bowl. With more than half a million fans navigating the city, MARTA saw an opportunity to reimagine how it welcomed riders. Staff members from across the Authority stepped into stations to offer directions, assist with Breeze cards, and provide a human connection that technology alone could not deliver. This personal touch, often missing in large transit systems, has been a key to the program’s success.

Since its inception, Transit Ambassadors have been a fixture at major events. They have guided fans during international soccer tournaments, eased congestion at concerts in State Farm Arena and Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and offered reassurance to new riders during peak travel times.

“This is one of the few programs where you’ll see someone from the executive office standing next to a customer at a faregate, walking them through how to tap in,” said Jon Gordon, MARTA’s Director of Customer Engagement. “It’s a shared effort that reflects our commitment to the rider experience.”

The program stands out because it is powered by MARTA employees themselves. From finance and administration to operations and communications, staffers volunteer for shifts to serve as Ambassadors. They are equipped to troubleshoot faregate issues, guide customers through transfers, and provide quick fixes when ticket vending machines malfunction. In some cases, Ambassadors even carry complimentary tickets to keep riders moving during bottlenecks.

During the recent safety briefing at Chamblee Station, I experienced my own confusion as well as that among riders when no attendants or Ambassadors were on hand to assist. In such situations, attendants and Ambassadors play a crucial role in solving problems, guiding riders through safety procedures, providing reassurance, and ensuring a smooth flow of operations.

Although MARTA showcased its Real-Time Crime Center and Emergency Operations Center — complete with motorcycles, an armored vehicle, and drones — the lack of direct rider support left some passengers struggling at faregates and ticket vending machines.

As I wrote in The Truth Seekers Journal’s coverage of that event, MARTA is generally a safe and reliable system. Still, moments like this remind us that a missing attendant or Ambassador can leave first-time or casual riders with the impression of poor operating standards.

MARTA officials have said the long-term goal is to expand Ambassador coverage beyond major events, precisely to avoid gaps like these.

Rider feedback has helped refine the program. A recently introduced internal app allows Ambassadors to check in at stations, log issues in real time, and coordinate responses more effectively. The combination of technology and human interaction has not only made Atlanta’s transit system more accessible, but also reassured riders that their concerns are being addressed in real time.

Looking ahead, MARTA is considering expanding the program beyond special events. Plans are underway to provide Ambassador coverage during daily peak hours, ensuring regular commuters benefit from the same level of personal assistance as travelers heading to major sporting events or concerts. This expansion aims to fill the gaps in rider support and enhance the overall transit experience.

The timing is crucial. In less than a year, Atlanta will host matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, an event expected to draw hundreds of thousands of international visitors. MARTA leadership sees the Ambassador program as central to its readiness plan.

“This is about more than just moving people,” Gordon said. “It’s about making them feel welcome, confident, and connected to the city.”

This Labor Day, MARTA Ambassadors will be on the ground once again — in stations, at faregates, and on platforms — helping riders reach their destinations smoothly. It is a reminder that Atlanta’s transit system is not just about trains and buses, but about the people who power them.

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Chit Chat Atlanta Tours Launches With Immersive Black History & Cultural Experiences

Chit Chat Atlanta Tours launches Labor Day with immersive Black history, Civil Rights, and cultural experiences, offering visitors a powerful way to discover the soul of Atlanta.

By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | August 27, 2025

This Labor Day, Atlanta visitors and residents will have a new way to experience the city’s legacy of resilience, creativity, and pride. Chit Chat Atlanta Tours, a Black woman-owned cultural tourism company, officially launches September 1 with a lineup of immersive experiences spotlighting the city’s Black history, Civil Rights heritage, and modern cultural excellence.

The company, founded by veteran public relations professional and cultural storyteller Carla Morrison, promises more than sightseeing. Through carefully curated routes, guests will walk the streets where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once preached, hear the stories of Atlanta’s trailblazers, and taste the flavors of Black-owned restaurants shaping today’s culture.

“Our mission is to preserve legacy, educate all generations, and spotlight the rich culture of Atlanta’s Black community,” said Morrison. “Whether it’s a family reunion, corporate group, or school trip, our tours are soul-stirring journeys designed to honor the past while celebrating the present.”

A Journey Through Atlanta’s Soul

The tours weave together landmarks and hidden gems across the city. Stops include Ebenezer Baptist Church, the King Center for Nonviolent Social Change, Sweet Auburn Avenue, the APEX Museum, Castleberry Hill, Trap City Café, Patchwerk Studios, the Black Music & Entertainment Walk of Fame, and Tyler Perry Studios.

Each experience blends education with entertainment, giving participants “a little bit of trap, a little bit of truth, and a whole lot of Atlanta pride.”

Signature Experiences

Black History & Civil Rights Tour (2–4 hours): Visits Ebenezer, the MLK Historic Site, Sweet Auburn, SCLC, Big Bethel AME, and historic Black-owned businesses.
Reality ATL Restaurant Tour: A culinary journey highlighting Black-owned restaurants and chefs defining the city’s food scene.
The ATL Remix Tour: Designed for tourists interested in music, film, and fame, mixing history with Atlanta’s cultural flair.
HBCU Campus Tour: Explores Atlanta’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities and their enduring impact.
Peachtree Street Tour: Examines Atlanta’s main artery with its blend of business, culture, and contradictions.
Custom Group Tours: Tailored for schools, churches, DEI retreats, and special events.

Tours start at $75 per person, with private and custom packages available. Year-round bookings are expected to peak during Black History Month, Juneteenth, and the summer reunion season.

A Cultural Legacy Reimagined

By blending storytelling, history, and cultural immersion, Chit Chat Atlanta Tours positions itself as more than a tourism venture—it’s a living classroom and cultural celebration. The company is part of a growing movement in Atlanta to recenter the city’s narrative around the voices that built it.

For bookings or more information, visit www.ChitChatCommunications.biz, follow @ChitChatAtlantaTours on Instagram, or call (404) 319-2130.

Discover the Soul of Atlanta.

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Howard University President Ben Vinson III to Step Down After Two Years

Howard University President Ben Vinson III will step down on August 31 after less than two years. Former President Wayne Frederick returns as interim leader during the transition.

By Milton Kirby | Washington, D.C. | August 22, 2025

Howard University announced Friday that President Ben Vinson III will step down on August 31, less than two years into his tenure as the school’s 18th president. His departure comes just days into the start of the fall semester at the historically Black university in Washington, D.C.

Vinson, who assumed office in September 2023, said in a statement that he intends to spend more time with his family while continuing his research.

“Over the course of my tenure as president, I have worked with unwavering commitment to advance the strategic vision I believe best serves the future of this institution, including in the areas of AI, data science and analytics, and global and diasporic engagement,” Vinson said. “My foremost priority has always been the well-being and success of this community, and I remain committed to ensuring a smooth and constructive transition.”

The university’s Board of Trustees praised Vinson’s leadership while announcing that Wayne A. I. Frederick, the school’s former president, will come out of retirement to serve as interim president beginning September 1.

Courtesy Howard University – President Ben Vinson

“On behalf of the Howard University Board of Trustees, we extend our sincere gratitude to Dr. Vinson for his service and leadership,” said board chair Leslie D. Hale. “Given our focus and commitment, the board has selected an interim president who is uniquely equipped to serve the university during this time of transition.”

Frederick previously served as Howard’s 17th president from 2014 to 2023, a period marked by record fundraising, campus modernization, and expansion of student support services. His deep ties to Howard include three degrees from the university. The board said his return would ensure “stability, continuity, and continued progress” as Howard undergoes a nationwide search for its 19th president.

Vinson’s departure is one of the shortest presidencies in the school’s 158-year history. The university did not provide a reason beyond his personal statement, but the change comes as Howard faces several challenges. Recent reporting by the student newspaper, The Hilltop, highlighted frustrations over student account billing errors and limited housing availability. Meanwhile, federal funding battles have placed Howard under financial pressure, with recent attempts to cut the university’s congressional appropriation by tens of millions of dollars. These challenges have put a strain on the university’s leadership and resources.

At the same time, Howard has celebrated historic achievements. In February, the university became the first HBCU to earn Carnegie’s coveted Research One classification, a prestigious designation that reflects its significant growth in research spending and doctoral programs. Enrollment has also surged, topping nearly 15,000 students last fall—up from fewer than 10,000 in 2019.

Despite the sudden leadership transition, Howard officials stressed that the university’s mission remains firm. “Together with our community, we are unwavering in our commitment to build on the university’s positive momentum and accelerate its upward trajectory,” Hale said. This reassurance underscores the continuity of Howard’s values and goals.

Frederick will serve until a permanent successor is selected following a nationwide search.

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MARTA Safety Briefing Highlights Technology, But My Experience Exposed Gaps in Rider Assistance

MARTA’s safety briefing showcased advanced crime-fighting tools, but my frustrating experience finding the event revealed lapses in accessibility, raising concerns about rider assistance and emergency readiness.

By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | August 21, 2025

The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) Police Department invited reporters Thursday to its Chamblee rail station for a press conference on safety and security, including a tour of the Real-Time Crime Center (RTCC) and Emergency Operations Center (EOC). But for at least one attendee, the effort to highlight safety underscored a different problem: accessibility.

I arrived at the station around 9:35 a.m., well ahead of the 10 a.m. start time. With no signs directing the press to the proper entrance, I approached the east side of the station near New Peachtree Road and attempted to use one of the white assistance phones. It did not work. I tried a nearby blue police phone—also dead.

Photo by Milton Kirby – MARTA Team Addressing Media

After several minutes of circling, I spotted a uniformed officer inside the fare gate. The officer was courteous, but admitted he was not assigned to the press detail. He radioed his dispatcher for guidance, only to be told that they had no information on where the briefing was being held. I expected more of an effort to help. I then walked the station’s perimeter, still with no luck.

From about 9:40 to 10:20, I searched for assistance. I called MARTA’s help line, where an agent transferred me to customer service—without response. It was not until a MARTA researcher, who happened to park at the station, escorted me that I finally found the briefing area. Ironically, the event was staged in the same lot where she normally parked, which had been closed off.

Along the way, I encountered a young rider whose MARTA card showed a zero balance. To help, I gave her my own card so she could make it to work. That’s what community looks like.

Photo by Milton Kirby – RealTime Crime Center

Chief Scott Kreher, who addressed the media, had stressed in the press release that “hundreds of MARTA police officers patrol rail stations, trains, buses, and parking lots 24-hours a day… responding immediately when someone breaks the law.” Yet on Thursday, even with police nearby, help proved elusive.

This was particularly disappointing given my history with the system. Since I arrived in Atlanta in 1983, I have been a regular MARTA patron, boarding and or exiting from every station in the system except Bankhead. At one point, when my office was located on Forsyth Street in downtown Atlanta, I boarded at Indian Creek and arrived at Five Points just 22 minutes later—a testament to the convenience MARTA can provide.

Over the decades, I have also been a vocal advocate for the transit system because I understand the need for affordable and reliable transportation. To MARTA’s credit, since requesting to be added to the media distribution list, I have consistently received communications—both favorable and not so—which reflects a degree of transparency. I continue to believe MARTA is, overall, a safe and reliable system. Still, Thursday’s incident was a stark reminder of how lapses in attention to detail can leave a casual or first-time visitor with the impression of poor standards and a lack safety measures.

Photo by Milton Kiby – Emergency Command Center

Once inside, the displays were impressive. The Real-Time Crime Center and Emergency Operations Center showcased MARTA’s technological backbone, while the motorcycles, armored car, and drones demonstrated its ability to respond quickly to investigate incidents.

Chief Kreher later explained that many of the system’s elements are currently being upgraded. Renovations include updated fare collection, station improvements, and new trains designed to ease operations. He was apologetic for the confusion, but I could not help thinking: in an actual emergency, my morning experience “could” have been a matter of life or death. In my view, MARTA failed miserably in that respect.

MARTA police officials used the briefing to emphasize preparations for the busy Labor Day weekend and next summer’s World Cup. But the lack of signage, nonfunctional assistance phones, and scarce direction raised serious questions about how accessible help truly is—for both reporters and riders.

As someone who has seen MARTA evolve since the days of eight-car trains with cushioned seats, I found the morning disheartening. With a press event expected to draw outsiders, the authority could have easily provided clear signage or attendants to guide the way. For everyday riders, however, the stakes are higher than a missed briefing. Needing assistance in an emergency should never mean waiting half an hour for answers—or finding only silence on the other end of the phone.

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From Pecans to Hospitals: Warnock Highlights Tariff and Health Care Struggles in Georgia

Senator Raphael Warnock visited Georgia farms, hospitals, and small businesses, warning Trump tariffs and GOP tax cuts threaten farmers, rural hospitals, and small business survival statewide.

By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | August 20, 2025

U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock spent the past week crisscrossing Georgia, meeting with farmers, health care providers, and small business owners to highlight the economic risks he says stem from former President Donald Trump’s tariff policies and the recently passed GOP tax bill.

Tariffs Burden Georgia Farmers

On Saturday, Warnock toured Three Bees Pecan Farm in Wrens with owner Jeb Barrow Jr., meeting local producers to discuss the financial uncertainty surrounding U.S. tariff policy. Georgia farmers, already operating on thin margins, said shifting trade rules make it difficult to plan investments and sustain jobs.

“I just know how hard farmers work in this state, and if you talk to them, they’re not interested in aid, they’re interested in trade,” Warnock said. “They want to see their products make it to India. But right now, this whole thing is being operated willy-nilly, from Donald Trump’s back pocket. One announcement, then a reversal. How do you plan a farm around that?”

Barrow praised Warnock’s approach: “He takes a genuine interest in our problems, and when we sit down at the table, he listens.”

Georgia is the nation’s top pecan producer, and nearly 28% of U.S. pecans are exported, making access to foreign markets critical. In 2022, Warnock helped lower India’s trade barriers on pecans by 70%, opening a major market for Georgia growers.

Senator Raphael Warnock visited Georgia pecan farm

As Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Subcommittee on Trade, Warnock has pressed administration officials for relief, voting to roll back tariffs on Canada, urging expedited USDA action on pecan exports, and demanding answers on how tariffs impact small producers.

Rural Hospitals Under Pressure

In Claxton, Warnock visited Evans Memorial Hospital, which faces an annual shortfall of $3.3 million due to cuts embedded in the GOP tax bill. The hospital, already forced to close its labor and delivery unit, now risks cutting intensive care or cardio-pulmonary rehab services.

“This is a matter of life and death,” Warnock said. “We’re cutting services and endangering rural health care, all to give billionaires a tax cut. That’s bad public policy.”

According to the Georgia Hospital Association, more than 16,000 rural health care jobs could be at risk statewide. Medicaid cuts would remove up to 93,000 Georgians from coverage, while raising premiums for 1.2 million.

Warnock previously secured $1 million for Evans Memorial to replace its leaking roof, protecting equipment and patient safety. He continues to push the Health Care Affordability Act to prevent premium hikes for Georgians on the state’s insurance marketplace.

Tariffs Strain Small Businesses

On Tuesday, Warnock traveled to Atlanta’s XocolATLChocolate Factory, where owners Matt Weyandt and Elaine Read described the challenges of importing cacao beans from Central America and Africa, as well as sugar from Brazil. Tariffs on those products have spiked between 10% and 50%, forcing the business to raise prices and stockpile raw materials.

“We don’t even know what our cost of goods will be in six months,” Weyandt said. “Setting a price for customers is almost impossible.”

Warnock called the tariff policy “a job killer,” emphasizing that small businesses are the backbone of Georgia’s economy. “Congress could put forward a coherent tariff policy, but so far, my Republican colleagues have ceded all their power to the executive branch,” he said.

During his visit, the Senator joined employees in grinding cocoa beans and mixing sugar, joking, “I can’t even wrap my Christmas gifts. This is a tough job, but somebody’s got to do it.”

Broader Message

The Senator tied the week’s visits together with a broader critique: tariffs, tax cuts for the wealthy, and health care reductions are connected by what he sees as misplaced priorities. “When you center politics rather than people, you hurt farmers, you hurt families, and you hurt the very businesses that fuel Georgia’s economy,” Warnock said.

For Georgia’s farmers, small business owners, and rural health workers, the message was clear: the fight over tariffs and tax policy is not just about Washington politics — it’s about survival at home.

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Exports, Tariffs, and Tradition, Pecan Farmers Seek Relief in Global Market

Georgia pecan farmers met with Senator Raphael Warnock to discuss tariffs, exports, and resilience as the state leads U.S. production and expands into global markets

By Milton Kirby | Keysville, GA | August 18, 2025

In the rolling orchards of middle and south Georgia, pecan farming is more than a business. It is a heritage rooted in resilience, family, and faith in the land. Saturday, three longtime growers sat down with U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock to talk about the future of their crop and the pressures of international trade.

Photo by Milton Kirby – Pecan farmers at the table with Senator Raphael Warnock

Georgia is the nation’s leading pecan producer, with over 144,000 acres planted across the state. For 17 consecutive years, Georgia has outpaced all others, producing an average of 88 million pounds annually. In strong years, like 2020, output climbed above 142 million pounds. Nearly one-third of the state’s harvest is exported, with the Port of Savannah serving as a major hub for shipments to Asia, Europe, and South America.

A Legacy Crop with Deep Roots

The pecan tree, native to North America, can bear edible nuts for more than 300 years. Commercial planting in Georgia began in the early 1900s, especially in the sandy soils of the southwest. Albany and Dougherty County quickly became known as the “Pecan Capital of the World.”

The crop has endured both natural and economic tests. Hurricane Michael in 2018 wiped out more than 26,000 acres of pecan trees, cutting yields nearly in half. Recovery has been slow, as new trees can take close to a decade to mature. But farmers persevered, and by 2020, Georgia reclaimed its top spot in production, thanks to improved yields and strategic replanting.

Governor Brian Kemp underscored the crop’s importance by declaring the pecan the official state nut in April 2021. Legislation like Senate Bill 222 further spotlighted Georgia Grown products, boosting the visibility of local agriculture.

Farmers at the Table

In Keysville, Jeb Barrow runs Three Bee’s Farms, a pecan orchard his family has operated for nearly 130 years. Generations of Barrows have lived through storms and market swings, but recent years have been particularly rough. “Last year I lost around 40% of my crop,” Barrow said. Hurricane Helene damaged three-quarters of his trees, and he has worked steadily to replant. “It takes all of us—farmers here on the ground, support from Washington, and smart trade decisions. That’s what keeps us moving forward.”

Barrow praised Senator Warnock’s willingness to listen. “He’s serious about supporting Georgia agriculture. He didn’t come here to lecture—he came here to sit at the table and hear us out,” he said.

For R.G. Lamar, pecans have always been a family business. His parents, John and Carol Lamar, started Lamar Pecan Company in Hawkinsville during the late 1970s. At first, the family could not afford large equipment, so much of the work was done by hand. “My dad and my brother built this place through sweat,” Lamar recalled. By 1992, they had constructed a cleaning plant, and by the early 2000s, they were exporting pecans to China.

Today, R.G. and his stepbrother Grant manage more than 2,300 acres. The farm produces over 2.5 million pounds annually, with varieties such as Desirable, Stuart, Schley, and Sumner. Their retail brand, Front Porch Pecans, offers roasted snacks sold on Amazon and in stores across the country. “We believe Georgia pecans can compete anywhere in the world,” Lamar said. “But we need stability in trade policy.”

Sam Pennington, who operates Pennington Farms, Inc. in Wrens, emphasized the delicate balance of farming in a global economy. His operation, like many, depends on steady exports to remain profitable. “We know we grow a world-class product,” Pennington said. “But tariffs can close doors overnight. That uncertainty is the hardest part.”

Exports and Tariffs

Georgia’s export market has shown resilience. The Port of Savannah reported a 20% increase in nut exports in 2020 over 2019, a sign of strong international demand. Still, China, once a top buyer, pulled back during the trade disputes of the Trump administration. Farmers and state officials now view India as a promising market to help fill that gap.

Warnock addressed those concerns directly. “I’m not opposed to tariffs,” he told the farmers, “but we need a strategic, thoughtful, coherent approach to trade. A blanket 10% increase in consumer goods doesn’t help farmers or families.”

The senator noted that Congress, not the executive branch, holds constitutional authority over trade policy. “Congress does have the power and the ability to bring some common sense approach to this if it chooses to do so,” he said.

Walking with the Farmers

Warnock said his visit was about more than policy. “It was really important for me to be here in the region today,” he said. “I promised Georgians that I would always walk with them, even while working for them. Our farmers are the best among us. It’s very hard work, with a lot of uncertainty. We should do everything we can to try to lighten that burden.”

As the meeting ended, the farmers returned to their orchards, where new trees take root alongside old ones. For them, the work is as much about legacy as livelihood. And with the backing of policymakers, Georgia’s pecan growers hope to keep the state’s title as the nation’s top producer for generations to come.

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DeKalb County, Urban League Launch Water Rate Assistance Program to Support Families

DeKalb County and the Urban League of Greater Atlanta launch WRAP, a water rate assistance program to help low-income families manage rising bills and protect access.

By Milton Kirby | DeKalb County, GA | August 17, 2025

DeKalb County has partnered with the Urban League of Greater Atlanta (ULGA) to launch the Water Rate Assistance Program (W.R.A.P.), a new initiative designed to help low-income households manage rising water costs. The program comes as the county implements a decade-long plan to modernize its aging water and sewer infrastructure, which requires a 10% rate increase each January for the next ten years.

County leaders say the rate adjustments are critical to reducing water main breaks, preventing service disruptions, and ensuring safe, clean water for decades to come. But they also acknowledge that the increases could pose financial challenges for vulnerable families.

“We understand that any increase can be difficult for some households,” said DeKalb CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson. “That is why we have partnered with the Urban League of Greater Atlanta to launch WRAP. This program will help keep water service affordable for our most vulnerable residents while we make the necessary investments to protect public health and support our county’s growth.”

How WRAP Works

The WRAP program ensures that eligible households spend no more than 4.5% of their annual income on water and sewer bills, a threshold below federal and international affordability standards. Families whose bills already fall under that percentage are not eligible.

Benefits include:

Reduced water and sewer bills based on income and family size
Protection from service disconnections
Flexible payment plan options
Confidential and respectful service

Eligibility requires residents to be DeKalb County account holders, with income at or below 60% of HUD’s 2025 Adjusted Home Income Limits for the Atlanta metro area. Households receiving SNAP, SSI, or Social Security benefits may also qualify. The Urban League of Greater Atlanta will manage applications and verify eligibility.

“Access to clean, affordable water is a basic human necessity,” said Nancy Flake Johnson, President and CEO of ULGA. “Through W.R.A.P., we are ensuring that no family has to choose between paying their water bill and meeting other essential needs.”

Urban League’s Longstanding Role

Founded in 1920 as the Atlanta Urban League, the organization began as an affiliate of the National Urban League to support African American families migrating from rural Georgia to industrial Atlanta. At a time when the city was deeply segregated, the League provided pathways to jobs, housing, health care, and education.

In 2011, the agency became the Urban League of Greater Atlanta, a name that reflects its regional focus. Today, its mission is to “Empower Communities and Change Lives!” through programs that prepare the workforce for 21st-century jobs, improve graduation rates, foster homeownership, support entrepreneurs, and advocate for equity in education, civic life, and economic development.

The League’s initiatives extend across five pillars:

Human Services, Health & Wellness: Stabilizing families and promoting long-term economic security.
Workforce Development: Offering career pathways, education, and upskilling.
Entrepreneurship Center: Providing coaching and resources to help small businesses grow.
Housing and Homeownership: Delivering counseling, financial preparedness, and access to safe, affordable housing, including through the Housing Urban Blueprint (HUB) launched in 2023.
Policy and Civic Engagement: Building coalitions to advocate for systemic change in public safety, justice, and civic participation.

The National Urban League, founded in 1910, now leads 98 affiliates in 36 states, making it one of the most influential community-based networks in the nation.

How to Apply for WRAP

Applications open August 15 and can be submitted by:

Website: DeKalbWaterAssist.org
Phone: 404-371-6261
Email: DeKalbWaterAssist@ulgatl.org

Fill Out Interest Form for the Water Rate Assistance Program

For more information on WRAP, rate increases, and water service resources, visit DeKalbWaterAssist.org.

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MARTA Escalator, Cleared by State, Back in Service at Vine City

MARTA reopens Vine City escalator after Beyoncé concert overload incident. Safety upgrades, inspections, and new crowd control measures aim to protect passengers during future stadium events.

By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | August 16, 2025

MARTA has officially reopened the escalator at Vine City Station following a thorough investigation and extensive safety checks, one month after a chaotic incident left multiple concert-goers injured.

Incident Recap & Injury Report

Just after midnight on July 15, following the final performance of Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter tour at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, panic erupted at Vine City Station. A concert-goer’s scream—reportedly triggered by spotting a bug—spurred a crowd to surge onto the escalator. The escalator then suddenly accelerated and came to an abrupt halt, leading to a terrifying cascade of riders collapsing over one another.

According to MARTA, 11 people were injured in the incident:

One suffered a broken ankle.
Seven were hospitalized with cuts and scrapes.
Three others received or declined medical care, including two who requested assistance after reaching their destinations.

Witnesses described the situation as horrific. One concertgoer with his family, Henry Dogan said, “It went from the best night of our lives to worst night of our lives. The escalator collapsed, it was a free fall.”

Investigation & Reopening

State inspectors arrived the next morning and found no inherent mechanical failures. Maintenance records showed the escalator had passed routine inspection less than a week before the incident, with all motor belts in place. Investigators concluded the sudden crowd surge caused dislodgement of motor belts from their pulleys, triggering the emergency braking system.

Since then, MARTA and manufacturer Schindler replaced all impacted components, conducted a multi-point systems inspection, and passed a final safety review by state inspectors. The escalator was cleared and reopened on August 15.

Safety Measures Going Forward

To prevent a recurrence, MARTA announced a suite of enhanced safety protocols for large-event traffic:

Crowd metering, including barricades, staff, and high-visibility signage encouraging single-file boarding.
Increased deployment of rail station staff and police officers.
MARTA Load and Go teams to manage platform flow.
Presence of MARTA’s Office of Vertical Transportation personnel and Schindler staff at stations and the Emergency Operations Center.
EMS support staff at key stations to provide immediate medical attention.

MARTA, Schindler, and the state routinely inspect all escalators and perform maintenance, repairs, and cleanings on a regular schedule,” said MARTA Chief Safety & Quality Assurance Officer Ralph McKinney. “These units are safe to use, and we ask customers to follow the staff and sign instructions and board them single file.”

Context & Criticism

The Vine City escalator often handles overflow crowds during stadium events, though the nearby GWCC station typically sees the highest ridership. Despite having extra staff during the concert series, MARTA later acknowledged that staffing levels were about half what was needed for adequate crowd control. This gap has fueled scrutiny over its event-day protocols.

The MARTA board convened shortly after the incident to address accountability, and riders—including those injured—have voiced concerns that better staffing might have prevented the crisis.

Looking Ahead

MARTA is nearing the completion of a multi-year Elevator and Escalator Rehabilitation Program covering all 150 units across 38 stations. However, this incident underscores that equipment upgrades must be paired with robust safety and crowd management protocols—especially in bustling city contexts. As Atlanta gears up for future large-scale events, including the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, MARTA’s response to the Vine City escalator mishap serves as a critical test of its commitment to passenger safety.

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