Caribbean American Weekly - Issue 67

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ISSUE 67 VOLUME 16

Black Women Aspire to Become Brooklyn’s District Attorney VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.CAWNYC.COM

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Whether it be recidivism or criminalizing immigrants, these Black women candidates can make a difference at the Kings County/Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office. They will protect our Black men. continued on page 15

G

raduation season is in full bloom. And, many students are graduating into the doom of student loans. Student loan debt can be an albatross around the neck of recent graduates. Although the number of students with debt didn’t increase by much between 2004 and 2014, the amount of debt held by students did, according to the Institute for College Access and Success.

About 69% of 2014 graduates from public and nonprofit universities and colleges had debt, compared to 65% in 2004. The average debt held by 2014 graduates was $28,950 per bor-

Scared? Nervous CALL NOW FOR A FREE CONSULTATION:

Brian Figeroux, Esq.

Are You Eligible for Alimony After Your Divorce? ... see page 9

Bishop Whitehead on Recidivism ...page 22

Til Debt Do Us Part? ... page 12

Thursday, June 22, 2017 See back page for details

Jamaican Security Minister Puts Criminals on Notice ...see page 2

about President Trump’s Immigration Plans?

Call 855-768-8845

continued on page 6

expo

Ama Dwimoh

International Trade Critical to Caribbean’s Growth Strategy ... see page 2

Student Loan Debt Is Strangling Generations

business, homebuyers & health

Bolt: Most Desired Body? ... page 20

Trump’s Mass Deportation Plan ...see page 10

Green Party ‘s Dr. Jill Stein Speaks Up ...see page 3

Cochran’s Impact... page 4

Jamaica Dream Weekend Launches in Big Apple ... see page 17 Business Ideas for Father’s Day ... see page 16

2

Caribbean Consulates

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

Antigua & Barbuda 305 East 47th Street, Suite 6A New York, N.Y. 10020 Tel: 212-541-4117

The Bahamas 231 East 46th Street New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-421-6420

Barbados 820 Second Avenue, 5th Floor New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-551-4325

Belize 675 Third Avenue, Suite 1911 New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-593-0999

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

Dominican Republic 1500 Broadway, Suite 410 New York, N.Y. 10036 Tel: 212-599-8478

Grenada 685 Third Avenue, Suite 1101 New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-599-0301

Guyana 308 West 38th Street New York, N.Y. 10018 Tel: 212-947-5119

IN THE NEWS Fighting Fire with Wire: Jamaica’s National Security Minister Puts Criminals on Notice

I

n one of his sternest warnings to criminals yet, Jamaica’s point man on crime and security has warned that police will fight fire with fire.

“I want to be quoted correctly when I say to ‘dutty’ criminals, ‘Don’t point your gun at my police’,” declared a visibly upset Minister of National Security Robert Montague as he addressed the funeral service of slain Police Constable Leighton Hanson.

Hanson, who was assigned to the St Andrew North Division, was disarmed and shot dead on April 28 by a suspect he was attempting to arrest on Constant Spring Road in St Andrew.

The man reportedly grabbed Hanson’s firearm and shot him in the head.

“My constabulary force is grieving.

The force is hurting. Let Constable Hanson’s death not be in vain.

“The United States government has recently given us a shooting simulator.

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, 20th 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. 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, 4th Floor New York, N.Y. 10038 Tel: 212-682-7272

For more Consulate information go to www.cawnyc.com/directory

We are training our police to shoot straight and to shoot them (the criminals),” the minister told the packed Portmore Seventh-Day Adventist Church in St Catherine.

Montague also had stern words for Jamaicans. He pleaded with them to stop silently condoning crime, saying the country had to do better.

CDB President: International Trade Critical to Caribbean’s Growth Strategy

Haiti 815 Second Avenue,6th Floor New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-697-9767

Jamaica 767 Third Avenue, 2nd Floor New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-935-9000

Constable Hansonga

“It is time to get up, stand up and do something. It is time more people speak up and speak what you know…It is time to get up Jamaica. It is time to draw the line. It is time to stand up and be counted,” he said.

The National Security Minister also strongly defended his force and knocked the public for often berating law enforcers while allowing criminals to get away.

“There are many who criticize the police force, but I don’t hear their voices in criticizing criminal elements…But let me ask you this: what would you do without the police?” Montague asked as scores of officers clapped in loud support.

He argued that government has taken bold steps in the fight against crime, but it could not do it alone.

And he insisted that if citizens fail to play their part, it will all be in vain.l

P

Dr Smith

ROVIDENCIALES, Turks and Caicos Islands: President of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), Dr. Warren Smith, has urged regional leaders to focus on fully exploiting opportunities for deepening trade and investment within existing and new regional markets. This is necessary, he said, as the appeal of protectionism and inward-looking policies strengthens in several developed countries.

Smith made the comments in his statement at the 47th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of CDB in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands yesterday. “CARICOM must become the stepping stone to penetrating those nonCARICOM markets which still recognize international trade as a powerful underpinning for dynamic economic

growth,” he said.

He noted that the region has made progress in integration, mentioning the Caribbean Free Trade Association; the Caribbean Community (CARICOM); the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME); and the University of the West Indies as examples.

“But, improving functional cooperation will not on its own, resolve the development challenges facing our region. Our economies need to grow; and they need to do so in a sustained way. For this growth to become a reality, the highest priority must be given to improving the competitiveness of our economies through building a business-friendly environment,” said Smith. He also noted that Caribbean governments must do more to leverage the regional market, mentioning the potential of the cultural industries, tourism and agriculture.

The President told meeting delegates that a closer embrace of CARICOM opens up the prospect for increasing trade, foreign exchange earnings and employment opportunities, principally for the region’s trained young people.

However, he said this strategy will only work if there are improvements in market access; the full enactment of the Movement of Factor Act, which removes barriers to the rights of establishment; and if the free movement, and conse-

quent elimination of the need for work permits for a limited group of skilled workers, is fully realized.

“In addition to the failure to enact the requisite legislation, there is the reality of a scarcity of skilled workers in the region to meet labor market needs. As such, regional companies are forced to fill vacancies with workers from outside of the region, through the work permit regime. There is, therefore, urgent need for closer alignment between our region’s education system and the skills’ requirements of the business community,” Smith said, adding that the benefits of integration needed to be more evenly distributed.

In closing, Smith reiterated that an intensified focus on international trade must be a central tenet of the Caribbean’s growth strategy. “I am convinced that regional integration can be the Caribbean’s ‘secret’ weapon for unlocking economic growth and enhancing the prospect of greater prosperity for our people,” he said. Against that backdrop he urged regional leaders to implement, “in full and without further delay, all of the outstanding provisions of the CSME. In short, our region is calling on its leaders to have a laser focus on doing what is right, not what is easy,” Smith said.l

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TIME FOR ACTION

Dr Jill Stein: We Will Be Locked Up In a Horrific Future of Catastrophic Climate Change

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BY JANET HOWARD

ormer Green party presidential candidate Jill Stein says that President Trump’s withdrawal from the 195-nation Paris accord agreement aimed at reducing gas emissions, will “lock us into a horrific future of catastrophic climate change.”

In an interview with Fox Business, as reported by Jade Scipioni, Stein states: “The longer we delay action, the more catastrophic climate change will be.

Water and temperature levels will soar in the next decades. The sixth mass extinction of species will accelerate, which will render the chances for human survival precarious at best. The issue is how many people will needlessly be forced to deal with – to die from - the ravages of extreme weather, droughts, famine, forced migrations, spread of diseases, and wars over access to land and water.

And in Trump’s world, it will be the poor and vulnerable communities that most bear the pain, starting with the developing nations that will cross the threshold to catastrophe within the next 5 years.”

“A Green New Deal that would create millions of jobs while reviving the economy, vastly improving our health, and making wars for oil obsolete. [It] would provide the economic stimulus package of our dreams. It would also achieve 100% clean renewable energy by 2030, along with sustainable agriculture, renewably-powered public transportation, and ecosystem restoration. It would virtually pay for itself in health and military savings,” Stein adds.

“It falls to everyday Americans - who

Photo: People’s Climate March 2017, Washington

TEAM

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My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. —Hosea 4:6 Publisher I.Q. INC.

Managing Editor & Editor-in-Chief Pearl Phillip Legal Advisor Brian Figeroux, Esq. Assistant Editor Marilyn Silverman

Graphic & Website Designers Praim Samsoondar Lana Delgadillo bear the economic, health and safety burdens of climate change and fossil fuels to force elected officials to stand up for us, not the special interests, and to take effective and timely action on climate disruption,” she concluded.

Meanwhile, former Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator, Gina McCarthy had this to say on Trump’s withdrawal: “[The] decision to pull out of the Paris Climate Agreement was short-sighted and contrary to the best interests of this country, not to mention disappointing and embarrassing.

It fails to respect the science on climate change. It abandons the best opportunity we have to protect the health and wellbeing of American families and our children's future. It runs contrary to the advice of hundreds of business leaders and investors who want the U.S. to lean into climate action -- not run away and bury our heads in the sand. And it neglects the wishes of nearly 70 percent of the American public who want strong actions to curb climate change.”

Mc Carthy continued, “No one should

want to cede the economic benefits of technology investment and innovation to other countries or raise doubts in the minds of our allies about our country's willingness to abide by our commitments.

But while this administration's decision makes zero sense from a public health, economic or diplomatic perspective, it will not sink the Paris Agreement. Other countries will continue to act, and in the absence of leadership from this administration, it's up to us to stand with them.”

She emphazised, “Make no mistake, the Paris Climate Agreement represented a clear statement of our moral leadership on this issue. By pulling out of it, we're sending a signal to the rest of the world that we don't honor our commitments.

It's a dangerous precedent to set.

If we want to lead the world and reap the benefits of that leadership, the United States must lean into climate action, not away from it. We've been that nation before, and we can be that nation again.”

Clearly the time for action is now.l

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Networking Luncheon

Join us on: Thursday, June 22, 2017 from 1pm-2pm Metro Tech A Room Sheraton Brooklyn New York Hotel 228 Duffield Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201

Contributors Jennine Estes Candace Bahr Ginita Wall Tatyana Bellamy-Walker Janet Howard Jamal Edwards Steve Launder Caron Beesley Joshua Breisblatt Kerry, AllRecipes.com Jennifer Maharajh Email: cariaweekly@aol.com Telephone: 718-771-0988

Website: www.cawnyc.com

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Tickets: $19.99 Chamber members Non-members: $29.99

Guest Speaker: Dr Jill Stein Former Green Party Presidential Candidate

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4

CIVIL RIGHTS

How Did Johnnie Cochran Impact Criminal Defense and Civil Rights?

J

BY JAMAL EDWARDS

ohnnie L.Cochran (1937-2005) was a lawyer best known for his leadership role in the defense and criminal acquittal of O. J. Simpson for the murder of his former wife, Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend, Ron Goldman.

Cochran also represented other high-profile clients such as Sean Combs during his trial on gun and bribery charges, as well as Michael Jackson, Tupac Shakur, Todd Bridges, football player Jim Brown, Snoop Dogg, former heavyweight champion Riddick Bowe, 1992 Los Angeles riot beating victim Reginald Oliver Denny, and inmate and activist Geronimo Pratt. Cochran was known for his skill in the courtroom and his prominence as an early advocate for victims of police brutality. Cochran died from a brain tumor on March 29, 2005, at the age of 67.

“Johnnie Cochran was a loving, heartfelt human being who cared about everybody," said William Epps, pastor of the Second Baptist Church in Los Angeles, which Cochran attended for 18 years.

In 2001, Sean (P. Diddy) Combs was indicted on stolen weapons charges and bribery. He hired Cochran for his defense.

Cochran effectively fought for Combs' freedom, and he wasultimately acquitted.

Cochran’s biggest case was the O. J. Simpson case. “I think this was a racial earthquake, so to speak; a race quake. It didn't create racial tension; rather, it revealed the fault lines of bigotry and bias that trace beneath our common lives together,” said Michael Eric Dyson, Socialology Professor at Georgetown University.. But it did reveal to white and black America that, first of all, we see things enormously differently. There is contrasting and almost contradictory viewpoints that animate black people and white people around the issue of race, and O.J. revealed that in the sharpest of terms.

Cochran changed the way in which persons viewed the court and criminal justice system as a whole; showing them the unjust side of law enforcement and the unfair injustice system developed around minorities. “Johnnie Cochran, we see him in the same light as we do Nelson Mandela and Martin Luther King because he struck a blow,” Courtney B. Vance, who played Cochran in the series, told National Public Radio. “…

Finally, on the biggest stage, a black man worked the system and got another black man off.”

Upon his death, the Cochran family and members of his law firm issued a joint statement saying the "world has lost not only a legendary attorney, but an out-

Cochran

standing humanitarian.” "Johnnie's career will be noted as one marked by celebrity cases and clientele. But he and his family were most proud of the work he did on behalf of those in the community. As Johnnie always said, 'An injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.' It was his rallying cry as he worked to right many wrongs, and as he provided a voice to those who needed to be heard. He was deeply committed to helping and inspiring others, especially young people."

The Legacy He Left Behind •On January 24, 2006, Los Angeles Unified School District officials unanimously approved the renaming of Mount Vernon Middle School, Cochran's boyhood middle school, to Johnnie L Cochran, Jr. Middle School in his honor.

The decision received mixed responses.l

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5

MONEY MATTERS

What Do Creditors Do When You Can’t Pay Your Bill?

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BY STEVE LANDER

ach year, millions of people find themselves in situations where they can’t pay their bills.

Creditors are used to this and have procedures in place to deal with it. Generally, the longer a bill goes unpaid, the more severe their actions will be. However, even if bills are only one day late, the consequences can be significant. While creditors may choose to be more or less aggressive with how they pursue delinquent accounts, read on to learn some of their most common tactics and timing. If you have specific questions for a creditor of yours, be sure to ask them directly how they handle late payments and delinquent accounts.

The First 30 Days During the first 30 days that you’re late to pay a bill, the creditor (the financial institution or company to whom payment is owed) can do a number of things. They often begin by sending payment reminders or by calling or emailing to find out where the payment is and give you the opportunity to make a payment over the phone. The penalty for paying

late may be in the form of a late fee.

Sometimes, they increase the interest rate on credit cards, or turn off the ability to use the card until the payment is made.

Frequently, though, the creditor won’t report the late payment to the credit bureaus until the payment is more than 30 days late. This means that as long as you get your bill current before the reporting date, your late payment won’t go on your credit report.

Over 30 Days Once your payment is late by more than 30 days, it becomes more serious. The creditor may call more often and send more emails and additional notices of late payment in the mail. At that time, the creditor is likely to start reporting your late payment, meaning that you’ll probably see a decrease in your three bureau credit scores if you check your credit report. Furthermore, anything your creditor reports will stay on your credit report for seven years. Most creditors keep trying to collect your debt for at least a few months beyond when you are 30 days late. They may even offer you an installment plan or accept a partial payment to bring your account current.

Collections At some point, creditors give up trying to collect from you. When this happens, they send your account to a collection agency. Collection agencies use the same tactics as your creditors — usually calling and mailing you — but can go farther. It’s not uncommon for them to call multiple times per day. They may also attempt to talk to people who know you in attempts to get those people to tell you to call them. It is possible to work out an arrangement with the collection agency where they accept a partial payment of the debt to settle and close the account.

Judgments If the collector doesn’t think it will get the payment through the usual methods, you can be sued. Collectors can sue you in small-claims or district court. If you don’t respond to the lawsuit, or if you

can’t prove that you don’t owe the debt (which you should do much earlier in the process if you think you’ve been the victim of fraud), they can enter a judgment against you. The judgment goes on your credit report for at least seven years from the date of the lawsuit and also gives the creditor the right to collect from you by placing liens on your property or bank accounts, or by having your employer send a portion of your paycheck directly to them, which is called a garnishment, until the judgment is paid off.l

Steve Lander has been a writer since 1996, with experience in the fields of financial services, real estate and technology. Lander holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Columbia University.

This article is provided for general guidance and information. It is not intended as, nor should it be construed to be, legal, financial or other professional advice. Please consult with your attorney or financial advisor to discuss any legal or financial issues involved with credit decisions.

Published by ConsumerInfo.com, Inc., an Experian company.

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6

DIASPORA CONCERNS

Student Loans/ continued from page 1

rower, an increase that was twice the rate of inflation. It’s gotten so bad that student loans are now delaying the decision to get married which does not forecast a promising romantic future.

Mike Kantrow, one of the nation’s leading financial experts, in an article, Why the Student Loan Crisis Is Even Worse Than People Think, Time.com, looks at the lasting impact of student lives stating: “I also found that students who graduate with excessive debt are about 10% more likely to say that it caused delays in major life events, such a buying a home, getting married, or having children. They are also about 20% more likely to say that their debt influenced their employment plans, causing them to take a job outside their field, to work more than they desired, or to work more than one job.”

Soaring student loan debt also poses a risk to the nation's future economic growth. Before the Great Recession, total outstanding student loans ranked well below mortgages, auto loans, credit cards and home equity lines of credit as sources of household debt. Now it trails only mortgage debt, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

About 40 million consumers have at least one student loan, and the average debt was $29,000 last year, according to credit reporting firm Experian. Worse for

students, delinquency rates on college loans are rising even as they decline for other types of household debt. The debt weighs down millions of Americans who might otherwise buy homes or start businesses. And the financial horror stories of debt-saddled students, combined with continued increases in tuition, could deter others from attending college and could produce a less-educated workforce.

"The impact on future [economic] growth could be quite significant," said Cristian deRitis, who analyzes consumer credit economics for Moody's Analytics.

The amount of outstanding student loans has skyrocketed, 76% to almost $1.2 trillion since 2009 as college costs have shot up and graduates have had difficulty finding good-paying jobs.

The strangulation continues. Retirees

are now facing $36 billion in student loan debt. A recent report from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York has people talking about Americans aged 60 and older who owe billions of dollars in student loans. Really? Senior citizens?

Student loans? That’s right. And what’s more, older borrowers are seeing their social security checks garnished for repayment of delinquent student loans.

Some of the debt is new, taken on when the borrower decided later in life to go back to school. Some of the debt has been hanging around for years, with balances growing while the borrower struggles to keep up with payments. Still others borrowed on behalf of a child or grandchild.

What can be done? How do we save generations from the strangulation of student loans? In a piece written for YES!

BIRTH. SCHOOL. DEBT. WORK. DEBT. MORE DEBT.

Magazine, Raúl Carrillo, co-organizer for The Modern Money Network (MMN), offered a solution that goes beyond debt forgiveness by arguing that instead of private or publicly funded college loans, the federal government should simply pay the tuition for those seeking higher education.

"To put it bluntly," writes Carrillo, "there is no fiscal reason why the U.S. student debt crisis should exist. You may find this argument hard to believe," he continues, recognizing that "the way most politicians and journalists talk about the national debt and deficit spending makes free higher education sound impossible."

Carillo says there's another way of looking at the crisis of student debt and funding of higher education—"a vision advocated by a growing movement of economists, lawyers, students, and financial practitioners who deal with the institutional nuts and bolts of the economy on a day-to-day basis."

In simplest terms, Carillo's argument rests on the idea that the U.S. federal government, capable of printing its own money, is simply "not broke" in the way that deficit hawks, who always find money for war and prisons and tax breaks for corporations, say it is. The demand should be that government print money into existence on behalf something good, a public investment, like education. l

MAXIMIZE YOUR EDUCATION. MINIMIZE YOUR DEBT. Get that student loan albatross from around your neck.

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8

AMERICAN DREAM

Strengthening Communities and Families Through Fair Housing

A

BY PAULA LINCOLN

s the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) celebrated Fair Housing Month (April) and marks the passage of the national Fair Housing Act of 1968, homebuyers and renters are reminded that they are protected from discrimination in buying or renting a home and obtaining a mortgage.

As faith and community organizations seek to serve their members and work for social justice in their communities, the protections of the Fair Housing Act are key tools that help individuals and families find homes without fear of discrimination. Specifically, the law makes it illegal to discriminate in the sale or rental of housing based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability.

While great progress has been made in the years since the law was passed, discrimination persists. Last year HUD and its state and local Fair Housing Assistance Program partner agencies received more than 8,300 complaints alleging some form of discrimination. More than half of those complaints, 59 percent, alleged discrimination based on disability. Race was the next highest basis, at 26 percent of com-

plaints. National origin was the third most common basis, at 11 percent, and familial status was the fourth highest category of complaint, with nearly 11 percent.

It’s no longer that common for a person to be told they can’t rent an apartment or buy a house because they use a wheelchair or because they are black or because they come from another country (though sometimes that still happens, too). But the subtle discrimination that is common today still keeps too many people and families out of the housing of their choice.

The value of strong families is also rec-

ognized in the Fair Housing Act, and since 1988 the law has prohibited discrimination against families with children under the age of 18. The law also applies to expectant mothers and those in the process of adopting.

For families with children, one of the most common examples of discrimination is ads that explicitly say “No kids,” or landlords discouraging families from renting, claiming that the site is “not safe” for children. In addition, housing managers sometimes impose overly restrictive rules on families with children, such as saying or implying kids can’t play outside.

Some of the most important work done by faith and community-based organizations involves working closely with families to inform them of their fair housing rights so they can recognize both blatant and subtle housing discrimination.

Every community and every family deserves a shot at equal housing. The Fair Housing Act prohibits housing discrimination based on the following “protected categories”: nRace nColor nNational Origin nReligion nSex nFamilial Status (including children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18) nDisability

If you believe you or a member of your family, congregation or community, have faced discrimination,and their rights have been violated, you can call the fair housing toll-free number at (800) 669-9777 to file a complaint, or you can file a complaint online.l Paula Lincoln is the Director, Center for Faith Based and Neighborhood Partnerships, HUD.

Note: You can also file a discrimination lawsuit. Call 1-855-768-8845 for a consultation.

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9

FAMILY MATTERS

Are You Eligible for Alimony After Your Divorce?

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BY CANDACE BAHR, CEA, CDFA & GINITA WALL, CPA, CFP®

hen Amber walked down the aisle eight years ago, she thought she was going to spend the rest of her life with Marcus.

After their second child came along four years ago, they decided that Amber should leave her job as a product manager to take care of the children full time while Marcus continued working as a sales manager. Life didn’t work out the way Amber had hoped. She and Marcus drifted apart. Now, Amber feels that divorce is inevitable, but she worries about her finances. She knows that Marcus would be required to pay child support if she has primary custody of the children, but what about her expenses?

She knows it will be hard to get back into the job field and that she might need to return to school to receive more training.

Amber’s story might sound similar to yours. If you are considering divorce, you may wonder how you will be able to maintain your lifestyle as a single woman, especially if you are not currently working. This is exactly why alimony (also called spousal support or spousal maintenance) was created. When you get

divorced, in most states a judge can order your spouse to make payments to you for a while to help you get back on your feet as you re-establish yourself on your new path.

Do you qualify for alimony? That depends on a lot of different factors The alimony laws are different from state to state, so you will need to discuss this with a divorce attorney in your state to get a clear picture of whether a judge is likely to grant you alimony. It’s important to be aware that many judges today are awarding alimony on a decreasing basis and for shorter durations. It is still worth it for you to explore the possibility of receiving alimony after a divorce, especially if you’ve been married to your spouse for many years and there is a considerable income disparity between you and your husband.

Long Marriage The longer you and your spouse were married, the more likely you will receive alimony and the longer the alimony duration is likely to be. If you were only married for a year before divorce, your chances of winning alimony are slim; however, if you’ve been married for ten years or more and can show a significant

disparity in income, you will have a good chance of getting alimony. Amber was married to Marcus for eight years, which may be long enough for a judge to grant her alimony.

Income Disparity In order to be awarded alimony, you must show that your spouse earns significantly more income than you, or that you stayed out of the workforce to take care of the home or children. If you earn more than your husband or your incomes are nearly equal, a judge won’t see any reason to provide you with alimony. For instance, if Marcus earned $80,000 a year as a sales manager and Amber earned $60,000 a year as a product manager, a judge would likely presume that Amber could support herself on her salary alone.

However, since Amber dropped out of the workforce to care for the couple’s children, she has a good chance of receiving alimony.

How Much Alimony Can I Expect?

The amount of alimony you can expect from your spouse after a divorce will depend in large part on his income and how much a judge believes he can spare on alimony. This is one of the many areas where a divorce can get nasty. Some

spouses may try to under-report income to avoid alimony payments. If you can, try to obtain evidence of your spouse’s earnings prior to filing for divorce and make sure all of your records are in good order.

Judges and state laws can be fickle, so don’t assume alimony is coming your way. Even if you do receive alimony, it won’t allow you to live the same quality of life as when you were married. You’ll still need to prepare for a very different financial life once you separate from your spouse, especially if you earned significantly less than him.l Reprinted with permission. Candace Bahr, CEA, CDFA and Ginita Wall, CPA, CFP® are co-founders of WIFE.org, a nonprofit that aims to teach females how to take financial control of their lives after major life transitions — like divorce.

Family Law Practice Summarized

NEW YORK IS NOW A NO-FAULT DIVORCE STATE

nDIVORCE nSEPARATION nSUPPORT nCUSTODY The lawyer you hire, does make a difference!

uContested &

Uncontested Divorces

uSeparation & Prenuptial Agreements

Has your spouse disappeared?

We can find your spouse!

Matrimonial Investigations

u Business & Degree Evaluations

u Spousal Maintenance

u Custody/Visitation

uBank & Asset Searches

u Paternity

uWire Transfers

uRelocation

uAlimony Reduction

uChild Support

uCo-habitation

uAbuse/Neglect

Investigation

uRestraining &

uDivorce/Dating/Fraud

uInternet Dating/Fraud

Protective Orders

uModification of Previous Orders & Awards

LAW OFFICES OF FIGEROUX & ASSOCIATES

uVideo Surveillance

BROOKLYN: 26 Court Street, Suite 701. Tel: 718-834-0190 VISIT OUR WEBSITE WWW.CAWNYC.COM FOR MORE NEWS AND INFORMATION, FREE LEGAL CONSULTATIONS AND A CHANCE TO WIN A TV!

10 #

IMMIGRATION

Trump’s Mass Deportation Plan Is Passed by House Judiciary Committee

F

BY JOSHUA BREISBLATT

or the third time in five years the House Judiciary Committee has passed a draconian interior enforcement immigration bill out of committee on a party line vote.

Immigration advocates and Democratic members aptly called it the “Mass Deportation Act.” The bill mimics earlier, failed versions of the bill. However, with President Trump’s tough talk on immigration setting the tone in Congress, this year’s passage takes on new meaning.

The bill builds on previous versions introduced in 2013 and 2015 that were criticized for reflecting an “outdated philosophy” that believes “punitive measures alone can address the problems of our outdated immigration system.” Like prior versions, the 2017 bill criminalizes being unlawfully present in the United States. Current law makes it a crime to cross the border without inspection but the bill would impact those who come to the United States lawfully, but overstay their visas—even by one minute. These individuals would now also be classified as criminals and risk jail time.

The bill would give state and local jurisdictions nearly unchecked authority to enforce federal immigration laws. It would require the federal government to renew federal-state enforcement models like the 287(g) program that the previous administration had largely rejected as inefficient and prone to discrimination and racial profiling. It would also

empower states and localities to create their own immigration laws, potentially resulting in a confusing, dysfunctional patchwork of welcoming vs. non-welcoming states.

The bill also outlines plans to withhold grant funding, such as Federal Emergency Management Authority funds, as a way of penalizing states and

localities that do not comply with federal immigration detainer requests.

The bill also expands mandatory detention, authorizes indefinite detention, broadens the grounds for fast-track deportations, increases warrantless arrest authority, and adopts deportation procedures that lack due process. It would allow the government to remove a person based on mere suspicion of criminal behavior rather than an actual conviction.

Throughout the heated three-day markup Democrats offered a variety of amendments to strike key sections of the bill or to add additional protections, such as explicitly protecting individuals with DACA or guaranteeing appointed counsel for immigrants in removal proceedings. All these amendments failed on party line votes and eventually the bill was passed out of committee on a party line 19-13 vote.

In theory the next step for this legislation is that it will go to the House floor.

However, the last two versions passed in 2013 and 2015 never received a vote on the House. Let’s hope this punitive and impractical bill meets the same fate.l

WE HELP IMMIGRANTS!

lGET THE FACTS

lBE SMART

lMAKE THE RIGHT DECISION

lBEWARE OF IMMIGRATION FRAUD

uHealth Care (RN/OT/PT/TSHH/SLP’S & IT Cases) uExtension of Status & Visa Renewals uWork Authorization uH-IB Professional Workers uF-1 Student Visas uJ-1 Exchange Visitor Trainees uO-1 Extraordinary Ability uR-1 Religious Workers uU.S. Citizenship uFamily-based Petitions & Fiancée Visas uGreen Cards/Labor Certification (RIR) uImmigration Visa Petitions:Employment Based uTemporary Work Visas uU.S. Citizenship & Derivative Petitions uLabor Certifications uU Visa - Crime Victims uApplication for Asylum uPetitions for Writ of Habeas Corpus uAppeals to the Board of Immigration Appeal uLawsuits involving Eligibility & Processing for Citizenship uDACA, DAPA & Provisional Waivers uDeportation Defense, 601 Waivers, etc.

LAW OFFICES OF FIGEROUX & ASSOCIATES

CALL 718-834-0190 26 Court Street, Suite 701 Brooklyn, NY 11242

lPERSONAL INJURY lACCIDENTS lFAMILY LAW lPOLICE BRUTALITY lCRIMINAL LAW lCIVIL LITIGATION lBANKRUPTCY lREAL ESTATE

Visit our website at: www.311immigration.com

BROOKLYN: 26 Court Street, Suite 701. Tel: 718-834-0190 VISIT OUR WEBSITE WWW.CAWNYC.COM FOR MORE NEWS AND INFORMATION, FREE LEGAL CONSULTATIONS AND A CHANCE TO WIN A TV!

Includes the G28 which shows you have attorney

representation

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12

EQUITY SMART

Til' Debt Do Us Part: How to Get a Mortgage If One Spouse Has A Terrible Credit Score

A

poor credit history is a reality for many people, but it can be particularly daunting when it comes to investing in a house. Fortunately, simply because you or yours have experienced bad credit doesn't mean that you should be penalized in the future. If your spouse has struggled with bad credit in the past but you're both preparing to move forward and invest in a home, here are some tips for getting it together financially.

Face the Music Many people who have bad credit are too scared to take a look at their credit report and broach it honestly, but it's important to come to terms with the problem so that it can be fixed. Instead of ignoring it, get a copy of the credit report and review it for any errors so that you can update these if needed and be aware of the issues impacting your credit score. While there may not be any inaccuracies on the report, knowing what you're dealing with will give you a point to start from.

Just because you have a bad FICO score doesn't mean your wife will love you any less. In fact, you now have someone who can help you figure out the habits you'll need to build to get your credit in good standing. Since your wife has a good score, she's already demonstrating the practices you need to work on...

Make Your Payments At some point, most people have missed a credit card or bill payment, but the first step involved in improving your finances and your credit is ensuring your spouse is paying their bills on time. While this won't require paying the complete balance each month, it's important to pay the minimum balance before the due date, and stick with it! It may seem like a small step, but over time it will improve credit and say a lot to mortgage lenders!

Save Up for Down Payment Twenty percent is the amount that's often suggested when it comes to a down payment, but if your spouse has terrible credit, it may be worth your while to save up more. It goes without saying that having good credit for both yourself and your spouse is important in getting approved for a mortgage, but by having extra for your down payment and paying your bills on time, you may be successful at convincing lenders you're a solid bet.

It can be a lot more difficult to get your mortgage approved if your spouse has bad credit, but there are steps you can take to improve your financial outlook and give lenders a better impression. If you're planning on investing in a home in the near future, you may want to contact one of our mortgage professionals for more information.

Call us at Equity Smart Realty, Inc at 1-888-670-6791. l

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NEWS 13#

JOBS & RECESSION

Get Ready to Become a Paralegal

T

here are many reasons why a paralegal career is an excellent choice. A paralegal job provides an opportunity to work in the legal field without spending several years in law school. If you thought paralegals only worked in law offices, think again. The skills you learn in paralegal training are transferable to other business environments. With the right skills, you would be able to work in a number of industries, including law firms, financial offices, law libraries, and state, local and federal governments.

Here are 5 great things about being a paralegal:

1. Rise in Pay Paralegal compensation has risen steadily in the past decade, despite a bump in the road in the depths of the 2009-2010 recession. As paralegals perform a broader and more complex range of tasks (paralegals even represent clients in court in certain countries and administrative tribunals), paralegal earnings continue to rise. The average paralegal salary

hovers at around $50,000 per year but paralegals often make more through bonuses. Overtime hours can also add significant cash to a paralegal's paycheck.

2. Explosive Employment Outlook The paralegal field is one of the fastestgrowing professions on the globe. The U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the employment of paralegals and legal assistants to grow 28 percent between 2008 and 2018, much faster than the average for all occupations. Among the factors driving this growth is client demand for more affordable and more efficient delivery of legal services. Since hourly rates charged by attorneys are typically double or triple the rates of paralegals for the same task, law firm economics mandates the increased use of paralegals to minimize costs. As a result, a paralegal career is one of the hottest non-lawyer jobs in the legal industry.

3. Easy Career Entry Unlike lawyers who must complete seven years of formal education and pass the bar exam to practice law, you can become a paralegal in as little as a few months of study.

4. Intellectual Challenge Paralegal work is intellectually challenging and involves a range of high-level skills. The most successful paralegals are problem-solvers and innovative thinkers.

Paralegals must become subject matter experts in their specialty area and master legal procedure, research, drafting and other skills. They must stay on top of ever-changing laws and new legal trends and developments while interfacing with attorneys, opposing counsel, vendors, staff members, clients and others. The work is varied and each day brings new challenges.

5. Rising Prestige As paralegals perform more complex and challenging work, paralegal prestige is rising. Paralegals are no longer simply

lawyer's assistants; they are assuming management roles in corporations, leadership roles in law firms and entrepreneurial roles in independent paralegal businesses. Over the years, paralegals have transcended the image of glorified legal secretary to become respected members of the legal team.

Ready to Become a Paralegal?

So what do you think? Does a paralegal career sound like it’s for you? If you want to get started on the path to success as a paralegal, the New American Chamber of Commerce (NACC) can help. We go beyond teaching you about becoming a paralegal, we teach you how to be your own boss with our Small Business Boot Camp: Start Your Own Virtual Paralegal Business.

Come and learn about our FREE Paralegal Program on Wednesday, July 6, 2017 at 6pm. We are located at 26 Court Street, Suite 701, Downtown Brooklyn.Visit www.freeparalegal.org to register or call us at 718-722-9217. l

Track 32 begins Saturday, July 8 @10am. All students must take this class: Career Success Seminar & An Introduction to the NACC Paralegal Certificate Program on Wednesday, July 5, 2017 @6pm, before starting the Paralegal Program. Register at www.freeparalegal.org

VISIT OUR WEBSITE WWW.CAWNYC.COM FOR MORE NEWS AND INFORMATION, FREE LEGAL CONSULTATIONS AND A CHANCE TO WIN A TV!

14

TRUMP ADMINISTRATION

President Trump Unveils Harsh Immigration Budget Proposals

P

BY JOSHUA BREISBLATT

resident Trump released his formal budget request to Congress for Fiscal Year (FY) 2018 which seeks to solidify the harsh proposals laid out in his immigration executive orders. The budget aims to fund the beginnings of a border wall, as well as increase immigration enforcement, detention, and deportations. If approved, these requests would unnecessarily expand the already record levels of immigration enforcement.

The Trump administration’s proposal asks Congress to increase the immigration enforcement budget by nearly 25 percent, which includes an additional $4.5 billion on top of the $19 billion already spent on immigration enforcement each year. Of that $4.5 billion, $1.6 billion is requested to begin President Trump’s border wall, a high price tag for 74 miles of wall, 14 of which would be to replace existing fencing in San Diego.

There is an additional $700 million requested for more aircraft, radios, weapons, computers and other equipment to track border crossers—another unnecessary ask, considering border crossings are at a record low.

There is also a $300 million request to

hire 500 more Border Patrol Agents and 1,000 Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers. That averages out to a staggering $200,000 per new agent or officer hired.

The budget request does not stop there.

It includes a massive increase in the number of detention beds, asking Congress to fund 51,379 detention beds next year. In recent years, immigration detention bed levels have held steady around 34,000, so this would mark an over 50 percent increase from those historically high levels. It is important to note this request comes amid a 17-year low in border crossings.

ICE also unveiled a new plan for lower detention standards in the budget request.

IN TROUBLE WITH THE LAW?

These new detention standards would eliminate the few protections contained in the current ICE detention standards for immigrants held at most immigration detention facilities, including limits on solitary confinement and access to medical care and interpreters.

The budget also includes a number of immigration-related provisions related to the Department of Justice (DOJ). First, following up on his memo to ramp up prosecution of immigration offenses, the Attorney General is asking Congress to pay for 70 additional U.S. Attorneys.

These attorneys’ sole focus would be to prosecute immigration-related offenses, which already make up 52 percent of all federal prosecutions. Second, there is a

request for 20 additional attorneys to conduct land acquisitions along the Southern border so the administration can build its border wall. Finally, the budget requests a nearly 20 percent increase in immigration court funding to pay for 75 additional immigration judge teams.

In addition to enforcement and court funding, the administration is also cruelly attempting to cut refugee resettlement services by 30 percent, while simultaneously reducing the goal for refugee admissions to an all-time low of 50,000.

This would be a significant reduction from the 85,000 refugees admitted in FY 2016 and the 110,000 authorized by President Obama for FY 2017.

Unfortunately, the administration’s budget doubles down on Trump’s campaign rhetoric. It represents an effort to super-size the enforcement infrastructure without any clear plan for making American communities safer. The budget would increase our nation’s already record levels of spending on immigration detention and enforcement and do nothing to genuinely solve the problems associated with our nation’s outdated immigration system.l

Are you under investigation or accused of a felony or misdemeanor?

Get legal advice from the law firm you can trust: Figeroux & Associates. We handle:

nDUI (Driving Under the Influence) nCourt Order Violations nPossession of Drugs (with or without Intent to Distribute) nCrimes with Impact for Deportation with Non-Citizens nFraud nCrimes of Economics

PUT YOUR FUTURE IN OUR HANDS. WE CAN HELP. CALL NOW. 718-834-0190.

Remember: The lawyer you hire, does make a difference!

GREEN CARD SLAVERY? Don’t put up with ABUSE anymore! We can get a Green Card for you and your children PLUS a divorce.

Call 718-222-3155 now for a FREE consultation!

ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!

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HOT TOPIC

Black women ... Brooklyn District Attorney/ continued from page 1

In January 2016, the first black female District Attorney in the history of New York was super excited to start doling out justice. "I'm ready to get to work," said Darcel Clark after she was sworn in as the new District Attorney of the Bronx. "I want to let you know that I won't let you down." Clark, a former judge in Manhattan Appellate Court who started her career as a Bronx prosecutor, said she was proud to be the borough's first female DA. Clark added, "I can say to any little girl, you know, if you work really hard, you can go on to law school, you can become an Assistant District Attorney, you can become a judge and then you can become District Attorney of the Bronx." Those sage words may become a reality when two of Brooklyn’s finest women, Pat Gatling and Ama Dwimoh, seek to make history of their own by becoming the borough’s first Black District Attorney.

Before we take a brief look at these two outstanding candidates, let’s examine the leadership of Black women.

In an article by KC Ifeayi for Inc.com, the leadership skills of black women as leaders were examined based on a collaborative research effort from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business and the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. The report found that black women in leadership

Black women aren’t just a mirror image of white women—they occupy a new and unique space... roles who show dominant behavior, see less of a backlash than their white female or black male counterparts—ergo, putting black women on par, in this respect, with white men.

In an online survey of 84 non-black participants, subjects were asked a series of questions based on eight different scenarios of fictitious executives either communicating dominant or communal behaviors. A forceful and direct leadership style reflected negatively on white females and black males but positively for white men and, surprisingly, black women.

“There’s this idea that acting dominantly is explicitly proscribed for white women and explicitly proscribed for black men,” says Ashleigh Shelby Rosette, co-author of the study and an associate professor at Duke. “However, for black women there is this stereotype out there of the ‘angry black woman.’

Some of these behaviors we often think of as extremely negative but actually, if you think about it, that angry black woman stereotype is also congruent with things like being aggressive, dominant, assertive, and self-assured—and those are our typical leader characteristics."

Rosette attributes the study's results to

the theory of prototypical social perceptions. When most people think of “race,” they think of a black male. When most people think of “women,” they think a white female. Because black women essentially fly under both of those radars, they’re examined differently with the notion that they’re practically impervious to negative evaluations. “Black women aren’t just a mirror image of white women—they occupy a new and unique space,” says Rosette.

In quick snippets of the candidates, Gatling says: “In the 30 years I’ve been working to serve the people of New York, I have provided resolutions to thousands of individuals seeking justice.

I have managed the legal and administrative operations of an office that included 1,500 law enforcement professionals. I have successfully prosecuted large-scale drug operators, spearheaded gun violence initiatives, and introduced the City’s first gun buy-back programs. I have collaborated with numerous Federal and local agencies to protect our neighborhoods from crime and injustice, removed teen prostitutes from the streets, and targeted their pimps and patrons. I have targeted diversity and discrimination issues in employment, housing, and

NEWS 15#

public accommodations, and worked with our students to keep them on the right path in life. I have revamped a city agency by resolving its serious backlog of cases that had threatened to shut it down and restructuring it into an efficient office that was able to deliver services once again. And one of my proudest achievements was spearheading ComALERT, a program that helps the formerly incarcerated successfully transition home and become productive members of society. (gatlingforda.com) Dwimoh, a formidable opponent in her own right, says: “I’ve dedicated my career to the idea that everyone – no matter their background or zip code – should receive equal treatment under the law. That’s why I spent 21 years working on behalf of Brooklyn’s families and most vulnerable individuals as a senior prosecutor in the District Attorney’s office, delivering justice again and again. Now I am running for Brooklyn District Attorney to be an advocate for all those who suffer injustice in Brooklyn—and I have the experience, skill and passion to do it.If you agree that we need a DA who can make Brooklyn safer and fairer at the same time, and who will put people first, then please join me as I run to become Brooklyn’s next District Attorney.”(ama4da.com) Perhaps it’s time for a woman to be District Attorney for Brooklyn; to get out of the old boys’ club and make some history [herstory] of their own.l

VISIT OUR WEBSITE WWW.CAWNYC.COM FOR MORE NEWS AND INFORMATION, FREE LEGAL CONSULTATIONS AND A CHANCE TO WIN A TV!

SMALL BUSINESS MATTERS

16

7 Marketing Ideas that Can Help Boost Your Profits this Father’s Day

F

BY CARON BEESLEY, SBA.GOV

ather’s Day is right around the corner, providing another opportunity for small businesses to reach out to customers with an incentive to visit their stores, restaurants or websites and make a purchase.

Who’s your target market? Wives, moms, children and even grandparents are all about to start thinking about gift giving and doing something special for the fathers in their lives. And they spend big; according to a National Retail Federation survey, the average person will shell out $117 on a gift for Dad – that’s $12.7 billion in total spending.

What gifts can Dad expect? According to the survey, special outings, such as golfing, eating out or heading to a sporting event, are the most popular ways to celebrate. Electronic gift items and apparel are also big draws. Gift cards are another favorite, followed by sporting goods, books or music.

Here are seven Father’s Day sales and marketing tips to help you boost your profits—regardless of your business.

Make it Easy for Buyers Dad has it all, right? So think of ways to

could do a promotional tie-in with a local car wash, so Dad can enjoy a Father’s Day brunch and the gift of a car wash bundled in.

help make the gift-giving choice easy for your customers. If you run a store or website, a gift guide is a great way to do this.

Offer complimentary gift-wrapping too (and don’t forget to promote it) — this is a big time saver for busy moms. Online stores can offer free shipping or offer free upgrades (regular to expedited shipping) as Father’s Day draws nearer.

Make Dad’s Life Easier Could you offer a Father’s Day special that frees up Dad’s time so he can spend more of it with the family? This is an idea that works best for service businesses.

Get creative. For example, a restaurant

Give Dad a Reason to Visit Your Business — Indulge and Pamper Him! Think of ways to entice dads into your store or business over Father’s Day weekend. This is something that can work for all types of businesses — from health care practices to hair salons. Offer a demo or complimentary service. For example, if you sell technology or home /DIY goods, hold an open house and give Dad a hands-on demo of popular products. Offer an incentive to make a purchase in the next seven days.

Target Kids (and Mom)!

Kids are part of the buying decision, so think of ways to entice children into your store or restaurant. Whether it’s a special offer for kids who actually make a purchase using their own pocket money, or a special event or offering that attracts kids (and their parents) to your business — such as “kids eat free on Father’s Day,” or free giveaways for kids when Mom makes a purchase.

Alternatively, look for ways to help

Mom make a purchase while her kids have a designated play area, or vice versa!

Offer Something that Dad Can Do With His Kids We tend to think of Father’s Day gifts as a treat for Dad that he can enjoy away from home (golfing, fishing, etc.). Be unique – offer gifts that Dad and the kids can enjoy together. It could be a class that they could take together or a discount on a combo product that Dad can enjoy with his kid(s).

Generate Buzz Even if you don’t have specific Father’s Day specials, don’t pass over the occasion. Recognize the day in other ways.

Host a contest on Facebook — ask your fans to submit their silliest Dad pictures or host a Dad-themed contest or raffle in your store.

Honor Dads Across Demographics No one dad is the same. Some are overseas serving their country; others may be dads for the first time. Think of ways to honor these fathers. Develop a theme and make sure it runs through all your marketing and promotions.l

Why Join Our Chamber?

Because membership in the local chamber offers numerous benefits and keeps business owners on top of important, ever-changing issues and trends within their community and local marketplace.

reasons to join: lBrings credibility to your business lIncreases your visibility in the community lCreates networking opportunities lGain a voice in government lMake business contacts lReceive Chamber newsletters lAcquire customer referrals lAttend Chamber events and programs lBenefit from promotion and publicity lFree small business consultations

Become a Chamber member today.

Call 718-722-9217 or visit www.chambercoalition.org

Time to take your business to the next level!

Victoria Falk CEO, Passionate Travel VP, AAICC

Ready to join our Chamber?

Keep in mind, however, that you can’t just be a member of the Chamber to reap the benefits of chamber membership.

Paying your annual dues just isn’t enough.

You must also make an investment of time and effort in Chamber activities and become involved. Simply put, what you get out of Chamber membership is directly relative to what you put in.

VISIT OUR WEBSITE WWW.CAWNYC.COM FOR MORE NEWS AND INFORMATION, FREE LEGAL CONSULTATIONS AND A CHANCE TO WIN A TV!

NEWS 17

NEWS

nHEALTH

nENTERTAINMENT

nRELATIONSHIPS

nRECIPES

nSPORTS

The Sounds of Caribbean Music Set the Stage

E

ven the balmy 96-degree weather cooperated, setting the perfect mood for the Harlem School of the Arts (HSA) recent celebration of Caribbean heritage. Invitees to the fundraiser appropriately titled, Jump & Wave, donned their most colorful outfits for an evening of fun, music and dance — and all for the best cause ever, funding quality arts training for thousands of children annually.

HSA has become synonymous with providing exceptional access to a wide variety of arts programs. It was founder Dorothy Maynor’s wish to provide highlevel arts training, to the children of the Harlem community. She was inspired by the power of the arts to transform lives and open previously unimaginable opportunities. What began as music classes with 20 initial enrollees in the basement of St. James Church, has grown into a premier organization, housed in the 37,000-square foot facility, built by Maynor that includes a 120-seat theater, an art gallery and a garden courtyard with a magnificent waterfall. The doors of HSA are open to all children who desire and show an interest in the arts.

Highlights of the evening’s festivities included the soul/reggae/calypso sounds courtesy of D-Achee and the Cultural One, a band that featured the classic sound of the steel drum against the backdrop of HSA’s waterfall — a perfect set-

D

Kitchen Corner

Feta Eggs with Tomatoes

ting for an evening celebrating the Caribbean Meanwhile, Islands. indoors, DJ Likwuid (Fay Grim) entertained with her turntable skills and electric combination of Island music, reflecting the full spectrum of musical influences from every corner of the African diaspora.

This was capped by a performance that was simply magical, featuring the HSA Dance Ensemble organized by Carib band D-Achee and the Cultural Aubrey Lunch II, One. Photo credit: Steven Schnur and Director of Dance.

Terrence Jennings An important crosssection of New Yorkers were in attendance including former NFL defensive end, Marvin Washington, former State Assemblyman, Keith L.T. Wright, percussionist and recording artist, Taku Hirano and his wife Arthel Neville, and Charles J. Hamilton, Jr., Chair of HSA’s Board. During the course of the evening’s celebration HSA president Eric Pryor took a moment to surprise one particular guest, Janice Savin, a senior member of HSA’s Board of Directors, who was celebrating her birthday.

The event and the evening proved to be another important, memorable and successful fundraising initiative thanks to a number of sponsors and the in-kind donations and generous contributions from supporters. If you want to support HSA, visit http://hsanyc.orgl

Jamaica Dream Weekend Launches in Big Apple ream Weekend, the largest party festival in the Caribbean, has officially announced its 9th staging, taking place on Negril’s famed 7Mile Beach from July 28 to August 1, 2017. The five-day festival features nine back-to-back events providing patrons with the most immersive Jamaican party experience in the sun-kissed town of Negril in western Jamaica. Partnering with the Jamaica Tourist Board, Dream

nHOROSCOPE

Weekend had its first launch event in New York City on May 18th.

Dream Weekend brings over US$10 million to the Negril economy annually while creating thousands of year-round employment opportunities for Jamaica.

“We are doing our part to make Jamaica the entertainment capital of the Caribbean by designing mega-events that attract visitors from all over this world,” said Ron Burke, Marketing

"A very TASTY way to add zip to boring scrambled eggs.!"

-Kerry, AllRecipes.com

Ingredients 1 tablespoon butter 1/4 cup chopped onion 4 eggs, beaten 1/4 cup chopped tomatoes 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese salt and pepper to taste

Prep: 10 minutes Cook: 5 minutes Ready: 15 minutes

Directions Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Saute onions until translucent. Pour in eggs. Cook, stirring occasionally to scramble.

When eggs appear almost done, stir in chopped tomatoes and feta cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Cook until cheese is melted.l

W

Fantasy Becomes a Reality

h a t started out as a fantasy on Twitter has become reality with the news that Barbadian superstar Rihanna and Academy Awardwinning actress Lupita Nyong’o will co-star in a movie directed by Ava DuVernay for Netflix.

According to sources at Entertainment Weekly, the multiple Grammy award-winning singer and the 34-year-old Oscar winner of ‘12 Years A Slave’ fame, will team up for the highly-anticipated project.l

From L to R: Miss Lily’s Chef de Cuisine and Food Network Chopped Champion, Chef Andre Fowles, Jamaica’s Consul General to New York, Trudy Deans, Managing Director of Dream Entertainment, Scott Dunn and Public Relations Director of Dream Entertainment, Kamal Bankay at New York Dream Weekend 2017 Media Launch

Director of Dream Entertainment.

Dream Weekend promises to be one of the hottest selling events on the Jamaica event calendar this year with all early bird tickets already sold out and regular tickets selling fast.

For more information, visit: www.JamaicaDreamWeekend. com l Visit www.cawnyc.com and like us on Facebook: @cawnyc

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SOCIAL CONCERNS

Social Security Benefits: Will They Be There When You Retire?

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s you pay your Social Security taxes over the years, you accumulate credits that can be used towards your Social Security benefits.

The number of credits you need before you can apply for your retirement benefits depends on your date of birth. For example, people born after 1929 currently need 40 credits to apply for their benefits. This is equivalent to ten years of work. You can't receive benefits if you stop working before you reach the required number of credits, but you don't lose those credits either. When you return to the workforce, your credits will begin accumulating again from the point at which you left off, until you have enough to qualify.

Are Social Security Benefits in Trouble?

The short answer is "Somewhat." This is because the next decade will see the largest drop in worker-to-beneficiary ratios in history, as baby boomers begin to retire. The problem gets compounded when you consider that people's lifespans are growing longer, the birth rate is declining, and the cost of living is only going up.

When Social Security was first established, the worker to beneficiary ratio was over 15 to 1; today it's closer to 3 to 1, with odds that it will shrink even further over the next few decades. This means that less money will be put into the Social Security system, while more gets taken out. In fact, projections show the federal government paying out more money in Social Security benefits than it will take in via payroll taxes around the year 2020.

Economically speaking, this shortfall is not sustainable for the long term, and without an infusion of money from another source, the Social Security benefit retirement system will face problems within the next 20 or so years. Current predictions indicate that the Social Security trust fund will run out in 2035 if nothing is done. After this point, retirees can generally expect about 75 cents on every dollar of their scheduled benefits.

That’s because once the trust fund is depleted, there will be no surplus left.

From that point on, the amount that’s paid out in the form of benefits can only match what's coming into the Social Security system through employment taxes.

If You're About to Apply for Social Security Retirement Benefits If retirement is right around the corner, you probably have nothing to worry about when it comes to your Social Security benefits. The problems described above are highly unlikely to affect current retirees or even those who plan to retire in the next ten years. The SSA has also stated that it has no plans to cut current benefits.

The Social Security Landscape for Current 25-to-35-Year Olds If you're decades away from retirement, this is where things get dicey in terms of your Social Security benefits. This is the primary focus of the current debate taking place on Capitol Hill. It is very likely that those currently entering (or relatively new to) the workforce will see a very different Social Security system than the one that's in place now — absent some sort of drastic change in the numbers.

Unless changes are made, current 25to-35-year olds face an over 25% reduction in benefits once the Social Security trust fund is gone. The response to this problem varies among politicians, educators, and economists. Some (including

the Chairman of the House Budget Committee) believe that though recovery will be slow, it will happen in time to fix the shortfall in the benefit system by the time this younger generation is ready to retire. Others (including various economic think tanks) warn that drastic reform must occur to prevent the inevitable bottoming out of the Social Security system.

Addressing the Social Security Problem In places like the United Kingdom, governments have begun to prefund their Social Security plans. In the United States, prefunding is being considered, and so are other solutions like infusions from general revenue and increases to payroll tax.

Social Security is seen as too important of a safety net for millions of American workers to risk losing. If small changes to the Social Security system are made now, they'll go a long way toward ensuring that drastic measures don't become necessary in the future.l

Source: nolo.com This article does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with an attorney.

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HEALTH MATTERS

Benefits of Meditation for Children

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BY JENNIFER MAHARAJH

rom television screens to I-pads, cell phones and social media, children’s minds are overloaded with information. Not all of what they are exposed to has a positive impact, but often, reinforces thoughts and images that induce temperamental behaviors and effects healthy development.

Dating back to centuries ago, meditation has been found to have a profound effect on the mind, body and soul. It is now also now appreciated as a valuable tool for children of all ages, in educational settings, at home or even on the athletic field. Here are some benefits children can reap from just a few minutes a day of mindfulness.

Improved focus Concentration is important at any age and the sooner children are trained, he or she can perform more efficiently academically and socially. Meditation removes distractions and invites comfort.

Children can learn attention skills and develop a higher regard for their surroundings.

Researchers in Australia conducted a study of 26 children with attentiondeficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) between the ages of four and 12 who were treated with Yoga Meditation for

six weeks.

Findings of the study included: •Reduced hyperactivity •Reduced impulsiveness and inattention •Improved parent-child relationships •Enhanced self-esteem •Reduced use of medication in 50% of children

Reinforcing positivity and build selfawareness A meditation routine can transform the way children respond to stress, fears or anxiety. Peaceful breathing and relaxation can help children refresh their thoughts to focus on the positive, blocking out negative energies or thoughts.

Guided meditative affirmations help children increase their self-confidence and help them tune in to their feelings or

actions. For example, by him or her hearing and repeating the words “I am safe,” “I am calm” or “I am proud of myself,” can help shape their attitude and behavior.

Excel academically A study published in Developmental Psychology found that 4th and 5th grade students who regularly performed meditation exercises did 15% better on math tests. We know focus and concentration is improved, so it only makes sense kids will excel in their schoolwork. Kids need encouragement to progress in their studies, at any level. Meditation stimulates the brain and reinforces the idea of succeeding and believing in our abilities.

Children develop a connection to learning and are able to be happier doing it.

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Physical strength and endurance Healthy living begins at a young age.

Meditation helps improve breathing and heart rate, reduces blood pressure, and overall promotes healthy heart, brain and functioning. Meditation also helps recharge the body releasing both physical and mental energy, which in turn maintains overall health.

Children need a supportive and nurturing environment to thrive from a young age. They need to be conditioned to face difficult situations with positivity and confidence.

Meditation in a quiet, non-distracting place can offer children a way to experience peace, happiness and to allow them to express the joys of their childhood.

Find a few minute a day to invite meditation into your children’s life whether it be through breathing exercises, guided meditations, positive affirmations or just sitting quietly.l Jennifer Maharajh is a strategic marketing and communications professional with over 15 years of experience writing for various publications on many topics, and has been in health care industry for over 10 years. She earned her Bachelor’s in Print Journalism from Hofstra University. She currently heads up her own marketing and communications firm.

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LIFESTYLE

Usain Bolt Has the Most Warm Weather Tips Desired Body Shape for Living Green

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s the weather changes, so does our lifestyle. From grilling to gardening, we're ready to shake off winter and jump into warm-weather fun. But what about the impact these activities have on the planet? With just a few habit changes, you can limit your environmental impact by reducing waste and energy use in the spring and summer months. And as you change those habits, don't forget to recycle everything you can, especially batteries.

To prep for the warmer months, here are some easy tips to make your spring and summer a little more eco-friendly:

BY STEPHANIE K, JAMAICANS.COM

amaican Olympic champion Usain Bolt is a role model for many men in Britain, but not just for his athletic ability. According to researchers at Forza Supplements, a well-being company, it is Bolt’s body shape that is admired. Bolt’s torso tapers from his shoulders to waist, which make his physique appear like an “inverted triangle,” one of the five male body shapes identified in the research study, which examined the physical characteristics of 2,000 men. The identified shapes were rectangle, oval, triangle, rhomboid, and inverted triangle. The most common shape found in the study was the rectangle, with 42 percent of the men in the research study in this category.

An example of this body type is David Beckham. The next most common shape at 26 percent of the subjects is the oval, represented by James Corden. The triangle body shape was displayed by 14 percent, with David Williams an example, and 13 percent of the research subjects showed the rhomboid body shape represented by Daniel Craig.

Just five percent of the men had the inverted triangle body shape represented

by Bolt. The two body shapes most desired by British men were the rhomboid and the inverted triangle, but these are the least common shapes found in the UK male population.

Rhomboids tend to work out heavily to achieve the solid upper torso, and the inverted triangle achieved by athletes like Bolt, who undertake careful training.l

Tip 1: Go easy on the AC. Did you know air conditioning accounts for nearly 20 percent of electricity consumption in American homes? That's as much electricity as is used by the entire continent of Africa! To reduce your system's carbon footprint, program your AC to reduce output during the day, and increase the set temperature by a few degrees. Bonus: You'll save money on your energy bills too!

Tip 2: Bring your own water bottle As the weather starts heating up, staying hydrated is more important than ever.

Unfortunately, bottled water is a major contributor to landfill waste; Americans throw away more than 60 million plastic water bottles each day. To live greener, be sure to bring your own refillable water bottle.

Tip 3: Trade out your charcoal Barbecues are a favorite warm-weather tradition for many, but most grilling charcoal emits high levels of carbon dioxide when burned. To reduce carbon emissions, swap out your charcoal grill for cleaner-burning propane option.

Their carbon footprint is about one-third of standard charcoal.

Tip 4: Recycle your batteries.

The warmer months bring a return to outdoor activities like gardening. When you head to your local store to buy tools or plants, bring along your used batteries to be recycled. According to Call2Recycle, Inc., 88 percent of people in the U.S. live within 10 miles of a battery recycling location.By recycling your batteries, you not only reduce landfill waste, but it also gives batteries a second life as they can be used to make new batteries, kitchen appliances, car parts, and more! l(BPT)

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LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS

Substance Abuse and Relationships

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BY JENNINE ESTES, MFT

ny relationship has its bumps in the road, but addiction is a real road block that can cause your relationship to lose its secure attachment and pose real danger — both emotional and physical. If you are the loved one of an addict, you may feel helpless, and torn between staying in the relationship or walking away. Many people who love addicts fear being an enabler, but also don't want to leave their partner in the cold. Substance abuse is a hard road, but with the right resources, when the addict is ready to get help you can get to the other side.

Approaching Your Partner You can’t ignore the elephant in the room when it comes to substance abuse and relationships. It’s important to acknowledge the feelings that occur when it seems that the substance is more important than you. You may be fearful all the time for your partner’s safety, or be anxious about having to adjust how you respond to your partner in fear of their mood swings. When you have been told, “I will stop” more than once and it doesn’t happen, you can also lose faith and trust in your partner. Be open and honest with your partner about your

fears in a safe environment. Don’t use attacking language, or your partner may just shut down. While you open up about your feelings, also be clear that you are coming from a loving place. It might help to employ the help of a counselor or marriage therapist who can help mediate the discussion and keep it on track.

Losing Your Secure Attachment Research on emotionally focused therapy has shown that when one partner has substance abuse, a wedge is created in the relationship. It removes the partner from full engagement in the relationship, and the sober partner can’t be emotionally vulnerable because he/she doesn’t know when the partner who is using can really be counted on. As you drift from each other, one because you are abusing drugs or alcohol and the other because you feel abandoned — your secure bond slowly disintegrates.

Research In a study by James A. Cranford et. al, researchers found that a husband’s lifetime abuse of alcohol is directly related to a wife’s negative marital behaviors.

Another study found that addiction to prescription medication can decrease the ability to function in a relationship,

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especially for women. Other studies also show that addictions are linked with negative relationships — a contentious marriage makes you more vulnerability to stress and could lead you down the road of addiction more than someone with a supportive marriage.

All of these studies support the idea that addiction can erode your connection and ability to trust one another; most studies also point out that these impacts are felt most strongly by women.

Get Help If you and your partner are struggling

with addition in your relationship, you should both seek medical and rehabilitative help.l Jennine Estes, MFT, is a Marriage and Family Therapist in San Diego, CA., certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples. She write relationship and self-growth advice for her column, Relationships in the Raw. She is also the creator of #BeingLOVEDIs campaign. MFC#47653

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22

CONVERSATIONS

The Revolving Door of Prison

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BY TATYANA BELLAMY-WALKER s one of the world’s largest jailers, the U.S. incarcerates nearly 2.3 million people each year, said the nation’s Justice Department – which is enough to fill Yankee’s Stadium 40 times.

Largely African-American and Hispanic residents are overrepresented in these figures and are locked up at a higher rate than their white counterparts.

This leaves many households of color without a father or mother in the home, leading some students to a life of crime.

One local minister in Brooklyn is working to bridge the gap between the streets and the church.

“When you take the man from the house it leaves a whole, which opens different arms for oppression and depression in the community,” said founder of Leaders of Tomorrow Brooklyn Ministry, Bishop Lamor Whitehead, who counsels students at the church. “Not only does it decrease welfare, but it develops a violent mentality which can cause all type of drug and drinking habits.”

“The prison system makes the community that much more vulnerable,” Whitehead continued.

As a spearhead in local youth leadership, Whitehead has collaborated with some of the city’s top local officials —

most notably Brooklyn Borough President, Eric Adams to target at-risk youth.

Through free on-site counseling services, Whitehead helps students “outsource” their anger and become stronger leaders in their classrooms and their communities. Young children of incarcerated parents often show anger, aggression and hostility toward their siblings and caregivers, according to the U.S. Department of Human and Health Services.

High incarceration rates among African-American families, has a ripple effect on the community–leaving more single-parent homes to struggle with family instability. Stressed by these circumstances, school-aged children are

likely to drop out by high school and are more susceptible to suspension.

“The family is struggling; the wives are struggling and the children are being rebellious. They feel left alone,” Whitehead said. “A lot of young men don’t understand the other 50 percent of their DNA and don’t understand how to be a man or how to treat a woman.”

In processing the parent-to-child separation, Whitehead offers coping strategies. This can include perking up his ears to a student’s concerns or helping kids get more involved in after-school activities.

“I talk to them about understanding right from wrong,” Whitehead said.

“They are angry and don’t know how to outsource their anger. They don’t know how to process it. It comes out in different areas of their life.” He continued, “When you’re are a man you understand what a boy goes through.”

Whitehead frequently counseled a young adult who was an inmate at the city’s Rikers Island Jail.

“He would come to talk to me, but I come to find out, he was smoking weed, being outside late and violating his probation,” Whitehead said. “He was resentful toward his mother. Without a father figure, the young man had to be the man of the house.”

According to the U.S. Department of Human and Health Services, children of

incarcerated parents often have traumarelated stress. This often leads to flashbacks or nightmares in younger adolescents. Incarceration also disrupts the parent-to-child relationship, causing emotional or psychological problems.

The ministry uses faith-based initiatives to disrupt the street-to-prison pipeline.

“You have to understand the spiritual atmosphere of what’s going on in your life,” Whitehead said. “You have to know what fight you’re in to put up a good fight. When the world is teaching you everything, you are only going to know how the world fights.”

While the church grants extensive opportunities, a lack of funding makes it tough to offer more support to children of incarcerated parents.

“You need finances to do different things,” Whitehead said. “They need lawyers, support in court and sometimes they don’t have money to put on their family member’s [commissary].

Sometimes the families that are home can’t put food on their table or pay their phone bill. It’s rough.” l

To make donations at the Leaders of Tomorrow Brooklyn Ministry, contact Lamor Whitehead at leadersoftomorrowbkministry@gmail.com.

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