CAW 48 - The Light of Mandela’s Legacy for World Leaders

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The Light of Mandela’s Legacy for World Leaders

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ty— plagued by admitted flaws and an unquenchable desire to overcome bones chilling weaknesses without offsetting his ethical authority.

I was introduced to Mandela by the late Tim Hector while I was still in high school in the small twin island state of Antigua and Barbuda. Tim commissioned me to dissect his struggles for political freedom. I was also tasked with analyzing the price he was paying behind bars to usher in a stable multiracial democracy for South Africa.

I later studied Madiba’s leadership potency in a development and leader-

BY DR ISAAC NEWTON

elson Mandela transcends death at 95. Between blessing and benediction, there is heart -broken sorrow. But this is joyful sadness. There is irony too. The marvelous dignity with which death tiptoed in lingering leniency around his fragile health before it robbed us of his abiding presence and radiant smile spotlights indisputable reflection far too inadequate for celebration or critique.

His is a story of vivid pain and triumph, a quarter century of imprisonment and bubbling hope, and most admirably, an unpretentious humani-

Nelson Mandela

Obama Speaks on Nelson Mandela

...see page 10

John Liu Proposes Marijuana Legalization ...see page 19

continued on page 8

The Fight Against Apartheid in the DR ...see page 6

Fighting for Contracts for Minority Entrepreneurs

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mall businesses, called the “drivers and engines of growth” by President Barack Obama, attracted about $98.2 billion in government awards last year, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. Hispanic-owned companies won about 8.4% of that total, or $8.21 billion, while black-operated small businesses won about 7.2 %, or $7.1 billion. About 17 % of the U.S. population is Hispanic, and 13 percent is black. In federal small-business contracting, award ratios

BY VANDELL PARK.

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Caribbean Consulates

Anguilla 845 Third Avenue New York, N.Y. 10022 Tel: 212-745-0277

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The Bahamas 231 East 46th Street New York, N.Y. 10020 Tel: 212-421-6420

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Belize 675 Third Avenue, Suite 1911 New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-949-1240

CARIBBEAN NEWSBRIEFS Canadian-based Company to Invest US$238 Million in Guyana’s Mining Sector

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he Canada-based Guyana Goldfields says it is investing US$238 million in the Aurora Gold Project as the government said it was looking forward to large scale gold production by the company during the first quarter of 2015.

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, welcoming the second largest investment in the mining sector, said as a country, “we have to open to the world…we have to partner with the world,” particularly given the potential size of the multimillion-dollar investment.

Guyana Goldfields Inc. focuses on the exploration and development of gold deposits here and Hinds said that the expe-

Dominica 800 Second Avenue, Suite 400H New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-949-0853

Grenada 800 Second Avenue, Suite 400K New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-599-0301

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Martinique 444 Madison Avenue, 16th Floor New York, N.Y. 10022 Tel: 212-838-6887

Montserrat 845 Third Avenue New York, N.Y. 10022 Tel: 212-745-0200

Panama 1212 Avenue of the Americas, 6th Floor New York, N.Y. 10036 Tel: 212-840-2450

St. Kitts & Nevis 414 East 75th Street, 5th Floor New York, N.Y. 10021 Tel: 212-535-5521

St. Lucia 800 Second Avenue, 9th Floor New York, N.Y. 10007 Tel: 212-697-9360

St Kitts-Nevis Pleased with Economic Recovery

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Dominican Republic 1500 Broadway, Suite 410 New York, N.Y. 10036 Tel: 212-768-2480

Guyana 370 Seventh Avenue, 4th Floor New York, N.Y. 10001 Tel: 212-947-5110

Hon. Samuel Hinds

Hon. Dr. Denzil Douglas

rience, expertise and technologies which the investors were bringing into the country would have been difficult source locally.

“Our challenge is to develop partnerships with the world… we have to develop the ability to recognize who we could develop good partnerships with,” he said, acknowledging that while the investment was “somewhat risky” he was looking forward to its success.

Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud, who also supported the investment, said it would bring tremendous benefits to the Guyana.l

he St. Kitts-Nevis government says it is pleased with the growth of the local economy despite mixed global developments that continue to take a toll on developing countries.

Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Dr. Denzil Douglas said that the twinisland federation continues to show signs of an easing in its economic situation as evidenced by a slowing of the contraction in economic output to 0.9 per cent last year

when compared to an average decline of 3.2 per cent during the period 2009 to 2011.

“This can be attributed to positive growth in the manufacturing and tourism sectors which expanded by 10.2 and 2.4 per cent respectively,” he said, noting that in June this year, preliminary estimates indicated that the economy had expanded by two per cent during the first six months.l

Jamaica Urged to Hold Trinidad Accountable to Regional Commitments

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ormer President of the Jamaica Manufacturers Association (JMA) Omar Azan has urged the Portia Simpson Miller led administration to hold Trinidad and Tobago to commitments made to the region as outlined in the Treaty of Chaguaramus.

According to Azan, Trinidad’s National Security Minister Gary Griffith has sent a disjointed message about the stance being taken by the twin island republic as it relates to immigration procedures.

Griffith's declaration came despite a promise by his parliamentary colleague, Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Dookeran, of free travel between Jamaica and Trinidad when he met with his Jamaican counterpart for bilateral talks on immigration issues.

“I find it quite strange and it is obvious

Omar Azan

that the Trinidadian government doesn’t seem to know what the left hand is doing from the right hand. What I find is that it’s a little upsetting in what has been said. Trinidad has signed onto the treaty just like the other CARICOM countries and they must adhere to the laws of the CARICOM treaty of Chaguaramus."

Azan said he found the statement from

Griffith to be strange since a team was dispatched from Trinidad’s Ministry of National Security for the bi-lateral talks.

He said the utterances from the National Security Minister show an obvious political immaturity and he should be reinedin by Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissesar.

He indicated that if the impasse continues, Jamaica could be forced to “hit the Trinidadians where it hurts”.

“The Jamaican people are not fools and the Jamaican people realize what’s happening …the Jamaican people are the most powerful set of people in the Caribbean. The Jamaican people understand what is going on and I’m sure that they will act and do what is necessary to prove how important we are to the CARICOM market,” Azan said.l

St. Maarten 675 Third Avenue, Suite 1807 New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 800-786-2278

St. Vincent & The Grenadines 801 Second Avenue, 21st Floor New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-687-4981 Trinidad & Tobago 125 Maiden Lane New York, N.Y. 10038 Tel: 212-682-7272

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IN THE COMMUNITY

Nightingales for Trinidad &Tobago

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BY TIFFANY THOMAS

urses are a special group by virtue of their profession. To be a nurse, working long hours and still volunteer your time to help your community is commendable. Forty-five years and going strong, is the Trinidad and Tobago Nurses Association of America doing just that. Their ultimate goal in America and the twin-island republic is to build professionals who will impact the world and future nurses.

The organization was formed in Trinidad and Tobago by a group of nurses in the 60’s. Their mission was to build an organization that gave back to the community, specifically aspiring nurses. To be considered for a scholarship, the nursing student must maintain a grade point average of 3.0 or higher and be born in Trinidad and Tobago or is a descendant of Trinidadian parent(s).

With their mission to build a community, “Everyone come together to make sure we are active in the community here and in Trinidad” said Pamela Charles, the public relations officer for the organization. “What we are here for, is to help the people in the community” she said. In 2010, they were able to donate six electrocardiogram machines to the Ministry of Health in Trinidad and Tobago.

The 40 active members are dedicated to the idea of giving back to both nursing

Seated In Front L-R: Valerie Rawlins & Pamela Charles Standing: TTRNA & TTNA of Amer Inc & RHA Representatives

students and medical institutions in Trinidad and Tobago. The Nurses Association has joined forces with Caribbean American Nurses Association (CANA), and Trinidad and Tobago Alliance, an umbrella of various organizations.

In order to reach out the community, the association usually host health forums every two years. They also join

forces with other networks and host health fairs. This is their fourth year of hosting health fairs in New York.

To raise money for scholarships and to support their liaison in Trinidad and Tobago, the association organizes gospel brunches and concerts. With their busy schedules, the members are dedicated to giving back in their spare time. Charles believes that “It is not about us, we are

not doing it for self-gratification, but we are doing it for our community so they in turn can help another.”

The association is looking to increase their membership, looking for more nurses with the heart of giving. “There is a need for service; if you can, provide it,” said Charles. Working endlessly in this association requires patience. Charles thinks that once you are in such a position, “You become the people’s only hope.”

At their yearly celebration event, an annual scholarship grant is awarded. On September 15th, 2013, the association hosted their 24th scholarship grant ceremony and celebrated their 45th anniversary in Queens, New York. At the anniversary luncheon celebration, LeJune Sealy-Horsford and Elizabeth Burnette were the recipients of the Trinidad and Tobago Nurses Association of America Scholarship Award.

In order to build a community of professionals, the association is looking for enthusiastic people who are willing to give their free time to help someone in need of assistance. Also, to be active in their community, every fourth Wednesday, the association meets at Dr. Susan Smith Mc Kinney Nursing and Rehabilitation Center to discuss and organize plans and ideas to reach their ultimate goal.l

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IN THE COMMUNITY

Farm Up Jamaica: Going Back to the Land

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BY VANDELL PARK

ew York-based Jamaican entrepreneur and businessman, Neil Curtis, is on a mission to put Jamaicans back into the farming business, primarily to stem the importation of non-organic foods into the country from the American market. Curtis says the economic policies of the Jamaican government; imposed upon them by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) agreement over the past 20 years, has forced Jamaicans off of their farms, and to rely on imported foods that are scientifically produced at a cheaper cost. He contend that his program is designed to stop the hemorrhaging of local jobs the Jamaican agricultural sector provided and at the same time encourage more healthy foods on the Jamaican market.

In a recent interview with Caribbean American Weekly, Curtis talked about his initiative called “Farm Up Jamaica”: “Farm up Jamaica is a non-profit organization formed to help reduce the importation of foreign foods into Jamaica through sustainable non GMO (genetically modified organism) organic farming. We are against that type of food, though not against the companies that produced these kinds of foods, but when it comes to our Jamaican people, we have to stem the use of these kinds of foods for various reasons. We basically

will be moving back to organic production of food, the way it was done when God created the earth and what we in Jamaica are accustomed to.”

According to Curtis, the project has a three-pronged benefit for Jamaicans. It will put people back to work in the country, stem the continuing devaluation of the Jamaican dollar, and ensure the longevity of the health of the nation.

Curtis says Farm Up Jamaica was launched at the end of September 2013, and has already begun capturing the interest of Jamaican businesses and corporations both in Jamaica and the United States: “Our launch attracted many large organizations and companies that distribute food and since the launch we

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realize that many people are interested in Jamaican products and want to have them here in the States and in London and elsewhere, but due the inconsistency of agriculture in Jamaica, they are not able get produce as they would like, so Farm up Jamaica is set up to also to fill that market as well on a consistent basis.”

While Curtis was not willing to disclose as yet how the Farm Up Jamaica initiative is funded, he pointed out that the organization is equipped to provide the needed assistance to as many farmers across Jamaica who is willing to participate in the program: “What Farm up Jamaica does is to help farmers by providing seeds, irrigation, and manual

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labor. Let’s say you need a hundred people to farm your plot of land, we will take fifty percent of the workforce from that farming community, twenty-five percent from students attending agricultural education institutions in the country and the other twenty-five percent from the inner city who claim that they have nothing to do, and need something to do we provide work. Once we get everybody on board, we bring in international people to oversee that the farming initiative takes place from start to end. We also have a market ready for the crops produced, the products are sold, the farmers are paid, and Farm Up Jamaica gets back the money it puts out. That money goes back into a fund to continue helping more farmers.”

Curtis says the Jamaica Agricultural Ministry in on board with the program along with other key farmers associations in the country. Farm Up Jamaica commenced its initiative with a five acre plot of onions, in the parish of Manchester. urtis says this pilot project once successful, will expand to other crops on a larger scale. He is hoping that the some 3.3 millions of Jamaicans living in London, Canada, the United States and elsewhere, will significantly contribute towards the success of the program so as to put Jamaica back into the export market for its agricultural produce.l

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6 NEWS

CARIBBEAN STAR

Sonia Pierre’s Legacy: The Fight Against Apartheid in the Dominican Republic

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BY NINAJ RAOUL

he late Sonia Pierre (1963-2011), a Dominican born human rights advocate, dedicated her life to end anti-Haitianism in the Dominican Republic. We first met Sonia in 1994 at a Haitian Women’s' Conference in a workshop concerning Haitian Refugees, only two years after Haitian Women for Haitian Refugees (HWHR) was established. She had co-founded Movimiento de Mujeres Dominico Haitianas MUDHA in 1983 with other women who are Dominicans of Haitian descent, to combat the disparities which they face on a daily basis in the Dominican Republic.

Over the years, both HWHR and MUDHA collaborated on various disaster relief efforts, dignity and birthrights campaign, and the fight against wrongful deportations.

We are fortunate to have known such a great woman, as a comrade, sister, friend and mentor. Sonia was a tremendous leader. We are eternally grateful for the opportunity to have participated in many journeys with Sonia and for her unwavering vision that drove so many of us in the social justice movement. Sonia has been a source of strength and inspiration, and a powerful model of what it takes to build a movement. Her life exemplifies

Ninaj Raoul, Executive Director of HWHR with Sonia Pierre

that the causes of justice are always worth our arduous efforts. Sonia fought fearlessly to the end, despite the numerous life threats from racist Dominican nationalists, especially in her final weeks. Her human example and work for justice for so many are now a permanent legacy. Those of us who knew and loved her must carry forward her passion for justice and the fight for dignity for all, and her advocacy for birthrights for Dominicans of Haitian ancestry. That’s

Protestors in the streets of the Dominican Republic. Photo courtesy HWHR

the best tribute we can give her.

This human rights movement against apartheid in the Dominican Republic has been revived in recent months, due to a blatantly discriminatory decision by the Dominican Republic’s highest court. On September 23, 2013, the Dominican Republic Constitutional Court ruled that children born of undocumented immigrant parents after 1929 are no longer Dominican citizens. This decision strips four generations of Dominican of their most basic human rights, their birthright and their nationality, which basically renders them stateless. While the law is written to affect all immigrant groups, this decision directly targets Dominicans of Haitian ancestry.

For many years, Dominican officials have practiced the most brutal forms of deportation against Haitians and Dominicans of Haitian descent. These racist practices have resulted in rape, torture, and even murder.

The Constitutional Court decision now gives the Dominican officials legal ground to continue wrongful deportation of Haitians and Dominicans of Haitian descent.

For a long time, the Dominican economy has benefited from the exploitation of stateless workers in the agricultural and construction sectors.

Haitian and non-Haitian organizations in Haiti and throughout the Diasporas, are taking a stand against this apartheid in the Dominican Republic and the exploitation of Haitians and their descendants with protests outside of Dominican embassies and consulate offices. Many organizations have signed on to the International Campaign Against Apartheid in the Dominican Republic, and vow to join forces until the Dominican government ends the legal racism and discrimination against Haitians and Dominicans of Haitian descent. Some of the organizations are doing awareness campaigns, and gathering signatures for petitions, while some are participating in boycotts on tourism, since the Dominican has the largest tourism market in the Caribbean. Some organizations have gone as far as calling for a total boycott of all Dominican products and businesses, and are running PSAs on local radio stations.

Participating organizations include: Haitian Women for Haitian Refugees, Lakou New York, Flanbwayan-Haitian Literacy Project, CADNOH, Radyo Pa Nou, Groupe Tayno, Haiti Edu-Action (New Jersey), Haitian Americans for Progress (Miami), the December 12th Movement, and the Lanbi Center.l

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FAMILY MATTERS

When a Stepparent Enters the Picture

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n some families, new adults and kids seem to slip in effortlessly, as though they have been there all along.

Everyone gets along well — one big happy family, just like on "The Brady Bunch."

But some families brought together through marriage can be so different that the best everyone can do is grit their teeth and work extremely hard to get through a weekend together.

Building a relationship with a stepparent can be quite different from building other new relationships. After all, when you meet a new friend or love interest, you are the one deciding if that person will have a role in your life. You get to introduce these new people into your life gradually, taking time to decide how they fit in and how you really feel about them.

A stepparent is different; he or she is someone your mom or dad has invited into the family. Sometimes a stepparent can feel like a stranger who is suddenly inserted into the most personal aspects of your life.

The pressure to get along can be intense.

Because everyone's situation is different, there are no easy answers to accepting a stepparent. Some people find themselves with new stepparents after a parent has died, others after parents have divorced.

Some parents take years to meet and marry other people; some remarry almost immediately.

When a parent remarries, you may find yourself with an instant family of stepsiblings or, eventually, with younger halfbrothers or half-sisters.

Although every family is different, there are some things that can help you deal with a new stepparent.

Dealing with Feelings One of the most important things you can do for yourself is to recognize that you'll have plenty of feelings about your new situation, and some of these may conflict. For example, even when someone likes a new stepparent, it's natural to feel some pangs that this new person is "replacing" a beloved parent in some way.

Change — good or bad — is difficult.

Even if you don't have negative feelings about the new person in your family, you may have very strong feelings about the changes a stepparent is creating.

At some point, you're probably going to feel confused, conflicted about your loyalties, angry, and possibly sad.

If your parent seems overly involved in the new relationship and you don't feel comfortable talking to him or her, then look for a group at school or in your community where you can vent. Or talk to a teacher or a guidance counselor about what's going on in your life.

Entering a stepparent situation can be particularly challenging for teens. Feeling like your family life has been disrupted can be especially difficult because of all the other changes that take place during the teenage years — everything from the emotional growth involved in becoming an adult, to the hormonal changes triggered by puberty.

If you find that your new situation has left you feeling sad most of the time or you just can't shake the blues, you may want to talk to a doctor or therapist.

Facing the Realities So what can you do to adjust to the daily realities of living with a stepparent?

Instead of worrying about the "what ifs" and the inevitable changes, talk to your mom or dad about what to expect before your new stepparent joins the family. That way, you can be prepared for what lies ahead. For example, figure out ahead of time what to call your stepparent. Ask about stepsiblings and things like if you have to share a room now. Ask about holiday plans and who's giving presents to whom. If your house is about to explode with new people, find out how this affects you and that spare room where you listen to music.

Don't be afraid to ask questions as they come to mind. Your parents and new stepparent might not have thought about the things you're asking either, so there's an opportunity to explore options together.

And if there's something you absolutely don't want to change, try to negotiate. For example, if you and your dad always go fishing over Thanksgiving but your mom made plans for you to spend the holiday with her new husband's family, she might not realize how important the fishing trip is to you.

What about those times when you flat out disagree with a stepparent? You'll have a better chance of getting what you want if you disagree without disrespect.

Explain your feelings calmly and rationally. For example, if you have a new halfbrother or -sister and you feel like you're constantly being expected to babysit at the

last minute, talk it over with your stepparent before the situation gets to the stage where you feel taken advantage of. Present your side — maybe you have to study for a test or you already made plans with friends and they're relying on you. Then listen to the other person's perspective. Include your parent in the discussion, too.

If you're particularly mad about something, it can feel hard not to lose control.

But managing your anger and taking extra care to choose respectful language will help your stepparent see you for the mature person you are, not as a child.

Find a way to get to know the new stepparent in your life. Suggest a bike ride or go to a movie together. It may not be easy, but you can use the same relationship and communication skills you would use to make anyone feel welcome. It may help to remember that your stepparent is walking into a new situation, too. He or she could feel just as nervous and confused as you do.

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Expect some rough spots. You know that establishing a good relationship takes time.

Your new life won't always be smooth, so be ready to make some compromises. The good thing is, the ups and downs of adjusting to a new family situation can offer some really great life lessons. Many people look back on their experiences getting to know new family members and realize they learned some great relationship (and negotiating!) skills in the process.

Remind yourself that every situation is different. There's no real script for a new family that's being pulled together from all sorts of directions. Be open to lots of possibilities. And savor the good moments.

Although change is often difficult, it can be good, too.l

1995- 2013. The Nemours Foundation/KidsHealth®. Reprinted with permission. Reviewed by Jennifer Shroff Pendley, PhD

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The Light of Mandela’s Legacy for World Leaders/ continued from page 1

ship class at Harvard Kennedy School of Government. Of all the world leaders Professor Robert I. Rotberg encouraged us to review; Mandela’s story was most inspiring. I grappled with the spiritual anchors that embraced his moral outlook while trying to grasp the consistent pragmatism that animated his quest for democracy. Although I didn’t think about it then, I see three lessons CARICOM and world leaders could glean from Mandela’s leadership.

Lesson One. He had an intuitive sense of history and a strategic selection of the right moment. He knew instinctively when to act, when to hold back, and most importantly, when to leave the seat of power. He did not allow himself to be doomed by the trappings of the office or to fall prey to short-term group-think about when is the best time to retire.

Instead, he chose to be flexible to changing circumstances rather than be swept away by short-term interests. Nothing or no one could have prevented Mandela from dying in office if he wanted too, especially after he led South Africa into a historic multiracial democracy in 1994.

But because he was more concerned about a vision of national development bigger than himself, he opened the door for the younger generation to lead the

Mandela: “A fundamental concern for others in our individual and community lives would go a long way in making the world the better place we so passionately dreamt of.” country to an inclusive economic prosperity for all South Africans.

Lesson Two. He governed with an abounding national vision rooted in forgiveness and love. Mandela did not want the promise of a harmonious South Africa to be destroyed by the practice of tribal interests and partisan thinking.

That’s why he did not permit his moral conscience to reward friends and punish enemies. Finger-pointing blame and vendetta politics were absence from his use of power. It was more important to embrace the enemy through reconciliatory methods than humiliate the adversary by inflicting an unending cycle of violence and counter violence. Mandela gave birth to an adorable social experiment where power and compassion were to cement a multiracial South Africa. In fact, his evolving collective sense of South African’s identity was illustrated when he used rugby— a symbol of

COVER STORY

his family to the cause of freedom and the benevolence which he mirrored to his prison guards. With inspired conviction, Mandela showed that it is possible to transform cutthroat politics with charming humility and still deliver superlative outcomes.

hatred— to unify the country. Mandela operated with an all-embracing generosity. He sacrificed self-enrichment for national advancement.

Lesson Three. He embodied self-denial par excellence. Madiba gave up his own wants and managed personal impulses for the sake of the masses. By trading self-recognition for excellence in national progress, he crafted an environment of mutual trust, fearless self-control and selfless goodwill. It’s not coincidental that on the brink of Christmas—a season that reminds us of the greatest sacrifice ever made in human history by Jesus— Mandela’s incredible self-sacrificial practices leap over the boundaries of this century into our eternal memories.

During his anti-apartheid struggle, 27 years of Robben Island Prison, and his presidency, Mandela demonstrated stunning self-mastery. Perhaps this was most acutely felt in the sacrificial offering of

I admire Mandela’s decency of consolidating power by finding common ground. Both his abiding faith in the human spirit, and a synergistic relationship between setback and struggles touch me profoundly.

No wonder stardom statesmanship is being bestowed upon this international figure of peace. Indeed, he is a game changing freedom fighter. If his legacy is to remain a rallying source of inspiration, it requires nerves and commitment to apply. Ultimately, no meaningful strategies for endurable social change could be achieved in CARICOM and the world, without a full-blown embrace of authentic moral leadership!l

Dr. Isaac Newton is an International Leadership and Change Management Consultant and Political Adviser. He specializes in Government and Business Relations, and Sustainable Development Projects. Dr. Newton works extensively, in West Africa, the Caribbean and Latin America and is a graduate of Oakwood College, Harvard, Princeton and Columbia.

He has published several books on personal development and written many articles on economics, education, leadership, political, social, and faith based issues.

Restaurant Management & Start-Up Issues for New Restaurants

Learn NYC’s restaurant laws and regulations

To run a successful restaurant you must know how to manage your employees and expenses, as well as which licenses you may need. This workshop will help you understand all of the basic requirements to get your business up and running. You will learn about: nHow to avoid large fines by knowing the laws regarding minimum wage, overtime vs. shift pay, uniforms, worker’s compensation, discrimination, health and sanitation, and other common issues nWhat to know to apply for right licenses and permits correctly n How to use a new online license information system, Business Express nBusiness structures and partnership nCommercial leasing/location scouting nPurchasing/selling existing restaurants nLiquor licenses, restaurant insurance nDepartment of Health's new letter grading system nBookkeeping, tax preparation & IRS audit issues for restaurants

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FREE to attend!

9

MONEY MATTERS

The Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act and Debt Cancellation

I

f you owe a debt to someone else and they cancel or forgive that debt, the canceled amount may be taxable. The Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act of 2007 generally allows taxpayers to exclude income from the discharge of debt on their principal residence. Debt reduced through mortgage restructuring, as well as mortgage debt forgiven in connection with a foreclosure, qualifies for the relief.

This provision applies to debt forgiven in calendar years 2007 through 2012. Up to $2 million of forgiven debt is eligible for this exclusion ($1 million if married filing separately). The exclusion does not apply if the discharge is due to services performed for the lender or any other reason not directly related to a decline in the home’s value or the taxpayer’s financial condition.

The following are the most commonly asked questions and answers about the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act and debt cancellation: What is Cancellation of Debt?

If you borrow money from a commercial lender and the lender later cancels or forgives the debt, you may have to include the cancelled amount in income for tax purposes, depending on the circumstances. When you borrowed the money

you were not required to include the loan proceeds in income, because you had an obligation to repay the lender. When that obligation is subsequently forgiven, the amount you received as loan proceeds is normally reportable as income because you no longer have an obligation to repay the lender. The lender is usually required to report the amount of the canceled debt to you and the IRS on Form 1099-C, Cancellation of Debt.

Here’s a very simplified example. You borrow $10,000 and default on the loan after paying back $2,000. If the lender is unable to collect the remaining debt from you, there is a cancellation of debt of $8,000, which generally is taxable income to you.

Is Cancellation of Debt income always taxable?

Not always. There are some exceptions.

The most common situations when cancellation of debt income is not taxable involve: Qualified principal residence indebtedness: This is the exception created by the Mortgage Debt Relief Act of 2007 and applies to most homeowners.

Bankruptcy: Debts discharged through bankruptcy are not considered taxable income.

Insolvency: If you are insolvent when the debt is cancelled, some or all of the cancelled debt may not be taxable to you. You are insolvent when your total debts are more than the fair market value of your total assets.

Certain farm debts: If you incurred the debt directly in operation of a farm, more than half your income from the prior three years was from farming, and the loan was owed to a person or agency regularly engaged in lending, your cancelled debt is generally not considered taxable income.

Non-recourse loans: A non-recourse loan is a loan for which the lender’s only remedy in case of default is to repossess the property being financed or used as collateral. That is, the lender cannot pursue you personally in case of default. Forgiveness of a non-recourse loan resulting from a

People who have lost their homes through foreclosure or who have restructured their mortgage loans, may qualify for tax relief under the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act.

foreclosure does not result in cancellation of debt income. However, it may result in other tax consequences.

Does the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act apply to all forgiven or cancelled debts?

No. The Act applies only to forgiven or cancelled debt used to buy, build or substantially improve your principal residence, or to refinance debt incurred for those purposes. In addition, the debt must be secured by the home. This is known as qualified principal residence indebtedness. The maximum amount you can treat as qualified principal residence indebtedness is $2 million or $1 million if married and filing separately.l

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10

OBAMA ADMINISTRATION

We Will Never See the Likes of Nelson Mandela Again

A

BY PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA

t his trial in 1964, Nelson Mandela closed his statement from the dock saying, “I have fought against white domination, and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities. It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve. But if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die.”

And Nelson Mandela lived for that ideal, and he made it real. He achieved more than could be expected of any man.

Today, he has gone home. And we have lost one of the most influential, courageous, and profoundly good human beings that any of us will share time with on this Earth. He no longer belongs to us -- he belongs to the ages.

Through his fierce dignity and unbending will to sacrifice his own freedom for the freedom of others, Madiba transformed South Africa — and moved all of us. His journey from a prisoner to a president embodied the promise that human beings — and countries — can change for the better. His commitment to transfer power and reconcile with those who jailed him set an example that all human-

ity should aspire to, whether in the lives of nations or our own personal lives.

And the fact that he did it all with grace and good humor, and an ability to acknowledge his own imperfections, only makes the man that much more remarkable. As he once said, “I am not a saint, unless you think of a saint as a sinner who keeps on trying.”

I am one of the countless millions who drew inspiration from Nelson Mandela's life. My very first political action, the first thing I ever did that involved an issue or a policy or politics, was a protest against apartheid. I studied his words and his writings. The day that he was released from prison gave me a sense of what human beings can do when they’re guided by their hopes and not by their fears. And like so many around the globe, I cannot fully imagine my own life without the example that Nelson Mandela set, and so long as I live I will do what I can to learn from him.

To Graça Machel and his family, Michelle and I extend our deepest sympathy and gratitude for sharing this extraordinary man with us. His life’s work meant long days away from those who loved him the most. And I only hope that the time spent with him these last few weeks brought peace and comfort to his family.

“I cannot fully imagine my own life without the example that Nelson Mandela set, and so long as I live I will do what I can to learn from him...”

To the people of South Africa, we draw strength from the example of renewal, and reconciliation, and resilience that you made real. A free South Africa at peace with itself — that’s an example to the world, and that’s Madiba’s legacy to the nation he loved.

We will not likely see the likes of Nelson Mandela again. So it falls to us as best we can to forward the example that he set: to make decisions guided not

by hate, but by love; to never discount the difference that one person can make; to strive for a future that is worthy of his sacrifice.

For now, let us pause and give thanks for the fact that Nelson Mandela lived — a man who took history in his hands, and bent the arc of the moral universe toward justice. May God Bless his memory and keep him in peace.l

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IMMIGRATION

From the Mouths of Babes: Children Demand Immigration Reform

F

BY AMANDA PETERSON BEADLE

amilies across the U.S. are facing the holidays separated from mothers, fathers, and siblings due to deportations and years-long waits for visas. Children—some of whose parents are undocumented immigrants—have taken to the halls of Congress recently to go to congressional offices, meet with members, and ask them to support immigration reform so that their families won’t be separated.

The protests and meetings are part of the Fair Immigration Reform Movement’s (FIRM) Youth in Action campaign to bring children to Washington, D.C. to share their stories.

Eleven-year-old Esteban Verdugo told Rep. Scott Tipton (R-CO), for example, that the holidays are hard for him since his father was deported. “I’m scared that my stepdad could be next. It’s Christmas time and while most families are together, immigrant families like mine continue to be separated,” Verdugo said, according to FIRM. “We need to pass immigration reform now.”

Along with meeting with members, they have gathered in front of House Speaker John Boehner’s office to ask him to bring an immigration bill to the

floor for a vote. According to the Huffington Post, a Capitol police officer yelled at the children and advocates for singing in hallway outside of Boehner’s office: “We’re not going to have singing in my building,” the officer said, which can be seen in a video posted by KFTStories. “We’re not going to have it.

Warning number one, okay? That’s all you get. This is getting old real fast, okay? I’m not going to tolerate it. This is a place of business, and we do not sing in the hallway.” “Comprende?” he asked, raising his voice.

The children and their families also

Photo: Olivia Chow

staged a protest during the Capitol Christmas tree’s lighting. They held pictures of family members and signs asking for “Immigration reform now!” and chanted, “All I want for Christmas is reform,” as Boehner began the tree lighting ceremony. And in November, two immigrant teenagers—Carmen Lima, 13, and Jennifer Martinez, 16—approached Boehner at a diner as he was eating breakfast to explain how their parents were at risk of deportation because of the House’s inaction on immigration reform.

After Lima asked the speaker to support immigration reform, he said, “I’m trying

11

to find a way to get this thing done. It’s, as you know, not easy. It’s not going to be an easy path forward, but I’ve made it clear since the day after the election that it’s time to get this done.”

Despite telling the two teenagers in November that he’s trying to work on immigration reform, Boehner also has insisted the House has no intention of taking up S. 744, the immigration bill the Senate already passed with a wide majority. And while House Republicans delay on putting forward a plan or considering one of the immigration measures languishing in committee, the children’s stories highlight the growing number of families who are hurt by the wait for immigration reform. That is why 29 House members sent a letter to President Obama this week asking him to use his authority to suspend deportations of people who would qualify for a path to citizenship under pending immigration reform legislation. “Our efforts in Congress will only be helped by the sensible and moral step of stopping deportations,” the letter states. “We cannot continue to witness potential citizens in our districts go through the anguish of deportation when legalization could be just around the corner for them.”l

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12 NEWS

SMALL BUSINESS MATTERS

Fighting for Contracts for Minority Entrepreneurs/

continued from page 1 the single digits. In New York things haven’t fared better and there are movements challenging the awarding of contracts to Hispanics, blacks and other minority groups. One such movement is being led by the New York State Coalition of Hispanic Chambers of Commerce (NYSCHCC).

Frank Garcia, Chair of NYSCHCC, has moved to the courts to prevent the enforcement of Local Law 1 recently passed by the New York City Council to replace Local Law 129. Garcia says the new law discriminates against minorityowned businesses seeking contracts with the city administration. He added that the new law limits the percentage of jobs contracted out to African-American, Hispanic, Caribbean-American and Asian-owned businesses here in New York City and will severely impact the economic position of minority communities. According to Garcia, the passage of Local Law 1 is a deliberate effort by the Bloomberg administration to frustrate minorities and to weaken their economic ability in New York City: “As the Law currently stands, African-Americans are only allowed 9% of contracts, Hispanics 4%, Asians are given 7% while it has displaced Caribbean American businesses and put them under Hispanics thus making them entitled to only 4% of contract Jobs with the city, while this same law gives to White women a whopping 37 % contract jobs with the City. This is a bla-

Taking a stand for Hispanic and other minority entrepreneurs

tant case of discrimination, and that is why we have moved to the courts to stop the implementation of this aspect of Local Law 1, or Intro 911 as it is officially named. The case has been brought before a judge in the Bronx Supreme Court and the coalition of chambers is represented

by Attorney at Law Damien Carter, the only lawyer who has won several cases against Mayor Michael Bloomberg.”

Garcia says that initially, under Local Law 129 passed by the Bloomberg administration in 2005, the percentage of contracts allocated to minorities was much higher but was significantly reduced in Local Law 1 or Intro 911.

Garcia says a ruling on the case is pending since the judge requested time to study the law in order to effectively administer a ruling that is fair and reasonable. Meanwhile, the coalition of cham-

ber members are calling on minority businesses to step up support for the fight against the enforcement of the law as it is currently written. Another leader representing the Hispanic community Peter Fontanes, says: “Look, they are trying to dupe us and think that we are stupid, but we are not. We are not walking away from this; we have gotten a lot smarter and a lot angrier, therefore we have become more astute in fighting the administration when it tries to fool us, and that is why we have taken the case to the Supreme court in the Bronx to get an injunction and hopefully we will get a fair decision.

Nobody thought that we were going to take them to court on this issue.”

Fontanes says the injunction was sought primarily because the city administration is pushing to enact the law, expecting that once it is enacted, judges may not want to

take the case. He added that the inequitable distribution of city contracts to minorities must come to an end.

Fontanes says the Supreme Court, through its ruling on affirmative action, dictates that a disparity study be carried out to ensure an equitable distribution of City contracts. He stressed that in order to correct these ills and injustices with city contract allocations to minorities, there must be an independent disparity study done and its findings be acted upon in a fair and responsible manner by the city administration.

However, the disparity in the procurement procedures in New York City is indicative of a national problem.

According to a report on the award of federal contracts to Blacks and Hispanics the figure is dismal. Hispanics represent about 17% of the U.S. population while Blacks is about 13%, yet federal small business contracting allocated to these groups are in the single digits. Of the $98.2 billion of the federal government awards in 2012, Hispanics received $8.21 billion or 8.4%, while blacks received $7.1 billion or 7.2%. Despite the national figures on the allocation of contracts to minority small businesses, Fontanes believes that the policy of New York City, requiring small business owners to submit their ethnic origin in order to be certified to receive procurement contracts with the city is a discriminatory one and that all New Yorkers should be allowed to apply based on the criteria of being a legal New York City resident and not on race or ethnic background.l

Starting a Successful Construction Business Are you seriously thinking about starting a contracting business in the construction industry?

Then, attend our 2-part seminar and learn:

Part One lSetting up Your Business lLicences & Insurance lStart-up Finance & Lines of Credit lMarketing Your Business lLegal Issues Part Two lProject Management lPreparing A Contract Bid lMinority Certification & Procurement Opportunities lTips on Negotiating Contracts

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Multicultural Business Expo

Early Bird Special

There's a popular age-old saying, "the early bird catches the worm." In the nature of our fine-feathered friends, here is an early bird special to save you money!

Exhibitor’s Table Regular - $1250 (includes 6x6 skirted table, 1 ticket to VIP Welcome Breakfast and 2 tickets to Cocktail Reception & Pillar of the Community Awards)

Early-Bird Special: $1000

(includes 6x6 skirted table, 1 ticket to VIP Welcome Breakfast and 2 tickets to Cocktail Reception & Pillar of the Community Awards)

Past Exhibitors: Get an extra 10% OFF. Special $695*: Exhibiting table only*. *Conditions apply. Limited quantity.

Don’t miss this great opportunity to market and brand your business at our Multicultural Business Expo on THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014 at the Brooklyn Marriott

Special ends February 28, 2014

Call 718-722-9217 ext 112 to secure your table or for sponsorship opportunities.

Expo Kit is available at www.mynacc.org

ONE DAY. ONE LOCATION. ENDLESS OPPORTUNITIES.

20+ Empowering Seminars. VIP Welcome Breakfast.

Cocktail & Pillar of Communitty Awards.

EXPO PRESENTED BY NACC IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE AAICC, HAICC & NYSCHCC

14 NEWS

Prisoner 46664

N

BY DIANDRA ARCHIBALD

elson Rolihlahla Mandela – was more than the western hemisphere’s recreated idol and poster boy for the success in being black and obedient. He was a freedom fighter, and a man of quiet dignity. Mr. Mandela passed away on December 5th 2013 leaving a blanket of temperate sorrow across South Africa. “Madiba” (his clan name) will be truly missed.

As the world continues to idolize Mr. Mandela and “white-wash” his existence, Concerned Americans for Racial Equality (CARE) will share a more relatable and realistic story of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela and Apartheid, with its related effects and lasting impressions.

Mandela once said, “ I am not a saint, unless you think of a saint as a sinner who keeps on trying.” This is the truth of any authentic leader, because admitting that one is susceptible to frailties of human nature just like everyone else is the foundation of leadership.

Nelson Mandela was born on the18th of July in 1918 in the small village in the former black homeland Transkei in the Republic of South Africa. Mandela was named “Rolihlahla” at birth, which prophetically means troublemaker. The name Nelson, was given to him when he entered the South African education system as a child. Black Africans customarily adopted “Western/European” names to enable Whites to easily address them outside of their village.

Mandela studied law. By day he practiced as an attorney in Johannesburg. By night he

planned sabotage undermining the apartheid regime through the African National Congress (ANC), which he co-founded. In 1964 while on trial, as his opening defense he explained; “I planned it as a result of a calm and sober assessment of the political situation that had arisen after many years of tyranny, exploitation, and oppression of my people by the Whites.” He was prepared to die for the liberation of South Africa.

During apartheid Black poverty was rampant and made worse by South Africa’s internal war. The government continuously tried to drive Blacks away from the city where work was available which was reserved for Whites by tearing down shantytowns and nearby villages erected in close proximity to the cities. Working Black South Africans exercised the only political power they had, by organizing protests and refusing to work hoping to impact the economy, which evidently created more hardship and worsened their situation. Many were tortured and imprisoned and thousands died fighting against this unjust system that denied the black majority basic freedoms such as the power to vote as well as the ability to move and live freely within their own country.

The failing economy incited white labor unions to become increasingly violent against South African blacks. In the early 20th century American president Ronald Reagan maintained a close alliance with the South African government demonizing opponents of apartheid as dangerous and pro-communist. Reagan even vetoed a bill to impose sanctions on South Africa although Congress eventually overruled the veto.

CARE ON MANDELA

Reagan continued to support the apartheid government under the guise of the policy of “constructive engagement” which held.

President Ronald Regan supported a bloody and drawn-out affair in which thousands died fighting.

The “dying days” commonly known as the time between Nelson Mandela’s release from imprisonment and the Black majority rule in 1994 was a desperate time for the nation. The power struggle encompassed white supremacists determined to hang onto their power, tribal rivals competing for political influence, and the South African government, which was publicly negotiating reform and privately provoking violence.

Black poverty was rampant and made worse

by South Africa’s internal war. The government continuously tried to drive Blacks away from the city where work was available which was reserved for Whites by tearing down shantytowns and nearby villages erected in close proximity to the cities.

Working Black South Africans exercised the only political power they had, by organizing protests and refusing to work hoping to impact the economy, which evidently created more hardship and worsened their situation. Many were tortured and imprisoned and thousands died fighting against this unjust system that denied the black majority basic freedoms such as the power to vote as well as the ability to move and live freely within their own country.

Mandela, although imprisoned, continued to lead the fight against apartheid. It was forbidden to advertise the revolution by quoting Inmate No. 46664 or to publish his picture under the suppression of Communism Act, he and other incarcerated members of the ANC smuggled out messages of direction and hope to the anti-apartheid movement.

The first major blow against apartheid was to the military. The armed division of the ANC tore it apart from within. The second blow, delivered in 1988 during the Battle of Cuito Cunavale by Cuban troops, Angolans, Namibians, and South Africans ended Apartheid. After more than 25 years of imprisonment Mandela, Inmate No. 46664 was finally released. He became the first black president of South Africa.

Although as president for just five years one term he was unable to rectify all the ills relating to the long term systematic impoverishment and oppression of Blacks including poverty, unemployment numbers, housing, and the AIDS epidemic that hit the country. Mandela and the other unnamed fighters freed the people and brought true democracy to South Africa. Madiba has moved on. But he left a world where many more Madibas’ in South Africa and around the world who know that they can fight in the name of justice and make a difference because of freedom! l

Economic Deprivation Think Tank Conference

A CARE Juneteenth Project

We invite you to participate in our First Annual Think Tank Conference on Economic Deprivation, in partnership with NACC, AAICC, HAICC, NAACP, NYCHA & IJLEF at the Annual NACC Multicultural Business Conference, scheduled for Thursday, June 19, 2014, at the New York Marriott at Brooklyn Bridge, 333 Adams Street, Brooklyn, New York.

TRACKS:

“Overcoming poverty is not a task of charity, it is an act of justice. Like Slavery and Apartheid, poverty is not natural.

It is man-made and it can be overcome and eradicated by the actions of human beings.

Sometimes it falls on a generation to be great.

YOU can be that great generation.

Let your greatness blossom.”

Track I: Economic Deprivation & Crime Track II: Developing Human Capital Track III: Tax Policy, Poverty & Inequality Track IV: Economic Deprivation: The role of Faith-Based Organizations as advocates for Affordable Housing

To register as a participant of the conference, go to www.mynacc.org VISIT OUR WEBSITE WWW.CAWNYC.COM FOR MORE NEWS AND INFORMATION

CV1

NEWS

nHEALTH

nENTERTAINMENT

nRELATIONSHIPS

nRECIPES

nSPORTS

5 Tips to Avoid Holiday Weight Gain

W

ho doesn't love the smell of a warm kitchen during the holidays? They're designed around food and bringing family, old friends and new friends together. However, holidays can also be detrimental to your healthy lifestyle and cause you to lose your focus through the end of the year. But they don't have to be. "Think of fall as the perfect time to reassess the state of your health and prep for the challenges of the holiday season," says Alicia Rodriguez, a registered dietician. "When it comes to nutrition and avoiding weight gain, my motto is, keep it simple and easy." Here are some tips to help you do the same.

Bulk up your plate with protein and vegetables The side dishes at most holiday meals are often as good as the turkey or ham, but stuffing and mashed potatoes aren't the best way to fill your plate. One way to avoidweight gain is to build your plate with protein. This should be easy since holiday dinners revolve around meat. Second, fill your plate with side dishes that include vegetables. You may have a little spot left on your plate— use this space for your "indulgence." When you look at your plate, the goal is that the food is still providing you with good nutrients and reduced carbohydrates.

Use the "fork" trick Many of us go back for seconds, and even third helpings at holiday meals. This year, focus on asking yourself if you're enjoying your food. To help you answer this question, use the fork trick. Once you take a bite of food, place your fork down on the plate and let it go. Chew your food, swallow and then

nHOROSCOPE

Caribbean Kitchen Corner

Christmas in The Islands Bread SUBMITTED BY B. PAINTER ALLRECIPIES.COM

"Satisfy your soul with pineapple, coconut, dried cherries, and a touch of rum, mon!" — B. Painter

pick it up again. The key to this trick is letting go of the fork.

This will remind you to slow down, enjoy your food and converse with friends and family.

Avoid the clean plate club Growing up, many of us were always told, "You can't leave the table until you finish everything on your plate" and inevitably, we spent many nights sitting alone at the dinner table. These days, Rodriguez advises her clients to eat until they are full and, if their plate is not clean, it's OK. Focus on one plate of food, slow down and be careful not to overeat. Overfeeding is never really a healthy thing to do.

Share your dessert with a loved one After a satisfying meal, it is hard to avoid the sweet smells of pumpkin—or warm apple pie. If you choose not to skip dessert, share a small slice with a loved one or new friend. If you are hosting, designate one family member to bring dessert, to limit the endless selection of pies and reduce the urge to overindulge.

Make like a turkey and trot out the door Start your holiday with a new tradition this year and gather the family to do something active. Take a walk to a local park, put together a family friendly flag football game, rake the leaves up in the yard and jump into them.

Holidays are a time to be thankful for family, friends and everything in between. Savor the moment, really take time to taste your food, get out and have some fun, and avoid the-holiday weight gain.(BPT) l

Ingredients 3 eggs 1/2 cup vegetable oil 1 teaspoon dark rum 1/2 cup milk 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup sugar 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 cups canned crushed pineapple, drained 1/2 cup dried cherries 1 1/3 cups toasted coconut

bowl. Mix the flour into the eggs until just moistened.

Gently fold in the pineapple, cherries, and coconut. Pour into prepared pans.

3.Bake in a preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, about 40 to 45 minutes. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes Directions before removing to cool on a 1.Preheat oven to 350 degrees F wire rack.l (175 degrees C). Lightly grease two 9x5 inch loaf pans.

2.Beat together eggs, oil, rum, and • milk in a bowl. Sift together flour, • sugar, baking powder, baking soda, • nutmeg, and salt in a separate

PREP 20 mins COOK 45 mins READY IN 1 hr, 5 mins

Visit www.cawnyc.com for the latest Caribbean news, sports, information and more!

J

Tessanne Chin Makes Us Proud

amaican songstress, Tessanne Chin, who auditioned for The Voice and now finds herself as one of the final three, has made Jamaicans as well as the whole Caribbean proud. Apart from wowing the judges and the audience across American and the world, with her amazing talent, she has carried herself with a quiet dignity and an irresistible effervescence. Her performance on the whole and especially her rendition of Bob Marley, her home country icon and hero’s song, Redemption Song, has proven that win or lose, she is destined to be a star.

We wish Tessanne good luck, not just on final night, but for her career. May you continue to shine bright like a diamond in the sky!l

VISIT OUR WEBSITE WWW.CAWNYC.COM FOR MORE NEWS AND INFORMATION

CV2 NEWS

HEALTH

Diabetes and Relationships: Tools for Coping This Holiday Season and Beyond

A

as well as your fast-acting insulin in case your blood sugar is high •Don’t end up in a stressful situation where your friends, family members or you are angry or frustrated.

BY ELIOT LEBOW

t six, I was diagnosed with Juvenile (Type 1) Diabetes.

Suddenly, my universe went from waiting for the ice cream truck, to asking questions about life, death, and illness.

In 1977, the emotional aspects of chronic diseases were very much under the rug. My doctors encouraged me to “tough it out.” In my teens, I translated that nebulous instruction into a life adrift between blood sugar levels and corresponding emotional extremes .

There are over 27 million people in the U.S. with diabetes. The disease triggers a lifestyle transformation; it requires 24/7 vigilance and monitoring.

When you’re stuck in a depressive rut or are just feeling “foggy,” it’s not you—it’s your body's chemistry. Low blood sugar reduces the glucose in your brain, leading to poor memory and difficulty learning. High blood sugar is no picnic, either; it causes the blood to thicken and oxygen levels to be decreased. This mental fog can create a vicious cycle—sickness leads to depression, which leads to apathy and denial. Without proper management, these symptoms only grow worse.

I’ve seen people lift their spirits and

gain their energy back, simply by getting a handle on their blood sugar levels.

Conversely, I’ve seen people destroy their lives and relationships by letting things go unchecked. The result?

Resentment, denial and low self-worth.

A diabetes diagnosis can place strain on even the happiest relationship, but it doesn’t have to end it. While it’s natural to not want to burden your loved ones, you must remember to: •Inform the people in your life when your blood sugar is high or low and tell them that is why your behavior might be off or odd •Express your limitations, so your part-

ner knows to be patient, •Discuss the emotional symptoms of diabetes with people you care about •Take blood tests often, and share the results with your partner •Wait until blood sugars return to normal before eating.

•Commit to a handful of simple, lowpressure tasks, and follow through even if you’re feeling sad or foggy •Seek professional guidance if your emotions are interfering with your daily life •Thank people if they come up to you and ask if you are okay and check your blood sugars •Always have the proper food available

Mental illness and diabetes tend to be a package deal. But the story doesn’t have to end there—mine didn’t. I’m thankful every day for my mother’s decision to send me to psychotherapy. I can’t stress enough the importance of seeking counseling, cognitive behavioral psychotherapy or a certified diabetic educator as part of your diabetes care.

While it may seem that constantly monitoring what you put in your body is more trouble than it’s worth, these relatively simple changes make returning to your old life possible.

A diabetes diagnosis brings a slew of emotional issues. When your diabetes is managed well, the emotional issues become manageable, too. That’s where I come in. As a veteran Type I diabetic, I’ve dedicated my life to helping other people with diabetes in the New York Metro area. For me, the most important piece of my health care puzzle was emotional health and support. And I’ve helped hundreds of people with diabetes find the same relief. l

Real Estate Transactions for Buyers & Sellers, Foreclosure Inoculation & Financing Your Business through Home Ownership Buying a home is an exciting experience, but it can also be overwhelming if you don’t understand the entire process. Knowing what to expect will help you make the right decisions about your home purchase. So, whether you are considering homeownership for the first time or currently own a home and need help with your mortgage, or interested in building a real estate portfolio, this seminar provides you with the important tools and resources you need today.

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Telephone: 718-722-9217 Email: info@mynacc.org Website: www.mynacc.org

Location: 26 Court Street, Suite 701, downtown Brooklyn Space is limited.

Must register to attend.

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CV3

LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS

Recently Engaged? Critical Financial Questions to Ask Before You Say “I Do”

E

ngagement season is officially here, with couples around the country saying "yes" to proposals and starting to plan their weddings. In fact, 39 percent of marriage proposals happen between Thanksgiving and Valentine's Day, according to WeddingChannel.com. While immediate discussions with your partner might be focused on the ceremony venue or honeymoon location, there's another important consideration before saying "I do" having the "finance talk."

Joining your lives through marriage also means joining your lives financially.

Having a solid understanding about money, which includes insurance, will help ensure a marriage remains strong long after the honeymoon is over.

However, the reality is that many couples are skipping important conversations. While 71 percent of newly married couples acknowledge the importance of sharing beneficiary designations before marrying, almost half never got around to addressing their life insurance needs prior to the wedding, according to a survey by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). And it's not just young couples who are skipping the conversation — newlywed couples age 55 and older are more likely to have discussed their household entertain-

Having health insurance isn't only important for each person in a marriage, but starting in 2014, it is subject to considerable changes in law. When analyzing plans, remember the lowest premium isn't the only consideration. Review all plan elements, including deductibles and co-pays. Most couples have the opportunity to combine plans, but only after they are legally married and not before.

Research shows disconnect between what couples say and do when it comes to financial conversations before marriage

ment budget than their life insurance coverage.

Talking about combining finances and future insurance needs can be difficult, but it doesn't have to be. Avoid misunderstandings and help ensure your marriage remains strong by having a talk about these matters as soon as possible.

Well before the big day, couples should schedule a pre-wedding discussion to directly address auto, home, health and life insurance needs. Here are some questions to get the conversation started:

Home * Do we plan on renovating our current home?

* If we both own homes, should we rent or sell the other home once we move in together?

Keep in mind, a renovation investment of $5,000 or more could change your home's replacement value and insurance needs. Additionally, switching a property from being a homestead to a rental will require you to carry different insurance.

Health * Which health plan should we keep? * Should we each be on the same plan, or maintain individual plans? * What is the best approach for insuring our children, or stepchildren?

Auto * How's your driving history? * Do you have any accidents or violations?

Getting married may have a positive effect when you combine your auto insurance plan, but a lower rate is dependent on both you and your spouse's driving records. If you married a speed demon, it might not make sense to combine policies even after you say "I do."

Have the talk and do your research.

Life * Do you currently have life insurance? * How much life insurance is enough?

Now that "I" means "we," couples should ask these questions now to avoid problems in the future.l(BPT)

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CV4

SHOOTING FROM THE HIPS, NOT THE LIPS

The State of Basketball in New York

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“BY JOSEPH “JOEY’ JATTAN

efore the start of the official National Basketball Association (NBA), there was much talk about a rivalry and about who was the best basketball team in New York: the New York Knicks or the Brooklyn Nets.

It seems such a riot, the ever-meddling, Commissioner even called a meeting of sorts, asking the teams to play nice. Can you beleive that? That’s another story.

Considering all this and more, didn’t we expect better results from both New York basketball teams with the 2013-2014 season barely two months upon us?

Let’s start with the New York Knicks with a record of 5 and 15. Due to the Knicks’ internal problems, they aren’t going anywhere. I will give you a breakdown of the problems that are preventing the Knicks from being successful: First and foremost, the firing of Donnie Walsh; giving J.R. Smith’s younger brother a contract at the start of the 20132014 season; the long history of horrific trades, the looming Carmelo Anthony free agency as a distraction to the team; and the effect of trade rumors on Iman Shumpert’s play. The face of the franchise, Carmelo Anthony has stated that the “Knicks are the laughing stock of the NBA.” Well, at least we know the first step to change is admittance.Maybe Mike Woodson should shave his eye-

Will Carmelo Anthony jump from the sinking Knicks “Titanic” ship?

brows. That might ignite a fire and effort in both his coaching and players.

No one should blame injuries for the Knicks early season failure. The Eastern Conference has a number of poor teams and the Knicks, with high-priced talent, should win some of these games.

Additionally, it is absurd to think that Alan Houston, Steve Mills or Isiah Thomas would do a better job than Woodson. In the end, Jim Dolan should just keep playing his lead guitar and let the organization bring back Donnie Walsh.

The Brooklyn Nets having a better record the Knicks is surprising, considering the injuries to Deron Williams, Jason Terry and Andre Kirilenko. For the

Deron WIlliams must be asking himself, when is it going to get better?

Brooklyn Nets to be effective, Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett must not be overworked during the regular season so they can be ready for the playoffs. The reassigning of Lawrence Frank had to be done; hiring him in the first place was a mistake because he wanted to be the head coach. This severely undermined Jason Kidd’s ability to be the “head” coach.

Kidd is not without blame either. He cleary looks clueless on the sidelines, resorting to a trick of a spilled drink.

Hey, got to give him credit for being innovative. There is a major difference in being in a huddle offering suggestions and being the man running the huddle.

Perhaps, he should have learned to crawl before he walked; meaning, he should have started as an asssistant before

becoming the head coach of a veteran team with contending aspirations. Can one really blame him for jumping at the opportunity? I believe the Brooklyn Nets are a serious threat because a healthy Brook Lopez can take the Brooklyn Nets a long way. A healthy starting five will be the key to the Brooklyn Nets success.

With the Knicks having lost Chris Copeland and Steve Novak who were key role players on the team, it didn’t make sense to make bring in players who do not fit as role players. Even with the Brooklyn Nets having traded their role players Gerald Wallace, Kris Humphries and Marshon Brooks for all-star players, they still had quality role players, glue guys and players with intangibles. In the end the Atlantic Division is up for grabs.

Even though the 2014 NBA Draft class is loaded with potential stars like Andrew Wiggins, Jabari Parker, Alex Gordon and Julius Randle, the New York teams having such terrible records will only help the teams that already traded away their future draft picks too. As we see with Portland leading the Western Conference, trading with the New York teams will significantly improve your franchise.

However, at the end of the season, the Brooklyn Nets will have a better record than the New York Knicks. In the end Jim Dolan will just be playing on his lead guitar, “What did I do?”l

Call 718-771-0988 ext 112 for registration information.

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NEWS 19

HOT TOPIC

Legalization of Marijuna in New York?

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BY VANDELL PARK

ew York City Comptroller John Liu is proposing the legalization of marijuana for personal and medical use here in New York City. The comptroller says regulating the use of marijuana stands to provide a huge economic boost to the city and at the same time substantially reduce money used by the city administration to combat a crime that is considered a recreational hobby: “New York City’s misguided war on marijuana has failed, and its enforcement has damaged far too many lives, especially in minority communities; it’s time for us to implement a responsible alternative. Regulating marijuana would keep thousands of New Yorkers out of the criminal justice system, offer relief to those suffering from a wide range of painful medical conditions, and make our streets safer by snapping the dangerous underground market that targets our children…”

The Comptroller’s Office estimates, based on current records of marijuana use in New York City, an annual revenue of $400 million. can be earned for the city should the drug be legitimized and taxed at the city’s current total sales tax rate of 8. 875 percent. A report from the Comptroller’s Office outlines the breakdown of marijuana use in the city that allows for its estimate of $400 million in

revenue: “Based on a recent report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, we estimate that 10.4 percent of New York, Northern New Jersey, and Long Island residents used marijuana in the past year, an incidence of use which is lower than that of New York State (12.2 percent) and of the United States (10.7 percent). We make no attempt to correct for survey respondents’ tendency to under- report their marijuana use, but note that such a correction would push our estimates of marijuana users, and our estimates of the size of the total market, higher. Taking 10.4 percent of the population of 8.0 million New York City residents and commuter household adults yields an esti-

IN TROUBLE WITH THE LAW?

mate of roughly 830,000 primary New York City marijuana consumers. If marijuana were sold legally, tourists would probably contribute to local marijuana demand more than they currently do.

With approximately 90,000 hotel rooms in the city, an average occupancy rate of about 85 percent, and approximately 1.5 adults per occupied hotel room, there are about 115,000 adult tourists and other overnight travelers in the city on a given day. Approximately half of the overnight stays are made by domestic travelers, the other half by international visitors. It can be assumed that the frequency of marijuana use among domestic visitors to New York City is similar to the national rate. Approximately half of international

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visitors to New York City are from Canada, Australia, or Europe, where marijuana consumption appears to be similar to or slightly less than in the U.S. The other half mostly visit from countries where marijuana use is significantly less common. Based on these considerations, we estimate that overnight travelers would add the equivalent of 10,000 resident marijuana consumers.”

Comptroller John Liu says the revenues collected from the legal sale of marijuana can be used to reduce CUNY tuition by about 50% for New York City residents and this would help youth in a positive way, by investing in their futures. In addition, Liu says that regulating the drug as alcohol is regulated, will also aid in reducing the number of arrests among the minority population in New York City and provide them with a clearer record for their future. He noted that the current policy of arresting young people for the use of small amounts of marijuana damages people’s characters unnecessarily. He added that the step of legalizing the drug is even more compelling because of its discriminating effects: “Because of stop and frisk, minority communities disproportionately bear the consequences for employment, postsecondary education, and housing.

Combined, blacks and Hispanics make up 45 percent of marijuana users in New York City, but account for 6 percent of possession arrests. By contrast, whites and Asians constitute 55 percent of users but only 14 percent of arrests. In 2012, 1 out of 627 white New Yorkers was arrested for misdemeanor marijuana possession, compared to 1 out of 175 for Hispanics, and 1 out of 94 AfricanAmericans. More than half (56 percent) of marijuana possession arrests in New York City are of those age 25 and undera group for whom the negative effects of an arrest or criminal record is especially acute. Convictions can affect people’s eligibility for federal student loans and NYCHA housing, and a history of arrest can bar them from many jobs. Low-level marijuana arrests have skyrocketed during Mayor Bloomberg’s administration and are directly related to the NYPD’s stop and frisk strategy. Since Bloomberg took office in 2002, there have been almost 460,000 misdemeanor marijuana arrests. The number of these arrests is on track to reach 37, 000 in 2013 alone.”

However, in spite of the statistics provided by the comptroller, there are many New Yorkers, including medical practitioners who are against the legalization and regulation of the use of marijuana, claiming that it will be abused and create a graver social problem for the city. Yet there are those who believe that there should be no arrests for the personal use of marijuana. Liu’s announcement comes on the heels of U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder’s announcement that his administration would overhaul the federal sentencing guidelines to eliminate mandatory minimum sentences for nonviolent drug offenders.l

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20 NEWS

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

Is There A Problem? Racial Profile Cases Take Center Stage in the City of New York

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BY ZAKEIA TYSON

arneys New York was accused of racially profiling 19-year-old Trayon Christian, an engineering student fromQueens, and 21-year-old nursing student and Brooklyn native Kayla Phillps who alleged that they were harassed by undercover cops after purchasing merchandise. Christian, said that he knew exactly what he wanted before stepping foot into the upscale retailer on April 29.

He coveted a Ferragamo belt with a silver buckle and reversible black-and-white strap, which was seen being worn by popular hip hop rapper, “Juelz Santana. Two months prior, Phillips was approached by undercover officers after purchasing at $2500 orange suede Céline handbag.

New York City’s black community and leaders are in an uproar over the recent allegations against Barneys. And there is a fire storm of verbal attacks against Hip Hop mogul Jay-Z, who’s seeking to launch a holiday apparel collection in a philanthropic effort to support under-served students who desire a higher education. Jay-Z stated that he was waiting to hear and receive more facts about the case before taking action, and doesn’t understand why he is being “demonized” for doing so. As discussions take center stage around the most recent actions surrounding racial profiling, people of color are being prompted to take immediate action by community leaders to

not only voice their concerns, but to stop patronizing retailers who frequently violate their human rights.

The world of hip hop has not only immensely contributed to popular street vernacular and music, but also fashion.

Most of the hip hop fashion trends are sparked by artists including brand names in their songs. For example, Kanye West stated on Rymefest’s song “Brand New” that “Ralph Lauren was boring before I wore them” which may have popularized the brand amongst young black women and men. The hip hop industry may have influenced the black community obsession with high end fashion goods, which are hugely dominated by big corporate conglomerates and main stream media.

As a youth growing up in Harlem, NY in the early 90s, I was frequently bombarded by my peers conversation over “whose wearing the latest Jordan sneakers” or “whose getting the new 8 Ball leather jacket”. The cost of both items could range between $100 and $500+. A negative outcome of purchasing expensive paraphernalia were the frequent thefts and neighborhood violence that would arise within the black communities from those who could not afford luxury goods. Perhaps social and economic acceptances are among many reasons for spending on high-end merchandise by young black men and women.

Ray Fishman, a contributor of Slate.com states that our need for high-end merchan-

dise is based on our desire to “revel prosperity to others as wealth signals”.

Meaning, if you are able to acquire popular and expensive merchandise, you are better than those who are not. He also asserts that whites are less likely to spend money on things they cannot afford than blacks are, and that they’re less interested in comparing the assumption of “wealth” with their neighbors unlike their black counterparts.

A flurry of demeaning comments floated across social media about Christian and Phillips’ choice to purchase high-end products from the luxury retailer — when they have yet to fully acquire economic stability themselves. Whether folks agree with their wishes to purchase or not, obtaining retail products should not impede on their rights as human beings. Reverend Al Sharpton and other community leaders think that all people should have the right to make purchases from their preferred retailer and not be harassed or discriminated against based on race or perceived economic status.

Reverend Sharpton was quoted saying, “We’ve gone from stop and frisk to shop and frisk, and we are not going to take it,” which has compelled a call for action to boycott Barneys New York, until a review and change of the current employee and customer policy is made.

The actress and songstress, Queen Latifah, was quoted on the recent Barneys debacle as saying, “We’ve been going through this for a long time. We know that this is some-

thing that has been continuous in our community for us when we go into various stores. I like Barneys and I’d hate to have to boycott them!” The phenomenon of active community engagement on issues around race and equality is an ongoing battle within communities of color. We are moved to voice our concerns, and create petitions and organize marches, but when the stories age and fizzes out as new issues arise, most of us either forget or are uninterested in pushing to change the status quo on racial profiling. I think it’s important for us to continue to be vigilant and proactive in our quest for equality.

Racial profiling has been an ongoing issue for many communities of color.

Young black women’s and men’s desires to acquire luxury items may be based on the current trends of popular hip hop artist and moguls, or an outcry for acceptance within their own communities; however, no one should be dehumanized or discarded for attempting or making purchases from a retailer. It’s important that we not only voice our concerns to community leaders, local politicians and media outlets, but continue to take action on what is most important to us and our communities in the pursuit of equality for all.l

Reprinted with the kind permission of The Opportunity Agenda.

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22 NEWS

DIASPORA CONCERNS

Help Is Available for Undocumented Immigrants

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BY VANDELL PARK

hile Comprehensive Immigration Reform (CIR) legislation is pending in Washington, D.C. many undocumented immigrants continue to suffer here in the United States. Little do they realize that there are legitimate ways to legalize their status outside of the CIR legislation that is now an issue of debate and tussle before Congress. Here in Brooklyn, there is an organization called the Immigrant’s Journal Legal and Educational Fund (IJLEF) that provides services that can assist undocumented as well as documented immigrants solve a number of their immigration issues. IJLEF Executive Director, Diandra Archibald, in an interview, discussed how IJLEF serves the immigrant community across the tri-state area, and the benefits that could be derived as a result of becoming a member of the organization.

Archibald says that as soon as one becomes a member of IJLEF, there is immediate relief from their immigration problems.

“The Immigrant’s Journal Legal and Educational Fund has a plethora of member benefits. One of our benefits is our membership ID; it has information on it like the person’s address, name, picture and all of the information that you will find on a government identification card and that’s great because who wants to carry around important documents like their passport all the time? We’ve actually had members who thanked us for the ID, whether they’ve been

pulled over on the Greyhound bus and were asked for an ID…or if they were approached by the Immigration and Custom Enforcement (ICE) representatives; once they presented the identification card, they were told they were on the right path and were allowed to go.”

She pointed out the importance of having an ID to travel around with since it is a legal requirement of this country to always have some sort of identification or else you can be stopped and arrested. However, she noted that “While the ID is not a state- or government-issued document and cannot be used officially to transact government or state businesses, it is recognized by law enforcement officials because of the legal affiliation with the Immigrant’s Journal.

Other benefits of IJLEF are tax returns assistance so as to obtain a tax ID, and help with citizenship applications. Taxes help build a good moral character. There’s also free consultations for legal problems such as marital issues, businesses, home owners problems, and bankruptcy issues.”

The IJLEF Executive Director stressed the importance of the immigrant community being informed as to how they can legally and legitimately access information and assistance with their immigration problems.

She noted that a number of individuals from time to time take advantage of undocumented immigrants, in particular, by defrauding them and by using the information such as the deferred action passed by executive order from the president, and even the now

debated Gang of Eight immigration reform proposed bill she says, provides accurate information on these issues and lets people know their rights and what they need to do in order to be legally assisted in regards to their immigration status. The organization, she says, is prepared to educate all those who take advantage of its services as they travel along the right path to legalizing one’s status here in the United States.

IJLEF holds seminars in churches and at other community events so as to inform people of the various options available to them and the process required to legalize their status. Should the CIR bill be approved

by Congress, IJLEF is prepared to educate peoples on how to obtain their change of status: “We, at the Immigrant’s Journal, really care about the immigrant community across the tri-state area and elsewhere, no matter which country you are from. Our aim is to provide assistance and relief to immigrants in a legitimate way. We have all in one way or the other, passed through the pains of immigration in this country and that is why the Immigrant’s Journal is here to help people avoid the pitfalls of those who came before. Through our legal advisor, Brian Figeroux and Associates, we can assist them legally to prepare all documents required as well as help them with the preparation of the documents for the fines and other financial penalties that may result from the CIR legislation, all this of course at a fraction of the costs other attorneys may charge, all because you are a member

of the IJLEF.” In the event the CIR legislation is not passed by Washington as did other attempts in 2006, and at other times, IJLEF says there are ways outside of that bill through which many undocumented here, can benefit from the current immigration process.

Archibald explains: “We have to inform people what they can do in case it doesn’t pass. You have the Violence Against Women’s Act. If you have been abused, be it a man or woman, by your spouse or fiancé, you can get your documents through that means; then you have I-130 petitions, the family preference petitions category, also the diversity visa lottery. There are so many avenues that are available to legally obtain your status; IJLEF will help you once you take advantage of its services.”

The Executive Director of IJLEF is calling on the immigrant community to seize the opportunities presented to them by the organization, simply by signing up to become a member. Membership with IJLEF allows for one year of free legal consultations in areas such as immigration, criminal issues, matrimonial problems, auto accidents, landlord and tenants matters, bankruptcy and foreclosures, as well as assistance to open a bank account, membership picture ID and a host of other matters that may be affecting both undocumented and documented immigrants.

To become a member, call Diandra Archibald at 718-243-9431 or go to the www.ijlef.org for additional information.l

How to Open and Manage a Salon or Day Spa

From trendy hair salons to corner barber shops, this seminar will show you how to start and manage the salon or day spa, you’ve always dreamed about. This seminar will discuss: Operations, Types of Salon Services, Marketing, Location, Personnel and Resources such as associations, beauty institutes and publications.

Salon: lDo you provide initial consultations? Is there a charge? lCan you give me the same hairstyle as (name of celebrity)? lAre your stylists experienced? Where did they study/train? lWhat do your services cost? lSo you sell gift certificates? lWhat hair care product lines do you carry? lWhich credit/debit cards do you accept? lWhere are you located? lWhat are your hours? lHow can I reach you?

Spa: lAre your spa employees licensed? lAre you masseuses male or female? lAre hydro treatments better than massage? lHow do you sanitize your equipment? lHow long will my treatment take? lHow much do you charge? lMay I take a tour of your facility?

For dates and registration details: Call: 718-722-9217 Email: info@mynacc.org Website: www.mynacc.org VISIT OUR WEBSITE WWW.CAWNYC.COM FOR MORE NEWS AND INFORMATION

FREE to attend!

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This gift voucher is valid for a consultation on any legal issue. Call 718-834-0190 and schedule a consultation today on any of the following: lDivorce/Separation lPre & Post-Nuptital lImmigration lLead Poisoning lSlip & Fall lPaternity lChild Support & Alimony lAbuse/Neglect lBankruptcy lOrders of Protection lMedical Malpractice lLandlord & Tenant lReal Estate lWills & Estate Planning lContracts Review lAuto & Pedestrian Accidents lBirth Injuries & Brain Damage lDefective & Dangerous Products lSmall Business Solutions ... and more!

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